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FiiO M23
Portable Hi-Res Lossless Music Player
Desktop mode | AKM AK4191EQ+AK4499EX combo | 4-way fully balanced
THX AAA 78+ amp | 1000mW+1000mW high power | 4-stage 20-rail power supply
Fully unified HiFi audio architecture | DAPS Digital Audio Purification System
Dual-mode fast charging | Dual Type-C ports
*Pictures are for reference only. The actual product may vary.
AKM flagship DAC combo
AK4191EQ AK4499EX
Like the Q15 and K9 AKM, the M23 utilizes the flagship AKM DAC combo —— the AK4191EQ+AK4499EX. It is a new design that totally separates the digital and analog portions and also features the “DWA ROUTING Technology” to further improve the signal-to-noise ratio. These technologies allow for a purer audio background and for higher resolution audio – resulting in a relaxed yet natural sound.
Patented desktop mode activated with one click
For the first time on FIIO players, the M23 features a switch specifically to toggle desktop mode (D.MODE). When desktop mode is activated, the M23 is completely powered by an external power source. The built-in battery will neither be charged nor discharged, which ensures the M23 can be used as desktop equipment without fear of damaging the battery.
Patent No.: ZL202321946664.8
Independent Type-C power port
unlimited power
On the M23 are two USB Type-C ports, one of which is dedicated to accepting power only (POWER IN). When this dedicated power Type-C port is connected to fast charging, the Super High Gain Mode can be activated for more gain and more output power. In this mode, the output power can reach up to 1000mW+1000mW per channel, making the M23 better suited for pushing high impedance headphones. While in this mode, the other Type-C port does not consume any power and thus makes it suitable to connect the M23 to a phone for use as a USB DAC.
1000mW@32Ω 240mW@300Ω
Super high gain
475mW@32Ω 55mW@300Ω
High gain
All new THX AAA 78+ amp design truly balanced 8-way parallel amplification
The THX AAA 78 headphone amplifiers as used in the M11 Plus and M11 Pro have been widely praised by audiophiles around the world. After several years of continuing to refine the design, we introduce the THX AAA 78+ amplifier architecture in the M23. It allows for greater power output with high fidelity, resulting in powerful sound reproduced with extreme accuracy.
High caliber HiFi audio architecture 4 gain levels
In the M23 is a high caliber audio architecture consisting of DAC, I/V, LPF, voltage amplification, and parallel amplification stages. Responsible for handling the I/V and LPF stages are 2 low-noise and high-precision OPA1612 op-amps. The voltage amplification is taken care of by 2 low-noise and high-bandwidth OPA1662 op-amps. Together, these op-amps ensure audio signals are accurately played back at ample power outputs so that a huge variety of headphones and IEMs can work well with the player, which can be further better dialed in thanks to the four levels of gain.
High caliber HiFi components flowing with quality
The I/V, LPF, THX amp parts of the audio circuit utilize a large number of high-precision film resistors. The LPF section specifically employs 8 Panasonic film capacitors. Together, the capacitors ensure a highly detailed and also highly stable sound, as they help to make the left and right channels output as well as output of each frequency band more consistent.
*The components are distributed under the audio shield cover.
8 Panasonic film capacitors
High-precision film resistors
Independent digital and analog power supplies
Having independent digital and analog power supplies offers the best of both worlds – digital audio is handled more accurately while analog audio remains pure for an overall better sound.
Analog audio power supply
The analog audio power supply not only has separate rails for the DAC, small signal amplification and large amplification parts, but also employs four stages of power processing – OVP, adaptive voltage stabilization, high-efficiency voltage boosting, π filtering, and LDO voltage stabilization. All in all, this means that the portable M23 has a power supply design comparable to those of desktop equipment.
4-stage 20-rail power supply
for accurate and consistent sound
FIIO’s great experience in designing portable HiFi audio player power supplies is in full show on the M23. With a four-stage and 20-smaller rail power supply, the M23 is fully equipped with a robust power supply that provides a solid foundation for both the analog and digital portions of the audio circuit.
Digital audio power supply
28 high-capacity polymer tantalum capacitors
Among the M23’s DAC, I/V, LPF, and THX amp power sections are 28 high-capacity polymer tantalum capacitors that store large reserves of energy to be unleashed when needed – to ensure a robust power supply and ultimately powerful sound.
*Figures based on tests done in FIIO labs. Actual charging times will vary depending on the environment and conditions.
Dual-mode fast charging
safe 30W charging
The M23 employs a dual-mode fast-charging system that utilizes extreme fast-charging + normal fast charging. At a lower battery state of charge, extreme fast-charging is used to safely allow for up to 30W charging speeds. When the battery gets close to a full state of charge, the M23 switches to slightly slower normal fast-charging, which allows for greatly improved charging times while still maintaining battery health.
Large 5500mAh battery durability incarnate
Specially selected low-resistance fast-charging batteries that employ high-temperature resistant material are paired with technologies such as a low resistance MOS protection board to ensure the batteries will last a long time.
*Data based on results from testing in FIIO labs. Actual results will vary due to different environments and usage conditions.
DAPS Digital Audio Purification System
Bit perfect
The DAPS (Digital Audio Purification System) as featured on the M23 consists of both the FIIO-developed HiFi audio core that bypasses the original Android version plus a low-jitter clock co-processor. Together, the system not only provides a unified high-precision, low-jitter clock source but also ensures that the original sampling rate of the audio stream (both PCM and DSD) is preserved no matter if you are using FIIO Music, third-party apps, USB DAC mode, etc. By avoiding audio resampling, you can be sure the audio is that much closer to its original intent.
Global PEQ
global ALL TO DSD
The 10-band PEQ with FIIO’s proprietary tuning algorithm can be used in any operating mode. Through an intuitive interface users can adjust the EQ’s frequency points, gain, bandwidth, and Q value- allowing users to fine tune or even correct the headphone’s frequency response curve exactly to their taste. Additionally, users can activate the ALL TO DSD function in any operating mode, allowing them to more easily experience the beauty of audio in different formats.
6 operating modes
6 smooth experiences
On the M23 you can use six different operating modes: Roon Ready*, Android, Pure Music, Bluetooth, and AirPlay – all of which you can switch between quickly letting you enjoy your music the way you want. But its powerful abilities don’t stop there – the M23 can also stream music over DLNA by retrieving music from NAS, local networks, and cloud servers through UPNP/SMB/WebDav.
*Roon Ready certification is currently in progress. Please stay tuned for further official updates from FIIO.
Simply timeless
a true classic
FIIO’s classic hexagonal honeycomb design with its 3D cuts and distinct edges is a bold yet attractive look. Choose between aluminum alloy and stainless steel versions, each version with its own exquisite and distinct look and feel.Whether looking at the black or blue versions, each adorned with an electroplated tempered glass panel on the back, bear witness to an intricate labyrinth where light and shadow play off of each other tastefully. The 5.5-inch high-definition display with a golden 18:9 aspect ratio both looks and feels great to use.
All aspects all thought out
Smart controls
2nd gen intelligent volume adjustment system
Adjust volume quickly and easily either by sliding on the carbon fiber textured touchpad or clicking on buttons.
App remote control
Control from your phone, easy and convenient.
RGB pulsing lights
Set it to change with sampling rate or custom specify what you want.
Volume touch panel
Physical buttons
Thoroughly versatile
MQA 8x unfolding
Play back master-grade sound.
Two-way hi-res Bluetooth
Bluetooth transmission supports SBC/AAC/aptX/aptX HD/ LHDC/LDAC,
Bluetooth reception supports SBC/AAC/LDAC.
Reliable and safe
Stainless steel battery compartment
Allow for good heat dissipation, and is strong and stable.
Isolated components
The digital core, the DAC, and the headphone amplifier sections are isolated and shielded from each other into their own zones – leading to reduced crosstalk and reduced external interference for purer sound.
Expertly made, rock-solid
All ports on the player are reinforced with specially-designed metal pieces, ensuring they are durable and allow for reliable connections.
① --------- Power/Lock button
② --------- Volume up
③ --------- Volume touch panel
④ --------- Volume down
⑤ --------- Multifunction button
⑥ --------- 3.5mm headphone out/ line out/coaxial out
⑦--------- 4.4mm balanced headphone out /line out
⑧ --------- Previous track
⑨ --------- Play/Pause
⑩ --------- Next track
⑪---------Desktop mode switch
⑫---------HOLD switch
⑬---------POWER IN (Independent power supply/Charging)
⑭---------USB 3.0 (Data/Charging)
⑮---------microSD card slot
Parts list
①------------------M23*1
②------------------Screen protective film*1 (pre-installed)
③------------------Protective case*1 (for Aluminum Alloy Version)
④------------------Leather case*1 (for Stainless Steel Version)
⑤------------------USB-A male to Type-C female adapter*1
⑥------------------Tray eject pin*1
⑦------------------GPL V2 manual*1
⑧------------------Warranty card*1
⑨------------------Type-C to Type-C data/charging cable*1
⑩------------------Quick start guide*1
*The aluminum alloy version comes with a water-resistant case, while the stainless steel version comes with a leather case.
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Professional Reviews 91/100
Deliciously Crispy
Sound Quality
92/100
Build Quality
86/100
Features Usability
94/100
Value for Money
89/100
The FiiO M23 delivers a spacious, high-resolution presentation, combining neutral tonal balance, taut bass and convincing dynamic swing with the muscle to serve portable and desktop listening. StereoNET admired its articulate midrange and expansive staging, while What Hi-Fi? praised its detail, build and unusually flexible desktop mode. A seriously accomplished all-in-one source for demanding headphones.
What Reviewers Are Saying
Pros
Open, exceptionally detailed and well-organised soundstage keeps complex recordings clear and coherent.
Neutral, natural tonality combines controlled, substantial bass with expressive vocals and smooth treble.
Desktop mode, balanced output and extensive wired, wireless and streaming options make it highly versatile.
&
Cons
Occasional playback pauses and a rare clipped start when switching between sources can be disconcerting.
Its presentation is less rhythmically engaging and can sound slightly sterile beside the Astell & Kern A&norma SR35.
Available internal music storage is limited to roughly 46GB before adding a microSD card.
SOUND QUALITY PERFORMANCE 92/100
Reviewers consistently describe an open, spacious and exceptionally detailed presentation that remains natural, coherent and musical rather than merely analytical. It has substantial dynamic authority and is reported to drive demanding full-size headphones well, though there is less direct evidence concerning noise with highly sensitive IEMs.
Transparency Resolution
95/100
What Hi-Fi praises the M23's breadth, clarity and ability to convey both note outlines and harmonic information, while StereoNET calls its detail retrieval almost vertiginous. Sound Advice likewise finds high detail throughout the range and enough space to keep complex recordings neatly organised.
Tonal Balance Musicality
95/100
Sound Advice and StereoNET both describe an even, neutral and smoothly integrated tonal balance, with natural warmth determined by the recording rather than imposed by the player. Reviewers repeatedly stress that its analytical ability is paired with directness, emotional communication and long-session musical enjoyment.
Dynamics
95/100
Reviewers hear considerable dynamic headroom, strong rhythmic expression and a convincing ability to separate large-scale orchestral contrasts. What Hi-Fi notes harder-hitting brass dynamics, while StereoNET highlights both visceral attack and the M23's dynamic potency.
Noise Floor
86/100
IWII Reviews reports strong background darkness and excellent separation, suggesting a clean presentation in its listening setup. The reviews do not directly test hiss or low-level noise with sensitive IEMs, so its behaviour with the most revealing in-ears remains less clearly documented.
Headphone Compatibility
91/100
PortaFi reports that, in desktop mode, the M23 opens up full-size and relatively demanding planar headphones without difficulty, while battery operation remains capable. The 3.5mm and balanced 4.4mm outputs, adjustable gain and desktop-power mode add useful flexibility, although reviewer pairing evidence for sensitive IEMs is limited.
Assessments of Build Quality, Usability, and Overall Propositions.
Build Quality
86/100
IWII Reviews highlights the aluminium sides and tempered glass front and rear, describing the M23 as stylish and high-class. Sound Advice finds the large touchscreen bright and responsive and notes that FiiO includes a protective case, though it also suggests the angular device is best carried in a sturdy pocket or bag.
Features Usability
94/100
The M23 is unusually versatile: it combines Android-based playback, AirPlay, UPnP, Bluetooth with aptX HD and LDAC, Wi-Fi, USB-C data and charging connections, and broad high-resolution file support. Its 3.5mm/coaxial and 4.4mm outputs, adjustable EQ and gain, plus battery-bypassing desktop mode, make it equally adaptable as a portable player or a desk-based source.
Value for Money
89/100
At roughly $699 to $800, the M23 is positioned as a premium portable player, but Sound Advice notes that it undercuts the entry-level Astell & Kern A&norma SR25 mkII. IWII Reviews considers its performance level appropriate to the asking price, while What Hi-Fi finds its sound, design and feature set strongly competitive despite withholding a top rating.
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Authorized dealers for FiiO M23
- 110Hz — online and in-store — Kielce, Województwo świętokrzyskie, Poland (website)
- Acoustic Technologies — online and in-store — Montréal, Québec, Canada (website)
- Addicted to Audio — online and in-store — Epping, Victoria, Australia (website)
- Advanced MP3 Players — online and in-store — Musselburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (website)
- Alpha Audio Pte — online and in-store — Singapore, Singapore (website)
- Apos Audio — online and in-store — Oakland, California, United States (website)
- Audeos — online and in-store — Żywiec, Województwo śląskie (website)
- Audio 46 — online and in-store — New York, New York, United States (website)
- Audio Affair — online and in-store — Deritend, England, United Kingdom (website)
- Audio Basic — in-store — Singapore, Singapore (website)
and 58 more verified dealers