Aiyima T8vsTopping Pre90
A detailed side-by-side comparison of the Aiyima T8 and Topping Pre90 — two popular preamps in the Chinese HiFi space.
Specifications
Spec
Aiyima T8
Topping Pre90
Tubes
6N3 (Replaceable)
—
Dac
ESS9018K2M
—
Inputs
Optical, USB, Coax, RCA, Bluetooth
XLR (Balanced), RCA
Outputs
RCA (Pre-out), 6.35mm Headphone
XLR, RCA
Features
Remote Control, OLED Display
Relay Volume Control, Remote Control, Optional Input Extender (Ext90)
Topology
—
Solid State / NFCA Modules
S/N Ratio
—
124dB
Remote Control
✓
✓
Tube Stage
✓
✗
Phono Stage
✗
✗
Headphone Amp
✓
✗
Price (estimated)
Price
~$80
~$309
Difference
~$229.00 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 Pre90
- ⚠Input impedance is relatively low (10kΩ balanced), which may not pair well with some vintage tube sources.
- ⚠Remote control range is narrow and requires precise pointing.
- ⚠Sound can be perceived as 'lean' or 'dry' by those used to colored preamps.
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