Overview FiiO Q5s — when there is no limit to perfection

Date:

2019-10-31 23:00:22

Views:

3536

Rating:

1Like 0Dislike

Share:

Overview FiiO Q5s — when there is no limit to perfection Source:

FiiO Q5s — a worthy upgrade amplifier-flagship

A few years ago, FiiO has announced its top-end portable DAC, but only at the beginning of last year FiiO Q5 finally saw the light. How long before that it was the redesign, coordination, and different concepts, but in the end the device did not disappoint — the output was sufficiently serious mobile DAC with two AK4490EN and fully balanced scheme. And the manufacturer decided not to stop submitting in March of this year at a special event in China superior DAC-amp FiiO .

Some would call this a cosmetic upgrade (and we all know that Apple assigns the letter "s" intermediate models of iPhones), but in the case of FiiO we have a really new device with modern electronic filling. DAC is based on two flagship chips AK4493, is responsible for the USB chip XUF 208. Here are able to receive the signal with parameters to 768 kHz (PCM) and DSD 512 (FiiO Q5 supports DSD256).

For the wireless part is CSR8675 Qualcomm, which is able to decode the audio settings to 24 bit. Not without the support of all existing High Resolution codecs : aptX, HD aptX, aptX LL, LDAC, HWA and AAC. By the way, is here have Bluetooth 4.2 Bluetooth 5.0: the past generation of players is also in theory was supported by the fifth generation of this technology, FiiO and even provided the ability to update the firmware of the wireless module, but much better when it works out of the box.

Looks like silver ingot (actually aluminum)

Above the amplifier to work too — to replace AM3A came AM3E, which is built on a balanced scheme, and has excellent acoustic characteristics. The player is equipped with both a regular output connector 3.5 mm mini-jack and balanced outputs 4.4 and 2.5 mm. to "Finish" in FiiO decided impressive battery life (more on this later) and a rich equipment along with expensive stylish design.

Above the amplifier to work too — to replace AM3A came AM3E

specifications

the
    the
  • DAC: 2 × AK4493
  • the
  • USB interface: XMOS XUF208
  • the
  • Bluetooth: CSR8675
  • the
  • OU: OPA1642×2, AD8620+OPA926
  • the
  • Max resolution: up to 768 kHz/32 bit, DSD up to DSD512
  • the
  • Inputs: line in/coaxial/optical/USB
  • the
  • Outputs: 2.5 mm/3.5 mm/4.4 mm/linear
  • the
  • Battery: 3800 mAh
  • the
  • hours on a single charge:25 hours in the extender mode, 8 h in DAC mode
  • the
  • Bluetooth: 5.0 support aptX, HD aptX, aptX LL, LDAC, and HWA AAC
  • the
  • Weight: 198 g
  • the
  • Dimensions: 124 mm × 64 mm × 15 mm
the

line out

the
    the
  • frequency Range: 6 Hz ~ 80 kHz
  • the
  • Total harmonic distortion+noise: less than 0.001% @ 1 kHz
  • the
  • the Ratio signal/noise: ≥110dB
the

3.5 mm output

the
    the
  • Total harmonic distortion+noise:. Less than 0.001% @ 1 kHz
  • the
  • the Ratio signal/noise: ≥112 dB
  • the
  • Capacity: ≥220 mW (32Ω)
the

Balanced output

the
    the
  • Total harmonic distortion+noise: Less than 0.001% @ 1 kHz
  • the
  • the Ratio signal/noise: ≥115 dB
  • the
  • Capacity: ≥560 mW (32Ω)

Package contents

The Packaging is made in the style of FiiO — box made of thick cardboard with an image of the device, the sticker, so you can check the original amplifier — by the way, all this is familiar to us from other gadgets of this manufacturer. Most importantly — the accessories that are included with the device, and here FiiO have always been pleased with his approach.

the Box is made from two layers

Label, so you can check the originality of the amplifier

Inside another box -black

Is Inside himself and accessories:

the
    the
  • 2 long silicone coupler to the source
  • the
  • 2 short silicone couplers
  • the
  • Lightning Cable — micro USB
  • the
  • 3.5 mm Cable
  • the
  • antenna adapter
  • the
  • Screwdriver to replace the amplifiers and a set of spare screws
  • the
  • Adapter optical input
  • the
  • carrying Case
  • the
  • Silicone rubber for anti-slip

Accessories more than enough

Needless to say that this package is hard to find — and this despite the fact that you always have the opportunity to acquire additional accessories (for a fee, of course) like leather case and an extra cable.

appearance and characteristics

Externally, the device is left practical the same. The device machined from aluminum and the back panel is covered with artificial leather. At the same time the controls (buttons and the volume wheel) easier to use. The back part is detailed by laser, and the rest of the surface — sandblasted. Therefore, the case not only looks cool but also protected from external electromagnetic fields and interference — so the FiiO worn out over quality sound.

the Rear part of the detailed laser

On the right side is the volume control, just below — a button to switch between inputs (USB/line/optical/coaxial). In the middle — four indicators, which show, respectively, the selected entrance.

Right side

The volume control is made qualitatively, has a tight but enjoyable course. Hasn't gone red ring around the power button, fluted handle — designers have tried to keep the original style FiiO.

the volume control is cool

On the left side placed three buttons control playback. The middle button also serves to turn on/off Bluetooth and activating the "pairing". However, the buttons for next/previous track work only with Bluetooth connection.

Buttons next/previous track work only with Bluetooth connection.

Upstairs a whole bunch of buttons and ports: two switch — bass boost and gain, and two jacks — line output, and combined input line/optics/coax. It is possible to switch between low and high gain levels, depending on how much power you want your headphones. And you can boost or cut the bass to your taste. This is no different from the Q5. But the bottom placed headphone output 3.5 mm charging port micro-USB (why not Type-C — it is unclear), and two balanced output — 2.5 mm and 4.4 mm. by the Way, the device is certified by MFi, and we know that this program is extremely strict, and only 2% of all devices, applying for the certificate, get it. So the amp is compatible with all versions of iOS (no wonder that even the cable special put).

Switches placed on the upper end.

All other ports — below

If the buttons on the amplifier will not be enough, you can always download the mobile application FiiO Music, where you can change the balance of channels, to swap the function of the USB ports, choose a digital filter, and more.

App FiiO Music

There is a built-in equalizer

To Control the device very easy, though unusual without additional screen (though, wait, why is the DAC-amp?). The buttons feel good and are pleasant to touch. With regard to Autonomous mode DAC through any of the inputs Q5s works about 8 hours, and in booster mode — more than 25 hours.

Bluetooth 5.0 and Qualcomm CSR8675 provided support aptx-HD. In addition, the Bluetooth capabilities can be expanded via firmware. The signal is good, 10-15 meters without interference can withstand without problems.

the Bluetooth Connection is fast

Sound

We have tested this device with headphones FiiO F9 Pro, JBL Tune 120TWC Campfire Audio and Polaris, as well as with a couple of models from Audio-Technica. The source spoke iPhone 6 and MacBook Pro 2012. Many in the editorial noted that the FiiO Q5s has a neutral sonic flow, but only if used amplification module and do not include, for example, additional bass boost. Then, of course, the emphasis will be on low frequencies, which is very good for genres like hip-hop and pop music.

paired with the FiiO F9 Pro works great.

Bluetooth device works well, and through the use of aptX HD get a really decent sound. Yeah, he's still not the same as on the wire, and many experienced audiophiles will immediately feel the difference, but for most the loss of quality will be completely invisible: the digital signal is fed directly to the DAC, bypassing the decoder built into the Qualcomm chip.

through the use of aptX HD get a really decent sound

MIDs good quantitatively, especially if they write a good fantasy scene. Vocal compositions and soul-jazz — probably the perfect companions FiiO and headphones like the FiiO F9 Pro. With them that Michael Kiwanuka sounded to me quite differently.

The Upper frequencies are crystal clear: they have a nice resolution, there is no emptiness. The feeling that the sound is like a "layered" for a natural presentation is what you need.

As we have seen, to use this DAC-amp can be almost any headphone — from the representatives of the budget segment from JBL themselves to the FiiO family Campfire Audio (I really wanted to hear from Andromeda did not work). The only — the device is very critical to the sound material. So if you tend to monitor flow, rate this gadget appreciated: if not, you will need to choose the music very carefully. But this is, again, an audiophile "habits", because most of these subtleties will not notice and will just catch a buzz from using a quality product, which not only collected cool, but also sounds 10 out of 10.

the Device is very sensitive to source material

As I said, to me this device remember work with jazz. In contrast to the same of Benjamin Clementine, who miraculously arrived in London and found myself in the music then, Michael Kiwanuka was fond of music since high school and studied jazz at the Royal Academy of Music. Therefore, so far in his songs, you can find a jazz emphasis, take the song "Love & Hate". Well here everything from the first chords to a mixture of gospel, jazz and Blues.

Of Course, I could not not test it and bass, so he turned to composition The Weeknd — Lost in Fire.The canadian, who, despite a love of auto-tune, shows his track deep and rich bass, became a very good companion Saturday night. It was then able to connect to the Audio amplifier Campfire Polaris.

Conclusion

Stylish lighting adds a premium

Three main components: price, appearance, convenience and sound — traditionally you have to choose two. Obviously, in this case it is not. As for the sound — it matches the price, that is, of course, he's better than the vast majority of the built-in sound chips, it has such disadvantages that the ordinary listener will be hidden for many years. For the sake of justice it is worth noting that devices similar to the disadvantages of not having — are significantly more expensive. What first comes to mind when the words "budget DAC and headphone amplifier"? Most of all — the FiiO products (OK, even iBasso). And the model proves that not in vain.

Recommended

That can headphones with hybrid noise reduction, and a Qualcomm chip

That can headphones with hybrid noise reduction, and a Qualcomm chip

When you meet the sound and advanced technology, it turns out something interesting. the Market for Bluetooth headphones with active noise cancellation at a price of about 20,000 rubles is developing rapidly. Bose may have been a pioneer in this segm...

What are the mystical sounds under water in the ocean and where they come from

What are the mystical sounds under water in the ocean and where they come from

Under water can be found anywhere. Even the sounds. Water generally is a very interesting element. Due to its properties, it very well conveys the sound. To understand this process it is enough to remember that sound — it's just a vibration env...

Overview Highscreen TrueSound Pro — in shelf portable DAC arrived

Overview Highscreen TrueSound Pro — in shelf portable DAC arrived

Among lovers of quality sound it is quite widely believed that listening to music you only need use a separate player and headphones, are specifically matched to him. However, the cost of such a set usually varies from about 30 thousand rubles to inf...

Comments (0)

This article has no comment, be the first!

Add comment

Related News

Three drivers for all occasions: overview headphones Dunu DM-380

Three drivers for all occasions: overview headphones Dunu DM-380

Dunu DM-380 In the pages Hi-News.ru we often talk about headphones from the company Dunu Topsound. It started with the production of OEM models for major brands, therefore, until recently, was known mainly among the advanced musi...

Played in the most compact and technologically advanced piano. There are even Bluetooth

Played in the most compact and technologically advanced piano. There are even Bluetooth

To our office often fall headphones, professional players and speakers. So for example, I met the brand Astell&Kern, FiiO, and many other well-known manufacturers in the audio market. But to musical instruments hands reached ...

In Colorado it's always Sunny: Overview W-series headphones Westone

In Colorado it's always Sunny: Overview W-series headphones Westone

A large American IT giant was founded almost from scratch: the founders of Apple were collected the first computers in the garage and Jeff Bezos from Amazon sold books, sometimes working as a courier (now, for a moment, is the ric...

Review headphone iBasso SR1 — signature sound in

Review headphone iBasso SR1 — signature sound in "Panoramio"

The company iBasso known for two things. The first thorough approach to the tuning of their solutions, often in more than one year. The second skill anyway to get your own signature sound. It is not surprising that full-size head...

A review of the Cayin player N8 — severe vacuum tube audiophile

A review of the Cayin player N8 — severe vacuum tube audiophile

The Cayin company last year celebrated the 25th anniversary in the market and in honor of this event they decided to release some «maximum» devices to show all gained experience. One such product became the flagship of ...

Review of Hidizs ' MS1 headphone — stylish

Review of Hidizs ' MS1 headphone — stylish "Dyne" on the crowdfunding

In Hidizs ' fell in love with the idea of collecting pre-orders for their new products through Kickstarter. After a very successful campaign for the player , they decided to repeat it for headphones, running crowdfunding for two ...

Overview headphones FiiO FA7 — your style, your sound

Overview headphones FiiO FA7 — your style, your sound

FiiO continue to diligently to gain a foothold in the dynamic and ever-changing market headphones. Starting with budget models, the company moved into the upper segment, presenting , followed by chetyrehjadernyj fully reinforcing...

Open to: Audio-Technica ATH-AD500X

Open to: Audio-Technica ATH-AD500X

Range of headphones, the Japanese company Audio-Technica is able to surprise even the most experienced audiophile, one only category Hi-Fi manufacturer offers more than 10 different models. Many of the full-size wired headphones A...

Review headphones TinAudio T3 — same as before, but better

Review headphones TinAudio T3 — same as before, but better

TinAudio are among those manufacturers that are not trying to sit on all chairs, and to grasp the immensity, struggling in all segments. They found a niche, low-cost model with a neutral sound, and skillfully work in it. After tw...

Overview of the QLS player 361 — celebration additional Radioengineering thoughts

Overview of the QLS player 361 — celebration additional Radioengineering thoughts

Last year was rich in premieres of different players, like a top, and not very much, but QLS 361 stands out. First, it is a real masterpiece of additional Radioengineering thoughts, and secondly, it's a definite contender for the...

Review Audio-Technica ATH-AR5BT: when wires needed

Review Audio-Technica ATH-AR5BT: when wires needed

the Japanese continue to go ahead of the rest — ranging from industrial solutions to consumer electronics. Take the same Audio-Technica: this giant hardly needs any introduction, as his name was heard even by those who are f...

Review of FiiO player M6 — 83 grams of music and charm

Review of FiiO player M6 — 83 grams of music and charm

Just before the new year, FiiO has decided to surprise fans with the release of the new player. If they had started with preliminary announcements, sometimes even collecting for these purposes, a press conference, with the chassi...

Overview of discrete amplifier modules AMP7 and AMP8 for the iPods iBasso

Overview of discrete amplifier modules AMP7 and AMP8 for the iPods iBasso

The company iBasso does not stop on achieved results and continues to produce one good amplifier and, judging by the news, went in the course of non-trivial solutions. While the option of microarray NuTube is in development, let'...

The legend is back: headphones and speakers from Fender

The legend is back: headphones and speakers from Fender

For those who have something to configure with the help of a guitar tuner, Fender needs no introduction. It produces some of the most famous guitars in the world and various music equipment. Time goes by, and companies need to ada...

Review of FiiO player M9 — modern features without sacrificing sound

Review of FiiO player M9 — modern features without sacrificing sound

FiiO continue to promote successfully found a niche of players with chipset the Exynos. The first showed the strengths of the platform, but did not give what users most wanted: streaming. To fix this is designed model M9, which o...

Review EarSonics earphones ES3 — signature sound from France

Review EarSonics earphones ES3 — signature sound from France

The company EarSonics is one of those rare producers IEM solutions, which can undoubtedly be called a brand, and the brand is not from China, that somehow, for some people it is important. Their models do not often come to my att...

Review headphones Bose SoundSport Free

Review headphones Bose SoundSport Free

Over the past few years Bluetooth has committed a serious leap forward, and not just in the sound. Appeared on the market a new type of "truly wireless" headphones that are not connected by a cable and the joint only a small charg...

Browse Bluetooth DAC FiiO BTR3 — all wireless rat

Browse Bluetooth DAC FiiO BTR3 — all wireless rat

Perhaps, only just too far from the world of mobile gadgets, people could not help but notice a steady trend to use Bluetooth to output audio to modern smartphones. More and more devices are deprived of the 3.5 mm jacks, more and...

Browse portable DAC-xDuoo XD-10 — they know what we want

Browse portable DAC-xDuoo XD-10 — they know what we want

Not so long ago xDuoo «shot», releasing really interesting . The combination of good prices, high power and high quality sound have conquered many, so the company decided to repeat the success by releasing a more modern...

Review of FiiO player M3K — beginner connoisseurs

Review of FiiO player M3K — beginner connoisseurs

I do not think that someone from the readers of my reviews need to submit the FiiO, in recent years, they have released a huge number of solutions for portable audio and firmly took its place under the Sun. A few years ago, they ...