FiiO M21 DAP Review

FiiO M21 DAP Review – Most Powerful DAP/Walkman

The FiiO M21 could be the dedicated music player you’ve been waiting for if you’re seeking an improved way to enjoy music on the go, something more than merely connecting a dongle to your phone. The latest FiiO M21 may pique your interest. This compact, Android-based digital audio player (DAP) delivers desktop-quality output in a conveniently sized device.

The M21 is not intended for someone who casually streams Spotify using their AirPods. This device is FiiO’s direct invitation to the emerging audiophile, the individual who has experienced the excellence of a quality dongle DAC and is eager for an upgrade. It caters to those who desire a pure audio experience, dedicated power, and ample storage of a genuine DAP without the need to secure a second mortgage.

The M21 truly stands out due to its fundamental architecture. By integrating elements such as a quad-DAC configuration and a genuine desktop power mode – features usually found in devices priced at double – FiiO is not merely competing; it is striving to transform the entire category. This is a daring and assertive strategy that establishes the M21 as the go-to option for those who are passionate about sound yet limited by a practical budget.

The M21 resembles a compact smartphone due to its 4.7-inch HD touchscreen, but it is specifically engineered for one primary goal: delivering exceptional audio quality. Operating on Android 13, it allows you to install your preferred streaming applications directly on the device. Whether you enjoy Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz, or wish to access files stored locally, the M21 offers you the versatility to accomplish everything.

It’s powered by a Snapdragon 680 processor, featuring 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, which is expandable up to 2TB via microSD. That gives you plenty of space for storing high-resolution music, even if you’ve got an extensive digital collection.

The distinction between the M21 and your smartphone lies in its internal components. The FiiO features four Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC chips that work together to maintain audio signal clarity and minimize interference. Additionally, it incorporates a two-stage amplification system that initially increases voltage and subsequently boosts current, ensuring reliable performance whether you are using low-impedance earbuds or high-demand headphones.

The M21 supports high-resolution audio formats like PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz, DSD512, and full MQA decoding, so you can play just about any music file you throw at it. On the wireless side, it supports SBC, AAC, and LDAC Bluetooth codecs, providing options for high-quality wireless listening as well.

A significant feature is what FiiO refers to as Desktop Mode. By connecting the M21 to an external power supply via its secondary USB-C port, it bypasses the battery to provide a greater output—reaching up to 21 Vpp peak voltage and 950 mW per channel into 32 ohms. This amount of power is impressive for a device of this size, allowing the M21 to operate more like a desktop DAC/amp when used at home.

When you’re on the go, the standard battery-powered mode provides reliable performance, allowing for up to 15 hours of playback through the 3.5mm output, or 11.5 hours with the balanced 4.4mm output.

In short, it’s portable when needed and can also serve as a serious audio hub when you’re at your desk.

FiiO has also updated its FiiO Control app, which allows you to manage settings and apply custom EQ filters directly from your phone. That’s a handy feature, especially if you don’t want to dig through menus on the small touchscreen.

The M21 is not intended to substitute your smartphone; instead, it caters to individuals seeking a device designed specifically for superior audio quality, without the need to invest heavily. Additionally, it serves as a practical choice for those looking to conserve their phone’s battery, minimize distractions from notifications, or distinguish their music experience from other aspects of life.

Whether you’re using wired headphones, a home hi-fi setup, or want a small dedicated streamer, the FiiO M21 gives you a mix of portability, power, and flexibility that’s not all that common in this price range. For listeners who want more control over their music experience, it’s worth a look.

In The Box

The M21 is securely packaged in a box filled with sleeves and a soft foam cutout. It includes a shorter USB-A to USB-C cable for charging or use with the external power option, along with a quick start guide, warranty card, and inspection card.

If you purchase the additional leather case for $20.99, it is wrapped in plastic and features a foam insert to maintain its shape. The SK-M21C Walkman case, priced at $35.99, is delivered in its box, resting in a plastic tray with adhesive “feet” and an instruction card.

Walkman Case

For fans of vintage gear, there’s a fun optional accessory: a cassette-tape-style protective case that adds a touch of old-school charm to a very modern device. It’s sold separately, but it offers a bit of nostalgia for anyone who grew up with Walkmans in their pocket.

The SK-M21C case also affords more protection. Connection is via the three gold tabs on the back of the M21, which worked without issue.

When inserted, the clear cassette door allows the M21 touchscreen to be seen, which then lights up like a cassette inside, complete with “spinning cogs.” The functionality is located at the top of the case, much like the FiiO FP13 or an old Walkman. There is no “record” button, though.

The function buttons on top include a red on/off button, play/pause, FF/REW, and volume +/-, all of which are not lit. As mentioned above, though, access to the touchscreen of the M21 does not happen unless you open the cassette case door.

If you exit the cassette look, you must return to the home screen and activate the function again, as the function key button is not accessible if you have it set to the “cassette” function.

That said, FiiO added a workaround using the red multifunction button. Short presses turn the player on and off, while a long press exits or re-enters cassette mode. This way, you can access the touchscreen with the cassette door open.

Using the M21 inside the “cassette case” gives the impression of an old Walkman. When the M21 is inserted (only one way) into the case, it automatically switches to a landscape “cassette” complete with spinning cogs. The artist and song are then listed, where you would have labeled the cassettes of yore.

Access to the touchscreen can be had by long-pressing the red button on the case (what would have been the old “record” button in days gone by). You can then switch to another music app or perform any other action you would normally do without the case.

There is also a small arrow on the top left of the cassette screen that allows you to back out of that mode. Closing the plastic door does not automatically reactivate cassette mode, but there is a widget on the home screen that can be used for this purpose, or the red button on the case itself can be used again.

The case might be a good way to protect the M21, since to use it, you must remove the other case(s).

Specs

• Operating system / SoC – Android 13 riding on a 6 nm Snapdragon 680 (octa-core up to 2.4 GHz)
• DAC array – Four Cirrus Logic CS43198 chips working in parallel (eight channels summed to two)
• Amplifier stage – OPA1692 × 2, SGM8262-2 × 2; three gain levels plus “Super-High-Gain” in Desktop Mode
• Output power (balanced 4.4 mm)
  • 950 mW + 950 mW @ 32 Ω (Desktop / Super-High-Gain)
  • 540 mW + 540 mW @ 16 Ω
  • 185 mW + 185 mW @ 300 Ω
• Output power (single-ended 3.5 mm) 405 mW + 405 mW @ 32 Ω; doubles as SPDIF-coax and line-out
• Battery/runtime – 4000 mAh; ≈ 15 h (3.5 mm) / 12.5 h (4.4 mm); 20 W PD3.0 fast-charge; optional Desktop Mode bypasses the battery entirely.
• Screen & chassis – 4.7-inch 750 × 1334 IPS; full metal body, 68 × 121 × 17 mm, ~193 g
• Memory – 4 GB RAM, 64 GB on-board (≈ 52 GB free) + micro-SD to 2 TB
• Wireless – Dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5 (TX & RX) with SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, LDAC, LHDC
• USB-C 3.0 for data/charge / USB-DAC
• Dedicated POWER IN USB-C for an external supply
• DAC architecture: 4 x Cirrus Logic CS43198.
• Audio codecs: LDAC, LHDC, aptX HD, SBC.
• Materials: Aluminum body, AG-frosted glass back.
• Price: $329

Disclaimer: The FiiO M21 DAP was kindly provided by FiiO for review.

Audio Features

Sound

The sound signature can be characterized as neutral and warm, featuring a rich, fluid quality that is exceptionally welcoming. It steers clear of the cold, clinical sound typical of specific analytical devices, choosing instead to deliver a presentation that is both technically skilled and musically captivating.

The M21 delivers the signature sound that FiiO is recognized for: captivating, well-balanced, and infused with a hint of warmth that enhances extended listening experiences. This was already true for the JM21, but the added resolution is a welcome improvement, introducing more space and detail without leading to listener fatigue.

FiiO has perfected the low frequencies in their recent models, and the M21 is no different. Even when used in single-ended mode, the FiiO M21 maintained its composure and consistently delivered a tight, rapid bass response. However, utilizing its 4.4mm Pentaconn output elevates the performance to a higher standard. The bass is robust, quick, and richly textured. There is an actual weightiness present, accompanied by excellent speed and control.

FiiO has consistently excelled in the midrange frequencies, and the M21 is no different; the player consistently delivers a vibrant and natural sound, with instruments possessing a satisfying sense of fullness, even at high gain levels. Vocals and acoustic music were effortlessly handled by the M21, especially when paired with quality headphones. FiiO has consistently excelled in this aspect, and the DAP is no exception. The soundstage is expansive, allowing voices to reach my ears seamlessly.

The highs were clear and prolonged, showcasing remarkable micro-detail retrieval. The M21 exhibits a subtle boost in the upper mids, a characteristic often found in Cirrus Logic DACs. While this may create a sense of precision, it can also result in sibilance with sensitive headphones. However, I did not experience any such issues with the DAP, even when I increased the volume to potentially harmful levels.

The quad-DAC design offers significant advantages in its technical aspects. The soundstage is expansive and well-structured, featuring imaging that is both accurate and three-dimensional. Instruments and vocals are distinctly positioned in the sound field, providing a level of separation that is surprising for this price range. The ability to retrieve details is outstanding, extracting subtle nuances from the mix without becoming harsh or tiring.

Sum-Up

The FiiO M21 stands out in a saturated market, making a bold statement. It asserts that exceptional audio quality should not be reserved solely for the affluent. By incorporating flagship-level features and an outstanding audio design into a reasonably priced product, FiiO has developed an offering that is nearly flawless considering its cost.

FiiO succeeded in meeting all the essential criteria once more: more than sufficient power, excellent tonality, robust staging, and a flexibility that will satisfy both new users and seasoned FiiO enthusiasts. Considering its price, the M21 is an obvious choice for anyone seeking impressive sound in a compact, portable device. It’s the ultimate DAP/Walkman at a very competitive price.

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