DAP

HiBy M300 Full Review—hifimanic

HiBy M300 Review: Hi-Fi Sound in a Compact DAP

Introduction

The HiBy Digital M300 is an ultra-portable digital audio player (DAP) that aims to deliver hi-fi sound quality in a compact and affordable package. As the first product from HiBy’s new lifestyle-focused brand, HiBy Digital, the M300 combines modern tech like Bluetooth 5.0 and Android 13 with audiophile-grade components to appeal to both casual listeners and audio enthusiasts.

In this review, I’ll be taking a close look at the design, features, sound quality, and overall value proposition of the M300 to see if it lives up to its promise.

HiBy Digital M300

Image of HiBy M300 in-ear monitors (Image via linsoul.com)
Image of HiBy M300 in-ear monitors (Image via linsoul.com)

Specifications

  • Operating System: Android 13
  • SoC: Qualcomm Snapdragon 665
  • Audio Format Support: DSD 256 / PCM 768kHz 32bit
  • Audio Outputs: 3.5mm Headphone Output; USB DAC output; Inbuilt loudspeaker
  • WiFi: 2.4Ghz / 5Ghz Dual Band support
  • Bluetooth: 5.0
  • Bluetooth Protocols: LDAC/AAC/SBC/aptX
  • Wireless Control: HiByLink
  • Screen Size: 4.0″
  • Screen Type: Hi-res IPS with 5-point multitouch
  • Resolution: 1280*640
  • RAM: 3GB
  • Internal Storage: 32GB
  • Storage Expansion: Up to 2TB via microSD card
  • Colours: Black, Silver, and Blue
  • Body Material: Unibody Aluminium chassis with glass front/back
  • Dimensions: 113*58*13mm
  • Weight: 136g
  • Battery Capacity: 2000mAh
  • Uptime Per Full Charge: >29h
  • Charging Power Supply: 5V/1.5A
  • Max Voltage Swing: 1.81V
  • Rated Voltage Swing: 1.4V
  • Max Output Power: 103 mW
  • Distortion at Optimum Volume: 0.001%
  • Dynamic Range: 119 dB
  • Noise Floor: 1uV
  • SNR: 120dB
  • Frequency Response: 20-80kHz

Individual Ratings

Build Quality

The aluminum alloy chassis gives it a premium feel despite the low price point. Overall excellent build for the price.

4.0/5
Technology

Uses a capable Cirrus Logic DAC chip that can handle hi-res audio up to 24-bit/768kHz. Smooth performance from the Snapdragon 665 chip.

4.0/5
Sound Quality

Engaging and musical sound signature, with good bass impact, smooth mids, and non-fatiguing treble. Falls short of premium DAPs but very good for the price.

4.0/5
Power Output

103mW output is decent but may not fully satisfy power-hungry headphones. Fine for most IEMs.

3.0/5
Unique Features

FM radio, mono speaker, voice recording and Bluetooth give it more versatility than typical audiophile DAPs.

4.0/5
Connectivity

Dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth 5.0 with LDAC provide excellent wireless connectivity. Wired options more limited to a single 3.5mm jack.

3.0/5
Battery Life

Outstanding battery life, over 20 hours confirmed in testing.

5.0/5

Overall Rating

3.8/5.0

Bottom Line

The HiBy M300 offers excellent build quality, very good sound, and great battery life at an affordable $199 price point. The smooth, musical sound signature pairs especially well with warmer IEMs. While it falls short of premium DAPs in some areas like power output and wired connectivity, it punches far above its weight overall. The M300 is an incredible value for casual and budding audiophiles, earning it a strong recommendation.

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