Just back to say Thank You! Came across this video a month ago and decided to pull the trigger on K7. Before I had HD600 connected to pc via minijack and after buying this + balanced cable from amazon I`m simply blown away.
@manuelmtz4541
4 ай бұрын
what input are you using on your k7?
@Lucas-ck1po
Жыл бұрын
This little unit is the absolutely perfect concept. For 200 bucks you can true balance drive dynamics, planars, doesn't sound dry or sterile, usb, optical, its small and its preety. Thats all i need. I just think the volume knob quirks would put me off a little. I believe Fiio will probably have this fixed later down the road, they are always improving their stuff. Most likely Fiio will also have an improved "Pro" version of it later. The K5 was a good unit for an excelent idea, the K5 Pro was it's final, perfected iteration. The K7 most likely to have the same fate but still, i would have this one over the dx3 and the ifi any day, its a bit of a jack of all trades for 200 bucks, its a steal. Well fucking done Fiio! This is their best idea so far, it just needs some polish to be the best product for the money in this market. For the while the K5 pro and the K9 pro are a little more rounded products but this would be the unit to get: an affordable unit the begginer audiophile can afford for his 6xxs or sundaras but that can push 1000 dollar plus headphones later down the road. As i said, it just need some polish.
@MyouKyuubi
Жыл бұрын
I bought a k9 for my Sundara, lol... well ti wasn't JUST for the Sundara, i kinda want some speakers too, nothing super fancy, but i thought the k9 could be a great preamp or something. Also it looks beautiful... Kinda wish i waited to buy the ESS version, but, given the AKM version is so rare (due to the factory discontinuing the chip production, permanently, after the factory burned down), i wonder if i can trade with someone. :3
@Lucas-ck1po
Жыл бұрын
@@MyouKyuubi Dude, you most likely wouldn't be able to pick the difference between one chip and another since both measure preety well. I seriously wouldn't stress over it
@MyouKyuubi
Жыл бұрын
@@Lucas-ck1po Well technically, the AKM chip is better, according to FiiO's product parameters... But the ESS version contains two DAC chips, as opposed to the AKM's single dac chip. FiiO originally intended to have the AKM version have two DAC chips, just like the ESS version, but due to the discontinuation of the AKM chip, they went with single-chip design, in order to make double the amount of units, so that more people could have the privilege of owning an AKM version. The reason you'd want the ESS over the AKM, is primarily because the ESS has better channel-separation, due to dual-dac. That is something you can DEFINITELY make out with your own ears. ;) The ESS also has a golden volume knob, which matches better with the THX-indentation, and the "pro" label next to the XLR output, which are gold-colored... As opposed to the AKM versions mismatched silver volume knob. xD The ESS is more visually consistent, is what i'm saying. And also, if my AKM version breaks, getting replacement DAC chips for repair wont be possible... So there's also that. But you know, it's totally nonessential, the AKM version works just fine, and powers headphones very competently. :) It'll probably last me long enough to when there's better alternatives on the market anyhow.
@MyouKyuubi
Жыл бұрын
@@blakeschumaker1914 "It completely changed the game for my Moondrop B2Ds which I was previously running off of a FIIO Q1 MKII" Lmao, in-ears, with a portable amp? Why would you buy a desktop amp to replace a portable one? And why would you use in-ears for desktop use? We can never be friends... xD
@MyouKyuubi
Жыл бұрын
@@blakeschumaker1914 "But there is no need to be a complete dick to strangers online." ... I wasn't being a dick, i was making a joke... I thought my Ecksdee there made that obvious. Guess i was mistaken about that. :P "Why would you hate on someone that has similar interests to you?" I'm not hating on anyone, lmao. Do you always think everyone is out to get you? I think perhaps you need to learn to get over yourself. Even if someone was actually out to get you, so to speak, you shouldn't be acting this sensitive over it. Taking yourself that seriously all the time is only going to be a source of unnecessary stress in your life bro. : / Have a good one!
@jimtekkit
Жыл бұрын
Ifi Zen DAC V2 owner here. Agreed that having all the outputs enabled is annoying when you're switching between headphones and speakers (I have both) and have to disable the other. Although sometimes I use both outputs at the same time as a ghetto way of using the speakers to add more soundstage to my open-back headphones. For stuff like ambient music and sound effects in games it really helps. I have mid-range Sennheiser HD599's and Edifier R1700BT speakers.
@dragons_advocate
Жыл бұрын
Zeos, you missed that the ZenDAC by itself has only ~330mW output power; One needs the Zen CAN in combination with it to get about 1,600mW. Driving up the combined cost for the comparison in the ifi camp to ~350-400$.
@MyouKyuubi
Жыл бұрын
Meanwhile the FiiO k7 here can do 2000 mW all by itself. :P
@dylanholt325
Жыл бұрын
But the zen dac can also be powered only by a usb port making it great for portable laptop use.
@MyouKyuubi
Жыл бұрын
@@dylanholt325 Yeah, that's not really a selling feature.
@dylanholt325
Жыл бұрын
@@MyouKyuubi was for me. I don’t want to have to carry around multiple power bricks if I don’t have too.
@MyouKyuubi
Жыл бұрын
@@dylanholt325 Well, it's not a selling feature, because if your PC is powering the amplifier, then the amplifier can't amplify beyond the PC's innate ability to amplify. In fact, the amplifier is weaker than your PC, because the amplifier uses some of the power it gets from the PC to enable other, unrelated systems, like LED lights, and various other indicators.. Which leaves the amplifier with LESS power, than if you had just plugged your headphones, directly, into the PC instead. :P So no, it is not a selling feature, ever... Not even for you. If an amplifier does not have it's own separate power supply, it is not serving as an amplifier, because it can't amplify any higher than the audio-source it's connected to, all it is serving as at that point, is as a DAC at best, and even then, you don't NEED an external DAC, because your PC comes with it's own DAC chips, and you can use them by plugging them directly into the audio-jacks on your PC, lol. I'm sorry you wasted your money buying a desk-brick, my man. I did so too once, when i made the mistake of buying a "GSX 1200 PRO Gaming Series" that doesn't have it's own power supply and is run entirely off USB from the PC. This was before i knew what i know now. :P It's marketed as an amplifier, but, it doesn't actually amplify more than my PC does, so it's a waste of money... The purpose of an amplifier, is to be able to boost the volume better than the audio-source can, that requires extra power, AKA, amplification... So if it fails to do that, it's not really an amplifier. Why? Because some headphones might have a sensitivity of 84 dB per mW, and some of them have a high Ohm rating... At which point raising volume requires more power AND more voltage rather than current... Which is something PC's typically aren't equipped to handle... That is what amplifiers are FOR.
@adrianr514
Жыл бұрын
Just ordered the K7 solely for the fact that the Zen DAC V2 has all outputs running at all times. If it weren’t for that I would have picked it hands down.
@Deeper-Trends
Жыл бұрын
Actually I think that the K7 came out to compete with the DX3 Pro+ and not with the iFi Zen Dac which is pretty weak in the amp section. Nice review btw.
@edwardmenendez
Жыл бұрын
Exactly the 2 I'm deciding between right now
@undefeatedmc
Жыл бұрын
Some things FiiO updated later in the parameters section of the K7 on their site, the review says 1% distortion but it says now 0.0003% THD on the site. also power is 2200mW per channel so its 4.4watts overall balanced. It;s definitely not competing with smaller amps.
@pzmaven
Жыл бұрын
Those are the two that I purchased.
@PhoggHawk
Жыл бұрын
Zen DAC V2 owner, here. The XBass button is pretty much THE feature that makes me love it so much, other than the balance out and the great sound. That button is pure magic. It gives you a CLEAN bass boost with zero compromise to the higher frequencies. It's so nice to be able to punch it on or off at my leisure. This Fiio unit appears to be very solid, but it would never replace my Zen DAC. Seems like a great option if you need non-USB inputs and such, though.
@Usmvalor3
Жыл бұрын
Yup, this button is magic. Recently I played Cyberpunk 2077 and the city was just... Alive with that diddly thing pressed xD The transit systems, the meaty gun feadback or behind the wall bass of the music of the moxx club. And like You said, it achieves it without injuring other frequencies. I myself got the V2, it was either that or topping dx3pro+
@FatNorthernBigot
Жыл бұрын
@@Usmvalor3 I call it the 80s music button, because there is very little bass on a lot of early digital recordings. I couldn't move to an amp without it, either.
@itsprod.472
Жыл бұрын
@@Usmvalor3 question for gaming with Dacs any useful tips? I’m kinda confused with dacs in general 😂
@Terra101
Жыл бұрын
Could just download a parametric EQ and make the bass do whatever you want it to. For free.
@FatNorthernBigot
Жыл бұрын
@@Terra101 It's not the same as a button that provides an instant analogue bass boost upon request.
@juliangst
Жыл бұрын
K5 Pro and DX3 Pro Plus already beat the zen dac more than a year ago. The K7 is a nice addition to the 200€ DAC Amp range tho
@vash_dakari
Жыл бұрын
I'm only holding my hand up because I have the Zen DAC.
@wes008pwns
Жыл бұрын
This is probably my next purchase! I've been using the K5 Pro for a long time, which is my go-to over the Zen DAC because it has analog inputs. But now that this has the balanced headphone out and a little more power, this would be a nice upgrade at an unbeatable price (only things missing from my wishlist are USB-C in and balanced out for the preamp, but I can live without those).
@MyouKyuubi
Жыл бұрын
Well, it's just a bare-minimum balanced amplifier... It's not really an upgrade, it's about the same performance.
@escapetherace1943
Жыл бұрын
@@MyouKyuubi balanced is a meme and doesn't sound better than non-balanced in any way
@MyouKyuubi
Жыл бұрын
@@escapetherace1943 Well... It's not quite THAT simple... But yeah, it is close enough, i guess. Main difference between BAL and SE is that BAL typically has more power, and therefore, more volume headroom... That's due to how BAl technology works, it sends two signals, one positive, one negative (inverted) in order to remove the distortion they have in common, then it converts the negative back into a positive and the signals combine again, producing a significantly stronger signal than in a single-ended circuit, hence more power and extra volume. xD There are other small things too, BAL tends to have better channel-separation, that can, feasibly be audible to your ears, though is just as likely to be detrimental, as it is to be beneficial... It also depends on your personal preference. There are some other differences too, like noise-floor, but so small they're basically not audible, and certainly not audible as this price-point, so... And unless you can run your dac/amp in 32bit, via your PC, worrying about noise floor is pointless, and even if you meet the criteria to make use of 32bit audio, you're onyl going to be hearing that noise floor in audio specifically designed for 32bit listening... It's basically like buying an 8k TV, the 8k resolution is useless to you, unless the media you consume is rendered in 8k, otherwise you'll be watching in 1080p or 4k like most people... You can only experience 8k resolution in gaming, so unless you plan on hooking your TV up as a gaming monitor, an 8k TV is a waste of money. :P Aanyways, yeah, honestly, i would personally go with a BAL amp, because of the extra volume headroom you get with it, simple as that... That way you don't have to worry much about future headphones being a little too demanding for your amp. :) I do believe the k7 also has an SE out, as well, so it basically renders the k5 obsolete, you don't have to choose between SE and BAL when you can just have both by getting the K7, lol. Of course, if you already own the k5... I would advise you to just keep the k5 until it breaks, the k7 isn't an upgrade per say, so it's not worth the trouble to replace the k5 if it is in perfect working condition, lol. Personally i have the k9 Pro (AKM version). 1.1W into 300ohm's, BAL... More than anyone would ever need to run any consumer-grade headphone.
@escapetherace1943
Жыл бұрын
@@MyouKyuubi I mean, let's leave cheap amps out of the question... and yes, power delivery is an issue. The real problem is somebody plugging their headphone into their balanced amp's non-balanced and then A/B'ing it from there directly to the balanced port, which is receiving 2-3x as much power. I haven't read the K7's specs but I'm assuming the SE has less power. You don't just get more power from a BAL amp though, you can but highpower SE amps. When the power's the same and the amp is clean, the sound is the same, period. Balanced might be a cheap entry into high power now, I don't really know. I downgraded a few years ago into an ATOM amp and I'm still using it, I just don't need more it's clean sounding and I don't need more power
@MyouKyuubi
Жыл бұрын
@@escapetherace1943 "I haven't read the K7's specs but I'm assuming the SE has less power." It has less power, yeah. x] You can check the parameters on FiiO's website, just look up the product, and click the "parameters" tab in the product page, you'll see all the specifics about the product. :) "You don't just get more power from a BAL amp though" You do, actually, BAL-out just has more power, inherently. This is readily apparent when you compare the SE-out with BAL-out on amps that have both, like, specc-wise. In every amp with an SE and BAL, the BAL is always the most powerful output, due to how balanced circuits work. That's just how it is, lol, i don't make the rules. :P The FiiO K9 Pro, for example, has 278 mW into 300 Ohm through Single-Ended output... But has 1.1 W into 300 Ohm through Balanced out... That's SIGNIFICANLY more power through BAL. :P That's 4x more power than SE, lol. "When the power's the same and the amp is clean, the sound is the same, period." Sure, when you volume-match the outputs, the sound should be the same, or, indistinguishable to the human ear... In most, if not all cases. Aside from, perhaps, channel separation, like i said... That's the most audible difference i could imagine... And that occurs due to balanced circuits typically using 2 dac chips, one for each ear-cup. The K9 pro (AKM version), only has ONE DAC chip, due to the chip being short supply, and the factory burning down and permanently discontinuing the production of the chip, they had to forego the dual-dac design to make more units so more people could have a K9 Pro. So i didn't have to worry about channel-separation spookiness with this amp. :P So a good way to test how balanced amps sound with and without dual dac, you should compare a K9 Pro with a K9 Pro ESS, 'cus the ESS version has the dual-dac design as originally intended, 'cus ESS chips are plentiful. ;) Personally, i haven't had the pleasure of testing that, because, CBA tracking down a K9 pro ESS that's available for public testing. I'm just lazy. "Balanced might be a cheap entry into high power now, I don't really know." True, that might indeed be the case right now. "I downgraded a few years ago into an ATOM amp and I'm still using it, I just don't need more it's clean sounding and I don't need more power" Good amp! :) And true, you shouldn't need more power unless you get a headphone that's like 50dB/mW with 600 ohm, lmao.
@xyanide1986
Жыл бұрын
I trust companies that take a while to make new stuff, as SMSL and topping make new shit every couple months. I don't need one, but I feel comfortable recommending this to friends.
@escapetherace1943
Жыл бұрын
topping dacs are good though, I've had one for years.
@JogieGlenMait16
Жыл бұрын
If this existed before alongside Ifi Zen Can and Dac, I'd get this. Too late to change now. I'm also very happy with my stack. I've saved to get those so they better last five years being used everyday.
@wooptoo
Жыл бұрын
Just FYI the K5 Pro also has delayed input switching even though it uses a mechanical 3-way toggle. This is probably done so that intermediary sources are not picked up right away - for example if you switch between USB (1) and SPDIF (3). Also on the K5 the volume below 12 o'clock is basically unusable, with the range of 12 to 3 o'clock going as you said - from 10% to 80% volume. TBH none of these things bother me on the K5.
@MyouKyuubi
Жыл бұрын
Just means you can use the k5 pro with in-ear products as well.
@nssSmooge
Жыл бұрын
Is it hard to fine tune music level? I often play around volume difference between 85-95% on pc depending on stuff. So little worried that this ;short; travel will make it hard.
@MyouKyuubi
Жыл бұрын
@@nssSmooge Well, not any harder than it is on regular PC. :P On Windows 10 for instance, you have the default volume, and the channel volume, Default volume is like the master-volume, and the channel-volume adjusts the volume of each individual program you have open via the volume mixer. Adding an amplifier (With it's own power supply) just means you get more volume headroom (Which is the entire point of amplifiers), and an IRL master-volume knob, so you don't have to constantly tab out of your game for instance to adjust master volume in Windows. So the complexity remains the same, you just gain a few bonuses, and quality of life improvements, is all.
@off2geo
Жыл бұрын
@@nssSmooge I always just set my DAC to a specific volume level and just adjust volume within windows apps. Works for me, this is how I use my DAC's.
@zachnilsson4682
Жыл бұрын
I have a ZenDac. Got in when it was still $130.
@JWForce1059
Жыл бұрын
This looks super tempting. I got a vinyl setup going in my living room, but my wife does not like the large footprint of the chonky boi amp that I'm using to drive everything. I also got one of the Wiim Mini streamers, which needs a DAC with optical in to sound its best. This, with a decent mini speaker amp would be the ticket. Dual DACs and balanced output, man this is something to consider.
@Gkhn32
Жыл бұрын
Really ifi Zen Dac ? That thing can barely drive my 250 ohm dt990. I always wanted more from the volume. And its dac section is from 70s. We are talking about a dac that can barely handle with 16 bit music. Returned it immediately. K7 has a competition with dx3pro and smsl c200. They can drive %90 of the headphones. They meassure god-like, have BT, LDAC, remote, screen etc. K7's AMP section is what differs it from the rest of the competition. If you have hard to drive HPs this is the solution for 200 bucks. Damn good unit.
@scottula
Жыл бұрын
This looks amazing! Pissed that I bought the K5 Pro this summer for the same price as this! But I needed desktop setup, and everything was expensive at the time. $200 for the K7 is a steal!
@MyouKyuubi
Жыл бұрын
Having a spare Single-Ended amplifier around is always nice, in-case your daily-use amplifier breaks. I'm using a k9 pro (AKM version), which is a DAC-Amp, due to complexity, likely to break, so i have a Schiit Modi + Magni heresy stack stored in case the k9 breaks... :)
@adaboy4z
Жыл бұрын
Sold my iFi Go blu and bought this as I rarely used it as a portable device. Wireless Ear buds are just so convenient for on the go and have come a long way. This is perfect for my lazyboy time.
@escapetherace1943
9 ай бұрын
they also give you free brain cancer
@marvean2519
Жыл бұрын
I was like, hey I wonder if Zeos got to check out the new K7. Perfect timing.
@0nemoa
24 күн бұрын
I rock the K7 with Sennhiser 490 Pros balanced. Balanced output is definitely better then single ended. The dynamics are even better and better bass as well. They pair very well together.
@RobHTech
Жыл бұрын
I don't understand why a headphone amp needs to be bigger than my car amp that makes like 1,000 times more power and off of 12V DC. Headphone amps have access to 120v AC and should be able to make nice, clean power at several watts without any problem. So, it seems like the market is the problem: Is it worth it for a company to design, produce, and sell the amps? If not, then we get cheap crap or nothing at all.
@nellatl
Жыл бұрын
Check out topping stack
@digitalnation2876
Жыл бұрын
yes, you need 3+ years experience in hifi to understand it, to make it easy just think of it like this, your car could rev up till 6k rpm, tell me why it's better on highway to cruise at 3k rpm than max it out at 6k rpm,
@RobHTech
Жыл бұрын
@@digitalnation2876 what? Max is max. The higher the max and with quality then anything under that max should be able to be done with much less effort. I always match amps by going at least 20-30% over what I plan on running RMS and peaks. If 100 w RMS but peaks 130 w, then I get an amp that has peak/dynamic of about 150-180 ish max/peak with RMS capable of about 120-130 w. This way i can run the amp lower, less distortion, etc.
@miagi1337
Жыл бұрын
I have a ZenDAC and I love TrueBass!
@ddroz23
8 ай бұрын
Zen Dac is the best, I have the v1 and just ordered the Zen Can to step up the game. I hope it impresses like the zen dac has for the last 2 years. IF you don't know where to start the Zen dac is everything you needed.
@L1qu1d_5h4d0w
7 ай бұрын
the zen can will most likely result in a less clear sound as the the can realy sucks as an amp... the amp in the DAC v1 sounds better than the CAN imo.. what's your take, any diffrence?
@5ChSP2UxVtswQh-Znzkpbg
4 ай бұрын
No
@Nath-rg2qd
Жыл бұрын
Only thing that's tempting me to buy the k7 is the convenience of switching outputs because i hate that my k5 pro plays both outputs at the same time and having to unplug my headphones/power off my speakers depending what i'm listening too
@devilevil86
Жыл бұрын
@Z Reviews SMSL C200 Or Fiio K7? (i don't need bluetooth)
@Dan-u1l
Жыл бұрын
Fibre optic /coaxial input is the only thing I'm missing from my zen dac. Because of that, I can't connect my xbox to it.
@samza9622
Жыл бұрын
Look for an adapter there are adapters for every type of connection converting to another connection.
@FatalityDiablo
11 ай бұрын
I sold my fostex hp a3 cuz it had some annoying things about it and a little bit weak amp. This fiio k7 fixed everything. I absolutely love it so far
@igorfischer4368
Жыл бұрын
Topping dx3 pro+ is cheaper now in 11/11, about $30 cheaper. So i think i will go with topping, but nice one from fiio
@tsdbhg
Жыл бұрын
5:03 "Oh there's a roll of toilet paper here... I cry a lot. I don't know what-chew want from me." I'm sure a black light would reveal the truth.
@h.hristov
Жыл бұрын
Zeos failed NNN
@ZReviews
Жыл бұрын
It's raises a grand question, have I ever done it at my review desk.
@stevenj2380
Жыл бұрын
The Fiio K7 is nice for many, but for new Hifiman HE6s 2 I wanted a little more power than even K9 Pro could dekiver too bad as it has everything is want. I am doing without a line /Pre out, remote and display supposed to be more powerful Monolith Cavalli Liquid Gold Headphone amp DAc I use all the inputs except for the balanced (RCA, Coax, Optical and the USB for a DAP) . Changed earpads to Dekoni. The new headphone thru the Monolith sounds very nice, especially makes a difference listening to tracks out from my Fiio old regular M11 player.
@dlrowreverse793
Жыл бұрын
I just realized looking at the specs on Fiio's site that they list the output power PER CHANNEL. This makes the k7 a 4 watt into 32 ohm and 1.12 watt into 300 ohms, balanced. So by logic the same should go for the k9pro (4.2 watt @ 32 ohm and 2.2 @ 300 ohm) as it has the same amps, though it isn't specified on its page. Edit: regarding the cable, you said where it came from in the sundara 2020 vs old sundara comparison video, can't remember the name though
@undefeatedmc
Жыл бұрын
Also the THD is 0.0003% on the bottom parameters now.
@dex4sure361
Жыл бұрын
Wrong. "As for power, the K7 uses two THX 788+ amplifier modules, which we have seen in the FiiO’s higher-end K9 Pro ESS DAC & AMP. Some of you may have noticed that these modules deliver less power on the K7, which FiiO explains is due to the power consumed and heat generated by the modules. As a K9 Pro ESS user, I think this optimization was a good decision. During operation, the K7 is warm to the touch but not uncomfortably hot. The K7 can dish out 1.2 watts of power to a 32-ohm load via its SE output and it can dish out 2 watts of power via the balanced HPO. 560mW of power into a 300-ohm load means that it has plenty of power to drive nearly every single planar or dynamic headphone on the market."
@donedane2269
Жыл бұрын
the volume curve is so you can use IEMs at low end and headphones on high end how do you still not know this? IEMs are low impedance Headphones are higher impedance lower impedance has higher wattage higher impedance has lower wattage hence the volume curve
@ZReviews
Жыл бұрын
That's usually what a gain switch is for. Then I prefer linear volume
@donedane2269
Жыл бұрын
@@ZReviews not always my IEMs start to get too loud at 50% my headphones stay quiet till that point also remember wattage and sensitivity
@RUMBLEGO1
Жыл бұрын
I own the Zen Dac! Really have enjoyed it for several years now. Blew up the first one when i unplugged my computer by mistake so got another. I like that i can run headphones and preamp out at the same time. This unit doesn't appear to have that capability unless i missed something. Also like running balanced out of the back to the Xduoo MT604. So i have that going on and RCA's out of the back going to a separate amp to power speakers at the same time. For those reasons this Fiio couldn't replace it. Sometimes i like to blend a wee bit of speakers in with headphones for amazing sound. So this fails in that aspect it looks like?
@Sporting1210
Жыл бұрын
well, you missed something^^ it does have a pre-out, what it does not have is the ballanced out. So probably still a no-go for you, but for people who just want a desktop amp and dac for their regular hifi, it works just fine. Plus one could throw that cute, little tube buffer in there as a standard output to the hifi, because why not? who wouldnt want a little tuby goodness on a regular basis?^^ Also a nice example for the weird world of low-end/entry level audio products. Some people - like me - want an optical in, other want a second oputput of some form and there are not a lot of devices that full fill both criteria - when this should not be big deal, really. That said-if you ever stumble upon a used Marantz HD-DAC1 for around 300-400 $/€ - buy it instantly it and be happy.
@lewismackay9533
5 ай бұрын
The K9 is 499 so it's VERY affordable. And the K9 Pro ESS is about 699. No where near 1000 though. K7 at 200 is a steal though.
@kendoglarson5419
Жыл бұрын
Going to find out once and for all which chip is my favorite. AKM, ESS, or Burr-Brown. The zen can is BB, the chip in my sound card and tube preamp/DAC is ESS, and the K7 I bought had AKM. I really like the xcan chip more which is BB than the ESS. I know AKM from my Marantz and Harman Kardon AVR. So, thats the next test.
@Enigma1990ad
Жыл бұрын
Are these much better sounding that the K5 Pro? Contemplating selling it and buying the K7.
@KontrolStyle
Жыл бұрын
its amazon, try it out.. if not send back -- but someone said they could tell a difference.
@HammadIqbalPhoto
Жыл бұрын
I've recently placed an order for DX3pro+ as there was no sub $200 alternative that offered balanced output with AKM DAC and THX combo. I'm getting the Hifiman Ananda Stealth soon. Shall I cancel the DX3pro+ and get K7 instead? Balanced out, AKM chips and THX amp are making the K7 a lot more appealing to me. Bluetooth is not at all my requirement as it can't do true lossless 24-bit streaming.
@AliArghavan
Жыл бұрын
DX3 Pro+ is just as good if not better.
@GraveZero
Жыл бұрын
@@AliArghavan why?
@Deeper-Trends
Жыл бұрын
As a DX3 Pro+ owner I can confirm that is an excellent device with great sound even in bluetooth mode. It has a remote control which is very convenient (trust me on that) and it has more power in single ended (1.7W @ 32ohm). Unless you wanna go true balanced, DX3 Is a better value device in every aspect.
@AliArghavan
Жыл бұрын
@@GraveZero First of all its cheaper, now being discounted to 170$. Bluetooth, better measurements (if you care), better availability, lcd screen, remote control.
@andrewy1983
Жыл бұрын
I'm in the same boat. I have brought headphones on 11.11 sales. Dan clark audio aeon X closed and hifiman ananda stealth. I am debating which amp to buy. My iems have 4.4 jack for my dap. Ideally I would love a topping dx3 pro, but I wished it had 4.4mm balance out. K7 I wished it had bluetooth. Stuck as to which one to buy. There's isn't much else out there in this price range with the features both of these have. Dilemmas!! Lol. Next K7 may address the Bluetooth, next Topping may address the Bal out.
@ThisIsNotJP
Жыл бұрын
Bought the k9 ESS .. started with the Zen Dac V2 why did I dip my toe into this world
@MrJabinho
Жыл бұрын
Hi. This must be the bang for bucks device in this category. Topping DX1
@mastaboog749
Жыл бұрын
Dude I have been LOOKING to get rid of my zen dac v2. I effin hated it at first as my only all in one. I got used to the sound and the bill burr dac and use it with my steam deck actually quite often on docked mode. Topping G5(you were right I was happy with this power beast) for when I'm wireless. Actually ended up buying a jotunheim 2 because I realized I was under powering my LCD2 but thats different. This fiio really impresses me and I'm listing my Cavalli Tube Hybrid, my Topping L30, and now my zen dac v2 this coming week. Either on /AVexchange or headfi some point this coming week/weekend. There might be a Geshelli Labs Erish included but I want to keep one of my 1 Watters and that guy is TINY. The CTH takes up to much room and with using my SA6 ultras like on everything the noise floor is unbearable on the CTH.
@scottd1342
Жыл бұрын
Yup, I have a Zen stack now and the whole thing is great!
@kakashi99908
3 ай бұрын
I went with this because I am familiar with FIIO. I know others in this price bracket measure higher when NOT using balanced audio (C200 and DX3 Pro+) but the sound quality in those are completely inaudible to the human ear and both have pretty shady reliability. BTW The THD+N is around 0.00028% (~110 SINAD) Fiio just does not bother rating it that low for some reason on their marketing they figured
@FabioRigokimbaorso
Жыл бұрын
My new amp!.. I have the Zen Can/DAC and I have a K5 mkII.. it will have to go.. I wonder when will be available in Italy.. Christmas present maybe?
@ExtremelyTastyBread
Жыл бұрын
Does it sound better than a modi+magni
@FabioKasper
Жыл бұрын
You probably won't notice a difference. The K7 is more versatile though.
@digitalnation2876
Жыл бұрын
if you don't know the answer, then don't reply, fiio, cleaner brighter, airier, harder kick,
@ZReviews
Жыл бұрын
Been so long since I've heard a dedicated Mighty magnusack (modi magni stack) I really can't tell you with confidence
@fredflint9153
Жыл бұрын
But there's no bass boost button. I'm out 😂
@JesusGonzalez-tu2nr
Жыл бұрын
vs topping dx3 pro+?
@SakuraSakura8596
Жыл бұрын
I was looking for these two too😂 And I ended up getting the K7 after this video. I have a AKG K712 which is not really power hungry, I’m using my MacBook Pro 2021 16 inch (It had high Gan out put), it already impressed me as a new person who just entered hifi. But as I reading on the internet, there is much I can get from this headset, which I want to gave it a try for an external DAC.
@rage0exe
Жыл бұрын
You got this cable in the 2020 Sundara’s video, you said some Scandinavian dude makes em and you told him how you wanted it lol.
@ZReviews
Жыл бұрын
I will have to check out that video thank you
@catchafire221
Жыл бұрын
Fkn love Yelle, glad to see other people who cant speak french also like it lol
@brokenjed
Жыл бұрын
If it just had Bluetooth 5 with ldac and a couple class d amps for passive speakers it'd do it all! Fiio is awesome for us poor folks. Loved my old x1(still working 8 yrs later). loved my btr5(another affordable swiss army knife). Hope this k7 is a similar experience.
@primeshmohanty7701
Жыл бұрын
Well they have a new version with bluetooth called K7BT.
@High2you311
Жыл бұрын
Interested for sure. Thanks for the review.
@prodigy_xd
10 ай бұрын
Cancelled my order when i learned about the laggy volume knob... There is 1 knob on this thing and it sucks. Good game.
@schrenk-d
Жыл бұрын
🤚 V2 here. My wife uses it now though as her sound card died.. I'm using my Arturia Minifuse at the moment..
@lightdragon3127
6 ай бұрын
you got the redo healer figure, dman , ya got the cash
@VandepoelM
Жыл бұрын
I wish there was something with these features for 50usd,( line in, line out, volume knob and an output selector, with or without dac)
@dragons_advocate
Жыл бұрын
There probably is, but not in a quality that regulars to Z would enjoy.
@houssamalucad753
Жыл бұрын
Maybe spend a bit more on a schit fulla if you find it discounted?
@VandepoelM
Жыл бұрын
@@houssamalucad753 this is very close to my budget, i might pick this one up. thx. if someone has a aliexpress alternative, let me know.
@houssamalucad753
Жыл бұрын
@@VandepoelM no problem mate
@zenstrata
Жыл бұрын
Look around the used market, there is a lot of stuff available for reasonable prices.
@jfmgunner
Жыл бұрын
Guys, I've only ever owned an internal soundcard for dac/amp and an old fiio x3 to connect my headphones so this is probably a noob question, so bear with me. I hear people basically comparing the inputs on these as the main differences. I have a setup that will only need to connect headphones to an amp and then my laptop. No need to switch to a speaker source or anything else as I use powered LS50 IIs that stream from wireless or aux to a Rega record player. So in that case between ZenDAC and this as my first real starter setup what's my best choice? I'm running Sennheiser 6xx atm, shure se425s as well. My next big purchase will probably be Focal Clear MG's also, which I get either of these would be quite a cheap amp to combo with them but it would just be a starter setup. Any help would be appreciated.
@bamse5930
Жыл бұрын
Just get the zen dac if you only need one input
@hyedefinition1080
Жыл бұрын
Would getting this over the Zen Dac v2 + Can combo be worth it? I have the Sundaras, Edition XS and HD6XX...the Xbass button is great for the Hifimans, but I know I can go the PEQ route as well. Like the smaller footprint and power of the device compared to the Zen combo, plus the price
@d_jihad
Жыл бұрын
Have you tried k7 is it better than zen dac v2?
@zerotactix5739
Ай бұрын
So, what is your take? I have a Zen DAC myself and don't find the volume on it satisfactory enough for my DT770 80ohms and my Senheisser HD560S. Torn between getting a Zen CAN and the K7.
@jamesjeffley4926
4 ай бұрын
I have the ifi Zen Dac V2, but recently I've had problems where it just disappears in Windows 10! Gone! I've reinstalled the drivers, downloaded the firmware, etc... done all the things. I'm looking for something else - that works. I hope this review answers that question. Thanks for the great content!
@dylanangel2870
Жыл бұрын
yeah im getting one of these, god damn
@andrewy1983
Жыл бұрын
What headphones are you driving?
@nicholasbello4897
Жыл бұрын
@Z-Reviews the cable is a custom made shipibo cable that you talked about in your 2 year old Hifiman sundara 2020 review at 4:25 :)
@iikatinggangsengii2471
10 ай бұрын
would recommend smth like this for first dac+amp, 100$s are just, well, difficult
@mistaBorg
Жыл бұрын
it honestly should have bluetooth input at 200 usd
@MyouKyuubi
Жыл бұрын
Not if it has Balanced architecture, which it does, that is why it costs 200 dollars, and DOESNT have bluetooth input. if you want bluetooth input, though, the FiiO K9 Pro has that. :P
@blakeschumaker1914
Жыл бұрын
Bluetooth is mid my friend
@blakeschumaker1914
Жыл бұрын
@@MyouKyuubi asking a genuine question here, how does the balanced architecture hinder Bluetooth?
@MyouKyuubi
Жыл бұрын
@@blakeschumaker1914 Balanced architecture is more expensive, so to keep the dac-amp in a cheap price-range, they have to skip bluetooth components. The K7 also lacks the LED components that the K5 pro has, so quite a few things were cut, in order to maintain such a low cost for a balanced dac-amp. If you want bluetooth with a balanced amp, i suggest getting an iFi Zen Can (The Amplifier), with an iFi Zen Blue/BlueV2 (Bluetooth DAC). Cheapest bluetooth balanced setup you can get, atm, i believe.
@rene837
Жыл бұрын
Ah, Rias Gremory. I see you are a man of culture as well
@nikokomac3185
Жыл бұрын
Hello Zeos I have at home zen dac v2 and is sound to me beautiful because is lush full body sound and like it for this no fatigue sound..can you tell me if this fiio in sound quality for my preference will beat zen dac v2?
@terrygreen6088
Жыл бұрын
I own a zendac V2 because of you and it's amazing tnx
@EGreddragon07
Жыл бұрын
Hey Z, I picked up the focal elgia for 360$ and was wondering if the k7 can drive them on a budget?
@msor6108
Жыл бұрын
Bought the Topping dx 3 pro + today, hopefully I'll like it.
@mode_seven
Жыл бұрын
Just got the k5 ess yesterday, package still sealed. Are these worth returning the K5 and buying the K7 for $50 more?
@digitalnation2876
Жыл бұрын
yes
@ZReviews
Жыл бұрын
Yes
@dewanpretorius
Жыл бұрын
@@ZReviews Would you still say the same if balanced were out of the equation? (Just a desktop setup for my headphones). I'm in the same situation. Thanks!
@Sent2Strike
Жыл бұрын
How does this compare to the Topping Dx3 pro+?
@adambrown8867
Жыл бұрын
I have 2 new Geshelli J2. 1 ESS, 1 AKM. I need a new computer though. My tablet only has a micro USB & it refuses to put audio signal out. Stuck with just Aptx Classic, 16/44.1
@BadHairDecade
Жыл бұрын
This or Topping dx3 pro+?
@ZReviews
Жыл бұрын
It's a close battle now. Topping versus THX via Fiio.
@bigspence6898
Жыл бұрын
I’m no expert, but K7 has an analog input , but no BT. So I’ll choose k7.
@Takenero
Жыл бұрын
Wait, iFi Zen DAC costs 200$? Holy duck, I remember buying the first version like for 120$. The inflation is getting crazy ngl
@BurittoSandwich
Жыл бұрын
As he said, the V2 came out a few years ago and raised the price to like $169 or 189, don't remember. So jumping from that to $199 isn't such an insane jump
@Takenero
Жыл бұрын
@@BurittoSandwich Well I look at it from a perspective of owning the V1 which was more cheaper.
@spamcan9208
Жыл бұрын
@@BurittoSandwich This, it's not all from inflation but an updated version and popularity. Demand increased and so did price, which ironically was why it was so popular in the first place.
@BurittoSandwich
Жыл бұрын
@@Takenero And he was talking about the V2 being more expensive due to the price jumps so I don't know why even bring up V1. Go be happy with your cheaper dac
@Takenero
Жыл бұрын
@@BurittoSandwich I'm bringing it because the V2 doesn't seem to be too different as far Ik.
@sheep7255
Жыл бұрын
might get these, but it'll have to wait since I'm broke.
@CMB.23
Жыл бұрын
Yo Z, what do you think, take the fiio k7 or the schiit modius & magnius stack?
@artofwar420
Жыл бұрын
LOVE my Zen DAC V2.
@brentkjernisted2215
8 ай бұрын
Will the K7 drive ath r70x headphones efficiently?
@TopG_Steve
11 ай бұрын
@ZReviews For gaming purposes on a PC, what would you recommend to be used with Hifiman XS? Thanks! 1) FiiO K7 2) Schiit Asgard w/ ES 9028 3) JDS Element III 4) Hifiman Ef400 5) Something else
@curtispazarjr4985
Жыл бұрын
great review!!!!!
@transmaster
5 ай бұрын
I have the red version of the K7 love it!
@blackinkster
Жыл бұрын
I just ordered the ifi zen dac v2 and he4xx, is the k7 more competitive at higher volumes and should I cancel the zen? They’re weren’t enough comparisons at the start so I’m still undecided. I also really love bass it it worth spending the extra 200 and getting the zen can to go along with that cracked out bass boost?
@ElRobin
Жыл бұрын
The bass boost of the Zens is pretty fun and very useful if you use planars with relatively weak bass like the Sundaras
@mynameisvisutinnadda
Жыл бұрын
The only reason i held me trigger for k5 was no true line out - well hello k7
@kolvis6626
Жыл бұрын
"I cry a lot, idk what you want from me" I want you to tell the truth cuz we both know that's not it
@JeffJacquesmd
Жыл бұрын
Listening to this on the B&W PX85. Quite lovely. Creamy awesomeness.
@nihren2406
Жыл бұрын
I have a Creative SoundblasterX G6 for a AIO DAC-Amp, and I've debating if I should get something else, maybe this. But I'm not really sure.
@ZReviews
Жыл бұрын
Yes and Yes
@nihren2406
Жыл бұрын
@@ZReviews Are there any headphones you'd say the K7 can't run? Or at least wouldn't be the best at?
@truffles
Жыл бұрын
Would be killer if it had bluetooth, as long as that volume knob gets a little better
@off2geo
Жыл бұрын
I am sure a K7 "Pro" will come out with Bluetooth in the future as the board in the K7 already has a pinout for Bluetooth.
@hearmeout0909
10 ай бұрын
There is both BT and Non-BT versions available in the market now
@NighteeeeeY
Жыл бұрын
i remember the video of the headphones with which this cable came with and you specifically talking about the metal y-split on it and i think you even loved it? but for the love of god i cannot remember which video or headphones it was :D but ive seen it before here on your channel!
@andrewy1983
Жыл бұрын
Im in the market for a budget amp. Have been toying with dx3 pro and this. My issue is I want 4.4 balanced which the topping doesn't have. I'm not sure whether bluetooth will be necessary but it would be nice if fiio had it.. Also I listen to mqa files from tidal so will this be an issue?
@andrewy1983
Жыл бұрын
Ended up buying K7. See how it goes.
@waifoos3213
Жыл бұрын
Hey z i just ordered thieaudio oracle mkll. should i get the zen dac v2 or this fiio k7 or do you got something else to recommend around $500
@ilovebruno96
Жыл бұрын
I have 64 audio u12t, oracle mkii, variations and a few other iems. For sharp sounding, bright iem you want the warmth from burr brown and the zen dac v2 delivers that. IEMs are very easy to drive (don't power it via ac if you have bad power because it will hiss), but if you want to use both IEMs and headphones get this K7 or something better. As for me IEMs run good enough on the zen dac v2.
@waifoos3213
Жыл бұрын
@@ilovebruno96 ok kool thx. for headphones to should i pair this with the zen can. cause i wanna get the meze 109 pro too
@mrmaschinaadventures
Жыл бұрын
Z...review the FX Audio M1...its their best and only around $200...another giant killer, I love mine....
@rakshitnasikkar6711
Жыл бұрын
I own Zen Dac✋
@velko2433
Жыл бұрын
I use K5Pro and i am happy , should i go and upgrade to K7? Are they any differences in sound?
@kryptotransit
11 ай бұрын
they sound nearly identical to my ears. the k7 just goes way louder on balanced. i had both, returned the k7 cause i had the k5pro for a few years b4 the k7. though if i had to choose again i would choose the k7.
@ericbratkiw6909
23 күн бұрын
Great amp… I’m having an issue connecting my fiok7 to ps5. It’s not picking it up via usb please help!
@ixbalx5177
Жыл бұрын
Which sounds better k7 or topping G5? What is your recommendation , I know k7 has more amp but is it better in general?
@Inlakesh91
Жыл бұрын
I have the same question.
@Inlakesh91
Жыл бұрын
@OfficialZReviews Is this really a gift from the official creator of the channel?
@ZReviews
Жыл бұрын
Hell No I don't give away gifts and why wouldn't I use my actual account. These are all scams
@ixbalx5177
Жыл бұрын
@@ZReviews Oh thanks for your repl...
@carlosflup
Жыл бұрын
Hi, for me it´s either k7 or topping e50 as dac for a passive speaker system. Soundwise, what´s better?
@cs5842
Жыл бұрын
What did you end up getting?
@carlosflup
Жыл бұрын
@@cs5842 e50
@BeMaC
Жыл бұрын
I would love to have better sound on my PC ^^ is the K7 a good choice? the K9 is so mutch more expensive =) also i need to buy a freaking headphone ^^
@saiosonstower9439
Жыл бұрын
I know this is going to be a very cringy question. Please give me grace. I own a hd560s and a dt 770 pro 250 olms. Looking to power them for gaming. I’m torn between the k5 or the k7. It’s a $50 savings and from what I can understand it’s mostly due to being “balanced”? Will I care about the balance difference for gaming?
@clickbaitpro
9 ай бұрын
Just buy K7, it's better
@HtS643KyS6555GxQ3edA
Жыл бұрын
Pure gold!
@TheDankMagician
Жыл бұрын
I know I want the SENNHEISER HD 6XX I was sold on getting a Schiit Heretic, but should I actually get these instead? Would these actually be better overall for them than the schiit stack? Cause I definitely want to get speakers for my record player later down the line and seeing you switch between headphones and speakers kinda sold me on this too.
@pmo718
Жыл бұрын
I have both it depends imo. The k7 is more fuller with better bass. The heresy is better in the mids and high for clarity.
@thedarkmage7373
Жыл бұрын
When I use usb in I hear constant static from my speakers. I fixed it by switching to optical.
@adaboy4z
Жыл бұрын
When I play from my phone it's always yellow and the computer is always blue. It has good power, but if it had an Xbass button game over!!
@smasters01
Жыл бұрын
Lots of talk with power on the balance side.. what about the unbalance side?? So hard to find a good dac. I'll already sended back the topping dx3 pro plus because lots of quality issues
@hanierlen560
Жыл бұрын
I could get it at 150 dollars in aliexpress but it sold out quickly. Looks like the store offering it wanted to get rid of some units or made a mistake with the price.
@TheSecondC2
Жыл бұрын
do you even think it's a real one? from aliexpress? lmao, i wouldn't trust that
@MysteriousBeingOfLight
Жыл бұрын
@@TheSecondC2Aliexpress has a lot of good HIFI stuff.
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