Topping Rebuilds Its DX9 Around a Discrete 1-Bit DAC

The company has launched the DX9 Discrete, a new flagship DAC/headphone amplifier that moves away from the ESS-based architecture used in the original DX9 and instead adopts a fully in-house, discrete 1-bit conversion design.

StereoNET reviewed the original DX9 favourably for its performance-per-dollar proposition, but this new model appears to target a different conversation, one that leans more heavily into proprietary engineering and high-end positioning.

At the centre of the DX9 Discrete is what Topping calls its PSRM (Precision Stream Reconstruction Matrix) architecture, a discrete 1-bit DAC topology developed internally rather than relying on off-the-shelf chipsets. Most DACs at this level still build around ESS or AKM silicon, with differentiation coming down to implementation. With this model, Topping is stepping into territory typically occupied by more boutique brands, designing the conversion stage itself.

PSRM isn’t an R2R ladder, despite being discrete. Instead, it’s a high-frequency 1-bit delta-sigma system built from individual components that uses pulse density modulation to reconstruct the analogue signal. That places it closer in principle to modern chip DACs, but with the potential benefits of discrete design, particularly around noise isolation and channel separation.

At a glance, the DX9 Discrete follows the same all-in-one playbook: DAC, preamp and headphone amp in one box. Look closer, and it starts to feel like a step up rather than a sideways move. The fully balanced design uses 16 discrete elements per channel to tighten separation and reduce crosstalk, with Topping putting dynamic range and SNR at a claimed 131dB.

Connectivity is comprehensive, with USB, dual optical, dual coaxial, AES and IIS inputs, and support for high-resolution formats up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM and DSD512 via USB and IIS. Bluetooth is also included, with LDAC and aptX Adaptive support, alongside a dual-stage clocking and CPLD-based system designed to suppress jitter to extremely low levels.

The DX9 Discrete builds upon the company’s NFCA headphone amplification with a six-channel configuration. Output is rated at up to 7,080mW into 32 ohms from the balanced outputs, with a very low noise floor intended to accommodate both demanding planar headphones and sensitive in-ear monitors.

There’s room to tailor the sound, too, with a 10-band parametric EQ and selectable crossfeed, including a BS2B-based mode to ease long listening sessions. The industrial design makes the point visually. A glass top reveals the circuitry beneath, softly lit, with twin displays and a configurable UI completing a more considered, premium finish.

The DX9 Discrete follows earlier models such as the D90 III Sabre and D900, suggesting this is part of a broader strategy rather than a one-off departure. Rather than directly replacing the original DX9, this looks more like the platform evolving into a higher tier.

The Topping DX9 Discrete is available now priced at £1,299, with finishes offered in black or silver.

For more information visit Topping Audio