An Acclaimed Hi-Fi Brand’s Pocketable Amp Is Ideal for On-the-Go Audiophiles

In the past several weeks, FiiO has introduced the K15 do-it-all desktop amplifier and the SP5 desktop speaker system. And now the company, which continues to be a rising force in the budget hi-fi space, is extending its hot streak with the QX13.

The FiiO QX13 is the company’s new flagship pocketable DAC and headphone amplifier. It’s designed for audiophiles who want to get the most out of their wired headphones while commuting or traveling.

FiiO QX13

FiiO

Smartphone or desktop use

The FiiO QX13 is a very small DAC and headphone amplifier that is designed to boost the audio performance of any USB-C source, including any of the latest iPhones or Android smartphones, as well as a laptop or desktop.

In fact, the FiiO QX13 supports a dedicated desktop mode that allows it to intelligently draw extra power from your computer to further boost audio performance.

(Note: the QX13 doesn’t have a built-in battery and draws all its power from the connected device.)

FiiO

Desktop-level performance

Despite its compact size, the FiiO QX13 is a true audiophile-grade gadget. It features a flagship-quality DAC chip (ESS Sabre Pro ES9027PRO) that promises performance levels of a “full-sized” hi-fi system.

This DAC, according to the brand, features “a fully differential audio architecture design with 8 channels set up in parallel, and is paired with a pair of ultra-low-noise ES9312 regulators for precise output matching on each audio channel.” In a nutshell: it promises to get the most out of your wired headphones or IEMs.

Additionally, the QX13 supports high-resolution audio. According to the press release, it can fully decode MQA music and is compatible with studio master file formats such as DSD512 and 32-bit/768kHz tracks.

FiiO

Carbon fiber body

The FiiO QX13 has a fully carbon body. In fact, FiiO claims that it’s made with up to 21 stacked layers of carbon fiber giving it a extremely lightweight yet durable design.

Adding to this premium build is a 2-inch color display that shows playback information such as file format and audio resolution. Additionally, you have the option of purchasing the QX13 with a magnetic leather case that allows it to magnetically attach to the back of your smartphone, keeping everything tight and tidy.

As for headphones, the QX13 features both 3.5mm and balanced 4.4mm jacks, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of headphones.

FiiO

Price and availability

The FiiO QX13 is available now for $210. For those in the US, it can be purchased via AliExpress.

FiiO

FiiO QX13

• $219 at Advanced MP3 Players
• $219 at Ali Express

Related Topics