FiiO JadeAudio JA11 Review – $15 Dongle DAC – Get your 3.5mm Port Back
The FiiO JA11 has a built-in professional DSP, allowing you to choose the preset tuning style or self-define your music through PEQ. Also, through the app, you can easily use the officially recommended EQ curves, allowing you to enjoy the fun of professional tuning on an entry-level device and personalize your audio experience effortlessly.
The JA11 supports decoding of PCM384kHz/32bit and DSD128. With support for microphone input, and CTIA/OMTP inline controls, this device can make calls, record audio, and even sing karaoke.
The JA11 is made of aluminum-magnesium alloy, and through a secondary anodizing process, it better showcases the texture and aesthetics of the body. Inside the cable are high-purity oxygen-free palladium-plated copper wires, which are low impedance and anti-interference making them capable of stably transmitting audio signals. The cable itself features a dual-layer sheath made of flexible silicone and braided yarn, making it soft yet durable.
Price: $14.99
FiiO Link App
It’s interesting, also amazing, to see FiiO’s APP support on a dongle DAC that costs just $15. The JA11 is the cheapest audio gear on the market that supports PEQ (Parametric Equalizer).
Sound
The Fiio JA11 is completely silent, with no hiss or any background noise even with low impedance and sensitive IEMs. It has a neutral sound with no noticeable coloration, which is a positive thing. The JA11 has strong low frequencies and is well-controlled on both sub-bass and mid-bass with a warm tone.
The drum kicks and bass guitar notes sound perfect, just like on my desktop setup. The only noticeable difference is the scaling, which is limited due to the small size of the portable DAC/AMP. However, the JA11 can still power most of your IEMs and low-impedance headphones effectively.
In the middle frequencies, the vocals maintain a natural and harmonious sound. Both male and female vocals retain their authentic tones and instruments sound true to life. This is where I discuss the sound characteristics of the IEM, not the Fiio JA11. Therefore, I can confirm that the Fiio JA11 does not alter the sound of the earphones noticeably.
The high frequencies are transparent and have good extension without losing energy or air. There’s a slight brightness, especially with lossless tracks, making it crisp and detailed without being aggressive. The Fiio JA11 also provides enough air and space between instruments and vocals, leading to a good level of separation and soundstage.
Sum-Up
If you are planning diving into the Hi-Fi world and getting your 3.5mm port back, the Fiio JA11 dongle DAC should be your number one item on the list. I can’t think of a better alternative with its current price of 14.99$. Its sound performance easily competes with bigger brothers on the market and the PEQ support for this price range has never been seen before. Good job FiiO.