Description
Overview
The TOPPING Centaurus is a reference-grade, fully balanced desktop DAC designed for audiophiles who demand both precision and musicality. Developed in collaboration with Holo Audio, it employs an eight-stage R2R ladder architecture alongside TOPPING’s proven signal processing and user interface. According to reviews, it represents “the company’s best desktop DAC I have heard to date”.
Key Features
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R2R Ladder Architecture — Utilises a dedicated 24-bit resistor-ladder network for PCM + dedicated arrays for DSD, offering a rich, natural sound character rather than purely digital.
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High Resolution Support — PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD up to DSD512 on USB and IIS inputs.
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Bluetooth 5.1 Wireless Input — Includes LDAC, aptX HD/Adaptive, AAC, SBC support for wireless streaming up to 24-bit/96kHz.
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Fully Balanced Outputs & Variable/Fixed Preamp Modes — XLR & RCA outputs support fixed or variable levels, enabling use as DAC or preamplifier.
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10-Band Parametric EQ + User App — Built-in PEQ allows detailed room/headphone tuning via a companion PC application.
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Elegant Desktop Form-Factor — CNC-machined aluminum chassis, full-colour display, remote control included — designed for serious home audio setups.
Specifications (summary)
| Parameter |
Specification |
| PCM Support |
Up to 32-bit / 768 kHz
|
| DSD Support |
Up to DSD512
|
| Outputs |
XLR (balanced), RCA (single-ended)
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| Bluetooth |
Version 5.1 with LDAC, aptX HD/Adaptive, AAC, SBC
|
| Additional Features |
10-band PEQ, trigger I/O, variable/fixed output modes
|
Why Choose the Centaurus
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For those upgrading to a truly high-end desktop DAC, the Centaurus offers reference-level decoding and fully balanced architecture at a reasonable price point.
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Unlike many “chip-based” DACs, its R2R implementation brings a more analog-like soundstage and texture, praised in reviews as “sonically clean and natural output with a focused soundstage”.
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Flexible enough to be the core of a premium headphone rig or connect into an active speaker setup or amplifier chain via its balanced outputs and variable mode.
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Future-proof: supports wireless playback, high sample rates, and advanced tuning via PEQ — giving room for system growth.
