How to identify miniDSP Flex TRS DAC version (TI PCM1795 vs. Dual ESS ES9017) without opening chassis?

[Lando]

Hi everyone,

I recently purchased a new miniDSP Flex 2x4 Balanced (TRS) from an authorized European distributor. I am trying to determine whether this specific unit features the original Texas Instruments PCM1795 DAC implementation or the newer Dual ESS ES9017 DAC revision, without opening the enclosure and risking warranty/return eligibility.

The reseller mentioned their stock arrived fresh from the factory recently, but they cannot verify internal component batches because the retail packaging and external labeling remain identical across production runs.

Here are the specific details from the Device Console and serial tag:

• Model: miniDSP Flex 2x4 Balanced (TRS)
• Serial Number: 900-59xxx
• MCU Firmware: 1.85
• DSP Firmware: 2.0
• Bluetooth Firmware: MD5124-SPK-LDAC-I2S-V013

My questions for the community:

1. Is there any known software method, board revision marker, or Device Console readout that differentiates the PCM1795 units from the ES9017 units?
2. Does anyone with a confirmed ES9017 Flex TRS unit have matching or higher MCU/DSP firmware versions reported in Device Console?
3. Side question regarding thermal behavior: My unit becomes noticeably warm to the touch even while sitting completely idle with no audio stream playing. Is this typical thermal dissipation for the Flex Balanced chassis?

(Note: I have already submitted a support ticket to miniDSP with my serial number, but wanted to check if the community has documented any physical or software indicators in the meantime.)

Thanks in advance for any insights!

 

[gzost]

I have the version with RCA outputs and it does get really warm, even when idle. So typical behaviour.

Why are you interested in which DAC chip your unit uses? Both variants should measure similarly and I find it extremely unlikely that there are audible differences.

 

[NTK]

MiniDSP has being shipping the Flex TRS with the ESS DAC chip for about 1 year (the change was made in May 2025). So if your unit was manufactured within the last year, it will have the ESS chip.

New Flex TRS Dac chip upgrade to dual ES9017

I read this with interest from the latest Newsletter. Is this upgrade already available in new Flex Trs's. Can earlier models be upgraded with this new chip? Specs certainly improved look forward to this release. Robert

www.minidsp.com

 

[Lando]

I mistakenly thought that maybe they had improved the operating temperature in the new version.

In other words, I received a response from miniDSP, and this device does indeed feature the new ESS9017 DAC.

I think I’m going to buy a Pure Copper Heatsink Skiving from AliExpress. I have used it on other devices before, it works quite well as a passive heat sink—copper is a good heat conductor, so it works like a charm. I’ll also get a Zezzio Heat Dissipation Silicone to put in between.

thank you very much to everyone for taking the time to reply!

 

[Redacted]

What actual temperature can you measure?
Opening the case for a heat sink will void the warranty.

 

[Lando]

I'm not planning on opening the case. I just want to attach the heatsink externally. I've measured the temperature, and it's reaching ~65 degrees. When I connect it to Bluetooth using LDAC, it reaches ~70 degrees, and in idle mode, it's around 40 or 45. The ambient temperature is 31.5 degrees Celsius with 50% humidity.

In the photo, for example, I did this with a Fosi BT30Dpro 48v, and it keeps the device running cool.

But in my case, I thought it might be a good idea to place one at the bottom of the miniDSPFlex.

Important note: I have the devices raised 10 cm off the table on an aluminum platform so that air can circulate freely.

What do you think?

 

[Madao]

What actual temperature can you measure?
Opening the case for a heat sink will void the warranty.

That's not enforceable, unless they can prove your modification resulted in the fault. Though... it might still result in having to drag them through small claims court. Either way it most likely will result in a headache.

 

[Redacted]

I've done small claims in UK. It's OK taking on individuals or small traders, but good luck with an international company - they will 'attrite' you with little effort.

Nevertheless, we still don't know how hot the unit is getting - if you can keep your hand on it, I wouldn't worry.

 

[Madao]

I suppose at that point you only have your protection from your credit card. (Section 75) It's all easier said than done though, and most people can't deal with the stress of it all, and I don't blame them.