FiiO K5Pro ESS Desktop DAC and Headphone Amplifier User Manual

1. Introduction

The FiiO K5Pro ESS is a high-performance desktop Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) and headphone amplifier designed to elevate your audio experience. It features advanced decoding capabilities and a variety of input and output options, making it suitable for home audio systems and PC setups.

Image 1.1: The FiiO K5Pro ESS, highlighting its portable desktop design and key features including 768k/32bit and native DSD512 support, 6.35mm/RCA line outputs, and Coaxial/Optical/RCA line inputs.

2. Safety Information

• Always adjust the volume knob to the minimum level before each listening session, then gradually increase to a comfortable volume.
• Ensure the power supply and input signal cables are connected before plugging in headphones.
• Use high-quality cables to maintain optimal audio performance and prevent signal degradation.
• The K5Pro ESS is a Class II device. It is normal to experience a slight tingling sensation when touching the body in some cases, similar to desktop computers or charging laptops. This is not a safety concern, as the power adapter has passed multiple international safety certifications.
• Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
• Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the device, as this will void the warranty and may cause damage.

3. Package Contents

Please check that all items are present in your package:

• FiiO K5Pro ESS Unit
• Power Adapter
• USB Data Cable
• 6.35mm to 3.5mm Headphone Adapter
• Quick Start Guide

Image 3.1: All components included with the FiiO K5Pro ESS, neatly arranged on a dark surface.

4. Product Overview

4.1 Front Panel

Image 4.1: Labeled diagram of the FiiO K5Pro ESS front panel.

• Input Switch: Selects the audio input source (COAX/OPTICAL IN, LINE IN, USB IN).
• Gain Switch: Adjusts the amplification level (HIGH-10dB, MID-6dB, LOW-0dB).
• Power/Volume Knob: Turns the device on/off and controls the output volume.
• Status Indicator Light Ring: Displays the current sample rate and operational status.
• 6.35mm Headphone Output: Connects to headphones with a 6.35mm jack.

4.2 Rear Panel

Image 4.2: Labeled diagram of the FiiO K5Pro ESS rear panel.

• Coaxial Input: Digital audio input.
• Optical Input: Digital audio input.
• Line Input (RCA): Analog audio input.
• Line Output (RCA): Analog audio output.
• USB Input: Connects to a computer for USB DAC functionality.
• DC Power Input: Connects to the 15V DC power adapter.

4.3 Key Features

• High-performance ES9038PRO DAC and XMOS XUF208 USB decoding chip, supporting up to 768kHz/32Bit and native DSD512.
• Versatile input options: Coaxial, Optical, and RCA line-in.
• Multiple output options: 6.35mm headphone out and RCA line-out.
• Powerful amplification capable of driving both low and high impedance headphones (up to 1.5W into 32Ω, 20Vpp into 300Ω).
• ADC volume adjustment for smooth, precise control without channel imbalances.
• RGB indicator lights to display different sample rates.

5. Setup

5.1 Powering On

To power on the device, turn the Power/Volume knob clockwise. The status indicator light ring will illuminate.

5.2 Connecting Inputs

The K5Pro ESS supports various input sources. Choose the appropriate connection for your audio source:

• USB DAC: Connect a USB cable from your computer to the USB Input port on the rear panel.
• Line Input (RCA): Connect an RCA cable from your analog audio source (e.g., CD player, turntable preamp) to the Line In ports on the rear panel.
• Optical Input: Connect an optical cable from your digital audio source (e.g., TV, game console) to the Optical In port on the rear panel.
• Coaxial Input: Connect a coaxial cable from your digital audio source to the Coaxial In port on the rear panel.

Image 5.1: FiiO K5Pro ESS connected to a computer, demonstrating a typical setup.

5.3 Connecting Outputs

The K5Pro ESS offers both headphone and line-out options:

• 6.35mm Headphone Output: Plug your headphones directly into the 6.35mm jack on the front panel. If your headphones use a 3.5mm jack, use the supplied 6.35mm to 3.5mm adapter.
• RCA Line Output: Connect RCA cables from the Line Out ports on the rear panel to active speakers or an external amplifier. The RCA line-out signal is adjustable up to a maximum of 2Vrms.

5.4 Driver Installation (for PC)

When connecting the K5Pro ESS to a computer via USB, driver installation may be required. Please visit the official FiiO website to download the latest drivers for your operating system.

Video 5.2: This video demonstrates the basic operation and connection procedures for the FiiO K5Pro ESS, including powering on, adjusting volume, selecting inputs, and connecting various audio sources and outputs.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Volume Adjustment

Rotate the large knob on the front panel to adjust the output volume. Turn clockwise to increase volume and counter-clockwise to decrease it.

6.2 Input Selection

Use the Input switch on the front panel to cycle through available audio sources: COAX/OPTICAL IN, LINE IN, and USB IN. The status indicator light ring will change color to reflect the selected input and sample rate.

6.3 Gain Selection

The Gain switch allows you to select between three amplification levels: HIGH (+10dB), MID (+6dB), and LOW (0dB). Choose the gain setting that allows for a comfortable listening volume between the 9 and 3 o'clock positions on the volume knob for your specific headphones.

Image 6.1: The gain switch on the FiiO K5Pro ESS, offering three levels of amplification.

6.4 DSD Format Playback

For DSD format playback when connected to a computer:

• Windows: An example setup using Foobar2000 (v1.3.8) is available on the official FiiO website.
• iOS Devices: Users are required to purchase a music application that supports DSD format, such as Audirvana Plus.

7. Maintenance

• Clean the device regularly with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
• Keep the device away from dust, moisture, and direct heat sources.
• Ensure proper ventilation around the unit to prevent overheating.
• When not in use for extended periods, disconnect the power adapter.

8. Troubleshooting

8.1 General Usage Notes

• Always adjust the volume to minimum before connecting headphones or starting playback.
• Connect power and signal cables before headphones.
• Use high-quality cables to ensure optimal performance.

8.2 Simultaneous Headphone and Line Out

The headphone output and RCA line output can function simultaneously. The line out amplitude is adjustable up to 2Vrms. While suitable for connecting to integrated amplifiers or active speakers, it may not provide sufficient voltage to directly drive a pure power stage amplifier as a pre-amplifier.

8.3 SPDIF Input Priority

If both optical and coaxial SPDIF inputs are connected simultaneously, the coaxial input will take priority.

9. Specifications

9.1 K5 Pro vs. K5 Pro ESS Comparison

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official FiiO website or contact your local FiiO distributor. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.