FiiO K9 Pro ESS

I bought this to replace an SMSL DAC that had developed a fault. I was slightly sceptical as the Fiio doesn't quite match the technical specs of the SMSL in terms of sample rates for DSD playback, but after some research I was persuaded by a number of reviews praising the Fiio's sound and build quality. I've also got a Fiio K3 for my Mac mini which sounds incredible for the price.After a full day of auditioning the Fiio using mainly Hi-Res Qobuz playback through Volumio on a RPi4, I'm happy to report that the K9 more than lives up to its promise. Bass is weighty, but also tight and controlled, midrange and soundstage are outstanding, and treble is sweet and detailed without a hint of harshness. The companion Fiio app allows the unit to be controlled via Bluetooth on a phone or tablet with access to extra features like EQ and customising the ring light around the volume control.Overall, this is an utterly superb DAC / headphone combo for the price, and anyone thinking of getting a Topping or SMSL should seriously consider Fiio as a contender also.

Not the cheapest amp out there, but it is worth every penny, looks and feels extremely premium. Sounds quality is excellent.

Frankly, it's probably overpriced, but then audiophile headphone amps usually are. I have paired this amp with a some DT1990 Pro's. Both are extremely transparent and allow me to master mixes with confidence. The overall build quality is excellent, although I only use the headphone functionality, so can't comment on the Line out.

Sounds great but have bought 2 and had to send both back due to 2 different faults

It sounds clear and spectacular. It knocked my socks off!

Sound:pure and naturally tick timbre at all frequencies, good if not vast soundstage, remarkable depth and instruments separation. Good musicality when used as dac+amp and with suitable headphones (hd660s worked fine for me.)Connectivity:Bluetooth receiver with all codecs and great range, usb, etc. Nice app as remote controlBuild:smart and solid, almost slick... For goodness sake, improve the front panel labels visibility. Lovely smart materials and chassis, vertical stand a clever idea.