Fosi Audio VOL20

Introduction

I am an audiophile from sunny South Africa and this unit was sent to me by Fosi Audio and it arrived at my door in less than 21 days. By time of writing this review I do not have a price for it and that made this review really exiting going in blind like that. It is set to launch on the 19thof September 2024.

Fosi Audio have been around since way before even I got into portable audio so I know they are serious about audio. They create real bang for buck mostly desktop products from Tube headphone amps right through to stereo amplifiers. I hope by this review to pique a lot more portable audiophiles in my country’s attention. They also offer a 30-day money back guarantee on their products and I think that is very important.

I saw the VOL20 on one of my reviewer friend’s Facebook groups and I got really interested. The first thing that grabbed my attention and it is because I am a lover of vintage audio to and as we all know vintage amplifiers had huge knobs, was the size of the knob.


Unboxing

The packaging to me is really creative. It is a white cardboard box but it spits into two pieces. The pieces also do not come together completely to form a box and there is a little orange line sticking out and for someone with attention to detail it caught my eye. In the one piece you will find a square flat box with instruction manual and charging/connection cable. The other piece houses the VOL20. The packaging is very sturdy and I see no way that the unit will get hurt.


Build

Everything about the VOL20 feels premium. It is heavy for its size and you can feel it is metal and not plastic and for me who is a tube lover who believes in steel & glass being everlasting beauty, I absolutely love the build quality. I will refer to vintage audio equipment again and when you turn the VOL20 knob it feels like adjusting volume on one of those vintage receivers. There is a ring light at the base of the VOL20 that when it glows it’s almost like the top ring light that goes on when you talk to your smart speaker. You can set the light to off if colour lights annoy you or you can set it to switch between colours like a rainbow. You can also choose a specific colour and me being a lover of purple I chose the purple ambient light colour. Purple to me always means tranquillity.



Connection

Connecting the VOL20 is just as easy as any other Bluetooth devices like headphones you connect to your phone. When you switch the device on the blue light will flicker and you will know it is in pairing mode. On your device like phone, you just search VOL20 under Bluetooth devices and click pair. As easy as that. The VOL20 also has a USB mode where you can connect it via USB to your laptop or computer. The one side of the cable is a USB-C and the other side has a USB-C and also an adapter for USB. Quite cleverly thought out by whoever’s brainchild at Fosi audio this VOL20 is. There is also an auto power off within 5 seconds mode for the light and when you touch the device it glows again. That is the mode that I used the most.


Applications

I am going to list all the audio and video applications I used the VOL20 for at my house.

First off, I wanted to see if I could connect the VOL20 and my Sennheiser PXC 550ii Bluetooth headphones to my OPPO phone and have the VOL20 handle the volume as I hate the finger slides you have to do on the Sennies side or reach for your phone to adjust vol. It worked flawlessly and man I was impressed. On the VOL20 there is a play/pause button which you can use to play or skip to the next song which is way better than touching the side of the Sennies with your finger or once again reaching for your phone. I went through everything that uses volume on my phone from streaming services to social media video sites.

I connected the VOL20 to my phone and by using the Yamaha app on my phone, I could connect to my Yamaha streamer which is in turn connected to my STAX ear-speaker amplifier and also my Lint Legend Classic headphone amplifier I use for my Sennheiser HD650 and HD540 reference gold. The Fosi controlled the volume on two separate desktop systems via my phone and if you are a desktop audiophile you will know it is a pain to reach up from your relaxing position to adjust volume on your headphone amplifier. It also works when the phone is locked

I started to like these little experiments and wanted to try it out with a Dap. I chose the Hiby M300 first and being Android based connection was just as easy as on phone. It worked flawlessly and with the Hiby I discovered that it does not work when the Hiby is locked. Maybe there will be some settings in the Hiby player app I don’t know which you can change as I love the Hiby music player with all its settings. It also worked with a Dac/Amp dongle connect to Hiby and also to phone

I connected it to my PC and it opened up another world of options as to my PC are connected my studio monitors through an audio interface which is also a headphone amplifier. Here I listen to my monitor and studio headphones.

Another unit I could control from the VOL20 was my Audiocast M5 WIFI receiver. It is a lot like Chromecast but it has a 24bit Dac and to my knowledge the Chromecasts were 320kbps MP3. I have the M5 plugged into the base station of the Sennheiser RS175 TV headphones which is wireless and works with RF signals. These things have good bass. What a weird audio chain? Phone via Audiocast app to m5, then it goes analog to the Sennheiser base station and gets converted into radio frequencies to be captured in digital again and turned into analog on the wireless headphones. I am such a gadget geek it seems and the VOL20 worked flawlessly again.

In my bedroom I connected it to my Bedroom PC which doubles as movie streamer to and via Bluetooth I could control the volume when watching movies without having to reach for the wireless mouse and click away. It also worked with my tablet which I use to listen to my earbud collection. Same thing with my laptop which I also write reviews on evaluate gear.

I could also control the volume of my two Xiaomi smart speaker's volume as I connect to them through Google home app from my phone as I use these for background music sometimes or for listening to podcasts.



Who should buy it?

Well, you might not have so many multimedia applications as me but if the VOL20 can make your life just a little more convenient in one of these applications then I say it is worth it as in today’s fast paced lifestyle convenience is king

In a world where audio gear often leans toward the overly complex, the Fosi Audio VOL20 offers a breath of fresh air with its blend of simplicity, style, and functionality. This wireless Bluetooth volume knob is designed to give you intuitive control over your audio setup, with a few extra features that elevate it beyond just a basic controller. Let’s dive into what makes the Fosi VOL20 a standout accessory for both audio enthusiasts and everyday users.
Whats in the box:

Design and Build Quality

The Fosi VOL20 makes a strong first impression with its minimalist design. Its sleek, modern aesthetic easily integrates into a variety of desk setups, and its compact size ensures it doesn’t dominate your workspace. The alloy body gives it a premium feel, making it hard to believe it comes at a relatively modest price point.

What truly sets the VOL20 apart is its tactile experience. The volume knob offers a smooth, controlled rotation with just the right amount of resistance. Each turn feels deliberate and satisfying. The weight of the knob enhances this experience, keeping it securely in place on your desk without any unwanted sliding.

Underneath the knob, you’ll find a subtle yet striking touch— a couple of RGB LEDs that provide a customizable glow. Unlike many devices that go overboard with lighting, the VOL20’s LEDs are understated, adding just enough visual flair without being a distraction. You can choose from different lighting modes, including a steady light, a 5-second auto-off feature, and a full RGB mode that cycles through colors. It’s a small detail, but one that enhances the overall appeal of the device.

Connectivity and Compatibility

The Fosi VOL20 impresses with its versatile connectivity options. Whether you prefer a wired or wireless setup, the VOL20 can accommodate your needs. It supports Bluetooth 4.2, which, while not the most up-to-date version, still offers reliable, low-energy connections with a respectable range of up to 10 meters. This makes it suitable for most home setups, whether you’re controlling the volume of your computer, smartphone, or home theater system. However, I did notice a slight lag when adjusting the knob, with the on-screen volume animation taking a moment to catch up.

The VOL20’s wide compatibility is one of its standout features. Whether you’re pairing it with a smartphone, digital audio player (DAP), or even an Android TV, the VOL20 handles it with ease. If you're the type who’s tired of squinting at tiny buttons on your dongle or Android TV remote, this knob is about to become your new best friend. Just give it a smooth turn, and voilà—you’re all set. No more fumbling around like you’re trying to defuse a tiny bomb!.

That said, there are a few quirks to keep in mind. If your device has absolute volume control or independent volume settings, the VOL20 might not have the full range of adjustment power you’d expect. It’s not a deal-breaker for most folks, but it’s worth noting if your setup is a bit on the fussy side. Just something to keep in mind—kind of like knowing your toaster’s quirks before you risk burning your morning toast!

Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is a crucial consideration with wireless devices, and the VOL20 delivers in this area. It’s equipped with a 750mAh battery, which provides ample power for extended use. The actual battery life can vary based on how frequently you adjust the volume and whether you keep the RGB lighting on, but it generally lasts through several sessions without needing a recharge.

When it’s time to recharge, the VOL20 uses a USB Type-C port, a welcome feature given the growing prevalence of this standard. Charging is quick and hassle-free, so you won’t be left waiting long before your VOL20 is back in action.

Usability and Practical Applications
The Fosi VOL20 isn’t just a pretty face—it’s a seriously practical gadget that you’ll wonder how you ever lived without. Whether you’re deep into a gaming session, lost in a movie marathon, or just vibing to your favorite tunes, the VOL20 offers a level of control that quickly becomes second nature. The beauty of it? You can adjust the volume without ever reaching for your device. Lying in bed, working at your desk, or maybe even cooking up a storm in the kitchen—just give the knob a twist, and voilà, instant volume adjustment without missing a beat.

Now, let’s talk about the few tweaks Fosi could make to really elevate the experience. Those two metal buttons on the base? They handle play/pause and track skipping like champs, but they could use a little more… oomph. A bit more tactile resistance would make them easier to find and press without taking your eyes off the screen. And while we’re at it, how about adding a click function to the knob itself? Imagine turning the knob and giving it a click to pause your music or skip a track. Now that would be a game-changer!

Final Thoughts

The Fosi Audio VOL20 isn’t just another Bluetooth volume knob; it’s like the classy, reliable sidekick you didn’t know your audio setup was missing. Sure, it’s not without its quirks, but with its sturdy build, smooth-as-butter operation, and versatile connectivity, it’s a must-have for any tech lover’s desk.

Whether you’re searching for a more intuitive way to control your volume or just want to sprinkle a bit of style into your setup, the VOL20 has got your back. It’s one of those accessories you never realized you needed, but once it’s in your hands, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

Disclaimer:​

Today we finally talk about something that is not headphones, IEM, or DAC but an accessory that, unexpectedly, I could consider a life changer. The Fosi Audio VOL20 is nothing more than a Bluetooth accessory or peripheral (just like a mouse or keyboard) that, however, has the exclusive task of controlling the multimedia department of the device to which it is connected.

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:​

• Material: Zinc Alloy & Plastic
• Connection: BT or Wired
• Bluetooth Version: 4.2 low energy
• Bluetoth Range: 10 m
• RGB LED with different modes
• Battery: 750mAh

Packaging:​

The Fosi Audio VOL20 for being a product on Kickstarter or Beta Test seems more like a finished product ready to be sold. From the packaging, you can already tell that we are dealing with a more than finished product; if it were a pre-production product, we would be dealing with something that is not completely cared for in detail. The box is refined; it has suffered a bit of trauma during transport but the internal padding is abundant. Perhaps the size of the box could have been smaller. Inside, we simply find the Fosi Audio VOL20 and its Type C to USB/Type C cable, along with the manual. The instructions are not even necessary; the product is extremely intuitive.

Cable included
On the back of the box, it says “stress relief toy”, which doesn’t seem right to me at all. It’s not a fidget spinner so I would have put “makes your life easier” or something similar instead.

Build quality/First impressions:​

The Fosi Audio VOL20 sports a minimal design inspired by their recent models and colors. In terms of build quality, the product appears very solid; after all, it is almost entirely made of zinc alloy, which gives it a certain weight. The weight is also useful to give it stability on the desk when you go to adjust the volume. The feedback of the knob is excellent, similar to that of the Fosi SK02 but better. On the sides at the bottom, we find 2 orange metal buttons, a type C socket and a hole with the LED that indicates charging. The two metal buttons have just a slightly too light feedback; I think the choice of the switch can make the difference. At the bottom, instead, we have the on/off switch. In the lower part, there is an anti-slip material.

RGB LED:​

Nowadays, it is fashionable to put LEDs on everything and in this case, we have several LEDs. By removing the knob, we can see how the real heart of the product is much more compact than it seems. By removing the knob, you can see that there are 8 LEDs positioned in a crown. The lighting modes can be chosen at will between the following:

• Fixed light
• Light off after 5 sec.
• RGB

In addition to all this, holding down the light/bluetooth button enters the fixed light selection mode. The preselected one is green but you can easily choose any other color.

How does it work?​

Initially, I was a little uncertain about its practical use but I realized that it would be a small change in my life. Once it arrives, you just have to charge it (if it is empty), turn it on from the button below, and search for it with the device you intend to connect it to. Once connected, you are ready to go. No configuration or drivers are needed; it is plug & play.


Overall, it is a small "keyboard" for controlling the multimedia side.

What will surprise you is how convenient a product like this is—the speed of use of the same that allows for immediate and precise volume adjustment. Much more direct than any keyboard or having to use the mouse to adjust the volume from some curtain on the screen. But its usefulness does not stop only in the PC world. In fact, it can also be used on smartphones.

Can it be used with a smartphone or other devices?​

Absolutely yes! Maybe there won’t be many users of the Fosi Audio VOL20 with smartphones but as someone who often uses the smartphone with dongles connected, I couldn’t help but notice how convenient it is to adjust the volume via the Fosi Audio VOL20 instead of looking for the buttons on the phone or dongle.

Since it works with Android products, I deduce that use with DAP is also possible. I haven’t tested it with iOS products.

However, there is an important observation to make, namely that if the dongles or audio devices you want to control have absolute volume (not adjustable from the device) or independent volume, adjustment will either not be possible or will only be possible partially.


But there is more; it also works with Android TV and, I suspect, with any Android-based TV box. So the uses can be endless and it can be integrated anywhere for convenience. It is good for the gamer, for the audiophile but also for the movie buff to adjust the volume of a soundbar or home theater (if the TV is responsible for controlling it).

Who do I recommend this to?​

I think anyone who has ever had trouble or boredom adjusting the volume might like to have a product like the Fosi Audio VOL20. Its use is very broad, perhaps even more than I discovered by testing it. Basically, any device that can somehow connect BT devices, such as keyboards, is 99% compatible with this Fosi VOL20. I would never have thought that a similar product would be useful to me but I had to change my mind.

Especially when I lie in bed with my smartphone listening to music with a dongle, having the Fosi Audio VOL20 connected allows me to lay my hand on it and adjust or change songs without even opening my eyes. Same thing when I’m on the PC; I don’t even have to look at it, and in an instant I adjust the volume. The play/pause and skip buttons should perhaps have been made more prominent or with a sort of tip (braille style) to recognize them immediately.

There is room for improvement, no doubt. Introducing a clickable volume knob with play/pause and skip functions could be another alternative.

More information:​

• Fosi Audio Official Site