Portable USB audio with 550mW balanced output

The FiiO KA13 is a portable USB DAC and headphone amplifier with dual CS43131 DACs, dual SGM8262 op-amps, and both 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced headphone outputs. A dedicated desktop mode switch increases balanced output power to 550mW per channel into 32Ω, giving listeners additional headroom for more demanding headphones. Support for PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256 accommodates high-resolution playback from phones, tablets, and computers.

Desktop mode for additional output power

The KA13 places its desktop mode switch beside the physical volume controls. With desktop mode enabled, the balanced output delivers up to 550mW per channel into 32Ω. That rating applies specifically to the balanced connection and stated load, so headphone impedance, sensitivity, and cable connection remain relevant when choosing a pairing.

Dual DACs and dedicated amplification

Two CS43131 DAC chips handle digital-to-analog conversion, while two low-noise SGM8262 op-amps provide amplification. FiiO specifies THD+N below 0.0005% through either headphone output into 32Ω, measuring the combined contribution of harmonic distortion and noise under that load condition.

The 3.5mm single-ended output accommodates conventional headphone and IEM cables. The 4.4mm balanced output supports compatible balanced cables and provides access to the KA13’s maximum specified output power.

USB audio conversion for an external DAC

The 3.5mm jack also supports coaxial SPDIF output, allowing the KA13 to serve as a USB-to-SPDIF interface. Enable this function through the FiiO Control app on an Android device to pass digital audio from a USB source to an external DAC with a compatible coaxial input.

Connections for phones and computers

A detachable USB-C connection works with the included USB-C and Lightning cables. An included USB-A adapter accommodates computers with older USB ports, and the KA13 supports audio playback with Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac devices.

Side-mounted buttons provide physical playback controls. Short presses adjust volume, while long presses switch tracks.

Audio-format indication and app settings

An RGB light window identifies the incoming audio format. Light blue indicates PCM at 48kHz or below, yellow indicates PCM above 48kHz, and green indicates DSD.

The FiiO Control app provides access to audio filters, indicator-light settings, and SPDIF output activation. App control is supported on Android devices only, including the option to turn off the indicator light.

Availability

The FiiO KA13 Dongle DAC/AMP is available now on Apos.