Fiio M11 Plus ESS DAP - Better than the Sony NW-WM1a? Honest Audiophile Impressions

[@RoelVanderVeken]

I have the WM1A from Japan. And I bought it to disconnect from all the social media and just enjoy self bought music in all its glory without interruptions of notifications or messages. Best buy in ages :-)

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Awesome 😎

[@randallhill7979]

I totally understand, I am looking at a used WM1A.

[@syanhc]

This guy is great. He talks with his hands like a conductor. Superb review!🎉

[@David-t6s3j]

Very good honest and down to earth hands on review, its great to see something less involved with specs and more common day usage. What its like to own one, that's what makes a review like yours priceless in the world of reviews. Thanks for posting

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

My pleasure, you're welcome. Glad you found it useful.

[@CarAudioHorizons]

Nice review Dave! I did car audio reviews on both the Fiio M11 Plus LTD and the Fiio M17. I missed the Fiio M11 Plus ESS. That’s the nice thing about Fiio is you always get your money’s worth!

[@UrbanAnimism]

Excellent review, the Fiio is really a great deal for its price. I think the WM1AM2 is retailing around 1,500 dollars, so it would be interesting to make a comparison with the M11 and see if the Sony is worth the huge price difference.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

I haven't heard the updated WM1AM2 but it would be curious to see if double price gives much more performance. Maybe one day an WM1AM2 will be available for the channel to review.

[@TAG-1984]

Your review really stands out, thanks so much.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

My pleasure, you're welcome

[@johngault-9597]

In this hurry up and get there world, thanks for taking the time to make a thoughtful, well thought out review, please keep up the good work. I'm buying this DAP today.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Thanks for watching and the kind words. Look forward to hearing your impressions of the M11 Plus ESS.

[@Allaces305]

What an amazing DAP..I love that volume slider function too.. Great piece of gear Dave.. Enjoy it!!

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

It is an awesome DAP ❤️

[@toufikazar]

Man you are the best, thank you for all the reviews. I bought the M11 plus because of your honest review. God bless... Keep up the great content

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Awesome 😎 Look forward to hearing your impressions of the M11 Plus. Glad you found the channel content to be helpful.

[@johnmc3862]

I have the M11 plus Ltd and I found the line out excellent. I am also using the node 2i. The sound is well up there with studio quality monitors.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Very nice! Thank you for the impressions. Glad you enjoy the M11 Plus LTD.

[@thekarlouchh]

Im still hanging on my Q5s tc right now but i do keep an eye on Fiio for sure ! another good honest impression thank you for your time ! ❤️

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

My pleasure, you're welcome.

[@syanhc]

Just bought this on your review. Thank you!

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Awesome 👍 Look forward to hearing your impressions.

[@CompoundNihilist]

Solid review with an excellent speaking voice.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Thanks ❤️

[@michaelramsay7984]

Thanks for the great review I bought the Fiio and I love it I think it’s great value for money A great review Straightforward and insightful Thanks again

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Awesome 👍 Glad you enjoy the M11 Plus.

[@ZootTM]

got this today based upon your and Super*'s review. Thanks for recommending it, great DAP. Quite a hefty chonk, but not a problem for me.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Hope you enjoy it! Yes indeed, a hefty, chunk of musical pleasure.

[@MauricePhoenix]

Making me wanna get it even more😁 thanks for the great video

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

My pleasure, you're welcome.

[@RafaelArroyo-i1h]

Yo tengo el wm1a de Sony y pensaba en comprar el M11 plus, pero como no soy tan fanático de las aplicaciones de streaming creo que me quedaré con mi Sony, ya que por el lado del sonido es un poquito superior.

[@O.G.LIL-MAN]

Thanks for the review. Lemme say that if it's better than the WM1A, I'd say its about time...it took them damn near 8 years to reverse engineer it (not a slam to you but and a observation about Fiio). This comes from a former Wm1A owner and current Fiio M11 pro owner w/THX. But I'll say, 3 hours for fast charge seems slow to me

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Charging isn't as fast as a phone but it is a lot faster than most DAP I use. Thanks for the comment.

[@matthewdavies2057]

Can anyone speak to a comparison between the old M11 and the M11 Plus? Is the Plus that much better sounding?

[@stockboy87]

Hi Dave! I just ordered the Fiio M15S and I was curious if have a review on that one or have heard anything. Also, have you reviewed or heard anything about the DUNU SA6 mk2 IEMs and how they may pair with Fiio players? Sorry for all the questions!!!

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Sorry haven't heard M15s or DUNU SA6 mk2. Look forward to hearing back about your experiences.

[@gregorypoole3454]

I picked one of these up a couple weeks ago because of this review. Really enjoying it. Very easy to figure most of it out. Would you think the Meze 109 Pro's would be a good pairing? Thanks.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Awesome 😎 Glad you enjoy the M11 Plus ESS. Yeah I think so but I didn't get an opportunity to hear that specific pairing.

[@liviuoros77]

I have this combo.I need mid gain on M11 for a proper listening experiece.

[@breckisaac5378]

Why not use DAPS in your home Hifi chain vs a streamer? Could replace the DAC too. Thoughts?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Most DAPs don't have the streaming ability of actual desktop streamers, connection to various setups is limited. But they can be used as a DAC for sure.

[@NationChosenByGod]

Is there a way for you to do an audio test between the two? I would love for you to do that video. Thank you.

[@high16200]

Very nice review. Thank you for sharing.🙏🙏

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

My pleasure, you're welcome.

[@high16200]

@@TheHonestAudiophile 🙏

[@priveprive5315]

I love the Fiio BTR7 great thing

[@Yeastextract]

I think FiiO DAPs have excellent sound quality, but Sony especially with the WM1AM2 and WM1ZM2 make DAPs that capture the heart and soul of music which FiiO doesn’t manage. Owned both and FiiO DAPs (as well as Astell & Kern) have been sold and Sony DAPs are here to stay.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

I totally understand. I've enjoyed the WM1a for a long time, hard to beat.

[@rajeebdas1724]

Hello Dave.. Dunno if you'll reply to a comment on such an old video.. But do you think that Non Android daps will last longer than Android ones? As the Android ones use an already older version of Android which could become dated soon ? Could they become slow? Phones usually become noticeably slow in about 4 yrs time these days. What do you think? I'd want my dap to last 6-7 yrs atleast. If not more. Would app support become a problem as well as the Android version becomes older progressively?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Actually I've had this issue to a degree with a few DAP. Android based can become buggy if support isn't available from the manufacturer. Non Android do seem to have longer shelf life in my opinion.

[@rajeebdas1724]

@@TheHonestAudiophile Thanks for the reply! I'll see what I can do! I've been thinking of buying a dap .But this worry holds me back. Perhaps I can find the best balance. The new Hiby M300 has Android 13. Although it's a weak device in terms of power. But since it's cheap, perhaps I can purchase a capable dongle with it and use them together. Shouldn't be a problem since I only use iems. I do want freedom from my phone. But spending 500$ for only 3-4 yrs doesn't excite me unfortunately!

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

@rajeebdas1724 Look forward to hearing about your experience.

[@MrWinger1951]

Very good review. How "future proof" is this DAP? In reference to not only firmware updates but other processor functions and features? I don't want to buy a DAP only to have it lacking updated features within a year.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

It offers all the top of the line specs and features you can get in a DAP currently. Tech moves quick so I have no idea how future proof it is is as that isn't my expertise.

[@iikatinggangsengii2471]

think i read somewhere that they keep updating the drivers, check via windows update

[@nerdydaddyo]

Sold. I want my ears to be blessed. 😄🤟😎

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Awesome 👍😎

[@alawisnu6990]

Thanks for the amazing review Is it works smoothly with hifiman arya?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

I don't recall the pairing off memory. I haven't heard the Fiio since the review. I don't see why it wouldn't be a good pairing in balanced mode.

[@albertgoodman2507]

Thanks for the review. I wonder does this Fiio's music player app support NAS drivers with SAMBA protocol? Its generally hard to find information do these DAPs have a native support for Samba. Of course its possible install the excellent Usb Audio Player Pro if Google Play Store available.

[@albertgoodman2507]

Many of us have our musics stored in home NAS drivers. I'm grateful of information if anybody knows a DAP which works smoothly with NAS. Thanks.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

I have no idea about the SAMBA protocol. It is full Android so you can install USB Audio Player Pro if you desire.

[@anthonymcinnis6588]

I just bought the KSE 1200 electrostatics. Is this a good DAP for KSE 1200? I still own the SE846. I just yesterday returned the Sony IER-Z1R. The KSE 1200 are incredible. The best I've ever heard.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Sorry I have no experience with the KSE 1200. Sorry.

[@AndriesTom]

I also own the SE846. At this moment they are my best IEM's, before the FIIO FH7 en some ChiFi with 12 BA drivers. I just ordered the Campfire Audio Supermoon CIEM (planar) really hope it will be worth the money. I mostly listen to music on my phone via FIIO BTR7 or music downloaded or streamed via the FIIO M11 Plus Ltd. Aren't the KSE1200 a bit bulky to carry around? I already find the FIIO M11 too heavy to carry around comfortably.

[@anthonymcinnis6588]

After finding out more about the KSE1200 I love them even more now. You guys are about to learn something new did not know. 1. KSE1200 main body unnit is itself an AMP. It is an AMP made specifically to power the electrostatic IEM's in your ear. 2. No large FIIO (or any other amp'ed DAC) is needed because the AMP is wasted on the FIIO because KSE1200 only wants the sound signal from FIIO DAC via 3.5mm and kse1200 provides its own power via its on amp. The FIIO amp is not needed. Only the fiio DAC is needed. What makes the fiio bulky is not needed. 3. I have the se846 however I don't go to them anymore because the sound is artificial IMO. No studio has such bass during recording session. Campfire is the same. I just tried out the Sony ier-z1r because it's all fake sound fake bass. Se846 and Z1R's sound great however it's fake. 4. Kse1200 sounds so true and real. You hear everything and it sounds so real like the real instrument really sounds. The Soundstage is incredible. If the artist used a lot of bass then you get it. If the artist considered bass to be something in the background then it's there. It's all real just like the studio. I just use the THX Onyx and the Qudelix-5K. This is a less bulky setup then any of the large DAC's that have amps built in.

[@johnmc3862]

@@anthonymcinnis6588 The quality of the source is very important with sE846. The better the source the better the sound quality.

[@anthonymcinnis6588]

@Vittoria KSE1200 has very, very good bass. It depends on the source. For instance, there are some songs we're KSE1200 bass is so powerful that I have gone back and tried my SE846 on the same song and the bass was crazy. There's no way it sounded like that in the studio when recorded. SE846 and I IER-Z1R add bass that's not there in the studio. If that's what you want then your FH9's are the right headphones for you. 🙂 I just looked at the FH9 on Amazon and in the headline it says "Deep Bass". That sounds like a Bass Head thing and I am not that person. I once was though but after getting my KSE1200 I have become a music Purist.

[@heroicmiquio6327]

Good evening Which SD card could you recommend that would be most compatible with my FIIO M11? What SD cards do you use? Many greetings and stay in the presence of your dear ones HEALTHY...

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

I use this SD card Samsung Evo Plus mc128d 128gb... www.amazon.com/dp/B0118LR9Z8?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share You will need to format the SD card before you can transfer music files to it.

[@markthespark3549]

Hey there what a very detailed review of the m11 plus. Just want to ask is it still worth it getting this dap? I can get a used one for around $280. I'll intend to use my OG tin p1 iem on it hoping this dap has sufficient driving power for the planar. Thanks in advance. Cheers

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

I've not heard the M11 Plus since the review. But I have a friend who still enjoys his to this day.

[@markthespark3549]

@@TheHonestAudiophile I'm seeing plenty of positive reviews and might get it. Many thanks

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

@markthespark3549 my pleasure, you're welcome

[@theegreatest9322]

Worth every penny get it .

[@markthespark3549]

I did get it and really sounds awesome. Paired really well with my OG tin p1 and ibasso it04. Thanks for the recommendation.

[@TheKING-lo7ce]

Do you have more videos about other daps ? What about the ibasso ds240 and the astell & ankell sp3000 va the Sony new Z700…. There are other ones as well but the main reason for me and the most imothing is for rock and metal music I like to hear highly details in acoustic rock music , hard rock and metal as well which one will you recommend bc I’m about to Ori chase the new Sony z700 that came out on this year on January

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

I've reviewed several other DAP but none of the ones you listed. Here is a link to my tier list and there is a tab for DAP and my video reviews are linked. docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1nRHnsP_4vLg9DlD9kwJ6gQuEQFqhTR0lnrkxXo3AMG8/edit?usp=sharing

[@Vamp898]

I owned the M11 Plus LTD and do own the M11 Plus ESS Beside that i owned and/or own an ZX507, WM1A and WM1Z (bought it used for ~1500 btw) The FiiO does have a completely different sound signature (basically, it doesn't have any) but there is one thing i instantly noticed. When i switched from the ZX507 to the M11 Plus LTD, i thought "Ah there is more focus on details, there is some details here and there and so on" and at first i thought, its the better device. I used it for 1 month and then switched back to the ZX507 to further compare and test the sound quality. Going from ZX507 --> M11 Plus LTD --> Everything sounds more flatter and you can hear details more clearly. Fine differences in the details Going from M11 Plus LTD --> ZX507 --> Holy Moly, the ZX507 beats the living sh*t out of the M11 Plus. It was like going from a chamber in the basement to an concert hall. I don't know why when going from ZX507 to M11 Plus that i didn't notice that the soundstage and the overall authenticity and realism of sound was decreasing that much. I was so focused on those tiny, minimal differences in details, that i totally missed to grasp the overall experience. Also the ZX507 suddenly revealed a lot of details that where lost with the M11 Plus i just didn't notice. The same is with the WM1Z and the M11 Plus ESS. Going from the WM1Z to the M11 Plus ESS sounds like a small difference with improvements in micro details. But then going back to the WM1Z shows, that the WM1Z is just an device of a completely different caliber. I don't know much about psychoacoustics and stuff like that, but there is one thing i know for sure after testing both for more than one year (i still have the M11 Plus ESS) The ZX507 is significantly better than the M11 Plus LTD and the M11 Plus ESS. And the WM1 Series DAPs are significantly better than the ZX507 For whatever reason i do not understand, it makes a difference in which direction you switch. But going from the FiiO to the Sony is the bigger difference and shows that the Walkman is far superior. Maybe its just stupid to focus and micro details, take a step back, calm down and start listening to the overall song in total again. So in terms of Sound (not features), it is not M11 Plus vs. WM1A(M2). It is M11 Plus vs ZX507. The Walkmans are that much better. At least at 4.4mm With the WM1 there is pretty much no difference, but the ZX507 only performs well at 4.4mm, at 3.5mm the sound quality is clearly below the M11 Plus. So if you're using 4.4mm and the most important thing to you is sound quality, the ZX507 is the better device. And the WM1 is just in a completely different league, far from the M11.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Thanks for your impressions.

[@Vamp898]

@@TheHonestAudiophile Thank you for your reply. I forgot to mention, "according to my taste" of course. To me its a matter of taste, not a matter of quality. I can not detect a difference in the quality of the sound. At least not to a level that makes me say A is better than B

[@GuavaJuiceBane]

Couldn't agree more. Love the ZX507's sound and form factor. My only gripe would be it's battery life. Hopefully the new WM1AM2 will be better. Claim 44 hours of battery life which is insane.

[@addicz2]

@@Vamp898 I see. People are too analitical made them to forgot to enjoy the music.

[@jose-gf5id]

@@Vamp898 So the WM1A beats the fiio m11 plus and zx507?

[@aristidescarrillo9361]

Hello, a year ago I started in audiophilia, and I have the fiio M6 and the Sony A55, I must tell you that at this level the Sony also wins by very little in sound, and I am about to make the leap to another Dap of more value, and I was precisely thinking between the Sony NW-WM1A or the Fiio M11, and your video gave me the certainty of what I am going to buy, thanks for your video explaining the differences, and you are absolutely right, I would like a video of the best in ear and over ear for the price range of 400 or 500 dollars with a signature with some good bass, thanks.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Glad you found the video helpful. Thanks for the suggestion of video content.

[@JOSE75214]

Was there a huge difference in audio from m6 to m11

[@gilbs72]

A month after this review the WM1AM2/WM1ZM2 were released, giving all the benefits of Android--just like the Fiio, along with the Sony Signature sound. Perhaps a comparison is due. :)

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

If a WM1ZM2 is provided for review, I'll gladly review and compare.

[@zeza8603]

@@TheHonestAudiophile No need.. both of these models blow the fiio out of the water.

[@bongobob7079]

@@zeza8603 a Sony unit that costs £1100 and £3200 also blows the fiio price out of the water too. A fiio only costs £600 the cheapest Sony mentioined is 2x the price and the other is over 5x the price.

[@joegarcia6276]

If you have an audioquest dragonfly DAC is this one a huge difference or not really I love the sound quality of the red with tidal hifi

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Sorry, I don't have an AQ Dragonfly Red.

[@BenzG1L]

How many hours of playback/burn-in do you run on any DAP before making a sound review?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Here's a link to my review process: www.thehonestaudiophile.com/post/honest-simple-reviews-but-why

[@monarakudumbiya957]

I started liking your videos and subscribed. I’m almost convinced that I’m gonna buy this. What’s the highest impedance over ears you tried this with ?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

300ohm Sennheiser HD600 if I remember correctly. I don't believe I tried the 600 DT880 with it.

[@monarakudumbiya957]

@@TheHonestAudiophile Wow that’s impressive driving power for a DAP. Judging by that , this should be able to drive my DTs except for the 600ohms and the planar PM3. And it will drive the master and dynamic I plan to put money on. Cheers for the info. I feel safe to put my money on this fiio. I see they have released M15 and M17 too. But I’d rather put that extra money on headphones :)

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Awesome 👍 Look forward to hearing your impressions.

[@tansanite09]

I‘am going to buy the focal stellia soon it has 35ohm and 106db - i think i‘ll try the new fiio m23 because it has a bit more power so it would easily drive the stellias? What do you think ?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

I've only heard the Focal Stellia once at an audio show and don't recall how it sounded. I've not heard the M23. I look forward to hearing your impressions.

[@tansanite09]

@@TheHonestAudiophile thanks for answer - will take some time to find a quite new used stellia - not willing to pay 3k 😉 mathematically the stellias dont need much to drive them greetings

[@Metaru_Raiden]

I have the fiio m11 plus ESS. I use some Sennheiser 650HD headphones but since they're open pack, i feel like they're more better to use at home. Got any recommendations to use on the go?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

On the go I mostly use IEM but some closed back headphones I recommend that work on the go and also at the desk are the Rode NTH-100 and Austrian Audio HI-X60

[@Metaru_Raiden]

@@TheHonestAudiophile I'll definitely check those out! Thanks!

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

@@Metaru_Raiden my pleasure, you're welcome

[@gourabasis]

Will it make any difference in terms of sound going from a sony nwa105 to fiio m11 plus?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

They are slightly different in presentation. Fiio is a little better with technical abilities, detail retrieval, resolution, imaging, etc.

[@MechFrankaTLieu]

you should try Fiio's new M0-PRO and M1s , am amazed at these little beast

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Aren't the MO-Pro and M1s made by Shanliing, not Fiio?

[@MechFrankaTLieu]

@@TheHonestAudiophile Yeah, but they are pure DAP that kind of reflect what the technology and parts of today can do vs Android device style DAP , and that size difference is like night vs day

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Thanks for the suggestion

[@leonel3705]

Great review! I am almost ready to buy one. Do you know of a ‘Chi­Fi’ that would be comparable or better for a similar price range?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Sorry I do not know. I look forward to hearing your impressions of the M11 Plus if you choose to purchase.

[@equilibrium2147]

Excellent review!!! but i have a serious question. Do you think the Sony NW WM1A can drive the Hifiman HE1000se which has a sensitivity of 96 dB? I really appreciate if you can give me your honest and professional advice. Thank you!!!!

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Doubtful that it has enough oomph.

[@cutandcover]

I very much appreciate this detailed review. I purchased the M11 Plus a few weeks ago and have been getting into it. However there’s one issue I have which is totally taking me out. The “gapless playback” doesn’t work! At least it isn’t working for me. I have tried it with a SACD ISO rip - played the tracks very nicely but horrible gaps between tracks. Then I tried a standard CD rip at 16/44 AIFF files. Still badly gapped. I reset the app, I reset the database, no change. Even tried turning on the cross fade to see if I could live with it. Still gaps! I don’t know what to do about this.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Check in settings for gapless playback. You may have to set it per the various apps. If issues persists, check with Fiio customer service or the vendor you purchased from. Sorry I don't have the technical support training nor a M11 Plus in house as I had to return the loaned one to Apos.

[@cutandcover]

@@TheHonestAudiophile Yes - I have it set in the Fiio Music app. On or off it does not work. I have an email into Fiio - hopefully they can provide a solution. Thanks for the reply.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Hope you get it resolved.

[@Descenter1976]

I Wish Fiio had my back, but sadly I need a quality music player, that is as far away from a cell phone as posible (Not alloved at my work, but musik is, and this would get my into truble!) I found the Fiio KA5, but thats only a amp. So I still need a phone 😞I would also love to have the ability to listen to radio somtimes. and the option for Bluetooth. Its easy to find what i want, but then its a cheap piece of plastic with poor sound quality. The best fit I found for now is the SanDisk Clip Sport Go 32GB

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Hiby and Shanling have some budget options. Not sure about radio but an Android variant DAP may have an app for that.

[@MagdielLopez]

I'm starting to look at DAPs now so I'm not familiar. If using Bluetooth headphones will I hear a difference between my phone or the DAP using H95s? Or would it be a waist of money? I'm sure wired would be a difference but I also have a few Bluetooth headphones that I would still like to use. Thanks

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

I highly doubt you'd hear a difference other than the differences between the headphone signatures themselves.

[@julio-iz3sk]

thanks. got one question, is it easy to pass apple music downloaded from my macbook ?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Sorry, I have no idea. I'm a Windows PC user.

[@seewhy76]

Hi a great review indeed, wanna ask how does it sound with hifiman ananda? since it is ur favourite headphone according to my memory

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

It is adequate but not the best performace that the Ananda can provide. You need to use the 4.4mm balanced output.

[@seewhy76]

@@TheHonestAudiophile Yeah I have a 4.4mm cable now and listen only via a hip dac, wonder how much of sound quality improvement of m11plus compared to hip dac?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

I haven't heard the Hip DAC since I reviewed it. Here is a link to my Hip DAC review: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g2S4lX6sq72kbMU I honestly don't recall enough about the sonics to do a fair comparison.

[@ericb6928]

Have you tried line out to the IFI Gryphon? Wondering what the combination might be like.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

I don't recall having both at the same time and I don't recall doing line out. Sorry has been a good bit since the reviews.

[@natanquirino5400]

if it makes lil difference why have both? do you use one on the go and one for home?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

The M11 was a loaner.

[@natanquirino5400]

@@TheHonestAudiophile ohh cause thanks you. I’m just trying to figure out which one I want or have two! Idk yet lol

[@natanquirino5400]

@@TheHonestAudiophile I have the wma1m2 and had the m11s but came to see some reviews. Yours was close enough. I’m on the go and stay at home. I looked at the m15 and Sony zx707. I like the soundstage of zx707. Somehow m11s is tad bit tighter than M2. So far I have yet to figure out. Thank you!

[@pslsaravanan1338]

Hi Sir..very informative review. Can this drive Hifiman Edition XS in a good way ?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Sorry haven't used or heard the Edition XS.

[@pslsaravanan1338]

Thx for such quick response sir.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

My pleasure, you're welcome.

[@rodd555]

so ive just got this. sounds good on my old £40 headphones but looking for something better. what headphones you guys use with this.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Sadly I had to return the M11 as it was it was a loaner. Sorry

[@rodd555]

@@TheHonestAudiophile thanks for replying. will have to look into ohms and stuff I think. was hoping a viewer may have some experience with it.

[@smokingbarrels7019]

Great review! would the m11's drive an Empyrean well? and would it be a good match sonically you think? cheers

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

It would drive it adequate on balanced out. I think it'd be a good pairing sonically.

[@smokingbarrels7019]

Thank you for such a quick answer, I guess perhaps the Fiio m17 is better suited for an Empyreon then, to truly bring it more to life? With its increased power output an so on.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Probably but I haven't heard the M17.

[@josephnevin]

I'm torn between this and the hiby r6 2020. One thing i really like about hiby is the src bypass for Android which means I can get apple lossless to output hi-res audio without the Android resampling. Does this support the same feature? Fiio is a bit cheaper so this is the only deciding factor for me and also the sound signature.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Yes it skips SRC. It also has Pure Music Mode when using with the Fiio Music app.

[@charlenecapili84]

Does it have poor screen resolution? Bought 1 today and the screen stutters with aberrations when the background is white. And the dap heats up easily after a few minutes of using spotify.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

The screen resolution isn't like a phone but it's not bad in my opinion. As for it warming up that it does but it doesn't get hot to the touch.

[@tecno4u31]

Hi, I'm sorry to bother you but yesterday in live I had a bit of trouble understanding English speakers. I don't have subtitles in English or in my language. Roughly speaking, the Rapto hook can be better than an S12 or Kato?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

RaptGo Hook X is solid and is warmer, has very wide stage, adequate detail retrieval, resolution, good tone and timbre. Kato and S12 are better detail retrieval, resolution, tone, timbre.

[@jopar3292]

TBH - you really NEED to make sure your WM1A has 'J' region unlocked in it AND there are some custom firmwares out there which transform the somewhat dull boring stock sound into something next level that puts it above and beyond.

[@EmilSimunovic]

Hi Dave, thanks for another good review. Question, my 99% of the time headphone is LCD 2 CB 2021. Yes I know, your favorite also ;). I am wondering if M11 Plus and 4.4 ballans output will run it properly? Is there enough power for that headphone. Thank you

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

It works adequate but isn't optimal.

[@EmilSimunovic]

@@TheHonestAudiophile Oh that is too bad, I really like this "little" player.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Yeah it is great but is limited when it comes to over ear headphones.

[@iikatinggangsengii2471]

im fine really theyre interesting, its just smtms they put eve20 or mest2 and im sort of uh

[@butch5187]

can i download hi-res music from apple music on sd card instead of the internal drive and play them offline on hi-res (not downgraded to lower resolution). How is the connection with streaming? I only listen to apple music or spotify. thanks

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Sorry I have no idea about Apple or IOS functions. I am an Android and PC user. Had no issues with connectivity, everything worked excellent.

[@butch5187]

thanks for your reply and the video. It would help me decide which one to buy.

[@pauldoyle8986]

How does this work in the car?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Keep in mind I don't own the M11 Plus. But you can connect via Bluetooth lineout if your car has 3.5mm input.

[@chinotolentino]

this video made me buy this

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Awesomeness. I am glad you found the video helpful. Look forward to hearing your impressions.

[@eldrickdanyu]

Do you think this can drive planars well? Like a Hifiman Ananda?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

It'll drive Ananda on balanced 4 4mm and high gain.

[@NoahBershatsky]

Thoughts on the All to DSD feature?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Sorry I don't recall using it.

[@eduardosalgado6598]

Hello, what will you recomend me for studio monitors, this DAP or the DAC SMSL 9N, Not really intresting using it for headphones, thank you

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

When you say studio monitors, are you referring to speakers or an IEM? Also, do you have an amplifier if using speakers?

[@eduardosalgado6598]

@@TheHonestAudiophile i have a par of studio monitors JBL MKII 308, and 1 subwoofer polk 10 inches, i have them with a mixer soundcraft, and i have music in flac format, I dont know if I buy this unit (fiio) or a SMSL DAC SU 9, which one could you recommend me for best quality sound? Many thanks 😀

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

If your flac files are on a PC then the SMSL would be the logical choice. If your flac files are saved on an SD card or can be easily transferred the M11 Plus would be okay. Sonically both are excellent choices.

[@eduardosalgado6598]

@@TheHonestAudiophile thank you very muchas for your answer!

[@luiscastro5456]

Can you connect the M11 to a vehicle ?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

You might be able connect via Bluetooth and also line out. I didn't use it in that capacity.

[@allanjlansangan]

how is the Fiio M11 plus compared to the Hiby R5 Gen 2?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Sorry haven't heard the Hiby R5 Gen 2.

[@tuomas9024]

What is your opinion on sony nw wm1zm2?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Sorry haven't heard it yet.

[@onlyspace9813]

Hi! Between tripowin melé and Kato. Which is better in general?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Not even close competition, Kato all the way.

[@onlyspace9813]

@@TheHonestAudiophile Thank you! Raptgo hook can be better than kato?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

@@onlyspace9813 review coming soon

[@TheCujo1956]

So my question or desire to hear you thoughts is this : The price tag of $700 for the fiio is still in my opinion too high for a large amount of the public.So disregarding the functionality of the fiio, is their a portable music player that can come close to sound of the fiio in the $300- $500 range? I believe this range is where most of the current public interest would be

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

I would look at the Sony WM-A105 for the $300 price point. I haven't heard much more in that price point. BUT the Sony isn't on the same level as detail retrieval and resolution as the Fiio M11 Plus but it isn't too far off.

[@TheCujo1956]

@@TheHonestAudiophile Thanks 😊

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

My pleasure, you're welcome.

[@taranagnew436]

does it have a 1ms delay whenever you use it in dac mode to bt hearing aids?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

That I do not know, sorry. That's a question for Fiio customer support.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

That I do not know, sorry. That's a question for Fiio customer support.

[@h1a8]

Sound is subjective. You should never prefer someone else's flavor just because they indended it that way. Someone else's intentions =/= your taste. It's nothing wrong with a little eq to help match your preference. Music is about enjoyment. You get MORE enjoyable when something closely matches your preference (and not someone else's).

[@gerardosv1]

Hello, what brand of 1tb micro sd card do you recommend me to buy for this equipment? I bought a brand "X" of 2tb and it did not work, in fact the equipment began to fail. Greetings and thank you very much!

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

I prefer and use Samsung SD cards.

[@gerardosv1]

@@TheHonestAudiophile tks!!!👍

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

@@gerardosv1 my pleasure, you're welcome ❤️

[@TheEldestBoyTV]

Can the Sony drive your HiFiMan planars well?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

On the 4.4mm balanced and hi gain it will drive them okay but not optimal.

[@TheEldestBoyTV]

@@TheHonestAudiophile thanks for the reply 👍

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

My pleasure, you're welcome.

[@ianjohnhorwood2605]

Don't be silly, you need a proper headphone amp to get the best out of any high quality headphones.

[@MapleTalkative2]

can you ship a mp3 you don't use to NY? :3

[@damoncattleman5504]

How does it compare to the ifi gryphon?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Totally different gear types. I haven't heard the Gryphon since review. If memory serves me correctly, the Gryphon is a little warmer and laid-back in presentation, not as neutral leaning.

[@NKF1C]

Would you recommend m11 plus or mojo 2 with a smartphone

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

I haven't heard Mojo 2. I would recommend the M11 Plus over a phone combo because it'll save the battery of the phone.

[@NKF1C]

@@TheHonestAudiophile because of the hype of mojo 2 I got confused which one to buy between these two. Sometimes I'm thinking of buying both😅. I need to stop myself from getting too much involved in the products and start enjoying the music with limited sources.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Often I find simpler is better. But those extras can be useful, convenient and tempting.

[@ascomycotinazzz]

can it play hi-res loseless music from apple music?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

I have no idea, I don't use Apple music or any Apple devics or products.

[@fendiking]

yes it can - bit perfect

[@celoratv]

Can we login google account with fiio m11 plus ?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Yes it's a full Android experience minus phone calls.

[@gertwallen]

$700 for a standalone audio player? Almost as an iPhone or for that matter any phone that can play audio? What features justify this price? Sorry if this is a newbie question

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

There's a lot of features, dual DAC chips, dual THX amps, full Android 10, WiFi, Bluetooth, Airplay, Tidal, Quobuz, Deezer, Amazon HD, offline streaming, etc. I'd recommend you check out the links for Fiio and so you can get more details.

[@gertwallen]

@@TheHonestAudiophile Thanks

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

@@gertwallen my pleasure, you're welcome

[@Vamp898]

You are asking this question, because you don't own any high end headphones/earphones. You can not plug any High End Headphones/Earphones into an iPhone. So if you buy good Headphones, you can not listen to music with your iPhone. Also the iPhone doesn't support LDAC, so if you listen Wireless, you are limited to 320kbps while with LDAC, you can have 990kbps Not being able to Listen to Music vs. being able to listen to Music is most likely the biggest difference^^ but an iPhone is pretty much the worst device you can choose to listen to music. No Headphone Jack whatsoever, very poor battery life with almost all USB DAC/Dongle, no LDAC and so on. You can buy an USB DAC/Dongle and for most people, this is the Entry into the Audiophile world (just look at the FiiO KA1 or KA3 which even offers 4.4mm what pretty much all high-end headphones/earphone use). But that won't sound the same. An good and very high quality sound needs good components and especially good capacitors. They take up a lot of space and don't fit into an Dongle. If you only own normal average earphone/headphone, it doesn't matter. An USB Dongle is more than enough. But, the better your headphone/earphone, the highger is the requirement for the source. There is already slight differences in sound depending on if the Aluminium Frame of the device is molded or milled because this changes the output impedance of the device. When you are asking the Question, why do i need an Audio Player, you already answered it, you don't. If you would need it, you would now it and have it. But please, don't start the journey with DAPs. First of all, get a good Headphone/Earphone, this is the most important starting point. Invest all your money into the best Headphone/Earphone and run them from a 20-40€ USB Dongle. That is not ideal, far from that, but it is good enough. You don't need to spend several houndrets or even thousands of dollars to get the last 5% of sound quality. If you're just starting 95% of the Quality is enough, trust me. Rather accept the lack of 5% and save 90% of the money into Headphones/Earphones that make a far bigger difference

[@gertwallen]

@@Vamp898 Thanks for your thorough explanation. I get the point, if you have a high fidelity listening device (ear/headphone, speaker) then the source must be up to the task to justify it. I frequently listen to music using my Bose Soundlink Micro Bluetooth speaker, would that qualify as a good fidelity device?

[@joegarcia6276]

Would this be better then the m11s

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

I've not heard the M11s.

[@johnsoriano3812]

Oh goody!

[@mden2490]

Thanks for a great breakdown video! You did not mention how the Fiio sounded with over the ear headphones? DAPS are not meant to be listened to solely with in ear’s? Based on your use how would this unit drive meze 99’s and the like. Does it have enough juice to power them and other over the ear headphones?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

I agree that DAP aren't only for IEM usage. I mainly use them that way. As for powering over ears, yes the M11 Plus can do that especially utilizing the balanced output. It won't drive most planar or 300ohm or higher headphone properly. But easier to drive headphone will do an adequate job. Personally I prefer over ear headphones on a desktop setup.

[@elasmojones]

dang....you sold me on the Sony...

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Awesome 👍

[@philipdavid7488]

My thoughts; WM1AM2 vs M11+ESS would have been a better comparison - possible revision to this review? Being AM1 released in 2017 & M11+ 2022…

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Since I don't have a WM1A2 I couldn't compare it. If you want to send one my way I will gladly review it and compare it to my WM1. The M11 ESS was returned to Apos after the review.

[@philipdavid7488]

Lol, GG.@@TheHonestAudiophile

[@midibenni]

I have a question. Hiby has a limit on the music database. Hiby limits the database to 20,000 songs. No matter how big your MicroSD card is and how much space you have, the database is limited. That's an absolute no-go for me. Does FiiO also limit the database ? I'm looking for portable freedom for my music library and my Android smartphones don't give me the freedom because after every Android update, all the mp3 player/Music Apps apps don't work properly anymore. The smartphones under Android are now up to date as Windows XP was back then. The longer Android exists, the more changes there are in the system structure, so that today Android has arrived where it was Windows back then. Many apps that no longer work properly. I'm looking for an independent device to stop adjusting/editing everything by hand. I think FiiO M11plus could be the device. However, the database must be able to read/write all my songs without limit.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

I have no idea, all my songs fit and I am not close to 20k songs in my library. Sorry.

[@midibenni]

@@TheHonestAudiophile Thank you !!

[@MrWARRIORMONKS]

Great review, subscribed. I'm curious how it compares to my current DAP, Fiio X7 mark ii (if anyone knows). I've heard from reviewers that the X7 ii sounds better than the original M11, so I'm hesitant to upgrade, though the X7 is becoming slower and harder to use, hence why I want to upgrade.

[@tedthomas9809]

So. I am really somewhat of a novice, but being an android phone user, I am curious if you need a separate account to use the features on this device compared to my phone. I do not have internet or a computer and use my phone for all my music listening. I am really curious if this would work for me. I have Tidal, Qobuz, Amazon music Netflix and Amazon Prime,--- will this work?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

You use the same Google account and all your login and passwords. You'll need a WiFi connection as it doesn't connect via your cell provider.

[@tedthomas9809]

@@TheHonestAudiophile thank you

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

My pleasure, you're welcome.

[@seanptaco]

Where can I buy one?

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

See the description for a link to Apos Audio.

[@johnmc3862]

On the internet.

[@iikatinggangsengii2471]

its great but wm1zm2 is at different league

[@jaywang7511]

1/3 price of a WM1AM2 and 2 X happiness.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Glad you enjoy it.

[@Androcentus]

Screw sony and their proprietary connectors....

[@AeroSatan]

Do ppl not realize that Sonys lack of connectivity options is a blessing? It's a device that let's me get lost in music, not get lost in trying to look up my email. I have plenty of devices for that. I don't need a bleeding edge DAP to play my Spotify, I can definitely do it via Bluetooth on W1MA. Btw the new Sony addresses the android issue and guess what? The original WM1A is better for music.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

I absolutely agree that the Sony WMia is great for disconnecting and enjoying the music. I truly love my Sony, use it every day. I do find that Android based DAP also have it's purposes and places. I like both style of DAP and enjoy them very much so. Thanks for your comment and opinion.

[@Vamp898]

Nobody is forced to use the Apps. I prefer Android because i can buy and download music without using my computer. Connecting my DAP to the Computer and manually copying files is an tedious and annoying task. Its much easier to just press "Download" in an App and you're done. As said, nobody forces you to lookup Emails or use Spotify. The only thing i do with the Android on my DAP is downloading Music and it is worth it just for that.

[@robovirtuoso1354]

The real comparison should be with the WM1Am2, the new Android version of the flagship. That gets the practicality differences out of the way. And the Sony of course wins, it better win coz it's double the price. But seriously, the system wide EQ of the Sony makes it the easy winner for me.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

The Sony abilities for EQ or Direct Source is very nice on all their DAP's. I'd love to compare to the WM1AM2 but one isn't available, maybe one day one will be provided for review.

[@robovirtuoso1354]

@@TheHonestAudiophile Did a comparison last year between M11 Plus LTD and the smaller Sony ZX507. Took home the ZX507 because of the system-wide EQ, and to be honest the small size. The fiio sounded "sharper" (in a positive way), but although hard to describe in words, the Sony sounded more "natural".

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

Understandable. Thanks for the impressions.

[@cliph6068]

The WM1A has been replaced by the WM1AM2 which runs Android and supports the same stuff as the FiiO. The M11 is going to have more power but comparing the M11 to the old WM1A is a bit of an odd comparison given there's a current model designed to compete with modern DAPs.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

True that WM1a V2 is updated with Android. BUT I haven't heard it and it isn't readily available. I have the WM1a and have used it as my reference DAP for several years. As far as sound it is still very competent and accurate and makes for a valid comparison because a DAP has one major purpose, play music. If I had a V2 I would compare, maybe one will provided at some point to the channel.

[@ianjohnhorwood2605]

I don't like any of the ESS or AKM dac products period. Burr brown 24/96 and 24/192 are the best and most neutral dacs ever made. Best portable player for sound quality is the cayin N6ii with the two burr browns 1792A dac option, this is the most neutral and accurate player in sound quality compared to any other dap, even if it is not the most powerful, that is what headphone amplifiers are made for. As regards fiio products sound quality, no thanks, don't like them, nor astell and kerns AKM or ESS equipped products either.

[@TheHonestAudiophile]

I haven't heard the Cayin N6ii so I can't deny or confirm that it is the most natural and accurate DAP. I love Burr Brown DAC sound and think they're very good. Do I agree that they're the only natural and accurate reproduction, no as I believe the other DAC manufacturers are very capable as well. There is a lot that goes into sound reproduction beside the chip.We all gear differently. Thanks for your comment.

[@ianjohnhorwood2605]

I disagree, other dacs have negatives as regards to neutrality with detail and resolution sound quality for the full spectrum of frequencies without sounding thin and edgy, or slow and sluggish and dull. ESS and AKM dacs are not in the the same league as burr brown 24/96 or 24/192 dacs full stop. ladder dacs don't even get me started on those things.

[@bc8Sooners]

Every few positive of Sony is quite a stretch, the Fiio M11 Plus can do local as well and support humongous micro SD card, want to "disconnect" just turn off wi-fi. Sony is just overpriced and outdated, Fiio is the first to make high-res portable (somewhat) accessible.