FiiO Air Link

FiiO Air Link (Type-C) Bluetooth Transmitter User Manual

Model: Air Link

Brand: FiiO

1. Introduction

The FiiO Air Link is a portable, high-resolution Bluetooth transmitter designed to upgrade your mobile devices or game players with advanced wireless audio capabilities. Featuring the flagship Qualcomm QCC5181 chip and Bluetooth 6.0, it supports high-quality codecs like LDAC and aptX Lossless for an immersive, lossless audio experience. Its compact design, multi-function button, and ability to charge and use simultaneously make it a versatile accessory for wireless audio enthusiasts.

FiiO Air Link Portable High-Res Bluetooth Transmitter with key features listed: LDAC and aptX Lossless transmission, Flagship Qualcomm QCC5181, Bluetooth 6.0, Multi-function button, Charge and use simultaneously, Hi-Res Audio Wireless logo.

Figure 1: FiiO Air Link Product Overview

2. Package Contents

Please check the package contents upon unboxing to ensure all items are present:

  • Type-C protective plug (pre-installed on the Air Link) x 1
  • Air Link (Bluetooth Transmitter) x 1
  • USB-A to C adapter x 1
  • Quick start guide x 1
  • Warranty card x 1
Image showing the FiiO Air Link packaging and its contents: the Air Link device, a USB-A to C adapter, a quick start guide, and a warranty card.

Figure 2: Packing List

3. Product Overview

The FiiO Air Link is designed for portability and performance. It features a robust, minimalist design available in black or silver, with a gold-plated connector for stable and reliable connection. The device includes a multi-function button and an RGB indicator light to keep you informed of its status.

Close-up image of the FiiO Air Link in silver, highlighting its sleek design and gold-plated Type-C connector.

Figure 3: Air Link Design

4. Setup Guide

4.1 Initial Connection

  1. Plug the FiiO Air Link into the Type-C port of your mobile device, game player, or other compatible audio source.
  2. Ensure the device is powered on.

4.2 Pairing with Wireless Headphones

  1. With the Air Link connected to your audio source, press and hold the multi-function button for 3 seconds to enter pairing mode. The indicator light will flash red and blue alternately.
  2. Put your wireless headphones or receiver into pairing mode.
  3. The Air Link will automatically search for and connect to nearby Bluetooth devices. Once connected, the indicator light will show the current codec status.

4.3 Clearing Paired Connections (Factory Reset)

To clear all previously paired connections and perform a factory reset:

  1. Press and hold the multi-function button for 10 seconds.
  2. The device will clear all paired connections and then enter pairing mode (red and blue light flashing alternately).
A hand holding the FiiO Air Link, with a finger positioned over the multi-function button on the side.

Figure 4: Multi-function Button Location

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Bluetooth Connectivity

The FiiO Air Link utilizes Bluetooth 6.0 for stable, high-performance, and long-range connections with minimal power usage. It offers robust anti-interference capabilities for true wireless freedom.

  • Transmission Range: Over 50 meters in open areas, and over 35 meters in areas with obstructions.
Diagram illustrating Bluetooth 6.0 transmission range: 50+ meters in open areas and 35+ meters in areas with obstructions.

Figure 5: Bluetooth 6.0 Transmission Range

5.2 Codec Support and Switching

The Air Link supports a comprehensive range of Qualcomm aptX codecs, including aptX Adaptive, aptX Lossless, aptX HD, aptX Low Latency, as well as LDAC and SBC. AAC transmission is currently not supported.

You can switch between aptX Adaptive and LDAC Bluetooth modes by briefly pressing the multi-function button after a connection is established.

Image showing the FiiO Air Link connected to a device, with text indicating support for LDAC, aptX Adaptive, aptX Lossless, aptX HD, and aptX Low Latency codecs.

Figure 6: Comprehensive aptX Support

5.3 Simultaneous Charging and Use

The independent Type-C female port on the Air Link allows you to charge your connected device (e.g., mobile phone) while simultaneously using the transmitter for lossless audio. This ensures uninterrupted audio enjoyment.

Note:

  • Charging is only compatible with devices that support 5V charging, such as mobile phones.
  • Do not connect a charger while it is also charging high-voltage devices like laptops.
  • Playback will pause and automatically reconnect after charging stops. This is a normal phenomenon.
Image showing the FiiO Air Link connected to a smartphone via its male Type-C plug, with a charging cable connected to the Air Link's female Type-C port, indicating simultaneous charging and use.

Figure 7: Dedicated Type-C Port for Charging

6. App and Web Control

The FiiO Air Link offers flexible control options through both a dedicated app and a web interface, allowing for easy setup and management.

  • FiiO Control App: Use the FiiO Control app to change Bluetooth codecs, update firmware, and manage connections to multiple devices.
    • Android phones/tablets connect to the control app via USB.
    • Apple phones/tablets connect via Bluetooth.
  • Web Interface: The web interface also connects via USB and provides similar control functionalities, including Web-based PEQ settings. Access it through the FiiO official website homepage under Support.
Image showing a desktop computer displaying the FiiO web control interface and a smartphone displaying the FiiO Control app, both managing Bluetooth codec settings.

Figure 8: App and Web Control Interfaces

7. Indicator Lights

The RGB indicator light on the FiiO Air Link provides clear visual feedback on the device's connection status and the currently active Bluetooth codec.

Image of two FiiO Air Link devices (black and silver) with a legend explaining the meaning of different indicator light colors: Pulsing blue for SBC, Pulsing white for LDAC, Pulsing green for aptX Adaptive, Flashing red for Factory reset, Pulsing yellow for aptX HD, Pulsing red for aptX Lossless, Pulsing purple for aptX/aptX LL, Flashing red and blue for Pairing mode, Flashing blue for Reconnecting.

Figure 9: RGB Indicator Light Meanings

Indicator Light Status
Light StatusMeaning
Pulsing blue lightSBC codec active
Pulsing white lightLDAC codec active
Pulsing green lightaptX Adaptive codec active
Pulsing yellow lightaptX HD codec active
Pulsing red lightaptX Lossless codec active
Pulsing purple lightaptX / aptX LL codec active
Red and blue light flashing alternatelyPairing mode
Blue light flashingWaiting for reconnection
Flashing red lightFactory reset initiated

8. Basic Specifications

Below are the technical specifications for the FiiO Air Link:

Table of basic specifications for FiiO Air Link, including Name/Model, Color, Hardware, Weight, Dimensions, Firmware upgrade, Button functions, FiiO Control, Drive-free mode, Bluetooth version, Max supported sampling, Bluetooth multipoint, Bluetooth transmission distance, Type-C male plug function, Type-C female plug function, Rated Input, and Bluetooth codec indicator light status.

Figure 10: Basic Specifications and Dimensions

FiiO Air Link Specifications
FeatureDescription
Name/ModelAIR LINK
ColorBlack/Silver
HardwareQCC5181
WeightAbout 5g
Dimensions34.5mm x 23.5mm x 9.5mm
Firmware UpgradeOTA upgrade/USB upgrade
Button FunctionalitySwitch pairing modes, switch Bluetooth codecs, factory data reset
FiiO Control AppSupported
Drive-free ModeSupported
Bluetooth Version6.0
Maximum Supported Sampling96KHz/24bit
Bluetooth MultipointSupported
Bluetooth Transmission DistanceOpen space: 50m+; With people as obstacles: 35m+
Type-C Male PlugPower supply/Data transmission
Type-C Female PlugCharging
Rated Input5V 1A
Supported Bluetooth CodecsLDAC, aptX Adaptive, aptX Lossless, aptX HD, aptX, aptX LL, SBC

9. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your FiiO Air Link, please refer to the following common solutions:

  • No Audio/Connection Issues:
    • Ensure the Air Link is securely plugged into your audio source's Type-C port.
    • Verify your wireless headphones are in pairing mode and within range.
    • Check the indicator light status (refer to Section 7) to understand the device's current state.
    • Try clearing all paired connections (factory reset, Section 4.3) and re-pairing.
    • Ensure your audio source's volume is turned up.
  • Compatibility with Android TV:
    • The FiiO Air Link is a Bluetooth transmitter. If your TCL Android TV has a Type-C port that outputs audio, the Air Link should be able to connect to it and transmit audio to your wireless headphones. Confirm your TV's Type-C port functionality.
  • Charging Problems:
    • Ensure you are using a 5V charger. The Air Link is not compatible with high-voltage chargers for devices like laptops.
    • If playback pauses during charging, this is normal. It should reconnect automatically after charging stops.

10. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your FiiO Air Link, follow these maintenance guidelines:

  • Cleaning: Gently wipe the device with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
  • Storage: Store the device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and humidity.
  • Firmware Updates: Regularly check the FiiO official website or the FiiO Control app for available firmware updates. Updates can improve performance, add features, or fix bugs. Firmware can be updated via OTA (Over-The-Air) or USB.
  • Avoid Physical Damage: Protect the device from drops, impacts, and excessive force.

11. User Tips

  • For the best audio quality, ensure both your FiiO Air Link and your wireless headphones support the same high-resolution codecs (e.g., LDAC or aptX Lossless).
  • When experiencing connection issues, a quick factory reset (holding the multi-function button for 10 seconds) can often resolve the problem.
  • Utilize the FiiO Control app for advanced settings and to keep your device's firmware up-to-date.

12. Warranty and Support

The FiiO Air Link comes with a warranty. Please refer to the included warranty card for detailed terms and conditions. For technical support, product information, or to download the FiiO Control app, please visit the official FiiO website.