Topping DX9 Discrete Review: The $1,299 DAC That Does It All

Jennifer Moore · 2026-09-30

## Topping DX9 Discrete Review: A Versatile DAC That Delivers ### Key Features at a Glance - **Price:** $1,299 (US) - **Inputs:** USB, i2S, coaxial, optical, AES, and Bluetooth - **Audio Quality:** Supports PCM up to 768kHz and DSD512 - **Outputs:** XLR and RCA line and pre outputs, plus a variety of headphone connections ### Introduction Chinese audio brands have been on a tear lately, but even by those standards, Topping's rise has been something else. They've gone from making solid entry-level DACs to a full-blown lineup of high-end audio gear. And now they're pushing into custom decoding hardware—a move that few companies attempt, especially at affordable prices. I recently spent time with their flagship D900, which uses that custom decoding and sets a new benchmark for performance under $2,000. But the D900 is a bit of a specialist: no headphone amp, and only XLR outputs. That's fine if you have a fully balanced system, but not so great if you need RCA. Enter the DX9 Discrete. It takes the same custom decoding and repackages it in a more flexible, more affordable design. On paper, it looks like the best of both worlds. Let's find out if it delivers. ### Pricing and Availability The DX9 Discrete is priced at $1,299 in the US, making it a direct competitor to the D900. In the UK, it's £1,399, and in Australia, it's AU$2,200. You can find it through authorized retailers, and some online sellers may offer lower prices when shipping from Asia, but those units typically lack local warranty support. ### Design and Build The DX9 Discrete shares the same clean, understated aesthetic as other Topping products. The front panel features a crisp display and a tactile volume knob, while the back is packed with connections. It's a compact unit that won't dominate your desk, but it feels solid and well-made. ### Features and Connectivity This is where the DX9 Discrete shines. It offers a comprehensive set of inputs: - USB - i2S - Coaxial - Optical - AES - Bluetooth And outputs include: - XLR and RCA line outputs - XLR and RCA pre outputs (with volume control) - Headphone outputs: 4.4mm balanced, 4-pin XLR, and 6.35mm single-ended That's a lot of flexibility. Whether you're connecting a CD transport, a streamer, or a TV, you're covered. The Bluetooth input is a nice bonus for casual listening from your phone. ### Audio Performance The DX9 Discrete supports PCM up to 768kHz and DSD512, so it's ready for high-res files. But specs only tell part of the story. In listening tests, the DX9 Discrete impressed with its clarity and detail retrieval. The custom decoding scheme seems to pay off in spades. > "The DX9 Discrete delivers a level of transparency and refinement that's rare at this price point." Bass is tight and well-defined, mids are open and natural, and highs are extended without harshness. The soundstage is wide and deep, with excellent imaging. It's a neutral, uncolored presentation that lets the music speak for itself. ### Headphone Amplifier One of the biggest advantages over the D900 is the built-in headphone amp. It's not an afterthought either; it's a capable amplifier that can drive a wide range of headphones. I tried it with several models, from sensitive IEMs to power-hungry planars, and it handled them all with ease. There's plenty of headroom and no noise floor issues. ### Comparison to the D900 So how does it compare to the D900? The D900 has a slight edge in ultimate resolution and dynamics, but the differences are subtle. The DX9 Discrete gets you 95% of the way there for the same price, while adding a headphone amp and more outputs. For most people, the DX9 Discrete is the smarter buy. ### Verdict The Topping DX9 Discrete is a fantastic DAC that offers incredible value. It combines cutting-edge technology with practical features that make it a true all-rounder. If you're looking for a centerpiece for a high-quality desktop system, this should be on your shortlist. **Pros:** - Excellent sound quality - Extensive connectivity - Built-in headphone amp - Solid build **Cons:** - No remote control - Display could be larger At $1,299, it's not cheap, but it competes with DACs costing much more. Highly recommended.