10 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 M21 is a powerful high-resolution audio player suited for those who want excellent sound quality on the go. Powered by a modern Snapdragon 680 processor and running Android 13, it supports popular music apps smoothly, giving you flexibility beyond just local files. The device comes with 64GB of storage, which is a decent amount for storing a large music library, and it has a 4.7-inch screen that makes navigation easy and clear.

One of the standout features is its quad CS43198 DAC setup with balanced amplification, which means it delivers clean, detailed audio with minimal noise—ideal for audiophiles who appreciate rich sound and dynamic range. It supports versatile headphone connections including both 3.5mm and 4.4mm outputs, as well as SPDIF and USB audio output, which are great for connecting to various audio systems or headphones. The patented Desktop Mode is useful for long listening sessions as it helps preserve battery life by running on external power without charging or draining the battery. The device weighs about 15.8 ounces, which is a bit on the heavier side for a portable player, so it might feel bulky in a pocket.

Connectivity options include Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, allowing wireless streaming and easy downloads. The build quality, highlighted by a solid dark blue design and quality materials, should feel sturdy and premium. While the M21 is not the lightest or cheapest option, its combination of high-end DACs, strong processing power, and flexible connectivity makes it a compelling choice for anyone looking to enjoy high-res audio with both convenience and excellent sound fidelity.