KA15 FAQ EN
Source: | Author:JadeAudio | Published time: 2024-09-19 | 1491 Views | Share:

1. Quick start guide download

Quick start guide: Click here

FIIO USB DAC driver download: Click here

FIIO Control Android version download link: Click here

PEQ control website: http://fiiocontrol.fiio.com/

Note: 

1. Only windows and Macos system support web control; (Anrdoid or ios system does not support)
2. Please use Chrome, Edge, Opera and other browsers which support Web HID API to control properly.


2.What should I do if the KA15 works abnormally?  

What should I do if the KA15 is stuck?

1. You can try to re-plug the USB adapter cable and power up the device again.

2. You can try to burn the firmware again.

If the KA15 fails to work still, please contact support@fiio.com for help.

How to reset and restore factory settings for KA15?

1. Long press the M button to enter the menu.

2. Short press the M button and  switch to Reset? option.

3. Short press the + button to restore factory settings.

How to turn off the sleep mode of KA15?

Hold the Volume - button and connect KA15 to power supply, the device will automatically turn off the sleep mode. If you want to enter the sleep mode again, just restore the factory settings.

The mobile phone keep rebooting when I connect it to KA15?

1. It is suspected that some mobile phones have restrictions on the power supply to external USB devices. You can enter the phone settings to find out if there is an OTG switch option on the phone, and open it manually before connecting to KA15.

2. Try to turn off the sleep mode of KA15 and then power it on again.

KA15 sounds distorted and pitchy with custom EQ on?

Please check whether the gain is set too high which lead to overflowing distortion. You could turn the gain down, or switch back to other EQ modes for check and compare whether your custom EQ is overflowing distortion.

The volume buttons in KA15 could not adjust the volume and switch tracks at the same time when using with Xiaomi mobile phone?

This is a limitation of Xiaomi mobile phones. The system settings in Xiaomi mobile phones have a 'Headphone remote buttons' option, which only allows you to select one of the modes of controlling volume level or music playback.

 

3.What accessories are included in the KA15?

Type-C to Type-C cable*1

Leatherette case*1

Quick start guide*1

Warranty card*1

 

4.KA15 buttons and ports introduction

1. Multifunction button

When not in the settings menu, short press once to play/pause music, short press twice to turn on/turn off the display, and hold for 2s to activate the settings menu. In the settings menu, short press once to switch between submenus, and hold for 2s to exit the settings menu.

2. Volume+ button

A mode: Short press once to increase the volume for 1 level, and hold for 2s to play the previous track.

B mode: Short press once to play the previous track, and hold for 2s to increase the volume continuously.

In the settings menu, short press once to select the menu item.

3. Volume- button

A mode: Short press once to decrease the volume for 1 level, and hold for 2s to play the next track.

B mode: Short press once to play the next track, and hold for 2s to decrease the volume continuously.

In the settings menu, short press once to select the menu item.

An Introduction to Display Information

1. Current volume and adjusting mode: Display the current volume level and adjusting mode

2. Current digital filter: Display the current digital filter

3. SPDIF working state: A displayed Scharacter means the SPDIF output is enabled

4. Current UAC version: U2and U1respectively stand for different UAC versions. U1 means UAC1.0 and U2 means UAC2.0

5. Current desktop mode: The displayed “⚡” icon means the desktop mode is enabled.

6. Voltage display: Display the present voltage

7. Current display: Display the present current

8.Music format/Sampling rate display: Display the format and sampling rate of the currently playing song

 

5.KA15 menu introduction

Long press the M button to enter the menu. Short press the M button to confirm and long press the M button to exit.

Short press the volume +/- button to switch menu option.

1. Filter: Digital filter setting

短延时陡降
Short Delay Sharp Roll-Off Filter
FAST-LL
陡降
Sharp Roll-Off Filter
FAST-PC
短延时缓降
Short Delay Slow Roll-Off Filter
SLOW-LL
缓降
Slow Roll-Off Filter
SLOW-PC
非过采样
Non Over sample
NON-OS


There are 5 different filters built in the KA15 for your preference. Filters are the sound effects born with the chip, which only has slight adjustments for the sound. Here are some introductions to some filters. These are only for reference since actual listening also has something to do with the matched device.

1.Minimum phase fast roll-off filter: neutral, medium reverb, sound thicker, partial midrange, thick warm, suitable for vocals and slower tempo music;

2.Fast roll-off, Phase-compensated filter: neutral, a small amount of reverb, restored to the natural sound, neutral tone, suitable for natural and fast music with strong sense;

3.Minimum phase slow roll-off filter: neutral, a small amount of reverb, warmer sound, more mid-range, large soundstage, suitable for orchestral and other large compositions music;

4.Slow roll-off, Phase-compensated filter: sharp, a small amount of reverb, restored to the original sound, neutral tone, detailed, suitable for favoring monitor style;

5.Non over-sampling filter: sampling rate equal to the signal frequency, with no oversampling of the signal.

2. EQ mode: EQ curve setting

EQ includes 7 preset EQs and 3 custom EQs.

The 7 preset EQ curves are Jazz, Pop, Rock, Dance, R&B, Classical and Hip-Hop.

Three custom EQs, factory default FD15, FF5, FH3.

The custom EQ can be adjusted on the FIIO Control app or web control, and the name can be changed.

3. Volume mode: Adjusting mode for current volume, with 60-level and 120-level options

4. Key mode: Current volume button mode, switchable between A and B modes

A mode:

Click  + button: volume up 1 level;

Click - button: volume down 1 level;

Long press + button 2s: switch to the previous song;

Long press - button 2s: switch to the next song.

B mode:

Click + button: switch to the previous song;

Click the - button: switch to the next song;

Long press + button: volume increase continuously;

Long press - button: volume decreases continuously.

5. DAC mode: DAC output mode setting, including ClassH and ClassAB DAC output modes

CLASS H and CLASS AB are two modes of operation of the driver within the DAC chip. The main difference is that the quiescent current of the device is somewhat different. In CLASS H mode, the quiescent current of the device will be a little lower than the CLASS AB mode, and other parameters are almost the same.

6. Channel balance: Left/Right channel output balance setting, 12 levels adjustable

7. Mic: In-line microphone switch. After disabling this option, the in-line control function in the headphone will not take effect. This setting is mainly to adapt our ASIO driver. Since the driver does not support bi-directional clock, when using the 4-pins in-line remote headphone, the output will not work properly with the driver on the computer. This setting can be used to disable the microphone and the in-line control function, in order to adapt the ASIO driver on the computer.

8. Coaxial output: SPDIF switch. After the SPDIF mode is enabled, you will get the SPDIF signal through the 3.5mm port with an adapter cable (purchased separately). Please keep this option disabled when using the analog output, such as when outputting to headphones.

9. UAC mode: Current UAC mode, switchable between 1.0 and 2.0 modes

10. Screen brightness: Screen brightness setting, 10 levels adjustable, 1 is darkest, 10 is brightest.

11. Screen rotation: Screen rotation setting.Screen can be flipped 180°.

11. Screen timeout: Setting for the time from screen on to screen off. There are 7 period of time can be selected: 15s, 30s, 1 minute, 2 minutes, 5 minutes, 10 minutes and 30 minutes .

13. Voltage/Current display: Enabled to display the current voltage and current status at the bottom of the screen

14. Theme style: Set the current theme style

15. Language: Set the system language for current operation between 简体中文 and English

16. Version: Firmware version display

17. Restore factory settings: Restore default settings

 

6. How to control the KA15 via the FiiO Control APP in Android mobile phone?

Note: The KA15 could not be controlled via the iOS version FiiO Control APP. But after adjusting the setting in KA15 or in Android FiiO Control, the settings will be saved.

1.Please update the FiiO Control APP to latest version first.(Download link: Click here)

2.Connect the KA15 to the Android mobile phone via the USB c to c adapter. In the FiiO Control app 'My product' page,choose KA15 to enter KA15 control page.

 

7.How to use the KA15 as a USB DAC for mobile phones?

Android-based phone/PAD

Use the TypeC-TypeC data cable to connect the KA15 to a mobile phone. So you can directly enjoy high-quality music by playing songs.

Notes:

1. A compatibility issue may occur to certain Android mobile phones or music players due to system and hardware differences.

2. Some mobile phones are required to turn on the OTG function, so as to use the KA15 normally.For detailed settings please consult the support of mobile phones.

3. Some mobile phones may show the 'non-certified Type-C digital headphone'notification. You can ignore the message and use it normally.

iPhone/iPad

Use the Lightning-TypeC OTG adapter/ TypeC-TypeC data cable to connect the KA15 to an iPhone/iPad/iPod. So you can directly enjoy high-quality music by playing songs.

Notes:

1.Only supports iOS10.0.2 and above. Apple devices below this version cannot be supported because of the iOS itself.

About the Exclusive USB Audio Access Mode

Due to system and hardware differences of certain Android mobile phones, there may be some permission conflicts and compatibility issues when they are working in the Exclusive USB Audio Access Mode. Here are some situations we have noticed.

1.For some mobile phones, third-party apps are forbidden in the background by default in their power management policies. This will cause a stop on the playback after a few seconds when the music app is working in the Exclusive USB Audio Access Mode. If it happens, please set the app to stay working while asleep in the battery management setting of the mobile phone.  

2.When the music app is working under the Exclusive USB Audio Access Mode, the sound may be stuttered or paused when operating other apps. We are working on this issue. It is suggested to focus on listening to music when using the Exclusive USB Audio Access Mode, or disable the Exclusive USB Audio Access Mode when listening to music.

 

8. How to use the KA15 as a USB DAC for computers?

[Windows PC]

1.It runs drive-free in Windows 10 and above systems.

2.Install the FiiO USB DAC driver. It supports ASIO output for further DSD512. Please click the link here to download the driver: Click here 

3.On the menu of settings - audio output device of the playback software, select "FiiO KA15" and then connect the KA15 to the headphones to listen to music.

DSD track playback settings:Click here

[MAC computer]

MAC systems do not need a driver. If connecting to a Type-C port of the computer, use a Type-C to Type-C cable for direct connection. If connecting to a USB-A port, use a USB-A to Type-C cable for connection. Please select "FiiO KA15" as the audio output device on the computer.

[Linux PC]

Linux system also runs drive-free. Theoretically, connecting the KA15 directly to a Linux computer would work. But since there are too many versions, we cannot guarantee all systems are compatible. So, if the connection fails, it is suggested to change the data cable or USB port to troubleshoot the problem. Otherwise, the failed recognition means nonsupport.

About the Exclusive USB Audio Access Mode

Due to system and hardware differences of certain Android mobile phones, there may be some permission conflicts and compatibility issues when they are working in the Exclusive USB Audio Access Mode. Here are some situations we have noticed.

1.For some mobile phones with no physical volume buttons (such as the HUAWEI Mate30 Pro), in the FiiO Music app USB Audio Access Mode, you can adjust the volume by sliding on the current playback page to bring up the volume bar.

2. For some mobile phones, third-party apps are forbidden in the background by default in their power management policies. This will cause a stop on the playback after a few seconds when the music app is working in the Exclusive USB Audio Access Mode. If it happens, please set the app to stay working while asleep in the battery management setting of the mobile phone.  

3. When the music app is working under the Exclusive USB Audio Access Mode, the sound may be stuttered or paused when operating other apps. We are working on this issue. It is suggested to focus on listening to music when using the Exclusive USB Audio Access Mode, or disable the Exclusive USB Audio Access Mode when listening to music.

 

9.Can I connect the KA15 with the NS or PS5?

Yes, the KA15 supports UAC 1.0 mode. So it is could work with NS or PS5 via USB connection.

 

10.Hardware program of KA15

KA15 is equipped with two DAC:CS43198, two op-amps SGM8262.

The display is a 0.96LCD color screen. The display is covered with soda-lime glass to protect the screen.

 

11. How to turn on the desktop mode of KA15?

The D.MODE switch on the KA15 is the switch for the desktop mode. When toggled to ON, the desktop mode is turned on. The KA15 will have more power, more gain. It is suitable for high impedance headphones and headphones which is not easy to drive.

When it is toggled OFF, the desktop mode is turned off. It is suitable for normal listening and low impedance headphones that are easy to drive.

Why setting desktop mode?

Traditional USB dongle will have a limitation on the output power in order to be adpated with the mobile phone. Especially for Apple phones, if the output power of the USB dongle is designed to be too large, which exceeds the power supply capacity of the LT port, it will lead to abnormal situations such as stutter and other abnormalities.

In fact, the TC port output current of most Android mobile phones is large enough. The desktop mode designed by KA15 is to give you one more option. When the desktop mode is turned on, the output power can be higher. When the desktop mode is off, it can be adapted to some mobile phones with small output current, such as Apple phones.

Therefore, the desktop mode is for users to balance the conflict between adaptability and output power.

 

12. How to set PEQ in KA15?

What is PEQ?

PEQ, also known as parametric equalizer, is an equalizer that can meticulously adjust various parameters of equalization adjustment, including frequency band (such as low, medium-low, medium-high and high frequency, etc.), frequency point (sweep type, can be arbitrarily selected), gain (mentioning the amount of attenuation), and quality factor Q (frequency bandwidth, with arbitrarily adjustable and high Q and low Q selective), etc. It is generally used for subjective adjustment of sound to make the music style more distinctive and colorful to achieve the desired listening effect.

What is the difference between PEQ and general EQ?

PEQ can customize the center frequency, amplitude, and adjust the Q value. The general EQ is preset and cannot be customized except for the amplitude.

How to set PEQ?

The PEQ of KA15 can be set up on FiiO Control on mobile phone or web page.

KA15 can also switch EQ directly in the menu.

What is the maximum sampling range of EQ?

The EQ function supports up to PCM384K/32bit, dsd is not supported. If you can't adjust the EQ, please make sure the corresponding sampling of the audio source is supported.

Why do the sound getting much lower when I set the total gain to negative value when I use custom EQ in APP?

In order to prevent users from overflowing the audio or even damaging the ears by increasing the gain, the total gain of our customized EQ is designed to automatically drop the dB value by default when it is turned on, so when adjusting the total gain, users can just adjust it to fit their own sense of hearing.

Why can't the PEQ name be shown after changing?

Custom PEQ names support up to 7 English lettersand do not support lowercase letters or Chinese characters at the moment. Since the web version has not yet added the rename function, you can only change the PEQ name in the FIIO Control app now.

Does MAC computer support the web page adjustment of PEQ?

MAC computer can adjust PEQ through Chrome, Edge, Opera and other browsers that support Web HID API, but safari browser is not supported.

 

13. How to update the firmware for KA15?

KA15 firmware download link and update instruction: Click here

 

14. What is the output power of KA15?

Output power 1: L+R180mW+180mW (32Ω/THD+N1%/SE/desktop mode)

Output power 2: L+R560mW+560mW (32Ω/THD+N1%/BAL/desktop mode)

Output power 3: L+R50mW+50mW (32Ω/THD+N1%/SE/non-desktop mode)

Output power 4: L+R170mW+170mW (32Ω/THD+N1%/BAL/non-desktop mode)

Output power 5: L+R19mW+19mW (300Ω/THD+N1%/SE/desktop mode)

Output power 6: L+R78mW+78mW (300Ω/THD+N1%/BAL/desktop mode)

 

15. With the high power of KA15, will the battery life of the mobile phone be greatly affected?

KA15 has done a lot of work on battery saving, so you don't have to worry about the battery life of your phone at all.

KA15 comes with a power saving mode, when we pause the playback, it will automatically shut down some of the back stage circuits, and will enter the power saving mode automatically after 5s of no operation.

When  we pause the playback and the KA15 screen is off, the KA15 will reset the DAC and make it enter a higher level of deep sleep mode.

 

16. How does the KA15's in-line control function work?

UAC1.0 can support Huawei mobile phone calling

KA15 supports CITA standard in-line headset. After turning on the microphone function in the menu setting bar, connect a 3.5 headphone that supports in-line control to the KA15, and use the microphone on the headset as well as the in-line control function when you make a call.

Is there a noise when connecting KA15 to the headset? Can't use the in-line control function? Can't record?

Check if the headset is a CTIA standard headset? Is the coaxial switch turned on? The coaxial switch should be turned off when using in-line headphones.

The coaxial output and the MIC of the in-line headphone output are on the same channel, if they are used at the same time, there may be interfering sound, noise, etc., and the in-line function will be seized and can not be used.

It is recommended to turn off the coaxial switch by default and turn it on when needed.

Can't use the in-line remote headphone on my computer?

Make sure whether you have installed the FIIO USB DAC driver on your computer. Due to the limitation of the driver, the driver can not be used normally with the in-line headset. If you want to use the in-line function on your computer, you need to uninstall the FIIO USB DAC driver.If you want to use the driver with a high sampling audio source, you can't use the in-line remote function in the headphones on your computer. You can turn off the microphone switch in the menu of KA15 or connect to a 3pin headset that doesn't support in-line headphones.

 

17. KA Series Family Comparison

The KA15 is the successor of the KA5 and is positioned higher than the KA5 in the FIIO USB dongle lineup. Specifically, the KA15 has the following advantages

1. The KA15 has a higher power than the KA5. The maximum power of the KA15 can reach 560mW, while the KA5 only reaches 265mW.

2.KA15 display with color and can be switched to different themes, KA5 only black and white display. It is more interesting to play.

3.KA15 supports desktop mode, which can drive higher impedance headphones.

4. KA15 supports 10-band PEQ adjustment, KA5 does not support EQ adjustment.

5.KA15 supports CTIA standard headset in-line control and call (some cell phones do not support call), KA5 does not support.

6.KA15 supports real-time display of power consumption and pausing the playback will automatically enter the low-power mode, which is more energy-saving than KA5.