New Dac the FiiO K13 R2R: Early Impressions

[Jasonovich]

I am afraid all of those are probably above my pay grade but sounds an interesting proposition. At least I only have one system to listen to these days which is in my man cave and only use headphones.

That's why I am waiting to see if the K17 R2R has an improved R2R and Headphone amp in which case it would save a lot of space and mains leads/interconnects by replacing my four current units and the SSD I have in the Eversolo would transfer to a USB SSD caddy sitting behind. All theory at the moment!

I believe the K17 is already out but it isn't R2R, it uses AKM chipset, not unless they're bringing out an R2R version of the K17?
Now that would be interesting 🙂

 

[woodbar]

I believe the K17 is already out but it isn't R2R, it uses AKM chipset, not unless they're bringing out an R2R version of the K17?
Now that would be interesting 🙂

Yes, very interesting!

Apparently there will be an R2R version of the K17 due to be released in July I understand.

 

[woodbar]

@Jasonovich I meant to ask you before, I note from your diner set up you are using an LPS PL50 with your K11 R2R I assume? Did you detect any sonic differences with that?

 

[Jasonovich]

@Jasonovich I meant to ask you before, I note from your diner set up you are using an LPS PL50 with your K11 R2R I assume? Did you detect any sonic differences with that?

Good question.
Yes small incremental but noticeable improvements to the sound. The bass appears to have better body, vocals more solid. Some may argue it's placebo but my ears tell me otherwise.

I would advise any one using cheap 12v AC/DC generic power supply, switch to a decent linear one.
The FiiO PL50 power supply is puka, not sure if this is compatible with K13 R2R, worth checking their website.

 

[woodbar]

Good question.
Yes small incremental but noticeable improvements to the sound. The bass appears to have better body, vocals more solid. Some may argue it's placebo but my ears tell me otherwise.

I would advise any one using cheap 12v AC/DC generic power supply, switch to a decent linear one.
The FiiO PL50 power supply is pretty decent, not sure if this is compatible with K13 R2R, worth checking their website.

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Yes, quite possible, but don't quote that on ASR😡🤐

Fiio have produced another LPSU in a case which exactly mimics the K13 R2R with selectable 12 or 15V output - called "The Darkside" 🤦‍♀️ A bit obtuse!

I will not think about that until I am able to investigate the forthcoming K17 R2R though, as that has a built in LPSU and the K13 R2R at least has it's own SMPSU in a tin box internally!