I rarely post comments, this is an excellent video, nice to know high end car audio still lives in Canada (Toronto Guy here), I've long abandoned the hobby to focus more on home audio due to the poor scene here, i.e. bad shops and bad installers furthermore the issue of actually playing files is too often overlooked, case in point with 99% of all DAP reviews pertaining to headphones....source is critical, subscribed! well done!
Thanks for the kind words! I was exactly like you as I got out of the scene for quite a few years because of a few bad experiences I had with mediocre installers. I waited 5 months for custom fibreglass tweeter pods for my old Focal Utopia’s and once they were finally done, they cracked within two weeks. I then like yourself just focused on home audio/theatre until about seven years ago when i got back into it. I’m not going to lie I miss the 80’s, 90’s when car audio was at its peak! SQ isn’t that popular anymore as it’s mainly SPL these days. I test a lot of different devices so I figured I would do some videos on them but it’s purely subjective! No audio science here, just my ears lol
Hi Dave✊🏻. First off all, THANKS A LOT FOR YOUR OVERALL VIDEOS!! Ist a pleasure and Great HELP nowedays to find real Test Resultat from components insteaf of „commercial benefit tests“🙌🏻👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼. Can I asked you, if you are Running analog out of the m17, are you using the 3.5 mm PO or LO setting to it? Kind regards from the Dutch Guy from Dresden, Germany.
I have used every output on the M17 but when I originally bought it I set my gains based on the PO output. You have to really watch it when it comes to its output voltage as in my case I have a Helix DSP Ultra and it will only accept up to 8 volts on the low level inputs. For most people I would just suggest using the coaxial digital output as it sounds excellent! If your DSP has differential balanced inputs like Helix DSP Ultra then you can run balanced but what I found was the output voltage was too high for my DSP so it would clip the inputs at higher volumes but sounded great at lower to mid levels. I don’t talk about it on the videos much as you have to buy a combination of cables and I don’t want to be responsible for people braking their DSP’s. 😆
Forgive me if I missed this in the other questions. Which is the analog cable that you are using to plug into you DSP? Also, the analog cable plugs into the M17 in the line out & plugs into where on your DSP? Which input is it going into? Thanks for your videos, advice, time, & help.
First of all, ist such a pleasure to have your channel as a independent source to get REAL reviews with honest info how something really is!!!🙌🙌🙌 I also looked every video concerning the M17, which I purchased after I saw your videos of it, and have a burning question about it if its ok to asked here. I have a Helix DSP Pro MK3 in my car and I want to connect the M17 in the Enhanched over ear Headphone, Analog, PO. As know, your Ultra has the 8 Volt input sensitivity, my DSP Pro MK3 4 Volt.. Is it still possible to connect the M17 if my Installer, (Alexander Maier from Speakercity in Germany., one of the best in Germany!) sets the gains properly? Or should I change to a Ultra to get the best SQ in my car by going analog out of the M17 because the difference in input sensitivity is also a important factor to SQ? My system consists of the following components: Audi A6 Avant 2024 Model, M17 Head unit, 1 x Helix c-four(Brax ML1 and ML3), 1 x Helix C-four(bridged, Helix Compose Ci7 200), Steg K2.04(Bridged, JL12w7AE Fortissimo BP), Helix DSP Pro MK3, extra Power(2 Capaciter, 2 x extra Battery…) and off course good cables of Audioquest😉. Please Help!!! I am looking forward to see what you recommend! Greetz from Gemany!
Hi Dave, This review of the FIIO M17 is incredibly insightful! Currently, I'm utilizing the M11ESS in my car, pulling coaxial output from my digital audio player (DAP) to my digital signal processor (DSP). Considering an upgrade to the M17, I'm intrigued by the Enhanced Over Ear Headphone Mode (EOHM). However, I have one lingering question: Does EOHM function properly with coaxial connections? And, if so, how does its performance compare to the normal mode when using coaxial? Your expertise would be greatly appreciated in clarifying this aspect.
Thanks, the over the ear headphone mode is only for the analog outputs and you would want to use a linear power supply with the M17 to get zero noise when using the analog outputs. The coaxial outputs still sounds great but you only want to go with an M17 if your system is installed and tuned properly. FiiO is supposed to be bringing out the M27 late this year and it will replace the M17 so we will see if it’s worth the upgrade
@@CarAudioHorizons Appreciate the swift reply! I'm currently utilizing professionaly tuned Audison Forza DSP, which exclusively supports Digital Input via Coaxial. However, it's great that it can stream 24-bit 96 kHz via Bluetooth and up to 24-bit 192 kHz via Coaxial or Optical through Toslink. Since you've highlighted the M27 as the next step, I reckon it's wise to hold out for it.
Hello Mate! Thanks a lot for your Great Videos. I also buyed the m17 playing with a Helix Psix Ultimate for the Front hights and mids, a Ptwo for the front lows and a Pone mk2 for the Subs. At this Moment, the M17 runs coax into the Psix. As you advised, I want to use it with the over the head enchaned mode 3.5 > rca into the P six by analog in.. is there something i should know or change about the input sensitivity? And isnt it bad to go from DA(M17)>AD(Psix) >DA(Speaker)? You know what I mein? Thanks a Lot for your answers in advance. Kind regards, a big Dutch fan of Yours from Dresden Germany
I'm looking to buy the m23 also. The last music player I had was the Zune player. I understand these fiio dap have better dac chip now. My question is how those Dap compared to a smartphone in terms of music quality? I mainly want to use it in my vehicle which already have a decent sounds system. Honestly I'm not sure if this would be a worthy investment.
Depending on what DAP you get it blows away a phone. It also depends on how you’re hooking it up as the best I have heard a phone sound is through an SMSL PO 100 Pro through coaxial digital.
Hey, thank you sir! Yes I mentioned it in the video that I have HD Tracks and Acoustic Sounds Hi Res downloaded music as well as ripped CD’s. I also downloaded the Music from Apple Music and Tidal. I have used pretty much all the streaming apps but stick with the two i mentioned above.
I use the Miracase vent mount and the link is in the description. Yes, it handles the weight easily as I have been using it since a month before this Review.
Thanks for the detailed review! Do you know if this can play music videos on TH-cam Music? Since TH-cam Music doesn’t offer lossless, many high end DAPs (including my current one) don’t support the app or its APK, but I still love using it for music videos since the video distracts me from the drop in quality anyway
You can but then you’re just getting just under 2.0 volts standard and almost 4 volts balanced. You’re not getting max power going line out. That being said you have to be careful on how much voltage your M17 is putting out as your DSP might not take it. I have a Helix DSP Ultra and it will take up to 8 volts on the analog inputs. There are a lot of different ways to run this DAP and every system will be different as every system has different components. So it will never be the same and most people won’t know how to set it up properly in a system anyways. Thats why most just stick to coaxial digital out.
Hi Dave, as you already know, I saw your video yesterday. It was a brilliant review and very instructive. Thank you my friend for a fantastic edition which was worth the wait.🙏🙏💞
Thanks, yesterday’s video was backwards lol so I had to redo it and then upload it again. My older video I did last week I believe was better but for whatever reason TH-cam wouldn’t let me upload it. Probably a good thing since it was over two hours. Lol
@@CarAudioHorizonsHi Dave,Yes I saw it, the review was backwards but no big deal. your video is incredible and very detailed. According to your review, I wish I could buy M17 but at the moment I can not so I have to motivate myself and be friend with the LTD version, my wife does not allow me to purchase any kind of electronics at the moment.😢
@@CarAudioHorizons Hi Dave thank you for your reply much appreciated sir, yes I am sure all Fiio products are excellent but I think the M17 is unique and it has overtaken the AK2000. Fiio has seriously managed to invent high quality DAPs and other brands should watch out. Of course, I would love to own the "big beast" I guess you spend many hours enjoying your high definition music with a smile on your face.😎
I just found other videos and now subbed lol. First yime seeing someone doing alot of videos on this device. I will check them out and see if some questions will answered through them. Also I saw a video about Tidal not working and I use Tidal and sometimes the MQA. Is the MQA issue on just trying to listen through headphones or something else? Also, was it ever fixed?
Hi Sarah, thanks much appreciated! The Tidal issue was only playing MQA tracks through the coaxial digital output. The MQA tracks work fine through all the other outputs on the Fiio M17.
@@17shakil Yes, check out my review on it, if you haven’t already. Also I believe I have the link to the vent holder I use for it in my vehicle as it was the only one I could find that could handle the weight of the FiiO M17
I haven’t heard the M15s but the M17 is their flagship until later this year so it might be with waiting to see what they replace the M17 with. I wasn’t impressed with the M11s as it was extremely bright sounding and out of its coaxial digital output sounded far worse than the original M11. The M23 comes out next month and I will be reviewing that so will see how that stacks up compared to the M11 Plus LTD and M11 Plus which it will be replacing as if it’s good then chances are their new Flagship will be good.
I watched ur other review on the m23 seems like the 17 is still the winner here huh ? I was loving my m11 plus till I lost it so now I’m debating if I should get the 17 or just get the m11 again . I use it for my car sound system .
Awesome video. Saw the reverse version lol. i just bought an iBasso DX240 to dip my toes into DAP’s. Gonna run mine digital coaxial to my helix DSP Ultra which will be mated to 2 helix c fours, 1 helix c one. And i will have full audiofrog 3 ways up front and coax in rear. Should be killer
That’s a great system! Let me know how that Ibasso DX240 is, as there was no stock available here when I was looking at them. The only ones I could find were on Amazon in the US but you had to buy the headphones with it, which I didn’t want. But I have heard that it’s an excellent DAP and you should definitely be happy with it!
I have a Toyota Corolla with a regular factory stereo. I have a usb port and an aux port. I just bought the M17. What is the best way to connect this so I get hires audio?
@@pauldoyle8986 Like I said in the video just use the 3.5 output to auxiliary. I have no clue what deck you have or it’s voltage it will except just be careful on the volume on the M17 as you don’t want to fry the auxiliary input.
@@CarAudioHorizons Good..i think im gonna buy me a fiio m11 plus.. i have alpine helo ilx903d connected with rca cable to my helix dsp3s but i dont like the dac on that alpine.. and there is no digital output in that alpine h.u Dit you you use a normal rca cable with a 3.5 adapter for your analog connection ?
Not sure, but if it’s anything like the M11s I would go with the Hiby R6 Pro 2 as it has more updated specs and features. The only decent thing about the M15 is the DAC other than that it’s 2019/20 Tech. Fiio has been going downhill since the M17 which was their last decent DAP
Hi Dave, I got M17 togather with Helix v12 mk2. I bought an inverter running through Ciggie plug-in. However, I am getting loud static noise when I plug in the power adapter to get enhanced mode. I already bought 2 inverters and they both of the same issue, did you have the same issue, if so, how did you resolve it ? Many thanks in advance
I don’t use an inverter, I found a linear power supply works the best if you don’t want noise when using the analog outputs. The PL50 is what I eventually used but I have a plug in outlet in my vehicle which I show in my other video.
@@CarAudioHorizons is the plug in outlet come with the car ? Or did you need to buy separately? Would you mind to share which video you are referring to ? Many thanks Dave !
Hello everyone, I am a Taiwanese viewer. I want to buy FIIO M15S to connect Helix MK2, but M15S does not have coaxial output, what do you think is the best way?
It has coaxial output but you need the adapter. You use to be able to buy them on Aliexpress but I haven’t seen them on there for a while. Not the ones that use to come with the other Fiio DAP’s anyways. You might have to get one custom made.
@@CarAudioHorizons Thanks for your reply. I found that the 3.5mm and digital coaxial of the m15s share the same window, so they can be used directly. In addition, I also have a Qu02, which can be transferred to the dsp using the usb digital interface. At that time, I can try two connection methods, one is DAP direct digital coaxial connection to DSP, the other is DAP connection USB digital interface to QU02, coaxial to DSP. In fact, I have now used mobile phone uapp to digitally connect the QU02 coaxial to the dsp, but strictly speaking I want better and hope that the dap can bring more surprises
Hi, just a quick question, is there any difference with the sound in your car with the Helix DSP via Digital coax output, between M17 and M11 Plus? Or are they the same?
Yes, there is a difference with all the DAP’s using the coaxial digital output or anything that has a coaxial digital out for that matter. I have had the Fiio M11, the M11 Plus LTD, and now the M17 and they all sound totally different, not even close to the same sound signature. I always get a kick out of people that say digital is digital and it doesn’t make any difference if you have a product that’s $30 or a product that’s $5,000 if it’s the source and has coaxial digital out, or toslink out it will sound the same. These people have obviously never tested anything before. There’s a difference in every single device I have ever tested out of the digital outputs and trust me I have tested a lot of products. Most of which I never made videos of in the past.
@@CarAudioHorizons Thank you for this wonderful reply. Yes some people say that it doesnt make any difference since the DSP will only get data from the DAP via Digital Coax Output and that the DSP will be the one tuned for the output of the sound on the speakers. Nice video reviews for the the M11 Plus and M17 DAPs especially for us that has a audio system inside the car and will be using DAP as our source of music.
@@APISODESTV I have seen so many people from different forums say if it’s digital there will be zero difference into the Helix DSP. Guys like Skizer off of DYI Mobile Audio. Most people say he is one of the most knowledgeable guys on that forum. Then I even heard Peter from PSSound say the same thing in one of his videos. I said what I said here on his video but he never commented back, and he always commented back when I said something on his other videos. So that’s two extremely knowledgeable guys that are both 💯% incorrect. I mean Peter still runs the old FiiO X7ii. I forgot to mention I also had the Fiio X5iii and it sounded different as well out of the coaxial digital output. So that’s four different DAP’s on the same exact system and all different sound signatures.
@@CarAudioHorizons I see and I also think it is different. Since the output with different DACs in DAPs, even if its digital, will still be different. Out of all the DAPs that you have used in your DSP via Digital Coax, which can you recommend? Im choosing between M17 or the AK SP2000T
@@APISODESTV I haven’t heard the AKSP2000T in a vehicle but if you’re going with Astell & Kern they have a new flagship DAP that’s going to be announced soon I have heard. Any hi end DAP is going to sound great but not all of them will be as flexible as the FiiO M17 having the Enhanced Mode and the Coaxial Digital output. It also has the best DAC’s out right now and it’s a great price for what you get. For me personally I like the bigger screen at almost 6 inches and it’s got Android 10 so you can download any apps you want on it. Sound quality is excellent in the car and through headphones.
Good afternoon, please compare the sound of Fiio M 17 with Astell&Kern Kann Max. I have a Kann Max and was thinking of buying a Fiio M17 but will I get any sound benefits. Please help.
This really isn’t in the same price range as the Astell & Kern Kann Max is quite a bit cheaper. When the new FiiO M15s comes out in the Fall that would be on the same price level. The M17 is going to be quite a bit better all around as it has the better DAC’s and components than the Kann and better and bigger screen etc… The only Astell & Kern DAP’s that you would compare the Fiio M17 with regards to sound quality would be the SP2000 & SP2000T
I liked the Astell & Kern SP2000 sound quality wise but never got a chance to hear it in my vehicle only through headphones. I preferred it over the SP2000T. I never really liked the kann series for sound quality, I just found that they were more for just powering most of the headphones out there, not really for SQ but I haven’t heard the new one.
Can I ask this Fiio M17 does this compare to iBasso DX320, I want to use in my Jeep with Helix DSP MK3 Pro, with Audison Thesis setup. would I be ok with ibasso or I should get rid of it and go with M17, I like when you add the power adapter and it enhance the signal, I am looking for best signal as possible the equipment is superior, getting the right signal would make more promissing. Please respond as they are going to tune soon.
Honestly, if you already have the Ibasso DX320 then just stick with it. Any flagship DAP will give you excellent results as long as the install and tune is done right.
The only Helix amps/DSP I have heard in vehicles are the C Four, C One, P Six MK2, P Two, P One, V Eight, M Six DSP. I have heard everything on the board though, but that’s not the same. Helix makes great products but they’re not cheap lol. They have quite a few more products coming out this year. The C Fours are excellent!!
@@CarAudioHorizons thank I really appreciate your input,,cause remember in one of your vids you said you heard alot of different sq setups,,I'm thinking I'm gonna go with the helix pro mk 10 channel dsp what's the difference between this an the helix ultra
@@kcemery7406 They have the new version on that coming out this year so you might want to hold off. The ultra just has better sound quality compared to the old Pro. It will be interesting to see what the new Helix DSP Pro MK3 sounds like.
You can just download the music apps Apple Music, Tidal, Amazon HD etc… from google store. USB Audio Player Pro is just an App that lets you have bit perfect playback via an Android unit via USB for Android phones, there is no need for it if using a Fiio DAP. That being said some people prefer the app.
@@taranagnew436 You can use it on anything but it’s purpose is android devices that don’t provide bit perfect music out of the USB. The Fiio DAP’s all provide bit perfect out of all outputs
Do you know when Tidal or Apple Music update will be integrated with Fiio Pure Music Mode? Also will it be like a download first thing or just take what the app is playing at the moment and just priotize it using the fiio pure music mode? I am not too techy on music so if my words sound about a bit weird that is why, been learning about the music because the pandemic brought me back into it. Also, what would you say are good settings to have on the fiio pure music mode or just android one? If you can, I would love a video on that or questions that could asked about the fiio m17 since there alot of stuff new people like me who would like to know about always. Also, I think I know the good settings on the android, but just seeing what you prefer or maybe another way yo explain it. Thanks for reading this paragraph if you do lol.
I haven’t heard anything yet on Tidal or Apple Music integration into the Fiio for pure music mode. As for settings I primarily use my Fiio M17 in my car and I have a Helix DSP Ultra that handles all the EQ/Parametric setting’s. I will do more videos on the M17 in the future for sure.
@@CarAudioHorizons Thanks I will just wait and see. I will respond back one more to this comment since I forgot to add, "my bad" another creator who has reviewed Fiio M17 found something that could be added to make I think better output to increase the sound quality. Sadly one of the two things added has been sold out and I have not much clue where to see to get another since it's small business from Japan. I would love a video on this just thanks again for all the help here and will leave you be after this lol. Will add it as a second comment.
@@CarAudioHorizons Currawong Fiio M17 video 22:30. Has two links in description of that video. If your able to figureout another place to find them or just the one sold out, would be amazing. Also if you already know about this I would love a video on how it works since I still pretty new. Thanks again and now to leave you be lol.😅
@@sarahgomez9727 He is just referring to a linear power supply which you can buy several different brands on Amazon. ifi makes them along with other companies.
@@MrRes1cue I have heard them in other peoples vehicles before and they don’t sound as good as either optical or coaxial digital. You can also do a search on DYI Mobile Audio and everyone on there you will see that they all say coaxial digital sounds the best which it does for digital inputs. Saying something does 384kHz doesn’t mean much as you can buy cheap audio products that do that and sound terrible. Also the highest sample rate the Helix DSP Ultra can do is 96 kHz and the Brax 192 kHz. I would never take advice from Moon Audio the guys that read a teleprompter for there videos and all the Best products are what they sell 😆
@@MrRes1cue Yes, I know what it does but that will get down sampled as like I said above the Helix DSP Ultra MAX output sample rate is 96 kHz. Don’t get confused with input Vs output with regards to sampling rate. I can guarantee you that if you bought a DAP that has coaxial digital output and you buy the Helix USB Hec module and compare them you will be upset at yourself for wasting the money on the Hec module. There are a lot of misinformed people online that never test anything and just go from what some other person says online. There are also Scientific data from Audio Scientists 😆 that claim that certain things have better specs but when you listen to them they don’t sound as good. Amir from Audio Science Review has talked about USB audio as well as others but unfortunately testing a product for noise, jitter etc… will never tell you how something sounds. His Hidizs S8 he raves about was one of the worst products I had ever heard with all kinds of issues.
Hi, thank you for the review, I am going to get this DAP until I came across another review that, the DAP can not use the android mode when using the coaxial output. I mainly will be using this set up in my car using music apps with coaxial cable. Could you please kindly confirm that I can’t use the set up with the M17. Thank you 🙏🙏🙏
Just curious before I give you the answer. Where is your coaxial digital audio cord going into? Also what Apps are you planning on using? And final question did you watch the video?
@@CarAudioHorizons hi, thank you for your reply, it will be coaxial cable to my Helix DSP ultra, and I will be using the Tidal and Apple Music mainly. I watched your video and thought it was fine, but then watched the other guy and he said no, so I’m really confused. Thank you 🙏😅
Does the colour changing function for quality also work with e.g. tidal or just in the internal fiio music app? Because mine stays blue, eventuell in tidal mqa titles?
The video was messed up so I had to re upload it, four times. I had major issues with it all last week and had to redo the video multiple times. Finally it’s up!
Hey David, another question about the m11 plus. i added a sd card to expand my Tidal downloaded storage. I can’t seem to make it work and shows that i am still out of storage. does the extra sd card add to the memory or just for moving files from a pc
Great detailed review. Your passion and love for quality sounds always shine through your reviews. I have the M11 Ess version. Where did you get your car vent holder for your heavy M17?
Hi I watching your m17 review and wondering if maybe you can help me with a problem having with my m17. I have a tunes library with all my music including a large cd collection that I burned to iTunes. My problem is although I was able to copy the iTunes library to the Fiio music app I have not been able to load the it on to the m17 . I have been through the instructions several times I jus think I’m doing something wrong
@@CarAudioHorizons I updated it about 5 days ago. So Yes I have the latest update . Im also thinking it may be something off with the setting I might not have done probably. I must admit I am not a very tech savvy person
Well it came out quite a while ago. Does everything great but on older music 60’s, 70’s, and some 80’s the highs can be a bit bright. Everything else is stellar.
I rarely post comments, this is an excellent video,
nice to know high end car audio still lives in
Canada (Toronto Guy here), I've long abandoned the hobby
to focus more on home audio due to the poor scene here,
i.e. bad shops and bad installers
furthermore the issue of actually playing files is too often overlooked,
case in point with 99% of all DAP reviews pertaining to
headphones....source is critical, subscribed!
well done!
Thanks for the kind words! I was exactly like you as I got out of the scene for quite a few years because of a few bad experiences I had with mediocre installers. I waited 5 months for custom fibreglass tweeter pods for my old Focal Utopia’s and once they were finally done, they cracked within two weeks. I then like yourself just focused on home audio/theatre until about seven years ago when i got back into it.
I’m not going to lie I miss the 80’s, 90’s when car audio was at its peak! SQ isn’t that popular anymore as it’s mainly SPL these days.
I test a lot of different devices so I figured I would do some videos on them but it’s purely subjective! No audio science here, just my ears lol
true but just listen to your usual audio first
Hi Dave✊🏻. First off all, THANKS A LOT FOR YOUR OVERALL VIDEOS!! Ist a pleasure and Great HELP nowedays to find real Test Resultat from components insteaf of „commercial benefit tests“🙌🏻👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼. Can I asked you, if you are Running analog out of the m17, are you using the 3.5 mm PO or LO setting to it? Kind regards from the Dutch Guy from Dresden, Germany.
I have used every output on the M17 but when I originally bought it I set my gains based on the PO output. You have to really watch it when it comes to its output voltage as in my case I have a Helix DSP Ultra and it will only accept up to 8 volts on the low level inputs. For most people I would just suggest using the coaxial digital output as it sounds excellent! If your DSP has differential balanced inputs like Helix DSP Ultra then you can run balanced but what I found was the output voltage was too high for my DSP so it would clip the inputs at higher volumes but sounded great at lower to mid levels. I don’t talk about it on the videos much as you have to buy a combination of cables and I don’t want to be responsible for people braking their DSP’s. 😆
Forgive me if I missed this in the other questions. Which is the analog cable that you are using to plug into you DSP? Also, the analog cable plugs into the M17 in the line out & plugs into where on your DSP? Which input is it going into? Thanks for your videos, advice, time, & help.
First of all, ist such a pleasure to have your channel as a independent source to get REAL reviews with honest info how something really is!!!🙌🙌🙌
I also looked every video concerning the M17, which I purchased after I saw your videos of it, and have a burning question about it if its ok to asked here. I have a Helix DSP Pro MK3 in my car and I want to connect the M17 in the Enhanched over ear Headphone, Analog, PO. As know, your Ultra has the 8 Volt input sensitivity, my DSP Pro MK3 4 Volt.. Is it still possible to connect the M17 if my Installer, (Alexander Maier from Speakercity in Germany., one of the best in Germany!) sets the gains properly? Or should I change to a Ultra to get the best SQ in my car by going analog out of the M17 because the difference in input sensitivity is also a important factor to SQ?
My system consists of the following components: Audi A6 Avant 2024 Model, M17 Head unit, 1 x Helix c-four(Brax ML1 and ML3), 1 x Helix C-four(bridged, Helix Compose Ci7 200), Steg K2.04(Bridged, JL12w7AE Fortissimo BP), Helix DSP Pro MK3, extra Power(2 Capaciter, 2 x extra Battery…) and off course good cables of Audioquest😉.
Please Help!!! I am looking forward to see what you recommend! Greetz from Gemany!
One of the best DAP’s on the market!!! 🔥 🔥
Yes, it’s most definitely one of the top flagship DAP’s for sure
Hi Dave, This review of the FIIO M17 is incredibly insightful! Currently, I'm utilizing the M11ESS in my car, pulling coaxial output from my digital audio player (DAP) to my digital signal processor (DSP). Considering an upgrade to the M17, I'm intrigued by the Enhanced Over Ear Headphone Mode (EOHM). However, I have one lingering question: Does EOHM function properly with coaxial connections? And, if so, how does its performance compare to the normal mode when using coaxial? Your expertise would be greatly appreciated in clarifying this aspect.
Thanks, the over the ear headphone mode is only for the analog outputs and you would want to use a linear power supply with the M17 to get zero noise when using the analog outputs. The coaxial outputs still sounds great but you only want to go with an M17 if your system is installed and tuned properly. FiiO is supposed to be bringing out the M27 late this year and it will replace the M17 so we will see if it’s worth the upgrade
@@CarAudioHorizons Appreciate the swift reply! I'm currently utilizing professionaly tuned Audison Forza DSP, which exclusively supports Digital Input via Coaxial. However, it's great that it can stream 24-bit 96 kHz via Bluetooth and up to 24-bit 192 kHz via Coaxial or Optical through Toslink. Since you've highlighted the M27 as the next step, I reckon it's wise to hold out for it.
@MohanSingh1978 Yes, will see what the specs and price are on the M27 as hopefully it’s an improvement on the top end
Hello Mate! Thanks a lot for your Great Videos. I also buyed the m17 playing with a Helix Psix Ultimate for the Front hights and mids, a Ptwo for the front lows and a Pone mk2 for the Subs. At this Moment, the M17 runs coax into the Psix. As you advised, I want to use it with the over the head enchaned mode 3.5 > rca into the P six by analog in.. is there something i should know or change about the input sensitivity? And isnt it bad to go from DA(M17)>AD(Psix) >DA(Speaker)? You know what I mein? Thanks a Lot for your answers in advance. Kind regards, a big Dutch fan of Yours from Dresden Germany
I'm looking to buy the m23 also. The last music player I had was the Zune player. I understand these fiio dap have better dac chip now. My question is how those Dap compared to a smartphone in terms of music quality? I mainly want to use it in my vehicle which already have a decent sounds system. Honestly I'm not sure if this would be a worthy investment.
Depending on what DAP you get it blows away a phone. It also depends on how you’re hooking it up as the best I have heard a phone sound is through an SMSL PO 100 Pro through coaxial digital.
@@CarAudioHorizons thanks for sharing. Was planning to get the fiio m23 using usb connection to my vehicle.
Question would you stay with the Astell & Kern max or upgrade to this unit? Thank you for your response
For me I would wait unit the next batch of DAP’s since you just bought the Astell & Kern player.
@@CarAudioHorizons thank you I appreciate your response! Happy New Year
Hi. Great video on m17. I’ve just got mine yesterday & it’s really awesome. Just wondering where do you get your hi-res songs, music Thanks.
Hey, thank you sir! Yes I mentioned it in the video that I have HD Tracks and Acoustic Sounds Hi Res downloaded music as well as ripped CD’s. I also downloaded the Music from Apple Music and Tidal.
I have used pretty much all the streaming apps but stick with the two i mentioned above.
@@CarAudioHorizons Awesome! Cheers. Keep up the great videos 👍
@@a.t.2698 Thanks, hopefully I’ll get a hold of the FiiO M11s soon for review. Enjoy your M17!
@@CarAudioHorizons Cool! Btw, in m17’s Lowpass Filter Mode, which one do you use?
@@a.t.2698 I just stuck with the default option after trying them. I didn’t hear much of a difference
What car mount are you using there and is it holding up against the quite heavy device?
I use the Miracase vent mount and the link is in the description.
Yes, it handles the weight easily as I have been using it since a month before this Review.
Thanks for the detailed review! Do you know if this can play music videos on TH-cam Music? Since TH-cam Music doesn’t offer lossless, many high end DAPs (including my current one) don’t support the app or its APK, but I still love using it for music videos since the video distracts me from the drop in quality anyway
Thanks, all the new FiiO DAP’s have google play store so you can download whatever apps you want.
TH-cam Music works, I have an M17
Why dont you use line Output from headphones out, to your aux ? That will provide maximum power
You can but then you’re just getting just under 2.0 volts standard and almost 4 volts balanced. You’re not getting max power going line out.
That being said you have to be careful on how much voltage your M17 is putting out as your DSP might not take it. I have a Helix DSP Ultra and it will take up to 8 volts on the analog inputs.
There are a lot of different ways to run this DAP and every system will be different as every system has different components. So it will never be the same and most people won’t know how to set it up properly in a system anyways. Thats why most just stick to coaxial digital out.
Many thanks for the reply @@CarAudioHorizons
Hi Dave, as you already know, I saw your video yesterday. It was a brilliant review and very instructive. Thank you my friend for a fantastic edition which was worth the wait.🙏🙏💞
Thanks, yesterday’s video was backwards lol so I had to redo it and then upload it again. My older video I did last week I believe was better but for whatever reason TH-cam wouldn’t let me upload it. Probably a good thing since it was over two hours. Lol
@@CarAudioHorizonsHi Dave,Yes I saw it, the review was backwards but no big deal. your video is incredible and very detailed. According to your review, I wish I could buy M17 but at the moment I can not so I have to motivate myself and be friend with the LTD version, my wife does not allow me to purchase any kind of electronics at the moment.😢
@@high16200 The Fiio M11 Plus is an excellent DAP and you can’t go wrong with any of the new FiiO products. The M11s and M15s are coming soon as well
@@CarAudioHorizons Hi Dave thank you for your reply much appreciated sir, yes I am sure all Fiio products are excellent but I think the M17 is unique and it has overtaken the AK2000. Fiio has seriously managed to invent high quality DAPs and other brands should watch out. Of course, I would love to own the "big beast" I guess you spend many hours enjoying your high definition music with a smile on your face.😎
I just got my m17 today...will test it...costed me 111500 rupees...1usd equal to 83 rupees..Enjoy and God bless all
Enjoy the FiiO M17 as it’s a beast of a DAP!
I just found other videos and now subbed lol. First yime seeing someone doing alot of videos on this device. I will check them out and see if some questions will answered through them. Also I saw a video about Tidal not working and I use Tidal and sometimes the MQA. Is the MQA issue on just trying to listen through headphones or something else? Also, was it ever fixed?
Hi Sarah, thanks much appreciated! The Tidal issue was only playing MQA tracks through the coaxial digital output. The MQA tracks work fine through all the other outputs on the Fiio M17.
@@CarAudioHorizons Thanks for an insaine quick response.
great run down! I'm waiting for my M17 to arrive. would you mind sharing your car audio setup?
Thanks, here is an older video where I’ll talk about my system. A couple things have changed since then.
th-cam.com/video/LgPpydecHLE/w-d-xo.html
i am using fiio m11 pluss with helix dsp ultra ....Thinking to buy m17 my question is will there be any sound difference in car?
Oh yes, the M17 is their flagship and their best sounding DAP by far
@@CarAudioHorizons thanks a lot that dap looks monster
@@17shakil Yes, check out my review on it, if you haven’t already. Also I believe I have the link to the vent holder I use for it in my vehicle as it was the only one I could find that could handle the weight of the FiiO M17
M15s vs this one “m17” on sound quality . Is it worth spending that extra 700?
I haven’t heard the M15s but the M17 is their flagship until later this year so it might be with waiting to see what they replace the M17 with.
I wasn’t impressed with the M11s as it was extremely bright sounding and out of its coaxial digital output sounded far worse than the original M11.
The M23 comes out next month and I will be reviewing that so will see how that stacks up compared to the M11 Plus LTD and M11 Plus which it will be replacing as if it’s good then chances are their new Flagship will be good.
I watched ur other review on the m23 seems like the 17 is still the winner here huh ? I was loving my m11 plus till I lost it so now I’m debating if I should get the 17 or just get the m11 again . I use it for my car sound system .
Awesome video. Saw the reverse version lol. i just bought an iBasso DX240 to dip my toes into DAP’s. Gonna run mine digital coaxial to my helix DSP Ultra which will be mated to 2 helix c fours, 1 helix c one. And i will have full audiofrog 3 ways up front and coax in rear. Should be killer
That’s a great system! Let me know how that Ibasso DX240 is, as there was no stock available here when I was looking at them. The only ones I could find were on Amazon in the US but you had to buy the headphones with it, which I didn’t want. But I have heard that it’s an excellent DAP and you should definitely be happy with it!
I have a Toyota Corolla with a regular factory stereo. I have a usb port and an aux port. I just bought the M17. What is the best way to connect this so I get hires audio?
@@pauldoyle8986 Like I said in the video just use the 3.5 output to auxiliary. I have no clue what deck you have or it’s voltage it will except just be careful on the volume on the M17 as you don’t want to fry the auxiliary input.
@@CarAudioHorizons thanks for your help!
You need a helix dsp now 😆
Good video my friend..
So that analog output is the winner.. its also cheaper.. because a good coax is not cheap
They both sound great and really close but I like the analog output slightly more.
@@CarAudioHorizons
Good..i think im gonna buy me a fiio m11 plus.. i have alpine helo ilx903d connected with rca cable to my helix dsp3s but i dont like the dac on that alpine.. and there is no digital output in that alpine h.u
Dit you you use a normal rca cable with a 3.5 adapter for your analog connection ?
@@Leysner77 Mine are listed in the description as I have a few
Hey , the m15s is good?
Not sure, but if it’s anything like the M11s I would go with the Hiby R6 Pro 2 as it has more updated specs and features. The only decent thing about the M15 is the DAC other than that it’s 2019/20 Tech. Fiio has been going downhill since the M17 which was their last decent DAP
Hi Dave, I got M17 togather with Helix v12 mk2. I bought an inverter running through Ciggie plug-in. However, I am getting loud static noise when I plug in the power adapter to get enhanced mode. I already bought 2 inverters and they both of the same issue, did you have the same issue, if so, how did you resolve it ? Many thanks in advance
I don’t use an inverter, I found a linear power supply works the best if you don’t want noise when using the analog outputs. The PL50 is what I eventually used but I have a plug in outlet in my vehicle which I show in my other video.
@@CarAudioHorizons is the plug in outlet come with the car ? Or did you need to buy separately? Would you mind to share which video you are referring to ? Many thanks Dave !
@@antoniochan8495 Here is the link th-cam.com/video/_f-n0rV2JY4/w-d-xo.htmlsi=oydjqkXZS-wATwJ2
😮 insane 😮
Hello everyone, I am a Taiwanese viewer. I want to buy FIIO M15S to connect Helix MK2, but M15S does not have coaxial output, what do you think is the best way?
It has coaxial output but you need the adapter. You use to be able to buy them on Aliexpress but I haven’t seen them on there for a while. Not the ones that use to come with the other Fiio DAP’s anyways.
You might have to get one custom made.
@@CarAudioHorizons Thanks for your reply. I found that the 3.5mm and digital coaxial of the m15s share the same window, so they can be used directly. In addition, I also have a Qu02, which can be transferred to the dsp using the usb digital interface. At that time, I can try two connection methods, one is DAP direct digital coaxial connection to DSP, the other is DAP connection USB digital interface to QU02, coaxial to DSP. In fact, I have now used mobile phone uapp to digitally connect the QU02 coaxial to the dsp, but strictly speaking I want better and hope that the dap can bring more surprises
@@EV-YUN Going coaxial digital from the FiiO DAP directly to the DSP is by far the better sound. Don’t go to the USB as it’s inferior
@@CarAudioHorizons Thank you very much for your answer. How to use linear power supply when the car only has DC power supply?
@@EV-YUN A Linear power supply is for when you’re using the analog outputs not coaxial digital audio output. I used one on the M17 and it worked fine.
Hi, just a quick question, is there any difference with the sound in your car with the Helix DSP via Digital
coax output, between M17 and M11 Plus? Or are they the same?
Yes, there is a difference with all the DAP’s using the coaxial digital output or anything that has a coaxial digital out for that matter.
I have had the Fiio M11, the M11 Plus LTD, and now the M17 and they all sound totally different, not even close to the same sound signature.
I always get a kick out of people that say digital is digital and it doesn’t make any difference if you have a product that’s $30 or a product that’s $5,000 if it’s the source and has coaxial digital out, or toslink out it will sound the same. These people have obviously never tested anything before.
There’s a difference in every single device I have ever tested out of the digital outputs and trust me I have tested a lot of products. Most of which I never made videos of in the past.
@@CarAudioHorizons Thank you for this wonderful reply. Yes some people say that it doesnt make any difference since the DSP will only get data from the DAP via Digital Coax Output and that the DSP will be the one tuned for the output of the sound on the speakers.
Nice video reviews for the the M11 Plus and M17 DAPs especially for us that has a audio system inside the car and will be using DAP as our source of music.
@@APISODESTV I have seen so many people from different forums say if it’s digital there will be zero difference into the Helix DSP. Guys like Skizer off of DYI Mobile Audio. Most people say he is one of the most knowledgeable guys on that forum. Then I even heard Peter from PSSound say the same thing in one of his videos. I said what I said here on his video but he never commented back, and he always commented back when I said something on his other videos.
So that’s two extremely knowledgeable guys that are both 💯% incorrect. I mean Peter still runs the old FiiO X7ii. I forgot to mention I also had the Fiio X5iii and it sounded different as well out of the coaxial digital output. So that’s four different DAP’s on the same exact system and all different sound signatures.
@@CarAudioHorizons I see and I also think it is different. Since the output with different DACs in DAPs, even if its digital, will still be different.
Out of all the DAPs that you have used in your DSP via Digital Coax, which can you recommend? Im choosing between M17 or the AK SP2000T
@@APISODESTV I haven’t heard the AKSP2000T in a vehicle but if you’re going with Astell & Kern they have a new flagship DAP that’s going to be announced soon I have heard.
Any hi end DAP is going to sound great but not all of them will be as flexible as the FiiO M17 having the Enhanced Mode and the Coaxial Digital output. It also has the best DAC’s out right now and it’s a great price for what you get.
For me personally I like the bigger screen at almost 6 inches and it’s got Android 10 so you can download any apps you want on it. Sound quality is excellent in the car and through headphones.
Didn't know I even wanted a dap until now!
I personally won’t ever go back to an aftermarket head unit ever again.
since it can play most 'phone usages', its more preferable
Good afternoon, please compare the sound of Fiio M 17 with Astell&Kern Kann Max. I have a Kann Max and was thinking of buying a Fiio M17 but will I get any sound benefits. Please help.
If you have not yet tried Kann Max, I recommend it, it is already a step forward in relation to this series of models.
This really isn’t in the same price range as the Astell & Kern Kann Max is quite a bit cheaper. When the new FiiO M15s comes out in the Fall that would be on the same price level. The M17 is going to be quite a bit better all around as it has the better DAC’s and components than the Kann and better and bigger screen etc… The only Astell & Kern DAP’s that you would compare the Fiio M17 with regards to sound quality would be the SP2000 & SP2000T
I liked the Astell & Kern SP2000 sound quality wise but never got a chance to hear it in my vehicle only through headphones. I preferred it over the SP2000T. I never really liked the kann series for sound quality, I just found that they were more for just powering most of the headphones out there, not really for SQ but I haven’t heard the new one.
tbh those a12t range are really diminishing returns, they all sound fantastic and scale really well to sources
Can I ask this Fiio M17 does this compare to iBasso DX320, I want to use in my Jeep with Helix DSP MK3 Pro, with Audison Thesis setup. would I be ok with ibasso or I should get rid of it and go with M17, I like when you add the power adapter and it enhance the signal, I am looking for best signal as possible the equipment is superior, getting the right signal would make more promissing. Please respond as they are going to tune soon.
Honestly, if you already have the Ibasso DX320 then just stick with it. Any flagship DAP will give you excellent results as long as the install and tune is done right.
@@CarAudioHorizons I really appreciate your fast responds; Kudo's man.
@@1crenshaw488 Good luck with your install! 👍
很詳細的說明喔，讚 !😀
Thanks you sir 🙏
Have you ever heard the helix C Four amp ? If so what do you think about it
The only Helix amps/DSP I have heard in vehicles are the C Four, C One, P Six MK2, P Two, P One, V Eight, M Six DSP. I have heard everything on the board though, but that’s not the same. Helix makes great products but they’re not cheap lol. They have quite a few more products coming out this year. The C Fours are excellent!!
@@CarAudioHorizons thank I really appreciate your input,,cause remember in one of your vids you said you heard alot of different sq setups,,I'm thinking I'm gonna go with the helix pro mk 10 channel dsp what's the difference between this an the helix ultra
@@kcemery7406 They have the new version on that coming out this year so you might want to hold off. The ultra just has better sound quality compared to the old Pro. It will be interesting to see what the new Helix DSP Pro MK3 sounds like.
i see that you have apple music on there, how do you install the app/sdk onto the dap, what's USB Audio player pro do?
whenever the new versions of the m11 & m15 come out, can you do a review on those?
You can just download the music apps Apple Music, Tidal, Amazon HD etc… from google store.
USB Audio Player Pro is just an App that lets you have bit perfect playback via an Android unit via USB for Android phones, there is no need for it if using a Fiio DAP. That being said some people prefer the app.
@@taranagnew436 Yes, I will definitely bring doing reviews on those as I’m especially looking forward to hearing the M11s!
@@CarAudioHorizons so the usb Audio player is used on devices that's not dap's i.e phones,tablets, exe?
@@taranagnew436 You can use it on anything but it’s purpose is android devices that don’t provide bit perfect music out of the USB. The Fiio DAP’s all provide bit perfect out of all outputs
Do you know when Tidal or Apple Music update will be integrated with Fiio Pure Music Mode? Also will it be like a download first thing or just take what the app is playing at the moment and just priotize it using the fiio pure music mode? I am not too techy on music so if my words sound about a bit weird that is why, been learning about the music because the pandemic brought me back into it. Also, what would you say are good settings to have on the fiio pure music mode or just android one? If you can, I would love a video on that or questions that could asked about the fiio m17 since there alot of stuff new people like me who would like to know about always. Also, I think I know the good settings on the android, but just seeing what you prefer or maybe another way yo explain it. Thanks for reading this paragraph if you do lol.
I haven’t heard anything yet on Tidal or Apple Music integration into the Fiio for pure music mode. As for settings I primarily use my Fiio M17 in my car and I have a Helix DSP Ultra that handles all the EQ/Parametric setting’s. I will do more videos on the M17 in the future for sure.
@@CarAudioHorizons Thanks I will just wait and see. I will respond back one more to this comment since I forgot to add, "my bad" another creator who has reviewed Fiio M17 found something that could be added to make I think better output to increase the sound quality. Sadly one of the two things added has been sold out and I have not much clue where to see to get another since it's small business from Japan. I would love a video on this just thanks again for all the help here and will leave you be after this lol. Will add it as a second comment.
@@CarAudioHorizons Currawong Fiio M17 video 22:30. Has two links in description of that video. If your able to figureout another place to find them or just the one sold out, would be amazing. Also if you already know about this I would love a video on how it works since I still pretty new. Thanks again and now to leave you be lol.😅
@@sarahgomez9727 He is just referring to a linear power supply which you can buy several different brands on Amazon. ifi makes them along with other companies.
@@CarAudioHorizons I will check them out thanks. Have wonderful day.
Did you test the USB direct from the FIIO to the DSP Ultra into USB HEC?
No I don’t have the Hec module as it’s not as good as optical or coaxial digital so it was pointless to get it installed
I was told the exact opposite by the guys at Moon Audio. Optical limited to 96khz, usb can do 192khz and has less jitter than digital coax.
@@MrRes1cue I have heard them in other peoples vehicles before and they don’t sound as good as either optical or coaxial digital. You can also do a search on DYI Mobile Audio and everyone on there you will see that they all say coaxial digital sounds the best which it does for digital inputs.
Saying something does 384kHz doesn’t mean much as you can buy cheap audio products that do that and sound terrible.
Also the highest sample rate the Helix DSP Ultra can do is 96 kHz and the Brax 192 kHz.
I would never take advice from Moon Audio the guys that read a teleprompter for there videos and all the Best products are what they sell 😆
If you share your email I will send you a link to some test info I found on usb vs digital coax vs optical.
@@MrRes1cue Yes, I know what it does but that will get down sampled as like I said above the Helix DSP Ultra MAX output sample rate is 96 kHz.
Don’t get confused with input Vs output with regards to sampling rate.
I can guarantee you that if you bought a DAP that has coaxial digital output and you buy the Helix USB Hec module and compare them you will be upset at yourself for wasting the money on the Hec module.
There are a lot of misinformed people online that never test anything and just go from what some other person says online. There are also Scientific data from Audio Scientists 😆 that claim that certain things have better specs but when you listen to them they don’t sound as good. Amir from Audio Science Review has talked about USB audio as well as others but unfortunately testing a product for noise, jitter etc… will never tell you how something sounds. His Hidizs S8 he raves about was one of the worst products I had ever heard with all kinds of issues.
Right. 👍
Hi, thank you for the review, I am going to get this DAP until I came across another review that, the DAP can not use the android mode when using the coaxial output. I mainly will be using this set up in my car using music apps with coaxial cable. Could you please kindly confirm that I can’t use the set up with the M17. Thank you 🙏🙏🙏
Just curious before I give you the answer. Where is your coaxial digital audio cord going into? Also what Apps are you planning on using? And final question did you watch the video?
@@CarAudioHorizons hi, thank you for your reply, it will be coaxial cable to my Helix DSP ultra, and I will be using the Tidal and Apple Music mainly. I watched your video and thought it was fine, but then watched the other guy and he said no, so I’m really confused. Thank you 🙏😅
@@jdmc1vic Who’s the other guy?
@@CarAudioHorizons Z review
@@jdmc1vic I don’t remember Z review saying anything about Android Auto in his review. In fact he doesn’t say much about anything in his reviews 😆
Does the colour changing function for quality also work with e.g. tidal or just in the internal fiio music app?
Because mine stays blue, eventuell in tidal mqa titles?
Did you breach copyright on your other review video earlier?
The video was messed up so I had to re upload it, four times. I had major issues with it all last week and had to redo the video multiple times. Finally it’s up!
Hey David,
another question about the m11 plus. i added a sd card to expand my Tidal downloaded storage. I can’t seem to make it work and shows that i am still out of storage.
does the extra sd card add to the memory or just for moving files from a pc
Did you add the download destination on Tidal to Memory card? Make sure you didn’t select internal for that.
@@CarAudioHorizons always got the answers. was looking in the wrong settings. thanks again
Great detailed review. Your passion and love for quality sounds always shine through your reviews. I have the M11 Ess version. Where did you get your car vent holder for your heavy M17?
Thank You Sir! I have a video coming out in about two days with all the info and link. 👍
Thank you for replying, I can't wait to watch it.
Such a beautiful device. I want one, but can't afford it.😔
Yes, it’s my favourite DAP and sounds so good with my system! FiiO is supposed to have the M11s come out this month so will see how that sounds.
@@CarAudioHorizons I'll be looking forward to it.👍
Hi I watching your m17 review and wondering if maybe you can help me with a problem having with my m17.
I have a tunes library with all my music including a large cd collection that I burned to iTunes.
My problem is although I was able to copy the iTunes library to the Fiio music app I have not been able to load the it on to the m17 .
I have been through the instructions several times I jus think I’m doing something wrong
Once you loaded the music I take it you scanned the music?
For me I have always used JRiver Media Center for transferring music to my FiiO DAP’s.
@@CarAudioHorizons thanks for your response.
yes but the scan always comes up with no music
@@eaonarnold2893 I assume you have the most updated M17 software update? What are you using to transfer your music to the M17?
@@CarAudioHorizons I updated it about 5 days ago.
So Yes I have the latest update .
Im also thinking it may be something off with the setting I might not have done probably.
I must admit I am not a very tech savvy person
@@eaonarnold2893 You can also use the WiFi music transfer th-cam.com/video/uhZJk6a8r_g/w-d-xo.html
I have used this as well and it’s pretty easy.
Nice 1
have several issue and report them to FiiO support. several emails sent, No Answer.
Issues regarding what?
is not it?😁
Well it came out quite a while ago. Does everything great but on older music 60’s, 70’s, and some 80’s the highs can be a bit bright. Everything else is stellar.