FiiO just dropped the JM21 at $199 a few months ago, shaking up the crowded digital audio player (DAP) market—because, honestly, we probably didn’t need another DAP. But of course, FiiO, known for making some of the best players out there, isn’t done yet. Now they’re pushing the envelope with the M21, an Android-based music player that raises the bar (and the price) to $329 (£279 / €329), setting a new benchmark for what “higher-end” means in this price-sensitive segment.
There’s still a solid niche for dedicated DAPs, despite the dominance of streaming from smartphones. With the dongle craze finally cooling off—because let’s be honest, nobody enjoys being tethered to a phone—and wireless earbuds and headphones getting better by the minute, it makes sense for FiiO to offer a range of options under $500. Sure, 99% of consumers will probably just stream from their phone and call it a day, but for those who crave better sound quality without sacrificing portability or freedom (or battery life of their smartphone), having more than one choice in this price bracket is a smart move.
Flagship-Level Tech Packed Into a Palm-Sized Player—Because Bigger Isn’t Always Better
FiiO’s M21 packs flagship-grade guts into a surprisingly compact 4.7-inch HD screen, running on a Snapdragon 680 with Android 13—so it’s snappy enough for native apps and streaming without turning into a pocket furnace. With 4GB RAM and 64GB storage (52GB usable) plus microSD expansion up to a whopping 2TB, it’s ready to hoard your entire music empire.
Under the hood, four Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC chips form a matrix setup that keeps crosstalk and noise in check, while a two-stage amplifier pushes voltage then current for a clean, dynamic sound—proof that you don’t need a brick-sized player to get serious audio quality.
Desktop-Mode Power Delivery and Retro Style
The M21’s standout feature is its new Desktop Mode—an industry first for FiiO’s entry-level Android players. Plug it into an external power supply via the secondary USB-C port, and it bypasses its internal battery to crank out a peak voltage of 21 Vpp and 950 mW per channel into 32Ω loads. That’s desktop-class power right in your palm, rivaling many high-end DAC/amps. On battery power alone, it still punches hard with 15 hours on the 3.5mm output and 11.5 hours on balanced 4.4mm—enough juice for even the most dedicated audiophile marathon sessions.
This Desktop Mode also means the M21 isn’t just a portable player—it can easily slot into a high-end hi-fi system as a streaming source. Plus, the updated FiiO Control app gives you smartphone control over settings and advanced PEQ filters, so you’re never far from a finely tuned listening experience.
And for those who like their tech with a side of nostalgia, FiiO throws in a retro cassette-tape-style protective case (sold separately), complete with vintage UI and tactile buttons. It’s the perfect way to go full throwback while enjoying modern audiophile performance.
Specifications:
- DAC Architecture: 4× Cirrus Logic CS43198
- Amplifier: Dual-stage voltage + current amplification
- Outputs: 3.5 mm single-ended, 4.4 mm balanced, SPDIF coaxial, USB audio
- Processor & OS: Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 (6 nm), Android 13
- RAM / Storage: 4 GB RAM / 64 GB internal storage + microSD slot (up to 2 TB)
- Display: 4.7‑inch IPS HD touchscreen
- Battery: 4,000 mAh capacity; 15 hours single-ended playback / 11.5 hours balanced playback; 20 W Power Delivery charging
- Desktop Mode Output: 21 Vpp, 950 mW @ 32 Ω
- Bluetooth: Version 5.0 with LDAC, LHDC, aptX HD, SBC codecs
- MQA Support: Yes
- Size & Weight: Approximately 68 × 121 × 17 mm; ~193 grams
- Materials: Aluminum body with AG-frosted glass back
- Wi-Fi: Dual-band 2.4 GHz / 5 GHz support
- Streaming Support: DLNA, AirPlay, WiFi song transfer
- Roon Ready: Yes, compatible with Roon for high-res streaming and library management
The Bottom Line
The FiiO M21 stands out for delivering flagship-level tech—quad DAC architecture, powerful dual-stage amplification, and a unique desktop mode that cranks output to near high-end desktop levels. With a sleek 4.7-inch HD touchscreen, expandable storage up to 2TB, and modern wireless features like dual-band Wi-Fi and Roon Ready, it’s built for both serious audiophiles and everyday listeners craving flexibility. All this for just $329 makes the M21 a standout choice in a crowded market where most DAPs either break the bank or settle for less.
For more information: fiio.com/m21
Where to buy: $329.99 at Amazon
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GordM
June 15, 2025 at 9:55 pm
I snapped up a JM21 when they were released with no regrets. I have a rather excellent M11 Plus which is much more featured but it’s bulky and heavy so I reserve it for winter walkabouts. The JM21 is light, compact and fits in my pants pocket, making it my summer go-to. SOunds quite good as well. FiiO is a very competitive brand, to say the least.
Ian White
June 16, 2025 at 12:55 am
Gord,
FiiO makes quality DAPs. Solid value compared to Astell&Kern.
IW