The FiiO JA11 was kindly provided free of charge in exchange for an honest review. The price of the FiiO JA11 is $14.99 and you can buy it from here.
FiiO (Jade Audio) JA11
Jade Audio, a sister brand of FiiO, specializes in manufacturing top-notch audio products at highly competitive prices. At present, the brand offers two USB DAC dongles (the KA5 and KA13) and two USB DAC audio cables, the KA11 and their newest addition, the JA11. Despite the brand name being Jade Audio, it is commonly referred to as FiiO by most individuals, including myself for the remainder of this review.
The FiiO JA11 measures 95mm in length and weighs only 5g, making it a compact and lightweight USB type-C cable. It features a 3.5mm headphone output and includes an embedded DAC/amp chip. This cable supports sampling rates of up to 384kHz/32bit PCM and DSD128, and is compatible with various operating systems. However, an additional adapter is required for iOS devices.
The FiiO JA11 has a power output of 30mWpc/32Ω with a 0.5Ω output impedance. This indicates that it is best suited for sensitive earphones. It is important to note that the FiiO JA11 is not a full-sized USB DAC dongle. Its primary function is to either add a 3.5mm jack when one is not available or to improve the subpar audio quality of the generic 3.5mm jack commonly found in phones and PCs.
Build quality and appearance
The FiiO JA11 may come at a surprising price, but its exceptional quality is undeniable. Crafted with aluminum-magnesium plugs and a high-quality cable featuring oxygen-free, palladium-plated copper wires and dual-layer sheathing made of silicone and braided yarn, this device is both durable and reliable. Not only is the FiiO JA11 aesthetically pleasing, but it is also incredibly lightweight and easy to manage. You can keep it plugged into your phone without adding any extra bulk. The FiiO JA11 is available in black and silver finishes.
FiiO control support and features
Despite being an affordable device, the JA11 is supported by the FiiO control application and features a user-configurable PEQ. Users have the ability to create their own frequency curve, share it with others, or access curves shared by other users through the application. The PEQ has a global effect, allowing it to be used with streaming services, but the curve itself is not saved in the device’s memory. To utilize the PEQ, users must connect to the FiiO control application and enable it each time.
The FiiO JA11 is compatible with earphones that have microphone input and CTIA/OMTP in-line controls. Users have the option to activate or deactivate this function through the FiiO control app. Additionally, a 60-step precise volume adjustment feature is available. It is important to note that the FiiO JA11 can solely be managed using the Android version of the FiiO control app.
Accessories
There are no accessories included.
Power efficiency and noise
The FiiO JA11 was primarily evaluated with the FiiO JD1 and the Meze Audio Alba, both of which are simple to drive. With a power consumption of only 0.03A/0.16W, the JA11 is highly efficient and won’t drain your phone’s battery. Additionally, the JA11 remains inactive until you connect an earphone, ensuring no power is wasted. The FiiO JA11 operates quietly without any background noise, free from any popping or clicking sounds, and maintains a cool temperature while in use.
Listening impressions
The FiiO JA11 offers a neutral sound signature with excellent clarity and transparency, especially considering its entry level status. Its sound quality easily surpasses that of my Xiaomi phone’s 3.5mm jack, and its power is sufficient for driving sensitive earphones. The treble and low-end are extended without any noticeable roll off, the mid-range is open and spacious while the definition and separation are up to par. Additionally, the timbre is quite natural without excessive artificiality or brightness.
The technicalities are also very satisfying for an entry level DAC, featuring a tight and controlled bass, fast and dynamic performance, well-defined mid-range, energetic and clean treble, as long as an open and spacious soundstage with decent imaging.
A Fair comparison
Considering the tiny size and very low cost, making a direct comparison between the FiiO JA11 and standard-sized USB DAC dongles would not be entirely fair. Nonetheless, when compared to other very compact USB adapters such as the ddHiFi TC35B or the Periodic Audio Rhodium, the FiiO JA11 stands out as a more budget-friendly option that also offers user-configurable PEQ. While the JA11 shares similarities with the USB audio cable provided with the Meze Audio Alba, it has additional features, superior craftsmanship, and a more robust appearance.
In the end
Prior to making quick assumptions, it is crucial to comprehend the extent of its usage. The FiiO JA11 serves as an affordable USB DAC cable designed to enhance the audio quality of a standard 3.5mm jack (or add one if it is not present) and power sensitive earphones for casual daily listening while on the move. It is not a full-sized USB DAC dongle, so one should not anticipate exceptional sound performance and power output. It would be unjust to compare it to products like the FiiO KA17 or expect it to power the Sennheiser HD650.
After taking everything into account, it can be confidently stated that the FiiO JA11 stands out as a top choice for a compact USB audio cable. This is due to its ability to provide immediate improvement in sound quality compared to standard 3.5mm jacks, its superior craftsmanship, lightweight design, energy efficiency, customizable PEQ support, and affordable price point. Task completed.
Copyright – Petros Laskis 2024.
+ Instant sonic upgrade over every generic 3.5mm jack
+ Neutral and uncolored sound
+ Not that lacking in technicalities
+ Not too artificial or bright
+ Silent background
+ Exceptionally well made
+ Ultra light and compact
+ Very low power consumption
+ Doesn't get warm
+ Compatible with the FiiO control application
+ User configurable PEQ
+ 60 steps of fine volume adjustment
+ Exceptional value for money
- USB to Lightning adapter is not included
- The features are only available in Android OS
- Low power output
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