Steamrolly
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The 2025 version of the Fosi Audio Q6 only shares its name with the previous Q6 sibling which was released about 4 years ago. While still a DAC, it is a completely different product down to the brand of DAC chip (AKM instead of ESS) it utilizes. The new Q6 utilizes a recently released AKM AK4493 DAC chip with a XMOS XU316 USB DAC and both OPA1612 and NE5532DR op amps.
The Q6 does everything that most people need a DAC for without costly unneeded features. As I have mentioned previously in other reviews, my typical use of a DAC is as a set and forget device. I suspect most do not really utilize features such as a display, a remote, preamplifier section, MQA, Bluetooth and multiple sound modes etc. However, if these feature appeal to you the Fosi Audio ZD3 would be worth a look. As for the Q6 it is a solid, simple to use DAC with excellent sound quality.
I tested the Q6 using optical, coaxial and USB inputs with various sources. I streamed Tidal using a WiiM Mini (optical), WiiM Pro (coaxial) and Windows 10 Laptop (USB). I also tested it with my Firestick through the TV optical and all worked seamlessly without issue.
This DAC reminds me of my old Topping E30 with a toggle power switch and simple input selector. When comparing it to my SMSL PS200 I much prefer the Q6 controls and all metal case over the plastic case and push buttons of the SMSL PS200. The SMSL uses an ES9039Q2M chip instead of the AK4493; any sound difference between the AKM and ESS chips would be subtle and subject to personal preference.
Similar to the ZA3 and V3 amplifiers, the Q6 is designed to allow op amp swapping (NE5532DR) which gives you the ability try out different op amps to see if you prefer one over the other. I suggest that the perfect amplifier partner for the Q6 is the V3 as both only offer RCA audio connectors whereas the ZA3 also has XLR so to utilize the XLR you would probably want to consider the ZD3. On a side note, it would be nice to see USB power built into a future version of the amplifiers to so that DACs can utilize USB power directly from the amplifier.
For anyone who needs a simple DAC with excellent performance, the Fosi Audio Q6 is an ideal choice. I am using mine in our TV system but also It would work well to update connectivity of an older audio system, for your computer desktop computer audio or new mini home stereo system.
The Q6 does everything that most people need a DAC for without costly unneeded features. As I have mentioned previously in other reviews, my typical use of a DAC is as a set and forget device. I suspect most do not really utilize features such as a display, a remote, preamplifier section, MQA, Bluetooth and multiple sound modes etc. However, if these feature appeal to you the Fosi Audio ZD3 would be worth a look. As for the Q6 it is a solid, simple to use DAC with excellent sound quality.
I tested the Q6 using optical, coaxial and USB inputs with various sources. I streamed Tidal using a WiiM Mini (optical), WiiM Pro (coaxial) and Windows 10 Laptop (USB). I also tested it with my Firestick through the TV optical and all worked seamlessly without issue.
This DAC reminds me of my old Topping E30 with a toggle power switch and simple input selector. When comparing it to my SMSL PS200 I much prefer the Q6 controls and all metal case over the plastic case and push buttons of the SMSL PS200. The SMSL uses an ES9039Q2M chip instead of the AK4493; any sound difference between the AKM and ESS chips would be subtle and subject to personal preference.
Similar to the ZA3 and V3 amplifiers, the Q6 is designed to allow op amp swapping (NE5532DR) which gives you the ability try out different op amps to see if you prefer one over the other. I suggest that the perfect amplifier partner for the Q6 is the V3 as both only offer RCA audio connectors whereas the ZA3 also has XLR so to utilize the XLR you would probably want to consider the ZD3. On a side note, it would be nice to see USB power built into a future version of the amplifiers to so that DACs can utilize USB power directly from the amplifier.
For anyone who needs a simple DAC with excellent performance, the Fosi Audio Q6 is an ideal choice. I am using mine in our TV system but also It would work well to update connectivity of an older audio system, for your computer desktop computer audio or new mini home stereo system.
