Each year, dozens of European journalists gather to select the best electronic products of the year. Awarded by a diverse and impartial jury, the EISA (Expert Imaging and Sound Association) awards recognize exceptional products for their performance, design, or ergonomics.
The FiiO S15 marks the brand’s spectacular entry into the traditional hi-fi network player segment. Following the success of the R7 and R9 desktop models, FiiO introduces the S15, a device that combines streamer, high-resolution DAC, and preamplifier functions in an elegant 430 mm chassis. Its 7.84-inch touchscreen and native Android 12 system redefine the approach to audio streaming, while its audiophile-grade components and extensive connectivity—including an HDMI ARC input—position it as a serious contender against established market references.
The S15 immediately stands out with its large 7.84-inch color touchscreen, an impressive size in this price range that greatly facilitates navigation and content access. This automotive-grade display features a fully customized Android 12 interface by FiiO, allowing intuitive control and direct access to streaming apps without the need for a smartphone or tablet.
The all-metal chassis with a sleek design rests on anti-slip feet that effectively isolate the device from unwanted vibrations. This meticulous design reflects attention to every detail, from aesthetics to acoustic performance. The interface can display album covers, file resolution information, or even vintage needle VU meters for a striking visual effect during playback.
At its core, the S15 reveals a true audiophile approach with its pair of AKM DAC chips: the AK4499EX converter paired with the AK4191EQ modulator. This architecture physically separates digital and analog processing, minimizing interference and optimizing the signal-to-noise ratio for exceptionally precise sound reproduction. The 16-core XMOS V16AOPP controller handles high-resolution streams up to PCM 32-bit / 768 kHz and DSD512.
The ultra-low-noise 35 W linear power supply is another major asset, coupled with four 4700 μF ELNA capacitors that ensure a stable energy reserve. This design avoids the disturbances typical of switching power supplies and guarantees preserved dynamics. The dual ACCUSILICON AS318-B femtosecond clocks reduce jitter to an almost nonexistent level, ensuring perfect timing of audio data.
The S15’s connectivity is impressively versatile. On the input side, there are two HDMI ports, including one HDMI ARC for direct TV connection, as well as traditional digital connections: optical, coaxial, and AES/EBU. This setup allows you to use the internal DAC to enhance any digital source, from CD players to TV set-top boxes.
Analog RCA and XLR outputs allow direct connection to a power amplifier, turning the S15 into the central preamplifier of your system. Digital outputs (optical, coaxial, AES/EBU, and HDMI i2S) also let you route conversion to an external DAC if desired. A trigger output automates cascading power-up of other system components.
The optimized Android 12 system provides access to all current audio streaming platforms: Qobuz, Tidal, Amazon Music, Spotify, Deezer, and many more. Installation is done directly from the Google Play Store, offering total flexibility to suit everyone’s musical preferences. DLNA, UPnP, and Roon Ready protocols ensure compatibility with existing music servers.
The Bluetooth 5.1 module with Qualcomm QCC5125 chip supports high-definition LDAC and aptX Adaptive codecs. Its bidirectional functionality allows you to receive music from a smartphone, but also stream to wireless headphones or speakers, adding a highly practical dimension. AirPlay completes the wireless reception options for Apple device users.
The S15 features an internal M.2 SSD slot, allowing you to store up to several terabytes of music directly on the device. This solution eliminates dependence on the network to access your personal library. An SD card reader completes the local storage options, while the two USB-A ports accept USB drives and external hard drives.
FiiO’s exclusive DAPS (Digital Audio Purification System) optimizes PCM and DSD signal processing without unwanted resampling, preserving the integrity of the original audio data. This approach ensures faithful reproduction of the artist’s intent, whether from local files or streaming sources.
The S15’s preamplifier function makes it a true audio-video control center. Multiple inputs allow you to centralize all sources: CD player via digital inputs, computer via USB-C, TV via HDMI ARC, and of course all network and local sources. Volume control is handled directly from the touchscreen or the dedicated mobile app.
This centralization greatly simplifies daily use by avoiding multiple remotes and offering a unified interface for all sources. The trigger output automates amplifier power-up, creating a perfectly integrated and user-friendly system.
The large touchscreen transforms interaction with the device, allowing intuitive navigation through music libraries and settings. The customized Android interface remains smooth thanks to the Snapdragon 660 processor, avoiding the slowdowns often seen on other streamers. The FiiO Control mobile app offers an alternative for control via smartphone or tablet.
The included Bluetooth remote features advanced gesture functions, adding a tactile dimension to remote control. This multimodal approach (touchscreen, mobile app, remote) adapts to all usage scenarios and interaction preferences.
Comprehensive and audiophile-grade, the Fiio S15 streamer makes a strong impression with its meticulous design at every level. While not perfect, this device offers a great deal for a reasonable price.
Absolutely. With its multiple inputs (analog and digital), precise volume control, and RCA/XLR outputs, the S15 centralizes all the functions of a modern preamplifier while adding streaming and high-resolution digital conversion capabilities.
FiiO has optimized Android specifically for audio, with a dedicated interface and streamlined processes. The system is remarkably stable for audio use, benefiting from Android’s maturity while avoiding non-essential apps that could disrupt playback.
The S15 targets a more technically demanding audience with its audiophile DAC and linear power supply. Unlike multiroom-oriented solutions, it prioritizes pure audio quality and traditional hi-fi integration, while retaining the ease of use of modern streamers.
The bidirectional function adds remarkable versatility: receive music from a smartphone on the go, but also stream to headphones for nighttime listening without disturbing others. The HD codecs (LDAC, aptX) maintain high quality in both directions.
Panagiotis
Fiio s15 has very good sound. The quality of the equipment is in a very high. The only difficulty I found was to connect with my phone. The problem is a QR code, it was very difficult to recognized by the phone. So I make photo put on the PC and open it on the screen, after that everything was OK. I believe that is the best streamer for that money even and for double price.
Comment from March 04, 2026
Zdenko
As always with FiiO, the hardware is top-notch, the software can’t quite keep up.
The sound is very, very good for streaming.
I listen to Qobuz and Amazon Music with a JDS Element amp and Moondrop Para 2 on the FiiO S15 and I’m thrilled with the sound.
The FiiO Music Player together with a connected 2 TB M.2 NVMe filled with my music collection in FLAC 24-bit/96 kHz is also on a high level.
Unfortunately, you can’t use the EQ in some operating modes (DAC and PureAudio).
FiiO will probably improve this in upcoming updates (I’m currently on version 1.04).
There are plenty of digital and analog IN / OUT connections.
The build quality is very good for this price.
I can recommend FiiO, but only for people with good knowledge of audio devices and strong nerves; otherwise everyday frustration is pre-programmed. But if you want to enjoy very good sound at a still affordable price, it’s worth it.
Comment from November 24, 2025 — Experience from November 13, 2025
Giovanni
The FiiO S15 is a good product, but not easy to understand how it works; for this reason, I have prepared a fairly analytical guide related to the procedure to follow. Of course, it’s not exhaustive, but it includes the fundamental elements that will make usage easier. I advise against using the internal SSD case—connect it externally, optionally fixed on the top with some Blu-Tack. With that premise, the procedure is as follows:
Initial setup FiiO S15 + RM3 pairing
1. Preparation
Set the rear selector to 220V (Italy only)
Connect power to a filtered outlet
Insert any USB, micro SD, SSD. It is recommended to use an external SSD.
2. First power-on
Press the front button and wait for boot
Select language, time zone, Wi‑Fi (recommended)
3. Recommended settings
System: firmware update, date/time, theme
Audio: Headphone Out output (recommended), gain, DAC filter, DSD mode
4. Operating modes
Android Mode: full apps
Pure Music Mode: FiiO Music only
USB DAC Mode: DAC for PC/Mac
→ Mode selectable via BDA switch under the chassis
5. Bluetooth
Settings → Bluetooth → Enable
Wait for the device list
6. RM3 pairing
Insert batteries → hold the power button until the LED flashes
On the S15: press “Pair” → select RM3 → check the box
Enter details (gear icon) → check again
7. Use in Pure Music
Manually access the Bluetooth screen
After pairing, active functions: volume, play/pause, navigation
Final notes
RM3 supports Bluetooth and IR
Make sure the S15’s IR sensor is unobstructed
Bluetooth pairing remains active after reboot.
It is recommended to use the FiiO Music app and optionally a BT keyboard.
Comment from November 06, 2025 — Experience from October 26, 2025
