The respected hi-fi brand claims it’s “engineered to deliver uncompromising sound quality with cutting-edge functionality.”
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In the last two years, Fiio has introduced its custom-developed DAC with a resistor ladder (R2R) architecture, which helps deliver high-resolution audio with a “natural, analog-like presentation.”
And its since then, the fast-growing hi-fi manufacturer has integrated this custom DAC technology into several of its products, including the K11 R2R and K13 R2R headphone amplifiers, and its newest midrange portable hi-fi player, the M33 R2R .
Fast forward to today, and the fast-growing hi-fi manufacturer has given its flagship desktop amplifier, the K17, a similar R2R upgrade.
Fiio K17 R2R Pro
The Fiio K17 R2R Pro is an all-in-one hi-fi component for your desktop. It combines a high-resolution DAC, streamer and powerful headphone amplifier into one box.
According to the brand, it is “engineered to deliver uncompromising sound quality with cutting-edge functionality.’
The K17 R2R Pro builds off the success of its predecessors, Fiio’s K15 ($599) and K19 ($1,430) headphone amplifiers, but adds a 24-bit DAC with the brand’s resistor ladder (R2R) architecture.
Fiio says that the DAC “prioritizes natural tonality, rich harmonic detail and a more analog-like listening experience.”
As a headphone amplifier, the K17 R2R Pro features a discrete Class AB design capable of delivering 4000mW. Fiio claims that it’s prime to “effortlessly drive a wide range of headphones, from sensitive in-ear monitors to demanding planars, while maintaining clarity and dynamic range.”
In addition to serving as a DAC and headphone amplifier, the K17 R2R Pro is engineered to be the central hub of a home hi-fi system. It works as a high-resolution music streamer and network player. So you can stream music to it over Wi-Fi or play local files.
Additionally, the K17 R2R Pro features a 31-band parametric equalizer, allowing users to fine-tune the sound. This equalizer can be accessed via the company’s proprietary smartphone app.
Availability and pricing
The Fiio K17 R2R Pro was revealed this week at Vienna High-End, an international trade show for consumer electronics. However, pricing and availability information has yet to be released.
According to the brand, global pricing will be announced in June.
Fiio K17 R2R Pro
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