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A Respected Hi-Fi Maker Just Upgraded Its Affordable Desktop Amp

The compact amplifier has received quite the glow-up, while maintaining a sub-$300 price tag.

Topping DX5 IITopping

By Tucker Bowe

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Topping is a hi-fi manufacturer known for its high-quality desktop components that are relatively affordable.

In 2022, it released the DX5, a well-reviewed DAC, preamp and headphone amplifier, and now the company has released a next-gen model that has been redesigned inside and out.

Meet the Topping DX5 II.

Topping DX5 II

Topping DX5 II
You can use the DX5 II as a preamplifier in an existing hi-fi system, including an active speaker system (above).
Topping

A 2nd-gen glow up

Take one look at the original DX5, and you’ll see that Topping gave the DX5 II quite the glow-up.

The second-generation model has a more premium build, a larger volume dial and an all-new 2-inch color screen that can show you audio information, such as its file format or sample rate.

This display gives you the option to switch between nine different backgrounds, including one that features VU-style meters, which is a pretty cool old-school touch.

Topping DX5 II
The DX5 II comes in three finishes: black, silver or white.
Topping

DAC, preamp, headphone amp

Like its predecessor, the DX5 II is a hi-fi component that can function as a standalone DAC, preamplifier and headphone amplifier. However, this new model promises enhanced audio quality and greater versatility.

Topping gave the DX5 II upgraded DACs — it now features dual ESS Technology ES9039Q2M DAC chips — and the latest Hyperstream IV architecture, which the brand claims allows it deliver an “enhanced high-resolution audio experience” compared to the original DX5.

The DX5 II can be connected to a wide variety of devices, not just a desktop or laptop, thanks to its USB, coaxial and optical inputs. And they can handle PCM files up to 32-bit/768kHz.

Topping DX5 II
The original DX5 had a small monochrome display. The DX5 II’s 2-inch color display is a big, big upgrade.
Topping

A superior amplifier

Topping overhauled the DX5 II’s headphone amplifier. It’s now a fully balanced headphone amplifier with an all-new triple-stage hybrid amplification design, allowing it to drive everything from low-sensitivity headphones to high-sensitivity IEMs.

It features three headphone jacks: 6.35mm (single-ended), 4.4mm (balanced), and 4-pin XLR. It also comes with a 6.35mm to 3.5mm adapter.

Additionally, the DX5 II has built-in Bluetooth with support for high-resolution codecs, such as LDAC, aptX Adaptive and aptXHD, so you can stream audio to wireless headphones, too.

Topping DX5 II
The DX5 II has built-in Bluetooth 5.1 with support for high-resolution codecs, including LDAC and aptX Adaptive.
Topping

Price and availability

The Topping DX5 II costs $299 and is available in three different color options: black, silver or white.

You can buy the DX5 II from select authorized retailers, including Shenzhen Audio, right now.

About the Author:

Tucker Bowe has been on Gear Patrol’s editorial team since 2014. As a Tech Staff Writer, he tracks everything in the consumer tech space, from headphones to smartphones, wearables to home theater systems. If it lights up or makes noise, he probably covers it.

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