Controls & Features
The FiiO K11 has a clear, high-contrast monochrome LCD screen on the front panel that always displays key information such as sample rate, volume, and output mode. Next to the screen is the main controller, the multi-function knob. This is not just a volume control; a simple push turns the unit on or off while a long press brings up the settings menu. Rotating the knob adjusts the volume, and holding it down allows you to switch between inputs and outputs quickly.
The rear of the unit has a number of inputs and outputs: a USB port for digital input, an optical input for digital audio, and a coaxial port that doubles as both input and output – the latter only works in USB mode. The RCA output lets you connect the DAC to external amplifiers or active speakers.
The K11’s amplifier is quite powerful, dishing out 1400mW into a 32-ohm load and with three gain settings to suit different headphone impedances and sensitivities. The settings menu allows you to tweak the digital filters, set the USB modes, and adjust the screen’s brightness and RGB logo. The unit is driver-free, meaning it’s ready for most users with no additional setup required. Overall, controlling the device is quite straightforward. Button positioning is easy to remember, and it takes less than 10 minutes to get used to the device’s controls.
Sound & Performance
The sonic signature of the FiiO K11 exemplifies how crucial the implementation of a DAC chip is, with the CS43198 at its core. Familiar with this DAC from numerous reviews we wrote, we’ve come to understand that the sum of an audio board’s parts is what defines its quality, not just the DAC chip itself. FiiO’s K11, while positioned as a budget offering, defies expectations with specs that promise much and deliver more.
In our tests, the K11 demonstrates a praiseworthy clarity that’s both clean and true to the source. It’s a flat and neutral device that does not saturate the signature of your headphones. The sound it reproduces is characterized by its neutrality, offering a balanced and clean response that doesn’t play favorites with any frequency band. Each instrument is placed precisely, creating a relatively wide and airy soundstage where complexity doesn’t result in congestion.
The ability of the K11 to maintain such a clean and balanced sound with various pairings is particularly impressive, given its modest price tag. Its technical capability is quite impressive for a device of this form and factor. FiiO has been surprising us with their ever-expanding expertise in the DAC AMP sphere with the K7, K9, and now the K11. For a DAC-AMP that tips just over the hundred-dollar mark, the K11 is not just competing but setting a new standard in its category.
Pairing with Sennheiser 58X
I have a modded Massdrop (now Drop) & Sennheiser special 58X. (Removed the grille foam and circular damper behind the driver.) This combination features a balanced, transparent, and also surprisingly vivid presentation. The clarity and resolution are very impressive. The bass is rounded, detailed, and impactful when the track calls for it. The midrange is clean and engaging, which is one of the highlights of the 58X. The Treble region is expansive and clean (thanks to the no-grille mod and the K11!) This combo is damn impressive and also highly budget-friendly.
Pairing with Vision Ears VE7
The Vision Ears VE7 is an excellent monitor. Its signature is quite flat and tuned with complete accuracy in mind. Pairing it with K11 results in a very resolving, detail-oriented, clean & clear presentation. Tonality feels very natural. The soundstage is wide and deep. Imaging, pace, rhythm, and timing are excellent for the price, and it does not feel like K11 is bottlenecking the x10 pricier VE7.
Pairing with Yanyin Moonlight 2023
Yanyin Moonlight is a musical monitor that features a neutral-warm signature. It is configured as a tribrid with its BA DD and EST drivers. The presentation is quite relaxed and articulate, with a good amount of detail retrieval. The Moonlight is a good all-rounder, and just like the K11, it punches above its weight, so they make a good team together. The K11 does not hold it back in any way and does not saturate it, so I enjoyed the same sound signature that I love.
Last Words
The FiiO K11 stands out as a device that provides substantial value, solid performance, and practical features for its cost. It’s a DAC-AMP that handles its primary job with a level of competence that one might expect from higher-priced equipment. The sound quality is clean and neutral, offering a transparent canvas that doesn’t interfere with the signatural characteristics of the connected audio gear. This level of sonic integrity, especially in a budget-friendly unit, is commendable.
When it comes to features, the K11 is straightforward yet versatile. The variety of inputs and outputs accommodates a wide range of setups, from simple headphone configurations to more complex home audio systems. The inclusion of a high-contrast, durable LCD screen, multiple gain settings, and customizable RGB lighting are thoughtful touches that enhance the user experience without overwhelming it.
The build quality of the K11 adds to its value. The sturdy construction and sleek design give it a presence on the desk that belies its modest price. It’s a device that feels like it should cost more, not just because of its appearance but because of its performance.
Again, this DAC-AMP doesn’t try to impose its own character onto the music but instead provides a clear window into the essence of the headphones or speakers it powers. With no coloration, the K11 allows the listener to experience the headphones as-is, making it an honest intermediary between the digital source and the headphones.
Ultimately, the FiiO K11 is a serious contender in its price range. For those looking to step into high-fidelity audio without making a significant investment, or for seasoned audiophiles in need of a reliable, no-frills DAC-AMP, the K11 is an excellent choice. It does what it’s designed to do exceptionally well, and in today’s market, that straightforwardness and simplicity are a breath of fresh air.
Pros:
+ Clean and neutral sound signature
+ Good technical capability for the price
+ Great feature-set
+ Pricing
Cons:
– None at this price
Page 1: Intro, FiiO, K11, Packaging & Accessories, Design & Build Quality
Page 2: Controls & Features, Sound & Performance, Pairings, Last Words
Ronald Jones
All I am looking for is a mp3 type juke box to put all my favourite tracks on that can act as a hi fi attachment and a headphone player too. But to be affordable for most hi fi lovers.
Predrag Jeremic
Some people complain that on some heavy bass notes or loud sounds in movies the amp cuts the output to prevent clipping I guess (suggested track for testing this is Retronik by Swing bit). Second, a lack of a remote prevents this device to be used both as a DAC for a speaker system and a headamp. Getting up to adjust the volume every time is not convenient. Looking at the inputs and outputs it is designed also for this use case but a lack of a remote holds it back. Ideally if you add a remote and a solid BT Implementation the price would go up close to 200 range where you are confronted with strong competition like the topping dx3 pro plus with more power, lower distortion a remote and a solid BT Implementation. Also people say that windows volume control does not work via USB , only via optical which could be a deal breaker for some. Solid product but definitely not without cons even at this price point…