Topping E30 II DAC Preamp Audio Decoder - Dual AK4493S High-Res Sound

In this review of the Topping E30 II DAC Preamp Audio Decoder, the bottom line is simple: buyers who want a compact, high-value DAC with flexible inputs and a clean, detailed soundstage will appreciate it most. The unit pairs two AK4493S chips to deliver upgraded VELVET Sound performance and supports native DSD and high-resolution PCM over USB, making it a strong choice for desktop systems, powered speakers, or as a digital upgrade to older stereo gear.

Key Features

• Dual AK4493S chips: Two AK4493S converters work in parallel to lower noise and improve detail retrieval compared with a single chip solution.
• High-resolution USB playback: USB input supports up to 32bit/768kHz and DSD512 for native playback of high-res files and streaming sources.
• Coaxial and optical inputs: Coaxial and optical accept up to 24bit/192kHz so older players, set-top boxes, and digital turntables can be upgraded with better decoding.
• 5V DC power: The unit uses a standard 5V supply so it can be powered from a PC USB port, phone charger, or power bank for flexible placement.
• Discrete LNRD power filtering: Built-in low noise reference driver reduces noise from USB 5V sources, keeping the noise floor low for quieter backgrounds.
• DAC or preamp modes: Volume control and remote let the E30 II act as either a fixed-output pure DAC or a DAC+preamp to drive active speakers or a power amp.

Who It's For

The E30 II suits listeners who care about sound quality but need an affordable, compact DAC for desktop listening, home stereo upgrades, or hooking to active speakers. Its support for high-res USB audio and native DSD playback makes it attractive to enthusiasts who play lossless files or use a computer source.

Those who want an all-in-one amplifier with speaker outputs or a hi-end reference DAC with exotic power supplies should look elsewhere; the E30 II is a focused DAC/preamp that relies on 5V convenience rather than bulky external supplies or integrated amplification.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Very good sound quality and detail resolution thanks to the dual AK4493S design and VELVET Sound tuning.
• Flexible inputs including USB, coaxial, and optical let it integrate with modern and older digital sources.
• Convenient 5V power and Discrete LNRD filtering give low noise performance from common USB supplies.
• Built-in volume and remote control allow use as a preamp for active speakers or amplifiers.

Cons

• Optical and coaxial inputs are limited to 24bit/192kHz, so they do not match the highest USB sample rates.
• No built-in speaker outputs or high-voltage linear power supply, so external amplification is required for passive speakers.

Specifications

DAC chips	Two AK4493S (VELVET Sound)
USB support	Up to 32bit/768kHz, DSD512
Coaxial/Optical	Up to 24bit/192kHz
Power supply	DC 5V (USB power compatible)
Modes	Pure DAC (fixed) and DAC+Preamp (volume control, remote)
Noise reduction	Discrete LNRD low noise reference driver

Our Verdict

The Topping E30 II is a smart, value-oriented DAC/preamp for listeners who want clear, detailed high-resolution playback without a complex setup. It pairs excellent sound from dual AK4493S chips with convenient 5V powering and versatile inputs, making it great for desktop systems and upgrades to older digital sources. Buy it if you need precise decoding and remote-controlled volume in a compact package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it play DSD natively?
Yes, the USB input supports native DSD up to DSD512 for direct DSD playback.

Can it run from a phone charger or power bank?
Yes, the E30 II uses a DC 5V supply and can be powered from common USB chargers or power banks; the Discrete LNRD helps reduce noise from those sources.

Are coaxial and optical inputs full high-res?
They accept up to 24bit/192kHz, so they handle common high-res formats but do not reach the highest USB sample rates.