The FiiO R9 is shaking up the conventions of high-fidelity audio with a particularly ambitious all‑in‑one approach. This compact device combines a network player, digital‑to‑analog converter, headphone amplifier, and hi‑fi preamplifier in a single chassis. What makes it stand out is the integration of a full Android operating system with a 6‑inch touchscreen, an unusual approach that opens up new possibilities for digital listening. Equipped with top‑tier audiophile components, including dual ESS ES9038Pro DACs and THX AAA-788+ amplification, the R9 targets demanding music lovers looking to simplify their setup without compromising sound quality.
Technical architecture and audiophile components
The technical core of the R9 is built on a sophisticated architecture that prioritizes channel separation and the minimization of interference. Two ESS ES9038Pro DAC chips handle the left and right channels independently, each using its 8 converters in parallel to reduce jitter and optimize digital‑to‑analog conversion. This dual‑mono configuration stands apart from conventional designs by eliminating interactions between channels, ensuring exemplary stereo separation.
Amplification is based on a dual THX AAA-788+ architecture delivering a substantial 7300 mW of power from the balanced output at 32 ohms. This power makes it possible to efficiently drive demanding planar headphones or high‑impedance models without dynamic compression. Separate power supplies for the analog and digital sections help maintain an extremely low noise floor and reduced crosstalk.
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 processor with 4 GB of RAM ensures a smooth Android experience while preserving audio performance. This platform, usually reserved for high‑end smartphones, guarantees fluid navigation in menus and apps while maintaining the stability required for critical audio processing.
Android system and streaming ecosystem
The integration of Android 10 is one of the R9’s most notable innovations, turning this amplifier into a genuine multimedia hub. Access to the Google Play Store enables native installation of apps such as Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz, Deezer, or Amazon Music, eliminating the reliance on often limited third‑party apps found on traditional network players.
The 6‑inch color touchscreen (1080x2160 pixels) provides a modern, intuitive user interface. Touch navigation makes it easier to manage large music libraries and access playback settings. This approach stands in contrast to the often bare‑bones interfaces of traditional hi‑fi equipment.
The R9 offers eight distinct listening modes: 64 GB internal memory, SD cards (up to 2 TB), external USB drives, UPnP/DLNA streaming, Android apps, bidirectional Bluetooth, AirPlay, and Roon Ready compatibility. This versatility covers all contemporary audio sources without requiring additional equipment.
High‑performance amplification and headphone compatibility
The THX AAA-788+ modules in a dual‑mono configuration deliver exceptionally clean amplification with five selectable gain levels. This flexibility allows optimal matching with both sensitive headphones and current‑hungry planar models. The 7300 mW balanced and 3500 mW unbalanced outputs place the R9 among the most powerful amplifiers in its class.
Three headphone outputs are available on the front panel: single‑ended 6.35 mm jack, balanced 4.4 mm jack, and balanced 4‑pin XLR. This configuration meets modern connection standards while retaining compatibility with traditional headphones. The balanced outputs fully exploit the dual‑mono architecture for optimal dynamics and stereo separation.
The 126 dB signal‑to‑noise ratio and extended frequency response (20 Hz – 80 kHz) ensure faithful reproduction of high‑resolution recordings up to 32‑bit/768 kHz and DSD512. These specifications put the R9 on par with dedicated audiophile DACs.
Extensive connectivity and system integration
The R9’s connectivity is particularly comprehensive, with multiple digital inputs/outputs including HDMI, coaxial, optical, USB‑C, and USB‑A. The presence of an HDMI ARC output is a unique advantage, allowing integration into a home theater system as a headphone amplifier for TV sources.
RCA and XLR line outputs (fixed or variable level) turn the R9 into a high‑quality source for integrated amplifiers or active speakers. This versatility allows it to be used as a full‑fledged hi‑fi preamplifier with digital volume control.
Wireless connectivity combines dual‑band Wi‑Fi with Bluetooth 5.1 reception and 5.0 transmission. Supported codecs include LDAC, aptX HD, and aptX Adaptive for high‑quality wireless streaming. The Bluetooth transmitter function allows streaming to wireless headphones or external Bluetooth speakers.
Use as a high‑resolution network player
Roon Ready compatibility positions the R9 as an audiophile endpoint in Roon‑based systems. This certification guarantees seamless integration with the Roon ecosystem for advanced library management and multiroom streaming.
UPnP/DLNA support ensures playback of files stored on NAS servers or computers on the local network. The 64 GB internal memory and support for SD cards up to 2 TB provide local storage options for large music libraries.
Streaming performance reaches PCM 32‑bit/768 kHz and native DSD512, covering all current high‑resolution audio formats. This broad compatibility protects your investment in high‑definition music collections.
Modern design and ergonomics
The compact chassis (115 x 160 x 127 mm, 2.27 kg) is optimized for desktop use while maintaining robust construction. The side grille provides silent passive cooling, eliminating the noise associated with active fans.
The user interface combines physical and touch controls: an analog volume knob, gain switch, and touchscreen for navigation. This hybrid approach preserves the immediacy of physical controls while offering the richness of modern graphical interfaces.
The understated design blends naturally into workspaces or home listening environments. The screen can turn off automatically to preserve aesthetics during extended listening sessions.
Technical Specifications
Design and System
All-in-one device: high-performance headphone amplifier with integrated network player
15.2 cm color touchscreen (1080 x 2160 px)
Internal memory: 64 GB
Operating system: Android
Full access to the Google Play Store
Audio and Amplification
Dual ESS Sabre ES9038 Pro DAC
Dual THX AAA-788+ amplification
5-level adjustable gain
Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio Wireless certified
Audio Measurements – Balanced Output (XLR / 4.4 mm jack)
Ultra-high gain mode
Power at 32 ohms: 7300 mW
Signal-to-noise ratio: 126 dB
Frequency response: 20 Hz – 80 kHz (< 0.9 dB) or 20 Hz – 20 kHz (< 0.2 dB)
Super-high gain mode
Power at 32 ohms: 4500 mW
Signal-to-noise ratio: 126 dB
Frequency response: 20 Hz – 80 kHz (< 0.9 dB) or 20 Hz – 20 kHz (< 0.2 dB)
Audio Measurements – Unbalanced Output (6.35 mm jack)
Ultra-high gain mode
Power at 16 ohms: 3500 mW
Signal-to-noise ratio: 126 dB
Frequency response: 20 Hz – 80 kHz (< 0.9 dB) or 20 Hz – 20 kHz (< 0.2 dB)
Super-high gain mode
Power at 16 ohms: 2250 mW
Signal-to-noise ratio: 125 dB
Frequency response: 20 Hz – 80 kHz (< 0.9 dB) or 20 Hz – 20 kHz (< 0.2 dB)
Streaming and Network Compatibility
Supported services: Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, Amazon Music
Does the Android system compromise audio quality compared to a dedicated network player?
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No, the R9’s architecture clearly separates Android processing from critical audio circuits. The Snapdragon processor handles the user interface and apps, while the dedicated ESS and THX chips take care of conversion and amplification without software interference.
What’s the difference compared to the previous R7 model?
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The R9 delivers significantly improved performance, notably with the addition of HDMI ports, expanded connectivity, and presumably updated audio components, although the precise details of the improvements are not specified.
Is the 64 GB internal memory expandable?
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Yes, the R9 supports microSD cards up to 2 TB and external USB drives. The internal memory is mainly intended for storing favorites and frequently played tracks for instant access.
User reviews
Michel
I’ve had my FiiO R9 for only a short time. So far I’ve only used it to play FLAC and DSD files from an SD card. I connect a Meze Empyrean II headphone to it via 4.4 mm. I find the result really very good.
Comment from December 22, 2025 — Experience from December 08, 2025
Automatically translated — Show original (French)
J'ai mon FiiO R9 depuis assez peu de temps. Pour l'instant je ne l'ai utilisé que pour lire des fichiers FLAC et DSD à partir d'une carte SD. J'y connecte un casque Meze Ampyrean II en 4,4mm. Je trouve le résultat vraiment très bon.
Eco-contribution of €0.12 included in the sale price.
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