Hey folks, just letting you know that the Moondrop Starfield draw has been won by Cyclonasauras Rex. Stay tuned (and subscribed) for the next videos for a chance to win the Topping E30
I had to make a decision a while ago to work in USD in most cases because TH-cam is international and my Australian audience is very small relatively speaking (but I love you all). In many cases, it's helpful to know the price in USD because it's sometimes cheaper to buy from overseas than to buy locally.
Hi Tyler, thanks so much. I'm glad you're finding them useful! I'm building slowly so hopefully I'll get there in time 🙂 (although fast would be nice 😉)
Mate, totally agree with you- you helped me make up my mind and this is an amazing DAC at the price- totally blown away by its performance and it got better after adding a plug in the wall power supply. I’ve just subscribed- all the best from the U.K.
I picked up an E30, really happy with it. Nice and balanced, has an enjoyable smoothness without sacrificing detail, it was originally just for some studio monitors at my desk but has lots of potential as a headphone DAC.
Own and love the D10. Had a listing to some more expensive DACs from fiends but didn't notice enough difference to consider an upgrade. Congrats on the upcoming baby, and get some sleep in while you still can!
I've been eyeing the E30 to go along with the PA3 for a budget audiophile home listening system. It's nice to see someone finally do a really thorough review!
Of all the audio reviewers you, Max Settings, and the headphone show are like the most reliable and trustworthy ones by far, if only there were speaker reviews as good as any of you.
i am a Qutest owner so it was really interesting to hear your comments on how these 2 compare. have recently joined ASR forum and the general consensus there is that "all dacs sound the same". so as a test , i have just bought a used E30 (dirt cheap) and plan on comparing the two of them myself. part of me wants the Qutest to blow the E30 away (to justify the price) but somehow i dont think this will be the case. you did state that the sound signatures are the same, just that the Qutest has a better soundstage. if my old ears cant notice that space, then the Qutest will be sold. no "knee jerk" reactions though as i would have to assess the usb reliability of the E30, the Qutest has been faultless in this regard unlike the dac it replaced (Pro-ject DS2 digital)
Sadly, the ASR approach to products combines a limited set of measurements with a strong bias against the more expensive products. There's no measurement that Amir takes which will assess things like timbre accuracy or soundstage capabilities so it makes sense that he'd assume all DACs sound the same when measuring only distortion, noise and frequency response.
@@PassionforSound it seems to be majority of members over there that feel the same. i am unsure, hence my trial. i would have thought ,at the very least, the output stage would colour the sound in some way.
You're exactly correct about the output stage. Then there's the way the digital signal is filtered and processed from a timing perspective which is huge.
I was running a Fiio K5 Pro with the Hifiman Sundara and just got the Topping Stack (E30 and L30), just to try it out and not expecting to be able to hear the difference but I was blown away. The soundstage and instrument separation was far better with the Topping stack. The L30 is impressive as well, tons of power and super clean.
A relevant comment for me considering I own the K5 and I just ordered the E30. They will be used on the same JBL 5 inch monitors so it will be cool to hear differences.
Very Nice review . Unsure why Topping is not including spdif outs in more DACs like D10. They tend to be quite useful. Very interesting if this beats D50s. This can very well compete for top slot for under $300 DACs (AUD). Also if Topping start supporting MQA rendering (at least) , it will make the DAC market very interesting ... Great articulate review Lachlan, yet again !
Thanks Anu! SPDIF outs are handy, but no doubt increase cost ☹️. Also USB controllers are getting better and better. The Gen 5 USB board from Schiit was nearly indistinguishable from the SPDIF input and the Qutest is the same with USB and SPDIF being indistinguishable.
Ordered this DAC after reading measurements and review of it on audiosciencereview. Waiting on shipment. Based on all the reviews made so far, this budget unit outperforms more costly units at only £110 GB. No brainer if your looking for a budget but high performance dac.
I have a Topping D30 dac which I've been using with my Topping A30 amp (modified with Burson op-amps), and which I now use with my brand new THX AAA 789. I have to say, it's very difficult for me to tell the difference between my A30 and 789 in this setup. I was listening earlier, and felt like the 789 was smoother with my Tin P1, but it's just a very minor difference, and I don't know if I could tell them apart blindfolded. This experience has only further strengthened my feeling that spending money on expensive dacs and amps is largely a waste. I do look forward to receiving my Grace Sdac Balanced which arrives in a few months. We'll see what that can do. Also, Lachlan, I just received the DC 01 you sent me several weeks back! It does a very good job of powering my Tin P1 without distortion (and lots of headroom). It's a really cool thing to have, and I really appreciate it. Thank you! EDIT: Okay, I did some more testing. I can definitely tell a pretty significant difference between my Dragonfly Red and 789. Connected to the same computer, using my Focal Elex. The 789 has a more spacious quality. They're both good, though. Maybe the Topping (w/Burson op-amps) is just a really good amp? I hope you can test this out one day, because I'd really like to know what you think.
Glad the DC01 is serving you well! As for the amp, I'll see what I can do 🙂 One of the important things to consider when comparing gear or upgrading gear is that every system is limited by it's weakest component. For example, if someone has average headphones, an average DAC and a brilliant amp, their amp will not perform better than an average amp because it's receiving average quality signal and feeding average quality headphones. Put that same amp in a great system and suddenly you hear everything it can do. None of that is to suggest your system is average, only to point out that some of your gear MIGHT have more capability than you know. It will be interesting to see if your new DAC reveals any hidden potential from the 789 or A30.
Glad it helped. This will pair really nicely with the 789 for a mid-priced setup that will perform up there with any setup under $1000 (and maybe a bit more)
Yes, you're in the giveaway (if you're a subscriber) now that you've commented. 789 isn't fully balanced so the balanced input isn't so important. It will still drive balanced headphones just fine from the single ended input.
Sweet! I’m excited! Hoping to win. Had a hard enough time saving up for the 789. Also, it should be plenty of power for the 6XX via the SE port right? That’s the hardest headphones to drive that I have currently.
It's amazing, that now you can get great DACs for so little money. It really has developed so much during the past 10 years... Looking forward for the draw!!
Good luck Brigitte. If you're wanting the E30 giveaway, that's next. Make sure to subscribe so you can comment on a future video with the E30 draw. For now, good luck in the Starfield draw!
Cheers for the review mate. Looks like a really solid unit that is great value for money and punching above its weight class. I like how you have started to incorporate more B roll footage into your videos. I am currently waiting for my FiiO BTR5 to arrive - the Moondrop Starfield would make a great pairing 😉
I think that as a sound engineer sometimes these budget DACs give a great overview on what people might use when listening to music. I mean this is already an enthusiast level. I am thinking to get one of these for mastering/testing reasons, but I wonder if they work with the standard DAWs.
I imagine it would be a handy tool for testing a mix. It runs on standard drivers so if your DAW can connect to a USB DAC, this should be fine. Good luck in the draw!
I have owned the d10s and loved your honest and thorough review of it. I wasn’t too happy with it. I’m tempted to give the E30 a shot- whilst it is different spec to the d10s. Would you say yes essentially it’s the same principle? I think you won’t get stellar performance from these 100ish dacs
I think the E30 is the perfect version of the D10S type product (except it doesn have digital out). Remember to try it with an external power source like a phone charger or battery power bank for maximum performance 🙂
I purchased one to replace my oldish Arcam rDAC after seeing so many positive reviews, but no comparison between them.. I'll be keeping the Arcam and the topping goes to Marketplace..
Loving my E30! Do try powering the unit with an external phone battery bank as the resulting background noise floor is inky black. Topping makes their own linear power supply that I'm sure results in the same if not better improvement
@@PassionforSound I found the usb ports of computer and TV to be the noisiest, big improvment with a decent quality wall wart (ipad charger), and battery bank to be best
Hmmm. I'd love to know how well the E30 works plugged directly in to a power amp. It would be awesome if it was an upgrade over the preamp in my integrated amp as well as being a great budget DAC. I could just take the jumpers off the back of my old NAD C320bee and go straight in...
Mine just arrived yesterday. My first impressions are also great, and I look forward for the next weeks of testing. Anyways, I would also like to take part in the Starfield draw.
Thanks for review. Comparing with the D50S, what power source did you use for both dacs? I'm amazed that only with a muses02 opamp change to D50S may surpass a half priced product. They say both E30 and D50S are sensitive to power supplies.
Hi Diego, I used the USB power from my PC in all tests because I don't have a separate (high quality) power supply and also because I figured most people will use USB power too. I hope to try a power supply in the future for another review.
Just ran across your site and greatly appreciate your approach. I am interested in the E30 but I have a question. I'm using a Google Chromecast Audio (CCA) with a Fiio Taishan to create an inexpensive streamer for Amazon Music. Are you aware of anything like the CCA that would support the higher bitrates of the E30?
Hi Seurat, the only thing I know of is the RaspberryPi. I created a setup and discussed it on my old blog, here: passionforsound.lachlanfennen.com/improve-your-pc-audio-quality-without-breaking-the-bank-part-2/ Hopefully this helps. If not, write back to me here and tell me as much as you can about your ideal outcome (i.e. how you want to control the sound, what your source is - Tidal, music server, etc.)
@@PassionforSound Thanks for the info and links - some great articles. You may have inspired me to try a RaspberryPi. It does seem strange that there isn't a high resolution, inexpensive WiFi option like the Chromecast Audio (CCA). Given how popular, and useful the CCA has been it seems like there would be any number of alternatives. As for my objective, I'm just playing around with low, low cost music options as a learning exercise. I'm not currently focused on computer based music, headphones, servers, Roon, etc. Just streaming from my router to a DAC. Ethernet connections are not an option. I have more expensive equipment but I'm experimenting with Amazon HD to CCA to the Fiio Taishan to an inexpensive Sony Stereo Receiver (also an inexpensive Sony AVR) to a set of inexpensive speakers (HTD Level 3). I'm playing around with the CCA (and a Chromecast (CC) (not Audio)) via different connections (RCA, optical, HDMI). I'm even using dirt cheap cables/wiring. So far, this basic setup sounds remarkably good. The speakers are interesting (ribbon/horn tweeter with ceramic coated fabric woofer and waveguide - all technologies I want to explore). The speakers are very revealing, so now I'm playing around with the electronics to see what happens. The CCA (optical)/Taishan (RCA)/Stereo Receiver sounds the best so far. Next step is to go with a better DAC, but I need a WiFi connection that will support the higher resolution of something like the E30. My understanding is that the CCA is limited to 24/96 (?). There seems to be a LOT of confusion on this point and some claim that it supports 24/192. Figuring that out is beyond my pay grade, so I'm assuming it does 24/96. Even though I'm using optical out, I'm assuming that the CCA will stream 24/96 even when the DAC is bypassed (probably not the best assumption). Amazon Ultra HD supports up to 24/192, if I understand correctly, therefore the need for a higher quality DAC. Of course, I'd like to try a different DAC, in any case, and the E30 looks very interesting. After experimenting at the 24/192 level I'll need a transport capable of supplying music with higher resolution than Amazon HD so your suggestion of a Raspberry Pi appears to be the way to go. I'm thinking that I could then use software (possibly JRiver (?)) to upsample and/or purchase higher resolution tracks.
Chi-fi rocks! I recieved my unit today, and I am pairing it with the magni3+ and akg 702. I am very impressed until now! Please add me also to the potential contestants for the Starfield:)
Thanks Pintail! For some reason, I never saw this question. Sorry, mykeldg! I think D50S with MUSES02 is probably slightly better, but it's relatively close based on my memory.
@@PassionforSound I m looking to do exactly the same soon. I am on the verge of purchasing the D50s or the E30. Another difference between the two is that apparently the Sabre chips hold better detail than the AK chips. The Muse02 is £41 here in the UK at the moment. I just found a page online where a guy at Burson has done the same thing but with a Burson chip and thankfully he put pictures up which will help amateurs like me. Can you describe how easy it is to remove the op amp? Is it just a little tug and it pops out and pops in?
It's quite a fiddly process on the D50S because of the way the board is installed. I would personally save your money and time and go for the E30. It's a better DAC in its stock setup and I'm not convinced the MUSES02 addition will improve the D50S enough (in comparison to the E30) to make it worthwhile. Grab a good power supply like a battery pack or Topping P50 and the E30 will do great. If you're REALLY into the D50S idea then the op-amp comes out pretty easily once you get to it, but be aware that it's a pretty tight fit so the Burson V5i is the only non-chip op-amp I've found that fits and I didn't like it that much in the D50S.
OT. Some albums off the beaten path. 1 Huun-Huur-Tu - Orphan's Lament 2 These Trails - These Trails - 1973 3 Bonnie Dobson Good Morning Rain 4 Amadou & Mariam Dimanche a Bamako 5 John Renbourn...Sir John Alot 6 Johnny Lytle The Loop 7 Harvey Mandel - Cristo Redentor 8 Vince Guaraldi Trio A Charlie Brown Christmas 9 Ry Cooder & Vishwa Mohan Bhatt - A Meeting by the River 10 The Pentangle The Pentangle I have a habit of listening my music through iem from my DAP when I take my usual afternoon nap. There are about 6000 albums in my 2 TB music library so some time I listen to albums I never listen before. Twice it happened to me to wake up to the omg what a treat, refering to albums 6 and 7.Enjoy your music not your gear.
Amazing review love the way you explain things, I am planning to build an Allo Digi one raspberry pi 3 music streamer and was looking for a Dac to attach to it and then link it to my hifi system to stream quboz. I was looking for a Schitt Modi 3 Dac(which is very hard to get in Uk) but just discovered this and it looks like it will do the same job and is readily available. Looking forward to more great videos from you! I would love to try this! And the Starfields also of course :)
Hi John, I think this should do a great job with a Raspberry Pi setup! The Starfield draw has closed, but there'll be plenty of new giveaways in the future so stay tuned!
Hi Nepherim, just to clarify, it's the D50S I swapped op-amps in and I found the MUSES02 to be clearly the best option in my collection (not the OPA627 which is normally my favourite). Unfortunately, there is limited space inside the casing so larger op-amps like Sparkos Labs aren't possible.
What devices did you use to test the e30 by itself, and do you believe your testing and conclusions on sound character/quality outright are still relevant given your gains in knowledge, equipment, and testing strategies?
I always use a range of different products to test gear. When I had the E30 it was most likely the Bottlehead Mainline and maybe the Burson Soloist 3XP if I had that at the time. Either way, I'm yet to find a DAC at the price that is significantly better than the E30. I ended up making a mistake by selling the E30 because it's still probably the best I've heard at the price (Schiit Modi might challenge that soon)
Hi, I've messaged before regarding Spark's opamps in Burson fun, brilliant, now a background to my question, here goes, I've had to give up my lounge Hi-Fi and convert to Headphone listening and I'm old school, just listening to redbook CD's (over 2600 CD's) from an integrated Cyrus CDi. My current set up is Hifiman HE560 & Hifiman Sundara's, with headphone amps Burson Fun with Sparko's SS3601 opamps (very powerful and detailed, but a tiny bit brash) & a Drop THX AAA 789 amp that is just totally neutral and suits the HE560's a treat, they are fed by a Cyrus CDi, by rca's (twin output). Now as I wanted a bit more detail I've bought an Audiolab 6000CDT and paired it with a Rega DAC, and to be honest I'm disappointed, as there is hardly any discernable difference between the 2, and I suspect it is the old design Rega, so was wondering with your experience, what would be you best recommendation of a DAC to go with the 6000CDT and my amps, something up to about £400 tops (I've listened to M-DAC and thought it a bit thin) , so any help would be appreciated, and seeing this review, I'm wondering if this is this all I need for an improvement in detailing and soundstage over my Cyrus, as the 6000CDT is supposed to be very revealing, cheers, tyia.
Hi Grays, in that price range, nothing really jumps out at me yet, but I might have two options coming... one should be here in a week or so and the other is a brand new product that I'll hopefully be premiering on the channel. Sorry I can't tell you more right now!
I found them to be very subtle, Nick - on this and almost every other similar DAC. I'm not saying they make no difference, just that it doesn't change the overall quality of the DAC so much as slightly alter the presentation.
Hi Irae, I haven't heard the current Modi to comment. It smashes the original Modi, but you'd expect that 10 years down the track. I've also not heard wither of the 5K or the Khadas - sorry!
Do you think the difference in soundstage between D50s and L30 is noticeable even in closed-back headphones? Other than that, maybe D50s produce a slightly better sound on closed backs like AKG k371 and Monolith M1060C?
It's going to depend a lot on the headphones. Most lower end closed headphones won't show a big difference, but higher quality closed backs like the Ultrasone Edition 8 and the AudioQuest NightOwl will show improvements. I'm currently preparing a new video around this topic (D50S) that is pretty interesting I think so stay tuned...
Hey lachlan what would suggest as an upgrade to the e30. I love its neutrality but feel dynamics are a little compressed. Waht dac would be suugest which has neutral tone but with vivid dynamics. Thanks
Good timing, Jeet. The new E50 is exactly what you're asking for I think. I've got the review scheduled for release this weekend so take a look and see if it sounds like a good fit
Cheers Lachlan, very helpful video as usual! Been looking for a DAC at this price point, found that an SMSL Sanskrit Mark 2 10th Anniversary Edition (bit mouthful there) is actually in the same price range as the Topping E30, uses same AK4993, has a remote too. Was just wondering if you’ve ever tried this one and possibly compare it with the E30? It’s cheaper than an E30 too from Amazon Australia at the moment..
Under 300 is difficult because they're all using AKM or ESS chips, but the Topping E50 is about as good as it gets I think. I don't know if it's warm, but definitely smooth while still being excellent for detail and clarity
I sue a FiiO Tashan with a squeezebox touch into active iloud micro monitors. which i really enjoy for near field. Is the Topping E30 a worthwhile 'upgrade' in your view?
Hi, I don't have the Tashan to compare, unfortunately. That said, I would expect this to be noticeably better based on the pricepoint and higher spec DAC chip being used.
Thanks for the review. nice to know it beats the d50s. I sold the d50s because it did not really beat the modi multibit considering they cost the same. I hope this is good enough delta sigma alternative to the mimby (while maintaining lower cost)
I can't comment vs the Mimby, but it's a great performing unit. I'd happily stop with the E30 as my only recommendation for budget DACs, it's that impressive.
@@PassionforSound There is a major issue with E30 where the polarity is inverted. This is was discussed in ASR yesterday and Topping has immediately fixed it via a firmware update. Soundstage is no longer flat and sound much better to me now. www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/topping-e30-dac-review.12119/page-56
Great review. Another very extensive helpful review by you. 💯 And I'd agree btw, that the hardware regarding how it's implemented, is more key, in the sound. Albeit, I feel Dac chips can and do matter. But, there's no question, there's been more proof, that a superior implementation, wins the day. 👌🏼 Good stuff! Makes sense changing op would upgrade the d50s. Ops, I've learned myself, change that quality and sound quite a bit; and can hold some dacs back. Glad the value for money here.
Is there a noticable difference between sabre and akm chips? Im currently using a Toping d10 and I bought an smsl m300 mkii (still in transit). I think its a nice upgrade over the d10.
Each manufacturer has its own ways of processing and filtering the audio during reconstruction from digital to analog. As to which is better? That's really hard to say. Both companies make great chips. Often, what separates products is how the analog signal is handled AFTER the DAC chip (i.e. between the chip and the RCA / XLR outputs on the DAC)
Hi Lachlan, I'm currently using a D10s feeding to my L30 Amp and have always thought of my chain being rather harsh and dead sounding. Wanted to ask if the E30 with its AKM chip would give any noticable improvement over my current setup, this is assuming my L30 amp is transparent. Thanks in advance!
It would be maybe interesting also to see, how these dacs compare in different genres if music. But nonetheless super, detailed review! I would like to opt in for the draw of a nice pair of starfields also:)
Good point about genres. I do listen to a wide variety of music when testing so you can assume that if I don't specifically say something about the music / genres, then it's fairly even across all music.
I installed the driver version 5.0 that I downloaded on the Topping website, at the beginning I noticed a great improvement in the soundstage and in the accuracy of the sound, more alive, HOWEVER, unfortunately I started to feel a slight earache and harshness in the sound, very similar to the sound produced when use ASIO instead of Direct Sound, I was disappointed with the new driver, because the previous 4.18 (I think) sounded more nature, less alive, but less "forced". Did you experience something like that with your E30?
Hi Marcos, no I never updated the driver on mine because I ran a giveaway of the E30 after the review. Have you tried an external power supply (like a phone charger)?
@@PassionforSound Yes, I currently use a phone charger connected to the E30 and a USB audioquest forest cable on the other input, I think this combination helps a lot to reduce the harsness in the sound a lot, not least because I use the sa100 smsl amp which is not very good and I am currently trying to soften it what’s bad about it in other ways (in the future I’ll buy another amp). I tried to use a power bank for energy and the sound was a little exaggerated on the E30, it clearly improved the definition and the soundstage, but on the other hand it was a little strident on almost all frequencies and I went back to the phone charger, yesterday I connected an apple phone charger and I found it a little cleaner than samsung, but with a less punch, interesting. As for driver 5.0, I was surprised by the sound, but minutes later found it painful to hear because it seemed too much for my ears, rough and with a strange brightness, not musical.
@@PassionforSound it seems that the driver works as a DSP that gives the sound more clarity, making it brighter and thin, apparently distorting a little and also forces the dynamics in precision, it is uncomfortable and very analytical, especially version 5.0, now I am using the windows generic driver for this dac, it sounds more comfortable, despite the sound getting a little muffled, many dynamics still remain, the bass is very robust and the treble more balanced, almost no fatigue for hours.
Very curious, Marcos. I'm actually wondering if you're just not a fan of the stock sound of the D50S and the Windows system audio is helping by smoothing off the edges. I'm also not a huge fan of the D50S sound without a different op-amp so I would totally understand if that's what's happening.
Hi M, I don't have the stack here anymore to check. The Mojo would be my choice for DAC duties, but I'm not sure it's got quite the power of the L30 so it depends on what you're driving with it. Unless you need more power or want a more desktop style setup, I would probably go with the Mojo.
Comparing those two doesn't make a whole lot of sense because they are aimed at two different market sectors. The chord mojo is a portable unit designed to fit in your pocket and connect a phone to headphones. The only outlets are AUX sockets. The E30 is a much larger desktop unit mostly intended to connect a computer to remote speakers but it could be headphones. The wide selection of sockets also enables connection to a hifi system or a TV. Something more comparable would be the Topping NX4 which is also a small portable unit aimed at phone/headphones. You won't notice the difference to the chord unless you are using $500 + headphones. FWIW I recommend the NX4 over the chord mojo because it is almost as good but roughly half the price. Chord products are strictly high end.
Really enjoy your review. Currently I listen Spotify via Yamaha RN803D and happy with the sound. Will this E30 DAC improving the sound of music? I'm really appreciate for your opinions. Cheers and happy New Year
Hi Trung, I'm not sure because I don't know the RN803D. If you're a headphone listener, you'd probably benefit more from a dedicated headphone amp (to be fed by the Yamaha's DAC)
Hi. May I know if a cheap wallwart of 5v 2a offers better power supply than a powerbank? Can a cheap wallwart offer better power supply than a powerbank because powerbank is inconvenient.
@@PassionforSound I am powering from usb phone charger. I hear no noise even if I pause the music and increase the volume on magni 3 on high gain to the maximum. It's very clean dac. Just gets out of the way in terms of sound. Sennheiser hd 650 is great too. All I feel is that the Magni 3 is somehow perhaps the weakest in the chain.
The power supplies don't produce audible noise when the music is off. It's more about the sense of clarity when the music is playing, but if you're using a charger for the power supply then you're set. You could play with USB power just to hear the difference, but otherwise there's no need to worry and just enjoy the music!
I never got a chance to compare them side-by-side so I can't say for sure. I'd personally be happy to own either and the only other DAC I'd add the mix is the Geshelli J2.
@@PassionforSound Hi. May I know if a cheap wallwart of 5v 2a offers better power supply than a powerbank? Can a cheap wallwart offer better power supply than a powerbank because powerbank is inconvenient.
A power bank is definitely better overall, but a wall wart is better than USB power. A wall wart might provide 90% of maximum sound quality and a power bank will give you 100% while USB is maybe 60% so the wall wart is still an excellent upgrade and very convenient
@@PassionforSound Thank you for responding. But isn't a powerbank a cause for concern as it may decrease the sound quality the more it keeps draining. I mean I am assuming that a powerbank's gradual drain after few hours is directly proportional to the decrease in sound quality i.e. assuming that a powerbank never really offers a constant power supply while a phone charger (not laptop usb) but a phone charger which is connected to any electrical socket always sends electric signal in the same strength without depleting. That's my concern regarding a powerbank. Of course I am assuming that such is the case with a powerbank so can u please shed some light on this.
Mate, would you rather buy a Topping E30+P50 PSU (130+120=250$) or for example an SMSL M300MKII with the stock PSU (240$) ? I'd really like to know how that comparison would turn out.
I haven't heard the SMSL, but Kelly keep in mind that the best power supply for an E30 is actually a $40 power bank (the batteries you can buy to recharge your phone, etc.) I didn't cover it in my P50 review (which was silly of me), but batteries are the cleanest power source for DACs. Just make sure they have sufficient current output (amps) for the device you're trying to power
Yeah, I can't recall if it's a full size op-amp or a smaller SMD op-amp. From memory there's a decent amount of space vertically though so a V5i or Sparkos would maybe fit if it matches the solder pad spacing.
@@PassionforSound What about the Muses02? Incidentally thanks for the advice. Ive just bought the E30 after much to and fro over both the D50s and the E30. A decision that your experience and this channel helped me to make. I am not disappointed with the E30 at all but I am curios if I can push a little more out of it via a small upgrade. I am based in Southend UK which is home to Profusion whom sell op amps so getting hold of an upgrade should not be to hard but Covid has made things a bit touch and go, even here!
i have a yamaha rxv3900 which gets the audio signal via my computers motherboard into the optical. would getting a Topping E30 improve the sound quality or is the dac in the yamaha good enough?
The only problem with that theory is that the E30 would still be relying on a signal from the motherboard, just via USB instead. It's possible it could make a difference because there might be one less layer of conversion required (i.e. not going from electrical signals to light and back), but it's hard to say.
I listen to spotify via a chromecast audio. I have a quality denon amp and nice speakers. Will the topping make a difference? The chromecast has an inbuilt dac...
Hi J H, if you can get a digital output from the Chromecast (not sure what version you have) then it should provide better sound quality than the internal DAC in the Chromecast.
Great review! Im looking for a budget dac between 100-200$. Could you recommend me a dac as good as the topping e30 quality sound with bluetooth featured? Or just better stay with the e30 without bt? Really good content. Congratulations! Sorry for my bad english.
Hi Franco, I don't know of a DAC in that price range that's good and has BT. I'm not saying they don't exist - I just haven't tried one. The E30 really is great so if you don't need BT I'd just go for that. If you need BT then you might have to ask around on some forums and the like. Sorry I can't be of more help!
I have a Denon DRA-800H receiver and I stream directly to it using HEOS or Spotify Connect. I have a pair of Polk Audio LSiM 705 floor speakers. I am considering an external streamer and DAC. Do you believe an external DAC like the E30 would be an improvement over the internal DAC in my Denon? Denon seems to brag they have a good DAC
Hi. Thanks for the very detailed review. I'm looking at getting my first DAC / Amp. How would this, with something like the L30, compare against the Zen DAC / Hip DAC or Dragonfly Red / Carbon? Thanks
Hi doifeellucky, the E30/L30 combo is outstanding. It will smash the DragonFly (any version) and I would expect will also be better than the iFi setup. I haven't heard the iFi options personally, but have friends I trust that have been unimpressed with the Zen DAC and the Topping units are just so good! The only thing the L30 isn't good at is IEMs where there's not enough volume range available and there may be some background noise on sensitive IEMs
@@PassionforSound Thanks for the feedback, much appreciated. Topping just announced a new official UK stockist, who are also also the Schiit UK stockist, though there's never any Schiit in stock. I think I'll give Topping a go.
Thanks Andrew. I like the MUSES02 most. There's very limited space inside the D50S chassis so regular 8-pin dual chips are the only option. No Burson V6s or Sparkos op-amps.
Hi David, I was using PC power I think (or maybe a USB hub which would be notuch better). I've got a separate review of the P50 power supply which includes discussion of various power sources with the D50S.
@@PassionforSound That will be fantastic! Also, is there any way for you to get a hand on those new AK4499 DACs, like Topping D90. Would like to know the difference between AK4493 and AK4499. Looked some reviews online, seems like there is noticeable difference.
I'll see what I can do. We've got our first baby arriving any day now so it might be a little while before I start churning out content with much speed though. I'll still be producing videos, just not sure how frequently.
Hey folks, just letting you know that the Moondrop Starfield draw has been won by Cyclonasauras Rex. Stay tuned (and subscribed) for the next videos for a chance to win the Topping E30
Please include Australian prices if you can please, assuming its available in Australia,
I would def go for this model, I tried tinkering with electronics as a child....they never went back together :S
I had to make a decision a while ago to work in USD in most cases because TH-cam is international and my Australian audience is very small relatively speaking (but I love you all). In many cases, it's helpful to know the price in USD because it's sometimes cheaper to buy from overseas than to buy locally.
how in the world do you not have more subscribers? I swear you have the most intricate, descriptive reviews. I learn so much from watching your videos
Hi Tyler, thanks so much. I'm glad you're finding them useful! I'm building slowly so hopefully I'll get there in time 🙂 (although fast would be nice 😉)
Mate, totally agree with you- you helped me make up my mind and this is an amazing DAC at the price- totally blown away by its performance and it got better after adding a plug in the wall power supply. I’ve just subscribed- all the best from the U.K.
So glad you're enjoying it! Thanks for subscribing 🙂🙂
I picked up an E30, really happy with it. Nice and balanced, has an enjoyable smoothness without sacrificing detail, it was originally just for some studio monitors at my desk but has lots of potential as a headphone DAC.
Yeah, it's an excellent budget DAC. Enjoy!
I never had the chance to get a proper audiogear... And this giveaway would be a great oppotunity! Great, detailed review!
Thanks PF - good luck in the draw!!
Own and love the D10. Had a listing to some more expensive DACs from fiends but didn't notice enough difference to consider an upgrade. Congrats on the upcoming baby, and get some sleep in while you still can!
Thanks Joris! It's always great when the gear you have proves to be as good as you hoped. Happy listening!
I've been eyeing the E30 to go along with the PA3 for a budget audiophile home listening system. It's nice to see someone finally do a really thorough review!
Glad it is helpful. It's a great DAC for your plans.
What does PA3 stand for ?
Been debating between the D50s vs the E30, this was exactly what I was looking for. Thanks M8!
Glad I could help!
Love reviews of budget stuff!
Glad they're helpful!
D50S has impressed me already. Super functionality and nice price. 5 stars here. Gonna definitely try this E30.
I hope you like it as much as I do
Of all the audio reviewers you, Max Settings, and the headphone show are like the most reliable and trustworthy ones by far, if only there were speaker reviews as good as any of you.
Thanks for the kind words! I'm glad you're finding my content reliable. Sorry that I can't also provide speaker reviews. Perhaps in the future...
i am a Qutest owner so it was really interesting to hear your comments on how these 2 compare.
have recently joined ASR forum and the general consensus there is that "all dacs sound the same".
so as a test , i have just bought a used E30 (dirt cheap) and plan on comparing the two of them myself.
part of me wants the Qutest to blow the E30 away (to justify the price) but somehow i dont think this will be the case.
you did state that the sound signatures are the same, just that the Qutest has a better soundstage.
if my old ears cant notice that space, then the Qutest will be sold.
no "knee jerk" reactions though as i would have to assess the usb reliability of the E30, the Qutest has been faultless in this regard unlike the dac it replaced (Pro-ject DS2 digital)
Sadly, the ASR approach to products combines a limited set of measurements with a strong bias against the more expensive products. There's no measurement that Amir takes which will assess things like timbre accuracy or soundstage capabilities so it makes sense that he'd assume all DACs sound the same when measuring only distortion, noise and frequency response.
@@PassionforSound it seems to be majority of members over there that feel the same.
i am unsure, hence my trial. i would have thought ,at the very least, the output stage would colour the sound in some way.
You're exactly correct about the output stage. Then there's the way the digital signal is filtered and processed from a timing perspective which is huge.
I was running a Fiio K5 Pro with the Hifiman Sundara and just got the Topping Stack (E30 and L30), just to try it out and not expecting to be able to hear the difference but I was blown away. The soundstage and instrument separation was far better with the Topping stack. The L30 is impressive as well, tons of power and super clean.
That's great, Jason! Thanks for sharing!
A relevant comment for me considering I own the K5 and I just ordered the E30. They will be used on the same JBL 5 inch monitors so it will be cool to hear differences.
Very Nice review . Unsure why Topping is not including spdif outs in more DACs like D10. They tend to be quite useful. Very interesting if this beats D50s. This can very well compete for top slot for under $300 DACs (AUD). Also if Topping start supporting MQA rendering (at least) , it will make the DAC market very interesting ... Great articulate review Lachlan, yet again !
Thanks Anu! SPDIF outs are handy, but no doubt increase cost ☹️. Also USB controllers are getting better and better. The Gen 5 USB board from Schiit was nearly indistinguishable from the SPDIF input and the Qutest is the same with USB and SPDIF being indistinguishable.
Thanks for the review. Can't wait for my unit to arrive. Cheers!
Same here. My unit has arrived in the UK...should recieve in a few days. Should be a nice addition to most setups.
Enjoy! (Both of you 🙂)
I have the D50s... But it was expected that new hardware will be just cheaper, so no problem. Great content!
D50S is still a very good DAC. Amazing what they can do with each new product though
Ordered this DAC after reading measurements and review of it on audiosciencereview. Waiting on shipment. Based on all the reviews made so far, this budget unit outperforms more costly units at only £110 GB. No brainer if your looking for a budget but high performance dac.
Definitely a great choice. Enjoy!
Great review. I like the way you explain the sound quality differences between DACs. Subscribed.
Thanks Remi! Glad you found it helpful!
I have a Topping D30 dac which I've been using with my Topping A30 amp (modified with Burson op-amps), and which I now use with my brand new THX AAA 789. I have to say, it's very difficult for me to tell the difference between my A30 and 789 in this setup. I was listening earlier, and felt like the 789 was smoother with my Tin P1, but it's just a very minor difference, and I don't know if I could tell them apart blindfolded. This experience has only further strengthened my feeling that spending money on expensive dacs and amps is largely a waste. I do look forward to receiving my Grace Sdac Balanced which arrives in a few months. We'll see what that can do.
Also, Lachlan, I just received the DC 01 you sent me several weeks back! It does a very good job of powering my Tin P1 without distortion (and lots of headroom). It's a really cool thing to have, and I really appreciate it. Thank you!
EDIT: Okay, I did some more testing. I can definitely tell a pretty significant difference between my Dragonfly Red and 789. Connected to the same computer, using my Focal Elex. The 789 has a more spacious quality. They're both good, though. Maybe the Topping (w/Burson op-amps) is just a really good amp? I hope you can test this out one day, because I'd really like to know what you think.
Glad the DC01 is serving you well!
As for the amp, I'll see what I can do 🙂
One of the important things to consider when comparing gear or upgrading gear is that every system is limited by it's weakest component. For example, if someone has average headphones, an average DAC and a brilliant amp, their amp will not perform better than an average amp because it's receiving average quality signal and feeding average quality headphones. Put that same amp in a great system and suddenly you hear everything it can do.
None of that is to suggest your system is average, only to point out that some of your gear MIGHT have more capability than you know. It will be interesting to see if your new DAC reveals any hidden potential from the 789 or A30.
Great review. I am following your work for a while, and I really like the style you speak about sound.
Thanks Andras. I'm glad you find the reviews helpful!
Dacs are simple, set and forget devices. I like the fact Topping embraces that.
I agree that there's something to be said for a simple, easy DAC without too many settings, options, etc.
Thank you for this review! I just ordered a THX 789 and have been trying to figure out with dac to get. Your reviews have really helped. :-)
Glad it helped. This will pair really nicely with the 789 for a mid-priced setup that will perform up there with any setup under $1000 (and maybe a bit more)
Great! So you don’t really see the need for a balanced DAC with the 789 right? Also, am I entered into the giveaway?
Yes, you're in the giveaway (if you're a subscriber) now that you've commented.
789 isn't fully balanced so the balanced input isn't so important. It will still drive balanced headphones just fine from the single ended input.
Sweet! I’m excited! Hoping to win. Had a hard enough time saving up for the 789. Also, it should be plenty of power for the 6XX via the SE port right? That’s the hardest headphones to drive that I have currently.
I have never thought, that I will watch an entire review of a DAC, but this was great!! I subbed right away, and I am also hoping to be lucky!
Wow. I'm glad it's that engaging - thank you! Good luck in the draw
It's amazing, that now you can get great DACs for so little money. It really has developed so much during the past 10 years... Looking forward for the draw!!
Good luck Brigitte. If you're wanting the E30 giveaway, that's next. Make sure to subscribe so you can comment on a future video with the E30 draw. For now, good luck in the Starfield draw!
Cheers for the review mate. Looks like a really solid unit that is great value for money and punching above its weight class. I like how you have started to incorporate more B roll footage into your videos.
I am currently waiting for my FiiO BTR5 to arrive - the Moondrop Starfield would make a great pairing 😉
Thanks and glad you like the B roll! Good luck in the draw. It will definitely go nicely with the BTR5 if you win.
I think that as a sound engineer sometimes these budget DACs give a great overview on what people might use when listening to music. I mean this is already an enthusiast level. I am thinking to get one of these for mastering/testing reasons, but I wonder if they work with the standard DAWs.
Of course I would also like to try the Starfield, why not? :)
I imagine it would be a handy tool for testing a mix. It runs on standard drivers so if your DAW can connect to a USB DAC, this should be fine. Good luck in the draw!
I have owned the d10s and loved your honest and thorough review of it. I wasn’t too happy with it. I’m tempted to give the E30 a shot- whilst it is different spec to the d10s. Would you say yes essentially it’s the same principle? I think you won’t get stellar performance from these 100ish dacs
I think the E30 is the perfect version of the D10S type product (except it doesn have digital out). Remember to try it with an external power source like a phone charger or battery power bank for maximum performance 🙂
I purchased one to replace my oldish Arcam rDAC after seeing so many positive reviews, but no comparison between them.. I'll be keeping the Arcam and the topping goes to Marketplace..
Interesting! Thanks for sharing that, Andy
Loving my E30! Do try powering the unit with an external phone battery bank as the resulting background noise floor is inky black. Topping makes their own linear power supply that I'm sure results in the same if not better improvement
Hi Vamsi - I'll give that a go. I'm also in the process of arranging a Topping P50 linear power supply to review as well.
@@PassionforSound I found the usb ports of computer and TV to be the noisiest, big improvment with a decent quality wall wart (ipad charger), and battery bank to be best
I am feeling lucky:) Great review!
Thank you. Good luck!
Excellent review, brilliant reviewer.
Thank you so much!
Its a very enlighting review. I have a Schiit Modi. Considering this for my media room preamp with Rotel power amp.
Definitely a solid budget option. Glad you liked the review!
Hmmm. I'd love to know how well the E30 works plugged directly in to a power amp. It would be awesome if it was an upgrade over the preamp in my integrated amp as well as being a great budget DAC. I could just take the jumpers off the back of my old NAD C320bee and go straight in...
It should be a decent upgrade over older inbuilt DACs, but every one is different so it's not something i could guarantee
I like your reviews. I ordered the e30, waiting for their arrival, this seems soo good..I would like to take part in the draw for the Starfield also:)
I think you'll be really happy with the E30. Good luck in the draw!
Very interested in this. Thanks for the review!
You're welcome!
Great review man!
I really like the content! Keep up the good work!
Thanks Peter!
Mine just arrived yesterday. My first impressions are also great, and I look forward for the next weeks of testing. Anyways, I would also like to take part in the Starfield draw.
Just subscribed. This looks like it's very good value. Thanks for review, it was very interesting.
Thanks for subscribing, Mike. It's amazing value for sure
Thanks for review. Comparing with the D50S, what power source did you use for both dacs? I'm amazed that only with a muses02 opamp change to D50S may surpass a half priced product. They say both E30 and D50S are sensitive to power supplies.
Hi Diego, I used the USB power from my PC in all tests because I don't have a separate (high quality) power supply and also because I figured most people will use USB power too. I hope to try a power supply in the future for another review.
Excellent point. Topping's $120 power supply makes a world of difference.
The "hi" priced world starts to bring "Fi" components to the 100-300 segment. Good review! I would also like to join the Starfield draw!
Thank you and good luck!
Just ran across your site and greatly appreciate your approach. I am interested in the E30 but I have a question. I'm using a Google Chromecast Audio (CCA) with a Fiio Taishan to create an inexpensive streamer for Amazon Music. Are you aware of anything like the CCA that would support the higher bitrates of the E30?
Hi Seurat, the only thing I know of is the RaspberryPi. I created a setup and discussed it on my old blog, here: passionforsound.lachlanfennen.com/improve-your-pc-audio-quality-without-breaking-the-bank-part-2/
Hopefully this helps. If not, write back to me here and tell me as much as you can about your ideal outcome (i.e. how you want to control the sound, what your source is - Tidal, music server, etc.)
@@PassionforSound Thanks for the info and links - some great articles. You may have inspired me to try a RaspberryPi.
It does seem strange that there isn't a high resolution, inexpensive WiFi option like the Chromecast Audio (CCA). Given how popular, and useful the CCA has been it seems like there would be any number of alternatives.
As for my objective, I'm just playing around with low, low cost music options as a learning exercise. I'm not currently focused on computer based music, headphones, servers, Roon, etc. Just streaming from my router to a DAC. Ethernet connections are not an option.
I have more expensive equipment but I'm experimenting with Amazon HD to CCA to the Fiio Taishan to an inexpensive Sony Stereo Receiver (also an inexpensive Sony AVR) to a set of inexpensive speakers (HTD Level 3). I'm playing around with the CCA (and a Chromecast (CC) (not Audio)) via different connections (RCA, optical, HDMI). I'm even using dirt cheap cables/wiring.
So far, this basic setup sounds remarkably good. The speakers are interesting (ribbon/horn tweeter with ceramic coated fabric woofer and waveguide - all technologies I want to explore). The speakers are very revealing, so now I'm playing around with the electronics to see what happens. The CCA (optical)/Taishan (RCA)/Stereo Receiver sounds the best so far. Next step is to go with a better DAC, but I need a WiFi connection that will support the higher resolution of something like the E30.
My understanding is that the CCA is limited to 24/96 (?). There seems to be a LOT of confusion on this point and some claim that it supports 24/192. Figuring that out is beyond my pay grade, so I'm assuming it does 24/96. Even though I'm using optical out, I'm assuming that the CCA will stream 24/96 even when the DAC is bypassed (probably not the best assumption). Amazon Ultra HD supports up to 24/192, if I understand correctly, therefore the need for a higher quality DAC. Of course, I'd like to try a different DAC, in any case, and the E30 looks very interesting.
After experimenting at the 24/192 level I'll need a transport capable of supplying music with higher resolution than Amazon HD so your suggestion of a Raspberry Pi appears to be the way to go. I'm thinking that I could then use software (possibly JRiver (?)) to upsample and/or purchase higher resolution tracks.
This is a superb DAC. Probably the new king in my opinion. I will keep my fingers crossed for the starfield though:)!
Good luck in the draw
New subscriber, liked your content, very clear and concise...thanks
Thanks Michael and welcome!
Another promising budget DAC. I would like to try it out some day. I would like to take part in the draw for the Starfield.
You're in! Watch out for the E30 giveaway too.
@@PassionforSound Yuhuu thanks!
Chi-fi rocks! I recieved my unit today, and I am pairing it with the magni3+ and akg 702. I am very impressed until now! Please add me also to the potential contestants for the Starfield:)
Nice setup. Good luck in the draw
How about E30 vs D50s+Muses02 -- do you think the D50s will be better in this regard?
Great question, shame it has not been answered.
Thanks Pintail! For some reason, I never saw this question. Sorry, mykeldg!
I think D50S with MUSES02 is probably slightly better, but it's relatively close based on my memory.
@@PassionforSound I m looking to do exactly the same soon. I am on the verge of purchasing the D50s or the E30. Another difference between the two is that apparently the Sabre chips hold better detail than the AK chips. The Muse02 is £41 here in the UK at the moment. I just found a page online where a guy at Burson has done the same thing but with a Burson chip and thankfully he put pictures up which will help amateurs like me. Can you describe how easy it is to remove the op amp? Is it just a little tug and it pops out and pops in?
It's quite a fiddly process on the D50S because of the way the board is installed. I would personally save your money and time and go for the E30. It's a better DAC in its stock setup and I'm not convinced the MUSES02 addition will improve the D50S enough (in comparison to the E30) to make it worthwhile. Grab a good power supply like a battery pack or Topping P50 and the E30 will do great.
If you're REALLY into the D50S idea then the op-amp comes out pretty easily once you get to it, but be aware that it's a pretty tight fit so the Burson V5i is the only non-chip op-amp I've found that fits and I didn't like it that much in the D50S.
OT. Some albums off the beaten path. 1 Huun-Huur-Tu - Orphan's Lament 2 These Trails - These Trails - 1973 3 Bonnie Dobson Good Morning Rain 4 Amadou & Mariam Dimanche a Bamako 5 John Renbourn...Sir John Alot 6 Johnny Lytle The Loop 7 Harvey Mandel - Cristo Redentor 8 Vince Guaraldi Trio A Charlie Brown Christmas 9 Ry Cooder & Vishwa Mohan Bhatt - A Meeting by the River 10 The Pentangle The Pentangle I have a habit of listening my music through iem from my DAP when I take my usual afternoon nap. There are about 6000 albums in my 2 TB music library so some time I listen to albums I never listen before. Twice it happened to me to wake up to the omg what a treat, refering to albums 6 and 7.Enjoy your music not your gear.
Amazing review love the way you explain things,
I am planning to build an Allo Digi one raspberry pi 3 music streamer and was looking for a Dac to attach to it and then link it to my hifi system to stream quboz.
I was looking for a Schitt Modi 3 Dac(which is very hard to get in Uk) but just discovered this and it looks like it will do the same job and is readily available.
Looking forward to more great videos from you!
I would love to try this! And the Starfields also of course :)
Hi John, I think this should do a great job with a Raspberry Pi setup! The Starfield draw has closed, but there'll be plenty of new giveaways in the future so stay tuned!
I have a power amplifier with rca in; can I connect this dac with it ?
Absolutely 😃
Helpful info on the D30 having a swappable op-amp. Interested to hear more if you have tried others beyond the MUSES02.
Hi Nepherim, just to clarify, it's the D50S I swapped op-amps in and I found the MUSES02 to be clearly the best option in my collection (not the OPA627 which is normally my favourite). Unfortunately, there is limited space inside the casing so larger op-amps like Sparkos Labs aren't possible.
What devices did you use to test the e30 by itself, and do you believe your testing and conclusions on sound character/quality outright are still relevant given your gains in knowledge, equipment, and testing strategies?
I always use a range of different products to test gear. When I had the E30 it was most likely the Bottlehead Mainline and maybe the Burson Soloist 3XP if I had that at the time. Either way, I'm yet to find a DAC at the price that is significantly better than the E30. I ended up making a mistake by selling the E30 because it's still probably the best I've heard at the price (Schiit Modi might challenge that soon)
Any chance an E50s is launched anytime soon? Would love the promising E30's sound signature with BT capability in a single box...
I have no news on that, but it would be nice!
Was going to ask same..
Have you heard of the Monolith USB DAC? It's quite cheap and seems convenient but there isn't much information or reviews out there. Great video!
Thanks Malcolm. I haven't heard of that one. I might see if I can track one down
Outstanding work! Wonder how the E30 fares against the Modi 3 in a listening test?
Thanks Roman. I'm not sure yet, but I'm hoping to do a comparison in the nearish future
Amazon Germany says that the optical and coaxial are inputs NOT outputs. So who's right??
Topping E30 has digital inputs only and no digital outputs. Topping D10S has USB in only and other digital outputs.
Hi, I've messaged before regarding Spark's opamps in Burson fun, brilliant, now a background to my question, here goes, I've had to give up my lounge Hi-Fi and convert to Headphone listening and I'm old school, just listening to redbook CD's (over 2600 CD's) from an integrated Cyrus CDi. My current set up is Hifiman HE560 & Hifiman Sundara's, with headphone amps Burson Fun with Sparko's SS3601 opamps (very powerful and detailed, but a tiny bit brash) & a Drop THX AAA 789 amp that is just totally neutral and suits the HE560's a treat, they are fed by a Cyrus CDi, by rca's (twin output). Now as I wanted a bit more detail I've bought an Audiolab 6000CDT and paired it with a Rega DAC, and to be honest I'm disappointed, as there is hardly any discernable difference between the 2, and I suspect it is the old design Rega, so was wondering with your experience, what would be you best recommendation of a DAC to go with the 6000CDT and my amps, something up to about £400 tops (I've listened to M-DAC and thought it a bit thin) , so any help would be appreciated, and seeing this review, I'm wondering if this is this all I need for an improvement in detailing and soundstage over my Cyrus, as the 6000CDT is supposed to be very revealing, cheers, tyia.
Hi Grays, in that price range, nothing really jumps out at me yet, but I might have two options coming... one should be here in a week or so and the other is a brand new product that I'll hopefully be premiering on the channel. Sorry I can't tell you more right now!
@@PassionforSound Thank you, I keep a keen eye on the channel, many thanks for the reply
Other reviewers say that the filter options make a big difference to the sound, and the default filter isn't the best one
I found them to be very subtle, Nick - on this and almost every other similar DAC. I'm not saying they make no difference, just that it doesn't change the overall quality of the DAC so much as slightly alter the presentation.
Cool review!What would you say, how does this compare to the Schiit Modi, or maybe even Fiio 5K or the khadas sound board?
Hi Irae, I haven't heard the current Modi to comment. It smashes the original Modi, but you'd expect that 10 years down the track. I've also not heard wither of the 5K or the Khadas - sorry!
@@PassionforSound Thanks for the fast reply!
What's the name of the song at 5:38?
It's called Pressure by Candelion feat. Le June. I get all my tracks from Epidemic Sounds www.epidemicsound.com/referral/ofkioc/
@@PassionforSound
Ahh okay. Thank you!
Do you think the difference in soundstage between D50s and L30 is noticeable even in closed-back headphones? Other than that, maybe D50s produce a slightly better sound on closed backs like AKG k371 and Monolith M1060C?
It's going to depend a lot on the headphones. Most lower end closed headphones won't show a big difference, but higher quality closed backs like the Ultrasone Edition 8 and the AudioQuest NightOwl will show improvements.
I'm currently preparing a new video around this topic (D50S) that is pretty interesting I think so stay tuned...
Hey lachlan what would suggest as an upgrade to the e30. I love its neutrality but feel dynamics are a little compressed. Waht dac would be suugest which has neutral tone but with vivid dynamics. Thanks
Good timing, Jeet. The new E50 is exactly what you're asking for I think. I've got the review scheduled for release this weekend so take a look and see if it sounds like a good fit
Cheers Lachlan, very helpful video as usual!
Been looking for a DAC at this price point, found that an SMSL Sanskrit Mark 2 10th Anniversary Edition (bit mouthful there) is actually in the same price range as the Topping E30, uses same AK4993, has a remote too. Was just wondering if you’ve ever tried this one and possibly compare it with the E30? It’s cheaper than an E30 too from Amazon Australia at the moment..
I haven't tried the Sanskrit, but people say good things about it. It's probably worth a try at the price
Do you have any suggestion for a “warm sound” Dac with optical and usb inputs , under 300 € ?
Under 300 is difficult because they're all using AKM or ESS chips, but the Topping E50 is about as good as it gets I think. I don't know if it's warm, but definitely smooth while still being excellent for detail and clarity
I sue a FiiO Tashan with a squeezebox touch into active iloud micro monitors. which i really enjoy for near field. Is the Topping E30 a worthwhile 'upgrade' in your view?
Hi, I don't have the Tashan to compare, unfortunately. That said, I would expect this to be noticeably better based on the pricepoint and higher spec DAC chip being used.
@@PassionforSound thanks. One way to find out...
I like how you think 😉
Thanks for the review. nice to know it beats the d50s. I sold the d50s because it did not really beat the modi multibit considering they cost the same. I hope this is good enough delta sigma alternative to the mimby (while maintaining lower cost)
I can't comment vs the Mimby, but it's a great performing unit. I'd happily stop with the E30 as my only recommendation for budget DACs, it's that impressive.
Passion for Sound thanks for the inputs and keep up the great work
@@PassionforSound There is a major issue with E30 where the polarity is inverted. This is was discussed in ASR yesterday and Topping has immediately fixed it via a firmware update. Soundstage is no longer flat and sound much better to me now. www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/topping-e30-dac-review.12119/page-56
How does it compare to the Schiit Modi Multibit? Should I save $120 and go with the Topping E30 instead? Thanks!
Hi Eric, I haven't compared them directly to say - sorry!
Great review. Another very extensive helpful review by you. 💯 And I'd agree btw, that the hardware regarding how it's implemented, is more key, in the sound. Albeit, I feel Dac chips can and do matter. But, there's no question, there's been more proof, that a superior implementation, wins the day. 👌🏼 Good stuff! Makes sense changing op would upgrade the d50s. Ops, I've learned myself, change that quality and sound quite a bit; and can hold some dacs back. Glad the value for money here.
Thanks Joshua. Glad they're helpful!
Great video, seems like this is the perfect budget DAC
It just might be 🙂
Ok, I have to get this one, no question. And if I am lucky maybe the Starfield also!
Good luck for the Starfields. Stay tuned for the E30 giveaway
Is there a noticable difference between sabre and akm chips?
Im currently using a Toping d10 and I bought an smsl m300 mkii (still in transit).
I think its a nice upgrade over the d10.
Each manufacturer has its own ways of processing and filtering the audio during reconstruction from digital to analog. As to which is better? That's really hard to say. Both companies make great chips. Often, what separates products is how the analog signal is handled AFTER the DAC chip (i.e. between the chip and the RCA / XLR outputs on the DAC)
Hi Lachlan, I'm currently using a D10s feeding to my L30 Amp and have always thought of my chain being rather harsh and dead sounding.
Wanted to ask if the E30 with its AKM chip would give any noticable improvement over my current setup, this is assuming my L30 amp is transparent.
Thanks in advance!
Hi Ryan, you'll be shocked by how much better the E30 sounds - it's an amazing improvement from the D10S
Bought a Topping E30 DAC, no noticeable difference with Presonus Eris 3.5 speakers. Is a DAC worth it in this setup?
I don't know those speakers specifically, but it would suggest that there's a limiting factor there or that they're already on the level of the E30
It would be maybe interesting also to see, how these dacs compare in different genres if music. But nonetheless super, detailed review! I would like to opt in for the draw of a nice pair of starfields also:)
Good point about genres. I do listen to a wide variety of music when testing so you can assume that if I don't specifically say something about the music / genres, then it's fairly even across all music.
I installed the driver version 5.0 that I downloaded on the Topping website, at the beginning I noticed a great improvement in the soundstage and in the accuracy of the sound, more alive, HOWEVER, unfortunately I started to feel a slight earache and harshness in the sound, very similar to the sound produced when use ASIO instead of Direct Sound, I was disappointed with the new driver, because the previous 4.18 (I think) sounded more nature, less alive, but less "forced". Did you experience something like that with your E30?
Hi Marcos, no I never updated the driver on mine because I ran a giveaway of the E30 after the review. Have you tried an external power supply (like a phone charger)?
@@PassionforSound
Yes, I currently use a phone charger connected to the E30 and a USB audioquest forest cable on the other input, I think this combination helps a lot to reduce the harsness in the sound a lot, not least because I use the sa100 smsl amp which is not very good and I am currently trying to soften it what’s bad about it in other ways (in the future I’ll buy another amp).
I tried to use a power bank for energy and the sound was a little exaggerated on the E30, it clearly improved the definition and the soundstage, but on the other hand it was a little strident on almost all frequencies and I went back to the phone charger, yesterday I connected an apple phone charger and I found it a little cleaner than samsung, but with a less punch, interesting.
As for driver 5.0, I was surprised by the sound, but minutes later found it painful to hear because it seemed too much for my ears, rough and with a strange brightness, not musical.
Interesting. I wonder if they tweaked the filters of something?
@@PassionforSound it seems that the driver works as a DSP that gives the sound more clarity, making it brighter and thin, apparently distorting a little and also forces the dynamics in precision, it is uncomfortable and very analytical, especially version 5.0, now I am using the windows generic driver for this dac, it sounds more comfortable, despite the sound getting a little muffled, many dynamics still remain, the bass is very robust and the treble more balanced, almost no fatigue for hours.
Very curious, Marcos. I'm actually wondering if you're just not a fan of the stock sound of the D50S and the Windows system audio is helping by smoothing off the edges. I'm also not a huge fan of the D50S sound without a different op-amp so I would totally understand if that's what's happening.
I really would like how you compare the l30+E30 stack compared to the chord mojo
Hi M, I don't have the stack here anymore to check. The Mojo would be my choice for DAC duties, but I'm not sure it's got quite the power of the L30 so it depends on what you're driving with it. Unless you need more power or want a more desktop style setup, I would probably go with the Mojo.
Comparing those two doesn't make a whole lot of sense because they are aimed at two different market sectors. The chord mojo is a portable unit designed to fit in your pocket and connect a phone to headphones. The only outlets are AUX sockets. The E30 is a much larger desktop unit mostly intended to connect a computer to remote speakers but it could be headphones. The wide selection of sockets also enables connection to a hifi system or a TV. Something more comparable would be the Topping NX4 which is also a small portable unit aimed at phone/headphones. You won't notice the difference to the chord unless you are using $500 + headphones.
FWIW I recommend the NX4 over the chord mojo because it is almost as good but roughly half the price. Chord products are strictly high end.
Really enjoy your review. Currently I listen Spotify via Yamaha RN803D and happy with the sound. Will this E30 DAC improving the sound of music?
I'm really appreciate for your opinions. Cheers and happy New Year
Hi Trung, I'm not sure because I don't know the RN803D. If you're a headphone listener, you'd probably benefit more from a dedicated headphone amp (to be fed by the Yamaha's DAC)
Hi. May I know if a cheap wallwart of 5v 2a offers better power supply than a powerbank? Can a cheap wallwart offer better power supply than a powerbank because powerbank is inconvenient.
A wall wart won't match a power bank, but it will almost always beat USB power so it's still a good option
@@PassionforSound Thank you for replying. I am already using Topping E30 + Magni 3 + Sennheiser hd 650.
Great! Are you powering the E30 from USB or a phone charger type device?
@@PassionforSound I am powering from usb phone charger. I hear no noise even if I pause the music and increase the volume on magni 3 on high gain to the maximum. It's very clean dac. Just gets out of the way in terms of sound. Sennheiser hd 650 is great too. All I feel is that the Magni 3 is somehow perhaps the weakest in the chain.
The power supplies don't produce audible noise when the music is off. It's more about the sense of clarity when the music is playing, but if you're using a charger for the power supply then you're set. You could play with USB power just to hear the difference, but otherwise there's no need to worry and just enjoy the music!
that amber display is very nostalgic
Yeah, I love it!
Thanks for the video. I'm debating between the E30 and the DX3, did you try both? Which did you prefer and why? Thanks!
Hi Stefan, I'm afraid I haven't tried the DX3 - sorry!
@@PassionforSound That's ok, I just read your write up where you compared it against the d50. I think that will help inform my decision. Thank you!
Great. I'm sure you'll enjoy whichever you choose
This and the S.M.S.L. Sankrit 10th MKII are one of the best values DACs out there. I would love to join the giveaway!
I haven't tried the Sanskrit yet. I'll have to watch out for it. Good luck in the giveaway
Hi there, may I know the polarity issue for optical/spdif input already solved?
Hi Ken, I'm not aware of this issue, sorry.
@@PassionforSound noted, thanks for the reply.
How does E30 compare to Modius? Any better DAC for 200$ or less? Balanced or Unbalanced.
I never got a chance to compare them side-by-side so I can't say for sure. I'd personally be happy to own either and the only other DAC I'd add the mix is the Geshelli J2.
Hi. May I know which one of the either - A usb phone charger or a powerbank offers better power supply to the Topping E30?
A power bank will be the very best. Phone chargers come close, but they can also vary from one to the next
@@PassionforSound Thanks
@@PassionforSound Hi. May I know if a cheap wallwart of 5v 2a offers better power supply than a powerbank? Can a cheap wallwart offer better power supply than a powerbank because powerbank is inconvenient.
A power bank is definitely better overall, but a wall wart is better than USB power. A wall wart might provide 90% of maximum sound quality and a power bank will give you 100% while USB is maybe 60% so the wall wart is still an excellent upgrade and very convenient
@@PassionforSound Thank you for responding. But isn't a powerbank a cause for concern as it may decrease the sound quality the more it keeps draining. I mean I am assuming that a powerbank's gradual drain after few hours is directly proportional to the decrease in sound quality i.e. assuming that a powerbank never really offers a constant power supply while a phone charger (not laptop usb) but a phone charger which is connected to any electrical socket always sends electric signal in the same strength without depleting. That's my concern regarding a powerbank. Of course I am assuming that such is the case with a powerbank so can u please shed some light on this.
Mate, would you rather buy a Topping E30+P50 PSU (130+120=250$) or for example an SMSL M300MKII with the stock PSU (240$) ? I'd really like to know how that comparison would turn out.
I haven't heard the SMSL, but Kelly keep in mind that the best power supply for an E30 is actually a $40 power bank (the batteries you can buy to recharge your phone, etc.) I didn't cover it in my P50 review (which was silly of me), but batteries are the cleanest power source for DACs. Just make sure they have sufficient current output (amps) for the device you're trying to power
Ok, so with a little soldering expertise I can remove the stock op amp from the E30 and replace it?
In theory, yes. It's surface mount soldering so if you're comfortable with that you'll be fine I think
@@PassionforSound Ibguess the next hurdle would be which op amp would actually fit.
Yeah, I can't recall if it's a full size op-amp or a smaller SMD op-amp. From memory there's a decent amount of space vertically though so a V5i or Sparkos would maybe fit if it matches the solder pad spacing.
@@PassionforSound What about the Muses02? Incidentally thanks for the advice. Ive just bought the E30 after much to and fro over both the D50s and the E30. A decision that your experience and this channel helped me to make. I am not disappointed with the E30 at all but I am curios if I can push a little more out of it via a small upgrade. I am based in Southend UK which is home to Profusion whom sell op amps so getting hold of an upgrade should not be to hard but Covid has made things a bit touch and go, even here!
MUSES02 will be great too. That and the OPA627 are my two preferred integrated op-amps of all time.
This? Or SMSL SU-8? It'd be paired with a THX 789 from Drop. The price is really great for the e30, hence the enticement to buy it.
Sorry Chris, I haven't heard the SMSL to comment on that one.
i have a yamaha rxv3900 which gets the audio signal via my computers motherboard into the optical. would getting a Topping E30 improve the sound quality or is the dac in the yamaha good enough?
Hi Makis, without hearing the RXV3900, it's very hard to say - sorry!
@@PassionforSound i have been told that getting a Dac would be better than my motherboard, because of the noisy environment ect
The only problem with that theory is that the E30 would still be relying on a signal from the motherboard, just via USB instead. It's possible it could make a difference because there might be one less layer of conversion required (i.e. not going from electrical signals to light and back), but it's hard to say.
I listen to spotify via a chromecast audio. I have a quality denon amp and nice speakers. Will the topping make a difference? The chromecast has an inbuilt dac...
Hi J H, if you can get a digital output from the Chromecast (not sure what version you have) then it should provide better sound quality than the internal DAC in the Chromecast.
@@PassionforSound thank you sir, yes is has got a toslink output to bypass the internal dac.
Perfect. I expect you'll hear some good improvements
Great review! Im looking for a budget dac between 100-200$. Could you recommend me a dac as good as the topping e30 quality sound with bluetooth featured? Or just better stay with the e30 without bt? Really good content. Congratulations! Sorry for my bad english.
Hi Franco, I don't know of a DAC in that price range that's good and has BT. I'm not saying they don't exist - I just haven't tried one. The E30 really is great so if you don't need BT I'd just go for that. If you need BT then you might have to ask around on some forums and the like. Sorry I can't be of more help!
Any recommendation for an affordable usb power supply for this bad boy? thanks a lot in advance.
Hi Exodus, I had good results with normal phone chargers (iPhone and Android) when I was doing the P50 review
I have a Denon DRA-800H receiver and I stream directly to it using HEOS or Spotify Connect. I have a pair of Polk Audio LSiM 705 floor speakers. I am considering an external streamer and DAC. Do you believe an external DAC like the E30 would be an improvement over the internal DAC in my Denon? Denon seems to brag they have a good DAC
That's a really hard one to answer without hearing the specific model you have. Sorry I can't help more!
Another great video, very informative and straightforward. Hoping to win the Starfield, but this would be great too!
Thanks Aasim. Good luck for the Starfield giveaway. Stay tuned for the next video when the E30 giveaway starts
Hi. Thanks for the very detailed review. I'm looking at getting my first DAC / Amp. How would this, with something like the L30, compare against the Zen DAC / Hip DAC or Dragonfly Red / Carbon? Thanks
Hi doifeellucky, the E30/L30 combo is outstanding. It will smash the DragonFly (any version) and I would expect will also be better than the iFi setup. I haven't heard the iFi options personally, but have friends I trust that have been unimpressed with the Zen DAC and the Topping units are just so good! The only thing the L30 isn't good at is IEMs where there's not enough volume range available and there may be some background noise on sensitive IEMs
@@PassionforSound Thanks for the feedback, much appreciated. Topping just announced a new official UK stockist, who are also also the Schiit UK stockist, though there's never any Schiit in stock. I think I'll give Topping a go.
In think you'll be very happy. I've got the L30 review coming up and I can tell you is one of the most resoundingly positive reviews I've ever done
Great, immersive review! BTW, which op amps would you recommend for D50s?
Thanks Andrew. I like the MUSES02 most. There's very limited space inside the D50S chassis so regular 8-pin dual chips are the only option. No Burson V6s or Sparkos op-amps.
@@PassionforSound Would I need to buy/install two of MUSES02? www.njr.com/MUSES/series/MUSES02.html
No, just one. It's a dual op-amp meaning that it does both channels from the one chip
Can you connect a phone (from the 3.5mm jack) to the dac's coaxial input to stream music?
What psu were you using during the review?
Hi David, I was using PC power I think (or maybe a USB hub which would be notuch better). I've got a separate review of the P50 power supply which includes discussion of various power sources with the D50S.
great channel! Oh I hope I can also squeze myself into this draw for a Starfield
....
Yep. You're in. I'm hoping to draw it today
Could the E30 connect directly to my mono block amps? So not using my preamp?
Hi Sean, yes that's perfectly doable.
Kind of interested in the comparison to ADI-2 fs, in terms of pure DAC performance.
I'm working on that in the near future I hope
@@PassionforSound That will be fantastic! Also, is there any way for you to get a hand on those new AK4499 DACs, like Topping D90. Would like to know the difference between AK4493 and AK4499. Looked some reviews online, seems like there is noticeable difference.
I'll see what I can do. We've got our first baby arriving any day now so it might be a little while before I start churning out content with much speed though. I'll still be producing videos, just not sure how frequently.
@@PassionforSound Congratulation!