New Good Cheap DAC? Topping E30 ii Better or Worse than the First
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- Опубліковано 23 лип 2024
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Dear Randy😃
This E30 II is the dac I was looking for, no volume nor pre-amp functions needed, I just wanted to change my Musical Fidelity V-Dac (first one) to access to dsd files.
That was a nice dac at the time quite detailled but most of all, it stills works!
So, I'm actually testing this little Top'E30II and already really pleased to hear so many details on a beautiful sound stage. At this time, I even have to level down a bit the volume on the amplifier, and yes I still have an other volume control on the pc, so what's the use having one more on the dac?
The S is for the couple of chips🤡, you're not wrong about sibilance...but only for some times.
I'm not a burn-in guy but I noticed that, past 3 or 4 hours of listenning and some adjustments, I couldn't hear it anymore😃
Thanks again for your work on your channel👍, sibilanceless garanted!
I'm still using my Topping TP30 Mk 2. It still is reliable and sounds fantastic.
I just bought the WiiM mini streamer and love it so far but it definitely needs a better DAC and I’m looking at the Topping E30II, is this the best option for around $200 cad or is there some others I should be looking at?
Thanks for this video, now I'm still wondering what to buy for my dads audio.
This Topping E30 II vs Hifiberry DAC2 HD on a Raspberry pi?
Or AIYIMA ?
Which sounds better?
Check out the JDS Labs Atom Dac+ or the Khadis Tone Board. Both cost less and sound better than E30 II, unless you like your music cold, lifeless and sibilant.
I've been thinking about the Geshelli Labs J2 myself, but they offer 3 different chips. The AK4493 being one of them. Looking forward to your review of the Geshelli with the AK chip.
Randy, What options are out there for someone like me that you would actually recommend near this price point? I just want to add remote & TV functionality to my vintage Yamaha. I'm currently using a Chinese no named DAC. Purely because its cheap, has a remote & aesthetically unassuming (which is important to me). It's a 2 channel system paired with a set of Monitor Audio Bronze 100's. I'm in no rush & can wait for a deal as even with the Chinese DAC I'm still loving my set up, plus I've never had a decent DAC on there so you could say I dont know what I'm possibly missing if anything at all. Thk u sir.
Can I ask you for a suggestion for the best dac/amp or stack comb under 350 usd. Which ones sound the best (one or more suggestions)? Thanks in advance.
Howdy, I’m very new to the HiFi world and am a little confused as to which pieces of equipment I’ll need to power a pair of Unifi Reference speakers.
I plan on using the speakers for my turntable (RT81) and eventual home entertainment system. Would I need an amp or preamp? Can anybody recommend some to me if I have a budget of $400? Any and all help would be greatly appreciated
is there a device where you can plug a usb key into a device and play hi-res files and pass the signal to my amplifier?
do I need an amp if i'm only using this for my IEMs?
I think I have the old version and it really sounds nice. Not sure how to tell the difference between the 2 models :(
don't understand the need for volume control in a DAC...🤔
I've had this all weekend. I would recommend looking at the filters . F4 to me takes away the sibilant'ness and adds air to the top end. The system I'm using has the Sony SScs5's.
Im really wanting these sonys for a desktop setup. Flanking my ultrawide monitor
The Topping E30 was around $130 new previously, not $100. I’ve purchased two.
Edit:
I don’t think you reviewed this properly. If you don’t have these DACs in DAC only mode (meaning, no volume control), you’re not getting the full sound quality. Will this make a major difference? Possibly, depending on how much the sound is attenuated. I don’t quite understand why you’d use the volume control option here with a headphone amplifier that has its own volume knob. It’s really intended for use in a situation where the DAC is acting as a preamplifier.
If I’m wrong, someone please correct me.
It's a good thing you got two, because if a Topping product goes bad -- like my E30 did -- you'll have to ship it back to Shenzhen, China at your own expense for warranty service. I haven't decided whether to bother, since I have another perfectly adequate DAC...
@@editorjuno buy anything through Apos and they’ll probably take care of you. I have only had a single issue with Topping, their original L30 got recalled and I got it replaced with no work on my part.
@@Cujobob -- I got my E30 from Drop and AFAICT they are AWOL when it comes to anything that didn't specify a warranty in their website listing. My bad...
If you paid attention, he did say the original was $130.. Randy then stated that DAC cost increased 50%, so that a $100 DAC went to $150. Maybe he was talking too fast for you, or you didn’t get your ☕️ like he suggested. 👻
@@shipsahoy1793 he specifically says the E30 came in around $100. He does say “when it first came out” but if it was $130 before inflation anyways, it sort of defeats the entire talking point. Costs went up. If memory serves, it was $110-120 briefly and then went to $130. All of this was pre-2022.
so for how long did you let the DAC breakin for?
Have you reviewed any Cambridge DAC? Specifically the Cambridge DAC 100.. thx.
I recently added a Schiit Modi 3E DAC to my PC sound (optical > 3E > Sony STR-DH190 receiver > Emotiva B1+ speakers). It sounds great. The 3E is powered by USB from the PC, so it turns off when the PC does. Still waiting for a UA-cam review of the 3E (has an ESS ES9018 chip instead of AKM AK4490 in the Modi 3+).
I have 2 Modi 3+, i'm interested in the differences.... But the old one sounds great
Just helped the friend get the same setup minus dac.
I also got a 3E a month or so ago and would love to hear a review. My set up is close to yours. CD opt to 3E to Sony receiver to Mirage omni 250. Give the battery pack a try. I did and to me it sounds less edgy...nice
Definitely look for better power. The second, power-only input on the Modi makes it very easy. USB power from a PC will be noisy compared with almost anything. Currawong (Amos Barnett) got improvements in Modi sound from Apple switching supplies and the very low-noise Ifi supply. Or get a linear supply, at these low current ratings they will be plenty cheap and way better.
Hi Randy .What about buying the new IFI zen air dac at 99 euros?
what kind of power supply did You were using?
E30 was priced at 129usd with single DAC chip now E30II has dual mono two DAC chips and cost is just 20usd more despite inflation and 2 yrs go by....
Good point. But I don't understand why two DAC chips are better. How do they use two?
@@AndyBHome one DAC per each channel gives better channel separation and imaging .... like all dual mono set ups
@@kdomster9141 I see. Thanks for the explanation. I have the original E30. I use it all of the time. I think it sounds great through an Aiyima A07. I use it all of the time.
@@AndyBHome I agree , AKM DACs sound neutral and detailed while ESS Sabre DACs sound more detailed on top what often can sound more artificial and flashy , some may prefer it . It may make poorer quality recording or compressed recordings sound more alive but I think AKM sound more true .
Better to pair this with Aiyima A07 or just get the T9? Powering SS-CS5 FWIW
Compared to the T9 sounds like pairing the A07 with this one would be too harsh.
Great honest review, we appreciate the honesty which helps in getting the best sound and value we can. Personally I wouldn't buy anything without some physical main controls on anything. I've lost remotes and had remotes give out way before the main item has given out. I've been waiting for a AKM dac to listen to since I've only has Sabre and it appears I'm going to be waiting longer. Hopefully Geshelli Labs will have it figured out so I can try one.
Good info! I can't wait for your review of the Geshelli Labs J2. I've followed your previous recommendations for it but have held off buying one not understanding the difference in the 3 chip offerings. Maybe you can touch on that in your review?? Thanks! ~Frank
I'm using my Anker 26000 battery with my Loxjie D10. Mostly just because it was less than one thing to plug in. I haven't actually used it plugged to mains. I've got about 8 to 10 hours so far and the indicator hasn't moved yet.
Got the DX1? Other than the power itself which seems quite low for a desktop aio, seems amazing in all senses. l7audio already got measurements and they seem amazing! Will take probably two or so months until it comes here, do you have one already to or plan to review?
On your advice, I bought the cheap Prozor DAC, and I really like it…it sounds really good between my blue ray player and my Receiver, but for one thing: for some reason, only when I play factory Beatles CDs…part of one channel drops out! Noticed it on Rubber Soul and Sgt. Peppers. Any idea why?
Great review, Randy. Appreciate the honesty, which leads me to this question: How about a review of the Cambridge DacMagic 100? It's in a similar price range, and sounds great! I use one in my desktop system, and one in my two-channel system. For some reason I have not seen a review of this anywhere............
About re doing dac tier list you could do it as an annual thing, call it dac-tober or whatever :)
All tec related lists will change over time and assigning months or any time structure may free up thinking time.
I suggest the seasons first woodpecker sound on a clear sky day should be the marking of sub woofer list re-visit
Hey Randy, have you ever changed polarity with AC plugs when you have the option? Have you ever noticed one way sounding better than the other? Could some of your reviews be marred because of which way you plugged in the device? I think some of us really need to alter the AC plug when we have the option and see if we notice a difference...I know I have many times.
LOL. I hope you’re joking, but you’re probably not.
One polarity has less voltage on the case. That's supposed to be the orientation you want.
Im trying to setup my pc with bookshelfs. I see in many of ur videos u like sonys alot. But i remember u saying not great on a desk? Is there something in that price range u do recommend for pc speakers. My amps havent decided on which im gonna use but, both have 2.1 so i can later add a sub. My amps are suppose to be 50 watts rms per channel. 100 to sub channel.
so in theory, if I had this hooked up to a amp and that had a volume knob can I control this with that
Just bought this to replace a iFi Zen Dac 2 which keeps randomly disappearing from Windows 11 OS on a regular basis. iFi says its Windows fault...?
What DAC would you recommend for someone who’s never experienced an outboard DAC before, and is using the inbuilt DAC in a 13yr old Yamaha receiver ? I just got an Onkyo 6 disc CD player and using the inbuilt DAC through toslink in my receiver. Still sounds pretty harsh and I want to be able to enjoy my CD’s again. Also wouldn’t mind something with Bluetooth, and has decent range of multiple inputs. Cheers Randy, keep rockin’ on with Rocktapus! 😎
What budget are we talking about?
@@Yiannis2112 I’m thinking in the $500-$600 AUD range mate!
@@benkrake3678 There must be quite a few choices at around that price range, but truth is I'm not at all familiar with availability and prices in Australia.
For chip based (sigma-delta) DACs, I'd consider the Gustard X16, the SMSL D300, DO200 and SU9n, the Topping D30Pro and the Soncoz SGD1. For me, it would be between the SGD1 and the D300. Not in that order necessarilly. The DO200 is very good too, because of more connectivity options (AES, I2S), but I'd expect it to be slightly "brighter" sounding (far from being harsh, though) compared to the other, a bit "warmer" sounding two units. I might be wrong, but "warmer" is probably what you're after, considering your post. However, I'm pretty sure the X16 and SGD1 are quite above that 600aud range.
Schiit DACs are also very good, but looks like that outside the US, they're always out stock for more than two years now. JD Labs
Other good combo (DAC and headphone amp) units, are the chip based, new Topping DX5, the M500 MKII from SMSL (the MKIII is already out, but no reviews yet), the Sabaj A20D and the D40 from Loxjie.
Now forget all the above. I think you should watch the reviews of all of them. Its a good thing there are plenty of those. Plus the comments below. When you do decide, make sure they accept returns. Most importantly, always remember that whatever you'll end up with, the DAC comes dead last in your priorities. After room acoustics, speakers, sources, amplification. Certainly after the first two.
Maybe you can review JDS Labs Atom DAC Plus, the default firmware sounds neutral, and there is an experimental firmware that has a tube-like-sound. It is $109, from a U.S. Company.
smsl su-8s on ess occasionally goes around 160-180 on drop. Would be interesting how it compares to e30 mk2 which is 150.
I own both the smsl su8, and the new topping e30. I really like the topping with the ak chipset. The smsl with the sabre chip is also good, but lacks in way of bass depth. It really depends on how the whole dac is build, especially the opamp output stage.
Should I buy l30 ii or l50? For my e50 and aeon x closed.
Balanced systems are better
What would be a warm sounding forgiving dac for the bluesound node 130? Play many old rock and symfhonic metal. Cambridge cxn v2 overall Sound better but too bright for me
I own the OG E30 which I bought cheap used 2 years ago. A-B-ed it to various more expensive DACs and NEVER heard one iota of difference. It's fine, just like all other DACs I heard.
This. Anyone saying they are hearing differences is suffering from expectation bias.
@@redstang5150 What DACs have you compared?
Yeah I do believe this guy and many others are full of it.
How does it compare to Schiit Modi 3?
Im getting off this carousel...Last year I had my phone and a bluetooth speaker and I was perfectly happy. Now I have 3 Integrated amps, 3 sets of speakers, 2 DACs including a PontusII, 2 sets of headphones including some Focal Clears, a NODE streamer, and some other odds and ends...its ridiculous.
Sounds like you should. Sounds like the equipment for reproducing music is hampering the enjoyment of the music itself? Just keep the one pair of speakers you like best, one integrated amplifier you like best, one DAC you like best, one pair of headphones you like best etc, sell the rest and ENJOY THE ACTUAL MUSIC 🎶 😃
Yes dude, jump off while you still can! I think like most people I went throught the rabit hole over the last years, went through various DAC/AMPS, headphones and IEMs.
Then I ordered the moondrop CHU couple weeks ago (only to get the 3 sizes of springtips)! I realised the 20 dollars CHU wit ha 25 Meizu hifi dongle DACs got me about 85% of the music enjoyment I got with higher end IEMs like the sennheiser IE600 or moondrp variations, and close to 75% of what I got with my beloved Clears or Arya - not saying is was 85% and 75% of the sound quality, but of the enjoyement.
I then wend ahead and sold all my higher end IEMs, most of my headphones, and my ridiculous DAC/AMPs collection. In the end I kept the CHU for portable use and for comfort, a DX3 pro + for my desktop along with my focal clears and a Topping MX5 to power my ELAC F6.2 in the TV room. It still is a lot of gear but at least I don"t have several highend IEMs and headphones and DACs and AMPs anymore, and I simply enjoy my music :)
@@Dajanja What did you think of the Aryas compared to the Clears? Im looking for something that can handle bass a little better than the Clears..Haha, Im going right back in! LOl!
@@drewpknutz1410 🤣🤣🤣🤣 you tried :p
Sound is quite subjective, but to me the clears handle bass perfectly. The Clears' bass is punchier than the Aryas'. Aryas have a bit more bass extention, but I don't think anything is missing on the clears. I had the Aryas stealth version by the way, I also owned the V2 years ago, so I do not remember them correctly.
I kept the Clears as my only headphones, to my ears they do everything right. The Aryas stealth are also awesome, they have a bigger soundstage, more bass extension as I mentionned and I would say a bit less bright highs - if you are sensitive to high frequencies.
Still I kept the clears and sold the Aryas, I like their punchiness, presentation and more coherent soundstage and placement better.
Good luck !
@@jamesmoore4827Exactly! You took the words out of my mouth.
Had the original E30 for a long time and my PC sounded more resolving than my 400€ ONKYO cd transport, but harsh. Then switched to the E50: much better. It.s a set and forget device, like a DAC should be.
I went with the SMSL Sanskrit Mk II 1,5 year ago. It's Ok I guess but now eying the Aune X8 XVIII with Sparkos Opamp or SMSL M500 MK II (or III if that gets good reviews).
Hi Randy, i have a FX Audio Dac x6 MK 11, that is quite a good one, cost $ 199 NZ. Same chip as the Topping E90. Only thing is, its made in China.
Hey Randy any chance you have any affiliate links for crutchfield?
I do. you can just click through this Crutchfield shop-links.co/cguPK8XEGmt and I'll get credit
Best Wired Audio Streaming Signal Chain?
Coax Cable in from street, A/D converter (modem), Ethernet cable out, Streamer, USB B 2.0 cable out, D/A converter (DAC), balanced XLR cable out. Best chain. Correct?
IFi Zen dac v2? Currently $190 and I haven't heard it -- just tossing it in the mix. I'm very happy with their Zen Blue v2.
Do you think the current tier list is out of date? What's missing from it?
I'm very happy with my made in the USA Schiit Modi - thanks.
Battery power for audio - hmmm ? Oh that's right I have an electric forklift with a 1700 pound 36 volt battery in it. That should be enough power. 😁
Has anyone tried this with active speakers (Edifier)?
I continue to posit that if you are getting noise from the power supply, then there is a problem with the power supply or the power path in the device, which usually leads back to the design engineer / bean counters. In this day and age, a quiet supply should be a no brainer for any competent engineer.
Just connect a grounding wire between the chassis of the source and the next component; this solves most hum problems!
@@samuellord8576 back in the day, yes. Newer components can have Chassis at a different ground point potential, setting up a voltage differential which can cause all manner of unexpected consequences.
Now, if a ground lug is provided, such as one used for the external.ground wire of a turntable, then you can be reasonably assured that it is referenced to the ground pin of the (3 prong) power cord.
For example, in a forum I help moderate, there have been a number of people using switching power supply bricks for their projects and the results have been hit or miss, especially with the lower cost units. They tend to have poor separation between the high and low voltage sides, leading to noise and leakage. The last one took out the OP's MacBook.
So again, I posit that the engineers (if there are truly real engineers doing this) should be competent enough to design a good, quiet, AND safe power supply. And to be able to label them and their specs accordingly.
@@TheTrueVoiceOfReason Agreed, but people need remedies when the offending PS is internal. So connecting the chassis with near-zero impedance wire is the simplest way to fix *most* grounding problems. The more chassis connected (as they already are with modern balanced gear), the more effective the quieting of those chassis.
Thanks, Randy
So are telling me that my vanilla e30 is better (less harsh) than this mark 2?
In that case it's a wonderful news for me, since I have paid the old one 109€.
Edit: I have always been in love with akm for its warmer sound compared to the bright ess Sabre... So this 4493s variant must be a failure...
I also can't distinguish the difference on pcm recordings, between the e30 (4493) and the built-in 4490 in the Marantz pm6007 (the ampli built-in dac can decode only pcm). For home theater usage I rely on the 4452vn to in the OPPO 203.
Could be that coz my system is an entry level in hifi realm, then much more forgiving?
Main setup is: OPPO 203, Marantz 6007 and B&W 606 s2 annyversary ed).
Plus I own sennheiser 599 (I got them on Amazon prime days for 94€).
Yay, I made a good decision for a change, this as a stack was for sale as was the SMSL SU6 DAC + SH6 stack. I got the SMSL one cheaper on sale and apparently sounds better.
If you don't mind, I have a question. I have the SU6 dac, hooked up to my aiyima a07, then to speakers. I'm thinking of buying the SH 6 and some headphones. The sh6 would become the pre-amp for the aiyima and speakers. Would that change the sound signature of the speakers? Idk how that works...
Subscribed! But, Please would You show us ocasional Actual connection between the, say PC or imac to the rest of components You are talking about. That would not take much of Your time But will suredly help to somewhat *denser* but normal volks that just want to connect their Mac or PC to the speakers of their choice. Can You do that sometimes? That would be the help so many are actualy searching for on chanel like Yours.
Hi,....Sir which is best between E30 I vs E30II ?
Should be impossible to hear any difference
SMSL DA-6 is an analogue amplifier, does not have a DAC in it, I'm not sure why you're talking about it at 11:10
Randy you mention SMSL DA-6 that’s an amp. I think you meant to say the SMSL DU-6 and yes it is better option with volume, BT and build-in power supply.
Another Topping Dac?? Has a month gone by already 😀
Nice honest review. Schiit def wins these matchups. I’ve got a couple Modi 3 with the AKM 4490. I though it was the best $100 spent. I’ve moved on to the J2 with Ess 9938 for $250 and the Ares II. Both are truly excellent. To me, if you’re in the US and can spend $250, any iteration of the Geshelli J2 is worth having over the cheaper dacs.
Agree with you all the way I really liked the Modi 3 but got a J2 and it's great %100 worth the extra bucks
I have the first e30 with 4493 but I also listen a lot the 4490 built in in my Marantz pm6007. Aside the capability to decode dsd (in favor of e30) on pcm recordings I don't hear a difference on my setup (B&W 606 s2, pm6007 and OPPO 203 - for home theater, I use the internal 4452vn).
is j2 more into clarity or tembre and tuning? I am looking for dac. Long time ago centrance m8 mini was not bad. Also liked xduoo xd05. Did you listen them, can you help me to understand. And topping e30 e50, like I understand its more about clarity?
@@viktor1845 The J2 is terrific when is comes to detail retrieval. Never edgy or harsh. I also bought the AKM version which I think is even better. I sold my Ares to keep the J2s.
I have one of the old ones and I actually really like it. I use it in DAC only mode with no volume control and use my Aiyima A07 integrated amp to take care of the volume. I'm pretty sensitive to sibilance and I don't perceive any in my setup, but I concede that Randy may have better ears than I do, so if he hears sibilance, I'm not contesting it.
I don't hear it either with my e30 or DX3 pro+, and I've yet to see any measurements which supports any claims that it's overly active in that region
A 5v "battery" has a switch mode power supply in there much like a 5v usb wall charger. The "battery" has a "boost converter" from nominally 3.7v to 5v. The "wall charger" has a "buck converter" down to 5v.
The portable battery works at very high frequency and is more efficient than a wall charger, there's no induced noise and no capacitive coupled mains noise
@@monitostv the buck converters operate at a similar frequency and induced noise is wholly determined by design not mains or battery. Usually mains are better because legally required (unless you are buying uncertified junk). Mains coupled noise is a fair point.
older good cheap dac ? why no love for the khadas tone 1? other than the fact that it's a naked board, it's a great implementation of the ESS ES9038Q2M and deserves some serious appreciation for under $80us
been rockin' this beauty for 3 years now, and it's a keeper - go get one and hear what i mean
Go for this or E50?
The E30 and E30 Mk 2 do not sound sibilant at all. Therefore there must be something wrong with your other audio equipment making the DACS sound sibilant. All other reviewers have never found these DACS sounding sibilant. I have an E30 here and it doesn't sound sibilant at all. However, I do design and build my own mosfet high end power amplifiers so I do know what I am talking about.
the Modi is $129... still an increase from when I bought mine 4 years ago for $100, but better than $150. No volume knob, not sure why you would need it if your amp has volume control. Nice smooth Schitty sound.
The Modi is also significantly better now than it was at $100. It’s not always just inflation or price increases for profit.
In europe the price went from 135euro (2years ago) to 205 :-((
@@Cujobob Because of the Sabre chip?
@@CADClicker the original Modi was a sub 2V output device that lacked some inputs. In the iterations since, it’s upped its voltage output, improved its measured performance, and added inputs. You’re not really getting a similar product to older versions of the Modi, you’re getting a better one.
@@Cujobob It's true the Modi 1 and 2 were not as good, but it still cost $99 for the Modi 3 (AKM4490) with 2V output and good measurements and same number of inputs. The increase to $129 was recently due to increased shipping and manufacturing/parts costs during the pandemic.
Seems like a Bludento B2 would be a better bang for the Buck.? Your thought Randy
Or, the remote dies? lol.
Thanks, awesome review.
this over the SMSL SU1???
5V battery sustem often works with noisy Voltage elevator system.. from 3.7V elements
Thanks
Randy, I know I’m late to this party. I’m interested in getting my first DAC. I’m 71 and a Veteran too. Thanks for your service. Anyway an answer would be greatly appreciated. It’s definitely budget gear, but all I should really spend on fixed income, tight budget. How would you compare the Topping E30II to the SML SU-1? Anyone in comments please chime in if you’ve experienced both. Thanks. 👍🏼😎🎶
I have the Topping E30 II and what you describe that its sibilant and harsh its true but after i changed the USB cable to something else it sounds warm, analogish and sounstage gets wider. Whoever has it try it and you will be surprised.
Sounds BS to me. Changing usb cable won't change anything on SQ.
Best RCA Muppet VOice ever
I thought siblence would go away after vinyl. I was wrong.
For a while there I felt bad about buying a Node . I mean it’s digital, how much better could it be than a cheap. I mean it’s digital, a few chips in a box right? Now I don’t feel so bad.
Randy always tells it how it is top reviews
No physical controls besides the remote would be an absolute deal breaker for me.
Good job buddy😊
I don’t understand why topping doesn’t put volume control on the front of their DACs. Like you, I think it is a huge oversight.
A DAC converts digital to analog. It does not amplify the sound signal. Why would it have a volume control.
@@Enemji There are still op amp chips inside a day so it does do a little amplification. A volume knob is useful income setups, but no, not necessary in all.
Attaway to call ‘‘em as you sees ‘em, Randy.
Maybe it's the implementation of the chip, but sabre dac's seem to fair better .
I run my mini pc and dac off a battery pack. Definitely sounds better to me .
The Schiit Modi series is also missing a knob.
I don't think it's coffee in that cup...
What is the difference between $150 DAC and a $3500 DAC? I don't get it.
have a look at "The Hans Beekhuyzen Channel" video title "What makes a good DAC?" he explains the technicalities.
$3350
@@narabdela lol!
@@narabdela
L🤭L
You are not alone. I have a $600 dollar one, with DAC, and always wonder, what do you possibly get for say $6000?
Does the original E30 sound better?
No, but you're unlikely hear any difference at all
OK, as you know ASR has tested the Topping DACS and they outperform the competition. I happen to like the button on the front which also doubles as a volume control, so it is a preamp with volume on the unit and the remote. I do own the Schiit Modius and the Topping E30 (version I). I can't basically tell the difference sonically, the music has a bigger presence with the Modius but the Topping E30 appears to be more resolved, both tested with speakers and monoblock amps.
So for other recommendations in this price range there is the Schiit Modius,(it is an ESS DAC), the Dacs that JDS labs out of St. Louis makes plus Gesheli, that is 3 companies that are US based. I only wish that one of them would put together a DAC with sampling rate display, balanced outputs and remote control. The only one that I know about is the Topping DX3 Pro.
Those guys on ASR dont really listen to gear, they measure them. Specs are not everything. I own a Luxman Dac that retailed for $5k. I own the great sounding Topping E50 dac. It is not nearly as good sounding as my Luxman. Dont drink the coolaide from ASR.
@@larrys1911 The difference is that how it sounds to you is subjective. I am in neither camp since measurements have to be done properly. In other words, measurements can be sort of subjective. A DAC that measures badly is just not good and will likely fail due to bad quality.
Hehe. "Who doesn't like free gifts every month... that you pay for" hehehe
the E30 had only one chip, this one is double... I think it's justified to be more expensive
Well, the price went down eventually. I just bought this for AU $169 (US $109.50).
S for Sibilant? LoL AKM is pulling its hair out for they meant it to be “Superior”
“I didn’t compare it with the original E30 cause I don’t have one around, but from memory- there is no sonic improvement.” Might be the least credible thing I have ever heard an audio reviewer say, lol.
many ppl on different hifi forums say this guys a total joke
@@tonyhan9393 he is a joke..he just likes to use his story telling voice and demeanor to get some naive viewers to join. Apparently he never heard of echoic memory and how short that is not to mention many other variables
From an audio perspective, batteries suck. Battery drain is why. You get an arc or performance with a battery whereas you get a tight range with a stable ac supply. Think about what happens to the signal as the battery drains.
Thanks!
Wow, John! Thank you so much. That was very kind of you
@@cheapaudioman My pleasure! I really enjoy your videos! They help me get thru a rough time in my life! 😁
I'm so glad, John. It humbles me to hear that. I appreciate you.
@@cheapaudioman Same here, buddy!
If so, please reply from your main account.
Jesus wtf is it with reviewers getting bent up over volume knobs on dacs, screw that i'd rather the quality be utilised on the actual dac circuitry.
lol. I'm not sure, Austin.
It looks pretty decent, but does it sound any better than my Schiit Modi 3+ ?
Probably not.
@@BaldBloke I didn’t directly compare them but schiit would get my money every day of the week instead of this one
Thats a relief to hear (i own the Magni heresey, modi 3+ and Loki mini).
* I do also own a Topping P3A Class D amp the older non balanced version which in turn feeds a pair of B&W DM600S3's so i'm fully aware that Topping is itself quite a competively priced quality brand (for clarity sake). 😎
The issue I have the e30 Is that It is lifeless Idk if it is a chinese hifi issue. Yes there is detail tons of it yes it is clean and sound stage and stuff. But holographic it is not it sounds like a super advanced alarm clock.
Skip on that and buy yourself ifi zen dac v2 and if you need more power power add ifi zen can and you are set for a long time.
Its called gouging.
I think the AKM Geshelli is winning this punchup with a KO, even at twice the price.