Topping DX7 Balanced DAC/Amp Discussions | Drop

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Topping DX7 Balanced DAC/Amp

Audiophile

FULL DISCUSSION

atjohnson23

Nov 14, 2017

Does anyone have an idea on how this would compare to the jds labs element? Looking for solid state clarity. Do not care about the balanced outputs. Any help appreciated!

Nov 14, 2017

Estasenko

Nov 14, 2017

atjohnson23I think the Topping DX7 is a more serious product than the JDS Element. I haven't had the chance to audition the Element but looking at the specs, it reminds me somewhat of the Schiit Magni/Modi Uber stack setup. It looks like a power monster that can drive 300 Ohm cans w/out any issues but power doesn't always equal greatness. Circuit implementation is very important and I think the DX7 has that down quite well (I actually get mine tomorrow so my impressions will adjust after I get more hours with it). From basic experience, only DACs I've ever been SERIOUSLY impressed with are from the SABRE line. 9018K2M & 9028PRO. I can't find what the JDS uses in their model and would recommend you to find out prior to buying. If it's the AK4490 (popular chip I see all the time), I wouldn't expect it to be better than the DX7.

Nov 14, 2017

atjohnson23

Nov 14, 2017

EstasenkoThanks man. The element for me looks like something I would want on my desk more than DX7, but they don't seem to advertise specs. The DX7 definitely seems like the better bang for the buck. I wish I could audition both but don't have the pocket size required for that. I'll do some more research. If you could tell me what your ear tells you that would be very helpful. Thanks again for the time.

Nov 14, 2017

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Jimster480

395

Nov 14, 2017

atjohnson23I have a DX7 and its an awesome device. Honestly from the ability to use balanced to the remote with screen, digital matched volume control and ultra detail resolving.... it really is an awesome unit. Also it can be used as a coax transport for yet another DAC in the future.
Its only downside is the 10ohm output impedance which can effect some lower impedance headphones which have mismatched impedance response.

Nov 14, 2017

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atjohnson23

Nov 14, 2017

Jimster480I want to love this thing so bad. My main issue is the 10 ohm impedance. The only cans I have currently that would pair well with this is the hd600s. I have X1's, M40's, and soon h4xx's. This amp rules out more than half my lineup. Ugh. The remote seems like an awesome feature and it blows the element away when it comes to I/O.

Nov 14, 2017

Jimster480

395

Nov 14, 2017

atjohnson23It really only matters if you have headphones that actually have impedance response curves. Many headphones these days are flat despite output impedance since they are made to be used with a variety of devices. like for example my DX7 has no issues with my Oppo PM-2 or the mrspeakers Aeon despite the Aeon only having a 14ohm input impedance.

Nov 14, 2017

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atjohnson23

Nov 14, 2017

Jimster480There's a little more to it than that. Either way I lose accuracy in regards to the frequency response of the headphones themselves. Something I am not comfortable giving up. Lord knows the X1s need as much dampening as possible as they tend to be grizzly in the lows. Thank you for your help man. I appreciate it! Hope you enjoy the DX7.

Nov 14, 2017

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Estasenko

Nov 15, 2017

atjohnson23Ah okay it helps to hear this again. So I guess it depends on what you're driving with the DX7. I tried running the HD800S from single-ended connection and can tell you it sounded quite bad to my ears - hollow with somewhat recessed mids and not as pleasant as running them from my Modi2/Magni2 U stack single ended. Changing the cables over to 4pin XLR made a dramatic difference - very pleasant and smooth sound. The hollowness went away and mids came back forward the way I expect them to be. Bass / treble hasn't changed much - just sounds slightly different / more smooth to my ears. Now comparing the HD800S running balanced on DX7 versus single ended on DarkVoice 336SE (Stock or NOS tubes) - the Tube Amp wins all day long (to my ears). I'm going to have the DarkVoice in my possession and will try running the Topping DX7 as a DAC to the DarkVoice. Overall, the DX7 is a very nice device with such a premium feel to it. The remote is simply outstanding - I don't think I've ever had a more solid little remote in my hands than this. Unit itself is beautiful and performs as advertised. Very hefty weight and easy out of the gate setup. I'm a happy customer.

Nov 15, 2017