TRI TK-2
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Introduction
Thanks to the European Tour organised by Wendy Li, I had the great opportunity to test the TRI TK-2 DAC-AMP. As specified on the side of the device itself, the TK-2 is the result of a collaboration between TRI and KAEI. TRI is like the high-end brand of KBEAR. KAEI, up to this point, was unknown to me. But it seems to be a classic brand, known for its amplifiers. The HiFi USB DAC Amplifier is the first product of its kind that TRI has brought to the market. It's certainly a very powerful set-up, also thanks to the hand of KAEI. The presence of the device is almost colossal. I didn't expect it to be so big and relatively heavy. That gives you an idea of its power, as well as its impeccable appearance.
This review is not going to be a classic DAC-AMP review like the ones I have written so far. Admired reviewers have participated in this tour. I believe that a humble servant can say little about the sound of this device that they have not already published. In fact, I think there will be more reviewers who will write their opinion about this barbaric device after me. So, as is also usual, I will talk about this device in terms of its relation to some IEMS in my collection. It will be like a comparative account of measurements and frequency responses. I hope you like it. Let's get on with it.
Specifications
Packaging
The TK-2 comes in an eminently elongated box. On the main side, at the top, is the TRI logo, underneath it is the model name, and even smaller and next to it, the product description. All this in white letters. At the bottom of this side, there is an actual photo of the front edge of the device. On the back side are the specifications, in several languages, including English. After lifting the lid, you can see the device encased in a dense foam mould. A lighter layer of foam is glued under the lid, to protect the device even more. Underneath the device are the rest of the accessories. The complete contents are as follows:
There is little to complain about in this section, it has everything you would expect. Perhaps it could come with a carrying bag, like the one that comes with the Earmen TR-AMP, for example.
Construction and Design
The revised model has a metallic/mirror finish that is a magnet for our little fingers. If only the CSI guys could make all surfaces so fingerprint-revealing. The mirror finish is amazing, but it's impossible to keep clean. The top face is dark, it looks like a plate of some kind of hardened glass. The rest of the sides are metallic. The device has a bezel on the top face. The corners are rounded. On the top face, in the upper left corner, is the brand logo, model name and description, in the same form as on the product box. On the lower edge, next to the main front, there is a series of green LEDS, which indicate the sample rate of the decoded file. The combination of some of them implies the highest frequency. There are also LED indicators for DSD. On the right, on a border next to the large golden volume knob, you can read the word "VOL". On the front side, there are the audio outputs. From left to right: 2.5mm BAL, 4.4mm BAL (in the same golden triangular section with rounded corners), 3.5mm SE (in a simple round golden section). A power LED (green) and low battery (red). Finally, the large golden potentiometer. Off is at approximately 7 o'clock.
On the left side you can read "Co-Presented by TRI & KAEI".
On the back edge are the USB connections inside an oval slot. First on the left is the USB TypeC connector for charging, then there is a selector for line out or headphones, finally the USB TypeC connector for connection to a source. On the left, outside this recessed oval, is a green LED, which flashes when the device is charging.
The base is a single piece of CNC-machined aluminium alloy.
Internally, it uses two 9038Q2M DACs, in a true, fully balanced design. It uses Texas Instruments Dual OPA2131 + Dual TPA6120A2 operational amplifiers for class AB amplification. All internal circuitry is gold-plated.
The battery is 5000mah and provides a battery life of 9 hours of use. Supports QC3.0 and PD charging (5V, 9V and 12V). It does not have a gain selector.
As I said, I had not imagined it so big. It is true that it weighs a bit. All this limits its transport and I understand that it is intended for portable use, but on a table.
The construction is excellent and there is a model completely in black. The design is beautiful, but the mirror finish is impractical as it is a fingerprint magnet.
Connectivity
It can be connected to Android devices via OTG cable. It is compatible with Apple devices and also with PCs. Windows 10 does not require drivers, but Windows 7 does. I looked for the ASIO drivers but I couldn't find them, I didn't ask Wendy for them because when I was messing around with the drivers installed on my system, I saw that I can use the ASIO BRAVO-HD which is used, for example, by the xDuoo Link2 BAL.
It decodes PCM up to 384K and DSD256 natively and Dop.
Operativity
Very simple, USB TypeC for charging, USB TypeC for connection to a source, output selector, charging indicator, operation indicator, resolution frequency indicator, three audio outputs (BAL 2.5mm, BAL 4.4mm, SE 3.5mm). One potentiometer for power on and volume control. Switched off at 7h, it starts sounding at 9h, gain goes down until 3h (1.5V for SE), then there is a small volume drop (it seems to go into another amplification mode) and it reaches a maximum voltage close to 7V at no load (BAL) and almost 3.5V (SE).
Measures
I have taken measurements with my small oscilloscope, with pure tones of 20Hz, 100Hz, 1kHz, 5kHz, 10kHz and 20kHz. These tones have been created with Audacity software, with amplitude 1, 96kHz FLAC and 24bits.
The procedure is to turn the volume up to the maximum until distortion of the waveform is observed, then the volume is turned down until the waveforms are clean, trying to obtain the maximum RMS voltage without observing visible distortion.
No Load SE
The output goes up to about 3.5V just before the limit, then the signal is clipped.
15Ω SE
At 1kHz, the voltage is 1.74V, the power is 200mW, the current is 120mA, a barbaric amount.
33Ω SE
At 1kHz, the voltage is 2.29V, the power is 160mW, the current drops to 70mA. If it were 120mA, the power would be 480mW, but it is not. Above this voltage there is clear distortion.
100Ω SE
At 1kHz, the voltage is 3.1V, the power is 96.1mW, the current is 31mA.
No Load BAL
The output goes up to almost 6.7V just before the limit, then the signal is clipped.
15Ω BAL
At 1kHz, the voltage is 2.53V, the power is 430mW, which implies a current of 170mA, the most powerful amplifier I have ever measured in a portable device.
33Ω BAL
At 1kHz, the voltage is 4.11V, the power is 510mW, the current is 120mA. Actually, it is not the specified power of 1250mW, but just over half a watt is very large.
100Ω BAL
At 1kHz, the voltage is 5.63V, the power is 320mW, the current is 56.3mA.
Frequency Response
The response is very flat from 5Hz to 40kHz, at all volume steps. Only a very slight crosstalk is noticeable.
Output Impedance
The Zout of the SE output is close to 10Ω, while the Zout of the balanced output is almost 20Ω.
Sound
Enthusiasts who have ever read one of my reviews of a source or DAC/AMP know that I am critical of the output impedance. But really, my red line is the frequency response: if a source or DAC/AMP does not have a flat frequency response, I will probably discard it, regardless of its final sound. There are more or less major flaws in this respect. A frequency response that has a slight dip above 10kHz is not as critical to me as a slight dip below 100Hz.
On another note, a source or DAC/AMP can have a flat frequency response and an output impedance of more than 1Ω. In this sense, this would most likely suggest a modification of the frequency response of the connected headphones.
After this introduction, I will tell you about my actual experience with the TRI TK-2. When it arrived, I tried it with the TRI Meteors and the Grace-S cable, via the balanced 4.4mm output. I was immediately captivated by the sound of the pair. My frequency response of the Meteor revealed a resemblance to the Moondrop Blessing 2 Dusk, some IEMS that a colleague left me and I wasn't too keen on. I'm also an avowed bass lover and found the Dusks boring. The Meteor's FR promised a bit more fun, but not as much as I heard after connecting it to the TK-2. That's how I spent the afternoon. But something told me that this sound didn't fit with the FR I had taken. I connected the Meteors to other sources and noticed that the powerful and noticeable low end was lost. One of the qualities I had read about the TRI TK-2 was its neutrality. Clearly, I was not hearing neutrality. Mostly, I use IEMS and earbuds, I don't have many distinguished large-format headphones. So my headphones tend to be low impedance. I quickly thought that these differences in sound were probably due to the effect of a relatively high output impedance of the TRI TK-2. With my measurements I have been able to observe that the output impedance of the balanced connection is almost 20Ω and of 10Ω, the SE output. These are not strange figures, very similar to those of a great sounding DAP, the ACMEE MF02s.
To find out, I graphed some IEMS using the TRI TK-2 as source and my reference DAC/AMP Burson Audio Playmate with OpAmps V6. The first result is obvious.
The TRI Meteors gain 4dB in the low end and 2dB from the high mids, making them IEMS with a more V-shaped profile, therefore more fun at first glance. The explanation was served. The strangest thing, though, is that the Meteor's FR variation is the most exaggerated of the few IEMS I've graphed. And I never thought it would affect low frequencies so much. It is clear that a higher or lower Zout does not act in the same way for all IEMS and it also depends a lot on the impedance of the headphones. The Meteor has an impedance of 12Ω, while the Zout of the TK-2 is 20Ω.
I know that it affects IEMS with dynamic drivers much less, if at all. While BA or other drivers suffer, to a greater or lesser extent, from the consequences of the Zout.
The next test was with the Dunu Titan S (32Ω), through the SE output of TRI TK-2. Although the graphs show a small difference, it is barely audible. The TK-2 shows its true heart with these headphones, displaying the famous neutrality the other reviewers talk about, embellished by a lushness of detail and nuance.
I repeated the experience with another Dunu, the Falcon Pro with the "Atmospheric Immersion" filter (26Ω), for the balanced 2.5mm output. Who can say that these IEMS are boring? Certainly, the 20Ω Zout of the TK-2 doesn't affect the FR of these Dunu's at all. But the combination suits them perfectly. The warm sound of the Atmospheric filter is less noticeable and the result is vibrant and dynamic, with a sparkle that enhances the sound of one of the best IEMS in this price range. Highly musical, detailed, vivid, euphonic and enjoyable. A pleasure.
During the week, the new NiceHCK M5 (16Ω), a hybrid IEMS with 1DDD+4BA, arrived. I tested them with the blue bass filter on the 3.5mm SE output. With this configuration I expected the differences in their FR to be large. However, the curve is almost identical in both sizes. The M5s are IEMS on the analytical side, which is strongly influenced by their filters, which have a strong influence on their low end. With the blue filter they become IEMS with an unabashedly pronounced W-profile, lots of sparkle and a punchy sub-bass. The TK-2 gets an extremely clean sound out of them, achieving a high level of transparency, precise treble and dry, deep bass.
Stranged by the low incidence in the FR of the M5s, I looked for a similar configuration in my collection. The Rose QT9 MK2 (10Ω), one of my favourite IEMS, is one of the ones I am most fond of. On this occasion, I used the 2.5mm balanced output. The result was that the Zout incidence is superior and audible. The TK-2 describes a steeper W curve, increasing the peaks and moving them away from the valleys. It is noticeable in the upper midrange and early treble, making the QT9s more resolving IEMS and losing some of the magic I get with other quieter sources. Despite the stronger vocals, the sound becomes more synthetic and colder, with less present vocals, less descriptive power and texture. It doesn't always affect all headphones in a positive way.
Finally, I wanted to test the result on low impedance tribrids like the Geek Wold GK80 (8Ω), through the 3.5mm SE output. Really, brighter, with a clear incidence, but less than expected.
I could test many more IEMS from my collection and keep looking for the 7 differences, but my aim was to explain, in a more or less synthetic way, the effect of the DAC/AMP in some headphones, through the incidence of the output impedance, on the frequency response of each one of them.
And how does the TRI TK-2 sound, independently of the output impedance? Undoubtedly, it is good, very good, so good that I have even thought about buying the sample unit. I like its sound, its colour, its resolving capability and its power. Experiencing how it alters the sound of my headphones no longer becomes such a pejorative for me. It can become fun and beneficial, as in the case of the TRI Meteor. As long as the sound quality is maintained, the sound variations obtained by a relatively high Zout may have a higher appeal than I had previously thought. And when the FR is not altered, the result is better.
Conclusion
The TRI TK-2 is a DAC/AMP of undoubted power. It has a stunning, brilliant beauty, a truly premium finish, with a sleek and gorgeous build. Its power capability is up there with the best, it is one of the highest voltage and current delivery portable amplifiers I have ever tested.
The sound is truly premium. But because of its relatively high output impedance, it is capable of modifying the frequency response of the connected headphones, for better or worse. The result, where the difference exists, will be unpredictable and until you try it, you won't be able to tell if it's an improvement or a step backwards. In this sense, the experience can be a rewarding adventure. Do you want a great, very powerful and portable DAC/AMP that offers a truly different profile to your headphone collection? Don't hesitate any longer, it's the TRI TK-2.
Earphones and Sources Used During Analysis
Ratings
You can read the full review in Spanish here:
https://hiendportable.com/2022/04/24/tri-tk-2-review/
Thanks to the European Tour organised by Wendy Li, I had the great opportunity to test the TRI TK-2 DAC-AMP. As specified on the side of the device itself, the TK-2 is the result of a collaboration between TRI and KAEI. TRI is like the high-end brand of KBEAR. KAEI, up to this point, was unknown to me. But it seems to be a classic brand, known for its amplifiers. The HiFi USB DAC Amplifier is the first product of its kind that TRI has brought to the market. It's certainly a very powerful set-up, also thanks to the hand of KAEI. The presence of the device is almost colossal. I didn't expect it to be so big and relatively heavy. That gives you an idea of its power, as well as its impeccable appearance.
This review is not going to be a classic DAC-AMP review like the ones I have written so far. Admired reviewers have participated in this tour. I believe that a humble servant can say little about the sound of this device that they have not already published. In fact, I think there will be more reviewers who will write their opinion about this barbaric device after me. So, as is also usual, I will talk about this device in terms of its relation to some IEMS in my collection. It will be like a comparative account of measurements and frequency responses. I hope you like it. Let's get on with it.
Specifications
- Outputs: SE 3.5mm, Balanced 2.5mm and 4.4mm.
- Compatibility with 8Ω to 600Ω headphones.
- Frequency format decoding: 44.1K, 48K, 88.2K, 96K, 176.4K, 192K, 352.8K 384K/DSD 64-256 (Native & DOP).
- DAC: Dual 9038Q2M
- Output Amplification: Class A and B.
- THD+N: 0.005% (1k, dsd128).
- Frequency response: 10-40kHz (<1dB).
- Maximum output power: 1250mW (32Ω).
- Fixed LO output: 2V
- Battery life: about 9 hours (5000mah).
- Dimensions: 130x68x24mm.
- Approximate weight: 280g
- Charging interface: USB TypeC. QC 3.0 fast charge.
- Decoding interface: USB TypeC (OTG cable required to connect to mobile phone).
Packaging
The TK-2 comes in an eminently elongated box. On the main side, at the top, is the TRI logo, underneath it is the model name, and even smaller and next to it, the product description. All this in white letters. At the bottom of this side, there is an actual photo of the front edge of the device. On the back side are the specifications, in several languages, including English. After lifting the lid, you can see the device encased in a dense foam mould. A lighter layer of foam is glued under the lid, to protect the device even more. Underneath the device are the rest of the accessories. The complete contents are as follows:
- TRI TK-2.
- A cleaning cloth.
- User guide.
- One long USB to TypeC cable.
- One short TypeC to TypeC cable.
- Two rubber bands for fastening.
- Adapter for Apple devices.
There is little to complain about in this section, it has everything you would expect. Perhaps it could come with a carrying bag, like the one that comes with the Earmen TR-AMP, for example.
Construction and Design
The revised model has a metallic/mirror finish that is a magnet for our little fingers. If only the CSI guys could make all surfaces so fingerprint-revealing. The mirror finish is amazing, but it's impossible to keep clean. The top face is dark, it looks like a plate of some kind of hardened glass. The rest of the sides are metallic. The device has a bezel on the top face. The corners are rounded. On the top face, in the upper left corner, is the brand logo, model name and description, in the same form as on the product box. On the lower edge, next to the main front, there is a series of green LEDS, which indicate the sample rate of the decoded file. The combination of some of them implies the highest frequency. There are also LED indicators for DSD. On the right, on a border next to the large golden volume knob, you can read the word "VOL". On the front side, there are the audio outputs. From left to right: 2.5mm BAL, 4.4mm BAL (in the same golden triangular section with rounded corners), 3.5mm SE (in a simple round golden section). A power LED (green) and low battery (red). Finally, the large golden potentiometer. Off is at approximately 7 o'clock.
On the left side you can read "Co-Presented by TRI & KAEI".
On the back edge are the USB connections inside an oval slot. First on the left is the USB TypeC connector for charging, then there is a selector for line out or headphones, finally the USB TypeC connector for connection to a source. On the left, outside this recessed oval, is a green LED, which flashes when the device is charging.
The base is a single piece of CNC-machined aluminium alloy.
Internally, it uses two 9038Q2M DACs, in a true, fully balanced design. It uses Texas Instruments Dual OPA2131 + Dual TPA6120A2 operational amplifiers for class AB amplification. All internal circuitry is gold-plated.
The battery is 5000mah and provides a battery life of 9 hours of use. Supports QC3.0 and PD charging (5V, 9V and 12V). It does not have a gain selector.
As I said, I had not imagined it so big. It is true that it weighs a bit. All this limits its transport and I understand that it is intended for portable use, but on a table.
The construction is excellent and there is a model completely in black. The design is beautiful, but the mirror finish is impractical as it is a fingerprint magnet.
Connectivity
It can be connected to Android devices via OTG cable. It is compatible with Apple devices and also with PCs. Windows 10 does not require drivers, but Windows 7 does. I looked for the ASIO drivers but I couldn't find them, I didn't ask Wendy for them because when I was messing around with the drivers installed on my system, I saw that I can use the ASIO BRAVO-HD which is used, for example, by the xDuoo Link2 BAL.
It decodes PCM up to 384K and DSD256 natively and Dop.
Operativity
Very simple, USB TypeC for charging, USB TypeC for connection to a source, output selector, charging indicator, operation indicator, resolution frequency indicator, three audio outputs (BAL 2.5mm, BAL 4.4mm, SE 3.5mm). One potentiometer for power on and volume control. Switched off at 7h, it starts sounding at 9h, gain goes down until 3h (1.5V for SE), then there is a small volume drop (it seems to go into another amplification mode) and it reaches a maximum voltage close to 7V at no load (BAL) and almost 3.5V (SE).
Measures
I have taken measurements with my small oscilloscope, with pure tones of 20Hz, 100Hz, 1kHz, 5kHz, 10kHz and 20kHz. These tones have been created with Audacity software, with amplitude 1, 96kHz FLAC and 24bits.
The procedure is to turn the volume up to the maximum until distortion of the waveform is observed, then the volume is turned down until the waveforms are clean, trying to obtain the maximum RMS voltage without observing visible distortion.
No Load SE
The output goes up to about 3.5V just before the limit, then the signal is clipped.
15Ω SE
At 1kHz, the voltage is 1.74V, the power is 200mW, the current is 120mA, a barbaric amount.
33Ω SE
At 1kHz, the voltage is 2.29V, the power is 160mW, the current drops to 70mA. If it were 120mA, the power would be 480mW, but it is not. Above this voltage there is clear distortion.
100Ω SE
At 1kHz, the voltage is 3.1V, the power is 96.1mW, the current is 31mA.
No Load BAL
The output goes up to almost 6.7V just before the limit, then the signal is clipped.
15Ω BAL
At 1kHz, the voltage is 2.53V, the power is 430mW, which implies a current of 170mA, the most powerful amplifier I have ever measured in a portable device.
33Ω BAL
At 1kHz, the voltage is 4.11V, the power is 510mW, the current is 120mA. Actually, it is not the specified power of 1250mW, but just over half a watt is very large.
100Ω BAL
At 1kHz, the voltage is 5.63V, the power is 320mW, the current is 56.3mA.
Frequency Response
The response is very flat from 5Hz to 40kHz, at all volume steps. Only a very slight crosstalk is noticeable.
Output Impedance
The Zout of the SE output is close to 10Ω, while the Zout of the balanced output is almost 20Ω.
Sound
Enthusiasts who have ever read one of my reviews of a source or DAC/AMP know that I am critical of the output impedance. But really, my red line is the frequency response: if a source or DAC/AMP does not have a flat frequency response, I will probably discard it, regardless of its final sound. There are more or less major flaws in this respect. A frequency response that has a slight dip above 10kHz is not as critical to me as a slight dip below 100Hz.
On another note, a source or DAC/AMP can have a flat frequency response and an output impedance of more than 1Ω. In this sense, this would most likely suggest a modification of the frequency response of the connected headphones.
After this introduction, I will tell you about my actual experience with the TRI TK-2. When it arrived, I tried it with the TRI Meteors and the Grace-S cable, via the balanced 4.4mm output. I was immediately captivated by the sound of the pair. My frequency response of the Meteor revealed a resemblance to the Moondrop Blessing 2 Dusk, some IEMS that a colleague left me and I wasn't too keen on. I'm also an avowed bass lover and found the Dusks boring. The Meteor's FR promised a bit more fun, but not as much as I heard after connecting it to the TK-2. That's how I spent the afternoon. But something told me that this sound didn't fit with the FR I had taken. I connected the Meteors to other sources and noticed that the powerful and noticeable low end was lost. One of the qualities I had read about the TRI TK-2 was its neutrality. Clearly, I was not hearing neutrality. Mostly, I use IEMS and earbuds, I don't have many distinguished large-format headphones. So my headphones tend to be low impedance. I quickly thought that these differences in sound were probably due to the effect of a relatively high output impedance of the TRI TK-2. With my measurements I have been able to observe that the output impedance of the balanced connection is almost 20Ω and of 10Ω, the SE output. These are not strange figures, very similar to those of a great sounding DAP, the ACMEE MF02s.
To find out, I graphed some IEMS using the TRI TK-2 as source and my reference DAC/AMP Burson Audio Playmate with OpAmps V6. The first result is obvious.
The TRI Meteors gain 4dB in the low end and 2dB from the high mids, making them IEMS with a more V-shaped profile, therefore more fun at first glance. The explanation was served. The strangest thing, though, is that the Meteor's FR variation is the most exaggerated of the few IEMS I've graphed. And I never thought it would affect low frequencies so much. It is clear that a higher or lower Zout does not act in the same way for all IEMS and it also depends a lot on the impedance of the headphones. The Meteor has an impedance of 12Ω, while the Zout of the TK-2 is 20Ω.
I know that it affects IEMS with dynamic drivers much less, if at all. While BA or other drivers suffer, to a greater or lesser extent, from the consequences of the Zout.
The next test was with the Dunu Titan S (32Ω), through the SE output of TRI TK-2. Although the graphs show a small difference, it is barely audible. The TK-2 shows its true heart with these headphones, displaying the famous neutrality the other reviewers talk about, embellished by a lushness of detail and nuance.
I repeated the experience with another Dunu, the Falcon Pro with the "Atmospheric Immersion" filter (26Ω), for the balanced 2.5mm output. Who can say that these IEMS are boring? Certainly, the 20Ω Zout of the TK-2 doesn't affect the FR of these Dunu's at all. But the combination suits them perfectly. The warm sound of the Atmospheric filter is less noticeable and the result is vibrant and dynamic, with a sparkle that enhances the sound of one of the best IEMS in this price range. Highly musical, detailed, vivid, euphonic and enjoyable. A pleasure.
During the week, the new NiceHCK M5 (16Ω), a hybrid IEMS with 1DDD+4BA, arrived. I tested them with the blue bass filter on the 3.5mm SE output. With this configuration I expected the differences in their FR to be large. However, the curve is almost identical in both sizes. The M5s are IEMS on the analytical side, which is strongly influenced by their filters, which have a strong influence on their low end. With the blue filter they become IEMS with an unabashedly pronounced W-profile, lots of sparkle and a punchy sub-bass. The TK-2 gets an extremely clean sound out of them, achieving a high level of transparency, precise treble and dry, deep bass.
Stranged by the low incidence in the FR of the M5s, I looked for a similar configuration in my collection. The Rose QT9 MK2 (10Ω), one of my favourite IEMS, is one of the ones I am most fond of. On this occasion, I used the 2.5mm balanced output. The result was that the Zout incidence is superior and audible. The TK-2 describes a steeper W curve, increasing the peaks and moving them away from the valleys. It is noticeable in the upper midrange and early treble, making the QT9s more resolving IEMS and losing some of the magic I get with other quieter sources. Despite the stronger vocals, the sound becomes more synthetic and colder, with less present vocals, less descriptive power and texture. It doesn't always affect all headphones in a positive way.
Finally, I wanted to test the result on low impedance tribrids like the Geek Wold GK80 (8Ω), through the 3.5mm SE output. Really, brighter, with a clear incidence, but less than expected.
I could test many more IEMS from my collection and keep looking for the 7 differences, but my aim was to explain, in a more or less synthetic way, the effect of the DAC/AMP in some headphones, through the incidence of the output impedance, on the frequency response of each one of them.
And how does the TRI TK-2 sound, independently of the output impedance? Undoubtedly, it is good, very good, so good that I have even thought about buying the sample unit. I like its sound, its colour, its resolving capability and its power. Experiencing how it alters the sound of my headphones no longer becomes such a pejorative for me. It can become fun and beneficial, as in the case of the TRI Meteor. As long as the sound quality is maintained, the sound variations obtained by a relatively high Zout may have a higher appeal than I had previously thought. And when the FR is not altered, the result is better.
Conclusion
The TRI TK-2 is a DAC/AMP of undoubted power. It has a stunning, brilliant beauty, a truly premium finish, with a sleek and gorgeous build. Its power capability is up there with the best, it is one of the highest voltage and current delivery portable amplifiers I have ever tested.
The sound is truly premium. But because of its relatively high output impedance, it is capable of modifying the frequency response of the connected headphones, for better or worse. The result, where the difference exists, will be unpredictable and until you try it, you won't be able to tell if it's an improvement or a step backwards. In this sense, the experience can be a rewarding adventure. Do you want a great, very powerful and portable DAC/AMP that offers a truly different profile to your headphone collection? Don't hesitate any longer, it's the TRI TK-2.
Earphones and Sources Used During Analysis
- HiBy R3 Pro.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro.
- PC Win10.
- TRI Meteor.
- Dunu Titan S.
- Dunu Falcon Pro.
- Rose QT9 MK2.
- NiceHCK M5.
- Geek Wold GK80.
- Shuoer S12.
Ratings
- Construction and Design: 90
- Packaging and Accessories: 65
- Connectivity: 75
- Operability: 75
- Sound: 88
- Quality/Price: 80
You can read the full review in Spanish here:
https://hiendportable.com/2022/04/24/tri-tk-2-review/
lucanato
Hi which DAC amp can you advice me that could be a great step up over dongles? I have penon vortex and serial and I was thinking to ifi gryphon and I want the best, but neutral.. I don't like boost in bass and I love mids, I listen to a lot of classical music so natural timbre is mandatory.thanks
The TK2 marks a new direction for TRI/KBEAR, their first piece of hardware in collaboration with KAEI.
The TK2 and Meteor were part of a European Tour and handed back to TRI at the end. I have no affiliation with TRI/KBEAR and am not obliged to be positive about their products.
This is a portable, battery powered device with enough juice (5000mAh) for at least 7-8 hours continuous use. It’s hefty in the hand at 280g, for reference my Oneplus 6 weighs 175g. There are separate inputs for charging and USB C input and a switch for line out/phones out. A complete selection of 3.5mm single ended and 2.5mm/4.4mm balanced outputs. There are green LED indicators for sampling frequency and power at the bottom front edge of the device. A nice, hefty brass analogue volume pot has appropriate weight and an initial dead zone until about 9 o’clock. In my use, I never had to push it past 11-12 o’clock. The mirror finish is nice but as usual, prone to smears and marks. A case is recommended. No effective battery status indicator, only power which is a shame. Due to my setup, the indicator was facing away from me so I never got any notice that the battery was about to die. During my time with the TK2, I used it as a desktop device only.
The TK2 is neatly packaged with OTG cables, rubber bands and a cleaning cloth.
Equipment used:
Oneplus 6 running Neutron Player
TRI I3
TRI Meteor
Etymotic ER2XR
Balanced cables, 8w silver, KBEAR Through 4w SPC and GRACE-S hybrid SPC cables.
I used my own selection of tips - foams for the I3 and ER2XR, triple flange silicone for the Meteor.
Overall there is a balanced sound with no emphasis on a particular part of the spectrum. What you get is what the transducer is capable of. The balanced output is energetic, powerful and has depth and breadth. The grip on the music was impressive and the power hungry I3 and Meteor responded in kind.
The best synergy was with the TRI I3 and an 8w silver balanced cable. The warm U-shaped I3 has a slightly loose subbass and benefitted from the TK2’s clean input. Separation, imaging and timbre was spot on with this partnership.
The Meteor and GRACE-S was a mixed bag. The midbass focus overshadows the polite mids and treble. Whilst there is technical competence within that bass section, it is too prominent for long term enjoyment. The mids and treble are sweet but restrained. Overall smooth but not particularly insightful.
The ER2XR was beautifully clear and analytical but sounded a little etched and dry, particularly with MP3 tracks. Swapping my 8w silver cable for the standard balanced SPC brought a little warmth back to the sound and made for more comfortable listening.
Overall, the TK2 is a great offering from TRI/KAEI and is worth considering if you are in the market for a quasi-portable or desktop solution. It will show you what your transducers can and can’t do!
The best synergy was with the TRI I3 and an 8w silver balanced cable. The warm U-shaped I3 has a slightly loose subbass and benefitted from the TK2’s clean input. Separation, imaging and timbre was spot on with this partnership.
The Meteor and GRACE-S was a mixed bag. The midbass focus overshadows the polite mids and treble. Whilst there is technical competence within that bass section, it is too prominent for long term enjoyment. The mids and treble are sweet but restrained. Overall smooth but not particularly insightful.
The ER2XR was beautifully clear and analytical but sounded a little etched and dry, particularly with MP3 tracks. Swapping my 8w silver cable for the standard balanced SPC brought a little warmth back to the sound and made for more comfortable listening.
Overall, the TK2 is a great offering from TRI/KAEI and is worth considering if you are in the market for a quasi-portable or desktop solution. It will show you what your transducers can and can’t do!
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ChrisOc
Good honest review and a pleasure to read! There is much to like and there are quirks which can be disappointing, battery meter and weight if used as a portable DAC/Amp, but what I thought was very good is the sound quality.
Sunstealer
Agreed. I did keep comparing the sound to the Zen DAC in my mind. I prefer that and the desktop form factor.
Intro
This DAC/Amp, as I understand it, the TK-2 is a collaboration between TRI and KAEI. My guess is that the name is derived from the first letter of the names of the collaborating companies. The first iteration may have been spotted on the display table at an audio show in China last year. In the limited time I have used the TK-2, it appears to me to be a more than capable portable DAC/Amp with a few minor tweaks required in future iterations.
Disclosure and Note
The T-K2 DAC/Amp was sent to me by KBEAR/TRI as pat of the European Review Tour package. The unit will go to the next reviewer in the tour group in due course.
All opinions I express here are my own with no influence from anyone. No one has editorial control or influence over the contents of this review. I make an effort to ensure that I give the reader factual information. I appreciate your feedback.
Point to note
Left to me alone, I would not grade products in the manner which the Head-fi showcase is set up. However, given what exists on Head-fi, my grading is entirely based on the context of the price of the unit. I do not believe all items should be graded, at all, but if they are, it must reflect the pricing of the product. Hence my grading does not apply across the board for all products.
My setup for this review
I paired the T-K2 DAC/Amp with Fiio M11, Samsung galaxy Note 10 plus, the Mi Mix and I used UAPP, Amazon Music and Foobar as my music players.
Technical Specifications
THD+N: 0.005%.
Frequency Response: 10Hz-40kHz.
Output Power: up to 1250mW@ 32Ω.
Impedance: 6Ω-600Ω.
Headphone Interface: 3.5mm single-ended/2.5mm Bal/4.4mm Bal.
Fixed LO level: 2Vrms.
Battery: 5000 MAh with approximately up to 9 hours.
QC 3.0 fast charging support.
Size: 13cmx6.8cmx2.4cm.
Weight: about 280grams.
Accessories - Rubber bands, cable adapter for Apple products.
Build Quality: The TK-2 is built like a tank but looks quite elegant in spite of its robust build. It is made of a solid single piece of aluminium, which gives it a curb weight of 280 grams with dimensions as shown above. Despite its thick proportions it feels good, solid and above all manageable in the hand. Although I have to say the heft and thickness makes it borderline manageable as a portable. In most instances most of us would either use it as a desktop DAC/Amp or carry it out and about in a bag or pocket, and it would fit into the front pocket of men’s jeans, if a bit bulky, but it fits.
Inputs and Outputs: The single input point is via a type C port, with an adapter for Apple users. As I understand it, the TK-2 works with IOS. I did not test it on a compatible Apple device, so I cannot comment on how the TK-2 fares with Apple products. However, it is noteworthy that one report I have heard of is that an Apple user had issues, exactly what the issue was, I am not aware so I would suggest further reading for Apple users. The unit has a second type C port for charging. I had the unfortunate issue with my Topping NX4, where I accidentally plugged in the charging cable into the data input (all it takes is a momentary lapse) so to avoid that issue, I use a magnetic type C charging point plugged into the TK-2 for my time with the device to be safe. TK-2 has a plethora of outputs, 3.5 single ended output and 2.5 and 4.4 balanced outputs.
There was a user’s report that the included type C data cable was emitting noise. I have not experienced any such noise but I used the type C data cable for a short time. I have to say I found the type C data cable too short for my use case. In order to avoid heating and bulk I do not stack any of my devices up, I use a longer type C data cable to allow separation of the source device and amplification device.
In Operation: A quick “walk around” the unit - At the top (the orientation is obviously determined by mode of use, pocket or desktop) there is a good size volume knob which feels good and gives good feedback when adjusting blind (in a pocket or bag). For the purposes of this review, I refer to orientation above, in effect with the unit with its back on the table and the volume knob facing the user, which allows one to read all the inscriptions the right way round. I also refer to the top to denote use in the pocket where the volume knob and outputs are at the top. Firstly, the two sides have no functional items on them. The back has access to the volume knob, but nothing else. At the front you get the knurled volume knob, which is also the on/off switch shares the front (or top when in a pocket) with the three output ports. There are five light indicators at the front which indicates the quality of the file playing. At the bottom of the unit, you get two USB C ports, at either end. One for charging and the other for data input. In between the USB C input ports is the low-high gain switch which is slightly recessed to avoid accidental switching, it is nonetheless easy to switch with a short fingernail when intended.
Charging: It allows charging when in use and in my testing there is no noise and heat is negligible during charging when in use. Charging when not in use supports fast charge, although I cannot comment on that, as I did not have a compatible fast charger for the TK-2. charging speed. My Samsung fast charger does not work with the TK-2 but that is the same with some other devices, such as an Ibasso DAC/Amp which I had to return a couple of years ago.
One of the minor flaws, in my view, is that the TK-2 has no battery level meter to show exactly how much power is remaining in percentage terms. However, all is not lost, instead it has a battery indicator (at the top next to the volume knob) which shows as green at most times, and a red light when you have approximately 5 minutes of battery power left (depending on volume levels at which you listen). So far what I have not gathered is that the unit battery life is consistent with the claimed time of approximately 9 hours, again depending on volume levels, my guess is that this is measured at low volume. What I can say is that I have not killed the battery at one sitting in the few weeks I have had the device.
Sound Signature and Quality
The sound is quite clean and pleasant. The output power of 1250 mW will be more than enough for most headphones and I would guess almost all earphones and earbuds. It has the option of high and low gain. High gain is automatically switched off at higher volumes to manage volume levels.
Put simply the TK-2 is neutral. It seems to me that there is no flavouring/colouring of the sound in any way. The transparency is such that it effectively amplifies the sound without altering it….what you put in is what you get out. Put in a neutral earphone and a you get the amount of bass, mids and highs, as tuned. The effect is that the quality of the music you put in and tuning of your earphones or headphones determine what you get out of the DAC/Amp. The sound quality is also dependant on the sound you put in, that is how revealing the TK-2 is. I love the quality of sound I have got out of it so far. This is incredibly good fun and compelling when it all comes together, it all sounds so good and never seems to ran out of power.
For my testing, on the few occasions when something was amiss, I could identify the failing within a couple of tracks as that of the recording or the earphones.
The headphones/earphones used:
Note: The volume knob, which (as previously stated) is the also the on/off switch is off at 7 O’clock. As you move the volume knob to you get no sound until 9 O’clock. For my testing I used my Samsung Note 10, Mi mix original and Fiio M11 as my source. I set the source volume source at 50 (out of 120) on the M11, and full volume of the Mi Mix and Note 10 plus and regulated the volume using the TK-2. Although, I found after testing that I was on about on the M11, so the TK2 had much much more power to pump out.
Caution: Be careful do not blow your ears out!
Headphones:
Blon B08
The Blon 8 were sold as a Beryllium alloy driver headphones. They clearly demand a lot of power and the TK-2 had its work cut out powering them. Although, the B8 demand a lot of power, my ears had had enough at 3 O’clock, as I got more power than my ears could take out of the TK-2. The sound signature is as dark as you would expect from a Beryllium set and the TK-2 delivered beautifully.
Blon B20
This is an open-back Planar Magnetic set of headphones which demand a lot of power. Lots of DAC/Amps did not do the Blon B20 justice, because the bass was subdued. However, with the TK-2 these headphones shone, particularly, the bass. At last I heard these from a portable DAC/Amp which makes the bass sound very good. My thoughts of selling the Blon B20 are on hold.
TRI Starlights
Another set which requires a lot of power are the TRI Starlights with the Electrostatic drivers, again the TK-2 did a very good job powering the Starlights beautifully.
Comparisons with other devices
Fiio BTR5: I just love the size and convenience of the BTR5 and I am sure many of its similarly designed competitors do a similarly good job by measure of convenience, but that requires these small sized DAC/Amps to fit easily into our pockets or clip-on to our shirts and come with software which makes them so versatile. The BTR5 convenience remains intact for the most part because of its size and weight. However, for the same reason, size limitations on the power stakes the BTR5 is necessarily limited, and if the aim is to power more demanding headphones or ear.
HA FEE HA11: The HA 11 has similar specifications when compared to the TK-2, both use the same ESS chip sets and give the option of single-ended and balanced outputs. In terms of size, the TK-2 has a smaller footprint by about a third but is slightly thicker and weighs a bit more than the HA11. The HA11 has Bluetooth option which the TK-2 does not have. In relation to sound, they are both neutral with tons of power in reserve for most earphones and headphones.
However, at the advertised maximum power output, the HA11 is 1000 mW @ 32 Ohms, while the TK-2 is advertised at 1250 mW @ 32 Ohms. The prices vary with time and purchase point but generally, the HA11 comes in cheaper. However, the HA FEE is not without issues, the most notable being no battery meter, a smaller battery, and a 4 hour battery life. In terms of sound quality, I would say there is not a vast difference. These two are similar so really it is a question of which of suits your needs.
Conclusion
This is a nice sounding DAC/Amp with enormous reserves of power for most use cases. I love the quality of the build, the ergonomics, the sound quality.
Enjoy your music!
This DAC/Amp, as I understand it, the TK-2 is a collaboration between TRI and KAEI. My guess is that the name is derived from the first letter of the names of the collaborating companies. The first iteration may have been spotted on the display table at an audio show in China last year. In the limited time I have used the TK-2, it appears to me to be a more than capable portable DAC/Amp with a few minor tweaks required in future iterations.
Disclosure and Note
The T-K2 DAC/Amp was sent to me by KBEAR/TRI as pat of the European Review Tour package. The unit will go to the next reviewer in the tour group in due course.
All opinions I express here are my own with no influence from anyone. No one has editorial control or influence over the contents of this review. I make an effort to ensure that I give the reader factual information. I appreciate your feedback.
Point to note
Left to me alone, I would not grade products in the manner which the Head-fi showcase is set up. However, given what exists on Head-fi, my grading is entirely based on the context of the price of the unit. I do not believe all items should be graded, at all, but if they are, it must reflect the pricing of the product. Hence my grading does not apply across the board for all products.
My setup for this review
I paired the T-K2 DAC/Amp with Fiio M11, Samsung galaxy Note 10 plus, the Mi Mix and I used UAPP, Amazon Music and Foobar as my music players.
Technical Specifications
THD+N: 0.005%.
Frequency Response: 10Hz-40kHz.
Output Power: up to 1250mW@ 32Ω.
Impedance: 6Ω-600Ω.
Headphone Interface: 3.5mm single-ended/2.5mm Bal/4.4mm Bal.
Fixed LO level: 2Vrms.
Battery: 5000 MAh with approximately up to 9 hours.
QC 3.0 fast charging support.
Size: 13cmx6.8cmx2.4cm.
Weight: about 280grams.
Accessories - Rubber bands, cable adapter for Apple products.
Build Quality: The TK-2 is built like a tank but looks quite elegant in spite of its robust build. It is made of a solid single piece of aluminium, which gives it a curb weight of 280 grams with dimensions as shown above. Despite its thick proportions it feels good, solid and above all manageable in the hand. Although I have to say the heft and thickness makes it borderline manageable as a portable. In most instances most of us would either use it as a desktop DAC/Amp or carry it out and about in a bag or pocket, and it would fit into the front pocket of men’s jeans, if a bit bulky, but it fits.
Inputs and Outputs: The single input point is via a type C port, with an adapter for Apple users. As I understand it, the TK-2 works with IOS. I did not test it on a compatible Apple device, so I cannot comment on how the TK-2 fares with Apple products. However, it is noteworthy that one report I have heard of is that an Apple user had issues, exactly what the issue was, I am not aware so I would suggest further reading for Apple users. The unit has a second type C port for charging. I had the unfortunate issue with my Topping NX4, where I accidentally plugged in the charging cable into the data input (all it takes is a momentary lapse) so to avoid that issue, I use a magnetic type C charging point plugged into the TK-2 for my time with the device to be safe. TK-2 has a plethora of outputs, 3.5 single ended output and 2.5 and 4.4 balanced outputs.
There was a user’s report that the included type C data cable was emitting noise. I have not experienced any such noise but I used the type C data cable for a short time. I have to say I found the type C data cable too short for my use case. In order to avoid heating and bulk I do not stack any of my devices up, I use a longer type C data cable to allow separation of the source device and amplification device.
In Operation: A quick “walk around” the unit - At the top (the orientation is obviously determined by mode of use, pocket or desktop) there is a good size volume knob which feels good and gives good feedback when adjusting blind (in a pocket or bag). For the purposes of this review, I refer to orientation above, in effect with the unit with its back on the table and the volume knob facing the user, which allows one to read all the inscriptions the right way round. I also refer to the top to denote use in the pocket where the volume knob and outputs are at the top. Firstly, the two sides have no functional items on them. The back has access to the volume knob, but nothing else. At the front you get the knurled volume knob, which is also the on/off switch shares the front (or top when in a pocket) with the three output ports. There are five light indicators at the front which indicates the quality of the file playing. At the bottom of the unit, you get two USB C ports, at either end. One for charging and the other for data input. In between the USB C input ports is the low-high gain switch which is slightly recessed to avoid accidental switching, it is nonetheless easy to switch with a short fingernail when intended.
Charging: It allows charging when in use and in my testing there is no noise and heat is negligible during charging when in use. Charging when not in use supports fast charge, although I cannot comment on that, as I did not have a compatible fast charger for the TK-2. charging speed. My Samsung fast charger does not work with the TK-2 but that is the same with some other devices, such as an Ibasso DAC/Amp which I had to return a couple of years ago.
One of the minor flaws, in my view, is that the TK-2 has no battery level meter to show exactly how much power is remaining in percentage terms. However, all is not lost, instead it has a battery indicator (at the top next to the volume knob) which shows as green at most times, and a red light when you have approximately 5 minutes of battery power left (depending on volume levels at which you listen). So far what I have not gathered is that the unit battery life is consistent with the claimed time of approximately 9 hours, again depending on volume levels, my guess is that this is measured at low volume. What I can say is that I have not killed the battery at one sitting in the few weeks I have had the device.
Sound Signature and Quality
The sound is quite clean and pleasant. The output power of 1250 mW will be more than enough for most headphones and I would guess almost all earphones and earbuds. It has the option of high and low gain. High gain is automatically switched off at higher volumes to manage volume levels.
Put simply the TK-2 is neutral. It seems to me that there is no flavouring/colouring of the sound in any way. The transparency is such that it effectively amplifies the sound without altering it….what you put in is what you get out. Put in a neutral earphone and a you get the amount of bass, mids and highs, as tuned. The effect is that the quality of the music you put in and tuning of your earphones or headphones determine what you get out of the DAC/Amp. The sound quality is also dependant on the sound you put in, that is how revealing the TK-2 is. I love the quality of sound I have got out of it so far. This is incredibly good fun and compelling when it all comes together, it all sounds so good and never seems to ran out of power.
For my testing, on the few occasions when something was amiss, I could identify the failing within a couple of tracks as that of the recording or the earphones.
The headphones/earphones used:
Note: The volume knob, which (as previously stated) is the also the on/off switch is off at 7 O’clock. As you move the volume knob to you get no sound until 9 O’clock. For my testing I used my Samsung Note 10, Mi mix original and Fiio M11 as my source. I set the source volume source at 50 (out of 120) on the M11, and full volume of the Mi Mix and Note 10 plus and regulated the volume using the TK-2. Although, I found after testing that I was on about on the M11, so the TK2 had much much more power to pump out.
Caution: Be careful do not blow your ears out!
Headphones:
Blon B08
The Blon 8 were sold as a Beryllium alloy driver headphones. They clearly demand a lot of power and the TK-2 had its work cut out powering them. Although, the B8 demand a lot of power, my ears had had enough at 3 O’clock, as I got more power than my ears could take out of the TK-2. The sound signature is as dark as you would expect from a Beryllium set and the TK-2 delivered beautifully.
Blon B20
This is an open-back Planar Magnetic set of headphones which demand a lot of power. Lots of DAC/Amps did not do the Blon B20 justice, because the bass was subdued. However, with the TK-2 these headphones shone, particularly, the bass. At last I heard these from a portable DAC/Amp which makes the bass sound very good. My thoughts of selling the Blon B20 are on hold.
TRI Starlights
Another set which requires a lot of power are the TRI Starlights with the Electrostatic drivers, again the TK-2 did a very good job powering the Starlights beautifully.
Comparisons with other devices
Fiio BTR5: I just love the size and convenience of the BTR5 and I am sure many of its similarly designed competitors do a similarly good job by measure of convenience, but that requires these small sized DAC/Amps to fit easily into our pockets or clip-on to our shirts and come with software which makes them so versatile. The BTR5 convenience remains intact for the most part because of its size and weight. However, for the same reason, size limitations on the power stakes the BTR5 is necessarily limited, and if the aim is to power more demanding headphones or ear.
HA FEE HA11: The HA 11 has similar specifications when compared to the TK-2, both use the same ESS chip sets and give the option of single-ended and balanced outputs. In terms of size, the TK-2 has a smaller footprint by about a third but is slightly thicker and weighs a bit more than the HA11. The HA11 has Bluetooth option which the TK-2 does not have. In relation to sound, they are both neutral with tons of power in reserve for most earphones and headphones.
However, at the advertised maximum power output, the HA11 is 1000 mW @ 32 Ohms, while the TK-2 is advertised at 1250 mW @ 32 Ohms. The prices vary with time and purchase point but generally, the HA11 comes in cheaper. However, the HA FEE is not without issues, the most notable being no battery meter, a smaller battery, and a 4 hour battery life. In terms of sound quality, I would say there is not a vast difference. These two are similar so really it is a question of which of suits your needs.
Conclusion
This is a nice sounding DAC/Amp with enormous reserves of power for most use cases. I love the quality of the build, the ergonomics, the sound quality.
Enjoy your music!
. But at the moment I can buy it for $ 225 and I need to decide for myself whether it's worth it?
Jimmyblues1959
Nice thorough review!
Uebelkraehe
Good review. I think the sound quality and the amount of power the TK-2 provides are really impressive and not necessarily just for the price. In my opinion it would nevertheless have been preferable if they had opted for a somewhat higher price point and added features like a battery indicator and BT in return.
