This DAP houses the R202 Audio Motherboard from Cayin. It features both a 24-bit R-2R ladder DAC and a discrete 1-bit DAC, each using ultra-precise 0.1% thin-film resistors for native PCM and DSD decoding. While R-2R Mode provides a rich, smooth sound, 1-Bit Mode offers a more natural rendering with a clear soundstage.
New and Improved
The Cayin N6iii boasts a 5” all-screen display, larger than the N6ii’s 4.2” but still compact and ergonomic for one-handed use. By eliminating chassis extensions and neatly placing playback buttons and the volume knob under the screen, the N6iii balances enhanced visuals with portability.
Curved sides improve grip, ensuring comfort despite the larger display, while maintaining the device’s portability and sleek design.
For improved streaming, the N6iii uses a semi-exposed antenna below the top panel, offering better performance than the N6ii. Though it provides slightly less gain than external antennas on models like the N7 or N8ii, this design enhances connectivity without increasing size.
Replaceable Audio Motherboard
The N6iii introduces a quick-release 3-point locking system for easy, tool-free audio motherboard swaps, inspired by the C9ii. Its Gen2 Audio Motherboard, featuring Cayin’s latest audio technologies, is larger for enhanced performance but not backward-compatible with N6ii boards, balancing innovation with portability. Each motherboard tailors the N6iii to unique listening preferences.
R202
The Cayin R202 motherboard is a high-performance audio module built around a fully discrete, fully balanced dual-DAC architecture. It features both a 24-bit R-2R ladder DAC and a discrete 1-bit DAC, each using ultra-precise 0.1% thin-film resistors for native PCM and DSD decoding. A dual digital audio processor supports up to PCM 768kHz and DSD512, with smart triple decoding modes—automatically selecting the best DAC architecture for the input format.
The motherboard also includes a quad-channel, fully balanced headphone amplifier built from high-grade op-amps and INA1620 drivers, delivering dynamic, transparent sound. Power is delivered through a matrix-structured clean supply with ultra-low-noise LDO regulators, ensuring a quiet, stable signal path.
Highlighted Features:
Interchangeable Audio Motherboards
The N6iii allows users to swap audio motherboards, enabling customization of the device’s sound signature to suit personal preferences.
Dual DAC Configuration
Equipped with dual AK4497EQ DACs, the N6iii delivers precise and detailed audio reproduction, ensuring a rich listening experience
Balanced and Single-Ended Outputs
The player offers both balanced (4.4mm) and single-ended (3.5mm) headphone outputs, providing flexibility for various headphone types.
Android Operating System
Running on an open Android OS, the N6iii supports a wide range of music streaming apps, enhancing its versatility.
High-Resolution Audio Support
The device supports high-resolution audio formats, including DSD and PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz, catering to audiophiles seeking superior sound quality.
Expandable Storage
With a microSD card slot, the N6iii allows for expandable storage, accommodating extensive music libraries.
Wireless Connectivity
Featuring Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities, the player enables wireless streaming and easy file transfers.
Long Battery Life
Designed for extended use, the N6iii offers substantial battery life, making it suitable for long listening sessions.