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
- Compact design with a built-in power supply, featuring a switch design
- Clean and neutral sound profile with good dynamic range due to NFCA amplification
- Excellent measurements, specifically low distortion numbers from the DAC output
- High-quality DAC performance with good detail retrieval and transparency
- Versatile connectivity with coaxial, optical, USB, and Bluetooth inputs, and RCA and XLR outputs
Product Considerations
- USB-C port is preferred
- Power limitations may not be suitable for very demanding planar magnetic headphones
- The headphone amplifier is not balanced
- Industrial design is a personal preference
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Modius and Magnius stack, the DX5 has a cleaner signal, but the stack has significantly more power
- Compared to the SMSL M500 MKII, the DX5 sounds fuller and more dynamic
- Compared to the Topping EX5, the DX5 has a more modern design and packaging
- Compared to the Geshelli stack, the DX5 sounds very analytical, clinical, and in your face, while the Geshelli stack has a more robust presentation
- Compared to the Topping DX3 Pro+, the DX5 is bolder, has a fuller midbass and midrange, and sounds more tonally correct and fluid
Takeaway: The Topping DX5 is a well-built, feature-rich DAC/Amp combo that delivers excellent sound quality for the right customer, especially those not needing extreme power. It is a great option for those wanting an all-in-one solution with a clean and neutral sound signature.
All
DX5
reviews

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
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.
Our take on the brand
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Used
Topping
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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
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
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Lightweight desktop DAC, Bluetooth receiver, preamplifier, and headphone amplifier in one device
- Uses a top-of-the-line ES9038 PRO DAC chip and NFCA headphone amplifier circuitry
- Offers good Bluetooth codec support with the QCC5125 BT receiver
- Has 'Transistor Sound' and 'Valve Sound' presets for different sound signatures
- Highly detailed and resolving sound, on par with pricier units
Product Considerations
- Soundstage and depth could be improved
- Not as punchy and impactful sounding as desired
- Limited power output with the most difficult-to-drive headphones
- Doesn't have a true balanced headphone amplifier circuit, which can be important for minimalist audiophiles
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Gold Note DS10 Plus + PS10 Evo, the DX7 PRO+ sounded clearer, sharper, and tighter
- A miniature version of Topping's D90SE DAC and A90 headphone amp stacked together, but without the same power reserve
- Sounded wider and deeper than its smaller brothers—DX5 and EX5—but not as impressive as A90 and A30 PRO
Takeaway: The DX7 PRO+ is a feature-packed all-in-one device that offers a clean, detailed, and high-performing sound. With its versatile functionality and sound-shaping options, it is a great choice for minimalist audiophiles.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
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.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Phenomenal sound quality.
- Very usable and enjoyable interaction due to a physical volume knob.
- Plenty of power for almost everything and can drive just about anything.
- Versatile; it can be used as a desktop all-in-one, a Bluetooth portable DAC/amp, a portable amplifier, and even a DAC for speakers.
Product Considerations
- Susceptible to EMI noises, which can be a deal breaker; static noises, pops, and crackle sounds can occur when a phone is placed directly on top of it.
- Not a completely balanced architecture; the 3.5mm & 4.4mm headphone outputs sound the same.
- Charging port may not indicate charging on anything higher than an 18W charging block, and some chargers may not work.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs FIIO BTR-7: Sounds more refined and has more detail and resolution.
- Vs SMSL C200: The C200 sounds significantly warmer with a fuller, juicier bass line and a little bit more airy, while the G5 is more focused on clean and clear edges, tidy, well-focused—and clean.
- Vs SMSL M500 MK2: The M500 MK2 sounds overall better with dynamics at the same level as the G5 and fuller, warmer tonality—and a bigger, more spacious soundstage.
- Vs Moondrop Moonriver 2: The treble is more refined, better details up top, and a sharp edge without being overboard like the Moonriver 2 can.
Takeaway: The G5 is a well-built and versatile portable DAC/amp with a neutral, clean, and dynamic sound. It is great for those looking for an all-in-one solution that can drive almost any headphone or IEM.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a neutral and transparent sound signature
- Packs a lot of power for its size, capable of driving most headphones and IEMs
- Supports LDAC Bluetooth for high-quality wireless audio
- Versatile with multiple input and output options, including DAC, preamp, and headphone amp modes
- Very detailed and resolving sound, especially for its price point
Product Considerations
- Only has a 3.5mm headphone jack, which may require an adapter for some users
- Some reviewers found the menu system and setup to be a bit confusing
- The midrange can sound lean or thin, lacking fullness and body for some listeners
- Some find it analytical and not as musical or engaging as some alternatives
- Short power cable
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The DX5 has a richer and fuller midrange with better tone timbre
- The DX3 Pro Plus is more detailed and has more power than the Fosi Audio DAC-M1
- The Shanling UA5 has a warmer, fuller, more natural tonality, but the DX3 Pro Plus is faster-paced and more dynamic
- The DX3 Pro Plus offers improved sonics and a punchier bassline than the original DX3 Pro
- The SMSL C200 has a warmer, fuller-sounding midrange, but lacks some detail and speed of the DX3 Pro Plus
Takeaway: The DX3 Pro Plus is a compact and powerful all-in-one device that gives a clean, detailed sound and many ways to connect gear. It could be a great choice for a versatile and affordable DAC/amp for a desk.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Sturdy build quality and premium feel
- Neutral sound signature, potentially improving the pace, speed, and decay of music
- IEM friendly, offering a noise-free experience even with sensitive IEMs
- Fully featured remote control
- Feature-packed combo with decent preamplifier section and good headphone amplifier
Product Considerations
- May exhibit a slightly thicker/darker sound signature or leaner presentation that not everyone prefers, although it depends on headphone use or as a line out
- There are reports of discrepancy in power output measurements between the manufacturer's claims and independent testing
- The manual contains errors regarding digital filter labels, and factory support can be lacking
- Soundstage and depth aren't very impressive
- Display has potential software bugs and at times may not show the accurate sampling rate
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The EX5's DAC sounds identical to the SongKoz LA-QXD1, both being neutral
- The EX5 sounds exactly the same as the Schiit Magni and SongKoz stack
- The iFi Zen DAC had a bit more mid-bass emphasis and slightly greater treble accentuation
- FX Audio DAC-X6 had a slightly leaner presentation where there seemed to be a marginal emphasis in sibilance and a slight accentuation of treble
Takeaway: The EX5 is a sturdy and versatile device that offers good value for the price, with neutral sound and Bluetooth capabilities. For a new audiophile looking for a capable DAC-amp, the EX5 is worth considering.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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
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