FiiO has laser engraved the Hi-Res Audio symbol on the top of the K3. To be honest, I appreciate the inclusion of an Optical Output, since not all computers have an Optical Out, and it could come in really handy when trying to connect a more expensive DAC/AMP to your PC, to avoid the noise of a USB connection, if you’re not a fan of USB purifiers and such. Otherwise, as a desktop device, it is fairly small, it looks good on a desk, doesn’t take up much space, although if anything is a little disadvantage, it is a little small and lightweight, which means that a thicker / harder cable may lift if off the table. 5 0 obj
K3 is much harder to use portably though. Every opinion expressed is mine and I stand by it, the purpose of this review is to help those interested in FiiO K3 find their next music companion. FiiO K3 is actually designed to be used as a Desktop Device, but it works very well as a portable as well, provided your smartphone / source can give it enough power. Being priced at 110 USD, it offers one of the largest number of usage scenarios, having optical, coaxial and even line outs, and a 3.5mm Single Ended Headphone Output, and a 2.5mm Balanced Headphone Output. K3 comes in a simple white cardboard box. Technical Specifications. Starting with the package, the SoundKey comes with more accessories, better overall package, although it only has a 3.5mm Single Ended output, where K3 has both a Balanced, Single Ended, and two Digital outputs, and even a Line Out output. The Signature of K3 is a very clean and clear one, very neutral, without any kind of flavour added to the sound. The E10K doesn’t have this (being that it’s older), but both have the FiiO logo. It also glows green for hi-res files. First things first, let’s get the packaging out of the way: FiiO K3 is a very healthily-priced IEM, at 100 USD, so the package isn’t expected to be too fancy, but it does include a USB cable, Rubber stickers, 4 of them, 2 pairs, and a USB Type-C cable. K3 has enough power for both IEMs, and some good headphones, so you can consider it doing its job fairly well as a desktop device. In comparison, K3 is more neutral, more honest, more clean, more transparent, has better treble extension, and much more driving power. It should be noted that I have absolutely no affiliation with FiiO, I am not receiving any incentive for this review or to sweeten things out. The bass is very deep, and K3 doesn’t seem to struggle at all to deliver a deep and punchy bass, even though it is not the most powerful DAC/AMP on the market, having enough speed to be natural, and enough depth as well. endobj
Being priced at 110 USD, it offers one of the largest number of usage scenarios, having optical, coaxial and even line outs, and a 3.5mm Single Ended Headphone Output, and a 2.5mm Balanced Headphone Output. The sound stage is even more precise, gone is the massive yet strange presentation that could occur with the first gen FiiO … 3 0 obj
Switching to UAC 2.0 will unlock 384k/32bit and DSD256 support, although a driver must be installed. I am George, the Creator of Audiophile-Heaven, and I love music! The treble is extended well, pretty natural, in both speed and texture. We recommend trying most of the songs from this playlist, especially if you’re searching for new music! Just a good crisp and transparent sound, with a good linearity all over the place, natural speed and natural textures all over the place, and enough power for most IEMs and portable headphones, including some harder-to-drive gems. I will be sharing insights and comparisons of audio products with you. The K3 has grown on me over the last few weeks of use, and especially in its intended use – as a simple desk-top DAC/amp. Comparisons FiiO K3 + FiiO F9Pro – This pairing is really sweet sounding, clean and clear, with a good amount of impact and a good treble extension. Once installed, the FiiO K3 supportss audio stream up to 32bit / 384kHz and DSD256 which is pretty rare even now.