Topping E2x2 OTG
The Topping E2x2 OTG is a 2-in/2-out USB audio interface pairing transparent measured performance with Topping’s NFCA-LE headphone amp. Among equal-or-better peers at current general pricing, it ties the lowest price; aftersales breadth remains a watchpoint.
Overview
The Topping E2x2 OTG (2024) is a creator-focused 2-in/2-out USB interface that leans on the brand’s measurement-driven engineering. It supports 48V phantom power, up to 192kHz/24-bit operation, zero-latency hardware monitoring with independent mixer control, OTG (direct mobile) connectivity for dual-device workflows, and an optical S/PDIF output uncommon at this price. The NFCA-LE headphone amplifier targets low output impedance and high power for stable headphone drive. Current official-store price is 199 USD. [1][2]
Scientific Validity
\[\Large \text{0.9}\]Published specifications show performance squarely in the transparent range for interface work. Key figures include: mic pre EIN −130.5dBu (A-wt, 150Ω); THD+N 0.0003% (−110dB) and 115dB dynamic range for microphone input; line input THD+N 0.00045% (−107dB); line output THD+N 0.001% (−100dB) with 115dB dynamic range; ADC Input DNR 118dB and DAC Output DNR 115dB; headphone stage 1Ω output impedance, ~1µVrms noise, and up to 580mW ×2 @32Ω (THD+N<1%)—sufficient to confidently drive up to 600Ω models in practice. Independent lab-style results corroborate low distortion/noise and strong conversion, aligning with the spec sheet. [1][2][5]
Technology Level
\[\Large \text{0.8}\]The design centers on Topping’s NFCA-LE headphone amplifier and an ultra-linear mic preamp topology, aiming for very low noise and low output impedance while maintaining high current capability. USB audio is handled by an XMOS solution for reliable, low-jitter transfer. Although conversion uses off-the-shelf ADC/DAC silicon rather than bespoke chips, analog implementation quality and the headphone stage meaningfully exceed typical entry-level norms. [1][2]
Cost-Performance
\[\Large \text{1.0}\]At an official-store list of 199 USD, equal-or-better peers on functionality and measured/published performance include Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) and MOTU M2. Both are positioned in the U.S. around 199 USD, while the E2x2 OTG adds unusually high headphone output power (580mW@32Ω) and 1Ω output impedance alongside 192kHz/24-bit I/O and robust conversion figures. We did not find a widely available interface with equal or better overall measurements and features below 199 USD; therefore, within its true performance cohort, E2x2 OTG ties the lowest price, warranting a cost-performance score of 1.0. [1][2][3][4]
Reliability & Support
\[\Large \text{0.4}\]Topping provides downloadable manuals/drivers/control center and service contact routes, with the official store advertising returns and product warranties typically 1–2 years depending on model/region. Public detail on regional service networks and standardized turnaround remains thinner than long-established pro-audio brands. By contrast, Focusrite publishes a three-year warranty across Scarlett interfaces, setting a higher support baseline. Given the comparatively modest documented warranty window and less centralized global service detail, we assess this area conservatively. Prospective buyers should confirm local warranty and retailer replacement terms before purchase. [2][3]
Rationality of Design Philosophy
\[\Large \text{0.8}\]The product’s choices cohere around measurable transparency and creator utility: ultra-low-noise mic preamps, a low-Z/high-power NFCA-LE headphone stage, zero-latency monitoring with an independent mixer, optical S/PDIF, OTG/mobile workflows, and standard 192kHz/24-bit conversion. This is a rational, measurement-first approach with tangible user benefits; the main caveat sits in aftersales depth rather than engineering or features. [1][2]
Advice
If you prioritize measurement-grade transparency and a powerful low-impedance headphone output, the E2x2 OTG is one of the strongest 2×2 picks at the price—especially for high-impedance headphones and clean vocal/instrument tracking. If long-horizon warranty/support ecosystems are critical, alternatives like Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) or SSL 2 MKII may feel safer. For the E2x2 OTG, confirm regional warranty and retailer policies in advance, then weigh its clear technical advantages against your support expectations. [3][4]
References
[1] TOPPING Professional — E2x2 OTG (feature/spec assets, downloads).
https://topping.pro/e2x2-otg/
[2] TOPPING Official Store — E2x2 OTG (price & key specs).
https://www.topping.store/products/topping-e2x2-otg-usb-audio-interface
[3] Focusrite — Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) overview & three-year warranty.
https://us.focusrite.com/products/scarlett-2i2
[4] MOTU — M2 overview/specifications.
https://motu.com/products/m-series/m2 | https://motu.com/en-us/products/m-series/m2/specs/
[5] Audio Science Review — “Topping E2x2 Audio Interface Review” (independent measurements).
https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/topping-e2x2-audio-interface-review.49127/
(2025.10.6)