In this Topping MX3s review, I’m testing Topping’s new integrated desktop DAC & headphone/speaker amplifier. The MX3x features an AK4377 DAC chip, a subwoofer out and hi-res Bluetooth input. The price is $199.

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

TOPPING MX3s

What’s in the Box

• TOPPING MX3s
• Power adapter
• Power cable
• USB cable
• Remote control
• Bluetooth antenna
• User manual
• Warranty card

Functionality

The MX3s is equipped with a plethora of functionalities, notably including a built-in EQ enabling precise bass and treble tone adjustments ranging from -10dB to +10dB. Offering enhanced versatility, the amplifier and headphone amplifier feature two distinct gain settings to accommodate a wider range of audio equipment.

The MX3s boasts an expansive array of I/O options, simplifying the process of linking various devices such as computers, set-top boxes, DVD players, as well as smartphones and tablets. Notably, its Bluetooth capabilities stand out, supporting AAC, SBC, aptX, aptX-HD, and aptX Adaptive for seamless wireless connectivity.

An additional noteworthy feature, one that I consistently find valuable, is the Auto Off function. After a period of sixty seconds of inactivity, the MX3s intelligently transitions into standby mode, conserving energy without manual intervention.

Design

The MX3s shares a resemblance with recent Topping budget models, featuring an understated and functional design. However, like many others, I appreciate the inclusion of the warm orange display that has become a signature of Topping’s budget lineup.

Crafted from aluminium, the chassis boasts a sleek matte black finish, complemented by its concave sides and four rubber feet that ensure stability. The focal point of the front panel is the OLED display, accompanied by a 3.5mm headphone output and a multifunctional volume knob.

Shifting to the rear panel, you’ll find a Bluetooth antenna mount, a USB-C port, optical and coaxial inputs, and an RCA input. Additionally, this area houses the subwoofer output and speaker binding posts, all neatly arranged alongside the power socket for easy accessibility.

Internals & Power Output

The DAC chip at the heart of the MX3s is an AKM AK4377. MX3s supports up to 24-bit/192kHz (via USB). The speaker output is listed at 62W x 2 (10% distortion under 4-ohm load) while the headphone output is 700mW x 2.

Sound

Sound Profile: The Topping MX3s is a true contender as an all-in-one unit for the desktop or stereo system. Its sound signature is characterized by striking clarity and cleanliness, presenting a neutral tonality that remains free of added colouration. Notably, users have the freedom to tailor their listening experience with the built-in EQ, allowing subtle tweaks to bass and treble levels while maintaining the core fidelity.

Soundstage and Expression: The MX3s boasts an intriguing soundscape, with its soundstage striking a balance between modest width and impressive depth. The layering of audio elements is a standout feature, lending a sense of dimension to the perceived space. This becomes particularly evident when utilizing a higher-end external DAC, which slightly enhances the width of the soundstage.

While the MX3s may not be characterized as warm, its expressiveness is commendable. The unit manages to deliver a smooth and comfortable auditory journey, perfect for extended listening sessions. This quality makes it a suitable companion for both critical analysis and leisurely enjoyment.

Verdict

In the competitive landscape of audio equipment, the Topping MX3s Integrated DAC & Headphone/Speaker Amplifier stands as a testament to the pursuit of sonic precision and versatile functionality.

Its neutral, clean sound signature coupled with an intuitive EQ system offers an engaging listening experience. The dynamic soundstage and expressive qualities further contribute to its appeal. When factoring in its 3-in-1 functionality and compelling price, the MX3s solidifies its position as a compelling choice for audiophiles seeking an excellent balance between performance and value. In fact, I’m so impressed with this unit I’m giving it our recommended award.

Specifications

• Max playback support
  • USB: 24-bit/192kHz
  • Coax/opt: 24-bit/192kHz
  • Bluetooth: AAC, SBC, aptX, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive
• MX3s headphone amplifier specs
  • THD+N@1kHz (A-wt)
    • USB/OPT/COAX: <0.003% @270mW (300Ω) / <0.001% @30mW (300Ω) 
    • AUX: <0.003% @270mW (32Ω) / <0.001% @30mW (300Ω) 
    • Bluetooth (aptX adaptive): <0.003% @270mW (32Ω) / <0.002% @30mW (300Ω) 
  • SNR @ 1kHz (A-wt)
    • USB/OPT/Coax: 115dB
    • AUX: 127dB
    • Bluetooth: 115dB
  • Dynamic range @1kHz (A-wt)
    • USB/OPT/Coax: 115dB
    • AUX: 127dB
    • Bluetooth: 115dB
  • Frequency response
    • USB/OPT/Coax: 20Hz – 20kHz (+0.1dB/-0.3dB)
    • AUX: 20Hz – 20kHz (+0.1dB/-0.1dB)
    • Bluetooth: 20Hz – 20kHz 
  • Output level
    • USB/OPT/Coax: 3.4Vpp (low gain) / 15.6Vpp (high gain)
    • AUX: 10.2Vpp (low gain) / 14.4Vpp (high gain)
    • Bluetooth: 3.4Vpp (low gain) / 15.6Vpp (high gain)
  • Noise (A-wt)
    • USB/OPT/Coax: <2.0uVrms (low gain) / <7.0uVrms (high gain)
    • AUX: <2.0uVrms (low gain) / <7.0uVrms (high gain)
    • Bluetooth: <2.0uVrms (low gain) / <7.0uVrms (high gain)
  • Channel crosstalk
    • USB/OPT/Coax: -90dB
    • AUX: -90dB
    • Bluetooth: -90dB
  • Input sensitivity
    • USB/OPT/Coax: 0dBFS (low gain) / 0dBFS (high gain)
    • AUX: 4.2Vrms (low gain) / 1.2Vrms (high gain)
    • Bluetooth: 0dBFS (low gain) / 0dBFS (high gain)
  • Gain
    • USB/OPT/Coax: 2dB (low gain) / 14.8dB (high gain)
    • AUX: -0.2dB (low gain) / 12.6dB (high gain)
    • Bluetooth: 2dB (low gain) / 14.8dB (high gain)
  • Output impedance: <0.5Ω
  • Output power
    • 700mW x2 @32Ω THD+N <1% 
    • 400mW x2 @64Ω THD+N<1% 
    • 100mW x2 @300Ω THD+N<1%
  • Load impedance: >8Ω 
• MX3s power amplifier specs
  • THD+N@1kHz (A-wt)
    • USB/OPT/COAX: <0.005% @5W (4Ω) / <0.004% @5W (8Ω) 
    • AUX: <0.005% @5W (4Ω) / <0.004% @5W (8Ω) 
    • Bluetooth (aptX adaptive): <0.005% @5W (4Ω) / <0.004% @5W (8Ω) 
  • SNR @ 1kHz (A-wt)
    • USB/OPT/Coax: 110dB
    • AUX: 110dB
    • Bluetooth: 110dB
  • Dynamic range @1kHz (A-wt)
    • USB/OPT/Coax: 110dB
    • AUX: 110dB
    • Bluetooth: 110dB
  • Frequency response
    • USB/OPT/Coax: 20Hz – 20kHz (+0.1dB/-0.5dB)
    • AUX: 20Hz – 20kHz (+0.1dB/-01.5dB)
    • Bluetooth: 20Hz – 20kHz 
  • Output level
    • USB/OPT/Coax: 40Vpp (4Ω) / 44Vpp (8Ω)
    • AUX: 40Vpp (4Ω) / 44Vpp (8Ω)
    • Bluetooth: 40Vpp (4Ω) / 44Vpp (8Ω)
  • Noise (A-wt)
    • USB/OPT/Coax: <60uVrms (low gain) / <100uVrms (high gain)
    • AUX: <60uVrms (low gain) / <100uVrms (high gain)
    • Bluetooth: <60uVrms (low gain) / <100uVrms (high gain)
  • Channel crosstalk
    • USB/OPT/Coax: -90dB
    • AUX: -90dB
    • Bluetooth: -90dB
  • Input sensitivity
    • USB/OPT/Coax: -2.0dBFS (low gain) / -8dBFS (high gain)
    • AUX: 1.0dBFS (low gain) / 0.5dBFS (high gain)
    • Bluetooth: -2.0dBFS (low gain) / -8dBFS (high gain)
  • Gain
    • USB/OPT/Coax: 26.5dB (low gain) / 32.5dB (high gain)
    • AUX: 24dB (low gain) / 30dB (high gain)
    • Bluetooth: 26.5dB (low gain) / 32.5dB (high gain)
  • Output impedance: <0.2Ω
  • Output power
    • 62W x2 @4Ω THD+N<10%
    • 50W x2 @4Ω THD+N<1%
    • 40W x2 @8Ω THD+N<1%
    • 30W x2 @8Ω THD+N<1%
  • Load impedance: 4-8Ω