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Identifies and describes the physical controls, ports, and indicators on the device.
Instructions for turning the device on/off and adjusting volume using the knob.
Guide for connecting the E10K to a computer via USB for DAC functionality.
Critical information on system errors, audio output, handling, and hearing safety.
Guidelines for the correct disposal of the product and its batteries according to WEEE.
Identifies and describes the physical controls, ports, and indicators on the device.
Instructions for turning the device on/off and adjusting volume using the knob.
Guide for connecting the E10K to a computer via USB for DAC functionality.
Critical information on system errors, audio output, handling, and hearing safety.
Guidelines for the correct disposal of the product and its batteries according to WEEE.
The FiiO E10K_TYPE C is a versatile DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) and Headphone Amplifier designed to enhance your audio experience, particularly when connected to a computer. This compact device serves as an external sound card, bypassing your computer's potentially inferior onboard audio processing to deliver cleaner, more powerful, and higher-fidelity sound to your headphones or external speakers. Its primary function is to convert digital audio signals from your computer into analog signals, which are then amplified to drive headphones or fed into other audio equipment.
At its core, the E10K_TYPE C acts as an intermediary between your computer and your audio output devices. When connected via USB, it receives digital audio data from your computer. Inside the E10K, a high-performance DAC chip processes this digital data, converting it into a smooth, continuous analog waveform. This analog signal is then passed through a dedicated headphone amplifier circuit, which boosts its power and voltage to effectively drive a wide range of headphones, from sensitive in-ear monitors to more demanding over-ear models. The amplifier ensures that your headphones receive sufficient power to reproduce audio with clarity, dynamic range, and impact, often revealing details that might be lost with a computer's built-in audio output.
Beyond its primary DAC and headphone amplification functions, the E10K_TYPE C offers several output options, making it a flexible hub for your audio setup. It features a standard 3.5mm headphone output on the front, allowing direct connection of your headphones. For connecting to external speakers, a separate line-out port is provided. This line-out delivers an unamplified, fixed-level analog signal, ideal for feeding into an integrated amplifier, powered speakers, or another audio system. Additionally, the device includes a coaxial digital output, which can pass the digital audio signal directly to an external DAC or a home theater receiver, allowing you to utilize other high-end digital-to-analog conversion stages if desired. This comprehensive set of outputs ensures that the E10K_TYPE C can integrate seamlessly into various audio configurations, from a simple desktop headphone setup to a more elaborate home audio system.
The E10K_TYPE C is designed for straightforward operation, offering intuitive controls for a user-friendly experience. Powering the device on and off, as well as adjusting the volume, is managed by a single, multi-function knob. Turning this knob clockwise from the off position will first click to power on the device, and continued rotation in the same direction will increase the volume. Conversely, rotating it anticlockwise will decrease the volume, and further rotation will click to power off the unit. This integrated control simplifies the user interface, making it easy to manage your listening levels.
For tailoring the sound to your preferences and the characteristics of your headphones, the E10K_TYPE C includes a bass switch. This switch allows you to engage a bass boost function, which can add warmth and impact to the low-frequency response. This feature is particularly useful for headphones that might sound a bit lean in the bass or for genres of music where a more pronounced bass presence is desired. Another important sound-shaping control is the gain switch. This switch offers two gain levels, typically labeled "L" (low) and "H" (high). The gain setting determines the amplification level applied to the audio signal. Low gain is suitable for sensitive headphones, preventing excessive volume and potential distortion, while high gain provides more power for less sensitive or higher-impedance headphones, ensuring they can be driven to adequate listening levels with sufficient headroom. Adjusting the gain appropriately helps to optimize the performance of your headphones and achieve the best possible sound quality.
Connectivity is primarily handled via a USB port, which serves a dual purpose: it provides power to the device and transmits digital audio data from your computer. This single-cable solution simplifies setup and reduces cable clutter. The device also features a power indicator light, which illuminates when the unit is powered on, providing a visual cue of its operational status. For Windows users, a specific USB DAC driver needs to be installed to ensure optimal performance and compatibility. This driver can be downloaded from the FiiO website. MAC OS users, however, benefit from plug-and-play functionality, as the E10K_TYPE C is recognized directly by the operating system without the need for additional drivers. It is recommended to set the computer's system output volume to its maximum level and then use the E10K's volume knob for precise control, allowing the E10K to handle the primary volume attenuation for better audio fidelity.
The E10K_TYPE C is built with durability and user safety in mind, incorporating several recommendations for proper care and handling to ensure its longevity and reliable performance. In the event of a system error or unexpected behavior, a simple troubleshooting step is to unplug and then re-plug the USB cable. This often resolves temporary glitches and allows the device to resume normal operation. This quick reset mechanism is a practical feature for maintaining consistent performance.
It's important to note that under USB decoding, the line-out and headphone output signals operate simultaneously. This means you can have headphones connected and also feed an external amplifier or powered speakers at the same time, offering flexibility in how you route your audio. However, when connecting or disconnecting headphones, it is strongly advised to remove them from your ears first. This precaution helps to prevent any sudden, impulsive sounds or volume spikes that could potentially damage your hearing. This simple habit contributes significantly to long-term hearing health.
To protect the internal electronics and ensure the device's operational integrity, it is crucial to keep the E10K_TYPE C away from water and other liquids. Exposure to moisture can cause short circuits and permanent damage. Furthermore, users are advised against attempting to repair or disassemble the device on their own. Unauthorized disassembly can void the warranty and may lead to further damage or personal injury due to exposure to internal components. For any technical issues or repairs, it is best to consult with authorized service personnel.
The E10K_TYPE C also comes with a set of isolation feet. These small, adhesive feet can be attached to the bottom of the device. Their purpose is to provide a stable base, reduce vibrations, and prevent the device from scratching surfaces or sliding around on your desk. This not only protects your furniture but also contributes to the device's overall stability and potentially minimizes micro-vibrations that could subtly affect audio quality.
Finally, the product adheres to WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) Directive guidelines for responsible disposal. At the end of its serviceable life, the E10K_TYPE C should not be discarded as general household waste. Instead, it should be taken to an applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. This commitment to environmental responsibility ensures that the device's components are processed in an eco-friendly manner. If the device contains an internal battery (though the E10K_TYPE C is USB-powered and typically does not have an internal battery in the traditional sense, this general guideline applies to FiiO products), that battery should also be collected separately for appropriate recycling. These guidelines underscore FiiO's dedication to sustainable practices and encourage users to participate in responsible electronic waste management.
General| Type | USB DAC and headphone amplifier |
|---|---|
| Input | USB Type-C |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz - 20kHz |
| Bass Boost | Yes |
| Digital Audio Output | No |
| Maximum Supported Sample Rate | 192kHz |
| Recommended Headphone Impedance | 16 - 150Ω |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | <0.003% |
| Output Impedance | <1Ω |
| Supported Bit Depth | 16/24-bit |
| Supported Sample Rates | 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 96kHz, 192kHz |
| Gain Switch | Yes |
| Output | 3.5mm Headphone Output |
| Output Power | 200mW (32Ω) |
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