Apple touts its Apple Music streaming service as offering lossless audio for every track, and many are even available in hi-res audio. However, using an iPhone with wireless earbuds or headphones will inevitably result in a loss of quality. iPhones only support two Bluetooth codecs, SBC and AAC, neither of which is capable of transmitting audio at bit rates that preserve the high-quality of Apple Music tracks. This limitation leaves many iPhone users seeking ways to unlock the full potential of their hi-res audio gear.
Fiio’s new BT11 USB-C Bluetooth transmitter is a game-changer for iPhone users. It introduces a range of advanced codecs, including Sony’s LDAC and Qualcomm’s aptX family, to your iPhone 15 or 16. The BT11 isn’t just for iPhones; it also benefits Android phones lacking these codecs, laptops (a USB-A to USB-C adapter is included), Nintendo Switch, and even Sony’s PlayStation 5. This device is a welcome solution for iPhone owners who have invested in high-quality wireless headphones like Sony’s excellent WH-1000XM5 or WF-1000XM5, both of which utilize LDAC and perform significantly better with a device supporting this codec.
For those with earbuds supporting aptX Lossless, like the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, the BT11 delivers CD-quality audio on any phone, as opposed to requiring a Snapdragon Sound-compatible phone. As a reviewer of earbuds and headphones, I see the BT11 becoming a vital tool for achieving the best audio experience.
The BT11 boasts Bluetooth 5.4 with LE Audio support, ensuring low-latency performance for LC3-compatible headphones. Fiio has also incorporated a PDS antenna, claiming it significantly extends Bluetooth range compared to traditional designs. A color-coded LED indicator displays the currently active Bluetooth codec, and the BT11 can even function as a wireless audio splitter, allowing you to share audio with a friend by connecting two devices simultaneously.
While the BT11’s 24-bit/96kHz capable codecs are a fantastic addition, some potential drawbacks exist. Its T-shape design, though compact, extends to either side of the USB-C port, potentially blocking access to an adjacent USB-C port. This could pose a problem on devices like the Apple MacBook Air, preventing simultaneous power connection and BT11 use. Additionally, despite its codec prowess, the BT11 currently lacks AAC compatibility. If your headphones or earbuds solely support SBC and AAC, like the Apple AirPods, sticking with your phone’s built-in Bluetooth connection is preferable.
