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
Pico
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
- Output Power: up to 250 mW @ 32 Ω
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz (±0.1 dB)
- Total Harmonic Distortion (THD+N): < 0.001%
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): > 100 dB
- Dimensions: 92 × 55 × 18 mm (3.6 × 2.2 × 0.7 in)
- Weight: 142 g (5 oz)
Description
The original Pico amplifier from HeadAmp is still our all-time best seller, for good reason, as it offers clean, clear, powerful sound from a tiny, handcrafted body, available in a wide range of colors.
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:
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GS-X mini:
- Positioning: A compact and budget-friendly amplifier designed for desktop use and portability.
- Description: Offers a small form factor with essential balanced and unbalanced outputs for everyday listening needs. Compared with larger models like the GS-X Mk2 or CFA3, its performance is tuned for moderate power demands and simplified functionality suited for limited space.
GS-X mk2:
- Positioning: A high-performance amplifier that delivers clear, transparent sound for dynamic and planar magnetic headphones.
- Description: Features low-noise circuitry, adaptable gain options, and multiple I/O choices to provide a premium and versatile audio experience. In contrast to the compact GS-X mini and the tube-driven tone of the Aristaeus, it is engineered for users who demand rigorous, analytical sound reproduction with robust power handling.
CFA3:
- Positioning: A flagship planar and dynamic amplifier built with modern surface-mount designs for desktop applications.
- Description: Uses new-old-stock transistors, innovative thermal regulation, and a custom stepped volume control for refined performance in a small footprint. Compared with the GS-X series and tube-based designs like the Aristaeus, it offers advanced features and precision aimed at driving high-end headphones with enhanced detail and control.
Aristaeus:
- Positioning: An electrostatic amplifier with an all-tube circuit design that delivers a warm, rich, and smooth sound signature.
- Description: Features luxurious wood inlays and tube circuitry to create a slightly laid-back and natural sound profile. When compared with the more clinical clarity of the GS-X units and the precise drive of the Blue Hawaii SE, it is ideal for users seeking vintage warmth and musicality, particularly with electrostatic headphone systems.
Blue Hawaii SE:
- Positioning: The premium electrostatic amplifier engineered to power the toughest headphone loads with exceptional accuracy and control.
- Description: Features dual Stax Pro-Bias outputs, high-voltage design, and precise channel matching that set it apart with industry-leading drive and clarity. Compared with the tube-inflected Aristaeus and the balanced transparency of the GS-X series, it provides the highest level of performance for users with demanding sonic goals.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
13
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
325
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
10
Founding Year
2002
Our take on the brand
HeadAmp pioneered portable hifi with their Pico series, which was among the first to combine a pocket-sized amp with a USB DAC. The brand is particularly known for their Blue Hawaii SE electrostatic headphone amplifier and GS-X series, which can drive everything from sensitive in-ear monitors to power-hungry planar magnetic headphones.
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HeadAmp
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What if you spend more?
Chord Electronics
Mojo 2
650
650
/
65
Reviews
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
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Product Strengths
- Improved battery management offering faster charging rates and better efficiency than its predecessor
- Features a new USB-C data input for greater flexibility alongside other inputs
- Offers the world's first lossless DSP for tone adjustments without degrading sound quality, providing customization options
- Excellent resolution and dynamics with a large soundstage and extreme detail
Product Considerations
- The Mojo 2 can get warm when in a pocket for a period of time
- Complicated menu navigation with color-coded buttons that may require the manual
- Still uses Micro-USB for charging, which some find outdated
Takeaway: The Chord Mojo 2 is an exceptional DAC/headphone amplifier for those seeking high-resolution audio and customized sound in a portable format that is easy to move. Its sonic accuracy, detailed soundstage, and improved features provide a versatile and enjoyable listening experience, making it a worthwhile consideration for audio enthusiasts.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
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iFi
xDSD Gryphon
599
599
/
30
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.
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Product Strengths
- Versatile connectivity with both wireless (Bluetooth 5.1 with various codecs) and wired options (USB, S/PDIF, analog inputs) makes it suitable for various setups—from desktop to portable usage
- Eloquent, informative, and entertaining sound quality, able to produce clear, non-artificial sound across different headphones
- Features such as XBass II and XSpace provide additional sound shaping options for the user to customize the sound to their liking
- The aluminum build provides a robust and premium feel, with a design that's described as sleek and comfortable to handle
Product Considerations
- The user interface is not very intuitive
- Decent headphones are needed to reveal its quality
- The OLED screen can be difficult to read
- Battery life is around six to eight hours
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the hip-dac2, the Gryphon offers better sound quality, more features, and flexibility
- Compared to the iFi GO bar, the Gryphon is bigger and has a built-in battery, and the GO bar is much smaller and draws power from the source device
- Compared to the iDSD Diablo, the Diablo has more power for very demanding headphones, Gryphon has more functions
- Compared to the Zen DAC, the xDSD Gryphon has a more sophisticated and detailed sound
Takeaway: The iFi xDSD Gryphon is a portable and versatile device delivering high-quality sound with extensive features that cater to audiophiles. Its ability to improve sound quality from various sources and its robust build make it a worthwhile investment for music lovers 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.
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What competes at this price?
iFi
GO blu
199
/
Released
2021
With Hi-Fi inspired architecture featuring dedicated Bluetooth, DAC, and Amp stages, the ultra-portable GO blu offers the best of both worlds – wireless freedom, paired with the clarity of wired sound.
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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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Detailed and expansive presentation, offering a sonic upgrade to phones, especially when portability is a priority
- Versatile, with both wired and wireless connectivity options, including balanced and unbalanced headphone outputs
- Impressively small size and lightweight design, making it pocket-friendly and convenient for on-the-go use
- Sound quality is generally linear, with fast and accurate bass, flat and clean mids, and a detailed treble that is not harsh
- XBass and XSpace features offer customized listening experiences
- Build quality and aesthetics are generally well-received, with its design standing out from other devices
- ChronoDial volume knob is particularly praised for its tactile feel and functionality
Product Considerations
- Black rubberized plastic casing can feel a bit flimsy to some users
- Some reviewers noted hiss with sensitive IEMs, especially on the balanced output
- Battery life estimation can be unreliable
- No dedicated app for the device, limiting EQ and DSP options
- Lacks a clip, making it less convenient for truly portable use
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Audiolab M-DAC Nano, the Go Blu offers a wider soundstage, better separation, and dynamic sensitivity, though the M-DAC Nano is fractionally punchier in the bass
- Compared to the AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt, the Go Blu is a wireless proposition, unlike the DragonFly Cobalt, which is a USB plug-in DAC
- Compared to the FiiO Q3, the iFi GO blu highs are a bit too brilliant, but everything else sounded quite impressive
- Compared to the NuPrime Hi-mDAC, the iFi GO Blu mids sound a lot like it, even if voices are slightly less natural
- Compared to the Hidizs S9 Pro and Aune BU2, the GO Blu provides a relaxed sound and has better build and functionality compared to the Hidizs S9 Pro, but is better when using bluetooth compared to Aune BU2, however when competing on wired terms, the Aune is clearer
Takeaway: The iFi GO blu is a tiny but mighty device that delivers impressive sound and versatility—improving the wireless music experience. It is easy to use and has some cool features, making it a good pick for anyone looking for a portable upgrade for their headphones.
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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Topping
G5
299
/
Released
2022
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Phenomenal sound quality.
- Very usable and enjoyable interaction due to a physical volume knob.
- Plenty of power for almost everything and can drive just about anything.
- Versatile; it can be used as a desktop all-in-one, a Bluetooth portable DAC/amp, a portable amplifier, and even a DAC for speakers.
Product Considerations
- Susceptible to EMI noises, which can be a deal breaker; static noises, pops, and crackle sounds can occur when a phone is placed directly on top of it.
- Not a completely balanced architecture; the 3.5mm & 4.4mm headphone outputs sound the same.
- Charging port may not indicate charging on anything higher than an 18W charging block, and some chargers may not work.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs FIIO BTR-7: Sounds more refined and has more detail and resolution.
- Vs SMSL C200: The C200 sounds significantly warmer with a fuller, juicier bass line and a little bit more airy, while the G5 is more focused on clean and clear edges, tidy, well-focused—and clean.
- Vs SMSL M500 MK2: The M500 MK2 sounds overall better with dynamics at the same level as the G5 and fuller, warmer tonality—and a bigger, more spacious soundstage.
- Vs Moondrop Moonriver 2: The treble is more refined, better details up top, and a sharp edge without being overboard like the Moonriver 2 can.
Takeaway: The G5 is a well-built and versatile portable DAC/amp with a neutral, clean, and dynamic sound. It is great for those looking for an all-in-one solution that can drive almost any headphone or IEM.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
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FIIO
BTR7
199
/
Released
2022
The BTR7 is designed with an innovative 3-level HiFi audio architecture, including the high-performance DAC+low pass filter+THX amplifiers, which can capture every last detail and dynamics in your music. And with support for MQA, your music will definitely come across clearly and boldly.
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
- Fantastic build quality, aggressive contemporary design
- Includes a solid, workable leatherette case
- Delivers fun, V-shaped tuning with thumping bass, direct midrange, and bold treble
- Delivers fun, detail, dynamics, precision and a bold sound character
- Versatile, functioning as a Bluetooth receiver, a dongle DAC, and a desktop DAC amp combo
Product Considerations
- Buttons rattle a bit
- Larger than past models like the BTR5
- Mediocre battery duration
- Sharp edges
- FiiO only recommends headphones of up to 150Ω
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Questyle M15, the M15 has a more balanced sound and even more textures and resolution
- Compared to the iFi Audio Go Blu, the BTR7 wins in sound staging depth
Takeaway: The BTR7 is a competent Bluetooth DAC/AMP that will handle IEMs and headphones alike and also works as a capable USB dongle. With a dedicated smartphone app for EQ and solid sound quality, it is an excellent value.
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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Topping
NX7
152
/
Released
2021
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Respectable power for a portable amplifier
- Features Nested Feedback Composite Amplifier (NFCA) module as a portable package
- Rugged construction and good battery life
- Delivers detail and texture with a transparent, uncoloured sound
- Three gain modes and is compatible with everything from sensitive IEMs to full-size headphones
- Performs well with hard-to-drive cans and with IEMs that tend to produce hiss
- Build quality is quite good with an all-aluminum chassis
- An SNR of 135dB makes it one of the cleanest portable amps on the market
Product Considerations
- Can be too clean and dry, so synergy is important
- A bit big for a pocket
- Charging the 4000mAh battery takes up to 4 hours
Takeaway: The Topping NX7 is a very good amplifier that works wonderfully with a clean, unaltering nature. It's versatile with lots of clean power and can be used in a desktop setup as well as for portable listening.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
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FIIO
BTR15
119
/
Released
2023
The BTR15 features a QCC5125 + XU316 high-performance combo with dual DACs for fully balanced output, offering both Bluetooth receiver and USB DAC functionality. It includes a 0.96-inch OLED display with dual curved glass design, independent power supply for amp, and comprehensive battery protection.
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 BTR15 offers more driving power at 340mW(@32Ω), which is higher than both the BTR7 and the BTR5 2021
- The BTR15 features the newest 3rd XMOS USB controller and newer QCC5125 Bluetooth Codec compared to the 2nd gen XMOS and the QCC5124 on the BTR7
- The BTR15 can be used as a wired USB DAC, supporting decoding of up to 32bit/384kHz and DSD256
- Qualcomm’s 51XX series chipsets are known for their premium quality, high efficiency, and stability, and are a common choice in many high-performance Bluetooth devices
- FiiO implemented battery degradation prevention by implementing a measure to stop it from charging when it’s fully charged
Product Considerations
- The unit feels cheaper than the BTR5
- Battery life is said to be poor
- The slippery surface also makes the device prone to slipping from the hand, so care is needed here
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The BTR15 significantly outperforms both the BTR5 2021 and BTR7 in terms of power output
- Compared to the BTR5, the BTR15 is more expressive and lively in the midrange
- The BTR15 demonstrates significant improvements in staging performance and imaging
Takeaway: The BTR15 is a compact, versatile device with both wireless and wired functionality, making it a good option for audiophiles and casual listeners alike. The inclusion of a balanced output and parametric EQ further enhances the user experience, allowing for more customized sound.
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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