Fiio K17 Review: The Pinnacle of Fiio’s DAC Innovations
Throughout the last four years, I’ve had the opportunity to explore nearly all the DACs (Digital-to-Analog Converters) that Fiio has produced. From the adaptable K5 Pro to the robust K9 Pro and the leading K19, Fiio has relentlessly advanced the landscape of desktop audio equipment. However, with the launch of the K17, Fiio has truly surpassed itself. This DAC/amp combination not only offers outstanding audio quality but also features a modern design and user-friendly elements that establish it as the finest Fiio DAC to date.
A New Benchmark in Aesthetics
What immediately catches the eye about the Fiio K17 is its design. Moving away from the functional look of earlier versions, the K17 embraces a retro-futuristic style with a pristine white chassis, substantial knobs, and an eye-catching 3.93-inch color LCD display. The LED-illuminated dials provide a flair of elegance, while the overall construction exudes a premium and sturdy feel.
Fiio has also tackled previous issues related to heat management. The K17 includes enhanced ventilation on its sides and top, promoting better cooling during long listening sessions — a significant upgrade from the K9 Pro.
Internals: Premium Components
At the core of the K17 lie AKM’s cutting-edge DAC chips: the AK4191EX and AK4499EQ. These are combined with a bespoke amplifier section driven by Onsemi MJE243G and MJE253G transistors, supplying an impressive 4000mW of power at 32Ω through the balanced 4.4mm output. Even the single-ended 6.35mm output delivers a formidable 1850mW at 32Ω, making it suitable for everything from delicate IEMs to demanding planar magnetic headphones.
The K17 also boasts a 31-band PEQ (parametric equalizer), powered by the M21586Q DSP and ES9821Q ADC. This enables precise audio customization, a feature that was first seen in the flagship K19 and is now more readily available in the K17.
Abundant Connectivity Options
Fiio has truly excelled with the connectivity options on the K17. On the front, you’ll encounter 6.35mm, 4.4mm, and XLR headphone outputs, along with a USB-C input for straightforward connection to mobile devices or laptops. The rear panel is even more impressive, providing:
– USB-C and USB-A inputs
– Gigabit Ethernet port
– Line-in and line-out
– Balanced XLR outputs
– Coaxial and optical in/out
– Voltage switch (110V/230V)
This makes the K17 an essential hub for any audiophile setup, whether you’re streaming music from a network source, connecting to a PC, or utilizing it as a standalone player via USB storage.
User Experience: Easy and Engaging
One of the most delightful features of the K17 is its user interface. The tactile knobs and buttons deliver a gratifying analog sensation, and the redesigned menu system is user-friendly and easy to navigate. A remote control is included, enabling users to adjust volume, switch modes, and modify EQ settings from a distance.
Interestingly, while the K17 shares the same Bluetooth 5.1 modem as the K19, the remote does not have a dedicated Bluetooth button. However, the DAC continues to support high-quality wireless audio streaming, making it a versatile choice for both wired and wireless configurations.
Performance: Balanced, Detailed, and Dynamic
The K17 offers a neutral sound profile that allows your headphones and IEMs to excel without alteration. Matched with high-end gear such as the Audeze LCD-X, Focal Elex, and Fiio’s own FT5 and FA19, the K17 delivers:
– Lively bass performance
– Clear, precise mids
– Smooth, extended treble
– Exceptional imaging and resolution
Whether you’re enjoying jazz, rock, or orchestral compositions, the K17 retains composure and clarity throughout. It supports PCM up to 768kHz/32-bit and DSD512 natively, and up to 384kHz/32-bit and DSD256 from local USB sources. It’s also Roon Ready, making it an excellent addition to any Roon-based environment.
Direct Playback and Additional Features
A notable highlight of the K17 is its capability to play music straight from a USB drive or external hard disk — no computer or streamer needed. This renders it a self-sufficient audio solution for users who favor a simplistic setup. The inclusion of Gigabit Ethernet guarantees stable network playback.
Final Thoughts: Fiio’s Premier DAC to Date
After evaluating more than a dozen Fiio DACs, I can assertively conclude that the K17 represents the pinnacle of their offerings. It seamlessly integrates top-tier audio performance, an impressive and functional design, extensive connectivity, and thoughtful features.
