I’ve narrowed my DAP search to these two models. The M21 is $100 cheaper, but I’m willing to spend the extra $ if the R6 is worth it.

I’m leaning towards the M21 because it has a newer processor and Android 13 — though I know that doesn’t make a difference in sound.

Has anyone tried both of them? I’ve read the specs. There are many similar comparisons, but I have not seen a direct opinion by some that has held them. Thanks!

Who u got?

Howdy,

Deciding between one of these daps right now. Hiby is running a sale and has the R6iii 2025 for 379.99$ right now. Still a bit more than the Fiio but the volume knob has me intrigued. Any one have experience with both? Any advice as to which way I should go?

Cheers!

I'm finally upgrading from my HiBy R1, but I'm pretty torn between both the HiBy R6 III (2025), the FiiO M21, and Sony A306.

Why I'm upgrading:

• Car Bluetooth is the primary issue with my HiBy R1. It doesn't work in either of my car or my partner's car.

• HiByOS is a bit slow, clunky, and disorganized. I love MSEB, but doing normal things like finding a playlist is a chore.

• Everything else about it is wonderful. If I didn't own a car I would be mostly satisfied.

How I plan to use a DAP:

• Completely offline. I have a library of FLACs that I've collected over the years.

• I don't wanna fuss with Android. I want the default player that comes with it to be a good experience and I'm not planning on making a Google Account.

• 80% of the time I'll be listening with IEMs. 20% of the time I'll be using Bluetooth to listen in my car.

• I only own 3.5mm headphones currently, but having the option for 4.4mm doesn't hurt for future-proofing.

Other considerations:

• The iPod Classic is pretty close to the perfect size for a DAP. So something "deck of cards" sized is ideal.

• "Pure Music" modes that make the Android OS take a backseat are ideal. I think both HiBy and FiiO has one, but not sure which is better.

• More physical buttons, the better.

• Repairability and battery life is important, but not deal-breakers.

Edit: I don't need more options at this point of time, so please help me decide between these DAPs versus suggesting a new one.

Edit 2: I ended up getting a 30 GB iPod Classic from my local used electronics store.

Edit 3: Most of you didn't actually read the post. Has ChatGPT really cooked us to the point of illiteracy?

Which one would you buy in 2025?

I'm looking into getting my first DAP. However I'm unsure what the differences are in terms of different dac chips, and I'm still fuzzy on what "bit-perfect architecture" even means.

I plan to pair the DAP with the HD 600 at some point, though till I can get both a DAP and headphones, I'd be using the DAP with the Sony WH10004XM.

I'm looking for the best DAP I can find that can power the HD 600 on the go, do Bluetooth pass thru, and usb pass thru.

Hi everyone,

I'm looking to buy a new DAP since I am returning the ECHO mini but want to continue with a good first DAP and I'm currently leaning toward the FiiO M21. It seems like a solid choice in terms of hardware specs (probably the best among the three), and surprisingly, it’s also the cheapest of the bunch.

However, I’ve read that some users have experienced background noise/interference with the M21, especially on sensitive IEMs ( I am running Moondrop Aria 2 rn and I am planning to buy a great open headphone). On the other hand, some people say that the Shanling M3 Plus has better sound quality while having the exact same number and model of DACs and AMPS, possibly thanks to its special capacitors (Silnic Elna 2 capacitor) and tuning.

The HiBy R6 2025 is another option I’m considering, though from what I’ve seen, both the Shanling and HiBy might be a bit laggier in terms of UI performance compared to the FiiO (older chip) .

I'm mainly focused on sound quality, but some features on the M21 seem like real bonuses like the extra op-amp (no idea what it's actually for, but I assume it helps with sound?) and the desktop mode.

I know there's also the iBasso DX180, but where I am, it's about €110 more expensive than the other three.

Anyone here who has experience with any of these three? I'd love to hear your thoughts or recommendations — especially if you've tried more than one of them.

Thanks!

Looking for advice, experience, suggestions in deciding to pick up an R6-III or the M11 (or something else I should look at).

Coming from a R6 (2018) and mainly use my DT-770s (80ohm). My R6 has been dependable but the battery life isn't what it used to be and the UI is a little clunky (after updating it to Android 8 about a year ago). I do like the Hiby's warm signature and that is what I am leaning towards at the moment.

Budget is $700 - from what I understand the law of diminishing returns for DAPs starts in that area.

Thanks in advance.

Hello everyone! i currently own a Hiby R6 (First gen) and I was looking at the JM21. Just curious on if the JM21 is better then what I currently own. What are your thoughts other then the fact that the JM21 has a newer version of android? Is the sound different? Is it possible to flash a newer android rom on my R6?

Hello everyone,

I’m thinking about buying a DAP. I need to switch from mobile to DAP and would appreciate expert suggestions on this.

Which is the best DAP between these two, or can you suggest another option available in this range?

Please help me—I'm very confused; both have mixed reviews, so I would appreciate your guidance.

I’m mostly going to use the Apple Music streaming app or Tidal if I get the subscription, but I’m currently using Apple Music with Kinera CD 2 and Kato.

What digital audio player to get Fiio M21, Hiby R4 Evangelion, Sony NW-A306 or other less then $500? Holidays coming up and need a new phone soon so don't want to spend too much.

How much will I expect to pay in tariffs ordering a Fio M21 or Hiby R4 Evangelion since I am in the USA?

Are Hiby and Fiio long term reliable?

Current setup is Sony PHA-3 hooked up to a Note 10 Plus with Sony IER-Z1R.

I want to get a separate DAP since my next phone likely won't have a Micro-SD slot.

Some friends got the Hiby R4 Eva and it looks cool but from listening to it I feel my Sony PHA-3 sounds better for classical and opera music. Heard that the Fiio M21 sounded better but I haven't had a chance to meet the friend with the Fiio M21. Another friend has the Sony NW-A306 but that is older and it isn't as cool as the Hiby R4 Eva. I do like anime so it looking cool is nice but more concerned about sound and long term reliability. I feel Sony will last longer though.

Hello guys,

I want to buy my first DAP to listen to my FLAC files.

The only things I want are :

• Equalizer

• The ability to listen to Spotify

Which device do you recommend?

Thank you!