In an R2R converter, digital values are translated into an analog signal by a ladder network assembled from precisely matched resistors. The Centaurus uses eight of these precision networks in a fully balanced configuration, allowing the positive and negative signal paths of the left and right channels to operate independently. This architecture is designed to support accurate channel tracking, low noise and stable spatial imaging.

Four Vector Step Resistance Networks mounted on one side of the circuit board are dedicated to direct DSD decoding, while four conventional R2R ladders on the reverse side process PCM data. Decoding and timing are managed by a programmable CPLD that coordinates the switching operations and provides the precision required for PCM up to 768 kHz and native DSD512 processing.

The Centaurus features a 2.0-inch full-color Aurora display that shows the selected input and sample rate while providing clear, visually engaging playback information. Three touch-sensitive controls provide quick access to key settings, and the interface can be set to English or Chinese during the initial setup.

Nine selectable background colors allow the display to match the surrounding system, while three information views provide an FFT spectrum display, a VU meter or detailed playback information. The function assigned to the power button can also be customized, allowing everyday operation to be tailored for use as a fixed-output DAC, a preamplifier or a multi-input desktop audio hub.

The integrated 10-band parametric EQ allows the Centaurus to be tailored to a particular pair of headphones, loudspeakers, listening room or personal preference. Unlike conventional bass and treble controls, PEQ targets precisely selected frequency ranges, making it suitable for accurate response correction as well as subtle tonal adjustment.

Center frequency, gain and the bandwidth-defining Q value can be adjusted independently for each of the ten bands. TOPPING’s desktop software supports the import of raw measurement curves and target curves, curve compensation based on the difference between them, and the storage of multiple profiles for quick selection. PEQ operates with PCM signals up to 32-bit/192 kHz and is available on every digital input except IIS.

Bluetooth 5.1 provides convenient wireless playback from a smartphone, tablet or computer, eliminating the need for a separate digital cable during casual listening. The Centaurus uses a Qualcomm QCC5125 receiver and can accept streams up to 24-bit/96 kHz from a compatible source.

Supported codecs include LDAC, aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX, AAC and SBC. Higher-bitrate formats such as LDAC and aptX HD can transmit more audio information when used with compatible devices, while AAC and SBC ensure broad baseline compatibility. The codec, resolution and bitrate actually used are determined by the source device, its operating system and the quality of the wireless connection.

The USB input provides a direct high-resolution connection to a computer, mobile device or network transport. Based on the XMOS XU216 platform, the interface is compatible with Windows 10 and 11, macOS, Linux, iOS and Android, and operates without a dedicated driver in most non-Windows environments.

The USB interface supports PCM streams up to 32-bit/768 kHz and native DSD512. Under Windows, TOPPING’s Thesycon-based driver must be installed to enable exclusive ASIO access and native DSD playback, after which the appropriate output mode must be selected in the playback software. macOS, Linux and compatible mobile devices access the DAC through their native USB Audio support.

A digital audio signal requires not only accurate data but also precise timing. Small timing deviations are known as jitter and, under unfavorable conditions, can increase noise and reduce conversion accuracy. The Centaurus uses CPLD-based clock processing to optimize the timing of the incoming signal and minimize the influence of the source on digital-to-analog conversion.

The programmable logic coordinates clock management and the transfer of digital data to the resistor networks. In TOPPING’s laboratory jitter test, unwanted components remain as low as approximately -150 dB. This figure is not a subjective assessment of sound quality, but measured evidence that residual timing-related components remain far below the useful audio signal.

The signal produced by the resistor-ladder D/A stage must be converted into an analog voltage at a suitable level before it can be delivered through the RCA or XLR outputs. This task is handled by TOPPING’s proprietary I/V conversion module, developed specifically for the Centaurus R2R architecture and optimized for low noise, low distortion and efficient use of circuit-board space.

The design of the I/V stage directly affects the overall noise, linearity and output capability of the DAC. The Centaurus achieves THD+N below 0.0005% at 1 kHz through both output types, while the A-weighted signal-to-noise ratio and dynamic range of the XLR output reach 130 dB. The objective is to preserve the low-level information produced by the resistor networks, including subtle dynamic contrasts and natural decays, throughout the analog signal path.

The Centaurus provides both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA analog outputs, allowing straightforward integration with fully balanced signal chains as well as conventional home audio systems. The XLR and RCA outputs can be enabled separately or simultaneously, allowing the same source to feed, for example, a headphone amplifier and a pair of active loudspeakers.

Two nominal output-level settings are available. The broadly compatible setting provides a nominal 4 V through XLR and 2 V through RCA, while the higher-output mode targets 5 V through XLR and 2.5 V through RCA. At 0 dBFS, the manufacturer’s measured values are 4.2 and 2.1 Vrms, or 5.2 and 2.6 Vrms respectively. The higher setting is useful when the connected amplifier has sufficient input headroom to accept the increased level without clipping.

The IIS input is intended primarily for digital transports and interfaces that transmit audio data to the DAC in a more direct form. Although it uses a physical HDMI connector, it is not a conventional HDMI video or audio input and cannot be used with a television or a standard HDMI source. With a compatible source, it accepts PCM up to 32-bit/768 kHz and native DSD512.

The pin assignment of HDMI-based IIS connections is not governed by a universal industry standard, so the source device’s DATA, BCK, LRCLK and DSD channel assignments must match the DAC configuration. The Centaurus provides standard and reversed phase modes together with two selectable DSD left/right channel assignments. The documentation of both devices should be checked before connection, as an identical physical connector does not guarantee compatibility.

The Centaurus can serve as the central digital source in two different system configurations. In DAC mode, it supplies a fixed-level signal to an integrated amplifier, headphone amplifier or separate preamplifier. In preamplifier mode, the Centaurus controls the output volume itself and can therefore be connected directly to a power amplifier or active loudspeakers.

The variable output level can be controlled from the front panel or with the supplied remote, while RCA, XLR or both output types may remain active. When connecting directly to a power amplifier or active loudspeakers, begin at a low volume, verify that preamplifier mode is selected, and match the 4 V/2 V or 5 V/2.5 V output setting to the input sensitivity and headroom of the connected equipment.

The 12 V Trigger connection synchronizes the power state of the Centaurus with other compatible components. In a multi-component system, this eliminates the need to switch every device separately: the DAC can receive an external trigger signal or send one through its output to control another component.

Both Trigger IN and OUT use 3.5 mm connectors and allow several compatible components to form a control chain. The Centaurus pairs naturally with the A70 Pro headphone amplifier in size, appearance and function: the balanced XLR connection carries the audio signal, while a separate trigger cable controls synchronized power operation. The trigger connection does not carry audio and therefore requires the correct cable and a compatible control voltage.

The Centaurus houses a complete set of desktop connections in a compact metal enclosure measuring 22.2 cm wide, 16.0 cm deep and 4.5 cm high. Its low-profile design is easy to accommodate on a headphone listening desk, beside active loudspeakers or in a conventional hi-fi rack, while the rear-panel connectors are arranged in clear functional groups.

The rear panel provides coaxial and optical S/PDIF, USB, professional AES, configurable IIS and Bluetooth inputs, with the latter using an external antenna. The analog section offers separate left and right RCA outputs together with balanced XLR outputs. A 3.5 mm 12 V Trigger input and output and the AC inlet for the internal power supply complete the connection set. The IIS connector is not an HDMI input and must only be used with a compatible digital audio source.