I purchased the SMSL RAW-MDA1 a few days ago and plan to return it today to buy the DX5 II instead. I’d like to share some thoughts about these two devices.
Regarding the Type-C interface: Personally, I dislike the use of Type-C on non-portable devices like this. Type-C connectors have poor mechanical durability and low impact resistance—if the power cable gets snagged, the port could be ruined instantly. Besides, products like this don’t even require bandwidth beyond USB 2.0.
About the device’s PEQ supporting up to 192 kHz sample rate: My understanding is that this is due to the DSP processing limitations of the XMOS XU316 chip?
Additionally, I confirmed with customer support that the DX5 II’s 4.4mm output is a true balanced differential output. Before buying the MDA1, I also asked their support about this and was told its 4.4mm was differential. But after testing it myself with an oscilloscope, I found it was actually single-ended... This is the main reason I’m returning it for the DX5.
Moreover, the DX5 II has a better-looking UI, a simple spectrum display, VU meters, and PEQ—all of which make it more competitive than the MDA1. With PEQ, I can compensate for the loss of low-frequency perception at lower volumes.
The MDA1’s advantage lies in its lower Full Scale output voltage swing. Though less powerful, watt-level power is already sufficient. So, given the similar Full Scale dynamic range advertised for both devices, the MDA1’s dynamic range should be higher at a given output power. Honestly, I don’t understand why Topping sets power levels so high—maybe to compete in specs wars? But I find it meaningless. My MDR-M1 headphones only need about 10mV to reach my normal listening volume (around 35 dB SPL in a quiet environment). While the DX5 II’s noise floor may be inaudible, I still prefer equipment with better performance.
Some say Chinese people can’t afford Topping products? That’s laughable—brands like Topping, SMSL, and Moondrop sell very well in China, and 1699 RMB is quite affordable. China has a vast community of Hi-Fi enthusiasts. That said, Topping and SMSL might not be the most well-known or top-selling brands here. Scientific-minded audiophiles ("Sci-Fi" enthusiasts) might be a niche group in China (I’m not sure how this compares internationally), and we lack a consistently updated measurement site like ASR. It’s a shame that l7audiolab stopped updating years ago. Here, many tend to prefer products with heavy marketing and stronger "brain burn-in" appeal.
You’re welcome to visit China—it’s very convenient now with the recent visa-free policy.
shenzhenaudio.com
