The FiiO K17 is a high-performance DAC/Amplifier that seamlessly blends retro aesthetics with modern technology. This compelling device boasts a unique, vintage-inspired design featuring intuitive dial controls for effortless navigation through its extensive features. Available in sleek silver and black, the K17 offers a refreshing alternative to the usual digital aesthetic of similar products. But it's more than just a pretty face; inside lies a powerful audio engine capable of delivering exceptional sound quality and impressive power.Beyond its captivating design, the K17 boasts a wealth of connectivity options, including USB-C, Bluetooth, and various balanced and unbalanced inputs. Its ability to act as a high-resolution player, thanks to local playback functionality, further enhances its versatility. Equipped with a top-tier AKM AK499X DAC and capable of driving demanding headphones with ease, the FiiO K17 offers a truly immersive audio experience, making it a compelling choice for audiophiles seeking a potent and stylish addition to their setup.
Pros And Cons
- Excellent sound quality
- Plenty of power to drive any type of headphone
- Novel, retro design
- Multiple output options (headphone, preamp, line out)
- Gain adjustment (low, medium, high, super high, ultra high)
- USB-C input for mobile phone connection
- Includes AirPlay and Roon Ready streaming
- Local play function for playing files from USB drives
- Top-of-the-range AKM AK499X DAC (double, one chip per channel)
- Up to 4000 mW per balanced output
- New linear power supply for warm, pleasant sound
- Supports various audio formats up to DSD 512, 32 bits/768 kHz
- MQA decoding
- Bluetooth compatibility with high-resolution codecs (SBC, aptX, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, aptX Low Latency)
- Remote control for managing functions
- Wide range of inputs and outputs (optical, coaxial, balanced XLR, RCA, USB)
- No compatibility with Tidal or Spotify
Read more: Fiio K11 R2R DAC/Amp Review: A Worthy Upgrade or Redundant Luxury?
Design and Controls
The FiiO K17 boasts a unique retro design, a departure from FiiO's usual aesthetic. Available in silver and black, it features a dial-based interface for intuitive control. The leftmost dial powers the device on/off, while others manage output selection (PO+, Headphone Out Only, Pre-function, Line Out), gain (Low, Medium, High, Super High, Ultra High), input selection, and volume (with screen on/off functionality). This combination of classic looks and modern functionality is quite appealing.
Connectivity and Features
Connectivity options are extensive. The K17 includes USB-C (ideal for mobile phone connection), Bluetooth, balanced inputs, line inputs, coaxial inputs, optical inputs, and USB inputs. A noteworthy addition is the 'local play' function, allowing direct playback of files from a USB drive or external hard drive via a user-friendly folder system. This transforms the K17 into a high-res player, eliminating the need for intermediary devices.
Furthermore, the K17 supports streaming via AirPlay and Roon Ready, providing wireless connectivity options. High-resolution codecs like SBC, aptX, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, and aptX Low Latency are supported for Bluetooth connections. A remote control for managing functions like volume, screen brightness, inputs, and outputs adds to the user's convenience.
Internal Components and Sound Quality
The FiiO K17 utilizes a top-of-the-line AKM AK499X DAC (dual chips, one per channel). It offers powerful amplification up to 4000mW per balanced output, powered by a linear power supply. This combination results in a defined, warm, and pleasant sound signature across various genres. Supported formats include DSD512, 32-bit/768kHz, with MQA decoding. A 31-band parametric equalizer is accessible via FiiO's software.
The sound profile leans towards warm and organic, excelling in detail and bass response. Testing with various headphones revealed excellent performance, particularly with complex musical pieces, demonstrating its versatility across genres. It produces a low noise floor and minimal distortion, even with demanding balanced armature IEMs.
Accessories and Packaging
The K17 includes a quick start guide, warranty card, XLR headphone output cover, a spare fuse, a 6.35mm adapter (for 3.5mm headphones), a USB-A to USB-C cable, and a remote control. This comprehensive package ensures a smooth user experience from the start.
Conclusion and Verdict
The FiiO K17 delivers exceptional sound quality and power for its price point (under €1000). Its warm and organic sound profile, coupled with its robust amplification and extensive features, makes it a compelling option for audiophiles. The inclusion of AirPlay 2 and Roon Ready enhances its wireless capabilities. While it doesn't offer integrated streaming services like Tidal or Spotify, its local playback and AirPlay/Roon functionality are sufficient for many users. The retro design and intuitive dial interface add to its overall appeal. Overall, the FiiO K17 is a highly recommended DAC/Amplifier for those seeking a balanced and powerful audio experience.