FiiO’s latest release, the BTR17, adds a powerful new option to the portable DAC and headphone amplifier market, focusing on delivering high-quality audio and versatile functionality. Designed for audiophiles who want wired sound quality through a wireless setup, this small yet potent device incorporates Bluetooth technology, high-quality DAC chips, and a robust THX amplifier to make it suitable for both mobile and desktop audio needs. Priced at $199, the FiiO BTR17 offers a range of features not commonly found in devices at this size and price.
At the heart of the BTR17 is Qualcomm’s QCC5181 Bluetooth chip, which is equipped to handle Bluetooth LE Audio and aptX Adaptive, capable of transmitting audio with CD-level sound quality. This means users can achieve a lossless listening experience wirelessly, provided their setup is compatible.
Support for the latest Bluetooth 5.4 standard further enhances connectivity stability and efficiency, which can be particularly beneficial in high-resolution formats. For Android users with Snapdragon Sound-compatible devices, this chip also offers aptX Lossless support, allowing CD-quality playback, a rare find among portable Bluetooth DACs.
In addition to aptX Lossless, the BTR17 also supports several other codecs, including LDAC and aptX Adaptive at up to 96kHz/24-bit resolution, aptX HD, and AAC for iPhone users. These codec options allow the BTR17 to pair flexibly with a wide range of devices, making it a versatile option for mobile audiophiles.
The FiiO BTR17 offers three operating modes—PC, Bluetooth, and Phone—enabled by a physical toggle switch on the device. Each mode optimizes the power source depending on the use case. In PC mode, the BTR17 draws power directly from the connected computer’s USB port, bypassing the internal battery to extend its lifespan.
Bluetooth mode, on the other hand, relies on the internal battery but can also be charged via USB when needed, making it a self-sufficient unit for mobile use. The Phone mode shares power responsibilities between the device’s internal battery and the connected phone, reducing battery drain on the phone itself.
Additionally, the device includes a D.Mode (Desktop Mode) option, which can be activated when connected to a power source. In this mode, the BTR17’s USB-C port can be linked to an external power supply, enabling it to drive higher-impedance, power-hungry headphones without relying on battery power. With this flexibility, the BTR17 is adaptable to a range of listening environments, from on-the-go use to desktop setups.
Inside the FiiO BTR17 are two ESS ES9069Q DAC chips, known for their fourth-generation HyperStream architecture. This setup achieves a dynamic range of 130dB and a low total harmonic distortion (THD) of -120dB, reducing digital noise for a clearer sound. The two DACs provide balanced sound quality and efficient power consumption, essential for maintaining battery life during portable use.
The amplifier in the BTR17 is a THX AAA 78+ amp, a four-channel, fully balanced unit. With eight op-amps in parallel, the THX amp design enables robust power delivery while maintaining control over audio clarity and precision.
In desktop mode, the THX amp utilizes four op-amps for additional current amplification, achieving an output power of up to 650mW per channel. This power level is on par with many desktop headphone amplifiers, making the BTR17 a viable alternative for those who want desktop-level performance in a portable package.
The BTR17’s internal components are designed to handle a broad spectrum of audio formats. The XMOS XU316 chip enables support for PCM audio at resolutions up to 768kHz/32-bit, DSD512 native playback, and full MQA decoding. This XMOS chip also reduces latency, ensuring stable and reliable audio streaming, and it is compatible with a variety of platforms for seamless switching between devices.
The device includes a 10-band parametric equalizer (PEQ), accessible through FiiO’s Control app for Android and iOS or a web-based interface. This PEQ allows users to fine-tune settings like frequency, gain, bandwidth, and Q values, providing options for detailed adjustments to match personal sound preferences or adapt to different headphone models. Users can also import, export, share, and save EQ curves, giving them flexibility to create and maintain custom audio profiles.
Despite its compact form, the BTR17 is designed with attention to tactile details. A volume knob with a double-sided 3D-engraved design provides a textured grip, and the color of the display font changes to reflect the active audio codec, giving visual feedback on audio quality.
Technical Specifications:
Available in black and blue finishes, the FiiO BTR17 is available now and costs $199, and should soon be available on Amazon too, where you can shop their other products.
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