High-Fidelity Bluetooth Audio with an amazing value
If your are looking for a aesthetically pleasing audio receiver with great output options and extensive Bluetooth codecs support (up to and including LDAC!), you've just found one.
Looks & build:
It features a minimalistic, modern looking metal case with a clear OLED panel that displays current 'source' information, paired with a single multi function button (used to turn the device ON/OFF, enter pairing mode or clear the paired devices list).
The case has a high quality finish and great attention to detail, it's nicely rounded with no rough edges.
On the back, you will find multiple output options, a sleek removable Bluetooth antenna, and a USB-C port.
Connectivity & range:
As a Bluetooth audio receiver, it supports multiple premium codecs, including LDAC (Up to 990 kbps) which will surely satisfy FLAC format fans!
With its external antenna, it provides an excellent range.
However, keep in mind that the highest quality codec - LDAC - will start to degrade if too many obstacles are in the way.
For me, a straight line distance of about 10m through two walls started to cause signal stuttering, but it was just a practical test to see how much of a beating it could take.
In normal everyday use, I tested it at distances up to 15m when streaming from my Android phone (FLAC files over LDAC), it worked perfectly.
Output options are excellent, and it's important to note that all output options are ACTIVE simultaneously if you ever feel the need to connect more than one pair of speakers.
Unlike some competitors on the market, there is no 'volume loss' compared to a direct wired connection.
Sound quality:
The manufacturer decided to use the ES9018K2M DAC chip, which offers an analytical, bright and highly detailed sound profile.
Of course, when tested on $600 pair of speakers it sounds noticeably different than on a $150 system.
I tested it using one of my favorites, "Green Grass & High Tides" by Outlaws. It sounded great on both setups, the integrated DAC managed to pump out the details - especially during the guitar solos, delivering a high fidelity experience that made even the $150 system punch above its weight!
Overall, blafili managed to deliver a great sounding device, that enriches the listening experience and allows even the lower-end speakers to shine (up to their physical limits).
What's in the Box & Manual:
Inside, you get the main device and the Bluetooth antenna.
Additionally they included both an optical cable and a USB cable.
The user manual is clear and concise.
PIN secured pairing & Power User configuration:
The device allows you to set a required PIN code for Bluetooth pairing and lets you customize the displayed Bluetooth device name.
There is also an advanced configuration application available for Windows systems. It allows you to change the pairing PIN and tweak a myriad of other advanced options if you are brave enough to dive into the settings!
Final verdict:
Bang for your buck!
*I couldn't purchase it directly from Amazon Europe, but fortunately Blafili ships to Poland :)*
