AOSHIDA Topping Centaurus

TOPPING Centaurus R2R DAC User Manual

Model: Topping Centaurus | Brand: AOSHIDA

1. Prodott Aktarview

The TOPPING Centaurus is a high-fidelity, full balanced R2R Digital-to-Analog Converter designed for discerning audio enthusiasts. It incorporates an advanced 8-channel R2R architecture, supporting high-resolution audio formats up to DSD512 and PCM768kHz. The Centaurus offers a comprehensive suite of features including multiple input/output options, customizable sound profiles, and a user-friendly interface, making it a versatile centerpiece for any audio setup.

Topping Centaurus R2R DAC with remote control

Figura 1.1: Quddiem view of the Topping Centaurus R2R DAC with its remote control.

Karatteristiċi ewlenin:

  • Fully Balanced 8-Channel R2R Design: Utilizes 8 resistor arrays for precise digital-to-analog conversion, with 'Vector Step Resistance Network' for DSD and R2R structure for PCM, powered by CPLD for high sound fidelity.
  • Tliet Sampling Modes: Offers NOS (Non-Oversampling) for authentic sound, OS (Oversampling) with adjustable rates for enhanced performance, and Best mode for automatic optimal rate selection.
  • 10-Band High-Precision PEQ Adjustment: Customize frequency, gain, and bandwidth with a new PEQ algorithm and desktop software, supporting curve import and multiple profile iffrankar.
  • Konnettività versatili: Features USB, Optical, Coaxial, AES, and IIS inputs, along with RCA single-ended and XLR balanced outputs.
  • Adjustable Output Levels: RCA outputs at 2.1Vrms (4V Mode) or 2.6Vrms (5V Mode), and XLR outputs at 4.2Vrms (4V Mode) or 5.2Vrms (5V Mode).
  • Preamp Modalità: Allows adjustable output volume for direct connection to power amplifiers or active speakers, saving the need for a separate pre-ampaktar ħaj.
  • Trigger 12V: Enables seamless power synchronization with other compatible audio devices.
  • L-UI tal-Aurora: Intuitive user interface for personalized experience, including selectable background colors and display modes (FFT, VU meter, playback information).
Topping Centaurus R2R DAC key features including 8-channel R2R, 10-band PEQ, Hi-Res, LDAC, DSD512, PCM768kHz, 130dB dynamic range, Aurora UI, and three sampmodi ling.

Figure 1.2: Visual representation of the Topping Centaurus's core features.

2. X'hemm fil-Kaxxa

Malli tiftaħ il-pakkett, jekk jogħġbok kun żgur li l-oġġetti kollha li ġejjin huma preżenti:

  • Unità TOPPING Centaurus DAC
  • Kontroll mill-bogħod
  • Kejbil USB
  • Kejbil tal-enerġija AC
  • Karta ta' Informazzjoni dwar il-Prodott
  • Antenna Bluetooth

3. Setup

3.1 Konnessjoni Inizjali

Before powering on the device, ensure all necessary audio and power connections are securely made. Connect the AC power cable to the unit and a suitable power outlet. For digital audio input, choose from USB, Optical, Coaxial, AES, or IIS. For analog audio output, connect your amplifier or active speakers to either the RCA or XLR outputs.

Fuq u wara view of the Topping Centaurus R2R DAC, showing various input and output ports.

Figure 3.1: Top and rear panel view illustrating connection ports.

3.2 Konnessjoni tat-Trigger ta' 12V

The Centaurus DAC is equipped with a 12V Trigger input and output. This feature allows for synchronized power control with other compatible devices. Connect a 12V trigger cable from your source device's trigger output to the Centaurus's 12V Trigger input, or from the Centaurus's 12V Trigger output to another device's trigger input for coordinated power on/off functionality.

Close-up of the rear panel of the Topping Centaurus R2R DAC, highlighting the 12V Trigger input and output ports.

Figure 3.2: Detail of the 12V Trigger ports on the rear panel.

4. Istruzzjonijiet Operattivi

4.1 Power On/Off

Press the power button on the front panel or use the remote control to turn the unit on or off. The display will illuminate upon power-on.

4.2 Navigazzjoni tal-Interfaċċja tal-Utent

The Centaurus features a 2.0-inch full-color screen and three touch buttons for navigation. Use the buttons to browse menus and adjust settings. The intuitive Aurora UI allows for easy personalization of your listening experience.

Topping Centaurus R2R DAC display showing different background colors and playback information, with touch buttons for navigation.

Figura 4.1: Wiri u kontrolli tal-pannell ta' quddiem.

4.3 DAC Mode vs. Preamp Modalità

The Centaurus DAC operates in two primary modes: DAC Mode and Preamp Mode. In DAC Mode, the output level is fixed. In Preamp Mode, the output volume can be adjusted directly from the unit, allowing it to function as a pre-amplifier for direct connection to a power amplifier jew kelliema attivi.

Topping Centaurus R2R DAC connected directly to active speakers, demonstrating its preamp funzjonalità tal-mod.

Figure 4.2: Direct connection to active speakers using Preamp Modalità.

4.4 SampLing Modi

Navigate to the 'Advanced' settings in the UI to select your preferred oversampling mode: NOS (Non-Oversampling), OS (Oversampling), or Best. Each mode offers a distinct sonic characteristic.

4.5 PEQ Adjustment

The 10-band high-precision PEQ (Parametric Equalizer) allows for detailed sound customization. Access PEQ settings through the UI to adjust frequency, gain, and bandwidth for each band. You can also import curves and save multiple profiles.

4.6 Operazzjoni Bluetooth

The Centaurus supports Bluetooth 5.1 with LDAC. To enable or disable Bluetooth, navigate to the 'Advanced' settings in the UI. Once enabled, pair your Bluetooth device with the Centaurus.

4.7 USB Mode Selection

The unit supports both USB Audio Class (UAC) 1.0 and UAC 2.0. UAC 1.0 allows for driverless operation with devices like gaming consoles. UAC 2.0 typically offers higher resolution audio. You can switch between these modes in the 'Advanced' settings.

Video 4.1: A demonstration of the Topping Centaurus R2R DAC's physical appearance and user interface navigation, including various settings and display options.

5. Konnessjonijiet

The Centaurus DAC provides a wide array of input and output options to integrate seamlessly into various audio systems.

5.1 Inputs Diġitali

  • USB: Għall-konnessjoni ma' kompjuters jew sorsi awdjo USB oħra.
  • Optical (TOSLINK): For digital audio signals from TVs, CD players, etc.
  • Koassjali: For digital audio signals from CD players, streamers, etc.
  • AES (Audio Engineering Society/European Broadcasting Union): Professional digital audio interface.
  • IIS (I²S): For ultra-high-spec digital audio signals, often used with dedicated digital transports.

5.2 Outputs Analogiċi

  • RCA (Single-Ended): Standard analog audio output for connecting to amplifiers jew kelliema attivi.
  • XLR (Balanced): Professional-grade balanced analog audio output, offering superior noise rejection for longer cable runs and compatible equipment.
Topping Centaurus R2R DAC rear panel showing RCA and XLR outputs, and various digital inputs.

Figure 5.1: Rear panel showing comprehensive input and output options.

6. Manutenzjoni

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your TOPPING Centaurus DAC, please follow these maintenance guidelines:

  • Tindif: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior of the unit. Avoid using liquid cleaners, aerosols, or abrasive materials.
  • Pjazzament: Place the unit on a stable, flat surface with adequate ventilation. Avoid direct sunlight, heat sources, and areas with high humidity or dust.
  • Immaniġġjar: Immaniġġja l-unità b'attenzjoni. Evita li twaqqagħha jew li tissottomettiha għal impatti qawwija.
  • Qawwa: Skonnettja l-kejbil tal-enerġija mis-sokit tal-ħajt jekk l-unità ma tkunx se tintuża għal perjodu estiż.

7 Issolvi l-problemi

If you encounter any issues with your Centaurus DAC, please refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

  • Ebda Qawwa: Ensure the AC power cable is securely connected to both the unit and a working power outlet. Check the power switch on the rear panel.
  • Ebda Ħsejjes tal-Ħsejjes: Verify that the correct input source is selected on the DAC. Check all audio cable connections (RCA/XLR) between the DAC and your amplifier/active speakers. Ensure the amplifier/speakers are powered on and set to the correct input. If in Preamp Mode, check the volume level.
  • Ħoss Mgħawġ: Check cable connections for looseness or damage. Ensure the source audio file is not corrupted. Try adjusting the sampling mode or PEQ settings.
  • Kwistjonijiet ta' Konnessjoni Bluetooth: Ensure Bluetooth is enabled in the DAC's settings. Try unpairing and re-pairing your device. Ensure your device is within range.
  • Il-Kontroll mill-bogħod Mhux Jaħdem: Check the battery in the remote control. Ensure there are no obstructions between the remote and the DAC's IR receiver.

Jekk il-problema tippersisti wara li tipprova dawn il-passi, jekk jogħġbok ikkuntattja l-appoġġ għall-klijenti għal aktar assistenza.

8. Speċifikazzjonijiet

Detailed technical specifications for the TOPPING Centaurus R2R DAC (LineOut/USB In@96kHz):

ParametruOutput RCAOutput XLR
THD+N (A-wt) @1kHz<0.00005%<0.00005%
THD+N (No-wt, 90kBw) @20Hz-20kHz<0.0005%<0.0005%
SNR (A-wt) @1kHz126dB130dB
Dynamic Range (A-wt) @1kHz126dB130dB
Rispons ta' Frekwenza20Hz-20kHz (±0.6dB), 20Hz-40kHz (±2.2dB)20Hz-20kHz (±0.6dB), 20Hz-40kHz (±2.2dB)
Output Level (0dBFS)2.1Vrms (4V Mode), 2.6Vrms (5V Mode)4.2Vrms (4V Mode), 5.2Vrms (5V Mode)
Storbju (A-wt)<1.2uVrms<1.4uVrms
Channel Crosstalk @1kHz-121dB-130dB
Bilanċ tal-Kanal0.3dB0.3dB
Impedenza tal-ħruġ50Ω100Ω

Speċifikazzjonijiet Ġenerali:

  • Numru tal-Mudell tal-Oġġett: Topping Centaurus
  • Manifattur: TOPPING
  • Dimensjonijiet tal-pakkett: 14.57 x 9.45 x 3.54 pulzieri
  • Piż tal-oġġett: 4.41 Liri
  • Numru ta' kanali: 8
  • Tip ta' Interface: Coaxial, Optical, USB, AES, IIS
  • Tip ta 'Immuntar: Desktop

9. Garanzija u Appoġġ

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the Product Information Card included in your package or visit the official AOSHIDA website. Additional protection plans may be available for purchase to extend coverage beyond the standard manufacturer's warranty.

  • Pjan ta' Protezzjoni ta' 2 Snin: Disponibbli għax-xiri.
  • Pjan ta' Protezzjoni ta' 3 Snin: Disponibbli għax-xiri.
  • Protezzjoni Kompleta: Pjan ta' kull xahar li jkopri xiri eliġibbli tal-passat u tal-futur.

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