NEW TOPPING DX9 Gen 2 - Discrete DAC/Amp Redefines Precision Audio for the Modern Listener

A $1,299 powerhouse combining discrete 1-bit design, breathtaking power, and surgical control.

A New Era of Discrete 1-Bit Engineering

The TOPPING DX9 Discrete marks a bold new chapter for the Chinese audio specialist, representing a ground-up redesign of its flagship DAC and headphone amplifier. With over 16 discrete PSRM 1-bit elements per channel, this architecture completely bypasses traditional DAC chips — unlocking unprecedented clarity, tonal balance, and micro-detail that extends deep into the noise floor.

The result? A fully balanced DAC/Amp capable of 7,080mW ×2 output into 32Ω, delivering studio-grade precision and velvety dynamics even for the most demanding headphones.

Redefining What a Flagship Can Be

The DX9 Discrete isn’t just a sequel — it’s a reinvention.

Feature	DX9 Discrete	DX9
DAC Architecture	16-Element PSRM 1-bit	AK4499EQ
THD+N @1kHz	<0.00006%	<0.00007%
Channel Crosstalk	–136dB @1kHz	–125dB @1kHz
DSP Config	Supported	Not Supported
PEQ	10-Band High-Precision PEQ	Not Supported

Every measurement, every component, and every design choice underscores a single goal — absolute transparency.

1-Bit Done Right

TOPPING’s proprietary PSRM DAC executes 1-bit decoding with nanosecond-level precision, using discrete components to achieve 131dB SNR and <0.00006% THD+N.This architecture ensures perfect channel balance, linearity, and lifelike texture — qualities often lost in conventional delta-sigma designs.

Jitter? Eliminated.

A dual-stage clock system featuring a CPLD precision oscillator and AK4118 receiver reduces jitter to under 50ps RMS, even over coaxial, optical, or AES inputs. PCM playback extends to 768kHz, with native DSD512 support — ensuring your signal remains pure, stable, and intact from source to output.

Power That Commands Respect

The six-channel NFCA discrete amplifier is engineered for high-impedance headphones and reference setups alike.

• 7,080mW ×2 output at 32Ω

• Noise floor <0.5µVrms (balanced)

• THD+N <0.00007%

  
  

Even at full volume, the DX9 Discrete stays cool, quiet, and composed, handling planars and dynamic drivers with equal authority.

Precision Volume & Custom Tuning

TOPPING’s hybrid relay-resistor volume control eliminates imbalance, keeping stereo imaging razor-sharp even at whisper levels. The 10-band parametric EQ (PEQ) gives full tonal control — gain, Q-factor, and frequency adjustments can be fine-tuned or imported via software for headphone or speaker profiles.

Audiophiles can sculpt sound to exact preference — from neutral studio reference to immersive warmth.

Crossfeed for Realistic Headphone Imaging

Using convolution-based HRTF modeling, the DX9’s crossfeed feature creates a natural, speaker-like soundstage. The effect makes long listening sessions more engaging and less fatiguing — with a simplified BS2B mode available for a softer presentation.

Versatility Meets Connectivity

With eight digital inputs — USB, Bluetooth, dual optical, dual coaxial, AES, and IIS — the DX9 integrates seamlessly into any setup.

• XMOS XU-316 USB processor ensures bit-perfect playback.

• Bluetooth 5.1 (QCC5125) supports LDAC, aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, AAC, and SBC.

• Outputs: XLR, RCA, 6.35mm, 4.4mm, and XLR-4 — all NEUTRIK-grade for precision and durability.

Designed to Be Used and Admired

A CNC-machined aluminum chassis, glass top, and ambient backlighting make the DX9 Discrete as stunning to look at as it is to hear. Dual 2.0-inch Aurora displays show FFT spectrums, VU meters, and playback info — all driven by an intuitive Aurora UI that requires no manual.

A customizable multifunction knob, solid aluminum remote, and 12V trigger sync round out a truly audiophile-grade control experience.

Key Specifications

• DAC Type: 16-element PSRM 1-bit discrete

• SNR / DNR: 131dB

• THD+N: <0.00006%

• Output Power: 7,080mW ×2 @32Ω

• Frequency Response: 20Hz–40kHz (±2dB)

• PEQ: 10-band software configurable

• Inputs: USB / BT / OPT / COAX / AES / IIS

• Outputs: XLR / RCA / 6.35mm / 4.4mm / XLR-4

• Bluetooth: LDAC, aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, AAC, SBC

• Price: $1,299 USD

• Availability: Pre-order now, shipping early November 2025

  
  

Final Word

The TOPPING DX9 Discrete isn’t just an upgrade — it’s a statement piece. Combining laboratory-grade measurements, audiophile ergonomics, and striking industrial design, this DAC/Amp is built for those who demand absolute control, purity, and perfection in every note.

For $1,299, it might just be the new reference in its class.