FiiO is launching a new version of its already renown K11 desktop headphone amplifier, this time featuring a four-channel fully differential 24bit R2R DAC, replacing the conventional delta-sigma chip-based DAC that the K11 had.
Of course, the new K11 R2R is also extremely versatile as its younger brother, having multiple inputs – USB-C, optical and Coax, but also outputs to RCA stereo for connecting to an external preamplifier and 4.4mm or 6.35mm headphone outputs, also a display for settings and checking what song is being played! Wow! That’s a lot for a device so compact!
The hot new feature of K1 R2R is its R2R DAC that proves ladder DAC technology goes smaller and we can now find it in compact units like this one. K11 R2R is FiiO’s first device to feature a four-channel fully differential R2R (resistor 2 resistor) DAC. The DAC can accommodate files up to 32-bit/384KHz and DSD256 Hi-Res files. The DAC is comprised of 48×2 resistor arrays per channel. This differential architecture offers lower noise than a conventional R2R architecture. NOS and OS modes are available.
Of course, as we learned from the basic K11, this new K11 R2R has a very powerful headphone amplifier that goes up to 1300mW and can handle a great deal of headphones. The full specs of the 6.35mm Single-ended headphone output are: L+R≥460mW+460mW (32Ω, THD+N＜1%) L+R≥50mW+50mW (300Ω, THD+N＜1%) and for 4.4mm Balanced are: L+R≥1300mW+1300mW (32Ω, THD+N＜1%) L+R≥220mW+220mW (300Ω, THD+N＜1%). Three independent gain-levels and volume-curves are available to match your headphones.
Now, how is the new K11 R2R compared to the regular K11? Well, at least in terms of looks, you can barely tell them apart: the only physical difference is that K11 R2R has its top “FiiO” logo illuminated. Yes! You heard right. Imagine a quiet and dark evening at your sleek desk, with a FiiO K11 R2R making a contrasting statement with its illuminated logo. This feature can be disabled or customized through the devices’ settings. That’s cool, isn’t it?
In terms of sound, K11 R2R should be warmer sounding if we think about its R2R heritage, and, if you are looking for this type of sound, the new K11 could be a better match for you. K11 R2R will have a retail price around 150-160 USD, and, we must say that at this price point and with so many features in a compact sleek body, K11 R2R for sure is a nice package!
In Romania, K11 R2R can be purchased from the official dealer avstore.ro, for all other countries please go to FiiO’s website fiio.com for guidance.
We would love to get our hands on one of these and, as soon as we do, you will be the first to know!
