Fiio M3K Audio Player Super Review

[@SuperReview]

I made some suggestions to Fiio on their support forum to make the M3K better, at least for me. If you agree, maybe we can bump the thread and get them to improve the firmware. fiio.me/forum.php?mod=viewthread&tid=43810

[@KopiOkaya]

Super* Review: Bro, don't waste your time. I am on the FiiO forum coming to 2 years already and many problems I have proposed in the past are still not fixed. Their moderators will keep coming with excuses (such as their engineers will look into it), that's all the replies you get.

[@CharlyDS]

Yeah, let's say they "hear" but rarely do they fix/enhance (well they do fix, critical things at least, to be honest9. They live on releasing new products all the time, small team and all.

[@hithere8203]

Please help me decide!!!! I just got ATH M50X headphones. I want to experience better sound quality from my Mac. Will this actually sound better than my 2013 13" rMBP's internal DAC? If the difference is so tiny that I can't differentiate with these headphones I better not waste my money. So please help me in deciding whether to buy them or not Please reply me.. Thanks a lot!!!

[@Caseydog3]

Super* Review can I convert iTunes to mp3 and install on this?

[@shameermohamed4345]

Am using iPod classic 5th generation with Audio technica M40x ., Is this fiio sound better than iPod..please suggest

[@64north20west]

Thank you for this excellent review. I bought one a week ago and agree with your evaluation. Despite the flaws, I think it is impossible to beat at this price.

[@dcime1]

Your reviews are concise and well rounded. Please focus on sound quality more in future reviews. We all know the touchscreen resolution, aluminum body aspects. The only other thing is the device menu operation ease. Those 2 things and you've nailed t!

[@SuperReview]

I'll be honest, it's realll hard for me to tell a difference in sound between these players.

[@dcime1]

@@SuperReview So this unit is $130 less with current pricing. This appears to be the perfect reasonably priced newest player?

[@SuperReview]

@@dcime1 If you can accept some UI annoyances, it is a very good sounding player at a great price.

[@dcime1]

@@SuperReview I feel the Hidizs AP60 MKII has everything and more at under $100

[@ron9511]

Sound quality is barely discernable between most well made daps. The main differentiators with daps is battery, noise floor and power which has been mentioned in the review.

[@255sol9]

To skip tracks on this device, you need to hold the volume up/down button for more then one second (WITH THE SCREEN OFF) and it works. (Or your blow your ears with any regular iems) Answer!

[@SuperReview]

Thanks. Actually figured that out by accident 'cause I was trying to change the volume. It's pretty silly the buttons behave differently depending on whether or not the screen is on...

[@CharlyDS]

@@SuperReview true, but it's the same in most (all?) FiiO DAPs I know (stupid consistency? :D ) Also it's unexpected that + is rew and - is ffwd.. Their bluetooth devices work the same in fact..

[@teliph3U]

@@CharlyDS The easy fix would be to introduce an option in the settings. Customization of software solves a lot of problems. But it seems people nowadays forget that. I'm not surprised with all the crap that Apple and others put out.

[@fckinnonstick9919]

The fact that this is as good sounding as the 200 dollar walkman makes this a must buy for just 70 bucks!

[@sbrazenor2]

I got one for like $45. The screen sucks and the UI is garbage, but it produces a great sound output. It's best to select and album with this one and just let it go.

[@excludedkratos]

@@sbrazenor2 No built in storage?

[@inoino9918]

@@sbrazenor2 update the firmware, the UI and Sounds will be better

[@srirajnaik589]

@@inoino9918 I too have the m3k and after update too it has gone worse. Like his comment I would sAy it sounds great. I wonder for what reason they would make it a 1TB compatible player lmao

[@ryanc2115]

Lol 70 dollars for an mp3 player is still expensive.. you got to be kidding me

[@randyarbuya2156]

Awsome dude was looking for this product and see if it performs well

[@rael2099]

The new black model corrects some of the issues like the sd card ejection, the pause button acts like one when the screen is turned off. The problem is to find a decent micro sd card with good capacity, and quality 512gb cards are expensive. I can't imagine how expensive 1tb and 2tb cards will be when they come out. After losing several classic ipods due to hd corruption, this device made me extremely happy due to it's capacity support because I have an extensive music collection that will never fit into a cellphone. I'll be looking for the more expensive models as soon as they support greater capacity micro sd cards as this one.

[@Dr23rippa]

To get around this you can buy a USB C to USB memory stick so you can carry around a high memory USB and transfer files super quick.

[@shameermohamed4345]

Is this sounds better than iPod classic ?! Or one plus 7 mobile ??! Please help

[@UNSCPILOT]

By the time I fill my current 64 gig SD in this adorable fella, 1TB cards will probably be cheap XD

[@ratemo1797]

Can the player crossfade?

[@ChoosinUsername]

Just ordered one after my 10 year old iPod classic broke (It served me well). Excited to see how much my listening experience will enhance since it's a hi Res audio player. Im considering buying a budget iem to go with it too and zeroed on Tin T2, thanks to your other review. Hope they couple well.

[@SuperReview]

Good pair.

[@hailrex8610]

how was m3k

[@Dr23rippa]

Good choice! Surprised you got that long from the iPod.

[@barberismeable]

How was it?

[@rubaiattalukdar7837]

Great detailed unbiased review..thanks brother..keep going..

[@lvill3633]

I think this will work perfectly with an amplifier, even just the budget NX1s ☺️

[@stavags]

excellent player great sound

[@renodeify]

Love your review. I'm looking for a reasonably priced music player to carry around and you pretty much sold me on this. It seems like the only downside is the UI but that's something I willing to live with as long as the sound quality is good.

[@SuperReview]

Sound quality is very good 👍

[@marcotw2298]

You can install rockbox on it.

[@Swayeee]

Comprehensive review, thanks!

[@nobbynoris]

Bought one of these three months ago, and I'm very well pleased with it. It has forceful, punchy sound, and feels solid and well-manufactured. Only downsides are, no Bluetooth, text is almost too small to easily read, and there doesn't seem any way to intuitively skip through the artist listings when you have loaded a great deal of music onto it, like I have. But for the price, £60 UK, it's still an absolute bargain.

[@UNSCPILOT]

Honestly no wireless anything with this player is what sold me on it, pure music, only music, and it forces you to use the actual dac and amp inside, which is the whole point. It's purity of function pleases me, when I need the internet, or bluetooth, I have a PC and a phone that have that covered just fine... and it also means this thing has battery life *FOR DAYS* because it's not constantly seeking wifi or trying to maintain bluetooth links. So yeah... I kinda adore this little fella... a lot.

[@kitsunegiblaze8022]

I tend to listen to whole albums all the way thru. One at a time, so the lack of a "Shuffle every track on the storage" feature doesn't really bother me.

[@CharlyDS]

Loved the review, I have the M6 but a friend of mine want to replace his ipod shuffle on the cheap so I directed him to the M3K. I have the X1/X1II so I know what it is to suffer with FiiO navigation and such, this one looks better in comparison. Also it does recording!

[@Dr23rippa]

Fiio M5 or Shanling MO

[@倪子宸-z1x]

Love your review very much ! But actually, it was mainly designed for students. Considering that point, the sound quality is already too good for a 70 bucks DAP, though Sony a45 has a little bit clearer performance at bass. It does have many places that could do better, like the pause button LOL. Hope it also sells in Taiwan, or it will be hard for me to buy things on Amazon.

[@sreedharkutty911]

Nice review bro planning to buy this. Love from india😘😘😘

[@SuperReview]

✌️

[@sreedharkutty911]

Do I need a amp for this player or loud enough cause I have a fiio e11k

[@SuperReview]

@@sreedharkutty911 Depends on what headphones you're using. 99% of headphones will get plenty loud on the M3K without an amp. But if you're listening to high-impedance headphones (like Sennheiser HD 600 / 6XX) you'll probably want to amp them.

[@sreedharkutty911]

@@SuperReview thanks bro✌

[@tidason]

Great review man. Thanks for sharing all of these to us. Pretty impressive digital audio player for its price

[@dcime1]

Well after a good 6 hours of research and videos, yours, I just ordered the Sony NW-A45/B Walkman with Hi-Res Audio, Grayish Black and a Sandisk 256gb ultra micro sd card with a black silicone case.. Thanks Again

[@SuperReview]

Dope, let me know how you like it.

[@maxtrex7977]

@David Does the Sony Walkman support 256gb card? I can't seem to find what's the maximum storage it can hold.

[@rdaffon23]

I have the Fiio FX3 - mainly for use during workouts. Music quality is good, has bluetooth functionality, DAP & AMP, even has offers balanced output.

[@SuperReview]

Is the balanced output louder?

[@mrawther]

I had two devices in my radar; FiiO M6 and Sony A45. But then I really don't need a touch display device which can connect to network and play spotify and stuff. I just needed a dedicated high resolution music player and I want it cheaper. So, I went ahead and bought FiiO M3K on 30% discount from regular price of CAD99 and never looked back. For the price, this is an awesome value for money device. The sound is very good. I don't think I will hear a difference If I compare with M6. But yes, Sony A45 will sound different but not necessarily better because it has a different sound signature. FiiO is flat but Sony always is more average consumer friendly. To summarize, this is a very good device for someone who doesn't want to spend too much and don't need the bells and whistles. The cons in the review were mostly nit-picky.

[@SuperReview]

Thanks for the impressions 👍

[@181grisa]

Just got my m3k thanks to you and I love it ! Waiting for the Co-Dunguri Brass to be delivered aswell, got them for 40€ shipping from japan included :) Can't wait to re-discover my music with these 2.

[@SuperReview]

DANG, good combo off the bat. Let me know what you think. What music are you listening to?

[@181grisa]

I listen literally to everything. From Classical or Pop to Trap or DnB/Dubstep, depending on the mood. I speak russian so I love listening to the Red Army Choir aswell, so I can't wait to see how the vocals are going to sound ! The quality content you provide is amazing man, you deserve to be way more successful , keep it up ! :)

[@181grisa]

I'm currently listening on my Marshall Major 2, but I really want to try in-ear headphones as I never owned some decent ones :)

[@181grisa]

I just received the Co-Dunguri. I can't stop smiling while listening to my music :D Happy I trusted you on those two, the quality is just amazing! Happy New Year man!

[@GAURAV4823]

Does it come with an equaliser?

[@limitlessmusic2272]

It is nice review man thumbs up 👍

[@azad9294]

And here i am listening to my ugly as hell zishan dsd pro..so much better than my LG v20..love it!! Btw nice review bro..fiio m3k is on my watchlist among shanling m0 and xduoo x3ii before deciding to buy zishan

[@SuperReview]

What's the UI like on the Zishan? Kind of a funky looking device.

[@azad9294]

@@SuperReview the ui is simple..heck,the dap itself is simple in general..its easy enough to learn the 5 button function that u can operate the player without looking..the dap is purely for music experience,no BT or usb function..but u gotta bear with the size tho

[@WButterTBWButter]

Also, you can use the arrow keys to navigate menus too and if you hold them, it browses through the folders way quicker than the touchbar ever could.

[@SuperReview]

Yeah it's funny that they give you a slider, and then make your skip buttons do what the slider should do better.

[@WButterTBWButter]

@@SuperReview They really should give us the option that the FiiO X1 had where you could skip through the individual letters when you held down the shortcut key and moved the scrollwheel.

[@glgermain]

Your reviews are great. I'm looking for a DAP in this price range, and still considering what to do. One thing I didn't like about the FIIO is that there was no option to make the headphone jack operate as a line out for hooking into audio equipment or an amp (when using as a dac for example). I'd really like to hear a comparison with the Shanling M0, especially in sound quality. It's about $30 more, but I think it has a line out option and bluetooth (which I don't care about either, unless there is some way to send files to the SD card over bluetooth rather than removing the card or plugging the usb into the computer). And it has a touchscreen - not sure if that's better or not. But for some reason I have a feeling that the sound quality is better on the FIIO. Would love to hear opinions comparing the two, and whether there is a way to send files over the bluetooth connection on the Shanling. Wifi would be very useful for sending music files, but the players with wifi are more $$. Not sure if it's worth saving up for a better one.

[@ameenperumannil1657]

I too need that comparison between M0 and m3k... Need to know if that bluetooth is worth it especially with aptx HD

[@iesarahman8144]

it uses ldac which is supposed tobe lossless or near enough, so it'd make any headphones wireless if you connected them to it via bt to your phone

[@SuperReview]

I thought about getting a Shanling M0 when it first came out, but the UI on it turns me off. What's the diff between the Fiio headphone jack and the Shanling line out? Just fixed volume output?

[@glgermain]

@@SuperReview Yea, fixed correct level output. If it's implemented correctly it should be quieter because line out should not be putting out much current, while headphone output needs to put out current to drive headphones.

[@onetwo6039]

With such low power output it wouldn't be a good idea. I thought the system in my truck sucked as it sounded low, but then connected the Walkman to a Sony pha portable headphone Amp and it was night and day difference in my truck.

[@thejoojooman6538]

That De La Soul album (& it's follow-up) is fantastic.

[@SuperReview]

Still waiting for AOI III 🤞

[@hrris92]

hey dude, im the one who suggest M6, and i do have it. i got it last week from aliexpress. I have to say M6 is perfect for me. Anything i loved from sony are in FiiO M6. Plus added Output Power and streaming abilty. With OS like m7 and m9, Fiio M6 OS is quite fast and snappy. You dont need any learnig curve to use it. Its really up thereon the rank with Hiby R3 within this Price range. Based from review i watched and read in internet Hiby R3 doesnt have good High's compare to Sony NW-a45. I can assure you, Fiio M6 is compareable with A45 in sound quality, with bieng a llitte bit brighter, fuller(cuz more power output) and, mid forward. and one more thing, if you ordered from Fiio Official Store in aliexpress, the Price is already included with DHL express (wich only took 7 days and arrived exactly on 24th, what a chirstmas present for my self :P). i wish you cann get it for review, cuz its really good device and not so many people reviewed it. BadGuyGoodAudioReviews did it already (kzbin.info/www/bejne/f4usiIh4gsuMsMU) , but you must be watched it already, you're one of his Patreon right? he did mention you in his video.

[@SuperReview]

Yeah the M6 looks really nice, would like to do a video comparing it vs. Hiby R3. Hmm.

[@toddsie72]

I'm with you in using a stand-alone music/media player, specifically for reasons like not draining battery on my daily driver. Hence I run my previous phone (LG V20) for that, but she's a bit bulky. Will look into this little jobbie to fill that role ... Glad to have found your review.

[@SuperReview]

Hey Todd Ryan, my name is Mark Ryan.

[@toddsie72]

Family !!! Lol - We're a massive clan, aint we ?

[@chrisblake5992]

Great review! Getting one of these for xmas and I'll be happy to no longer be rubber-banding a DAC to my iPhone

[@SuperReview]

Which DAC do you use on your phone?

[@chrisblake5992]

@@SuperReview I'm using a FiiO Q1 Mk1. It might be more manageable if it didn't require a camera connection kit and USB micro wire. Plus using a rubber band hides a portion of the screen... Other than that it sounds really good

[@yovanleonardo9135]

Thank you for your review on the Fiio! Very detail and helpful video. Can you compare the M3K versus Shanling M0? thanks

[@SuperReview]

I'll try to get a Shanling.

[@pjmijares4774]

Great review! Any plans to review the Fiio M3 pro? Or any thoughts about it compared with the M3k?

[@SuperReview]

I don't think I will, though it looks interesting. Disappointed it's still just three buttons.

[@koolstup]

👍🏻 Great review...this player reminds me of the old Creative Zen touch from the late 90’s, when it was going up against the newish iPod. Still monochrome screens back then!

[@paulmorris563]

My 15 year old creative zen touch has just lost full button functionality. I cant skip to next song or go back or pause. It has been bullet proof but finally time to move on 😥😥😥

[@joemann7971]

I had one of those. That's exactly what this reminded me off, and I just had to get it. I absoluely loved my old Zen, but 90s? I think you're looking at early 2000s. The Zen Touch was out in the "iPod" era, which was around 2000-2010ish, around there.

[@joemann7971]

But late 90s, early 2000s... I guess it's close enough.

[@defandranurredityo2493]

My first impression was a similarity with iRiver mp3 player from 2000's

[@MarrkyyMee]

Fiio released firmware M3K-FW1.3.0 and now it offers 3 custom eq.

[@iimatrix-lo-fibeats8995]

Mark Cenina Yeah, you can download it on the website.

[@maxtrex7977]

Can you customize the eq or there are only new presets?

[@Misuanity]

This will be perfect for me, I am looking for DAP with no bluetooth due to work requirements. Do you recommend much better DAP without bluetooth? Or I'll go for this?. Thank you

[@SuperReview]

Oh if you're interested in chatting with us nerds about audio stuff, I opened up a Discord server. It's pretty chill, let's keep it that way ✌️ discord.gg/ZBpXZnp

[@arranmc182]

quick way to test the grounding of any music player like this is plug in your best headphones and try and then charge the device if you get no extra static on the headphones when nothing is played then you got a good device as had some horrid devices that moment you charge them and try and listen to then you get crazy buzzing

[@voltgaming2213]

arranmc182 can you tell if fiio leaks colour

[@tentofive7917]

good review... how much effect, if paired with CCA C10, in this case whether the sound produced is cleaner and more detailed, or sounds wider ?? and is this worth buying from a middle-class smartphone

[@SuperReview]

Man it's just an audio player. they're not magic.

[@BrianWechtenhiser]

$70 vs $220. "Twice as much." Math is hard. :)

[@SuperReview]

Math is for computers.

[@Beefytiing]

$110 is half the price. he clearly said 'if this can perform for $70, less than half the price...' lol try paying more attention when watching videos

[@polaris911]

*slow clap. Good job.. you got him good.

[@DearFrogPrince]

Pore P Pore P oh you are so smart that you would cut yourself: except, you are not. Listen to 1:40, and I don’t know: maybe try paying a bit more attention while watching video. In that way, you will appear less of a fool.

[@Beefytiing]

@@DearFrogPrince so you're going to take the one line he said at 1:40, completely disregard the rest of the 17 minute video. not take into account the other time he mentioned it that he said 'more than half the price' to make yourself feel better about a confirmation bias? Lmao tool

[@adhn3425]

Hello great review, I have an iPhone 6 with sennheiser hd 598 sr , the volume is fine, I recommend buying m3k? If difference of sound is important? By the way I listen to FLAC files

[@SuperReview]

I don't think sound difference will be huge, maybe a bit, but they'll get louder on the Fiio.

[@adhn3425]

Super* Review and the fiio x1 II has a difference of sound with respect to m3k?

[@SuperReview]

@@adhn3425 I would be surprised if I noticed a significant difference, but I haven't used the X1.

[@Tssukiii]

I bought this one used a couple of months ago Now I'll sell my Fiio M11, because with IEMs this is about the same sound, has enough storage (I use 400GB) and is so much lighter and easier. Also almost all IEMs don't need 4.4mm. It's not good enough for my Harmonicdyne Zeus Elite sadly, but on the go amazing with IEMs. I also prefer these stylish old ones to all the Android DAPs. Replacing my M11 is not what I thought though hahahahha

[@SuperReview]

Based.

[@mrzackkygmaimgthai238]

Dodocool da 106 vs fiio m3k Who better?

[@SuperReview]

Not sure, haven't heard about the Dodocool.

[@KopiOkaya]

From my past experience with FiiO, they are never good at updating or fixing bugs in their firmwares. Until today, the problems in my X5III are still not fix. And yes, I have the M3K too. I am using this more now.

[@SuperReview]

Yeah, I got that impression after browsing their support forums. How does the M3K compare to the X5iii?

[@KopiOkaya]

@@SuperReview : I prefer the M3K more. X5III sounds too dry for my taste. Also, M3K has much better battery life (32 hours vs. 6 hours).

[@SuperReview]

@@KopiOkaya Oh I didn't expect a sound difference. The battery life difference is huge, though. Battery life is one reason why I don't really want an Android-based player.

[@KopiOkaya]

@@SuperReview : Yes, both players sounds different. I still prefer the older X3II, which sounds livelier and more robust. Unfortunately, I sold it.

[@NathanChisholm041]

The Fiio x5 mk3 sound great and blows the x3 away! With the latest firmware it's running great!

[@tamilarasu3822]

Thank you for your Review.. I got these and it sounds amazing with my kz zs10 Pro.

[@gardyscrolls]

I was listening to music with my phone in my pocket while mowing the lawn and it started making 911 calls 😄. I need something like this.

[@SuperReview]

LOL, iPhone? My iPhone literally called 911 while I was parking once, I think the power button got pressed and held for a long time and for some reason that means call the cops.

[@gardyscrolls]

@@SuperReview😂😂😂😂

[@gardyscrolls]

@@SuperReview it happened with my Iphone and now my LG too. I'm a big fan of the Walkman also, had a few of them but the one i want now (64gb) is expensive.

[@SmileBam]

Hello man.I really like your reviews, they clear and thorough, i like it.One question, as you know more: is this an upgrade to Sony Nwe 393 audio wise?I want a under 100 euros entry level dap and this seems to fit the bill.What do you think?

[@SuperReview]

I haven't heard that Sony, can't say. I think this is a good-sounding player, though.

[@SmileBam]

@@SuperReview Thank you for the reply!

[@justme7920]

What would you choose between Fiio M3K vs LG V30? The Fiio is like $60-70 new and a used V30 is about the same. Or could you suggest something better in the $75 price range? Using the blons and etys erxr I got at your recommendation. Currently using with iphone SE + $9 apple lightning to 3.5mm adapter that has a built in dac. Thank you

[@SuperReview]

What do you want that your iPhone doesn't do? Soundwise, I wouldn't expect big differences. The Fiio will give you playback buttons.

[@justme7920]

@@SuperReview it’s annoying switching the dongle between several iems. Moreover, I heard good things about the LG’s quad dac, have you tried the lg v series? I want to get the most out of the erxr.

[@SuperReview]

Have not used an LG, but it's just a headphone jack, I would temper expectations.

[@anotherjuan]

looks really good like a walkman and ipod baby

[@SuperReview]

Imagine that hookup.

[@user-fsded]

Good combined headphone Xiaomi Hybrid Pro HD and this player? Will these headphones reveal the sound of this player?

[@wtfiswiththosehandles]

I do understand need to buy a digital audio player, but I don't understand why it doesn't come with dedicated physical buttons to operate most common functions. Kinda stupid...

[@colonelccccc]

No, when in Public transport you can actually change songs, volume up and down without having to take it out of your pocket...but I guess you're born with an iPhone in your hands.

[@wtfiswiththosehandles]

@@colonelccccc I was born with iphone with my hand because I want device to have physical buttons to operate it's intended functions? You're not very bright, are you? Not to mention that at 43 I am definitely old enough to be your father. Though I am glad not to be him.

[@SuperReview]

Yikes, the squabbles. This player has buttons, they're just not always dedicated to the same functions which is kind of annoying. My Sony A45 Walkman is better in this regard.

[@255sol9]

@@colonelccccc correct

[@diegolainfiesta]

Good review. Which headset in an analog price category would you recommend for this device? (in/over the ear)

[@SuperReview]

Tin Hifi T2, Blon BL-03, Fiio FA1, Rose mini2 MkII, Tin Hifi T4, Etymotic ER2XR

[@diegolainfiesta]

@@SuperReview would you recommend this over the KZ ZS10 Pro IEM? I saw your other video and Amazon reviews and chose those.

[@SuperReview]

Yes, these are my latest recs.

[@Rockstar-gj2uo]

Very informative review.. I am planning to buy this.. I just have one question though , does it provide an extended 2TB memory ???

[@SuperReview]

According to their website, it supports Micro SD cards up to 2TB. I've only used 128GB cards.

[@ezraken9618]

Gonna order it tonight

[@SuperReview]

Lemme know what you think.

[@mrk1190]

Cheaper is cool and all, but the fact it doesn't support bluetooth makes it understandable that it's not as expensive as the Walkman. Also just the settings on the buttons are more simplified.

[@joaquin9312]

I think that the time they took to include a couple of adapters and a case sold me already, I like when companies try to actually give you value for your money. Little things make a difference.

[@SuperReview]

Yeah, it's nice when they don't nickel and dime you.

[@groartigegrammatik4997]

I thought this was Unbox Therapy because of the thumbnail

[@SuperReview]

I'm no Lew.

[@groartigegrammatik4997]

@@SuperReview what?

[@llltdhn]

How is the battery comparison betwen the Fiio M3K and the Sony NW-A45 ?

[@SuperReview]

Sony is about 50% longer.

[@llltdhn]

@@SuperReview Thank you for answering!! (Didn’t expect :-) ) And that just on paper or is it a Fact?

[@SuperReview]

I have more experience with the Sony, which I used daily for a couple of years. Its battery life estimates of ~35 hours seem right. M3K claims about 25 hours, I haven't used it enough to know if it does better or worse, but seems a good ballpark.

[@llltdhn]

@@SuperReview Okay great to know. Can you tell in which Format and quality you are using your songs on the Sony? The higher the quality of the music you are listening to, the lesser battery life right?

[@SuperReview]

Most of my library is 16-bit FLAC.

[@BenGmanUk]

Great review thanks, but based on your criticism it seems like it warranted a 4/5. I think the pause issue is now resolved too. Someone else mentioned the black version fixed the sd card slot issue, though not sure how true this is.

[@SuperReview]

Not sure which pause button issue -- been a while since I did this review. But I just checked, I have latest firmware, and the pause button doesn't work when in menus.

[@BenGmanUk]

@@SuperReview ah balls that's a shame. Not a deal breaker for me though.

[@jomargranada4135]

Hello, Would you recommend pairing this with a kz zs 10 pro?. Are there any better daps you know around this price point?. Lastly, is there a noticeable difference between the music played in a dap and in a smart phone?.😊

[@SuperReview]

Under $100 this is probably the best DAP I've found, but honestly I haven't used a ton. My other fave is a bit too wonky to really recommend (Zishan Z2). As for difference in sound quality vs. a smart phone, honestly probably not significant -- unless your phone has a noticeable hiss (which is fairly common), or doesn't get your earphones loud enough (ZSN10 Pro is pretty sensitive so probably not an issue), a DAP won't change much in sound.

[@jomargranada4135]

@@SuperReview Thank you very much!

[@michaelskramii2245]

Thanks for the review - informative and thorough. I am looking for an upgrade from my Sansa Clip, and this is looking like an affordable contender. Did I miss whether or not this has an EQ function and playback gain settings?

[@SuperReview]

It has an EQ, but it's all presets -- no custom EQ. I didn't look for a volume gain option -- I'd check right now, but just got back from vacation and battery is dead.

[@michaelskramii2245]

Thank you for the info - sounds like the setting on my Sansa player minus the custom setting.

[@SuperReview]

@@michaelskramii2245 FYI, just checked, no gain option. You can set the max volume, not quite the same thing.

[@michaelskramii2245]

@@SuperReview thank you for the update - much appreciated :)

[@icarusi]

Does this have FF & REW as well as Next/Previous, and/or Goto? If so does it work consistently in HiRes audio. Some of the HiRes players I checked would only do Next/Previous at HR, but FF/RW/Goto at LR. I'm using a Sandisk Clip Sport, but previously a Sandisk Clip, which could proportionately FF a 2 hr recording in 30s. I assumed the Clip Sport would, but only slow speed FF/REW. I listen to 2-3hr radio shows, and occasionally hit the FF/Next key as 'Next', rather than continuous 'press' for FF, then spend an age navigating the FF to get back to the original play point.

[@SuperReview]

There are skip buttons on the front touch interface. As well, I believe the volume buttons will skip tracks if you press and hold (but only when the screen is off). Most of my music is FLAC, didn't notice any different behavior with different files.

[@icarusi]

@@SuperReview By 'skip' are you meaning FF/REW? My tracks are 2-3hr continuous*, no breaks, so I need very* FF/REW or Goto at all file resolutions.

[@SuperReview]

@@icarusi Ohhhh, I dunno about that to be honest. I listen to music tracks so I don't commonly forward/rewind within them.

[@icarusi]

@@SuperReview Thanks anyway. If you get a chance to FF/REW a long track, or just get or make a long track (or podcast) let me know how it does. FYI the Bose app doesn't, not even a move on the playbar, but the Sonos app does. Nearly every sw player I've ever used does it, even with 4k video. Don't know why a lot of hw players (original Sansa Clip apart) don't.

[@polaris911]

Were you able to customize the EQ? Some reviews said you can only use preset equalizer profiles. That's a dealbreaker for me. They should just make it $100 and add bluetooth and an FM radio. Think I'll just stick with my X1 for now

[@SuperReview]

Nope, the EQ on mine (with latest firmware) only lets you pick from presets, no customization.

[@gaklimited]

The equilizer presets are garbage... it reduces the soundstage a lot and also removes the fullness of every song. It's better without the equilizer. Try the Sony a56hn if you want one of the best equilizers out there

[@nicksajs]

M3 va m5 in audio quality and loudness? Plz explain in detail?

[@Marco-00]

it does skip tracks with volume buttons, just hold up or down for few moments

[@SuperReview]

Yeah, but only with the screen turned off. Annoying IMO.

[@drdimento]

Nice Review. Too bad it doesn't have bluetooth. Is there such a thing as a Fiio that has bluetooth in and out with recorder and FM, that is under $100 ?

[@SuperReview]

Check out the Fiio M5. I'm not certain if it has an FM tuner, though. Might also look at Sony NW-A45, they're being discounted now and have Bluetooth + FM radio.

[@drdimento]

@@SuperReview i'll check out the m5. i had briefly looked at it actually, in part because i could use it for a set of wired earphones for the iPhone 7, but one thing i truly despise about it, is the top plug headphones. what a STUPID place to put the plug. I mean, c'mon. would be so much easier to hold in your hand with the cord coming out of the bottom AND that way the USB easily could be sitting in front of ya with the USB cord out the top toward the computer. Hmmmmmm, does that make MORE SENSE or what ? Thanks for your help. I'll buy the M5.

[@drdimento]

@@SuperReview just wanted to follow up on the M5. I hated it. So tiny you could hardly hang on to the thing. The firmware is so squirrelly that I could hardly do anything. Not laid out logical and a general overall pain in the rumpelstillskin. Can't wait for it to find its' way back to Amazon and I get my $107+ refund. I'm going to buy a nice set of wireless headphones and BT them to my iPhone 7 and let it go at that, which btw, is so easy to get music onto my iPhone through the new "Music" app that all ya do is drag and drop and you can literally watch the song show up on your phone. Moreover, you can reorder the song list that it's like WOW !! Now if I can just figure out how to make multiple playlists :-)

[@NotMyGumDropButtons.444]

Great review. Bluetooth can suck it.

[@raphaeldiaz1769]

This against Xduoo X3ii purely from sound quality, my sound preferences are musical type that has alot of instruments but with a bit leaning on the trebleish side but still has good bass and i hope but i dont require i wish for also a good sound stage I can get this for 75$ and the xduoo for 95$ I will appreciate if you can still recommend something better but not much higher than "97" dollars but if you do recommend something near 97 i will consider it.

[@woodyshade]

Can you customize, change the single parameters of the equalizer or it comes with fixed options(that would be atrocious)?

[@abhigyanvyas6381]

A firmware upgrade introduced 3 custom EQ settings

[@prabhuja7554]

This is my great 1st entry for a upgrade from phone...how best is it as a Dac with smartphone??

[@SuperReview]

I have not used it with a smartphone.

[@prabhuja7554]

@@SuperReview its not Day and night but great pretty great improvement paired with a smartphone bro..especially Cl 06 fiio connector for Spotify etc ..and a good IEM fiio H1s amazing👏 for a beginner i suggest...

[@ravirajpawar7734]

In a 17 minutes video he talked about sound quality for barely a minute.. That's a bummer.. And yes, I too want to see a comparo between this and the shanling m0

[@SuperReview]

What kind of comments do you want on the sound quality? It sounds as good and clean as anything I've heard. Doesn't add more bass, doesn't add more soundstage, doesn't boost the treble, just plays your music.

[@ravirajpawar7734]

@@SuperReview thanks for replying No offense but if I'm buying something this cheap I should expect some minor niggles with UI and stuff, sound quality is gonna be the most important thing here.. Btw I'm looking to get a dap either m3k or m0 and also a budget IEM like tin t2/ks as 10/ trn v80 But I'm confused whether I should get a dap or use a dac with my phone..

[@SuperReview]

@@ravirajpawar7734 In sound quality, I expect that I would not tell the difference between a budget DAP and a DAC for your phone. I would still choose a DAP though because of battery life, physical buttons, and the ability to upgrade SD cards for more storage.

[@ravirajpawar7734]

Thanks for your opinion..🙂

[@iluvj00]

I mean, this is a player not a pair of headphones. All you can say about the sound is dependant of the headphones. At most you can say if it sounds clear or not.

[@MHenderson]

Thx for the review. Does the MK3 ship with any kind of an SD card, and, if so, what size? Thanks!

[@SuperReview]

Nope, no SD card included. You can get 128GB cards on Amazon for ~$20.

[@darkpixelproductions]

Can u watch videos on this or only music? Do u recommend it in 2021?

[@SuperReview]

Only music. It's still solid, though Fiio released an updated model called M3 Pro that I like better.

[@J276]

If the Walkman a100 comes out, will you review it?

[@SuperReview]

I am planning to, yes. Hopefully it's sold in the US.

[@colefellner5718]

Hey brother thanks for the videos! Was wondering for a user like me who uses tidal on a iPhone XS with a dongle and a Porta pro.... am I benefiting at all going with a digital player regarding quality?

[@SuperReview]

Probably not honestly. I haven't listened to Tidal outside of a trial, and never over an iPhone XS, but I imagine it's pretty comparable to FLAC, especially if you're listening with Porta Pros. Portas are a great headphone, but they're not so highly resolving that they're very sensitive to source I'd guess. Do they get loud enough on the iPhone?

[@colefellner5718]

Super* Review thanks boss

[@landlash]

Hi, thank you for the review. Is this DAP sound quality big upgrade over sound quality of budget phone like moto G5s Plus. Im running Takstar pro82's and Koss Porta Pro on my phone with PowerAmp music player and It's sounds ok. I was thinkig about buying this DAP to upgrade sound quality, but will sound quality will be much better or diffrance will be small so it's better to save money and buy more expensive DAP. Just got in audio game and not planning ( for now ) to buy better headphones.

[@SuperReview]

Hard to say since I haven't heard the Moto G5s. Compared to my Samsung S10e, I think sound quality is pretty similar with these basic DAPs. You'll get a bigger difference with good quality music recordings.

[@landlash]

@@SuperReview I found my old Sansa c250 and sound quality is similar to my Moto G5s, so I'm guessing this dap being the same price range wouldn't be much of a upgrade. Thank you for your response.

[@SmileBam]

@@landlash technology has got much better and good sound is more accesible.I m sure this is better than an old player.

[@landlash]

@@SmileBam I end up spending more money and got myself Fiio M6. I did not consider stuff like wifi or bluetooth something I need in my dap but now im happy i got it. Love how lightweight it is and not too big and not too small. Touchscreen works great, and sound quality was upgrate over my phone. I'm very happy with it. And I got YAXI earpads for my Koss Porta Pros, that was a definitely upgrade too.

[@SmileBam]

@@landlash I m glad.My budget is less, so i think i ll get the M3K, but is it better than the Sony Nwe-393?

[@prabhuja7554]

Does it do good as DAC with smart phone bro...grabbed one so cheap...

[@prabinpaudel5572]

I'm planning to buy cca c10 and fiio m3k because I'm tight on budget but want to really enjoy my music. Is the pair suitable or Can you suggest me some better combo for around the same price? Thanks in advance!

[@SuperReview]

I prefer Tin T2 and Moondrop Crescent to those CCAs. M3K is good for the price.

[@prabinpaudel5572]

@@SuperReview thank you so much.. Can I ask one more question. How do LG phones dac and Amp compare to these sub 100 dollar players? Have you tried them? I have to buy a phone in few months too and was thinking if I could kill two birds with one stone. Thanks in advance. ☺

[@SuperReview]

@@prabinpaudel5572 I haven't heard the LG phones, but I expect they sound every bit as good -- and might do even better at powering high impedance headphones.

[@prabinpaudel5572]

@@SuperReview thank you once again. I think I'll go with LG v35 refurbished at 235 dollars and a tin t2!

[@guitarlearnerish]

I'm planning to buy this for my KZ ZS7. will they coupled well? also does this need additional amplifier or is it good enough to drive my KZ7?

[@SuperReview]

This will drive your ZS7 to crazy loudness.

[@thisaintnoparty]

Bro can you help me out? I've been using my Galaxy S7 for music for the past 3 years, I use a Audio Technica m40x headphone with it, it sounds ok and all but the volume never was loud enough for me. Recently I discovered the daps, and I'm considering buying one, the nwa55 Sony Walkman, the Fiio M3K and the Cowon Plenue have caught my attention. Do you think i should go for one of them or keep using a smartphone? Thanks!

[@SuperReview]

I personally prefer using a DAP. I'm not familiar with the output of the S7, but you will probably get a slight improvement in sound quality and a significant improvement in volume levels. Mostly I like having buttons.

[@thisaintnoparty]

@@SuperReview Thanks man!

[@RasMajnouni]

Using $350 Sennheiser wired earphones,can't I attach a small DAC such as Fiio or Dragonfly to get great sound on a Samsung S10+?

[@SuperReview]

Maybe, I haven't tried.

[@Pendragon667]

Looks like quite the substiute for my recently broken iPod Nano (7th Gen). *Question:* can you lock the screen and - still listen to music (-> the track continues to play in the background) - still change the volume - play / pause while the screen is locked? Thank you in advance!

[@SuperReview]

Yeah, you can turn off the screen, the front touch-sensitive buttons become inactive, but the physical buttons on the side (play/pause + volume) are still active.

[@Pendragon667]

​@@SuperReview Thanks a lot for the quick reply - i really appreciate it! Sounds good enough for me: Guess it'll be a buy then. :-)

[@Pendragon667]

@@SuperReview Sorry - it's me again :-/ Do you know if there is any protective case available? Couldn't find any on Amazon.

[@SuperReview]

It comes with one in the package.

[@Pendragon667]

@@SuperReview And once again: thank you! ^^ btw: i had a phone call with the local distributor. Indeed they don't sell those silicone / protective cases separately. Their answer was: "Not worth it. The player is price-wise in the lower range of the product line. The chinese manufacturerer just doesn't see the need to produce or sell these cases". Bummer.

[@RealNobody0815]

WHY doesn’t it have built in speakers!!!! WHY???? And why is it so hard to find a device with it??? I mean, everybody who loves going to sleep with some music or an audio book does not go to bed with in-ears…. Or am i the only one???? So please, do you have a tip?

[@SuperReview]

I have not used a player with a built-in speaker, no. I do sleep with in-ears, though. Check out ThieAudio Legacy 2/4.

[@RealNobody0815]

@@SuperReview you sleep with in-ears????? HOW???? Make a Video 🤣 Just kidding. I really need some speakers but i hate it to have so many electronic devices beside me. So, actually i use the walkercam mp7. I am fine with it but could be better.

[@tudorverde]

Great review, very helpful. Please, can you tell me how can I get rid of the Sony A45 message that limits the sound to 50 and stops the music? (Check volume level) It's really annoying. Thank you!

[@SuperReview]

I don't think I've ever seen that. Do you have an EU model?

[@tudorverde]

@@SuperReview Yes, it's an European model. On Sony's official page they say: "The alarm (beep) and warning [Check the volume level.] are intended to protect your ears. They occur when you initially turn the volume up to a harmful level. You can cancel the alarm and warning by tapping [OK] on the alert dialog." They also say that "The alarm will not sound when there is an active Bluetooth connection." So now I am using the A45 with Bluetooth for the portable speaker. I used the 3,5 cable before, but this message is really annoying.

[@SuperReview]

Try a custom firmware, I think it will help your issue: www.head-fi.org/threads/sony-walkman-os-custom-firmware-non-android.943661/

[@tudorverde]

@@SuperReview thank you!

[@BH-gf4sp]

Just bought this on amazon looks good

[@SuperReview]

Let me know what you think. What players have you used before?

[@BH-gf4sp]

I have a Ibasso dx50 from 2013

[@SuperReview]

@@BH-gf4sp Whoa that thing looks nutty. Do you like it?

[@BH-gf4sp]

It’s ok it’s big but sounds pretty good

[@J276]

Hello. I got a question regarding music and I tried converting the MP3 to wav for my m3k which gave the result of *24bit 48khz* instead of 192khz. Where would you recommend that offers 24 bit 192khz?

[@SuperReview]

Sometimes on Bandcamp, though it's kinda random and no way to tell until after you buy it. Also something like HD Tracks or 7digital, but they're pricey.

[@J276]

@@SuperReview Thanks.

[@Phantom_Tapes]

hello people ! can anyone tell me if the shuffle function of the m3k works flawless ? Does it go through all tracks without playing some tracks more often than others ? Thanks Mike

[@nathansstuff1547]

Wouldn't the shuffle work exactly like shuffle would? Shuffles all your songs and plays them all in random order. Why would it replay tracks?

[@Macwinks]

Hey man nice review, can u compare it with shanling m0?

[@SuperReview]

I haven't heard the Shanling unfortunately. It looks really cool, but not sure about the UI. Then again, the UI on the Fiio isn't perfect.

[@Macwinks]

Super* Review i have shanling m0, just wanted to know the sound quality difference. Ui is usable not very user friendly.

[@travellerdesign4459]

En lo que se dice, sonido vivo y "bonito" , no calidad porque no soy audiofilo y probablemente no entendería... ¿Es mejor opción ir a por este fiioo m7 o el x3 mark 3?

[@SuperReview]

Sonida es similar / el mismo en todos los DAPs que uso. La diferencia mas grande es user interface.

[@jaromor8808]

Not only BT but BT 5.0 is a must for me, as well as 3.5mm jack

[@SuperReview]

Shanling M0 is another option at a similar price, but the UI kinda looks annoying so I've been avoiding it.

[@NereuLima]

Which headset do you recommend to use with this Player? BR

[@SuperReview]

Tin Hifi T2

[@NereuLima]

@@SuperReview Thanks for the tip. It has gained one more subscriber. 🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷

[@NereuLima]

@@SuperReview I bought a KZ zsn Pro and did not really like the result, so I'm looking for another headphone. And incredible as it may seem I liked the sound of kz more using it with my Xiaomi smartphone than using it with the M3K.

[@SuperReview]

What didn't you like about ZSN Pro? Will help inform a future suggestion.

[@NereuLima]

@@SuperReview Initially I found it a bit exaggerated in the treble, but I managed to soften it by adjusting the Equalizer of my smartphone. Then I bought the Fiio M3k and created a certain expectation that I would have a superior experience by combining Kz zsn pro + M3K and it turned out that I did not notice anything too much despite having 500 more flac files on my card. So I guess I should choose another headphone. ####I can tell by my English from Google translator.###

[@LloydZyanRUy]

Is it still good buy for a beginner hobbyist in 2021?

[@SuperReview]

It's the same as described. I think the M3 Pro is worth the bit extra that it costs.

[@migueld24]

There is no hold switch to prevent from hitting bottons when in your pocket. The sd card slot doesnt have a cover for it if you sd card were to come loose.

[@SuperReview]

True.

[@Splashhh213]

Planning to buy the Sony NW A45 DAP, is there is an issue with the battery draining and not lasting enough after a few months ?

[@SuperReview]

Mine's still pretty strong. Not as good as new, but it's almost two years old now.

[@zoltanzoltan303]

I like fiio , i had an x1 and it was good for 4 5 years

[@SuperReview]

That's a long time.

[@zoltanzoltan303]

@@SuperReview how is the m7 ? I want now m7 , with xiaomi high res pro in ear

[@cepheus9856]

Please review ruizu d20 and ruizu m2 thank you! I'm still considering this or other ruizu or benjie

[@prabhuja7554]

M3k is small king seriously ..own 2 one..old one

[@nicholasmatz]

dat box spin

[@grumpybuttski2532]

I bought M3K because of your review - great sound - can't reach them for support - unit turned off while I tried firmware - can you me tell how to turn back on. thanks

[@SuperReview]

Oof, I do not know how to resolve that. Did you try their forum?

[@grumpybuttski2532]

@@SuperReview I just kept finger on the power button. All is good, thanks

[@hrris92]

dudeeee, why you took off the screen protector? you should get 2 screen protector wich 1 already installed (typically Fiio products) its gonna save you a lot of trouble with the buble, when you try install a new one on it.

[@SuperReview]

People keep that stuff on their screens?

[@hrris92]

@@SuperReview sure, i had a few fiio products. And they always put an extra installed screen protector from the box. Only my NW-a35 didnt come with that kind a perks. But if you interresting you should check out Fiio M6. Its a perfect subtitute for you NW-a45 or fiio M3k

[@s.ferres6194]

I got it. OK audio quality but the lack of the touch on the display is an important limit. With capacious microSD it takes too long to search for a folder, there is no quick search. Consider this..

[@SuperReview]

Basically. FWIW, I use xDuoo X3ii which also doesn't have a touch screen -- can be a pain, but there are worse things.

[@Akira1G]

i planned on getting the M3K or the Sony NW-A55. is it worth spending more for the sony than this?

[@SuperReview]

I think it depends on how much you will use it, and how forgiving you are of annoying UI. The Sony UI is much better, IMO you can navigate it much more quickly and it's easier to operate in a pocket. In terms of sound quality, I would not say that one is better than the other. For me, the Sony is worth the extra.

[@Akira1G]

I see, thanks for the reply :)

[@victorhugovalenciavalencia8270]

@@SuperReview when you play music on the sony walkman nw-a 45 with the kz as10 headphones, you hear garbage noises? as interference when you are listening to music at that moment or at what moment you hear those noises and how loud is it? forgive me for my bad english I'm using a google translator

[@SuperReview]

@@victorhugovalenciavalencia8270 With the AS10s, I can hear a slight hiss with the AS10s when no music is playing. It's very quiet, and as soon as music is playing it's inaudible.

[@koolstup]

Also, have a look at the Shanling players...they’re really great 👍🏻