High-end audio device manufacturer Fiio employs similar material as Formula 1 vehicles in its new DAC, asserting exceptional audio quality that places your music at the top of the charts
The audio industry has a new contender in the portable DAC/headphone amplifier market with the introduction of the Fiio QX13. This compact device, constructed with a durable carbon-fibre body, boasts flagship audio performance and versatile connectivity.
The heart of the QX13 is its ESS ES9027PRO 8-channel DAC chip, renowned for its ultra-low distortion and high precision. This powerhouse supports high-resolution audio formats, including 32-bit/768kHz PCM, Native DSD512, and full MQA decoding.
The QX13's design prioritises both durability and lightweight handling. Weighing just 33g, the device features a 21-layer stack carbon-fibre body, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3. A 1.99-inch IPS color display provides access to key information such as file type, equalizer settings, or Desktop Mode.
Powerful amplification is at the forefront of the QX13's capabilities. In Desktop Mode, the balanced output delivers a mighty ≥900mW per channel at 32Ω, suitable for demanding headphones, while single-ended output offers ≥310mW per channel at 32Ω.
Six high-precision TI Operational Amplifiers are utilised to ensure low noise, low distortion, and minimal crosstalk. The device features dual USB-C ports for enhanced stability and a patented desktop mode, which boosts power output using external powered USB sources.
Headphone compatibility is catered for with 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced outputs. Advanced USB and clocking technology incorporates a 16-core XMOS XU316 USB processor and dual femtosecond-grade crystal oscillators for ultra-low jitter and noise.
Software control is provided through full integration with the FiiO Control app and web interface, enabling fine-tuning with a 10-band parametric equalizer (PEQ) supporting gain and Q-factor adjustments.
The QX13 aims to deliver "desktop-level hi-fi performance" in a portable form factor, combining a high-quality DAC chip, potent amplification, versatile connectivity, and detailed sound customization. The device is currently available for purchase, priced at £219, $219, or €239.
While the QX13 has been well-received, one reviewer noted a specific aspect of the Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 wireless earbuds that they would like to change. testing rooms often feature a popular Tom Waits song to evaluate hi-fi systems, providing a consistent benchmark for audio quality comparisons.
[1] FiiO Official Website: https://www.fiio.co.uk/products/qx13 [2] FiiO QX13 Datasheet: https://www.fiio.co.uk/uploads/fiio_qx13_datasheet_en.pdf [3] FiiO QX13 User Manual: https://www.fiio.co.uk/uploads/fiio_qx13_user_manual_en.pdf [4] FiiO QX13 Unboxing and First Impressions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pk3Px3T7K6w [5] FiiO QX13 Review: https://www.headfonics.com/2022/05/fiio-qx13-review/
- The Fiio QX13, a new portable DAC/headphone amplifier, is gaining attention in the audio industry for its flagship audio performance and versatile connectivity.
- The QX13's main component is its ESS ES9027PRO 8-channel DAC chip, known for its ultra-low distortion and high precision.
- The device, constructed with a durable carbon-fibre body and Corning Gorilla Glass 3, weighs just 33g for portable handling while maintaining durability.
- The QX13's powerful amplification capabilities include a balanced output delivering a mighty ≥900mW per channel at 32Ω in Desktop Mode, suitable for demanding headphones.
- Software control is provided through the FiiO Control app and web interface, offering a 10-band parametric equalizer (PEQ) for sound customization.
- The Fiio QX13 is currently available for purchase, priced at £219, $219, or €239, catering to various global markets.
- While the QX13 has received positive reviews, one critic suggested improving a specific aspect of the Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 wireless earbuds, highlighting the rigorous testing standards and consistent benchmarks used in the audio industry.
