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Fully Discrete NFCA Headphone Amplifier
The A90 Discrete is the discrete component version of the TOPPING A90 headphone amp.
Contains almost all functions of TOPPING A90 and Pre90.
In addition to using discrete components to form an amplifier circuit, the following functions are added:
1. Greater output power.
2. Use the relay to control the volume and support many custom settings of the volume.
3. Support remote control for more convenient to use.
4. The A90 Discrete provide 1 x XLR and 1 x RCA stereo inputs, but when it working with TOPPING Ext90, they could provide totally 4 x XLR and 2 x RCA stereo inputs.
5. Add the ground loop cut-off switch to solve the ground loop noise problem.
6. Added 12V TRIGGER function, which can be switched on and off synchronously with other devices with the same interface.
A90 Discrete uses fully discrete components to redesign the NFCA module. 4 built-in Nfca-discrete modules which each them uses 39 transistors build up fully balanced structure. The optimized Voltage Current hybrid feedback architecture along with UHGF (Ultra High Gain Feedback) technology provide excellent DC and AC performance. The output capability is stronger than ever, which allows the amp driving low impedance headphones more effective.
Tips for Using the A90 Discrete and Remote Control
Size & Accessories
- Machine Size: 16X22.2X4.5cm
- Accessories:
- 1 X TOPPING A90 Discrete
- 1 X Remote Control
- 1 X AC Cable
- 1 X 6.35 to 3.5mm Adaptor
- 1 X User Manual
- 1 X TOPPING Card
Parameter Specifications
High output voltage and current, low output impedance. Compatible with most headphones.
High output voltage can easily drive high impedance headphones. High output current allows low-sensitivity headphones to obtain enough power; The low output impedance will not bring unnecessary effect on FR when driving low-impedance headphones. Different headphones can be easily driven by the A90 Discrete.
2 Gain Settings
The A90 Discrete has two gain options, which enough to cover a wide variety of headphones: low gain to drive the IEMs with high sensitivity, and high gain to drive full-sized over-ears. Combined with the 0.2uVrms ultra-low noise, even sensitive IEMs will not suffer from any noise.
A90 Discrete Is Also Served As a Preamp
In preamp mode, it get the same high performance as the headphone amp mode, and 20ohm SE and 40ohm balanced output impedance are widely suitable for various amplifiers. A90Discrete can not only switch between the headphone amp (Only output from the headphone jack) and the preamp(Only output from RCA and XLR), but also support the output from all at the same time. The full-featured remote control makes it more convenient to use.
Use with EXT90 to Get More Inputs
The A90 Discrete provide 1 x XLR and 1 x RCA stereo inputs, but when it working with TOPPING Ext90, they could provide totally 4 x XLR and 2 x RCA stereo inputs.
The Terminator Of Ground Loop Noise
Ground loop noise may be encountered when multiple devices are used in combination. A90Discrete adds a GND / LIFT switch to solve this problem. When in normal use, set it to GND; and when ground loop noise is encountered, switch it to LIFT, then the ground loop noise is eliminated.
HPA+DAC TOPPING Set
The A90 Discrete can be used with the TOPPING D90SE/D90LE DAC, which is almost the lowest distortion HPA+DAC combination.
12V Trigger Function
The A90 Discrete is equipped with a 12V Trigger interface, which can be set to active control (Trigger out) or passive control (Trigger in). With only one easy-to-obtain 3.5mm to 3.5mm cable. the A90 Discrete can be turned on and off synchronously with other devices equipped with a 12v Trigger interface.
Preamp for TOPPING LA90
The A90Discrete can also be used as the preamp of the TOPPING LA90, providing more precise volume control, remote control and additional input.
SNT
Reviewed in the United States on March 30, 2025
It was a great sounding amp until it wasn’t. I should have done a bit more research on reliability with this one before buying. Apparently there is a chip that tends to fail on some of them, turning them into bricks. Amazon and the vendor gave me a full refund which I appreciate. I have Topping mono block amps for my speakers and they’re fantastic so no issues with Topping in general. I can’t recommend this headphone amp though. I decided to go with a class A amp from a competitor for half the price and it sounds great too.
Dmitri Minkine
Reviewed in Canada on March 23, 2024
The Topping A90D amplifier has been a much-anticipated addition to my audio setup, promising high-end performance and versatility. However, my experience with it has been underwhelming for several reasons, and I feel compelled to share these insights to help potential buyers make an informed decision.Firstly, the design of the A90D leaves much to be desired. While it aims for minimalism, it inadvertently crosses into the realm of impracticality. The layout and build quality do not reflect the premium price tag, presenting a first impression that's less than favorable for an audiophile-grade piece of equipment.The accompanying manual is another sore point. It's not only disappointingly small but also lacks the depth of information one would expect for a device of this complexity. This oversight makes the initial setup and troubleshooting processes much more challenging than they need to be, especially for users who may not be as tech-savvy.Adding to the confusion is the remote control, which is nearly identical to the one provided with the D70 Pro, another model in Topping's lineup. This similarity makes it frustratingly difficult to differentiate between the two when trying to operate either device. A more distinctive design or clearer labeling would have been greatly appreciated to avoid such unnecessary inconvenience.Sound quality, arguably the most critical aspect of any audio amplifier, is where the A90D disappointingly underperforms. The sound output is noticeably thin and lacks the energy and warmth that one expects from a device at this price point. This deficiency significantly detracts from the listening experience, making even high-quality recordings feel lifeless and uninspiring.Finally, the overall user experience was far from straightforward. It took an entire day of fiddling with settings, connections, and configurations to get the A90D to work satisfactorily. This level of difficulty is unacceptable for a product that positions itself as a premium option in the market.In conclusion, I cannot recommend the Topping A90D. Despite its potential and the high expectations surrounding its release, it falls short in design practicality, user-friendliness, and, most importantly, sound quality. Prospective buyers might want to consider other options that offer a better balance of performance, ease of use, and value for money.
PB
Reviewed in the United States on December 22, 2024
The device powers on and fails to output any audio regardless of setting, inputs used or outputs used.I would not recommend it. Clearly a quality control issue. The box it arrived in was not damaged. There was no indication of it being a return or used prior. It was clearly boxed by the manufacturer in a non-working condition. The remote clearly functions and controls the setting on the device but no mater what the setting, the device is unable of outputting a signal. Will try to get it replaced and see if I fair any better with its replacement. Very disappointed with the quality.
Dunring
Reviewed in the United States on April 6, 2024
It's a terrific amplifier, the first thing I noticed was well recorded music sounded better, but you'll also hear it if the recording has problems. The power is less on the single end connector, but it's still plenty for the Beyerdynamic DT990 600 ohm, so not much of a concern. The balanced side really shines with a little boost of a 5 volt DAC for 4db more volume on the top end, and noise floor seems a little better.The display is love or hate with the road sign LED style, but it can be set to auto turn off. If you have FLAC files and headphones you really like, you'll love it. If you have badly encoded MP3's of badly mastered recordings you'll hate hearing this much transparency. The only person who wouldn't want this is someone who's used to tube amp distortion or older equipment and just can't used to such a clean sound.On the Hifiman HE6se with a 5 volt DAC it's still possible to reach the end of high gain with a song like the extended version of "Tonight, Tonight, Tonight" by Genesis during the quiet parts and an Autoeq profile that does a -6.9db preamp reduction. I also have a Topping A70Pro which are max safe volume, is still at -17db left. If that headphone is your white whale, then the A70Pro would be best. I use an SMSL DL200 DAC which I got on Amazon for $150 used and for a 5 volt DAC it's excellent. I have a Topping E70 Velvet also and in a blind test there's no audible difference, but a big difference in price. The A90D is an end game amplifier, also it doesn't run hot or even warm, despite having so much power.Firmware is easy to do, but you need a USB A to C cable which isn't included. Unplug everything including power, the connect it to the FW port and in Windows you'll see a drive letter appear. Just open it to see what version you have, and you drag and drop the newer firmware file to start it. It'll say when its complete (as of this writing 2.4 is most recent). I've had this stacked with a D90SE and in 5 volt mode that DAC gets really warm, if thermals or cost are important, sit a black one of these on the SMSL DL200 and mine fits perfectly and looks good.I have an original A90 and wouldn't recommend upgrading to this if you have one, it's best to skip right to the A70Pro for more top end power you'll really notice. Get one on sale or used here, and you'll never need to upgrade your amplifier again, just don't go broke on a 5 volt DAC since the Topping ones are really expensive compared to a DL200 or D-6s.
のお客様
Reviewed in Japan on August 19, 2023
TOPPING D90SE との組み合わせ。ヘッドホンはゼンハイザー HD660S2。バランス接続。クラシックメインです。PCからJRiverMediaCenter 28でCDを再生した感想です。今回ストリーミングは除外。期待した通り見通しが良く、音源の隅々まで見えるよう。カラヤン＆ベルリン・フィルのDG Box 60’s、70’s、80’sからリファレンスに使っているいくつかをピックアップ。豪華な音でど派手にぶちかましてくれる爆演揃いで大好きだわ。時代による技術の進歩や録音会場の違い、さらに担当エンジニアの好みの傾向から同時期の録音でも結構印象が違うのだけど、今回のDAC/Amp/HPの組み合わせで聞くと録音の違いが良く見える。自然な音場の優秀録音もあれば、窮屈で近すぎな録音、やや低域の量感が不足した録音、編集の継ぎ目が見えてしまっている録音、木管が不自然に強調されて聞こえるマルチマイク録音もある。あと、結構奏者のミスが多い。特にトランペット。録り直してほしかったな。わりと気になる。パーヴォ・ヤルヴィのテラーク録音はより広くて自然な音場感。ダイナミックレンジが広い。ホールで聞いてるような感じ。ずっと浸っていたい。打楽器群、特にBドラ、ティンパニはアタックが明快で量感に圧倒される。快感痛快。お見事。シンシナティ響はあんまりメジャーじゃないけど近年のアメリカのオケは上手いね。ネルソンス＆ボストン響のショスタコーヴィチNo.10のDGライブ盤も優秀録音。テラークとは音の傾向が全然違うけど。明るい音で各楽器が混濁せず良く見える。この演奏は異常に盛り上がって興奮するわ。いっぽうで、カラヤンのEMIリマスター・エディション(101CD)の録音は酷い。聞くに耐えないほど状態の悪い録音が多すぎ。チャイコフスキーのNo.4やブルックナーのNo.4など、もの凄い演奏がたくさんあるのに。本当にもったいない。こんな無惨な記録残して当時のEMI録音スタッフは罪深いな。スピーカーで聞くとまあしゃあないか、くらいで我慢出来てもこのDAC/Amp/HPで聞くと粗が際立ちすぎてムリ。
Ric C.
Reviewed in Canada on December 22, 2023
Great features, but most important sounds fantastic as a preamp for my amplifier and amp for my headphones.The only minor issue, even though I am sitting about 3m (6ft) from the unit, sometimes it takes a bit of pointing with the remote to get the unit to respond.
HL
Reviewed in Canada on January 16, 2023
I needed a top quality headphone amplifier for my NAD M51 dac (2013, US$2,000, critically acclaimed by Whathifi, Stereophile & others) which does not have a headphone port. Neither does my Krell amplifier. I have the Sennheiser HD600 as my headphone.I have the Topping D90 Discrete for 2 months now, clocking more than 200 hours.All I can say is the A90D is top, top quality being able to amplify every little nuance the NAD M51 is capable of providing - the timbre, the texture of vocals, the excellent soundstage, the depth and separation. All in an absolutely accurate (flat) and quiet manner. The highs, midrange and the lows come about coherently and musically, the way the artists and recording engineers meant them to be.It is like being there, right there, with the orchestra or in the recording studio.I am totally happy with my purchase. Initially, I had some concerns about the set being brought in from China. With Amazon’s backstop and the good reviews about Aoshida (the local dealer) providing good after sales service, I took the plunge. I am glad I did. The amplifier came in ahead of schedule.If you want a top notch headphone amplifier, look no further. I was sceptical about the quality of the Topping A90D being as good as those costing a few times more, according to a number of reputable reviewers. Although I haven’t listened to those equipment myself, I can say that the NAD M51 dac and the Topping A90D combination is totally satisfying musically. No reason why I would want to upgrade for many years to come. Over the last 50 years, I have loved my music delivered through various top notch equipment, including my KEF 107s floor standing reference speakers. I tend to choose carefully, buy the best and to keep them for a long time.Highly recommended. Go for it. You’ll be pleased!
Jaimo
Reviewed in Canada on April 2, 2023
I decided to add two turntables (both for LP's but one with a pricey line contact cartridge for my special albums and another for my garage sale purchases) to my upstairs system and needed an analog preamplifier as the rest of my sources were all digital. After extensive research, I opted for the Topping A90D since this headphone amplifier / preamp showed the most promising technical specifications and with the A90 EXT, gave me the additional balanced and single ended analog inputs I needed.Additionally, the price point was extremely compelling and since Topping is not afraid to publish their full performance specifications using an Audio Precision Analyzer, I had little doubt that this would be a good fit for my system. I am also pretty sure that one could spend ten times the money and likely end up with an inferior "smoke and mirrors" Audiophool device.After a very quick and easy installation, I am very happy to note that this device is truly transparent and is fantastic to use. It has enough gain to drive my monitors and headphones to any level without adding any noise or coloration.Likes: Lots to like with this well thought out feature rich baby... firstly, the fact that the device remembers the individual volume setting for the headphone amp and preamp is fantastic and makes using even sensitive IEM's much safer to use. I also like the memory feature where one can save a profile (input, output and volume level) and recall this with a single button on the remote. Thirdly, the choice of volume curves works great - I can chose the optimum volume curve for my active monitors and the different headphones I use. Even with the EXT unit, the footprint is much smaller than the usual hi-fi preamps, making my system truly minimalist. (My SUT and phono pres are hidden out of sight).Dislikes: nothing really...I would have preferred a balance control which is something that Topping could implement in firmware - I will be happy to pay for such a firmware upgrade.Three weeks into using the A90D I am a very satisfied customer.14th month update.. not so good. I heard a loud brief cracking noise that came from my speakers. On investigation, I discovered that both speakers went into protection mode and, the A90D showed a -5 error message on the display. After much searching, I discovered that the -5 error message pointed to DC on the outputs which would explain the loud sound and speakers going into protection mode.The A90D died just out of the warranty period. I am very disappointed and can no longer recommend this product. On searching different forums, it seems that the mortality rate of this product is higher than normal… too bad.
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