FiiO's Snowsky Retro Nano is a DAC that exudes nostalgia with its charming '90s appeal.

FiiO has found its sweet spot by fusing cutting-edge audio tech with a splash of retro flair—think classic CD players like the DM13 and high-res DACs (digital audio converters) like the KA15. Now, they’re diving into that nostalgic vibe with their new offshoot, Snowsky, unveiling the Snowsky Retro Nano. This compact, cassette-styled music player and headphone amplifier captures the essence of the ‘90s.

At first glance, the Snowsky Retro Nano feels like a blast from the past, reminiscent of those days filled with mixtapes and Walkmans. With its chunky design, satisfying buttons, and a nifty removable battery compartment, it’s clearly a nod to vintage portable cassette players like the Sony Walkman. FiiO cranks up the nostalgia with a cool light blue color option that practically yells ‘90s vibes, plus a set of retro-themed stickers that let users deck out their device just like they did back in the day—or at least make it Instagram-ready!

Don’t let the throwback design fool you; the Snowsky Retro Nano is loaded with modern tech under the hood. It boasts dual Cirrus Logic CS43131 DAC chips that decode audio at an impressive 24-bit/96kHz resolution. So, it’s not just a pretty face—it’s an audio powerhouse that can seriously enhance your smartphone, tablet, or computer’s sound. You can connect via Bluetooth or USB-C, and it offers both 3.5mm unbalanced and 4.4mm balanced outputs, catering to all kinds of audiophile setups.

While FiiO calls it a “music player,” the Retro Nano isn’t a standalone device—it needs a digital source to work its magic. Think of it as a stylish DAC/amp combo that amps up your listening experience while adding a fun retro touch to your gear.

A standout feature is the removable battery, cleverly hidden behind a flip-open compartment that brings back memories of old cassette doors. Unlike regular AAA batteries, the included cell is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that mimics a AAA in shape, although it’s proprietary and not interchangeable with standard batteries. But if you’re not keen on battery swaps, the device can run directly off USB power, making it a versatile choice for both on-the-go and desktop setups.

Besides its audio capabilities, the Retro Nano comes with onboard controls for playback and volume, a built-in mic for hands-free calls, and EQ customization support via the FiiO Control app or a handy web interface. Whether you’re tweaking your sound profile or just taking a quick call, the Retro Nano keeps things simple and efficient.