Topping DX5 II review: the measured DAC with a more inviting voice

My first Topping product was the tiny DX1, bought because I needed a simple DAC with RCA output that could travel in a bag. It had no unnecessary features and almost disappeared in daily use. The DX5 II belongs to a different class, but it retains that same practical instinct while adding balanced output, PEQ, a screen and a much more mature sound.

A compact desktop centre

The DX5 II replaces the previous rounded design with a neat rectangular chassis. Black, white and silver finishes are available; the white version is particularly striking. The metal body has a fine matte texture and enough weight to stay planted when the volume knob is turned or a button is pressed.

The front panel carries XLR, 6.35mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced headphone outputs. Its colour screen is a major improvement over the previous generation, with smoother animation, more legible menus and several playback effects and themes. These are not essential features, but the visual feedback adds a pleasant ritual to late-night listening.

Around the back are XLR and RCA outputs, Bluetooth, USB, coaxial and optical inputs, plus a 12V trigger. The trigger can synchronise power across a multi-box system, a small but valuable feature for desktop and rack-based setups.

Three buttons and a large knob cover the main controls. The interface is straightforward enough to learn in minutes, and switching between headphone and speaker output takes only a couple of presses. The chassis is small enough to sit beneath a monitor, beside a keyboard or in the gap between larger desktop components.

Topping with a little more warmth

Topping has often been associated with strong measurements and a direct, highly neutral presentation. The DX5 II still delivers excellent resolution, separation and dynamic control, but it adds a little roundness and ease. The difference is not dramatic enough to change the character of a headphone, but it makes long listening more comfortable.

Chinese-language pop is particularly successful. Vocals have elasticity and emotional focus without becoming unnaturally close. Western pop combines clean bass atmosphere with a capable midrange, while K-pop sounds smooth and energetic rather than etched.

The low end prioritises texture over sheer thickness. Electronic bass is precise, elastic and cleanly controlled. Treble is similarly restrained: there is no attempt to create artificial excitement through extra brightness. Fans of highly vivid Japanese female vocals or aggressively sparkling ACG recordings may want more bite, but anyone seeking a non-fatiguing top end will appreciate the balance.

That neutrality becomes an advantage with orchestral music and soundtracks. Instruments retain their individual positions and tonal identities, and the DX5 II avoids both the grey sterility of some analytical sources and the exaggerated warmth of a deliberately coloured amplifier. It is detailed enough for editing and monitoring with a neutral headphone, while remaining enjoyable for ordinary music listening.

The flexible choice for several headphones

PEQ lets enthusiasts build and save headphone-specific curves, while eight digital filters provide some additional room for preference. Bluetooth supports LDAC and aptX HD, and wireless playback remains clean enough that the DX5 II can serve as a convenient source when the computer is switched off.

The unit paired successfully with both cool, neutral headphones and warmer designs. That compatibility may be its most useful quality. Rather than imposing a strong signature, it lets the headphone remain recognisable while adding a little polish and control.

The DX5 II succeeds because it is small, complete and musically forgiving. It retains the technical confidence expected from Topping, but gives listeners a more obvious reason to keep playing one album after another.

Specifications

Outputs

6.35mm, 4.4mm balanced, XLR and RCA

Inputs

USB, optical, coaxial and Bluetooth

Features

PEQ, eight digital filters and 12V trigger

Bluetooth

LDAC and aptX HD supported

Form factor

Compact desktop DAC/headphone amplifier

Top Audio verdict

8.9 / 10

The DX5 II keeps Topping's resolution, separation and dynamic control, but adds a more relaxed and personable balance. Its small footprint and broad connectivity make it an unusually complete desktop source.

Where to buy

Buy Topping DX5 II

Reference price$299

AmazonCheck price on Amazon

Price and availability are controlled by the retailer and may change.