To celebrate its 15th anniversary, Topping unveils a high-performance DAC / Headphone Amplifier: the DX9. In addition to its very high performance, Topping has given it a meticulous aesthetic with an innovative and unique design. The DX9 incorporates top-quality components, including an AKM AK4499EQ DAC chip. This DAC chip delivers performance equivalent to the integration of no less than two AK4499EXs. In fact, it enables the Topping DX9 to achieve a dynamic range of 131dB and a THD+N of less than 0.0007%. An AK4118AEQ chip handles the reception of optical/SPDIF signals, for very low jitter. On the headphone amplifier side, the DX9 incorporates a discrete NFCA amplifier circuit with 6 modules each comprising 39 transistors. The power supply stage is separate for the DAC and headphone amplifier parts, producing a pure, stable power supply. In terms of aesthetics, the curved case and the two screens with Topping's own Aurora UI interface provide the best possible user experience. In addition, a transparent top plate engraved with Topping's 15-year anniversary logo gives a view of the DX9's perfect circuit design.
A high-performance chipset
Topping has integrated the rare and legendary AK4499EQ 4-channel DAC chip into the DX9. This chip alone achieves the performance equivalent of two AK4499EX chips, with a THD+N of less than 0.00007% and a dynamic range of 131dB. It enables the DX9 to support sampling rates up to PCM 32bit 768kHz and native DSD up to DSD512.
The AK4499EQ DAC chip is coupled to an AK4118AEQ optical/SPDIF signal reception chip for perfect signal reception on coaxial SPDIF, Toslink optical and AES/EBU inputs. Finally, a CPLD works on the clock signal and digital signal optimization to obtain a perfect level of stability and purity.
Discrete component headphone amplifier circuitry (NFCA)
Topping's DX9 headphone amplifier circuit is based on 6 discrete component modules, each consisting of 6 NFCA channels with 39 transistors. This circuit surpasses all other discrete component headphone amplifier circuits on the market. In fact, each module communicates with its peers for exceptional overall performance. The amplification circuit uses a balanced and unbalanced interface independently, enabling it to greatly reduce noise and distortion. Moreover, this makes it capable of driving all types of headphones on the market with a power of 2x 7000mW @32Ω and a THD+N of less than 0.00009%
Sophisticated aesthetics
The DX9's rounded curves give it an outstanding aesthetic. Coupled with two color screens and its Aurora UI interface, the user experience is made exceptional. To top it all off, a transparent plate on the top of the device allows you to observe the DX9's internal circuitry. This plate also features Topping's 15th anniversary lettering.