Despite its name, the FiiO M23 Portable Audio Player is not positioned as the new flagship model in the Digital Audio Player (DAP) lineup of FiiO Electronics Technology Co. Ltd. Instead, it finds its place nestled between the existing FiiO M11s Hi-res Portable Music Player and the FiiO M15S Portable Hi-res Lossless Music Player.
The FiiO M23 Portable Audio Player, however, is expected to stand out as an exceptional portable Hi-res audio player. This anticipation stems not only from the developers’ extensive experience in the field but also from the device’s flawless integration of cutting-edge technology.
The new FiiO M23 Portable Audio Player is built on the Qualcomm Snapdragon Platform, utilizing the Qualcomm 660 SoC from Qualcomm Incorporated. This chipset not only delivers the needed performance but also supports a range of crucial features. Among these are the GPU, which powers the device’s large 5.5-inch touch display with a resolution of 720 x 1,440 pixels and an 18:9 aspect ratio. It also facilitates the operation of the Google Android 10 operating system, manages the 4 GB of system RAM, and handles the device’s substantial 64 GB of internal storage. Additionally, it supports memory expansion via microSD cards up to 2 TB. The FiiO M23 also offers versatile connectivity options, including USB ports, Bluetooth, and WiFi, for seamless interaction with the external world.
Converter from AKM
The new FiiO M23 Portable Audio Player interestingly incorporates converters from Asahi Kasei Microdevices Corporation, featuring an AKM AK419EQ plus an AKM AK4499EX DAC. This allows the device to process signals in linear PCM with up to 32 bits and 384 kHz, DSD up to DSD256, as well as signals encoded in the lossy MQA format.
Output stage from THX Ltd.
The output stage of the FiiO M23 Portable Audio Player features a dual THX AAA-78+ configuration, a design courtesy of THX Ltd., renowned for its exceptional performance and flawless signal quality.
The FiiO M23 Portable Audio Player is equipped with four gain modes to perfectly match various headphone models: Low, Medium, High, and Super High. The Super High Gain Level is particularly noteworthy, as it becomes available through a dual power supply system when the player is connected to USB power, enabling a special desktop mode for enhanced performance.
For headphone connectivity, the player offers both an asymmetrical 3.5 mm stereo mini-jack and a symmetrical 4.4 mm Pentaconn output. These outputs provide a powerful delivery of 1,000 mW at 32 ohms impedance and an impressive 236 mW at 300 ohms impedance, ensuring a wide range of headphones can be driven with ease and high fidelity.
The FiiO M23 Portable Audio Player is equipped with USB-C ports that support USB 3.0, enhancing its connectivity and data transfer capabilities. Additionally, it features Bluetooth 5.0, allowing it not only to connect with Bluetooth headphones but also to serve as a Bluetooth DAC/amplifier when receiving signals from smartphones or tablets. It supports a wide range of codecs, including the standard SBC and AAC, as well as aptX, aptX HD, and LDAC for Hi-res audio transmission up to 24 bit and 48 kHz, and in some cases, even up to 24 bit and 96 kHz.
Users can directly access their own content through the network, with a variety of streaming services such as TIDAL, Qobuz, Apple Music, Deezer, and many others available through the installation of their respective apps on the Google Android platform. The FiiO M23 is likely to be recognized as a Roon Ready Device, similar to its predecessors. It proudly displays both the Hi-res Audio and Hi-res Audio Wireless logos, signifying its superior sound quality.
The player also facilitates direct connection to PCs or Macs via its USB-C port, functioning as an exceptional converter. Charging is accomplished through the same USB-C connection, with its integrated 5,500 mAh lithium-polymer battery providing up to 10.5 hours of playtime, ensuring users can enjoy their music for extended periods without the need for frequent recharging.
Prices and availability
The FiiO M23 Portable Audio Player is being unveiled at CanJam New York and is set for a rapid international rollout, with the manufacturer targeting April 2024 for its release. Available in two finishes, Blue Titanium and Stainless Steel, the player is designed to cater to diverse user preferences with its aesthetic choices. It is priced at a recommended retail price of €700, positioning it as a premium option in the portable audio player market..
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