Fiio K11 R2R DAC hits the target

Summary

The Fiio K11 R2R is an affordable, compact desktop DAC priced at $169, offering exceptional sound quality with both non-oversampling (NOS) and oversampling (OS) modes. Known for its warm, full-bodied sound and rich tonal detail, it’s an ideal choice for audiophiles seeking a relaxed, pleasant listening experience. The K11 R2R excels in comparison to similar models like the SMSL SU1 and D6S, offering a richer, more natural sound. Its 1.3-watt headphone amplifier suits acoustic and slower genres but may lack punch for more energetic music. A highly recommended value DAC for those seeking great sound at a budget price.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Fiio K11 R2R is an affordable desktop DAC priced at $169, offering high-quality audio at a lower cost compared to other R2R DACs.
• 🎧 The device features both **Non-Over Sampling (NOS)** and **Over Sampling (OS)** modes, allowing users to choose between a milder, vintage sound or a more detailed, bright sound.
• 🔌 The K11 R2R includes multiple digital inputs: **USB (USBC)**, **Optical**, and **Coaxial**, providing flexibility for different setups.
• 🔊 The DAC has both **single-ended RCA line outputs** and **headphone outputs** (single-ended and balanced), making it a versatile device for both speakers and headphones.
• 💡 The unit is powered by a 12V DC supply, which can be upgraded with a low-noise or linear power supply for improved sound quality.
• 🎨 The Fiio K11 R2R comes with a customizable color-changing display (seven color options), allowing users to adjust the lighting to their preference.
• 🔥 The headphone amplifier provides up to **1.3W of power**, with a mild and warm sound, suitable for acoustic and vocal music, but less energetic for faster genres.
• 🎶 The K11 R2R is praised for its **full-bodied, rich sound**, especially in vocals and wind instruments, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a pleasant listening experience.
• 💥 Compared to competitors like the **SMSL SU1** and **SMSL D6S**, the Fiio K11 R2R offers a fuller sound with better tonal richness, though it sacrifices some sharpness and clarity.
• ⚡ The Fiio K11 R2R allows users to upgrade the power supply, which can enhance soundstage depth, clarity, and separation, giving it an edge over some other DACs at this price point.

Q & A

What is the Fiio K11 R2R and how is it different from other DACs?

The Fiio K11 R2R is a desktop DAC featuring a **Resistor-to-Resistor (R2R)** design, which sets it apart from other more common DAC types. Unlike compact dongles or other inexpensive DACs that may be priced higher, the K11 R2R offers a high-quality audio experience at a budget-friendly price of $169. It provides both **Non-Oversampling (NOS)** and **Oversampling (OS)** modes, allowing users to adjust the tonal character of their music.

What digital inputs does the Fiio K11 R2R support?

The Fiio K11 R2R supports three primary digital inputs: **USB-C**, **optical Toslink**, and **coaxial**. This makes it compatible with a wide range of devices and setups, ensuring flexibility in how it connects to audio sources.

How does the Fiio K11 R2R sound compared to other DACs in its price range?

The Fiio K11 R2R has a **full, warm**, and **rich sound**, providing a more **pleasant and relaxed listening experience** compared to sharper, more analytical DACs in the same price range, like the **SMSL SU1**. While it may not offer the same level of clarity and edge as some competitors, it excels in offering **tonal richness**, **good instrument separation**, and a natural-sounding tonality, especially in genres like **acoustic music** and **vocals**.

What is the difference between the **Non-Oversampling (NOS)** and **Oversampling (OS)** modes on the K11 R2R?

In **NOS mode**, the Fiio K11 R2R produces a **warmer, milder sound**, with **softer edges** and a more **laid-back tonal character**. In contrast, **OS mode** adds **brightness**, **clarity**, and slightly enhances the high frequencies, making them more **present** and giving the soundstage more **openness** and air. The choice between these modes depends on the listener's preference for a more relaxed or a more vibrant listening experience.

Can the power supply of the Fiio K11 R2R be upgraded?

Yes, the Fiio K11 R2R uses a **12V DC power supply**, and users have the option to upgrade it with an aftermarket **low-noise** or **linear power supply**. Upgrading the power supply, such as using the **iFi iPowerX**, can improve the soundstage depth, clarity, and overall audio performance.

What is the performance of the headphone amplifier on the Fiio K11 R2R?

The headphone amplifier of the Fiio K11 R2R provides **1.3 watts** of power, which is sufficient for many headphones. However, it has a **mellow**, **laid-back sound**, making it more suited for **slow music genres** or those looking for a **relaxed listening experience**. It may lack the **punch** and **energy** required for more **dynamic music genres** like electronic or pop.

How does the Fiio K11 R2R compare to the **SMSL D6S** in terms of sound?

The **SMSL D6S** and the Fiio K11 R2R are similar in tonality, but the Fiio offers a **fuller-bodied**, **warmer sound**, while the D6S is more **analytical**, offering **clearer lines** and **sharper detail**. The Fiio provides a more **pleasing, relaxed listening experience**, whereas the D6S is more **energetic** and **crisp**. If you prefer a **mellower**, **warmer sound**, the Fiio K11 R2R would be the better choice, but the D6S is ideal for those who enjoy a more **revealing, energetic** sound.

What types of headphones are best suited for the Fiio K11 R2R's headphone amplifier?

The Fiio K11 R2R is best paired with **moderately sensitive dynamic-driver headphones**. These headphones already have good punch and bass on their own, which complements the Fiio’s **mellow** and **warm sound**. However, the amp may struggle with **planar magnetic** headphones or other headphones that require more punch or speed, like the **Hifiman** or **Verum 2** models, due to the K11 R2R's more relaxed amplification.

What makes the Fiio K11 R2R a good value compared to other DACs at this price point?

The Fiio K11 R2R offers **exceptional value** due to its **affordable price** and **high-quality sound**. For just $169, you get a **full-bodied, rich DAC** with the flexibility of **NOS** and **OS modes** and the ability to **upgrade the power supply**. It also includes a **decent headphone amplifier**, making it an all-in-one solution that competes well with higher-priced DACs and amplifiers in terms of sound quality and performance.

How does the Fiio K11 R2R's headphone output compare to the **FX Audio DR7**?

Compared to the **FX Audio DR7**, the Fiio K11 R2R’s headphone output is more **mellow** and **laid-back**, while the DR7 focuses on **clarity** with a **leaner**, more **analytical** sound. The DR7 provides a **more energetic and forward sound**, with a **narrower soundstage**, which may appeal to listeners who prefer **cleaner, crisper edges**. However, the Fiio's warmer, more natural tone is ideal for those who enjoy a **fuller, richer sound**.