Connecting a Topping DAC for Streaming

[Nothingness]

I'm new to DACs. Until recently, my setup was simple—I used a CD player, connected it to my amp, popped in a CD, and enjoyed the music. It was only when I started using streaming services that I began looking into DACs.

Based on the excellent measurements and analysis from Amirm and others, I think a Topping D70 or D90 might be a good option for me. However, I’m a bit confused about the connectivity of these DACs.

Right now, I’m using a WiiM Pro Plus, connecting its line-out to my amp. It’s a very straightforward setup, and I really like the sound—I don’t think I’d be able to tell the difference between it and a Topping in terms of audio quality. The only issue with my WiiM is its limited connectivity options. From my limited understanding, the WiiM functions as both a streamer and a DAC. I can sync Tidal or Spotify from my iPhone to the WiiM, which processes and sends the audio result through its line-out to my amp.

In contrast, the Topping DACs seem to be purely DACs, not streamers (though I could be wrong). For those who own a Topping DAC, how do you connect it to your streaming services like Tidal? What input ports do you use for this purpose? Can I control Tidal from my phone and play it through the Topping DAC the same way I do with the WiiM?

Thanks.

 

[kemmler3D]

For those who own a Topping DAC, how do you connect it to your streaming services like Tidal?

You need another device to do the streaming, like a WiiM or computer. It just takes the digital signal in and puts an analog signal out.

What input ports do you use for this purpose?

With a WiiM either optical or coaxial usually.

Can I control Tidal from my phone and play it through the Topping DAC the same way I do with the WiiM

No, you'll control it with the WiiM (or through the TV or whatever is connected to the DAC.) basically the DAC doesn't play sound on its own.

Unless you have another digital source you want to connect to your amp, don't bother getting a DAC. The DAC built into the pro plus is already pretty much maxed out on audible sound quality, so the only reason to get a Topping is for connectivity or other features.

 

[Nothingness]

Hi Kemmler3D,

Thank you very much for your response! That clears up my confusion about the differences between a WiiM and a Topping.

Please forgive my very novice questions. My main concern is connectivity between DACs and related devices, rather than sound quality or tonality, as I’m fairly certain I wouldn’t be able to hear a difference. As you mentioned, 'the DAC built into the Pro Plus is already pretty much maxed out on audible sound quality,' which is one of the reasons I’m focusing on connectivity. I want to explore possible connection options now so that I don’t have to change or upgrade my gear (soon) in the future.

As I look into other DACs with more input options, I have a couple of questions about compatible source devices:

• USB Type-B audio input – What types of source devices typically use this connector?
• I2S input – I understand this isn’t a standard HDMI connection, but what types of source devices use I2S as an output?

Thanks again.

 

[kemmler3D]

• USB Type-B audio input – What types of source devices typically use this connector?

Usually it's a PC, it uses a normal A plug on the other end.

• I2S input – I understand this isn’t a standard HDMI connection, but what types of source devices use I2S as an output?

For some reason it's more common in (unnecessarily) high end streamers, CD players, and other digital sources. But it's also used as an audio connection inside audio devices or between modules / boards. I think it actually has some drawbacks but I can't recall them off the top of my head.

Oh and welcome to ASR!

 

[Nothingness]

Got it. Thanks again, Kemmler3D. I only read ASR when I Google something, but DACs finally made me register an account.