DAC meets keyboard
The KB3 HiFi integrates two CS43131 DAC chips, which FiiO has already successfully used in portable audio players such as the FiiO BTR13. The chips support high-resolution audio formats up to 32 bit/384 kHz and offer an output power of 550 mW. This is enough to drive even demanding headphones. Two headphone connections, a 3,5 mm jack and a 4,4 mm jack, ensure flexibility.
The target audience is clear: gamers should benefit from the precise localization of sounds, while music lovers can enjoy detailed sound. However, compared to dedicated DACs such as the Chord Mojo 2 or FiiO's own K7, the audio performance is likely to be limited because there is no dedicated power supply like in standalone DACs. The built-in hardware may be sufficient for everyday audio playback, but high-end users may be disappointed.
What can the keyboard do?
FiiO uses Gateron G Pro 3 Yellow Switches for the KB3.0 HiFi, which have a linear characteristic. This means that the keys move without noticeable resistance and are suitable for quick inputs. The stop point is comparatively light at 50 g, which makes long typing more comfortable.
The hot-swap function allows you to quickly swap out the switches. A clear plus point for users who want to experiment with different switch types. The seal-mounted design promises to dampen typing noises and provide more stability. However, compared to established mechanical keyboards such as the SteelSeries Apex Pro or the Keychron Q1, innovative features such as individually customizable key assignments or software-controlled haptic feedback are missing.
The KB3 HiFi offers dynamic RGB lighting with several preset effects. Two USB-A ports turn the keyboard into a kind of hub for peripheral devices, which should minimize cable clutter on the desk. Dual OS compatibility for Windows and Mac is now standard and therefore no longer a special feature.
FiiO KB 3 specifications
| keyboard switches | Gateron G Pro 3.0 yellow switches; Limited Founders Edition with Kailh Deep Sea Whale switches |
| Dimensions | approx. 329 mm × 140 mm × 43,5 mm (12,95 inches × 5,51 inches × 1,71 inches) |
| Weight | Wired version approx. 1060 g |
| Input | USB Type-C |
| Output | 3,5 mm unbalanced, 4,4 mm balanced headphone output |
| DAC | CIRRUS LOGIC CS43131 x 2 |
| operational amplifier | SGMICRO SGM8262 x 2 |
| Audio decoding | Up to PCM384kHz/32bit, DSD256 |
| output | 3,5 SE – ≥170mW+170mW, 4,4 balanced – ≥550mW+550mW |
| signal to noise ratio | ≥122 dB |
| noise floor | approx. 2,5 µV |
| THD + N | <0,0005% |
| USB chip | SAVITECH SA9312L |
| Supported Operating Systems | Android/iOS/Windows/Mac |
| color options | Midnight black |
| Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow Switches |
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A bold approach
The idea of combining a mechanical keyboard and DAC is bold and stands out from the crowd. For users who value a minimalist setup, the combination of writing and listening could be quite interesting.
Anyone looking for an audiophile experience should wait for tests that examine the audio performance in detail. For gamers or people who write a lot, there are alternatives that are further ahead in terms of features and customization options. With a price of 159 euros, the KB3 HiFi is in tough competition. It remains to be seen whether it can hold its own.
Source: FiiO
