Topping DX1 II: Multi-purpose Desktop Dac/Amp, 1000mW capacity, price $119

Topping launched a decoder cum headphone amplifier model called DX1 II. Compared to the first generation, the new version not only upgrades internal components but also significantly improves the daily plugging and unplugging experience.

The device still maintains its small size with a weight of only about 200g. The outer shell is made from sanded metal, which helps prevent fingerprints and easily coordinates with minimalist working angles. The most valuable change is the small screen equipped on the front. Important parameters such as music format (PCM or DSD), sampling frequency and volume level are now clearly visible, helping players easily control the device.

In addition, the volume knob now doubles as a multi-function button. Users can switch inputs or turn the device on/off with just a light press, without the need for cumbersome pressing operations as before.

The heart of the DX1 II is the new generation ESS ES9039Q2M decoder chip, which comes with the XMOS XU-316 USB microchip. This configuration helps the device smoothly process high-quality music files (up to 32bit/384kHz and DSD256), providing a clean sound background, low noise and good instrument separation. A huge plus point is that the machine only needs to draw power directly from the USB plug, but the amplifier still produces very strong power, reaching 1000mW x2 at 32Ω impedance. With two flow adjustment modes (High Gain and Low), users can comfortably plug in from small, lightweight IEM headphones to difficult-to-pull Full-size headphones without worrying about shortness of breath or sound distortion.

In this new version, Topping has removed the 6.35mm port on the old version and replaced it with a 4.4mm Balanced port. This plug standard helps the signal pass cleaner and reduces cross-interference, very suitable for the current trend of playing headphones. The regular 3.5mm port is still retained and now supports headsets with microphones

On the back, the device uses a common USB-C cable port, combined with Optical and RCA output to easily connect to an external speaker system. UAC 1.0 and 2.0 switches help the device instantly recognize when plugged into game consoles like PlayStation or Nintendo Switch without requiring complicated software installation.

DX1 II will have 2 color versions: Silver and Black respectively and priced at $119.