What are the best digital audio players?
Digital audio players have become immensely popular over the past couple decades for their ability to store and play large libraries of music files and audiobooks on the go. As technology has advanced, modern digital audio players provide high-quality audio, support for common audio file formats, ample storage space, long battery life, Bluetooth connectivity, and extra features like FM radio. The top considerations for identifying the best digital audio players include sound quality, file support, storage capacity, battery life, portability, connectivity, extra features, and price range. This article will evaluate some of the best digital audio players available today across these key criteria.
Sound Quality
When it comes to sound quality, some of the key factors to consider are frequency range, sampling rate, bit depth, drivers, and amplification. The best digital audio players are able to reproduce audio with high fidelity and minimal distortion. According to Audiophileon, the Ibasso DX320 features dual ES9038Q2M DAC chips that support up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM and native DSD512. With a frequency range of 4Hz-70kHz, it provides extremely detailed and accurate sound. The Fiio M17 uses dual AKM4499 DACs and offers up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM and native DSD256 decoding with a frequency response range of 20Hz-40kHz for excellent hi-res playback (source).
In terms of amplification, the Cayin N8 uses a quad amp design with one amp per headphone output allowing it to drive even the most demanding headphones with ease. According to Moon Audio, the powerful amplification of the Lotoo PAW Touch also enables it to drive full-size headphones without difficulty for immersive listening experiences (source). Overall, factors like high bit depth, fast sampling rates, wide frequency ranges, quality DACs, and powerful amps enable the top digital audio players to deliver superb sound quality on par with desktop audio setups.
File Support
When choosing a digital audio player, one of the most important factors is what audio formats it supports. There is a wide range of formats that store digital audio, with some formats offering higher audio quality while others provide better compression. Here is an overview of the most common formats supported across top digital audio players:
MP3 is the most popular digital audio format. It uses lossy compression, which reduces file size at the cost of some loss in audio quality. Virtually every digital audio player supports MP3 due to its ubiquity. However, the level of MP3 support can vary. Some players may only support lower bitrate MP3s while high-end players can play high bitrate MP3s for better sound quality.
FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) offers CD-quality audio in a compressed format. Since it uses lossless compression, FLAC files retain all the data from the original audio source. FLAC files are significantly larger than MP3s, so support varies across players. Many high-end players like the Fiio X5 offer FLAC support.
WAV and AIFF are uncompressed, lossless formats that provide the highest level of audio quality. However, files sizes are very large. Only some high-end players from companies like Astell&Kern offer native support for these lossless formats.
Support for lossy formats like AAC and WMA also varies across players. Check each device’s specs to ensure it supports your desired audio formats. Higher-end players tend to be the most versatile in terms of file format support.
Storage Capacity
Storage capacity is an important factor when choosing a digital audio player. The amount of built-in storage determines how many songs, albums, podcasts and other audio files can be loaded onto the device.
Entry-level audio players often have 4GB of storage, while mid-range options offer 16-32GB. High-end players can have 64GB or more of built-in memory. For example, the Sony NW-A100 series ranges from 16GB up to 256GB models.
Consider how you plan to use your audio player. If you have a large digital music library, opt for a player with higher storage. Frequent podcast listeners may also need more space. For casual listening or budget options, 4-16GB could suffice.
Many audio players allow you to augment the built-in storage with a microSD card. Cards ranging from 32GB up to 1TB can drastically increase your device’s capacity. The ability to add a memory card is handy for expanding storage later if needed.
When comparing players, look at both the native storage and if there is a microSD slot. More expensive players tend to have greater built-in capacity, while many budget models rely on external memory cards for expanded storage.
Battery Life
Battery life is a key consideration when choosing a portable digital audio player. You want a player that will last through long listening sessions without having to frequently recharge.
The Hiby R3-II and Hiby M300 have outstanding battery life compared to many other models, with both lasting over 12 hours for audio playback (Source). The Hiby R3-II has a 2000 mAh battery and is rated for up to 14 hours of continuous playback. The Hiby M300 has a slightly larger 2900 mAh battery and can last up to 16 hours (Source).
In comparison, the Sony NW-A306 has a battery life of around 9 hours, which is decent but less than the Hiby models (Source). The SanDisk Clip Sport Plus is rated for up to 20 hours of audio playback thanks to its large battery capacity.
For quick charging, the Hiby M300 has fast charging support that can provide 5 hours of playback from just a 15 minute charge (Source). The Sony NW-A306 takes about 3 hours to fully recharge its battery.
Portability
Portability is an important consideration when choosing a digital audio player. You’ll want to think about the size, weight, and durability of different models.
The FiiO M17 is one of the larger, heavier options at 6.5 x 3.5 x 0.9 inches and 9.7 ounces. This may make it less ideal for activities like working out. However, it has an aluminum alloy frame for durability.
Smaller, lighter players like the SanDisk Clip Jam at 1.8 x 1.1 x 0.4 inches and 0.9 ounces are easy to clip onto clothing and great for active use. But they may not feel as sturdy.
The size and weight you’re willing to carry will depend on your needs. If you want a portable player mostly for commuting or everyday use, strike a balance between compact size and sturdy build quality.
Connectivity
Digital audio players offer a range of wired and wireless connectivity options to suit different needs. Here are some of the main connectivity features to consider:
Bluetooth – Most digital audio players nowadays have Bluetooth connectivity built-in. This allows you to pair wireless headphones or speakers and stream music wirelessly. The range is usually around 10 meters. Look for newer Bluetooth versions like 4.0+ for improved functionality.
WiFi – Some high-end DAPs have WiFi connectivity. This lets you access online music services, download podcasts, sync wirelessly, and more. WiFi provides greater versatility but can drain battery life faster.
USB – USB connectivity allows you to transfer music files to your DAP from your computer. Common USB interfaces are USB-C and micro USB. USB 3.0 offers faster transfer speeds. Some players act as an external DAC/amp when connected via USB.
Aux/Line Out – A standard 3.5mm headphone jack allows you to plug in your favorite headphones. Some players also have line out jacks to connect to external amplifiers.
Extra Features
In addition to playing high-quality audio, many modern digital audio players come with extra features that enhance the listening experience:
Touchscreens: Most players now feature a touchscreen interface that allows you to navigate music libraries and playlists. Touchscreens provide an intuitive way to select songs, albums, podcasts or audiobooks. Some players even allow you to customize the interface.
Playlists: Players have options to create playlists so you can organize music for different activities or moods. Playlists let you queue up songs and listen without interruption.
Apps and Online Services: Many players connect to apps or online services like Spotify, Apple Music or YouTube so you can stream audio in addition to playing downloaded files. Some players have built-in support for popular music services.
Fitness Features: Some players double as fitness trackers, monitoring your steps, distance, calories burned, heart rate and more while playing music to motivate you during workouts.
Audiobook Support: Players designed for audiobooks will have features like bookmarks to save your stopping point and variable speed playback to listen at slower or faster speeds.
FM Radio: For listening on the go, some players still incorporate an FM radio tuner so you can tune in without using mobile data.
Consider the extra features you’ll use to determine which player best fits your listening preferences and lifestyle.
Price Range
Digital audio players vary widely in price, from budget models under $50 to high-end devices costing over $500. The price is primarily determined by sound quality, storage capacity, and extra features. Entry-level players from brands like Sandisk and Sony can be found for under $100, while mid-range models from companies like Fiio and Astell&Kern cost between $100-$300. Audiophile players from luxury brands like Astell&Kern can cost over $1000.
When comparing prices, pay attention to sound quality – more expensive models often support lossless audio formats and have better DACs (digital-to-analog converters) and amps for improved audio fidelity. Also consider storage needs – more capacity means higher prices. Extra features like Bluetooth connectivity, expandable memory, and touchscreens also raise the price. Finally, build quality and materials impact cost, with aluminum/glass designs costing more than plastic.
Ultimately, choose the player that fits your budget while meeting your audio quality, storage, and feature needs. Models around $100-200 offer great value, while high-end audiophile players provide superior sound for a premium. Focus on your listening habits and priorities rather than just comparing prices.
Recommendations
Here are some top recommendations for digital audio players based on sound quality, features, and budget:
FiiO M11 Plus LTD – For audiophiles wanting premium sound quality, the FiiO M11 Plus LTD is an excellent high-resolution DAP with quad DAC architecture, unbalanced and balanced outputs, a large touchscreen, Android OS, WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity. It supports all major lossless formats and has excellent battery life. The sound is clean, detailed and powerful.
Sony NW-A55 – The Sony NW-A55 combines great sound with a stylish and compact design. It has a built-in headphone amp, supports high-res audio up to 32-bit/384kHz, and features an intuitive touchscreen interface. The sound signature is warm and musical. A great portable option.
Hidizs AP80 Pro-X – For those on a budget, the Hidizs AP80 Pro-X packs impressive performance and features into an affordable package. It has dual CS43198 DACs, provides 13 hours of battery life, and supports most lossless formats. The sound is clean and neutral. A cost-effective hi-res music player.