Today, we review the FiiO S15, an all-in-one network player from FiiO, selling for $999 USD.
FiiO
FiiO is a brand that needs no introduction. It is a well-renowned player in the world of audio. If you’re not familiar with them yet, you can quickly visit their store or official website to become acquainted with their product line. FiiO boasts a vast range of portable audio devices and strives to compete in every field it operates.
We’ve reviewed dozens of FiiO gear over the years, and you can check them out here.
FiiO S15
The FiiO S15 is the company’s attempt at the network player market. It is designed for people using stereo systems, but also appeals to a variety of usage scenarios. It is a versatile all-in-one desktop device that can function as a streamer, DAC, BT receiver and transmitter, depending on your audio needs. It aims to provide the ultimate living room HiFi experience with flagship components, a good interface, and numerous ways to control it.
The unit utilizes flagship AKM components in its DAC section, including the AK4191 modulator and AK4499EX DAC chip.
You can check out FiiO’s R7, an all-in-one- desktop solution, as below:
FiiO is currently focusing on attracting a specific audience that requires a complete solution, particularly for desktop and living room setups. This has led them to explore the keyboard market, release speakers like the SP3, and launch full-size headphones like the FT5. In this context, the FiiO S15 is the system’s central component.
It allows you to stream music, play local files, utilize wireless capabilities, or decode music through its pure DAC function.
The S15 has covered inputs and outputs for you, including everything you possibly need, such as an SSD slot. Let me show you what inputs/outputs you have on the back side of the unit in the diagram below, as well as the front panel, so it will be easier to understand:
Packaging
Being a large desktop unit, the packaging is quite substantial, but I appreciate the protective foam inside. It is a supremely secure package, and the contents, in typical FiiO fashion, are wealthy. Check out below to see what is included:
Design & Build
The S15’s build quality is impressive. Its all-aluminium construction exudes solidity and durability. The device resembles a monolithic block, featuring a sleek industrial design language. When it’s not powered on, it appears somewhat basic, but when it’s in operation, the design is charming, thanks to the LED lights.
FiiO has undoubtedly raised the bar with its recent products, offering significant improvements in both aesthetics and functionality. The large horizontal screen enhances the overall visual appeal, while the addition of LED light strips around the big knobs adds a stylish accent to the design.
However, one aspect that could have been further refined is the screen situation. The S15 features a horizontal large-screen design. Depending on your setup in the room, using the screen might be challenging. Since there’s no tilted mechanism or a fixed tilted display, operating the device from there can be a bit complicated.
Yet, that is the case with most streamer products in the market, so I can’t be hard on FiiO.
Operation
You have a large touchscreen to operate the device. The screen has double-tap to wake, and the responsiveness is quite good. Additionally, the knob on the left side allows for device control without requiring screen interaction. Rotate the knob to choose the app or menu, then click it to select. Basic but easy to work with.
However, there are more options available, which makes the S15 even more user-friendly. First, the FiiO Control App allows you to control the unit from your smartphone. That’s an excellent feature for sitting back and enjoying the S15 from a distance. You also get the RM3 remote controller for controlling various functions.
The S15 offers comprehensive user-focused solutions to cater to every possible need.
There are also various modes to select:
- Android Mode
- Pure Music Mode
- AirPlay
- USB DAC Mode
- BT Receiving Mode
- Coax/Optical Mode
- Roon Ready
- HDMI Input Mode
- HDMI ARC Mode
User Experience
The new S15 is equipped with the Snapdragon 660, a highly popular processor in today’s audio market. It boasts 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage, which is reasonably sufficient for a device of this kind. However, larger numbers would have been nicer.
The real-world experience is excellent, with the device being snappy, having a clean UI, and feeling close to the stock Android experience. The Android version is 12, which is good, but could have been higher.
The volume and output knobs have nice weight and sturdiness, but they’re also easy to operate and turn. You can customize the LED lights on both knobs. By default, they change depending on the sample rate. On the left side of the screen, you have navigation buttons for tapping.
These are for returning to the home UI, returning, and selecting the device modes menu. 5Ghz WiFi works like a charm, and the BT quality is good.
The review continues on the second page. Click here or use the jumps below.
