This latest DAC builds on the features and connectivity of its K7 sibling but now featuring dual ES9038 Pro DACs, dual THX AAA 788+ amp technology, multiple inputs/outputs and Bluetooth 5.0 with support for multiple codecs including aptX HD and LDAC. ​With full MQA rendering (x8) and native playback of audio files up to 384kHz 32Bit PCM/DSD256. This newcomer can also drive headphones having an impedance of 16 – 600 ohms.

Audio input options now include; stereo RCA, Coaxial, Optical, USB-B, USB-C (side mounted), and balanced 4.4mm. While audio outputs include; 6.35mm single-ended, 4.4mm balanced and 4-pin balanced XLR headphone connections plus stereo unbalanced RCA and balanced XLR line-out.

Features include; dual ESS high-performance 32-Bit HyperStream® II 8-Channel Audio DACs (ES9038 Pro), one for each channel of fully balanced audio, dual-mode clock management technology using its XMOS XUF208 micro-controller, ensuring accurate handling of all digital audio files, up to 32Bit 384kHz PCM / DSD256. Plus dual THX AAA 788+ amp technology to effortlessly drive virtually any headphone impedance. All powered by a linear power supply with 18,800µF of total storage and isolated analog and digital power from no less than eighteen low drop-out voltage regulators. All these features plus the PCB’s partitioned layout helping to reduce noise and crosstalk.

Bluetooth 5.0 is featured using Qualcomm’s QC5124 Bluetooth processor chip that provides easy device pairing supporting the standard resolutions; AAC, SBC and aptX codecs and for hi-res wireless; aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, and LDAC codecs.

Device operation is easy using the front panel controls that include; on/off, volume control and gain selection, three headphone outputs, output and input selection with led display, together with the volume knobs surrounding RGB led’s indicating the active sampling rate and Bluetooth Codec.

Finally, for those with limited desktop space, the FiiO K9 Pro ESS comes with a stand allowing it to be mounted vertically.