The new FiiO Snowsky Disc might be 2025’s most interesting music player
The FiiO Snowsky Disc is part iPod nano, part DAC with a CD-inspired design. It's an intriguing entry-level audio player.
FiiO made its name with out-of-the-ordinary music gadgets, but the palm-sized Snowsky Disc has really piqued our interest.
It has the unmistakeable retro feel of an iPod nano with its square design, physical buttons, local storage and touchscreen. There’s support for album art and lyrics via a companion app with the idea to ensure a completely distraction-free listening experience.
That local storage comes through a Micro SD card (up to 2TD) which can keep up to 8,000 albums in the locker. There’s dual headphone compatibility with 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced.
But then there’s AirPlay compatibility to stream to speakers via Wi-Fi connectivity. And there’s great consideration given to audio quality thanks to the dual audio DAC architecture. That means it can be used as a USB passthrough device for listening to higher quality content from your phone too.
The Bluetooth standard includes support for LDAC, which means you’ll be able to play high resolution audio codecs wirelessly. So there’s no issues with using your favourite wireless buds or headphones.
“The Snowsky Disc also doubles as a versatile digital hub. With USB DAC features and USB audio output, it can seamlessly integrate with laptops and phones as well as your hi-fi or wireless speakers,” the press release says. “For more traditional setups, the inclusion of SPDIF output allows easy connection to home DACs and amplifiers, making the Snowsky Disc a flexible, affordable source component in both portable and home environments.”
The battery life will get you 12 hours of continuous playback, so it’ll serve you well on your commute. The company says it’ll be useful for the gym too, but it’s sort of an odd shape for that.
The device goes on sale in January and it’s an affordable piece of kit too at just $80/£80. You’ll be able to choose from black, pink and a rather attractive turquoise.
Chris Smith
