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I'm old school and have a few systems but I'm thinking of getting another, and I've been looking at the fosi amps , like the bt 20 a , bt 20 s etc... A video on what's the difference between all the fosi stuff would be interesting
Was genuinely surprised by the distaste towards TRS connectors. They've always been extremely common in my industry (pro audio), and I find them to be sturdy and compact way of transmitting balanced signals. The interface sitting on my desk right now has 10 balanced TRS outputs and 6 balanced TRS inputs (not counting the additional XLR/TRS inputs at the front) and it's not even a rack unit. Interesting!
lots of bedroom/dorm room producers would dig this headphone and pre combo...with TRS connectors. Maybe mix via headphones and powered desktop monitors. If you are into LoFi beat making your rig is your production desk, your gaming and music stereo.
Also the 90 degree ones save a little space when the back of the equipment is tight against the wall. (Like in my kitchen) robust too. What’s not to like?
Indeed, nothing is as common as a balanced TRS connection on any professional studio equipment. XLRs are mostly for mics, but balanced TRS line-in/line-out is more like “a default”. And as for the so-self-named "audiophile world", those freaks still have laughable RCAs on their toys, so probably they are not the most tech-savvy people to base the decisions upon.
TRS is a good connector used professionally. As an audiophile I hate the mentallity of some against changes or differences. This connector provides balanced with smal space. All positives. As long as the build quality of the connector and the cable are good I don't care which connector I use. Allthough we have a lot of reliability issues using XLR connectors at work. More parts so higher failure rate.
It’s kind of weird to hear you say you don’t like Topping now, after putting the E50 high in your last DAC tier list, as well as on your list of components you regret losing. You did have some kind words for the E50 in this video, albeit significantly muted. Frankly, the TRS connections aren’t a big deal. It serves the form factor, and TRS-to-XLR cables start at ~$10 or less, which is nothing to most audiophiles dropping hundreds/thousands on this stuff.
I like the TRS terminals, less bulky than XLRs and more friendly than the multitude of RCA varieties we endlessly tighten and adjust. The only ones I’ve found that really work good are Neutrik but they cost more and manufacturers do scrimp. Maybe Topping’s trying to make TRSs a new audio standard. Do they sound better? I don’t know, they’re easy to work with but they still buzz if you plug them in hot.
I respect Randy's opinions on TRS, but coming from the pro audio world it's interesting that the hifi world went with XLR at all. GENERALLY speaking(not always), but 3pin XLR is typically reserved for MIC-level signals and 1/4" TRS is typically for LINE-level signals. While both connectors can do both it's just more likely that they're used as such. Perhaps it's for the locking feature of XLR, but locking 1/4" ports exist as well. But the need for locking connections isn't as necessary for a hifi setup that likely isn't being moved/stepped around as it is for something like live sound applications.
My xDuoo TA-30 uses the ES9038Q2M DAC. Same as the Topping D10. Tubes were upgraded to PSVane Cossor black glass tubes. I love the sound and feel no need to get another DAC.
I have to also add that Topping A90D is all about power headroom. Handling HE6SE V2 like it's nothing. I have to agree about it being lacking personality, but that's something more about taste. I have to agree with HD650/6XX sounding amazing with A90D, I even preferred it over tube amps.
TRS is the de facto connection of the pro audio industry. Pretty much all prosumer gear uses it. It’s not that odd of a connector and save a lot of space allowing balanced in and outs on smaller gear
@@masterxyr do you really consider any $70 audio interface every streamer/youtuber/home worker uses for mic pro audio stuff? Any guitar? Any keys? Any 100 tiny desktop active speakers from a reputable brand?
@@masterxyr I think he was just trying to say it's not that of a new thing. And that it is tested, tried and true. Why not use it in consumer hifi if it's used successfully in pro audio? It's just a connection and a space saving one with lots of cables available at lots of different price points.
TRS was old dusty standart before 4.4 (and, if I remember correctly, 2.5 balanced) connection were even created. All active speakers, all audiointerfaces/audiocards (even the most home-consumer-oriented use it. And I don't even mention unbalanced TRS in every single guitar (and other musical instruments and stuff) on a planet.
TRRS was just a result of poor market research in my opinion. For pricing, I just had a D10s delivered.. $104 I think I paid for a dac that has no complaints from anyone.. not even the most insufferable online forums have something bad to say about it. I wanna see someone stack this against $500 dacs and do some blind listening.
I bought an A90 back when Joshua Valor reviewed it. Worth revere penny. If this thing break down today, I'll buy another one in a heartbeat. Also I've replaced all my balanced xlrs with TRS since they are way less chunky to use. Not sure what his gripe is about.
I have a topping pre90 and ext 90 as a pre amp I got used for $400. it's pretty fantastic addition to my chain for 400. I like it better than the Schiit Freya I had previously... I don't necessarily love the topping HP amps as they can be sterile, cold, bright, and very small sounding. But the pre90 was quite good.
I was an early adopter of the Topping D90 and A90 using balanced connections with balanced headphone cables... Three of the A90's failed. Getting them replaced was a nightmare. After the third one died, the vendor agreed to let me get a different amp so I opted for the Singxer SA-1 and have been happy. Back to Topping, I've given 3 sets as gifts and fortunately, they've done OK and I've helped a couple of friends get a set of Topping as well. My major beef with Topping is the endless number of products. For the nearly $1500 I spent on the D90, A90, cables... I'm continually confused by their production. And while I'm whining, why don't these manufacturers come out with a nice, clear, color screen? OK. Done whining. Thanks for your reviews.
I am really enjoying my A90D paired with a Cayin RU6. The R2R really brings out the musicality, while the A90D amplifies it cleanly for anything I would ever want to run on it.
I also have an A90D and a Rockna Wavelight (r2r as well). I have listened to much more expensive amplifiers. This is a really good combo and a90d sounds REALLY good. It is a real step up from A90 btw
Audiophiles don't use TRS, but audio pros do. They are practical and affordable. The A90 is a good, clean, balanced hp amp that can double as a preamp driving a power amp. Practical, very well built and the price is right!
I know you don't really love Topping but it would be awesome to compare the sound of the A90D to the L70. They basically have the same features but 250$ cheaper!
Pricing has gone up? People would be fine with the 30 series, be it the DAC or the headphone amp. For computer desktop the pa3 is fine enough too. TSR cables are very cheap.
Your videos are always entertaining, and I usually agree with your perceptions. That's even true of this product; however, this is the worst review of the A90 Discreet that I've seen to date. Sorry. The threaded connector on the back is for attaching the $249 Ext90, which takes inputs to a total of four pairs of XLR and two pairs of RCA. There's a 12V trigger connection for controlling downstream devices. The remote has a couple of configurable presets that can be super useful. For example, you could use one of them to implement home theater bypass. The A90D is a lot more than a bench-quality headphones amp. You touched on some of this, but not nearly to the degree that I feel you should have for your viewers to understand the product's features. I realize that you don't often have much time with products before you have to get a video out, but the A90D, at $599, deserves more evaluation effort than you seem to have put into it. Love your channel and perspectives, but this one was a disappointment for me.
I really don't understand the distaste for TRS connectors, or saying that they're not the "enthusiast" standard. I think that's only true for headphones (even then only partially), IEMs tend to go for the TRS (or more accurately TRRS) because it would be insane to have a bulky XLR connector hanging off a thin IEM wire. Also, there isn't a DAP in existence that would try to fit a full size XLR connector, even the monster Fiio M17 only goes up to a 1/4" TRS. I can understand using an XLR for the connections between pieces of equipment but I'm actually turned off by amps and headphones that only use XLR.
I literally just ordered the A90d about an hour before this video was posted. Your deceptive title almost made me cancel it. I agree that the price is higher than I would have liked it to be, but it seems like the best option for the Arya Stealth that I have coming with it.
i dont get why people dislike the double mono 1/4inch (basic ass guitar cable) and prefer the double mono 3pin xlr (basic ass mic cable)...it literally makes no fucking sense in my head. balanced is balanced no matter what plug ya use.
Hey, have you seen Schiit's new amps? You should definitely get in a pair of the Rekka and Gjallarhorns to test in mono with those RSL CG3Ms you just got in to review
I saw those yesterday, had no idea they were releasing a desktop speaker amp that can stack on the magni etc. It's even capable of running as a monoblock iirc. You can have a really nice desktop stack that does headphones and speakers. Great for a home office.
@@spamcan9208 Neither did I, I'm pretty excited about it because I've been looking for a lower cost but more importantly smaller amp and lo and behold they make not one but two. Yeah, the Rekka can be run in "mono" but it's basically an unbalanced bridge thing (the chassis isn't big enough for XLR). The bigger Gjallarhorn is balanced tho and I really like the idea of both. I'll probably a pair of each because I'm not gonna be able to tell myself no lol
@@02honeydew I wish I could afford to do that lol. Right now I'm trying to decide between the Cayin RU6, Gishelli J2, or the Modi Multibit or maybe just get the Modi+ and call it a day as I build a Schitt stack. The problem is I've never heard a good DAC, I have no idea if it will address my current disappointments lol.
@@gunnerdunbar I mean this with complete sincerity, you need to seek professional psychiatric help. It's abnormal behavior to stalk someone in the comments section for a week because of a petty grievance. Even neurotypical children don't display that behavior.
@@spamcan9208 Its gonna be a little bit of saving as I've got some other things to take care of lol but yeah, I'll just return whichever I don't like as much as the other. That way I don't have a pile of stuff I don't use lol. I've been wanting to try the Gishelli stuff since they first started, that's what I would probably try first. That and the Modi 2 or whatever it is now are what I would probably try out.
I would love to pair this with my NAD 208thx power amp, but I only have a Grace "balanced" SDAC, or the Emotiva XDA-2 balanced preamp/DAC, which sounds great, but I wouldn't use it just for the DAC.
Thank you for your review of the A90 Discrete! My personal headphone rabbit-hole had initially taken me down the Topping/SMSL/misc.ChiFi route due to price point and measurements from places like ASR. As my journey continued and component cost started going up (and headphone gear can go way up!) my concern about things like support and what to do if something bricks became a thing. I then began to look more at the US based companies (since I'm in the US) and what support options exist, as well as the online communities around these brands. Much of this gear doesn't "technically measure" as cleanly as some of their non-US counterparts, though it was never meant to, but they do have an engagement factor that cannot be measured on a scope or graph - it's a subjective hobby after all. So then there is cost ... yeah, the US stuff can be a bit more expensive. But, and this was a big revelation for me, the used Headphone / Amp / DAC market exists and is thriving! Best part is that many of the US manufactures will support used gear and are often actively participating in online audio forums and will answer questions directly. And if the gear isn't something I love I can turn around and resell it without losing much, if any, money (generally shipping and/or payment processing fees).
Great review! Curious, have you had any experience with Cayin? They have a cool-looking DAC (expensive though), but I am interested in the mini CD player.
Hi. I have a dx7 pro that I use with my Clear mg and in rca on the denon in stereo. I am very hesitant between the A70 Pro and the a90d. What are the differences? Which one would you recommend?
The LA90 has combo xlr/trs combo jack inputs. More common in pro audio but they can take either connector. They are using TRS to have balanced connections on smaller products where they can’t fit xlr. I think it’s innovative and I appreciate having that option.
Totally agree. And trs cables are very easily available (much more than 4.4). Also they've ketp xlr in their bigger units. Really seems like using trs as balanced is a way to have balanced inputs/outputs in smaller sized units. Other brands have adopted this (trs) and not so many have adopted 4.4. (unless for headphone outs) XLR is a rarity in smaller units. In my opinion all xlrs should chante to trs. Space saving and cost saving as well.
Had a simultaneous bad experience with 2 Topping units. Then had a bad experience returning them to where I bought them from… never dealing with either again.
With that much power, wondering what was the hardest to drive headphone that you tried this with? What did the Topping A90D do with those headphones that surprised you that other headphone amps haven't been able to do? Did you try the Dan Clark Aeon 2 with it, since those are supposed to need more power to bring to life?
Strong second re Topping. Good stuff, but design is not to my liking, they make some odd product feature decisions, and their pricing is out of control. They seem to have forgotten their roots, should not be trying to compete with Emotive, Cambridge…
Say what you will about the Topping E30(I have a mk I) but it stacks on top of my Aiyima A07 perfectly :) I know you've been down on the E30 but speak highly of the E50. Is the difference that pronounced (assuming one doesn't need the balanced outputs)?
I like Topping and have a E30 DAC and the DX7pro DAC/Amp - however I agree with your gripes. The upper end stuff does seem overpriced, and the TRS connections are annoying as well and would probably be a factor in a purchase decision for the units they used them in. The A90D has been intriguing though - and no TRS! I feel like that might be my end game solid state amp if it ever goes on sale.
I didn’t have enough space on my desk for a unit with XLR connectors as those units tend to be a tad bit larger. While not a common balanced connector, the TRS connector allowed me to build a decent desktop system. I had to balance connector type with available space. See what I did there?😊
Honest question. Randy spoke highly of the Topping E50 DAC and I picked one up for 200 dollars new and I'm waiting for it to ship. Is the sound DAC worth the money? I do like the remote control but don't need it if the Gesheli or other in this price range is noticeably better. Thanks all in advance.
i have the e50 and really like it. Regarding features it also has a very nice screen, runs balanced, has 3 sound filters and does mqa (if you're into that) Oh and you can update the power supply and take it a notch above even. Haven't tried the Geshelli but am pretty happy with the e50.
@P T right. forgot the preamp feature. :) From what I've red (and seen) the e70 is warmer sounding, better dynamics and has better soundstage. Haven't tried it though. Also has bluetooth, auto on/off and that trigger function.
@P T nice. i actually went for topping's own p50 linear power supply. I'd be most thankful if you could give me some feedback on the e70 (vs e50) as i was also thinking on upgrading.
U've got dat one rite!..Topping is outrageously expensive due to buyer demand on west side of the world..yup yall makes prices goes up If here in asia..it'll be cheaper But since western r buyin'..no wonder..peace!
It a game of pick and choose. The problems with these chifi brands is warranty or support. They aren't cheap toys, so if one break it become an expensive metal box. Now vs known brands with legit support and warranty, you don't get the bang for your bucks. Yea, life isn't easy for sure.
Now you may wish to hammer the Chinese, fine, produce the same quality product at the same price in the US. Don't like trs don't buy it. Others will. For those wondering whether to buy Topping, this headphone amp is an excellent solid state, has excellent build quality and of course the detailed revealing linear sound that could cost many hundreds more. Would I prefer to keep my money in the West? Yes I would. Can the US do this? No.
Let the world know that I would NEVER spend more than $80 on an headphone amp, There is no mystery in this simple science of driving a headphone at Audio frequencies
Actually far and away my least favourite song off that album. The last two I think are delightful. Telegraph Road is just awesome and Private Investigations is so tense.
@@jessieheeet SMSL has some good DACS at least when you move up to something like an SU-9 Pro or SU 10. And the SH-9 THXAAA Amp is basically just as good as the Topping A90D for half the price if you only need a HP amp
$600 too much for a one time use disposable. 🔈🔉🔊 (edit) Alternative $600 one time use disposable; Cambridge Audio AXR100 100-Watt Stereo Receiver with Bluetooth | Built-in Phono Stage, 3.5mm Input, AM/FM
Agree 100%. Guys, the sound on the A90D and other Toppings and SMSL is dead because THX style, so buy a normal amplifier from another brand and yourself will hear a difference, even the Ifi Zen Can or Schiit Asgard 3 for $200 sounds better. We do not live in a vacuum, in our world the normal background is 30-40 dB, and if it is not there, it feels like a dead man in the grave.
Thank you for telling the dirty little truth about Topping, perhaps the most overrated of the Chi-fi manufacturers. Their quality control is spotty, and they chase measurements over the pursuit of sound quality at all costs. No wonder Topping is the darling of the Audio Science Review crowd, which worships squiggly lines on a graph more than actual headphone equipment and listening to music.
Those of us who live with others often want to listen at volume levels above what would disturb them...or want to block out the others' noise and listen to music undisturbed.
@@TheNobleFive And you can EQ the tonality properly to nail it in much more easily than is possible in a room. It all depends on what you value in your own listening experience.
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I'm old school and have a few systems but I'm thinking of getting another, and I've been looking at the fosi amps , like the bt 20 a , bt 20 s etc... A video on what's the difference between all the fosi stuff would be interesting
TRS are still balanced.
Was genuinely surprised by the distaste towards TRS connectors. They've always been extremely common in my industry (pro audio), and I find them to be sturdy and compact way of transmitting balanced signals. The interface sitting on my desk right now has 10 balanced TRS outputs and 6 balanced TRS inputs (not counting the additional XLR/TRS inputs at the front) and it's not even a rack unit. Interesting!
0:56
lots of bedroom/dorm room producers would dig this headphone and pre combo...with TRS connectors. Maybe mix via headphones and powered desktop monitors. If you are into LoFi beat making your rig is your production desk, your gaming and music stereo.
I agree, I love TRS connectors, and XLR to TRS is easy to obtain.
Also the 90 degree ones save a little space when the back of the equipment is tight against the wall. (Like in my kitchen) robust too. What’s not to like?
Indeed, nothing is as common as a balanced TRS connection on any professional studio equipment. XLRs are mostly for mics, but balanced TRS line-in/line-out is more like “a default”.
And as for the so-self-named "audiophile world", those freaks still have laughable RCAs on their toys, so probably they are not the most tech-savvy people to base the decisions upon.
TRS is a good connector used professionally. As an audiophile I hate the mentallity of some against changes or differences. This connector provides balanced with smal space. All positives. As long as the build quality of the connector and the cable are good I don't care which connector I use. Allthough we have a lot of reliability issues using XLR connectors at work. More parts so higher failure rate.
“I didn’t want it to be but still a great product.” One of the most believable recommendations I have heard. Seriously.
It’s kind of weird to hear you say you don’t like Topping now, after putting the E50 high in your last DAC tier list, as well as on your list of components you regret losing. You did have some kind words for the E50 in this video, albeit significantly muted.
Frankly, the TRS connections aren’t a big deal. It serves the form factor, and TRS-to-XLR cables start at ~$10 or less, which is nothing to most audiophiles dropping hundreds/thousands on this stuff.
Good vid Randy, thanks again for being useful and funny at the same time!
Always!
Very good review. Even with your self-admitted bias against Topping, you give credit where credit is due. I like that.
Your thumbnail picture suggests you would not like to be roommates with this device, but if you were, you’d label all of your stuff in the fridge.
I like the TRS terminals, less bulky than XLRs and more friendly than the multitude of RCA varieties we endlessly tighten and adjust. The only ones I’ve found that really work good are Neutrik but they cost more and manufacturers do scrimp. Maybe Topping’s trying to make TRSs a new audio standard. Do they sound better? I don’t know, they’re easy to work with but they still buzz if you plug them in hot.
better than xlr in all ways possible.
I respect Randy's opinions on TRS, but coming from the pro audio world it's interesting that the hifi world went with XLR at all. GENERALLY speaking(not always), but 3pin XLR is typically reserved for MIC-level signals and 1/4" TRS is typically for LINE-level signals. While both connectors can do both it's just more likely that they're used as such.
Perhaps it's for the locking feature of XLR, but locking 1/4" ports exist as well. But the need for locking connections isn't as necessary for a hifi setup that likely isn't being moved/stepped around as it is for something like live sound applications.
I've got the E50/L50 stack. I love em. I do agree with the TRS connectors.
My xDuoo TA-30 uses the ES9038Q2M DAC. Same as the Topping D10.
Tubes were upgraded to PSVane Cossor black glass tubes.
I love the sound and feel no need to get another DAC.
Great just-in-time review. I was just looking at this, and the L70 but , changed focus to a gaming headset and the Schiit Hel2.
Thanks for the review, Topping does have a lot of products, and a few are very similar.
Always enjoy your reviews! I'd love to hear how you think this stacks up to the Schiit Lyr+ you just got also.
I have to also add that Topping A90D is all about power headroom. Handling HE6SE V2 like it's nothing. I have to agree about it being lacking personality, but that's something more about taste. I have to agree with HD650/6XX sounding amazing with A90D, I even preferred it over tube amps.
TRS is the de facto connection of the pro audio industry. Pretty much all prosumer gear uses it. It’s not that odd of a connector and save a lot of space allowing balanced in and outs on smaller gear
was he talking about the pro audio crowd though? Did he not mention consumer hifi stuff though?
@@masterxyr do you really consider any $70 audio interface every streamer/youtuber/home worker uses for mic pro audio stuff? Any guitar? Any keys? Any 100 tiny desktop active speakers from a reputable brand?
@@masterxyr within seconds of mentioning trs I certainly did. Thank you for actually watching the video.
@@masterxyr I think he was just trying to say it's not that of a new thing. And that it is tested, tried and true. Why not use it in consumer hifi if it's used successfully in pro audio? It's just a connection and a space saving one with lots of cables available at lots of different price points.
@@cheapaudioman thank you for making it
TRS was old dusty standart before 4.4 (and, if I remember correctly, 2.5 balanced) connection were even created. All active speakers, all audiointerfaces/audiocards (even the most home-consumer-oriented use it. And I don't even mention unbalanced TRS in every single guitar (and other musical instruments and stuff) on a planet.
TRRS was just a result of poor market research in my opinion.
For pricing, I just had a D10s delivered.. $104 I think I paid for a dac that has no complaints from anyone.. not even the most insufferable online forums have something bad to say about it. I wanna see someone stack this against $500 dacs and do some blind listening.
i prefer trs to xlr
I bought an A90 back when Joshua Valor reviewed it. Worth revere penny. If this thing break down today, I'll buy another one in a heartbeat.
Also I've replaced all my balanced xlrs with TRS since they are way less chunky to use. Not sure what his gripe is about.
The extender interface is to provide more inputs, both rca and xlr and take advantage of its preamp capabilities.
I have a topping pre90 and ext 90 as a pre amp I got used for $400. it's pretty fantastic addition to my chain for 400. I like it better than the Schiit Freya I had previously... I don't necessarily love the topping HP amps as they can be sterile, cold, bright, and very small sounding. But the pre90 was quite good.
Is that an Omega Seamaster? If so, I understand now why you're the cheap audio man! Hehe love your channel :)
I was an early adopter of the Topping D90 and A90 using balanced connections with balanced headphone cables... Three of the A90's failed. Getting them replaced was a nightmare. After the third one died, the vendor agreed to let me get a different amp so I opted for the Singxer SA-1 and have been happy. Back to Topping, I've given 3 sets as gifts and fortunately, they've done OK and I've helped a couple of friends get a set of Topping as well. My major beef with Topping is the endless number of products. For the nearly $1500 I spent on the D90, A90, cables... I'm continually confused by their production. And while I'm whining, why don't these manufacturers come out with a nice, clear, color screen? OK. Done whining. Thanks for your reviews.
They have answered your prayers with the A70/D70!
🤣🤣@@SteveRyder
Nice Omega, I love my bond Seamaster.
I am really enjoying my A90D paired with a Cayin RU6. The R2R really brings out the musicality, while the A90D amplifies it cleanly for anything I would ever want to run on it.
I also have an A90D and a Rockna Wavelight (r2r as well). I have listened to much more expensive amplifiers. This is a really good combo and a90d sounds REALLY good. It is a real step up from A90 btw
The sound on the A90 is dead, buy a normal amplifier from another brand and you will hear everything yourself
Please try e70 and e70 velvet dacs. I think you'll be amazed on how they sound. I think topping has heard your gripes on how their gear sounds. 😀
Just found you, dude! Great review! Liked & subbed.
Audiophiles don't use TRS, but audio pros do. They are practical and affordable.
The A90 is a good, clean, balanced hp amp that can double as a preamp driving a power amp. Practical, very well built and the price is right!
RME ADI 2 is my go to headphone/ preamp
Really nailed it. Clean sound with an excellent sense of macrodynamics. Makes other amps in the price range sound veiled
Topping ext90 adds 3 balanced and 1 rca input to the a90d or the pre90 for $250.
I use a lot of pro audio gear and they all use TRS pretty much.
I have a D50s , it is my first standalone DAC. I use it as a pre amp for my Rotel integrated amp.
Randy vs TRS connections is basically tilting at windmills. Either you have the right cables or you don't. It's true of any equipment really.
I know you don't really love Topping but it would be awesome to compare the sound of the A90D to the L70.
They basically have the same features but 250$ cheaper!
L70 not discrete. Should sound a lot like the og A90 though.
Pricing has gone up? People would be fine with the 30 series, be it the DAC or the headphone amp. For computer desktop the pa3 is fine enough too.
TSR cables are very cheap.
Your videos are always entertaining, and I usually agree with your perceptions. That's even true of this product; however, this is the worst review of the A90 Discreet that I've seen to date. Sorry. The threaded connector on the back is for attaching the $249 Ext90, which takes inputs to a total of four pairs of XLR and two pairs of RCA. There's a 12V trigger connection for controlling downstream devices. The remote has a couple of configurable presets that can be super useful. For example, you could use one of them to implement home theater bypass. The A90D is a lot more than a bench-quality headphones amp. You touched on some of this, but not nearly to the degree that I feel you should have for your viewers to understand the product's features. I realize that you don't often have much time with products before you have to get a video out, but the A90D, at $599, deserves more evaluation effort than you seem to have put into it. Love your channel and perspectives, but this one was a disappointment for me.
Hi. Best packaging for a digital amp was the NuForce headphone amp/integrated amp.
I really don't understand the distaste for TRS connectors, or saying that they're not the "enthusiast" standard. I think that's only true for headphones (even then only partially), IEMs tend to go for the TRS (or more accurately TRRS) because it would be insane to have a bulky XLR connector hanging off a thin IEM wire. Also, there isn't a DAP in existence that would try to fit a full size XLR connector, even the monster Fiio M17 only goes up to a 1/4" TRS. I can understand using an XLR for the connections between pieces of equipment but I'm actually turned off by amps and headphones that only use XLR.
Still not that overpriced compared to what is sold in shops. Regardless if its valueits hard to go past the bt/dongle dac amps from fiio/qudelix
I literally just ordered the A90d about an hour before this video was posted. Your deceptive title almost made me cancel it. I agree that the price is higher than I would have liked it to be, but it seems like the best option for the Arya Stealth that I have coming with it.
I got the Gustard h16 for a good deal. Quite pleased.
i dont get why people dislike the double mono 1/4inch (basic ass guitar cable) and prefer the double mono 3pin xlr (basic ass mic cable)...it literally makes no fucking sense in my head. balanced is balanced no matter what plug ya use.
Hi Randy,
Please consider removing your ring 💍 hurts when it touches the hardware 😆😘
Cheers from Hungary, big fan!
The Soncoz SGP1 is looking like a great deal. Plenty of power, really good looking, a decent price.
Hey, have you seen Schiit's new amps? You should definitely get in a pair of the Rekka and Gjallarhorns to test in mono with those RSL CG3Ms you just got in to review
I saw those yesterday, had no idea they were releasing a desktop speaker amp that can stack on the magni etc. It's even capable of running as a monoblock iirc. You can have a really nice desktop stack that does headphones and speakers. Great for a home office.
@@spamcan9208 Neither did I, I'm pretty excited about it because I've been looking for a lower cost but more importantly smaller amp and lo and behold they make not one but two. Yeah, the Rekka can be run in "mono" but it's basically an unbalanced bridge thing (the chassis isn't big enough for XLR). The bigger Gjallarhorn is balanced tho and I really like the idea of both. I'll probably a pair of each because I'm not gonna be able to tell myself no lol
@@02honeydew I wish I could afford to do that lol. Right now I'm trying to decide between the Cayin RU6, Gishelli J2, or the Modi Multibit or maybe just get the Modi+ and call it a day as I build a Schitt stack.
The problem is I've never heard a good DAC, I have no idea if it will address my current disappointments lol.
@@gunnerdunbar I mean this with complete sincerity, you need to seek professional psychiatric help. It's abnormal behavior to stalk someone in the comments section for a week because of a petty grievance. Even neurotypical children don't display that behavior.
@@spamcan9208 Its gonna be a little bit of saving as I've got some other things to take care of lol but yeah, I'll just return whichever I don't like as much as the other. That way I don't have a pile of stuff I don't use lol. I've been wanting to try the Gishelli stuff since they first started, that's what I would probably try first. That and the Modi 2 or whatever it is now are what I would probably try out.
wotcha Randy. you should perhaps check out the Topping G5. that is a great product...
I would love to pair this with my NAD 208thx power amp, but I only have a Grace "balanced" SDAC, or the Emotiva XDA-2 balanced preamp/DAC, which sounds great, but I wouldn't use it just for the DAC.
I like toppings on my ice cream sundae :)
A30/D30 pro? ( for d30 pro the drivers master, I use 5.27 and 2.44 firmware)
Assuming no issue with input level, would it make sense to pair the A90D with the LA90D if they have the same kind of sound?
Thank you for your review of the A90 Discrete!
My personal headphone rabbit-hole had initially taken me down the Topping/SMSL/misc.ChiFi route due to price point and measurements from places like ASR. As my journey continued and component cost started going up (and headphone gear can go way up!) my concern about things like support and what to do if something bricks became a thing.
I then began to look more at the US based companies (since I'm in the US) and what support options exist, as well as the online communities around these brands. Much of this gear doesn't "technically measure" as cleanly as some of their non-US counterparts, though it was never meant to, but they do have an engagement factor that cannot be measured on a scope or graph - it's a subjective hobby after all.
So then there is cost ... yeah, the US stuff can be a bit more expensive. But, and this was a big revelation for me, the used Headphone / Amp / DAC market exists and is thriving! Best part is that many of the US manufactures will support used gear and are often actively participating in online audio forums and will answer questions directly. And if the gear isn't something I love I can turn around and resell it without losing much, if any, money (generally shipping and/or payment processing fees).
thx for this honest review... if i plug this amp with my D50s would it be ridiculous? so i mean, i need the D90 or better ?
Great review! Curious, have you had any experience with Cayin? They have a cool-looking DAC (expensive though), but I am interested in the mini CD player.
Hi. I have a dx7 pro that I use with my Clear mg and in rca on the denon in stereo. I am very hesitant between the A70 Pro and the a90d. What are the differences? Which one would you recommend?
The LA90 has combo xlr/trs combo jack inputs. More common in pro audio but they can take either connector. They are using TRS to have balanced connections on smaller products where they can’t fit xlr. I think it’s innovative and I appreciate having that option.
Totally agree. And trs cables are very easily available (much more than 4.4). Also they've ketp xlr in their bigger units. Really seems like using trs as balanced is a way to have balanced inputs/outputs in smaller sized units. Other brands have adopted this (trs) and not so many have adopted 4.4. (unless for headphone outs) XLR is a rarity in smaller units. In my opinion all xlrs should chante to trs. Space saving and cost saving as well.
Thanx for this great vid.
Do you recommend any other Headphone Amplifier WITH XLR input for cheaper?
How do you like bottoming, then?
That video title is my echo chamber
The input impedence balanced on the A90 (&pre90) is super low (bad) at 2.2K.
What about the TOPPING DX3 Pro+? Similar to DX5 but, is that a good thing?
He put out a positive review for that.
It's good.
Can you do a video on s.m.s.l DA6 amp
Expecting it soon😊❤️
Had a simultaneous bad experience with 2 Topping units. Then had a bad experience returning them to where I bought them from… never dealing with either again.
How's the remote range and usability of the A90D?
I loved the Pre90 but had to return it because of it's unusable remote...
Thanks!
Get a product from germany like the Lake People G111 MKII instead, no bullsh*t, straight to the point a great neutral amp.
Audio-GD is a premier chi fi manufacturer.
With that much power, wondering what was the hardest to drive headphone that you tried this with? What did the Topping A90D do with those headphones that surprised you that other headphone amps haven't been able to do? Did you try the Dan Clark Aeon 2 with it, since those are supposed to need more power to bring to life?
I've seen a lot of gossip about issues with the A90D (now also seen with A70 Pro) what are your thoughts on this?
You're right. Screw those guys.
Strong second re Topping. Good stuff, but design is not to my liking, they make some odd product feature decisions, and their pricing is out of control. They seem to have forgotten their roots, should not be trying to compete with Emotive, Cambridge…
They are trying to have gear in every price point i think. Their cheaper gear maybe is not so cheap as it was, but whoose is?
L70 seems like a much better value at $350 with similar specs and tons of power.
different animal. A lot more like og a90. this one is discrete.
Thank you! How about an Edition XS versus 109 comparaison :) (I'm personally curious if the 109 is an upgrade from the edition xs that I own...)
Well, you always recommend Emotiva. On other RUclips channels, they do recommend Topping.
Is FiiO BTR 7 a good portable amp?
Numpty question, why do I need a headphone amp, dont I just plug em in or use wireless? what will an amp do for me?
No opinion on the connectors but Topping are trying to look and charge premium prices.
My DX3Pro was £125. Great little DAC/AMP for the money.
do I have to plug it into an amp or just plug it into the D90SE for it to work
Say what you will about the Topping E30(I have a mk I) but it stacks on top of my Aiyima A07 perfectly :)
I know you've been down on the E30 but speak highly of the E50. Is the difference that pronounced (assuming one doesn't need the balanced outputs)?
I like Topping and have a E30 DAC and the DX7pro DAC/Amp - however I agree with your gripes. The upper end stuff does seem overpriced, and the TRS connections are annoying as well and would probably be a factor in a purchase decision for the units they used them in. The A90D has been intriguing though - and no TRS! I feel like that might be my end game solid state amp if it ever goes on sale.
I didn’t have enough space on my desk for a unit with XLR connectors as those units tend to be a tad bit larger. While not a common balanced connector, the TRS connector allowed me to build a decent desktop system. I had to balance connector type with available space. See what I did there?😊
Honest question. Randy spoke highly of the Topping E50 DAC and I picked one up for 200 dollars new and I'm waiting for it to ship.
Is the sound DAC worth the money? I do like the remote control but don't need it if the Gesheli or other in this price range is noticeably better.
Thanks all in advance.
i have the e50 and really like it. Regarding features it also has a very nice screen, runs balanced, has 3 sound filters and does mqa (if you're into that) Oh and you can update the power supply and take it a notch above even. Haven't tried the Geshelli but am pretty happy with the e50.
@P T right. forgot the preamp feature. :) From what I've red (and seen) the e70 is warmer sounding, better dynamics and has better soundstage. Haven't tried it though. Also has bluetooth, auto on/off and that trigger function.
@P T same here (for the filters), Can't hear much difference, but still, it's an added feature.
@P T nice. i actually went for topping's own p50 linear power supply. I'd be most thankful if you could give me some feedback on the e70 (vs e50) as i was also thinking on upgrading.
U've got dat one rite!..Topping is outrageously expensive due to buyer demand on west side of the world..yup yall makes prices goes up If here in asia..it'll be cheaper But since western r buyin'..no wonder..peace!
It's not about measurements...its about what it sounds like...😂😂😂😂😂😂
It a game of pick and choose. The problems with these chifi brands is warranty or support. They aren't cheap toys, so if one break it become an expensive metal box. Now vs known brands with legit support and warranty, you don't get the bang for your bucks. Yea, life isn't easy for sure.
Now you may wish to hammer the Chinese, fine, produce the same quality product at the same price in the US. Don't like trs don't buy it. Others will. For those wondering whether to buy Topping, this headphone amp is an excellent solid state, has excellent build quality and of course the detailed revealing linear sound that could cost many hundreds more. Would I prefer to keep my money in the West? Yes I would. Can the US do this? No.
Let the world know that I would NEVER spend more than $80 on an headphone amp,
There is no mystery in this simple science of driving a headphone at Audio frequencies
Off topic, but try listening to "Industrail Disease" by Dire Straits. Fun song/music.
Actually far and away my least favourite song off that album. The last two I think are delightful. Telegraph Road is just awesome and Private Investigations is so tense.
I love my Sabaj A10h headphone amp. I'm using it as a remote volume control. 75 bucks on Amazon.
Whisky? :)
I only buy Gustard and SMSL when it comes to Chinese gear. Not a fan of the Topping stuff. Overrated/Overpriced
SMSL is just as overrated as Topping. They also own Sabaj and Loxjie.
@@jessieheeet SMSL has some good DACS at least when you move up to something like an SU-9 Pro or SU 10. And the SH-9 THXAAA Amp is basically just as good as the Topping A90D for half the price if you only need a HP amp
$600 too much for a one time use disposable. 🔈🔉🔊
(edit)
Alternative $600 one time use disposable; Cambridge Audio AXR100 100-Watt Stereo Receiver with Bluetooth | Built-in Phono Stage, 3.5mm Input, AM/FM
👍👍
Agree 100%. Guys, the sound on the A90D and other Toppings and SMSL is dead because THX style, so buy a normal amplifier from another brand and yourself will hear a difference, even the Ifi Zen Can or Schiit Asgard 3 for $200 sounds better. We do not live in a vacuum, in our world the normal background is 30-40 dB, and if it is not there, it feels like a dead man in the grave.
Describe dead. What do you use? Curious on the gear you have.
@P T what headphones/ speakers?
Who the F needs a pre-amp for their headphone amp? Can’t turn up any headphone amp more than halfway without blowing out your ears anyway
Thank you for telling the dirty little truth about Topping, perhaps the most overrated of the Chi-fi manufacturers.
Their quality control is spotty, and they chase measurements over the pursuit of sound quality at all costs.
No wonder Topping is the darling of the Audio Science Review crowd, which worships squiggly lines on a graph more than actual headphone equipment and listening to music.
I guess it depends on what you're after. I have topping gear and am really happy with it. Great value and quality overall.
Crosstalk is not that good tho..
Never understood headphone amps. If you’re at home, why not use your speakers?
Those of us who live with others often want to listen at volume levels above what would disturb them...or want to block out the others' noise and listen to music undisturbed.
Good headphones are a lot cheaper than good speakers in my experience.
@@TheNobleFive And you can EQ the tonality properly to nail it in much more easily than is possible in a room. It all depends on what you value in your own listening experience.
Different experience and most people are mindful of family/ neighbors. Let alone space constraints.
topping DAcs don't work with CD's coax digital output, and they know it. Garbage...
You will own none of your music and be happy.
Schiit Jotenheim is a much better headphone amp/pre for a hundo less...