We don't get many questions for the FiiO S9, owing to the in-depth review of the product we performed that pretty much describes everything anyone would ever want to know about the S9, and then some. But still, we would like to share the following quick usage tips with our readers.
Is the FiiO S9 compatible with my iPod/Sansa/Zune/etc player?The S9 is compatible with all devices that has a standard heaphone output jack, including iPods, Sansa MP3/video players, Zunes - pretty much 99% of all MP3 players, as well as other portable devices such as pocket radios, portable CD players (for those who still use them), portable media players such as Archos/Cowon, and all computers including notebooks, netbooks, and desktop PCs, including all Apple/MacIntosh models. Even if the device you are using already has built in speakers, you can connect the S9 to it to enjoy the superior output quality of the S9. It is highly unlikely that the music source you would like to use is not compatible. (A notable exception is the newest iPod Shuffle that requires external buttons for playback control - the S9 is not compatible with the newest iPod Shuffle)
Is an AC adapter included?Unfortunately, an AC adapter is not included. The S9 can be powered from any USB port, such as a computer or a powered USB hub. Many cell phones also come with USB AC adapters, which can also be used to power the S9. If none of these solutions are available or convenient, we recommend that you purchase an USB AC adapter that can supply a minimum of 1000mAh (e.g. 1A) of output. We recommend the following AC adapters that are available from MonoPrice.com for less than $2 each plus shipping:
White:
http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=103&cp_id=10311&cs_id=1031106&p_id=4874&seq=1&format=2Black:
http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=103&cp_id=10311&cs_id=1031106&p_id=3540&seq=1&format=2Why does the S9 I received sound thin and distorted?The 3.5mm audio input jack on the back of the S9 is of the very sturdy variety, and some times the user may think that the audio cable has been fully inserted when it is not. When this happens, audio that the S9 produces can sound thin and distorted. In this case, check to make sure that the audio input jack is fully inserted into the back of the S9.
Why is there static from the S9 when playing music from a computer?When using a computer (notebook or desktop) as the music source, avoid also using that computer as the power source for the S9. When the same computer is used both as the power and music source, a ground loop is formed and cause static noise from the S9. The static isn't very loud and not noticeable when listening to music at a normal volume, but specific types of "quiet" music or quiet parts of music would make the static more noticeable. To avoid static noise when playing music from a computer, either use a different USB power source, such as an AC wall adapter, or use batteries to power the S9