Fiio unveils its latest retro-inspired portable cassette player – but there's a catch

FiiO CP11 portable cassette player in red
(Image credit: FiiO)

Fiio has unveiled a new cassette player, but it's not the one the brand was originally planning to launch. Confused? Let us explain.

As the company explained in a post on X, plans were initially in place to launch the new CP15 cassette player, but this has now been delayed due to challenges with getting the new ultra-thin loading mechanism to work.

Instead, Fiio has switched things around and teased the CP11, another portable cassette player that will fill the gap left by the CP15. Fiio has a history in this category, cashing in on the retro revival with its CM13 cassette player, which we tried out a few years ago, and its portable DM13 CD player.

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FiiO CP11 portable cassette player in beige / cream

(Image credit: FiiO)

According to Fiio, the new CP11 will feature "an all-new ultra-thin mechanism" and a "higher-quality magnetic head," along with a brushless motor, an overhauled circuit design, and Bluetooth functionality for beaming your music wirelessly to compatible headphones or earbuds.

Photos revealed on X show at least three available colours – red, beige cream, and a light turquoise blue – though there could be more beyond the provided images.

As for its official release, FiiO has said "the end of 2026", but no specific price or date has been given just yet. When we get further information, we'll be sure to share it with you.

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Harry McKerrell
Senior staff writer

Harry McKerrell is a senior staff writer at What Hi-Fi?. During his time at the publication, he has written countless news stories alongside features, advice and reviews of products ranging from floorstanding speakers and music streamers to over-ear headphones, wireless earbuds and portable DACs. He has covered launches from hi-fi and consumer tech brands, and major industry events including IFA, High End Munich and, of course, the Bristol Hi-Fi Show. When not at work he can be found playing hockey, practising the piano or trying to pet strangers' dogs.

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