I recently purchased a Fiio BTR5. I want something that works for portability connecting to my phone, and something I can use on my desktop for high-powered headphones when I invest in those. I have no real complaints other than the battery, which is what I’m coming here to talk about.
The device cannot be used solely on USB power. It *must* charge and be charging to be used, or it will drain the internal battery. I turned off the charging to use it with my PC and about an hour in it shut off. It completely drained the internal battery. It can be used while charging, so not much inconvenience, I am just concerned about the longevity of the battery constantly living with a full charge, then only being drained when being used with my phone.
I have a few days to return this and get an alternative for a similar cost, if it exists. Any recommendations?
The other big thing I appreciate about it is I can adjust the volume individually from the system which is nice for my setups as I often have several audio devices setup, so adjusting volume across several pairs of headphones can be tricky on Linux.
The BTR5-2021 model has a built in voltage regulator, so when plugged into USB it charges to 80%, and will recharge at 20%, according to FiiOs specs.
IDK if that’s true, because I only use mine for portable bluetooth use.
BTR15 which is the updated model of the BTR5 might be better if you’re worried about the battery charging and discharging. It is unreleased but it is announced and should be coming soon-ish. It also has a few other upgrades if you want to look at it.
It’s not a good pick for desktop use. Like you say it’s constantly using the battery and it will wear it out if you leave it permanently connected. Mine did.
Qudelix 5K is much better for this, it will charge (to 80% if you set it to that) and then stop and power itself off the USB.