EPZ TP35

EPZ TP35 Review​

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EPZ TP35 Review​

Intro​

Hello, this review and feature covers the EPZ TP35 from the audio brand EPZ Audio. The TP35 is the latest dongle dac in EPZ’s lineup and sits right between the EPZ TP30 and EPZ TP50 as far as price is concerned. Ya know, dongle dacs have really come a long way. At one point they were barely a thought within the community, and over the course of a couple years dongle dacs have turned into a serious piece of the audiophile repertoire. It’s really quite awesome to see just how nice these dongle dacs have gotten. Just like you, I’m constantly searching for the piece of gear which will take my listening sessions to audio nirvana. However, I’m not made of money, and I’ve got good reason to believe that the majority of our world also doesn’t have cash spilling out of their pockets. We are seeking out the best we can get for the money that we have. Thankfully dongle dacs provide the community with very good fidelity and usually at reasonable prices, comparatively speaking. Interestingly enough, the product I will be reviewing here comes from a brand which seems to take pride in offering price to performance iems & audio devices. Seriously, take a look at their catalog and then read some reviews, you’ll see that I’m not wrong. I have yet to listen to the TP35, but I am very pumped up to find out if it can stand next to some of its peers.

EPZ​

EPZ has really grown on me, and I find myself looking forward to reveiwing their products. Each iem or dongle dac I’ve spent time with is an easy winner in its price segment. Or at the least a very solid choice within their respective price points. I reviewed the EPZ TP20 Pro (TP20 Pro) which provides very nice and warm sound for a very cheap price ($49). Or the EPZ TP50 (TP50 Review) which may just be the best $100 dongle dac that money can buy. Obviously, that is a subjective statement, but also a very strong statement too. That said, I don’t think it’s outlandish to say. Truly a fantastic dongle dac. The same can be said of thier iems. Folks, have you heard the EPZ Q1 Pro (Q1 Pro Review)? It’s a masterclass at the $30 price point and a definite solid buy. Or the EPZ Q5 (Q5 Review), which is an absolute beast at its price. Also, the EPZ Q5 Pro (Q5 Pro Review), the EPZ G10 (G10 Review), the EPZ Star One (Star One Review), each are very well done iems in the budget space. Naturally I’m curious to see where the TP35 fits against the market at its price, and just as intriguing is how it compares against dongle dacs from EPZ’s own lineup.

Finally got a listen​

I just now listened to the TP35 for the first time after hours of burn-in and I can tell that the consumer is going to enjoy this device. I don’t see how you couldn’t. The price is very low, the design is impeccable, the Internals are top class at $55-$59 too and the sound (to me) is above its price point. If it’s okay with you all I’d like to explain why I like this device and why I decided to review and feature the TP35. I only review what I enjoy, or those devices which I believe that a large 3nough portion of the community will enjoy. Anything other than that is boring and not worth my time. So, since you are reading these words, you at least know that I like this device. This is gonna be fun. I’ll take the next three or so weeks testing this little baddie out and then proceed with the review. With that said, let’s get into this. The EPZ TP35…

Other EPZ product reviews at mobileaudiophile.com:​

–Q5 Review (iem)
–G10 Review (iem)
–Star One Review (iem)
–Q1 Pro Review (iem)
–TP50 Review (dongle dac)
–TP20 Review (dongle dac)
–TP30 Review (dongle dac)
–TP20 Pro (dongle dac)
–Q5 Pro Review (iem)

Non-Affiliated Purchasing Links: ​

–Aliexpress

Disclaimer:​

I received the EPZ TP35 from EPZ as a review sample and in exchange I will conduct a full review and feature at Mobileaudiophile.com. I have not received any payment or any other form of compensation for this review. This set is a review sample iem. EPZ has not requested to pre-read any review and doesn’t have any control over “what” or “when” anything gets published to mobileaudiophile.com. All thoughts within this review are my own, though please take note that I will always have my own biases. This is impossible to get around. I try to be as objective as my subjective self can be, but this is an opinion piece folks. Thank you to EPZ and thanks for reading.

Gear used for testing​

-Too many iems to list here

–EPZ TP20 Pro

–Simgot Dew4x

Packaging / Accessories​

Unboxing​

The EPZ TP35 arrived at my home in a very small black box with the TP35 adorned on the cover. Very simple actually. As one would and should expect. Opening the box quickly reveals a very useful card that EPZ supplies to explain all of the extremely simple functions. Under that card you’ll see the TP35 sitting nestled within a foam cutout. This is when I first noticed just how small the TP35 is. At any rate, pulling out the top layer of foam will uncover a second layer of foam with the Type-C to Type-C cable as well as a Type-C to USB-A adapter also sitting tightly in that foam. Like any source device unboxing it is usually not very enthralling, but I like the way EPZ packaged this device. All good materials, a strong cardboard used, hard, won’t crumble through shipping. Also, the foam is very rigid and tight and won’t let your device slip out. Folks, if a brand is making sure to use good materials in their packaging, how much more are they doing with the device itself. Unboxings may not seem very fun and probably none of you are reading this, but I think the packaging is an indicator to the product. EPZ does it right. Nice job EPZ!

Cable​

There isn’t a whole lot to speak of when describing the Type-C to Type-C OTG cable, but it is such an important component in the audio chain. I think the cable makes a difference. If not sonically then definitely in aesthetic. EPZ states that the cable is a 4-core Oxygen Free Copper shielded cable which equates to about 84 strands per core so, do the math, that’s 336 in total. The cable is a very nice looking brown braided cable. You can purchase the TP35 with either the Type-C to Type-C cable or a Type-C to Lightning cable (for use with IOS products) as well. I like the cable that EPZ chose as it’s not too long, very nice to look at and is made with solid materials which is not always the case. In fact, most brands look at the cable as an afterthought. Thankfully EPZ knows a thing or two about different components and how important those components are is just as important as how nice they look.

Specifications​

Core Specs​

-Dimensions: 41.7 x 21.7 x 12.1 mm

-Weight: 15 grams

-DAC Chip: Cirrus Logic CS43198 ×2

-DSD: Native DOP:128/Native:256

-PCM: Support up to 32Bit/384kHz

-Output option: Compatible with single-ended 3.5mm and balanced 4.4mm earphones

Sound Parameters​

-Frequency Response: 20Hz-40kHz

-Distortion: PO (3.5): 0.0005%, BAL (4.4): 0.0006%

-Signal-to-noise ratio: 3.5: 125dB 4.4: 130dB

-Output power: Up to 65mW+65mW SE 3.5mm / Up to 150mW+150mW BAL 4.4mm

–THD+N: >-0.0005%

–Volume Steps: 60 steps

Sound Filters:

Mode 1: Fast Roll-Off

Mode 2: Fast Roll-off Phase Compensated

Mode 3: Slow Roll-Off

Mode 4: Slow Roll-off Phase Compensated

Mode 5: NOS (non-oversampling)

–System compatibility: Windows, Mac OS, Android, IOS, Harmony OS

Audio Sample Rate Indicator:

Red: 44.1k – 48k

Green: 88.2k – 96k

Blue: 176.4k – 192k

Yellow: 352.8k – 384k

Build / Design / Internals​

Build Quality​

The EPZ TP35 is made entirely out of aluminum which obviously feels very durable in hand along with a very cool windows which shows off the internal circuitry. Now, the huge bonus of this device physically is the fact that it is very small. In length from end to end it’s only 41.7mm or 1.6 inches, it’s 21.7mm or ⅞” in width, and only 12.1mm thick, or just under a half an inch. Beyond the actual size, the TP35 weighs only 15 grams. Folks, I’m telling you this is such a fantastic quality! To be this small and portable it helps your phones usb-c port tremendously by not causing wear-n-tear over time. I can hang this little fella off my phone with zero issues. Now, it’s also shaped so nice with a flat front side which has the windows into the Internals but also a slightly inclined back side which makes a nice design language. You’ll notice the 3.5 SE and 4.4 balanced ports on one end and the USB-C port on the other end. On the side you’ll notice two buttons, one with a “+” and one with a “-” obviously indicating volume up and volume down. However, these buttons do other functions which I’ll explain later. I am very impressed at the build quality of the TP35.

Design​

I’ll keep this short and sweet, but wow do I enjoy the way this device looks. I absolutely love the circuitry easily visible through the front windows into the unit. I adore the size and the overall shape. Now, the TP35 comes in two flavors (colors) at Purchasing with a silver unit and a black unit. You can also purchase the TP35 with a type-c cable or a lightning cable. I am impressed, very cool looking device.

Internals​

Another thing I’m completely impressed about is the fact that the TP35 comes equipped with not one, but two Cirrus Logic CS43198 dac chips. For only $59 this is great. The CS43198 chip enables abilities like hi/lo gain modes, sound filters and other functions. Not to mention that this dac chip is used within some of the best dongle dacs on the market at these prices. Heck, the EPZ TP50 is (in my opinion) the best dongle dac you can buy for around $100. These chips also have inbuilt amplifiers as well which gives the TP35 plenty of driving power, but I’ll get into that further in this review.

Buttons​

Like I said, the TP35 has two buttons located in the side of the unit. The plus and minus signs obviously mean that you can volume up & down which will provide 60 volume steps in the device itself. Now, if you hold the plus button and then plug the TP35 in you can change from UAC 2.0 to UAC 1.0 for use with gaming devices like the Nintendo Switch. If you hold the minus button and then plug in the TP35 it’ll enter into forced burn-in mode which is a very cool thing to see. You can short press both the plus & mons button to change between high and low gain. If you long press both buttons for 1 second, it’ll turn on and off the display light. Lastly, if you hold both the plus & minus button for longer than 3 seconds it’ll begin to cycle through the sound filters. I gotta say, EPZ made this very easy and intuitive using only two buttons. Everything is easy to remember and easy to do. Nice work EPZ.

Features​

Sound Filters​

As I said earlier the EPZ TP35 does have the ability to change the sound profile of the TP35 by using digital sound filters. These filters don’t make a world of difference (like most any source) but it’s enough of a difference that I advise you to check them out. The TP35 has five in total. Those are “Fast Roll-Off”, “Fast Roll-Off Phase Compensated”, “Slow Roll-Off”, “Slow Roll-Off Phase Compensated”, and “NOS” or “Non-Oversampling”. I personally enjoy the NOS filter the most but that’s just me. Each of the filters only slightly alters how your music is perceived. Some tracks are easier to tell then others in my opinion. However, the sound filters won’t change the overall sound signature of the TP35. Still a nice feature to have, though I suspect (like me) you’ll probably change them once and never really feel the need to change them again. They are there though.

Power Output (Driving Power) ​

The EPZ TP35 is rated with roughly around 65mw per 32 ohms on single ended listening and it’s rated at 150mw per 32 ohms listening with 4.4 balanced. In my most honest opinion the TP35 isn’t the most powerful device on the market at these prices. However, 150mw is way more than enough for most any iem and even some full-sized headphones. I don’t actually have any headphones to prove those words, but I do have a litany of iems. Even with the harder to drive Final Audio E4000 the TP35 was well able to bring them to great fidelity and volume. I tried out this set with over a dozen planar magnetic earphones and each were easily driven. Of course, I only use high gain. I switched it to high gain once and never changed it (like every one of my dongle dacs). Really folks, 150mw is plenty for any iem usage and I don’t suspect that anyone will need much more.

Battery draw​

One other benefit to the TP35 is the fact that it does a very good job of using up very little of your phone, dap, or computer’s battery. I use primarily with my smartphone, and I honestly don’t notice any real difference in how fast the battery draws compared to listening on the same phone to Bluetooth devices. There’s no difference. I can also tell you that the TP35 is right in step with some of the better dongle dacs on the market in this regard. Which is very nice to see. In my opinion the only other dongle dacs which is close to the levels of battery draw is the Simgot Dew4x and probably the Hidizs S8 Pro Robin. Now, I have no way to prove to you that the TP35 performs well, and you’ll have to take my word for it, but I’ve tested a number of these dongle dacs and without question the TP35 is one of the better devices in this regard.

Sound Impressions​

Note: I want to preface this entire sound section of my review with a few things worth noting. First, I did in fact burn-in the TP35 for about 3 ½ days. I know that most brands say to give sources closer to 200 hours, but I was closer to around 80 hours in total, best guess. I have zero idea if this changed anything at all. Worth noting though. Also, I listen using flac or better files which are stored on my devices and rarely stream any music. I listened primarily to about five different sets when critically listening to the TP35 though in actuality I listened to a multitude of sets in total. I mostly use UAPP (USB Audio Player Pro) for my music player app, as well as Hiby Music Player.

Real quick​

Okay, finally we get to the reason why you came in the first place. However, I am going to keep this pretty simple for you as I find that source device reviews are very difficult to truly explain “how they sound”. I’ll try to be as simplistic as I can. I say that because a good source device shouldn’t really change the sound all that much. Some devices add a hint of warmth or low-end weight, and some seem to increase the highs a tad more. I know some folks say that source devices don’t change the sound, and I refute that with every fiber of my being. It’s obvious those folks haven’t really listened critically if they believe that. Of course, source devices can change how you perceive your music! Without question! By the way, forgive me if I sound somewhat pretentious here, I’m really just stating what I feel I’ve heard. Now, how much sources alter the sound is always up for debate and that will change from device-to-device, ear-to-ear, transducer-to-transducer.

How does it sound?​

As far as the TP35 is concerned, it has two CS43198 dac chips and I’ve noticed that any device using these chips usually doesn’t change much from device to device. I have quite a few of them and they all come across on the transparent side, very clean, very much neutral in tonal coloration too. Pretty uncolored actually. What I’ve noticed that the big differentiator between devices comes with transients, tightness of notes, and how black the background is, or not. I’ve noticed the spaciousness can alter between devices and the overall dynamism, note density, and even the level of transparency of the device casts a slight veil or not. Some sources are a pinch better detailed (depending on the iem), some are more vivid, while others are more analytical, textured, and technical. Some source devices offer a smoother, heavier sound as well. One device may provide a bit more crispness, edginess, and glass lined note definition, whereas another may come across more naturally organic, musical, and creamy. After countless hours listening to the TP35 with a whole range of iems I can confidently say that it is definitely a more neutral sounding device. It will not alter the actual tonality of your earphones very much, if at all. That’s a good thing.

Performs well…​

However, the TP35 does help a set like the Aful Explorer for instance come across a bit more textured, less milky, slightly more compacted notes. Don’t get me wrong, the Explorer is still smooth sounding, but more refined than when I pair it with a device like the Fiio KA3, for example. Another example comes when comparing with another CS43198 dongle, the Aful SnowyNight. I hear a hint smoother sound with it, while the TP35 offers a crisper inflection to notes. One isn’t better than the other, but they are subtly different. In my opinion, spatially the TP35 performs better than the SnowyNight which sounded a hint narrower in stage in comparison. However, just the same, there are ways the SnowyNight out duels the cheaper TP35. Obviously, the TP35 won’t outperform something like the EPZ TP50 or the Fiio KA17 in this regard (much more expensive). This should go without saying. However, it does create a wonderful canvas for my earphones to have better instrument separation, helps to create layered distinctions, and feel more open than many around its price. Like the Moondrop Dawn 4.4 which I’ve praised time and time again. The TP35 clearly comes across more unsullied, almost more sanitized, more pristine. Another is the TP20 Pro from EPZ. I find the TP35 is a direct upgrade from its sibling by sounding every bit as dynamic but also cleaner as the TP20 Pro has a bit more warmth, or slight veil in comparison. I could go on and on but in my opinion the TP35 performs admirably against the competition. Let’s take a look at each 3rd of the mix.

Bass Region​

If I were to characterize the low-end of the TP35 I would probably call it “lean-punchy”. However, that’s lean yet with decent note density. The TP35 doesn’t add extra weight or warmth to any of my earphones. For instance, the Simgot EA1000 is not all of a sudden coming across more robust and weighted down low. Instead, the EA1000 sounds very well controlled in this region attached to the TP35, with fantastic note accuracy, definition, and a rigid impact. Or the Dunu X-Gizaudio DaVinci, some say the low-end of the DaVinci is boomy, not as defined, maybe a hint too smooth in texture. I can tell you for sure that the TP35 cuts some of the extra fluff and fat from the sound. To a very slight degree, but enough to notice. While the TP20 Pro adds that extra warmth and density, the TP35 sounds a hair drier, but also more detailed in a macro sense, more contoured, and more vibrant in its presence. So, I’d say the low-end is not emphasized or pumped up, but rather it sounds palpable, sharp in its note outline, nothing fuzzy, and the TP35 isn’t wide in its low-end expression. I suppose I could’ve just said that the TP35 simply sounds clean. Another thing I should note is that the TP35 also doesn’t lessen the impact or punch rigidity on attack. I also don’t feel that any of my earphones necessarily sound as though I’m losing low-end weight. Again, the sound is uncolored (mostly), mature, refined in comparison to the competition at $59.

Midrange​

It is not the easiest thing to comfortably retell what I hear and how I feel the TP35 replays each 3rd of the mix in a way that clearly defines what this device contributes to each earphone or headphone. The one common theme is clarity and transparency. This holds true with the midrange. However, the TP35 isn’t what I’d consider forward in its midrange approach. The spatiality of the sound field is almost on equal footing with the bass and the treble. Like I wouldn’t say the Letshuoer Cadenza 4 all of a sudden comes across even more mid-forward and I wouldn’t say the TP35 makes them more of a “vocal-centric” set. I would say that the TP35 takes some of that smoothness and provides a hair more edge to the sound, perhaps crispier than with the TP35’s peers. Now, having a completely black background does help a lot. It’s nice to hear how evidently pellucid or sharply defined the TP35 is with the Cadenza 4 attached. Not that it needs the help either because the Cadenza 4 is very clean. Also, the TP35 doesn’t broaden the note presence and doesn’t sound as though it’s adding weight. Again, this device has a leaner, dryer approach, more analytical and barefaced. That said, this cleanliness doesn’t create undue edginess, or coarseness. Instead, it’s smooth in a sense. That’s smooth like glass rather than smooth like velvet. If that makes sense. Smooth in the way it renders note outlines with solid cadence, clean spatial cues, clean background without introducing any veil, and isn’t even hinting at being warm, pillowy, or soft.

Mids cont…​

The TP35 will never hurt your earphones in the details department but will likely improve them. Transients will tighten, instrument separation will sound more defined, and clear layers of depth will be more evident compared to similarly priced dongle dacs. Please understand that I haven’t heard every dongle dac in this price point and I’m just trying to disclose how I hear this set through the lens of my understanding. This is where I’d advise to “take my words with a grain of salt”. Having said that little disclaimer, I also have heard many, and I have a pretty good idea of how the TP35 stacks up and what to expect. In truth, I feel the TP35 is great. It won’t add glare, won’t add any spiciness, it won’t add shoutiness to your earphones’ midrange, and they won’t sound as though they are more knife-edged or abrasive than they usually are. Unless you are coming from a warmer or more colored source. Basically, the TP35 will provide a transparent and blank canvas for your earphones to show their true colors while also helping to contour most notes really well. Depending on what other source you are coming from.

Treble Region​

The treble is very much similar to the rest of the mix in that I hear a very neutral and not overly bright sound that also seems to promote solid extension to the upper treble coming through my earphones. I say that because the Kiwi Ears KE4 most certainly sounds a hair more uplifted up top. Not because it sounds brighter either. It’s that the treble runs a more linear path with the bass and mids while also sounding very clean and kempt. Also, this is not to some great and huge degree but enough to notice. This is another area where details come through nicely depending on your earohones/headphones. Add to that instrument separation, treble bite and crispness in this region. All things considered, the TP35 presents a tight treble region and it’s a device which won’t roll-off the treble output of your earphones. If anything, the treble will sound more resolute, maybe a hair dry while leaning analytical in its approach.

Technicalities​

Beginning with detail retrieval, I think that if you are listening with a set which is detail oriented, then they will remain detail oriented. If you have a warm, smooth, rich sounding set then the TP35 won’t all of a sudden turn them into detail monsters, but it will clean up the note edges, thin the sound a hair and promote a cleaner and tighter note delivery across the board. Instrument separation follows the same exact logic. What that means is that the TP35 does a fine job at distinguishing fine lines of separation between elements within an imaginary stage. This is all dependent on the earphones you choose, however. I do feel that the sound field is about average in width. Some sets will sound more open (by a degree) while others will come across less vast then with other source devices. It really all depends on what you are used to listening with as your source. The TP35 does have an airy feel to the sound but if you are comparing to its big brother the EPZ TP50 then the TP35 will sound less wide, less deep, less holographic in its stage. Of course, the TP50 is about twice the price too. If you are coming from its less expensive sibling, the EPZ TP20 Pro then you may notice fairly quickly that the TP35 feels vaster, better separated, more open sounding and cleaned up, tighter, less velvet smooth or buttery and more crisp, clinical, and precise too. Honestly, the TP35 from EPZ certainly leans to the side of analytical rather than musical.

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Comparisons​

EPZ TP20 Pro ($49)​

The EPZ TP20 Pro (TP20 Pro Review) is a very well-done device for the price and one that I constantly am telling folks to consider if they only have $50 to spend on a source. Truly a very well-done source which uses dual CS43131 dac chips. I gotta tell you, having dual dacs and a nicely powerful 171 mW max output is nice to see. Really a great device at the price.

Differences​

Beginning with the build, folks, the TP35 is a no contest winner here. It isn’t even close. The TP35 is much smaller, lighter, and less bulbous to carry around, let alone hang off of your phone. Next, the design (if this matters to you) is much better on the newer TP35. I mean, the transparent housing just nails it. Not to say the TP20 Pro is a bad looking device either. The TP35 is just gorgeous. The TP35 has updated dual CS43198 dac chips to the older (still nice) CS43131 dual chips on the TP20 Pro. Now, the TP20 Pro does have a hair more output power than the TP35 at 171mw to 150mw respectively, but I don’t see this as a real difference per se. Both power to the same levels in real world listening. Both devices have nice cables, but I do like the cable with the newer device better. It’s thicker, more robust whereas the TP20 Pro’s cable is fairly limp. Still nice but less structurally sound. Both devices have gain modes, sound filters and each have volume buttons. Lastly, the TP20 Pro is about $10 less expensive. Both are very well priced with high price to performance.

Sound Differences ​

The 1st and most obvious difference with the sound would be the tonal color of these devices. The TP20 Pro is notably warmer, smoother, and less precision focused on note delivery. The TP35 has a cleaner sound, blacker background, tighter transients. You could say the TP35 is more analytical to the TP20 Pro’s more musical presentation. I like the TP35 with warmer sets or iems that aren’t already clinical in their approach. With the TP20 Pro I like to use slightly cooler iems, brighter iems. Now, the bass region on the TP20 Pro offers a bit more oomph, more emphasis. The TP35 is tighter with a more well defined low-end. The midrange and treble in the TP35 promote better details, better separation, more airy, vaster in stage, crisper, more polished using the newer dac chips. Honestly, both are fine devices but the TP35 is a certain upgrade for me. Unless of course you enjoy a warmer and smoother presentation.

Final thoughts on this comparison​

Really, I think these two come down to your preference. I would definitely think of these two as a preference battle situation. You may have warmer or cooler iems which may persuade you to either device. That said, I definitely feel that these two devices are two of the better source devices that money can buy around this price point. However, if it is my money I would definitely pick up the TP35. Friends, it is a better device almost across the board.

Simgot Dew4x ($79)​

The next comparison would be with the Simgot Dew4x (Dew4x Review). There are actually quite a few similarities between the TP35 and the Dew4x. For instance, both have dual CS43198 dac chips, both are very small in stature, light, easy to use. Both have 150mW max output. I chose the Dew4x because it is one of my favorite dongle dacs at its price and a solid performer under $100. Really it’s a good benchmark device for comparison being that the TP35 is roughly $20 less in price.

Differences​

Well, again, the TP35 costs $59 to the $79 Dew4x. Both devices are very small in size but the TP35 has e Dew4x beat as it’s a bit smaller in almost all ways (besides length) which also helps the TP35 to be a bit lighter. To be exact, the Dew4x weighs right around 24 grams (which is very light) while the TP35 weighs a very light 15 grams. Both devices are also built very well as both are made almost entirely of alloy materials. I definitely like the design of the TP35 much better. While I enjoy the understated and simple look of the Dew4x, I don’t think it holds a candle to the TP35. Now, both devices have volume buttons, both have gain modes, both have UAC1.0 as well as UAC2.0. However, the TP35 has the sound filters whereas the Dew4x does not. I think that is a pretty large omission being that it isn’t much to add sound filters to the Dew4x’s repertoire. Each set has nicely placed buttons which work seamlessly as well. Both devices have the exact same power output of 65-70mw 3.5 single ended and 150mw balanced so they both offer the exact same as far as driving power is concerned.

Sound Differences ​

I feel that the differences sonically between the Simgot Dew4x and the EPZ TP35 are not as drastic as the last comparison. Both devices operate using the same dac chips, but that doesn’t mean they sound exactly the same. In fact, I find the Dew4x to be closer to warm/neutral whereas the TP35 is almost dead neutral in tonal color. No doubt the Dew4x helps to create a slightly smoother rendition of my music while the TP35 is certainly crisp and precise over smooth. Also, the TP35 has a hint less emphasis down low but it isn’t by much at all. The difference is not going to be night and day here. The midrange of the Dew4x also has a shade of warmth and a slightly lusher note weight. However, the TP35 has the better details and has a more open feel. Transients seem to be a hair quicker in the TP35 as well. That said, both devices are pretty well transparent, though on the TP35 I find it more apparent that it has the cleaner and clearer midrange. The treble on the Dew4x doesn’t quite have the same edge to it as the TP35 does. It’s less energetic in the treble and doesn’t have quite the extension. One could say the Dew4x is probably the device with more organic timbre and a hint more musical too. Technically it certainly sounds as though the TP35 resolves subtleties a bit better with a more balanced sound across the mix. However, don’t let that dissuade you about the Dew4x because it isn’t far behind.

Final thoughts on this comparison ​

Both devices are quite good for their prices. I know, I realize the Dew4x is more expensive. However, you are also getting a richer note body, smoother by a small margin, more musically inclined. The TP35 is simply more dead neutral with what I perceive as the snapper sound of the two…I do feel the TP35 is the better purchase when considering how much it costs to own it, but both are fine devices, and they are easily good buys.

Is it worth the asking price​

Now we get to the section where I ask myself whether the EPZ TP35 is even worth the money it costs to own it. I can tell you without blinking an eye that it is worth every penny of the $59 that EPZ is asking. Truthfully, I’m quite surprised that it only costs that much. You can find the Moondrop Dawn 4.4 for the same price and it doesn’t have any buttons and only a 4.4 port. I’m telling you right now it is a ridiculous price for this type of fidelity and craftsmanship. 100%, of course it’s worth the money. I wonder why EPZ priced it as low as they did?! They could’ve gone to $79 for this device and people would still feel that they got an awesome dongle dac.

The Why…​

Because the build is awesome. Made entirely out of aluminum and easily one of the most durable and well-built dongle dacs that are in the market within the price point. It’s super light, probably one of the lightest dongle dacs out there with a 4.4 balanced connection. Also, look at this device. C’mon, it is absolutely striking. The innards are full on display and look so cool. It’s just a very dope looking and trendy design language. Pat the people on the back who designed this device. The TP35 is loaded with all the features that most +$80 dongle dacs are loaded with. Working and easy to understand buttons, five sound filters, easy to use gain modes, UAC modes, and a very high-res sample rate capability.

All about the sound… obviously​

However, it’s most certainly the sound which completes the argument here for why the TP35 is worth your and my money ($59) to own it. I suppose its greatest strength is that the TP35 is 100% transparent and almost completely uncolored. Trust me I searched for it, strained to hear coloring and still I can’t really find anything resembling coloration. What the TP35 really does well is that it’ll improve your earphones/headphones technical abilities in comparison with other devices that are on the market. However, coupled with that is the fact that the TP35 also won’t make any set worse in these disciplines. The most it will do is improve your iems/headphones almost across the board technically. It’s clean, tight, black background, glass-lined notes, marginally dynamic, and energetic with a flat signature which somehow doesn’t “feel” flat. It’s an impressive sounding unit folks. In my estimation it’s easily one the best dongle dac source devices that your money can buy under $75. Really, it’s for the whole package as there are so many upsides to the TP35. Just a wonderful device that I am very glad to own. Yes, it’s worth the $59 that EPZ is asking.

Final comments on the EPZ TP35 before I conclude​

Idon’t know what I’d add in here that I haven’t outlined in this review, but somehow, I feel I haven’t gotten my thoughts across as well as I probably should have. Also, I want to make it clear that the TP35 from EPZ is undoubtedly a very good purchase and one that I don’t think anyone should look past if you only have $60 to spend on a device. I really mean this folks. The only thing which may give folks some pause is that the TP35 isn’t going to add emphasis down low or up top. Not really anyways. This is a device which is going to show you exactly what your iem was created to sound like to the extent that EPZ was able for the cost of $59. As a source should do. Of course, there’re always going to be people who don’t want this kind of transparency. Of course. Not everyone wants to spend their money on a device which doesn’t give that extra little boost to the sub-bass, or which doesn’t have that mid-centric forward midrange, more brilliant treble etc. Not everyone wants a flatter/cleaner sound. Yet in the scope of all of the dongle dacs which have entered the market since the Dongle Madness kicked off four years ago… I’d say with complete assurance that the TP35 is a bona-fide stud at $59 and easily one of the best you can buy at this price. Basically, the EPZ TP35 is definitely a REC from me.

Conclusion​

To conclude my full written review of the EPZ TP35 I must first thank the good folks over at EPZ for providing the TP35 in exchange for a review. I want to say something here, before I appreciate further. You guys don’t know, but I have been in talks with certain folks from this brand and one of the lone requirements that they gave me was to be brutally honest. This is not a joke; I could share a screenshot of the conversation. I was told honesty makes them better. Of course, they basically sold me right then and there which probably sparked my bias even more. Lol. Kidding aside, I really respect that. They believe in their products to such a degree that they don’t hold the reviewer at fault for keeping their integrity. Now, the TP35 doesn’t really have many faults. At least not that are glaring. So, it made this review easy on me. However, I am so impressed with EPZ and what they’ve put to market over the last few years.

Thank you!​

I also thank you for clicking the link to this review. I hope it helps you. In fact, more than anything I hope this review helps. My vision is that you get your device, and it meets all of your needs which is soon followed by musical joy. After all, that’s what all of this is about. You know that I know that, but sometimes this hobby turns into something else. When it comes down to it, this hobby is about the best way to get music into your ears for the least amount of money. I truly hope this review helps you in your journey to finding that. So, thank you, it means a lot.

Other perspectives​

It wouldn’t be a review from Chris Love if I didn’t plead with you all to check out other thoughts, other than mine. Folks, each and every reviewer on planet earth is different. No two of us are perfectly alike. We may have different hearing abilities, we may like different styles of music, have different gear and not everyone of us has had the same experience within the hobby. Please look further into other thoughts and don’t simply read my review and hit “buy now” unless you know me and trust my opinions. It is true that $59 is a lot of money for many people around the globe. I don’t want to steer any of you wrong and I put a lot of pressure on myself to get my reviews right, to the extent that I am able. I say what I hear and hear what I say and nothing more. This I can promise. However, what I hear, the next guy may feel polar opposite about and guess what… both of us are correct. At any rate, it would be wise to check out other thoughts. Beyond this, I think I’m done. Take good care and stay as safe as possible, and always… God Bless!

Introduction

EPZ is certainly liking dongles. After its success with the TP50, the Shenzen Jiuzhou Electronics Co. brand wanted to carve out a niche in the sub-$60 dongle segment with a Cirrus Logic CS43198 dual DAC. It is not new to this segment, but now it is doing so with the large DAC that is performing so well in the market. The TP35 is a small dongle constructed of CNC aluminium alloy with a sandblasted anodised surface. It has a clear acrylic window that allows you to see the actual circuitry inside. It weighs only 15g. Supports 384 kHz/32-bit PCM and DSD256 high-definition audio formats. It has a signal-to-noise ratio of 130dB and a distortion rate of 0.0005% (THD+N). It comes with a high-purity oxygen-free copper shielded cable that can reduce interference and provide transparency and sound resolution. It includes USB-C to USB standard and Lightning interface is optional for Apple devices. It has two 3.5mm and 4.4mm BAL audio outputs, two-button volume control, low/high gain, five digital filters and power up to 150mW at 32 Ω. Last but not least, it supports USB UAC1.0 Game Mode. Let's take a look at what this new little dongle from EPZ has to offer.



Specifications

• Dac used: DUAL CS43198.
• Formats: PCM: 32Bit/384KHZ DSD: Dop128/Native256.
• Input connector: USB Type-C.
• Body material: Aluminium alloy sandblasted grey/black oxidation.
• Cable: High purity oxygen-free copper shielded wire.
• Audio Output: 3.5mm, 4.4mm.
• Output voltage: SE 3.5mm 1VRMS Low Gain/2VRMS High Gain. BAL 4.4mm 2VRMS Low Gain/4VRMS High Gain.
• Output power: SE: 65mW (32Ω), 75mW (16Ω). BAL: 150mW (32Ω), 100mW (16Ω). THD+N≤1%.
• SNR: ≤125dB (SE 3.5mm). ≤130dB (BAL 4.4mm).
• THD+N: ≤0.0005%.
• Background noise: 1µVRMS.
• Dimensions: 43.1x21.7x12.1mm.
• Cable: 132mm.
• Weight: 15g.
• Volume steps: 60.

Packaging

The EPZ TP35 comes in a little black square box with dimensions 101x101x41mm. On the front side you can see a portion of the dongle protruding diagonally from the bottom right corner. In its opposite corner is the brand name in blue letters. The model name is in the lower left corner and, in the upper right corner, the formats it can play are listed. On the back side are the multilingual specifications, brand details and icons indicating the certifications it complies with. When you open the box, the dongle is inside a dense black foam base. The rest of the accessories are in a second layer, also inside a foam mould. In summary, the full contents are as follows:

• EPZ TP35 dongle.
• Warranty certificate card.
• Instruction card.
• USB Type-C to Type-C male cable.
• USB Type-C female to Type-A male adapter.

Compact packaging, good USB cable and the inclusion of a quick guide and USB Type-A adapter is appreciated.



Construction and Design

The dongle is characterised by its small size, its textured aluminium chassis and its transparent window that allows you to see the internal circuitry. Inside is a small LED indicator. It has two buttons to control volume and other functions. The body is rounded on the side and on the top face. On the lower face there is a small chamfer containing the brand name in grey letters. On this same face, but on the opposite corner, the supported formats are described. The transparent window has a diagonal in the middle of the piece and, next to its short side, the name of the model and the DAC used are written. The audio outputs are on the other side of the window, while the USB input is next to it. The 4.4mm output is gold-plated, while the 3.5mm output is not, as it is made of black plastic. There is a Philips screw between the two outputs. From the acrylic window you can see the two CS43198 DACs.
The USB cable consists of two USB Type-C plugs with a rounded metal sleeve. The cable consists of four intertwined strands shielded with high-purity oxygen-free copper wires.
I find the design nicer and sleeker than the TP50 and it is significantly smaller. Of course, it has no display and no third button. However, as a dongle for everyday use and for taking on the road, I find it to be a very good size and weight.



Connectivity

The EPZ TP35 is compatible with Apple mobile phones, Mac tablets and other IOS systems. It is also compatible with Android and Windows systems. From Windows 10 onwards no drivers are required. Again, ASIO drivers are still not available.



Operativity

A picture and a video are worth a thousand words. But it is clear that limiting all functions to the combination of just two buttons is not very easy.



https://hiendportable.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/TP35.mp4?_=1

Volume+

• Short press: volume goes up one step.
• Press for 1 second: volume increases continuously.
• Press while powering on: device enters UAC1.0 mode.

Volume-

• Short press: volume goes down one step.
• Press for 1 second: volume goes down continuously.
• Press while powering on: device enters forced burning mode.

Both keys pressed at the same time

• Short press: change gain mode
• Press and hold for 1 second: switch LED on or off.
• Press and hold for 3 seconds: change sound filter.

Measures

EPZ has been very specific in the power and voltage output:
Output Voltage: SE 3.5mm 1VRMS Low Gain/2VRMS High Gain. BAL 4.4mm 2VRMS Low Gain/4VRMS High Gain.
Output power: SE: 65mW (32Ω), 75mW (16Ω). BAL: 150mW (32Ω), 100mW (16Ω). THD+N≤1%.
We will see if this holds true.
On the other hand, the output impedances are very low, clearly below 1Ω.



SE No load

At low gain with no load it almost reaches 1VRMS. At high gain it is also very close to 2VRMS.





SE 15Ω

Almost 1VRMS for 15Ω, which is 65mW power. 75mW is specified for 16Ω, which would be 1.1VRMS. It doesn't have much left.



SE 33Ω

1.4VRMS for 33Ω. That's 60mW. It specifies 65mW for 32Ω, which would be 1.44VRMS. You could say it meets it.



SE 100Ω

1.8VRMS for 100Ω. I expected it to reach 2VRMS. 32mW.



BAL No load

As specified 2VRMS for low gain and 4VRMS for high gain.




BAL 15Ω

1,245VRMS for 15Ω which is 100mW. Nails the specs. 83mA of current, close to the mythical 90mA.



BAL 33Ω

2VRMS for 33Ω, which is 120mW. 150mW is specified, which would be 2.19VRMS. That's a bit far off. The amount of current could be enough, as has been demonstrated with 15Ω. But in electronics power, the interpolation of results does not always hold true.



BAL 100Ω

3.178VRM for 100Ω. This is far from 4V, which means that this dongle would not be the most suitable for medium impedance headphones. The power is 100mW.



Frequency Response

The frequency response is completely flat from 20Hz to 20kHz. It loses 0.5dB at 5Hz and just over 1dB at 40kHz. Quite good.



Sound

After many years of using the CS43131 DAC, the era of the CS43198 is dawning, and we are already seeing much cheaper configurations, such as this new TP35 dongle, which is half the price of its big brother, the TP50, and uses the same dual configuration with that CS43198. The difference between the two is, among other things, that the TP50 has two RT6863, a high quality audiophile operational amplifier designed for ESS Sabre ADC/DAC or other chips. While the CS43198 is not a direct evolution of the CS43131, but of the CS4399, the TP35 is not connected to any operational amplifier. And while the CS43198's values are excellent, the first difference you notice when comparing the two products is that scene, clarity, openness, volume, spaciousness, separation and transparency are superior in the TP50. On the other hand, I find that the two share a common profile. Although the TP50 is specified as sounding analytical, controlled and cooler than the rest, I find it to be a new degree of purity and neutrality. The same is true of the TP35, but it's not quite as splendid. Another thing that is noticeable is that the TP35 only has 60 volume steps and the TP50 has 100, and although both have two gain modes, the precise power setting on the TP50 also gives it a higher degree of control.
The TP35's low end is quite precise and controlled, with a good dose of volume and a dry, technical texture. Compared to the TP50, the TP35's bass sounds tighter and punchier. In the TP50's bass there is more space, distance and separation, a little more depth, volume and a more volatile feel. In the very low frequency pure tone test, the response of both dongles is virtually the same. Only a subtle improvement in sensory control can be discerned in the TP50. In summary, one could say that the bass sound of the TP35s is somewhat more direct and compact.
In the mid-range, the male vocals seem to be more forward and fuller on the TP50, while on the TP35 they are more equal to the instrumentation. The level of cleanliness is very high on both dongles, but the TP50 offers a more dynamic and open feel, as well as a slightly greater ability to isolate voices and instruments. The instrumentation seems to be somewhat more blended and integrated with the vocals on the TP35, which creates a slightly calmer, less expressive or vivid sounding feel. This is especially noticeable in the treble. The high end of the TP50 is more sparkling and expressive. It is here that the sense of transparency and expansion is most noticeable, with a freer, finer, more delicate and expressive treble. The TP35's treble is a little sharper, subtly less smooth and also a little tighter. I don't notice any difference in extension between the dongles.
Going back to the beginning, the TP50's soundstage is more expansive and gaseous. The TP35 sounds more direct, earthier and somewhat less cold, more neutral. The level of detail is very similar, but the greater distance between elements and the feeling of more space make the background seem darker in the TP50 and, therefore, the micro-detail is perceived with more thoroughness and evidence, even if the distance is not so great.
The TP50's sound, being more open and less compressed than the TP35, is sweeter and more melodious, even if it is somewhat cooler. The TP35 can sound more explicit, but less musical and subtly more aggressive. It is in these more extreme conditions that the difference in the level of refinement in favour of the TP50 is noticeable.
Finally, it should be noted that the TP35 has 5 filters. Again, to find the differences between them you will have to tune your ear very carefully, especially in the high frequencies.



Conclusion

EPZ has proven that very high quality sound can be offered at a very low price. The EPZ TP35 is small, has the best Dual DAC CS43198, volume control, two gain modes, 5 filters and of course dual 3.5mm and 4.4mm audio outputs. All this in a very compact design, with an acrylic window showing the internal circuitry and an LED indicator. The TP35 is half the price of the TP50, but its sound is not half as good as its big brother. It is only one step below it. It's true that it doesn't have a display, nor a third button, nor is it as powerful. But for the price, it is really very difficult to find competition. In fact, I wish many fans could do a blind test between the two dongles to see that there is not that much difference between them. That is certainly great news for the EPZ TP35.



Earphones Used During Analysis

• Kefine Klean.
• Kiwi Ears Quintet.
• Kiwi Ears KE4.
• LetShuoer S12 2024.
• LetShuoer Cadenza 4.
• Simgot SuperMix 4.
• NiceHCK Himalaya.

Purchase Link



You can read the full review in Spanish here

Disclaimer: - I am a bass head and prefer a wide sound with natural timbre, excellent imaging and thumpy mid-bass with moderate decay and clinical precision regarding instrument separation. I am highly averse to bright-sounding transducers and sibilance in my music.



EPZ TC35 was sent to me by Audio Geek India as part of the Audio Geek - EPZ TP35 and Q5Pro tour. I thank Audio Geek India & EPZ for this opportunity to listen and review both these devices. My views aren’t influenced either by Audio Geek/EPZ in any way.





Introduction: The first iem that I plugged into this dongle was V3 and I was expecting it to fail to drive the V3. It didn’t. on the contrary, it drove them pretty well.

Housing Dual CS43198(I like this DAC). Supports 384kHz/32bit PCM & DSD256.

It’s pretty small and can be left hanging with your phone. There isn’t enough weight to detach the dongle from your device.

Offers both balanced and unbalanced outputs with 4.4mm and 3.5mm ports, respectively.

Getting everything to work was easy, except I couldn’t get all the filters to work. I was able to choose between two filters and chose the one in which I felt the low end was better.



This instruction card in the box was helpful. I would read it again to get the hang of it. Overall, the rest of the functionality is quite intuitive.









Lows: Not the meatiest of the low ends but textured, has reasonable slam and focuses on not trampling on the mids. Pairing it with bass head iems is the way to go I believe. Despite my preference for mid-bass I still enjoyed this dongle for reasons I shall discuss further.



Mids: From the two products I have tried from EPZ I have a feeling that they value showcasing mids in the music and this one is no exception. It takes the mids forward and is an amazing treatment for V-shaped iems. People who want to calm the low and high end down a bit and bring the vocals a bit forward shall like it, IMO. Mids, are natural, clear and feel dynamic. There is enough air around them for them to be heard in total isolation along with the music mix.

Highs: I was very pleased that it doesn’t exaggerate the treble in any way. Just lets you listen to what has been recorded and I will say it leans towards the smoother side ever so slightly. No harshness or sibilance ever got noticed by me while using the TC35.

Technicalities: I believe this is the magic of CS 43198 that makes it so complete. With exceptional drivability, it never shies away from depicting busy tracks. Reasonably wide soundstage, a dark background from which sound cues emerge and fade away effortlessly.






Impressions with:

Rhapsodio V3 Supreme: This is a top-tier pairing for me. It pulls the vocals forward resulting in a balanced presentation from the V3. Technicalities take a hit but that is compared to high-end DAPs/DACs. The drivability is excellent and the change it imparts to the tonality makes me want to listen to this combination more than required.

V3 gains substantially from additional power and TC35 to my surprise does a great job of bringing out a much more nuanced presentation from the V3. It's like a party in the head kind of signature where the highs and lows get trimmed a bit but V3 already has enormous detail which in this amalgamation comes across as pretty musical sounding.



Thieaudio Monarch MK3: Compared to my ibasso dx320 with amp11mk2s the difference is not night and day when I plus the MK3 to TC35. I find enough drivability with the dongle and prefer the mid-bass treatment of TC35 over ibasso dx320. TC35 brings the vocals and mid bass forward for me. The soundstage shrinks ever so slightly but trims the highs for me which I fancy quite a bit. The smoothening out of the highs enables me to listen at higher volume and I feel the mid bass and vocals more vividly with the TC35.



Q5 pro: The mid-bass slam feels great on this pairing. Vocals have an authoritative reverb going on for them. There are just enough details in the highs for me to appreciate them but not in quantities that I would find sibilant or harsh. I find this pairing punches much higher than its price point.



Conclusion: nothing but 5 stars for my kid. It's amazing value for money and such a complete product that gets the job done. The portability aspect came across as very useful as I would let the DAC roll in my pocket and use the phone whenever desired, without worrying that it would disengage.

Around 55 USD I don’t know how EPZ managed to put so much value in this dongle. Two thumbs up.