TOPPING releases the Mini 500, a $229 desktop amplifier with 220W per channel

TOPPING has released the Mini 500, a desktop power amplifier priced at $229, Magnetic Mag reports. The fully balanced Class D unit delivers 220W per channel into 4-ohm speakers and 120W per channel into 8 ohms at under 1% THD+N. Measured at a 10% distortion threshold, the figures rise to 250W and 150W per channel.

The Mini 500 is built purely for amplification, with no streaming, digital conversion or wireless connectivity. It takes an analog signal from an existing source, such as a DAC or a preamplifier, and drives passive loudspeakers. A mono mode lets it power a single speaker or a passive subwoofer, so owners can start with one unit in stereo and later add a second, one per speaker. It uses a native bridge-tied load (BTL) design with differential output stages.

Inputs include balanced XLR/6.35mm TRS combo connectors and RCA. TOPPING quotes a 126dB signal-to-noise ratio and -111dB channel crosstalk through the balanced inputs, and 123dB and -98dB through RCA, plus 0.0004% THD+N at 5W into 8 ohms on the balanced input.

Two volume modes are offered. In VOL mode, the front-panel analog potentiometer sets the level; in BYPASS mode the control is removed from the signal path and an external preamp or adjustable DAC takes over. Since BYPASS runs the amplifier at fixed maximum volume, TOPPING advises lowering the upstream output before switching. The aluminum enclosure measures 7.48 inches wide, and the unit also has a 12V trigger input.