FiiO M27 Review: The Ultimate Audiophile Digital Audio Player

The FiiO M27 is here to redefine what’s possible in portable high-resolution audio. This isn’t just another digital audio player—it’s a statement piece that combines uncompromising audio performance with cutting-edge technology and premium craftsmanship.

Design & Build Quality

The FiiO M27 commands attention with its substantial presence. Measuring 157 x 85 x 28mm and weighing between 550-630g depending on your chassis choice (aluminum alloy or titanium), this is a device that means business. It’s not pocket-friendly in the traditional sense—think of it more as a portable desktop component that happens to be movable.

The industrial design is striking, with angular lines that avoid being aggressive while maintaining a distinctive character. The front is dominated by a 6-inch 1080p touchscreen protected by Gorilla Glass, while the rear features a marble-effect glass fiber panel that adds visual interest. FiiO includes a genuine leather case (no vegan option mentioned) that fits snugly around the player.

Build quality is exceptional—the device feels solid, premium, and built to last. The weight and materials immediately communicate that this is no ordinary audio player.

Features & Specifications

FiiO has pulled out all the stops with the M27’s feature set:

Audio Hardware:

• Twin ESS Sabre ES9039 PRO DAC chipsets supporting up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM and DSD512
• Sixth-generation FiiO Digital Audio Purification System with FPGA and dual femtosecond crystal oscillators
• Six-stage fully differential audio circuit with independent channel processing

Processing Power:

• Qualcomm QCS6490 chipset with Snapdragon 770G architecture
• Eight Kryo 670 cores and Adrena 642L GPU
• Qualcomm QCC5181 chipset for Bluetooth connectivity

Connectivity:

• Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless, LDAC, and Auracast support
• Balanced outputs (3.5mm, 4.4mm, 6.3mm)
• Optical and coaxial digital outputs
• Two microSD card slots (up to 2TB each)
• USB-C ports for charging, data transfer, and USB HOST functionality

Battery:

• Massive 9200mAh replaceable battery
• 8+ hours balanced playback, 9+ hours unbalanced
• Desktop charging stand with integrated cooling fan

Software:

• Near-complete Android 13 operating system
• Six functionality modes including Pure Music, USB DAC, AirPlay, and Bluetooth receiving

Sound Quality

The M27 delivers audio performance that justifies its premium positioning. With high-resolution files, the player is nothing short of spectacular—offering exceptional detail resolution, expansive soundstaging, and precise instrument placement. The presentation is coherent and unified, with every element of the recording receiving appropriate attention.

The frequency response is well-balanced across the spectrum, with deep, controlled bass, clear midrange, and extended treble. Dynamic range is impressive, with the player handling both subtle nuances and dramatic shifts with equal aplomb.

However, the M27 is ruthlessly revealing of poor-quality source material. Lower-resolution files (below 16-bit/44.1kHz) are exposed without mercy, sounding thin and lifeless compared to their high-resolution counterparts. This is a player that demands quality content to truly shine.

Usability & Interface

The Android 13-based interface is responsive and familiar, making navigation straightforward. The physical controls are well-implemented, with a prominent volume/power dial on top and dedicated playback controls on the left side.

The six functionality modes add versatility, allowing the M27 to serve as a USB DAC, Bluetooth receiver, digital transport, and more. The desktop charging stand is a thoughtful addition, providing both power and cooling for extended desktop use.

Value & Competition

At $1,799 / £1,499 / AU$2,699, the FiiO M27 sits in premium territory. While it doesn’t offer functionality unavailable from other high-end players, it combines exceptional audio performance with build quality and features that justify its positioning.

The closest competitors include the Astell&Kern A&ultima SP3000T and the Sony NW-WM1ZM2, both of which command similar or higher prices. The M27 holds its own against these established players, offering comparable performance with its own distinctive character.

Should You Buy It?

Buy it if:

• You demand reference-quality audio reproduction
• You have a substantial library of high-resolution audio files
• You want a versatile device that can serve multiple roles in your audio setup
• You appreciate premium build quality and design
• Budget is less of a concern than performance

Don’t buy it if:

• You primarily listen to compressed streaming services
• You need a truly pocket-friendly device
• You’re looking for a more affordable entry into high-end audio
• You prefer warmer, more forgiving sound signatures

Final Verdict

The FiiO M27 is an uncompromising achievement in digital audio player design. It delivers reference-quality sound, exceptional build quality, and versatile functionality in a distinctive package. While its size and price place it in a specific niche, within that niche it stands as one of the most complete and capable options available.

For audiophiles who demand the best and have the content to feed it, the M27 represents a compelling choice that delivers on its premium positioning.

Tags: #FiiO #M27 #DigitalAudioPlayer #HiResAudio #Audiophile #PortableAudio #ESSSabre #Android13 #PremiumAudio #SoundQuality #TechReview #AudioEquipment #MusicPlayer #HighEndAudio #AudioTechnology

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