Fiio KA11
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>>I am brazilian and I speak portuguese, so forgive my english, I’ll use translation tools to help<<
INTRO:
If you’re looking for a solution to connect your earphone to your smatphone, the answer is here! Yes, forget about Apple’s dongle, because the FiiO KA11 has burst onto the market!
It’s no secret that FiiO has several DACs & Amplifiers that are synonymous with excellent cost-effectiveness. Today, let’s analyze the recently released entry-level dongle from the company.
Attention: The KA11 is selling like water in the desert, and it’s possible that the product may be sold out in the official store. A little patience might be needed until the stocks are replenished.
Price: $29,99 USD
Color: Midnight Black / Sunrise Silver
FiiO reviews: FH3, KA1, HS18 (in portuguese), JD7, KA5, FD11, Q11, M11S (in english)
FIIO LINKS:
https://www.jadeaudio.com/XC2?product_id=71&_l=en
SPECIFICATIONS:
– Brand: Dual brand- FIIO/JadeAudio
– Product name: Portable DAC/Amp (USB dongle)
– Product model: KA11
– USB chip: SAVITECH SA9312L
– DAC chip: CIRRUS LOGIC CS43131
– Op-amp chip: SGMICRO SGM8262
– System support: Android/IOS/Windows/Mac
– Decoding support: Supports up to PCM384kHz/32bit, DSD256
– Input: Type-C or Lightning
– Output: 3.5mm single-ended
– Output power:
L+R≥200mW+200mW (32Ω, THD+N<1%, USB IN)
L+R≥245mW+245mW (16Ω, THD+N<1%, USB IN)
– SNR: ≥125dB (32Ω, A-weighted)
– THD+N: <0.0006% (0dB, 32Ω), <0.0003% (0dB, 300Ω)
– Noise floor: About 1.7uV A-weighted
– Other functions: RGB light indicates corresponding sampling rate
– UAC 2.0 e UAC 1.0
– Material: Aluminum-magnesium alloy
– Dongle dimension: 11.3cm (edge to edge)
– Dongle weight: 8.5g
– Total weight (packaging, dongle, etc): 47.6g
– Packaging size: 16cm [L] x 6.5cm [W] x 2cm [D]
DEVICES USED:
– Kiwi Ears Quintet
– Shozy Form 1.1
– Tin HiFi P1
– FiiO M11S
– AUNE Yuki
– MotoZ3Play
– Samsung S22U
– Dell Inspiron (W10)
UNBOXING:
PHYSICAL ASPECTS:
It’s no secret that FiiO has several DACs & Amplifiers that are synonymous with excellent cost-effectiveness. Today, let’s analyze the recently released entry-level dongle from the company.
Attention: The KA11 is selling like water in the desert, and it’s possible that the product may be sold out in the official store. A little patience might be needed until the stocks are replenished.
Price: $29,99 USD
Color: Midnight Black / Sunrise Silver
FiiO reviews: FH3, KA1, HS18 (in portuguese), JD7, KA5, FD11, Q11, M11S (in english)
FIIO LINKS:
https://www.jadeaudio.com/XC2?product_id=71&_l=en
SPECIFICATIONS:
– Brand: Dual brand- FIIO/JadeAudio
– Product name: Portable DAC/Amp (USB dongle)
– Product model: KA11
– USB chip: SAVITECH SA9312L
– DAC chip: CIRRUS LOGIC CS43131
– Op-amp chip: SGMICRO SGM8262
– System support: Android/IOS/Windows/Mac
– Decoding support: Supports up to PCM384kHz/32bit, DSD256
– Input: Type-C or Lightning
– Output: 3.5mm single-ended
– Output power:
L+R≥200mW+200mW (32Ω, THD+N<1%, USB IN)
L+R≥245mW+245mW (16Ω, THD+N<1%, USB IN)
– SNR: ≥125dB (32Ω, A-weighted)
– THD+N: <0.0006% (0dB, 32Ω), <0.0003% (0dB, 300Ω)
– Noise floor: About 1.7uV A-weighted
– Other functions: RGB light indicates corresponding sampling rate
– UAC 2.0 e UAC 1.0
– Material: Aluminum-magnesium alloy
– Dongle dimension: 11.3cm (edge to edge)
– Dongle weight: 8.5g
– Total weight (packaging, dongle, etc): 47.6g
– Packaging size: 16cm [L] x 6.5cm [W] x 2cm [D]
DEVICES USED:
– Kiwi Ears Quintet
– Shozy Form 1.1
– Tin HiFi P1
– FiiO M11S
– AUNE Yuki
– MotoZ3Play
– Samsung S22U
– Dell Inspiron (W10)
UNBOXING:
PHYSICAL ASPECTS:
Construction: Here we have the classic type of dongle with both ends connected by a non-detachable cable. The product is entirely coated with an aluminum & magnesium alloy, while the cable is made of a nylon-like material (paracord). It’s a simple dongle, designed for portability, featuring only a single 3.5mm output. This style is most common for those who simply want to plug in their earphones to the smartphones and go. In this regard, the KA11 is excellent because it’s lightweight and compact.
In terms of durability, I found the KA11 to be very well-made, and I wouldn’t worry about the fixed cable. I still see many people in communities who are concerned when a dongle has a fixed cable, and in the past, I shared that concern. However, since I review the iFi GO link, my opinion has changed. Nowadays, the quality of the products are much better than in the past, and of course, we’re also talking about companies with more elaborate Quality Control.
Today, I think the only benefit of a detachable cable is if you need a longer cable to connect to a computer or if you genuinely dislike the color or material the product offers. But other than that, for use solely with mobile phones, I believe having a fixed cable is even better because it reduces the number of contact points, which we know can lead to complications if not done very well.
Some people also worry a lot about this type of dongle because it directly connects to the USB-C port on the smartphone, and they fear damaging the device. Throughout my audio journey, I’ve evaluated various dongles, and I can confidently say that I still have the same smartphone I had before starting this journey. The smartphone still here, and I’ve never had any issues with the USB-C port. The current dongles I’ve tested all fit securely, without any slack, just like the KA11, the scope of this review.
Something I noticed when disconnecting the IEMs from the 3.5mm output is that I needed to apply some force to perform that action. That said, you need to hold the dongle to prevent it from detaching from the USB-C port on the smartphone. In summary, the 3.5mm output of the KA11 is quite tight.
The dongle features an RGB LED right next to the “FiiO” name. The LED colors represent the sampling rates: Blue – PCM below 48kHz; Yellow – PCM above 48kHz; Green – DSD. The device supports PCM 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256. I use FLAC files at 16-bit/44.1/48kHz and common music streaming services like Spotify and YouTube.
FiiO Control App:
As you can see from the screenshots, the App has limited functions for the KA11. It allows you to adjust the LED configuration, switch between UAC 1.0 and UAC 2.0 modes, and modify digital filters. According to the company, the App only works on Android devices. If you choose the Lightning version, will be compatible with Apple devices, you only won’t have access to the FiiO Control App.
PS: It seems that an earlier version of the App (v3.18) had a volume control feature, but the current version (v3.19) has removed this functionality.
USB Audio Class: The KA11 supports both UAC 1.0 and UAC 2.0 compatibility. UAC is the protocol used by USB ports to handle high-resolution audio files. UAC 1.0 can handle PCM files up to 24 bits/96 kHz, while UAC 2.0 can handle larger files, such as PCM 32 bits/384 kHz (superior) or DSD256 files. This can be useful for devices that require specific compatibility, such as the Nintendo Switch.
As for battery consumption through the 3.5mm output, using the Kiwi Ear Quintet, the battery usage was 15%. The smartphone I used had a 3.000mAh battery. The test involved 1 hour of playback with the screen off and Wi-Fi disabled (airplane mode). The volume was set to level 8 out of 15 available on Android.
I also made a test with the Tin P1. In this case, I used a balanced 4.4mm cable in my P1, but I have an adapter from DD HiFi, the DJ44C MK2 model, which converts from 4.4mm to 3.5mm (losing the balanced connection but enabling the use of IEM with the 3.5mm output). The battery consumption with the Tin P1 was 13%. I followed the same procedure as the test with the Quintet, The only difference was adjusting the volume to 13 and playing another album. Interestingly, the consumption remained lower than in the initial test, even with the volume set higher. However, as always, these numbers aren’t 100% precise, they serve as a rough estimate.
Heating test: Before measuring battery consumption, I plugged the KA11 into my computer and listened to “The Smiths – Singles (1995)“. I didn’t even need to finish the album and the dongle was already quite warm. I used it at only 16% volume with the Shozy Form 1.1 (an easy-to-drive IEM). What I think about this product heating: It heats up a lot, that’s a fact, but it’s nothing absurd. The small contact area means you can hold the dongle without discomfort, it doesn’t get hot enough to cause any harm.
One drawback of the KA11 is that it doesn’t come with a USB-C to USB-A adapter for computers. This limitation affects older computers or devices that still use the USB-A port, which is still quite common. While you can purchase this adapter separately, it would have been more convenient if the company had included it with the product. Fortunately, I had an adapter that came with my AUNE Yuki, allowing me to test the KA11 on my computer as well.
On the computer, the KA11 was immediately recognized, and I didn’t need to install any drivers. The volume scale on the computer adjusts in 2% increments when scrolling with the mouse wheel, but you can also fine-tune it by using the mouse arrow. Till the moment, the dongle has not received any firmware updates. You can find a Q&A, driver downloads (if needed), the app download, and the equipment manual in the following link: https://www.jadeaudio.com/details?article_id=173&_l=en
EDIT: A new firmware is available here: https://forum.fiio.com/note/showNoteContent.do?id=202403061706174125325&tid=77
Another point of criticism for the product is that, according to the company, the KA11 doesn’t support microphones. Therefore, you won’t be able to answer calls using the dongle. Additionally, it doesn’t support SPDIF line-out
SOUND ASPECTS:
In terms of durability, I found the KA11 to be very well-made, and I wouldn’t worry about the fixed cable. I still see many people in communities who are concerned when a dongle has a fixed cable, and in the past, I shared that concern. However, since I review the iFi GO link, my opinion has changed. Nowadays, the quality of the products are much better than in the past, and of course, we’re also talking about companies with more elaborate Quality Control.
Today, I think the only benefit of a detachable cable is if you need a longer cable to connect to a computer or if you genuinely dislike the color or material the product offers. But other than that, for use solely with mobile phones, I believe having a fixed cable is even better because it reduces the number of contact points, which we know can lead to complications if not done very well.
Some people also worry a lot about this type of dongle because it directly connects to the USB-C port on the smartphone, and they fear damaging the device. Throughout my audio journey, I’ve evaluated various dongles, and I can confidently say that I still have the same smartphone I had before starting this journey. The smartphone still here, and I’ve never had any issues with the USB-C port. The current dongles I’ve tested all fit securely, without any slack, just like the KA11, the scope of this review.
Something I noticed when disconnecting the IEMs from the 3.5mm output is that I needed to apply some force to perform that action. That said, you need to hold the dongle to prevent it from detaching from the USB-C port on the smartphone. In summary, the 3.5mm output of the KA11 is quite tight.
The dongle features an RGB LED right next to the “FiiO” name. The LED colors represent the sampling rates: Blue – PCM below 48kHz; Yellow – PCM above 48kHz; Green – DSD. The device supports PCM 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256. I use FLAC files at 16-bit/44.1/48kHz and common music streaming services like Spotify and YouTube.
FiiO Control App:
As you can see from the screenshots, the App has limited functions for the KA11. It allows you to adjust the LED configuration, switch between UAC 1.0 and UAC 2.0 modes, and modify digital filters. According to the company, the App only works on Android devices. If you choose the Lightning version, will be compatible with Apple devices, you only won’t have access to the FiiO Control App.
PS: It seems that an earlier version of the App (v3.18) had a volume control feature, but the current version (v3.19) has removed this functionality.
USB Audio Class: The KA11 supports both UAC 1.0 and UAC 2.0 compatibility. UAC is the protocol used by USB ports to handle high-resolution audio files. UAC 1.0 can handle PCM files up to 24 bits/96 kHz, while UAC 2.0 can handle larger files, such as PCM 32 bits/384 kHz (superior) or DSD256 files. This can be useful for devices that require specific compatibility, such as the Nintendo Switch.
As for battery consumption through the 3.5mm output, using the Kiwi Ear Quintet, the battery usage was 15%. The smartphone I used had a 3.000mAh battery. The test involved 1 hour of playback with the screen off and Wi-Fi disabled (airplane mode). The volume was set to level 8 out of 15 available on Android.
I also made a test with the Tin P1. In this case, I used a balanced 4.4mm cable in my P1, but I have an adapter from DD HiFi, the DJ44C MK2 model, which converts from 4.4mm to 3.5mm (losing the balanced connection but enabling the use of IEM with the 3.5mm output). The battery consumption with the Tin P1 was 13%. I followed the same procedure as the test with the Quintet, The only difference was adjusting the volume to 13 and playing another album. Interestingly, the consumption remained lower than in the initial test, even with the volume set higher. However, as always, these numbers aren’t 100% precise, they serve as a rough estimate.
Heating test: Before measuring battery consumption, I plugged the KA11 into my computer and listened to “The Smiths – Singles (1995)“. I didn’t even need to finish the album and the dongle was already quite warm. I used it at only 16% volume with the Shozy Form 1.1 (an easy-to-drive IEM). What I think about this product heating: It heats up a lot, that’s a fact, but it’s nothing absurd. The small contact area means you can hold the dongle without discomfort, it doesn’t get hot enough to cause any harm.
One drawback of the KA11 is that it doesn’t come with a USB-C to USB-A adapter for computers. This limitation affects older computers or devices that still use the USB-A port, which is still quite common. While you can purchase this adapter separately, it would have been more convenient if the company had included it with the product. Fortunately, I had an adapter that came with my AUNE Yuki, allowing me to test the KA11 on my computer as well.
On the computer, the KA11 was immediately recognized, and I didn’t need to install any drivers. The volume scale on the computer adjusts in 2% increments when scrolling with the mouse wheel, but you can also fine-tune it by using the mouse arrow. Till the moment, the dongle has not received any firmware updates. You can find a Q&A, driver downloads (if needed), the app download, and the equipment manual in the following link: https://www.jadeaudio.com/details?article_id=173&_l=en
EDIT: A new firmware is available here: https://forum.fiio.com/note/showNoteContent.do?id=202403061706174125325&tid=77
Another point of criticism for the product is that, according to the company, the KA11 doesn’t support microphones. Therefore, you won’t be able to answer calls using the dongle. Additionally, it doesn’t support SPDIF line-out
SOUND ASPECTS:
It’s important to remember that this analysis is subjective, based on my experience with the product and its synergy with other equipment I’ve used. I’ll also mention that the more objectivist part of this hobby aren’t quite my beach, so some information might be limited, I’m not an expert in the technical side of this type of product.
About the audio quality of the FiiO KA11 dongle, I think it’s at an excellent level. The KA11 comes equipped with the Cirrus Logic DAC chip, specifically the CS43131 model. Throughout the time I tested the product, the KA11 consistently demonstrated its competence, providing a sound that is 100% transparent, clean, and well-defined. I didn’t notice any distortion, coloration, background noise, or strange sounds. As it’s solely a 3.5mm DAC/AMP, it doesn’t have a balanced system.
Amplification: Here, the KA11 truly impressed me, both when connected to my smartphone and my notebook. Using the Kiwi Ears Quintet and the Shozy Form 1.1 (both easy-to-drive headphones) the KA11 proved to be a robust dongle. I compared it to the AUNE Yuki and the M11S. Among the three, the KA11 emerged as the clear winner. Of course, this is a subjective analysis, and it’s hard to precisely quantify how each one can be “better” than the other. When directly comparing the KA11 to the AUNE Yuki through the 3.5mm output at the same volume level, the KA11 exhibited a stronger and more dynamic sound. However, comparing it to the M11S was trickier due to the DAP’s 120-step volume configuration, which scales significantly toward the upper end. To achieve a balance in terms of sound and power, I set the KA11 to volume 9 on Android, while the M11S was at volume 95 (out of 120). I usually use the M11S at 80 for volume.
With the Tin P1, I think everyone will ask: can it drive the P1? Well, honestly, I found that it could, but I admit I’ve had better experiences with the P1. For instance, with the FiiO KA5 or the Questyle M15, although in both cases, I connected the P1 to the balanced 4.4mm output, which is not the case with the KA11. With the P1, I needed to set the volume between 13 and 15 out of the 15 available on Android.
I even increased the volume up to the maximum with the P1, and the KA11 didn’t clipping (distort). I consider this a positive point for the dongle, especially since other products distorted at maximum volume (even products more expensive than the KA11). As for the Kiwi Ears Quintet, I didn’t test it at maximum volume, the IEM would have been too loud, and I didn’t want to risk my hearing. The KA11 has plenty of power, I believe it can drive 99% of the IEMs on the market.
Digital filters: These filters are commonly found in DACs, but I confess I’ve never noticed any difference between them. I think it’s a feature provided by the chip, and companies often include it as an extra feature. When I discuss this with other friends in the hobby, none of them claim to perceive any difference either.
Comparing the KA11, the M11S, and the Yuki, I believe the KA11 leans more toward to a warm sound signature, while the M11S sounds more neutral, and the Yuki is cold. Of course, these differences are subtle, and it’s entirely possible that I fell victim to a placebo effect at some point. These are distinct products, each with specific components for signal amplification. Naturally, my conclusion is based solely on comparing one device to another, it doesn’t mean one is “cold,” another is “warm,” or “neutral,” especially when tested individually.
Today, I can confidently say that among the 3.5mm output dongles I’ve tested, the KA11 provides the best sense of performance. Considering other factors like build quality, design, and more, it ranks at the top in terms of cost-effectiveness. It’s certainly not perfect, but honestly, starting the hobby and being able to enjoy equipment like this, there’s nothing to complain about, it’s going to be the definitive dongle for a lot of people. Not long ago, I recommended the iFi GO link as an entry-level choice, but now I believe the FiiO KA11 has taken its place.
Thank you so much for being here! \o/
Consider follow us on Instagram to get all the news!
Also our YouTube Channel.
About the audio quality of the FiiO KA11 dongle, I think it’s at an excellent level. The KA11 comes equipped with the Cirrus Logic DAC chip, specifically the CS43131 model. Throughout the time I tested the product, the KA11 consistently demonstrated its competence, providing a sound that is 100% transparent, clean, and well-defined. I didn’t notice any distortion, coloration, background noise, or strange sounds. As it’s solely a 3.5mm DAC/AMP, it doesn’t have a balanced system.
Amplification: Here, the KA11 truly impressed me, both when connected to my smartphone and my notebook. Using the Kiwi Ears Quintet and the Shozy Form 1.1 (both easy-to-drive headphones) the KA11 proved to be a robust dongle. I compared it to the AUNE Yuki and the M11S. Among the three, the KA11 emerged as the clear winner. Of course, this is a subjective analysis, and it’s hard to precisely quantify how each one can be “better” than the other. When directly comparing the KA11 to the AUNE Yuki through the 3.5mm output at the same volume level, the KA11 exhibited a stronger and more dynamic sound. However, comparing it to the M11S was trickier due to the DAP’s 120-step volume configuration, which scales significantly toward the upper end. To achieve a balance in terms of sound and power, I set the KA11 to volume 9 on Android, while the M11S was at volume 95 (out of 120). I usually use the M11S at 80 for volume.
With the Tin P1, I think everyone will ask: can it drive the P1? Well, honestly, I found that it could, but I admit I’ve had better experiences with the P1. For instance, with the FiiO KA5 or the Questyle M15, although in both cases, I connected the P1 to the balanced 4.4mm output, which is not the case with the KA11. With the P1, I needed to set the volume between 13 and 15 out of the 15 available on Android.
I even increased the volume up to the maximum with the P1, and the KA11 didn’t clipping (distort). I consider this a positive point for the dongle, especially since other products distorted at maximum volume (even products more expensive than the KA11). As for the Kiwi Ears Quintet, I didn’t test it at maximum volume, the IEM would have been too loud, and I didn’t want to risk my hearing. The KA11 has plenty of power, I believe it can drive 99% of the IEMs on the market.
Digital filters: These filters are commonly found in DACs, but I confess I’ve never noticed any difference between them. I think it’s a feature provided by the chip, and companies often include it as an extra feature. When I discuss this with other friends in the hobby, none of them claim to perceive any difference either.
Comparing the KA11, the M11S, and the Yuki, I believe the KA11 leans more toward to a warm sound signature, while the M11S sounds more neutral, and the Yuki is cold. Of course, these differences are subtle, and it’s entirely possible that I fell victim to a placebo effect at some point. These are distinct products, each with specific components for signal amplification. Naturally, my conclusion is based solely on comparing one device to another, it doesn’t mean one is “cold,” another is “warm,” or “neutral,” especially when tested individually.
Today, I can confidently say that among the 3.5mm output dongles I’ve tested, the KA11 provides the best sense of performance. Considering other factors like build quality, design, and more, it ranks at the top in terms of cost-effectiveness. It’s certainly not perfect, but honestly, starting the hobby and being able to enjoy equipment like this, there’s nothing to complain about, it’s going to be the definitive dongle for a lot of people. Not long ago, I recommended the iFi GO link as an entry-level choice, but now I believe the FiiO KA11 has taken its place.
Thank you so much for being here! \o/
Consider follow us on Instagram to get all the news!
Also our YouTube Channel.
Last edited:
marcelzxc
Well, I updated the App to v3.21 on two smartphones and the volume control doesn't appear for KA11. Unfortunately is impossible update the review for every firmware update.
Introduction:-
Hey guys, today I will be reviewing the Fiio KA11. Its a new budget dongle from fiio.
I have also shared a video version of the review at YouTube any support there in form of a view, A like or A subscribe is greatly appreciated. But if you so wish to read the written version you can read this.
This was a review unit sent in by fiio, but all the thoughts and opinions you are about to hear are my own.
Buy it here (Unaffiliated Link) :-
https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256806284660223.html
I will be as usual following my bullet style format for better readability for those who are dyslexic and in general find it hard to read long paragraphs. I follow this guide in general from the British Dyslexia Association.
Lets start!
Review:-
1. So consider this an upgrade from the apple dongle.
2. Before I start the review I want to say that I did have a minor issue with the dongle where in the volume as suddenly maxed out and it almost blew my eardrums. But it seems to have been fixed by itself for some reason as I don’t see it happening now and I have spoken to others who has this they too didn’t face this issue. I guess I was the only one, although I have let fiio know about it.
3. If you are using UAPP I highly suggest enabling the option force volume sync under volume and then disconnect the dac and plug it again.
4. Lets talk about the dac in detail now
5. The price of Fiio KA11 is $30 and as of reviewing you can get it for $23-25 for sale
5. These have a CS43131 dac chip along with the Op-Amp SGM8262. It has an output impedance of less than 0.7ohms.
6. It supports upto 32bit 384khz and upto DSD256
7. It can supplies upto 200mw of power at 32ohms from its single 3.5mm jack, now this is the main selling point of this dac
8. Sadly no ADC control and that means no mic is supported here. This would have been an awesome feature to add to this dac as mostly it will be used by mobile users.
9. The cable of the KA11 is braided and is very nice.
10. Now it has an app, called the Fiio control app. Inside the app you can select the UAC modes, selecting turning on and off the indicator lights, selecting the filter modes and also controlling the inner volume of the dac.
(Screenshots shown are from the version 3.18, the latest version of the app as of this review is version 3.19. The version 3.19 doesn't have the internal volume slider)
11. Now as of making this review the latest version of the app has removed the internal volume slider of the dac. But I am using an older version of the dac which lets me control the internal volume of the dac.
12. I am using the v3.18 of the app because this has the volume control, if you want this version of the app please do comment below I can share it there.
13. Now why is this volume control feature important, well unlike most popular dongle dacs which as independent volume and a physical volume button. The fiio ka11 lacks and that is for all the right reasons
14. So lets say you are using it on a smartphone and the volume step jump is too high, then you have higher volume jumps in your ka11 too. But with the app this could be mitigated as you could set the internal volume of the dac to lets say 25/50 or 30/50 and that way you when you use it on a smartphone or any other devices where the volume step jump is high the increase in volume is more linear.
15. Sorry if its a bit complicated. But I hope you got my point, if you still have any doubts you can comment below.
16. With the UAC 1.0 mode you can use it with your PS5, Nintendo Switch etc. But it needs to be switched one first from the fiio control app.
17. Also the app is very buggy a usual. As of this review the app has connecting issues to the KA11 I have to connect and reconnect couple of times sometimes.
18. I have used the No oversampling filter for the review, I found no difference when using the other filters.
19.Now before talking about the sound, I want to mention that its very hard to talk about it and it depends heavily on your personal preference, the iems you are using and also a-b ing it with other dacs.
20. Now talking about the sound. It is fantastic!
21. The overall sound of the fiio ka11 is warm and very luscious.
22. The bass has this slight tinge of boost here without any major colouration here. For lean sounding iems it does give a nice slight kick to it without changing the sound much at all.
23. The mids might have a tinge of boost, where in they sound a bit fuller and thicker. But the female vocals sounds a bit recessed.
24. The treble too stays controlled
25. But the sharpness of the notes is a bit blunted, and this makes it really enjoyable to listen to for longer sessions
26. The fiio KA11 pairs excellently with brighter sounding iems.
27. It paired well with all my iems very well, and it even drove my very hard to drive tanchjim kara very well.
28. Now comparing it with the apple dongle dac. I don’t have it with me as of now, but I did test it when I borrowed it from my friend
29. The fiio ka11 beats it in every aspect. Period!
30. The fiio sounds fuller, richer and pairs very well with most iems.
31. Even if you are someone who wont be noticing about the sound quality upgrade of the fiio ka11 from the apple dongle, I think so the build quality upgrade alone when compared to the frail apple dongle is worth a shot.
32. Because the apple dongle is very much prone to breakage over the time, but the braided cable of the fiio ka11 does give me a lot of confidence.
33. Now even though when my initial experience with the fiio dongle dac was very bad due to the max volume issue. But after it was fixed, I cannot gush over enough this budget dongle dac.
34. What would be nice if there were EQ options inside the app which I guess could be added via an update. And also a USB-C to USB-A adapter inside the box would have been a nice addition.
35. So yeah thats my review of the KA11. Please do comment if you have any doubts or questions. Thanks for stopping by, have a great day ahead! Bye!
If you have any questions please feel free to ask me and also if you have any issues regarding this format of review please do comment I will try to mend it. Also sorry to those who are used to reading long paragraphs of review in headfi. I hope my review was upto the mark, I appreciate any feedback.
Again a big thanks to Fiio for making this review happen.
Have a great day ahead
Bye!
FiiO KA11 USB-C/Lightning Dongle Review
I have been looking for a suitable portable upgrade over the aging Apple usb-c / lightning dongle for a while. I want something small enough to essentially just feel like an extension of my headphone cable but powerful enough to really drive some of my harder to drive planars.So, as you will hopefully see in this review, I believe the KA11 is exactly that and is a very pragmatic choice for a portable usb-c / lightning dongle for your smartphone especially at its $29.99 price.
Introduction
The FiiO / JadeAudio KA11 builds upon the success of its predecessor, the KA1, but while the KA1 had a blocky design which felt a separate “DAC”, the design of the KA11 is much sleaker as you can see in the picture above and feels much more like an ‘adapter’ than the powerful dongle DAC amplifier that it is.What is in the Box
The USB-c version:
The lightning version:
Design and Build
The FiiO / JadeAudio KA11 comes in two colors, Midnight Black and Sunrise Silver, and lightweight design of about 8.5g, the KA11 is unobtrusive and highly portable. While it is slightly bigger than the Apple USB-c dongle it doesn’t really feel bigger when connected to your headphones:
Especially when attached to your headphone cable it feels like an natural extension of the cable and is unobtrusive when I am carrying it in my pocket with my smartphone:
So compared to the typical usb-c dongle it is much more portable. Here is a comparison with the FiiO KA17 (which I will have a review of very soon), a Qudelix 5K and the apple usb-c dongle:
I thought it was amazing that the KA11 was effectively smaller than the 2.5mm to 4.4mm adapter I needed to carry with the Qudelix 5K.
Here is a short video:
Note: Spoiler for the KA17 review, if you have the money get the KA17, it is more powerful, has PEQ, has balanced output and many other features, but is definitely less portable than the KA11 and will not feel like an ‘adapter’ on your cable the same way the KA11 does.
The KA11 cable length is 65.5mm:
The KA11 boasts a robust aluminum-magnesium alloy body that not only gives it a premium feel but also provides excellent interference resistance. This, combined with its oblique cuts and curved outlines, offers a visually appealing device that’s both sturdy and stylish.
Features
Internally the KA11 includes a high-spec SA9312L USB interface, an independent CS43131 DAC, and an independent headphone amplifier with SGM8262 op-amps for professional HiFi circuit architecture. Furthermore, for its price class it delivers an extremely powerful output of up to 245mW at 16Ω, making it stand out.The dongle features a light which indicates the sampling rate of the audio source, with blue indicating “normal” < 48khz
quality audio and yellow indicating hi-res > 48khz while green indicates DSD audio. This can be controlled within the FiiO Control Application.
FiiO Control App
So as mentioned the FiiO control app can control various features of the KA11, including the light. With the light can be turned off, either permanently or until next time dongle is restarted, but only using the Android version of the FiiO Control app. I would imagine this capability will be added to the IOS version once Apple lift their restrictions.
Sound Profile
The KA11 is highly transparent to the source of the music, supporting up to 32bit/384kHz PCM and DSD256 audio decoding.For those who like to tweak with the audio profile, there is the ability to change the filters within the FiiO control app (again Android only for now):
I was very impressed with the power I was getting when listening to my planar’s, maybe 70% volume compared to needing to max out the volume when using the US version of the Apple USB-c dongle. If you like the Apple usb-c dongle but just wanted more power and features I think the KA11 is for you.
Note: The KA11 does not support a microphone interface so does not have a ADC unlike the apple usb-c/lightning dongles so you won’t be able to use a microphone on your IEM cable.
Specification and Measurements
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Colors | Midnight black |
| Sunrise silver | |
| Connectors | Type-C |
| Lightning | |
| DAC | C543131 |
| Op-amp | SGM8262 |
| Supported formats | 384kHz/32bit, DSD256 |
| Output | 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Dimensions | 44.5 * 9.7 * 10.5mm |
| Cable length | 65.5mm |
| Weight | 8.5g |
| SNR | ≥ 125dB 32 Ohms |
| Output impedance | < 0.70 (32 Ohms) |
| L+R Power | Ohms | THD+N | SINAD |
|---|---|---|---|
| 245mW | 16 | THD+N < 1% | |
| 200mW | 32 | 0.0006% | 104 |
| 22mW | 300 | 0.00038% | 108 |
This level of power in such a small package and reaonable priced dongle is particularly impressive and a significant advantage for those who want to bring a more demanding headphones with them.
Rating
Given its features, build quality, and performance, the KA11 receives a pragmatic rating of 4.5 out of 5. It offers exceptional value for its price, making it an excellent choice for audiophiles seeking quality audio without breaking the bank. Other than the missing inline microphone input it is an excellent choice over the aging Apple usb-c dongle and can even be used as a high quality alternative to much more expensive usb-c / lightning dongles.Conclusion
In conclusion, the Fiio KA11 is a remarkable bargain, with a combination of elegant design, powerful output, low noise floor, and high signal-to-noise ratio makes it a top contender in the market of audio dongles. The KA11 is more than capable of satisfying the audio needs of both casual listeners and audiophiles alike. Whether you’re streaming high-resolution audio on the move or looking for a compact yet powerful solution for your portable setup, the Fiio KA11 stands out as an excellent pragmatic choice.
The FiiO KA11 is a tiny and affordable USB DAC/Amplifier dongle aimed at on-the-go audio enthusiasts. Don’t let its size fool you, as this little device packs a powerful punch, delivering exceptional sound quality and value for money, all while adhering to the company’s goals of innovative design, reliable quality, and a high cost-to-performance ratio.
Disclaimer:
This review of the FiiO KA11 was conducted with a review unit provided by FiiO. While I appreciate their support in facilitating this evaluation, please understand that the opinions and insights expressed herein are solely my own, based on my independent testing and experience with the product. My aim is to provide reviews that are unbiased and transparent, enabling you, the reader, to make informed purchasing decisions.Introduction
As a prominent player in the portable audio industry, FiiO continues to innovate with its latest offering, the FiiO KA11 Portable DAC and Headphone Amplifier. Building upon the success of its predecessor, the KA1, released in 2022, The KA11 prioritizes miniaturization while maintaining high sound quality. This smaller form factor caters to listeners seeking a truly portable solution without sacrificing audio performance. Moreover, both the KA1 and KA11 will coexist for some time, offering users a choice based on their preferences.
Addressing the Dongle Market Demand:
FiiO acknowledges the increasing popularity of USB dongles as essential tools for wired headphone use, with smartphones lacking traditional headphone jacks. Recognizing the varying quality standards in the market, they leverage their experience and expertise to provide reliable and user-friendly products at different price points. The KA11 embodies this philosophy, aiming to “achieve more with less” by delivering significant sound quality improvements in a compact form factor.Unboxing
Upon receiving the FiiO KA11, I really loved the sleek and elegant design of the packaging. The box itself exuded a premium feel, with its minimalist yet eye-catching graphics showcasing the product. Opening the box revealed the KA11 nestled snugly inside to ensure its safety during transit. Alongside the dongle, I found the user manual and warranty information. However, I was surprised to find that there wasn’t a Type A to Type C adapter included, which I had anticipated would be part of the package. Despite this minor discrepancy, the overall unboxing experience was pleasant.
Compact and Portable Design:
Measuring in at a mere 110mm long and weighing only 8.5 grams, the KA11 is one of the most portable DACs on the market. Its lightweight aluminum-magnesium alloy construction provides durability without adding bulk. The cable is made of high-purity oxygen-free palladium-plated copper wires and covered by a layer of flexible silicone and braided cloth, making it very durable. Its size makes it perfect for slipping into your pocket or backpack. The KA11 is a practical and stylish option that comes in sleek black or silver with light blue accent finishes.Technical Specifications
- Brand: Dual brand- FIIO/JadeAudio
- Product name: Portable DAC/Amp (USB dongle)
- Product model: KA11
- USB chip: SAVITECH SA9312L
- DAC chip: CIRRUS LOGIC CS43131
- Op-amp chip: SGMICRO SGM8262
- System support: Android/IOS/Windows/Mac
- Decoding support: Supports up to PCM384kHz/32bit, DSD256
- Input: Type-C or Lightning
- Output: 3.5mm single-ended
- Output power: 3.5 single-ended: L+R≥200mW+200mW (32Ω, THD+N<1%, USB IN), 3.5 single-ended: L+R≥245mW+245mW (16Ω, THD+N<1%, USB IN)
- SNR: ≥125dB (32Ω, A-weighted)
- THD+N: <0.0006% (0dB, 32Ω), <0.0003% (0dB, 300Ω)
- Noise floor: About 1.7uV A-weighted
- Other functions: RGB light indicates the corresponding sampling rate.
- Dimensions: 1109*79*7mm
- Weight: The bare body weighs 8.5g
- Color: Midnight black/Sunrise silver
FiiO KA11: First of its kind
Impressive Power Output and High-Res Audio Support:
Despite its diminutive size, the KA11 boasts an impressive 245mW of power output at 16Ω, significantly exceeding most competitors in its price range. This enables it to drive demanding headphones and IEMs effortlessly, ensuring clear and dynamic audio across various genres. Additionally, it supports high-resolution audio formats up to 384kHz/32-bit PCM and DSD256, ensuring compatibility with your extensive digital music library and delivering impressive detail and clarity.Independent DAC and Amp for Superior Sound:
KA11 is unique in its use of an independent CS43131 DAC and SGM8262 Amplifier, unlike many competitor dongles. This dedicated circuitry contributes to its impressive sound quality by ensuring accurate digital-to-analog conversion and powerful amplification. The way they were able to put so much into such a small thing is truly impressive and special, and it is highly praised.Multiple Connectivity Options:
For wider device compatibility, the KA11 comes in two versions: one with a USB-C connector and another with a Lightning connector. This caters to both Android and iOS users, allowing you to enjoy high-quality audio on the go, regardless of your smartphone platform.Exceptional Value for Money:
Considering its impressive power output, high-fidelity sound, and convenient portability, the KA11 delivers an exceptional value proposition. Priced at only $29, it’s a compelling option for budget-conscious audiophiles seeking a significant upgrade to their mobile listening experience.Minor Drawbacks:
While the KA11 excels in most aspects, there are a couple of minor drawbacks to consider. The cable is permanently attached, limiting future upgradeability. Additionally, the USB-C version doesn’t include a Type-A adapter, requiring a separate purchase for connecting to computers without USB-C ports.FiiO APP:
The FiiO KA11 comes with a dedicated app that enhances user control and customization. Through the FiiO Control App, users can toggle the light indicator on and off according to their preference, providing added flexibility in various environments. Moreover, the app offers five distinct filter options, each tailored to refine the audio output according to individual preferences. These filters include: 1 – Minimum Phase Fast Roll-off, 2 – Fast Roll-off Phase-compensated, 3 – Minimum Phase Slow Roll-off, 4 – Slow Roll-off Phase-compensated, and 5 – Non Over-sampling filters. While each filter subtly alters the sound signature, the KA11 maintains a hint of warmth throughout. Getting it on a 29$ dongle is very impressive.
FiiO KA11 Performance
Balanced and Natural Sound Signature:
Unlike some budget DACs that emphasize specific frequencies, the KA11 adheres to a natural sound signature. This results in accurate and faithful audio reproduction, allowing the nuances of your music to shine through. Emphasized, well-balanced, and natural sound, praising the KA11’s ability to deliver impactful bass, clear vocals, and well-defined highs while having a slight warm and natural touch to it. The KA11 pairs well with brighter IEMs, like the Simgot EA500, and adds a bit of warmth to the low-end, making it sound more realistic and lifelike.Bass: The KA11 delivers a dynamic and impactful bass response, providing ample depth and energy to your music. Whether you’re listening to electronic beats or orchestral compositions, the bass reproduction of the KA11 remains tight and controlled, enhancing the overall listening experience.
Midrange: Vocals and instruments are rendered with lifelike clarity and richness, capturing every nuance and emotion of the performance. From the soulful vocals of your favorite singer to the intricate melodies of acoustic instruments, the midrange presentation of the KA11 remains engaging and immersive, drawing you into the heart of the music.
Highs: The KA11’s treble presentation is a bit laid back, but still reveals intricate details and adds sparkle to the overall sound signature. Whether it’s the shimmering cymbals in a jazz ensemble or the delicate harmonics of a classical violin, the treble performance of the KA11 remains articulate and refined.
Imagine: The KA11 creates a spacious and pinpoint-accurate stage, allowing for precise instrument placement and separation. Whether you’re listening to an intimate acoustic performance or a grand orchestral arrangement, the KA11’s stage reproduction remains expansive and three-dimensional, transporting you to the heart of the musical performance.
Conclusion
The FiiO KA11 is a true testament to the saying that good things come in small packages. The KA11 redefines the portable audio landscape. This pocket-sized powerhouse encapsulates the brand’s commitment to innovation. It delivers surprisingly high-quality sound, ample power for demanding headphones, and wide platform compatibility—all at an unbeatable price. With its minor drawbacks easily overshadowed by its strengths, the KA11 is a surefire recommendation for anyone seeking a portable and affordable way to elevate their mobile audio experience.Where to buy:
AliExpress Official Store
innovated
Great review 
thanks.
Just ordered - will be useful for my higher impedance IEMs (MagicOne, Campfire Satsuma, Tipsy) on the go! Nice
thanks. Just ordered - will be useful for my higher impedance IEMs (MagicOne, Campfire Satsuma, Tipsy) on the go! Nice
When music flows in your veins, choose a good guide!
Fiio KA11:
INSTAGRAM LINK:
Prelude:
Recently, it has been a completely new game for Fiio, starting from a great stationary combo in the form of the k11 or the flagship ka17 dongle, ending with the cheapest and most basic model in terms of dongles, i.e. the KA11. The cheapest offer from fiio is addressed to users who focus primarily on minimalism and simplicity. The cost of KA11 is USD 29.99 and I consider this price to be ridiculously low compared to what the device itself offers us. So it’s time to take a closer look at it.
Unboxing and ergonomics:
Fiio KA11 is the cheapest product from the dongle series of mobile DAC/AMPs in the fiio portfolio and this is reflected in the packaging. The emphasis here was on content, not form. We receive a nice cardboard packaging with an instruction manual and the device itself. In my opinion, at this price you don’t need anything else, maybe apart from a large USB adapter, but it’s not a must-have. The DAC itself is relatively small and very slim. Despite its small size, fiio fits an independent DAC from the CL and an additionally powerful independent amplifier. Although the cable is not detachable, it is made of strong braided material and really inspires my confidence. Additionally, there is a diode indicating the device’s operation and full access to the Fiio Controll application. From the application level, we can fine-tune the device’s filter, diode parameters and other aspects of operation. What is important and worthy of great praise is that the settings we choose will be saved in the device’s memory and will be valid on a Windows computer or any other device. The DAC/AMP itself generates enough power to drive most in-ear headphones, as much as 200mW per channel at 32Ohm, and it does not heat up excessively, maintaining great operating smoothness. At the same time, it looks like a slightly longer USB C to 3.5mm jack adapter, so it is a really compact device.
Sound:
Bass: The low tones are natural, clean and transparent, which translates into excellent quality, unheard of in this price range. We have a musical, natural and transparent tuning here, which translates into a very good final effect, and the bass generally followed the character of the headphones very well. HifiMan svanar sounded true to its nature, just like softears volume. I like that the ka11 is not very bassy, but rather focuses on balance and a pleasant natural sound.
Midrange: Vocals and instruments sound clean, smooth and natural in the KA11 with some of the bright tuning typical of the Cirrus bones. However, I did not feel any digital character or excessive analysis here. It seems that Fiio wanted to reach a more classic audience with the KA11 model who simply wants to listen to music. Nevertheless, the stage impressed me with its depth and good width. And most importantly, the signal purity has always remained impeccable. The sound resolution of the KA11 is really high, which is important despite the low price. The KA11 provides a lot of pleasure and joy from listening.
High tones: The high tones are neither unpleasant nor dominant. Their consistent and smooth character perfectly suits the KA11 tuning. Fiio decided on a calm and safe tuning model, which I personally think is a very good move, and the whole thing results in a calm and relaxing sound. Another good aspect is the nice separation of instruments and quite good positioning for this price range.
Comparisons:
Fiio KA11 (USD 29.99) VS xDuoo link v2 (USD 49)
xDuoo link 2v sounds drier, more analysis, but also less entertainment and fun. Fiio KA11 also has a slightly better quality cable and more power. I like both devices very much, but the Fiio KA11 is a bit more universal tuning, less technical.
Fiio KA11 (29.99USD) VS whizzer DA1 (59USD)
DA1 has physical volume buttons, which is a big plus because the volume can be adjusted from the device. However, Fiio KA11 is better made, has a much better cable, and has a more refined sound with much more power.
Fiio KA11 (29.99USD) VS fiio ka17 (149USD)
Of course, I treat this comparison as a curiosity and I decided to make it more because of the curiosity of many people and the number of questions I receive, rather than because of the real competitiveness of both products. Is KA17 better? Yes, it is much, much and several times much better, but it is a product dedicated to a different audience and a different target group. If you are looking for a device that will provide you with the basic functionality of the 3.5mm jack output and good sound quality, then the KA11 will be great. However, if you are looking for sound at the level of stationary audio devices, definitely head towards the KA17. I don’t think I need to explain to anyone that it’s impossible to compare these two devices fairly, and both are leaders in their price class.
Summary:
I have just finished the review of KA17, the flagship dongle from fiio, and I consider it a leader in its price category. KA11 is the cheapest, but not the worst, representative of the Fiio portfolio. It sounds great, provides excellent comfort of use and above-average sound quality. Its tuning is accessible and natural. The price of USD 29.99 is obscenely good compared to what KA11 offers us. I think that many people, like me, will share my opinion that the KA11 is an excellent USB dongle with a beautiful design and very good tuning. It stands out from the competition with its amount of power, great clean signal and, above all, well-thought-out and tuned sound. All this allows me to rate the work Fiio put into KA11 very highly. I hope future updates will bring even more improvements. Finally, I would like to add that a great advantage is also a great application that allows you to control the parameters of your device, you can use it to set the volume, digital filters or the backlight of the signal diode, and these are really useful issues.
Fiio KA11
Fiio KA11:
INSTAGRAM LINK:
Prelude:
Recently, it has been a completely new game for Fiio, starting from a great stationary combo in the form of the k11 or the flagship ka17 dongle, ending with the cheapest and most basic model in terms of dongles, i.e. the KA11. The cheapest offer from fiio is addressed to users who focus primarily on minimalism and simplicity. The cost of KA11 is USD 29.99 and I consider this price to be ridiculously low compared to what the device itself offers us. So it’s time to take a closer look at it.
Unboxing and ergonomics:
Fiio KA11 is the cheapest product from the dongle series of mobile DAC/AMPs in the fiio portfolio and this is reflected in the packaging. The emphasis here was on content, not form. We receive a nice cardboard packaging with an instruction manual and the device itself. In my opinion, at this price you don’t need anything else, maybe apart from a large USB adapter, but it’s not a must-have. The DAC itself is relatively small and very slim. Despite its small size, fiio fits an independent DAC from the CL and an additionally powerful independent amplifier. Although the cable is not detachable, it is made of strong braided material and really inspires my confidence. Additionally, there is a diode indicating the device’s operation and full access to the Fiio Controll application. From the application level, we can fine-tune the device’s filter, diode parameters and other aspects of operation. What is important and worthy of great praise is that the settings we choose will be saved in the device’s memory and will be valid on a Windows computer or any other device. The DAC/AMP itself generates enough power to drive most in-ear headphones, as much as 200mW per channel at 32Ohm, and it does not heat up excessively, maintaining great operating smoothness. At the same time, it looks like a slightly longer USB C to 3.5mm jack adapter, so it is a really compact device.
Sound:
Bass: The low tones are natural, clean and transparent, which translates into excellent quality, unheard of in this price range. We have a musical, natural and transparent tuning here, which translates into a very good final effect, and the bass generally followed the character of the headphones very well. HifiMan svanar sounded true to its nature, just like softears volume. I like that the ka11 is not very bassy, but rather focuses on balance and a pleasant natural sound.
Midrange: Vocals and instruments sound clean, smooth and natural in the KA11 with some of the bright tuning typical of the Cirrus bones. However, I did not feel any digital character or excessive analysis here. It seems that Fiio wanted to reach a more classic audience with the KA11 model who simply wants to listen to music. Nevertheless, the stage impressed me with its depth and good width. And most importantly, the signal purity has always remained impeccable. The sound resolution of the KA11 is really high, which is important despite the low price. The KA11 provides a lot of pleasure and joy from listening.
High tones: The high tones are neither unpleasant nor dominant. Their consistent and smooth character perfectly suits the KA11 tuning. Fiio decided on a calm and safe tuning model, which I personally think is a very good move, and the whole thing results in a calm and relaxing sound. Another good aspect is the nice separation of instruments and quite good positioning for this price range.
Comparisons:
Fiio KA11 (USD 29.99) VS xDuoo link v2 (USD 49)
xDuoo link 2v sounds drier, more analysis, but also less entertainment and fun. Fiio KA11 also has a slightly better quality cable and more power. I like both devices very much, but the Fiio KA11 is a bit more universal tuning, less technical.
Fiio KA11 (29.99USD) VS whizzer DA1 (59USD)
DA1 has physical volume buttons, which is a big plus because the volume can be adjusted from the device. However, Fiio KA11 is better made, has a much better cable, and has a more refined sound with much more power.
Fiio KA11 (29.99USD) VS fiio ka17 (149USD)
Of course, I treat this comparison as a curiosity and I decided to make it more because of the curiosity of many people and the number of questions I receive, rather than because of the real competitiveness of both products. Is KA17 better? Yes, it is much, much and several times much better, but it is a product dedicated to a different audience and a different target group. If you are looking for a device that will provide you with the basic functionality of the 3.5mm jack output and good sound quality, then the KA11 will be great. However, if you are looking for sound at the level of stationary audio devices, definitely head towards the KA17. I don’t think I need to explain to anyone that it’s impossible to compare these two devices fairly, and both are leaders in their price class.
Summary:
I have just finished the review of KA17, the flagship dongle from fiio, and I consider it a leader in its price category. KA11 is the cheapest, but not the worst, representative of the Fiio portfolio. It sounds great, provides excellent comfort of use and above-average sound quality. Its tuning is accessible and natural. The price of USD 29.99 is obscenely good compared to what KA11 offers us. I think that many people, like me, will share my opinion that the KA11 is an excellent USB dongle with a beautiful design and very good tuning. It stands out from the competition with its amount of power, great clean signal and, above all, well-thought-out and tuned sound. All this allows me to rate the work Fiio put into KA11 very highly. I hope future updates will bring even more improvements. Finally, I would like to add that a great advantage is also a great application that allows you to control the parameters of your device, you can use it to set the volume, digital filters or the backlight of the signal diode, and these are really useful issues.
Disclaimer:
Finally, the Fiio brand noticed me and I couldn’t be happier with this new collaboration. The Fiio KA11 was kindly sent to me for review purposes.
Though I’m still not as skilled as the most knowledgeable person you can find online, I’m starting to acquire an intriguing amount of Dac.
The review, as always, will be completely unbiased and uninfluenced.
I would like to remind you that I am just a person who enjoys trying out new items and listening to a lot of music; I am not an expert.
My opinions are obviously subjective.
Tech Specs:
- Colors: Midnight black, Sunrise silver
- DAC: CS43131
- Op-amp: SGM8262
- Max supported formats: 384kHz/32bit, DSD256
- Input: Type-C or Lightning
- Output: 3.5mm headphone jack
- Dimensions: About 44.5*9.7*10.5mm
- Cable length: About 65.5mm
- Weight: about 8.5g
- Output power 1: L+R>245mW+245mW(16N/THD+N<1%)
- Output power 2: L+R>200mW+200mW (320/THD+N<1%)
- Output power 3: L+R≥22mW+22mW (3000/THD+N<1%)
- Signal-to-noise ratio: ≥125dB (320, A-weighted)
- Noise floor: PO < 1.7μV (320, A-weighted)
- Output impedance: <0.70 (320)
- THD+N: <0.0006% (32Q)/ <0.00038% (3003)
- Price: 29.99 USD
Packaging:
The Fiio KA11 box is presented in a very simple way; a more luxurious box would have unnecessarily raised the price. The opening of the box is sliding and we immediately find the KA11 nestled in the packaging inside a protective plastic bag.
By removing the packaging, you will find the manual and warranty policies. I would have thought of also finding a type C to USB adapter for connecting to a PC. Unfortunately, it is missing but for a few dollars, you can find it on AliExpress.
Build quality/First impressions:
At first glance, it immediately seems to be of excellent construction and workmanship. The main body is made of some metal alloy to better dissipate heat (it heats up slightly), the design is simple, and a LED indicates the sampling being played.
The cable is nice and thick and covered in fabric; I think it’s one of the most robust I’ve seen so far. The type C is slightly different in color from the DAC’s black; it is more of a midnight blue.
Power:
We are faced with the most powerful entry-level dongle on the market. I don’t think there are other dongles so cheap that reach these powers. The Fiio KA11 is certainly revolutionary compared to all the dongles in the price range. Despite its only 3.5mm SE output, its 200 mW at 32 ohm is exceptional.
If I take, for example, the Jcally JM10, which has the same chip but isn’t as powerful, it has a cable that you can replace, the construction is good, but it costs more than the Fiio, which also has an app included. I’ll compare them later in the review.
You must take into account that the power varies if you connect the phone to the PC; probably the phone model also influences performance. It all depends on how much current the smartphone’s type C can output.
I therefore decided to compare the different power sources.
TEST on POCO M4 PRO with Tidal
In the test, I took IEMs and headphones that were a little more difficult to drive. IEMs like the Plutus Beast with 8 ohm impedance are a joke for this dongle.
- Epz x Tipsy Star One (64 OHM): The KA11 is not affected in the slightest. It seems to have connected to an IEM that is very easy to drive. Nice full-bodied bass. It is impossible to go beyond half the volume.
- KZ PR2 V2 (energy hungry): Hard to believe but going above 80% volume will cause immediate deafness (thanks to the fantastic treble of the PR2)
- Hifiman He400se (dongle eater): Here is the limit, at least on my smartphone. You can easily listen to them but you don’t reach scary levels.
TEST on iMac with Amazon Music
- Epz x Tipsy Star One (64 OHM): With a third of the volume available, you are already at the finish line.
- KZ PR2 V2 (energy hungry): Practically like the Star Ones on smartphones. Super easy. Unfortunately, the volume doesn’t go up much due to the very spicy treble.
- Hifiman He400se: You immediately notice the presence of a greater low range. It’s not just a question of volume but also of power reserve. They can drive them without effort but it reaches at least 80% of the volume.
He therefore demonstrates the ability to even drive full-size planars from a smartphone while maintaining excellent levels. However, I managed to obtain his maximum potential via computer.
This was my extreme final test: Star One 64 Ohm + 75 Ohm Jcally adapter
Obviously, I have tried several planar, hybrid, and single DD IEMs, and I must say that in most of them, this DAC is suitable. I didn’t notice any accentuated background noise, even on low impedances. This is not to say that the Hifiman He400Se reaches its maximum potential. Obviously, they are planar headphones, and the more power you give them, the more their dynamism increases. The test just understands the limitations of this dongle.
Sound Signature & Fiio App:
The Cirrus Logic has recently lost a bit of warmth; in any case, it sounds less hot and slightly more refined. It is probably thanks to the amplification stage that uses SGmicro OP-Amps but I also believe in the improvements implemented by Fiio.
On the treble range, it remains very composed; in fact, some ESS is more suitable for trebleheads; the midrange is enriched with warmth; the voices are pleasant; and the bass remains the flagship of the Cirrus Logic.
Thanks to the proprietary app, you can change the filters but in any case, the KA11 is slightly warm and the mids are slightly recessed. Compared to an EPZ TP20, where the heat turned off the voices a little, this one is definitely better. Bass is always emphasized on cirrus chips or at least has a heavier or fuller impact.
DAC apps are always a bit approximate, but the necessary functions are there. We can choose between UAC 1.0 or 2.0 in case of compatibility or playback problems and between 5 digital filters. The volume control is absent, although it appears to be present on the product page. I must say that compared to the filters tested on the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus, I can feel the differences here, even if they are minimal. For a dongle of this price, it is definitely surprising.
Fast Comparison:
vs Jcally Jm10 (old version)
One of my first DACs, the JM10, was a nightmare for me. Mine was part of a faulty batch that ran on almost nothing. I had to flash the Sonata BHD firmware and now it works. The volume has undergone a notable increase, as if it were always on high gain. It doesn’t excel at anything in terms of audio quality. Considering the higher purchase price, I would struggle to recommend it nowadays. Yet in terms of volume, my modified JM10 is impressive but loses out in detail compared to the KA11. The bass is also weaker.
The sound of the Ka11 is noticeably better for my ears since it manages to keep the sound open and very dynamic.
vs Hidizs S3 Pro
The small Hidizs feature an ESS chip and the power is not very high. It is certainly not as versatile as the Fiio KA11, which has a more interesting output. However, if the connected headphones are not difficult to drive, I notice a certain emphasis in the vocal area, which makes the Hidizs DACs very musical.
vs F.Audio KS01
I also added this model as it is extremely economical and feature-rich. It has very good power and a slightly brighter tone than the others. I don’t think the declared power is real. There is lots of firmware to try and key operation options. I would call it a DAC for nerds. The build quality and QC are not great.
Vs Moondrop Dawn Pro
Another excellent entry-level dongle; here we also have balanced output, the versatility is superior and we have a little more power. In terms of sound, they are quite similar; the Dawn Pro is slightly brighter (but that could just be my impression).
Who do I recommend this DAC to?
In my opinion, this is the right dongle for anyone approaching this hobby. I say this because it costs exactly the same as a pair of DACs with an ALC5686, which, after a maximum of one month, could already be unsuitable for you. This guarantees you a few months of peace (with your wallet) and several hours of satisfactory listening both from your smartphone and PC (buy a small adapter if you don’t have Type C). It is not a dongle for analytical listening, as there are more neutral ones but for beginners, these problems do not exist (in reality, I don’t have any problems either, as I simply love listening to music).
In terms of durability, I don’t think you will have any particular problems. The construction is very solid and the cable is quite robust. On the site, they also declare that various resistance tests have been carried out.
I conclude by saying that this DAC will certainly sell a lot. I would not recommend it if you need to drive a He400se or full-size planars because there are more suitable dongles (obviously not at the same price).
If instead you need a more versatile dongle for a few dollars more, you can find the Moondrop Dawn Pro. In terms of sound, the latter seems slightly brighter, but it is a very minimal difference.
I thank Fiio for this opportunity. The only real lack of the Fiio KA11 is the lack of the USB adapter; for the moment, it is an unrivaled entry level.
Where to buy?
Aliexpress Fiio Official Store
sistoz
Hi, thank you for the review and comparisons! Fiio ka11 vs F.Audio KS01 which one do you recommend as entry level DAC? Best technicalities?
Thank you!
Thank you!
Kindlefirehditaly
@sistoz Excellent question! They are both extremely interesting. In my opinion the FiiO KA11 is superior in terms of sound quality, slightly less brilliant but in terms of soundstage and detail it surpasses it. We also consider that the FiiO KA11 has a strong brand behind it, app support and software updates. The KS01 is absolutely intriguing given the price and display. Pay attention to quality control, I heard that some users had problems.
sistoz
Thank you very much for your opinion! I'll go for ka11 then!
FIIO KA11
CS43131 + SGM8262
$30
First of all before I even start this review, let me thank FIIO for sending the KA11 in for review,
rest assured my review is always 100% my own personal opinion.
Unboxing
Build Quality
Build of the KA11 is solid for its price, it has an alluminium shell, it is also super compact and lightweight.
Power & Battery Consumption
The KA11 offers 245mw @16ohm and 200mw @32ohm, pretty powerful for such a small and affordable device.
It also has a very efficient power consumption.
Plugged in to my Infinix Zero 30 5G, it drains 1% for every 9 minutes of playback.
Companion APP
You can change some settings in the FIIO Control APP, such as UAC mode, LED on / off, and filters.
Previously I can change the volume of the device via FIIO Control APP, but somehow now the options is now nowhere to be found, I honestly don't know why.
Sound
Neutral-ish
The KA11 at least to my ears using the stock Minimum phase fast roll-off filter, sounds like a stepped down KA13.
It sounds neutral, having a bit less bouncy bass compared to the KA13.
The overall sound presentation of KA11 is pretty calm, not too analytical, a bit rounded and smooth.
Lets start with the bass.
Bass of the KA11 just as I said earlier, it sounds like KA13 but with less highlight and less bouncy, it still feel a bit more bouncy than your more truly neutral dongle presentation.
The bass has a bit boomy and round feeling to it.
Midrange is neutral, not warm, not bright, not adding extra clarity nor making thing sounds dark.
Treble is a bit smoothed out, positive things about this is that you can use the KA11 for a very long listening session and won't feel tired by listening to it, while the negative side, it sounds like the treble is a bit simplified in away.
Technicality
for context its compared vs plugging directly to POCO M5
Stage is obviously better compared to plugging in directly to smartphone, it has a decently sized stage.
Detail Retrieval is good, again, obviously better than plugging in directy to a smartphone but not as good as the KA13, it feels like a bit simplified in a way (expected because of price difference).
Imaging is average, this device is OK for its price and offer a better imaging than your smartphone audio.
Separation and Positioning is very good, this one is the most different compared to smartphone audio in my opinion. With the KA11, sounds is a lot more separated and positioning is improved a lot, its like having a proper position compared to just 2D flat plane if you know what I mean.
Conclusion
Is the KA11 worth it?
To be honest for its asking price...
Yeah I can recommend the KA11, it offers better audio than your smartphone audio with minimum battery consumption, compact size, and somewhat affordable price.
Its like breathing a new life to your basic smartphone audio.
Thanks for reaching this far !
Just in case you're Indonesian or understand Bahasa Indonesia, you can watch this review here
-littlenezt
CS43131 + SGM8262
$30
First of all before I even start this review, let me thank FIIO for sending the KA11 in for review,
rest assured my review is always 100% my own personal opinion.
Unboxing
Build of the KA11 is solid for its price, it has an alluminium shell, it is also super compact and lightweight.
Power & Battery Consumption
The KA11 offers 245mw @16ohm and 200mw @32ohm, pretty powerful for such a small and affordable device.
It also has a very efficient power consumption.
Plugged in to my Infinix Zero 30 5G, it drains 1% for every 9 minutes of playback.
Companion APP
You can change some settings in the FIIO Control APP, such as UAC mode, LED on / off, and filters.
Previously I can change the volume of the device via FIIO Control APP, but somehow now the options is now nowhere to be found, I honestly don't know why.
Sound
Neutral-ish
The KA11 at least to my ears using the stock Minimum phase fast roll-off filter, sounds like a stepped down KA13.
It sounds neutral, having a bit less bouncy bass compared to the KA13.
The overall sound presentation of KA11 is pretty calm, not too analytical, a bit rounded and smooth.
Lets start with the bass.
Bass of the KA11 just as I said earlier, it sounds like KA13 but with less highlight and less bouncy, it still feel a bit more bouncy than your more truly neutral dongle presentation.
The bass has a bit boomy and round feeling to it.
Midrange is neutral, not warm, not bright, not adding extra clarity nor making thing sounds dark.
Treble is a bit smoothed out, positive things about this is that you can use the KA11 for a very long listening session and won't feel tired by listening to it, while the negative side, it sounds like the treble is a bit simplified in away.
Technicality
for context its compared vs plugging directly to POCO M5
Stage is obviously better compared to plugging in directly to smartphone, it has a decently sized stage.
Detail Retrieval is good, again, obviously better than plugging in directy to a smartphone but not as good as the KA13, it feels like a bit simplified in a way (expected because of price difference).
Imaging is average, this device is OK for its price and offer a better imaging than your smartphone audio.
Separation and Positioning is very good, this one is the most different compared to smartphone audio in my opinion. With the KA11, sounds is a lot more separated and positioning is improved a lot, its like having a proper position compared to just 2D flat plane if you know what I mean.
Conclusion
Is the KA11 worth it?
To be honest for its asking price...
Yeah I can recommend the KA11, it offers better audio than your smartphone audio with minimum battery consumption, compact size, and somewhat affordable price.
Its like breathing a new life to your basic smartphone audio.
Thanks for reaching this far !
Just in case you're Indonesian or understand Bahasa Indonesia, you can watch this review here
-littlenezt
innovated
Fantastic review, I was about to buy anyway based solely on the astounding rated output for my high impedance and hard to drive IEMs (MagicOne, Campfire Satsuma, Tipsy), but this helped a lot. Warm regards and again, sincere thanks 
Dean.
Dean.
DISCLAIMER
I bought the Fiio KA11 from Aliexpress.
It can be gotten here: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/3256806284660223.html (no affiliate links).
SPECIFICATIONS/COMPATIBILITY
Tested at $29.99 USD
The KA11 is a plug-and-play device, with no need for the installation of additional drivers on Windows 10 and above. I am not an Apple ecosystem user, but the KA11 was easily picked-up by various Android and Windows devices I paired it with.
The KA11 is compatible with a free Fiio Control app that can be installed on Android devices - this unlocks various features like DAC filters, indicator lights and to toggle between UAC 1.0 and UAC 2.0. The UAC 1.0 mode is a useful setting for gaming devices such as the Switch and PS5. Unfortunately, as of the time of writing, it seems Apple users do not have a functional Fiio Control app. There is no PEQ/EQ software available for the KA11 on this app, and the KA11 also does not support wired mics.
ACCESSORIES
Being a budget dongle, it is no surprise that the KA11 has a non-detachable cable. When ordering, there is an option for a lightning or USB-C termination, which is hardwired onto the dongle. It does not come with USB-A adapters, so users who want to pair the KA11 with a laptop or PC will need to get one.
The KA11's cable is an oxygen-free palladium-plated copper one. Externally, it is sheathed with flexible silicone and a fine-braid, which minimizes EMI and adds durability. Generally, I'm worried about the longevity of non-detachable cables, but I am reassured to find that the one on the KA11 is very sturdy, and is not easily bent. Fiio has actually stated that this cable is also rated for 5000 connections and disconnections for the distal terminal.
DESIGN/FUNCTION
The KA11 is fashioned from aluminum-magnesium alloy, and is built very solidly. There's an inner gold-finish circuit board, covered by an elegant wave-like chassis. During ordering, one can choose between a black or silver hued variant.
Amongst the dongle DAC/AMPs, the KA11 is considered small in profile - measuring 44.5 x 9.7 x 10.55 mm, and weighing a mere 8.5 g. Indeed, it is just slightly larger than the venerable Apple dongle, but is surely tinier than most modern day dongles. Thus, the KA11 is extremely portable and compact, making it a suitable EDC (everyday carry).
This device has no volume control buttons, so one has to perform the volume/skip controls on the upstream source. It also only comes in a 3.5 mm termination, so there is no balanced output.
INTERNALS
The KA11's engine is a CS43131 DAC, with an SGM8262 op amp. It can handle music files up to 384 kHz/32 bit and DSD 256.
It is nice that Fiio has implemented a "pop" suppression system, so that removing or connecting transducers to the KA11 will not result in an unnecessary "pop", which can protect the ears and the transducer!
SOUND/PERFORMANCE
I tested the Fiio KA11 with only Android phones and Windows laptops and PCs. As I am not an Apple user, I can't vouch for their performance with Apple devices.
On phones, I used the HiBy Music Player, with USB bit perfect OTG activated. I cannot vouch for usage with other USB exclusive music apps.
Tonally, the KA11 lies on the warmer side, and has a note weight that is somewhat thicker than neutral. It would make a good pairing for brighter and harsher transducers as such. Bass descends deeply, with good punch. The hefty bass does add a bit of warmth to the midrange, and treble is smooth with minimal sibilance.
In technicalities, for a budget source that is not overly boosted in the upper frequencies, the KA11 has decent micro-detailing but is not class-leading here. Soundstage is average in height and width, though imaging and instrument separation are above average, though not as pinpoint as more expensive dongles.
Looking past its Lilliputian frame, and despite only having a 3.5 mm (single-ended) port, this dongle pumps out 200 mW at 32 Ω, and 245mW at 16 Ω. Thus, it is probably the most powerful dongle I've encountered in this minute profile, and definitely thrashes the Apple dongle in terms of power specs.
My acid tests for source evaluation include 3 of my hardest to drive gear:
1) Final Audio E5000 (low sensitivity at 93dB/mW)
2) Sennheiser HD650 (high impedance at 300ohm)
3) Yinman 600 ohm (600 ohm impedance and 87db/mW sensitivity)
To my surprise, the Final E5000 and HD650 were serviceably driven on the KA11. Definitely desktop grade sources will do a better job, but some pricier or larger portable sources are not able to drive them - it is not a matter of volume, but control, with the E5000 sounding one-noted and flabby in the bass, and the HD650 sounding undynamic and boring with weaker sources. I would have preferred a more expansive soundstage on the HD650, and better bass texturing on the E5000, but we can't complain much here, with the KA11's sub-$30 price and diminutive stature.
The final boss, the Yinman 600 ohm - with an outrageously low sensitivity and high impedance - can be powered to adequate volume, but bass is untextured and smears, though dynamics and soundstage were admirably adequate. It is no shame to not fully conquer the Yinman 600 ohm though - some sources costing 10X of the KA11 are not able to do so either, as this is one tough customer.
It is much appreciated that I did not find any hiss with fastidious high sensitivity IEMs. No EMI was detected with my Samsung S22 phone. Additionally, output impedance on the KA11 is < 0.7 ohms, which makes it a suitable pairing with low impedance gear. Thus, all-in-all, the KA11 is pretty well implemented in engineering, for a budget dongle.
During usage, the KA11 may get warm, especially when driving power-hungry gear, but it is not scalding hot compared to other dongle rivals. The big power on tap does contribute to some battery drainage - can't escape from physics after all - and Fiio has quoted these data for battery drain:
COMPARISONS
The KA11 will be compared against some budget dongles below $50 USD, with only 3.5 mm (single-ended) output.
Apple dongle (non EU version)
The Apple dongle is cheaper at sub-$10 USD, but has a more filmsy non-detachable cable, and the overall build is less solid. The Apple dongle is dead neutral, with a thinner note weight than the somewhat coloured yet warmish KA11.
In power output, the KA11 kills the Apple dongle but quite a far margin (this is referring to the non-volume capped Apple dongle). Though some may claim that the Apple dongle is enough for all transducers, IMHO, it cannot drive low sensitivity/high impedance transducers properly (in terms of bass tightness and dynamics) (ie current issue rather than volume issue). Driving to adequate volume is not the same as driving well, YMMV.
The Apple dongle has a slightly smaller soundstage, though imaging is on par. The Apple dongle seems to have a bit more treble extension and clarity, with a tinge better micro-detailing. Instrument separation is superior on the KA11.
For the tech geeks amongst us, the Apple dongle is capped to a 48 kHz/24 bit maximum sample rate, whereas the KA11 scales up to 384 kHz/32 bit and DSD 256.
Tempotec Sonata HD Pro
The HD Pro is another neutral source. It has volume controllers and a detachable cable.
The HD Pro has a larger soundstage, with a hair better micro-detailing and imaging.
The HD Pro is limited to 60 mW at 32 ohms, and it cannot power demanding behemoths, unlike the KA11. The HD Pro is also larger in size, though it runs cooler during usage.
CONCLUSIONS
The KA11 is a dongle that disproves the adage "does size matter"? It is a literal pocket rocket, punching out 200 mW at 32 Ω, which at the time of writing, is way more than most other sub-$50 USD dongles can provide, and in such a wee frame to boot! Indeed, the KA11 can sufficiently drive low sensitivity/high impedance gear, something that many rival dongles - some pricier and larger - cannot boast of.
The KA11 also sports a warmish soundscape, which synergizes well with overly harsh or edgy transducers. In addition, it has low output impedance, no hiss and no "pop" sounds when disconnecting gear, which are all laudable properties. For the gamers in our midst, this dongle has a UAC 1.0 mode for some gaming devices, and there is a Fiio Control app for Android users that can unpack DAC filters and additional settings to play with. Sadly, PEQ seems to be omitted in the app for the KA11, perhaps this could be added in with a future firmware update?
We can't expect the moon for the sub-$30 retail price, and the KA11 does not have a volume controller, and the cable is not-detachable, though it is quite sturdy compared to the noodle-thin floppy one of the Apple dongle. Although it only comes in a single-ended 3.5 mm terminal, the available power may dwarf some other balanced dongles, so don't be too focused on it lacking a balanced output! While it gets a bit warm when driving power-hungry gear, the KA11 does not get scalding.
In a nutshell, I do regard the KA11 as a game-changing dongle. The sub-$30 price already brings excellent price-to-performance to the conversation, but more than that, the power output specs are really impressive for such a miniature device. It is a legit mighty mouse and an affordable EDC for audiophiles who want to drive gear from simple IEMs, all the way to more formidable full-sized cans.
I bought the Fiio KA11 from Aliexpress.
It can be gotten here: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/3256806284660223.html (no affiliate links).
SPECIFICATIONS/COMPATIBILITY
Tested at $29.99 USD
The KA11 is a plug-and-play device, with no need for the installation of additional drivers on Windows 10 and above. I am not an Apple ecosystem user, but the KA11 was easily picked-up by various Android and Windows devices I paired it with.
The KA11 is compatible with a free Fiio Control app that can be installed on Android devices - this unlocks various features like DAC filters, indicator lights and to toggle between UAC 1.0 and UAC 2.0. The UAC 1.0 mode is a useful setting for gaming devices such as the Switch and PS5. Unfortunately, as of the time of writing, it seems Apple users do not have a functional Fiio Control app. There is no PEQ/EQ software available for the KA11 on this app, and the KA11 also does not support wired mics.
ACCESSORIES
Being a budget dongle, it is no surprise that the KA11 has a non-detachable cable. When ordering, there is an option for a lightning or USB-C termination, which is hardwired onto the dongle. It does not come with USB-A adapters, so users who want to pair the KA11 with a laptop or PC will need to get one.
The KA11's cable is an oxygen-free palladium-plated copper one. Externally, it is sheathed with flexible silicone and a fine-braid, which minimizes EMI and adds durability. Generally, I'm worried about the longevity of non-detachable cables, but I am reassured to find that the one on the KA11 is very sturdy, and is not easily bent. Fiio has actually stated that this cable is also rated for 5000 connections and disconnections for the distal terminal.
DESIGN/FUNCTION
The KA11 is fashioned from aluminum-magnesium alloy, and is built very solidly. There's an inner gold-finish circuit board, covered by an elegant wave-like chassis. During ordering, one can choose between a black or silver hued variant.
Amongst the dongle DAC/AMPs, the KA11 is considered small in profile - measuring 44.5 x 9.7 x 10.55 mm, and weighing a mere 8.5 g. Indeed, it is just slightly larger than the venerable Apple dongle, but is surely tinier than most modern day dongles. Thus, the KA11 is extremely portable and compact, making it a suitable EDC (everyday carry).
This device has no volume control buttons, so one has to perform the volume/skip controls on the upstream source. It also only comes in a 3.5 mm termination, so there is no balanced output.
INTERNALS
The KA11's engine is a CS43131 DAC, with an SGM8262 op amp. It can handle music files up to 384 kHz/32 bit and DSD 256.
It is nice that Fiio has implemented a "pop" suppression system, so that removing or connecting transducers to the KA11 will not result in an unnecessary "pop", which can protect the ears and the transducer!
SOUND/PERFORMANCE
I tested the Fiio KA11 with only Android phones and Windows laptops and PCs. As I am not an Apple user, I can't vouch for their performance with Apple devices.
On phones, I used the HiBy Music Player, with USB bit perfect OTG activated. I cannot vouch for usage with other USB exclusive music apps.
Tonally, the KA11 lies on the warmer side, and has a note weight that is somewhat thicker than neutral. It would make a good pairing for brighter and harsher transducers as such. Bass descends deeply, with good punch. The hefty bass does add a bit of warmth to the midrange, and treble is smooth with minimal sibilance.
In technicalities, for a budget source that is not overly boosted in the upper frequencies, the KA11 has decent micro-detailing but is not class-leading here. Soundstage is average in height and width, though imaging and instrument separation are above average, though not as pinpoint as more expensive dongles.
Looking past its Lilliputian frame, and despite only having a 3.5 mm (single-ended) port, this dongle pumps out 200 mW at 32 Ω, and 245mW at 16 Ω. Thus, it is probably the most powerful dongle I've encountered in this minute profile, and definitely thrashes the Apple dongle in terms of power specs.
My acid tests for source evaluation include 3 of my hardest to drive gear:
1) Final Audio E5000 (low sensitivity at 93dB/mW)
2) Sennheiser HD650 (high impedance at 300ohm)
3) Yinman 600 ohm (600 ohm impedance and 87db/mW sensitivity)
To my surprise, the Final E5000 and HD650 were serviceably driven on the KA11. Definitely desktop grade sources will do a better job, but some pricier or larger portable sources are not able to drive them - it is not a matter of volume, but control, with the E5000 sounding one-noted and flabby in the bass, and the HD650 sounding undynamic and boring with weaker sources. I would have preferred a more expansive soundstage on the HD650, and better bass texturing on the E5000, but we can't complain much here, with the KA11's sub-$30 price and diminutive stature.
The final boss, the Yinman 600 ohm - with an outrageously low sensitivity and high impedance - can be powered to adequate volume, but bass is untextured and smears, though dynamics and soundstage were admirably adequate. It is no shame to not fully conquer the Yinman 600 ohm though - some sources costing 10X of the KA11 are not able to do so either, as this is one tough customer.
It is much appreciated that I did not find any hiss with fastidious high sensitivity IEMs. No EMI was detected with my Samsung S22 phone. Additionally, output impedance on the KA11 is < 0.7 ohms, which makes it a suitable pairing with low impedance gear. Thus, all-in-all, the KA11 is pretty well implemented in engineering, for a budget dongle.
During usage, the KA11 may get warm, especially when driving power-hungry gear, but it is not scalding hot compared to other dongle rivals. The big power on tap does contribute to some battery drainage - can't escape from physics after all - and Fiio has quoted these data for battery drain:
- 90 mA (standby）
- 100 mA (40mV during use)
COMPARISONS
The KA11 will be compared against some budget dongles below $50 USD, with only 3.5 mm (single-ended) output.
Apple dongle (non EU version)
The Apple dongle is cheaper at sub-$10 USD, but has a more filmsy non-detachable cable, and the overall build is less solid. The Apple dongle is dead neutral, with a thinner note weight than the somewhat coloured yet warmish KA11.
In power output, the KA11 kills the Apple dongle but quite a far margin (this is referring to the non-volume capped Apple dongle). Though some may claim that the Apple dongle is enough for all transducers, IMHO, it cannot drive low sensitivity/high impedance transducers properly (in terms of bass tightness and dynamics) (ie current issue rather than volume issue). Driving to adequate volume is not the same as driving well, YMMV.
The Apple dongle has a slightly smaller soundstage, though imaging is on par. The Apple dongle seems to have a bit more treble extension and clarity, with a tinge better micro-detailing. Instrument separation is superior on the KA11.
For the tech geeks amongst us, the Apple dongle is capped to a 48 kHz/24 bit maximum sample rate, whereas the KA11 scales up to 384 kHz/32 bit and DSD 256.
Tempotec Sonata HD Pro
The HD Pro is another neutral source. It has volume controllers and a detachable cable.
The HD Pro has a larger soundstage, with a hair better micro-detailing and imaging.
The HD Pro is limited to 60 mW at 32 ohms, and it cannot power demanding behemoths, unlike the KA11. The HD Pro is also larger in size, though it runs cooler during usage.
CONCLUSIONS
The KA11 is a dongle that disproves the adage "does size matter"? It is a literal pocket rocket, punching out 200 mW at 32 Ω, which at the time of writing, is way more than most other sub-$50 USD dongles can provide, and in such a wee frame to boot! Indeed, the KA11 can sufficiently drive low sensitivity/high impedance gear, something that many rival dongles - some pricier and larger - cannot boast of.
The KA11 also sports a warmish soundscape, which synergizes well with overly harsh or edgy transducers. In addition, it has low output impedance, no hiss and no "pop" sounds when disconnecting gear, which are all laudable properties. For the gamers in our midst, this dongle has a UAC 1.0 mode for some gaming devices, and there is a Fiio Control app for Android users that can unpack DAC filters and additional settings to play with. Sadly, PEQ seems to be omitted in the app for the KA11, perhaps this could be added in with a future firmware update?
We can't expect the moon for the sub-$30 retail price, and the KA11 does not have a volume controller, and the cable is not-detachable, though it is quite sturdy compared to the noodle-thin floppy one of the Apple dongle. Although it only comes in a single-ended 3.5 mm terminal, the available power may dwarf some other balanced dongles, so don't be too focused on it lacking a balanced output! While it gets a bit warm when driving power-hungry gear, the KA11 does not get scalding.
In a nutshell, I do regard the KA11 as a game-changing dongle. The sub-$30 price already brings excellent price-to-performance to the conversation, but more than that, the power output specs are really impressive for such a miniature device. It is a legit mighty mouse and an affordable EDC for audiophiles who want to drive gear from simple IEMs, all the way to more formidable full-sized cans.
innovated
Fantastic review, I was about to buy anyway based solely on the astounding rated output for my high impedance and hard to drive IEMs (MagicOne, Campfire Satsuma, Tipsy), but this helped a lot. Warm regards and again, sincere thanks
Dean.
Dean.
innovated
Purely for on the go obviously, my Q15 at home delivers everything I'll need for the next few years!
Suggest to update your review.