FiiO KA13 USB DAC dongle featuring Desktop Mode, balanced 4.4 mm output and high-resolution audio support. Read more.
The FiiO KA13 challenges the traditional limits of USB dongles by combining compact dimensions with remarkably strong output capability. Where many small DAC dongles are designed purely for convenience, the KA13 introduces a dedicated Desktop Mode that allows it to perform closer to a full-sized desktop device. Within FiiO’s line-up, it is aimed at critical listeners who want a single, portable solution that works equally well with laptops, smartphones, and tablets, without sacrificing drive or musical authority.
Its internal design reflects this ambition. A dual CS43131 DAC configuration paired with dual SGM8262 low-noise op-amps provides a solid technical foundation for clarity and control. When Desktop Mode is enabled, the balanced 4.4 mm output can deliver up to 550 mW per channel of clean, undistorted power. This makes the KA13 suitable for powering a wide range of headphones, from efficient portable models to more demanding designs. Support for high-resolution audio up to 32bit/384kHz PCM and DSD256 ensures compatibility with modern digital music libraries.
Attention to detail extends to everyday usability. The rugged, mechanical-inspired housing feels durable, while the RGB lighting window displays the current sampling rate in a visually appealing way. Both 3.5 mm single-ended and 4.4 mm balanced headphone outputs are integrated into the compact body, increasing versatility. With a detachable cable and included USB-C and Lightning adapters, switching between devices is straightforward. Using the FiiO Control app, users can fine-tune lighting, digital filters, and other settings, making the KA13 a flexible centerpiece for both portable and desktop listening.
