Topping MX3s DAC Headphone Amplifier Power Amplifier User Manual

1. Introduction

The Topping MX3s is a versatile audio solution that integrates a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC), a headphone amplifier, and a power amplifier into a single compact unit. This device allows you to enjoy high-quality audio from various sources through headphones, passive speakers, or a 2.1 speaker system with a subwoofer. It supports multiple input options including USB, optical, coaxial, and Bluetooth, making it compatible with a wide range of devices such as computers, smartphones, tablets, and media players.

2. Safety Information

• Do not disassemble or modify the device. Unauthorized modifications may result in electric shock or product malfunction.
• Keep the device away from water, moisture, and high temperatures.
• Use only the provided power adapter. Using an incorrect power adapter may damage the device and void the warranty.
• Ensure proper ventilation around the device to prevent overheating.
• Avoid placing heavy objects on top of the device.
• Disconnect the power cable during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.

3. Package Contents

Please check that all items are present in the package:

Image: Topping MX3s package contents. The image displays the MX3s unit, power adapter, power cable, USB cable, remote control, Bluetooth antenna, user manual, and warranty card.

1. MX3s Unit
2. Power Adapter
3. Power Cable
4. USB Cable
5. Remote Control
6. Bluetooth Antenna
7. User Manual
8. Warranty Card

4. Product Overview

Front and Rear Panels

Image: Front and rear views of the Topping MX3s. The front panel features a display, headphone output, and a multi-function knob. The rear panel includes inputs for USB, Optical, Coaxial, AUX (RCA), Bluetooth antenna, speaker outputs (R.Out, L.Out), subwoofer output, and DC 26V power input.

Key Features

• Integrated AK4437 DAC: Equipped with an AK4437 DAC chip for high-fidelity digital-to-analog conversion.
• Merus Class D Amplifier: Delivers 62W x 2 (4Ω, 10% THD+N) or 50W x 2 (4Ω, 1% THD+N) of power to passive speakers.
• Headphone Amplifier: Provides 700mW x 2 (32Ω, 1% THD+N) output for headphones.
• Bluetooth Connectivity: Features a Qualcomm QCC3040 chip supporting AAC, SBC, aptX, aptX-HD, and aptX Adaptive protocols for high-quality wireless audio.
• Subwoofer Output: Dedicated output for connecting an active subwoofer, enabling a 2.1 channel audio setup.
• Auto On/Off: Digital inputs support automatic power on/off based on signal detection.
• Adjustable EQ: Built-in bass and treble adjustment from -10dB to +10dB.
• Two-Step Gain Settings: Selectable gain levels for both power amplifier and headphone amplifier to match various audio sources and headphones.

5. Setup

5.1 Connecting Power

1. Connect the provided power adapter to the DC 26V input on the rear panel of the MX3s.
2. Plug the power adapter into a suitable wall outlet.

5.2 Connecting Audio Sources

The MX3s supports USB, Optical, Coaxial, and AUX inputs.

Image: Rear panel of the Topping MX3s, highlighting the USB, Optical, Coaxial, and AUX (RCA) input ports.

• USB Input: Connect your computer or other USB audio source using the supplied USB cable.
• Optical/Coaxial Input: Connect your TV, CD player, or game console using an optical or coaxial cable.
• AUX Input (RCA): Connect analog audio sources like a turntable (with a pre-amp) or an older media player using RCA cables.
• Bluetooth Input: Attach the Bluetooth antenna to the ANT connector on the rear panel. Refer to the 'Bluetooth Pairing' section for connection instructions.

5.3 Connecting Speakers

Connect your passive speakers to the R.Out (Right) and L.Out (Left) terminals on the rear panel. Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and - to -).

5.4 Connecting Headphones

Plug your headphones into the 3.5mm headphone jack on the front panel.

5.5 Connecting a Subwoofer

Connect an active subwoofer to the dedicated subwoofer output on the rear panel using an RCA cable.

Image: The Topping MX3s amplifier integrated into a 2.1 channel audio system, showing connections to two stereo speakers and a subwoofer, enhancing the listening experience.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Power On/Off and Auto On/Off

The MX3s can be manually powered on/off using the front panel knob (press and hold) or the remote control. It also features an automatic power on/off function for digital inputs.

Image: A silver Topping MX3s unit with its display active. The digital input of the MX3s supports an automatic power on/off function, which turns the power on immediately when a valid digital signal is detected. If a valid signal is lost, it will automatically turn off (goes into standby) within 1 minute.

• Auto On: When a valid digital signal is detected on a digital input (USB, Optical, Coaxial), the MX3s will automatically power on.
• Auto Off: If no valid digital signal is detected for 1 minute, the device will automatically enter standby mode. This feature is not supported for analog (AUX) input.

6.2 Input Selection

Press the multi-function knob on the front panel or use the input selection buttons on the remote control to cycle through available inputs (USB, OPT, COAX, AUX, BT).

6.3 Volume Control

Rotate the multi-function knob on the front panel or use the volume buttons on the remote control to adjust the volume. The volume can be displayed in percentage or dB.

6.4 EQ Adjustment (Bass & Treble)

The MX3s features a built-in EQ function allowing adjustment of bass and treble levels from -10dB to +10dB.

Image: Two Topping MX3s units displaying their screens. One shows 'BASS +10 dB' and the other 'TREB -10 dB', illustrating the adjustable bass and treble equalization function.

To adjust EQ:

1. Access the EQ settings via the remote control or by navigating through the menu using the multi-function knob.
2. Select 'Bass' or 'Treble' and rotate the knob or use remote buttons to adjust the level.

6.5 Gain Settings

The MX3s offers two-step gain settings (High/Low) for both the power amplifier and headphone amplifier to optimize performance with different speakers and headphones.

Image: Two Topping MX3s units, one silver and one black, displaying 'H' (High) and 'L' (Low) gain settings respectively. These selectable two-step gain settings for power amplifier and headphone amplifier adapt to different audio sources. The gain can be set using the remote control.

Adjust gain via the remote control or unit menu to match your connected devices.

6.6 Screen Display Settings

The MX3s screen can be set to automatically turn off after 30 seconds of inactivity, displaying only the current input. This can be configured in the device settings.

7. Bluetooth Pairing

To connect your smartphone or other Bluetooth device to the MX3s:

Image: The Topping MX3s unit displaying 'BT' (Bluetooth) on its screen, positioned next to a smartphone playing music, illustrating a successful Bluetooth connection. The MX3s supports Bluetooth protocols such as AAC, SBC, aptX, aptX-HD, and aptX Adaptive, achieving transmission distortion below 0.001% for an exceptional audio experience.

1. Ensure the Bluetooth antenna is securely connected to the MX3s.
2. Select 'BT' as the input source on the MX3s. The display will show 'BT' and indicate pairing mode.
3. On your Bluetooth device, search for available devices and select 'Topping MX3s'.
4. Once connected, the MX3s display will confirm the connection, and you can start playing audio wirelessly.

8. Specifications

Below are the technical specifications for the Topping MX3s:

Image: Detailed technical specifications table for the Topping MX3s, covering USB, Coaxial, Optical, and Bluetooth inputs, as well as headphone amplifier and power amplifier performance metrics like THD+N, SNR, Dynamic Range, Frequency Response, Output Level, Noise, Channel Crosstalk, Input Sensitivity, Gain, Output Impedance, and Output Power.

Performance Comparison (MX3s vs MX3)

Image: A table comparing the headphone output performance and speaker output performance of the Topping MX3s against its predecessor, the MX3, showing improvements in metrics like THD+N, SNR, Gain, Noise, and Output Power.

9. Troubleshooting

• No Sound:
  • Check all cable connections (power, input, output).
  • Ensure the correct input source is selected on the MX3s.
  • Verify that the volume is not set to minimum or muted.
  • If using USB, ensure the correct drivers are installed on your computer (if required).
• Distorted Sound:
  • Check if the input signal level is too high, causing clipping.
  • Ensure speaker impedance matches the amplifier's capabilities.
  • Try reducing the volume.
• Bluetooth Connection Issues:
  • Ensure the Bluetooth antenna is properly attached.
  • Make sure the MX3s is in Bluetooth pairing mode.
  • Delete 'Topping MX3s' from your device's Bluetooth list and try pairing again.
  • Reduce the distance between the MX3s and your Bluetooth device.
• Device Not Powering On:
  • Verify the power adapter is securely connected and plugged into a working outlet.
  • Check if the power adapter is damaged.

10. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the device. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the device in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Ventilation: Ensure that the ventilation openings are not blocked to prevent overheating.

11. Warranty and Support

This product comes with a manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the included Warranty Card for specific terms and conditions, including the warranty period and coverage details.

For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or warranty claims, please contact your retailer or the manufacturer directly. The seller, HIFI COLLEGE Store, aims for 100% customer satisfaction and offers support for any questions you may have.

You can typically find contact information on the manufacturer's official website or through your purchase platform.