FIIO QX11 dual-DAC HiFi and gaming headphone amplifier

The FIIO QX11 is a compact USB DAC, headphone amplifier, and gaming sound card built around two ESS ES9069Q DACs and an all-TI analog stage. Dedicated HiFi and Game modes give it separate operating environments for high-resolution music playback and gaming, while dual USB-C ports, 45W USB Power Delivery support, integrated microphone functions, and FIIO’s Desktop Mode extend its role beyond a conventional portable dongle DAC. With PCM decoding up to 768kHz/32-bit, native DSD512, and as much as 800mW + 800mW of balanced output into 32Ω, the QX11 is designed to work across portable listening, desktop headphone systems, and PC or mobile gaming.

Dual ES9069Q conversion with a fully TI analog stage

The digital section uses two ESS ES9069Q DACs based on ESS’s fourth-generation 32-bit HyperStream architecture. The QX11 accepts PCM at up to 768kHz/32-bit and native DSD512 over USB, while driver-free USB DAC operation is also supported. FIIO specifies an A-weighted signal-to-noise ratio of at least 126dB and THD+N below 0.00043% at 1kHz and 0dB into 32Ω.

Following the DAC stage, two TI OPA1692 op-amps provide voltage gain before four TI OPA1622 devices drive the headphone outputs in parallel. This architecture provides the current capability required for higher-output operation while maintaining a specified A-weighted noise floor below 1.8μV from the 3.5mm output and below 2.2μV from the balanced output, which is relevant when the QX11 is paired with high-sensitivity earphones.

Separate HiFi and Game operating modes

HiFi and Game modes give the QX11 distinct signal and control configurations rather than treating gaming functions as an extension of the music interface. HiFi Mode supports the QX11’s full high-resolution decoding capabilities and displays playback parameters including sample rate, gain, and digital filter selection on the 1.14-inch color LCD.

Game Mode operates at 48kHz/16-bit and provides dedicated profiles for FPS, action, MOBA, and rhythm games. These profiles adjust game-specific audio cues including footsteps, skill effects, and gunshot positioning. The gaming interface also places microphone and profile controls directly on the device for faster access during play.

Integrated microphone processing and headset support

The QX11 includes a built-in microphone alongside support for 3.5mm headsets with in-line microphones. AI ENC environmental noise cancellation processes microphone input to reduce surrounding noise during voice communication, allowing the same device to handle headphone playback and team chat without requiring a separate USB gaming sound card.

Desktop Mode increases available headphone power

FIIO’s patented Desktop Mode, covered by patent ZL202321946664.8, is activated when the QX11 is connected to a compatible external power source. Balanced output then rises to at least 800mW + 800mW into 32Ω at less than 1% THD+N, with a specified output level of 5.1Vrms. Outside Desktop Mode, the balanced connection provides at least 360mW + 360mW into 32Ω at 3.4Vrms.

The 3.5mm single-ended output supplies at least 295mW + 295mW into 32Ω at 3Vrms in Desktop Mode and at least 175mW + 175mW at 2.3Vrms without external desktop power. The selectable operating modes allow the QX11 to retain lower-power portable operation while providing additional voltage and current for more demanding full-size headphones when an external supply is available.

Dual USB-C ports with 45W USB Power Delivery

The QX11 uses separate USB-C connections for data and external power. Its dedicated power input supports USB Power Delivery at up to 45W and can supply power to a compatible smartphone, tablet, portable player, or other connected device while audio playback continues. Actual charging power depends on the receiving device and requires USB PD support.

The power connection can also be used with the FIIO ESTICK to create a compact externally powered desktop combination. When charging is enabled, the QX11 can recharge the ESTICK as part of the same arrangement.

AUTO EQ and adjustable parametric equalization

AUTO EQ support through FIIO’s web platform and FIIO app can apply headphone-specific equalization profiles for supported models. The QX11 also includes preset curves for styles including Pop, Jazz, and Classical, together with an adjustable 10-band EQ for manual configuration.

With PEQ active, PCM playback is supported at sample rates up to 384kHz/24-bit. This provides frequency-response correction and user tuning while retaining high-resolution PCM operation within the processing limits of the equalizer.

Physical controls and configurable shortcuts

The rotary volume control supports selectable 60-step and 120-step adjustment. The 120-step mode provides smaller changes between adjacent volume positions, which can be useful with sensitive earphones where relatively small output changes produce noticeable level differences. FIIO rates both the knob’s rotary and press mechanisms for more than 100,000 operations under laboratory testing, with actual durability dependent on operating conditions.

A separate multifunction shortcut button can assign different actions to a single press, double press, and long press. Available functions include EQ adjustment, HiFi/Game mode switching, theme changes, screen rotation, and previous or next track commands. Its default assignments are theme selection for a single press, mode switching for a double press, and next-track control for a long press.

Display, digital output, and software control

The 1.14-inch color LCD changes its interface according to the selected operating mode. HiFi Mode prioritizes playback information and audio settings, while Game Mode presents gaming profiles and microphone controls. The QX11’s 3.5mm connection also supports S/PDIF output at up to 96kHz/24-bit, allowing the device to act as a USB-to-digital interface for an external DAC or compatible active speaker system.

Additional settings and firmware management are available through FIIO Control. The app supports both OTA and local firmware updates, with QX11 app control currently limited to the Android version of FIIO Control.

Aluminum construction for portable use

The QX11 measures approximately 2.52 x 1.13 x 0.51 inches (64 x 28.8 x 13mm) and weighs about 1.27 ounces (36g). Its aluminum-alloy enclosure uses a gradient finish and patterned surface treatment, with dark green and vintage gold color options. The compact dimensions keep the QX11 suitable for mobile use while retaining a display, physical volume control, dual USB-C ports, and separate 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced headphone outputs.

Availability

This product is available now on Apos.