FiiO K9 Pro ESS Desktop DAC and Amplifier

I've been using a scarlet solo as my dac/amp for a few years now, there was nothing really wrong with it but I always felt something missing when it comes to my headphones. So i decided it's time to upgrade to something more specialized.I'm in no way a music professional and use my headphones mainly for gaming and movies/music, but I could tell how much of a difference the K9 gave me. The sound were more full bodied and could feel a kick where there needed to be one.The dac/amp also come in 3 boxes so it felt extremely safe and secured when you're dropping 500$ for an equipment like this. This thing is a brick so make sure you have the desk space for it. In the box was also an attachment to hold it vertically on your desk if needed.Extremely worth it purchase in my opinion.

Count me as a skeptic, or at least I used to be. For years, I kept hearing about DACs and wondered, "What's the fuss?" After all, my gaming computer boasts an impressive ALC1220 120dB(A) SNR HD Audio with Smart Headphone Amp, which automatically adjusts to my headphone's impedance, preventing issues like low volume and distortion. So why bother with an external DAC? What's the real disparity?Well, let me tell you, there is a difference. I used to think the internal DAC was adequate, at least until I put it to the test. Trying to discern between lossy, 32-bit, and CD quality on a website, I struggled to notice any distinction—until I encountered an unsettling buildup of distortion or echo, especially during extended YouTube sessions. That's when I decided to give a Creative Labs external DAC a shot, and the improvement was striking. Suddenly, the sound was cleaner, crisper.I have an external DAC connected to a Dayton Audio amp and some custom Scan-Speak bookshelf speakers. Even an older Creative Labs external DAC proved superior sound compared to internal motherboard dac's. But alas, it began causing speaker spikes at computer startup—a nuisance I couldn't tolerate. So I ended up purchasing the FiiO K7, and it was another noticeable enhancement. Remember to adjust your audio settings in preferences when you make the switch—it makes a difference. The K7 surpassed the Creative Labs DAC by a significant margin. With it, I aced the audio test, pinpointing the lowest quality every time, though distinguishing between lossy and 32-bit remained a challenge.Fast forward, and my curiosity led me to the FiiO K9—so of course, I had to get it. While the difference isn't earth-shattering, the wider soundstage and tighter bass control are undeniable. The theatrical presentation is a treat, especially for movie watching. As someone glued to my computer, any sound enhancement is welcome. Is it worth the $300 premium? Maybe not for everyone, but I certainly prefer it. I'm now a firm believer that DACs make a significant impact. As for headphone differences, I couldn't tell you much—I'm more of a speaker aficionado myself. My Meze Empyrean headphones sound great, but nothing beats the immersive experience speakers. Of course there are differences in how it drives the headphones but I couldn't tell you the nuances between the k7 and k9 on headphones. As a preamp though it works wonders.

For me this was worth upgrading from the K7 after buying a high end set of headphones. I kept the K7 that I have now moved to my home office where I use a Sennheiser HD6XX for casual listening. The K9 is not a night and day difference in sound over the K7 but was worth the investment, whereas I am not sure the K9 Pro version would be. Beyond sound, the K9 has all the connections I need, it is hefty and looks like a serious piece of equipment, surprisingly larger and heavier than the K7. It just looks the part. The K7 is still nice and compact, sitting next to my computer at my work desk. No reservations recommending this as a solid, plug and play unit for anyone looking to take a step beyond entry level.

It has given life to everything I play through this device! Their headphones are awesome also! China shining finally!!

First of all, the packaging was excellent. 2 boxes protecting the main box. Excellent!Unboxing was easy. Make sure the voltage select is correct for your region of operation. Mine was correct.Connect my gear. A TEAC A-7300 reel to reel. My Tascam DR-100 mk.3 SD recorder. SMSL SU-8n coming in on the balanced input. Note the balanced input takes priority over the unbalanced RCA inputs.My Samsung tablet and iPhone 12 Pro Max are my Bluetooth devices. Paired perfectly and no fuss at all. The FIIO control app is on both devices though my android Samsung Tablet was not functioning correctly with it. Looking further into that.The build is great. Heavy chunky aluminum that weighs more than my Schiit Asgard 3, and the Schiit Modius put together.Inputs. USB type B, Coaxial Digital, TOSLINK Optical, RCA and Penticonn Balanced input. Outputs. RCA, XLR balanced line level. Headphone output, 4.4 Penticonn, 4 pin XLR, 6.3mm. Wireless Bluetooth aerial attached to connector by factory.Standard IEC AC cable socket for your AC Cable or the one supplied. USB type A to B and 6.3mm adapter and rubber feet and quick start guide included. Vertical stand for mounting the K9 vertically.Operation.Pick an input you want from the front panel or the free FIIO controller app. Android and IOS alike. The smooth volume control keeps it easy. The nice gentle ramp up volume is a nice touch. When you select sources.The script is on the small side, and hard to read. The buttons small too. But otherwise I can do fine with it. The RGB volume ring light is a nice status light. Take it or leave it. Easy to understand too.I used all 6 rubber feet and keeps the K9 planted without scratching anything.Sound with my Tascam DR-100 mk. 3 from the analog input is excellent. Punchy and dynamic. My Focal Elegia Headphones connected via the 4 pin balanced and the sensitivity on medium. I never found I wanted more power. Plenty here. My Hifiman Sundara does well too. Even my work project Beyer Dynamic DT-770 do just fine.The richness reminds me the best of good MOSFETs. Never etched or gritty. I listen all day and ear burn is not happening. Still breaking in, the bass is well fleshed out and good extension without the boom. Midrange is rich and well textured. Highs never harsh or pushy. For me the enjoyable listen in a long time. I have the Topping a30pro, and the FIIO K5, and Schiit Asgard 3, and really am doing best with the K9, next is the a30pro for its clean detailed sound albeit less involving as the K9. The K5 is like the K9 but just really incomplete vs. the K9 but is great as my everyday driver for work stuff. The Asgard 3 is my power house. Big grand sound but kind of pushy too, and for me rather fatiguing in long listens. Remember everyone is different and source and music and headphones and sources will vary.I must say the more I use the K9 the more I am glad I bought this. The analog inputs are a grand draw too. Most of the DAC combinations did not have analog inputs. So I can keep it all simple without another preamplifier and so on. I may get the Schiit SYS to allow switching of my 2 sources the TEAC and Tascam. We’ll see.Things I don’t like about the K9. Other than the really small script for operation, really nothing else. It is a well built good sounding DAC Headphone and even Preamplifier if called into drive external powered monitors or a power amplifier.I think for $499.00. I did well. I may get the SMSL SU-10 as my statement DAC. Not sure about that. This one is doing well, I am in no hurry.As a one stop shop for many, this K9 is just fine. Not sure if the Pro would have got me more. I just didn’t want to pay that price for it, along with MQA tax. I already have that covered if that matters at all.I would have loved to try the AKM version too. But I am happy with what this K9 is doing. Gets a recommendation from me.