Disclaimer:
Good morning, readers! EPZ is finally back with a new dongle model, namely, the EPZ TP35. In this period, the releases regarding dongles have decreased drastically, and the lack of real novelty in this type of product has been felt. Even with regards to the integration of new chips, the situation has become quite stagnant. EPZ has, however, opted for the classic and excellent Cirrus Logic CS43198 that it had already used in the TP50. This model has an extremely low price and truly remarkable quality.
The review, as always, will be completely unbiased and uninfluenced.
I would like to remind you that I am just a person who enjoys trying out new items and listening to a lot of music; I am not an expert.
My opinions are obviously subjective.
Tech Specs:
- DAC chip: CS43198 x2
- Decoding specifications: PCM: 32Bit/384KHZ DSD: Dop128/Native256
- Output Power: 2x65mW@320 (3.5) 2x150mW@32N (4.4)
- Output Level: 1Vrms (3.5) 2Vrms (4.4)
- SNR: ≥125db (3.5) ≥130db (4.4)
- THD+N: <0.0005%
- Dynamic Range: ≥125db (3.5) 130db (4.4)
- Plug Type: 3.5MM/4.4MM
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-80kHz
- Digital Filters
- Connector: Type-c
- Switch: Support
- Body material: Aluminum alloy sandblasting oxidation gray black
- Wire: High-purity oxygen-free copper shielded wire
- Output plug: 3.5mm, 4.4mm
- Body: 43.1*21.7*12.1 mm
- Cable: 132mm
- Weight: 15g
Packaging:
I must admit that the packaging has improved; it is more refined and pleasant. Regarding the writing on the top bottom left that says “portable digital audio decoding cable,” it leaves me a bit perplexed… it is not a cable but at most “Digital to Analogue Converter.” I do not know if they actually meant what is written.
Inside we find:
- EPZ TP35
- Type C cable
- USB adapter
- Manual
The type C cable seems to be of very good quality. The presence of the USB adapter is excellent.
Build quality/First impressions:
EPZ may have changed manufacturing regarding dongles, but the difference between the previous ones, in my opinion, is noticeable. The EPZ TP35 is remarkably refined in design and quality. It vaguely reminds me of the Moondrop Dawn Pro in size with the heart of the Simgot DEW4X inside. In a certain way, I see it as the definitive model of CS43198 since, at the moment, it should be the cheapest and, at the same time, the most complete.
The body of the dongle is all CNC-machined metal with several details that make it slightly more complex than others. On the front, we have a window that allows you to see the two cirrus chips while also providing excellent visibility for the very bright LED. In the back, we have a rounded corner that adds class to the TP35. On the output side, we have the standard 3.5mm and 4.4mm outputs. Then we have the volume balancer with excellent feedback. The EPZ TP35 seems to all intents and purposes to be a very good-quality dongle at a very fair price.
I think my photos will give you a better idea.
Power:
The CS43198 chip has already proven in several models to be an excellent chip, especially if we find two; there is no problem as long as it is not too particular for IEMs and headphones. By pressing Volume + and Volume – at the same time, we can change the gain.
I will not give you a precise list of what it can drive precisely but we are at the same level as an iBasso DC04 Pro or a DEW4X. I do not think you will have any kind of problem with over 90% of the IEMs on the market.
The EPZ TP35 is rated at approximately 65 mw per 32 ohms on single-ended and 150 mw per 32 ohms with 4.4 balanced.
However, if you have gears with low sensitivity and high impedances, then something more powerful will be necessary.
The volume is independent and allows for very fine adjustment via the volume of the device and the PC, Mac, or smartphone to which it is connected.
Tricky digital filters:
I want to point out that they are present but it is not very clear how to switch from one to the other. You have to hold down the two buttons for 3 seconds and you actually enter a mode but it is not at all clear which filter you are in. Obviously, by ear, the differences are so minimal that you cannot recognize them by ear. I honestly never use this function.
Sound Signature:
The CS43198 Chipset has already proven, together with the latest CS43131, to have a more neutral and analytical sound signature. The final sound quality has a representation more suitable for the audiophile who seeks a reproduction more faithful to the original file. Lately, Cirrus Logic all sound very similar, even going from brand to brand, except for some that have some colorations due to the brand that are reflected in the form of sound signature in what you hear in the headphones. Personally, I find the EPZ TP35 very valid even in terms of battery consumption, which is minimal. I believe it is calibrated to contain consumption to allow use even on iPhones, which usually have an output not as capable as on Android. They have created a very versatile dongle at a price of 59 USD.
Fast Comparison:
Honestly, the sound is very similar to the EPZ TP50 and the Simgot DEW4X, which in turn resembled the famous iBasso DC04 Pro; there are no big hearing differences switching from one to the other. This is a very positive thing because, based on your budget, you can also choose the cheapest one without sacrificing quality.
Who do I recommend this DAC to?
Considering that this EPZ TP35 is a great dongle if by chance you are new to the hobby and are approaching the need for your first dongle, this is without a doubt a great choice. There is also the Fosi DS2 with more power but at least in my model I sometimes have some problems on OSX so in terms of stability, I undoubtedly prefer the TP35, which even if it is less powerful for the IEMs in my possession is more than enough. Most likely, the new batches of Fosi DS2 are perfect. It could also be a small incompatibility or bug on my system. Surely the TP35 has a build quality that embarrasses several more expensive devices; that window that shows the chipset is extremely beautiful. The format of these dongles is more compact and also much more comfortable and lighter than the full-size models.
Nothing new but certainly an excellent product.
8.8/10
Pros:
- Great CNC Build Quality
- Small Shell + Chipset Window
- Dual CS43198
- Neutral/slightly bright: Analytical sound
- Volume buttons with independent volume
- Bright LED
- Runs with little power drown
- Good quality type C cable
- 59 USD
Cons:
- No PEQ
- No App
- It could be too analytical for someone (not in my opinion)
- Tricky Digital filters
- Not the most powerful
