Comments on: Topping D90 III Sabre Review

By: Louis Gonzalez

Louis Gonzalez — Mon, 06 May 2024 15:08:53 +0000

In reply to blanc. Hi Blanc. I did get to play around with the D90 III and DSD files of up to 256 and had no issues. But I didn't get to play around with the original model in that sense so I can't say. I used Foobar configured with the SACD plugin to play DSD files.

By: blanc

blanc — Mon, 06 May 2024 13:48:54 +0000

According to https://archimago.blogspot.com/2021/10/measurements-review-topping-d90se-dac.html D90SE has an issue with DSD because of ESS DAC.

The DSD playback IMO is a bit of a disappointment considering the PCM results if DSD is important for you.
…
AKM DACs like the RME ADI-2 Pro FS R Black Edition typically look very good maintaining low noise level with DSD playback. While I have not had the chance to try one out, it might not be unreasonable to consider that the Topping D90 predecessor with its AKM AK4499 DAC might be a significantly better DSD option.

Does D90III do a better job?

By: Louis Gonzalez

Louis Gonzalez — Sat, 16 Mar 2024 04:23:55 +0000

Hi DProto. I heard the D90 once and what I remember is that the soundstage was the biggest improvement on the III Sabre compared to version one plus it gets better numbers in the lab. I’d say yes if you’re willing to bear the extra cost.

By: DProto

DProto — Sat, 16 Mar 2024 00:14:24 +0000

Thank you for the review. Great overview.

One question is this worth an upgrade from the first D90?