Topping Centaurus | High-Performance Desktop DAC
Topping Collaborates with HOLO AUDIO to Launch a Fully Balanced 8-Channel R2R DAC, Integrating Cutting-Edge Technology and Precision Engineering
- Employs an 8-channel R2R resistor array design
- Three sampling modes: NOS, OS, Best
- State-of-the-art decoding capabilities
- Designed for audiophiles seeking premium sound quality
- Topping's Aurora UI completes the experience with excellent usability and visuals
Fully Balanced R2R Architecture
The Centaurus is built around a fully balanced 8-channel R2R DAC architecture, created in partnership with HOLO Audio. This design uses eight resistor networks to process audio with incredible precision and dynamic range.
Each network plays a role: the front side is optimized for DSD decoding with a technology called the "Vector Step Resistance Network," while the reverse side handles PCM decoding using a traditional R2R setup. A CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device) coordinates the entire process, ensuring every detail is decoded with jaw-dropping accuracy.
Three Sampling Modes
Centaurus offers three sampling modes:
OS Mode
Applies oversampling to reduce noise and enhance clarity.
NOS Mode
Bypasses oversampling
Best Mode
Automatically selects the optimal settings
Aurora UI
The full color touch screen and touch buttons enhance the user experience with Centaurus. You can display playback information, FFT, and VU meters. Customizations are available with a simple press of the knob.
10-Band High-Precision PEQ
Fine-tune your sound with the Centaurus’ 10-band parametric equalizer. Adjust frequencies, gain, and bandwidth with precision—or import custom curves for your favorite profiles. With multiple user profiles, your favorite settings are always at your fingertips. Just note that PEQ supports PCM 192kHz/32bit signals and excludes IIS inputs.
LDAC and Bluetooth 5.1
For those who love high-quality wireless audio, the Centaurus has you covered. Bluetooth 5.1 support, powered by a QCC5125 chip, is compatible with LDAC, aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, AAC, and SBC formats.
Plug and Play
The Centaurus works seamlessly with Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android devices. Its XMOS XU316 chipset and Thesycon driver deliver stable USB performance for PCM up to 768kHz/32bit and DSD512. For Windows ASIO applications, you’ll need the Thesycon driver—but everything else is plug-and-play.
Minimal Jitter Clock
CPLD-optimized clock signals ensure ultra-low jitter, with performance measured at an impressive -150dB. That means a cleaner signal path and crystal-clear sound for your music.
IIS Input
The IIS input interface supports PCM 768kHz/32bit and DSD512 native, making it compatible with most digital systems. Perfect for advanced setups, it supports multiple IIS modes to ensure a seamless connection.
Specifications
- THD+N (SE/Bal): <0.0005% @1kHz / <0.0005% @1kHz
- SNR (SE/Bal): 126dB @1kHz / 130dB @1kHz
- Dynamic Range (SE/Bal): 126dB @1kHz / 130dB @1kHz
- Frequency Response (SE/Bal): 20Hz-40kHz
- Output Level (SE/Bal): 2.1Vrms / 4.2Vrms or 2.6Vrms/5.2Vrms
- Noise (SE/Bal): <1.2uVrms / <1.4uVrms
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Crosstalk (SE/Bal): -121dB @1kHz / -130dB
@1kHz - Balance (SE/Bal): 0.3dB / 0.3dB
- Output Impedance (SE/Bal): 50Ω / 100Ω
- Topping 1 Year Warranty
In the Box
- Topping Centaurus DAC
- Remote
- USB cable
- AC cable
- Bluetooth antenna
- Information card