FiiO - Q3 MQA
Portable USB DAC & AmpUnfortunately, even if we desire to, we won't be able to resurrect this product. The Museum is where we pay our respects to end-of-life, old, archived, but not forgotten products. This page was made with a lot of love and will live on for posterity. What to say, we're sentimental people. 😔
While this product is gone forever, here are others we recommend
Chi-Fi
Excellence
Ideal for Audiophiles
Ideal for
Desktop Use
Battery Life
2.5mm & 4.4mm
Balanced Output
AKM AK4452
DAC Chip
Upto 330mW @ 32Ω
Power Output
Pair with Laptop via USB
A majority of people use a laptop as the primary source device to listen to music or watch movies. Since the laptop is an essential part of the audio chain there are headphones and devices designed to work a laptop or computer system flawlessly. With the availability of USB connectivity, it becomes easier to pair various devices like an Amp, DAC or even headphones without worrying about drivers or any additional piece of software.
Connect With
USB-C
Battery Capacity of
1800mAh
Volume Controls
FiiO's Q3 MQA Portable DAC and Headphone Amplifier provides top-notch portable audio, enhancing the listening journey with a range of features, including complete MQA decoding. The FiiO Q3 MQA continues to deliver high-fidelity sound on the move.
About RAGHAV SOMANI
Raghav Somani is the Founder & CEO of Headphone Zone. An avid audiophile and musician since 2008, his choice of headphones include STAX Electrostats, Audeze LCD 3, and for music on the go, the JH Audio Roxanne + Astell&Kern SP1000 is never too far away. On his playlist, you'll find A.R. Rahman, Michael Jackson, and the Eagles.
DESCRIPTION
FIIO UNVEILS THEIR ALL-NEW PORTABLE DAC & AMP - THE Q3 MQA
FiiO has had its fair share of success in designing and developing portable audio products. Their line-up of portable DAC & Amps has garnered great success in the audiophile community. One such product brought in the revolution when it was released - the previous generation Q3. FiiO wanted to take things a notch up higher and is proud to introduce its brand-new Q3 MQA Edition Portable DAC & Amp. The FiiO Q3 MQA Edition is an improvement in all respects when compared to its predecessor. It has an upgraded DAC chip AK4452 and USB XMOS XU316. The output power on the Q3 MQA Edition has also been enhanced to 175mW @16Ω in contrast to ≥150mW @16Ω on the previous generation Q3. Additionally, the battery life has improved with the Q3 MQA Edition, delivering 12h of playtime to 10h on the Q3 from the previous generation. Take your listening experience to new heights with the brand-new Q3 MQA Edition Portable DAC & Amp!
FEATURES AKM DAC CHIP AND NEXT GENERATION XMOS CHIP FOR EXCEPTIONAL SONIC PERFORMANCE
FiiO has designed the Q3 MQA Edition, which emanates brilliance inside and out. The Q3 MQA Edition hosts an AKM AK4452 DAC chip for its Digital-to-analogue conversion. This chip was optimised through several tweaks such that its performance is comparable to the DAC in the original Q3, with a marginally higher power output. The Q3 MQA Edition still features the same full-range sound that made the original Q3 with just a little refinement. The Q3 MQA Edition hosts the next-generation XMOS XU316 controller chip, among the latest for use in USB DACs. The XU316 features 16 cores made in an advanced manufacturing process, bringing high-performance processing and supports up to PCM 384kHz/32-bit and DSD256 Hi-Res audio formats. 
EXPERIENCE POWER-PACKED PERFORMANCE WITH THX AMPLIFICATION AND MQA SUPPORT
FiiO has incorporated THX amplification technology in the Q3 MQA Edition, which makes it deliver raw power output without distortions or clippings. Featured in the Q3 MQA Edition are two THX AAA-28 amplifiers, allowing for a max power output of 330mW (370mW when using Line in mode) and 175mW @16Ω for headphone outputs. Experience thunderous bass response and extraordinary sound. Thanks to the powerful XMOS XU316 chip, the Q3 now supports MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) technology, which enables you to play back MQA audio files and streams, delivering the sound of the original master recording. It supports full MQA decoding and rendering. 
NOTE: To know more about MQA and how it improves or enhances the listening experience, refer to the FAQ section.
DUAL POWER SUPPLY DESIGN WITH BATTERY LIFE OF UP TO 23 HOURS FOR CONTINUOUS PLAYBACK
Comfortably use the Q3 MQA Edition in any scenario, whether as a portable device or a static device on your desk. Quickly switch between how the Q3 MQA Edition is being "powered" using the Charge switch on the bottom. When the charge switch is ON, power is supplied with a USB port for use with computers. And when it is OFF, it powers through the internal battery for use with cell phones. Using AUX-in, the battery life is up to 23+ hours, and when using USB-in, the battery life is up to 12+ hours.
NOTE: The Q3 MQA Edition supports UAC1.0 mode, convenient for devices like the switch.
EXPERIENCE UPGRADED ALL-NEW STRAPPING KIT AND COLOURFUL RGB LIGHT INDICATOR
The all-new strapping kit designed to bundle the Q3 MQA Edition to your phone improves the experience from before. The revolutionary X-shaped straps no longer obstruct your phone's display. The intermediate films shield your device and stop the Q3 MQA Edition and your phone from misaligning when they are fastened together. A stylish, colourful RGB indicator light on the Q3 MQA also lets you know the audio quality of your music files. The RGB indicator light is striking and lets you know the current audio track's specs and sampling rate.
ADC VOLUME ADJUSTMENT REDUCES CHANNEL IMBALANCE FUSED WITH GAIN AND BASS BOOST SWITCHES
The FiiO Q3 MQA Edition hosts an ADC volume control that enables smooth volume adjustment. The ADC curve reconstruction method for adjusting volume solves the problems of channel imbalance and noise and also improves the accuracy when adjusting the volume. Relish in making the volume just right for you. Feel the richness of music with two gain levels and a Bass boost option. The gain and BASS boost buttons allow you to tailor the sound to different styles and your liking, letting you better appreciate the richness of music. The BASS boost is achieved in hardware, allowing a bass boost of up to 6dB without affecting the higher frequencies. The Q3 MQA offers both Single-Ended and Balanced outputs for the headphones. Listen to your music the way you want through either the 3.5mm Single-Ended output or the 2.5mm and 4.4mm Balanced outputs.
SPECS
| MODEL | Q3 |
| COLOR | Black |
| DIMENSIONS | 105mmx59mmx12.5mm |
| WEIGHT | ≈110g |
| MQA FULL DECODER | 8x |
| MAXIMUM SUPPORTED SAMPLING RATE/DSD | PCM384kHz-32bit/DSD256 |
| HARDWARE SCHEME | DAC: AK4452，USB: XMOS XU316，AMP：THX_AAA_28*2 |
| VOLUME SCROLL | Potentiometer+ADC Sampling |
| FIIO CONTROL | No |
| SAMPLIG RATE INDICATION | Blue＝PCM Green ＝DSD Magenta＝MQA |
| RECOMMENDED HEADPHONE IMPEDANCE | PO:16~100Ω BAL:16~300Ω |
| FIRMWARE UPGRADE | System firmware and XMOS can be upgraded via USB |
| BUTTON | One button for Gain, Reset and UAC1.0 |
| SWITCHES | Charge switch, bass switch |
| USB | TYPE C USB |
| HEADPHONES PORTS | 3.5mm(phone out/line in), 4.4mm, 2.5mm (Bal to unbal adapters are prohibited) |
| POWER SUPPLY | 5V 2A |
| BATTERY CAPACITY | 1800mAh |
| CHARGING TIME | ＜2h |
| AUDIO IN | USB IN |
| BASS | Off |
| CHARGE | Off |
| GAIN | Low |
| TRACKS | MP3 44.1KHz/16bit |
| LOAD | 32Ω |
| AUDIO IN | USB IN |
| BASS | Off |
| CHARGE | Off |
| GAIN | Low |
| TRACKS | MP3 44.1KHz/16bit |
| LOAD | 32Ω |
| OUTPUT POWER | 175mW(16Ω,THD+N<1%) 160mW(32Ω,THD+N<1%) 18mW(300Ω,THD+N<1%) |
| THD+N | <0.0012%(1kHz/-6dB@32Ω) |
| FREQUENCY RESPONSE | 20Hz~50kHz: (±:1.5dB) 20Hz~20KHz:(±:0.3dB） |
| OUTPUT IMPEDANCE | ≤ 1 Ω |
| CROSSTALK | ≥ 76dB |
| OUTPUT LEVEL | 2.3Vrms |
| SNR | ≥ 115dB (dbA) |
| NOISE FLOOR | Gain = H,≤ 5uV(dbA) Gain = L,≤ 5uV(dbA) |
| OUTPUT POWER | 280mW(16Ω,THD+N<1%) 330mW(32Ω,THD+N<1%) 40mW(300Ω,THD+N<1%) |
| THD+N | ≤ 0.001%(1kHz/-4dB@32 Ω) |
| FREQUENCY RESPONSE | 20 Hz-50KHz: (±:1.8dB） 20 Hz-20KHz: (±:0.3dB) |
| OUTPUT IMPEDANCE | ≤ 2.6 Ω |
| CROSSTALK | ≥ 99dB |
| OUTPUT LEVEL | 3.3Vrms |
| SNR | ≥ 118dB (dbA) |
| NOISE FLOOR | Gain = H,≤ 7.5uV(dbA) Gain = L,≤ 7.5uV(dbA) |
| OUTPUT POWER | 265mW(16Ω,THD+N<1%) 370mW(32Ω,THD+N<1%) 105mW(300Ω,THD+N<1%) |
| THD+N | <0.0007%(1kHz/1.15V@32Ω) |
| FREQUENCY RESPONSE | 20Hz-20KHz:(±:0.2dB) |
| OUTPUT IMPEDANCE | ≤ 2.6 Ω |
| CROSSTALK | ≥ 100dB |
| OUTPUT LEVEL | 3.5Vrms |
| SNR | ≥ 120dB (dbA) |
| NOISE FLOOR | ≤ 3.5uV(dbA) |
| BOX CONTENTS | 1. FiiO Q3 Amplifier & DAC |
| 2. USB A to Type-C data cable*1 | |
| 3. 3.5mm to 3.5mm audio cable*1 | |
| 4. Type-C to Type-C data cable*1 | |
| 5. Lightning to Type-C data cable*1 | |
| 6. X-type silicone strap*1 | |
| 7. Silicone straps (long)*2 | |
| 8. Silicone straps (short)*2 | |
| 9. Silicone anti-skid feet*1 | |
| 10. Post-sale warranty card*1 | |
| 11. Quick start guide*1 |
Quick Start Guide | Q3 MQA
Portable USB DAC & Amp
|
FAQs
What is the warranty on the FiiO Q3 MQA?
All FiiO Q3 MQA products come with a year warranty. You can simply get in touch with us to claim the warranty.Click here.
Where is the FiiO brand based?
FiiO is a brand based in China.
How is the FiiO Q3 MQA different from the previous generation Q3?
The FiiO Q3 MQA is an improvement in all respects when compared to its predecessor. It has an upgraded DAC chip AK4452 and USB XMOS XU316. The output power on the Q3 MQA Edition has also been enhanced to 175mW @16Ω in contrast to ≥150mW @16Ω on the previous generation Q3. Additionally, the battery life has improved with the Q3 MQA Edition, delivering 12h of playtime to 10h on the Q3 from the previous generation. Also, now the new Q3 supports MQA decoding and rendering.
What DAC chips are used in the FiiO Q3 MQA?
The FiiO Q3 MQA hosts an AKM AK4452 DAC chip for its Digital-to-analogue conversion.
What are the sampling/decoding rates supported?
It supports up to PCM 384kHz/32-bit and DSD256 Hi-Res audio formats.
Does it support MQA?
Yep! It does support MQA decoding and rendering.
How does MQA work?
Transients over time are muddled when an analogue sound is translated into a digital signal, a process known as temporal blurring. As a result, recorded music sounds flat when compared to 'live' music since our ears are unable to distinguish the sources of individual sounds. This distortion can be removed with MQA to produce the most accurate 3D soundstage ever heard.
Does it have an in-built battery?
Yep! It does have an in-built battery.
What does the RGB indicator indicate?
The RGB indicator light is striking and lets you know the current audio track's specs and sampling rate.
Does it have gain and Bass boost mode?
Yep! It does have two gain level settings and a Bass boost switch.
What are the various headphone outputs provided?
Listen to your music the way you want through either the 3.5mm Single-Ended output or the 2.5mm and 4.4mm Balanced outputs.
What does the package include?
It includes USB A to Type-C data cable*1, 3.5mm to 3.5mm audio cable*1, Type-C to Type-C data cable*1, Lightning to Type-C data cable*1, X-type silicone strap*1, Silicone straps (long)*2, Silicone straps (short)*2, Silicone anti-skid feet*1, Post-sale warranty card*1, and Quick start guide*1.
FIIO UNVEILS THEIR ALL-NEW PORTABLE DAC & AMP - THE Q3 MQA
FiiO has had its fair share of success in designing and developing portable audio products. Their line-up of portable DAC & Amps has garnered great success in the audiophile community. One such product brought in the revolution when it was released - the previous generation Q3. FiiO wanted to take things a notch up higher and is proud to introduce its brand-new Q3 MQA Edition Portable DAC & Amp. The FiiO Q3 MQA Edition is an improvement in all respects when compared to its predecessor. It has an upgraded DAC chip AK4452 and USB XMOS XU316. The output power on the Q3 MQA Edition has also been enhanced to 175mW @16Ω in contrast to ≥150mW @16Ω on the previous generation Q3. Additionally, the battery life has improved with the Q3 MQA Edition, delivering 12h of playtime to 10h on the Q3 from the previous generation. Take your listening experience to new heights with the brand-new Q3 MQA Edition Portable DAC & Amp!
FEATURES AKM DAC CHIP AND NEXT GENERATION XMOS CHIP FOR EXCEPTIONAL SONIC PERFORMANCE
FiiO has designed the Q3 MQA Edition, which emanates brilliance inside and out. The Q3 MQA Edition hosts an AKM AK4452 DAC chip for its Digital-to-analogue conversion. This chip was optimised through several tweaks such that its performance is comparable to the DAC in the original Q3, with a marginally higher power output. The Q3 MQA Edition still features the same full-range sound that made the original Q3 with just a little refinement. The Q3 MQA Edition hosts the next-generation XMOS XU316 controller chip, among the latest for use in USB DACs. The XU316 features 16 cores made in an advanced manufacturing process, bringing high-performance processing and supports up to PCM 384kHz/32-bit and DSD256 Hi-Res audio formats.
EXPERIENCE POWER-PACKED PERFORMANCE WITH THX AMPLIFICATION AND MQA SUPPORT
FiiO has incorporated THX amplification technology in the Q3 MQA Edition, which makes it deliver raw power output without distortions or clippings. Featured in the Q3 MQA Edition are two THX AAA-28 amplifiers, allowing for a max power output of 330mW (370mW when using Line in mode) and 175mW @16Ω for headphone outputs. Experience thunderous bass response and extraordinary sound. Thanks to the powerful XMOS XU316 chip, the Q3 now supports MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) technology, which enables you to play back MQA audio files and streams, delivering the sound of the original master recording. It supports full MQA decoding and rendering.
NOTE: To know more about MQA and how it improves or enhances the listening experience, refer to the FAQ section.
DUAL POWER SUPPLY DESIGN WITH BATTERY LIFE OF UP TO 23 HOURS FOR CONTINUOUS PLAYBACK
Comfortably use the Q3 MQA Edition in any scenario, whether as a portable device or a static device on your desk. Quickly switch between how the Q3 MQA Edition is being "powered" using the Charge switch on the bottom. When the charge switch is ON, power is supplied with a USB port for use with computers. And when it is OFF, it powers through the internal battery for use with cell phones. Using AUX-in, the battery life is up to 23+ hours, and when using USB-in, the battery life is up to 12+ hours.
NOTE: The Q3 MQA Edition supports UAC1.0 mode, convenient for devices like the switch.
EXPERIENCE UPGRADED ALL-NEW STRAPPING KIT AND COLOURFUL RGB LIGHT INDICATOR
The all-new strapping kit designed to bundle the Q3 MQA Edition to your phone improves the experience from before. The revolutionary X-shaped straps no longer obstruct your phone's display. The intermediate films shield your device and stop the Q3 MQA Edition and your phone from misaligning when they are fastened together. A stylish, colourful RGB indicator light on the Q3 MQA also lets you know the audio quality of your music files. The RGB indicator light is striking and lets you know the current audio track's specs and sampling rate.
ADC VOLUME ADJUSTMENT REDUCES CHANNEL IMBALANCE FUSED WITH GAIN AND BASS BOOST SWITCHES
The FiiO Q3 MQA Edition hosts an ADC volume control that enables smooth volume adjustment. The ADC curve reconstruction method for adjusting volume solves the problems of channel imbalance and noise and also improves the accuracy when adjusting the volume. Relish in making the volume just right for you. Feel the richness of music with two gain levels and a Bass boost option. The gain and BASS boost buttons allow you to tailor the sound to different styles and your liking, letting you better appreciate the richness of music. The BASS boost is achieved in hardware, allowing a bass boost of up to 6dB without affecting the higher frequencies. The Q3 MQA offers both Single-Ended and Balanced outputs for the headphones. Listen to your music the way you want through either the 3.5mm Single-Ended output or the 2.5mm and 4.4mm Balanced outputs.
| MODEL | Q3 |
| COLOR | Black |
| DIMENSIONS | 105mmx59mmx12.5mm |
| WEIGHT | ≈110g |
| MQA FULL DECODER | 8x |
| MAXIMUM SUPPORTED SAMPLING RATE/DSD | PCM384kHz-32bit/DSD256 |
| HARDWARE SCHEME | DAC: AK4452，USB: XMOS XU316，AMP：THX_AAA_28*2 |
| VOLUME SCROLL | Potentiometer+ADC Sampling |
| FIIO CONTROL | No |
| SAMPLIG RATE INDICATION | Blue＝PCM Green ＝DSD Magenta＝MQA |
| RECOMMENDED HEADPHONE IMPEDANCE | PO:16~100Ω BAL:16~300Ω |
| FIRMWARE UPGRADE | System firmware and XMOS can be upgraded via USB |
| BUTTON | One button for Gain, Reset and UAC1.0 |
| SWITCHES | Charge switch, bass switch |
| USB | TYPE C USB |
| HEADPHONES PORTS | 3.5mm(phone out/line in), 4.4mm, 2.5mm (Bal to unbal adapters are prohibited) |
| POWER SUPPLY | 5V 2A |
| BATTERY CAPACITY | 1800mAh |
| CHARGING TIME | ＜2h |
| AUDIO IN | USB IN |
| BASS | Off |
| CHARGE | Off |
| GAIN | Low |
| TRACKS | MP3 44.1KHz/16bit |
| LOAD | 32Ω |
| AUDIO IN | USB IN |
| BASS | Off |
| CHARGE | Off |
| GAIN | Low |
| TRACKS | MP3 44.1KHz/16bit |
| LOAD | 32Ω |
| OUTPUT POWER | 175mW(16Ω,THD+N<1%) 160mW(32Ω,THD+N<1%) 18mW(300Ω,THD+N<1%) |
| THD+N | <0.0012%(1kHz/-6dB@32Ω) |
| FREQUENCY RESPONSE | 20Hz~50kHz: (±:1.5dB) 20Hz~20KHz:(±:0.3dB） |
| OUTPUT IMPEDANCE | ≤ 1 Ω |
| CROSSTALK | ≥ 76dB |
| OUTPUT LEVEL | 2.3Vrms |
| SNR | ≥ 115dB (dbA) |
| NOISE FLOOR | Gain = H,≤ 5uV(dbA) Gain = L,≤ 5uV(dbA) |
| OUTPUT POWER | 280mW(16Ω,THD+N<1%) 330mW(32Ω,THD+N<1%) 40mW(300Ω,THD+N<1%) |
| THD+N | ≤ 0.001%(1kHz/-4dB@32 Ω) |
| FREQUENCY RESPONSE | 20 Hz-50KHz: (±:1.8dB） 20 Hz-20KHz: (±:0.3dB) |
| OUTPUT IMPEDANCE | ≤ 2.6 Ω |
| CROSSTALK | ≥ 99dB |
| OUTPUT LEVEL | 3.3Vrms |
| SNR | ≥ 118dB (dbA) |
| NOISE FLOOR | Gain = H,≤ 7.5uV(dbA) Gain = L,≤ 7.5uV(dbA) |
| OUTPUT POWER | 265mW(16Ω,THD+N<1%) 370mW(32Ω,THD+N<1%) 105mW(300Ω,THD+N<1%) |
| THD+N | <0.0007%(1kHz/1.15V@32Ω) |
| FREQUENCY RESPONSE | 20Hz-20KHz:(±:0.2dB) |
| OUTPUT IMPEDANCE | ≤ 2.6 Ω |
| CROSSTALK | ≥ 100dB |
| OUTPUT LEVEL | 3.5Vrms |
| SNR | ≥ 120dB (dbA) |
| NOISE FLOOR | ≤ 3.5uV(dbA) |
| BOX CONTENTS | 1. FiiO Q3 Amplifier & DAC |
| 2. USB A to Type-C data cable*1 | |
| 3. 3.5mm to 3.5mm audio cable*1 | |
| 4. Type-C to Type-C data cable*1 | |
| 5. Lightning to Type-C data cable*1 | |
| 6. X-type silicone strap*1 | |
| 7. Silicone straps (long)*2 | |
| 8. Silicone straps (short)*2 | |
| 9. Silicone anti-skid feet*1 | |
| 10. Post-sale warranty card*1 | |
| 11. Quick start guide*1 |
|
Quick Start Guide | Q3 MQA
Portable USB DAC & Amp
|
What is the warranty on the FiiO Q3 MQA?
All FiiO Q3 MQA products come with a year warranty. You can simply get in touch with us to claim the warranty.Click here.
Where is the FiiO brand based?
FiiO is a brand based in China.
How is the FiiO Q3 MQA different from the previous generation Q3?
The FiiO Q3 MQA is an improvement in all respects when compared to its predecessor. It has an upgraded DAC chip AK4452 and USB XMOS XU316. The output power on the Q3 MQA Edition has also been enhanced to 175mW @16Ω in contrast to ≥150mW @16Ω on the previous generation Q3. Additionally, the battery life has improved with the Q3 MQA Edition, delivering 12h of playtime to 10h on the Q3 from the previous generation. Also, now the new Q3 supports MQA decoding and rendering.
What DAC chips are used in the FiiO Q3 MQA?
The FiiO Q3 MQA hosts an AKM AK4452 DAC chip for its Digital-to-analogue conversion.
What are the sampling/decoding rates supported?
It supports up to PCM 384kHz/32-bit and DSD256 Hi-Res audio formats.
Does it support MQA?
Yep! It does support MQA decoding and rendering.
How does MQA work?
Transients over time are muddled when an analogue sound is translated into a digital signal, a process known as temporal blurring. As a result, recorded music sounds flat when compared to 'live' music since our ears are unable to distinguish the sources of individual sounds. This distortion can be removed with MQA to produce the most accurate 3D soundstage ever heard.
Does it have an in-built battery?
Yep! It does have an in-built battery.
What does the RGB indicator indicate?
The RGB indicator light is striking and lets you know the current audio track's specs and sampling rate.
Does it have gain and Bass boost mode?
Yep! It does have two gain level settings and a Bass boost switch.
What are the various headphone outputs provided?
Listen to your music the way you want through either the 3.5mm Single-Ended output or the 2.5mm and 4.4mm Balanced outputs.
What does the package include?
It includes USB A to Type-C data cable*1, 3.5mm to 3.5mm audio cable*1, Type-C to Type-C data cable*1, Lightning to Type-C data cable*1, X-type silicone strap*1, Silicone straps (long)*2, Silicone straps (short)*2, Silicone anti-skid feet*1, Post-sale warranty card*1, and Quick start guide*1.
Don't sweat it, this
FiiO - Q3 MQA 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.
PORTABLE AMP Category
VGP Award
Jan, 2023