FiiO DM15 R2R Shows Why CDs Can't Truly Make a Comeback

Streaming prices rise and artists pull music, yet the FiiO DM15 R2R proves that CDs, though nostalgic, aren’t poised for a true revival.

When Streaming Gets Pricey, CDs Catch a Second Glance

As streaming services keep hiking their fees and some musicians retract their albums, suddenly those classic CDs don’t seem like such dinosaurs after all. Unlike vinyl, CD prices have stayed reasonable, and the market is seeing a bloom of players designed to bring out the best in these discs.

One standout newcomer is the FiiO DM15 R2R, the worthy successor to the popular DM13 model—and I’ve got to say, it’s quite a looker.

Sleek Design Meets Upgraded Internals

FiiO crafted the DM15 R2R with a compact aluminum body, topped with a clear cover that lets you watch your CDs spin—a small nostalgia trip wrapped in modern tech. Beyond looks, the internal components got a serious upgrade too, thoughtfully improved based on user feedback from the DM13.

This player isn’t just eye candy; it’s built for serious audio lovers.

Powerhouse Battery and a Signature R2R DAC

Here’s where things get really interesting: the DM15 R2R runs on a high-voltage rechargeable battery promising up to seven hours of playback—solid for a device of this caliber.

Its headline feature? The proprietary R2R DAC (Resistance-to-Resistance digital-to-analog converter) technology that lives up to the name. Unlike common DACs, this resistive ladder matrix delivers a purer, more organic sound—at least according to enthusiasts who swear by it.

Two SGM8262 chips amplify the headphone signal, pumping out up to 315mW per channel at 32 Ohms in desktop mode, and still a robust 220mW in portable mode. In other words: plenty of juice to drive demanding headphones without breaking a sweat.

Versatility That Fits Every Listening Style

Whether you want to spin CDs the old-fashioned way, use the DM15 as a USB DAC for your computer, stream wirelessly via Bluetooth, or hook it up to your Hi-Fi system through optical or coaxial connections, this player adapts effortlessly.

Headphone lovers get two options: a standard 3.5mm jack that doubles as a multi-functional line output, and a balanced 4.4mm connector for those craving the finest audio fidelity.

Bluetooth support covers a broad range of codecs—SBC, aptX, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, and aptX Low Latency—though the much-coveted aptX Lossless is missing here.

Broad Format Support and High-Res Playback

Don’t expect this player to be limited to just your trusty commercial CDs. The DM15 R2R can handle CD-Rs and plays popular audio formats like FLAC, WAV, WMA, AAC, and MP3.

In USB DAC mode, it supports music playback up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM and native DSD256, ensuring crystal-clear, high-resolution sound. The coaxial output pumps out signals up to 24-bit/192kHz, while the optical port handles up to 24-bit/96kHz.

Top-Tier Specs Come With a Price

Impressive as the specs are, they do come with a premium price tag—$269, which is about the cost of a nice dinner for two, or roughly 21,000 in local currency.

You can pick from four stylish body colors, and the first shipments are slated to begin early January. When exactly it will arrive in all markets remains a mystery, but considering vinyl’s soaring prices, CDs with players like the DM15 R2R make a compelling alternative.

"The resistive matrix ensures a sound that feels more natural than that of competing DACs." — Manufacturer’s claim

Why This Player Proves CDs Aren’t Coming Back in Full Force

The FiiO DM15 R2R is an impressive piece of kit, no doubt. It pushes CD playback into the realm of audiophile-grade equipment with features that blend nostalgia and cutting-edge technology. But even with such gear, the reality is clear: CDs remain a niche, not a renaissance.

Streaming still rules for convenience, and vinyl wins the hearts of collectors and audiophiles willing to invest heavily. The FiiO DM15 R2R is proof—CDs can be enjoyed in style, but their comeback will stay modest.

FAQ

• How long does the FiiO DM15 R2R’s battery last?
  Up to seven hours of continuous playback on a single charge.
• What makes the R2R DAC special?
  It uses a resistive ladder matrix design that provides a cleaner, more natural sound compared to standard DAC chips.
• Can the player stream music wirelessly?
  Yes, it supports Bluetooth with codecs including SBC, aptX, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, and aptX Low Latency.
• Which headphone outputs are available?
  Both a 3.5mm standard jack and a 4.4mm balanced output, with the 3.5mm also functioning as a line-out.
• Does it support high-resolution audio files?
  Yes, it plays up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM and native DSD256 in DAC mode, plus various popular formats like FLAC and WAV.

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