CD / SACD players and transports — FiiO DM15 R2R

The DM15 R2R is a portable CD player from FiiO, built around the brand's self-developed fully-differential, four-channel 24-bit R2R resistor-ladder DAC. Representing a significant step up from the entry-level DM13, this model targets the continued thirst for retro-inspired audio products with a more premium build, upgraded DAC architecture, and a considerably expanded control suite.

Key specs that matter

The custom R2R DAC uses 192 precision thin-film resistors - 48 per channel across four channels - rated at 0.1% accuracy with low temperature drift, converting digital values into analogue voltages through a resistor ladder rather than a conventional delta-sigma architecture. Headphone output reaches up to 1150mW (1.15W) via the balanced 4.4mm jack, alongside a 3.5mm single-ended output; line outputs include a 3.5mm three-in-one line-out/coaxial/optical connector and a separate 4.4mm balanced line-out. USB DAC mode supports PCM up to 384kHz/32-bit and native DSD256. Bluetooth transmission uses a Qualcomm QCC3095 chip supporting SBC, aptX, aptX HD and aptX Adaptive codecs, letting the player wirelessly stream to Bluetooth headphones or speakers from both CD and USB sources. CD ripping is built in - connect a USB drive and the DM15 captures WAV files while simultaneously playing audio, letting a listener archive a collection while listening. Three "Magic Bass" modes and 8 built-in EQ presets offer genuine tone-shaping flexibility, alongside a Desktop Mode that bypasses the battery for extended stationary use. A 4700mAh, 3.85V high-voltage lithium battery delivers roughly 7 hours of playback, with PD3.0 fast charging replenishing the battery in about 2 hours. At 144 x 137 x 25.5mm and 471.5g, the all-aluminium-alloy chassis features a transparent tempered-glass lid for watching the disc spin, alongside a tempered-glass front panel, available in black, white, red or silver.

Sound and use context

Expect a relatively smooth, analogue-sounding presentation with powerful, dense low end and full-bodied vocals - reviewers specifically noted the DM15 R2R even drives the notoriously difficult-to-power Sennheiser HD 600 headphones successfully, with the R2R DAC's characteristic warmth and texture setting it apart from more clinical delta-sigma competitors at a similar price.

Pairing

The dual balanced and single-ended headphone outputs alongside coaxial and optical digital outputs give genuine flexibility connecting to headphones, powered speakers or an external amplifier, and remote-control operation lets a listener skip tracks or switch output modes without approaching the unit directly when it's feeding a separate system.

Alternatives

Shanling's competing EC Zero AKM and R2R-equipped Zero T, along with Moondrop's DiscDream 2 Ultra, sit within the same revived portable CD player category, worth comparing directly if a different DAC architecture or design aesthetic better suits a specific buyer's priorities.