In this article, Lynn reviews the FiiO TT13, the company’s debut entry-level turntable with a built-in phono preamp and optional wireless capability. The standard version is priced at $239.99, with the Bluetooth version at $249.99.
Disclaimer: This sample was sent to me in exchange for my honest opinion. Headfonics is an independent website with no affiliate links or services. I thank FiiO for their support.
You can click here to learn more about the FiiO audio products we have previously reviewed on Headfonics.
This post follows our current scoring guidelines which you can read in more detail here.
FiiO has been on a bit of a retro-inspired journey for its product launches this year.
Following the company’s 2024 blueprint, they released the CP13 portable cassette player, which I reviewed earlier in the year and now, the long-awaited TT13 BT turntable, priced at $239.99 for the standard edition and $249.99 for the wireless-capable alternative.
Similar in market position to the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USB and AT-LP60XBT, the FiiO carries a premium look that the AT models may lack. However, performance is the judge here, which is much more competitive.
With some interesting approaches such as going fully automatic with replayability, the TT13 not only offers newer technology with wireless capability but also has the tried and true features of yore that you may have had on your parent’s turntable.
Needless to say, I was looking forward to this review.
Features
The FiiO TT13 features two JRC5532 op-amp chips, each powered by independent LDO power supplies to reduce potential EF interference. This design ensures cleaner signal processing by isolating the power sources for better performance.
The stock AT3600LA cartridge, a budget MM cartridge with a devoted following, feeds directly into one opamp chip (powered by one LDO) and then into a second opamp (powered by another LDO).
The balanced potentiometer then routes the signal to either the 5.0 Qualcomm Bluetooth module or the Line Out (RCA) automatically. Additionally, the first chip provides input to the MCU, which manages playback motion, button functionality, and adjustable RGB mood lighting.
For even greater EF isolation, the TT13 supports an external DC power source. When both AC and DC power sources are connected, AC takes priority, maintaining seamless operation.
The AT3600LA cartridge allows for upgrades by replacing the stylus with higher-tier AT options. While considering an AT91 replacement, reviews indicated the AT3600LA’s signature sound is significantly different from its counterparts, leading me to stick with the stock setup.
FiiO’s choice of a solid aluminum plinth further enhances performance by providing excellent isolation, a feature not common in turntables at this price point. I found this to be the first turntable I’ve reviewed with an aluminum base, which adds a sense of premium build quality.
The built-in 800mW phono stage output is more than double what many competitors offer, eliminating the need for an external phono stage when paired with powered speakers.
Additionally, the included RCA connections and ground wire allow seamless integration into two-channel systems, making the TT13 a versatile option for audiophiles and casual listeners.
Design
The TT13 comes across as svelte in shape and modern. The thin all-aluminum plinth and combined base (4kg) give it a functionally luxurious look, which fits well with its potential audience. A showpiece if you prefer.
That aluminum has some durability. The platter is also cast aluminum, reducing weight while increasing isolation from potential interference.
The tone arm is fully automatic with the press of a button, and matches the color of the plinth, giving it a subdued silver look.
The straight-tone arm is not adjustable, coming from the factory set for tracking force. Since the AT3600LA is a fairly heavy unit (recommended 3.5g +/-0.5g tracking force), the thin look counters the cartridge look nicely.
With the dust cover on, I am hard-pressed to tell much of a difference from my Pro-Ject Debut Carbon in looks, except for color, which is a good thing in my book. That dust cover can be removed for easy access and spinning.
All functional switches are either on the plinth (surface mounted), or on the back giving that streamlined look that has a modern touch.
I wish there was a hooked locking mechanism over the tonearm when not in use, especially for moving. However, the arm stays in place nonetheless.
The only thing that seems out of place is the overly large counterweight and balancing weight. But, for functionality, I appreciate that stout look and feel. Nothing about the look makes you think this is a toy, but rather a functional turntable.
I/O
The back of the TT13 tucks all of the connecting options, out of sight.
From left to right, you have a toggle for going between 7” and 12” records (tonearm recognition for 45 rpm & 33 rpm) and a separate balance knob for mismatched albums.
You also get the RCA connections (and separate ground RCA) for connecting into a two-channel system or active speakers to use the internal phono stage, the 12v DC plug, the AC plug, and the main on/off switch.
My unit did not ship with the optional external DC power unit.
Controls
Six round buttons, three per side, lie on the front portion of the plinth to control the TT13. None are accessible with the dust cover lowered. The left side switches are for speeds between 33 rpm and 45 rpm, and the BT pairing button.
On the right side, the buttons are for start/stop, repeat, and up/down (for the tone arm lifting and dropping only); left to right. Once the TT13 is turned on, one simply needs to hit the start/stop button and the rest is automatic, with a gentle glide across and down onto the album.
Upon completion of a side, the tone arm automatically returns to its cradle, ensuring you don’t get that “end of side” run-on that can damage the stylus.
If repeat is hit (either on the TT13 or remote), the album will be played over and over in a loop until another option is chosen.
The controls are intuitive and easy to use, with clear labeling, making for easy operation.
Packaging & Accessories
The TT13 comes in a well-protected box, with the platter in a separate box, but the dust cover is mounted, with a protective adhesive clear plastic sheath keeping it from scratches.
Included accessories include a felt platter mat, RCA cables, a power cord, a quick start manual, a warranty card, a 45 rpm adaptor for over the spindle, and a remote (IR spot is on the front right of the plinth).
The remote controls on/off, start/stop, repeat, light brightness, and tonearm movement (such as moving forward or back, but not whole tracks). The start/stop button is surrounded by a four-way function switching, which did take some getting used to.
I wish lettering was included, but that is in the quick start guide, and throughout the testing, it became intuitive as well.
Set up
The TT13 is among the easiest turntables to set up and start using. The platter comes with a belt already attached to its underside.
A small paper ribbon allows for carefully stretching the belt over the motor spindle after mounting the platter through one of its two open sections. Once mounted and adjusted, the ribbon is easily removed.
The basic felt mat sits atop the platter, providing adequate protection. However, upgrading to a cork or leather mat could improve performance.
After removing the protective shell from the cartridge and the foam piece holding the counterweight, the setup is nearly complete.
While the counterweight isn’t adjustable for different cartridges, the turntable’s internal system automatically adjusts it. FiiO confirmed the factory-set adjustments were accurate, but manual adjustments are possible with effort.
To play, turn on the switch at the back, press the power button up front for two seconds, and hit start/stop. The tonearm lifts and moves over (with some noise), and lowers gently in under five seconds.
Playback can also be controlled via the remote, allowing start/stop, slight forward or backward movement, and tonearm up/down. Track skipping isn’t available.
The turntable’s LED color can be adjusted via the power button or remote, though pressing the remote’s power button turns off the turntable entirely, disconnecting Bluetooth.
While connected via Bluetooth, the LED remains blue, and a pale blueish-white indicates the repeat function.
Using a tonearm gauge, the cartridge was found perfectly mounted, with a tracking force of 3.9g which is within the specified 3.5g ± 0.5g range for the AT3600LA. As the cartridge settled in, its sound signature became more rounded and refined.
Wireless Connectivity
Note that the TT13 version I have is Bluetooth-capable. The lower-priced standard version has no BT capability.
Bluetooth
Pairing occurred quickly, with the lit FiiO emblem at the back blinking red/blue until the connection was made with my Klipsch The Sixes and the Edifier R1280DBs.
I found that when the TT13 was turned off, and then back on you had to reconnect to the speakers, which was a minor annoyance.
Wired Connectivity
RCA
The TT13 hooked into my (other) backup Akai AM-U1 system without issue. Unlike the AT-LP120XBT-USB where you have to move a switch on the back to go between BT and LO (RCA).
The FiiO recognizes the source being used without issue, once BT is turned off. Bypassing the built-in phono stage, the Akai & Yamaha took charge without any issues.
When connecting to a two-channel system, first make sure the ground is hooked up (and that you have a phono stage for the ground connection).
Then connect the TT13 to an AUX input (or CD, Tuner, etc) otherwise, the phono stage of the amplifier and TT13 will compete against each other creating a mash of distortion.
Sound Impressions
The TT13 was used in a variety of situations, including paired with my Klipsch The Sixes, and the Edifiers R1280DBs.
Two-channel systems included an Akai AM-U1 and the Yamaha NS-A638 speakers as a vintage system and my main office system consisting of the Yamaha A-S301 paired with the KEF Q150s, and the SMSL RAW-HA1 (via BT) hooked to the same Yamaha speakers.
Summary
The cartridge has more to say about the sound signature than pretty much anything else when it comes to turntables.
The plinth can change sound somewhat according to the material lying underneath, and the electronics certainly play a part, but the cartridge is the first line and sets the tone.
Known as a budget cartridge coming on turntables in this class as well as slightly higher, the AT3600LA comes across as somewhat energetic, but without a lot of detail retrieval or character.
This can be construed as smooth, with a tilt towards warmth, too. It does set the tone quite well, knowing where it sits in the AT line, and this carries over nicely into translating the sound of the TT13.
While pure clarity is lacking, there is enough energy and detail from the mids, to cover the rolled-off top end (conical stylus in play here) and “almost there” bass line.
Timbre
The TT13 delivers a pleasing amount of coloration in its sound, but not so much that it obscures its overall signature. While I wouldn’t describe it as a fully mature sound, it aims to appeal to a broad range of tastes and largely succeeds.
The rolled-off top end creates a slightly truncated signature, though it doesn’t feel like a significant shortcoming.
Most users will likely connect the TT13 to active Bluetooth speakers, and in this setup, speaker adjustments can easily tailor the sound to individual preferences.
In this context, the TT13 focuses on providing quicker transients, but not to the point of sounding overly thin or airy.
Instead, it leans in the opposite direction, delivering a satisfying low-end thump. The slower decay compared to the attack prolongs the presence of each note, contributing to a warmer overall tonality.
This approach gives the TT13 a solid presence, even if it feels somewhat subdued by the stock conical stylus of the AT cartridge.
Staging & Dynamics
What the AT3600LA lacks in extended dynamic range, it compensates for with a wide soundstage and excellent separation.
This doesn’t mean the AT3600LA is devoid of dynamic range; rather, it delivers its presentation with a balanced, even-handed approach. Its sound provides good depth, effectively filling both my regular-sized office and medium-sized listening room with a satisfying audio experience.
The rolled-off top end and absence of deep are offset by a fun, engaging character. The smoothness it offers creates a truly analog experience, which is exactly what a turntable like this should aim to provide.
The combination of the AT cartridge and Bluetooth connectivity enhances the TT13’s overall appeal to the modern audiophile. The music takes on a warm, inviting tone with an added element of fun, making for an enjoyable listening session.
While it’s natural to wish for a higher-end cartridge, the charm of the existing setup grows the more you listen.
Over time, the simplicity of operation and the musicality of the TT13 blend seamlessly, enhancing the overall enjoyment and making it easy to appreciate the strengths of the system.
Click on page 2 below for my recommended pairings and selected comparisons.
