EDIT 25/09/2014: The New E10K has replaced the E10 from this review: Go here: https://www.headfonia.com/fiio-e10k-classic-reborn/
———————-
The E10 was very easy to like from the very beginning. High quality all metal packaging with an exceptionally well designed volume control (with numbers too!) and all the right interfaces. The finishing of the brushed metal is so good in fact that at first glance the Fiio looks like a typical product from Ray Samuels. Like any gear fresh from the mailbox, what I do is set it up with the simplest system I have around. With the E10, plug in the USB cable in, play a familiar tunes in Itunes, plug a headphone in, and I was immediately listening to the newest DAC from Fiio.
First impression: this thing sounds good. Amazingly good in fact, despite the fact that I just finished the ALO Continental amplifier review less than 24 hours ago. Full mids, good bass, spacious open sound, unoffensive treble. Things are sounding very, very good, and I’m happily nodding my head to the beats of the music. Fiio has really nailed it with this one. Everything sounded right and full sounding. In particular was the bass, which I find very addictive. I had mistakenly switched the bass-boost switch on as I thought that to be the power switch (the E10 automatically powers on as you plug in the USB cable to the back panel). So the thing is running with the bass boost on. You get these punchy, fat, round bass, beat after beat. The bass is not super-articulate compared to say an AMB Labs Mini3, but it’s tight enough for music listening purposes (unless you really want to be picky about it). And the most important thing is that the bass is just fun. Punchy, round, a lot of fun. Turn off the bass boost and you get extra clarity in the bass section, but with the HD25-1, I just like it with the bass boost on. The midrange is just nice and full sounding. No complaints there, really. It’s not ALO Continental – level midrange, but for $80 it better be not ALO Continental level midrange.
The thing with the E10 (and I think I’ve said it before) is that it just sounds good. The TE2077 + WM8740 + AD8397 combination has just enough technicalities to resolve a typical mainstream recording, but the musicality is just amazing. I never felt the E10 to be lacking musicality at the slightest bit.
Excellent build quality all around.
Gain selector on the back.
Front faceplate.
Back faceplate.
Size comparison with the Fiio E7. The E10 is slightly thicker.
Continue to the next page…
merrom
Cool. When will it be released on market?
Anonymous
October, I think?
Yuwei Wang
Very nice review. Gonna get one to use at work
Holden4th
So would using the E10 as a DAC via analogue out into the E9 mean that the amp section of the E10 was no longer functional ?
Anonymous
Yes, that’s correct.
Dhani Nugraha
Mike, I’d like to confirm that during my (very) brief stint with the E10, I was able to get it working at 24/96 over USB with my MacBook. 🙂
Anonymous
Really?
Thanks for the info. I’ll try it without the USB hub then.
Anonymous
Yes it works now. Bypassed the USB hub I was using.
Dhani Nugraha
USB hubs can be problematic at times 🙂
Anonymous
Question: PA2v2 or E10 or CMoy when paired with an ATH-M50 with SRH840 earpads (tweaked EQ to balance out heightened mids and lowered bass, feel free to flame).
I mainly listen to Metal, some Techno, Classical and various Game/Movie Sountracks
Anonymous
I’d go with the PA2V2 mainly due to the speed in the bass.
For classical and Game soundtracks, the JDSLabs would be a tad better. But I’d still go with the PA2V2 since you listen to Metal.
Anonymous
PA2v2 it is then 😀
Thanks for the advice. Eventually I’ll probably get the JDSLabs CMoy as well, but not now 🙂
Anonymous
Awesome!
Andrew Prasetyo Jo
IMO, PA2V2 is a better amp than JDSLabs CMoy. I own both, but PA2V2 is more “forgiving” for your non-HD tracks.
Anonymous
Its a long road to upgrade your entire collection of poorly encoded MP3s to poorly mastered FLACs 😛 I’m about 65% there
Sennman-25
Thanks for yet another insightful review. How does the E10 compare to HRT MS2?
Thanks,
Sennman-25
Anonymous
Obviously the MS2 is still the better DAC.
Alvin
Could the E10 be used with the E9?
Anonymous
You can, through the analog out.
FiiO
Thanks for the great photos, Mike is the best photographer.
Anonymous
Thanks!
SC
I wonder how the E10 sounds vs the E7+E9 using low impedance headphones since the E10’s output impedance is below 1 ohm while the E9 is 43 ohm on the mini and 10 ohm on 1/4. From what I understand, the 10 ohm will easily affect the sound signature for any low impedance cans like 32 ohm. I am looking to get a E10 to compare against the E7+E9 but I’d like to know your thoughts
Anonymous
I will try to compare that and let you know..
Mick
What type of music would you pair this with?
Anonymous
I think it works great with many many different stuff, Mick. Read the review?
Donunus
By the way, I also just reviewed the FiiO d3 and its one awesome DAC for the price. In fact, I am replacing the e7 with it for my E9 since the extra sharpness of the e7s dac section is eliminated when using the d3 with the e9 instead. I now really want to get this e10 too. FiiO has been impressing the heck out of me recently 🙂
Anonymous
Really neeed to get that D3 been hearing so much about them.
Sent from my mobile device, apologize for any spelling mistakes.
deanreed
Hey Donunus, Love to read your review of the D3 – where can I find it?
Anonymous
Just found Donunus’ review: http://headfonics.com/2011/09/fiio-d3-dac-its-a-keeper/
Don, feel free to post it next time, I don’t mind. 😉
Anonymous
Hey Thanks Mike 🙂 We should so some combo reviews sometime haha.. or maybe that Pan-Asian Jam someone mentioned before! 🙂
Anonymous
I know we really should have a big gathering one day. Perhaps I’ll try to visit you guys over there. 🙂
Anonymous
You should come to our local end of year bash, KenJam 2011 on Dec 4th 2011 🙂
Anonymous
I’ll check out AirAsia for cheap tickets. 🙂 In Manila?
Anonymous
Yup in Manila – just use my email and let me know if your coming and I can sort you out with accom and directions etc 🙂
Anonymous
Thanks Marcus!
Choi
Mike, soundstage wise, does the audinst sounds better? and overall SQ, which one would you choose? mx1 or e10? (probably e10)?
Thanks
Anonymous
Soundstage wise the Audinst is better, overall SQ the Audinst as well. But i think the Fiio has a better toe tapping factor.
Sent from my mobile device, apologize for any spelling mistakes.
Syakir Zainol
Mike, as always, this and the JDSLabs? How do they compare?
Anonymous
JDSLabs slightly more spacious and smoother. Fiio punchier bass, more fun, and it comes with a 24/96 DAC!
Guest
oh with a review as good as this i’ll probably order the E10 lol then few months down the road I probably want the audinst again..
Anonymous
Who knows, maybe if the Fiio is really good then you dont’ need to get the Audinst. 🙂
Guest
good write up as usual 🙂
Anonymous
Thanks!
Guest
re-reading your article again has me sold on E10. I can sense your excitement and your enjoyment of the E10 in your review. Look forward to more reviews like this 🙂
Anonymous
Thanks!
Eskimoo
as i read this article, FiiO had really nice product!
24/96 nowadays only achieved by original audiophile recording right?
Anonymous
Sorry? Original audiophile recording?
You can check http://www.hdtracks.com or Bower Wilkins society of sound for 25/96 files.
Hejsan!
How does this compare to the Yulong U100? I’m currently using the Yulong with my Fostex t50rp and Fischers Fa-011. The yulong is a bit bright/trebleheavy with the fa-011 but have good synergy with the fostex t50rp.
Anonymous
The Yulong has better technicalities, but if you find the Yulong to be too bright for the FA011 then the E10 would be better in that sense. For the Fostex, yes I agree the Yulong is probably going to be a better match.
Sennman-25
Hey mike, I was originally goin for this setup to hook up to netbook CMOY->HRT MS2->HD-25, but since cash is kinda of tight. I wanna get the Fiio E10 first because I won’t have anything to use the CMOY with(I was gonna buy it first then MS2 later on). The Fiio E10 seems like a better option because i could use it as an interim dac until MS2. Good idea? Srry 4 long post.
Thanks!
Anonymous
Yes I think that’s a great idea. In fact the E10 is so much fun that I won’t find myself missing the MS2 (though it is still the better DAC).
Mistalava
Mentioning Fiio and RSA in the same breath, even as a passing comment is ludicrous.
Orta03
Why? Is it so ridiculous that this 80 dollar DAC/amp combo can produce sound that is just as enjoyable as one of Ray’s amps? The E10 my not have the technicalities of Ray’s amps, but when it comes to musical enjoyment, the E10 doesn’t seem to far behind. And isn’t musical enjoyment what this hobby is all about? 🙂
Benedict Brown
How does the E10 hold up as a pure DAC? Paired with something relatively high-end, what kind of level does it reach in terms of other products? I ask since this would probably be my most likely long-term use for the E10.
Thanks.
Anonymous
Hi Benedict,
What is relatively high end? Say the CEntrance DACport or the HRT Music Streamer II+ or Cambridge DACmagic, there is no comparison.
Basically I think the price range reflects the level of technicalities, except that I don’t think the E10 really fits as an $80 DAC in technicalities but more around ~$120. The Audinst comes in at $180, the DACport and HRT and DACmagic at around $300-$400, and so on.
MedStudent
Great review! So excited as this is going to be my first amp ever and first plunge into the audiophile world. Quick question: what is the Low/High gain selector on the back do? When there is already a volume knob, why is there L/H gain settings too? Please excuse my ignorance!
Anonymous
The Low/High gain determines the range of volume control loudness that the volume knob has.
For instance, using simple numbers:
Low gain: 1-10 on the loudness scale
High gain: 11-20 on the loudness scale
MedStudent
I’m also a regular on the djtechtools.com forums. I posted a thread comparing low-end amps to pro DJ audio interfaces (http://www.djtechtools.com/forum/showthread.php?t=37095) Any thoughts? I won’t be using this for DJ’ing. My headphone jack on my laptop is busted so that’s how I stumbled across this idea of using an amp!! Any thoughts? Thanks so much for all your reviews. You’ve been tremendously helpful 🙂
Anonymous
Hi Rohan,
I really have no experience with DJ gear, but I think you can give the Fiio a try, at least to replace the headphone jack on your laptop.
I’ve came across an entry level USB DAC unit from Behringer that is based on the PCM2702 chipset. Based on the chip alone, this Fiio is much superior, so I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
Dan Z
I’ve had the E7 for a while now. I did enjoy it a good amount but I felt the bass left a bit to be desired for more bass heavy tracks. On top of that I read you previous review on the Audio Technica Pro700 Mk2 and it got me thinking on getting a pair to use for Trance and Dubstep tracks in place of my ATH M-50. Now I’m thinking I should just replace my E7 and go for the E10. Or should I sill go for the headphones as well?
Anonymous
Dan,
If you feel the bass to be lacking (and I agree the M-50 is too weak for Trance or Dubstep), the Pro700 Mk2 will make the bigger difference. But on top of that the E10 will also add in even more punch to the mix.
Dan Z
Hmm I’ll keep that in mind, thanks for the reply, and as always awesome job with the review!
Anonymous
You’re welcome Dan.
MedStudent
Also any news on release date and where we could purchase this (USA) ?
FiiO
I think Micca will be the first agents in US who sell E10. and the first batch of E10 will be available after 15 – 20 days.
MedStudent
awesome thanks. where do we stay tuned to find out when they’re available?
Anonymous
You can probably enlist in some sort of a newsletter if Micca has one.
Anonymous
Thanks, Fiio.
Any links?
FiiO
http://miccastore.com/
Lieven V
And in europe?
Anonymous
I think around October, and since Amazon.com has been carrying Fiio products for a while, I assume they’ll have the E10 too when it comes out.
Jonah
Hey, I’m just wondering how the E10 compares with something like the HRT Music Streamer II as a DAC. By the way, can you use this as a DAC only and connect it to another amp?
Anonymous
Josh,
The HRT is still the better DAC.
By the way I’ve compared the E10 to the Audinst on this article, and if you go back to the HRT MS2 article you can find a comparison between that to the Audinst: http://www.headfonia.com/the-hrt-music-streamer-ii-asynchronous-2496-for-149-95/2/
Viet
Hello Mike,
Been following your articles for quite a long time and you has just made those gears so grand, so “right” until the next article is published. I really want to pull the trigger on something that i wont be regret a week after or so :)I mainly listening to Rap (Eminem), RnB, some Pop and mainstream as well. I prefer round, tight, punchy bass and i wonder if this E10 is right for that duty. I’m using a HD 25 for those genres and HD 595 for stuff like Enya. Besides that, shoud I go for the Audinst amp-HP for portability purpose?
Anonymous
Hi Viet,
I apologize for doing that, and it’s not like something I do intentionally. The thing is, I don’t think there is a perfect, peak of the summit product that we can get and be done with it. Take the Iphone 4 for instance, it is the best Iphone ever, until Iphone 5 comes out. So, yea I’m sorry if I do that.
As for your music I think the E10 is very good for what you’re listening to. Obvously it’s not going to work on batteries, so you gotta think what you really need to get here.
Viet
Thank you very much Mike,
Even though I haven’t really pulled the trigger on anything, I still enjoy your writing a lot. I know it’s hard for you when things tend to get better and better nowadays. I’d rather have you and your honest review here than nothing at all 😀
Just keep up the good work, Mike
Anonymous
Thanks, Viet. Readers like you keep this site going.
Alan
Great review. I can’t wait to get one.
Anonymous
Thanks, Alan.
David Winarso
Mike, are you sure that the USB receiver is TE2077? Not TE7022?
Anonymous
It was probably a mis-type, David.
Jedkoh
Hi Mike, would like to ask compare to E11, how does the E10 fare? Right now I am using a Govibe standalone DAC with E11 and I wonder whether this E10 can not only give similar fun sound as E11 but also better instrument separation…..I’m using it mainly for jungle/drum and bass, jazz, p funk that kind of genre…
Anonymous
Someone took my E11 and so I’m unable to compare the two at the moment.
I think the E11’s amp is ultimately more powerful as it is able to drive the Hifiman HE-500’s big magnets with plenty of punch. However if you’re using relatively modern dynamics headphone which normally isn’t that current demanding, then the E10’s one box solution would give you better soundstage, instrument separation, clearer signal due to the shorter signal path.
Anonymous
I’ve added a comparison to the E11.
Randius
Does it give any benefit to pair the E10 with E11? How does the amp section on E10 fare against that on the E11?
Anonymous
copy and pasted from below:
Someone took my E11 and so I’m unable to compare the two at the moment. I think the E11’s amp is ultimately more powerful as it is able to drive the Hifiman HE-500’s big magnets with plenty of punch. However if you’re using relatively modern dynamics headphone which normally isn’t that current demanding, then the E10’s one box solution would give you better soundstage, instrument separation, clearer signal due to the shorter signal path.
ellenico
I’m wondering how this compares to NuForce uDac2 …
Anonymous
I just updated the article with a comparison to the uDAC 2 and the Fiio E7/E9 combo.
MedStudent
Mike, thank you so much for your replies. It is amazing to see how you put your heart and soul into this website and even interact with all the readers in the comments section. Thanks for all your insight.
Anonymous
You’re welcome, Rohan.
HK-47
Since it seems that the E7 DAC is limiting the E7-E9 combo, have you tried running the E10 line out to the E9?
Anonymous
Yes actually I have. Here is what I found: The sound was more spacious and again, I also like how it’s easier to get loud volume levels with the E9. Dynamics was also better with the E9’s amplifier. One thing suffer though, that is the midrange body was a little hollow, and the frequency transition from bass-mid-treble is not as smooth as I hear out of the E10. So while certain things were nice with the E9, ultimately I think the E10 won me over one more time.
HK-47
Thanks! I’m leaning towards getting one of these when it comes out.
Donunus
The culprit in your descriptions of the e7/e9 combo is the e7 dac section. Try the e9 with the FiiO D3 and the thin sharp sound goes away! I am using the e9 at low gain with the hd600s and the d3 as a DAC going into its rear input and the combo is GREAT! I wish you could compare the E10 to the D3/E9 combo if ever you get the D3.
Anonymous
Yes I should ask them for the D3.
What chipset is the D3 based on? WM8805?
Donunus
probably not. I think the wolfson is used as a SPDIF receiver and the dac is a cirrus logic. I hear no hollowness to the sound with this combo right now with the e9. Maybe the E10s line out is weak making the hollow sound with the e9?
Donunus
Oh, of course the high gain setting adds hollowness to the sound of the e9 regardless of the dac used.
FiiO
WM8805+CS4344
idunnosoSTFU
Which one is better? The FiiO E10 or iBasso D-Zero?
Anonymous
Don’t know about that since I’m still waiting to get the D-Zero.
Alf
No batteries inside???
Anonymous
Yes, no batteries.
FiiO
E10 is designed for home use. you can wait our new DAC&, E17, which also support 96/24 from USB and 192/24 from coax/optical . almost the same DAC and amp with E10.
Alfani_gun_02
When e17 comes?
Cant wait
Anonymous
Same question here, when will the E17 come?
FiiO
Feb 2012
Jian Ming Lee
but when will e17 be out? end of this year, possible?
Anonymous
Feb 2012 according to Fiio (just a few post down)
Guest
Sorry, I just wanted to confirm whether the E10 do 192/24 from coax/optical for sure ? you only mentioned E17.
FiiO
E10 does not support 192/24, but E17 will support 192/24 from coax and optical input. but 96/24 only when USB in.
Donunus
What I’m waiting for is a full on desktop DAC/AMP from FiiO that uses wall power and will compete with the $1000+ crowd. I am imagining at least 5 watts of power and a refined sound. It will have SPDIF and USB inputs as well as a few RCA inputs plus balanced and single ended line outs for using as a pure DAC, then a preamp output all for around $500 or less hehehe
Anonymous
Yes there is a Fiio for every budget.
Donunus
I’m just waiting for the more audiophile desktop model like what I wrote because I have faith that FiiO can actually make a real giant killer!
Anonymous
Yes the only question is would they.
Rodrigo Pita
Since I don’t have enough money to buy a nice Dac + Schiit Asgard + Taxes = +- $1000.00 in Brazil, I’ll get the Fiio E10 when its avaible. Reading your text, I think it will pair really nice with my JH5, JH13 and Denon D5000. I think the E10 will be able to smooth the high frequences of the JH13 and D5000 and improve the mids at the same time. And for $80.00 I think it is worth a try. =) Thank You Mike
Anonymous
That sounds like a good plan, Rodrigo.
Johan Ullman
Great review as always! Did you ever try it with the Shure SRH940?
Anonymous
No, unfortunately no SRH940 at the moment.
David
Are the differences between the E10 and the Audinst worth the extra $100? Looking for an amp/dac for my HD25-1.
Anonymous
I wrote about how the two compares on the article. As to whether the difference is worth it, I think only you can decide.
Wyffels
How do you like this versus the Yulong u100?
Anonymous
Well the Yulong U100 is technically the better DAC. But the E10 is small, runs from USB power, does 24/96 with my Mac without fuss, and the sound is warmer and fuller. So, depends on your priorities I guess.
Ben
Do you think the E10 would pair well with Triplefi 10s?
Anonymous
I personally don’t think the TF10s need an amp, but if you want to play music from your computer and don’t have a good headphone out, then yes I think it’ll pair well with the E10.
Ben
Sounds good :], I was planning to use it more as a dac then an amp
FiiO
We will release recable for UE TF10, used Oyaide’s cable . LOL
Anonymous
Amazing.
Ray
How does it compare to the E11 in terms of amplification and SQ?
Scytus
How does it compare to the M-Stage?
Anonymous
M-Stage? Is that even a serious question?
Hejsan!
Much worse than the m-stage then?
Anonymous
No I mean the M-Stage is a $200-$300 big desktop amp with much higher power levels than the E10 and you’re asking for a comparison between the two.
Anonymous
I’ve added a comparison to the E11.
Jedkoh
Thank you so much for the comments and esp. to your latest comparison using the E11. Nonetheless I will also seek the chance to audition out the E10 to fully grasp the difference…
TQ once again for your wonderful work!
Anonymous
You’re welcome!
Mike
waiiiit…..i listen to pretty much the whole spectrum of music, so you’re saying e11 is better for some (hip hop, pop, dubstep) and e10 for others (jazz, classical, etc)…..and does that mean they are pretty much equal in level or does e10 outshine it overall?
any idea what the output impedance is for the e10 (I hope its not too high for my soon to arrive denon d2000’s) and is the e11 really more powerful than e10 (I ask for my hd600’s)? How much more transperancy for e11 and do you think it’ll (generally) always be noticeable improvement with laptops (my headphone jack output seems to be pretty good, don’t really hear much dry signal or hiss)?
Anonymous
Mike,
The E10 works great for many different music including your hip hop. What I’m saying is that if someone decide to add the E11 to the mix, he will get a better bass. That’s not saying that the E10’s bass is weak but rather you can have some sort of a boost in the bass with the E11. Whereas if you listen to Jazz or Classical where you don’t really need a punchy bass, it would be better to just stick with the E10 since you get better transparency.
Output impedance: should be okay for the D2000 since I’ve used it with the JH5 which is even lower. Power for HD600: yes
With laptops: use the E10 it should be better than your laptop.
xxhaxx
Since the E10 has an USB -> S/PDIF convert I can connect my laptop to the E10->DAC->AMP-> Headphone?
If I were to connect it in the following manner (above) it should work
Anonymous
Yes it should work.
Jalla
How would the e10 pair with alessandro ms1? I have the fiio e7 and wondering if I should consider upgrading.
Anonymous
I would recommend that upgrade yes.
Alphonse Clemente
Finally, an inexpensive desktop dac. Thanks for the good news.
Anonymous
You’re welcome, Alphonse.
pkonik
The question is: does this work under Linux (Ubuntu in my case)?
I was going to buy Audinst but it’s only windows-compatible, awww.
Anonymous
Don’t have Ubuntu to test it on.
The Audinst HUD-MX1 works with OSX as well.
Guest
i think you were confusing it with the yulong U100 that pairs well only with windows
Anonymous
Good point, yea perhaps he meant the Yulong U100.
pkonik
Yeah, you’re right, probably. The volume level of the one I’m thinking about can be controlled only through the software. But nevermind.
Still, I’d like to know whether E10 will work with Linux. Anyone?
Anonymous
Sorry I used to have an ubuntu netbook but someone’s installed windows over it and I haven’t restore it back to Ubuntu so I can’t check (I lost the power adapter to that laptop).
N00bality
I have been thinking about buying some HD598’s. Would the Fiio E10 be a good pairing?
Anonymous
Yes it would.
N00bality
Sweet! Thanks for the fast reply.
Kimmy_69_rokz
would it benefit ed8 out of a pc?
Kimmy_69_rokz
I’m sorry I meant like would it be worth getting for the ED8? I’m currently using just an iPod but want an improvement thx
Anonymous
Oh yes, definitely. Definitely better than the iPod.
Jordan
how about pairing this E10 DAC part with E9 amping section? is it going to be better than E10 itself?
Anonymous
Good question Jordan.
I copy and pasted this from another question:
Yes actually I have. Here is what I found: The sound was more spacious and again, I also like how it’s easier to get loud volume levels with the E9. Dynamics was also better with the E9’s amplifier. One thing suffer though, that is the midrange body was a little hollow, and the frequency transition from bass-mid-treble is not as smooth as I hear out of the E10. So while certain things were nice with the E9, ultimately I think the E10 won me over one more time.
Jordan
so, in your opinion isn’t E10 as standalone DAC+AMP is better than collaborating E10 DAC section with E9 Amping section? hm…. Interesting and thx for the answer 🙂
Anonymous
No please don’t take it like that. As I’ve said certain things are better through the E9, but with my personal preference, I just happen to like the E10 better.
1amp
have u tried e10 with iPad with camera connection kit? I probably draws too much current?
Anonymous
Sorry that’s one thing I haven’t tried since I don’t have the camera connection kit around.
Eddie Liang
i have audio technica esw9 and shure se115 iems. Im thinking about getting an amp solely to pair with my laptop, would the fiio e10 be a good fit?
Anonymous
Yes sure.
1amp
headfonia, what do you do for living to have time to reply to all our Qs?! 🙂
Anonymous
I know, you guys really should stop asking so many questions. 🙂
Guest
lol I wonder how many people are E10 converts aftre reading your e10 article.
cheap, good, stamp of appoval from Mike..
Anonymous
I should try being a salesman selling private jets to billionaires. Probably do pretty well.
Anonymous
Photography is my day job but I am not a very busy photographer so I get plenty of time to answer questions such as yours. 😉
HK-47
Ah, so that explains why the photos on your reviews always look great.
Anonymous
Yea, I got to use good lighting equipment so that helps a lot with making the photos here.
Cola Bear
I agree, the pics look great here.
nick
Question: My actual setup is PC onboard audio to Shure SRH840. Should I get the E10 (DAC + Amp) or a CmoyBB (no DAC)? What do you think? Thanks in advance!
Anonymous
I would get the E10 since your source is a PC. Using a mini-mini connection from the PC’s output to the CmoyBB is not such a good idea.
nick
Ok, thanks a lot!
Anonymous
A little clarification. I’m not saying that all onboard audios are bad (hence me recommending the E10 over the Cmoy). I guess in my experience the headphone out from a PC tend to be loose and easily loses a channel (or two) and in this sense a USB connection is more robust.
Chloe
Mike, ath-ad900 with e10, will it work? or will it be too much for the e10?
Just interested since e10 has bass boost, and people been saying the ad900 lack bass, so thinking that might fix the issue, what do you think?
Anonymous
It should be okay.. the AD900 is not too critical of the source.
As for the bass, it should help a little, but still the AD900 is never a bass heavy headphone to begin with.
berger
hi Mike, would fiio E10 enhance the performace of my HD25-1-II?to what extent?
because for me, the cans’ bass is just not enough
Anonymous
The Fiio’s bass is nice, but I have a feeling you’ll be better off with using another headphone like the Audio Technica Pro700 Mk2.
http://www.headfonia.com/bass-to-the-power-of-two-pro700-mk2/
berger
rather than buying a new bassy cans, say Pro700 Mk2, I prefer having an affordable DAC/headamp that can really improve bass of my existing HD25-1-II. would this fii0 e10 be an answer?
i listen to punk-rock with HD25-1-II, yet sometimes i spend hours listening to R&B. that’s why i need DAC/headamp (could be standalone) that can make my cans a bit flexible for 2 different genres. please advise.
Anonymous
Well in that case then, yes, go ahead and try the E10. I think it would make a fitting gear to get you that 2 genres in 1 headphone.
Yh
hey mike! how does this compare to the tiny tube dac? i have a ms-1000 (alessandro ms-1 with alumod) and am considering a dac…. hmm…
Anonymous
I think the Tiny Tube DAC is probably still one step ahead of the E10 due to the tube in the output stage. The E10 after all is still a solid state. However, I think both the Tiny Tube and the E10 would do a good pairing with the MS1000.
Now, tonality wise:
If you feel that midrange is very important then go with the Tiny Tube.
If you feel that midrange and lows are important then go with the E10. The E10’s mids are not as good as the Tiny Tube (actually also the treble section), but the bass section is weightier than the Tiny Tube.
Yh
whoo! thanks for the comprehensive and concise reply! what about the highs? i prefer clarity in the highs 🙂
Anonymous
You’ll get clearer highs with the Tiny Tube.
Yh
alrite man! thanks for the heads up 🙂
SC
Will you be posting any pictures of the insides?
Anonymous
I dont plan to..do you need one? It’s probably going to be just a bunch of tiny SMD components.
Sent from my mobile device, apologize for any spelling mistakes.
SC
Just curious that’s all.
Oh and also, is the line out always active? Does it still work with a headphone plugged into the 3.5mm output in front? For the E9 a load into the headphone outputs would disable the line out
Stef
Mike, do you think the e10 will be a good dac for asgard? i’m gonna pair both of them with ad-900 do you think it’s a good combo or not? or just the e10 will be enough?
Thanks
Anonymous
If you are going to pair it with the Asgard then it may be better to use a stand alone DAC like the HRT MS2, MS2+ or the DACport LX.
The E10 would do a fine job driving the AD-900, but obviously the Asgard + Stand alone DAC would be better.
Stef
Mike, do you think the ms2+asgard would be a good pair for ad-900? or would it be overkill? should i just go with the audinst instead?
Kjm1839
Hi there. I was wondering if this DAC/amp combo can be used with a pair of speakers (AV40 specifically) using the line out. It does seem to be marketed as product for a headphone which has be slightly worried.
Guest
Sorry if I missed it in your article, but what is your testing setup? Can I expect the E10 to work out of the box on a Mac running Lion?
Eskimoo
hi nice review
can you confirm which onboard sound that “isn’t always bad”?
yes, no doubt on specs paper and lab test onboard give good result of THD, and perhaps technicality, like 24bit/192Khz they said!
as i knew onboards offer only cheap solution (rely on simple design and single chip solution), without good circuitry, good caps, good design, good components, even good filtering, etc.
they designed for speaker output, yes usually we buy active (built-in amp) speakers nowadays.
so bad input somewhat ‘corrected’ with inside amp. and speakers not that revealing compared to headphone.but for direct headphone, its not even have good headphone out design.
correct me if im wrong
but really, can some realteks on PC or ADI chip macbooks can beat cheap DAC which cost like FiiO on musicality performance (transparancy, separation, detail, etc)?
looking for price and size I really doubt ’bout your claim .
Anonymous
I don’t know, I’ve never really do a comparison review so I don’t think I can answer that question.
The problem I seem to be having with laptop headphone outs is that after a while the 3.5mm jack would start losing contact and I would often get the sound only in one channel. That’s why I very much prefer a separate DAC/amp solution.
Guest
hi Mike, question on the Dacport LX, how would you describe the PRaT factor on that? thanks again for replying.
Dookie182
hey mike,
could you make a quick comparaison between fiio E10 and centrance dacmini, aiming to pair it with the hd25-1 II and mostly listen to rock, pop, hardcore music.
I’m suspecting you’ll bet better technicalities from the dacmini (frequency extensions, articulation, blacker background, instument separation) but the E10 might have fuller mids and bass and maybe a deeper soundstage.
I own the dacmini and pretty much like it but kind of feel it is a little thin… and lack guts.
your point of view is welcome
kindest regards.
Guest
so you mean that the dacmini is not a good dac to enjoy music from? I wonder how is the dacport lx like too..
Anonymous
The DACport LX to my ears is warmer, more relaxed, easier on the ears than the DACmini.
Anonymous
Well the DACmini is a $800 box if you know what I mean.
But I can relate to what you’re saying, and yes tonally the E10 is warmer and fuller and has more body on the lows (though bass impact is still better on the DACmini — obviously).
It’s a bit weird though, recommending an $80 solution to someone who’s currently using a $800 box..
Cc Cc
would the e10 match with the shure srh940 and srh840?
thanks!
Anonymous
Yes, better on the 940 and okay on the 840.
Cc Cc
ok thanks!!
Larry
I doubt the FiiO E10 would sound better through speakers than the Topping D2 dac or the Zero Dac.
Anonymous
Sorry?
Larry
Any chance of reviewing the new Aune X1 soon?
http://en.auneaudio.com/html/2011/X-Series_0831/10.html
Anonymous
That looks really well designed and well made. I’ll try to do a review on it.
Guest
i pre-ordered the E10 after numerous readings, do you think I should also get a Pa2v2 to pair it up too ?
thanks for helping with making the E10 decision.
Anonymous
Usually I would wait until the gear arrives first, then listen to it and decide afterwards if anything is missing.
Kjm1839
Do you think the e10 will be crap for speakers? Maybe I should cancel my order…
Kjm1839
Whoops. Meant to reply to Larry’s comment down there.
Anonymous
Whoops on my part too.. didn’t see this comment when I replied.
Anonymous
Why would it be crap for speakers? I think it should be fine unless you’re talking about high end multi-thousand dollars speakers.
silver
Hi! I’ve plan to buy a Sennheiser HD558 (or maybe HD598..), but now I use an iPod Touch as source…
The question is: is the DAC of the E10 better of the DAC of the iPod?
And the HD558+E10 isn’t too dark or warm for you?
Obviously i’ll use the E10 as Desktop source, i don’t care about portability…
Thanks! And sorry for my english, I’m italian… 🙂
silver
I listen Jazz, Classical… a bit of Rock… generally acoustic music…
silver
ehm… there’s no one?
Anonymous
Sorry I missed your question the first time around.
1. Yes the DAC of the E10 is better.
2. HD558 + E10 no I don’t think it’s too dark.
No problem, I wish I can speak Italian. 😉
silver
Thanks!!! 😀
this E10 seems a godsend… 🙂
silver
Hi Mike!
I bought the 598 and now it’s plug into my iPod… WOWW!!!!!! 😀
With my old Akg K44 I have never heard music before.. Great soundstage, great balance, great comfort! :)I’ve paid just 140€… ;)Waiting for my Fiio E10… Thanks!!!!
Anonymous
Glad to hear that! 🙂
Michael
How’s the channel balance on the E10 paired with your JH5Pro?
I returned the U100 because the 1st three steps of forty, excluding step zero, had an imbalance and the range on its dial with IEMs was not very far even with bringing down the Windows Volume to 5 of 100, without any hint of distortion mind you. The U100 lacks a low impedance switch but on the E10 you’re only using a 4th of the dial, how many steps is that? if you can tell there are steps that is.
(I had also been auditioning fullsize cans with the U100 but those too were returned, tried to make what I had work)
Anonymous
Hey [email protected], nice email address! 😉
The U100’s gain would’ve been too high for an IEM I think. Didn’t I say that in the review? The E10 works much better for that purpose. With any analog volume control there will always be a slight amount of imbalance at the very low levels, hence that’s what the gain switch is for. Switch it to low gain and you’ll have good channel balance for the volume range that you’ll be using with the IEM.
I used the JH5 which is the most sensitive IEM I’ve heard, far more sensitive than the majority of universal IEMs, so if you’re using a universal you should get even better results.
Michael
mp4nation has their 2nd pre-order scheduled to be delivered early November, guess I’ll save up and wait n see if anything else comes out of the woodwork.
Anonymous
Okay. Yes, see if anything else comes up.
Anonymous
I can’t decide between this and the ibasso d-zero … they’re both price so competitively
Anonymous
A D-Zero review is coming up really soon.
HK-47
I forgot to ask, do you think the E10 would work well (or at least do a decent job) with the HD600? I’m looking to build an affordable, all-around setup for both music (rock, jazz, etc.) and movies. But I’m on a limited budget, and I don’t have the space for a proper desktop amp in my tiny apartment.
Anonymous
It’ll do the job. As for how well it’ll do the job well as you say it’s a budget solution.
HK-47
I guess it’ll have to do until I have the budget (and the space) for a desktop setup. Though hopefully it’ll be decent enough to keep upgraditis at bay for a while. Thanks!
Sebastian
Hi Mike, nice review. Would the line out output be un upgrade from my notebook lino out connecting the U-10 to audioengine A5 powered speakers?
Guest
mike..could you compare it to the hrt music streamer ii???
Anonymous
Lol. Simple comparison.
HRT MS2: Pure DAC. Better DAC.
E10: DAC&Amp in one box. Inferior DAC, but you can plug your headphones right to it.
Jian Ming Lee
hi there…i heard the e10’s release date has been postponed…it’s on head-fi forum …just for ur info XD
Anonymous
Thanks, Jian Ming.
Johan Ullman
Would be nice to compare this one to the HRT HeadStreamer that’s coming out.
http://www.head-fi.org/t/572751/hrt-headstreamer-usb-dac-amp
Anonymous
Yes we have been a long time fan of HRT DACs and I am hoping to get one unit to review as well.
Johan Ullman
Yeah, hope so too! Always looking forward to your reviews!
Anonymous
Thanks, Johan!
Anonymous
I wonder how this compares with the Hifiman HM-101. Do you have any plans to post some impressions about the HM-101?
Anonymous
I will do once I get the HM-101 which at the moment is still being mailed to me.
Anonymous
Yes I am listening to the HM-101 now but I don’t think I’m quite ready to write anything about it yet.
Cc Cc
will the e10 push the bass of the srh940, so that it has as good bass as the srh840 and so it will be the ultimate shure headphone?
Anonymous
Well it will help with the bass but audio is not quite like 1+1=2.
USCdeacon
if only it were that easy right? 😛
fangzhou
will a Fischer FA-003 sounds better with the E10?
Anonymous
It should, depending on what you’re using now.
Mick
Would this pair well with the ATH M50? Or would you recommend the PA2V2 or JDSLabs cMoy (without DAC).
USCdeacon
I’m wondering the same thing. My current setup is MBpro–>nuForce udac (1st gen) –> ATH M50s and I think it sounds great (as long as I’m listening to lossless files, as the M50s are pretty revealing of compression imho).
Wondering if a bump up to the E10 will be worth it or maybe I should take a bigger jump to the EX10. I’m a post-grad student so every dollar matters! (I shouldn’t be on this site or head-fi… fiscally dangerous :P).
Anonymous
Okay answered above, and be careful with your wallet 🙂
Anonymous
I think the M50 would work well with either of them, the PA2V2, JDSLabs Cmoy or the E10.
The nice thing about the E10, if you don’t need to use it as a portable is that you don’t have to worry about battery life.
Although in that sense then the Ibasso D-Zero is even better since if you are using it as a desktop DAC/Amp it takes power from the USB, but you can also take it out and use it as a portable amp. BUT sound wise I think the D-Zero lacks the vocal presence that you get on the E10 and that’s something that the M-50 would benefit from.
Omz
Is this comparable to the iBasso D4 or that is a different class? Thanks
Anonymous
The D4 is supposed to be a more refined DAC, and though it’s been a while since I listened to one, I think the D4 is still ahead of the D-Zero in DAC performance.
Omz
I meant in comparison to the E10 not the D-Zero, as an amp/dac combo. Thanks!
Anonymous
Two totally different products, don’t you think? I can’t even begin to think where to start the comparison. One is big and one is small?
Anonymous
Great review, and seems like FiiO announced the e10 today 😉
I just have one question: “Soundstage, however is more spacious and more open on the E7-E9 combo, though the soundstage depth is better on the E10.”between e10 or e9, which amp i would use for Gaming/Movie ? what’s better with these ? I can’t afford the e7-e9 combo, so, what you recommend ? The DAC in e10 improves the soundstage ?sorry for my bad english 😉
cdrg
Will the E10 be a good match for the Sennheiser HD650? I want to buy a cheap and portable dac/amp for my laptop and I know that the HD650 are very picky (because of its sound signature and amplification power).
Aaron1006
Would the E10 be powerful enough to drive Akg K702? Also how do you think it would pair with the SRH940’s?
Aaron1006
Would the E10 be powerful enough to drive Akg K702? Also how do you think it would pair with the SRH940’s?
Anonymous
Yes it works with both the HD800 and the T1, so I think it would drive the K702.
It also should work well with the SRH-940 as the E10 is quite warm sounding.
Anonymous
Yes it works with both the HD800 and the T1, so I think it would drive the K702.
It also should work well with the SRH-940 as the E10 is quite warm sounding.
FiiO
haha, it is the first FiiO amp which had been described as warm sounding.
Zenmidy
Does the e10 pair well with superlux 668B 😀
Zenmidy
Does the e10 pair well with superlux 668B 😀
DodgersKings323
Wonderful! I think i’ll get this over the Audinst 🙂
Richard
Is it possible to use this amp along with a Windows 7 based system?
Anonymous
Hi Richard,
Sorry I haven’t tried it with a Windows 7. I think you should be able to.
Richard
I wrote Fiio and asked them directly, here’s their answer: “Yes, E10 can support with windows 7,windows xp,macbook,and it can work with iPad under firmware 4.3.5” Sounds good (not the English skills but the OS support).
Anonymous
Sounds good, Richard.
FiiO
sure it support
SJC
For grado headphones, this clearly sounds better than E7+E9 combo. Sold them right after I got and heard the E10
Anonymous
Thanks!
So the first batch of the E10 are out on the market now?
Actually the E10 sounds better than the E7/E9 for a lot of headphones. I have a few friends come to compare the E10 with the D-Zero and they unanimously agree that the E10 is the more musical one of the two.
Lieven V
I received my E10 today and I have to agree: great product!
Donunus
Try the D3/E9 combo on high gain Mike. I would be really surprised if the E10 can still compete. In fact, I’ll buy one on the spot if you can say that the E10 is still better. I am using the HD600 and the AKG K141 mk2 with the same settings in gain and the sound is great! By the way, you should try the AKG K141. They slauuuughter the hd25-1 hehehe. They sound similar to a grado using TTVJ Flats without the leftover harshness in fact they have a senn smoothness mixed with their impactful sound and no coloration like the hd25 🙂
Anonymous
Thanks, Donunus. I really need to give the D3 a try and I will.
As for the K141, they are fun phones, better than the K240 series in my opinion. I listened to the 600 ohms model a while ago and was impressed by it. The pace, however, is not exactly as fast as the HD25-1, and they are also less upfront. But I agree that the K141s are nice.
Donunus
I have the 55ohm ones and I find the pace to be as good as grados and what I remember with the hd25-1s except these have no cuppy colorations whatsoever like the slight cup honkiness that plagues the hd25-1 IMO
Anonymous
Alright, yes the K141 isn’t that common so I really don’t have that much experience with them.
Donunus
By the way, about the E9 being compared to the E10 I just want to say that since I am using an external dac instead of the e7 being docked on the unit that the interconnects matter quite a bit in their performance. With the e7, the e9 was bright and a little hollow sounding, with the d3 and cheap interconnects, the highs and overall sound is smoother but some hollowness is left. With my DIY Pro Co cables, it sounds like a different amp with the same house sound. Detail and precision is highly improved. I Kid you not! I will be getting some e10s soon so I will finally get to see what the fuss is all about.
Now one question Mike, have you tried using different USB cables on the e10? Since it is not an async dac, I think that too will matter in the overall performance. With my e7/e9 combo before, using a $10 belkin gold USB cable removed some veil in the sound when compared to the stock usb cord.
macro
How well do you think the E10 could drive a Beyer DT880 600 ohm?
Anonymous
Hi Macro,
Shouldn’t be a problem. I’ve used the E10 with the Beyer T1 (also 600 ohms) and Senn HD800 (300 ohms)
Wondering guest
How is the dac SQ of the e10 vs hrt streamer (any of them)? are they comparable or is it unfair at the price point
Anonymous
The HRTs are still the better DAC.
Tobias Andersson
Hi, I´m looking for an amp with low output impedance for my Denon d2000s. Do you have any numbers for the E10? I know the E7 is under 1 ohm which would be perfect and then again the E9 might be a bit too high. If the E10 would have the same output impedance as the E/ i think the E10 would be a better choice?
Anonymous
Hi Tobias,
The OI of the E10 is about 0.3 Ohms. And yes I think it’s a better choice than the E7 aside from the ability to use it as a portable amp.
Donunus
I would recommend the E10 over the E9 for the denons too. All the low impedance cans I tried just didn’t sound that good with the E9s for me. Among the headphones I’ve tried on them, only my 300 ohm HD600s vibe with the E9s.
Donunus
Oh, and the e7s would be totally outclassed by the E10
Anonymous
Totally agree with you there, Donunus.
Tobias Andersson
Sorry i meant the E7 and not E/ like in my post below.
Guest
my E10 finally arrived !!! Listening to it with hd25 is just so gratifying, with bass boost on you’re in heaven. Everything is just as Mike puts it in the review, toe-tapping PRaT for sure, thanks Mike and FiiO.
word of note though, when I first listened to it, sounded very muddy and closed but after 24hrs butn-in, everything is just like how Mike puts it. just WOW. lol don’t know if it can get any better with the Audinst now or should I itch to get something more interesting 🙂
Anonymous
LOL glad you like it.
The Audinst is better technically, but sound signature wise I thin the E10 is more fun.
Guest
sorry for the silliness, quick question thought, how do I use this high gain and low gain? with Hd25, with high gain, the headphone sounds much clearer than in low gain ? any guidelines? thanks much!
Anonymous
Well the gain selector is used to give you an appropriate range for volume control. High gain will let you go louder, while low gain is better suited for IEMs.
Lieven V
So far with all headphones I tried with it, I didn’t like the high gain setting. Anyone else?
Donunus
Unlike the Burson HA160D where I highly preferred low gain , the E10 just doesn’t have the volume I need at low gain. In fact, even with the thousand dollar Burson HA160D, I was playing most of my music near full volume at low gain hehehe
Donunus
Just got some E10s. One word. Awesome!
Anonymous
Nice.
Everybody is starting to get their E10s.
Anonymous
Hey you should do a mini-review to the D3. Curious to see how the two compares.
Donunus
I have a short comparison of the e10 and D3 in here http://headfonics.com/2011/10/fiio-e10-review-a-lot-of-boxes-have-been-ticked/
My D3 Review is here
http://headfonics.com/2011/09/fiio-d3-dac-its-a-keeper/
Anonymous
Nice, I will read it later.
Donunus
Oh by the way, I wasn’t clear on whether the D3 or E10 was better as a DAC on the review since they were very close to each other and the impact of changing the cables on the D3 made more of a difference than the gap between the sound of both DACs. I’ll wait until I have the same diy cables to comment on which is actually the better dac among the two. As for now, the D3 is better but I have a feeling that the e10 will overlap it a little once my mini cables are here.
Leigh Bardsley
Just ordered an e10 for use with my ATH-M50s at work. I’m wondering if I could use it at home as well between my pc and 70’s Kenwood amp for better sound (currently running off onboard sound)?
Thanks for the compelling review!
Phil Reece
Mike, nice review. How does the E10 compare with the Dr. DAC Nano?
Anonymous
Hi Phil,
Sorry haven’t heard the Dr. DAC NAno for a long time.
Phil Reece
I couldn’t remember if you still had the Nano or not. Thanks. I might just have to swing for one of these anyway.
Anonymous
Yea, sorry about that Phil.
Bargh
The E10 and E11 have the same amp……
Steve
Hi headfonia,
Please help me decide between Fiio E10 vs JDSLabs Cmoy.
Which one has better SQ playing same music on PC connected to E10 vs JDSLabs Cmoy connected via LOD on Ipod/touch/classic?
I listen to R&B, jazz, classical, rock.
Thanks in advance.
Anonymous
I would get the E10 for its USB DAC which the JDSLabs doesn’t have.
The JDSLabs however has a very nice amp, smoother and more spacious than the E10. For R&B and Rock the E10’s amp has a better punch and pace though.
Looks like more points for the E10.
Jsitthi
Hey Headfonia,
My girlfriend just ordered a T50p and I was wondering if this E10 would compliment them well. She would be using a MacBook Air > Fiio E10 > T50p.
Thanks.
Anonymous
I don’t really know her audio gear background and experiences, and so I can’t really say. But she can give it a try. I love the E10 with my Macbook Air.
VAl
Has anyone tested this with the ipad or ipad 2 via the camera connection kit?
Lieven V
I will do that tonight. It was on my to do list but I keep forgetting
Mike
Thanks, L.
Anonymous
I don’t really know her audio gear background and experiences, and so I can’t really say. But she can give it a try. I love the E10 with my Macbook Air.
Jsitthi
Hey Headfonia,
My girlfriend just ordered a T50p and I was wondering if this E10 would compliment them well. She would be using a MacBook Air > Fiio E10 > T50p.
Thanks.
Kanon
Hello, Mike
Could you recommend an external soundcard or DAC below $200 (plugged into laptop) for Genelec 8020 level speakers?
Does DAC provide better sound quality than soundcard at the same price level? I heard that soundcard is actually better DAC sub $200.
Kanon
Hello, Mike
Could you recommend an external soundcard or DAC below $200 (plugged into laptop) for Genelec 8020 level speakers?
Does DAC provide better sound quality than soundcard at the same price level? I heard that soundcard is actually better DAC sub $200.
Anonymous
Hi Kanon,
I do my reviews on headphone based systems, so I can’t comment on the Genelec. But as a general rule of thumb a good DAC would still be a good DAC regardless the output is headphones or speakers.
What kind of an output do you need to drive the Genelec? The HRT MS2 has been one of my favorite DACs. http://www.headfonia.com/the-hrt-music-streamer-ii-asynchronous-2496-for-149-95/
Let me know what you think on that.
And on the soundcards, two things, one is that they won’t work for your laptop, and two I think as in most cases we have to do some comparisons first before I can say anything about them.
Anonymous
Hi Kanon,
I do my reviews on headphone based systems, so I can’t comment on the Genelec. But as a general rule of thumb a good DAC would still be a good DAC regardless the output is headphones or speakers.
What kind of an output do you need to drive the Genelec? The HRT MS2 has been one of my favorite DACs. http://www.headfonia.com/the-hrt-music-streamer-ii-asynchronous-2496-for-149-95/
Let me know what you think on that.
And on the soundcards, two things, one is that they won’t work for your laptop, and two I think as in most cases we have to do some comparisons first before I can say anything about them.
Kanon
WOW, I know I should check with you first. Would you say that MS2 is a huge step above Fiio’s E-serires and other $100 DAC you have reviewed lately?
I was talking about external soundcard like Asus Essence STX, Musiland Monitor 03, can you comment on any of the these compared to MS?
Kanon
WOW, I know I should check with you first. Would you say that MS2 is a huge step above Fiio’s E-serires and other $100 DAC you have reviewed lately?
I was talking about external soundcard like Asus Essence STX, Musiland Monitor 03, can you comment on any of the these compared to MS?
Kanon
I can find MS2 in Australia for $199, to your knowledge still the best option for speakers (I don’t use headphones anymore)?
Kanon
I can find MS2 in Australia for $199, to your knowledge still the best option for speakers (I don’t use headphones anymore)?
Kanon
Oh, another thing, do I have install driver on MS2, or is it plug and play? I read somewhere that MS2 support Itune, does it not support other software like foobar/movies/video games?
Kanon
Oh, another thing, do I have install driver on MS2, or is it plug and play? I read somewhere that MS2 support Itune, does it not support other software like foobar/movies/video games?
Kanon
Sorry Mike, a final question, my speaker has balanced port, is it better to connect it with a DAC that support balanced output like HUD-MX1, would it sound better than MS2 even though MS2 is a better DAC?
Thanks.
Kanon
Sorry Mike, a final question, my speaker has balanced port, is it better to connect it with a DAC that support balanced output like HUD-MX1, would it sound better than MS2 even though MS2 is a better DAC?
Thanks.
Anonymous
I can’t say if that’s gonna be the best thing ever since there are just too many other products that does the same thing and I’ve yet to compare the MS2 to everything out there. 😉
Anonymous
The MS2 is plug and play, no driver required.
As for the balanced port, it’s not absolutely necessary. If your speaker doesn’t have an RCA input (monitoring speakers usually only comes with only XLR), one of the thing you need to get is an RCA to XLR interconnect cable.
A higher resolution DAC will always be a higher resolution DAC regardless of the RCA/XLR connection it uses.
Anonymous
Sorry for taking so long to reply to your questions, Kanon.
I haven’t done a review on the Essence STX (in fact have never auditioned it) so I can’t comment. Likewise on the Musiland, but I did a review on the Musiland 02 and the most interesting thing about it is the upsampler. The actual DAC section is just okay and subpar from the HRT MS2.
http://www.headfonia.com/musiland-02-24192-for-120/
Kanon
I listen to classical music mainly, so eye on big deep soundstage.
Kanon
I listen to classical music mainly, so eye on big deep soundstage.
Patrick Wong
Just got my Fiio E10 and it a great little unit for the money. The review was excellent and made the purchase that much easier. Only two minor complaints about the unit, first is so light that if you have plug a headphones with a heavy cord it does not sit well on the desk top. My other complaint is that has anyone notice that if you use an iPhone 3.5mm plug, like the one from shure , it does not fit the jack properly. If you put all the way in the signals fades, I had to pull it out a bit to get full volume. Work fine with the normal Shure cable, does any know a fix ?
Anonymous
Sounds good, Patrick.
The unit is indeed a little on the light side isn’t it. Perhaps they can make it to something like the Nuforce uDAC, if I remember the uDAC is slightly heavier and sits better.
As for the Iphone plug, from my understanding all 3.5mm plugs (even with microphone connectors) should follow the same standards, but sometimes manufacturers do get it wrong. I’ll ask Fiio and see if they have a solution to it.
FiiO
For the first question, it can be solved by a double-sided tape, them you can stick E10 on your desktop.
For the second question, we do notice this question, it is because the iphone’s definition of the headphone socket is 1, L, 2, R, 3, Gnd, 4, MIC/inline control. so it is not a standard design as NOKIA, SAMSUNG and others, So you have to pull out the jack a little so the Ground (pin 3 ) can connect the Ground of the headphone out socket.
guest
i have a headroom bithead…. i kinda wanna sell it and get this…
what do you think?
Anonymous
Hmm… I have the bithead too. Let me do some quick listening comparison tomorrow and get back to you.
Bulmanxxi
Mike, have you seen the new HRT Headstreamer? It looks like a top notch product with their proven DAC technology. Wonder, how it would compare to the E10…
Bulmanxxi
Mike, do you think these DAC/AMP units are a match for desktop amps as far as SQ, etc? Particularly for lower impedance phones like Grados, IEMs, HE-300, etc.?
Bulmanxxi
Sorry for piece meal quetsions – how does it compare to the Centrance Dacport in absolute terms but also especially at 1/5 the price? Thank you.
yoyoma
would like to know more about how it sounds on hd 558/598 series
heard due to low impedence there is little difference between amped and unamped for the above phones.
is this the case with Fiio e10 ?
Thanks
Bulmanxxi
Preliminary impressions (no burn in – just a couple of hours out the box) Sounds good – more spacious, clear and resolving than the Fiio E10 (E10 is slightly warmer, muddier and narrower sounding). The lack of volume knob is a bit cumbersome/tricky but itdoes have volume control through the PC/MAC system volume. Upside to this is that there is no channel imbalance. Not sure if it is the same but the DAC section is quite on par with the HRT Streamer II (isolation stage has been removed but it’s hardly audible – listening environment is less than ideal quiet). Has enough juice for Grado’s and IEMs. Have not tested it with harder to drive headphones yet. Size is about the same thickness diameter as the HRT Music Streamer II but less than half long with slightly wider than the body face plates. Better than uDac-2 as well. No longer have the Dacport for a direct comparison but at less than half the price it is quite good to say the least.
Bulmanxxi
This is the HRT Headstreamer compared to the Fiio E10. The HRT Headstreamer is better IMO.
Mike
I think the Headstreamer would be better too.. how much did you get it for?
Bulmanxxi
MSRP is $139 but if you talk to the dealers you might get a bit of a break… I would not use it for a line out though – only as a stand alone amp/dac. It lacks the isolation stage of the HRT Music Streamers so the Music Streamers with a separate amp would still sound better. But for a portable all in one solution at a reasonable price it is probably the best in the price range.
Mike
Yes I think so too. Just a matter of time of when I’m going to get the Headstreamer.
Chris
Hey Mike, love this review! You made the FiiO e10 to be a must-buy, and it certainly looks like it! A few question (s) about it paired with a few headphones.
Do you think you could jot down a few thoughts on the FiiO e10 with the Senn HD598, Senn HD 580/600, Senn HD 800, and other headphones, like the Grado SR80i and the HifiMan HE-300. I would really to upgrade my good ‘ol Sennheiser HD 280 Pro with something more comfortable and a bit more forward.
Thanks and much appreciated,
Chris
Mike
Hi Chris,
Thanks. Forgive me but I have to make this brief:
Fiio E10 with:
HD598 – Good.
HD580, 600 – Okay, they need more powerful amps.
HD800 – Okay, need a more refined source/amp.
SR80i – Should be awesome. I love the SR325is with the E10.
HE-300 – Okay. Need more powerful amps.
Hope tha helps. 🙂
Donunus
I just want to say that the E10 is fantabulous with Grados! I have never ever heard the 325i sounding this good before. Maybe its the extra low bass on the e10, maybe its the smooth mids and highs, whatever it is… it has turned me from hating the 325i using bowls to loving them to a point that I want to buy a pair right now
Mike
E10 + Grados = Awesome.
I totally agree on the the whole low bass, smooth mids and highs, especially the lower mid body on the E10. The whole sound just match very well with Grados.
Mmettle
ive got a fiio 10, the sound is amazing from my computer but i didnt realise it couldnt be charged and used portably with an mp3 player. anyone know how to do this?
Lieven V
You can’t. this is a pc only device.
Mike
Yes you can’t use it with an MP3 player. It is designed only for USB computer use.
yangcanggih.com
Hi Mike,
Can you recommend other products similar to Fiio 10 that also supports MP3 players? Thanks.
Rūdolfs Putniņš
Fostex HP-P1 and Cypher Labs AlgoRythm Solo can process the digital signal from most iDevices, however these are not really E10 price range. Not to mention that not that many MP3 player actually support digital data output for an external DAC to handle. Also keep in mind all the extra logistics for a three piece (trans)portable stack.
Even if I could somehow justify getting these items to accompany a transducer of according finesse, one must always keep in mind that while on the go circumstances for listening are less than ideal. Only high quality custom IEM’s will provide the isolation so that you might be able to appreciate the hard work the DAC is doing. Not to mention that while walking around your whole body is microphonic, you will feel hear your own footsteps through your skeleton.
For a transportable rig a three piece stack might do, but you will have three separate electrical cells to baby and recharge. In other words- I fail to see the utility of a three piece rig. I’d rather fight with the clumsy UI of an audiophile DAP.
Mike
Thanks for the excellent write up, Rudolfs.
Currently my portable rig is a plain HM-602 and the SE215. You really should listen to this one day, Rudolfs.
Mike
The CLAS and The Fostex HP-P1. They are very expensive though.
http://www.headfonia.com/revolutionary-the-cypher-labs-algorhythm-solo-clas/ http://www.headfonia.com/the-fostex-hp-p1/
Andy Rams
Thanks! This really solves the dilemma I had: portable or desktop DAC+amp, but if the E10 is really that much better than the E7, I’m just gonna go get the E10
Comagpidity
Mike, I dont feel like writing a long emotional comment after reading your quality and much needed comparisons cause i have too much work to do right now (telling myself that its the right choice, and ordering)… but after a few days of reading, searching, bla hbla hblah what people do when trying to figure out stuff that they cant audition my head was hurting bad. Actually this morning 1 am ish, i cancelled my order for my uDAC 2, wondering if a E7 + E9 would do me better since i could go portable.. then finding the E10 etc. All in all let me sum it up what I feel right now- my head would be completely shaven if i needed to shave it for you to show me a review written about quality products by quality person.
Shanks!!
Mike
Thanks man. 🙂
Comagpidity
Any thoughts by the way on teh above mentioned set up(s)?
Mike
Replied.
Comagpidity
Hey mike, I understand that this almost everybody is using it as a headphone amp, but however i want to use the DAC function for-> Mac (FLAC files of course) -> E10 -> Audioengine A5 speakers. These speakers are powered, with built in amp.
What do you think? I was originally going to get a uDAC 2. But cancelled (as mentioned below :P)
Again i was just about to purchase it but then my head stop hurting for a bit and new question arises
Mike
Hi,
If you want to have volume control via the DAC, the Fiio E10 won’t do that for you as the line out at the back is fixed. You can however control the volume via Itunes.
If you want to have volume control on the DAC, then the Audinst HUD-MX1 is the one that has that feature. http://www.headfonia.com/audinst-hud-mx1-dac/
Comagpidity
I think my question was more along the lines of if there will be a good gain in sound quality with the A5 powered speakers + E10.
But you raised an interesting point that i didnt know:
1. Volume Pot will not work with line out at the back, however if my speakers have a volume knob then that should work right?
2. Volume pot will work with headphone jack?
Mike
1. Yes. You can control the volume from the A5.
2. Yes, the volume pot controls the headphone jack.
Comagpidity
So will it improve the sound from the speakers, I am worried because people are mostly using it as a headphone amp. Will it be suitable with the A5s. (sorry for pestering Mike)
Mike
What are you using as a source at the moment?
Comagpidity
(reply to comment under (: ) my source is a Macbook pro, i might not be using itunes as a music player as i heard its not as good with FLAC files.
Can i reiterate between my two (so far) choices?
First setup: macbook Pro (via usb) > E10, giving me amp for phones and hopefully (as you will recommend, my A5s/other powered speakers) via 3.5mm jack out to 3.5 mm jack in on the >AudioEngine A5
Second setup: macbook Pro (via usb) > MS2 RCA to 3.5 mm > 1) A5s OR 2) FiiO E6 (portable ability)
what are your thoughts!
Mike
The MS2 will give you a better DAC than the Fiio E10, but personally the E6 at the end is not too ideal. I would opt to go with the E10 for headphone listening rather than MS2 + E6.
Comagpidity
Did you see this btw?
http://www.amazon.com/HRT-HeadStreamer-USB-powered-Headphone-Amplifier/dp/B0067Z6BNC
Mike
Yes, we should have a unit sometimes in Dec/Jan.
Gabriel Flores
Hi there Mike, EXCELLENT Review 🙂 I have the 250 ohm DT990Pros for gaming but i want to use it for my computer’s music and I find the bass a little lacking since I’m a basshead, should i get the E10 or E11 too for best bass in trance, dubstep etc?
Oh and I should not even bother with a sound card right?
Thanks!
Mike
Hi Gabriel,
Perhaps a different headphone with more bass would help? The DT990 is a monitoring headphone and it’s designed to be fairly neutral and even slightly thin on the bass.
Something like the Sennheiser HD600/650 would help you give more bass: http://www.headfonia.com/the-sennheiser-trio-hd580-hd600-hd650/
Or if you want to go all out on bass: http://www.headfonia.com/bass-to-the-power-of-two-pro700-mk2/
Gabriel Flores
Thank you very much! Btw, Ibasso d zero or e10? My headphones coming from iphone sound great, from pc? CRAP…haha need a dac/amp…thanks!
Mike
Gabriel,
Both are good. Perhaps you can read the Ibasso D-Zero review?
http://www.headfonia.com/fiio-e7-meet-your-rival-the-ibasso-d-zero/
Gabriel Flores
Anything on the DT 990 PROS? Got the e10 btw! Nice! (so small!!!!!)
Gabriel Flores
Btw Mike, most people on head-fi called the Dt 990 pro a really bassy open headphone, that they had great bass etc, are you sure you are not confused with the dt 880 which is a true monitoring one?
Mike
Hi Gabriel,
I don’t know why they call the DT990 a bassy headphone… 🙂
Gabriel Flores
The dt990 PRO! the normal ones or “premiums” dont have bass..
Mike
Alright Gabriel, I will try to take a closer look at the DT990s.
Cheesyravioli
Hi,
I was wondering if the E10 is an upgrade over my current laptop soundcard, HP Beats IDT High Definition Audio Codec…the headphones that I’m using are the Shure SRH840. Thanks.
Mike
I can’t be sure since I’ll have to listen to your laptop in order to do that, but I have a good feeling the E10 will be an improvement. It’s a very good product.
Luis Trujillo
Hi Mike, what do you think about pairing the E10(as a DAC) with the CmoyBB (as an AMP)? I’m just about to pull the triger on the E10 since I need a DAC. just thinking on some litle scalability for the future..
My headfones are HD555 by the way if that matters.
Mike
You can do that, but I think for the HD555 the E10 should suffice.
With the HD558/598 however you get better scalability (in terms of the headphone) and the CmoyBB should be an improvement then.
lcamtai
Hi Mike! I am a newcomer to this hi-fi area and I read your recommendation list post and Fiio E10 post. My budget is about $250, I will definitely buy Fiio E10 but what about a good headphone? Should I buy Audio-Technica ATH-M50 or Sennheiser HD 558. What is your idea about these two headphone? Closed or Open Headphone is not a problem for me.
By the way, I usually listen to instrument, newage, pop, R&B, love song or something like that. I do not like rap or rock so could you please help me to choose the appropriate headphone?
Thank you so much!
ramon miranda
how does it pair, as amp and dac, with an beyerdynamic dt990 250ohms and with an Denon D2000? Have someone tried?
Macauley
Would love for it to be an async DAC
Bulmanxxi
Check out HRT Headstreamer
Zaid Saleem
would the e10 be able to drive the hd650 fine, if not what would you recommend in the sub 150 price range
Mike
Hi Zaid,
The E10 has plenty of power reserve for the HD650. I’m waiting to receive the HRT HeadStreamer which also looks like a good device (I have good impressions with HRT DACs). It would be selling for $140, if you want to wait until the end of January I should be able to give a comparison.
http://www.tweekgeek.com/hrt-headstreamer/
JC Arroyo
Looking forward for that comparison. I own a two headphones: ATH-M50s and a HD555. I might buy a Denon AH-D2000 soon. I have been using my headphones without an amp and I’m really curious.
Andrew
Fairly set on the AKG 242HD as my next phones. Which amp would you pair with it – E10, MX1 or wait and see how they compare with the Headstreamer?
Thanks
Mike
Either the E10 or the Audinst should be great — the Audinst being technically better. Or you can also wait for the Headstreamer review, but maybe it’s still one month away.
Tyler
Hi Mike,
I got a good deal on some Denon AH-D7000’s so I went ahead and got them, but now I’m looking for a good DAC/AMP. Do you think the E10 is suitable enough? I’ve heard people were happy with the D7000’s and the E7/E9 combo, and it sounds like you are more fond with the E10 than the combo.
I’m new to this, but it seems odd that an $80 DAC/AMP would do justice to the headphones, when everyone else suggests $250+ amps.
Thoughts? I could do up to ~$400 if you have _better_ suggestions, even though you like the E10.
Thanks!
Mike
Hi Tyler,
You have a pair of really nice headphones there. If you can do up to $400, go with the Schiit Asgard ($250) and HRT MS2 ($150).
Tyler
Thanks! Does that mean the HRT MS2 is a clear improvement over the E7? Or were you just switching the DAC in order to get RCA inputs for the Asgard?
Mike
The HRT is a clear improvement.
Syrk
Sort of off topic, but would you say the dr150 is better than the hd595 and is it below or above the 558/598?
Thanks
Mike
Still below the HD5XX series overall.
Syrk
by a little or a lot?
Mike
Technically they are not quite as good as the HD558/598, but sound signature wise the Goldrings are better IMO.
Syrk
Awesome, that’s a relief. I bought a pair of dr150’s after reading that they sounded better than the 5xx series.
Syrk
I can get a used like new udac2 for 65 or a new e10 for 80. Is the e10 sound that much better? Which would you go for at these prices?
Thanks again
Mike
Syrk,
I’ve made a comparison between the uDAC2 and the E10 on the article. Please refer to it.
Adam
Hello Mike,
I’ve got AKG k240 Studio (55Ω) and I’m using it right now with Xonar D1. Sound is quite good, but I just feel that AKGs can perform better.
What would you choose: FiiO E10 (300PLN) or Audiotrak Prodigy Cube (400PLN)?I’d like to use 2.0 speakers in future with DAC.Greetings from Poland!
Mike
Hi Adam,
In what aspect do you think the K240 studio can be improved on? From my experience it’s not really the hard to drive type.
Adam
I could talk about it all day long, but there’s a language barrier 🙁
In my opinion bass is a bit distorted (when comparing to Creative Aurvana Live). I also find high freqs a little lacking. There’s not much improvement in scene… It’s only marginally wider than it was on CAL. My friend’s Superlux HD668Bs perform better than my cans.
In few months time I’ll have to sell my PC and buy a laptop. That means I must get rid of my Xonar D1 anyway…
On polish audio forums they recommended me FiiO E10 and Audiotrak Prodigy Cube. Then I found you review and it was very nice to read. I’m almost sure that I’m getting E10, but there’s still that Prodigy Cube…
Which one would you choose? I listen mainly to 70’s/80’s rock (Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, ACDC, Metallica and so on)
Mike
Adam,
I think what you need is a new headphone. It’s going to be hard to get the K240 to sound the way you expect it to sound only by changing around amplifier combinations. The Prodigy Cube is most probably better than the E10, but still I think you need a new headphone. If you like the HD668B then go ahead with it. For your rock bands, try the HD660 Superlux. I think it’s more fitting, but it’s harder to find than the HD668B. http://www.headfonia.com/the-new-superluxes-are-good-the-hd330-hd440-and-the-hd660/
Adam
Well, maybe I expect too much from these AKGs.
I think I’ll get the Prodigy Cube and see how it performs.
I appreciate your help. Thanks once more.
Have a nice New Year’s Eve!
Mohammed
Hi Mike, I got a Sennheiser 448, aim really disappointed with it, i usually play bass lounge and hiphop jazz music, plays very good, but the audio is very low too. When i turn it up, I hear click sounds. Is that normal?
Would it help if i bought the amp ? I loved your review, i really want to buy it, sounds cheap to 🙂
Mike
Hi Mohammed,
What sort of a click sound? Do you mean distortions?
Mohammed
Ya, when the bass is strong and the music is loud, there is a click sound in every loud part of the music. Its not constant though, but only when the bass is high in some part of the music. and only when the music is loud, it might be distortions, I am feeling that my headphone can’t take that much bass.
Mike
Hi Mohammed,
If it only happens on loud bass parts, then that sounds like distortions.
Giorgio
I Bought One acouple of days ago… What can say… nice and portable.
I very like the build construction, but I can say that it just “sounds good”, not “tremendously good”. It’s good for a consumer product, but not comparable to higher end equipment.
I have my Apogee Duet 2 and the difference is like night and day. Problems with Fiio is the very low noise, but the little noise is there… apogee rme echo audio do not have any noise. Then channels are not so separated and the armonic distorsion I hear is within the bass section and the voice.
Can’t say bad, but I would say pay attention to the review above and consider it just a “consumer product”. Expectations may be unreached if compared with more professional equipment
Bill Stockstill
ROFLOL. Come on dude. A $50 DAC/Amp vs a $600 one. It sure as hell better sound better. I doubt it sounds 10x better though.
Shane Revis
Hi Mike,
I have a few questions about the E10.
Does a DAC bypass the soundcard of a laptop?
What is the coaxial/line out used for?
Is the USB cord all that I need in order to use this?
Is the amp section as good as a Cmoy?
Jason
Does a DAC bypass the soundcard of a laptop?
Yes, it does not use the sound card to process anything, the digital data is sent from whatever software you’re using to play directly to the device.
What is the coaxial/line out used for?
I imagine you could use it to send the output digitally to separate DAC (like a home receiver) if you don’t already have this type of output on your computer (i.e. most laptops). I think this is included more for convenience, but there are cheaper units that do ONLY this if that is what you would need it for exclusively.
Is the USB cord all that I need in order to use this?
Correct, the USB cord is INCLUDED (hidden below the plastic piece in the box). It is really just plug n’ play (assuming you tell our OS to use it as the output).
Is the amp section as good as a Cmoy?
I have not used the Cmoy before, but the amp seems very good to me. I plan on getting a cmoy to use with my iPhone, so will hook it up to the line out of the E10 to compare when I do get it.
Mike
Thanks for answering that for me Jason.
The amplifier section is good, but not as good as the JDSLabs Cmoy. The Cmoy is really an underrated amp, I think mainly due to the name, but in reality it’s a very good amplifier.
Shane Revis
Oh, could you also tell me 24/96 means, and how to use it?
Thank you!
Mike
Shane,
24 is the bit depth of the digital data
96 is the sample rate of the digital data
You don’t use 24/96, it’s simply a measure of the level of quality or resolution that the digital file you’re playing has. To play 24/96 files you need 24/96 capable DAC.
Jason
In addition to Mike’s explanation below, I wanted to add that the CDs you buy are 16/44:
16 bits per sample
44.1 kHz sample rate
So you won’t be able to take advantage of the 24/96 unless you download higher quality audio files than what you might have on CD. Also, DVD-Audio discs can have 24/96 audio tracks.
Mike
Jason is right. Thanks, Jason.
James L.
Nice reviews, Mike! I am trying to get better sound from my desktop computer. At the same sub-$100 price range, is it better for me to buy an audio card or a USB unit like this E10? I usually use a pair of Shure E2c IEMs, but might be upgrading to an Audio Technica M-50 or Sennheiser HD-280Pro.
Mike
HI James,
I don’t have too much experience with USB audio cards, but USB seems to be the more versatile option, and the E10 has been very popular so I suggest you give it a try.
James L.
Actually I meant traditional audio cards (PCI interface) that you have to plug into the motherboard. There have been some very compelling offerings in recent years (the Asus Xonar line comes to mind) and some have really good components (like Burr Brown DACs, replaceable op-amps).
Mike
Yes those PCI sound cards. I realize that they have been improving the quality of those, but yes unfortunately I haven’t had the chance to review even one of them. I think the convenience of USB makes it the easier choice, but you’re right some of them comes with very good components.
James L.
Thanks for the advice Mike. I am going to try out the E-10 and the iBasso D-Zero. By the way, I just bought a pair of Sennheiser PX-200 II to replace my Shure E2c IEMs. Will it be a good match for the E-10 or D-Zero?
Alex
Hi Mike, thanks for the great review, and please forgive the newbie question. If I’m plugging an iPod into my MacBook via the USB charging cable (and then connecting the E10 via another USB port), and listening to tracks located on my iPod, will the music on my iPod be decoded by the E10’s DAC? Or the Macbook’s? Will the increase in sound quality be comparable to listening to files on the Macbook’s hard drive? Thanks so much!
Mike
Alex,
With that set up you should be listening through the E10’s DAC. As long as you’re playing the music from Itunes. Sound quality differences would be very slight almost non noticeable.
Melbinco
Hi thanks for the review. was wondering what is the size of the headphone jack for the E10. thanks
cheers
Mike
Hi Melbinco,
It’s 3.5mm.
Ryan
compared to iBasso D-Zero, which one is better Mike? i am going to switch to this DAC from a Creative X-Fi 5.1 Pro . or maybe there is a recommendation for sub $150 which is easy to find at Indonesia? hahaha
Mike
Hi Ryan,
I’ve compared the two on the D-Zero review:
http://www.headfonia.com/fiio-e7-meet-your-rival-the-ibasso-d-zero/
dL
Mike,
Do you recommend a E10+E9 combo or just stick with a E10?
Mike
dL
Personally I’m not a big fan of the E9 sound, and I prefer the sound of the E10 by itself.
Ryan
I Bought it at KK today :p , after reviewing your +1 for the E10 ‘fun’ factor 🙂 , thank you mike 🙂 . will be pairing this with my HA20 🙂
Mike
Awesome, hope you like it. What’s a HA20?
Jonathan Palmer
Hi Mike thanks for the great review, I just have a few questions as this is all a bit confusing to me. I’m looking at this FiiO E10 as a possible upgrade to my desktop set-up. Currently I am using a fairly new dell laptop with a Creative Xfi Go Pro! external usb sound card, as an improvement over the terrible built in sound card, However recently I have acquired a Denon UD-M31 CD player mini system with accompanying Denon speakers, So I am using a 3.5mm to RCA cable running from he External sound card output to the input on the cd amplifier. I would like to know whether a noticeable improvement would be found by replacing the relatively low end external sound card I am currently using with this e10 reviewed here, or because I am running it through the Denon amplifier does that make anything that is plugged in between the laptop and the amplifier redundant? Sorry if this doesn’t make much sense but I’m not entirely sure what I should be asking…. Thanks!
Mike
Hi Jonathan,
In theory, if the DAC on the Creative Xfi is worse than the Fiio E10’s, then you would get a better sound. However I have no experience with the Xfi and so I don’t know if the DAC inside it is inferior to the E10’s.
No having either the Xfi or the E10 between your laptop and the Denon amp is not redundant since the Xfi/E10 would serve as a DAC which the Denon amp doesn’t have.
Please read the FAQ #6 for an explanation on what a DAC is: http://www.headfonia.com/faq/
Jonathan Palmer
Hi Mike thanks for the reply, I do now understand what a DAC is and does! I’ve been reading up and it does seem like the Xfi soundcard is perhaps more geared towards gaming than for music and seeing as I do little-no gaming on my set-up but listen to music constantly I think I’ll upgrade to the E10. One last question (hopefully), if I was to get the E10 which of the outputs should I be using for the best results when running it through my Denon amplifier? The Coaxial out or the regular line out?
Mike
Jonathan,
In that case you would need to use the regular line out. The Coaxial out would only work if you are sending the signal to another DAC, not an amplifier.
Yu Kom
hi mike,
it seems to be easy to open the box. do you know what kinds of chips are in?
Mike
I think it’s a WM8740 DAC, AD8397 amp and Tenor 7022 USB receiver.
Yu Kom
thanks! mike
Viralite
How about the combination of FiiO E10 and Sennheiser HD 598?
Is it any good?
I upgraded from ATH M50, and I felt HD 598 lacks the warmth and mellow sound of M50.
Other than E10, could you give me $50-$200 AMP/DAC alternatives?
Mike
The E10 should add additional warmth to the HD598.
As for alternatives, consider the new E17.
http://www.headfonia.com/the-upgrade-fiio-e17-alpen/
Aria Gorba
Is the E17 available in Indonesia yet?
Mike
It’s just shipping out to a few retailers worldwide, but I have no idea if it’s available locally.
Aria Gorba
Hi! Is there any way that a portable MP3 / FLAC player to be hooked up to the E10?
Mike
No, not in a practical and straightforward way.
Luis Trujillo
just curious, what would be the unpractical non straightforward way?
Mike
DAP > Laptop > E10
So if you really want to you can use the E10 portably. DAP on left pocket, laptop on backpack, E10 on right pocket.
Good eh? 😉
Luis Trujillo
LOL I thought you were goin to talk about some serious hardware mod to bypass the DAC on E10 + usb battery to use it as an amp only or somehow bypass the DAC/Amp section on the player and rout the digital signal to E10 DAC + a usb battery..
wich by the way I have no idea if its possible but would be cool.
Mike
Yea I know. 🙂
Aria Gorba
LOL! I guess I have to go with either the E7 or the E11 then. Thanks, Mike!
Paul Wang
Mike, how would you compare this to the JLD lab cmoy?
Mike
Hi Paul,
The E10 is a USB DAC/Amp. The JDSLabs is a pure amplifier. The amplifier on the JDS is better, but other than that they’re two different devices.
Djevoultion
Hey Mike do you still have the E10 and CmoyBB on hand?
I was curious aswell so ended up buying the cmoy (from fred), uses same components as cmoy from JDS but had him install a variable bass boost.
I just recieved it this morning, been listening to it for the last couple hours, but at the moment I find the E10’s amp section to be superior (although the cmoy hasn’t been burned in)
Mike
Really?
That’s because you didn’t buy the JDSLabs’ version! Just kidding. Yes I still have them I’ll try to listen to both of them again and let you know.
Djevoultion
The JDS Version uses a single OPA2227, the cmoy I got has a dual OPA 2227, so I’m assuming if anything it should be better than the JDS Version 🙂
Rest of the Specs can be found http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Cmoy-Headphone-Amplifier-OPA2227-Super-Bass-Boost-mp3-Wintergreen-Altoids-/200692653263?pt=AU_Electronics_Audio_Amplifiers&hash=item2eba36dccf#ht_2534wt_1145
Mike
Lol, the “dual OPA2227” actually refer to the fact that the OPA2227 is a dual-channel opamp. I don’t think the amplifier actually has two OPA2227 chips.
Djevoultion
Your right! I just checked 😀 My mistake – read it on face value (I don’t know all the technical terms :/ ).
The cmoy’s been playing music all day – sound has improved.
Mike
Dj,
I’ve just checked between the E10 and the JDSLabs Cmoy amp section and the Cmoy is noticeably better. Better impact, bigger and smoother sound.
Djevoultion
I agree the cmoy has a more spacious sound going for it – but I’m finding the E10’s amp to have better detail – maybe its because its a closer sound? or different OPA?
Do you think the gain makes a difference (the cmoy I have has a gain of 2) But I can change the gain to 6?
Mike
Well my Cmoy comes with the same OPA2227 that yours have too. I think detail level is mostly the same, it’s just that the E10 has slightly more treble.
I think the gain is very low at 2, usually it’s a little higher perhaps around 6. Some opamps don’t work that well in low gain — though I’m not sure what the exact specs of the OPA2227 is.
Djevoultion
I was talking about the Different OPA between E10 and the cmoy 🙂 – I will try the higher gain and report back
Paul Wang
Thank you, I was just wondering about the amp
[pacman]
Is this good for gaming?
Mike
Sorry didn’t try it for gaming.
Djevoultion
Yes its great for gaming with BB on. I use it on a regular basis.
Cuthbert
I’m looking for my first DAC/AMP and I’m considering to get the FiiO E10 or the E17, but I’m not quite sure which is the right one for me.
I’m going to use it at home paired with some Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro 205 Ohm.So I won’t really need the portable features of a E17.I don’t like the idea of having buttons to adjust the volume (I don’t know how their handling feels, maybe it feels great), but would appreciate the better sound and the bass boost and tremble controls.But because it will be my first DAC/AMP, I wouldn’t mind spending only 80$ instead of 150$, on the other hand: if i hadn’t found your (updated) reviews i’d probably bought a U-DAC 2 for 120$, so 150$ ain’t a deal breaker.My question:Which of the mentioned DAC/AMPs would you recommand for somebody as his first DAC/AMP ?Thank you!tl;dr:first DAC/AMP -> Which one would you recommand: E10 or E17?
Mike
Hi Cuthbert,
If you have no need for the E17’s portable amp function, may be better to go with the E10 to save some money. Both the E10 and the E17 are great for first time DACs.
David Ferrari Modesto
Nice review you got here, answered most of my questions. But, the 96kbps limitation will be a problem? (or i got it wrong?) I mean, I have a lot of FLACs and 192~320kbps files here, will I be unable to hear theses files with a “full” quality?Thanks!
Rumpole Bailey
You’ve confused sample rate with bit rate.
Mike
Rumpole Bailey is right. David, your FLACs are 192 to 320 kbps, most probably at 44.1kHz sample rate. The Fiio is able to support up to 96kHz sample rate which is already higher than CD quality (CD is at 44.1)
Bryan
Mike,
First I want to say thank you for this write up. It was a pleasure to read, and it helped me dive into the DAC and headphone amp world. I purchased a FiiO E10 after reading this review and others on Amazon. I must say I am quite happy with what I bought for $81. The sound is a heck of a lot clearer and purer than what I was getting out of my AuzenTech sound card (headphones plugged into 3.5mm jack). I haven’t done any A/B’ing yet, but I will.
I think this just might kick my butt in gear to re-rip my MP3 library at a higher bite rate/different format. Is there a non-proprietary lossless file format that works with iTunes? Or perhaps another media player software is in order.
Either way…this makes me want to step up my headphone of choice. Round and round we go, eh? Currently I have a pair of ATH-A700’s, and I like them for their signature, but I would like to try something with better resolution. I’ve wanted to try a pair of the Senn HD 500 series or the AT ATH-M50 headphones, but considering what I’ve read about Grados with the E10, perhaps an SR125i is in order. Thoughts?
Mike
Bryan,
Glad to hear you’re enjoying the sound.
You can use either WAV or AIFF, both of them are non proprietary and are lossless. Personally, I think WAV and AIFF are too large for most use except for super-critical stuff and I’ve been using mostly FLAC or ALAC. FLAC doesn’t work with Itunes but is open source, while ALAC works with Itunes but only works with Apple i-Devices. What OS are you using?
Better resolution headphone, the M-50 and the SR125i are good but I won’t say better resolution than the A700. You can try the Senn HD598, but the signature is quite different than your current A700s.
Anonymous
ALAC is also open source and works with iTunes and much more than just apple iDevices.
Mike
Thanks, they did make that into open source recently.
Anonymous
I bought an E10 on the strength of this and one other review, the way I
read it the E10 could power higher impedance phones; with everything set
to max my HD650s are pretty quiet. No great problem as I don’t intend
to use at home, and it seems “OK” with my PX100 (mk1) on laptop and work
PC – all the same…
Mike
Have you checked on the volume level on the OS / Audio Player?
Anonymous
Ooops!
I usually listen with Kernel streaming on Essence STX which bypasses system volume control. Hard to imagine I work on computers. I just stuck it in to try, have no intention of using thus. Now plenty of volume – thanks for getting me to check the basics.
Mike
Alright, good to hear that!
Mike
I’m listening to the HD800 with the E10 right now, no problem.
Chris Allen
Hey Mike, so are both the E10’s built-in amp and the E11 relatively on par with each other, just with the bass on the E11 being more punchy and controlled?
Mike
Chris,
The E11’s amp is much better.
Chris Allen
Lol, okay then, thanks! I wasn’t sure to post that question until I checked your E17 review. Thanks though! 🙂
Mike
You’re welcome, Chris.
Yap Tien En
Hi! Mike,
Since E10 has a line out, what do you think if I pair E10 with E9?
Will this combo sounds better than E7-E9?
Thanks!
Mike
Power and dynamics is better with the E9, but I don’t like the sound of the E9.
ReanimatoR
Ok Mike, but this is not the straight answer to this question :). I have the same problem here: E7 or E10 via line out – which one of them will be a better partner for E9 in terms of overall sound quality and, let’s say, main goal to achieve as much “complete” sound as possible (for example under AKG K550)? Thanks in advance.
Trent_D
Why just not use the e10? The K550 is easy to drive.
ReanimatoR
Thanks Trent_D for reply :). Yes, you’re right and I know E10 alone is enough for them but drive is not the case here – K550 was only for example of (I believe) very neutral headphones with quite vulnerable soundstage for any source-related changes, we can pick up any other but to keep that certain neutrality in mind.
I’m just looking for proper company for E9 and I am somehow forced to choose between E10 and E7 as a DAC – that’s why I am so persistent about it (sorry) and asking if E9 is lacking this and that, then E10 can somehow cover it better than E7? Which one of this two will be the most suitable for E9’s TPA6120A2 in order to create the most balanced picture of sound altogether?
Trent_D
Well, the e10 is the better dac over the e7. As to synergy, I can’t say. Sorry.
ReanimatoR
That’s ok :), this is also some useful information for me. Thanks for your help so far.
Zac Caslin
Hi Mike,
Just received the E10 and I am having problems with the headphone jack cutting out when I move around or if the headphone cable gets moved a little bit. Just checking to see if this effected you, or if you have herd of any problems.
Thanks.
Luis Trujillo
It’s a known problem that should had been corrected already if your E10 has the gold plated connectors.
if your headphones use an adapter (6.5mm>3.5mm) you could try with another adapter or one with a cable between the two ends just in case is a weight issue. if it’s not that and the connector on the E10 is lose you may want to return it.
just my 2 cents.
Zac Caslin
Thanks for the help. I checked the headphone port and it in silver in color so i’m thinking it’s just loose.
Mike
Yes, what he said.
Mike
Hi Zac,
There are some issues with some of the batches, and yes unfortunately some people also reported the headphone jack losing contact when you move them around. I didn’t have that issue, probably also because I got a pre-production unit. But on the latest version supposedly they have corrected the issue. Where did you get the E10 from? Perhaps talk to them for an exchange to the newer batch?
Rūdolfs Putniņš
Got my second batch E10 today. At first I was a bit cautious as the difference was not that evident but when really listened in… A must have for anyone who likes to have good sound conveniently and for a fair price.
The only minor quibble could be the headphone jack, seemed a bit stiff and awkward.
Papoom Vibhatasilpin
Hi Mike. I’d been looking for an usb dac for a week but after i read this review i order E10. Now i’m very happy with it. Thanks for a great review.
JohnPhester
Hey Mike, your site is just awsome! – I am looking for a DAC as replacement for my internal sound card on my laptop – do you have any suggestions for me next to the E10 on the same budget? The high tunes sound really bad on my laptop. I’ve tested the Cmoy, but this will of course just change the signals comming out from the internal soundcard instead of a real DAC.
You’re always doing such great review, this site is one of the few I really trust when it comes to the question of high quality. Keep up the great work!
Mike
HI John,
What about the HRT Music Streamer II? It’s $149 and I’ve always recommended it to people looking for a good DAC for $100-$200, just one step up from the E10.
I’m assuming of course you will be pairing the DAC with a separate amp cause the MS2 doesn’t come with an amp.
Chris Allen
How does the Fiio E10’s amp compare with the JDS Labs CMoY? I understand the CMoY is better, but how does it compare to the E10’s amp? I find myself enjoying the E10’s amp, but at times crave for more so I considering either the JDS Labs CMoY or Fiio E11 with the E10 serving as the DAC.
Mike
Well the Cmoy is better, specifically you’ll get better bass impact, dynamics, more soundstage.
Chris Allen
Is the sound nice and warm like the E10’s amp?
Mike
Yes the sound is nice and warm, much nicer than the E10’s amp.
Chris Allen
Thanks a lot, Mike!
Don Vittorio Sierra
Its also dependent on the headphone used because with low impedance cans, the cmoy hardly has any power. turn the volume knob up and you are guaranteed to hear some bad distortion with low impedance cans.
Gavin TheEmperor Tyndale
e10 or e7 for portable everyday use with pc and cellphone ?
Trent_D
If you need a portable amp for the phone, which cant use the DAC, the e7. The e10 has better sound, so if you can do without the portable amp, it is better. OR, you could get the e17, which is like a better sounding e10 that can be used as a portable amp.
L.
Pay attention that the E10 ao are usb only
Mike
Yes, what Trent_D says.
L.
It’s not suppposed to work on your iphone, just on a pc. You would need something like the CLAS + an amp or the Fostex for your iphone.
royschach
Hi Mike,
First off great site–I check it constantly. Quick question: if I use another amp on the line-out with the E10, will the bass-boost/gain still work?
Mike
I will have to check on that and get back to you, but I don’t think it does.
royschach
Thanks, keep up the great work
L.
When using the LO, the Bass boost will not work, like the volume
royschach
Thanks! This site is awesome
Mike
Thanks, L.
Mark Ma
Hey guys idk where to ask this but…
my computer ONLY has usb 3.0 ports, will this make the dac not compatible?
L.
I wouldn’t know. sry. anyone?
Chris Allen
you should be fine.
Mark Ma
I heard there was a headphone jack problem on these. Have they been fixed?
L.
Hi Mark, yes it has been fixed. This was only on some early models. My last batch model is perfect.
Herb Williams Jr.
I just received mine today…plugged it into my usb port and nothing happened. Am I missing something??
L.
still not working?
SoundEskimoo
Will this thing perform adequately for HD650?
L.
Has been answered several times before. Yes it does, but of course full desktop system will make your HD650 sound remarkably better
SoundEskimoo
What is minimum recommendation desktop amp for HD650? thanks
L.
Depends on your budget. I’d say an OTL amp if you want to get the best out of it
SoundEskimoo
I see
Mike
The E10 will do. How do you define “minimum”?
L.
Yes, or theE10 if you want to keep it low budget, I used to have the combo and enjoyed it at the office. At home, I would still go OTL 🙂
SoundEskimoo
I’m aware portable vs desktop capability, simply power supply already different. Thus result also different. Is there any portable with enough oomph (Adaptor powered)? This should give more power than USB powered.
What kind of desktop amp for beginner?
Stephen Loke
Hey Mike,
Would you recomend this for IEM?
Thanks
Elzafir Habsjah
Hi Mike,
I’m considering a DAC+Amp for home use to go with my Samson SR850 and Superlux HD661. I’ve read almost all of your DAC+Amp review, but still can’t decide the best amp for under $100.
I need it for my PC, so I don’t need portability, unless the portable is better than the desktop amp (like the E17 vs E10. But the E17 is unfortunately over my budget).
So in your opinion, which is the best sub-$100 DAC+Amp (or DAC+Amp combination for also under 100 bucks) to drive Samson SR850 and Superlux HD661?
I’m considering the FiiO E10, E7, HiFiMan Express HM01, iBasso D-Zero, and the likes (anything under $100).
On a side note, I’m planning to buy the M-Audio Fast Track audio interface for my recording needs. Should I just use it for DAC and get a separate (sub-$100) amp? Would it be a better setup vs the best sub-$100 DAC+Amp?
Mike
Replied on the other thread.
Brian Xiao
Mike, do you prefer the E10 or the new Audinst hud mini? Thanks!
Mike
I think the HUD Mini, but without the stock opamp. The stock opamp is no good imo and I’m trying to talk Audinst into shipping the Mini with the OPA2227.
Brian Xiao
Thanks for the fast response Mike!
Brian Werner
Mike and L. pardon my ignorance here but is the coaxial out on the E10 a better signal than the 3.5mm line out? I have a desktop amp coming and was trying to figure out my cable game plan. I was assuming I’d get a mini to dual RCA for the amp but was curious if the coaxial output is a better or higher resolution line out to use with a desktop…. Suggestions anyone?
Mike
Brian,
The coaxial outs a digital signal, so unless you have an amp with a built-in DAC you won’t be able to use that to connect to your amp.
The 3.5mm line out is an analog signal, so yes you can use it to connect to your amp.
Brian Werner
Just want to make sure i understand the functionality of this option. if iwant to pass thru to a non usb dac like the teradak chameleon, moodlab concept or schiit bifrost nonusb that uses coax and toslink…. all i have to do is go coax to the bigger dac from the fiio? the fiio will do handshaking with the usb hub to gain access to the pc digital? if that is the case i am even more stoked on this e10!
Mike
Yes, Brian. The E10 will do the handshaking with the USB and outputs the signal as a coaxial that you can then hook up to the other non USB DACs. The Fiio in this case will only serve as an USB > S/PDIF converter, not a DAC.
Pkrdlr
Hi Mike, Would the fiio e10 be overkill for ath-m50 via laptop with classical and rock or would you recommend a similar priced portable amp/dac?.
Mark Ferrosa
I have both: headphones and dac. M50 isn’t the best choice for rock. For classical I think that’s ok. I prefer Dt770 pro 80 for rock.
Mike
What Mark said. The M50 for rock isn’t the best. The DT770 80Ω would be better.
Mike
Sure,
The Fiio E10 would be better than using the laptop’s headphone out. I don’t think it’s an overkill.
Mathias Herrmann
What’s the next best alternative that’s a little bit cheaper, for 50 Ohm headphones? (Somewhat exceeding my maximum-maximum budget.) Not the E11, please, the idea of letting it run on batteries exclusively is simply nuts. (And its name is so confusing that my distate of it is even greater.)
Nick Tam
honestly i don’t thing you could get any lower than the e10. I know there’s the topping c1 and d1 but price may vary in your country.
Trent_D
The hifiman HM-101. I think the e10 is better, but the 101 is only 40 bucks.
Mike
I tried the Topping D1 with the Hifiman HE-400 (35Ω) and the result was good. Not sure if it’s going to be cheaper.
http://www.amazon.com/Topping-CS4398-Decoder-External-Laptop/dp/B008RXH992
Tomislav Todorov
Hello Mike, do you think that the new HRT Microstreamer is worth double the price of E10. My headphones are TMA-1 and Sennheiser IE8 and I want usb powered ampdac that is as small as possible and that have enough power to drive my headphones. 200$ is my upper limit.
dalethorn
I don’t know if anyone is going to be able to compare those 2 amps directly. I have the Microstreamer and the FiiO E17 and the Microstreamer will give much better results with the more “airy” headphones. I think the IE8 would reveal those differences very well, but I don’t think the TMA-1 would. From the mids on down, you might get as good or better results with the E10 and the TMA-1.
Mike
I have yet to listen to the new HRT, so I can’t comment on that. However looking at your headphones, I do know that the HRT micro streamer would be a better match than the Fiio.
Tomislav Todorov
Thanks for the replay dalethorn. I’ll try to give more clues about what I’m looking for. When I’m listening to rock music with vocals I find my TMA-1 loud enough directly from my laptop jack, in terms of quality it’s ok I even find it too bright for my taste and do some eq so I don’t think I’m into “airy” headphones. My complains come when I want to listen to bass heavy electronic music and I like to listen that kind of music really loud and not only hear but feel the bass.I’m even planning to buy Pro700 MK2 because I want something darker with more bass than the TMA-1 just for electronic music. The power of my laptop is insufficient for this purpose so right now I’m using Mackie Blackjack usb audio interface. The headphone amp is very loud but above one particular level it becomes to distort badly, maybe this is because it has 25ohms output impedance which is to high for my low impedance headphones (I read that it should be 8 times lower than the output impedance of the phones). So I am looking for usb powered dac/amp which is smaller than the Mackie, it is as loud with hard hitting bass but without distorting. As for listening to rock music I find the loudness and quality sufficient directly form my laptop.
dalethorn
The USB-powered DACs will not work for you according to this description. The distortion you heard is not likely due to impedance, it’s due to lack of power. An impedance mismatch would more likely just make the bass mushy. You may find a USB-powered DAC/amp that goes loud without obvious distortion, via soft clipping. But soft clipping just limits the volume so hard clipping doesn’t occur.
Calvin Purnomo
Is it possible to use this little fellow as a standalone DAC? Since I’m planning on hooking it up on my bright-ish SSMH, in order to give it a little warmer feeling? Or is it automatically bypassing the volume when used on line out? Thanks!
Mike
I don’t remember precisely if it bypasses the volume control, but I think it does since I’ve used it as a stand alone DAC before.
Your other choice is to go with the e07k, but you need to get an additional line out adapter from Fiio to get a pure line level signal from it.
I think they’ll pair well with the ssmh.
Calvin Purnomo
Ah yes, thanks for the reminder! Didn’t realized that there is newer affordable fiio DAC+amp combo!
comparing those two (E10 vs E07k) which one to go? I suppose E07k should be a refined one since it’s newer?
L.
I can confirm the LO bypasses the volume control, I use it like that in my living room
Calvin Purnomo
Does the E07k also do the same when used on LO? The so called L7 Adapter is still needed eh? or The L7 is just for active speaker use?
Mike
I don’t remember the specs that well, I think you still need the L7
Calvin Purnomo
Ah, just did some reading a bit, yes apparently I need the L7. I thought the 3.5mm port near the usb port is the Line Out. It’s the Line In!
Pretty curious design, E07k has 2 headphone out port, while not having 3.5mm Line Out.
Anyway, putting the need of adapter aside, E07k is the one to buy instead of the older E10?
Mike
Well the E10 is going to be cheaper, I think. The 07K is better, you should read the review, I believe I talked a little bit about it to the E10 and E17.
Calvin Purnomo
I’m sold already on E07k. Been able to get it for good price. Will try it as a amp first I guess, while waiting for the L7 adapter. I suppose maximum volume (0db) output from headphone out is almost the same as the line out? Or is it “processed” a lot from the circuitry?
Mike
I can lend you an L7 if you want to swing by Jaben STC
Calvin Purnomo
my E07k and L7 just arrived! I’ll test it right after I got home. Anyway, just noticed from the spec, that E07k isn’t optimal to drive my 250Ω Beyer 880, it’s slightly out of its optimal impedance rate (16Ω – 150Ω). Is it really okay?
Although I’m planning on using it as standalone DAC for my SSMH anyway..
Mike
You should be okay. I’ve used with the 300Ω Senns.
Digo
Hello Mike.
Could you recommend me a DAC up to $ 200 for hi-fi system – Q Acoustics Q2050i and Yamaha A-S500. My goal is to improve the sound quality.I will listening a electronic music (house, deep house, tech house). I would greatly appreciate for your help
Mike
Hi Digo,
Mostly all the DACs reviewed here should give an improved sound quality.
Ashur
The USB receiver chip should be TE7022 not TE2077 ^^
Mike
Thank you for the correction, Ashur.
Ludo
I have a MacBook Pro (early 2011 version) and a Beyer DT 880 (250 ohm). Am I going to see a difference with this E10 ? Or not ? Thanks.
Mike
Ludo,
Usually the on board sound card is not that good. How do you find the sound of the 880 to be with the macbook?
Crax
Hello Mike, I am looking for a ideal USB DAC to drive my Shure SE535. I
understand I don’t need it to be very powerful because SE535 are highly
sensitive, but I want it to have no background noise at low volumes. My
HP Probook is dreadful at this. I’ve been looking at Fiio E07K, E10, E17
and just don’t know which one would be the best in terms of SQ. Can you
help me, please? I’m also open to different options with a maximum
price of 200$.
Mike
Please go with the 07K it has an extremely black background.
Crax
Thank you very much for your answer.
Mike
You’re welcome
scaalp
I not agree with this advice, the background is not black with se535 and a Fio E07k
Rinfinite
I’m thinking of getting the E10 for my Sennheiser HD518 but I don’t know if I’ll get any improvement. They sound great using the Encore ENMA DAC http://www.encore-usa.com/ph/product/ENMAB-8CM which seems to drive them fairly well, 35% volume is borderline deafening already.
Mike
Alright I really can’t say if you’ll get an improvement too as I don’t know what the Encore sounds like.
TheAnimator
Does anyone know if this works with windows 8?
L.
I can’t test it but I suppose it does
Apogee
I really want Fiio to release a E010K with a better dac, more power and a 1/4inch headphone output.
Dave Ulrich
isn’t that the e17?
John Junior
Hi, I found a pretty great deal for Fiio E10 and at the same time great deal for Ibasso D2+ Boa. Headphone is HD600, FA-003, Senn Amperior but for portable use I think I’ll be with Amperior most of the time.Wonder if I should get FiiO E10 or D2+ Boa.
And can FiiO use as a standalone amp for Note 2?
Mike
Well the Fiio E10 doesn’t run on battery, you need to get it hooked to the USB port for power so it looks like the D2+. I’m not too familiar with that model but that was one of the more popular IBasso models in the old days, before Ibasso started releasing new amps every few months.
John Junior
Alright sir. Thank you. After all the consideration, I get FiiO X3 because someone just sell me for about $120 and they can be use like E17. I hope the battery won’t let me down after few month usage.
Mike
That’s great
ciptadi s
Hi Mike which one you would personally choose, fiio e10 or topping d20?
Mike
Technically the D20 is better. I just don’t like the sound very much. And I like the E10’s USB-powered simple set up.
ciptadi s
Great! Thanks Mike..
meh
u didnt really clarify the e11 vs e10 part, is mostly the bass the different from the both?
L.
I find the E10 the more fun one. The E11 I actually never use
meh
tested it(e11), yea the bass is rather loose to my liking, separation is below par(IMO), and slight loose/distortion on some highs, the others are okay
*pair with dt880
i dont think i going to keep the e11 for long xDD
meh
can i know wat cable u use in this review, is it the stock fiio cable that included or custom cable?
L.
Stock Fiio usb cable
meh
after few month reading here, i just realize that there were post about burn-in,low-high gain,cable etc..
i think u should put the link of those in the recommendation part(maybe..)
L.
if you find me all the info I will add it 😉
meh
at least the current page is good enuf, it keep thing simple and more as a guideline
DecimationPro
I’m happily nodding my head to the beats of the music… as long as they were not Beats Audio I am happy ;)… I will be buying this for my HD598’s, good review, thanks for it!
Headfonia_L.
Thank you!
Jenny
Hello, I’m thinking to buy the [Sennheiser HD25](https://globaldjsguide.com/sennheiser-hd-25-dj-headphone-review/) . Do i need a headphone amp for this pair? If yes, then is the E10 good enough? Thank you for your time and review of the amp.
George
Hey Mike, I just ordered the PreSonus headphone after reading here — >> https://www.doomsquadmusic.com/eris-hd10bt/ and now I am in doubt that whether that this Presounus one is going to be compatible with the E10 USB AMP or not? Can you suggest something else too Mike ?