This product is available to pre-order with an ETA of approx. late June.
Retro Box adds Speakers to your FiiO DAP for Desktop Music Listening
The Retro Box Bluetooth speaker was specifically developed to integrate with FiiO DAPs. By opening the front cover and inserting the Digital Audio Players, they automatically connect to the Retro Box via Bluetooth.
Which FiiO DAPs are compatible with the Retro Box?
The DAP models compatible with the RETRO BOX Bluetooth speaker are the JM21, the M21, the M33 R2R and the upcoming M25.
For JM21 and M21, it is necessary to install a 3D-printed insert included in the product packaging.
Speaker Placement and Output Power of the Retro Box
The Retro Box features two 40 mm speakers positioned on the left and right sides of the enclosure. In addition, there are two passive radiators located on the rear panel of the Bluetooth speaker.
The Retro Box amplifier is capable of delivering a maximum output power of 10W. Output is rated at 5W per channel, but the gain settings are described by FiiO as “conservative” to prevent clipping. As a result, the speaker may occasionally sound quiet even at maximum volume.
Retro Box Battery Life
The Retro Box uses two 18500 lithium-ion batteries configured in parallel. According to FiiO, the reason for using a pair of batteries is to “minimize internal resistance and provide ample power to the amplifier.”
Maximum battery life is rated at 10.5 hours of continuous playback.
Connect Wired and Wireless Devices to the Retro Box
In addition to connecting FiiO DAPs to the Retro Box via Bluetooth, the speaker also supports PC connectivity through a USB cable using “DAC mode.” Once connected, the USB connection automatically transmits both data and power, potentially drawing more than 1.4A according to the manufacturer.
For this reason, the company does not recommend using the Retro Box with smartphones or tablets, as the battery of mobile devices may drain rapidly.
Equalization on the Retro Box
There are two ways to apply equalization on the Retro Box. The first is through built-in presets stored directly on the Bluetooth speaker. In this case, users can choose between four options, HiFi, Retro, Pop, and Warm.
The second method of applying EQ to the Retro Box is through the FiiO Control app. The application offers additional equalization features, making it more appealing to audio enthusiasts.
What else can the FiiO Control app do on the Retro Box?
The FiiO Control app can also be used to switch Bluetooth codecs and update the speaker’s firmware.
The Physical Buttons on the Retro Box and their Functions
Most of the physical controls on the Retro Box are located on the top panel of the Bluetooth speaker. However, there is also a large button labeled “PUSH” on the rear panel.
What is the “PUSH” button used for on the Retro Box?
The “PUSH” button is used to eject the FiiO DAP from the compartment designed to hold it inside the Retro Box. To prevent the button from jamming, the manufacturer recommends pressing the center of the button rather than its edges.
The Top-Mounted Buttons on the Retro Box and their Functions
The buttons located on top of the Retro Box resemble those found on the Echo Mini and Echo DAPs. However, the layout is somewhat different.
There is a rotary knob used for volume adjustment, switching sound presets during music playback, and activating the voice assistant.
In addition to the knob, there is a power button, a play/pause button, and finally a track forward/back button. Each of them also provides secondary functions beyond its primary purpose.
The power button can turn the FiiO DAP display on and off, in addition to switching between operating modes (Bluetooth mode and USB DAC mode).
Meanwhile, the play/pause button allows the Retro Box to enter Bluetooth pairing mode. Additionally, pressing and holding the button for 10 seconds clears saved Bluetooth devices and volume memory.
Finally, the track forward/back button allows users to switch between “tape mode” themes available on the FiiO JM21, M21, and M33 DAPs.
Shoulder Strap Support for carrying the Retro Box
The Retro Box can be carried using a shoulder strap. To do so, simply attach the strap to the mounting points located on the sides of the Bluetooth speaker. Note that this accessory is sold separately and is not included in the package.
It is important to mention that the Retro Box weighs 683 g without any FiiO DAP attached. For this reason, the manufacturer does not recommend transporting it frequently and advises users to “avoid sudden movements or violent shaking during transport.”
