Topping PRE90 Preamplifier Preamp Amplifier Pre-amp Ultra-High NFCA Modules RCA Balanced XLR Output for D90se D90 A90 EXT90 Audio DAC with Remote Control (Black)

I purchased this because of various reviews saying this pre-amp is good (see stereophile). I've plugged it in, and so far it sounds great. My system isn't really fancy enough to review the sound quality, or how transparent it is, but I have not been disappointed. As other reviews state, the remote is pretty directional. Make sure you have line of site to the pre-amp if you want to use the remote. I like that I have the option of having fewer inputs, which lowers the cost (i.e. the expansion device). I only have a record player and a DAC, so I only needed two.I'm using this with Dynaudio Excite X14 speakers, Schiit Vidar / XTZ EDGE A2-300 (evaluating both - for this system the amp should probably be of higher quality), and a denafrips ares II DAC.

Topping PRE90 is a base preamplifier with ability to switch between RCA and XLR inputs.Volume is performed using relay based stepped attenuator which is found only on "high-end" equipment.Another feature that I personally like and I use is the ability to set a pre-input gain or maximum safe playback level. I don’t know any other preamplifier with that feature.I also appreciate the possibility of using the balanced XLR output to the amplifier, and connect the RCA output to a subwoofer. Because it allows to set the volume level for each output and store as a custom setting, I don’t need to go to the subwoofer to change its volume.It is the most transparent preamplifier that I’ve ever seen.I highly recommend the Topping PRE90 if you are looking for a high quality equipment, for a reasonable price. There is no other pre amp under $1K that can match the Topping PRE90 quality. You will never regret getting a PRE90.

This review will be in 2 sections, a review of the seller, and a review of the product.Seller:The seller is DiLiS-HIFI based in china, and was not aware of that when I placed the order. Upon seeing that it was shipping from China I got pretty concerned especially this close to Christmas. I reached out to them expressing my concern, they were super nice and reassured me that my shipment would arrive before Christmas and that if there was something wrong with it I would be able to return it using the standard Amazon return methods. Let’s just say I wasn’t holding my breath.But true to their word they kept in constant contact with me regarding the shipments progress and it did indeed arrive in record time, ahead of the estimated arrival time by 2 days. So big big props to DiLiS-HIFI! I would order from them again with no hesitation.Product:After this review I’ll add everything in my setup for transparency and audiophile geeks.Let’s start with why I choose the Topping Pre90. I needed a preamp that had a small footprint. Like most of America I’m riding that WFH home office pretty hard and space is a premium as my stereo isn't the only thing in the room. I saw the initial photos of the Pre 90 on AudioScienceReview.com and it looked perfect for my situation. But a preamp is more than just footprint, unless you're going down tube options you really want something that doesn't influence the rest of the system you spent time curating. What can I say, it’s another great product from Topping, the blacks are super dark and the noise floor is insanely low. I use a Chord Qutest and the Topping respects the bespoke assemblage of the digital signal into analog and passes it on to my amp like a proper custodian in the sound chain.I only have two complaints. One, the clicking of the volume control. The volume tech inside is high-end Japanese relay switches, which based on a little research is supposed to be really good. This doesn't change the fact that there's clicking sounds when you turn the knob. And before you ask, yes, even if you're using the remote and the actual knob isn't turning at all. Second complaint is the remote. I’m pretty sure it's using IR but sometimes you really have to hunt for the right spot to point it when adjusting the volume.Setup:SourcesMacbook (connected via AudioQuest Cinnamon)Cambridge CXNV2 (connected via AudioQuest COAX Forest)Cambridge CXC Transport (connected via AudioQuest Carbon COAX)DACChord Qutest (I use the Chord as my source selector)The Chord is powered by the Topping P50 Linear power supplyInterconnectsDH Labs Silver Sonic BL-1 (RCA>RCA)PreampTopping Pre 90AmpMytek Brooklyn AmpSpeaker cablesAudioQuest RocketSpeakersDynaudio Evoke 10

this is a wonderful preamp for the price. Comes loaded with great features.XLR in/outRCA in/outremotedownside: the remote is finicky. You need to be within 3m or less from the unit for it to operate, and you need to aim it with laser precision in order to get it to receive the signal. Very frustrating at first, but once you know about it, you adjust your use of it.edit: but the "Cable Matters Infrared remote extender for like $12 on Amazon" - this solves the whole wireless remote flakyness business. Great amp now, with a wonderfully responsive remote.

I thought I would enjoy this preamp with other great reviews online, but not so. It has inferior remote capability with a VERY narrow window to adjust controls. And compared to an American brand preamp named S****, it still falls short sound quality wise. My two cents!

I will keep this short as many serious AUDIOPHILES will not take this little gem of a preamp SERIOUSLY which will be a BIG MISTAKE. I bought this little guy to hold me over while my main preamp (SPL Elector) was sent in for a new faceplate (color change to match the rest of my components) and selling it forward upon receipt of the SPL. I must admit other than the lack of more inputs (easily remedied with the TOPPING EXT-90) and the accuracy of the remote I am really quite impressed with its performance. For the asking price I can't see any other manufacture other than SCHIIT offer such a great value.While not the last word in every category in musical presentation (not going to describe aspects in detail) it still manages to do most things that are needed to get a clear picture of the music presented admirably well.For those who are into measurements it measures extremely well (I am not from that camp, look at tube amps and preamps, most measure terribly but yet most musical).Get it as a backup (I'm keeping mine)-heck even as your main preamp, if you need more inputs you can easily connect the optional EXT-90 and BAM-you have it.A NO BRAINER!