Fiio Introduces New Compact Dongle DACs for Superior Sound

FiiO has recently expanded its lineup with the introduction of two new dongle-DACs, the BTR17 and KA17, designed to elevate the audio experience for HiFi enthusiasts, mobile users, and gamers alike. These compact devices promise to enhance headphone sound quality whether you're at your desk or on the move, addressing common limitations associated with traditional headphone jacks.

Dongle-DACs: Pocket-Sized Sound Enhancement

Imagine combining a headphone amplifier and a DAC into a device small enough to fit in your pocket. Dongle-DACs like the FiiO BTR17 and KA17 achieve this by converting digital signals to analog and delivering them directly to your headphones via a cable. Unlike MP3 players, they rely on data transmission through USB connections from your smartphone, PC, or console, often without an internal battery.

The primary advantage of using a dongle-DAC is the significant improvement in sound quality compared to standard headphone jacks, which are typically limited by lower-grade DACs. However, this setup traditionally involves managing two separate devices and a connection cable, potentially impacting your device's battery life. FiiO aims to mitigate these drawbacks with thoughtful engineering in the BTR17 and KA17.

Shared Architecture with Distinct Focus

Both the BTR17 and KA17 utilize the same ESS ES9069Q DAC chips and XMOS XU316 16-core processors, ensuring high-fidelity audio conversion and minimal latency suitable for various applications, including gaming. Powered by a THX AAA 78+ amplifier featuring eight fully symmetric OP-Amps, these dongles deliver robust amplification to drive a wide range of headphones. Users can choose between balanced and unbalanced 3.5mm and 4.4mm connections, providing versatile compatibility.

Enhanced Connectivity and Bluetooth Capabilities

While the KA17 maintains a wired-only connection, the BTR17 introduces Bluetooth 5.4 support, enabling wireless audio streaming with advanced codecs such as aptX, aptX Adaptive, aptX Lossless, LDAC, and LE Audio. A small display on the BTR17 indicates the active codec and its resolution, allowing users to optimize their listening experience based on their source and preference.

Innovative Power Management

Unlike typical dongle-DACs that draw power directly from the connected device, the BTR17 includes an internal battery, offering up to eight hours of Bluetooth playback. Additionally, it features a multi-mode power switch:

• PC Mode: Powers the dongle via the connected PC.
• BT Mode: Uses the internal battery for Bluetooth streaming.
• Phone Mode: Balances power usage between the internal battery and the smartphone to extend battery life.

The KA17, lacking an internal battery, can optionally connect to an external battery pack sold separately, providing up to five hours of additional power when needed.

Desktop Mode for Expanded Performance

Both devices offer a "Desktop Mode," which, when activated via a switch, allows the dongle to charge from an external power source while receiving audio data through a USB connection. This mode enhances the amplifier's performance, delivering a noticeable boost in sound quality. Users can further fine-tune their audio with a comprehensive parametric equalizer available through FiiO’s dedicated app, ensuring the sound meets their exact preferences.

Availability and Pricing

The FiiO KA17 is priced at €149, with an optional external battery available for an additional €19.90. The BTR17, featuring Bluetooth capabilities, is available for €209.90. Both models are now available for purchase, offering audiophiles and tech enthusiasts a robust solution for high-quality, portable audio enhancement.