FiiO KA17 USB DAC and headphone amplifier with Desktop Mode

The FiiO KA17 represents the flagship level of compact USB DACs, designed for demanding listeners who want desktop-grade performance in a portable format. Positioned at the top of FiiO’s dongle lineup, the KA17 bridges the gap between mobile convenience and serious home listening. Its unique Desktop Mode, activated via sufficient USB power or the dedicated Type-C power input, automatically shifts the internal circuitry into a higher-performance state. This makes the KA17 suitable for smartphones and laptops alike, while also allowing it to function confidently as part of a fixed desktop audio setup.

At the heart of the KA17 is a THX AAA 78+ headphone amplifier circuit implemented in a fully balanced, multi-channel configuration. This design significantly increases output capability, delivering greater dynamic headroom and improved control over a wide range of headphones. Dual ESS ES9069Q DAC chips handle digital conversion with high efficiency and low noise, contributing to a clean background and refined sound presentation. The inclusion of the XMOS XU316 16-core USB processor ensures stable data transmission, broad compatibility and support for high-resolution formats, including native DSD and full MQA decoding.

Practical features further enhance the appeal of the KA17. A clear dot-matrix display provides instant feedback on settings and operating status, while physical buttons allow intuitive adjustment without relying on external software. The built-in 10-band parametric EQ gives users precise control over tonal balance, making it easy to tailor the sound to different headphones or personal preferences. Combined with its carefully engineered power supply, separated digital and analogue sections, and protective monitoring functions, the FiiO KA17 offers a compact yet powerful solution for anyone looking to elevate their everyday listening experience.