Dac Showdown: Zen Dac V2 Vs Topping Dx3 Pro+ – Which One Dominates?
What To Know
- The Zen DAC V2 boasts a compact and sleek design, featuring an aluminum chassis with a brushed finish.
- The Topping DX3 Pro+ has a more robust and professional appearance, with a black metal chassis and a large, informative display.
- The Topping DX3 Pro+ offers a more analytical and revealing sound, with a wider dynamic range and a more extended frequency response.
In the realm of digital-to-analog converters (DACs), two contenders stand out: the iFi Zen DAC V2 and the Topping DX3 Pro+. Both devices offer exceptional sound quality, but they have distinct features and benefits that cater to different audiophile needs. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the intricacies of both DACs to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Zen DAC V2
The Zen DAC V2 boasts a compact and sleek design, featuring an aluminum chassis with a brushed finish. Its intuitive controls and clear display make it easy to navigate and adjust settings.
Topping DX3 Pro+
The Topping DX3 Pro+ has a more robust and professional appearance, with a black metal chassis and a large, informative display. It offers a wider range of connectivity options, including balanced XLR outputs.
Technical Specifications
Zen DAC V2
- DAC Chip: Burr-Brown True Native DSD1793
- Sampling Rates: PCM up to 384 kHz, DSD up to 128x
- Dynamic Range: 112 dB
- THD+N: <0.005%
- Output Power: 2.3 Vrms (600 ohms)
Topping DX3 Pro+
- DAC Chip: AK4493SEQ
- Sampling Rates: PCM up to 384 kHz, DSD up to 256x
- Dynamic Range: 122 dB
- THD+N: <0.0001%
- Output Power: 4 Vrms (300 ohms)
Sound Quality
Zen DAC V2
The Zen DAC V2 delivers a warm and natural sound with excellent detail retrieval and a spacious soundstage. It excels at reproducing vocals and instruments with clarity and precision.
Topping DX3 Pro+
The Topping DX3 Pro+ offers a more analytical and revealing sound, with a wider dynamic range and a more extended frequency response. It provides greater transparency and resolution, making it ideal for critical listening.
Features
Zen DAC V2
- PowerMatch: Adjustable gain for optimal headphone matching
- TrueBass: Bass enhancement circuit
- XBass: Sub-bass boost
- MQA Support
Topping DX3 Pro+
- MQA Support
- Bluetooth 5.0 with LDAC and aptX HD
- Multiple Filter Options
- Remote Control
Connectivity
Zen DAC V2
- 1x USB-C Input
- 1x RCA Output
- 1x 4.4mm Balanced Output
- 1x 6.3mm Unbalanced Output
Topping DX3 Pro+
- 1x USB-C Input
- 1x Coaxial Input
- 1x Optical Input
- 1x RCA Output
- 1x XLR Output
- 1x 4.4mm Balanced Output
- 1x 6.3mm Unbalanced Output
Price and Value
Zen DAC V2
The Zen DAC V2 is priced at around $249. It offers a great value for its price, providing excellent sound quality and a wide range of features.
Topping DX3 Pro+
The Topping DX3 Pro+ is priced at around $349. It is a more expensive option but offers a higher level of technical performance and connectivity.
Final Note: Making the Right Choice
The choice between the Zen DAC V2 and the Topping DX3 Pro+ depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize warmth, naturalness, and ease of use, the Zen DAC V2 is an excellent option. If you value analytical sound, technical performance, and extensive connectivity, the Topping DX3 Pro+ is a better choice.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which DAC has a better dynamic range?
A: The Topping DX3 Pro+ has a wider dynamic range of 122 dB compared to the Zen DAC V2’s 112 dB.
Q: Which DAC supports Bluetooth?
A: Only the Topping DX3 Pro+ supports Bluetooth 5.0 with LDAC and aptX HD.
Q: Which DAC is more suitable for critical listening?
A: The Topping DX3 Pro+ offers greater transparency and resolution, making it more suitable for critical listening.
