5 Best High Resolution Audio Players 2025 in the United States

The Sony NW-WM1AM2 Hi-Res Walkman is a strong contender in the high-resolution audio player category. Its support for various high-res audio formats, including Native DSD, ensures impressive audio quality. The inclusion of the S-Master HX digital amplifier further enhances sound purity, making it an excellent choice for audiophiles.

The 128GB storage capacity, along with an SD card slot, provides ample space for extensive music libraries, while the 5-inch screen and user-friendly interface make navigation straightforward. Connectivity options such as Wi-Fi allow for downloading and streaming, expanding its functionality beyond just a music player.

The aluminum frame contributes to its sturdy build quality, ensuring durability. A notable feature is its long battery life, which is essential for extended listening sessions. However, its weight (1.08 pounds) and relatively large dimensions may make it less portable compared to other models. Some users might also find its price point high relative to its features. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Sony NW-WM1AM2 remains a solid choice for those seeking high-quality audio performance and robust storage capacity.

The FiiO M15S is a high-resolution audio player that shows strong performance across several key areas. It supports a broad range of audio formats, which is beneficial for audiophiles who enjoy various music files. The player comes with a robust ES9038PRO DAC, ensuring superior sound quality with eight independent D/A converters. It offers a substantial 64 GB of internal storage, and the Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 processor along with Android 10 ensures a smooth user experience with access to apps like Spotify, Tidal, and Amazon Music.

The 5.5-inch screen provides a clear and user-friendly interface, enhancing navigation and control. With dual power supplies, it is versatile for both desktop and portable use, and the five gain levels make it adaptable for different headphone types. Connectivity is well-covered with Bluetooth 5.0, WiFi, and USB options, making it easy to integrate with other devices.

The device is relatively heavy at 2.42 pounds, which might be cumbersome for portable use. Despite this drawback, the M15S stands out for its sound performance and versatility, making it a solid choice for high-resolution audio enthusiasts.

The FiiO M11Plus is a robust choice for audiophiles looking for a high-resolution audio player. It supports a wide range of audio formats, ensuring versatility in playback options. With a storage capacity that is expandable via SD cards, you won't run out of space for your high-quality audio files. The battery life, lasting up to 11.5 hours, is decent but might require frequent charging for heavy users.

The user interface is intuitive, thanks to its Android 10 operating system, which includes modern features like dark mode and multiple navigation options. The inclusion of a Snapdragon 660 processor ensures smooth operation, similar to a smartphone experience. Build quality is solid, with a sleek black design and a sturdy feel, complemented by a leather case for added protection. Connectivity options are extensive, including 2.5mm, 3.5mm, and 4.4mm headphone outputs, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, and multiple USB options, making it highly versatile for different setups.

The dual ES9068AS DAC chips and THX AAA-78 amps provide exceptional sound quality, with rich, detailed audio that captures the essence of the recording studio. However, the device is somewhat heavy at 1.54 pounds and might not be the most portable option for on-the-go use. Additionally, while the 4 GB internal storage is quite limited, this can be mitigated with the use of expandable memory cards. In summary, the FiiO M11Plus excels in delivering high-quality sound and a smooth user experience, making it a great choice for serious music enthusiasts, though its weight and internal storage might be minor drawbacks for some users.