2.Design Background and subsequent planning of CP13

2.1 Design Background of CP13:

Our initial motivation for creating a cassette player was to harness existing technology and develop a device that would be more appealing to younger individuals. However, as our understanding deepened, we discovered challenges in the current cassette player supply chain, with many components no longer available, making it impossible to compare with products from over two decades ago.

Given these circumstances, we had to make choices. Prioritizing stability and overall quality over products mass-produced in recent years seemed more crucial. Thus, CP13, as FiiO's inaugural cassette player, was initiated, designed, and manufactured. On one hand, CP13 serves as a means to test market acceptance; on the other hand, it allows us to accumulate experience for producing more feature-rich and professional cassette players in the future.

2.2 Why isn't there a recording function?

After our investigation, we found that high-quality blank tapes are scarce in the current market, making it challenging for ordinary consumers to record high-quality tapes. Moreover, the performance of currently available recording heads is subpar. Attempting to include a recording function could lead to numerous customer complaints. Therefore, recording functionality is not present in CP13, but it is under consideration for the next product.

2.3 Why isn't Bluetooth included?

There are three main reasons:

1. Firstly, the Bluetooth solutions used in cassette players with Bluetooth transmitters currently on the market are relatively poor, supporting only the SBC format, which our current users would not approve of.

2. Secondly, CP13 emphasizes "analog" audio, while Bluetooth operates digitally, lacking the same feel.

3. Finally, due to inherent limitations in cassette players, introducing Bluetooth transmission would further reduce signal-to-noise ratio, resulting in poor audio quality.

2.4 Why is the product so thick compared to older models?

The primary reason lies in the mechanical core.

Despite our efforts during the design phase to reduce product thickness, even discussions about a 0.1mm reduction could last for an extended period. However, the volume of the core determines the minimum thickness achievable. Currently, among portable cassette players in production, CP13's thickness of 31.8mm is the thinnest.

2.5 Why not use AA batteries?

While alkaline batteries are convenient to replace, their charging and battery life cannot compare to lithium batteries. Using alkaline batteries would prevent the device from achieving a thinner profile and necessitate a battery compartment, diminishing overall aesthetics. For user convenience, CP13 is equipped with a large-capacity built-in lithium battery, utilizing a standard Type-C interface. A single charge provides usage for over ten hours and supports simultaneous charging and use.

2.6 Why doesn't CP13 support Dolby noise reduction?

Dolby noise reduction technology is widely recognized and popular on cassette players, and we would love to support it. However, since the discontinuation of cassette players primarily focused on audio quality, the relevant chips are no longer available. Unfortunately, this makes it impossible for us to offer Dolby noise reduction support.

If we can identify a stable source for bulk supply, we will certainly consider incorporating it into future models. We also welcome any leads or suggestions.

2.7 What colour will be available？

You could pre-order Sky blue or black and white version from our Aliexpress store now.

Red version: Later than April

Transparent version: Around April to May