TOPPING
TOPPING D90 III Discrete 1-bit Fully-balanced Desktop DAC
Note: The D90 III Discrete is currently backordered with an expected restock date of 12/30.
Ready to hear it all?
The TOPPING D90 III Discrete DAC is engineered for audiophiles and professionals who demand absolute precision and transparency in their audio. Featuring a fully discrete 1-bit PSRM module, ultra-low jitter, a ten-band parametric EQ, and high-resolution Bluetooth support, this DAC excels in delivering linear, distortion-free sound. It's ideal for those who want to hear every subtle nuance in studio-quality recordings, as well as enthusiasts who stream high-resolution audio and need flexible output options to pair with their systems.
Discrete 1-bit PSRM module: precision on every channel
At the core of the D90 III Discrete is its 1-bit DAC, a design that processes audio signals one bit at a time. Traditional multi-bit DACs convert audio in larger chunks, which can introduce quantization errors and increase the risk of distortion during conversion. In contrast, the 1-bit approach switches between only two states—on and off—resulting in a much cleaner and more faithful reproduction of the original audio signal. By simplifying the conversion process, the 1-bit design reduces complexity and potential artifacts, making it ideal for high-resolution audio.
PSRM + 1-bit decoding = absolute clarity
The synergy between the PSRM (Phase-Switching Reference Modulator) and the 1-bit DAC design is what sets the D90 III Discrete apart. The 1-bit DAC architecture processes audio signals with extreme precision, converting them one bit at a time. This simplicity reduces quantization errors and minimizes the risk of introducing distortion. However, the effectiveness of this 1-bit approach relies heavily on the accuracy and stability of the voltage reference, which is where the PSRM comes into play.
The PSRM module ensures that the 1-bit DAC receives a stable, noise-free voltage reference, allowing the DAC to perform its task without interference. By rapidly switching phases in the signal processing, the PSRM keeps the voltage fluctuations under control, preventing the introduction of noise and maintaining the integrity of the audio signal. The result is a highly accurate, transparent conversion process where even the finest details in the music are preserved.
Power supply that delivers stability and silence
To ensure stability, the D90 III Discrete features a meticulously designed power supply. The pure resistance output ensures that even during rapid switching, the analog signal remains undisturbed. With a dynamic range of 130 dB and a signal-to-noise ratio of 131 dB, this DAC guarantees your music will come through with both power and clarity.
Ultra-low jitter for crystal-clear sound
The D90 III Discrete is designed to keep jitter—the subtle distortions caused by timing errors—at an absolute minimum. Using a CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device) to optimize the clock signal, it reduces jitter to levels as low as -157 dB.
I/V conversion that enhances dynamics
TOPPING has redesigned the I/V (current-to-voltage) conversion circuit in the D90 III Discrete. This new circuit uses low-distortion op-amps and ultra-low noise components to ensure that your music retains its dynamics and depth.
Ten-band PEQ for ultimate sound control
The D90 III Discrete features a ten-band parametric EQ that allows you to fine-tune the sound to your liking. With TOPPING’s desktop software, you can adjust frequency, gain, and bandwidth for each band. You can also save multiple profiles for easy switching, giving you complete control over how your music sounds.
LDAC wireless support for high-res Bluetooth audio
With Bluetooth 5.1 and LDAC support, the D90 III Discrete offers wireless audio that doesn’t compromise on quality. The QCC5125 chip supports up to 96kHz/24-bit audio and a range of codecs like aptX-Adaptive and aptX HD, which gives you the freedom of wireless streaming without sacrificing sound quality.
Plug-and-play compatibility with all your devices
The D90 III Discrete works seamlessly across a variety of platforms, including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android. Its USB hardware supports up to PCM 768kHz/32-bit and DSD512, ensuring that you get the best possible sound, no matter the source. For Windows users, the included ASIO driver ensures smooth and reliable operation.
Choose your output: flexible connections for any system
The D90 III Discrete features both RCA single-ended and XLR balanced outputs, giving you the flexibility to connect to almost any system. With options for XLR 4V, XLR 5V, RCA 2V, and RCA 2.5V outputs, it’s easy to find the right setup for your gear. And with the ability to output to both connections at once, you can drive multiple systems simultaneously.
IIS input: high-spec signal transmission
The D90 III Discrete includes an IIS interface, which supports up to PCM 768kHz/32-bit and DSD512. This high-spec digital input provides the cleanest possible signal transmission, ensuring that your music comes through with all its detail intact.
Preamp mode for direct connection to active speakers
The D90 III Discrete features a preamp mode, allowing you to adjust the output volume and connect directly to active speakers or a power amplifier. This can save you the cost of a separate preamp and keep your system streamlined while maintaining high-quality sound.
12V trigger for seamless power management
With a 12V trigger input and output, the D90 III Discrete can sync with other devices in your setup for power on/off control. This makes managing your system simpler and more efficient.
Product highlights
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Fully discrete 1-bit PSRM DAC architecture
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16-phase modules for left and right channels
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Ultra-low jitter (-157dB)
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THD+N < 0.00006%
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SNR 131dB @1kHz
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10-band PEQ for sound customization
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LDAC Bluetooth 5.1 support for high-res wireless audio
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Supports PCM768kHz/32bit, DSD512
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RCA and XLR balanced outputs with selectable output levels
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IIS interface for high-spec digital input
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Preamp mode for direct connection to active speakers
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12V trigger for power synchronization
Specs
D90 III Discrete DAC Parameters (Line Out/USB In @ 96kHz):
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THD+N A-wt:
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RCA: <0.00007% @ 1kHz
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XLR: <0.00006% @ 1kHz
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THD @No-wt (45kBw):
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RCA: <0.0004% @ 20-20kHz
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XLR: <0.0002% @ 20-20kHz
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SNR (A-wt):
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RCA: 127dB @ 1kHz
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XLR: 131dB @ 1kHz
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Dynamic Range (A-wt):
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RCA: 126dB @ 1kHz
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XLR: 130dB @ 1kHz
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Frequency Response:
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RCA: 20Hz-20kHz (±0.5dB)
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XLR: 20Hz-20kHz (±0.5dB), 20Hz-40kHz (±1.8dB)
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Output Level:
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RCA: 2.1Vrms @ 0dBFS (4V Mode), 2.6Vrms @ 0dBFS (5V Mode)
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XLR: 4.2Vrms @ 0dBFS (4V Mode), 5.2Vrms @ 0dBFS (5V Mode)
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Noise (A-wt):
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RCA: <1.5uVrms
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XLR: <1.8uVrms
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Channel Crosstalk:
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RCA: -122dB @ 1kHz
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XLR: -143dB @ 1kHz
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Channel Balance:
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0.3dB
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Output Impedance:
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RCA: 50Ω
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XLR: 150Ω
Note: The above data is the result of tests in TOPPING's laboratory with an output amplitude of 5V.
What’s included?
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TOPPING D90 III Discrete
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Remote control
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USB cable
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AC cable
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Bluetooth antenna
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Product information card
Featured reviews
"This is my favorite DAC under $1,000. This is a very detailed, very resolving DAC. It sounds amazing." -SoundNews