Fiio K17 Desktop DAC and Headphone Amplifier

The Fiio K17 is the flagship of the desktop K series, an all-in-one DAC, headphone amplifier, preamp, and network streamer built around the AKM AK4191EQ modulator and dual AK4499EX current output DACs. A fully discrete class AB amplifier delivers up to 4000mW per channel of balanced power, while gigabit Ethernet, dual band WiFi, and a 3.93 inch touchscreen turn it into a complete hub for wired and streamed listening alike. It is the official successor to the long running K9 Pro ESS.

Type and Technology

The K17 pairs the AK4191EQ digital modulator with two AK4499EX flagship DACs in a fully balanced configuration, feeding a discrete class AB output stage that uses op-amp plus transistor current amplification rather than off the shelf modules. A 64-bit floating point DSP provides a 31-band lossless parametric EQ, and an XMOS XU316 handles USB audio up to 768kHz/32-bit PCM and native DSD512 with full MQA decoding. Network streaming runs over gigabit Ethernet or dual band WiFi with AirPlay support, alongside Bluetooth 5.1 with LDAC and aptX Adaptive.

Sound Character

Dynamic and full bodied, with rich, slightly intimate mids and a presentation that is highly resolving without turning clinical. The discrete output stage gives the K17 effortless drive and a weightier, more musical character than typical module based flagships, and the 31-band PEQ lets you fine tune the balance to your headphones.

Build and Features

The full size chassis carries a 3.93 inch touchscreen, five control knobs, and an included infrared remote, plus app and desktop browser control. Inputs cover three USB-C ports, USB-A local playback from storage drives, coaxial, optical, RCA and 4.4mm balanced line in, Bluetooth, Ethernet, and WiFi. Outputs include 6.35mm, 4.4mm, and XLR4 headphone jacks up front, with RCA and XLR3 balanced line outs plus coaxial and optical outs on the rear. An internal 35W low noise linear power supply and five gain levels complete the package. Explore more desktop DACs and the full Fiio collection at Mimic Audio.

Best For

Listeners who want a single full size unit to serve as DAC, amplifier, preamp, and streamer for an entire headphone setup, including hard to drive planar and high impedance dynamic headphones. If you run a speaker system and do not need headphone outputs, the Fiio S15 Desktop Streaming Receiver covers similar streaming DAC duty for separates.

What's in the Box

• Fiio K17
• AC power cord
• Infrared remote control
• Two USB data cables
• XLR4 plug cover
• Headphone plug adapter
• Spare fuse
• Quick start guide and warranty card

Specifications