FiiO has unveiled the Warmer R2R DA converter. The name says it all: this DA converter, powered by four JJ Electronic E88CC tubes, produces an organic and warm sound, utilizing the patented R2R architecture. The power supply is based on a toroidal transformer, and the Warmer R2R can convert PCM signals up to 32-bit/384 kHz resolution via its USB input. Dancing VU meters complete the design.
FiiO Warmer R2R: modern technology with a retro look
Thanks to RCA and XLR outputs and UAC 1.0/2.0 support, the FiiO Warmer R2R is universally applicable, from desktop setups to classic hi-fi systems. The large analogue VU meters are not just a visual element, but are, according to the designers, deliberately positioned as a visual feedback element. The back of the housing is equipped with a perforated metal cover around the tubes and the power supply for reliable heat dissipation. The specified dimensions are 223.5 x 213 x 66.8 millimeters and the weight is 2,865 grams. The Warmer R2R is therefore easy to place, possibly on a desk.
FiiO Warmer R2R: linear 46 Watt power supply for low noise
A 46-watt toroidal transformer forms the basis of the linear power supply. This design is intended to ensure low stray magnetic fields and minimal distortion. According to the manufacturer, the combination of the toroidal power supply, R2R DAC, and tube buffer results in a device specifically designed for stability, low noise, and signal purity.
FiiO Warmer R2R: Precision resistors for organic sound
At the heart of the device is a fully differentiated, patented 24-bit R2R resistor network, consisting of 192 thin-film precision resistors with a tolerance of 0.1 percent and a drift of 30 ppm. This design differs fundamentally from typical delta-sigma chips and, according to the manufacturer, is intended to enable a more harmonious, finely nuanced sound.
Users can choose between NOS (Non-Oversampling) and Oversampling, allowing them to deliberately adjust the device’s character. Sometimes it’s more analytical, sometimes more natural and smoother—the choice is yours.
FiiO Warmer R2R four pieces JJ Electronic E88CC tubes
Perhaps the most distinctive feature is the tube buffer stage in the Warmer R2R, which consists of four JJ Electronic E88CC tubes manufactured in Slovakia. This topology is responsible for the characteristic aspect of the sound reproduction. FiiO specifies a supply voltage of +/- 28 volts and a lifespan of approximately 10,000 hours.
The tubes should give the signal more body, a smoother texture, and a soft warmth without overpowering the fundamental character. This approach deliberately focuses on musical and lively reproduction rather than on a neutral and analytically correct reproduction.
FiiO Warmer R2R: digital inputs and file formats
The Warmer R2R features three digital inputs: USB Type B, coaxial, and optical. Via USB, the device handles linear PCM up to 32-bit/384 kHz and DSD256, while the coaxial input supports linear PCM up to 24-bit/192 kHz. The optical input accepts signals up to 24-bit/96 kHz.
A convenient switch allows you to choose between UAC1.0 and UAC2.0, so the DA converter can be used with consoles such as the Nintendo Switch or Sony PlayStation 5, as well as with computers and mobile devices, without the need for additional drivers.
FiiO Warmer R2R analog outputs in RCA and XLR with parallel operation
For analog signal transmission, both a stereo RCA output and a stereo XLR output are available, which can be used simultaneously. The RCA output provides a minimum voltage of 1.8 volts (RMS), while the XLR outputs operate at a minimum of 3.8 volts (also RMS). With this output level, the Warmer R2R can drive a wide range of speaker or headphone amplifiers.
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