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.
Product Strengths
- Balanced output, which is rarely seen at the price point
- MFI certification from Apple
- Good build quality and attractive design
- Imparts warmth and smoothness to the sound
- Precise with good imaging and depth
- USB micro, not USB-C, which can be annoying for some users
- Location of the gain switch and bass boost is cumbersome to get to
- Single-ended output is on the lower end of the spectrum
- The unit does not have rubber or silicone feet, though the included pad should suffice
- The gain and bass boost switches are entirely too small and hard to see
Product Considerations
- The location of the gain switch and bass boost is cumbersome to get to
- Single-ended output is on the lower end of the spectrum
- The unit does not have rubber or silicone feet, though the included pad should suffice
- The gain and bass boost switches are entirely too small and hard to see
- USB micro, not USB-C, which can be annoying for some users
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Topping NX4: The NX4 is more neutral, sterile, crisp, and airy sounding, whereas the Q1 Mark II is warmer, more laid back, and lush
- Vs. Cyrus SoundKey: The SoundKey provides better audio performance
- Vs. FiiO E10K: The E10K sounds more sterile and brighter, whereas the Q1 Mark II has a warm, smoothed-over sound
Takeaway: The FiiO Q1 Mark II is a small, portable device that can significantly improve sound quality, especially when paired with good headphones. It is a versatile option for both desk and on-the-go use, offering balanced output and compatibility with various devices.
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
Q1 Mark II
reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- PO (32 Ω): 75 mW
- BAL (32 Ω): >220 mW
- PCM: up to 384 kHz / 32-bit
- DSD: 64 / 128 / 256
- THD+N: <0.003% (USB DAC), <0.002% (AUX In)
- SNR: >115 dB (AUX In), >110 dB (USB DAC)
- Headphone Impedance: 16 – 1500 Ω (BAL)
- Capacity: 1800 mAh
- Life: ~20 h (AUX In), >10 h (USB DAC)
- Dimensions: 99 × 59 × 12.5 mm
- Weight: ~101 g
Description
Being equipped with the XMOS platform allows the Q1 Mark II to support decoding of more formats with outstanding performance – it is capable of decoding up to 384 kHz /32 bit PCM as well as up to DSD256 (the latter is indicated by a green light). When combined with the two separate crystal oscillators, each designed to handle different sampling rates to achieve the utmost accuracy in digital-to-analog conversion, the Q1 Mark II becomes an affordable product that punches well above its weight in terms of versatility and performance.
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
$500
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.
Look inside the brand
Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
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FIIO
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What if you spend more?
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FIIO
Q15
439
/
Released
2023
The Q15 features a new desktop mode, sporting a separate Type-C power connector for it. When the Q15 is connected to the PD power adapter, the Q15 will be powered externally completely bypassing the battery, allowing for a desktop-like experience even on the go.
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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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Powerful output, capable of driving demanding headphones, with up to 1600mW in desktop mode, and adaptable to sensitive IEMs with multiple gain levels.
- High-quality internal components, including AKM's flagship AK4499EX+AK4191 combo DAC chipset and XMOS 16-core XU316 USB controller.
- Sound quality is smooth, realistic, organic, and neutral, with good detail retrieval and balanced tonality.
- Versatile connectivity options, including Bluetooth (with codecs like LDAC and aptX), USB, and coaxial inputs
- Features a vibrant and informative IPS display
Product Considerations
- It is a larger, bulkier portable DAC/amp that may not be ideal for stacking or pocket use.
- The glass construction (front and back) is susceptible to damage if dropped.
- Changing EQ profiles in USB audio mode can be cumbersome, as it requires stopping playback.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. FiiO Q5/Q5S: The Q15 is a significant step up with improved sound textures, layering, and overall finesse.
- Vs. iFi iDSD Diablo 2: The Q15 is a bit behind in raw technicalities, but with a well-tuned PEQ, it pulls ahead regarding overall sound quality.
Takeaway: The FiiO Q15 is a versatile and powerful portable DAC/amp that offers a clean and balanced sound suitable for a wide range of headphones and IEMs. With its high-quality components and flexible features, it is a great option for anyone seeking a significant audio upgrade on the go or at their desk.
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
GO bar
329
/
Released
2022
The GO bar may be the size of a USB stick, but with powerful sound customisation and 10x the output power of your iPhone, it's your portable audio powerhouse - ready for any adventure.
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
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Comprehensive specifications, aiming to equal or improve upon existing portable DACs
- Features a balanced 4.4mm output and a single-ended 3.5mm headphone output
- High power output, described as the most powerful headphone amp of its size
- Includes XBass+ and XSpace analog processing for sound enhancement
- Supports PCM up to 384kHz, DSD up to 256, and DXD
Product Considerations
- The blue text on the blue chassis is hard to read in almost any lighting condition
- Can be considered chunky compared to other dongle DACs
- Can be noisy and produce audible hiss with sensitive IEMs, though IEMatch can help mitigate this
- High power consumption potentially impacts battery life of the source device
- The digital filters can be tricky to access, according to one review
Takeaway: The iFi Audio GO bar is a powerful and versatile portable DAC/amp that can drive most headphones, providing a clean and detailed sound. It is packed with features and offers good sound quality, making it a great option for enjoying high-resolution music on the go.
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.
Product Page
Product Page
iFi
GO bar Kensei
449
/
Released
2024
Forged for masters of audio. Like a true Kensei, this GO bar is a skilful master of power and performance. Adorned with K2HD Technology and crafted from Japanese stainless steel, the Kensei represents the pinnacle of our refinement in the GO bar range.
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
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Detailed, organized, and spacious sound.
- Strong output power for a dongle.
- Premium build quality with tactile Japanese stainless steel.
- Feature-rich with exclusive sound-tuning options, like K2HD processing, XBass, XSpace, and digital filters.
- Improved clocking and circuitry contribute to less background noise, no jitter, and increased audio quality.
Product Considerations
- Treble can sound rather relentless—overstated, hard-edged, and thin.
- The device can get quite warm during use.
- High power draw can drain a mobile phone battery quickly.
- Stainless steel exterior is prone to collecting fingerprints and scratches.
- Controls can be difficult to understand at first, necessitating the manual.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Kensei offers slight improvements in clarity and bass accuracy compared to the original GO Bar, with less warmth in the lower mids.
Takeaway: The iFi GO Bar Kensei is a premium, well-built portable DAC/amp that delivers a detailed and powerful sound experience. It's packed with features and offers a noticeable upgrade for those serious about high-quality mobile hifi listening.
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.
Product Page
Product Page
EarMen
Colibri
149
/
Released
2022
Everything you desired and everything you needed is now within reach. EarMen is setting new standards by introducing a specially designed, battery-powered, and fully balanced device that delivers a unique and unforgettable audio experience. Despite its compact size, the EarMen Colibri packs a powerful punch, redefining your music enjoyment.
EarMen is a European-manufactured hifi brand that draws from their decade of tube amplifier experience to create DACs and amplifiers with a neutral, natural sound signature. Their products feature fully balanced designs and are engineered to minimize signal interference from Bluetooth, WiFi, and mobile devices, while offering unique features like dual headphone outputs in their portable units.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Fully balanced 4.4mm output and a 3.5mm single-ended output
- Battery-powered, providing ultra-clean and stable DC current, avoiding noise-inducing RFI/EMI pollution and not draining the sound source battery
- Excellent build quality, often made from a CNC milled aluminum block with glass surfaces for durability and a premium look
- Neutral and transparent sound signature
- Has hardware controls
- Dead silent without EMI interference
Product Considerations
- Battery life is around 5 hours
- The size is larger than most dongle DACs due to the internal battery
- Stock USB cable may be too long and stiff for portable use
- Bass boost can muddy details
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to EarMen Sparrow, the Colibri has enhanced overall performance due to the internal battery, providing cleaner power, wider soundstage, and deeper detail retrieval, although both use the same DAC chip (ES9281 Pro)
- Compared to Cayin RU6, the Colibri has a slight edge in spacing as a result of less aliasing and its lower noise floor
- Compared to AudioQuest Dragonfly, the Colibri is a major step up
Takeaway: The EarMen Colibri offers high-fidelity sound in a portable package, making it a great choice for audiophiles on the go because it delivers clean, powerful audio without draining a device's battery, allowing for extended listening.
Video review
Our take on the brand
EarMen is a European-manufactured hifi brand that draws from their decade of tube amplifier experience to create DACs and amplifiers with a neutral, natural sound signature. Their products feature fully balanced designs and are engineered to minimize signal interference from Bluetooth, WiFi, and mobile devices, while offering unique features like dual headphone outputs in their portable units.
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Product Page
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aune
Yuki USB DAC
169
/
Released
2023
Aune Audio is a hifi brand known for its unique approach to DAC design, using custom-built clock generators and dual DAC chips to achieve exceptional transparency and natural sound. Their products, from the Yuki DAC to the S17 PRO headphone amplifier with its symmetrical Class A design and Twin JFET, deliver a tube-like sound signature that's easy to drive without high-end amplification.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Superb detail and resolution, providing a clean signature with excellent instrument separation
- Wide, three-dimensional soundstage, offering a natural sense of spaciousness
- Good transparency and imaging
- Beautiful and distinguished design, featuring a glass window to view the internal circuitry
- Supports UAC1.0 and UAC2.0 for increased device compatibility
Product Considerations
- Volume control buttons are small and may be difficult to use, especially with a protective case
- Draws quite a bit of power from the source
- Rear button placement was found to be not very practical for daily use
- SE output is not as good with more demanding IEM, even on hi gain
- Behavior of the sub-bass reveals subtle colouring with some IEMs with dynamic drivers or DD+BA hybrids
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Fosi Audio DS2, the Yuki provides a more extensive soundstage, improved layering, upgraded imaging accuracy, and a richer sound
- Compared to the Fiio KA17, the Aune delivers a warmer and richer sound, whereas the Fiio offers a slightly more airy and sweeter sound
Takeaway: The Aune Yuki is a beautiful and well-built dongle DAC/AMP that delivers a detailed, high-resolution sound with a wide soundstage. If the user wants great sound in a small package, the Yuki could be a great choice.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Aune Audio is a hifi brand known for its unique approach to DAC design, using custom-built clock generators and dual DAC chips to achieve exceptional transparency and natural sound. Their products, from the Yuki DAC to the S17 PRO headphone amplifier with its symmetrical Class A design and Twin JFET, deliver a tube-like sound signature that's easy to drive without high-end amplification.
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