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FiiO DM15 R2R Review: Modern CD Player Meets Portable R2R DAC

Today we look at the FiiO DM15R2R a Modern CD Player that functions as a portable and desktop DAC solution. It is currently priced at $270 USD.

by The Metalverse

Updated January 14, 2026

FiiO DM15 Review: FiiO's new CD Player meets DAC functionality

VST Review Table

FiiO DM15 R2R

9.5

The Metalverse Score

Pros

Bridges modern DAC quality with CD functionality
R2R DAC provides warm, hi-fi audio
8 EQ options and 2 bass boost switches
Transparent lid lets you watch your CDs spin

Cons

Price may be high for some (although it is built well for its cost)

Price

$270

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FiiO is a well known name in the audiophile industry, but the audio brand's newest series is taking supposedly "obsolete" formats like Cassette players, turntables, and CD players and reimagining them to be useful with modern technology formats.

What Is the FiiO DM15 R2R?

The FiiO DM15 R2R represents the company's second-generation portable CD player, succeeding the popular DM13. At about $270 USD, the DM15 functions as a portable CD Player, USB DAC, Bluetooth transmitter, and desktop hi-fi source. It has built-in EQ, 3.4 and 4.5mm terminations, and uses R2R digital to analog converter technology that is beloved by audiophile communities for its high-quality audio, and slight tone of warmth and smoothness when listening to music.

FiiO includes most functions you could ask for with the DM15 as a portable DAC or Desktop DAC alone, all while adding the possibility to listen to physical CDs as needed.

Build Quality & Design

FiiO made significant design improvements over the DM13, and it shows immediately. The all-aluminum alloy construction feels substantial without being bulky. At about 470g, it's definitely a little heavier than a 1990s Discman, but the weight adds to quality rather than inconvenience.

The standout feature is the transparent tempered glass lid, allowing you to watch your CDs spin during playback—a small nostalgic touch that brings unexpected joy. The front panel also features tempered glass, creating a premium aesthetic that wouldn't look out of place in a dedicated hi-fi setup. 2color options are available: black and white, each sporting a clean, modern look.

Control layout received thoughtful attention. Unlike the DM13, where controls were scattered and sometimes required button combinations, the DM15 R2R consolidates everything on the front panel. Mechanical buttons provide satisfying tactile feedback, and the new volume knob offers precise, smooth adjustment—a welcome change from digital volume controls. The 0.96-inch HD TFT display clearly shows track information, playback modes, and current settings.

Build quality easily surpasses budget portable CD players and rivals equipment costing significantly more. This feels like a piece of audio gear designed to last, not a disposable gadget.

Sound Quality

The DM15 R2R's custom four-channel, fully differential 24-bit R2R resistor array DAC distinguishes it from competitors. Built using 192 precision thin-film resistors (48 per channel) with 0.1% accuracy and low temperature drift, this DAC creates fully realistic, high-quality sound that has an added touch of warmth and smoothness that makes listening to this very enjoyable.

EQ Options

FiiO offers a lot of options for personal EQing with the DM15. The first is the "Magic Bass" switch that adds 3 modes: "Off" (standard listening), "1"(Slight Bass Boost), and "2" (Heavy Bass Boost). Most of my listening was done with the Bass switch "Off" as I found it to slightly muffle the mids and highs (as boosting bass tends to do), but nonetheless, this is a really great feature to have and lets you customize the bass on each song.

In addition to the Bass Switch, there are 7 different EQ presets: Jazz, Pop, Rock, Dance, Classic, Hip Hop, and Retro. You can very quickly and easily change between sound profiles to test which EQ setting sounds the best with your current song.

CD Functionality

The CD functionality is one of the main interest points between the DM15 and a standard DAC, and what makes it so intriguing. The CD player worked seamlessly and allowed my to see which track was playing and easily pause and skip between songs. Beeing able to see your CD spin while listening is a lovely feature and even just having the CD sitting in the tray when not listening displays your CD like art.

Some audiophiles swear by CDs over digital streaming and while its hard to tell the difference between lossless streaming and CD quality, I did actually notice a somewhat substantial volume boost when listening to a song on CD compared to on a streaming service.

FiiO also implemented a self-rebounding steel ball design for disc alignment, making CD insertion and removal smooth while minimizing scratch risk. Electronic Skip Protection (ESP) ensures stable playback whether you're sitting still or on the move.

Portability

At 471.5g and 25.5mm thick, the DM15 R2R definitely has heft. It's roughly three times the weight of vintage Sony Walkman CD players, which could be a concern for true on-the-go use. However, the dimensions remain compact enough to fit in a bag or large pocket, and the solid construction means you won't worry about damage during transport.

The 4700mAh lithium battery delivers approximately seven hours of continuous playback, sufficient for most journeys or full workdays. Desktop mode lets you bypass the battery when using the player at home, extending battery lifespan and making it function similarly to a standard USB DAC. USB-C charging supports PD2.0/PD3.0 fast charging, so topping up doesn't take long at all.

Electronic Skip Protection works effectively, allowing stable playback even when walking or commuting. Unlike vintage players that would skip at the slightest movement, the DM15 R2R handles reasonable motion without issue.

Comparison: How Does It Stack Up?

Vs. FiiO DM13 ($165)

The DM13 remains available as FiiO's budget option, making this comparison relevant for buyers deciding between models. The DM15 R2R offers 66% more single-ended power (310mW vs. 180mW) and 74% more balanced power (1150mW vs. 660mW). The custom R2R DAC replaces the DM13's dual CS43198 chips, delivering smoother, more organic sound.

Design improvements include the transparent lid, consolidated front-panel controls, larger display, and dedicated volume knob. The DM15 R2R also adds a remote control (infrared), which the DM13 lacks. Sound quality will be slightly better on the DM15 R2R, the DM13 has a slightly warmer signature that can sound hazy in the midrange, while the DM15 R2R maintains musical warmth with better clarity.

Budget-conscious listeners might prefer the DM13, but the $100 premium for the DM15 R2R delivers meaningful upgrades in sound quality, power output, and user experience.

Vs. Moondrop DiscDream 2 Ultra ($290)

The DiscDream 2 Ultra is FiiO's closest competitor, positioned at a similar price point with comparable features. The Moondrop uses a more neutral sound signature compared to the DM15 R2R's warm character—choose based on your preference for analytical versus musical presentation.

Build quality favors FiiO. The DiscDream 2 Ultra weighs 700g, making it significantly heavier and less portable. Additionally, the Moondrop lacks a lid latch, a critical oversight for truly portable use. The FiiO's transparent lid and more compact form factor give it an edge for on-the-go listening.

Neither player includes Bluetooth transmission (the DiscDream 2 standard model lacks it entirely), but the DM15 R2R's Bluetooth transmitter with aptX Adaptive support adds useful wireless functionality. For pure sound quality, the choice comes down to signature preference, but for overall versatility and portability, the DM15 R2R has the advantage.

Final Verdict: A Modern Classic

The FiiO DM15 R2R achieves something rare in audio equipment: it successfully bridges past and present. The custom R2R DAC delivers on its promise of warm, organic sound without sacrificing detail or clarity, while build quality and features justify the price.

For anyone serious about CD playback—whether building a portable hi-fi setup, or a desktop DAC setup that doubles as a CD player, the DM15 R2R represents the best option currently available.

It's not trying to convince you that CDs are making a major comeback. Instead, it acknowledges that for millions of listeners with existing collections, CDs remain a viable, high-quality format deserving of proper playback equipment. The DM15 R2R allows premium CD playback with modern conveniences, wrapped in a package that's both functional and fun to look at.

If you've been searching for a portable CD player with modern functionality that doesn't compromise on sound quality, the FiiO DM15 R2R is an easy recommendation.

FiiO DM15 R2R

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