If you’ve been looking for a way to increase the quality of your audio and take full advantage of your headphones, in-ear monitors (IEMs), or gaming headset but don’t want to spend more than $100, the Fiio x Jade Audio Q11 is a device you definitely don’t want to pass over. This portable DAC/amp connects to your PC, Switch, PS5, smartphone, or tablet and instantly takes over all of the processing duties, providing you with a crystal clear sound and plenty of power to get your cans sounding their best. At only $89.99, it’s a great value that can provide an instant boost to your gaming and music listening experience.
Current Price: $89.99 ( Amazon )
When it comes to personal audio, the headphone jacks built into most devices usually aren’t very good. That applies to laptops, desktops, consoles, controllers, and more. This isn’t because the products themselves are poor, it’s because audio quality is rarely the first thing on the designer’s mind. Quality sound matters, but it comes after performance, graphics, cooling, and any number of other factors.
When it’s finally considered, the actual audio components usually aren’t chosen for their sterling sonics: they’re chosen for cost efficiency within the whole package. And once the audio circuitry is designed, it’s placed right alongside other noisy electronics, increasing distortion and background noise. Sometimes this is so subtle you don’t even notice it until it’s not there.
Like with a device designed for audio from the ground up. That’s where the Q11 comes in.
The Fiio Q11, produced with the company’s new Jade Audio moniker, is an affordably priced external DAC/amp. In PC terms, it’s an external sound card with expanded personal connectivity and an exceptionally small
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