TOPPING DX1 II Gaming Ready DAC & Headphone Amp ES9039Q2M DSD256 PCM384kHz Desktop Decoder amplifier with Remote Control
Audio/IEMs
“The Topping DX1 II delivers a neutral, transparent sound signature with tight bass and wide soundstage, but struggles with warmth, microdynamics, and timbre realism compared to similar-priced competitors. The 4.4mm balanced output, 10-band PEQ with saveable profiles, and USB-C powered aluminum chassis make it a capable desktop DAC/amp for casual listeners, though audiophiles may find it sounds analytical and 'dehydrated' without the natural fullness of competing options.”
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Neutral-transparent signature lets recordings speak without imposing coloration
headfonia.comthe kind of tuning that lets the recording speak for itself
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Wide soundstage with excellent separation and clean energetic low end on planars
headfonia.comwide soundstage with excellent separation and a clean, energetic low end
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Compact CNC-machined aluminum chassis powered entirely over USB-C
ecoustics.comCNC-machined aluminum chassis feels appropriately solid
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UAC 1.0 and UAC 2.0 support enables plug-and-play use across PCs, tablets, Switch, and PlayStation
ecoustics.comsupports both UAC 1.0 and UAC 2.0 for multiple devices
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Muted microdynamics and compressed macrodynamics lack physical presence and natural fullness
thehonestaudiophile.comMicrodynamics are muted; macrodynamics are compressed
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Sound signature is neutral-cold and analytical, missing warmth, weight, and timbre realism
thehonestaudiophile.comClean but lacking warmth, weight, and natural fullness
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Lacks power to drive harder-to-drive headphones adequately
thehonestaudiophile.comlacking the power to push harder to drive headphones
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Inferior to portable SMSL DS20 in staging depth, layering, imaging, and timbre naturalness
thehonestaudiophile.comSMSL is superior in my opinion with its natural warmth and body