*This review is based on the review of the first version on Hidizs AP80 Pro with the additional findings, highlights and details of the PRO-X successor.

For the last few years I’ve been observing how Hidizs has developed from a small domestic single-product company to the international and respected portable HiFi gear brand. My experience covers each single piece of their audio technology: AP100, AP200, AP60, AP60Pro, AP80 DAPs, all IEMs, cable DAC converters, stand alone DAC, etc. Can’t state that all of those had flawless performance but none has fallen short of expectations in terms of audio quality. Still love my old AP100 and still use AP80 as the most convenient one. Furthermore, Hidizs was the first to utilize HiBy OS with its excellent HiBy link option which has become a golden standard for various current DAPs from other brands.

Today I would like to review Hidizs latest incarnation of very popular AP80 DAP series — AP80 PRO-X. There were couple of revisions of AP80 in the past, mostly dedicated to physical user experience, but AP80 PRO-X inherits the best features of its predecessor (AP80 PRO) and makes a huge leap of completely different nature — Pro version brings balanced circuit with the additional 2.5mm audio output and more power to drive higher loads…

Hidizs AP80 PRO-X technical data (differences / advantages over the previous AP80 PRO are in bold):

• CPU: Ingenic X1000
• DAC: Dual ES9219C
• Decoding: DSD64/128/256, PCM 384kHz/32Bit
• MQA: 8X
• Output: Single-ended 3.5mm / Balanced 2.5mm
  • Single-ended Output: 70mW + 70mW @ 32Ω
    • Frequency Response: 20-90kHz
    • Total Harmonic Distortion+Noise: 0.0015% (1kHz)
    • Dynamic Range: 115dB
    • Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 119dB
    • Channel Separation: 110dB (1kHz, A-weight, Rated Output)
  • Balanced Headphone Output: 190mW + 190mW @ 32Ω
    • Frequency Response: 20-90kHz
    • Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise: 0.0015% (1kHz)
    • Dynamic Range: 116dB
    • Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 120dB
    • Channel Separation: 117dB (1kHz, A-weight, Rated Output)
• Recommended Headphone Impedance Range 8-200Ω (Recommended value)
• FM: NO
• Pedometer Sensor: KX126
• FPGA DSD: HBC3000
• Operating System: HiBy OS 3.0
• Bluetooth: Bidirectional Bluetooth 4.2, support aptX, LDAC, UAT
• USB Port: Type-C, supports bidirectional USB DAC
• Remote Operation: HiBy Link
• Display: Samsung 2.45″ (480×360) IPS HD Touchscreen
• Housing: Aluminium alloy CNC
• Rear Cover Material: stereoscopic glass
• Volume Knob: Japanese ALPS
• Buttons 3 physical: play/pause, previous track, next track
• Maximum Storage Expansion: 512GB with MicroSD
• Battery: 800mAh 3.7V Li-Polymer Battery
• Work time: PO interface: 8-11 hours runtime, LO interface: 6-8 hours runtime (depends on actual usage)
• Standby: 40 days (depends on actual usage)
• Charging Time: ~ 1 hour (5V, 2A)
• Net Weight: 72g

Going through new specs it is clear that the main change between AP80 PRO and PRO-X are next gen dual DACs (much better channel separation figures, less battery consumption in running and standby modes), better MQA support (8X unfold instead of 4X). Power output has not changed – 190mW per channel on BAL output.

It also happens so that I currently have both versions of this player and would be able to compare their musical and functional performance with similar IEMs.

10% discount for any item at Hidizs store using our promocode: ZMCR10

Packaging and design:

Many visual changes in that part. The box stayed similarly cute and small but it is now more appealing from a glance since containing glossy product graphics, more trademarks and initial information imprints. The insides are similarly well protected and neatly packed.

First goes soft podium that holds AP80 PRO-X, the rest of accessories in their boxes rest underneath. Here you would find:

• AP80 PRO-X DAP with front and back screen guards pre-applied
• USB type-C -> USB A cable
• USB type-C -> microUSB cable
• 2 additional front and back screen guarding film
• couple of leaflets
• short user manual

In contrary to its predecessor, there is no silicon case this time. I am not too upset since I wasn’t very happy with the case quality but I wounder why has Hidizs removed it from this bundle… Perhaps the new design has its own consequences…

More appealing and significant changes found in AP80 PRO-X housing design compared to its previous version: it got even more complicated and definitely consumes even more CNC machine time. Right side edge acquired additional curves and edges that visually lead us to the main element – ALPS volume encoder. It now sits pretty tight, with no apparent rattle or free play. I would say that AP80 PRO-X design is now over complicated for such portable device and starts to remind about A&K shapes.

Left edge displays carries “designed for Hidizs” text which probably means that Hidizs has turned to a new, more advanced design company, which has managed to keep familiar look, bringing some fresh details at the same time. The rest of its virtues remained the same — beautifully looking back covered with stereoscopic glass, intuitive controls, shiny flanges, comfortable physical buttons with tangible clicks.

Screen size and performance didn’t change at all. It is the same 2.45″ IPS  touchscreen with more than enough resolution and sensitivity for this type of a product. It behaves perfectly, has wide viewing angles and enough brightness to interact with it outside, even in the bright light environment.

Performance and UI:

AP80 PRO-X is based on HiBy OS 3.0 and Ingenic X1000 CPU. This combination stays unchanged since the initial release of AP80 DAP and still demonstrates smooth behavior of the user interface. First scan is very fast even with 128GB cards full of different format tracks, all operations are quite snappy.

Seen couple of interface freezes when scrolling through large list of songs but 99% of other interactions are naturally responsive. Haven’t spotted any FW glitches with the latest 1.0 FW version, neither found any severe bugs or translation errors among function list. If you are using any smarpthones based on iOS or Android — you’d feel like being home. Each feature or program is represented by a separate icon.

All general device and audio settings are gathered in Settings Menu, whereas all deep and more precise audio preferences like EQ and filters are located only in HiBy Music application. By the way, HiBy Music looks very similar to its versions for other platforms. No surprises here.  It also features such function as HiBy Link that allows you to control this DAP from a smartphone.

Menu structure:

• Main screen apps:
  • Player
  • Step counter
  • Bluetooth
  • Book
  • System settings
  • About
• System settings:
  • Language
  • Database update (Auto|Manual)
  • Brightness (1-100% slider)
  • Backlight time (stay on or 10 — 120 sec)
  • Color theme (ON|OFF, pattern selection, slider selection)
  • Font size (small|middle|big)
  • USB mode (Storage, Audio, Dock)
  • Button operation when screen is OFF (ON/OFF)
  • Time settings (date, format, time)
  • Idle timer (OFF, 1-10min)
  • Sleep timer (OFF, 5-120min)
  • Battery percentage display (ON|OFF)
  • Standby (ON|OFF)
  • InLine remote (ON|OFF)
  • Recording steps (ON|OFF)
  • Lock volume knob (ON|OFF)
  • Screensaver (OFF|Album cover|Dynamic cover)
  • Restore defaults
  • FW update
• Bluetooth
  • ON|OFF
  • Device Name
  • HiBy Link (ON|OFF)
    • High Quality (SBC, aptX, UAT 600k, 900k, 1,2M, Prefer LDAC, LDAC standard, LDAC quality priority)
  • Bluetooth volume adjust
  • Search devices
  • Paired devices
  • Available devices
• HibyMusic settings:
  • Update database
  • MSEB
  • EQ
  • Play settings:
    • Play mode (through list, loop single, shuffle, loop list)
    • DSD output mode (PCM, DoP, Native)
    • DSD gain compensation (0-6)
    • Resume play (none, track, position)
    • Gapless play (ON|OFF)
    • Soundfield (ON|OFF, -1 — 3)
    • Max volume
    • Power On volume (Memory, 0-100)
    • Crossfade (ON|OFF)
    • Gain (LOW|HIGH)
    • ReplayGain (none, by track, by album)
    • Balance
    • Antialiasing filter (LPFR, LPSR, MPFR, MPSR, AFR, ASR, CMPFR, BW)
    • Play through folders (ON|OFF)
    • Play through albums (ON|OFF)
• Drop down PLAY NOW menu:
  • List now playing
  • Add to playlist
  • EQ
  • View album
  • Properties
  • Delete
• PLAY NOW screen options:
  • PLAY|PAUSE
  • Seek slider
  • NEXT|PREVIOUS TRACK
  • PLAY MODE (shuffle, loop, etc)
  • Menu
  • Add to favorite
  • Show Lyrics
• Swipe UP menu:
  • Bluetooth (ON/OFF)
  • GAIN (LOW/HIGH)
  • USB (DRIVE/DAC)
  • LineOUT Mode
  • Swipe to adjust backlight
  • Swipe to adjust volume
  • Play widget (previous / next track, play/pause, artist and song title)

Should say that the pedometer function was not reliable in AP80 PRO-X, don’t see much changes with the AP80 PRO. My Amazfit GTR2 watches show more steps for the similar period. Therefore, I wouldn’t use this function too much. The rest are working as it should.

In order to update FW: we have to download FW from Hidizs website, unpack it and place update.upt file to the root of SD card. Than run FW update from System menu. It would take about a minute to get it done.

One of the most convenient function of HiBy OS — HiBy Link — that allows  full remote control over HiBy Music player from a smartphone works great. Album covers, song list, play mode, volume — all major functions can be controlled from a smartphone. Love this function that makes AP80 home audio integration and remote control in such user case very convenient.

USB DAC:

I always check this function and spending some time watching live or recorded concerts on Youtube or other platforms. Short audio lag and good driver is what I would chase in this test.

USB DAC mode works perfectly either with the dedicated TUSB (ASIO) driver available at Hidizs website or with the native Windows 10 driver (USB DAC). But note that ASIO version might produce more audio lag which would not be very comfortable for watching videos. USB native DAC driver is completely free of this lag. There is no problems in video to audio stream synchronization while watching videos and sending sound through AP80 PRO-X to phones. Neither there are any problems of using it with Foobar2000 player over Wasapi (event or push).

Using AP80 PRO-X as external DAC for Xiaomi Redmi Note 8Pro smartphone with the provided microUSB type-C -> microUSB cable works fine. HiBy Music app recognized this device and allowed us to send bit-by-bit perfect stream.

I have also checked such rarely used function as «transport»: sending digital audio stream though DAP USB to another DAC USB that drives home audio system. Even this scenario worked as expected.

Same scenarios of sending / receiving stream may also be used over bluetooth. So called bidirectional bluetooth DAC. Bluetooth supports aptX, LDAC and UAT codecs (along with lower audio quality standard codecs). I’ve been able to check aptX IEMs and UAT 1.2M device (HiBy W5 bluetooth receiver) — both worked fine while sending data from AP80 PRO-X. The distance was about 8-12 meters away before audio started to show some severe interruptions. The other way around was checked by sending audio stream from Redmi Note 8Pro to AP80 PRO-X over Bluetooth — no problems there either.

Audio quality:

First, I would like to share AP80 general impressions and than I would compare it to AP80P PRO and AP80 PRO-X by pointing out the changes. Such approach is logical because 3.5 audio output has not changed at all (or there are only subtle changes). Therefore, the main difference and new experience would come from balanced 2.5mm output. To keep this comparison precise, I’ve used AP80 + Hidizs Seeds 3.5mm V|S AP80 PRO and PRO-X + Hidizs Seeds 2.5 balanced IEMs. So, similar IEMs with different types of connection, same settings, same audio material.

Initial AP80 impressions: 

What I like the most is that AP80 sounds neutral with slight tendency towards bright/cold tonality. Lows, mids and highs are in good balance making this DAP universal to feed it with any kind of music genre. I would call it a precise source for connecting any further audio equipment like headphones, large power amps, active speakers, etc.

Good clarity and crispness on higher frequencies with the further ability to switch filter effects; precise texturing and presence of lows; powerfull, fast and punchy midbass; natural sounding at midrange with pleasing vocals and its weighted presence in the entire mix. ATH-M50 40Ohms load is easily driven by AP80 creating the feel of mature and balanced sound picture. Price niche (in comparison to more expensive DAPs) is only evident on higher frequencies (simplified, slightly rough, not that gentle) and overall texturing (not that over detailed).

The signature is a bit on the brighter side, no moody or tube-like performance, no cattle effect. Bass is completely enough to hear its nuances with ATH-M50, at least. Neither I’ve found the disturbing presence of sibilance in highest octave. Besides, I didn’t even try to play with HibyMusic MSEB feature that gives additional control over such aspects as:

• sound temperature
• bass extension
• bass texture
• note thickness
• vocals
• female overtones
• sibilance LF
• sibilance HF
• impulse response
• air

all of that was kept at default settings during out tests and the resulting sound didn’t require any changes. But the availability of such features, along with gain and filters, gives you a huge field for further experiments of tuning this source for the final audio equipment in chain.

Channel separation is better than entry-level models demonstrate but not so distant as in case with flagship DAPs or AMPs with coupled DAC chips. The resulting sound stage width, depth and instument location is equal or even a bit more than we would expected from such portable device. Monaural recordings show good distance and instrument placement on stage with clear horizontal and vertical position.

I also tested AP80 with Hidizs Seeds IEMs and found that they make a great pair. ATH-M50, sometimes, might emphasize low frequencies and are very straight forward. Excellent for detail analysis and tests but too strict for getting some rest… Seeds IEMs are softer, warmer and smooth. They create the additional fluency while maintaining the same amount of details.

If to think about the best pairing: I would say that using AP80 PRO/PRO-X with tube amp like xDuoo MT601/602 makes a great effect of smoothing out timbre and tonality, making music more calm and delicate.

AP80 SE V|S AP80 PRO Balanced output: 

The main advantage of using AP80 PRO/ PRO-X balanced output instead of AP80 3.5 SE is the amount of power it produces which inevitably leads to more juicy presentation, more dynamics (especially in midbass section), more clarity and transparency in overall.

Of course, this difference only becomes apparent with high impedance headphones or IEMs which require more power to be driven to an appropriate level. If pairing both DAPs with the same low impedance | high sensitivity IEMs the differences in sound get less apparent… Perhaps, the main difference is better instrument separation and larger imaginary stage. In other words — I like balanced output sound more due to extended assertiveness in combination with less cramped feel under the same circumstances. Difference between PRO and PRO-X alone is not that evident, at least I cannot spot such.

Freedom to choose more demanding output head gear and having enough power in reserve under the hood — this what makes AP80Pro superior to its predecessor even if the changes in audio signature and characteristics are on the subtle side.

The difference between PRO and PRO-X alone is not that evident. Perhaps the stage became wider (at least it seems so to me). But in overall, sonically, both versions sound very similar and I wouldn’t be able to distinguish between them in a blind test.

Conclusion:   

Since the first day of arrival the initial version of AP80 became the main portable source of audio for me and was serving its role perfectly up till now. There were some bugs at the beginning which were eliminated by Hidizs with the new FW releases. The only arguable spec was its output power resulting into a range of final gear limited to a lower impedance.

AP80 PRO-X, being the latest generation, takes a huge leap and represents the most of the ultra-portable HiRES DAP nowadays. It inherited all the virtues of all previous generations, also comes with more polished and stable FW, incorporates huge amount of modern features and visually appeals too. It is balanced, powerful enough to drive all types of IEMs, earbuds and even some large overheads. Can’t even imagine which other new virtues would Hidizs introduce in the next generation in case if AP80 PRO-X is planned for future upgrades. It is already hell lot of powerhouse in a such tiny package. Perhaps – only the modern 4.4mm BL output is desired, although it is hardly possible due to tight space inside (you can check my AP80 teardown article LINK)

And the last, but not the least – should anyone upgrade from AP80 PRO? Only in case if better MQA handling is vital. Otherwise – probably not. But shifting from regular AP80 or something like Shanling M0 is a must. AP80 PRO-X is just so much better in all aspects.

10% discount for any item at Hidizs store using our promocode: ZMCR10

Official AP80 PRO-X page and store: LINK

Thank you for reading.

Since the first encounter with devices by FiiO we had a strong feeling of playing with something accomplished, well put together to the extent that missing some additional functions fade away under the tons of positive experience of working with such devices. At the first glance FiiO products doesn’t scream of its superiority in the related niche, but when digging deeper suddenly comes the understanding that there are lots of interesting functions wisely developed and perfectly integrated inside its logics. Recent FiiO UTWS3 (universal Bluetooth ear guides) with its totally revised functionality became the revelation for us for its stellar performance, now comes another Bluetooth device – BTA30 – which leaves pleasant aftertaste and becomes a part of Hi-Res setup.

FiiO BTA30 is a desktop USB DAC. Although, despite being able to accept and process audio data over USB, its main purpose and virtue is to act as Bluetooth audio transceiver. Not only it received Bluetooth audio, decodes and converts it to analog on RCA outputs but also is able to pack and send audio data over Bluetooth. Anyway, details would show up later in this article, let’s go over device specs first:

FiiO BTA30 specs:

As seen from the list above, Bluetooth part is based on mighty CSR8675 (5.0) and supports most sophisticated codecs such as aptX HD and LDAC. Not many standalone or portable devices, apart from Hi-Res audio players or expensive DAC/amps, would license SONY LDAC codec and have this feature. Moreover, in case of BTA30 it is bidirectional – those codecs are also used to pack and send audio data to other Bluetooth equipped devices. Furthermore, instead of using DAC abilities of CSR8675 chip, FiiO processes audio through AK4490 DAC, CT5302 DSP and uses OPA1662 as operational amplifier. Such architecture is far more superior than using Bluetooth chip alone which results in much more resolving and accurate sound competing with many Hi-Res DAPs.

Packaging and design:

FiiO BTA30 comes in relatively small box with outer cover and stiff inner base. Cover contains prints of the product, logos, technologies, trademarks and company contacts. Besides that, there is a counterfeit item protection sticker at the top right corner at the back.

Soft foam insert securely holds BTA30 inside, all accessories are located in a separate box underneath. Full list of items in the box:

• BTA30 with antenna
• 2 protective caps for optical ports
• 4 extra rubber legs (stickers)
• USB A – USB type C cable

What is missing in this bundle is a power adapter. Supposing that BTA30 would be commonly used as desktop Bluetooth transceiver, it would require external USB power. Since it can be powered with any source device over USB, we would recommend to use any adapter with 5V, >=1000mA output and better if it would be linear (for less amount of interference).

FiiO BTA30 design is perfectly clean and accurate. Perimeter unibody frame acts as a chassis for top glass and bottom plastic covers. Facing edge is not overloaded with the control elements, labels are neat.

Here you would find main power and Play/Pause (Pair) sensor buttons along with MODE 3 positional slider switch and smooth volume control knob. Back side is responsible for all inputs/outputs (USB type-C, separate optical IN/OUT, combined coaxial IN/OUT, Line OUT) and antenna. By the way, top glass panel is covered with protective film from the factory. Bottom cover equipped with 4 silicon legs which hide chassis screws.

Personally, we love this kind of neat design with high quality crafting of each element. Everything is accurately assembled with no gaps between main body parts. Nothing rattles and squeaks.

Device in use:

One note for the future users: since the antenna is detachable and has female SMA port, not only we can remove it, but also there is a possibility to enlarge the distance of Bluetooth reception/transmission. Stock antenna is ~2 – 2.5dB whereas most of the current home WiFi routers would use 5dB instead. Such 5dB SMA antennas for 2.4GHz would also fit this unit. Although, as a rule – never switch Bluetooth transmission mode ON when antenna is not attached. This might burn RF amplifier elements. It is better to always use this device with the antenna in place.

There are a lot of usage scenarios, thanks to the functions integrated to this outstanding device. We would point out each one:

• As desktop DAC/preamp for active speakers or home audio setup. In this case we can connect BTA30 from any audio source over USB/COAX/Optical and use Line OUT (DAC MODE).
• As wireless transport for other DAC – connecting audio source over Bluetooth and sending this data over COAX OUT/Optical OUT (BT RX MODE)
• As wireless receiver for active speakers or home audio setup – connecting audio source over Bluetooth and using Line OUT (BT RX MODE)
• As wireless transmitter for Bluetooth devices – connecting any audio source over USB/COAX/Optical and sending data over Bluetooth (BT TX MODE)
• We can even build a wireless bridge (if we have 2 BTA30 devices) – one BTA30 would be in BT TX MODE and taking data from any source over USB/COAX/Optical and the other BTA30 would be in BT RX MODE and sending data to any source over COAX/Optical or just converting and amplifying through LINE OUT.

In those scenarios which do not require source to be connected over USB – we should supply power from a separate power adapter.

Most of the operations are straight-forward. Supplying the power and pressing power ON/OFF switch at the front would indicate in device power state with a dedicated LED. Press once to switch on and hold a bit to switch off. Constant emerald – power ON. At the same time, LED above Play/Pause button would indicate other states according to the position of MODE switch and audio sampling rate. It would request pairing with fast change between GREEN and RED, active connection with single or double GREEN flashes and different other colors for sampling rate (look at the table above).

In case of USB connection, BTA30 would identify itself as FiiO BTA30 under Windows 10 environment. We haven’t found any ASIO drivers on FiiO website and this device is natively supported in modern OS. Although, the output quality in device functions are limited to 16bit/48kHz. Optical and coax inputs would process much better quality (24bit/96kHz optical and 24/192 + DSD64 DOP coaxial), pack it to or unfold it from Bluetooth data or just decode for Line OUT. So, to get the most, it is really better to use BTA30 as DAC with Optical / Coaxial inputs/outputs or Bluetooth.

In case of Bluetooth – it gets more interesting. Not only you can pair with BTA30 from any Bluetooth equipped source, but you can also use FiiO Control APP for Android/iOS and have the additional tuning and functionality. Here is the list of what this app can do:

• Change status indicator light colors / disable it
• Auto-power on function
• Select Bluetooth codecs for TX and RX modes
• Select DAC inputs
• Select between 4 LPFs
• Adjust or fix volume
• Adjust source volume
• Change channel balance
• Enable digital upsampling
• Select streaming quality of selected codec
• Show the guide
• Change device name
• Reset pairing
• Clear settings to defaults
• Power off the device

Moreover, this app works with BTA30 even if it stays in DAC MODE.

We had no problems with sound hiccups or any kind of interference with the stock antenna connected to a regular smartphone 10 meters behind 1 concrete wall. Strong reception/transmission quality that can be improved with third-party antennas. Audio lag while streaming video from a smartphone is present but not large and comfortable. What the the most important – the output power of BTA30 (3Vrms) is totally enough for active speakers to sound very loud. Many current portable Bluetooth receivers are not capable to supply enough power and active speakers would increase noise floor when trying to a amplify incoming signal to an appropriate level. Absolutely not a problem for BTA30 and this is one of the main reasons why BTA30 suits out setup.

Pairing is fast, further connections are lightning-fast. No clue about multipoint function (seems none) but BTA30 stores more than 5 different devices (which we’ve tried so far) in its memory and connects to the first discovered after enabling Bluetooth on anyone of those. No need to pair previous devices again.

Since there is a choice of TX or RX modes for Bluetooth, we cannot simultaneously receive audio from a source and send it to the end gear. Such capability is met only in some recent feature-packed DAPs.

Volume knob feels nice and smooth, has special surface finish to add some additional grip and utilizes full mechanical travel. It can be disabled through FiiO Control app.

Since there is no battery inside – we should not be worried of leaving BTA30 ON or on charge. Nothing heats up, nothing drains down.

Sound quality:

To carry out adequate test we have decided to describe the sound of BTA30 in comparison to other desktop DACs/amp such as Tempotec Serenade iDSD and Hidizs Sonata DH1000.

Speakers: Edifier M1100.

Lows and midbass:

BTA30 is quite resolving on lows – more than average amount of textures and details. It acts on bass delicately with good control on outlines and good balance with other ranges. Extension of lows is very good, bass is decaying neither too fast or too slow. Great clarity, good volumetric feel and separation from mids and treble. Bass is totally perceptible, enlarges the stage and has no extra emphasis. Mid bass is similarly good: the amount of dynamics is perfect for good articulation and energy.

Mids:

Mids retain most of the resolving potential and sound neutral in overall. Vocals are quite thick and full-bodied. No emphasis is made on female vocals and upper treble range instruments feel naturally bright but not screaming. Voices sound natural and have pleasing warmth. Good instrument separation. In overall, mids feel smooth, little bit warm and natural, with adequate resolution and with no piercing peaks.

Treble:

Treble sounds balanced to mids and lows but its extension, clarity and presence would depend of the type of connection. In DAC mode treble is clear and crisp, not hidden by other sounds. Extension and micro-dynamics are both great, not too cold or vivid. With Bluetooth connection (RX or TX) treble gets slightly less extended and crisp. Like a thin blurring layer has been added to clean window. Nothing strange for the regular Bluetooth sound. In overall, this range is accurate and perfectly balanced to other ranges and allowing long listening sessions.

Compared to Tempotec Serenade iDSD:

Serenade iDSD is not equipped with Bluetooth and can be used only as DAC/preamp or amp for the headphones. This makes iDSD and BTA30 quite different in purpose and gives some advantages in sound to iDSD. It sounds slightly better and more extended on treble if to compare BTA30 in Bluetooth mode. It also gives a better understanding of quality of the sound when connecting headphones which is not possible with BTA30. But with the same active speakers, both devices sound virtually the same.

Compared to Hidizs Sonata DH1000:

Another device that is not equipped with Bluetooth and made for portable use with headphones. This allows to perceive sound quality more delicately until connected to active speakers. With this type of connection, DH1000 sounds similarly detailed but more thin on mids, resolving and putting more emphasis on treble. Lows are not that well-developed as with BTA30, thus loosing stage size and extension. It is better to leave DH1000 for headphones only, while BTA30 really shines in desktop setup.

Conclusion:

All of our initial expectations of what desktop Bluetooth transceiver should be were met by FiiO BTA30. It is perfectly built piece of technology, with neat design, smooth operations, lots of functions and good sound quality. Bluetooth performance is stellar due to its sustainability to RF interference and signal quality, the best so far among all tested devices in both TX and RX modes. A spoon of tar is present in a form of limited USB DAC processing ability but it goes beyond the main purpose of BTA30 and compensated by other more capable interfaces. In overall, this Bluetooth DAC/preamp is great and would fit nicely to any home setup, enabling wireless audio feature and incorporating best widely used Bluetooth audio codecs that are currently available.

FiiO BTA30 is available at AliExpress store: LINK

FiiO BTA30 is available at Amazon store: LINK

It is really interesting to observe how the most active brand names grow as the time passes. The most enterprising and active ones join the rank of trendsetters in the related industries and spread their influence over the entire conglomerates of manufacturers and customers. Examples are not that numerous but there are some apparent and unarguable cases for the past several years: DJI with their drone technologies, Apple that is constantly changing trends, Tesla that shifts the world to green car energy and so on. Those companies are shifting the mountains of past beliefs to expand the boundaries of future expectations. Same happens in a smaller scale where fastly growing companies would also strive for better technology and standards. Just think of new graphene batteries, flexible displays, use of modern materials and large amount of Internet services that are accepted by mass market as new standards.

Now, lets narrow down to audio domain. De facto, HiBy has already joined the vanguard of the pushing force in this industry. This brand has started with HiBy Music application for the most popular mobile OS, introduced widely used functions like MSEB and HiBy link. They have also created and licensing their HiBy OS firmware to different manufacturers (doesn’t this reminds you of Xiaomi brand history?). One of their recent valuable deeds is the development of several HiRes DAPs with the superior price to performance ratio that forced a new spin of competition among all industry members. ‘

Today, we would like to demonstrate that HiBy has other trumps up their sleeve by presenting HiBy W5 — the world’s first Bluetooth DAC/AMP receiver with UAT (Ultra Audio Transmission) codec that might set the new wireless audio standards for the entire industry.

HiBy W5 technical specifications and description:

• Type: Bluetooth audio receiver with integrated DAC&AMP
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0 (CSR8675)
• Bluetooth audio codecs: SBC, AAC, apt-X, apt-X_LL, apt-X HD, LDAC, UAT
• Max. bit rate: 1.2Mbps
• Max. bit depth: 24bit
• Max. sampling frequency: 192kHz
• DAC&AMP chip: ESS Sabre ES9218P
• SNR: 118dB
• THD+N: -103dB
• Output power: 80mW+80mW@32Ω
• Audio output: 3.5mm
• Control elements: 1 sensor button + LED indicator
• Battery life: ≥20 hours (W5 battery + cradle battery), ≥100 hours at standby
  Quoted playback time based on using the AAC codec
• Compatibility: Windows, Android, iOS, MacOS
• Other features: intergrated mic for voice calls, IP67 waterproof, remote control by HiBY Music app
• Weight: 19.5g (W5), 57.1g (cradle)

Link to official HiBy W5 page

Let’s go over UAT and HW part: UAT stands for Ultra Audio Transmission technology that was developed by HiBy as new generation of Bluetooth audio codec superior to all previous standards ever presented by other companies.

Just a short comparison of main specs of the two latest audio codecs developed by Qualcomm (apt-X HD) and Sony (LDAC):

In other words, this table shows that HiBy has managed to take the advantage of Bluetooth 4.2/5.0 and overcome previous bandwidth limitations that didn’t allow sufficient data transfer speeds, consequently lowering sampling frequency. Of course, in order to to make this work HiBy had to develop its own algorithms and wrap it with Bluetooth standards. Moreover, this means that HiBy should have also developed and tested UAT for transmitting and receiving devices. This means integration with different operating systems and various microcontroller devices in future. Along with the codec, Bluetooth 4.2/5.0 is a must to get UAT working.

If to summarize all of this, theoretically, introduction of UAT codec together with the latest BT standard solve the issue of downsampling audio library, increasing data transfer rate that should improve audio quality and overall satisfaction of going wireless.

As far as we understand, HiBy might be pushing their innovation to different vendors right after confirming that it is perfectly stable. UAT supports any Android mobile phone with HiBy Music app and DAPs like HiBy R6, R6Pro, R3, Cayin N8, Hidizs AP80. Moreover, W5 is compatible with all currently available BT audio codecs and could be paired to any other audio source supporting Bluetooth. Therefore, you can use it with any DAPs or smartphones and enjoy all advantages of the latest wireless audio transmission technologies.

Let’s move on to the device itself, starting with the externals.

HiBY W5 packaging, design and build:

W5 comes in transparent box with the device secured by the special insert at the top part. Rest of the space is consumed by the accessories. Device name, brand logo and company contact information are printed on the inner cardboard layer.

Box contents:

• HiBy W5 BT receiver
• device charging cradle
• microUSB type-C -> USB A cable
• user manual
• final production versions of W5 would also have instruction manual and stickers on the left side of the box

Yes, in fact HiBy follows the trend and has developed special cradle for W5 the only purpose of which is to charge the device. It doesn’t mean that you cannot use it for storing or carrying W5 as it has the folding cover but the main idea is to use it as power bank whenever required.

W5 is quite small device with the dimensions of 61.7x21x17.6mm (with clip). Looks futuristic and intrigues by the absence of any control elements. Its smooth and elongated body consists of two parts — black glossy plastic top and brushed stainless steel bottom. Parts are perfectly aligned, no gap here.

Microphone opening is located at the bottom part of front cover. Steel back contains charging contacts and clip grooves.

3.5mm audio output is located at the top edge.

Plastic clip is detachable, feels quite secure and durable.

The most interesting starts when you try to operate the device (concerning that there is no physical control elements or screen). Upper part of top plastic cover is semitransparent and hides circle LED element combined with the touch sensor. Not easy to discover unless W5 is placed on its cradle for charging. Charging process would immediately reveal the position of hidden element by blinking with red LED. Let’s see how is looks (in this case it would blink blue due to fully charged state):

W5 cradle is not that mysterious but perfectly does the job. It is made of black glossy plastic, features foldable top cover with special soft insert to prevent W5 body from scratches and movements, spring-loaded W5 charging pins, 3 blue LED lights to indicate the amount of charge / charging process and microUSB type-C charging port. We’ve even managed to remove W5 bed from cradle and take a look at the HW part. Everything looks fine and neat:

HiBy W5 operation:

Charging process can be done in several ways:

• Charging only the cradle from USB power supply which takes approximately 2 hours from fully discharged state. Triple blue LED indicator on the front part of the cradle shows the amount of charge gained during the charging process. Cradle battery is 1000mAh LiPO.
• Charging both W5 and cradle simultaneously by placing W5 in its cradle when it takes charge from USB power supply. Charging time would change accordingly to the current state of W5 battery (+1h at most). W5 would also blink with its red LED to indicate charging process.
• Use cradle as power bank to charge W5 battery. In this case cradle LED would indicate how much own battery capacity is left and W5 red LED would blink as it takes charge. Cradle battery has enough capacity to fully charge W5 five times (W5 battery is 150mAh LiPO).

Here is LED indication pattern of the cradle:

Charging process:

And here is how the charging indication goes on W5 itself:

Unfortunately, it is not possible to use 3.5mm audio output of W5 while it is on charge due to the physical limitations of audio jacks connection while the device is placed in the cradle. At the same time, W5 stays fully operational… It seems that there is a room for physical improvement of the cradle or future mods by end users.

Controls:

While not very obvious from its look, W5 incorporates touch sensor button as multifunctional control key with «vibrate on tap» feedback. Sensor shares the same front face spot of the LED indicator. Feedback vibration force is pretty strong to confirm the action. As any other sensor type key it does exhibit a slight lag between the actual finger press and the resulting activity but it is totally acceptable and pretty comfortable to use.

Here is the list of all button functions:

Of course, W5 LED indicates different working state as well:

Pairing and working distance:

First W5 pairing is done by holding the button for ~5 seconds. It would initiate pairing process while LED indicator would be quickly flashing with blue color. No problems with discovering and connecting from the smartphone side. It would list HiBy W5 among other discovered or paired devices. First connection as well as all further reconnections after power cycle are almost immediate.

No problems either if your device is not supporting Bluetooth 5.0 standard as it is backward compatible with the previous versions and UAT is compatible with 4.2 version as well. But Hiby recommends to use Bluetooth 5.0 to get the smooth implementation

In theory, according to new standard specifications, working distance with BT 5.0 should be 4 times larger than in the previous version. In real life, smooth experience would greatly depend of the environment and radio band workload that might and would affect the amount of packets lost, especially with the higher data transfer rates. UAT codec features the highest data rate ever for BT audio stream…. Consequently, more prone to different types of interruptions. Our tests show that it is not a problem when you keep W5 and a smartphone in different pockets but might become an issue when you have to send data through 10 meters of working space with some obstacles like people, other transmitting devices, walls, etc. Therefore, despite new BT standard capabilities, you should expect smooth operation at the same working distance as everyone got used to before — ~10 meters at open space.

HiBY W5 applications:

There is a software part for W5 developed by HiBy for Android OS to provide more functions and better interaction. For now it is split into two different applications, both in beta state. Both would eventually merge with HiBy Music APP by the time of W5 market release. The compatibility of this software with other operating systems is yet to be declared (iOS compatibility is already declared).

Software part functionality:

• W5 settings:
  • Bluetooth audio codec
  • Sample rate
  • Bit depth
  • Current codec additional parameters

*this is similar to menu options found under Settings->Developer Options in Android OS. So, instead of sending people to activate hidden «Developer Options», HiBy has integrated it to its own software and already added UAT codec profile there. 

• W5 information: Name / MAC / battery level / battery status / RSSI / API version
• LED: switch W5 LED on|off
• Equalizer: BASS Boost / 3D / Presets (lets you use slots to store own presets)
• Remote control: buttons Volume UP/DOWN/Mute / PLAY/PAUSE/STOP / NEXT/PREVOUS. (Perhaps, the remote would be used with any default music application if you are not using HiBY Music)
• Battery: full information about the battery state and charging process
• Upgrade: W5 FW upgrade screen with file browser to navigate to FW file

Most of the functions are perfectly working already.

As already mentioned — all those functions would merge with HiBy Music app and let you control W5 receiver without the need of switching between different applications or Bluetooth system settings.

Sound tests: 

Testing process: Tanchjim Oxygen IEMs wired to Hidizs AP80 DAP or Xiaomi Note 5 versus  HiBy W5 connected to HiBy R6Pro DAP over Bluetooth (UAT and LDAC audio codecs). This gives us the understanding of how W5 sounds against one of the most popular DAP’s around.  

Lows and midbass:

Lower range is quite exposed and has very good deep bass reach. Not overemphasized, nor shadowing other frequencies but it’s presence is evidently large. Texturing is moderate, can’t quite compete with wired connection to DAP but totally fine in case of good IEMs and much better than produced by a regular smartphone audio output. Overall bass presence and extension influences the sound signature, giving a picture a warm presentation. In fact, if bass texturing were a bit higher — W5 might have been almost similar to AP80 DAP bass reproduction.

Midbass power and dynamics are very good. Drums sound good, rich and engaging. Seems that W5 amp section is having enough potential to drive anything up to 80Ω. Most of the IEMs are not a problem at all. The only full-sized headphones we’ve tested were AudioTechnica ATH-M50 (48Ω) which also produced good results in terms of midbass dynamics, speed and articulation.

Mids and vocals:

Mids are little bit laid back in comparison to lows and treble. Voices are perceived as a bit thin and distant with not much of difference in presence between male and female vocals. There is a slightly warm timbre influenced by lows and this also helps to have a good control over lisping or harsh notes. Resolution on voices is moderate while string instruments are showing slightly better results. In overall, mids sound pretty intimate and warm, with smooth sound transitions. Even though, the clarity and dualization of mids is higher than Note 5 smartphone can produce on its own with wired connection.

Treble:

Treble section is slightly emphasized and brings up the additional clarity and imaginary resolution to the sound. While the extension is less than with wired type of connection, treble amount of presence still manages to balance the lower end. Resolution is moderate here as well. Such situation is common for all BT audio receivers as the most of noise floor and audio downgrades are affecting our perception of extensions on both ends, also reduces clarity on treble.

Sound in overall:

In fact, HiBy W5 sounds very good when advanced BT audio codecs are used. Some lack of resolution or texturing gets evident only in the direct comparison to wired method of connection to good DAPs. This is perfectly logical. On the other hand, only few smartphones, tablets or PCs would come close to W5 audio quality level and driving potential even with wired IEMs. Let’s say that W5 as a DAC/AMP is much better than regular smartphone bare audio output while the wireless method of sending data is not making it much less superior.

Definitely, we can tell the difference between using wired connection to DAP or smartphone and sending data over the air to W5 BT receiver. The main difference is higher noise floor and the latency (which is actually not that big to disturb from watching video content). At the same time, while wired DAP is inarguably providing the best sound quality to your IEMs, the results produced by vast majority of multifunctional devices (such as regular smartphones with no dedicated DAC chip) would fall short in terms of output power, driving potential, overall clarity, resolution and instrument separation. Therefore, those who use their smartphones for music would gain the wireless freedom together with the better sound quality in overall. More experienced audio geeks who possess good piece of equipment and searching for wireless receiver would not be disappointed either, as the difference in sound quality between wire and BT is not that obvious.

UAT V/S LDAC sound quality:

Honestly — hard to tell. When LDAC is set to its maximum data transfer rate of 990Kbps the only difference is that all of your >96KHz tracks would be downsampled to 96KHz. Roughly, it should result in less accuracy and extension, especially on treble. But the main question is whether this difference is audible… There are some people who would pretend to hear the difference between codecs but most of the blind tests show very small rate of success, if any. Therefore, we would say that the main advantage of running UAT instead of LDAC is a pleasing  notion of the fact that nothing is being downsampled and you get the best possible audio quality. Why would you spend so much efforts finding 24bit/192KHz albums than?

At the same time, sound improvement between the basic SBC codec and anything that was designed to do much better job (aptX_HD, LDAC, UAT) is apparent. At least for the trained ears of long-time audio equipment reviewers and musicians. Sound is not that dry and narrow, overall resolution is higher, both ends are more extended, you get more micro dynamics… IMHO.

Sound quality in voice calls:

Haven’t noticed any issues during the voice calls. W5 microphone sounds clear and pretty loud for the other party. Echo effect was not observed either. There is also a possibility to start, dismiss or end the call with sensor button.

Compared to Colorfly BT-C1:

Colorfly BT-C1 is very good and neutral Bluetooth receiver in terms of sound quality. It also can be used as USB DAC which is its main purpose, actually. It is not very convenient to be carried around in your pocket, doesn’t have that good battery life and lacks the output power (only 35mW@32Ω). The most advanced BT audio codec is represented by Apt-X_LL. Sound wise, BT-C1 is more gentle and more resolving across the AFR but at the same time more dry and much less fun to listen to. Adding here its low driving potential — and it is not getting anywhere close to HiBy W5. We would say thay BT-C1 should be considered only for stationary and wired use in combination with active speakers or as a DAC for home audio system. HiBy W5 is more universal in terms of usage scenarios, sounding brighter and more engaging, having more driving power and using better BT audio codecs.

Conclusion:

After examining early sample of HiBy W5 very closely, we can conclude that it is the most advanced and, in fact, a revolutionary Bluetooth audio receiver. Apart from traditionally capable hardware, great design and solid user experience, HiBy has presented the world with their own vision of supreme Bluetooth audio quality. They have taken the lead by the development of 192KHz Bluetooth Ultra Audio Transmission codec which, perhaps, would emerge into new industry standard. It also means new spin of competition on the market with further technical advance and benefits to all audio fans. Such innovations and related efforts should be supported by all possible means, that is why we would be standing in a first row of crowdfunding campaign when it would be launched.

Link to official HiBy W5 page