Topping DX1 II DAC & HP Amp Review (NTTY)

[Demmers]

The Topping has 1dB headroom with volume set to 0dB (maximum). But at -2.5dB volume, we get the best results I ever measured. This is, I guess, because the Topping uses a DSP (more on that later) that plays the role of volume control too. So, if you use this one as a DAC, I really recommend reducing the volume that way, since so many master are too hot. The penalty on SINAD is acceptable since it is so good.

So are you saying it's best NOT to use it in DAC mode, and instead set the volume to -2.5db? I've just started using it as a test connected to my JDS Labs Atom mk1, so far in DAC mode, but you have me interested now!

 

[NTTY]

Wait, now trying to work out the potential floating issue with rear TRRS, I got this:

I'm unsure what I did previously because I did not change anything, but I obviously need to update the review. This is a SINAD of 123.3dB at 5Vrms output. Output voltage is also a little higher.

 

[Matias]

Now this looks as expected, and excellent.

 

[NTTY]

Yeah, weird because I did not change anything, same cable, same everything else, the only difference is that it is past midnight and it is now quite at home, and I let the Topping on for 10 hours straight. I'll check again tomorrow.

 

[NTTY]

So are you saying it's best NOT to use it in DAC mode, and instead set the volume to -2.5db? I've just started using it as a test connected to my JDS Labs Atom mk1, so far in DAC mode, but you have me interested now!

No change in performances between DAC mode and Preamp mode with volume at max.
But yeah, with volume at -2.5dB, you'll avoid intersample overs and won't suffer a significant reduction of performances. I'd recommend that, yes.

 

[Matias]

"DAC mode" must be just a fancy name of saying that the volume knob is disabled and fixed at max volume.

 

[NTTY]

I would check the pinout if I were you, the one needed is kind of special (bal 4.4 to 2x bal XLR or jack), there were reports about it.

Sorry I did not reply to you, but yes I use that type of cable: TRRRS 4.4mm to 2xTRS 3.5mm.

 

[Transistor]

For the price, it's an excellent little device.

 

[mpw]

Just a newcomer to Topping, what really is Topping and what the use case for it?

 

[Billy Budapest]

Just a newcomer to Topping, what really is Topping and what the use case for it?

Topping is an audio manufacturer based in China which sells equipment through multiple online retailers, including its storefront. Most of their devices offer state-of-the-art performance. The use case is as a DAC or DAC/headphone amp combo. Not much more to say.

 

[giraffe]

Thanks for the review.

There are definitely some issues with the firmware.
I encountered a problem where switching presets C1-3 using the remote doesn't apply the saved EQ profile.

Some info about Topping's incoming DX1 II

I connected the DAC to my main audiosetup. On the positive side, my Samsung TV works perfectly via Toslink in any optical input mode. The downside is that the RPI5 doesn't power the DAC by default. I had to Google it and disable the default 600mA USB limitation. After that, the DAC started...

www.audiosciencereview.com

I've reported this issue to support at [email protected].
If you're experiencing issues with device, please contact support. This will increase the chances of getting them fixed.

 

[mpw]

Topping is an audio manufacturer based in China which sells equipment through multiple online retailers, including its storefront. Most of their devices offer state-of-the-art performance. The use case is as a DAC or DAC/headphone amp combo. Not much more to say.

so we could DAC streaming services, YT or what else is it used for ? We use this device instead of our computers internal sound card that would do the DAC. What devices would we output the Topping to?

 

[Mike123]

"DAC mode" must be just a fancy name of saying that the volume knob is disabled and fixed at max volume.

Well, basically, yes. I use DAC mode only so that the screen always shows the sampling rate, not the volume.

 

[Billy Budapest]

so we could DAC streaming services, YT or what else is it used for ? We use this device instead of our computers internal sound card that would do the DAC. What devices would we output the Topping to?

You could use it as a DAC hooked up to a computer, or a streamer, or a game console, or a CD Player, or a TV, etc.—anything with a digital output—coax, toslink, USB. You could output it to headphones—that’s probably the intended use given the included headphone amp—but you could also use it as a preamp (or just a DAC with fixed output) by using the single ended RCA outputs or the balanced outputs, and connect it to an amplifier in a desktop or regular sized stereo system, or to powered speakers/studio monitors.

 

[Billy Budapest]

so we could DAC streaming services, YT or what else is it used for ? We use this device instead of our computers internal sound card that would do the DAC. What devices would we output the Topping to?

Here’s the product page with more info.:

TOPPING DX1 II Gaming DAC & Headphone Amplifier

Please note before placing an order: 1. The DX1 II (Black) is expected to be in stock after August 20th.2. Orders will be shipped from China. All costs are included in the price. Shipping time is 7-15 days. To meet the diverse needs of users when using the DX1 II, we now offer three cables...

www.topping.store

 

[NullVoid]

Yeah, weird because I did not change anything, same cable, same everything else, the only difference is that it is past midnight and it is now quite at home, and I let the Topping on for 10 hours straight. I'll check again tomorrow.

Given the issues with sample rate and clicking people mentioned, in the other thread, I think even if I haven’t encountered issues myself, this still seems to be a fairly erratic DAC/AMP.

Seeing that it “solved itself” means it may not be a bad idea to use as a balanced preamp as an “upgrade” path.

 

[pma]

It never “solves itself”. With some patience, I believe that the real reason will be disclosed. Personally, I have a lot of bad experience with TRS connectors related to poor contacts. XLR’s are much more reliable.

 

[NTTY]

It never “solves itself”. With some patience, I believe that the real reason will be disclosed. Personally, I have a lot of bad experience with TRS connectors related to poor contacts. XLR’s are much more reliable.

I concur. When I first measured balanced outputs, I thought I did not properly insert the cable. So I tried to unplug and plug several times, I got the same nasty results. The cable I used is always the same for these correctors, and I had no issues from the beginning with the front one.
So there’s indeed an explanation, to be found Problen is now to reproduce the issue

 

[Mike123]

I encountered a problem where switching presets C1-3 using the remote doesn't apply the saved EQ profile.

This morning, I decided to take a closer look at the problem. I recorded a sweep tone with various equalizers and switched the inputs differently. When the C1-C3 buttons are pressed, the equalizer doesn't actually engage, although the indicator lights up. The frequency response is flat and without attenuation at -4.9 dB. When the input and equalizer buttons are pressed, the equalizer engages and works. I also compared the Camilla DSP equalizer and the DAC equalizer. They match quite well. The Kamilla DSP also uses a filter below 30 Hz, which is why the left side of the graph is different.

 

[Janox]

I have tried about twenty different CD and DVD players and the problem with the optical input was with all of them - signal drops. The problem is only at 44.1kHz and its multiples of 88.2 and 176.4kHz. At 48kHz and its multiples of 96 and 192kHz everything is fine. The DX1 II cannot be used to play CDs at the moment.