FiiO M23: Premium Portable Music Player

Digital audio players (DAPs) might appear to be relics in an age where smartphones come with sophisticated audio technology. Yet, for dedicated audiophiles and serious music enthusiasts, the FiiO M23 underscores the ongoing relevance of high-end digital music players. The M23, running on an Android platform, is a prime example of a device that combines advanced DACs with exceptional amplification to deliver superior audio performance. It is tailored for those who demand pristine sound quality that smartphones often can’t match, despite their growing capabilities.

At the heart of the FiiO M23’s impressive audio performance are its high-end DACs and amplification system. The player integrates AKM’s flagship AK4191EQ and AK4499EX chipsets, which are renowned for their exceptional digital-to-analog conversion capabilities. This ensures that audio files, ranging from standard MP3s to high-resolution formats such as 384kHz 32-bit PCM and DSD256, are transformed into analog signals with remarkable fidelity. The M23 even supports higher-resolution formats up to 768kHz-32bit and DSD512 through its USB output, making it highly versatile in handling various audio file types.

The FiiO M23’s design is meticulously engineered to enhance audio quality by isolating digital and analog circuitry. This separation helps in minimizing signal interference and heat accumulation, which can negatively affect sound quality. The digital signals are converted into analog form by dual AKM DACs, and then amplified using two THX AAA-78 amps. This combination results in a robust and detailed sound profile, characterized by both power and subtlety, which is crucial for an authentic listening experience.

In addition to its exceptional sound quality, the M23 is designed with practicality in mind. It features a Desktop Mode that allows for optimized power delivery when the player is used at a desk, protecting the battery during extended use. This mode is particularly useful for driving high-impedance headphones and planar-magnetic earphones. The device is powered by a Snapdragon 660 processor and comes with 4GB of RAM, coupled with a 5.5-inch touchscreen display. This display supports a resolution of 720 x 1440, providing a clear and responsive interface. The M23 also offers access to the Google Play Store, enabling users to download and use their preferred streaming apps, while also supporting local music playback via a microSD card slot with a capacity of up to 2TB.

The FiiO M23 is built for ease of use with intuitive controls. On the left side, there is a power switch and a sliding volume control, while the right side features buttons for playback control, including play, pause, skip, and repeat. Additional controls include a switch for activating Desktop Mode and a Hold button to prevent accidental presses. The device includes a microSD slot and two USB-C ports—one for charging and one for digital output. On the top of the player, users will find output jacks for both 3.5mm unbalanced earphones and 4.4mm balanced connectors, catering to different audio preferences.

The M23 is equipped with a substantial 5,500mAh battery that can provide up to eight hours of playback. The battery charging process is designed to be smart, adjusting the speed as it nears full charge to extend overall battery life. Although a charger is not included with the device, it can be charged using a standard 30W charger, with a full charge taking approximately one hour.

In terms of audio quality, the FiiO M23 excels with its balanced output, offering a detailed and refined sound profile. Testing with high-quality earphones and headphones revealed a level of clarity and richness that enhances the listening experience. The device’s low distortion and musicality make it a compelling choice for audiophiles who seek exceptional sound quality in a portable format.

Overall, the FiiO M23 is a high-caliber digital audio player that provides features and sound quality comparable to, if not exceeding, many more expensive models. With a price of $700 for the Blue Titanium version and $899 for the Stainless Steel model, it offers significant value for audiophiles who are serious about their music. The M23 is available now and can be explored further at fiio.com.

Technical Specifications: The M23 features the AKM AK4191EQ and AKM AK4499EX DACs, a Qualcomm 660 SoC, and THX AAA-78+ amplification. The 5.5-inch display has a resolution of 720 x 1440, with power output capabilities of up to 1000mW+1000mW (32Ω) in Desktop Mode and 760mW+760mW (32Ω) on battery. It supports gain modes of Low, Medium, High, and Super-High, and has headphone outputs of 3.5mm (single-ended) and 4.4mm (balanced). The player also includes Bluetooth capabilities (receive and transmit), a microSD slot, and offers various operating modes including Android, Pure Music, AirPlay, USB DAC, Bluetooth Receiver, and Roon Ready. The device’s dimensions are 136.5 x 75.7 x 18.1mm, and it weighs 299g.