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Seller's Description

PREOWNED – FULLY TESTED – BLACK – INCLUDES ORIGINAL REMOTE, POWER CABLE, SHORT UMBILLICAL CABLE FOR EXTENSION

The Topping Pre90 is a highly transparent, fully balanced preamplifier, while the Ext90 is its dedicated input extender. Together, they form an expanded audio setup that adds 6 extra inputs (4 XLR and 2 RCA) to the stack, making it easy to connect multiple audio sources.

Topping Pre90

The Pre90 utilizes Topping’s high-performance NFCA (Nested Feedback Composite Amplifier) modules to deliver ultra-low distortion and noise. It acts as an analog preamplifier and can also provide up to +16 dB of gain to boost weak input signals. It features one XLR and one RCA input out-of-the-box, alongside relay-controlled analog volume adjustment (in 0.5 dB steps) and a bright OLED screen.

Topping Ext90

The Ext90 is a matching expansion chassis that connects directly to the Pre90 via a proprietary umbilical cable. It adds zero noise to your signal chain while expanding your connectivity to include an additional 3 XLR pairs and 1 RCA pair. The extender is powered directly through the Pre90 and operates seamlessly via the main unit’s front panel or remote control.

Key Features & Capabilities

• Signal Conversion: The combination allows for flexible routing and signal conversion, easily turning unbalanced (RCA) signals into balanced (XLR) outputs, and vice-versa.

• Independent Output Modes: You can toggle the preamp outputs to run through XLR only, RCA only, or both simultaneously to drive multiple amplifiers.

• Volume Memory: The Pre90 can save specific volume levels and settings for each channel.

Our Thoughts RADAR AI

US$500 is an ambitious price for a used Topping PRE90 power cable, sitting at the 75th percentile of the local market where the median is US$410 and the top quartile starts at US$500. This listing matches the highest typical asking price for this accessory, making it a fair deal only if the cable is pristine and original, but it offers no bargain upside compared to the median.

However, if the listing actually refers to the Topping PRE90 preamplifier (not just the power cable), US$500 becomes a strong buy, as the unit retails new for US$599 and is widely praised for its class-A Stereophile endorsement, 124dB signal-to-noise ratio, and fully balanced NFCA topology. In that case, the price is a genuine bargain below the new retail cost, offering immediate upside for anyone needing a high-performance, measurements-backed preamp with relay-ladder volume control. Clarify exactly what is included before committing, as the description’s ambiguity is the only real risk here.

Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.

About Topping Audio

Topping Audio, founded in 2008 in China, emerged from a team of dedicated audio engineers committed to democratizing high-fidelity sound. Without a single prominent founder in the spotlight, the brand quickly distinguished itself through rigorous innovation, amassing over 20 patents and pioneering technologies in digital audio processing. This heritage of independent R&D, backed by more than 30 experienced engineers, has positioned Topping as a global Hi-Fi contender focused on precision and accessibility.

The company specializes in desktop and portable audio gear, excelling in digital-to-analog converters (DACs), headphone amplifiers, and power amplifiers. Flagship models like the D90 DAC showcase cutting-edge components, such as the AKM AK4499EQ chip, delivering studio-grade performance. Topping also offers audio interfaces and, under its TOPPING Professional sub-brand, pro-level solutions for demanding studio environments, all emphasizing meticulous testing for reliability and sonic purity.

In the competitive hi-fi market, Topping occupies a mid-tier niche as an audiophile favorite, renowned for punching above its weight with exceptional value. Praised for build quality, intuitive design, and uncompromising transparency at affordable prices, it rivals pricier brands while earning loyal followings on forums and among desktop enthusiasts seeking high-end results without premium markups.

See all Topping Audio listings on RADAR.

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