The FiiO M21 DAP redefines portable audio, offering a powerhouse of features in a remarkably compact design. This pocket-sized player boasts a significant upgrade over previous M-series models, packing impressive power and audio fidelity into a sleek, sophisticated package. Forget bulky devices; the M21 seamlessly blends portability with exceptional performance, making it an ideal companion for audiophiles on the go. Its intuitive Android 13 interface allows for seamless access to your favorite streaming services and music libraries, while its robust hardware ensures a truly immersive listening experience.Featuring a powerful Snapdragon 680 SoC, ample storage, and four flagship-level DAC chips, the M21 delivers exceptional sound quality. Its warmer, more musical sound signature prioritizes engagement over clinical accuracy, making it a joy to listen to across various genres. With impressive battery life, high power output capable of driving even demanding headphones, and surprisingly expansive sound staging, the FiiO M21 sets a new standard for portable digital audio players in its price range.
Pros And Cons
- Pocket-friendly and lightweight
- Affordable ($329 or €329)
- Improved design compared to previous models
- Good build quality (buttons don't wobble)
- Sturdy 4.4 mm balanced output and 3.5 mm headphone jack
- USB-C ports for charging, data transfer, and desktop mode
- Newer Snapdragon 680 system-on-chip (faster and more energy-efficient)
- Open Android 13 platform (supports third-party apps)
- MicroSD card slot (up to 2TB)
- Four flagship-level Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC chips
- Fully balanced amplifier stage
- Global 10-band parametric EQ
- All-to-DSD option
- Good battery life (10.5 hours with desktop headphones, over 11.5 hours with IEMs)
- Available accessories (cases)
- Low noise floor, even at high gain
- High power output (over 700mW per channel at 32 ohms via battery, almost 1W via desktop mode)
- Good sound staging and stereo separation
- Drives hard-to-drive headphones
- 4.7-inch HD screen is not the brightest or most colorful
- 2.5 mm jack dropped
- Only 46GB of ROM available for the user
- Not hyperdetailed or detail-oriented
- Sound described as 'mid-centric', 'fatter', and 'slower'
Read more: EPZ P50 In-Ear Monitor Review: A Breakout Performer?
Design and Build Quality
The FiiO M21 boasts a remarkably compact and pocket-friendly design, a significant departure from FiiO's previous M-series models. Its smaller size and sleek form factor make it incredibly portable. The device features a 4.7-inch HD screen, which while not the brightest or most vibrant, is perfectly adequate for its price point.
The build quality is excellent. The dark blue color with bronze buttons is particularly appealing, offering a sophisticated and understated aesthetic. The matte glass back enhances Wi-Fi and Bluetooth signal reception, while the buttons provide satisfying tactile feedback without any wobbling.
A notable omission is the 2.5mm balanced jack, but this is offset by the inclusion of both a sturdier 4.4mm balanced output and a standard 3.5mm headphone jack. Both jacks function as line outs for external amplifiers.
Internal Specifications and Features
The FiiO M21 is powered by a Snapdragon 680 system-on-chip (SoC), offering a substantial upgrade in speed and energy efficiency compared to previous models. The device runs on Android 13, providing an open platform that supports third-party apps for streaming, gaming, and more.
It packs 4GB of RAM and 64GB of ROM (46GB usable), expandable via microSD card up to 2TB. This allows for ample storage for extensive music libraries.
The audio capabilities are exceptional for this price range. It includes four flagship-level CS43198 DAC chips from Cirrus Logic, and a fully balanced amplifier stage. It offers a global 10-band parametric EQ and an all-to-DSD conversion option.
Accessories and Battery Life
The FiiO M21 comes with a basic rubbery case, providing adequate protection. However, FiiO also offers several more premium cases, including a PU leather case and a unique cassette-style case.
The cassette-style case is particularly noteworthy, providing a retro aesthetic and additional buttons for playback control with cool screen animations. It's a fun and nostalgic touch.
Battery life is impressive, averaging 10.5 hours with demanding headphones and over 11.5 hours with IEMs, exceeding the runtime of previous FiiO models.
Sound Quality and Performance
The FiiO M21 marks a shift away from the THX AAA amplifier modules used in previous models. The new sound signature is warmer and more musical, with improved mid-range presence and less of a clinical, dry sound.
The sound is described as calmer, thicker, and more flowing, with a greater emphasis on mid-range frequencies. While not hyper-detailed, it provides a rich and engaging listening experience that prioritizes musicality over clinical accuracy.
The device excels at handling a variety of genres, particularly acoustic music. The overall sound is more emotional and engaging, drawing the listener into the music rather than simply presenting technical details.
Noise Levels and Power Output
The FiiO M21 demonstrates exceptionally low noise levels, even at high gain with sensitive IEMs. No noise was detectable, making it ideal for IEM users.
Power output is another strong point. The device delivers impressive power, exceeding 700mW per channel at 32 ohms via battery and nearly 1W per channel in desktop mode, capable of driving even demanding headphones.
This power output allows the M21 to drive high-impedance headphones effectively, achieving near-desktop headphone amplifier level performance, which is quite impressive for its size and price.
Sound Staging and Overall Impression
The FiiO M21 surprisingly offers excellent sound staging and stereo separation, surpassing expectations for a device of its size. The sound is open and spacious, creating a three-dimensional listening experience rarely found in compact players.
The overall performance of the M21 is impressive considering its compact design and affordable price point. It offers a musical and engaging listening experience while still providing ample power for demanding headphones.
While not perfect in terms of detail and speed compared to higher-end DAPs, the FiiO M21 delivers exceptional value and should be considered a strong contender for anyone seeking a powerful yet portable audio player.
