FiiO QX13 DAC and Headphone Amplifier

Introduction

This document provides instructions and information for the FiiO QX13, a portable DAC and Headphone Amplifier.

Interfaces and Ports

• 3.5mm Single-Ended Headphone / SPDIF Output Port: For connecting single-ended headphones or for SPDIF output.
• 4.4mm Balanced Headphone Output Port: For connecting balanced headphones.
• USB Power Supply/Decoding Port (Type-C): For connecting to audio sources (phones, computers) for decoding and for power supply.
• Side Type-C Port: For charging the device or connecting to a computer for firmware upgrades (USB-OTA).

Button Operation Instructions

The device features several buttons for control:

• Play/Pause Button:
  • Single Press: Play/Pause music, turn screen on/off, mute/unmute audio.
  • Long Press (approx. 2s): Enter/Exit the menu.
• Volume Down Button:
  • Single Press: Decrease volume by one level, switch to previous track, switch menu items.
  • Long Press: Decrease volume continuously, switch to previous track continuously.
• Volume Up Button:
  • Single Press: Increase volume by one level, switch to next track, switch menu items.
  • Long Press: Increase volume continuously, switch to next track continuously.

Main Screen Display Explanation (Example: Theme 2)

The main screen displays various status indicators:

• Current Volume Level: Displays the current volume setting.
• Format/Sampling Rate Display Area: Shows the current audio format and sampling rate (e.g., PCM, 44.1K).
• Current UAC Mode: Indicates the USB Audio Class mode (e.g., "UAC 2.0" or "UAC 1.0").
• Coaxial Output Indicator: Displays when coaxial output is enabled.
• Current Gain: Shows the selected gain level (High/Low).
• Voltage Display: Shows the current voltage.
• Current Display: Shows the current electrical current.
• Desktop Mode Indicator: Displays if the device is in desktop mode.
• EQ Mode Indicator: Shows the status of the Equalizer setting (e.g., EQ: OFF).

Menu Settings

Access the menu by long-pressing the Play/Pause button. Options include:

• Gain: Set High or Low gain.
• Filter: Select from 7 digital filter options.
• Volume Level: Choose between 60 or 120 volume steps.
• Coaxial Output: Enable/disable SPDIF output via the 3.5mm jack. Disable when using analog headphone output.
• Channel Balance: Adjust the balance between left and right audio channels.
• Brightness: Adjust the screen brightness.
• PEQ Mode: Configure the Parametric Equalizer settings.
• Max Volume: Set a maximum volume limit.
• Screen Rotation: Flip the screen display by 180 degrees.
• Screen Timeout: Set the time before the screen turns off.
• Theme: Select the display theme.
• UAC Mode: Choose between USB 2.0 and USB 1.0 modes.
• HID Button: Select button operation mode (A, B, or C).
• Language: Choose between Chinese and English.
• Factory Reset: Restore all settings to default.
• Version: Display the current firmware version.

Pop-up Window Explanations

• "Output Error": Indicates an issue with audio output. Disconnect USB power and headphones, then reconnect to resume.
• "Overheating": Device is too hot. Disconnect power, let it cool, and try again. Consider using Desktop mode in cooler environments.
• "Insufficient Power": The connected USB port provides inadequate power, limiting output.

Decoding Function Explanation

Connect directly to smartphones, tablets, or computers using USB Type-C or Lightning cables.

• Compatibility: Some devices may have compatibility issues due to system/hardware differences. Ensure OTG function is enabled on some phones.
• Computer Connection: Supports driver-free operation on Windows 10+ and macOS. For enhanced experience, install the USB driver from the FiiO website (https://www.fiio.com/Driver_Download) to enable ASIO mode. Ensure "FIIO QX13" is selected as the audio output device on your computer.
• Exclusive USB Audio Access Mode: Volume control may be unavailable on some devices. Adjust volume before wearing headphones.
• Firmware Updates (USB-OTA): Connect via the side Type-C port. Do not disconnect power during the "Updating" phase. Wait for "Update Completed". Refer to https://www.fiio.com/qx13_faq for detailed instructions.

Charging Settings

The QX13 can be configured to charge an external mini power bank (ESTICK) connected to its side Type-C port. To enable this feature:

1. Navigate to "Charging settings" in the menu and enable it.
2. Connect a power adapter to the QX13's *main* Type-C port.
3. Follow the on-screen prompt to select the charging option to complete the process.

Note: This feature only supports charging FiiO ESTICK devices. Do not connect power adapters to both Type-C ports simultaneously to avoid damaging the device.

Notes and Precautions

• Power Consumption: The device is USB-powered and will draw power from connected devices. Use the side power supply port with an adapter to avoid draining your phone/computer battery.
• Heating: It is normal for the device to generate heat due to its high-performance DAC/Amp chips.
• Volume Adjustment: Always adjust volume to a safe level before wearing headphones to protect hearing.
• Headphone Insertion/Removal: Avoid wearing headphones when plugging/unplugging to prevent potential hearing damage from sudden impulse noise.
• Maintenance: Do not attempt to repair or disassemble the device yourself. Keep it away from water.
• Safety: Be aware of your surroundings when using headphones, as they can block external sounds. Avoid using in dangerous environments.

List of Items Included

• QX13 Host
• Type-C to Type-C Data Cable
• Leatherette Case
• Quick Start Guide
• Warranty Card

Learn More: Scan QR codes for video instructions, FAQs, and to download the FIIO Control App. Visit www.fiio.com for more product information.

Environmental Material Description

This section details the presence of hazardous substances in product components, adhering to GB/T 26572-2011 standards. The table indicates the content of Lead (Pb), Mercury (Hg), Cadmium (Cd), Hexavalent Chromium (Cr.VI), Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBB), and Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDE) in various parts like PCB, PCBA solder joints, components, battery, casing, and accessories. The symbol "X" denotes that the content exceeds the limit, while "○" indicates it is within the limit. The "X" symbol is used where technical limitations prevent substitution of hazardous substances.

Environmental Use Period: Products may feature an environmental use period indicator based on Chinese industry standards (SJ/T 11364-2014). Component-specific indicators take precedence.

Specifications

Power Adapter: Use a CCC-certified power adapter that meets standard requirements.

Continuous Improvement: Specifications and design are subject to change without notice.

Compliance Information

WEEE Directive: This product should not be disposed of as household waste. It must be handed over to an applicable collection point for recycling electrical and electronic equipment.

EU Declaration of Conformity: Guangzhou FIIO Electronics Technology Co., Ltd. declares that this device complies with Directive 2014/30/EU. The full text is available at: www.fiio.com/doc. The device bears the CE mark.

FCC Notice: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: reorient or relocate the receiving antenna, increase the separation between the equipment and receiver, connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected, or consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician. The equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment and should be installed and operated with minimum distance 20 cm between the radiator & your body. Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.