#donglemadness

[@masters-b]

man, dongle dacs are becoming more sophisticated, anyway thanks Andy for covering this dac.

[@AndyAudioVault]

My pleasure!

[@bibi24]

love your Oakley glasses, great and thorough explanation!!

[@AndyAudioVault]

Thank you!

[@mcaik77]

Thank you Andy, i bought the KA 13, after wathing this video about a month ago. Is a significant upgrade from ibasso DC 03. KA 13 is powerful enough to drive the sundara too.

[@AndyAudioVault]

My pleasure. Enjoy your music

[@srambickan]

Ka13 is much better than ibassso dc03?

[@camotech1314]

I had a choice between KA13 and Akliam PD4, ended up picking the PD4 Plus. Fantastic 😍

[@teste-yh5df]

u got wrong, i have fiio ka13 it has 550mw power, its insane

[@ArmidaMusic]

I'm still rocking my xDuoo Link2 Bal after your review (it was the one to convince me go buy it). Even though nowadays there are some better dongle DACs, I feel like I don't need to "upgrade" anymore. With that being said, this FiiO KA13 looks like a better deal nowadays imho.

[@AndyAudioVault]

Link2 BAL started it, and sets the standards for the next CS line of dongles, things does improve but I can say Link2 BAL still holding strong regardless

[@turtleneck369]

I returned mine due to one thing: heat ,they put so much power yet no vents, it was unpleasant to handle even when used inside ,after 15 minutes or so even in low gain mode i measured over 42 degrees Celsius on top of the unit ,not pleasant to hold in hands and it was just sitting on my desk with no sunlight in LOW gain. Everything else i liked about KA13, so if u do not care about it getting quite hot its very good and has lot of power .

[@Anas_tb]

Thanks for the great review! I've just ordered the KA13 to Pair with my FiiO FD3 Pro IEMs

[@AndyAudioVault]

Enjoy!

[@Cameri760]

This is exactly what I was looking for, thanks Andy! TIDAL just rolled out their maximum 24 bit Hi-Res Catalog for everyone under the same price bracket. So this has made me decide whether to use the BTR15 or the KA13. Appreciate your dedication to DongleMadness as always!

[@AndyAudioVault]

No worries. Enjoy your music! 😁

[@demon6937]

Good thing that this dac dongle is compatible to android, iPhone and pc, for some reason I like your background trees and sunset view

[@AndyAudioVault]

Thanks for noticing the background!

[@dtzyYT]

lol and I was just almost set to buying hiby FC4, now I really have to think how much I want that mic input over this FiiO!

[@ernest4483]

Another great content & review Andy I do have the KA13 in the silver version, I use the MP145 w/silver nozzle it did open up the MP145 on the KA13

[@AndyAudioVault]

Right on

[@simlimtan1625]

Hi Andy. A great review as always. Just want to inform that I am able to access the 5 low pass filter functions of the Fiio app for KA13 by tapping on the Audio icon of the app. Just to share.

[@AndyAudioVault]

Thanks for the feedback, that's very useful to others to know

[@hokagoteatimereviews]

Great review Andy! The video quality looks really good. Love the background 😄

[@AndyAudioVault]

I love sunrise

[@marcelpfeiffer6587]

Hi Andy, thanks a lot for the review. Just got mine a like it a lot.

[@AndyAudioVault]

Enjoy!

[@gwine9087]

I have been watching your recent reviews and I ordered a Dawn Pro. Looks like I got a good deal.

[@AndyAudioVault]

No doubt among the best bargain of currently available choices

[@user-PEPEPICKLEBOCCHIDIOSA89]

​@@AndyAudioVault moondrop or fiio whats the best option?

[@24kTechProduction]

Very nicely done and very precise review. Well done bro.

[@nailedit05]

Nice review as always Andy 🙂

[@AndyAudioVault]

Thanks!

[@bunjidogg]

Thank you for the excellent, detailed review. Very well communicated. New subscriber in Tucson, AZ. I will receive my KA13 in two days and look forward to trying with my Artti T10 and Hifiman Edition XS. I already use KA11 so I will compare. Also will be using 4.4 for first time.

[@AndyAudioVault]

Awesome, thank you! And cheers! 🙏

[@tidusjc]

Hi, I am fellow owner of Edition XS too, how does it work with KA13 ?

[@bunjidogg]

@@tidusjc Hello, if you can get a 4.4 balanced cable for your XS, then ka13 is very good. The 4.4 output of the ka13 is very powerful. However, with the stock 3.5 cable on the XS, the power is not really strong enough. I bought this 4.4 cable for my XS on Amazon, Youkamoo 4.4 cable for only $20.00. It is very good for price. Get 4.4 to dual 3.5 version.

[@quanghoanglong5160]

My KA13 is on the way and can't way to use it with my DT 990 Pro

[@Stylianos.]

Great review as always Andy !! I decided on the last minute to get Hiby FC4 instead because of the MQA x16 for Tidal .

[@AndyAudioVault]

Thanks!

[@maegnificant]

MQA is a scam

[@teste-yh5df]

i have both hiby fc4 and fiio ka13, fiio ka 13 is way better, hiby fc4 has distortion when volume hits 90%

[@Stylianos.]

@@teste-yh5df What are you trying to drive that you need to raise it to 90 % ? I have never needed to reach my FC4 to 90 % because it's already powerful for my devices.

[@AndyAudioVault]

@@Stylianos. Some people just need high level of loudness, on most 4Vrms dongles I needed only 30/100 to drive full sized hard to drive magnetic planars, but I do know some will need more than double of that to get proper loudness for their needs, this is why we have something like iFi Diablo or 15 Vrms Class A amps, to satisfy that needs

[@biswarupdey4129]

Can you please tell how does it compare with moondrop dawn pro, which would be better? Overall nice review, i mostly comeback to your opinion on your video, very informative and interesting!

[@AndyAudioVault]

Between this and Moondrop DAWN Pro, they are both very similar in many ways in sound presentation and technicalities. Both neutral transparent and powerful

[@biswarupdey4129]

@@AndyAudioVault thank you ☺️. And also i wanted to ask, how is Oreo doing?

[@adrianomoreira1341]

As always an excellent review! I had two questions: 1. In other videos you showed that you have a Sennheiser HD 650. How does the KA13 behave with it? Is this a dongle you would also recommend for use with headphones? 2. How does it compare to mini desktop amps like the Fosi K5 PRO or iFi Uno? These two have an average output power of 220mW. My question is: can you replace one of these mini amplifiers with the KA13? Thank you very much and congratulations on the great reviews, Andy.

[@AndyAudioVault]

Thanks Adrian. Yes I used to have HD650 but it is not with me anymore, but I know HD650 very well, my Fostex T40RP MK3 ultimately is harder and more demanding than HD650, so I can say that KA13 will work well with HD650 not just power and loudness, but synergy factor too. Compared against mini desktop amps, KA13 would hold really well to compete head on with the likes of FiiO Q11 and Fosi K5 Pro. I haven't tried UNO so can't say about it. And I would say KA13 can definitely replace those mini desktop DAC/Amps and even mid type, as long as you don't expect it to perform like a FiiO K9 or Burson Audio Playmate 2 or VE Prime DAC + R2BFE

[@adrianomoreira1341]

Thank you very much! Greetings from Brazil!@@AndyAudioVault

[@teste-yh5df]

Brazil here Fiio ka 13 e muito melhor!@@adrianomoreira1341

[@andresvr8357]

Es curioso como ahora la mayoría de fabricantes se están dando cuenta de que el sonido orgánico le gustara mas a la gente

[@AndyAudioVault]

¡Es genial tener opciones!

[@Tripokaridos22]

what about the App Filters ? What we have to use ?

[@AndyAudioVault]

It don't really matter as the filters on KA13 is not very evident with the effects

[@YungFilho1]

Better in performance than Moondrop Dawn Pro?

[@AndyAudioVault]

Not really as both are rated equally on #donglemadness

[@mehmetsahin4130]

@@AndyAudioVaultI have hd600 and ie200. Currently, I use them with my MacBook Pro (improved headphone jack). As long as I understand from your videos if I use fiio ka13 and moondrop dawn pro with ie 200 + MacBook Pro , I’ll not recognize difference. But if I use them with hd 600 + MacBook Pro, will I start recognizing improvement in sound quality or barely same? Thanks a lot!

[@lcph94]

What would be a better choice between the KA13 and the Q3? Mainly to listen to music on iems and over ears? Source would be an iPhone.

[@AndyAudioVault]

I haven't tried Q3 so I have no idea how they compares

[@tidusjc]

I am indecisive between ibasso dc04 pro vs Fiio KA13, please advice....my gears are AKG k702, Hifiman edition XS...I wonder if that extra bucks going into dc04 pro is worth it....another consideration, the output power 550mw vs 280mw would that makes any different in real life

[@AndyAudioVault]

If you need to choose between those two, I have found that I will choose DC04Pro over KA13 more even for driving headphones like Sundara and HD600 (4.4mm BAL High Gain), real life usage showed that DC04Pro has all the power I need

[@tidusjc]

@AndyAudioVault Terima Kasih Andy! Your donglemadness is my daily addict, so sad to see the ranking system no more.

[@LiamPitt]

Andy do you think the KA13 is an improvement over the KA3 in terms of naturalness and neutrality of sound?

[@AndyAudioVault]

Yes, but not by much. The main attraction of KA13 is the power it offers where KA3 is not as powerful when subjected to driving demanding stuffs like planar IEMs or headphones

[@QQQ80804]

A great review! Thank you! Question: if I am pairing with HD650s, is there additional benefit to using 4.4 balanced OR the high gain desktop mode in an iPhone? Want to ensure I don’t under power them but also don’t want to overkill if it impacts battery with no benefit. Thanks!

[@AndyAudioVault]

Yes, the 3.5mm SE is running on less than half the power. You want the 4.4mm BAL to get 550mW at 4 VRMS because HD650 is super scalable, the higher the better

[@avalonnite9179]

Amazing video! Can you make a video on your pc? Is it a prebuilt?

[@AndyAudioVault]

Thanks, I may do a short video on my PC setup when I can spare some time. It is custom built from scratch with Cooler Master NR200P Max chassis with i9 and RTX4090

[@avalonnite9179]

@@AndyAudioVault please make a short video. That PC setup looks fantastic.

[@nusu5331]

Awesome review as always, thank you! Will you get a chance to test the new ibasso dc06-pro and the ibasso dc elite? Last question, will the Cayin RU7 still have the most holographic soundstage and the deepest soundstage and layering? I dont care for wideness, but only for depth. Thank you!

[@AndyAudioVault]

Thanks, I already have DC-Elite and DC06Pro here with me. Testing them now. And yes, RU7 still rules with holographic soundstage as of all the dongles I reviewed so far

[@nusu5331]

great, thank you for your fast reply! @@AndyAudioVault

[@iikatinggangsengii2471]

yeah im sure its still in development and has not replicating highend portable dac just yet, its too different from desktop

[@satechnicalarena]

What is the main difference between Fiio kA13 and Shanling UA4? In terms of wide soundstage and instrumental separation which is better?

[@AndyAudioVault]

UA4 offers better resolution and imaging but not as wide sounding as KA13

[@Jett77]

Hi Andy, great reviews as always and detailed. I'm abit of a newbie for dacs and have sennheiser momentum 3. I was wondering if my headphones will benefit and work well with KA13? I am looking for great imersive sound stage, one that you feel like your in the music. This might sound ridiculous but hope you I have your expertise. Thank you and lookin forward to more great videos! Dacs I was also looking at are DC04 pro. Saw your review and it seems pretty much the same.

[@AndyAudioVault]

Assuming that you are using PC onboard sound or from a phone directly, then yes KA13 will offer better resolution and overall quality for your headphones, especially if you run them from the 4.4mm BAL side. DC04Pro is definitely among the very best and you can expect great performance from that one too

[@Jett77]

thank you so much🎉🎉and wow such a quick reply. I am sure you will help a great deal more people on their way to getting better dacs. Have a great week ahead and looking forward to seeing you review Questyle m15i ❤

[@benjamincabacunganjr.2495]

Analytical reviewer in KZbin,,more power,,Sir🇵🇭😋😁👍👍👏👏👏👏

[@AndyAudioVault]

Thanks! 😃

[@mehmetozdogan35]

Hi, will I get satisfactory sound with this dac on iPhone 15 and iPad Air M2 (2024) with dt770 pro 80ohm?

[@AndyAudioVault]

Yes, especially if you can run your DT770Pro on 4.4mm BAL because the 3.5mm SE side will only give you 50% of the power available

[@mehmetozdogan35]

@ Thank you for your answer. Unfortunately, there is no balanced cable in dt770pro models and since there is a 3.5mm fixed cable, I do not have the opportunity to connect a balanced cable! I think I will get better performance with iMac, MacBook and Windows laptop with desktop mode! İs it True ?

[@bigb3564]

Hey Andy thanks for this great review. How would this ka13 using 4.4ml balanced pair up with the se846 gen 2? Is it too much power or a match made in heaven?

[@AndyAudioVault]

I would not know as I never tried SE846 of any gen. Assuming that SE846 is the one that can appreciate scaling to more power, then the results should be good, or it could also turn out to be overkill if SE846 is sensitive, of which you will need something like a 2 Vrms solution (running from 3.5mm SE)

[@bigb3564]

The se846s have a 114 dB SPL/mW sensitivity and impedance of 9ohms. I'm just afraid that 550Mw may be too much

[@AndyAudioVault]

@@bigb3564 Yep overkill on 4.4mm BAL, but should be grey with 3.5mm SE

[@bigb3564]

Thanks I appreciate it.

[@kiki_indra]

Very handsome dac dongle...

[@justineloresco8584]

What would you recommend? The KA13 or IBasso DC04 PRO for my 7hz Timeless. It will be used on my pc/ipad/iphone15promax. I use apple music and my genre are pop/altrock/rnb

[@AndyAudioVault]

Between those two then it is DC04Pro

[@bestcocbaseswithlink5069]

Between KA13 and BTR15, which one do you recommend for 300 ohm HD-660s2?

[@AndyAudioVault]

Since I like BTR15 more than KA13, I will recommend BTR15 for your HD660s, just make sure you run it on 4.4mm BAL

[@razz_v95]

Hii Andy, loved your detailed reviews. You have been my first preference to me for any IEM/dongle review to watch for. Just a small request, when you will be reviewing Shanling UA4?? Currently am using a small portable USB DAC which is CX 31993 (single chip). I want to upgrade from it so I was in a thought to purchase Fiio KA13 and then I got to know about Shanling UA4. Now am a bit confused on what to purchase between these two (Fiio KA13 nd Shanling UA4). But before that I was waiting for your review on Shanling UA4 also. Can I expect your review soon on that?? It would be very helpful for a beginner like me. Also am using simgot ew200 nd it runs on very low impedance I believe (not much about into these terms 😅) will Fiio KA13/Shanling UA4 be a significant upgrade for an IEM like ew200 from single DAC chip (CX 31993) in terms of technicalities nd sound quality?? Hope you reply to my comment. Eagerly waiting to listen from you Andy. Thanks a lot in advance... A big fan of you from India ❤

[@AndyAudioVault]

Thanks. Worry not, UA4 is up next in a day or two and hopefully you get some clarity with what suits your needs

[@razz_v95]

@@AndyAudioVault thank you so much for the quick reply..

[@juansebastianlombeidaurgil6009]

Hi, Fiio ka3 or Fiio ka13? Please.

[@AndyAudioVault]

KA13 all the way, it is like a better KA3

[@juansebastianlombeidaurgil6009]

Thanks, and sorry can I get another answer please. I need to choose betwen the Fiio Ka5 and the Ibasso Dc04 pro, I saw your video about the best dongle DACS, but I need to know, how much do you feel the difference betwen the two. I prefer Ibasso’s “analog sound” but also I love the Fiio bass, so without these points. Which sounds better? Please, I want to use my HIDIZS mp145 with the best sound I can.

[@AndyAudioVault]

@@juansebastianlombeidaurgil6009 Both KA3 and DC04Pro are neutral so they don't add Bass, Treble or Mids, no coloration.On neutral sounding DAC, what you hear is the sound characteristics of the IEM you use, if the IEM have big bass then they will sound as it is. DC04Pro is superior to KA3 in all areas

[@juansebastianlombeidaurgil6009]

Thanks, but I was referring to the ka5 not the ka3. Are the dc04 pro still better? Please 🙏

[@AndyAudioVault]

@@juansebastianlombeidaurgil6009 Your first question was saying KA3. DC04Pro is 5 Star rated, KA5 is 4.5 Star, I think that alone should tell you which one is the superior dongle. For DC06Pro, please watch my review on it, I explained the difference with DC04Pro

[@segaEmployee]

Hello, Andy. I got the ka13 for 50$ for my hifiman edition xs, but ka13 doesn't work with in line microphone and control. I'm using truthear hexa when im on the go. Do you have any recommendation for dongle around this price with in line microphone and control support for my hexa?

[@AndyAudioVault]

Unfortunately most dongles of this form factor does not support MIC. If you want MIC support you need to use the smaller dongles like Venture Electronics ODO which I would wholeheartedly recommend

[@segaEmployee]

@donglemadness Won't the ODO too bright for my neutral hexa? how is the ODO compared to the fiio ka11 and ja11? what do you think about the btr15 in my use case? Do i compromise the sound quality with the btr15?

[@superuser8159]

1.8 ohm output impedance? isn't that a bit high?

[@AndyAudioVault]

Probably to dampen the output for highly sensitive IEMs especially hybrids

[@superuser8159]

@@AndyAudioVault That is not a good thing IMO

[@matteguntanithin5182]

Hello Andy love your review on KA13! I was wondering if i can pair Beyerdynamic DT 770 pro 32 ohm or 80ohm or 250ohm version with KA13 Which i bought after your recommendation.Which would be the best choice? I was thinking to go for 80ohm version,Thank you.

[@AndyAudioVault]

I would go for 250 Ohm version, but provided that you will get a 4.4mm BAL cable for it to make use of the full power of KA13, otherwise if you can only run 3.5mm SE, then the 80 Ohm version is more suited

[@matteguntanithin5182]

Thankyou!Andy its doesn’t come with 4.4mm balanced only 3.5mm with non-detachable cable in single ended.I think i should stick with 80ohm.

[@mehmetozdogan35]

@@matteguntanithin5182 Have you purchased the 80ohm dt770 pro and how does it perform with ka13? I plan to use it with iPhone 15 and iPad Air M2 and does it give satisfactory sound? I would appreciate if you could share your thoughts.

[@matteguntanithin5182]

@ hello i would say its working pretty good the sound signature is bit v shaped (vocals little recessed) for my liking but i got used to it details retrieval,podcasts and sound staging at this price is quite good for closed back headphone ,When it comes to the pairing, DT770 pro with KA13 you can expect good performance and for me 60-70% volume in mobile and 80% volume in dac is loud , try to use desktop mode in dac for better output in volume i used it with my iphone 14 pro and my asus laptop (one of the legendary headphones with great history)!

[@mehmetozdogan35]

@@matteguntanithin5182 Thank you for your detailed explanation 🙏

[@afraza5946]

Hi Andy, great review. I am getting the E10K Olympus for 56$ in clearance. And getting this KA13 for 85$. I'm in India. Will E10K be enough for HE400SE? Or I need to get shell out more and get KA13. Any other dac/amp you would suggest for HE400SE. I'm on a limited budget. Thanks!

[@AndyAudioVault]

Thanks. I have no experience with E10K so I can't say. But for HE400SE, KA13 is more than enough

[@waydewatanabe5023]

Hello Andy. Do you think the fiio ka13 would be suitable for my needs? You see, my current dac, a Jcally ap7 sounds too "digital" for me, it kinda cuts out the bass and raises the treble quite a bit (I think...). While the jcally ap7 does provide a much cleaner sound, I still find myself enjoying more the sound coming straight out of a laptop or my phone without it. I was wondering if that would be the case for this dac as well. I have a Qkz x Hbb, Tangzu Wan'er and Kz Castor bass, I use the Kz the most. Your response will be much appreciated.

[@AndyAudioVault]

Yes, different DAC/Dongle does offer different sound temperament and timbre. If you find AP7 a bit bright/edgy for your taste, then you should look into getting something like EarFun UA100 or EPZ TP30, cost a bit more than AP7 but they would likely suit your needs

[@waydewatanabe5023]

@@AndyAudioVault Thanks Andy, apart from those two, do you think that the Fiio ka13 would be a good choice too? as long as it doesn't add excessive brightness, I'm good with it. I saw a Fiio ka13 on shopee going cheaper than the EPZ T30.

[@nmatheis]

Nice review as always, Andy. I saw King Diamond just before COVID started and can't wait for the upcoming KD and MF albums 🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘

[@AndyAudioVault]

Thanks. KD is evergreen!

[@Milo_Molnar]

Andy you didn t recommend to me Shanling UA3 for Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro x /48 Ohm/. I would ask you if you would recommend this DAC Fiio KA 13. 1.8 Ohm ???? so low. I use 3.5mm so 170 mW is not as big.

[@AndyAudioVault]

That's true, UA3 would be a bit too bright sounding for DT 900 Pro X. KA13 however is not as bright and will pair well with it

[@Milo_Molnar]

@@AndyAudioVault Great. thank you so much.

[@sachithyoda]

Hi Andy, Would you recommend the KA13 or the Dawn Pro if I plan to use it with the following: Crinacle Zero Red, Dunu x Gizaudio DaVinci, Hisenior Mega5EST and the Sennheiser HD650?

[@AndyAudioVault]

KA13 would be better since you have HD650, just make sure you run it on 4.4mm BAL side

[@sachithyoda]

@@AndyAudioVault And if I just want to drive the IEMs would you still recommend me to pay $20 extra for the KA13?

[@turtleneck369]

​@@sachithyoda no i had both if u just want iems or 80ohm or less regular sensitive headphones bellow 100ohm and regular sensitive dbs than dawn pro is better option also its smaller weight a bit less and does not get as hot in temperature as KA13 but it can not drive over ears that are less sensitive i would say anything more than DT770 Pro 80ohm would not have enough headroom specially if u use preamps and EQs. So if u will be using sensitive headphones or iems and wanna save few bucks go for MoonDrop no problem

[@sachithyoda]

@@turtleneck369 Thanks a lot! I went ahead and bought the KA13.

[@fernandoposas3691]

Muchas gracias por el video, muy detallado, saludos desde Honduras.

[@AndyAudioVault]

Saludos! And thank you!🙏

[@diespiter1442]

Always doing great review as always 🔥. Regarding floor noises in black background. How can we determine it from bad recording or the noise come from equipment (dac,iems,etc) Thank youu

[@AndyAudioVault]

Thanks. The issue of floor noises depends largely on how familiar you are with the song/music you listened to. Some poor recordings does contain recorded noises in the background and you get to hear them when used with highly analytical listening equipment. But on a known good recording and you hear floor noises, then it is definitely the fault of the equipment

[@diespiter1442]

@@AndyAudioVault thank you for your explanation 🙏🏻. May i suggest you to try intuaura plume. It’s still unknown yet but i think this is the hidden gem in 2024 with very good price to performance value. Cheers! 🔥

[@albertobonifaz6476]

Hi. How does it compare to VE Megatron? which of them is more powerful? nice review

[@AndyAudioVault]

Thanks. VE Megatron is still more powerful outright on VRMS and mW (630 mW)

[@Varellax]

Few reviews are saying this FiiO KA13 gets very hot when using with a hungry fone, as HE400SE on balance for exemple. One Brazilian reviewer said that he was really worry about it, he thought it would explode hehehe. Any one has something to say regarding to this situation on getting extremely hot with high demanding fones? I’m thinking about getting it, but don’t want to get a future problem. Thanks.

[@AndyAudioVault]

It could also be depending on which FW is running on that device. Some firmware especially the older ones does exhibit some accumulated heat

[@Varellax]

@@AndyAudioVault Nice, thank for the feedback. So the FiiO KA13 is FW upgradable officially by FiiO, correct? Thanks again.

[@AndyAudioVault]

@@Varellax That is correct. FiiO always make a point that their products can be upgraded with FW

[@fuzailkhanazmi2135]

Between Moondrop Dawn pro & Fiio Btr15 which is better

[@AndyAudioVault]

BTR15 without a doubt

[@fuzailkhanazmi2135]

@@AndyAudioVault thanks

[@jaswanthreddy4258]

I have oriveti od100 iems should i buy this or else i consider shaling ua4

[@AndyAudioVault]

UA4 offers better resolution overall

[@petarvelkov7525]

Do you think this would be enough to drive the Beyerdynamic DT 880 600 ohm?

[@AndyAudioVault]

Yes, if you run from 4.4mm BAL and in High Gain, also make sure to run on USB Exclusive mode

[@brendonqueiroz3703]

Hi there, sorry to bother, but how the Fosi Audio DS1 and the Lotoo Paw S1 compares with the Fiio KA13?

[@AndyAudioVault]

DS1 is brighter sounding compared to KA13 and S1 is smoother and more analog sounding versus KA13. But outright max power KA13 is superior

[@brendonqueiroz3703]

@@AndyAudioVault Thank you a lot, they seem to complement each other

[@joshuasantoso556]

Hi Andy. My KA13 is running the v0.12 firmware but it only has a 50 steps volume control in the Fiio Control app. What firmware version did you use?

[@adieliem]

in the fiio control app the volume level is 50 steps. in Andy's review he uses a PC 😁

[@joshuasantoso556]

@@adieliem Ah okay. I thought by 100 he means the steps in the KA13. Thank you Bro 👍

[@AndyAudioVault]

I should have clarified, the 100 steps was referring to when I used it on PC volume, sorry for the confusion!

[@adieliem]

Hi Andy I want to ask between Fiio Ka13 and Ibasso DC06 Pro which one is most suitable for planar IEM 😁 I'm confused because Ibasso is currently on promotion

[@AndyAudioVault]

KA13 is a known performer so yes. DC06Pro, can't say for now, just received it. Will need to test then I can how

[@adieliem]

@@AndyAudioVault OK, thanks, I'll ask again in the next review 🤣🤣

[@letsmobiles3396]

Will you review Fiio KA17 when it's coming out?

[@AndyAudioVault]

Yes, I intend to :D

[@erkyperky1387]

Does desktop mode only work with the balanced output?

[@AndyAudioVault]

Works for both

[@ryder9739]

Which is better, BTR3K or KA13? Generally for Simgot EA500LM, EA1000 and some full sized headphones such as Takstar 82 Pro etc.?

[@AndyAudioVault]

I haven't tried BTR3K so I don't know how it compares to KA13, but for EA500LM and EA1000, both will synergize really well with KA13, you probably need to run on Low Gain especially for the highly sensitive EA1000

[@ryder9739]

@@AndyAudioVault thanks 🙏

[@quantum_coach]

Andyyy I love your review! Between this one FIIO KA13 and the iBasso DC04PRO, what will be your preference? Base on this is the one I'm gonna buy :)

[@AndyAudioVault]

Thanks!. I personally still prefer DC04Pro from the Cirrus Logic side

[@myspace04]

Is iBasso dc03 pro still relevant? How does it compare to the fiio ka13?

[@myspace04]

Hello, what would you suggest out of KA 13, iBasso DC03 pro and moondrop dawn pro?

[@AndyAudioVault]

If you use 3.5mm only, DC03Pro is a clear choice. But if you have 4.4mm BAL jacks, then I am more inclined to say KA13 or DAWN Pro, both equally good and rated equally in #donglemadness

[@myspace04]

Thank you, sir

[@zaheun112channel9]

Hello. My Fiio KA13 has a noise issue, do you know the solution?

[@AndyAudioVault]

I would not know why, the issue could be unique and I would recommend to contact FiiO support if this is persistent

[@pelina72]

Does it work with smartphones like Samsung A35 or is just for more powered sources like PC, laptops etc?

[@AndyAudioVault]

Yes of course dongles like this are actually designed for pairing with phones either Android or Apple

[@pelina72]

@@AndyAudioVault I'm afraid this is not so obvious. Shanlin UA4 does not work with a Samsung Galaxy A35. Maybe you should consider to make a few tests like this on your next reviews 🤙

[@WDemon]

i'm planning to buy it as a Dac for my IE600 iems ,is it good or might be overkill for iems ?

[@AndyAudioVault]

Don't worry, will not be overkill since KA13 is gentle even for highly efficient IEMs

[@WDemon]

@@AndyAudioVault ty for the quick reply !!!

[@fixsy100]

Helloo sirr...im using KZ ZSX, KA 13 or Moondrop pro do you prerfer? Thanks before

[@AndyAudioVault]

ZSX is already very efficient IEM, it will probably will not benefit from the extra power of KA13, so you can consider Moondrop DAWN Pro, and even DAWN Pro is already very powerful. Both KA13 and DAWN Pro are on equal terms with sound quality

[@fixsy100]

@@AndyAudioVault ahh I see.. I have buy moondrop pro and exactly like you say the sound is amazing, and like u say is too over power for KZ ZSX.And if I want to upgrade my iem what do you suggest for under $80? Best regards

[@ФрансуаСтасьеЖопьен]

Help me choose for beyerdynamic dt 240 pro at 34 ohm which is better, it will sound more detailed fiio ka 13 or topping dx 1 or smsl su-1?

[@AndyAudioVault]

I haven't tried DX1 or SU-1 so I can't compare them with KA13, but if you want details, KA13 have great details

[@bunnybunny8618]

Hi, I'm a newbie. When I connect my 7Hz Salnotes Zero IEM to my phone, I have to set the volume to full for better listening. I know the KA13 is powerful, but will using it damage my IEM? Is it overkill or good enough to increase the volume? Also, will the dual DAC in this model improve sound quality compared to the Fiio Jade Audio KA11? Please reply.

[@AndyAudioVault]

No it will not, for as long as you don't blast it 100% all the time, at which you will damage your IEMs and your ears. KA13 has the power, you just need to be mindful to set the volume at proper levels before you attach your IEMs. I don't have JA11 to compare

[@bunnybunny8618]

@@AndyAudioVault Thank you for reply. What about comparing dual DAC with any other single DAC models? Can we feel the quality difference or just a marketing gimmick?

[@AndyAudioVault]

Yes, different DAC will offer different level of experience and sound quality, not a gimmick

[@badwolf8112]

hi. would it be dangerous to my IEM to use with this? my IE 600 doesn't need an amp, i'm looking for a dongle dac to provide a sound quality boost, currently got the apple dongle/m1 macbook air aux port.

[@AndyAudioVault]

Anything that makes sound will always have an amp, either integrated or modular. The difference is how strong or how not strong they are. KA13 is far superior than Apple dongle even for easy to drive IEMs, and don't worry, for as long as you keep the listening levels well within reasonable threshold, it will not be dangerous to the IEM or you

[@janssensantos4231]

Hi! I bought KA13 for around $50 ... Would you say a got a great deal? Compare to buying a dawn pro for similar price

[@AndyAudioVault]

That is a steal deal if you ask me :D great find!

[@janssensantos4231]

@@AndyAudioVault omg, i was really having a hard time... For $50 .. dawn pro or ka13.. this gives me confidence i chose rhe right deal !

[@janssensantos4231]

@@AndyAudioVault thank you so much!

[@teste-yh5df]

i paid 100$ for mine, u lucky@@janssensantos4231

[@WWeiss-nv5vz]

I have an iPhone 13. I read iPhone is not powerful enough to run the KA13 and the power rating of the KA13 will not be able to be used. Is this true?

[@AndyAudioVault]

I personally have stopped using iPhones since 2020, it is mostly weak for many powerful dongles, so there's truth in this

[@WWeiss-nv5vz]

New subscriber here, loving your channel! I ordered the K13 before you answered. Trying to run: Sen 650, Beyer 990 250 ohm, Hifiman Ananda. Will the K13 power these through iPhone or have I wasted my $$? Other question, will this dongle make a difference with my very efficient Philips X2HR, 30 ohms/100dB or is the Apple Dongle the same quality of sound for efficient headphones? I don't use IEM's. Appreciate your response!@@AndyAudioVault

[@Biesteh]

@@WWeiss-nv5vz hey did it end up working with your iPhone 13? I have the same phone, and also read that the KA13 doesn't work with iPhones which would be a shame

[@WWeiss-nv5vz]

Working great! One of the best audio purchases I have made!@@Biesteh

[@lastnamearya]

I’m confused between this and iBasso DC03 Pro due to same pricing, please help 🙏

[@AndyAudioVault]

What are you driving? do you need power over 4 VRMS? do you have 4.4mm BAL IEMs or headphones? if yes then KA13 will be a better choice. But if you only have 3.5mm SE plugs, then DC03Pro is the better one, especially if you are driving stuffs that are not over 300 Ohm

[@lastnamearya]

⁠@@AndyAudioVaultThanks ❤, I want to know for now in terms of 3.5mm - which is going to be sound more natural and overall better in terms of sound quality? DC03Pro or KA13 👀 Both are costing same in India. Please help 🙏

[@AndyAudioVault]

@@lastnamearya KA13 is more neutral and natural, DC03Pro is tuned slightly colored with enhanced dynamics, vibrant and engaging sound

[@arghadeepmisra7865]

I am so sorry for asking this, Is it enough to power 650 ? Does the lowend comes alive and Upper treble gets a boost ???

[@AndyAudioVault]

More than enough. To clarify something, a neutral DAC does not boost sound or color it, KA13 is a neutral DAC, to do what you want you need to play with EQ or just get a strong V sounding headphones like Beyerdynamic DT880, if offer sparkly highs as well as dense lows

[@arghadeepmisra7865]

@@AndyAudioVault Offcourse, but 650/600 are different beasts altogether. The 300ohm marking on them is kind of misleading. They resist way more than that in both upper & lower the frequency you go. Even with something like Topping L30 they sound dead. They need a very high voltage swing to operate. Tube amps are something at mid-fi level that can operate to its full potential. That's why I ask for a 650 perspective. You pair it up with Bottlehead Crack they sound like different headphones altogether, pair it with something like Fiio K7 they are dead. Due to its driver resonance frequency, AMPs act like EQ without messing with THD.

[@AndyAudioVault]

@@arghadeepmisra7865 For the level of articulation you seek, then I don't think any dongles can do that 100% other than DACport HD and FC6, the richness of sound texture. Best to keep it with true desktop stuffs like Burson Audio Playmate 2 or VE Prime DAC + R2BFE stack

[@arghadeepmisra7865]

@@AndyAudioVault Thanks A Lot 💎

[@calvinyip364]

Hi what do you think about the topping dx1 vs fiio ka13? Which of the 2 can drive the hd600 and he400se? On pc only?

[@AndyAudioVault]

I haven't tried DX1 so I can't speak for it. But KA13 has the power and juice to do what you want for HE400SE and HD600. Both are easy and not as demanding as when compared to Fostex T40RP MK3 that I use most of the time, and I am so very familiar with all three headphones

[@StevenGoh007]

​@@AndyAudioVault ka13 or cda m1p if need to drive he400 and iem?

[@AndyAudioVault]

@@StevenGoh007 I personally prefer the sound signature of M1P, both has lots of power for HE400SE regardless

[@kostiskimis]

Can this dongle dac power 300ohm sennheiser?

[@AndyAudioVault]

More than capable

[@NYC_MidnightVibes]

Which one is better Qudelix 5k or FiiO KA13?

[@AndyAudioVault]

I have no idea yet, once I have 5K then perhaps I can say something about it

[@Sashko_Dee]

Does anybody here know how this DAC compares to the HIBY FC3!?

[@AndyAudioVault]

My own experience with FC3 vs KA13, FC3 offers strong ESS Sabre brightness and crispy edged sound, KA13 in comparison is not as sharp as FC3, not as bright and more natural with sound timbre

[@Sashko_Dee]

@@AndyAudioVault Thank you so much for such a detailed reply!

[@brendonqueiroz3703]

Sorry to bother you again, but can you recommend a dongle that has more power like the KA13 and with the same sound characteristics?

[@AndyAudioVault]

Before I suggest anything, I assume that you already have KA13, what are you driving and how are you using your KA13? PC? Android? iPhone? do you use USB exclusive mode. I need to know all that because the reality is, tons of dongles now are very powerful especially 4 Vrms rated dongles and they all passed my tests with Sennheiser HD650, Sennheiser HD600, HiFiMan Sundara, Fostex T40 RP MK3 with good authority to drive all of them with proper headroom and dynamics. Once I understand your situation and what you are looking for, perhaps I can recommend something that will work for you.

[@brendonqueiroz3703]

@@AndyAudioVault Actually I have a Fosi Audio DS1 and a Lotoo S1, but I need more power to use some headphones and earbuds with 150-300 ohm. I use the dongle in the PC and android. I used a Tempotec BHD Pro, but the high gain mode was missed, even though it had reasonable power.

[@AndyAudioVault]

@@brendonqueiroz3703 And you find DS1 not powerful for your 300 Ohm earbuds? Did you run 4.4mm BAL on your DS1? DS1 is rated 220 mW at 4.4mm BAL and if you find that not powerful then I can say no dongles would be able to meet your needs, I may recommend that you get something like FiiO Q15 instead or at least Venture Electronics Megatron or even iFi Diablo. I understand the perception of individuals differ from one person to another and while I find something like 100 mW HIBY FC6 can easily drive Sennheiser HD600 300 Ohm with good authority, I cannot assume you would have similar sonic sensitivity to mine. The best way now for you is to avoid dongles altogether and go for the bigger DAC/Amps

[@brendonqueiroz3703]

@@AndyAudioVault it's powerful, but in this case I'm looking for dongles with power but with different sound that I already have. But anyway, I will look for the options that you gave, thank you!

[@AndyAudioVault]

@@brendonqueiroz3703 Aah you looking for synergy factor then. To give you some ideas, DS1 is brighter sounding when compared to KA13, DS1 focuses more on traditional clinical ESS Sabre crisp tuning and KA13 is more natural and smoother - if that is what you looking for, then KA13 has the power as it is also naturally organic compared to DS1

[@rioven85]

too many dongle to consider at any price point 😅 btw have you tried topping dx1?

[@AndyAudioVault]

Yes I lost track of how many released already. No I haven't ried DX1

[@jonathanslade6923]

I have a samsung galaxy s24 ultra and a pair of beats studio pro headphones. Is this likely to improve the sound quality of the headphones?

[@AndyAudioVault]

I have no idea how scalable Beats Studio Pro, never tried it, so it is hard to imagine how it would benefit from an external DAC

[@jonathanslade6923]

@@AndyAudioVault ok thanks anyway

[@joeywortman-nielsen3014]

Start by buying different headphones... There's an entire universe of sound out there... Most mainstream headphones, like all of Beats headphones, have overemphasized and bloated bass... And the treble turned way up. All's this does is drown out all of the actual details of the music. I'm a beginner on this Journey to find the perfect sound. For Bluetooth, I started with the Cambridge Audio Melomania p100... The Bowers and Wilkins Px7 s2e is my next. Regular headphones I'm starting with the Aune AR5000 and the Monolith m1060... I'm just trying to decide which dongle/DAC I should purchase first. What's the perfect affordable DAC that puts out some power. This dongle seems to have a lot of power at such a good price... Good luck on your Journey!!!

[@s1nonnn589]

Do you prefer this or the q11?

[@AndyAudioVault]

Sound tuning for both are near identical, they share the same FiiO Cirrus Logic tuning after all, which one I prefer more? it boils down to features you need, no longer about the sound itself

[@FATfreq]

sir fiio ka13 vs fiio q11 which is better ?

[@AndyAudioVault]

Sound wise KA13 and Q11 tuned similarly, they are both Cirrus Logic and both are FiiO after all. Power for power Q11 may look slightly higher on paper, but in practice KA13 is more than a match

[@ИльяЛисицкий-ч4и]

E1da 9038d или fiio ka13 в плане уровня звука с 3.5мм?

[@AndyAudioVault]

KA13 has more power even from 3.5mm

[@ИльяЛисицкий-ч4и]

​@@AndyAudioVaultменя интересует уровень звука , а не мощность)

[@AndyAudioVault]

@@ИльяЛисицкий-ч4и I can't confirm really, my E1DA 9038D was already given away two years ago. Sorry

[@ИльяЛисицкий-ч4и]

@@AndyAudioVault спасибо)

[@vitalikderevlyany9149]

Do you think it will fit Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 32 Om Headphones?

[@AndyAudioVault]

Yes it will synergize really well with DT770

[@vitalikderevlyany9149]

Thanks for the answer . In the specifications of the headphones, the maximum power is 100 mW, and in k13 170mW, will this not cause the headphones to break?@@AndyAudioVault

[@AndyAudioVault]

@@vitalikderevlyany9149 No worries about that, the power rating is to indicate the threshold of power efficiency, the fact is, most headphones will behave even better than with more power

[@vitalikderevlyany9149]

@@AndyAudioVault Thanks for the detailed answer)))

[@bennozoid1]

the KA13 doesn't work on my iphone.....

[@venkateshram97]

Have you found a way to make it work?

[@bennozoid1]

@@venkateshram97 i haven't found a way to use Fiio Control app but the DAC seems to be working (minus the ability to access EQ features) and sounds pretty good/clean...But it's definitely an Android-favoring device....

[@venkateshram97]

@@bennozoid1 thanks

[@gustavoteixeira1538]

can this drive something as a hifiman edition xs or a sundara or even a 400se

[@AndyAudioVault]

Absolutely, Fostex T40RP MK3 that I use is harder to drive than both XS or HE400SE, not just you get ample loudness, you get proper headroom and sound authority as well, but then so does many other 4 VRMS dongles released recently, you will be surprised how capable they are. But of course if you talking about endgame scaling, you still need to get stuffs like Burson Audio Playmate 2 or Prime DAC + R2BFE ot K9 for over 2000 mW of power which planars are known to shine the best

[@gustavoteixeira1538]

@@AndyAudioVault thank u very much for the answer, if you desktop amp is 100% how much percent of quality u think u can get with the ka13

[@AndyAudioVault]

@@gustavoteixeira1538 Compared to Burson Audio Playmate 2, I would say close to 90% in terms of quality alone. Loudness no issue

[@kamrankambang7953]

Bro what open back headphone i can run with this? I need the mobility.

[@AndyAudioVault]

Headphones? practically anything from Sennheiser HD650, HD600, TAKSTAR HF850, FiiO FT3, HiFiMan HE400SE Stealth, Sundara, this thing is flexible

[@kamrankambang7953]

@@AndyAudioVault im getting mixed opinion, some people said dongle dac wont properly run a planar.

[@AndyAudioVault]

@@kamrankambang7953 Of course there's polarizing view on this, but for me personally, many headphones runs perfectly fine on dongles, some even perform better than entry level desktop DAC

[@fabianarzak1663]

@@AndyAudioVault will hd560s work with this?

[@AndyAudioVault]

@@fabianarzak1663 Absolutely

[@RIN0O]

świetna recenzja - dziękuję i pozdrawiam

[@AndyAudioVault]

You're welcome

[@CervezasObsonMex]

I want to buy this, but watching your chart, Moondrop Dawn Pro seems better, Moondrop has less power i think its 250 300 mW? and the KA13 has 550mW so... why do you think moondrop is better? right now Moondrop is only 700-800 pesos and the KA13 is $1,100 pesos... you think moondrop is superior because of the price?

[@AndyAudioVault]

The differences are marginal really, they are both great sounding dongles. I personally feel DAWN Pro is a bit more airy and open sounding

[@CervezasObsonMex]

@@AndyAudioVault Hey Andy thank you su much, and the little dots, the little holes in it, do you think that is bad for the dust inside ? Do you think that the KA13 has 2 or times the Dawn Pro, but do you think the difference of the power matters too much? for it moondrop is $15 dlls cheaper. But that little holes worries me a little...

[@AndyAudioVault]

The reality is, DAWN Pro is already very powerful as far as I am concerned based on my sensitivity to sound

[@CervezasObsonMex]

@@AndyAudioVault I have been three days watching your videos to make a decisión watching conparissons. I'm more into ka13 because of the power and moondrop has me a little bit worried about the little holes, and i saw a review In Amazon that the volume bottons broke ;( Also i like a Lot good detail, niice bass control, Big soundstage.

[@prabhuja7554]

Is it same Dongle Madness AndyEF ??🎉❤

[@AndyAudioVault]

Eh? you mean is this me? AndyEF? lol. Yes this is AndyEF

[@prabhuja7554]

@@AndyAudioVault congrats best wishes.. Subscribed Stat..Brother..Love from Chennai audiophile Forums

[@SileDevil]

can you review the aune yuki and qudelix 5k?

[@AndyAudioVault]

Yuki is on order. Qudelix 5K not so sure yet

[@andresvr8357]

Ya salio fiio ka17 en Aliexpress

[@alphainfinitysd4378]

Does it sound better than Shanling UA 4 Please tell

[@AndyAudioVault]

If you watch the comparison section, you will see that KA17 and UA4 practically scored the same numbers for sound. They uses the exact same DAC model and also tuned similarly. From what I heard, they are practically identical sound wise

[@faultest]

which is nice with sennheiser hd 599

[@AndyAudioVault]

I haven't tried HD599 so it's hard for me to image how it will synergize with this KA13, but being neutral as it is, I would expect HD599 to work as well as HD650 and HD600

[@faultest]

@@AndyAudioVault I am cuurently using seenheiser hd 599 with Asus rog laptop and i want to buy a dac amp, what will you suggest

[@aqila4311]

Hey Andy. May I know how do you compare KA13 and Cayin RU7? Which would you prefer ?

[@AndyAudioVault]

RU7 is one of the top 5 performers for #donglemadness so it is a superior dongle in every way compared to KA13, you can check the tier list in the video description. I personally will pick RU7 every time over KA13 if I have to choose between the two

[@aqila4311]

@@AndyAudioVault yeah I have watched your RU7 video and the rankings before watching this video. Just auditioned the KA13 yesterday and it sounds amazing already. But I haven’t got the chance to try the RU7 yet. Do you think it is comparable to Mojo 2? I’m currently looking for ru7 for more mobile use. Thank you very much for your review and recommendations!

[@victormedrano2316]

Nice shirt

[@AndyAudioVault]

🤘

[@siddhesh2888]

Hello Andy. Truthear Shio is at sale of $58. Should I get it or save more and get this Fiio KA13 at $75 instead?

[@AndyAudioVault]

Can't go wrong with any one of them, get the one easiest on your pocket

[@jaredtzp7466]

Ka5 o ka13 bro?

[@AndyAudioVault]

Almost no difference in sound tuning for both, with KA13 offering a bit more power and KA5 with more features, otherwise they are equally matched

[@jaredtzp7466]

@@AndyAudioVault For quality/price, is the 13 worth it then?