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Topping A90 failure issues. Should I try a 3rd A90?

I purchased the Topping A90 & D90 MQA August 2020. The A90 lasted about 3 months then "blew up" with major static in one channel. I tried different headphones, connects (4 pin XLR, 4.4mm pentacon) and it was in fact the A 90. Apos exchanged the failed A90 (took a long time) and after using the 2nd A90 for less than a month, the same issue. So after 2 failed A90's I'm wondering if I try a 3rd or another headphone amp? I'm using XLR balanced (and have 2 headphones that are also balanced cables). Thanks for any counsel. 
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Showing 2 responses by yyzsantabarbara

yyzsantabarbara
4,557 posts
 
I have the A90 and it is a workhorse for me. I have been using it recently to break-in new gear. So that means playing it 24 x 7 for a week (no problems). In this scenario I use iPhone ear plugs to output sound. 

When it is not doing break-in work I enjoy the A90 with a Matrix Mini-i 3 Pro DAC using some very old Audience AU24 XLR interconnects. I bought the Mini over the Topping D90 because it was reviewed to be a bit better and also for the incredible ROON streaming options with the Matrix (so no direct computer connection).

I listen to this combo with Meze Empy headphones and it is amazing for the price. This combo comes close to the quality of my Benchmark HPA4 + DAC3B pairing but that combo is much more money.
yyzsantabarbara
4,557 posts
 
I am now using a Topping pre90 preamp and I am amazed how good it sounds. It does not have any features other than inputs and volume. However, the sound is extremely clean with nothing added. Cost is $599.

My other preamp is the CODA 07x which cost a lot more and adds warmth to the sound. 

I am very impressed by Topping.
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