Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
K9 Process
reviews
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Headphone Output Power (300Ω): 1100mW (balanced)
- Headphone Output Power (32Ω): 2100mW (balanced)
- DAC Chip: Dual ES9038PRO
- Bluetooth Chip: QCC5124
- Inputs: USB Type-C, RCA, XLR, 4.4mm balanced, Coaxial, Optical, Bluetooth
- Outputs: XLR 4-pin, 4.4mm balanced, 6.35mm single-ended (headphone), RCA SE out, XLR balanced out
- Bluetooth Codecs: AAC/SBC/aptX/aptX LL/aptX HD/LDAC/aptX Adaptive
Description
The K9 Pro ESS is a desktop DAC and amplifier featuring dual ES9038PRO DAC chips, THX AAA 788+ technology, app control, dual femtosecond clocks, QCC5124 Bluetooth chip, and a truly balanced design. It supports LDAC/aptX Adaptive/aptX HD and uses a dual voltage linear transformer.
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- FIIO combines Bluetooth capability, high power output, and a desktop mode in their portable DAC/amp designs.
- They offer a high degree of user customization through their control app, allowing for adjustments such as parametric EQ and device behaviors.
Select products
Select product comparisons
K7
- Positioning: An all-in-one balanced desktop DAC and headphone amplifier designed for affordability and compact convenience.
- Description: Uses THX AAA 788+ amplifier technology and a six-stage audio circuit to provide clean, balanced sound suitable for everyday listening in small room setups. Compared to the other models, its feature set is streamlined without some of the advanced digital processing and power management found in the higher-end products.
K9AKM
- Positioning: A desktop DAC and headphone amplifier built around AKM DAC chips to offer enhanced audio clarity at a moderate price point.
- Description: Focuses on a refined AKM-based design that delivers lower distortion and improved detail over the entry-level K7 while keeping the design compact and easy to use. In comparison with more premium models, it strikes a balance between performance and cost, offering better resolution.
K19
- Positioning: A high-power DAC and headphone amplifier aimed at users who need robust output for driving demanding headphones.
- Description: Incorporates advanced circuitry and a design optimized for high-current performance to maintain clear and natural sound even at louder volumes. Relative to the K7 and K9AKM, the K19 adds more power and precise output control while being less digitally complex than the top-tier models.
K11R2R
- Positioning: A desktop DAC and headphone amplifier that employs a fully differential 24-bit R2R resistor ladder for superior resolution and detail.
- Description: Offers dual NOS and OS modes along with a high-quality electronic volume control to enhance dynamic range and clarity. Compared to the more basic K7 and K9AKM, its advanced resistor architecture and multi-stage power supply deliver lower noise and customizable gain settings.
K17
- Positioning: A high-end desktop DAC and headphone amplifier designed for uncompromising performance and extensive functionality.
- Description: Features a fully discrete amplifier circuit with advanced DSP, dual AK4499 DAC chips, and separate analog/digital circuitry to ensure smooth, natural sound with high output power. In contrast to other products in the lineup, the K17 provides top-tier build quality, multiple protection systems, and an extensive set of digital processing features.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
31
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
226
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
69
Founding Year
2007
Our take on the brand
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
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Used
FIIO
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What if you spend more?
FIIO
K19
1429
1429
/
17
Reviews
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
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Product Strengths
- Device is versatile, offering many functions like DAC, headphone amp, DSP, preamp, and digital-to-digital converter
- The DAC implementation is excellent, rivaling standalone DACs costing almost as much
- Amplifier stage is powerful, dynamic, and highly resolving, capable of driving both low and high impedance headphones
- Offers a powerful, dedicated digital signal processing (DSP) chip, enabling a 31-band parametric equalizer and dynamic range control (compression, enhancement, limiting)
- Sounds neutral with impressive clarity, resolution, and dynamism, adapting well to various IEMs and headphones, faithfully reproducing their sound signatures without adding coloration
Product Considerations
- Some design elements feel undercooked, leading to a clumsy and confusing user experience
- Menu navigation uses backwards-turning knobs, which can be unintuitive
- There are five gain settings, which may be more than necessary and lead to confusion
- The digital outputs do not benefit from the DSP
- Soundstage width could be better when compared to similar devices in the same price range
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Matrix Audio J2S: It holds its own in resolution and detail, but the J2S provides more layering and depth in the soundstage, though it offers a crisper sound character
- Vs FiiO K9 Pro ESS/AKM: Offers significantly higher output power
- Vs Chord Hugo 2: Soundstage width is slightly lacking
- Vs Matrix Audio X26: It can tackle some of the higher-priced DACs when it comes to resolution
Takeaway: The FiiO K19 is a versatile device with many features and excellent sound quality, providing a powerful and precise listening experience. It is a great desktop solution that looks fantastic and is worth considering if you want an all-in-one device.
Video review
Our take on the brand
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Product Page
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FIIO
R9
1649
1649
/
6
Reviews
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
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Product Strengths
- The FiiO R9 is a versatile all-in-one device, functioning as a streamer, DAC, DAC/Amp, DAP, and transmitter
- Premium build quality with an all-aluminum construction
- Larger, high-resolution screen compared to its predecessor, the R7, with an improved pixel density
- The device has a monstrous, fully balanced, 8-channel module of THX AAA-788+ amplification, connected in parallel via a 2×2 array for a 4-way, fully balanced architecture, outputting as high as 7.3W into 32Ω
- An impressive range of I/O options and connectivity, with 6.35 and 4.4 phone outs, along with an XLR out on the front, and on the back panel, two sets of RCA lineouts, XLR Balanced Lineout, SD card slot, Optical In/Out and Coaxial In/Out options, a LAN port, a USB 3.0 and USB A Host port, and HDMI-IN and ARC function
Product Considerations
- The R9 features a vertical design, limiting it to portrait mode only
- The tilting angle of the device has limited angulation
- The mirror-like silver finish readily shows fingerprints
- It cannot directly power passive speakers
- It can be a tad difficult to key in details on the screen
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs FiiO R7: Has a larger, higher-resolution screen, increased Bluetooth support, HDMI digital inputs, more powerful amplification, and an upgraded DAC chipset (dual ES9038PRO vs single ES9068AS)
Takeaway: The FiiO R9 is a versatile, well-built, and great-sounding device that combines many functionalities into one unit, making it a great centerpiece for a modern audio setup. It offers a wide array of features and connectivity options, making it a convenient and powerful solution for audiophiles and music enthusiasts.
Video review
Our take on the brand
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Product Page
Product Page
iFi
iDSD Diablo 2
1299
1299
/
25
Reviews
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Delivers a vividly detailed and balanced sound, handling complicated mixes with skill
- Able to extract a lot of information from digital audio files with apparent ease
- A volume lock prevents accidental volume adjustments when the device is in a pocket or bag
- Extensive specification including Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless compatibility and multiple inputs/outputs for versatile connectivity
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers feel the device is not very pocket-friendly due to its size and sharp edges, making it better suited as a transportable—rather than a truly portable—device
- The gain is set too high, making precise volume control difficult, especially with sensitive IEMs
- Using IEMatch adds output impedance, which can negatively affect the tonal balance and dynamics of some IEMs
- The length of the included USB-C cable is short, making it difficult to position the device on a desk
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the iDSD Diablo 1, the Diablo 2 offers slight sonic improvements and better build quality, but at a higher price
- Compared to the iDSD Signature, the iDSD Signature is considered by some to offer a better result for less money, with a more realistic instrument and vocal timbre, larger soundstage, and customizable features like crossfeed and bass boost
- Compared to the FiiO Q7, the iDSD Diablo 2 has a vivid sound, where the FiiO Q7 has a smooth and wide sound
Takeaway: The iDSD Diablo 2 is a powerful and versatile DAC/amp that enhances headphone listening with its detailed sound and extensive features. It is a good choice for users who want a high-quality audio experience on the go or at their desk.
Video review
Our take on the brand
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
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Marantz
Model 40n
2499
2499
/
20
Reviews
Marantz is a hifi brand known for its proprietary HDAM technology, which replaces traditional op-amps in their amplifiers for better sound quality. Their products include slim-design AVRs that fit better under TVs, and their flagship Model 10 Reference Integrated Amplifier delivers exceptional power with 250 watts into 8 ohms through its dual-mono symmetrical amplifier topology.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- High-quality build and aesthetics, with a metal casing and elegant fascia made to a high standard
- A clear, powerful, and spacious sound, with a presentation that is appealing right from the beginning
- Plenty of power on tap, specified at 70W per channel into 8 ohms and 100W per channel into 4 ohms
- Fantastic connectivity, with three pairs of line-level inputs, an MM phono stage, and outputs for a recorder and subwoofer
- Capable network DAC/streamer with digital controls
Product Considerations
- The dimpled effect flanking the extruded front panel gives the unit a further distinctive look, but the finish feels like plastic upon closer inspection
- The HEOS app isn't bespoke to the 40n, many of the product's set-up options can only be accessed through the unit using the included remote control
- Bluetooth pairing took longer than expected, and there were occasions when the app stopped being able to see or display the music server when switching inputs
- The lettering on the remote control is impossible to read in dim light, and the buttons are too similar in size, resulting in fumbling in the dark
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Marantz Model 40n is a different proposition compared to the Marantz PM7000N, Marantz is keen to reposition itself as a luxury hifi brand and that intent is clear in the 40n's gorgeous build and aesthetics
- Rival systems such as the Cambridge Audio Evo 150 and Naim Uniti Atom do a better job of engrossing listeners in the music, being more insightful, musically engaging, and dynamically exciting by degrees
- Is super-sexy and distinctive styling, a higher level of fit and finish, a much better remote, and access to Sound United's HEOS streaming/multiroom audio platform wanted—or more coaxial and optical digital inputs, Dirac Live room-correction capabilities, more power, a more efficient topology, and access to Lenbrook's BluOS streaming/multiroom audio platform
- At first glance it's hard to distinguish the Model 40n from its slightly costlier Marantz Model 30 sibling
Takeaway: The Marantz Model 40n is a stylish and feature-packed streaming amplifier that offers a musical and inviting performance. With its versatile connectivity options and impressive sound quality, the Model 40n is a great choice for modern, lifestyle hifi systems.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Marantz is a hifi brand known for its proprietary HDAM technology, which replaces traditional op-amps in their amplifiers for better sound quality. Their products include slim-design AVRs that fit better under TVs, and their flagship Model 10 Reference Integrated Amplifier delivers exceptional power with 250 watts into 8 ohms through its dual-mono symmetrical amplifier topology.
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What competes at this price?
FIIO
R7
699
/
Released
2023
The R7 combines transmitter/decoder/amp/preamp/media playback functions into one unit. Besides numerous connections and expansion capabilities as well as a wide variety of operating modes, It is also capable streams media on a gorgeous portrait screen for an extraordinary user experience. The R7 brings you an attractive-looking, easy-to-use and great-sounding desktop HiFi experience!
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Extremely versatile, functioning as a streamer, DAP, DAC, headphone amp, and pre-amp all in one compact unit.
- Clean audio quality, considered competitive for its price point.
- Operates smoothly and similarly to a smartphone due to its Android 10-based OS, providing access to the Google Play Store.
- Has dual THX AAA 788 plus headphone amps, which gives it the ability to power pretty much any headphone out there on the market with 3.6 watts of power.
- Offers a wide array of connectivity options including 6.4mm, 4.4mm, and XLR headphone jacks, SD card slot, LAN, RCA outputs, optical and coaxial in/out, and USB-C port.
Product Considerations
- The remote control is sold separately.
- Android 10 is somewhat outdated now.
- It is not a streamer/amp, so the cost of an external amp or active speakers will need to be factored in.
- The size is a bit awkward, the height of the unit makes it problematic for some to fit on the desk.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs NAD C700 or HiFi Rose RS520: Audiophiles who prefer separate components may opt for higher-end solutions like the NAD C700 or HiFi Rose RS520.
- Vs EverSolo DMP-A6: Although not as compact and slightly more expensive, the EverSolo DMP-A6 investment brings better connectivity and sound quality.
- Vs FiiO R9 Desktop Media Player: The main differences include dual ESS Labs ES9038PRO DACs and an eight-channel THX788+ amp offering 7300mW, double the R7’s output.
- Vs Pro-Ject Pre Box S2 Digital: The Pro-Ject Pre Box S2 Digital is a much smaller unit than the FiiO R7, but it also has significantly less capacity.
Takeaway: The FiiO R7 is a versatile device that brings a lot of functionality to a desktop setup. It's a good solution for someone who wants an all-in-one system that won't take up too much space.
Video review
Our take on the brand
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Product Page
Product Page
FIIO
K17
989
/
Released
2025
This is the next generation desktop decoding headphone amplifier, aiming to be a unique and excellent performer. It is a symphony of retro elegance and cutting-edge technology, featuring a unique design and rich functionality all wrapped in a powerful package. The FIIO K17 is not only the upgraded successor to the K9 Pro, it is also an exploration of new possibilities for a high-end desktop DAC and headphone amplifier.
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The FiiO K17 does everything except amplify speakers; it's a streamer, DAC, headphone amp, and preamp.
- Capable of pumping 4 watts into a 32-ohm headphone via balanced headphone outputs (4.4mm and 4-pin XLR).
- It has a touchscreen that works well despite its compact size.
- The FiiO K17 delivers exceptionally good sound for the price.
- It supports Bluetooth streaming including LDAC and APTX support.
Product Considerations
- On the silver version, the labels on the gain selector dial and the output selector dial have zero contrast, and can be difficult to read.
- Streaming capabilities are limited to Rune or Airplay.
- The streamer circuit disappears when switching to a different input, and the USB input is switched off when using any other mode.
- Several reviewers mention bugs, and the need for firmware updates to resolve issues with functionality.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The K17 does more than the FiiO K19, with a more traditional Class AB amplifier, and the K17 delivers a slightly smoother and richer sound.
- The K17 delivers better sound than the X-Duo TA32, with the TA32's stock sound being flatter and less engaging.
- The K17 has comparable sound quality to the Schiit Bifrost 2 and more features.
- The K17 delivers a slightly smoother and richer sound than the SMSL RAW DAC 1 and SMSL H400 stack.
- The K17 headphone amp out is better than the HIFIMAN Serenade.
Takeaway: The K17 is a versatile device that functions as a DAC, headphone amp, preamp, and streamer. It has a retro design and is easy to use, making it a great option for a desktop audio setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Product Page
Product Page
FIIO
Q7
599
/
Released
2022
The Q7 is a portable amplifier packed with parts designed for desktop amps, making it a true fusion of portable and desktop amps. The Q7 redefines what a portable amp can be and sets a new benchmark not only for FiiO portable products but for all portable audio products.
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Impressive output power, even without DC power, capable of driving a wide range of headphones.
- Highly detailed and resolving sound, revealing nuances in music.
- Solid build quality with CNC machined aluminum chassis and premium materials.
- Extensive accessory package, including a cooling stand, leather case, and various USB cables.
- Versatile with numerous inputs and outputs, including USB, coaxial, optical, Bluetooth, 3.5mm, 6.35mm, 2.5mm, and 4.4mm.
Product Considerations
- Large size and heavy weight may not be truly 'portable'.
- There is a mention of potential treble glare/brightness and a 'touch of warmth', making gear matching important.
- At least one reviewer wanted even more headroom, particularly with very power-hungry headphones.
- Some reviewers found the case to be somewhat loose.
- High and super-high gain modes may make the noise floor clearly audible.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs FiiO M17: Q7 offers similar tuning at a lower price, though the M17 is superior in detail retrieval, smoother and more refined sound, and soundstage depth/3D effect, while the Q7 boasts better noise rejection performance.
- Vs FiiO K9 PRO ESS: Q7 delivers dynamics very close to the K9 PRO ESS, with greater power and headroom.
- Vs Shanling H7: Q7 has higher power output.
- Vs EarMen Angel: Q7 is more powerful, dynamic, impactful, resolving, detailed, and open sounding.
Takeaway: The FiiO Q7 is a versatile and powerful portable DAC/amp offering excellent sound quality and features, making it a great option for those seeking a desktop-class experience on the go. It delivers exceptional clarity and dynamics, making it a worthy addition to any audiophile's collection.
Video review
Our take on the brand
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
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FIIO
K9 AKM
529
/
Released
2023
The K9 AKM applies AKM's brand-new flagship DAC combo --AK4191EQ+AK4499EX. Based on the new design technology of totally separated digital and analog sections, the DAC combo even incorporates the newly developed "DWA ROUTING technology" to improve the Signal to Noise Ratio and reduce noise from varieties of amplitude. The result is more realistic, detailed and natural sound transmission, as if you were there with the performing artists.
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The FiiO K9 AKM features flagship AKM AK4499EX + AK4191EQ DAC chips.
- It uses dual THX AAA 788+ amplifier modules, capable of 2W at 32 ohms for balanced output.
- The build quality is consistently praised, with reviewers describing it as solid, heavy, and well-built with an all-aluminum chassis.
- The K9 AKM has a linear power supply with 18,800 microfarads of capacitance, contributing to a clean and powerful sound.
- It offers a versatile set of input and output options, including balanced XLR, 4.4mm, and single-ended connections, as well as Bluetooth connectivity with LDAC support.
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers found the power output may not be sufficient for very demanding headphones, especially those with high impedance (300 ohms and above).
- It attracts fingerprints easily due to its near-matte housing finish, requiring frequent cleaning.
- The FiiO Control app lacks a volume control, which some reviewers found disappointing.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. FiiO K9 (ESS version): The K9 AKM has a slightly warmer and more natural sound, while the original K9 is more analytical and technically proficient.
- Vs. Mytek Liberty DAC 2: The Liberty DAC 2 is significantly more expensive and offers better resolution, detail, and imaging.
- Vs. SMSL DO400: The K9 AKM provides a richer and more natural tone, better depth, and height of soundstage.
- Vs. FiiO K7: The K9 AKM offers enhanced dynamics, impact, transparency, and clarity compared to the K7.
Takeaway: The FiiO K9 AKM is a well-rounded desktop DAC/amp offering a smooth, rich, and enjoyable sound with plenty of connectivity options. Its robust build quality, versatile features, and powerful amplifier make it a great choice for those seeking a high-performance all-in-one solution.
Video review
Our take on the brand
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
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FIIO
K15
549
/
Released
2025
Leading the new 'core' generation, the K15 is among the first to use two of the new high-end AKM DAC chips, AK4479SVQ featuring the upgraded 'VELVET SOUND' audio technology. The chips achieve low distortion, a wide dynamic range, and extended signal bandwidth, all at low power consumption.
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Attractive retro design
- Local playback and Roon ready
- Versatile functions and connectivity
- Decoding with the K15 via USB connection results in a well-defined, moderately responsive presentation that’s textured in the lows, and clean articulation to the vocal range
- Good air and power in the bass, which brings bass instruments and darker voices closer to the listener, enhancing their presence and intensity
Product Considerations
- Landscape orientation placement only
- Weak stock power supply
- The Wi-Fi password setup is quite fiddly with a tiny keyboard
- Less clarity between instruments compared to the K17
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The K15 offers similar features and design to the FiiO K17 at a lower price point and may be preferred by those who don't need equalization
- The FiiO K17, utilizing the AK4499EX and a stronger inbuilt PSU, has stronger technicalities, firmer attacks, and sounds more controlled
- The K15's amp stage is more neutral and cleaner than the FiiO K9 AKM, without THX’s warmth/roundedness
Takeaway: The FiiO K15 is a flexible and well-rounded desktop DAC/amp. It is a satisfying entry point for users with entry-level to mid-tier headphones and IEMs, offering straightforward streaming capabilities and solid amplification at an approachable price.
Video review
Our take on the brand
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
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