FiiO CP13

€129.00*

Instant delivery, delivery time: 1-3 days

Color
Product number: HL02296.BlackWhite
Product information "FiiO CP13"
FiiO CP13

Analogue and simply good - We are reviving the old treasures from your childhood and youth Hotly anticipated. Anyone who grew up in the 80s and 90s will remember the feeling when the presenter on the radio messed up the beginning or end of a track when recording a mixtape. That was annoying.

You were all the more proud when you were able to capture the latest hits of the 80s on tape without interruption.

Bring these treasures and your old radio play collections back to life with the FiiO CP13.

 But why did FiiO of all companies come up with the idea of bringing this topic back to life? The answer to this question is quite simple. Since its inception fifteen years ago, FiiO has been dedicated to the amplification and high quality reproduction of analogue audio signals.

The common intersection of this classic and modern digital theme is therefore tailor-made for FiiO. We can therefore look forward to an old idea in a new guise. One of the best features is certainly the significantly increased output power compared to the past. 

This makes the FiiO CP13 capable of driving even the most demanding hi-fi headphones. As the FiiO CP13 is essentially about classic and analogue playback, FiiO has decided not to implement Bluetooth. Digitising a good analogue audio signal and transmitting it via Bluetooth would not do justice to the zeitgeist of the cassette era.

Item description

  • Ultra-low jitter 
  • Oversized pure copper flywheel for smooth playback 
  • Special balanced amplifier head 
  • 100% pure analogue sound 
  • Classic audiophile operational amplifier 
  • JRC5532 High-voltage motor power supply for high synchronisation 
  • Two-colour aluminium alloy housing 
  • Long battery life of up to 13 hours 

The classic way to listen 

In the 1980s and 1990s, cassettes were very popular, and portable cassette players were popular across all generations. Today, however, the supply chain for cassette players is almost non-existent, which made the initial phase of the FiiO CP13 project extremely difficult and almost led FiiO to abandon the project. Fortunately, after investing a lot of time and effort and working closely with the supply chain, FiiO was able to continue working on the FiiO CP13. FiiO may be nostalgic, but it always takes the safe and good-sounding route when it comes to technology. Many small but sonically outstanding details find their way into the new FiiO CP13 to revive the analogue sound. 

Achieving extremely low jitter through custom-parts made from high quality materials -Tailor-made like clockwork 

After much trial and error, FiiO has carefully selected between the scarce materials in the supply chain, and finally developed a technology that represents what is currently feasible in this field. The recording and auto-reverse functions were deliberately omitted. The main focus during development was on maximising sound quality. 

Oversized flywheel made of pure copper 

The FiiO CP13 features an oversized flywheel made of pure copper with a diameter of 30.4 mm and a thickness of 4 mm. The size of the flywheel helps to ensure that the reel moves as smoothly as possible during playback, thus minimising jitter. This results in synchronisation at the highest level. This results in a more authentic and better sound of the cassette being played, just as we remember it. 

Power supply of the high-voltage motor 

The motor of the FiiO CP13 is supplied with a high voltage of 4.2 V, i.e. more than the 1.8 V or 3 V that is usual in today's cassette players. This power supply works in conjunction with a motor speed stabilisation circuit that increases the resistance of the motor as required to ensure stable movement speeds - reducing unwanted pitch changes and allowing the FiiO CP13 to handle more cartridge types. 

Superior choice - customised cartridge head 

Regardless of cost, Fiio has negotiated with its supplier that only cartridges of sufficiently high quality are selected. Only 40% of the cartridges produced by the manufacturer meet FiiO's specifications after a total inspection of all units. In addition, the manufacture of the CP13 is strictly controlled to ensure minimal differences in output between the left and right channels, which are far less than in current cassette players. The magnetic head also utilises a thickened head cover that better shields the head from external interference. This also significantly reduces wear and tear on the magnetic head during playback, making it last longer. 
In contrast to single-ended signal acquisition, which is common in current cassette players, the CP13 uses a differential circuit for symmetrical acquisition of the signals from the head. This results in more stable signal transmission, a higher signal-to-noise ratio and less distortion during playback. 

Fully analogue circuitry - 100% pure analogue sound 

For truly analogue playback, analogue devices are used throughout the FiiO CP13's audio circuitry - from the magnetic tape head to the signal amplification. The result is a classic, unmistakably analogue sound. Tape drive, LTA8092 primary signal amplifier, analogue volume control, JRC5532 power amplifier, adapted high-voltage motor, LDO- LDO+ circuit to stabilise the motor speed, boost circuit, 3.7 V lithium battery, Charging and overvoltage protection, USB Type-C 

The comeback of a classic - audiophile op-amp JRC5532 

The FiiO CP13 uses the renowned JRC5532, which some call the classic "king of operational amplifiers". This op-amp is used in a fully analogue audio circuit that delivers a familiar, pleasing sound. 

Fusion of squares and curves - Two-tone all-aluminium alloy chassis 

The FiiO CP13 features a carefully crafted two-tone all-aluminium chassis. The "0" screw concept, which perfectly complements the square yet round design, makes the CP13 an example of beauty in harmony with ergonomics. The buttons of the CP13 are hard oxidised in a high-quality process. This makes them more resistant to wear and corrosion. Behind the aluminium alloy volume control is a large analogue volume potentiometer which, compared to the flat potentiometers commonly used in cassette players, is not only more reliable and provides a more stable sound, but also simply feels better. 

Long playing time - up to 13 hours 

The FiiO CP13 uses a 1800mAh battery. In fact, the CP13's battery allows for 13 hours of playtime and 268 days of standby time. 

Dual-mode power supply - Continuous good sound 

The CP13 is powered by a lithium battery that can be charged via the USB Type-C port when connected to a 5V USB power adapter. FiiO's extensive experience in developing safe charging circuits with protection mechanisms ensures that you can use the CP13 without worry while charging. 

Small yet big 

Although the size of the cassette player's disc drive limits the possibilities, FiiO engineers have taken great care to make the CP13 as compact as possible. By integrating manufacturing and structural design, the CP13 is ultimately only 31.8 mm thick, making it thinner and more compact than most cassette players currently in production. 

Scope of delivery 

Manual, USB-C cable, protective film for viewing window 

Specifications 
Available colours: Sky blue/silver; Black/white; Transparent 
Supported cassette types: All types I to IV) 
Output: 3.5mm jack / 2-track stereo playback 
Dimensions: Approximately 120*88.3*31.8mm 
Output Level: Greater than 250mV 
SNR: >55dB 
Weight: Approximately 310g 
Battery: 1800mAh 
Battery Life: >13 hours@40mV 
Standby Time: > 268 days 
Aluminium body / Aluminium knobs and controls 
Mechanical Logic-Core 
Copper flywheel
Specifications
General Specifications
Name/ModelCP13Hardware solutionop amp: JRC5532
colorSky blue/Black and whiteWeightAbout 310g
DimensionsAbout 120x88.3x31.8mm
Volume control type
Volume knob
Jitter≤ 0.2%FlywheelΦ30.4mm oversize pure copper flywheel
Motor
4.2V high voltage motor power supply
Movement 
Custom movement 
Supported cassette types:
All Types (I to IV)
Magnetic head
Carefully selected thickened custom permalloy magnetic head
Adaptive impedance
8~150Ω
  
Buttons and Ports
ButtonsPhysical buttons (Play*1+Rewind*1+Fast ward*1+Pause*1)
USB port
Type-C USB (charging port)
Headphone outputStandard 3.5mm
Knob
Volume adjustment knob
Power Supply Parameters
Power SupplySupports DC 5V/≥2A
Battery capacity
1800mAh polymer battery
Charging timeAbout 3H (5V 2A adapter)
Standby time
>268 days 
Battery life and test conditions 
3.5mm headphone out: ≥13 hours
Audio inputNative cassette playbackGainN/A
Volume40mV outputcharging switch
N/A
Loading32 Ω  
Audio Parameters
Parts of performance and parameters of headphone output (3.5mm)
output amplitudeL+R≥250mV+250mV (32Ω)THD+N & Noise≤ 3.5%
Output power 1L+R≥1.3mW+1.3mW (16Ω)SRN≥55dB (A-weighted)
Output power 2L+R≥2mW+2mW (32Ω)Noise floor<0.55mV (A-weighted)
Reviews on Youtube
FAQ

     1.The hardware configuration, parameters and accessories of CP13


1.1 What is the wow and flutter rate?

The wow and flutter rate of most CP13 will be within 0.2%.

But since the core is mechanical, there may be error difference in some CP13. But the wow and flutter rate will not be higher than 0.25%.

1.2 Will a protective case be included?

According to our survey, some users find it inconvenient to use a protective case when changing tapes. Therefore, a protective case will not be included.

You could order the leather protective case if you need it.

1.3 Will headphones be included? What headphone is recommended to use with?

The headphones will not be included. It is recommended to use earbuds like FF1,FF3 and FF5 with the CP13.

1.4 Why not use an electronic control logic core?

The primary reason is that there is no stable supply of electronic control logic cores for portable products in the current supply chain. Electronic control logic cores for portable use have been entirely discontinued, leaving mechanical cores as the more stable option.

1.5 Does CP13 use a mechanical or logic core?

In the current cassette player supply chain, particularly for portable cassette players, only mechanical cores are available, and the choices are very limited. After careful comparison and selection, we had to choose a mechanical core from leading manufacturers to ensure product stability. We also made some customizations and improvements to this core.

1.6 Does CP13's core include a copper flywheel?

Yes.Besides,high-voltage driven motor,customized balanced amplification magnetic head and thickened magnetic head cover are included.


2.1 Design Background of CP13:

Our initial motivation for creating a cassette player was to harness existing technology and develop a device that would be more appealing to younger individuals. However, as our understanding deepened, we discovered challenges in the current cassette player supply chain, with many components no longer available, making it impossible to compare with products from over two decades ago.

Given these circumstances, we had to make choices. Prioritizing stability and overall quality over products mass-produced in recent years seemed more crucial. Thus, CP13, as FiiO's inaugural cassette player, was initiated, designed, and manufactured. On one hand, CP13 serves as a means to test market acceptance; on the other hand, it allows us to accumulate experience for producing more feature-rich and professional cassette players in the future.

2.2 Why isn't there a recording function?

After our investigation, we found that high-quality blank tapes are scarce in the current market, making it challenging for ordinary consumers to record high-quality tapes. Moreover, the performance of currently available recording heads is subpar. Attempting to include a recording function could lead to numerous customer complaints. Therefore, recording functionality is not present in CP13, but it is under consideration for the next product.

2.3 Why isn't Bluetooth included?

There are three main reasons:

  1. Firstly, the Bluetooth solutions used in cassette players with Bluetooth transmitters currently on the market are relatively poor, supporting only the SBC format, which our current users would not approve of.

  2. Secondly, CP13 emphasizes "analog" audio, while Bluetooth operates digitally, lacking the same feel.

  3. Finally, due to inherent limitations in cassette players, introducing Bluetooth transmission would further reduce signal-to-noise ratio, resulting in poor audio quality.

2.4 Why is the product so thick compared to older models?

The primary reason lies in the mechanical core.

Despite our efforts during the design phase to reduce product thickness, even discussions about a 0.1mm reduction could last for an extended period. However, the volume of the core determines the minimum thickness achievable. Currently, among portable cassette players in production, CP13's thickness of 31.8mm is the thinnest.

2.5 Why not use AA batteries?

While alkaline batteries are convenient to replace, their charging and battery life cannot compare to lithium batteries. Using alkaline batteries would prevent the device from achieving a thinner profile and necessitate a battery compartment, diminishing overall aesthetics. For user convenience, CP13 is equipped with a large-capacity built-in lithium battery, utilizing a standard Type-C interface. A single charge provides usage for over ten hours and supports simultaneous charging and use.

2.6 Why doesn't CP13 support Dolby noise reduction?

Dolby noise reduction technology is widely recognized and popular on cassette players, and we would love to support it. However, since the discontinuation of cassette players primarily focused on audio quality, the relevant chips are no longer available. Unfortunately, this makes it impossible for us to offer Dolby noise reduction support.

If we can identify a stable source for bulk supply, we will certainly consider incorporating it into future models. We also welcome any leads or suggestions.

3. Frequently asked questions of CP13


3.1 What classes of tape are supported by the CP13?

Class I, II, III, and IV tapes can be played by the CP13.

It is recommended that to use Class I tapes in CP13.

3.2 What headphones fit the CP13 well?

Comparing with the MP3 or player, the cassette’s noise floor is much larger. It is recommended to use with earbuds like FIIO FF1, FF3 and FF5.

3.3 Why are the buttons so protruding?

This is primarily due to limitations in the structure of the core. The travel distance of the core buttons is already quite long. In comparison to a more aesthetically pleasing appearance, we prioritize addressing issues like button sticking and enhancing the overall button experience. The protrusion of these buttons is almost at the limit of our design.

3.4 The gap between the buttons is rather large?

The core button lever swing is big inside so the swinging of buttons is big after installing as well.

In order to avoid the scratching by aluminum alloy shell , we have increased the gap and added plastic lining inside the machine.

We have made our efforts to control the gaps. If the gaps need to be smaller still, we could only reopen the core mold!

3.5 Why doesn't CP13 support Dolby noise reduction?

Dolby noise reduction technology is widely recognized and popular on cassette players, and we would love to support it. However, since the discontinuation of cassette players primarily focused on audio quality, the relevant chips are no longer available. Unfortunately, this makes it impossible for us to offer Dolby noise reduction support.

If we can identify a stable source for bulk supply, we will certainly consider incorporating it into future models. We also welcome any leads or suggestions.

3.6 The left and right channels imbalanced? (one side is louder than the other)?

In order to pursue full-link analog flavor, the CP13 uses analog potentiometers but not digital potentiometers. Users who have used amplifiers will know that amplifiers will also have this imbalanced problem in left and right channels. One of the main reasons is the analog potentiometer.

The other main reason is the magnetic head. Although we use differential circuit, the imblance is still large. After discovering this problem, we discussed with the supplier of magnetic head many times, and finally persuaded the supplier to select the magnetic head with less imbalance for us. The CP13's magnetic head, in terms of index, is more than twice as strict as the normal magnetic head standard. So its imbalance degree , as well as consistency, is much better than the other mass-produced products.

3.7 The charging indicator does not light up?

The CP13 is hardware-recognized for battery voltage. The battery indicator recognition bases on hardware recognition so there is a zone. When you get the machine for the first time, the machine is fully charged generally. So plugging in the USB cable may not charge it. Please use it for some time before charging.

The specific judgment and condition of charging:

Low battery and power off: ≤ 3.0V ,

Charging: 3.0 ~ 3.89V (red light),

Fully charged: 3.90 ~ 4.2V (green light)

If your CP13 can not be charged or the charging indicator doesn't light, please use 5V 1A adapter for charging. If the issue remains, please contact support@fiio.com for help.

3.8 Attention of case usage

The case contains magnets that may magnetize the cassetteif placed too close. Please keep the cassette away from the magnetized area.

3.9 The button can not be popped up when fast forward or fast reverse to the end?

It is normal phenomenon. The core used in CP13 are having this phenomenon. Besides, most other cores also require to press pause manually when fast forward or fast reverse to the end.

3.10 The tape got caught while playing in CP13?

When playing tapes, the tape may get caught due to dirty pressure wheels or damp tapes. Generally, it is not related to the CP13 itself.

You could try the following methods for help:

1.Check whether there is dirt or moisture on the pressure wheel. If yes, please clean it in time.

2. Check whether the tape is damp, and whether there is adhesion with the pressure wheel during playback

3. Make sure that the CP13 has enough battery and it is not recommended to play tape when CP13 is out of battery.



User Manual

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