In the ever-evolving world of audio technology, the Topping DX1 emerges as a compact yet powerful desktop DAC and headphone amplifier. Made by Topping, renowned for their commitment to audio excellence, the DX1 is designed to redefine your listening experience. With its sleek design, technical prowess, remarkable sound signature and affordable price it definitely stand out in the market.
I would like to thank Shenzhen Audio for providing a sample for this review. I am not paid to make this review or offer any specific opinions about this product, and all thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
Topping DX1 is a compact desktop DAC and headphone amplifier is based on AK4493S DAC chip from AKM, a name synonymous with audiophile-grade audio D-A conversion. The device supports PCM decoding up 384khz at 32-bits, has a Native support for DSD256, XMOS USB controller, two gain modes and comes in two different colors.
It arrived in a sleek black carton box with a Topping logo on the top. The package is simple and minimalist and I liked this fact.
In the box
- Topping DX1 DAC/Amp
- USB A to USB B cable
- User manual
- Warranty card
Technical specializations
Talking about specifications, let’s look at DAC and amplifier sections separately.
DAC specs:
- THD+N @1kHz (A-wt) < 0.0002%
- SNR @1kHz (A-wt): 120dB
- Dynamic range @1kHz (A-wt): 120dB
- Channel Crosstalk @1kHz: -112dB
- Channel Balance: 0.3 dB
- Output Impedance: 22Ω
Headphone amplifier specs:
- THD+N @1kHz (A-wt)
- < 0.0003% @ Output=200mW (32Ω)
- < 0.0002% @ Output=45mW (300Ω)
- SNR @MAX OUT 1kHz (A-wt): 118dB
- Dynamic Range @1kHz (A-wt): 118dB
- Frequency Response
- 20Hz-20kHz (±0.3dB)
- 20Hz-40kHz (±0.7dB)
- Channel Crosstalk @1kHz: -86dB
- Gain: -2dB (Vrms/FS) @G=L, 12dB (Vrms/FS) @G=H
- Output Power
- 280mW X 2 @32Ω THD+N < 0.1%
- 190mW X 2 @64Ω THD+N < 0.1%
- 51mW X 2 @300Ω THD+N < 0.1%
- Load Impedance: >8Ω
As you can see, the specifications are very impressive at this price point, and it’s good to see that even a budget device from Topping is following their philosophy.
Design & build
The Topping DX1 is one of the most compact desktop DAC/AMPs in the market I came across and it’s a setting new standards for desktop estate. It’s 100mm in length, 32mm in height, and 98mm in depth, but don’t be fooled by its size; this device packs a punch.
The casing, crafted from metal, not only adds sturdiness to the unit but also shields it from the external electromagnetic interference. There is a Hi-Res certification sticker on the top, and four rubber feet on the bottom of the unit, ensure it stays firmly planted on your desk.
The front panel houses a 6.3mm headphones output, a 3.5mm headphones output, LED power indicator, and a volume knob. The volume knob, with its 15mm diameter is smooth and precise and offers quite a tactile feeling.
On the back of the unit, you’ll find unbalanced RCA outputs, a gain switch with -2dB and +12dB options, and a USB port for connectivity. The glossy finish gives the Topping DX1 a modern aesthetic appeal, although it has the downside of easily capturing the fingerprints.
Pairing, controls & my user experience
Setting up Topping DX1 with my Windows 10 PC was a breeze, and it was detected right away. However, to fully support the ASIO functionality, I’d still recommend downloading the drivers from the official Topping website. In addition, when connected to portable devices, this DAC supports a bit-perfect mode too, ensuring a great audio experience.
The power LED indicator, has three states. It’s white when the device is s playing PCM files, red when it’s rendering DSD and when there no USB input signal detected, the indicator gently breathes white.
Despite its small size, the Topping DX1 stands tall in the realm of power. It proves more than capable of driving a wide range of in-ear monitors (IEMs), full size headphones and even some power-hungry full-size headphones. The DAC output a 280mW of power at 32Ω, and an impressive 51mW at 300Ω, making it versatile across a spectrum of headphones. During my tests, I consistently found myself barely needing to turn the volume knob past 9 o’clock with my IEMs. Furthermore, there was no noise with sensitive IEMs, and this fact often separates the exceptional devices from the mediocre in the world of DACs and amplifiers.
Then I continued my tests with full-size headphones, including the 250-ohm Beyerdynamic DT 1770, the 300-ohm Sennheiser HD 6XX, and the HIFIMAN Sundara, known for its low impedance and sensitivity. Topping DX1 continued to impress. Even with these more demanding headphones, I rarely found the need to turn the volume past 1 PM in hi-gain mode to achieve my desired listening levels. In rare instances with particularly quiet recordings, I nudged it up to 3 o’clock, and still I had some headroom left.
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Topping DX1 sound signature
Topping DX1 surprised me with it’s punchy, resolving, yet very lush, smooth and musical sound. As a rule devices from Topping measure well, which is also the case with DX1, but they tend to have a sterile and analytical sound
With DX1 the situation is different. I don’t know what exactly Topping did here, but this device sounds so musical, it’s really hard to stop listening to it. I kept switching forward and backwards between DX1 and my Topping D10s, S.M.S.L. SU-6 and my MOTU M2 interface (all of which are based on different DAC chips from ESS) and yet, DX1 sounds the most musical out of the bunch. I’m not sure if it’s the AK4493S DAC chip implementation, amplification circuit or both, but as a result you get a natural, clean, transparent and musical sound signature.
The low frequencies extend well, offering a bass that is not only well-defined but also boasts impressive speed and detail. The mid-range follows suit with an enchanting body and note weight and lush character. Clarity in the mid-range is also standout feature, adding a layer of brilliance to your listening experience. And the treble is well extended too, energetic and sparkly too.
What’s truly remarkable here is that the DX1 achieves this while retaining its technical prowess, offering an audiophile-grade sound that appeals to a broad spectrum of listeners in a budget friendly package. Whether you’re a measurements driven audiophile or a music enthusiast seeking an emotional connection with your music library, the DX1 bridges the gap, delivering both technical excellence and musicality.
Conclusions
The Topping DX1 is a compact marvel in the world of DACs and headphone amplifiers. It strikes a great balance between size and performance, catering to both the portable IEM aficionados and the full-size headphone enthusiasts. And its well-balanced, natural, and musical sound signature is a testament to Topping’s commitment to delivering audio excellence.
Pros
- Sufficient power for a wide range of IEMs and many full-size headphones
- Well-balanced, natural, and musical sound signature
- Excellent technical capabilities
- Compact form factor
- Two headphone outputs for added convenience
Cons
- Glossy finish prone to fingerprints
- A USB-C type connector would be a welcomed upgrade
The Topping DX1 transcends its price point, serving as an excellent entry-level device that could very well be the endgame for many listeners. It pairs seamlessly with a variety of headphones, shining particularly with warm-sounding models, and offers a detailed, lush, and smooth sound presentation.
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