Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Very clean, articulate, and detailed sound
- Plenty of power and headroom for difficult headphones
- Includes a remote control, a ground loop switch, and a mini-LED display
- Exceptional build quality
- Good bass and instrument separation
- Includes connectivity options
Product Considerations
- Can sound a bit too bright or lean, potentially sterile with already bright headphones
- Lacks the soundstage depth found in some other discrete designs
- Some reviewers experienced issues with the 6.35mm headphone jack turning off or popping when connecting/disconnecting
- When driving IEMs, enabling the Safe volume mode setting is needed
- Little to no resistance when turning its wheel
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Singer SA-1 is more natural and lifelike for solo piano, while the A90D emphasizes clarity and detail
- The A90D has better bass and instrument separation than the Geshelli Labs balanced E2
- The A90D has more detail and clarity than the HIFIMAN EF-400, but the EF-400 is warmer
- The A90D may have more detail than the Audio-gd Master 9 and R8 combination, but the Audio-gd has a warmer, richer sound and more 3-dimensional soundstage
- It features improved power, dynamics, and a shift from ultra-linear to more fun, colorful, and natural sound than the Topping A90
Takeaway: The Topping A90D is a solid amplifier with clarity, detail, and power that can drive most headphones. It may be worth considering if a clean and articulate sound is desired, especially with warmer headphones, and a preamp with a remote is needed.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
A90 Discrete
reviews
[{"title":"Topping A90D Review: Does a discrete design bring the heart and soul?","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mKYVbWb2RLw","source":"Passion for Sound","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"“Best” Headphone amp I’ve Heard? Topping A90 D Discrete Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3W7QBUg7hK0","source":"cheapaudioman","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"TOPPING A90 DISCRETE (FULL REVIEW). HIGH END SOUND AT A MID-FI PRICE.","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zi1L2bq5J4U","source":"THE HEADPHONE EXPERIENCE - William Murdock","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"An Audiophile's Review of the Topping A90 Discrete Amplifier","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kENB3xkrXeU","source":"inToit Reviews","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Topping A90 Discrete - A Little Salt Changes Everything - Honest Audiophile Impressions","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SH6FNIK9_08","source":"the Honest Audiophile","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"I opened up the Topping A90D Headphone amp. Here's what I found.","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=npmmBO-enD4","source":"Currawong","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Topping A90 Discrete Review – Forging Ahead","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J6985UD__1M","source":"Soundnews","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Topping A90 Discrete Powerhouse amplifier w/ Gishelli JNOG2+Sparkos SS2590 review (*RECOMMENDED*!)","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6qPBgm1N1w","source":"Shortbus Audio","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Topping A90 Discrete Review – Forging Ahead","link":"https://soundnews.net/amplifiers/headphone-amps/topping-a90-discrete-review-forging-ahead","source":"SoundNews","datePublished":""},{"title":"Topping A90 Discrete Preamplifier","link":"https://positive-feedback.com/reviews/hardware-reviews/topping-a90-discrete-preamplifier","source":"Positive Feedback","datePublished":""},{"title":"Topping A90 Discrete Preamp and Headphone amp","link":"https://futureaudiophile.com/topping-a90-discrete-preamplifier-headphone-amp-reviewed","source":"Future Audiophile","datePublished":""},{"title":"Topping A90 Discrete is a Mighty Good Headphone Amplifier","link":"https://iiwireviews.com/topping-a90-discrete-is-a-mighty-good-headphone-amplifier","source":"iiWi Reviews","datePublished":""},{"title":"TOPPING D90 III Discrete DAC + A90 Discrete Amplifier Desktop Stack","link":"https://www.techpowerup.com/review/topping-d90-iii-discrete-dac-a90-discrete-amplifier-desktop-stack/6.html","source":"TechPowerUp","datePublished":""},{"title":"A90 Discrete Review","link":"https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/topping-a90-discrete-review-headphone-amp-preamp.35114/","source":"audiosciencereview.com","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Topping emphasizes achieving extremely low distortion and high signal-to-noise ratios in their products, often exceeding the measurable limits of testing equipment.
- They offer a range of products (DACs, headphone amplifiers, and integrated amps) that can be easily stacked together, creating a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing desktop setup.
Select products
Select product comparisons
D10s:
- Positioning: Entry-level line, designed for affordability and compactness.
- Description: Offers a simple yet effective solution for those seeking a budget-friendly DAC with solid performance. Features a USB input and RCA output, making it ideal for small setups or desktop use, unlike the D10 Balanced which offers additional balanced outputs for more complex systems.
D10 Balanced:
- Positioning: Mid-range option with balanced output capabilities.
- Description: Stands out with its balanced outputs, providing better noise rejection and improved sound quality compared to the D10s. This makes it suitable for users who need balanced connections for their audio systems.
D50s:
- Positioning: Mid-tier DAC with enhanced features for audio enthusiasts.
- Description: Equipped with dual DAC chips, offering superior sound quality and more detailed audio reproduction than the D10 series. It also includes Bluetooth connectivity, making it more versatile for users who want wireless streaming capabilities, unlike the D10 models which lack this feature.
D50 III:
- Positioning: Advanced DAC with high-resolution audio support.
- Description: Improves upon the D50s with upgraded DAC chips and enhanced power supply design, delivering even clearer and more dynamic sound.
D90 III Discrete:
- Positioning: High-end DAC with discrete component design for audiophiles.
- Description: Features a fully discrete circuit design, providing exceptional sound quality and precision, setting it apart from the D50 series.
See All Products
Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
63
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
28
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
44
Founding Year
2008
Our take on the brand
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Look inside the brand
Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
What's your approach to customer support?
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
What other products pair best with yours?
From our interview with
.
Brand Page
Used
Topping
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
Topping
LA90
799
799
/
10
Reviews
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Expand Details
.svg)
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a clean and detailed sound, allowing listeners to hear nuances in recordings
- Offers good instrument separation and imaging
- Has a low noise floor, creating a 'black background' and enhancing the listening experience
- Compact size for an A-B amplifier
- Does not have RCA inputs, requiring XLR or TRS balanced connections
Product Considerations
- May not have enough power for inefficient speakers or large rooms
- External power supply 'brick' is large
- No remote control
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The LA90 has a more neutral sound than Cambridge Audio AXA25, which is cleaner and more detailed
- The LA90 comes close to Benchmark AHB2's performance, but does not outperform it in bass impact and soundstage size, and the AHB2 also has more protection systems
- The LA90 offers more vocal clarity and fuller bottom end than Schiit Vidar, but the Vidar is more exciting on top
- Emotiva A1's have more power
Takeaway: The Topping LA-90 Discrete is a small amplifier that produces very clear sound with good detail, making it great for those who already have balanced audio equipment. It could be a nice upgrade for those seeking to hear all the subtleties in their music.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
Topping
LA90 (Discrete)
799
799
/
9
Reviews
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Impressive specs and measurements showcase extremely low noise and distortion
- Clean and transparent sound aims for a neutral reproduction of music
- Compact size and sleek design make it suitable for small spaces
- CNC machined aluminum chassis allows for maximum thermal flow to keep the unit running cool
Product Considerations
- Included external power supply is large and heavy, which can be a challenge to hide
- Power output may be limiting, especially with demanding speakers and for high dynamic range tracks
- Bass performance, while tight and controlled, may lack sub-bass extension and impact for some listeners
- Lack of a remote control limits its convenience as an integrated amplifier
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Discrete version matches the Topping LA90 IC based unit's exemplary performance, but betters it in power handling
- The Topping LA90 comes close to the Benchmark AHB2 in noise floor and detail retrieval, but the AHB2 has more power, impactful bass, and a bigger soundstage
Takeaway: The Topping LA90 is a compact and technically proficient amplifier that delivers a clean and transparent sound and with impressive specs. It is best suited for those with efficient speakers and a preference for accurate sound reproduction without coloration.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
Topping
B200
599
599
/
6
Reviews
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Clean and well-focused sound with a good soundstage
- Good sense of depth and soundstage, with lifelike and detailed vocals and instruments
- Very clean signal with low noise
- Excellent build quality with a solid, all-metal construction
- Three balanced inputs (XLR or TRS)
Product Considerations
- Lacks RCA inputs, limiting connectivity for some users
- Some reviewers felt that the sound lacked dynamics and energy compared to other amplifiers
- Highs are detailed, but could be a problem depending on the speaker selection
- Separate 12-volt trigger leads could be a hassle in some setups
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Fosi Audio V3 Monos, the B200s deliver a slightly wider soundstage and better resolution of detail
- Vs Schiit Audio Aegir Classic monoblocks, the B200 delivers clean transparent and spacious sound, micro detail and resolution is a bit better with better separation between the notes
Takeaway: The Topping B200 monoblock amplifiers offer a clean and detailed sound with excellent build quality, making them a good option for audiophiles seeking a high-performance, small-footprint amplifier setup Their balanced inputs and powerful output make them a versatile addition to any serious listening environment
Video review
Our take on the brand
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
Topping
PA7
549
549
/
1
Reviews
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Very good instrument separation and placement
- Powerful power output, enough for most speakers
- Supports multiple input options (RCA and XLR/TRS)
- Impressive image tightness, keeping the whole scene crisp and accurate even when playing loud
Product Considerations
- Light timbre could be too tame for some
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Versus Topping PA5, the PA7 has more power
- Versus Topping LA90 Discrete, the PA7 has more power
- Versus Topping PA7 Plus, the PA7 has less power
Takeaway: The Topping PA7 is a powerful and versatile amplifier that delivers clean and precise sound. With its impressive instrument separation and ample power, it's a great addition to any hifi audio setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
What competes at this price?
Topping
A50 III
199
/
Released
2024
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Fantastic resolution and clarity
- Three gain modes on the A50 MK3 allow use with sensitive IEMs all the way through to high impedance headphones
- Fully balanced design
- Clean, clear, smooth sound
- Great sound performance and superb flexibility
Product Considerations
- The D50 and A50 stack could be perceived as lacking some soul
- It lacks a sense of warmth or smoothness
- Gets warm during usage
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs SMSL HO100: A50 III has much more driving power, a noticeably lower noise floor, better impact, more treble extension, and a considerably higher resolution
- Vs JDS Labs EL AMP II+: A50 III has more driving power and more headroom, it reaches the distortion points harder, so it has a lower distortion all across the range, with hard to drive headphones
Takeaway: The A50 is a technically capable and compact setup, great for a small desktop system. The sound is crisp and clear, making it a brilliant starting point for someone just getting into the hobby.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
Topping
NX7
152
/
Released
2021
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Respectable power for a portable amplifier
- Features Nested Feedback Composite Amplifier (NFCA) module as a portable package
- Rugged construction and good battery life
- Delivers detail and texture with a transparent, uncoloured sound
- Three gain modes and is compatible with everything from sensitive IEMs to full-size headphones
- Performs well with hard-to-drive cans and with IEMs that tend to produce hiss
- Build quality is quite good with an all-aluminum chassis
- An SNR of 135dB makes it one of the cleanest portable amps on the market
Product Considerations
- Can be too clean and dry, so synergy is important
- A bit big for a pocket
- Charging the 4000mAh battery takes up to 4 hours
Takeaway: The Topping NX7 is a very good amplifier that works wonderfully with a clean, unaltering nature. It's versatile with lots of clean power and can be used in a desktop setup as well as for portable listening.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
Topping
A30 Pro
349
/
Released
2021
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a lot of power, 6W into 16 Ohms, which is enough to drive most headphones
- Has a very low noise floor, which is good for sensitive IEMs
- Has a linear and extended frequency response
- Offers a clean and transparent sound
- Has a solid build quality
Product Considerations
- The balanced headphone output is not a true balanced design
- Has limited soundstage and depth
- Can sound strident, which might not suit everyone
- Can heat up due to the design
- The reviewer had issues getting Hifiman Susvara to perform well on A30 PRO
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- A30 Pro offers more punch and clarity across the frequency spectrum than the Topping A50s
- A30 Pro offers firmer control over the bassline, revealing more texture in it, and offers a richer and more natural midrange than the SMSL SH-8s
Takeaway: The Topping A30 Pro is a powerful and clean headphone amplifier that offers great value. It is a good choice for a neutral sound with headphones that need a lot of power.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
Topping
EHA5
399
/
Released
2023
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Well-built with a nice metal chassis and an acrylic top that shows the internals and LED lights
- Reveals the differences between various DACs, whether they are warm, neutral, or clinical
- Provides a gateway into electrostatic headphones at an affordable price point
- Balanced input with pass-through outputs for RCA and XLR, 12-volt trigger, firmware update, and USB-C
Product Considerations
- On low gain, it may not be powerful enough for some electrostats
- Can be source picky, pairing better with warmer sources
- The soundstage lacks depth compared to more expensive options
- Bass may be slightly rolled off in the sub-bass
- Transformers inside—directly tied to the stators of the headphone—may not be ideal
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Stax SRM400S: The Stax is more neutral, natural leaning, and better detailed, whereas the Topping EHA-5 leans more clinical and analytical
- Vs Stax SRM500T: The EHA-5 sounds tighter, punchier, and quicker but slightly less natural, and lacks the soundstage depth
- Vs Stax SRM252S: The EHA-5 is better
Takeaway: The Topping EHA-5 is a budget-friendly electrostatic headphone amplifier that provides a good entry point into electrostatic listening. It delivers detailed sound and a pleasant listening experience, and its affordability opens up the world of electrostatics to a broader audience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
Topping
A70 Pro
463
/
Released
2023
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Loveable as a preamp, and the headphone amplifier makes it special
- The encoder is satisfying to spin and very responsive
- A70 Pro gives a ton of power with up to 17 watts on the headphone amplifier side
- Much more granularity in the volume control and a darker background at all levels
- Very clean and powerful providing deep bass notes with punchy and controlled mid-range upper mid-range, and well-defined yet very spacious high frequencies with articulate notes in every frequency range
Product Considerations
- A trigger out would be more convenient to keep setup simpler for people new to separates
- The remote control has a plasticky build quality
- A reviewer had a small issue with hiss when connected to an SMSL SU-1, but this was resolved with the ground lift switch
- A reviewer is afraid that long term, the touchscreen might not be replaceable
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Topping A90D, A70 Pro sounds warmer and fuller in the midbass, which is pleasant
Takeaway: The A70 Pro is a powerful and versatile unit because it works great as both a headphone amplifier and a preamplifier. This neutral piece will provide a very clean sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
How to buy
Amplifiers
Search all hifi products
Explore our database of 10,000+ new and 25,000+ used hifi products.
