FiiO KA17 – Flagship Dongle DAC & Headphone Amplifier
The FiiO KA17 brings desktop-level audiophile performance in a compact dongle design. With dual ESS ES9069Q DACs, THX AAA‑78+ amplification, and a built-in OLED screen, it delivers transparent, high-resolution audio up to 768 kHz PCM and DSD512. A “Desktop Mode” unlocks massive power for demanding headphones—pure technological elegance in your pocket.
Key Features
- Dual ESS ES9069Q DACs: 32‑bit HyperStream IV DACs for ultra-low noise and superb detail
- THX AAA‑78+ amp: Four-channel balanced circuit; up to 650 mW × 2 balanced output in Desktop Mode
- Desktop Mode: Activates with external USB‑C power to maximize output and clarity
- Ten-band PEQ & eight digital filters: Fine-tune sound via hardware controls or the FiiO Control app
- OLED display & tactile buttons: Clear visual feedback, filter selection, gain control, and display orientation
- Robust build: Aluminum chassis with two separate USB‑C ports and solid internal board shielding
Customer Benefits
Get desktop-grade DAC/headphone amp performance you can carry anywhere. Whether you're driving high-impedance headphones on the go or stationary on your desk with full power, the KA17 adapts seamlessly. Its intuitive display and customizable EQ mean personalized, reference-quality sound—no bulk, no compromise.
Quick Specs
- DAC Chips: Dual ESS ES9069Q, up to 768 kHz / 32‑bit PCM, Native DSD512
- Headphone Outputs: 3.5 mm SE & 4.4 mm balanced
- Power (High Gain): Up to 270 mW (SE) & 650 mW (BAL) at 32 Ω in Desktop Mode
- Display: 0.91″ OLED
- EQ & Filters: PEQ + 8 digital filter presets
- Controls: Volume rocker, mode button, desktop toggle
- Dimensions: 64 × 27.7 × 12.7 mm
- Weight: 33.5 g
What’s in the Box
- FiiO KA17 DAC/Amp
- USB‑C to USB‑C cable
- USB‑C to USB‑A adapter
- Protective leatherette case
- Main unit dust‑plug covers
Use Cases / Ideal For
Perfect for audiophiles who want desktop-level sound on the go, or need extra power for demanding headphones. Ideal for travel, mobile listening, or powering high-end headphones from a portable source.
Compatibility
Plug-and-play with Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. Supports UAC 1.0/2.0 and MQA full decoding. Compatible with virtually all headphones from IEMs to planars.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality from flagship DAC and amp
- Desktop Mode unlocks serious power and low distortion
- Flexible EQ and filter customization
- Small, durable design with clear OLED feedback
⚠️ Cons:
- Warm and power-hungry during extended desktop use
- PEQ switching causes slight playback interruption
- No wireless connectivity
The FiiO KA17 is a technological marvel—a portable DAC/amp with the sonic depth of a desktop rig. Power, precision, and personalization—all in a pocket-friendly body. Hear it at Soundium today.
