ChiFi Guru

Your guide in the world of Chinese HiFi

Aiyima T8vsTopping L70

A detailed side-by-side comparison of the Aiyima T8 and Topping L70 — two popular preamps in the Chinese HiFi space.

Specifications

Spec
Aiyima T8
Topping L70
Tubes
6N3 (Replaceable)
Dac
ESS9018K2M
Inputs
Optical, USB, Coax, RCA, Bluetooth
XLR (Balanced), RCA
Outputs
RCA (Pre-out), 6.35mm Headphone
XLR Pre-out, RCA Pre-out, 4.4mm/XLR/6.35mm Headphone
Features
Remote Control, OLED Display
Relay Volume Control, Remote Control, Ground Loop Switch
Topology
NFCA (Nested Feedback Composite Amplifier)
Remote Control
Tube Stage
Phono Stage
Headphone Amp

Price (estimated)

Price
~$80
~$279
Difference
~$199.00 cheaper (Aiyima T8)

Things to Know

Aiyima T8

  • Headphone output output impedance is not specified but struggles with very low impedance IEMs.
  • The tube is difficult to roll (change) due to the chassis design.
  • RCA output level is slightly lower than standard 2V line level.

Topping L70

  • Rear panel is extremely crowded; thick XLR cables can be difficult to unplug.
  • The 'clicking' sound of the volume relays is audible inside the chassis when changing volume (normal but surprising to new users).
  • Display menu system is somewhat cryptic (abbreviations like 'H-G' for High Gain).

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