FiiO M7 detailed review

In my previous reviews, I covered may FiiO products, and mostly the verdict was, those products are really good, and FiiO knows what they are doing. No exceptions with the FiiO M7. This might seems a verdict from a fan or something, but that’s not the case. But first starts with the unboxing. The presentation is very similar to the previously tested FiiO M3K. Clean, small box which holds a stronger cardboard like FiiO branded box. Inside the box, we find the DAP itself, a Type-C USB cable for charging and data transfer, a ton of paperwork, and a very nice clear silicone case.

The case

I am usually not a case guy, but I have to say, the one which comes in the box is actually a very good one. Gives not much of a bulk of the product, and gives a little bit of grip to it. It will not protect the screen from any scratches so it might be a good option to apply some kind of screen protector before you go into the wild.

Firmware and benefits

After the unboxing, I usually grab the latest Firmware, same as I did with the M3K. The FiiO M7 came with the firmware version 1.02, and if yours come as well, it is highly recommended to do the update. The new 1.03 version, besides the typical bug fixes, gives you the option to playback DSD 128 files. The stock firmware has been able to playback DSD 64 only. Since most store DSD files are DSD 128, it gives so much flexibility to use the full potential of the DAP.

Android-based player

Speaking of firmware, the FiiO M7 uses a striped Android-based operating system. In some terms, this is very good. No bloatware, no useless application, purely audio focus applications and settings. Navigating is fast and fluid, even during playback, which is a huge plus. Some DAPs are simply so slow, it is almost unusable and take so much from the user experience.

Connectivity

Now let’s talk about the audio playback options. the FiiO M7 has a standard 3.5mm audio jack, which is capable to act as a simple line out (LO), and as a power output (PO). Line-Out is mainly used for high load impedance while the power-output used for low one. Sadly no balanced 2.5mm output, those are the higher models exclusive option. Besides the 3.5mm, you have the option to use the Bluetooth connection, with a ton of setting and connections type support. It supports aptX, aptX-HD and Sony developed LDAC. I was not able to test out LDAC, but still adding this option is simply a huge plus! Thumbs up for that FiiO!

Optional settings

If you have in-line control on your IEM or headphones, you have the option to totally get ignored by the DAP. This is such a nice move, to give you the option to set-up your music listening habit by your liking. Same with the built-in controls on the player. You have the option to disable those, when the player in sleep, so you won’t accidentally press it for example during a workout. You can disable those separately, so if you still want to have the option to navigate and skip songs, you have the option, and only ignore for example the volume nob. Thumbs up for that!

Extras

Besides these, the DAP has a built-in FM radio. This is not an audiophile might use, but still, as long as its related to music playback habit it is good to see the option to listen to music like this way as well.

Verdict

Overall FiiO M7 is such a great device, with a full touchscreen control, the option to use with Bluetooth headsets, and a wide variety of file type support.

Grab your FiiO M7 from official sources:

US Store

UK Store

DE Store

FR Store

IT Store

Aliexpress Store

Video REVIEW of the FiiO M7: