Schiit Fulla 3 Review
What is the Schiit Fulla 3?
In the world of audio equipment, Schiit Audio has carved a name for itself as a brand that offers high-quality products at affordable prices. One such gem in their lineup is the Schiit Fulla 3 – a powerful DAC/Amp combo designed to enhance your audio experience. In this review, we’ll dive into the features, performance, and overall value of the Schiit Fulla 3, and find out why it has become a favorite among audiophiles and casual music enthusiasts alike.
| Frequency response range: | 20Hz to 20 kHz +/- 0.5 decibels |
| Maximum power at: | |
| 16 ohms | 400 mW RMS |
| 32 ohms | 250 mW RMS |
| 50 ohms | 200 mW RMS |
| 300 ohms | 40 mW RMS |
| Crosstalk : | -80 db; 20 Hz to 20 kHz |
| Output impedance: | |
| Headphones | 0.5 ohms |
| Line-out | 75 ohms |
| Input impedance : | 10k ohms |
| Gain: | 1.7 |
| DAC chip: | AKM AK4490 outfitted with TI-OPA1662 filter stage |
| Output stages: | two TI LHM66433 |
| Dimensions: | 3.5 x 2.5 x 1.4 inches |
| Weight: | 9oz |
Design
The first impression matters, and the Schiit Fulla 3 doesn’t disappoint. It boasts a compact and sleek design, encased in a durable aluminum chassis. The minimalist aesthetic of the device makes it an attractive addition to any desk setup. Its sturdy construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of daily use, making it a long-lasting investment for your audio needs.
Sound
You can expect a lot from the Fulla 3 pack’s AKM AK4490 chipset, which is supplied with the TI-OPA1662 filter stage. This particular chip model is remarkably durable and dependable.
You can be sure that the Fulla 3 will deliver only Hi-Fi sonic performance befitting the most discerning audiophiles thanks to its enormous frequency response range, ideal crosstalk parameters, and relatively low gain.
Connectivity Options
Versatility is a significant advantage of the Schiit Fulla 3. It comes equipped with a range of connectivity options, catering to both modern and traditional audio setups. The front panel houses a convenient 6.35mm headphone jack, allowing you to plug in your headphones effortlessly. On the back, you’ll find USB, coaxial, and optical inputs, giving you the flexibility to connect the Fulla 3 to various devices, including PCs, laptops, gaming consoles, and more.
Benefits
- Lots of connectivity options
- Has a small footprint and is lightweight
- Great audio quality – tremendous bass
- Decently affordable, great for beginners
- Superb value for money
Schiit Fulla 3 versus Fulla 2
To put it briefly, the Fulla 3 can be thought of as a “minor upgrade” of the Fulla 2. Although most of the differences between them are obvious, they have a lot in common, and many people will claim that these two are nearly identical.
Schiit Fulla 2 and 3 shares the same design, which is their first distinguishing similarity. The casing, type of connections, and volume control knob on top of the casing are all the same for both of these DAC units. Additionally, they are roughly the same size and weight, making them comparable in terms of portability and compactness.
Second, the AKM AK4490 chipset is included with both Schiit Fulla models as standard equipment. Even though they don’t perform and sound exactly alike, most non-professionals probably couldn’t tell the difference.
Is there even the slightest difference between Fulla 2 and Schiit Fulla 3 when they initially appear to be identical in both sound and appearance?
The slight variations in sonic quality between these two DAC units require a skilled ear to discern. Fulla 2 is a typical desktop DAC designed to enhance audio quality, but Fulla 3 is much more adaptable and well-rounded.
Fulla 3 is actually a professional-grade digital-to-analog converter, whereas Fulla 2 isn’t, because it has a little bit more power, a deeper bass, and way more presence.
Let’s talk about the controllability of these two DAC units last but not least. Although Fulla 2 is quite good in its current state, you are not able to completely change and shape the audio, music, or tracks in your game. On the other hand, Fulla 3 has such a skill.
Schiit Fulla vs FiiO E10K
It was difficult to compare Schiit’s Fulla 3 and FiiO’s E10K. Even though they both fall into the budget price range, these two USB DACs are of exceptional quality.
Let’s start with the features that these two digital-to-analog converters have in common. Both the Fulla 3 and FiiO’s E10K are portable DAC devices first and foremost. Similar in size to the Fulla 3, the E10k from FiiO weighs much less—only 2.72 ounces as opposed to the Fulla’s 9 ounces.
Because they each have a single volume control knob, these DAC units are remarkably simple to use. The knob on FiiO’s E10k is only slightly more sensitive in this instance.
The two have a strong level of connection, which is the last significant similarity between them. Even though they were intended to be desktop DACs, they have a variety of inputs and are more versatile thanks to their portability.
Let’s examine their differences: Fulla 3 is significantly more expensive than FiiO’s E10k, but they both fall within the same price range.
Fulla, on the other hand, excels in the area of durability. While Fulla 3 is made of sturdy machined aluminum, E10K has a hardwood body. Both should be able to take a lot of punishment because of their low weight.
E10K and Fulla sound very different from one another in terms of audio quality and sonic performance. E10K uses the PCM102 chipset, whereas Fulla 3 uses the AKM AK4490. Despite the fact that these chips are produced by various companies using various technologies, Fulla 3 appears to sound slightly better when put directly up against E10K.
Price and Value
One of the most compelling aspects of the Schiit Fulla 3 is its remarkable value for money. Priced competitively, it presents a cost-effective solution for those seeking an upgrade in their audio setup without breaking the bank. The Fulla 3’s performance and feature set to rival those of higher-priced competitors, making it an excellent investment for both audiophiles and casual listeners.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Schiit Fulla 3 stands as a formidable DAC/Amp combo, punching well above its weight class in terms of performance and value. Its sleek design, versatile connectivity options, impressive DAC and amplifier components, user-friendly controls, and affordable price tag make it a top choice for audio enthusiasts. Whether you’re an avid audiophile or a casual music lover, the Schiit Fulla 3 is bound to elevate your listening experience to new heights.
So, if you’re looking to take your audio setup to the next level without burning a hole in your pocket, the Schiit Fulla 3 deserves serious consideration. Embrace the power of this little audio powerhouse and unlock the true potential of your headphones and speakers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How is Schiit Fulla used?
The Fulla is a USB DAC; connect it to your PC using its USB connector, and you ought to get a notification. You can access the Fulla 3 folder and the Fulla 3 control center by clicking the notification; no drivers need to be installed. When you click on it, Schiit Fulla will start to work.
How to turn off Schiit Fulla?
The same method you used to turn on your Schiit Fulla 3 also works to turn it off. You can find the “I’m Fulla Schiit” pop-up window after connecting your Fulla to your PC (or smartphone) in the Control Panel – Sound Devices or, alternatively (if you use a Mac), in the System Preferences – Sound. Simply type “disconnect” to turn it off.
How does an Android phone use Schiit Fulla?
Schiit’s Fulla 3 is a bit simpler to use on Android than it is on PCs; just connect your Fulla to any Android device, and it will start working right away.
How is Schiit Fulla set up?
The fact that Schiit’s Fulla 3 requires no setup is one of its best features. It is operational as soon as you connect it to a PC, Mac, or another smart device; it doesn’t need any drivers or installations.
