The Fiio BTR13: A Budget-Friendly Bluetooth DAC That Delivers
Fiio has a strong reputation for creating high-value audio products, particularly in the budget-friendly range. The BTR13 continues this tradition, offering a compelling combination of features and performance at an attractive price point. This detailed review explores its design, functionality, sound quality, and overall value.
Design and Build
The BTR13 boasts a refreshed design compared to its predecessors. A notable addition is a built-in clip, eliminating the need for separate accessories to attach it to clothing or bags. While this integrated clip makes the BTR13 slightly thicker than previous models, it remains easily pocketable. Its lightweight design (28.6g) ensures it’s barely noticeable when carried. Available in blue and black, the BTR13 features a plastic chassis, contributing to its light weight. Though not as substantial as some higher-end models, its build quality is solid and reliable.
The device includes a three-position switch for selecting operating modes: PC, phone, and Bluetooth. This makes switching between different devices quick and easy. Buttons for volume control, multifunction operation, and power are conveniently located on the right side, offering good tactile feedback despite their small size.
A small, informative 0.96-inch LCD screen displays key information like volume, battery life, the currently selected mode, and codec details during music playback. Furthermore, an integrated microphone enables hands-free calling.
Connectivity and Features
The BTR13 offers versatile connectivity options. It uses Bluetooth 5.1 for wireless connection and a USB-C port for wired connectivity. This allows for easy pairing with a wide variety of devices, including smartphones, computers, and other audio sources.
Audio outputs include both a standard 3.5mm headphone jack and a balanced 4.4mm output, catering to a range of headphones and earphones.
A comprehensive menu system is accessible directly on the device, letting users adjust key settings without needing the Fiio Control app. Adjustable features include gain, EQ modes (including a ten-band PEQ), a car mode, and language selection. While the Fiio Control app offers expanded control and customization, the onboard controls provide sufficient functionality for most users. The ten-band PEQ, accessible even on Windows without drivers, provides excellent granular control over the sound profile.
Internal Specifications and Performance
The BTR13 features dual CS43131 DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) chipsets. These DACs deliver commendable power output:
- Unbalanced (3.5mm): Up to 120mW at 16Ω, 100mW at 32Ω, and 10mW at 300Ω.
- Balanced (4.4mm): Up to 130mW at 16Ω, 220mW at 32Ω, and 55mW at 300Ω.
This power output makes the BTR13 suitable for driving a wide variety of in-ear monitors (IEMs), including demanding models. Testing with several IEMs revealed it handled them without any noticeable issues.
The Bluetooth capabilities are powered by Qualcomm’s QCC5125 Bluetooth modem, which supports a comprehensive suite of aptX codecs (Adaptive, Lossless, and HD), along with LDAC, AAC, and the standard SBC.
Battery Life and Charging
The BTR13’s 460mAh battery provides a decent battery life of just over seven hours in phone mode. Charging is done via USB-C, but it lacks fast charging capabilities, requiring approximately 90 minutes for a full charge with a 10W (5V/2A) adapter.
Sound Quality
The Fiio BTR13 offers a generally neutral sound signature with a slight hint of warmth. The sound is characterized by smoothness across the frequency spectrum; a detailed and pleasing low-end, an engaging mid-range, and clear treble frequencies. There is a notable lack of harshness in the overall sound. While perhaps not quite as technically proficient as the BTR15, for its price point, the sound signature is excellent. The sound profile is versatile and easily adaptable to most music genres.
The extensive customization options, particularly the 10-band PEQ, allow for fine-tuning of sound to personal preference. This level of control enhances the versatility and makes the BTR13 a highly attractive option in its class.
Overall Value and Conclusion
The Fiio BTR13 offers excellent value for its price. It combines a compact and durable design with a feature-rich specification and a refined sound signature that is detailed and pleasing for a variety of musical tastes. With its versatile connectivity, powerful internal components, and extensive customization options, the BTR13 stands out as a strong contender in the budget-friendly Bluetooth DAC market. If you’re looking for a portable DAC with a great balance of features and quality sound without breaking the bank, the Fiio BTR13 is a compelling choice.
