One MAJOR FLAW from perfection! FiiO R7 review
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- čas přidán 27. 07. 2024
- Buy the R7 here: 🇺🇸 & 🇨🇦 bit.ly/BuyFiiOR7 🌏 bit.ly/3r2lH8X
A review of the feature-packed FiiO R7 all-in-one DAC, amp, pre-amp and streamer including testing of its headphone amp, DAC stage and streaming quality.
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My top recommended HEADPHONES (prices in USD)
HarmonicDyne Athena - $179 - bit.ly/3QvQdlq
Moondrop Para - $299 - amzn.to/4c1C4F9
Sivga SV023 - $449 - amzn.to/3UKXsZ5
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Meze Elite - $4,000 - bit.ly/3UMIDWb
Focal Utopia (2022) - $4,999 - amzn.to/44xEHvx
My top recommended IEMS (prices in USD)
KZ ESX - $30 - amzn.to/4bpMyxC
Tangzu FUDU - $89 - amzn.to/3UvOrlk
Simgot EM6L - $129 - amzn.to/4a3SLy1
Meze Audio Alba - $159 - bit.ly/AlbaIEM
Thieaudio Elixir - $209 - amzn.to/3ULd9zr
7Hz Timeless - $220 - amzn.to/3QslVA8
Elysian Pilgrim - $399 - bit.ly/3y7N995
Xenns Mangird Top - $530 - bit.ly/XENNSTopLin
Sennheiser IE600 - $700 - amzn.to/44AxcUQ
Effect Audio Pilgrim Noir - $799 - bit.ly/3Wu2k5O
Sennheiser IE900 - $849 - amzn.to/4b66wxy
Westone Mach 70 - $1,400 - amzn.to/3ULUK5P
My top recommended TRANSPORTS (prices in USD)
WiiM Pro - $168 - amzn.to/4bpTDOw
SMSL PL200 CD - $669 - amzn.to/3Wsd0lJ
Eversolo DMP-A6 (Master Edition) - $1,299 - amzn.to/44sBMUR
Eversolo DMP-A8 - $1,980 - amzn.to/3QxRU1B
My top recommended DACS (prices in USD)
Topping E30 II - $149 - amzn.to/3JQyGkd
Topping E50 - $199 - amzn.to/3WucWSO
SMSL DO200 Mk2 - $469 - amzn.to/4a5Di0C
Topping D70 Pro OCTO - $599 - amzn.to/4a8bubZ
Geshelli J2S AK4499EX - $680 - bit.ly/J2SAKM
Schiit Bifrost 2/64 - $799 - www.schiit.com/products/bifro...
Gustard R26 - $1,650 - amzn.to/3QyZ0mB
Schiit Yggdrasil - $2,299 - www.schiit.com/products/yggdr...
Chord TT2 - $5,295 - chordelectronics.co.uk/produc...
My top recommended HEADPHONE AMPS (prices in USD)
Schiit Magni - $119 - www.schiit.com/products/magni...
xDuoo MT-604 - $169 - amzn.to/4bpNYrW
xDuoo TA-26S - $319 - amzn.to/3UJbfzx
Geshelli A3 Pro - $499 - bit.ly/GLA3Pro
Aune S17 Pro - $699 - amzn.to/4a75v7b
Schiit Mjolnir - $1199 - www.schiit.com/products/mjoln...
Burson Audio Voyager - $5,300+ - bit.ly/4a8Mwcq
My top recommended DONGLE DACS (prices in USD)
Moondrop Dawn Pro - $50 - amzn.to/3y2dd57
Simgot DEW4X - $80 - amzn.to/4b68rlK
Questyle M15i - $349 - amzn.to/4doMSyp
My top recommended WIRELESS 'PHONES (prices in USD)
Soundpeats Air3 Deluxe - $40 - amzn.to/3UIXQr4
Soundpeats Air4 Pro - $79 - amzn.to/3Wyj4tj
Edifier Neobuds Pro 2 - $130 - amzn.to/3WwMpEf
Sennheiser Momentum 4 - $379.95 - amzn.to/3WrEqZ0
HiFiMan Svanar Wireless - $499 - amzn.to/4amOhmx
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00:00 Introduction
00:33 Glamour video
01:28 Specifications
02:44 FiiO R7 features
04:21 One major flaw
08:29 Device tour
11:44 Sound quality - AC vs DC power
12:21 Device tour continued
14:10 Sound quality - via HP out
15:34 R7 amp test
19:55 R7 DAC test
22:48 R7 streaming only test
25:03 FiiO R7 vs FiiO K9 Pro ESS
26:13 FiiO R7 vs Matrix Mini-i 3 Pro
30:15 Final conclusions
#audiophile #audioreview #streamers - Věda a technologie
Wow Lachlan.. You are really knocking it out of the park... Glad to see you so busy doing what you love & doing it well. Hats off mate!
Cheers, Scrufboy!
Fantastic review this may be in your top 3 thus far. So much to cover functionally and to describe from a SQ perspective. I know this one took an incredible amount of time and effort. Clearly showed on this one!
Thanks Ace! I'm glad you feel that way. I do try to always try to improve with each new vid. 🙂
Great review. Thank you for the comparisons for all aspects of the unit.
My pleasure. Glad it was helpful
What a great review! I just bought one and your video is informative. Subscribed
So glad you liked the review. I'm sure you'll love the R7! Thanks for the sub
Just ordered. Waiting to see how it runs
What a detailed review and a labor of love. Congrats and thanks for all the valuable comparisons. "Smashes all other devices" in terms of features. Yup. Sold.
My pleasure! Glad you liked the review. Hope you love the R7 🙂
Picked one up recently. Im enjoying it.
It's a brilliant device. Glad you're enjoying it!
Very informative! Thank you
Glad I could help!
I'm genuinely worried if whatever Android version is in the R7 is too old to be supported by third party apps or even Fiio themselves stop supporting it.
My audio gears can easily last over 10 years.
I have my HD650 since 2008, I think.
I got my HD600s in 2002. 🎧
I have multiple old android phones running different versions of android from android 7 thru android 12, a large majority of the apps that I still use still work to this day. The main issue that I have is the new versions of android is the apps on the apps on the google play store says that the app was designed for an older version of android. With the newer versions of android, the apps won't work properly or the apps says they are not compatible with the newer versions of android. Back when google updated android during the earlier days of android, it did not matter what version of android your device is running, the large majority of apps will work and I never had any issues with apps not working or being incompatible even with outdated software. It seems like google is making it harder to use familiar apps and older apps that people are still using from old versions of android compared to the newest versions of android. For example, my pixel 4a 5g is still on android 11 because I never did a software update at all. I only updated the apps. On my pixel 4a 5g, I'm using the android version 4.4 of the google now launcher with android 11 running on my pixel 4a 5g and all the features and functionality still works even though the google now launcher was discontinued amd no longer being supported. With the newest versions of android, being able to use an app or launcher like the old and outdated version of the google now launcher still works on my my android devices with older versions of android. I just wish google made it so people that have older version of android and there devices stopped receiving software updates, the functionality and features still works even though they are still using there current phone even with outdated software. All my android devices that stopped receiving software updates, the apps still works. I even sideload apps even on the old and outdated versions of android. It's just a matter of trial and error to see what versions of the the app that is still compatible and still works with whatever version of android that your current device is still using. Not every apps on the google play store don't necessarily need to be updated to the latest version of android if they work perfectly fine even if someone is using an outdated version of android. The only apps that needs to be updated if the app has system requirements for the app to work probably or to be compatible unless its specified in the app on the google play store. When I googled what the oldest version of android supported apps, it says that android 4.4 is still supported. Even if someone has an android device using android 4.4 there apps still works. The reason why I never update the software is because the software updates breaks and ruins the functionality of the newest version of the device compared to the oldest version of the software. The newest versions of the the software don't run flawlessly whether its an android or iPhone since there are still bugs that people still come across with. Whenever I updated to the newest version of android, the features and functionality that used to work no loner works with the newest version of the software. Updating the software is part of the planned obsolescence since device manufacturers can manipulate the software to make the devices stopped working properly in order to sell a new phone every year to as many as there customers every year. For example, my sony wf-1000xm4 bluetooth headphones battery drains faster and it makes a weird noise in the background, I'm not really sure how to describe weird noise that is happening in the background since the nosies happen every 2 to 3 seconds and it's very distracting when I'm watching a youtube video or playing a game. I have noise canceling turned off since I never use noise canceling at all. The reason why I mentioned my sony wf-1000xm4 bluetooth headphones is because it seems like my bluetooth headphones have gotten worse compared to the first time I got them. That's why I mentioned about planned obsolescence thru software updates on smartphones and it's already happening to my sony bluetooth headphones. The problem with using the software and reply on apps for using bluetooth headphones is that the manufacturer can control and manipulate the software and apps in order to sell a new device and products to as many customers as possible every year. When using something hardware related, the manufacturers can't manipulate the device or product remotely like they can do with using something with software related.
@@OledBurnInKingThis is exactly what I'm worried about. 😬
@@kamerafi The fiio r7 uses android 10 and my fiio m11 uses android 7, the apps and games that I play still works even with android 7 even though my fiio m11 is using an older version of android. I'm more worried about the newest software than the oldest software. Android is much more flexible compared to Microsoft with windows. I use both android and windows, sometimes my chromebook. I hate windows 11 since windows seems like it tries to be mac os. Alot of the things on older versions of windows are harder to do compared to the newest version of windows. Windows 11 is confusing and convulted and takes multiple steps to take do basic stuff since some of features and functionalities are hidden and it takes a learning curve. I'm still trying to figure out how to use windows 11 and do the basic stuff like the older versions of windows. I tried mac os years ago and I became instantly confused on how to navigate mac os. I'm used to using older versions of windows because windows is easier to use compared to mac os. I use my android devices more than my windows pc. Alot of the things I usually do can be done with android and for free compared to windows and mac os. The oldest version of android devices still support android 4.4. I still use old and out dated apps that are no longer being supported. Since the fiio r7 uses android 10 and android still supports android 4.4. android apps. Thats like a 6 year gap. Every new version of android are just incremental versions of android. I prefer the older versions of android compared to the newer versions of android. My pixel phones uses android 11 and I still use apps that are very old from android 4.4. It's why I prefer android compared to using windows because the features and functionality still works on outdated software. I use windows because I game on pcs and because I like the option to build my own pc. I don't like apple with there over price proprietary non repairable products. I don't care about any ecosystem that every manufacturer talks about and because I don't value brand loyalty.
I'm not sure that the apps will stop working souch as you won't be able to download the latest version of the apps.
Yet another superb review, Lachlan! How on earth do you find the time to make these great reviews and reply to so many of the comments? Astounding! I suspect you might be utilizing a clone or two!
I've had my R7 for a couple of months now, and I think it's fantastic. Practically perfect for a recently retired fella like me who is just starting to invest time and effort into a new (and expensive) hobby. While now having the means to indulge myself, I still like to find value in what I get. Fiio's products are definitely that and more. I have a couple of their IEMs, the UTWS5, and the FT3. Heck, the FT3's Furukawa cable alone is a fantastic value: I even use it with my Hifiman HeKse!
I've also added a couple of hybrid tube amps on the cheap and the results have sounded pretty darn good with the R7. I've decided I like a bit of tubeness with my cans. I'm quite sure I will be upgrading my tube amps in the near future. I like what I've seen and heard about the Woo Audio Fireflies gen 3. What do you think? Any other suggestions to pair with the R7? Keep the faith, brotha!
It's definitely tricky finding enough time - no doubt! I'm glad the content continues to be valuable though. 🙂
So glad you're enjoying your FiiO gear! I don't know the Woo Fireflies, but there are some excellent tube amps floating around, depending on the cans you're pairing them with.
Great review. I might plan on getting this and pairing it with an amp to make it an all in one solution for my needs. Maybe we get some competition with this device and we all win
Yep, that's a great plan I think! Can't wait to see some other brands get in on this type of product too.
Finally someone covered this issue! Because it is very annoying especially when you are playing games! No other audio reviewer covered it, and I noticed this issue since day one. It happens on windows and macOS
Yes, it's a shame isn't it. Glad I could right the wrong as it were 🙂
I think it was me that requested the review of this and the Matrix 😆😆😆
Great review mate. I bought one (white) for my work desk. I never thought of using this for PC audio (as I use this as a Roon endpoint) But as I run some Logitech z623 speakers I run the 3.5mm and RCA's no issue. Also, the USB-C out you can attach a USB-C monitor for CZcams and the like. But I don't use it.
I do at times use my Chord Mojo 2 with this. But end of the day this is just for work, and does the job well.
I bought the R7 mainly so I didn't need my phone/tablet and use the touchscreen.
Looking forward to the next review 👍👍👍
Thanks for sharing your setup and good choice on the R7 over the Mini-i 3 Pro! Happy listening 🙂🙂
I recently purchased the LPS for the R7 and IMO it makes a significant difference to the sound, the sound is fuller and more effortless, definitely worth it for the extra AUD$200.
Nice! Thanks for sharing
good job with the production of this video
Thank you. I'm glad you liked it!
Great review. The FiiO R7 Seems like the solution I was looking for to link the Sony XR65a K to multiple Sonos units. In addition, the XLR option will allow connection to my Marantz UD7007 SACD/CD/BR, while wireless/Bluetooth can integrate my A&K and FiiO DAPs, plus the added benefit of streaming, headphone & DAC options.
It's a ridiculously versatile device. I don't technically need mine anymore, but I'm having a hard time deciding to sell it or not...
Thanks for this representation, I like good sound from Tidal HiFi, from TV and for computer games from the headphone output. What I miss from my current system is that it does not have a headphone output, through the FiiO R7 the sound can be sent out to the entire system at once and provide a more physical experience in computer games through speakers and headphones at the same time, at the same time with a good sound for music and TV, I always listen to music and TV through Optical to my amp from a DAC for better sound.
I'm glad it was helpful. Just be aware of the USB latency if using this for gaming or videos from a computer. If you're running optical or coaxial, it's completely fine.
Great, thorough review of the R7. I've been a sucker for all-in-one devices for a long time. My first computer audio device was an RP-U100 and RP-200 digital receivers from the early 2000 era. I was certainly intrigued when I saw the release of the R7 by FiiO. It seems to be a very versatile audio device and checks all the boxes for connectivity. Too bad about the lag on the USB input though. While not a show-stopper for myself, I can see where it can be a serious concerns for others. I own a FiiO K9 Pro (AK4499) variant, and absolutely love the sound. I don't 'need' another DAC/streamer, as I build most of mine now, but the R7 is certainly a fitting companion for the summer home, office, or bedroom - especially if you use roon as your whole-home digital eco-system. Well done review. Subed.
Thanks for the sub, and thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences!
I have a Caldigit TS3 hub with optical out. I finally have a use for it😁. Not available on the TS4
It’s a great device. I use it purely as a DAC(connected to a REGA amp)and with an ipad pro as the end point. Interestingly the sound with the iPad(over airplay) is noticeably more powerful than with the r7 to an amp on its own.
That's very interesting about the Airplay sound being different. There might be a slight gain difference which can lead to that.
The R7 seems like a great gift from an audiophile to a non-audiophile, e,g, happy dorm room, happy new office, etc. Except I give my non folks my hand me down equipment so I can make room to trade up, heh.
That's a great point! Great gift for them and opens up a new space for upgrades for you!
i love this machine as it was more the streamer side of things i was after. i have it hooked up to speakers and plan on hooking everything through it to turn it into a media hub. i completely underestimated this unit and thought it was just a good headphone streamer, but, having lived with it for around 2 weeks now i have started to have big plans for it. im really just starting to get in to proper audio and this gave me such a good jumping off point. it almost feels made for me.
I completely agree! As a streaming-focussed hub, it's brilliant. Glad you're enjoying it
Thank you, Lachlan, for such a thorough review of the r7. One feature you mentioned that has great appeal to me is its versatility as a hub given its DDC capabilities. Were you able to evaluate the quality of its digital to digital conversion, by chance, primarily the quality/capability of the conversion from spdif in to usb out? Graz.
Glad I could help, Michael!
I didn't dive to deep into the DDC performance beyond what was discussed in this video, but I'm fairly comfortable suggesting that it will easily outperform a generic USB output from a computer. If you also add a quality DC power supply (e.g. a linear supply or iFi switching supply) then it should get even better still
Great review ,you touched most of the points ,i' wondering how it compares to DAP's ?
If you're just using them as a transport to an external DAC, they'll be about the same. If you're running through the analog outputs, that will depend a lot on the DAP.
Great review. Best one I’ve seen on this unit. So is A2/ J2 more superior than K9 pro as well?
That's an interesting question! I don't have the K9 Pro anymore, but I suspect it would be a tight battle and might depend on which version J2 you have. I think the E2 amp is likely better than the K9 amp, but the K9 DAC stage is excellent so that would be tougher
Outstanding as always Lachlan. Thank you for pointing out the flaw. I would not be impacted by it but I think many folks could be so kudos to you. Hopefully Fiio takes note. I have seen many positive reviews of the R7 lately and as much as I would love to have one I just cannot justify the price. I've already $pent too much on headphone rigs & 2 channel systems but the R7 goes on my "maybe someday" gear list. Thank you and keep up the great work.
Glad you liked it! The R7 is amazing, but it's not a cheap device for sure. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Thanks for your very detailed review Lachlan. A full video could be done just on the USB capabilities of the R7. Which USB port did you use to test the USB DAC input from a computer? I wonder if that choice makes a difference on whether or not there is an audio delay. Two reviews mentioned that Android audio system is bypassed so that that the USB output is not automatically resampled to 48kHz. I'd like to know how the USB output compares to the optical and coax when feeding the same DAC.
My pleasure! Sorry that I didn't specifically test the USB output, but yes, the software bypasses the Android OS for audio so I'd expect USB output performance to be on par with optical and coaxial which are both very good.
I used the USB-C connection for my testing, but I've also read elsewhere that it's about the choice of receiver chip (most brands use XMOS or Amanero) - FiiO did their own thing I believe and it's resulted in subtle, but noticeable latency.
I’ve had my R7 for a couple of days and I think it sounds fantastic as a hifi component feeding a preamp. Super clean and tidy presentation with admirably restrained and refined bass. It replaced a Yamaha WXC-50 and there is no comparison. The R7 is a system lifter no question.
So glad you're enjoying it! It's an awesome little unit
Except for the wifi antenna. Not so great.
🙂
They can probably fix the latency issue with a firmware update. I hope... I see this not as a desktop device but for use in a room, specialy now that they sell a remote. and one can use apps like teamviewer to control it from a distance. The ability to use uapp with an external dac opens more possibilities like using peq - and turn it (also) in a mini dsp kind of device - and headphone fr profiles, etc.
I agree - that's how I'll be using it too.
I believe the latency (which is quite minor - not as strong as my quick demo in the vid) is a hardware issue based on the research I did.
@@PassionforSound bummer...
Absolutely hands down the best review I've seen of this product, thank you. I do have one (n00b) question related to my specific case. I currently use a Fiio M11 Plus ESS for my listening at home, with Grado SR325x, HiFiMAN Sundara and Sennheiser HD660S headphones. At the time I bought the M11 I figured small and portable was good for moving it around the house wherever I want it. Then the R7 comes along and now I'm left wondering if it would be of any benefit to me over the M11, purely for listening to music on these headphones. I realise that the the amplification is far more powerful, but the DAC and streaming capabilities are very similar, so I'm just wondering in terms of sound quality would I get any more from these headphones with the R7, or is it just not worth it? Cheers.
Glad you liked the review!
I haven't tried the M11 personally, but I'm yet to find a portable that can outperform a similar priced desktop unit because the desktop unit isn't compromised by miniaturization. I'd bet that the R7 will provide a nice upgrade.
@@PassionforSound Thank you very much!
@@PassionforSound Quick update - I bought the R7 and have been listening for a few days and it is indeed a considerable upgrade. I had been somewhat disappointed with the Sundaras up until now but the R7 makes them sing, which is exactly what I was hoping for. Thanks again for your help.
That's great news! So glad you're liking the R7
The bit that I'm more confused about is the lack of a RCA input, so one would not be able to use it as a full pre-amp. Not entirely sure why they went for two RCA outs and no RCA ins - Fiio has many products with the a combination of one RCA in and one RCA out (K5, K7, K9) - which make them rather versatile - and versatility is what this device is all about.
I agree. I was surprised when I realised that both pairs of RCAs were outputs
Forgive me if you answered this in the video but can you use your own DAC and bypass the internal DAC? For example I want to feed from my computer to my Schiit Bifrost, then to the R7. is that possible to improve the sound? Thanks! excellent review!
I don't think I specified this in the video because it wouldn't have come up. Reason being, the R7 doesn't have an analog input. I.e. no, you can't do what you've asked 🙂
It also isn't the best option for what you're discussing because you'd be buying a multifunction device and reducing it to a headphone amp which is it's weakest element IMO.
Thanks for a very detailed comprehensive review. Question before buying it- can if download store/save from Tidal for offline playback the same as normal Android devices do?
I haven't tested that, but I don't see why not because you can run the Tidal app on the R7 and you can upgrade the storage with an SD card.
Hey Lachlan,
Will you be reviewing the EverSolo DMP-A6?? I just got mine to compare to the R7. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this too. I'll open it tomorrow and start listening
Hi Steve, yes, I've asked about getting one and they've said they'll send one out so now it's just the waiting game.
@@PassionforSound Great to hear. I look forward to the review
Hi thanks for the great review
Based on the same and comments below i understand that it by pass the android native bit conversion of 48 khz and pass through the actual source bit/ khz after processing to Analog output.
I want to know does it do the same with Android mode where Third party app like apple music can stream its lossless and hi res music as bit perfect?
Also have you check the All to DSD option in this ? Does it up sample whatever PCM it receives and then send to the dac chip? Or its just a myth and resembles the sound output as DSD?
Some dacs like cambridge Audio cxn V2 upscale all its output to DSD if this is similar??
Thanks 🙏
I haven't tested individual apps, but my understanding is that all apps run on the R7 will provide bit perfect output. Likewise, to keep the video to a reasonable length, I haven't tried and of the deeper functions like the All to DSD. Sorry.
That is good. If I understand there is no remote control unless using the Fioo App, and remote control will not work with third party apps?
I haven't played with the app much, but there is no other remote that I'm aware of.
Wow seems like a major oversight on something so simple… I would definitely be interested if it wasn’t for that latency issue though. They definitely dropped the ball big time on an otherwise cool device.
Yes. Don't forget the option to go via optical or coax, but I agree that they should have made USB low latency too
@@PassionforSound "Yes. Don't forget the option to go via optical or coax, but I agree that they should have made USB low latency too"
Is there a big latency when streaming via bluetooth? some time for youtube-like content when audio quality is not critical bluetooth streaming can be convenient but if there is too much latency it wouldn't work..
I don't think I tested BT for latency - sorry!
Does it only do Apple over Airplay? or can it run Apple Music natively through wifi / Ethernet in full 24/192 .. that would be a game changer. I think the eversolo can but there seem to be different opinions on that too!
If there's an Apple Music app on Android that will play music via Wifi/ethernet then the R7 will do that too.
I'm working on getting the EverSolo in for review so 🤞🤞
Great review and I have one question. I have separates, older Yamaha. And am looking to get the thousands of dowloaded and burned cd's off my main work computer into a external DAP or something like the R7. Can you export out of the R7 to a Yamaha Receiver 150 wattosLink. to drive a pair of Paradigm set-9se Mk3.PerformanceSeries.200W.Bi Wire. I figure I'll need a amp or pre amp to pump up the output of the R7. I am a newby and trying to lean.
Sure thing. You can run out of the R7 in multiple ways. You can take a digital output like optical or coaxial SPDIF and plug that into the receiver and let it do the decoding. Or, you can let the R7 do the decoding and run a pair of XLRs or RCAs into the receiver's analog inputs. I suspect that the R7 will have the better DAC so using the analog connections will probably be your best bet.
Great review! I vaguely remember you mentioning adding an amp to the R7. What sort of benefits could I see adding one, and do you have any recommendations at around $600AUD or less?
There's a timestamp/chapter marker where I talk about the amp stage in the R7 so check that for more detail, but the improvements you can expect from a good external amp are a better sense of dynamics and (possibly) a more refined treble too. I test the Geshelli Labs E2 amp which was a nice improvement and should just squeeze into your budget I think. Either the E2 (balanced) or Archel 2.5 XL (single-ended) both perform to the same level and cost the same (both from Geshelli)
@@PassionforSound Officially joined. Appreciate your work!
Thanks for joining! I appreciate the support 🙂🙏
@@PassionforSound Would like to avoid ordering from the U.S. Have you any thoughts on the Burson Audio Funk? I figure this serve a duel purpose as I am considering upgrading my Yamaha Hs7s in the near future.
The Funk is definitely a nice choice, particularly in dual duty. I've never reviewed it, but I did have one here briefly and really liked what I heard.
I bought this cause I meant have an all in one sistem to control everything by my iPhone and Apple Watch to improve my accessibility due to my disability. Ok I’m testing a little more and I’m getting the misure and some solutions.
The biggest problem for now is I cannot adjust the volume from the iPhone and Apple Watch. I see the bar but nothing changes when I move that. It’s only possible set mute when the cursor is all on the left side.
And in the App Home I cannot find the speaker even though it appears on the panel control of the devices possibility to connect with AirPlay (just to understand I see my Apple TV and FiiO R7 but on FiiO when selected anyway I cannot adjust the volume).
Do you have the same issue? So I can see the device in all airplay devices but not in app home (and that’s would be great cause I could have control more with Siri too).
Any suggestions?
I don't have the R7 anymore and never tried using it this way while I had it. It's probably not designed with this type of use in mind, so you might be out of luck on that. ☹️
Am trying one atm against the eversolo dmp-a6 for a hifi and desk set up. Good opportunity to try the unit with a mojo2
I just received the DMP-A6 too. I'm keen for that same comparison
@@PassionforSound you need to get the pl50 psu Lachlan for it to be nearly comparable (don’t know if you did haven’t got to that point in your vid yet, working my way through) although in a hifi system the staging of the eversolo just wins it. Not surprising as a dual mono dac. Caps and components slightly improved in the eversolo I think. Prob not a disadvantage for a dac with headphone outputs for a desk in the FiiO and the eversolo for a desk and no headphone. I think the Darko comparison was off point as I’m comparing with good gear in my Hegel h390 amp and pmc 25-23 speakers.
I've got a quality LPS and didn't notice a significant shift in the sound with it on the R7, but will try again for the DMP-A6 comparison.
@@PassionforSoundin hifi you defo notice it with the linear psu - the pl50 is well made too
Hi, could you please share more details about the digital converter? Much appreciated. A link perhaps
Do you mean the DDC? Here you go: czcams.com/video/Sa1p-bHrpKg/video.html
@luchan i just received the unit. yet i am surprised that if i run youtube music, the output cant be via optical O/P. Optical O/P operates only if you have Optical I/P.
That's weird. I was running mine with USB input and optical output as part of my testing. From memory, there's a setting in the menu to turn on the optical output - perhaps that will help?
Are you going to review that pretty red SPL Phonitor X as well? :)
Sure am! Coming up soon now (relatively speaking)
‘If you’re just listening to music, none of this matters’. 6:15 Many will also be viewing the artist along with the sound. Also this will be obvious where there is latency along with artist over airplay, such as a you tube video. Very frustrating. Great video.
Yes, anytime you have visuals to go along with the music and you're connected via USB, it will be a problem. Glad you liked the video.
Hey… thanks a lot for the amazing video. I have a couple of questions:
1- if i want to use the Fiio R7 as a streaming device only (instead of my pc), to connect it to my Burson Conductor 3XGT. What would be the best way to connect them? So i am still using the dac & amp of the conductor.
2- when I have my focal utopia connected directly (via XLR) to the Fiio R7, and use Tidal/apple music,spotify or my internal songs, the max quality i can get is 44k-48k, unless i get an MAQ song via Tidal, then it goes up to around 80k… my question is, why can’t i get higher quality than this (my Tidal setting is up to 192k)?
Thanks once again 🙏🏼
Glad you liked the video.
I'd probably use the optical or SPDIF coaxial connection to go from the R7 to the Burson.
As for the sample rates question, are you using the dedicated apps for the streaming services? Perhaps you need to look at the settings and adjust the maximum sample rates when streaming within each app.
@@PassionforSoundnoted for the connections 👍🏼
As for the sample rate, i went through each streaming app and i made sure i adjusted the rate to highest. Then i made sure i played a song that shows its bit rate is at 192k, yet i would only get it as 42k-48k. Like i mentioned earlier, the only exception was the MAQ songs, which went up to +80k. I have the external dial set as (PO+Pre Out), not sure if there is anything else that i need to adjust. Thank you once again 🙏🏼
Hmmmm... That's curios. I'll give it a test here later and share anything I diacover.
I've just checked with Qobuz and I can get 96kHz playback of the album Spaces by Yosi Horikawa so it's definitely possible if you have the apps set to allow higher sample rates. What's worth noting is that a lot of the "Hi-Res" albums on these services are actually just 48kHz and 24-bit so you might have to hunt around to find a >96kHz album.
@@PassionforSound I see... thanks a lot for getting back to me on this. Much appreciated.
I mainly use chifi iems and looking for a desktop headphone amp with virtually zero noise floor and excellent sound. Does anyone have the r7 and reply in this issue. For experience i have 2 r3 sabre pro, a m6 pro, and shangling q.
The R7 is dead quiet on the IEMs I have
Is this the “streamer” without Tidal Connect” or Spotify Connect?
I haven't played with those services specifically, but you can load any Android app onto this so I would have expected that the Tidal and Spotify apps would solve any such issues?
I did not know about the latency and have about 150 hours of gaming and after downloading the fiio usb drivers i have not noticed anything. i will keep an eye out though. If you use optical will it send the virtual surround signal?
if you are not noticing any latency issue, then maybe it`s only his unit which has this problem
The latency is minor, but I've read posts by other people discussing it so it's not just my unit apparently. Hopefully I haven't drawn your attention to something that wasn't previously an issue! 😳
As for using optical, it should carry all the same info (including virtual surround) as the USB from your computer and will actually help isolate your setup from any electrical noise generated by your GPU, etc.
Did they ever fix the delay issue with a firmware update?
It's a hardware issue so unfortunately it will not get fixed. It's due to their choice of USB receiver circuit/chip apparently.
Could I use this as a streamer to my external Bifrost Dac ?
Absolutely!
That latency simulation was great 😅
Glad you liked it! I exaggerated slightly compared to the R7, but wanted to make sure people properly understood 🙂
Thinking about buying this or the Eversolo DMP-A6 but because they use already old versions of Android I'm concerned how long the software will be supported, or even if that's necessary for them to continue to stream.
Do you know if it should be usable for streaming long after the manufacturer stopped officially supporting the software? Cheers
Someone else asked a similar question and some other commenters had experience using apps and streaming (I think) on older Android smartphones, etc. so it seems it will be fine.
@@PassionforSound Since posting that I emailed both companies and received reasonably positive assurances about long term software support.
Resale values years from now are important to both buyers and brands though and because software is relatively new to hifi (and a mystery to many) the longterm support is probably something the brands should be a bit more open about. 👍
Thanks for coming back and telling us about the responses from the manufacturers!
Is this okay to be used while gaming I am using SENNHEISER HD 660 S headphones and Shure SM7B for mic.
It will depend on how you're connecting it because there's noticeable lag if using USB. Optical and coaxial inputs are fine though. There's also no mic input so you'll need to manage the mic separately.
Hi :) I'm looking for a dac amp for my Focal Clear and Apple Music as a source...Is this FIIO R7 a good choice? or maybe Eversolo Z8? or something else?:) I`ve heard that FIIO using THX is very clinic and it's not a good pair with Focals? :)
If you're just after a DAC/amp combo, the R7 is a nice choice and is not at all clinical. If anything, it's amp stage is a touch muted in terms of maximum dynamics. It will probably suit the Clears very well because they're very dynamic/energetic sounding headphones.
@@PassionforSoundthank You so much for your advice but after watching yours videos I started to think about Hifiman EF400 or FIIO K9. I don’t need any other options just amplify my headphones and iPhone or MacBook to listen Apple Music…from all of them what could be your advice? :)
Both are excellent. I think the K9 Pro would probably be my choice to go with the Clears. I didn't like the EF400 with dynamics as much as with planar headphones.
Read online that the lag can be fixed either by making sure the Fiio is on before connecting to the computer or simply unplugging and re-plugging it in should fix any latency issues. Can anyone here confirm if these work?
I've tried all of those (not deliberately, but through lots of connecting, disconnecting, rebooting, etc. that I do during my testing). The issue is that FiiO didn't use an Xmos or Amanero receiver chip for the USB and chose to implement their own approach which apparently has latency. I.e. no amount of fiddling will fix the problem.
@@PassionforSound I was hoping this could be the all-in-one solution for music, gaming and overall media consumption. I guess the silver lining is I’ll no longer be tempted to spend money on this 🤣
Appreciate the response here and as always, awesome review!
I hear you! Me too
Hi Lachlan, would a DDC with XMOS chip like the Douk Audio U2 or SMSL PO100 solve this issue when connecting from PC via usb c -> DDC -> optical/coaxial cable -> FiiO R7? Would the sound quality be affected?
That should actually work fine and won't damage sound quality if the DDC is good.
@@PassionforSound would i still be able to control the volume via the R7's knob if I go this route and use optical/coaxial connection?
100% 🙂
Will I be able to download a paid app ‘Jazz Radio’ into the device to use that I currently have on my Iphone? It is supposed to be compatible with IOS and Android. I want to get this unit to be able to use the LAN instead of airplay and my phone.
Check that it's available on Google Play before committing, bit of it's on Google Play then you can install it on the R7.
I see the Jazz Radio app in the Google Play store. Will I need to install via a computer, or will the R7 be able to download it directly? Thanks.
No, R7 will run Google Play store so you can download directly. 🙂
I would love to use this R7 just as my main DAC/AMP to connect to my PC -> R7 -> Sennheiser HD 800s. If I understand correctly I would have to plug it via "coaxial or optical" to be able to use it to play Games and do other things and I would avoid the latency issue? Also at the moment i'm using the fiio K7 would you say the sound is kind of the same? The idea is to change my k7 to this R7 for pc gaming/music/youtube etc...
That's correct about the connectivity for gaming. As for the R7 vs K7, the sound quality should be comparable I think. K7 doesn't have the latency issues though.
@@PassionforSound If you don't mind me asking my motherboard does not have optical or coaxial but there is a usb-c 1.0 next to the audio is there something I could use to convert this to optical?
There are some USB to SPDIF converters on the market, but I haven't tested many to know if they're any good. The Topping D10 is the only one I've tried and I didn't like that at all, but there is one from Matrix Audio that should be solid. Just Google "USB to SPDIF converter" and see what you find. If it's got an external power supply, that's preferable over one that's powered by the incoming USB power.
@@PassionforSound Thank you so much for all your help. I might have just one last question if you do not mind. What would you consider a good amp/dac combo or not to enjoy the immersion of Sennheiser HD800s or you would stick with the fiio K7 I have right now? Thank you :) 🥰 I have dream for the a long time to get my hand of the Sennheiser hd800s but I do not know much about amp and dac and what can make these truly shine. I want to built something for the ages. So many options but I do not have the budget to afford to test them all.
It all comes back to budget, but I'd recommend something like a Geshelli A3 Pro or Schiit Lyr+ as the amp and a DAC like the Schiit Bifrost 2. Alternatively, you could go for an all-in-one like the HiFiMan Serenade (review dropping tomorrow) if you have the budget.
did you connect it via the USB-C when having this delay ? i watch over review non mentioning it so i don't know if it was because you test it with the usb-A or if it was a faulty unit or if other reviewers didn't try to watch movie/youtube vidéo with it via a PC (maybe delay not occured on mac? )
Yes, USB-C connection. I think the others might have not tested it for movie watching, etc. because it's mostly presented as an audio streaming device.
I did do some research on forums and the lag has been discussed by multiple people. IIRC, FiiO themselves acknowledged the lag and I think their rep was the person who explained the choice to not use a regular XMOS or Amanero chip.
@@PassionforSound ho OK, thx for the reply. Discovered your channel recently. Very good in deph videos !
I'm glad you're enjoying the channel!
hello bro, maybe updates will fix usb dac? i really want this for my pc:)
I'm afraid it's a hardware issue based on what I've read about it. No software or firmware will fix it if that's the case ☹️
oh, ok, thx @@PassionforSound
can I connect it with yggdrasil, and is it better than laptops in sound quality ?
Yes to connecting to an Yggy. It's probably no better than a laptop though if you're using USB from the laptop to the Yggy.
I just watch your video King of the cans with the comparative of the Sivga PII ,Monolit , Sundara y los Verum 1 I watched another Verum review and after your comparative o just got so interested in that Headphone I’m looking for a over ear headphone that really make me say wow and I’m looking for a right source for that headphone and the rest of my iems and my only over ear the AKG 701 I’m relatively new in this hobby (audiophile) so I have a million questions hahah but I don’t know if could be too risky try to order the Verum because of the war in Ukraine and in other hand this Fiio R7 other that have my attention now is the XDuo TA-22 I’m sorry for the long write but I really value your recommendation thank you for all your hard work
I think the Verum 1 is still being produced and shipped, but you'd need to email Verum Audio to check. They're a great sounding headphone so worth trying to get them.
I haven't tried the TA-22 so can't comment on that one.
Thank you so much for the reply so you think that the fiio R7 give good pair to the iems my AKG 701 and the Verum 1 if I can get it oh and I have the new Hidizs MS3 the has been a really good surprise they sounds really really good to my ears at really good price :) or what other source you recommend thank you so much for your amazing work I’m your fan 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
Yes, the R7 is a great option. There's nothing similar that I'd recommend because nothing does all that the R7 can do
@@PassionforSound thank you so much for your advise I really appreciate and your opinion is really important to me you do an amazing job thank you for that too,
My pleasure. Glad I can help
Be very careful about the supposed DLNA support of the Fiio Music App - Experience with the M15 and M17 demonstrates that the support for well known servers e.g. Minimserver is non-existent. When you do successfully connect to a server, the management UI is very basic and frustrating.
I love the R7 but had a quick question. Can I hook this up to a Pioneer Elite AVR??
Yes. You can run either a digital output into the AVR or you could probably run an analog output into it if the AVR has a line input/aux input and if you want to use the R7 DAC.
Thanks! The Aux input worked. Another question-would a tune amp work well with the AVR?
Assuming you meant tube amp and autocorrect got you? If you're running a tube amp, you might be better just going straight from the R7 into the tube amp. If you need to go via the AVR, just check that it has an analog output of some sort.
Do you think this would be overkill? Or would this combination sound even better?@@PassionforSound
I'm not clear on which combination you mean. Do you mean adding a tube amp? If so, I'd only add the tube amp if you specifically want a tube sound. It's not an upgrade so much as a different presentation.
Ok got my unit and it's great and flawless for pure audio. Airplay is great and bearable latency. But for video audio, airplay is disabled with an external monitor connected to my iPad and only Bluetooth receiving mode is active where there is intolerable AAC codec audio latency. My fiio q7 can stream recieve Bluetooth AAC codec with almost no latency. It can be a deal breaker if you're streaming movie audio to this fiio R7. I hope it can be fixed in a firmware update. Fiio, come on, one step forward and two steps backward.
The firmware might be able to fix wireless audio latency 🤞 Let's hope so
nice desktop, just add an amp, headphones & speakers. pity no remote though.
good review ✌😎👍 salamat po!
While there is not a remote included with the R7, a remote that can be purchased separately is now available. I bought mine off of Alixie Express for $10.00 (I think there was some kind of discount for being a first time buyer. The regular price is around $15 I think)
It's a great hub unit for a larger system for sure! I haven't tried, but FiiO's control app might work with the R7 too and provide remote control from there.
I was okay with the unit until you mentioned the USB flaw, it's crazy how bad it is, thank you for your review!
Oh no! Sorry that I drew your attention to it!
@@PassionforSound oh I’m glad you did, I use topping dx7 pro+ now
Apparently if you turn the device off and on again the latency on USB goes away
That's not the case, I'm afraid. Mine gets switched on and off many times in the course of reviewing as I change things around. The latency always remained - it's about the USB receiving chip I believe so no amount of power cycling will change that.
Is is possible to turn the screen off in standby mode like you do with a cell without turning the device off? I'm afraid of the screen life.
I think, so but don't remember. There are definitely very minimal screen savers available
@@PassionforSound The screen saver option is there but I don’t see a way to turn the screen completely off without turning the device off.
Hmmmm... Perhaps there's not a way. I don't have one here to check. You could maybe upload a black rectangle into it as a custom screensaver image if it has that ability.
@@PassionforSound That would be a good idea if the R9 had an Oled display but being a LED it’s a big flaw from FIIO, just hope they release something for this because this display may die after the first year. (I have both R9 and R7)
Couldn’t agree more with Fiio pitching it wrong. Where it is much more versatile and powerful. I think the Fiio desktop speakers are actually limiting it really. There is also a remote that works with this. The Fiio RM3.
The FiiO SP3 speakers weren't factored into this review, but they're actually better than I expected (recording a review of them today/tomorrow)
@@PassionforSound ah Okay, interesting. Looking forward to that review.
5:26 damn. 2/2 you’ve saved me a ton of money now - that kills this one too. The search continues :(
You're welcome and sorry for making the search take longer! 🙂
@@PassionforSound no worries that’s half the fun
I hope they fix the USB lag. It's the most glaring flaw.
Yeah, a bit of a shame, but I believe it's hardware related so unlikely to be fixable.
Almost perfect but deeply flawed sounds like a great premise for the tragic story of an epic hero.
I'll be writing for Marvel or DC in no time!
@@PassionforSound The Cobalt Tornado was at the top of his game, having been honoured as Crimefighter of the Year for an unprecedented 3rd time in a row. But when he heard an alarm coming from the museum his super-sense told him something was amiss. Alas, it was Captain Dastard in the main exhibit room with a sledgehammer, about to commit an unspeakable act of vandalism. With no time to think, Cobalt hit him with a Cat 5 screamer and the whole museum imploded. Oh my! 🫣
🤣
For me, any streamer not having a digital USB output or the ability to handle DSD at least 128 is a deal breaker. Sadly, most streamers out in the market today are not streamers only versitile enough to connect to an external DAC handling any format you throw at them.
it does have DSD mode -EDIT: DSD(native DSD256) to be exact
@@DW-lx9wt It is different that it can decode DSD natively, which is fine, but if you want to use only the streamer capability and send the signal out to an external DAC, the I don't think it can be done through spdif, has to be USB. Some can handle DSD64 DoP, but not higher and not natively.
The R7 does have digital output via USB. That's what the USB-A connection is for. I haven't tested it with DSD output, but don't see why it wouldn't.
@@PassionforSoundThanks Lachlan, I understood that the USB port was in only to plug in external SSDs or NAS. But if it is digital output, that is great.
Yep, I didn't test it, but that's what the info says it's for.
I know the fiio R9 is going to fix every And add more connections to the back.
I hadn't even thought about the idea of an R9. That's an exciting thought!
Nearly twice the price!
Latency is a big problem with gaming and movies... unless you're watching Hong Kong Kung Fu movies which is bad already
Very true! 🥋
Like the police academy kung Fu scene. 😂😂😂
@@johnmc3862 Right. Michael Winslow is a genius
Why can’t Fiio just make a streamer without a dac that supports lossless Apple Music streaming . That’s all I need and it would be cheaper.
It's an interesting question. My guess is that they are building on their existing expertise in DACs and amps. Going pure streamer would probably limit their sales a bit, even though you're not alone in not needing the DAC and amp in the R7.
@@PassionforSound This would be great opportunity for a company like WiiM to make a lossless streamer with no Dac or amp . It would sell like hotcakes
The DAC stage in something like a Wiim is a very low cost inclusion so I doubt you'd see much of a drop in price compared to something like a Wiim mini (which can be used as a pure streamer already AFAIK - I haven't tested it yet)
The Cambridge Evo is a better option
No comparison price wise.
Buy a integrated Hifi soundcard on your computer with built in DAC instead of lead your sound out too a new computer that in principle are just a soundcard. Buy a instad a clean amplifier an use your computers sound with EQ as a pre amp. The rest is just more nonsence. Spend the rest on great speakers
This isn't about replacing your computer's functionality. It's about having a simple, clean audio solution for streaming that's compact and easy to power up and play. I think the marketing of it on a desk with a computer is probably a mistake and they should have positioned it more as a living room type product where you don't want a full sized computer with display.
It was going to be this, or the Eversolo. Most likely will just get that.
This is still very good, but the EverSolo looks awesome! I'm trying to get one in for review
@@PassionforSound I have a friend who bought one, and he loves it.
Wow. It comes off a little negative there. I was going to buy this. I’m going to have to rethink. Bloody hell….
Hmmm.... were we watching the same review? I thought it was pretty positive. but maybe that's cuz I've had mine now for about 2 months and I bloody well love it!
@@Frootopiaha ha
Yeah, I thought I was pretty positive about it too. My only real gripes were the USB lag (solvable via optical/coax input) and the headphone amp being ok rather than great. Beyond that, the R7 is a beast!
@@PassionforSound oh yeah. Mine is being delivered today hopefully
Enjoy!
Too big for my pocket. I’ll keep my Mojo 2
Very different features and functions too, but Mojo 2 still sounds better. 🙂
Man I wanted this but now gonna have to pass
Because of the USB latency?
Zzzzz...
Man, this review isn't well written or structured. You clearly know what your talking about, but you talk yourself in circles, which for this viewer isn't at all enjoyable
I'm sorry you feel that way
Looks like a piece of junk to me.
You better check your trash then if you think that’s a piece of junk.