FiiO - KA13
Portable USB DAC & AmpGET 18% GST INPUT
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Why FiiO is Special
Designed in China
Established & Reputed
Trust us, our reputation in the audio world speaks for itself!
This headphone or gear comes from a well-respected brand known for its high-quality audio equipment, so you can be confident in your purchase.
If you see a product marked as “🎖️ Established & Reputed”, it means you're getting a top-tier device from a brand that's earned its stripes in the audio industry.
Revered by Audiophiles
Audiophiles can be really picky and tough to impress and if the audiophile community says something sounds good, you can bet it's great!
This headphone or gear has gained recognition and admiration from audiophiles, who are known for their discerning taste in high-fidelity audio. They appreciate its precision, attention to detail and its ability to deliver an immersive sonic experience.
If you see a product marked as "🙌🏻 Revered by Audiophiles", it means that it meets the highest standards of sound quality and performance, making it a top choice for anyone who values exceptional audio experiences.
Born in 2007
Why we love this DAC/Amp
Premium Economy
Sensible spending and class above in quality.
This headphone or gear offers top-notch sound and performance without much impact on your pocket, promising a delightful experience that exceeds your expectations at an economical price point.
If you see a product marked as “💎 Premium Economy," it indicates that you're getting a high-quality audio product with exceptional sound clarity and reliable performance, all at a budget-friendly price.
For Enthusiasts on a Budget
We are here to help you find the best bang for your buck.
This headphone or gear is made for all passionate hobbyists who want top-notch gear without breaking the bank.
If you see a product marked as “🪴 For Enthusiasts on a Budget”, get ready to indulge in your music with high-quality, affordable products that keep your wallet happy and your enthusiasm alive!
Audiophile Community Favourite
This headphone or gear has a seal of approval from our audiophile community.
It is hit among the pickiest of audio enthusiasts. It comes with two thumbs up and is the community’s and one of our favourites.
If you see a product marked as “🦋 Audiophile Community Favourite”, you're in for a sonic treat with top-tier sound quality that will make your ears swoon and elevate your listening experience to new heights!
Incredibly Popular
Some things deserve all the attention.
This headphone or gear is a crowd favourite, winning over fans everywhere with its undeniable audio quality.
If you see products marked as “🥇 Incredibly Popular”, you’re opting for a tried-and-true choice that’s loved by many, ensuring you're getting something that’s proven to be awesome and widely acclaimed.
For Audiophiles On-the-Go
Are you an audiophile looking to carry your music with you wherever you go?
This headphone or gear is portable and is designed to deliver top-notch audio quality on the move, ensuring your favourite tracks sound their best no matter where you are.
If you see a product marked "🛺 For Audiophiles On-the-Go", it means this product is perfectly portable, turning every journey into a musical adventure with studio-quality sound!
Works Great with Type-C
Don’t have a 3.5mm headphone jack on your phone? Don’t worry we got you covered.
This headphone or gear is fully compatible with Type-C USB connectors. Not only do they seamlessly connect to your device without needing an additonal dongle or adapter and ensures optimal performance without any hassle.
If you see a product marked as “📱 Works Great with Type-C”, you can be confident that you'll experience seamless connectivity with a universal connection standard that simplifies your audio setup.
Built like a Tank
No need to worry about durability.
If you're seeking a headphone or gear with a strong, rugged build, this snapshot indicates that this is the one for you.
If you see a product marked with “🪖 Built like a Tank", it means this product is crafted with metal in its design, ensuring exceptional robustness and durability.
Why it Sounds Amazing
DAC Chip
Know the secret to your pristine audio.
This headphone or gear reveals the secret sauce behind superior audio quality, highlighting the presence of a high-performance DAC chip for pristine sound reproduction.
If you see products marked as “⚙️ DAC Chip”, expect to experience your music with unparalleled clarity, detail, and fidelity, ensuring that every note and nuance is faithfully reproduced for your listening pleasure.
Power Output
When you need that juice to get the best out of your products.
This headphone or gear packs a punch, revealing the product's impressive power output capabilities, ensuring it can handle even the most demanding products with ease.
If you see products marked as “🚀 Power Output”, you're in for a treat with robust performance for driving high-fidelity products without breaking a sweat.
Balanced Output
Upgrading from single-ended to balanced can be the easiest way to improve your sound.
This DAC, Amp or Hi-Res player offers a balanced output, ensuring pristine audio quality with minimised interference and enhanced clarity for your listening pleasure.
If you see a product marked as "⚖️ Balanced Output”, get ready for a symphony of crystal-clear tunes, free from any unwanted noise drama!
DESCRIPTION
FIIO INTRODUCES THE UPGRADED VERSION OF THE KA3 DAC AND AMP - THE KA13
After almost two years of refinement, the FiiO KA3 has transformed into the KA13, now functioning as a mini desktop-class DAC and headphone amplifier. This upgraded version integrates a new design, advanced technology, and robust performance into a single device. FiiO's focus on versatility is evident in the KA13, which aims to provide users with a comprehensive USB dongle for a range of high-quality audio experiences. The FiiO x Jade Audio KA13 is a portable USB DAC/AMP with enhanced audio circuitry, featuring desktop-grade amplification that effortlessly drives IEMs and headphones with a solid output of up to 550mW. It incorporates a high-performance Dual DAC chipset with two CS43131 DAC chips for crystal-clear decoding of high-resolution PCM and DSD audio signals. With an exquisite build and an exclusive ambient light display window, the FiiO x Jade Audio KA13 enhances your music enjoyment.
FEATURES DUAL-DAC ARRANGEMENT AND DESKTOP-GRADE AMPLIFICATION STAGE
The FiiO KA13 ensures crystal-clear decoding of Hi-Res sound signals, featuring a premium dual DAC chipset with dual CS43131 32-bit DAC chips. With full support for decoding high-resolution PCM (32-bit/384kHz) and Native DSD256 audio signals, the KA13 takes your audio experience to new heights. This portable DAC incorporates a mini desktop-class amplifier, housing dual 8262 high-power OPAMPs that deliver a robust output of up to 550mW, effortlessly powering most IEMs and even some power-demanding headphones. The combination of two high-performance CS43131 DAC chips and two low-noise SGM8262 op-amps in this "dual-core" configuration ensures exceptional performance, allowing you to rediscover your music collection with newfound details.
3.5MM AND 4.4MM BALANCED OUTPUT AND DEDICATED RGB AMBIENT LIGHT
The FiiO KA13 offers dual output options, supporting both single-ended and balanced headphone connections through 3.5mm and 4.4mm ports, respectively. The 3.5mm output also functions as a coaxial SPDIF output. FiiO's engineers have skilfully designed the compact dongle to accommodate two headphone outputs, showcasing advancements in packaging capabilities. Additionally, the ambient light window provides quick insight into the audio sampling frequency, assuring you of the playback quality. The RGB light indicators include Light Blue for PCM≤48kHz, Yellow for PCM >48kHz, and Green for DSD signals, adding both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality.
EXQUISITELY BUILT AND BUNDLED WITH 2 CABLES + FIIO CONTROL APP INTEGRATION
The FiiO KA13 boasts a stunning design, featuring a premium metallic chassis and a distinctive ambient glass window that showcases customisable RGB lighting through the FiiO Control app. The CNC metal body exhibits unique lines on the front and exquisite texture on the rear, creating an aggressive yet futuristic appearance that is soft to the touch for enhanced comfort during use. The device supports control via the FiiO Control app, allowing users to conveniently adjust RGB lights, SPDIF output, audio filters, and more. With a detachable cable design and included Type-C and Lightning adapter cables, the KA13 offers versatility for seamless connectivity across various systems, including Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac devices. The FiiO Control App's control over KA13 is supported only on Android Devices. To download the app click here.
SPECS
| HARDWARE SOLUTION | DAC: CS43131 *2 |
| OUTPUT PORTS | 3.5mm (Single-Ended) 4.4mm (Balanced) |
| SAMPLING RATE INDICATION | RGB ambient light |
| ADAPTIVE IMPEDANCE | PO: 16~150Ω BAL: 16~300Ω |
| MAX SUPPORTED SAMPLING RATE | 384K/32bit DSD64/128/256 384K/32bit (coaxial) |
| FIRMWARE UPGRADE | System firmware can be upgraded via USB |
| FIIO CONTROL | Supported |
| DIMENSIONS | About 56.5*22*10.5mm |
| COLOR | Midnight black/Dawn silver |
| WEIGHT | About 19g |
| USB PORT | Type-C USB |
| PHYSICAL BUTTON | Adjust volume, switch songs |
| TOGGLE SWITCH | Desktop mode switch |
| 3.5MM PLUG | Single-ended/SPDIF output (shared) |
| 4.4MM PLUG | Balanced output |
| OUTPUT POWER | L+R≥290mW+290mW (16Ω, THD+N<1%, USB IN) L+R≥170mW+170mW (32Ω, THD+N<1%, USB IN) L+R≥19.5mW+19.5mW (300Ω, THD+N<1%, USB IN) |
| FREQUENCY RESPONSE | 20Hz~20kHz, damping≤0.1dB 20Hz~50kHz, damping≤0.2dB |
| SNR | ≥122dB (32Ω, A-weighted) |
| THD+N | <0.0005% (0dB, 32Ω) |
| PEAK OUTPUT VOLTAGE | ≥2.3V (32Ω, THD+N<1%) |
| OUTPUT IMPEDANCE | <1.7Ω |
| CROSSTALK | ≥72dB (1kHz, 32Ω) |
| NOISE FLOOR | 2.5uV&1.7uV"A" |
| OUTPUT POWER | L+R≥500mW+500mW (16Ω, THD+N<1%, USB IN) L+R≥550mW+550mW (32Ω, THD+N<1%, USB IN) L+R≥78mW+78mW (300Ω, THD+N<1%, USB IN) |
| FREQUENCY RESPONSE | 20Hz~20kHz, damping≤0.1dB 20Hz~50kHz, damping≤0.1dB |
| SNR | ≥122dB (32Ω, A-weighted) |
| THD+N | <0.0005% (-5dB, 32Ω) |
| PEAK OUTPUT VOLTAGE | ≥4.2V (32Ω, THD+N<1%) |
| OUTPUT IMPEDANCE | <1.8Ω |
| CROSSTALK | ≥110dB (1kHz, 32Ω) |
| NOISE FLOOR | 4.6uV&3.1uV"A" |
| BOX CONTENTS | 1. FiiO KA13 |
| 2. Type-C to Type-C Cable | |
| 3. Type-C to Lightning Cable | |
| 4. Type-C to USB-A Cable | |
| 5. Manual | |
| 6. Warranty Card |
OTHER DETAILS
| GENERIC NAME | DAC & Amp |
| IMPORTER DETAILS | Importers Name: Ferrari Video Address: 63/18, 1st Main Road, Gandhi Nagar, Chennai - 600020 Contact No: 044-24420733 |
| NET QUANTITY | 1 |
| MANUFACTURER DETAILS | Name: HK JADE Audio Technology CO., Limited Address: Room 1508, 15/F, Yalam Central Studio II, 625 Nathan Road, Kowloon, CHINA |
| PACKAGE CONTENTS | FiiO KA13 Type-C To Type-C Cable Type-C To Lightning Cable Type-C To USB-A Cable ManuaL, Warranty Card |
Quick Start Guide | KA13
Portable USB DAC & Amp
|
FIIO INTRODUCES THE UPGRADED VERSION OF THE KA3 DAC AND AMP - THE KA13
After almost two years of refinement, the FiiO KA3 has transformed into the KA13, now functioning as a mini desktop-class DAC and headphone amplifier. This upgraded version integrates a new design, advanced technology, and robust performance into a single device. FiiO's focus on versatility is evident in the KA13, which aims to provide users with a comprehensive USB dongle for a range of high-quality audio experiences. The FiiO x Jade Audio KA13 is a portable USB DAC/AMP with enhanced audio circuitry, featuring desktop-grade amplification that effortlessly drives IEMs and headphones with a solid output of up to 550mW. It incorporates a high-performance Dual DAC chipset with two CS43131 DAC chips for crystal-clear decoding of high-resolution PCM and DSD audio signals. With an exquisite build and an exclusive ambient light display window, the FiiO x Jade Audio KA13 enhances your music enjoyment.
FEATURES DUAL-DAC ARRANGEMENT AND DESKTOP-GRADE AMPLIFICATION STAGE
The FiiO KA13 ensures crystal-clear decoding of Hi-Res sound signals, featuring a premium dual DAC chipset with dual CS43131 32-bit DAC chips. With full support for decoding high-resolution PCM (32-bit/384kHz) and Native DSD256 audio signals, the KA13 takes your audio experience to new heights. This portable DAC incorporates a mini desktop-class amplifier, housing dual 8262 high-power OPAMPs that deliver a robust output of up to 550mW, effortlessly powering most IEMs and even some power-demanding headphones. The combination of two high-performance CS43131 DAC chips and two low-noise SGM8262 op-amps in this "dual-core" configuration ensures exceptional performance, allowing you to rediscover your music collection with newfound details.
3.5MM AND 4.4MM BALANCED OUTPUT AND DEDICATED RGB AMBIENT LIGHT
The FiiO KA13 offers dual output options, supporting both single-ended and balanced headphone connections through 3.5mm and 4.4mm ports, respectively. The 3.5mm output also functions as a coaxial SPDIF output. FiiO's engineers have skilfully designed the compact dongle to accommodate two headphone outputs, showcasing advancements in packaging capabilities. Additionally, the ambient light window provides quick insight into the audio sampling frequency, assuring you of the playback quality. The RGB light indicators include Light Blue for PCM≤48kHz, Yellow for PCM >48kHz, and Green for DSD signals, adding both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality.
EXQUISITELY BUILT AND BUNDLED WITH 2 CABLES + FIIO CONTROL APP INTEGRATION
The FiiO KA13 boasts a stunning design, featuring a premium metallic chassis and a distinctive ambient glass window that showcases customisable RGB lighting through the FiiO Control app. The CNC metal body exhibits unique lines on the front and exquisite texture on the rear, creating an aggressive yet futuristic appearance that is soft to the touch for enhanced comfort during use. The device supports control via the FiiO Control app, allowing users to conveniently adjust RGB lights, SPDIF output, audio filters, and more. With a detachable cable design and included Type-C and Lightning adapter cables, the KA13 offers versatility for seamless connectivity across various systems, including Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac devices. The FiiO Control App's control over KA13 is supported only on Android Devices. To download the app click here.
| HARDWARE SOLUTION | DAC: CS43131 *2 |
| OUTPUT PORTS | 3.5mm (Single-Ended) 4.4mm (Balanced) |
| SAMPLING RATE INDICATION | RGB ambient light |
| ADAPTIVE IMPEDANCE | PO: 16~150Ω BAL: 16~300Ω |
| MAX SUPPORTED SAMPLING RATE | 384K/32bit DSD64/128/256 384K/32bit (coaxial) |
| FIRMWARE UPGRADE | System firmware can be upgraded via USB |
| FIIO CONTROL | Supported |
| DIMENSIONS | About 56.5*22*10.5mm |
| COLOR | Midnight black/Dawn silver |
| WEIGHT | About 19g |
| USB PORT | Type-C USB |
| PHYSICAL BUTTON | Adjust volume, switch songs |
| TOGGLE SWITCH | Desktop mode switch |
| 3.5MM PLUG | Single-ended/SPDIF output (shared) |
| 4.4MM PLUG | Balanced output |
| OUTPUT POWER | L+R≥290mW+290mW (16Ω, THD+N<1%, USB IN) L+R≥170mW+170mW (32Ω, THD+N<1%, USB IN) L+R≥19.5mW+19.5mW (300Ω, THD+N<1%, USB IN) |
| FREQUENCY RESPONSE | 20Hz~20kHz, damping≤0.1dB 20Hz~50kHz, damping≤0.2dB |
| SNR | ≥122dB (32Ω, A-weighted) |
| THD+N | <0.0005% (0dB, 32Ω) |
| PEAK OUTPUT VOLTAGE | ≥2.3V (32Ω, THD+N<1%) |
| OUTPUT IMPEDANCE | <1.7Ω |
| CROSSTALK | ≥72dB (1kHz, 32Ω) |
| NOISE FLOOR | 2.5uV&1.7uV"A" |
| OUTPUT POWER | L+R≥500mW+500mW (16Ω, THD+N<1%, USB IN) L+R≥550mW+550mW (32Ω, THD+N<1%, USB IN) L+R≥78mW+78mW (300Ω, THD+N<1%, USB IN) |
| FREQUENCY RESPONSE | 20Hz~20kHz, damping≤0.1dB 20Hz~50kHz, damping≤0.1dB |
| SNR | ≥122dB (32Ω, A-weighted) |
| THD+N | <0.0005% (-5dB, 32Ω) |
| PEAK OUTPUT VOLTAGE | ≥4.2V (32Ω, THD+N<1%) |
| OUTPUT IMPEDANCE | <1.8Ω |
| CROSSTALK | ≥110dB (1kHz, 32Ω) |
| NOISE FLOOR | 4.6uV&3.1uV"A" |
| BOX CONTENTS | 1. FiiO KA13 |
| 2. Type-C to Type-C Cable | |
| 3. Type-C to Lightning Cable | |
| 4. Type-C to USB-A Cable | |
| 5. Manual | |
| 6. Warranty Card |
OTHER DETAILS
| GENERIC NAME | DAC & Amp |
| IMPORTER DETAILS | Importers Name: Ferrari Video Address: 63/18, 1st Main Road, Gandhi Nagar, Chennai - 600020 Contact No: 044-24420733 |
| NET QUANTITY | 1 |
| MANUFACTURER DETAILS | Name: HK JADE Audio Technology CO., Limited Address: Room 1508, 15/F, Yalam Central Studio II, 625 Nathan Road, Kowloon, CHINA |
| PACKAGE CONTENTS | FiiO KA13 Type-C To Type-C Cable Type-C To Lightning Cable Type-C To USB-A Cable ManuaL, Warranty Card |
|
Quick Start Guide | KA13
Portable USB DAC & Amp
|
Don't sweat it, this
FiiO - KA13 comes with a 1 Year warranty
from FiiO that covers manufacturing defects.
All products featured on Headphone Zone are backed by an original manufacturer's warranty.
Read more about FiiO's warranty in India.
Life Style Award
VGP
Nov, 2023
Best Choice Award
Hamza Tech
Nov, 2023
"The FiiO KA13 is otherwise a very good source for the money, although I mostly recommend it for people who like the aesthetics and find themselves in need of the extra power that's best used with a desktop PC or laptop."
Read More
"The KA13 is a benchmark for the sheer amount of power it brings to the table, and in such a compact form! I am pleased to have finally found a portable source that does justice to demanding gear like the Final E5000, Sennheiser HD650, and the notorious Yinman 600 ohm."
Read More
Dual Cirrus Logic CS43131
Dual ESS Sabre ES9219C
Dual Cirrus Logic CS43198
3.5mm (Single-Ended)
4.4mm (Balanced)
3.5mm (Single-Ended)
4.4mm (Balanced)
3.5mm (Single-Ended)
4.4mm (Balanced)
🦈 Serious Audiophiles Only
🦈 Serious Audiophiles Only
🪴Budding Enthusiasts
Upto 3.0Vrms @ 32 Ohms
Upto 320mW @ 32 Ohms
Upto 500 mW @ 32 Ohms
USB-C
USB-C
USB-C
Up To 32bit/384kHz
Native DSD Up To 256x
Up To 32bit/384kHz, Native DSD64, DSD128, DSD256, MQA: 16X
Upto 32bit / 768kHz & DSD256
USB-C
USB-C
USB-C
1. iBasso DC04 PRO
2. USB-C To C Cable
3. USB C To USB A Converter
4. User Manual
1. iBasso DC06 PRO
2. USB-C Cable
3. USB-C To USB-A Converter
4. User Manual
1. ONIX Alpha XI1
2. USB cable * 1
3. USB-C to USB-A Adapater * 1
4. User Manual * 1
5. Brand Card * 1
Have a question? Get in touch!
Check out the most common questions our customers ask. Still have questions? Talk to our Headphone Gurus.
How to control the KA13 via the FiiO Control APP in Android mobile phone?
You could search “FiiO Control” in any application market to download it. Or directly download the APK file: Click here.
After adjusting the setting for KA13 in FiiO Control APP, the buttons in KA13 will not work again before FiiO Control APP returns to the homepage. (You could click the return icon in the top left corner for returning to homepage)
Note:
1.The KA13 could not be controlled via the iOS version FiiO Control APP. But after adjusting the setting in KA13 or in Android FiiO Control, the settings will be saved.
2.Please update the FiiO Control APP to latest version first.
How to use the KA13 as a USB DAC for mobile phones?
Use the TypeC-TypeC data cable to connect the KA13 to a mobile phone. So you can directly enjoy high-quality music by playing songs.
Notes:
1. A compatibility issue may occur to certain Android mobile phones or music players due to system and hardware differences.
2. Some mobile phones are required to turn on the OTG function, so as to use the KA13 normally.For detailed settings please consult the support of mobile phones.
3. Some mobile phones may show the 'non-certified Type-C digital headphone'notification. You can ignore the message and use it normally.
【iPhone/iPad】
Use the Lightning-TypeC OTG adapter to connect the KA13 to an iPhone/iPad/iPod. So you can directly enjoy high-quality music by playing songs.
Notes:
1.Only supports iOS10.0.2 and above. Apple devices below this version cannot be supported because of the iOS itself.
2.Since there are limitations for iPhone to power the external USB device, the KA13 with high output power may have stuttering or no sound problems at extreme volume.
About the Exclusive USB Audio Access Mode
Due to system and hardware differences of certain Android mobile phones, there may be some permission conflicts and compatibility issues when they are working in the Exclusive USB Audio Access Mode. Here are some situations we have noticed.
1.For some mobile phones with no physical volume buttons (such as the HUAWEI Mate30 Pro), in the FiiO Music app USB Audio Access Mode, you can adjust the volume by sliding on the current playback page to bring up the volume bar.
2.For some mobile phones, third-party apps are forbidden in the background by default in their power management policies. This will cause a stop on the playback after a few seconds when the music app is working in the Exclusive USB Audio Access Mode. If it happens, please set the app to stay working while asleep in the battery management setting of the mobile phone.
3.When the music app is working under the Exclusive USB Audio Access Mode, the sound may be stuttered or paused when operating other apps. We are working on this issue. It is suggested to focus on listening to music when using the Exclusive USB Audio Access Mode, or disable the Exclusive USB Audio Access Mode when listening to music.
How to use the KA13 as a USB DAC for computers?
1.It runs drive-free in Windows 10 and above systems.
2.Install the FiiO USB DAC driver. It supports ASIO output for further DSD256. Please click the link here to download the driver: Click here.
3.On the menu of settings - audio output device of the playback software, select 'FiiO KA13' and then connect the KA13 to the headphones to listen to music.
DSD track playback settings: Click here.
[MAC computer]
MAC systems do not need a driver. If connecting to a Type-C port of the computer, use a Type-C to Type-C cable for direct connection. If connecting to a USB-A port, use a USB-A to Type-C cable for connection. Please select 'FiiO KA13' as the audio output device on the computer.
[Linux PC]
Linux system also runs drive-free. Theoretically, connecting the KA13 directly to a Linux computer would work. But since there are too many versions, we cannot guarantee all systems are compatible. So, if the connection fails, it is suggested to change the data cable or USB port to troubleshoot the problem. Otherwise, the failed recognition means nonsupport.
Music stutters on some Windows computers due to the driver
(1) It is due to the different power management policies of some computers.
Please go to the settings menu of Control panel->Hardware and Sound->Power options to disable the 'USB selective suspend setting' and then restart the computer.
(2) If the problem still exists, please go to the Power options->PCI Express and turn off Link State Power management.
(3) If it still can't be solved, please choose the driver-less mode. Uninstall the DAC driver and ASIO, and then choose the KA13 as the output device.
Can I connect the KA13 with the NS or PS5?
How to enable the desktop mode in KA13? When should I enable it?
When the D.MODE is toggled to OFF, the desktop mode is off. The KA13 is used for daily music enjoying and driving the low-impedance headphones.
Does the desktop mode of KA13 need extra power supply?
In fact, the output current of most Android mobile phones is high enough. The desktop mode designed for KA13 is intended to give users one more option. When the desktop mode is on, the output power will be higher. When the desktop mode is off, The KA13 could be suitable for some mobile phones with small output current such as iPhones.
Besides, the new iPhones have also changed to TC port, so maybe KA13 can also support such a high output power when connecting to new iPhones. Therefore, the desktop mode of KA13 is for users to balance the conflict between compatibility and output power.
With such a high output power of KA13, will the battery life of the mobile phone be greatly affected?
However, we also need to check the actual situation when using products with high output output. For example, for high impedance headphones, what is needed is a high voltage without high current. And for particularly low impedance headphones, the need is for high current but not high voltage.
And in general, audio devices with high output power usually have higher output voltage and higher output current in order to drive high/low impedance headphones better.
What is the warranty like and who should I contact?
This product is rated 4.7 of 5.0 stars.
It has received 46 reviews.
Customer Reviews
I don't want to go into other details like build quality and all. It all perfect and made out of metal. Let's focus on the sound here.
In my audio setup, the venerable Audio-gd NFB11(a desktop dac/amp) stands as the benchmark, seamlessly driving my Sennheiser HD650 with its warm, mid-focused charm. Enter the FiiO K13 – a revelation in the world of DAC/amps. Contrary to the NFB11's richness, the KA13 boasts a remarkably neutral and balanced profile. Astonishingly, this tiny dongle renders details previously unnoticed, breathing new life into my music.
Partnered with the HD650, the KA13's synergy is undeniable. Its prowess in extracting nuanced details from songs is truly impressive, amplifying the listening experience. Surprisingly, the KA13, priced significantly lower than the NFB11( >300$), effortlessly delivers ample power to the HD650 at a mere 50% volume. Btw, I only used the 3.5mm port which has 170mW output. (4.4mm has 550mW output!)
The marvel lies in the technological strides compact devices like the KA13 have made. It not only competes but excels, offering power and resolution that belies its size. The soundstage felt slightly narrower compared to the NFB11 but I only tested it for 3-4 songs. It really hard to believe that a thing that is literally the size of a thumb drive has outperformed by desktop dac I bought 5 years ago.
As I delve into further testing, particularly with IEMs, I anticipate a continuation of the KA13's impressive performance. Stay tuned for updates.
Overall, this little beast is a bang for your buck. Can't believe its priced so low. Grab it before it sells out!
Thank you for your review! We're thrilled to hear that the FiiO KA13 has exceeded your expectations and outperformed your previous desktop DAC. We strive to provide top-notch sound quality at an affordable price, and we're glad to see that we've achieved that with the KA13. Happy listening!
First of all, a big thanks to Raghav and his team specially Adrian for being patient and addressing all my queries and getting my product delivered on time despite some delay in dispatching.
Now to Fiio - KA13. This is my first DAC. I had tried multiple DAC's in HPZ's Connect event which convinced me to finally go for a DAC. However, I was uncertain between the KA3, KA13 and Q11. I chose this device because it was the latest, powerful and would likely survive longer compared to the other options. (Q11 would die once the battery is out and at present there is no provision for a new battery.)
This device is a beast. It has bought new life to some of my existing gear which incl. Moondrop Chu-2, Focal Sphear, Tin HIFI T4 and Audio Technica M-20x. I can hear details which I would be missing out earlier. it's like a portal has been opened. I can hear sounds within sounds. Small gasps in live songs. The sound signature appears to be neutral with slight emphasis on the sub-bass and treble. Instrument Separation and Soundstage is considerably good enough. Where it wins you is the power - Dual Cirrus Chip. This just makes the volume go quite loud and would work even for some power hungry headphones. IEM's all in all don't require much power unless something very high end. But, it does help the IEM to unveil new sounds. You really do begin to hear sounds within sounds and they just all in all sound intimate and involving. Other things that make it truly a value for money device is the light to indicate quality (BGY), finish of the product, included cables, desktop mode (which you'll barely use) and fiio control app (which also you'll barely use). Also I tried it with iPhone, it works well, the lights do change based on quality. This device will clearly never want you to go back to your old mode of listening. (The colour change somehow only appears to be working with Apple Music - enabled losseless.)
As they say in the coffee world, the grinder is more important than the coffee machine. And so we always buy the grinder first and then the machine. The same way I can say, that the DAC is more important the IEM's/ Headphones. First buy the DAC then the IEM's/Headphones.
Thanks a lot for your detailed and genuine feedback, we're glad that you have such positive thoughts about the product and we'll share your thoughts with the brand as well. It'll also help our fellow customers to make the right choice!
I purchased the FiiO KA13 primarily because my smartphone lacks a headphone port. Previously, I noticed that my IEMs performed better with my MacBook Air, but when connected to my phone, the sound always seemed lacking. This is my first portable DAC, and I must admit, it's really good.
If you're only using this to listen to Spotify, you might not notice much of a difference. However, pair it with Apple Music, and you'll have a wonderful experience. The FiiO KA13 is handy with both 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm balanced jacks. I'm using it with my Moondrop Chu 2 and a balanced cable, and that's when I realized just how much potential the Chu 2 has.
However, there are a few drawbacks. The FiiO KA13 drains the phone battery quickly, which is a serious concern for me. The FiiO app also isn't great. It has some presets, but nothing particularly useful, and it lacks an equalizer. The app takes some time to wake up, the volume indication is slow, and you need to switch between tabs to refresh it.
Additionally, during my research, I found that the desktop mode button is meant for high impedance headphones, but there's no clear explanation or list of recommended headphones for this mode. This adds some confusion for users trying to optimize their listening experience.
Despite these drawbacks, the FiiO KA13 is a solid option for those looking to enhance their mobile audio experience. Just be prepared for some compromises in usability.
Hey there,
Thank you for taking the time to write this detailed review, we appreciate the honest feedback! Your review will definitely help fellow audiophiles to make an informed decision.
It does have a lot of power but I am not impressed at this price point... 5 stars to Headphone Zone for prioritising my order...
Using it with QKZ X HBB IEM and Custom Eq Wavelet & Glycox, this one sounds pretty powerful.The sub bass extension is really good with tight punchy Bass.V shaped sound slightly lacking mids. yet to use with 4.4mm jack. works decently with desktop also.
Thank you for your review! We're glad to hear that you're enjoying your FiiO KA13 with your QKZ X HBB IEM. We hope you'll continue to enjoy the powerful sound and sub bass extension. Happy listening!