Turntables — FiiO TT13 BT

The TT13 BT is a fully automatic belt-drive turntable from FiiO, marking the Chinese manufacturer's debut entry into the record player market alongside a non-Bluetooth standard edition. Unveiled at Munich High End, this model combines the charm of analogue sound with modern technology, positioned similarly to the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USB and AT-LP60XBT but with a distinctly more premium look.

Key specs that matter

Two speeds are supported - 33 1/3 and 45rpm - compatible with both 7-inch and 12-inch records via a toggle switch, with automatic tonearm recognition. The custom brass tonearm with surface-sprayed paint comes pre-fitted with an Audio-Technica AT3600LA cartridge, tracking within the specified 3.5g plus-or-minus 0.5g range. A fully analogue built-in phono preamp uses two JRC5532 high-fidelity op-amps in a two-stage amplification circuit, delivering a line output level up to 800mV at 1kHz 0dB - strong output compared with similar products, letting the TT13 BT connect directly to active speakers without needing a separate outboard phono stage. Bluetooth 5.2 transmission supports aptX, aptX LL (low latency), aptX HD and SBC codecs, letting vinyl stream wirelessly to compatible speakers or headphones. A rear-panel balance adjustment potentiometer compensates for uneven speaker placement or distance from the listening position, a thoughtful touch for active-speaker pairings. The fully automatic mechanism lifts the tonearm, moves it to the record start and begins playing at the press of a button, then automatically returns and stops at the end - or can loop continuously if preferred. Power comes from an integrated switching supply supporting a wide 100-240V AC range, with an optional 12V/1A DC power supply also compatible. At approximately 3850g, the precisely polished aluminium alloy panel offers a luxurious feel and strong interference resistance, with customisable seven-colour LED lighting for the logo and under the platter.

Sound and use context

Expect a brighter, more modern-sounding character than many traditional analogue turntables - one reviewer specifically noted the FiiO sacrifices some warmth and low-end engagement compared with a more conventional design, a tuning choice that may reflect either a genuine Eastern-versus-Western preference or FiiO's own characteristic house sound observed across several of the brand's other products.

Pairing

The built-in phono preamp with strong 800mV output pairs particularly well with active speakers directly, and because the turntable has no variable volume control, it should not be used with a system lacking its own separate volume or preamp stage.

Alternatives

FiiO's standard non-Bluetooth TT13 sits below this model at a modest saving for buyers who don't need wireless streaming, worth considering instead if the BT-specific features and slightly higher price don't add genuine value to a specific listening setup.