The New Cheap Hotness!! // FiiO K7

[@Legion82AXIN]

Just back to say Thank You! Came across this video a month ago and decided to pull the trigger on K7. Before I had HD600 connected to pc via minijack and after buying this + balanced cable from amazon I`m simply blown away.

[@manuelmtz4541]

what input are you using on your k7?

[@Lucas-ck1po]

This little unit is the absolutely perfect concept. For 200 bucks you can true balance drive dynamics, planars, doesn't sound dry or sterile, usb, optical, its small and its preety. Thats all i need. I just think the volume knob quirks would put me off a little. I believe Fiio will probably have this fixed later down the road, they are always improving their stuff. Most likely Fiio will also have an improved "Pro" version of it later. The K5 was a good unit for an excelent idea, the K5 Pro was it's final, perfected iteration. The K7 most likely to have the same fate but still, i would have this one over the dx3 and the ifi any day, its a bit of a jack of all trades for 200 bucks, its a steal. Well fucking done Fiio! This is their best idea so far, it just needs some polish to be the best product for the money in this market. For the while the K5 pro and the K9 pro are a little more rounded products but this would be the unit to get: an affordable unit the begginer audiophile can afford for his 6xxs or sundaras but that can push 1000 dollar plus headphones later down the road. As i said, it just need some polish.

[@MyouKyuubi]

I bought a k9 for my Sundara, lol... well ti wasn't JUST for the Sundara, i kinda want some speakers too, nothing super fancy, but i thought the k9 could be a great preamp or something. Also it looks beautiful... Kinda wish i waited to buy the ESS version, but, given the AKM version is so rare (due to the factory discontinuing the chip production, permanently, after the factory burned down), i wonder if i can trade with someone. :3

[@Lucas-ck1po]

@@MyouKyuubi Dude, you most likely wouldn't be able to pick the difference between one chip and another since both measure preety well. I seriously wouldn't stress over it

[@MyouKyuubi]

@@Lucas-ck1po Well technically, the AKM chip is better, according to FiiO's product parameters... But the ESS version contains two DAC chips, as opposed to the AKM's single dac chip. FiiO originally intended to have the AKM version have two DAC chips, just like the ESS version, but due to the discontinuation of the AKM chip, they went with single-chip design, in order to make double the amount of units, so that more people could have the privilege of owning an AKM version. The reason you'd want the ESS over the AKM, is primarily because the ESS has better channel-separation, due to dual-dac. That is something you can DEFINITELY make out with your own ears. ;) The ESS also has a golden volume knob, which matches better with the THX-indentation, and the "pro" label next to the XLR output, which are gold-colored... As opposed to the AKM versions mismatched silver volume knob. xD The ESS is more visually consistent, is what i'm saying. And also, if my AKM version breaks, getting replacement DAC chips for repair wont be possible... So there's also that. But you know, it's totally nonessential, the AKM version works just fine, and powers headphones very competently. :) It'll probably last me long enough to when there's better alternatives on the market anyhow.

[@MyouKyuubi]

@@blakeschumaker1914 "It completely changed the game for my Moondrop B2Ds which I was previously running off of a FIIO Q1 MKII" Lmao, in-ears, with a portable amp? Why would you buy a desktop amp to replace a portable one? And why would you use in-ears for desktop use? We can never be friends... xD

[@MyouKyuubi]

@@blakeschumaker1914 "But there is no need to be a complete dick to strangers online." ... I wasn't being a dick, i was making a joke... I thought my Ecksdee there made that obvious. Guess i was mistaken about that. :P "Why would you hate on someone that has similar interests to you?" I'm not hating on anyone, lmao. Do you always think everyone is out to get you? I think perhaps you need to learn to get over yourself. Even if someone was actually out to get you, so to speak, you shouldn't be acting this sensitive over it. Taking yourself that seriously all the time is only going to be a source of unnecessary stress in your life bro. : / Have a good one!

[@jimtekkit]

Ifi Zen DAC V2 owner here. Agreed that having all the outputs enabled is annoying when you're switching between headphones and speakers (I have both) and have to disable the other. Although sometimes I use both outputs at the same time as a ghetto way of using the speakers to add more soundstage to my open-back headphones. For stuff like ambient music and sound effects in games it really helps. I have mid-range Sennheiser HD599's and Edifier R1700BT speakers.

[@adrianr514]

Just ordered the K7 solely for the fact that the Zen DAC V2 has all outputs running at all times. If it weren’t for that I would have picked it hands down.

[@dragons_advocate]

Zeos, you missed that the ZenDAC by itself has only ~330mW output power; One needs the Zen CAN in combination with it to get about 1,600mW. Driving up the combined cost for the comparison in the ifi camp to ~350-400$.

[@MyouKyuubi]

Meanwhile the FiiO k7 here can do 2000 mW all by itself. :P

[@dylanholt325]

But the zen dac can also be powered only by a usb port making it great for portable laptop use.

[@MyouKyuubi]

@@dylanholt325 Yeah, that's not really a selling feature.

[@dylanholt325]

@@MyouKyuubi was for me. I don’t want to have to carry around multiple power bricks if I don’t have too.

[@MyouKyuubi]

@@dylanholt325 Well, it's not a selling feature, because if your PC is powering the amplifier, then the amplifier can't amplify beyond the PC's innate ability to amplify. In fact, the amplifier is weaker than your PC, because the amplifier uses some of the power it gets from the PC to enable other, unrelated systems, like LED lights, and various other indicators.. Which leaves the amplifier with LESS power, than if you had just plugged your headphones, directly, into the PC instead. :P So no, it is not a selling feature, ever... Not even for you. If an amplifier does not have it's own separate power supply, it is not serving as an amplifier, because it can't amplify any higher than the audio-source it's connected to, all it is serving as at that point, is as a DAC at best, and even then, you don't NEED an external DAC, because your PC comes with it's own DAC chips, and you can use them by plugging them directly into the audio-jacks on your PC, lol. I'm sorry you wasted your money buying a desk-brick, my man. I did so too once, when i made the mistake of buying a "GSX 1200 PRO Gaming Series" that doesn't have it's own power supply and is run entirely off USB from the PC. This was before i knew what i know now. :P It's marketed as an amplifier, but, it doesn't actually amplify more than my PC does, so it's a waste of money... The purpose of an amplifier, is to be able to boost the volume better than the audio-source can, that requires extra power, AKA, amplification... So if it fails to do that, it's not really an amplifier. Why? Because some headphones might have a sensitivity of 84 dB per mW, and some of them have a high Ohm rating... At which point raising volume requires more power AND more voltage rather than current... Which is something PC's typically aren't equipped to handle... That is what amplifiers are FOR.

[@Deeper-Trends]

Actually I think that the K7 came out to compete with the DX3 Pro+ and not with the iFi Zen Dac which is pretty weak in the amp section. Nice review btw.

[@edwardmenendez]

Exactly the 2 I'm deciding between right now

[@undefeatedmc]

Some things FiiO updated later in the parameters section of the K7 on their site, the review says 1% distortion but it says now 0.0003% THD on the site. also power is 2200mW per channel so its 4.4watts overall balanced. It;s definitely not competing with smaller amps.

[@pzmaven]

Those are the two that I purchased.

[@clickbaitpro]

@@pzmaven And which one do you like more?

[@pzmaven]

@@clickbaitpro I am powering the HD660s, HD800s, Arya stealth, and Arya Organic with both, and what I find is that the "THX" technology on the Fiio K7 makes the sound smoother around the edges. the way the volume fades up and down adds even more to that effect. But the Dx3 pro plus has more energy, although a bit sharper. Maybe that sounds like more definition, as if its more resolving, but most of the time its just more energy period. The K7 has been on my desk longer. The balanced output adds even more to this but I cant say I heard any interference on the Dx3 Pro+. Just more energy, maybe more resolving and more detail retrieval. Gaming on the dx3 pro+ is way better, and some kinds of music. But for everything else (KZbin, podcasts, and most other music the K7 is solid)

[@PhoggHawk]

Zen DAC V2 owner, here. The XBass button is pretty much THE feature that makes me love it so much, other than the balance out and the great sound. That button is pure magic. It gives you a CLEAN bass boost with zero compromise to the higher frequencies. It's so nice to be able to punch it on or off at my leisure. This Fiio unit appears to be very solid, but it would never replace my Zen DAC. Seems like a great option if you need non-USB inputs and such, though.

[@Usmvalor3]

Yup, this button is magic. Recently I played Cyberpunk 2077 and the city was just... Alive with that diddly thing pressed xD The transit systems, the meaty gun feadback or behind the wall bass of the music of the moxx club. And like You said, it achieves it without injuring other frequencies. I myself got the V2, it was either that or topping dx3pro+

[@FatNorthernBigot]

@@Usmvalor3 I call it the 80s music button, because there is very little bass on a lot of early digital recordings. I couldn't move to an amp without it, either.

[@itsprod.472]

@@Usmvalor3 question for gaming with Dacs any useful tips? I’m kinda confused with dacs in general 😂

[@Terra101]

Could just download a parametric EQ and make the bass do whatever you want it to. For free.

[@FatNorthernBigot]

@@Terra101 It's not the same as a button that provides an instant analogue bass boost upon request.

[@juliangst]

K5 Pro and DX3 Pro Plus already beat the zen dac more than a year ago. The K7 is a nice addition to the 200€ DAC Amp range tho

[@vash_dakari]

I'm only holding my hand up because I have the Zen DAC.

[@xyanide1986]

I trust companies that take a while to make new stuff, as SMSL and topping make new shit every couple months. I don't need one, but I feel comfortable recommending this to friends.

[@escapetherace1943]

topping dacs are good though, I've had one for years.

[@zachnilsson4682]

I have a ZenDac. Got in when it was still $130.

[@0nemoa]

I rock the K7 with Sennhiser 490 Pros balanced. Balanced output is definitely better then single ended. The dynamics are even better and better bass as well. They pair very well together.

[@marvean2519]

I was like, hey I wonder if Zeos got to check out the new K7. Perfect timing.

[@JogieGlenMait16]

If this existed before alongside Ifi Zen Can and Dac, I'd get this. Too late to change now. I'm also very happy with my stack. I've saved to get those so they better last five years being used everyday.

[@wooptoo]

Just FYI the K5 Pro also has delayed input switching even though it uses a mechanical 3-way toggle. This is probably done so that intermediary sources are not picked up right away - for example if you switch between USB (1) and SPDIF (3). Also on the K5 the volume below 12 o'clock is basically unusable, with the range of 12 to 3 o'clock going as you said - from 10% to 80% volume. TBH none of these things bother me on the K5.

[@MyouKyuubi]

Just means you can use the k5 pro with in-ear products as well.

[@nssSmooge]

Is it hard to fine tune music level? I often play around volume difference between 85-95% on pc depending on stuff. So little worried that this ;short; travel will make it hard.

[@MyouKyuubi]

@@nssSmooge Well, not any harder than it is on regular PC. :P On Windows 10 for instance, you have the default volume, and the channel volume, Default volume is like the master-volume, and the channel-volume adjusts the volume of each individual program you have open via the volume mixer. Adding an amplifier (With it's own power supply) just means you get more volume headroom (Which is the entire point of amplifiers), and an IRL master-volume knob, so you don't have to constantly tab out of your game for instance to adjust master volume in Windows. So the complexity remains the same, you just gain a few bonuses, and quality of life improvements, is all.

[@Ylm-r9g]

@@nssSmooge I always just set my DAC to a specific volume level and just adjust volume within windows apps. Works for me, this is how I use my DAC's.

[@wes008pwns]

This is probably my next purchase! I've been using the K5 Pro for a long time, which is my go-to over the Zen DAC because it has analog inputs. But now that this has the balanced headphone out and a little more power, this would be a nice upgrade at an unbeatable price (only things missing from my wishlist are USB-C in and balanced out for the preamp, but I can live without those).

[@MyouKyuubi]

Well, it's just a bare-minimum balanced amplifier... It's not really an upgrade, it's about the same performance.

[@escapetherace1943]

@@MyouKyuubi balanced is a meme and doesn't sound better than non-balanced in any way

[@MyouKyuubi]

@@escapetherace1943 Well... It's not quite THAT simple... But yeah, it is close enough, i guess. Main difference between BAL and SE is that BAL typically has more power, and therefore, more volume headroom... That's due to how BAl technology works, it sends two signals, one positive, one negative (inverted) in order to remove the distortion they have in common, then it converts the negative back into a positive and the signals combine again, producing a significantly stronger signal than in a single-ended circuit, hence more power and extra volume. xD There are other small things too, BAL tends to have better channel-separation, that can, feasibly be audible to your ears, though is just as likely to be detrimental, as it is to be beneficial... It also depends on your personal preference. There are some other differences too, like noise-floor, but so small they're basically not audible, and certainly not audible as this price-point, so... And unless you can run your dac/amp in 32bit, via your PC, worrying about noise floor is pointless, and even if you meet the criteria to make use of 32bit audio, you're onyl going to be hearing that noise floor in audio specifically designed for 32bit listening... It's basically like buying an 8k TV, the 8k resolution is useless to you, unless the media you consume is rendered in 8k, otherwise you'll be watching in 1080p or 4k like most people... You can only experience 8k resolution in gaming, so unless you plan on hooking your TV up as a gaming monitor, an 8k TV is a waste of money. :P Aanyways, yeah, honestly, i would personally go with a BAL amp, because of the extra volume headroom you get with it, simple as that... That way you don't have to worry much about future headphones being a little too demanding for your amp. :) I do believe the k7 also has an SE out, as well, so it basically renders the k5 obsolete, you don't have to choose between SE and BAL when you can just have both by getting the K7, lol. Of course, if you already own the k5... I would advise you to just keep the k5 until it breaks, the k7 isn't an upgrade per say, so it's not worth the trouble to replace the k5 if it is in perfect working condition, lol. Personally i have the k9 Pro (AKM version). 1.1W into 300ohm's, BAL... More than anyone would ever need to run any consumer-grade headphone.

[@escapetherace1943]

@@MyouKyuubi I mean, let's leave cheap amps out of the question... and yes, power delivery is an issue. The real problem is somebody plugging their headphone into their balanced amp's non-balanced and then A/B'ing it from there directly to the balanced port, which is receiving 2-3x as much power. I haven't read the K7's specs but I'm assuming the SE has less power. You don't just get more power from a BAL amp though, you can but highpower SE amps. When the power's the same and the amp is clean, the sound is the same, period. Balanced might be a cheap entry into high power now, I don't really know. I downgraded a few years ago into an ATOM amp and I'm still using it, I just don't need more it's clean sounding and I don't need more power

[@MyouKyuubi]

@@escapetherace1943 "I haven't read the K7's specs but I'm assuming the SE has less power." It has less power, yeah. x] You can check the parameters on FiiO's website, just look up the product, and click the "parameters" tab in the product page, you'll see all the specifics about the product. :) "You don't just get more power from a BAL amp though" You do, actually, BAL-out just has more power, inherently. This is readily apparent when you compare the SE-out with BAL-out on amps that have both, like, specc-wise. In every amp with an SE and BAL, the BAL is always the most powerful output, due to how balanced circuits work. That's just how it is, lol, i don't make the rules. :P The FiiO K9 Pro, for example, has 278 mW into 300 Ohm through Single-Ended output... But has 1.1 W into 300 Ohm through Balanced out... That's SIGNIFICANLY more power through BAL. :P That's 4x more power than SE, lol. "When the power's the same and the amp is clean, the sound is the same, period." Sure, when you volume-match the outputs, the sound should be the same, or, indistinguishable to the human ear... In most, if not all cases. Aside from, perhaps, channel separation, like i said... That's the most audible difference i could imagine... And that occurs due to balanced circuits typically using 2 dac chips, one for each ear-cup. The K9 pro (AKM version), only has ONE DAC chip, due to the chip being short supply, and the factory burning down and permanently discontinuing the production of the chip, they had to forego the dual-dac design to make more units so more people could have a K9 Pro. So i didn't have to worry about channel-separation spookiness with this amp. :P So a good way to test how balanced amps sound with and without dual dac, you should compare a K9 Pro with a K9 Pro ESS, 'cus the ESS version has the dual-dac design as originally intended, 'cus ESS chips are plentiful. ;) Personally, i haven't had the pleasure of testing that, because, CBA tracking down a K9 pro ESS that's available for public testing. I'm just lazy. "Balanced might be a cheap entry into high power now, I don't really know." True, that might indeed be the case right now. "I downgraded a few years ago into an ATOM amp and I'm still using it, I just don't need more it's clean sounding and I don't need more power" Good amp! :) And true, you shouldn't need more power unless you get a headphone that's like 50dB/mW with 600 ohm, lmao.

[@scottula]

This looks amazing! Pissed that I bought the K5 Pro this summer for the same price as this! But I needed desktop setup, and everything was expensive at the time. $200 for the K7 is a steal!

[@MyouKyuubi]

Having a spare Single-Ended amplifier around is always nice, in-case your daily-use amplifier breaks. I'm using a k9 pro (AKM version), which is a DAC-Amp, due to complexity, likely to break, so i have a Schiit Modi + Magni heresy stack stored in case the k9 breaks... :)

[@adaboy4z]

Sold my iFi Go blu and bought this as I rarely used it as a portable device. Wireless Ear buds are just so convenient for on the go and have come a long way. This is perfect for my lazyboy time.

[@escapetherace1943]

they also give you free brain cancer

[@Gkhn32]

Really ifi Zen Dac ? That thing can barely drive my 250 ohm dt990. I always wanted more from the volume. And its dac section is from 70s. We are talking about a dac that can barely handle with 16 bit music. Returned it immediately. K7 has a competition with dx3pro and smsl c200. They can drive %90 of the headphones. They meassure god-like, have BT, LDAC, remote, screen etc. K7's AMP section is what differs it from the rest of the competition. If you have hard to drive HPs this is the solution for 200 bucks. Damn good unit.

[@devilevil86]

@Z Reviews SMSL C200 Or Fiio K7? (i don't need bluetooth)

[@JWForce1059]

This looks super tempting. I got a vinyl setup going in my living room, but my wife does not like the large footprint of the chonky boi amp that I'm using to drive everything. I also got one of the Wiim Mini streamers, which needs a DAC with optical in to sound its best. This, with a decent mini speaker amp would be the ticket. Dual DACs and balanced output, man this is something to consider.

[@tsdbhg]

5:03 "Oh there's a roll of toilet paper here... I cry a lot. I don't know what-chew want from me." I'm sure a black light would reveal the truth.

[@h.hristov]

Zeos failed NNN

[@ZReviews]

It's raises a grand question, have I ever done it at my review desk.

[@miagi1337]

I have a ZenDAC and I love TrueBass!

[@ExtremelyTastyBread]

Does it sound better than a modi+magni

[@FabioKasper]

You probably won't notice a difference. The K7 is more versatile though.

[@digitalnation2876]

if you don't know the answer, then don't reply, fiio, cleaner brighter, airier, harder kick,

[@ZReviews]

Been so long since I've heard a dedicated Mighty magnusack (modi magni stack) I really can't tell you with confidence

[@fredflint9153]

But there's no bass boost button. I'm out 😂

[@Dan-u1l]

Fibre optic /coaxial input is the only thing I'm missing from my zen dac. Because of that, I can't connect my xbox to it.

[@samza9622]

Look for an adapter there are adapters for every type of connection converting to another connection.

[@RobHTech]

I don't understand why a headphone amp needs to be bigger than my car amp that makes like 1,000 times more power and off of 12V DC. Headphone amps have access to 120v AC and should be able to make nice, clean power at several watts without any problem. So, it seems like the market is the problem: Is it worth it for a company to design, produce, and sell the amps? If not, then we get cheap crap or nothing at all.

[@Usernotknown21]

Check out topping stack

[@digitalnation2876]

yes, you need 3+ years experience in hifi to understand it, to make it easy just think of it like this, your car could rev up till 6k rpm, tell me why it's better on highway to cruise at 3k rpm than max it out at 6k rpm,

[@RobHTech]

@@digitalnation2876 what? Max is max. The higher the max and with quality then anything under that max should be able to be done with much less effort. I always match amps by going at least 20-30% over what I plan on running RMS and peaks. If 100 w RMS but peaks 130 w, then I get an amp that has peak/dynamic of about 150-180 ish max/peak with RMS capable of about 120-130 w. This way i can run the amp lower, less distortion, etc.

[@giubin]

these shots, with the camera like this, are hallucinogenic! Gives you a stomach ache!

[@JesusGonzalez-tu2nr]

vs topping dx3 pro+?

[@SakuraSakura8596]

I was looking for these two too😂 And I ended up getting the K7 after this video. I have a AKG K712 which is not really power hungry, I’m using my MacBook Pro 2021 16 inch (It had high Gan out put), it already impressed me as a new person who just entered hifi. But as I reading on the internet, there is much I can get from this headset, which I want to gave it a try for an external DAC.

[@HammadIqbalPhoto]

I've recently placed an order for DX3pro+ as there was no sub $200 alternative that offered balanced output with AKM DAC and THX combo. I'm getting the Hifiman Ananda Stealth soon. Shall I cancel the DX3pro+ and get K7 instead? Balanced out, AKM chips and THX amp are making the K7 a lot more appealing to me. Bluetooth is not at all my requirement as it can't do true lossless 24-bit streaming.

[@AliArghavan]

DX3 Pro+ is just as good if not better.

[@GraveZero]

@@AliArghavan why?

[@Deeper-Trends]

As a DX3 Pro+ owner I can confirm that is an excellent device with great sound even in bluetooth mode. It has a remote control which is very convenient (trust me on that) and it has more power in single ended (1.7W @ 32ohm). Unless you wanna go true balanced, DX3 Is a better value device in every aspect.

[@AliArghavan]

@@GraveZero First of all its cheaper, now being discounted to 170$. Bluetooth, better measurements (if you care), better availability, lcd screen, remote control.

[@andrewy1983]

I'm in the same boat. I have brought headphones on 11.11 sales. Dan clark audio aeon X closed and hifiman ananda stealth. I am debating which amp to buy. My iems have 4.4 jack for my dap. Ideally I would love a topping dx3 pro, but I wished it had 4.4mm balance out. K7 I wished it had bluetooth. Stuck as to which one to buy. There's isn't much else out there in this price range with the features both of these have. Dilemmas!! Lol. Next K7 may address the Bluetooth, next Topping may address the Bal out.

[@rage0exe]

You got this cable in the 2020 Sundara’s video, you said some Scandinavian dude makes em and you told him how you wanted it lol.

[@ZReviews]

I will have to check out that video thank you

[@MrDudoslav]

Dear Zeos is this enough for Senn HD 660s? Thanks for the awesome work you do. Cheers from Croatia

[@BadHairDecade]

This or Topping dx3 pro+?

[@ZReviews]

It's a close battle now. Topping versus THX via Fiio.

[@bigspence6898]

I’m no expert, but K7 has an analog input , but no BT. So I’ll choose k7.

[@brentkjernisted2215]

Will the K7 drive ath r70x headphones efficiently?

[@lightdragon3127]

you got the redo healer figure, dman , ya got the cash

[@Enigma1990ad]

Are these much better sounding that the K5 Pro? Contemplating selling it and buying the K7.

[@KontrolStyle]

its amazon, try it out.. if not send back -- but someone said they could tell a difference.

[@donedane2269]

the volume curve is so you can use IEMs at low end and headphones on high end how do you still not know this? IEMs are low impedance Headphones are higher impedance lower impedance has higher wattage higher impedance has lower wattage hence the volume curve

[@ZReviews]

That's usually what a gain switch is for. Then I prefer linear volume

[@donedane2269]

@@ZReviews not always my IEMs start to get too loud at 50% my headphones stay quiet till that point also remember wattage and sensitivity

[@FatalityDiablo]

I sold my fostex hp a3 cuz it had some annoying things about it and a little bit weak amp. This fiio k7 fixed everything. I absolutely love it so far

[@RUMBLEGO1]

I own the Zen Dac! Really have enjoyed it for several years now. Blew up the first one when i unplugged my computer by mistake so got another. I like that i can run headphones and preamp out at the same time. This unit doesn't appear to have that capability unless i missed something. Also like running balanced out of the back to the Xduoo MT604. So i have that going on and RCA's out of the back going to a separate amp to power speakers at the same time. For those reasons this Fiio couldn't replace it. Sometimes i like to blend a wee bit of speakers in with headphones for amazing sound. So this fails in that aspect it looks like?

[@Sporting1210]

well, you missed something^^ it does have a pre-out, what it does not have is the ballanced out. So probably still a no-go for you, but for people who just want a desktop amp and dac for their regular hifi, it works just fine. Plus one could throw that cute, little tube buffer in there as a standard output to the hifi, because why not? who wouldnt want a little tuby goodness on a regular basis?^^ Also a nice example for the weird world of low-end/entry level audio products. Some people - like me - want an optical in, other want a second oputput of some form and there are not a lot of devices that full fill both criteria - when this should not be big deal, really. That said-if you ever stumble upon a used Marantz HD-DAC1 for around 300-400 $/€ - buy it instantly it and be happy.

[@Nath-rg2qd]

Only thing that's tempting me to buy the k7 is the convenience of switching outputs because i hate that my k5 pro plays both outputs at the same time and having to unplug my headphones/power off my speakers depending what i'm listening too

[@ThisIsNotJP]

Bought the k9 ESS .. started with the Zen Dac V2 why did I dip my toe into this world

[@Sent2Strike]

How does this compare to the Topping Dx3 pro+?

[@jfmgunner]

Guys, I've only ever owned an internal soundcard for dac/amp and an old fiio x3 to connect my headphones so this is probably a noob question, so bear with me. I hear people basically comparing the inputs on these as the main differences. I have a setup that will only need to connect headphones to an amp and then my laptop. No need to switch to a speaker source or anything else as I use powered LS50 IIs that stream from wireless or aux to a Rega record player. So in that case between ZenDAC and this as my first real starter setup what's my best choice? I'm running Sennheiser 6xx atm, shure se425s as well. My next big purchase will probably be Focal Clear MG's also, which I get either of these would be quite a cheap amp to combo with them but it would just be a starter setup. Any help would be appreciated.

[@bamse5930]

Just get the zen dac if you only need one input

[@kendoglarson5419]

Going to find out once and for all which chip is my favorite. AKM, ESS, or Burr-Brown. The zen can is BB, the chip in my sound card and tube preamp/DAC is ESS, and the K7 I bought had AKM. I really like the xcan chip more which is BB than the ESS. I know AKM from my Marantz and Harman Kardon AVR. So, thats the next test.

[@High2you311]

Interested for sure. Thanks for the review.

[@scottd1342]

Yup, I have a Zen stack now and the whole thing is great!

[@ddroz23]

Zen Dac is the best, I have the v1 and just ordered the Zen Can to step up the game. I hope it impresses like the zen dac has for the last 2 years. IF you don't know where to start the Zen dac is everything you needed.

[@L1qu1d_5h4d0w]

the zen can will most likely result in a less clear sound as the the can realy sucks as an amp... the amp in the DAC v1 sounds better than the CAN imo.. what's your take, any diffrence?

[@5ChSP2UxVtswQh-Znzkpbg]

No

[@mode_seven]

Just got the k5 ess yesterday, package still sealed. Are these worth returning the K5 and buying the K7 for $50 more?

[@digitalnation2876]

yes

[@ZReviews]

Yes

[@dewanpretorius]

@@ZReviews Would you still say the same if balanced were out of the equation? (Just a desktop setup for my headphones). I'm in the same situation. Thanks!

[@catchafire221]

Fkn love Yelle, glad to see other people who cant speak french also like it lol

[@FabioRigokimbaorso]

My new amp!.. I have the Zen Can/DAC and I have a K5 mkII.. it will have to go.. I wonder when will be available in Italy.. Christmas present maybe?

[@hyedefinition1080]

Would getting this over the Zen Dac v2 + Can combo be worth it? I have the Sundaras, Edition XS and HD6XX...the Xbass button is great for the Hifimans, but I know I can go the PEQ route as well. Like the smaller footprint and power of the device compared to the Zen combo, plus the price

[@d_jihad]

Have you tried k7 is it better than zen dac v2?

[@zerotactix5739]

So, what is your take? I have a Zen DAC myself and don't find the volume on it satisfactory enough for my DT770 80ohms and my Senheisser HD560S. Torn between getting a Zen CAN and the K7.

[@dylanangel2870]

yeah im getting one of these, god damn

[@andrewy1983]

What headphones are you driving?

[@dnd6379]

So how does it sound compared to the zen dac?

[@CMB.23]

Yo Z, what do you think, take the fiio k7 or the schiit modius & magnius stack?

[@henrylancasteriii9027]

Does it sound better than my Shanling UA5 tho?

[@MrJabinho]

Hi. This must be the bang for bucks device in this category. Topping DX1

[@EGreddragon07]

Hey Z, I picked up the focal elgia for 360$ and was wondering if the k7 can drive them on a budget?

[@waifoos3213]

Hey z i just ordered thieaudio oracle mkll. should i get the zen dac v2 or this fiio k7 or do you got something else to recommend around $500

[@ilovebruno96]

I have 64 audio u12t, oracle mkii, variations and a few other iems. For sharp sounding, bright iem you want the warmth from burr brown and the zen dac v2 delivers that. IEMs are very easy to drive (don't power it via ac if you have bad power because it will hiss), but if you want to use both IEMs and headphones get this K7 or something better. As for me IEMs run good enough on the zen dac v2.

[@waifoos3213]

@@ilovebruno96 ok kool thx. for headphones to should i pair this with the zen can. cause i wanna get the meze 109 pro too

[@Ren__]

these or c200?

[@sidethan]

Did he review the fiio k5 pro ess?

[@terrygreen6088]

I own a zendac V2 because of you and it's amazing tnx

[@TopG_Steve]

@ZReviews For gaming purposes on a PC, what would you recommend to be used with Hifiman XS? Thanks! 1) FiiO K7 2) Schiit Asgard w/ ES 9028 3) JDS Element III 4) Hifiman Ef400 5) Something else

[@Inlakesh91]

Topping g5 or fiio k7, if you only consider sound?

[@Inlakesh91]

@OfficialZReviews Is this really a gift from the official creator of the channel?

[@transmaster]

I have the red version of the K7 love it!

[@simioncsm5042]

Z ... will work for an electronic piano? or is lagging?

[@ixbalx5177]

Which sounds better k7 or topping G5? What is your recommendation , I know k7 has more amp but is it better in general?

[@Inlakesh91]

I have the same question.

[@Inlakesh91]

@OfficialZReviews Is this really a gift from the official creator of the channel?

[@ZReviews]

Hell No I don't give away gifts and why wouldn't I use my actual account. These are all scams

[@ixbalx5177]

@@ZReviews Oh thanks for your repl...

[@saiosonstower9439]

I know this is going to be a very cringy question. Please give me grace. I own a hd560s and a dt 770 pro 250 olms. Looking to power them for gaming. I’m torn between the k5 or the k7. It’s a $50 savings and from what I can understand it’s mostly due to being “balanced”? Will I care about the balance difference for gaming?

[@clickbaitpro]

Just buy K7, it's better

[@duncancameron9855]

This thing does not seem to power my Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro 80 ohm headphones enough, seems like it should be louder? I am using my tablet for audio source, is the tablet too weak?

[@nikokomac3185]

Hello Zeos I have at home zen dac v2 and is sound to me beautiful because is lush full body sound and like it for this no fatigue sound..can you tell me if this fiio in sound quality for my preference will beat zen dac v2?

[@jamesjeffley4926]

I have the ifi Zen Dac V2, but recently I've had problems where it just disappears in Windows 10! Gone! I've reinstalled the drivers, downloaded the firmware, etc... done all the things. I'm looking for something else - that works. I hope this review answers that question. Thanks for the great content!

[@smasters01]

Lots of talk with power on the balance side.. what about the unbalance side?? So hard to find a good dac. I'll already sended back the topping dx3 pro plus because lots of quality issues

[@rene837]

Ah, Rias Gremory. I see you are a man of culture as well

[@gokzilla]

these or the K11 ? i love the design of the K11

[@kto-to6129]

have same question. what you choose?

[@def-po8tu]

I was wondering someone could help me, i have the topping dx3 pro+ and im not exactly happy with it. Would the k7 be a better choice. Im using hifiman edition xs headphones with it.

[@robertopistolesi2735]

In terms of neutrality, how does this compare to the drop+smsl HO150X, besides the latter has no dac?

[@Bayneblade69]

i bought a zen dac v2 and no matter what port i use the audio only comes through the left ear cup. im using HD 660s. ive tried the 4.4 balanced with a balanced cable, a 4.4 to xlr adapter for my xlr balanced cable and the 1/4" cable in the single ended plug. i also tried my 6xx with all the same cables. if i switch the plugs for the headphones it then comes out the right side only so it must be the amp? my headphones work perfectly fine on my topping mx3. Could it just be a bad unit? im using USB on my pc and tried other usb cables too. I also have the drivers installed.

[@artofwar420]

LOVE my Zen DAC V2.

[@VandepoelM]

I wish there was something with these features for 50usd,( line in, line out, volume knob and an output selector, with or without dac)

[@dragons_advocate]

There probably is, but not in a quality that regulars to Z would enjoy.

[@houssamalucad753]

Maybe spend a bit more on a schit fulla if you find it discounted?

[@VandepoelM]

@@houssamalucad753 this is very close to my budget, i might pick this one up. thx. if someone has a aliexpress alternative, let me know.

[@houssamalucad753]

@@VandepoelM no problem mate

[@zenstrata]

Look around the used market, there is a lot of stuff available for reasonable prices.

[@ericbratkiw6909]

Great amp… I’m having an issue connecting my fiok7 to ps5. It’s not picking it up via usb please help!

[@ninja_rabbit_8684]

Zoes help please so I just starting my hobby,got myself hifiman sundara now with one,fiio k7 for better power or zen dac v2?Did zen dac is not to weak?Mainly will be used for music and gaming on my desktop pc.Thank you

[@blackinkster]

I just ordered the ifi zen dac v2 and he4xx, is the k7 more competitive at higher volumes and should I cancel the zen? They’re weren’t enough comparisons at the start so I’m still undecided. I also really love bass it it worth spending the extra 200 and getting the zen can to go along with that cracked out bass boost?

[@ElRobin]

The bass boost of the Zens is pretty fun and very useful if you use planars with relatively weak bass like the Sundaras

[@lordbalkan]

The k7 or the Topping DX3 Pro +?

[@ultrasone8450]

Guys i need help, i have fiio q3 and fatfreq maestro mini iem. I wonder if i should by zen ifi dac v2 or fiio k7 ?

[@velko2433]

I use K5Pro and i am happy , should i go and upgrade to K7? Are they any differences in sound?

[@kryptotransit]

they sound nearly identical to my ears. the k7 just goes way louder on balanced. i had both, returned the k7 cause i had the k5pro for a few years b4 the k7. though if i had to choose again i would choose the k7.

[@thekachou4431]

I'm not really deep into the hobby, but I have a set of dt880's 600 ohm I've been dying to actually use. I'm looking for a cheap option that can actually drive these, and was looking at this as my first Dac/Amp combo. Anyone know if this would work okay with the 600 ohm 880's?

[@jamalsiddique1362]

dude idk if you are gonna see this but the k7 would be MORE than enough for the 880s and have PLENTY of expansion room. Almost overkill imo.

[@Sarevok_Wins]

​@jamalsiddique1362 luckily I caught this in time, and now can make a good decision. Thank you!!

[@andrewy1983]

Im in the market for a budget amp. Have been toying with dx3 pro and this. My issue is I want 4.4 balanced which the topping doesn't have. I'm not sure whether bluetooth will be necessary but it would be nice if fiio had it.. Also I listen to mqa files from tidal so will this be an issue?

[@andrewy1983]

Ended up buying K7. See how it goes.

[@marks8017]

Hi guys, looking for some help. Just purchase Argons Mk3 and looking for a Amp/Dac that will be connected to a PC. Any recommendations? Budget $250 - $500. Would appreciate any help. Thanks.

[@ReZel80657]

I know this is an older video by now but i am looking at the K7 to replace an old RHA L1 DACAMP and i was wondering if the K7 was worth upgrading to or not?

[@fabiok5958]

I own the K5 pro and i love them is it worth it to buy this one?

[@amateratsu51]

I have the Fiio K3, is it worth the change?

[@lewismackay9533]

The K9 is 499 so it's VERY affordable. And the K9 Pro ESS is about 699. No where near 1000 though. K7 at 200 is a steal though.

[@IgorMFischer]

Topping dx3 pro+ is cheaper now in 11/11, about $30 cheaper. So i think i will go with topping, but nice one from fiio

[@BeMaC]

I would love to have better sound on my PC ^^ is the K7 a good choice? the K9 is so mutch more expensive =) also i need to buy a freaking headphone ^^

[@sheep7255]

might get these, but it'll have to wait since I'm broke.

[@ParakeetPotato]

How do the DT 990 250 Ohm Pros perform with the K7?

[@viniciusmiguel3599]

Is it possible to power this fiio through usb only, or you have to use the power brick all the time ?

[@fbi8364]

Dx3 pro + or this?

[@dlrowreverse793]

I just realized looking at the specs on Fiio's site that they list the output power PER CHANNEL. This makes the k7 a 4 watt into 32 ohm and 1.12 watt into 300 ohms, balanced. So by logic the same should go for the k9pro (4.2 watt @ 32 ohm and 2.2 @ 300 ohm) as it has the same amps, though it isn't specified on its page. Edit: regarding the cable, you said where it came from in the sundara 2020 vs old sundara comparison video, can't remember the name though

[@undefeatedmc]

Also the THD is 0.0003% on the bottom parameters now.

[@Dex4Sure]

Wrong. "As for power, the K7 uses two THX 788+ amplifier modules, which we have seen in the FiiO’s higher-end K9 Pro ESS DAC & AMP. Some of you may have noticed that these modules deliver less power on the K7, which FiiO explains is due to the power consumed and heat generated by the modules. As a K9 Pro ESS user, I think this optimization was a good decision. During operation, the K7 is warm to the touch but not uncomfortably hot. The K7 can dish out 1.2 watts of power to a 32-ohm load via its SE output and it can dish out 2 watts of power via the balanced HPO. 560mW of power into a 300-ohm load means that it has plenty of power to drive nearly every single planar or dynamic headphone on the market."

[@1RaVeN1FTW]

Minus price would JDS labs element 3 be a better buy than the Fiio k7?

[@nihren2406]

I have a Creative SoundblasterX G6 for a AIO DAC-Amp, and I've debating if I should get something else, maybe this. But I'm not really sure.

[@ZReviews]

Yes and Yes

[@nihren2406]

@@ZReviews Are there any headphones you'd say the K7 can't run? Or at least wouldn't be the best at?

[@chrisasmith75]

Does the k7 sound better than the k5 pro og?