Audio 2G
The market for digital-to-analog converters (DACs) is constantly evolving, and Topping remains one of the most innovative brands in the industry. The new DA70 Pro represents a significant evolution from previous models, combining refined design with high-end components. Among its highlights are the adoption of the ESS 9039 chipset, the IV-01 module, advanced digital signal management, and Bluetooth 5.1 compatibility. In this review we will look in detail at the technical features, performance, and market positioning of this device.
Design and Construction
A few months ago we tested Topping’s E 70 Velvet model and, even longer ago, the inexpensive but effective D10 S. The Asian manufacturer has always focused on minimalist and elegant aesthetics, and the DA70 Pro we test this time is no exception. The brushed aluminum chassis offers a feeling of solidity and premium quality. The sample we tested is black, but you can also get it in a brushed aluminum version. The front OLED color display is clear and readable, with an intuitive interface that makes it easy to navigate between settings.
The rear panel offers full connectivity, with USB, AES/EBU, optical and coaxial digital inputs. There is no shortage of both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) outputs, with selectable output between 4 and 5 V for the XLR and 2 and 2.5 V for the RCA, increasing the versatility of using the DA70 Pro as a preamplifier.
Components and Technologies
The TOPPING D70 Pro SABRE uses the 8-channel 32-bit ESS Sabre ES9039PRO DAC chipset, with four channels connected in parallel configuration per channel in stereo audio mode. It is a recent upgrade of the ES9038PRO. The D70 PRO is Topping’s first DAC using this chipset from ESS Technologies.
Compared with the ES9038 PRO, which has dominated the market for years, the new ES9039S PRO adopts a new Hyperstream IV DAC architecture (an evolution of Hyperstream II). With its modular Quad architecture and reduced power consumption, performance remains outstanding, with dynamic range up to 132 dB in stereo mode and up to 140 dB in mono mode. Although the performance compared to the ES9038 PRO is not drastically different, the new hardware mode and lower power consumption enable the use of more compact cabinets, simplified printed circuit boards, and lower manufacturing costs.
The ES9039 PRO can operate in mono, stereo or 8-channel mode, with either current or voltage output. However, current mode provides lower distortion (THD) and higher dynamic range, which is why most high-end DACs use this configuration. Since analog amplifiers typically do not accept a current input (except in very few cases), an I/V (current-to-voltage) conversion stage is needed immediately after the digital-to-analog conversion. Topping has developed numerous I/V stages, refining them to achieve the best measured and subjective performance. This led to the creation of the new I/V stage IV-01, encapsulated in a metal shell to protect it from EMI and RFI interference.
The USB bridge encoder is an XMOS XU316, while an STMicroelectronics STM32G030C8T6 ARM-Cortex M0+ 32-bit microcontroller is employed to manage the various features of the DAC. For wireless connectivity, Qualcomm QCC5125 Bluetooth SoC provides advanced performance and stable connection. To support the different Bluetooth codecs, Topping chose a Bluetooth receiver chip that supports AAC, SBC, aptX, aptX HD, aptX-Adaptive, and LDAC. With Bluetooth version 5.1 and a longer antenna, the signal is stronger and more stable, even through two heavy walls (masonry or concrete) between the source and the D70 PRO.
Features
The DA70 Pro offers advanced digital filter management, allowing users to customize the sound to their own preferences. Compatibility with PCM signals up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD512 ensures full support for high-resolution audio files.
The command interface benefits from the use of a beautiful color OLED display making navigation and operation even more intuitive. Through the command interface, it is possible to select not only the type of output filter, but also one among three options to change the timbre: Default, Transistor mode, and Valve mode. Regarding the display, there are three different types of displays: one represents a vintage-flavored VU Meter, another a spectrum analyzer, and finally one that allows you to read the value of the volume set when using the DA70 Pro as a preamplifier, along with the type of input file and filter selected.
Sound Performance
The Topping DA70 Pro offers a rather clean and detailed sound, with an excellent sense of clarity across the entire frequency range. Compared to the other achievements of this brand that we had experienced, the impression is that of a more structured sound, less thin and harmonically richer. Of the low range we liked the speed, precision and agility that nevertheless do not sacrifice the feeling of depth and presence. The mid-bass range, also clean and tidy, has just the right “fullness” such that voices and instruments sound natural. Voices that come across as realistic and well-defined, without adding that somewhat artificial warmth that often happens to be perceived in mid/low-end DACs. High frequencies are extended, clear and detailed, without my coming across as stinging or artificially emphasized. The DA70 Pro manages to strike the right balance between speed, precision and a touch of smoothness, avoiding a sound that is too dry or analytical.
Dynamics are excellent, and the DA70 Pro is at ease following pressing changes in intensity, even of considerable magnitude. Spatiality is also a parameter against which this DAC defends itself well: the soundstage is wide and each element is precisely placed in a three-dimensional panorama, separating instruments and voices cleanly and naturally. In conclusion, the Topping DA70 Pro Sabre is a DAC that delivers excellent sound performance, combining precision, musicality, and a well-defined soundstage.
Conclusions
The Topping DA70 Pro is a DAC that combines technological innovation, excellent sound quality, and refined design. With its ESS 9039 chipset, IV-01 module and Bluetooth 5.1 compatibility, it ranks as one of the best choices in its price range.
If you are looking for a versatile DAC capable of delivering high-level audio reproduction, the Topping DA70 Pro is definitely an option to consider.
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