Audiophiles always promote better DAP with out of the world sound quality. So, you may hear brand names through them while buying an audio player. Still, you wish to see the comparisons before getting on board, don’t you?
We understand your dilemma! Here’s our brief in this article to make your experience more rhythmic!
So which one would be splendid between FiiO M11 vs iBasso DX160?
Ibasso dx160 uses the more advanced Bluetooth 5.0 compared to Fiio M11’s Bluetooth 4.2. The Fiio m11 comes with a volume wheel along with the touchscreen, giving you an extra option and flexibility. Furthermore, the Fiio M11 provides better battery performance compared to the Ibasso dx160. However, Ibasso comes on top in providing a larger screen resolution and better UI than the Fiio m11.
Interested to know more? Then this article suits you perfectly!
We have arranged in-depth discussions to fill your boot in! Let’s dig deeper!
FiiO M11 vs iBasso DX160: A Quick Glimpse!
With a superabundance of attributes, these DAPs are highly famous and top the user’s demand.
Let’s get a quick recap of FiiO M11 vs iBasso DX160 from the table!
| Comparing Aspects | FiiO M11 | iBasso Dx160 |
| Case/Build Quality | Aluminum case | Aluminum case |
| Wireless | Bluetooth 4.2, Wi-Fi 4 | Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi 5 |
| Operation Method | Touchscreen with volume wheel | Touchscreen |
| Screen | 1440 x 720 resolution | 1080×1920 IPS screen |
| User Interface | Android 7.0 | Android 8.1 |
| Battery Performance | 3800 mAh | 3200 mAh |
| DAC chip | 2 x AK4493EQ 32-Bit | dual CS43198 |
| Memory Slot | Dual | Single |
| Price | Check Price | Check Price |
From the look of it, Fiio M11 has overall better hardware, whereas the ibasso dx160 leads the software and UI race.
Let’s learn about their differences in more detail in the next segment:
FiiO M11 vs iBasso DX160: Detailed Comparison
We saw how the two DAPs excel in different departments in the previous segment. While they both provide a competitive run on the same budget range, there can only be one winner!
So let’s assess their strengths in different fields and find out which DAP gets the edge!
Build Quality
Starting this comparison with iBasso DX160 which holds a massive improvement. Previously, what you could find in the DX150 was quite one-dimensional.
In the Ibasso dx150 vs dx160 comparison, dx160 saw a significant overhaul in UI and hardware. Now coming with a brushed aluminum case and CNC carved aluminum build, the dx160 is better than ever and ensures great longevity.
Compared to dx 150, Ibass dx160 is smaller, more compact, and weighs significantly less. But that didn’t stop the dx160 from having a larger screen size than the dx150.
Meanwhile, FiiO launched M11 as their giant DAP. Comparatively, it goes far higher in size than models like Fiio M6, M7, etc. You must know the difference between FiiO M17 and FiiO M15 while comparing it to iBasso!
Fiio M11 boasts a slightly bigger screen size than Ibasso dx160. Despite having a larger screen, the Fiio m11 only allows 1440 x 720 screen resolution, which might prove to be a huge limitation for the device. Ibasso dx160 on the other hand lets you experience 1920 x 1080 resolution display.
With the Fiio M11, the panels are seamlessly integrated. And wedges are the tiniest. As a result, you will find no gap while scrolling the screen from top to bottom.
Controlling the volume is another level of fun in the FiiO Brand!
Fiio M11 lets users use physical buttons along with volume wheels with your Fiio M11. This can make it a more attractive option to some who prefer using physical buttons to control the volume.
Winner: With a very competitive start to the comparison, Fiio m11 takes the win in this round over Ibasso dx160.
Wondering which durable protective case you should choose? Well, get through this product suggestion table!
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Keep your amplifier player safe and secured!
Layout
First of all, the drawback you will notice is that no modular amps are there. So, these DAPs can not satisfy those who are fond of AMP modules.
The iBasso brand used to come with AMP7, and AMP9 on its previously launched- DX220. Similarly, FiiO brought amps on the X7 series.
FiiO M11 has a 1 x 3.5 mm single-ended headphone output. Along with that, a Pentacon balanced output includes the list. Same goes for iBasso DX160 too!
Meanwhile, iBasso carries only one micro-SD port. Relevantly, it’s not attached to a rubber cover which may feel generic to you. But the ultra-high capacity compensates for the flaws. In the meantime, FiiO M11 serves two microSD slots! Well, if you look at the playback controls of these, both ease your work.
Along with all that, you also get a 3.5 mm headphone jack with both Ibasso dx160 and Fiio m11.
Output power 1, ≥460mW（16Ω / THD+N＜1%) ; Output power 2, ≥550mW（4.2V）（32Ω /THD+N＜1%
Winner: FiiO M11
Source: techradar.com
Screen
A 1920 x 1080 IPS screen delivers broader viewing angles for Dx160. The retina display also stays high-quality with 445ppi resolution.
Having sun-light tolerance with top-notch brightness is what we like the most. You will have an excellent browsing experience with your Ibasso dx160 even under the most intense sunlight.
On the other hand, picture definition satisfies users in Fiio M11. With a 312ppi, it brings 1440 x 720 resolution. Viewing YouTube videos here with the highest pixels is something for the eyes.
While Dx160 offers better resolution than the m11, it fails to make any noticeable impression due to it’s 5″ display size. On the other hand, Fiio m11 has a slightly bigger screen which manages to fit the 1440 x 720 resolution perfectly.
Winner: Once again, the win goes to Fiio M11 in this round.
User Interface
In comparison to UI, more specifically the Android OS, DX160 brings the most updated version- 8.1. Meanwhile, you barely get any restrictions in streaming online apps.
Along with the MQA formatting, the audio ratio is highly compressed. Welcome to this HD music era! CPU/RAM of the iBasso ensures you have a seamless journey overall.
Interestingly, no Google Play Store service is available! But in the long run, things don’t get squeezed for this unavailability. However, its APK Pure installation does the trick!
Unfortunately, there’s is no option to get apple music on your Ibasso Dx160 device and you have to accept it the way it is. But you can still enjoy Spotify on your Ibass DX160!
It’s very easy to update the Ibass dx160. Simply go to Android OS >Settings>Updater>Local Update, and select the firmware update file. You can get the update file from Ibasso’s website. It usually takes around 10 minutes to update DX160. After you’re done updating, reboot the DX160.
Source:gizmochina.com
Fiio falls a bit short when it comes to the UI as it still uses the relatively older Android OS 7 version. The later version Fiio M11 Pro also uses the Android OS 7 version as the UI.
You can locally update Fiio M11 using firmware package that can be downloaded from FiiO website. Transfer the firmware package file to the micro SD card and go to “Technical Support” app. From there, choose the Firmware Update menu and select your preferred firmware package to upgrade your Fiio M11.
Mango player is another inclusion carrying 2.1.2. version. Similarly, FiiO Music compensates for Google features in the M11 model. FiiO Music App has many songs of your choice too!
Like DX160, Fiio M11 doesn’t allow the players to use Apple music app on their device. But you can easily transfer music to Fiio M11 from your PC using its USB DAC mode! Just make sure to select your M11 device as the “audio input” in both the PC and the Fiio M11. And you’re ready to go!
Wondering how to use Fiio M11 as dac?
Simply switch the USB mode to USB DAC from the “Storage” icon and connect the Fiio M11 to the PC with a USB cable and use it as a USB DAC. You can find the the USB mode settings by going to Setting > Audio > USB mode.
Using the USB DAC features of Fiio M11 also helps to transfer files to it from a PC.
It’s also equally easy to reset your Fiio M11!
With your M11 powered off, hold power+previous track button simultaneously and choose “Wipe data/ factory reset”. This will restore your Fiio M11 to its default factory settings.
Winner: Overall, the Ibasso DX160 serves better UI, and has more functional interface than Fiio m11
Battery Performance
This aspect has been underrated while comparing. Durability, smoother UI, etc., have a great dependency on the battery shelf.
FiiO M11 wins over this segment with a 3800 mAh battery. Meanwhile, DX160 lacks the top-notch battery standard carrying 3200 mAh.
However, this is capable of running for 12 hours continuously in a single mode. If users like listening in low-gain mode, the time falls 2 hours shorter.
Other models have different battery compatibility. For example., FiiO X1 compared to FiiO X3 has different compatibility.
Always choose the one with better battery life.
Winner: FiiO M11.
Final Verdict
If you are still reading this, it’s time for our recommendation. This intense confrontation of Ibasso Dx160 vs Fiio M11 has been going on for way too long!
We admire how well-built the Fiio M11 is compared to the Dx160 exterior. But the Dx160 makes a great comeback with an appealing UI that makes it easier to use and explore!
Comparing the Fiio M11 against several PMPs, you may find it not good enough. But the articulated and subtle sound system, and extended functions, will make you go for it.
Also, availability has been an issue for the FiiO M11 to a certain extent. It was last available in October 2021. This was a major point when we compared the M11 with M11 plus and M17.
Meanwhile, DX160 provides a robust sonic signature along with great specifications. But the average battery shelf is its pivotal drawback.
According to the price, FiiO M11 is a little bit expensive. We recorded its price at $685 back in October 2021. Meanwhile, iBasso stayed around $273.
Also, remember our table that we talked about at first? Well, acknowledging every aspect we recommend FiiO M11.
Source: head-fi.org
Moreover, we recommend the Astell&Kern Portable Music Player to keep on your wishlist. Apart from its high-end quality, you get bit-to-bit playback up to 32bit per 384kHz!
Winner: FiiO M11.
Looking for other great alternatives for Fiio M11 in the $400 budget range? The Shanling M3x and Hiby R5 Saber are two of the closest alternative options for Fiio M11 in the same budget range!
FAQs
Will I Get Spotify in the FiiO M11?
Yes, this audio player has a vast collection of different application platforms. From DLNA, UPnP to AirPlay, all are included here. Also, users get access to high-definition streaming sites to choose their songs from! Spotify, Tidal, Deezer, Qobuz, Napster, TuneIn, are the big names in the list.
Is iBasso The Right Brand To Buy My Audio Player?
This Chinese brand is popular for providing stunning DAPs, In-ear monitors, and even amplifiers. Audiophiles find comfort here as it updates new technologies in the players regularly. Vast collections such as DX160 and DX220, are hyped products. Top-notch service and a long warranty keep users engaged.
What Does A Lossless Audio Player Bring?
It’s entirely a unique process in the middle of audio compression. Consequently, users enjoy the real quality of sound as it serves as a fine compressed digital audio file. In summary, no detail gets lost in the audio track by its data algorithm. A lossy file stays half of the original records in size.
Final Words
We have tried letting you know every possible aspect of FiiO M11 vs iBasso DX160.
However, there are tons of things we missed. But the key aspect you may understand here hopefully.
Here’s our bonus tip- always check which setup you are using!
Now, it’s time to wrap! Happy listening!
