Topping DX1 II Brings Hi-Fi DAC Performance for Under $150

Topping has introduced the DX1 II, a compact digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and headphone amplifier designed to deliver detailed, warm-sounding audio at an affordable price. Scheduled to launch in July 2026, the USB-powered device will retail for $110 (£119), aiming to provide high-quality sound for music lovers, gamers and everyday audio users without exceeding the $150 mark.

The DX1 II is built to improve the audio quality of digital devices including laptops, desktop computers, smartphones, TVs, gaming consoles and media streamers. Every digital playback device relies on a DAC to convert digital audio into analog signals before amplification, and Topping says the DX1 II is engineered to provide “engagingly crisp, detailed and dynamic sound for under $150.” The company also says the unit adds a more natural, analog-style character to digital music while maintaining clarity and power.

Despite measuring only 10 x 3.2 x 10cm and weighing 275g, the aluminum-bodied DX1 II is designed for portability and durability. Powered directly through USB, it eliminates the need for a separate power supply while processing and amplifying audio for headphones, powered speakers or traditional hi-fi systems.

Connectivity is one of the DX1 II’s standout features. It includes USB-C, optical input and optical output, allowing compatibility with computers, CD players, televisions, game consoles and both Android and iOS devices. The USB-C port supports both USB Audio Class 1.0 and 2.0, ensuring compatibility with hardware such as the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch, which rely on UAC 1.0.

For headphone users, the DX1 II offers both 3.5mm and balanced 4.4mm outputs. The 3.5mm jack also functions as a microphone input, enabling two-way communication for gaming headsets as well as voice and video calls. On the rear, stereo RCA and balanced 4.4mm line outputs allow connection to external amplifiers or active speakers, with selectable fixed-level and preamp modes.

At the heart of the DX1 II is the ES9039Q2M DAC from ESS Technology’s Sabre 32 Reference series, a 32-bit chip typically found in significantly more expensive products. It incorporates HyperStream IV technology and a Dual DAC architecture that processes the left and right channels independently. Audio processing is further supported by a 16-core XMOS XU-316 USB controller, while fully balanced analog circuitry is designed to minimize channel crosstalk, distortion and background noise.

The headphone amplifier uses a four-channel architecture with dedicated signal paths for each audio channel. Topping says this design enhances dynamics, imaging and detail, especially through the balanced 4.4mm output. The company also claims the amplifier maintains an exceptionally low noise floor, making it suitable even for highly sensitive in-ear monitors.

The DX1 II supports PCM audio up to 32-bit/384kHz and native DSD256 over USB-C, while the optical input handles PCM up to 24-bit/192kHz and DSD64 via DoP. Even the microphone input supports audio up to 24-bit/192kHz. Performance specifications include a 128dB signal-to-noise ratio for both balanced line and headphone outputs and total harmonic distortion plus noise of less than 0.00007% on the balanced line output. The amplifier delivers up to 2 x 1000mW into 32Ω and 64Ω loads, along with 2 x 230mW into 300Ω headphones.

Topping has also equipped the DX1 II with its latest 10-band Parametric EQ system, allowing users to fine-tune frequency, gain and bandwidth across customizable bands. Settings can be adjusted through the free Topping Tune software for Windows and macOS or via the browser-based Topping Home Web interface, which supports drag-and-drop controls and community-created EQ profiles. Users can save up to three custom profiles directly on the device, while the optical output also enables the EQ processing to be applied to external DACs.

Additional audio customization includes eight selectable digital filter modes and two gain settings for different headphone types. The front panel features a multifunction rotary control alongside an LED display that shows volume, sample rate, input selection, DSD status, EQ settings and gain mode. Display brightness can be adjusted or switched off, and a remote control is included for convenient operation.

The Topping DX1 II will be available in black, white and silver starting in July 2026. In the United Kingdom, the product will be distributed through Electromod.