Compact Music Player from Fiio Delivers Powerful Audio Capabilities in a Portable Format
In the realm of budget-friendly portable music players, a vibrant void has persisted since the demise of the revered iPod Touch. Enter the stage, the FiiO M21, a sleek and powerful device that dares to unite top-tier hardware with nostalgic aesthetics - all without breaking the bank.
An octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 chipset roars beneath its hood, promising swift and responsive Android performance to keep your tunes flowing smoothly. With an internal storage capacity of 64GB, expandable to a mammoth 2TB via microSD, you'll have all your favorite tracks at your fingertips.
The FiiO M21 caters to audiophiles with an impressive roster of features. It can handle hi-res PCM files up to 32-bit/768kHz, alongside DSD512 and full MQA decoding, marrying high-fidelity sound with versatility. SBC, AAC, and LDAC Bluetooth codecs are on offer, too, for seamless wireless connectivity.
At the heart of the M21's performance lies a quad-DAC configuration comprising four Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC chips, arranged in a matrix setup to minimize crosstalk and noise. This design ensures a clean and dynamic sonic profile, amplifying each note with precision.
Since your tunes deserve the best, the M21 offers a 'desktop mode' that transforms it into a DAC/amplifier for your laptop-based listening sessions. Connected via USB-C to an external power source, it delivers up to 21 Vpp peak voltage and 950 mW per channel into 32 ohms, delivering a punchy performance across a wide range of headphone impedances.
Battery life clocks in at 15 hours for single-ended 3.5mm headphones and 11.5 hours for balanced 4.4mm listening. Digital coaxial and USB-C outputs are also available for connecting to external speakers or audio interfaces.
An updated Fiio Control app grants access to the player's settings and a selection of advanced filters, while a 4.7-inch touchscreen completes the user-friendly package. For those yearning for a touch of retro charm, FiiO offers a cassette-tape-style protective case (available separately) for added style points.
The FiiO M21 retails for $329 / £279 / €329, making it an enticing proposition in the competitive budget portable music player market. Its cassette case will cost around $50 / £20, depending on your preferred retailer.
Curious about alternative options? Check out our Sony NW-A306 review or explore more about the equally inexpensive JM21 model from the FiiO family ($149 / £179 / €149).
- The FiiO M21's hi-res audio capabilities, including compatibility with PCM files up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD512, make it a top choice for audiophiles.
- In addition to its impressive audio features, the FiiO M21 offers news about its future with a cassette-tape-style protective case, available for purchase separately.
- With the FiiO M21's DAC/amplifier capabilities in desktop mode, buyers can enjoy a high-fidelity listening experience with their laptops.
- The FiiO M21's DAC configuration, featuring four Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC chips, ensures a clean and dynamic sonic profile, amplifying each note with precision.
- Technology enthusiasts can buy the FiiO M21 for $329 / £279 / €329 and add a cassette case for approximately $50 / £20.
- Multiple brands offer budget-friendly portable music players, such as the FiiO M21 and the JM21, providing alternatives for those in the market for a new gadget.
- For those looking for reviews, check out the preview and review of the Sony NW-A306 or the FiiO JM21 for a comparison of additional options.
- Streaming services and wireless connections, including SBC, AAC, and LDAC Bluetooth codecs, enable smooth listening experiences with the FiiO M21.
