TOPPING Centaurus: New R2R DAC developed in collaboration with HOLO Audio

TOPPING has launched the Centaurus, a new digital-to-analog converter (DAC) that employs R2R architecture, celebrated for its authentic and analog-like sound quality. In contrast to delta-sigma converters, R2R technology processes digital signals in a more straightforward manner, resulting in a warm and intricate audio experience. Featuring a fully balanced 8-channel configuration, the Centaurus ensures exceptional precision and an expansive dynamic range.

The device features a balanced architecture that incorporates eight resistor networks, developed in collaboration with HOLO Audio. A key aspect of its design is the distinct processing of DSD and PCM signals. The Vector Step Resistance Network technology is specifically utilized for DSD decoding, while the traditional R2R scheme is employed for PCM. The process is managed by a CPLD chip, which guarantees precise decoding of all audio nuances.

Centaurus offers three signal processing modes: NOS (no oversampling), OS (with oversampling to reduce noise) and Best (automatic selection of the optimal mode).

Centaurus provides three distinct signal processing modes: NOS (no oversampling), OS (oversampling to minimize noise), and Best (automatic selection of the most suitable mode).

It is equipped with an intuitive Aurora UI interface, featuring a 2-inch color display and touch controls. Users can customize background visualizations, including FFT graphs and playback details.

A 10-band parametric equalizer is included for sound customization, allowing users to modify frequencies, gain levels, and bandwidth, as well as upload their own profiles. This functionality supports PCM signals up to 192 kHz/32 bit, with the exception of the IIS input.

With Bluetooth 5.1 support powered by the QCC5125 chip, the device enables wireless audio playback in LDAC, aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, AAC, and SBC formats.

Centaurus supports both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) outputs with switchable voltage levels (XLR 4V / 5V, RCA 2V / 2.5V), providing flexibility for different usage scenarios.

Centaurus is compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. The use of the XMOS XU316 and Thesycon driver ensures reliable performance with PCM up to 768 kHz/32 bit and DSD512. For ASIO applications on Windows, installation of the Thesycon driver is required; otherwise, the connection is automatic.

A clock system optimized for CPLD is employed to reduce jitter, achieving a remarkable -150 dB, which enhances sound clarity. The device boasts a total harmonic distortion of under 0.0005% and a dynamic range of 130 dB, ensuring precise audio reproduction.

Centaurus offers both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) outputs with adjustable voltage levels (XLR 4V / 5V, RCA 2V / 2.5V), allowing for versatile application in various settings. The IIS input supports PCM signals up to 768 kHz / 32 bit and DSD512, ensuring compatibility with contemporary digital sources. Additionally, it features a preamplifier mode that enables direct connection to active speakers or amplifiers, eliminating the need for a separate preamplifier.

TOPPING Centaurus – R2R DAC

Other notable features include a 12V trigger for synchronized equipment activation and the capability to connect directly to active speakers.

TOPPING Centaurus specifications:

RCA output

• THD+N (A-weighted): <0.0005% @ 1 kHz
• THD (unweighted, 90 kHz bandwidth): <0.0005% @ 20 Hz – 20 kHz
• Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR, A-weighted): 126 dB @ 1 kHz
• Dynamic Range (A-weighted): 126 dB @ 1 kHz
• Frequency range:
  • 20 Hz – 20 kHz (+0.6 dB)
  • 20 Hz – 40 kHz (+2.2 dB)
• Output level:
  • 2.1V RMS @ 0dBFS (4V mode)
  • 2.6V RMS @ 0dBFS (5V mode)
• Noise (A-weighted): <1.2 µV RMS
• Channel Crosstalk: -121 dB @ 1 kHz
• Channel balance: 0.3 dB
• Output impedance: 50 Ω

XLR output

• THD+N (A-weighted): <0.0005% @ 1 kHz
• THD (unweighted, 90 kHz bandwidth): <0.0005% @ 20 Hz – 20 kHz
• Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR, A-weighted): 130 dB @ 1 kHz
• Dynamic Range (A-weighted): 130 dB @ 1 kHz
• Frequency range:
  • 20 Hz – 20 kHz (+0.6 dB)
  • 20 Hz – 40 kHz (+2.2 dB)
• Output level:
  • 4.2V RMS @ 0dBFS (4V mode)
  • 5.2V RMS @ 0dBFS (5V mode)
• Noise (A-weighted): <1.4 µV RMS
• Channel crosstalk: -130 dB @ 1 kHz
• Channel balance: 0.3 dB
• Output impedance: 100 Ω

Price : $999