I like the comment about the d90 getting out of the way, it’s very true, and that’s a really good thing. D90 instrument separation is retarded good, it creates layers in the sound like very high end dacs. If you want more air add a tube amp and you have it all.
I get it. You really like the airiness of the Ares II. What I am noticing from my D90 is how well it keeps up with fast, complex musical passages, the strong resolution and huge dynamics. The bass is very strong as you mentioned, but it makes my speakers' bass sound so much more resolving and controlled. Playing "Trapezoid" by Lettuce, there are different kinds of bass instruments playing at the same time and you can easily identify each one.
Bob, what type of set up do you have with your D90. I been looking on getting the D90 for my Vintage tube Amp and PreAmp but I don't know how to set it up?.
@@alfaroinc1 You also need a music source. In my case I have a CD Transport with digital outputs, which can connect to the D90 using coax or optical. I also have a Pro-ject Stream Box S2 Ultra that connects to the D90 with a USB-A to USB-B cable. You could also use a computer for this purpose. Then you would run regular RCA analog cable from the D90 to your preamp. Is this what you were needing?
@@buttonman1831 you wouldn't know, you're right. commonly held belief is that integrated amplifiers make compromises re: internal components so that the receiver can have every bell and whistle. That being said, "good" amplifiers are good and if you want an all in one box solution, get it and just save up for a better DAC later.
Nice comparison. I suggest you try the Ares II in oversampling mode with the slow filter, if you haven't already. That opens it up even more and also improves imaging, overall resolution and slam.
@@minuteskill I’m still using the Ares II. I’ve got no doubt that higher end Denifrips DACs, for example, would sound better but I’ve been focused on other aspects of my system.
I really like my D90. The sound-stage is presented well behind my speakers and sibilance is kept in check. It has R2R-like mids and pairs ridiculously well with my OTL tube amp. For reference I preferred it to the AGD R2R-7, which I thought had too much "brilliance." I found it distracting.
Favorite Topping dac? I still favor the D30 with the CS4398 chip (same as in the Marantz PM6006). Very musical, dynamic, with good enough soundstage. Like playing records on a good system back in the 70's and 80's.
New D-90 owner here. Some issues so far. (1) Cannot play DSD 11.28MB files without stopping mid-way. (2) When connected to an SACD player playing an SACD via coaxial or optical, D90 reduces the the inputs to 44.1khz, negating any benefits of SACDs. (3) Amazon Music HD says that D90 is only capable of 24 bit, not 32 bit as advertised. Topping, please address these issues.
J N Have a similar issue with my D90 as well. Experiencing an intermittent popping sound during playback of DSD 11.28MB. Any solution to fix? Kinda disappointed right out of the box.
@@EO-uh3bp I m having the same problems playing with background noise (barely noticeable but it's there) with mostly DSD files. I've contacted Topping and they haven't responded after 4 days now.
J N I reached to John Yang on audiosciencereview.com. I think he’s an engineer or associated with Topping. You and I may the 2 people he’s referencing! Just sharing his response as an FYI... “ Looks like you are the second person who experienced this issue. What's the platform are you using? Mac? What software do you use? Looking for feedback. I do recommend returning it and hopefully get the original D90 non MQA version. There are a lot of stuff changed in the MQA version and needs more testing. However I do want some help from you to help improving this product. It seems both of you are using Mac. I think it has something to do with driver but since Mac doesn't have dedicated driver it's something to investigate. I will try to reproduce the issue on a Mac.“
UPDATE: The issue has been confirmed by Topping. Cause: On Mac only DoP is supported. As the D90 MQA is different from the regular version in the digital signal path, they're are some issues. They didn't test on Mac hence didn't realize the issue. Hopefully it can be fixed via firmware. If it's not fixed in time, they suggest contact the seller and have them issue a refund and return the product.
Hi- As a quick update, I received a replacement D90 MQA with the updated firmware and I’m happy to report that the popping sound has been fixed. All file types and resolutions play perfectly. Thanks to Topping for admitting there was an issue and to to you for promptly providing me with a replacement. -Eric On May 13, 2020, at 3:02 AM, service wrote: We feel deeply sorry for the inconvenience it caused, also for the delayed reply. We worked out a new firmware that fixes the problem of D90 MQA version while playing DSD256 on MAC. So you can try with this link to update. www.tpdz.net/newsinfo/396959.html
This DAC sounds like it is for me. I dont want my electronics to have "a sound". Its job is to present the music as the artist intended. If I would want a different sound I can just use EQ or tonecontrols...
Appreciated for the review, also, we welcome to more comments of D90, which can be feedback to the manufacture, it's more beneficial for the upcoming models, thank you all.
New D-90 owner here. Some issues so far. (1) Cannot play DSD 11.28MB files without stopping mid-way. (2) When connected to an SACD player playing an SACD via coaxial or optical, D90 reduces the the inputs to 44.1khz, negating any benefits of SACDs. (3) Amazon Music HD says that D90 is only capable of 24 bit, not 32 bit as advertised. Topping, please address these issues.
@@_kardus Exactly. To get dsd sound you have to rip the sacd disk to dsd files using like OPPO 105 player first, then feed the file through usb port to your topping d90.
I tried the D90 at home. Its preamp function is disappointing. Meaning it cannot be connected directly to active speakers unlike the Matrix X-Sabre Pro. D90 needs a separate preamp to work. If the pre-amp is inferior compared to the dac function, why not just make the d90 a pure dac?
Great video, mate, you've got a new subscriber! I've had the black D90 for about six weeks. It's a great DAC. I sold my Schiit Gungnir Multibit after using the D90, which cost about half as much as the Gumby, BTW.
Del Valle The D90 sounds so much cleaner/clearer to me, whereas the Gungnir sounded muffled in comparison. I was very surprised at the difference. I also like the D90’s compact size. The Gungnir is about 4-5 times as big. I sold my Gungnir for $1000, so it more than covered the price of the D90.
@@delvalle9256 Sorry for the long delay. Never got a notification. I used a pair of KEF LS50 for a couple months, then switched a pair of Dynaudio Evoke 10, which sound a lot better to my ears.
Great review as usual man! Very pertinent information for me, I have really been getting into music streaming. I have ripped all of my CD's into WAV files on my computer. The Topping D90 is a sharp looking unit with some great features. Very nice price tag also!
Jay FYI the rear connection is called i squared s. It separates the clock and data streams (for better processing potential) within one connector (if using hdmi).
Love my D90 and I've tried quite a few. I didn't like the plastic remote, but good thing they have an all aluminum version and it's much more ergonomic.
I use it for a week. Best sound on my "old" Accuphase E-408, USB, COAX and BT in use, DAC mode. I really recomend it! (from Germany) ...is use a good power cable and high end Kimbler RCA. USB cable from AQVOX from Germany.
great review, thanks, got a D90 with MQA coming my way! the fact that it has a more solid bass signature compared to the ares2 makes me really happy, since that is my preferred one (sound)! :)
I have both D90 and Ares 2. I like both of them. My system is Topping D90-Sennheiser HDVA 600- Sennheiser HD600 And Denafrips Ares ii - Monoprice THX887 - Sennheiser HD800s. D90 is a DS DAC so I use it to decode DSD files. Ares is a R2r DAC , I use it to stream 192k/24 PCM.
I purchased the D90 as an upgrade from my D50s and sadly I have to say I was not impressed, it may measure perfect but the sound is to forward in the mid-range, and the sound stage is quite narrow. I prefer a bright V shape sound which the D50s has, I have Bowers and Wilkins speakers and Cambridge Audio Amp and the D50s is a very nice bright sound, the D90 was however seemed to almost be a reverse V sound with the voice of performers drowning out the instruments where it was one voice one instrument recording, too much mid-tone. So the D90 was returned. For me the Sabre ESS9038 chips at this price range are the best, IMHO.
Great review pup and it's almost like you took the words out of my mouth. I completely ignore the preamp on the D90 and usually switch it back and forth between my Yam A-S2100 SS amp and a Chifi pushpull tube amp depending on the genre of music i'm listening to
Yep, definitely worth a try. I’ve got Modi Multibit and Gungnir Multibit (first gen). They sound fantastic with live instruments and voices. It’s not likely I’m gonna go back to sigma-delta any time soon. Modi better not to be fed over USB though. People say that Bifrost 2 can compete with old Gungnir!
Audtioned this one and the Gustard X26 a little while back and 1 other I cannot remember. This was a blind audition with 3 others. All of us picked the Gustard X26 with no reservations. All I can remember about the other DAC was that it was 4 to 5 grand.
@@oleksiifilippov68 It competes with my yggy a2. Hopefully they do something soon with the gungnir. I think the bifrost 2 beats the current gungnir in most ways.
This Schiit DAC, like many of other Schiit components, have great musicality, density and meaty sound. But I found one has to go all the way to the Yggy to open up the sound.
Wow, excellent review. Sounds like I might prefer the D90. I really enjoy bass and soundstage precision. The rest of my setup is the thx789 with the LCD2 bamboo, balanced in and out.
Thumbs up to another informative video Jay. Thinking seriously about the D90 vs Ares 2 AND how these would these two would sound when connecting to the Hegel H190. Your timing couldn't have been better. Love your videos and keep them coming. Also, looking forward to your review of the Adam T5V speakers. I've been using them with my iMac for about a year now and simply love them. Cheers !!!
Hi Jay Very good review. I agree it seems the preamp section is relatively weak. Very good description of the subtle sound/soundstage nuances. I found it interesting hearing you talk about Bluetooth - the only place I use Bluetooth is for my phone in the car and since it sounded so awful in the early days never felt tempted to try it again for serious listening. All the best, Rob in Switzerland.
Hello! Thanks for the very nice review! A would have a specific question, but maybe I’m not the only one to have it. How do you compare the processing time for the USB port? I use a DAC to convert the sound of my piano software (Ivory II from Synthogy) and the less delay is the better because the sounds comes out when you press the key and not later. When I use the Topping D50, the processing time is bad, I had to buy a separate AQVOX DDC which delivers a 5ms for 192khz toslink output and then use the D50 only to transform the toslink signal into analog (which seems something easier to do). For comparison, when I use the Topping only, I need 12ms for a 48khz output only. I don’t know if the D90 could be better because of better chips maybe, and the Denaprips maybe even better because they use another technology? Is the Ares II better than the Terminator on the processing time? Would the Denafrips work if I connect it directly to my Bang & Olufsen speakers or do I need a preamp? If yes, which one would you recommend for quick processing? That’s a lot of questions in only one comment.. sorry! Thank you very much!
I ordered the D90 at a discount from SHENZENAUDIO, and just got it a couple of weeks ago. I noticed something strange on the front - the wording was printed upside down, like if you put a form into a printer the wrong way. I told them about it; they offered to knock some more off to keep it so I said OK, because the unit functions perfectly. Separately, just got an email from Vinshine Audio, saying that they're all caught up with their shipments of the Denafrips units.
I have the NAD M10 amp/streamer. It's internal DAC is a 32-BIT/384kHz ESS Sabre DAC, which doesn't mean much to me. I suppose it's a decent internal DAC, but I'm really intrigued by the Ares II and D90 reviews. I'm considering purchasing a separate amp just so I can place the Ares 2 (or D90) between the streamer and separate amp driving the speakers. Does this set up make sense? Good, bad, otherwise? Should I expect the Ares II or D90 to substantially improve the sound over what the NAD M10 is producing now? I realize quality of sound is ultimately objective, but would love to get some thoughts on this. Thank you.
Hi Jay. Thank you for your amazing reviews. I am just wondering if you know of a reliable retailer in Canada where I could buy a D90 with some sort of warranty? I can't seem to find anything and live in Vancouver
Great review! Please review the Triangle Comete EZ speakers if you ever come across those. Z Reviews got me hyped about them, but your reviews are more honest and would like your opinion before purchasing. Thanks!
Hi Jay, I just picked up some LS50 Wireless for nearfield listening on my Mac. I think the sound is wonderful, but it's my first high-end bookshelf speakers. What speakers in this range could be better? I was thinking about getting a separate amp and getting the Buchardt's S400, but I heard the LS50 with a sub sounds better. Would ELAC's sound better than my setup?
The LS50 passive with a Line Magnetic integrated amp like LM-508ia (a.k.a LM-805ia in some parts of the world) absolutely murders the LS50 wireless. Including bass response.
@@Jayiyagi I just got the Buchardt's. I hooked it up to my Denon Receiver (zone 2) and I like the way it sounds. I like it better than the LS50 Wireless. Which speakers can match the mids/lows of the Buchardt's, but with better highs? I wish they used the JET tweeter in the S400.
Fabulous,very helpful review Jay! Can you recommend an inexpensive music player to pair with the topping D90 or Denafrips Ares 2,along the lines of the Bluesound Node 2i? I am also reluctant to order these units direct from overseas....have you given any thought to becoming the canadian distributor for these products and adding them as a "budget" line to your company's website?
hello, david, did you buy the items? did you find an alternative to Node 2I? please share your experience as I am about to buy the Node2I and the Ares 2
David Manusow I went ahead and bought the node 2i. Trying to decide how deep I want to go into the digital world. Should I get a DAC or just be satisfied with the node 2i as it is. It’s only money😬
@@Steveh817 if you like the sound of the node 2i,keep using it and go no further. I didn't think it would work for me because it has a weak(built in) dac and doesn't have a usb out,which precludes my using the node 2i just as a streamer for a better sounding (separate) mqa dac such as the topping d90 or smsl m400 mqa. david
Great review. Just got mine today, the ship time is just 7 days (!) using Apos even with this virus thing going on. In pre mode, it sounds a little better than my Wyred4sound DAC2 that has the ESS-9018 and my Audiolab M-DAC+ with same DAC chip if that helps. Yet to use in DAC mode. Careful with the volume, if you hold it it goes to max output waaaaay too fast, as in almost faster than you can release the button. Have to use quick presses of the volume to increase. It's a keeper, easily the best value I've found so far.
My biggest issue with the D90 (admiteddly se) is that the highs are subdued. I want to feel the vocals and for whatever reason that hasn't been happening..the bass is fantastic though, nice and punchy.
The preamp mode noticeably degrades the audio quality. Through the hidden menu however (hold power button+switch on from the back), you can set the D90 to DAC only. Great review and good one catching this!
When we're talking about "Air" here, what are we referring to specifically? I'm confused if we're talking about "Air" as meaning the 10 kHz+ frequency range or "Air" as meaning Airy sensation talking about Soundstage.
Hi Jay, thanks for the review info. You mention the sound is better when you "bypass" the pre-amp? How do you actually do it? does it DAC need to have specific feature? which out do you use? the Balance or RCA output? Thanks.
There is a hidden setup menu that you activate by powering off, then while holding the front panel power.standby button, turn the rear power back on. There you can make it a DAC only device among other options.
Hi Jay, do you think the DAC inside the Hegel H190 is the same as that in the Hegel H390? I've been thinking about getting the D90 but am not sure if it's a clear improvement over the built-in DAC of H390! Many thanks.
I have upgraded from Topping D50 to Ares II. What I found is that sharp imaging presentation making me feel fatigue. How to tame this? Any tuning can be done by changing cable or other method?
Let it play constantly for a few days, the ARES has a ton of electrolytics caps that will take time to form properly. What is your amp? The R2R dacs ive used have had very full treble compared to the more tizzy and airy delta sigma treble, R2R will make thin/weak low end from an unpowered amp more obvious. what is your source? if its PC over USB it might be time to consider PC optimisations.
@@8lorko8 it takes 2 weeks for the sound to be more coherence. My source is from bluesound node 2 and amp is Accuphase e-370. However, mid bass still lacking. I understand that I can't demand more on this price point setup. Overall sound is keep improving.
Hi, you mentioned the improvement coming from pairing with Hegel but did not address the comparison with Hegel internal dac... have I missed something? I was expecting a comment on this and the merits of adding external dac to the Hegel. Thank you.
Ok. Well done. A have a smsl vmv d1 and have the same experience with the built in pre so i added a pre and it made a pretty big improvement. Then i have some questions :) 4......1. what i your digital source.? 2. What connection did you use.? 3. What preamp would you run to drive a pretty neutral amp.? 4. I know you think cables make a difference. What digital cable and analog cables did you run. ? :) best ps what would Sean have said :):)
Nice review. I've been enjoying the Topping D70 for nearly a year now. Maybe time to move up. Question, what are the speakers seen behind you in the video?
You have to start telling us what music you play through the gear been reviewed. We need you to tell us specific artists, bands, albums, songs you listened to, in order to reach this or that conclusion. Otherwise, the whole thing is just plain hollow. After all, you're saying it yourself at the start: music is your and our passion...yet nothing about actual music here.
The only thing that makes the D90 a preamp is the attenuation (volume control) so basically you are connecting the same output to the input of a preamp and set volume to 0 dB. Any difference in sound is the coloration of the outboard preamp but it seems like it does what it is supposed to do which is to convert digital to analog without any coloration.
"Topping D90 doesn't have that much "air"" it does compete well there with Sabre dac's ($200-2000). But yeah less compared to Aries2. My opinion tl:Dr: Aries rich mids, D90 great sub bass. Soundstage comment.... Yeah noticed that, its one of those Dac's that require soundstage in the source to portray it well! Side comment due to the soundstage & how it interacts with source makes it great for gaming but not worth buying Just for gaming due to cost.
Tell me , what is it? Topping D30 is all ok playing the sound of a bomb! but as a native dsd, the sound is muddy, why?owners of topping do you have such a thing ?
Thanks for the review! I have been tempted by the D90 and your review answered a lot of my questions. And I have the Parasound HINT. Can you review the RME ADI-2-DAC? It has been very well received and the manufacturer recently updated the DAC in late 2019.
@@Jayiyagi Will do! I will ask the manufacturer to send review unit to you, Thomas, and Sean. BTW how do you use the D90 as a DAC only? I only see balanced/unblanced output from the back of D90.
The Next Best Thing Studio Will do. I have a newest version ADI-2 arriving soon and would like to hear your take. I chose it over the Aries 2 and the D90. Interested to see if I will regret that decision or not. I’m a sucker for good air in a DAC.
The Next Best Thing Studio Holding in the input source button on the left while turning the Topping on is how you get to the system menu, where you select DAC+PREAMP\DAC and a few others. Some of the other settings can be done with the remote.
Hi! ... Did you switch to standalone DAC with the service menu on the D90 ? ... you must keep pressed the SEL button in front while you switch it on at the back .. there you have a menu where you can put it in a real DAC only mode, bypassing the preamp function. And using a good streamer with I2S output and and use the D90 I2S Input, sound a lot better.
Great video, Jay! Can you opine on the D90 vs the RME ADI-2 FS v2 (with AKM 4493)? I’m a sucker for air, as long as it doesn’t come across as artificial. Really like the way you address how it sounds. Very accessible!
I think Bluesound has its own built-in DAC. There are a lot of small Raspberry Pie based streamers on the market that make very good dedicated streamers. There is the Volumio Primo and Pro-Ject has some as well. Some people use a laptop for streaming. In any case you probably want to use the USB input to the D90 for streaming.
Great review Jay ! But my 2 budget dacs that have the akm 4490/4493 chips aren't warm at all maybe the 4499 is ? , but we both know the power supply and circuitry of a dac matter just as much as the chip thanks again Jay !
Hello Jay, can you tell a bit more about the sq difference between de dac from the hegel h190 and the topping? I'm about to buy the hegel h90 and sell my topping dac but now im not so sure anymore.. i assume the dac sounds the same as the h190?
Hello Jay, question and your as advise. I have arcam avr850 receiver, oppo 203 and Canton reference bookshelf For stereo set up can I use this. How do I set this up Do you recommend something else
Why not buy fiio m11 pro? Or the m15? It can do all the things that this dac can and also can be used as a portable device. Thank you for the great video!
Build in preamp is indeed really bad on the D90. However, adding the Topping PRE90 is amazing. I replaced the D90 with the Merason Frerot, which is the best Dac I have heard in this price category. That however also greatly benifits from an external Matrix Spdif 2 reclocker and LPSU, which brings it at a different price level altogether. The D90 already has very good clock and LPSU build in. The Denafrips (Ares 2 and Venus) are overrated in my opinion.
The D90 is a pretty good value especially when you factor in all the other features. Measurements definitely have their value but they don’t tell the whole story. There are 3 major components to the quality of a DAC, the digital section, the analog section and the power supply and the latter 2 probably don’t get the acknowledgment that they deserve in terms of the contribution they make to the final sound. Focusing purely on the particular model of DAC chip itself doesn’t provide the complete picture.
Disclaimer/ Personal interest in my reviews - nbtsmedia.com/about-us/
I like the comment about the d90 getting out of the way, it’s very true, and that’s a really good thing. D90 instrument separation is retarded good, it creates layers in the sound like very high end dacs. If you want more air add a tube amp and you have it all.
I get it. You really like the airiness of the Ares II. What I am noticing from my D90 is how well it keeps up with fast, complex musical passages, the strong resolution and huge dynamics. The bass is very strong as you mentioned, but it makes my speakers' bass sound so much more resolving and controlled. Playing "Trapezoid" by Lettuce, there are different kinds of bass instruments playing at the same time and you can easily identify each one.
The Topping D70s as in the s version is out. Supposedly it’s also excellent and just as good.
Bob, what type of set up do you have with your D90. I been looking on getting the D90 for my Vintage tube Amp and PreAmp but I don't know how to set it up?.
@@alfaroinc1 You also need a music source. In my case I have a CD Transport with digital outputs, which can connect to the D90 using coax or optical. I also have a Pro-ject Stream Box S2 Ultra that connects to the D90 with a USB-A to USB-B cable. You could also use a computer for this purpose. Then you would run regular RCA analog cable from the D90 to your preamp. Is this what you were needing?
This is something we need is more DAC reviews with comparison to internal DACs of amps.
Internal dacs of an amp isn't comparable to separates.. not even close.. so there's no reason to make those comparisons.
Huh
Worthwhile comparison, because why buy a combo unit and spend 4 grand when you’re going to bypass a part of it with another unit?
@@Dilyaev But how would someone know that is new to dacs?
@@buttonman1831 you wouldn't know, you're right. commonly held belief is that integrated amplifiers make compromises re: internal components so that the receiver can have every bell and whistle. That being said, "good" amplifiers are good and if you want an all in one box solution, get it and just save up for a better DAC later.
I bought this Dac in January. I think your review is accurate and the Bluetooth part is a big plus. I will add a preamp in a few months
Great review. I have the Topping DX7s which has a weak preamp output section and I'm looking to upgrade soon. This video is very helpful. Thank you.
Thank you for another great review. Digital has come a long way and i love it that people can have top notch performance for reasonable money.
Nice comparison. I suggest you try the Ares II in oversampling mode with the slow filter, if you haven't already. That opens it up even more and also improves imaging, overall resolution and slam.
Saw your comment and I was curious if you moved to another RTR DAC. Ares 2 is still in the stack?
@@minuteskill I’m still using the Ares II. I’ve got no doubt that higher end Denifrips DACs, for example, would sound better but I’ve been focused on other aspects of my system.
I really like my D90. The sound-stage is presented well behind my speakers and sibilance is kept in check. It has R2R-like mids and pairs ridiculously well with my OTL tube amp.
For reference I preferred it to the AGD R2R-7, which I thought had too much "brilliance." I found it distracting.
Favorite Topping dac? I still favor the D30 with the CS4398 chip (same as in the Marantz PM6006). Very musical, dynamic, with good enough soundstage. Like playing records on a good system back in the 70's and 80's.
New D-90 owner here. Some issues so far. (1) Cannot play DSD 11.28MB files without stopping mid-way. (2) When connected to an SACD player playing an SACD via coaxial or optical, D90 reduces the the inputs to 44.1khz, negating any benefits of SACDs. (3) Amazon Music HD says that D90 is only capable of 24 bit, not 32 bit as advertised. Topping, please address these issues.
J N Have a similar issue with my D90 as well. Experiencing an intermittent popping sound during playback of DSD 11.28MB. Any solution to fix? Kinda disappointed right out of the box.
@@EO-uh3bp I m having the same problems playing with background noise (barely noticeable but it's there) with mostly DSD files. I've contacted Topping and they haven't responded after 4 days now.
J N I reached to John Yang on audiosciencereview.com. I think he’s an engineer or associated with Topping. You and I may the 2 people he’s referencing! Just sharing his response as an FYI...
“ Looks like you are the second person who experienced this issue. What's the platform are you using? Mac? What software do you use? Looking for feedback.
I do recommend returning it and hopefully get the original D90 non MQA version. There are a lot of stuff changed in the MQA version and needs more testing. However I do want some help from you to help improving this product.
It seems both of you are using Mac. I think it has something to do with driver but since Mac doesn't have dedicated driver it's something to investigate. I will try to reproduce the issue on a Mac.“
UPDATE: The issue has been confirmed by Topping.
Cause: On Mac only DoP is supported. As the D90 MQA is different from the regular version in the digital signal path, they're are some issues. They didn't test on Mac hence didn't realize the issue.
Hopefully it can be fixed via firmware. If it's not fixed in time, they suggest contact the seller and have them issue a refund and return the product.
Hi-
As a quick update, I received a replacement D90 MQA with the updated firmware and I’m happy to report that the popping sound has been fixed. All file types and resolutions play perfectly.
Thanks to Topping for admitting there was an issue and to to you for promptly providing me with a replacement.
-Eric
On May 13, 2020, at 3:02 AM, service wrote:
We feel deeply sorry for the inconvenience it caused, also for the delayed reply.
We worked out a new firmware that fixes the problem of D90 MQA version while playing DSD256 on MAC. So you can try with this link to update. www.tpdz.net/newsinfo/396959.html
This DAC sounds like it is for me. I dont want my electronics to have "a sound". Its job is to present the music as the artist intended. If I would want a different sound I can just use EQ or tonecontrols...
Appreciated for the review, also, we welcome to more comments of D90, which can be feedback to the manufacture, it's more beneficial for the upcoming models, thank you all.
New D-90 owner here. Some issues so far. (1) Cannot play DSD 11.28MB files without stopping mid-way. (2) When connected to an SACD player playing an SACD via coaxial or optical, D90 reduces the the inputs to 44.1khz, negating any benefits of SACDs. (3) Amazon Music HD says that D90 is only capable of 24 bit, not 32 bit as advertised. Topping, please address these issues.
@@_kardus Exactly. To get dsd sound you have to rip the sacd disk to dsd files using like OPPO 105 player first, then feed the file through usb port to your topping d90.
I tried the D90 at home. Its preamp function is disappointing. Meaning it cannot be connected directly to active speakers unlike the Matrix X-Sabre Pro. D90 needs a separate preamp to work. If the pre-amp is inferior compared to the dac function, why not just make the d90 a pure dac?
Great video, mate, you've got a new subscriber! I've had the black D90 for about six weeks. It's a great DAC. I sold my Schiit Gungnir Multibit after using the D90, which cost about half as much as the Gumby, BTW.
MadMaxx Hi 👋 which aspect of the D90 made you decide to sell your Gungnir. Thanks
Del Valle The D90 sounds so much cleaner/clearer to me, whereas the Gungnir sounded muffled in comparison. I was very surprised at the difference. I also like the D90’s compact size. The Gungnir is about 4-5 times as big. I sold my Gungnir for $1000, so it more than covered the price of the D90.
@@Mad.Maxx.77 Thanks . Which speakers do you use the D90 with ?
@@delvalle9256 Sorry for the long delay. Never got a notification. I used a pair of KEF LS50 for a couple months, then switched a pair of Dynaudio Evoke 10, which sound a lot better to my ears.
@@Mad.Maxx.77 thanks 😊
Great review as usual man! Very pertinent information for me, I have really been getting into music streaming. I have ripped all of my CD's into WAV files on my computer. The Topping D90 is a sharp looking unit with some great features. Very nice price tag also!
Jay FYI the rear connection is called i squared s. It separates the clock and data streams (for better processing potential) within one connector (if using hdmi).
yes not L^2S. LMAO I knew someone was going to call me out for that.
Gotta keep you on your toes..... 😉
Love my D90 and I've tried quite a few. I didn't like the plastic remote, but good thing they have an all aluminum version and it's much more ergonomic.
I use it for a week. Best sound on my "old" Accuphase E-408, USB, COAX and BT in use, DAC mode. I really recomend it! (from Germany) ...is use a good power cable and high end Kimbler RCA. USB cable from AQVOX from Germany.
Don not forget to switch your computer tot 192kHz and 24 Bit. ;)
Did you check D90 with budget power and usb cable? Can you hear a difference?
great review, thanks, got a D90 with MQA coming my way! the fact that it has a more solid bass signature compared to the ares2 makes me really happy, since that is my preferred one (sound)! :)
I got my Denafrips Ares II three days ago, OMG, the best $738 dollar that I spent on audio component! Very recommended.
I just bought a a90 stack and am just using a arya hp was thinking of keeping the a90 and returning the d90 and getting a aries 2 whats your thoughts?
I have both D90 and Ares 2. I like both of them. My system is Topping D90-Sennheiser HDVA 600- Sennheiser HD600 And Denafrips Ares ii - Monoprice THX887 - Sennheiser HD800s. D90 is a DS DAC so I use it to decode DSD files. Ares is a R2r DAC , I use it to stream 192k/24 PCM.
Great work and really appreciate direct comparisons and context in your review.
I purchased the D90 as an upgrade from my D50s and sadly I have to say I was not impressed, it may measure perfect but the sound is to forward in the mid-range, and the sound stage is quite narrow. I prefer a bright V shape sound which the D50s has, I have Bowers and Wilkins speakers and Cambridge Audio Amp and the D50s is a very nice bright sound, the D90 was however seemed to almost be a reverse V sound with the voice of performers drowning out the instruments where it was one voice one instrument recording, too much mid-tone. So the D90 was returned. For me the Sabre ESS9038 chips at this price range are the best, IMHO.
This guy has more hair than my whole family combined.
What's wrong with your family, pattern baldness or sumtin
Please say Ma shaAllah. No bad eye for his hair
ROFL man !
lol ， you are so funny~ I can't stop laughing now
Don't you hate him for it, too?
Great review pup and it's almost like you took the words out of my mouth. I completely ignore the preamp on the D90 and usually switch it back and forth between my Yam A-S2100 SS amp and a Chifi pushpull tube amp depending on the genre of music i'm listening to
How would you describe the sound with the a-s2100? I have same amplifier and have been considering both dacs at this point. Thanks in advance!
Phenomenal review, Jay! Nice n’ detailed. Keep up the great work, man! Much thanks. 🙏🎶❤️😷
agreed.. really appreciate the attention to detail and upped precision in doing the comparisons.
Give the Schiit Bifrost 2 multibit a whirl Jay. Definitely a contender with this bunch.
Yep, definitely worth a try. I’ve got Modi Multibit and Gungnir Multibit (first gen). They sound fantastic with live instruments and voices. It’s not likely I’m gonna go back to sigma-delta any time soon. Modi better not to be fed over USB though. People say that Bifrost 2 can compete with old Gungnir!
Audtioned this one and the Gustard X26 a little while back and 1 other I cannot remember. This was a blind audition with 3 others. All of us picked the Gustard X26 with no reservations.
All I can remember about the other DAC was that it was 4 to 5 grand.
@@oleksiifilippov68
It competes with my yggy a2. Hopefully they do something soon with the gungnir. I think the bifrost 2 beats the current gungnir in most ways.
This Schiit DAC, like many of other Schiit components, have great musicality, density and meaty sound. But I found one has to go all the way to the Yggy to open up the sound.
The Chef Nice to know that. Probably, it’s time to downgrade :-D
Wow, excellent review. Sounds like I might prefer the D90. I really enjoy bass and soundstage precision. The rest of my setup is the thx789 with the LCD2 bamboo, balanced in and out.
Thumbs up to another informative video Jay. Thinking seriously about the D90 vs Ares 2 AND how these would these two would sound when connecting to the Hegel H190. Your timing couldn't have been better. Love your videos and keep them coming. Also, looking forward to your review of the Adam T5V speakers. I've been using them with my iMac for about a year now and simply love them. Cheers !!!
Which did you go with?
Dear Jay, it's not L (like a line) squared S but I (like Icon) squared S
I also found D70 to have really really good Bluetooth sound! Not better than streaming device to DAC but better than my PC sound through USB to DAC
Hi Jay Very good review. I agree it seems the preamp section is relatively weak. Very good description of the subtle sound/soundstage nuances. I found it interesting hearing you talk about Bluetooth - the only place I use Bluetooth is for my phone in the car and since it sounded so awful in the early days never felt tempted to try it again for serious listening. All the best, Rob in Switzerland.
Nice one really good info , you guys love the Hint 6
Hello! Thanks for the very nice review! A would have a specific question, but maybe I’m not the only one to have it. How do you compare the processing time for the USB port? I use a DAC to convert the sound of my piano software (Ivory II from Synthogy) and the less delay is the better because the sounds comes out when you press the key and not later. When I use the Topping D50, the processing time is bad, I had to buy a separate AQVOX DDC which delivers a 5ms for 192khz toslink output and then use the D50 only to transform the toslink signal into analog (which seems something easier to do). For comparison, when I use the Topping only, I need 12ms for a 48khz output only. I don’t know if the D90 could be better because of better chips maybe, and the Denaprips maybe even better because they use another technology? Is the Ares II better than the Terminator on the processing time? Would the Denafrips work if I connect it directly to my Bang & Olufsen speakers or do I need a preamp? If yes, which one would you recommend for quick processing? That’s a lot of questions in only one comment.. sorry! Thank you very much!
I ordered the D90 at a discount from SHENZENAUDIO, and just got it a couple of weeks ago. I noticed something strange on the front - the wording was printed upside down, like if you put a form into a printer the wrong way. I told them about it; they offered to knock some more off to keep it so I said OK, because the unit functions perfectly. Separately, just got an email from Vinshine Audio, saying that they're all caught up with their shipments of the Denafrips units.
I have the NAD M10 amp/streamer. It's internal DAC is a 32-BIT/384kHz ESS Sabre DAC, which doesn't mean much to me. I suppose it's a decent internal DAC, but I'm really intrigued by the Ares II and D90 reviews. I'm considering purchasing a separate amp just so I can place the Ares 2 (or D90) between the streamer and separate amp driving the speakers. Does this set up make sense? Good, bad, otherwise? Should I expect the Ares II or D90 to substantially improve the sound over what the NAD M10 is producing now? I realize quality of sound is ultimately objective, but would love to get some thoughts on this. Thank you.
Hi Jay. Thank you for your amazing reviews. I am just wondering if you know of a reliable retailer in Canada where I could buy a D90 with some sort of warranty? I can't seem to find anything and live in Vancouver
Great review! Please review the Triangle Comete EZ speakers if you ever come across those. Z Reviews got me hyped about them, but your reviews are more honest and would like your opinion before purchasing. Thanks!
Keep up the good work buddy:)
Love the vids
Found you through the Audiophiliac. Great review, I have subscribed.
Hi Jay, I just picked up some LS50 Wireless for nearfield listening on my Mac. I think the sound is wonderful, but it's my first high-end bookshelf speakers. What speakers in this range could be better? I was thinking about getting a separate amp and getting the Buchardt's S400, but I heard the LS50 with a sub sounds better. Would ELAC's sound better than my setup?
s400 is my bet
The LS50 passive with a Line Magnetic integrated amp like LM-508ia (a.k.a LM-805ia in some parts of the world) absolutely murders the LS50 wireless. Including bass response.
@@Jayiyagi I just got the Buchardt's. I hooked it up to my Denon Receiver (zone 2) and I like the way it sounds. I like it better than the LS50 Wireless. Which speakers can match the mids/lows of the Buchardt's, but with better highs? I wish they used the JET tweeter in the S400.
Great review...thx for your honest opinion !!!
Fabulous,very helpful review Jay! Can you recommend an inexpensive music player to pair with the topping D90 or Denafrips Ares 2,along the lines of the Bluesound Node 2i? I am also reluctant to order these units direct from overseas....have you given any thought to becoming the canadian distributor for these products and adding them as a "budget" line to your company's website?
hello, david, did you buy the items? did you find an alternative to Node 2I? please share your experience as I am about to buy the Node2I and the Ares 2
Vittorio Martini Donati Did you end up getting the node 2i? And which DAC did you decide on? Ares 2 or D90? Or something else..Too many choices
@@Steveh817 still pontificating!
David Manusow I went ahead and bought the node 2i. Trying to decide how deep I want to go into the digital world. Should I get a DAC or just be satisfied with the node 2i as it is. It’s only money😬
@@Steveh817 if you like the sound of the node 2i,keep using it and go no further. I didn't think it would work for me because it has a weak(built in) dac and doesn't have a usb out,which precludes my using the node 2i just as a streamer for a better sounding (separate) mqa dac such as the topping d90 or smsl m400 mqa. david
Thx for the review. Do you think that D90 would be an update to Hegel H390 dac too?
Great review. Just got mine today, the ship time is just 7 days (!) using Apos even with this virus thing going on. In pre mode, it sounds a little better than my Wyred4sound DAC2 that has the ESS-9018 and my Audiolab M-DAC+ with same DAC chip if that helps. Yet to use in DAC mode. Careful with the volume, if you hold it it goes to max output waaaaay too fast, as in almost faster than you can release the button. Have to use quick presses of the volume to increase. It's a keeper, easily the best value I've found so far.
My biggest issue with the D90 (admiteddly se) is that the highs are subdued. I want to feel the vocals and for whatever reason that hasn't been happening..the bass is fantastic though, nice and punchy.
The preamp mode noticeably degrades the audio quality. Through the hidden menu however (hold power button+switch on from the back), you can set the D90 to DAC only. Great review and good one catching this!
forgive my lingo ignorance , but when you say "air" and "more airy" , are you talking about sibilance and high frequencies or sense of space?
Ciao ! Complimenti
Pensi che possa migliorare anche il dac di Hegel h 390 ?
Grazie
When we're talking about "Air" here, what are we referring to specifically?
I'm confused if we're talking about "Air" as meaning the 10 kHz+ frequency range or "Air" as meaning Airy sensation talking about Soundstage.
Denafrips should offer a bridge streamer for those who have DACs they like. I'm surprised so few companies offering such a thing.
Why no recordings to demonstrate sound quality?
It will play the sound as it is.
Nice review, who do I have to bribe to get one!
Shenzhenaudio ;)
You can.... Bribe me 😉
Thats one i would like to listen!
Please do a review Thomas!
Hi Jay, thanks for the review info. You mention the sound is better when you "bypass" the pre-amp? How do you actually do it? does it DAC need to have specific feature? which out do you use? the Balance or RCA output? Thanks.
There is a hidden setup menu that you activate by powering off, then while holding the front panel power.standby button, turn the rear power back on. There you can make it a DAC only device among other options.
Lots of great information, especially the comparisons to the internal DACs. Would like to know how you think the PS Audio GCD DAC compares.
Jay, can you also review the SMSL D1 as well? And possible to do a Topping D90 vs SMSL D1?
Hi Jay, do you think the DAC inside the Hegel H190 is the same as that in the Hegel H390? I've been thinking about getting the D90 but am not sure if it's a clear improvement over the built-in DAC of H390! Many thanks.
I have upgraded from Topping D50 to Ares II. What I found is that sharp imaging presentation making me feel fatigue. How to tame this? Any tuning can be done by changing cable or other method?
Let it play constantly for a few days, the ARES has a ton of electrolytics caps that will take time to form properly.
What is your amp? The R2R dacs ive used have had very full treble compared to the more tizzy and airy delta sigma treble, R2R will make thin/weak low end from an unpowered amp more obvious.
what is your source? if its PC over USB it might be time to consider PC optimisations.
Are you still feeling the same abt the ares? Or has it got better
@@8lorko8 it takes 2 weeks for the sound to be more coherence. My source is from bluesound node 2 and amp is Accuphase e-370. However, mid bass still lacking. I understand that I can't demand more on this price point setup. Overall sound is keep improving.
Excellent comment about mixing with tube pre-amp or amp.
Hi, you mentioned the improvement coming from pairing with Hegel but did not address the comparison with Hegel internal dac... have I missed something? I was expecting a comment on this and the merits of adding external dac to the Hegel. Thank you.
Ok. Well done. A have a smsl vmv d1 and have the same experience with the built in pre so i added a pre and it made a pretty big improvement. Then i have some questions :) 4......1. what i your digital source.? 2. What connection did you use.? 3. What preamp would you run to drive a pretty neutral amp.? 4. I know you think cables make a difference. What digital cable and analog cables did you run. ? :) best ps what would Sean have said :):)
Good review ! To drive Headphones does this DAC need another Amplifier?
Nice review. I've been enjoying the Topping D70 for nearly a year now. Maybe time to move up. Question, what are the speakers seen behind you in the video?
Looks like Audioengine Monitors.
I have the topping d50s . I am very happy with it.
You have to start telling us what music you play through the gear been reviewed. We need you to tell us specific artists, bands, albums, songs you listened to, in order to reach this or that conclusion. Otherwise, the whole thing is just plain hollow. After all, you're saying it yourself at the start: music is your and our passion...yet nothing about actual music here.
He does in some other videos, but one thing he could do is to have a public Tidal playlist or something.
Hi Jay, would you be able to compare the Ares 2 vs Bifrost 2 and Audio-gd R1? Thanks and be safe buddy!
The only thing that makes the D90 a preamp is the attenuation (volume control) so basically you are connecting the same output to the input of a preamp and set volume to 0 dB. Any difference in sound is the coloration of the outboard preamp but it seems like it does what it is supposed to do which is to convert digital to analog without any coloration.
So the denafrips farts better then the topping? More air?
"Topping D90 doesn't have that much "air"" it does compete well there with Sabre dac's ($200-2000). But yeah less compared to Aries2. My opinion tl:Dr: Aries rich mids, D90 great sub bass. Soundstage comment.... Yeah noticed that, its one of those Dac's that require soundstage in the source to portray it well! Side comment due to the soundstage & how it interacts with source makes it great for gaming but not worth buying Just for gaming due to cost.
If you look at the technical number the D90 is better than Auralic
Suggestions for quality streamer without DAC? Happy with the DAC in my integrated amp, don’t need 2!
Auralic
Pro-Ject Stream Box S2 Ultra and D90 is a GREAT combination.
Tell me , what is it? Topping D30 is all ok playing the sound of a bomb! but as a native dsd, the sound is muddy, why?owners of topping do you have such a thing ?
It's nice to have younger folks to do review. I trust their hearing more
Thanks for the review! I have been tempted by the D90 and your review answered a lot of my questions. And I have the Parasound HINT.
Can you review the RME ADI-2-DAC? It has been very well received and the manufacturer recently updated the DAC in late 2019.
Feel free to contact them and let them know you guys are interested in my review of it. Enough requests and they will reach out to me.
@@Jayiyagi Will do! I will ask the manufacturer to send review unit to you, Thomas, and Sean.
BTW how do you use the D90 as a DAC only? I only see balanced/unblanced output from the back of D90.
@@hxhky like I said in the video, you can use it as a pre-amp/dac or just as a dac. The connections remain the same.
The Next Best Thing Studio Will do. I have a newest version ADI-2 arriving soon and would like to hear your take. I chose it over the Aries 2 and the D90. Interested to see if I will regret that decision or not. I’m a sucker for good air in a DAC.
The Next Best Thing Studio Holding in the input source button on the left while turning the Topping on is how you get to the system menu, where you select DAC+PREAMP\DAC and a few others. Some of the other settings can be done with the remote.
TQVM for a great review. I’m itching now to get the MQA D90. Would be most interesting.
this vs schiit bitfrost 2 ?
Did you say what streaming device you were using? Do you have a favorite?
Hi! ... Did you switch to standalone DAC with the service menu on the D90 ? ... you must keep pressed the SEL button in front while you switch it on at the back .. there you have a menu where you can put it in a real DAC only mode, bypassing the preamp function. And using a good streamer with I2S output and and use the D90 I2S Input, sound a lot better.
G'day great review. Did you try the D90 into dedicated dac mode?
Great video, Jay! Can you opine on the D90 vs the RME ADI-2 FS v2 (with AKM 4493)? I’m a sucker for air, as long as it doesn’t come across as artificial. Really like the way you address how it sounds. Very accessible!
I have the same question.
do i need to buy a separate streamer to use with this like the Bluesound?
I think Bluesound has its own built-in DAC. There are a lot of small Raspberry Pie based streamers on the market that make very good dedicated streamers. There is the Volumio Primo and Pro-Ject has some as well. Some people use a laptop for streaming. In any case you probably want to use the USB input to the D90 for streaming.
Hey Jay’s
Have you heard D90se?
Good review , do you think you would be able to review the bel canto 2.7 dac.
So is the d90 the best non r2r dac or is there something better? If there's something better, what does that dac do better
There is always a bigger fish 😆
Nice review, just as I expected. It will take another good R2R to beat the Ares imho.
I'm hearing good things about this R2R DAC. ua-cam.com/video/IX6A2MCXc3o/v-deo.html
Great review Jay ! But my 2 budget dacs that have the akm 4490/4493 chips aren't warm at all maybe the 4499 is ? , but we both know the power supply and circuitry of a dac matter just as much as the chip thanks again Jay !
Rme adi2 or topping D90?
Great video jay! Would love to see a review of the rme next
Hello Jay, can you tell a bit more about the sq difference between de dac from the hegel h190 and the topping?
I'm about to buy the hegel h90 and sell my topping dac but now im not so sure anymore..
i assume the dac sounds the same as the h190?
Did you listen to the Topping on top of the speaker like that? :| vibration == clock jitter?
No. That was only for the shot. Who hurt you 😂😂
Hello Jay, question and your as advise. I have arcam avr850 receiver, oppo 203 and Canton reference bookshelf
For stereo set up can I use this. How do I set this up
Do you recommend something else
Why not buy fiio m11 pro? Or the m15? It can do all the things that this dac can and also can be used as a portable device. Thank you for the great video!
Not all dacs sound or perform the same way. Just like two amps outputting 150w/channel in class a/b won't sound or perform the same way
@@Jayiyagi what is the difference in percentage , if I go from using my ibasso dx160(dac mode) to a d90 ? Being powered by thx 888 smsl amp
Would the topping D90 be the best sonic match for the Macintosh ma252 with audio lab cd transport. What are your thoughts.
Great review.
Have you got a chance to review the Denafrips Terminator DAC yet?
great review bro .i will hear that device thank you....
Would love to see how this compares to SMSL M500... Which is almost half the price for similar specs and performance? Thanks
d90 crushes it. my brother has it and i have the d90. suffice to say now after 4 months he is selling his smsl and also buying the d90
11:11 what is wrong with the pre-amp section?
Build in preamp is indeed really bad on the D90. However, adding the Topping PRE90 is amazing. I replaced the D90 with the Merason Frerot, which is the best Dac I have heard in this price category. That however also greatly benifits from an external Matrix Spdif 2 reclocker and LPSU, which brings it at a different price level altogether. The D90 already has very good clock and LPSU build in. The Denafrips (Ares 2 and Venus) are overrated in my opinion.
Would you be able to tell me more about the Merason Frerot, please?
Today was looking at Tube dac to go with Hegel H190. Not sure if good idea tho
The D90 is a pretty good value especially when you factor in all the other features. Measurements definitely have their value but they don’t tell the whole story. There are 3 major components to the quality of a DAC, the digital section, the analog section and the power supply and the latter 2 probably don’t get the acknowledgment that they deserve in terms of the contribution they make to the final sound. Focusing purely on the particular model of DAC chip itself doesn’t provide the complete picture.
These compared to D70? Is the D70 much worse?