If you’re in search of an affordable and handy portable DAC, the new FiiO BTR13 might just be what you need!
Since the physical headphone jack has disappeared from the majority of smartphones and tablets, users of wired headphones have encountered a problem. To achieve the best sound quality from such a device (which is, in fact, still best through a cord), a separate DAC is necessary. And preferably a portable and manageable one, of course. That’s exactly where the new FiiO BTR13 comes into play. This is an integrated DAC plus headphone amplifier. It’s practical with its built-in battery, which is also switchable. This means that when you switch to ‘PC Mode,’ the battery is not used. Comes in handy for—aforementioned—a PC or laptop connected to mains power, but also when your phone is charging. Additionally, the UAC 1.0-mode ensures the dongle works seamlessly with gaming consoles too. Which actually is quite something special!
Bluetooth Receiver
Under the hood of the FiiO BTR13, you’ll find two Cirrus Logic CS43131 chips. Set up as fully balanced dual-DACs with a built-in headphone amplifier. The maximum output power is 220 mW, enough to drive most standard headphones. Also noteworthy is the Bluetooth mode, in which you can use the DAC as a Bluetooth receiver. This mode supports codecs such as aptX and LDAC. A mobile app allows you to customize settings, including access to a 10-band parametric equalizer.
The FiiO BTR13 is priced attractively at €64, making it an easy choice for those wanting quality sound on the go.