In recent years, Fiio has established itself as one of the biggest players in budget hi-fi, specializing in portable hi-fi players, portable DACs and desktop amplifiers. However, the company seems to be making a more concerted push to more traditional stereo hi-fi.
Just a few months ago, Fiio introduced the Level 1, an integrated amplifier that combines a power amplifier, preamplifier and DAC into a compact box that is roughly twice the size of an Apple TV. It’s just $140 and, capable of delivering 300 watts per channel (at 4 ohms), it’s designed to breathe new life into a set of old bookshelf speakers.
Fast forward to the present, and the budget hi-fi brand has introduced a new amplifier that, at well under $1,000, is still relatively affordable but designed for more traditional audiophiles.
Fiio EA13 Vacuum Tube Amplifier
The Fiio EA13 is a two-channel vacuum tube amplifier that’s designed to drive a set of passive bookshelf or floorstanding loudspeakers. In fact, it’s the company’s first full vacuum tube amplifier.
The Class A amplifier features six total tubes: two Sylvania NOS PCF80 tubes (for voltage amplification) that drive four JJ Electronic EL34 tubes. Working together, Fiio claims that the tubes give the EA13 a “smooth, full-bodied tube character while maintaining an open and natural presentation.”
