New FiiO DAC and Wireless Amplifier Offers Desktop Power in a Portable Device.
Lossless audio over Bluetooth at an affordable price.
The audio quality via Bluetooth has frequently been the subject of criticism, especially because many devices, particularly those at a more accessible price range, do not incorporate the latest Bluetooth versions or the high-resolution codecs that this protocol offers. However, as demonstrated with FiiO's Bluetooth DAC BTR 7, it is possible to enjoy exceptional sound wirelessly if you have the right hardware and codec support.
FiiO has recently launched an even more advanced Bluetooth DAC, the BTR 17, which promises spectacular sound quality without an exorbitant price tag.
Among the standout features of this new device is Qualcomm's QCC5181 Bluetooth platform, which enables lossless audio transmission at 2.1 Mbps, offering CD-quality sound when used with compatible headphones. It also supports technologies such as Sony's LDAC and aptX Adaptive at 96kHz/24-bit, as well as aptX Low Latency.
The BTR 17 is equipped with a 16-core XMOS XU316 processor paired with two ESS ES9069Q DACs and four-way THX AAA 78+ amplifiers, which have already been highlighted in FiiO's M23 digital audio player. This DAC can be operated connected to an external power source, allowing the use of high-performance headphones without worrying about battery life. It offers three operating modes: powered by PC, as a Bluetooth DAC/amp, and as a dongle for phones.
FiiO has also optimized its PEQ tuning algorithms in this latest version, allowing users to customize the audio to simulate or correct the frequency response of different headphones; users can import third-party equalization curves or share their own.
The FiiO BTR 17 is now available at a price of $199/£199 (approximately AU$305, depending on the exchange rate). It is expected that if given the chance for in-depth testing, it could be included in a roundup of the best wireless DACs that significantly enhance phone sound.
