CD players are making a comeback, especially among Gen Z who are embracing the retro vibes of the ‘90s. FiiO, an audiophile brand, is taking advantage of this trend with their new portable CD player, the DM13. This modern upgrade to the classic Discman includes features like high-fidelity wireless and a built-in battery, eliminating the need for constantly changing AA cells.
In addition to their vinyl turntable and cassette player reboots, FiiO is now venturing into the world of portable CD players. The DM13 boasts a sleek design with a digital display, giving it a sharp and modern look. This is a far cry from the clunky CD players that Gen X used back in the day while listening to bands like Candlebox and Right Said Fred.
The DM13 offers both 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced outputs for analog line-out listening. It also supports high-quality aptX HD for wireless listening, making it compatible with various Android phones and portable media players. However, iPhone users may need an adapter for optimal wireless audio since Apple uses the lower-bitrate AAC codec.
FiiO claims that the DM13 can provide up to eight hours of playback on a single charge. It also features a USB output and a desktop mode that bypasses the battery, drawing power directly when used at home.
Unfortunately for those eager to get their hands on this modern CD player, the DM13 is not yet available for purchase. It is set to be released in September after its unveiling at the CanJam event in London. The price is set at $179 (£179 in the UK), and initially, it will only be available in a silver finish. However, FiiO has promised that red, blue, titanium, and black variants will be launched later in the year.
