The TOPPING DX1 II is the kind of product that makes the entry-level desktop audio category feel unusually mature. It is small, USB-powered, reasonably priced, and packed with features that used to be reserved for more expensive DAC and headphone amplifier stacks: an ESS ES9039Q2M DAC chip, XMOS XU316 USB processing, balanced headphone output, optical input and output, 10-band PEQ, UAC 1.0 console compatibility, and up to 1000mW x 2 of balanced power at 32 ohms.
On paper, the DX1 II looks like a classic TOPPING product: clean measurements, low noise, and plenty of usable power for the price. In actual listening, however, it feels more refined than the old stereotype of a purely "scientific" DAC/amp. It is neutral and transparent, yes, but it is not cold in a way that makes music feel thin or mechanical. That balance is what makes the DX1 II interesting: it behaves like a reliable desktop reference tool, but it remains easy to enjoy for daily listening.
What Is the TOPPING DX1 II?
The TOPPING DX1 II is a compact desktop DAC and headphone amplifier designed for computers, game consoles, powered speakers, IEMs, and full-size headphones. Compared with the original DX1, this second-generation model is a much more ambitious device. The DAC section moves to the ESS ES9039Q2M, the USB stage uses the modern XMOS XU316 platform, and the amplifier architecture is now fully balanced from the DAC stage to the 4.4mm output.
It also adds several practical features that make it more than a simple USB DAC. The DX1 II supports optical input and optical output, can work as a preamp through RCA or 4.4mm balanced line output, and includes 10-band high-precision PEQ through TOPPING Home Web and TOPPING Tune. For users who want to correct headphones, tame room peaks, or create gaming profiles, this is a major advantage.
Key Specifications
- DAC chip: ESS ES9039Q2M
- USB processor: XMOS XU316
- Headphone outputs: 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced
- Line outputs: RCA and 4.4mm balanced
- Digital I/O: optical input and optical output
- PEQ: 10-band high-precision EQ with independent L/R adjustment
- USB audio: UAC 1.0 and UAC 2.0 switchable
- Console support: Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5 via UAC 1.0 mode
- Balanced output power: up to 1000mW x 2 at 32 ohms
- Dynamic range: up to 128dB
- THD+N: less than 0.00007%
- Noise floor: less than 0.9 uVrms
Design and Build
The DX1 II keeps the footprint compact enough for a small desk, a laptop setup, or even a portable work bag. It is not a pocket dongle DAC, but it is much smaller than a traditional DAC and headphone amp stack. The small screen and cleaner chassis design make it feel more modern than the first-generation DX1, and the physical controls are simple enough for daily use.
This is not a luxury desktop component like TOPPING's larger flagship products, but the build quality feels neat and purposeful. The main strength is functional density: balanced output, single-ended output, line output, optical I/O, PEQ, and USB console compatibility are all built into a device that still feels compact and uncluttered.
Setup and Compatibility
For computer audio, the DX1 II is straightforward. Connect it through USB, select it as your output device, and it is ready for high-resolution playback. It supports PCM up to 384kHz and DSD256 over USB, which is more than enough for most music libraries and streaming use.
The UAC 1.0 and UAC 2.0 switch is especially useful. In UAC 2.0 mode, the DX1 II works as a modern high-resolution USB DAC for Windows and macOS. In UAC 1.0 mode, it can work more easily with devices such as Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5. That makes it a practical gaming DAC amp as well as a music device.
One important note: while the DX1 II is USB-powered, it is not a typical phone dongle. Because the headphone amplifier section is much more powerful than most portable adapters, many iOS and Android devices may not power it directly. If you want to use it with a phone or tablet, an externally powered USB hub or split power cable may be required.
Sound Impressions
The first impression of the TOPPING DX1 II is quietness. Background noise is extremely low, even with sensitive IEMs, and that gives the presentation a clean, black backdrop. Details are not pushed forward aggressively, but they are easy to hear because the noise floor is so well controlled.
The overall tuning is neutral, fast, and transparent. Bass is controlled rather than boosted. Midrange is direct and honest. Treble has good extension without becoming overly sharp. This is still a measurement-focused TOPPING product in the best sense, but it does not sound sterile. The DX1 II is more about clarity and balance than exaggerated warmth or dramatic coloration.
With vocal tracks, the DX1 II keeps the center image stable and clean. Breath detail, consonants, and room information are easy to follow, but the presentation does not feel artificially etched. With acoustic and orchestral recordings, separation is strong for the price, especially through the balanced output. With electronic music and modern pop, the bass control helps maintain speed and definition.
Single-Ended vs Balanced Output
The 3.5mm single-ended output is already useful for many headphones and IEMs, but the 4.4mm balanced output is where the DX1 II feels most complete. The balanced output offers more power, better drive, and a stronger sense of separation. If your headphone supports balanced cables, the DX1 II is worth using through 4.4mm.
With easier dynamic-driver headphones, the difference is noticeable but not mandatory. With planar headphones or harder-to-drive models, balanced output becomes much more important. The extra current and headroom help bass become tighter, dynamics more confident, and imaging more spacious.
Pairing With Headphones
Studio and Monitoring Headphones
With neutral closed-back monitoring headphones, the DX1 II sounds clean and practical. It does not add much warmth or thickness, so the headphone's own character remains obvious. This makes it useful for editing, monitoring, gaming, and long desk sessions where low noise and clear positioning matter.
Planar Magnetic Headphones
Planar headphones benefit from the balanced output. While the single-ended output can reach usable volume with many models, the balanced output gives better low-end grip and more dynamic confidence. For headphones that need current, this is the mode to use.
Sensitive IEMs
The DX1 II is also surprisingly friendly with IEMs. Its low noise floor means there is no obvious hiss with most sensitive earphones. Low gain is useful here, and the clean background allows micro-detail and imaging to come through without forcing the volume too high.
PEQ: The Feature That Makes DX1 II More Than a Basic DAC/Amp
The 10-band PEQ is one of the strongest reasons to choose the DX1 II over simpler DAC/amp units. Many users now want more control over headphone response, and the DX1 II gives that control at the hardware level. You can adjust target curves, reduce a treble peak, add a little bass shelf, or create different profiles for music and gaming.
For speaker users, PEQ can also be useful for basic room correction. For example, if a small room creates an obvious low-frequency peak, a narrow PEQ cut can reduce boom and improve clarity. This does not replace full acoustic treatment or advanced DSP systems, but it is a very useful tool in a compact DAC/amp at this price.
Gaming Performance
The DX1 II is not only for music. With UAC 1.0 support, optical I/O, headset microphone support through TRRS, and PEQ, it fits naturally into a gaming setup. Positional audio benefits from the clean background and precise imaging, and PEQ can be used to emphasize footsteps or reduce distracting low-frequency effects.
For Nintendo Switch or PlayStation 5 users, the ability to switch into UAC 1.0 mode is a practical advantage. Many standard USB DACs are not as friendly with consoles, so this makes the DX1 II a strong choice for users who want one compact device for both music and gaming.
Using DX1 II as a DAC or Preamp
The DX1 II can also function as a compact DAC for powered speakers, desktop amplifiers, or a larger hi-fi system. Through RCA or 4.4mm balanced line output, it can work as a volume-controlled preamp. Its clean and transparent character makes it a good source for active speakers or a separate amplifier.
In a full-size speaker system, the DX1 II will not replace a high-end DAC and dedicated preamp, but it can perform far above what its size and price suggest. Used as a simple DAC with PEQ capability, it is a very flexible desktop hub.
Who Should Buy the TOPPING DX1 II?
The DX1 II is a strong choice if you want:
- A compact desktop DAC and headphone amplifier
- Balanced 4.4mm headphone output
- A clean, neutral, low-noise sound signature
- Enough power for many full-size headphones
- PEQ for headphone correction or gaming profiles
