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Schiit Modi 3E Vs. Topping E30 Ii: Which Dac Will Reign Supreme?

Mark Evans is the owner and operator of Nesting Nicely home paint blog. With over 15 years of experience in the painting industry, he is passionate about helping homeowners find the right paint colors and solutions for their living spaces. Mark got his start in the family painting business and...

What To Know

  • In the battle of the audiophile DACs, both the Schiit Modi 3E and Topping E30 II emerge victorious, each offering a unique combination of performance, features, and value.
  • The Modi 3E is an exceptional budget pick that delivers a warm and engaging sound, while the E30 II pushes the boundaries of audio engineering with its advanced features and analytical sound signature.
  • Yes, the E30 II has a variable RCA output that can be used as a preamplifier to control the volume of an external amplifier.

In the realm of audiophile-grade digital-to-analog converters (DACs), two titans stand out: the Schiit Modi 3E and the Topping E30 II. Both offer exceptional performance and features, catering to discerning audio enthusiasts seeking pristine sound quality. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of each DAC, exploring their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.

Schiit Modi 3E: A Legacy of Precision and Value

The Schiit Modi 3E is the latest iteration in the Modi series, renowned for its budget-friendly price and excellent audio performance. It employs the acclaimed AKM AK4490 DAC chip, known for its low distortion and high signal-to-noise ratio. The Modi 3E also features a USB-C input for convenient connectivity and supports high-resolution audio formats up to 32-bit/384kHz.

Topping E30 II: Cutting-Edge Technology and Versatility

The Topping E30 II is a more advanced DAC that pushes the boundaries of audio engineering. It utilizes two ESS ES9068AS DAC chips in a dual-mono configuration, significantly reducing distortion and crosstalk. The E30 II boasts a wide range of inputs, including USB, optical, and coaxial, ensuring compatibility with various audio sources. It also supports MQA decoding, allowing you to enjoy high-resolution music streaming services.

Sound Quality Comparison

Both the Schiit Modi 3E and Topping E30 II deliver exceptional sound quality, but they have distinct sonic signatures. The Modi 3E offers a warm and spacious sound with a slightly laid-back treble. It excels at reproducing vocals and instruments with clarity and accuracy. The E30 II, on the other hand, exhibits a more analytical and detailed sound with a brighter treble response. It provides greater insight into the recording and reveals subtle nuances.

Features and Connectivity

In terms of features, the Topping E30 II offers a wider range of options compared to the Schiit Modi 3E. The E30 II includes a built-in headphone amplifier with adjustable gain, allowing you to connect headphones directly. It also has a remote control for convenient volume and input switching. The Modi 3E, while lacking these features, focuses on delivering the purest possible audio signal.

Build Quality and Design

Both DACs feature solid construction and elegant designs. The Schiit Modi 3E is housed in a compact aluminum chassis with a minimalist aesthetic. The Topping E30 II, in contrast, has a larger and more elaborate chassis with a sleek black finish. Both units are well-built and should withstand the rigors of daily use.

Price and Value

The Schiit Modi 3E is priced at a budget-friendly $99, while the Topping E30 II retails for $199. The Modi 3E offers an excellent value for its price, providing exceptional sound quality at an affordable cost. The E30 II, while more expensive, delivers additional features and a higher level of performance.

Which DAC Should You Choose?

The choice between the Schiit Modi 3E and Topping E30 II ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly DAC with warm and spacious sound, the Modi 3E is a great option. If you value features such as a headphone amplifier, remote control, and MQA support, the E30 II is the better choice. Both DACs offer exceptional sound quality and will enhance your audio listening experience.

The Verdict: A Symphony of Sound

In the battle of the audiophile DACs, both the Schiit Modi 3E and Topping E30 II emerge victorious, each offering a unique combination of performance, features, and value. The Modi 3E is an exceptional budget pick that delivers a warm and engaging sound, while the E30 II pushes the boundaries of audio engineering with its advanced features and analytical sound signature. Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or just starting your journey into high-fidelity audio, these DACs will elevate your listening experience to new heights.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Which DAC has a higher signal-to-noise ratio?
A: The Topping E30 II has a slightly higher signal-to-noise ratio (127dB) compared to the Schiit Modi 3E (117dB).

Q: Can I use the Topping E30 II as a preamplifier?
A: Yes, the E30 II has a variable RCA output that can be used as a preamplifier to control the volume of an external amplifier.

Q: Which DAC is more compact?
A: The Schiit Modi 3E is more compact than the Topping E30 II, measuring 3.9″ x 2.5″ x 1.1″ compared to 6.3″ x 4.7″ x 1.6″.

Q: Does the Schiit Modi 3E support MQA decoding?
A: No, the Modi 3E does not support MQA decoding.

Q: Which DAC is better for headphone listening?
A: The Topping E30 II has a built-in headphone amplifier with adjustable gain, making it a better choice for headphone listening compared to the Schiit Modi 3E.

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Mark Evans

Mark Evans is the owner and operator of Nesting Nicely home paint blog. With over 15 years of experience in the painting industry, he is passionate about helping homeowners find the right paint colors and solutions for their living spaces. Mark got his start in the family painting business and has since grown Nesting Nicely to be a top resource for home painting projects both large and small. When he isn't blogging, you can find Mark working with clients one-on-one to help transform their homes with the perfect coat of paint. He lives in small town America with his wife Sarah and their two children.
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