High-res audio duel: topping e50 vs schiit modi 3 – unraveling the differences

The Topping E50 and Schiit Modi 3 are two highly acclaimed DACs (Digital-to-Analog Converters) in the audiophile community. Both devices offer exceptional sound quality, but they differ in certain aspects that may influence your purchasing decision. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Topping E50 and Schiit Modi 3, helping you make an informed choice.

Design and Build Quality

The Topping E50 features a sleek and compact aluminum chassis with a minimalist design. The front panel has a simple button layout with a volume knob and a display that shows the current input and sample rate. The Schiit Modi 3 also boasts a compact design but opts for a more traditional black metal casing. Its front panel is adorned with a single button for input selection. Both devices exude a sense of durability and are built to last.

Connectivity

The Topping E50 offers a wide range of connectivity options, including USB, optical, coaxial, and I2S. It also features a built-in headphone amplifier with a dedicated 3.5mm headphone jack. The Schiit Modi 3, on the other hand, provides only USB and optical inputs. However, it does have a separate headphone amplifier available as an optional add-on.

Sound Quality

Both the Topping E50 and Schiit Modi 3 deliver exceptional sound quality that is characterized by clarity, detail, and accuracy. The E50 is known for its slightly warmer and more musical sound signature, while the Modi 3 offers a more neutral and analytical presentation.

The E50’s warm tonality adds a touch of richness to instruments and vocals, making it suitable for genres like jazz, classical, and acoustic music. The Modi 3, with its neutral sound, provides a more precise and detailed reproduction of the original recording. It excels in genres like electronic music, hip-hop, and rock.

Power Consumption

The Topping E50 consumes significantly less power than the Schiit Modi 3. The E50 requires only 0.5W of power, while the Modi 3 consumes around 2.5W. This difference in power consumption is a consideration for those who are environmentally conscious or wish to minimize their energy bills.

Price

The Topping E50 is typically priced around $150, while the Schiit Modi 3 retails for approximately $100. The E50’s higher price point reflects its wider range of features and improved sound quality. However, the Modi 3 remains an excellent value for its price.

Which One to Choose?

The choice between the Topping E50 and Schiit Modi 3 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.

• If you prioritize a wider range of connectivity options, a built-in headphone amplifier, and a warmer sound signature, the Topping E50 is the better choice.
• If you prefer a more neutral and analytical sound, a lower price point, and a smaller footprint, the Schiit Modi 3 is a solid option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which DAC has a better signal-to-noise ratio (SNR)?
A: The Topping E50 has a higher SNR of 122dB compared to the Schiit Modi 3’s 115dB.

Q: Does the Topping E50 support MQA decoding?
A: No, the Topping E50 does not support MQA decoding.

Q: Can I use the Schiit Modi 3 as a preamplifier?
A: No, the Schiit Modi 3 does not have preamplifier functionality.

Q: Which DAC is more versatile for connecting multiple devices?
A: The Topping E50 offers more connectivity options, making it more versatile for connecting various devices such as computers, CD players, and streaming devices.

Q: Is the Topping E50’s headphone amplifier powerful enough for high-impedance headphones?
A: Yes, the Topping E50’s headphone amplifier can drive high-impedance headphones with a maximum impedance of 600 ohms.