In this article, I’m reviewing the TOPPING E30 II Lite DAC. The E30 II Lite features an AK4493s DAC chip and supports up to DSD512 and PCM 32bit/768kHz. It’s priced at $99.

Disclaimer: This sample was provided by Linsoul for an honest review. All observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product.

TOPPING E30 II Lite

Design

There’s not a lot to talk about as far as the E30 II Lite’s exterior goes. It’s a small black box with an OLED display and a capacitive button on the front. A long button press turns the device on and off while a short press cycles through inputs.

On the rear I/O panel, we find (from left to right): single-ended RCA outputs, a coaxial SPDIF input, an optical SPDIF input, a USB input and a DC5V power input.

The E30 II Lite can function as a fixed-level DAC or a preamp. However, as you probably noticed, there’s no volume control on the device itself so any volume adjustments must be done via the included remote.

Inside the E30 II Lite, you’ll find an AK4493S DAC chip. This device supports up to DSD512 native and PCM 32-bit 768kHz. In comparison to its counterpart, the TOPPING E30 II, the Lite variant features a single DAC (unlike the dual DACs in the E30 II) and offers a slightly lower Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) and Dynamic Range, measuring at 121dB versus the E30 II’s 123dB.

Sound

For testing, I hooked up the E30 II Lite to my TOPPING L70 and streamed FLAC files from my PC through the USB input.

The TOPPING E30 II Lite leverages its AK4493S DAC chip to exhibit remarkable audio quality considering its budget price. When paired with the TOPPING L70, the sound produced is characterized by its precision and clarity tempered with a lightly bolstered low end.

During testing, the E30 II Lite showcased a detailed soundstage and authentic musical reproduction, capturing intricate musical details with finesse. While an impressive performer in its own right, it understandably falls short when compared to higher-end DACs equipped with balanced outputs.

However, what makes the E30 II Lite stand out is its exceptional performance within its entry-level price range. Despite lacking certain advanced features and output configurations, this DAC delivers remarkable sound quality that surpasses expectations for its price point.

When played through the E30 II Lite, “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers is an intimate and soul-stirring performance. The melancholic vocals are delivered with a raw emotional resonance, unveiling the depth of Bill’s expression. The acoustic guitar strings resonate with warmth and authenticity, allowing each pluck to be distinctly heard and felt.

The E30 II Lite delivers a captivating rendition of Anathema’s “Untouchable, Part 1.” This song, with its poignant lyrics and ethereal melodies, is brought to life with clarity and resonance. The DAC captures the haunting vocals and delicate instrumentation, allowing the emotional essence of the song to shine through. As the song unfolds, the subtle nuances in the vocals and the progression of the instrumentation showcase the E30 II Lite’s ability to convey the intricate layers of this emotionally charged piece.

Verdict

Despite lacking features found in higher-end models, the TOPPING E30 II Lite’s exceptional audio quality at a $99 price point is its standout feature, making it perfect for budget-conscious audiophiles. In essence, this DAC impresses with its sound quality, making it a compelling choice in the entry-level range.