For an audiophile, using Spotify with a FiiO Digital Audio Player (DAP) is the ultimate goal. However, the process to use them can be different based on the FiiO models you use.
Don't worry. This post will show you the methods to get Spotify on FiiO music player step by step. Also, it will troubleshoot common Spotify issues on FiiO player. Now, move on to learning more.
Part 1. How to Play Spotify on FiiO Officially (For Modern Android FiiO Players)
If you have a latest FiiO DAP, including FiiO M6, M7, M9, M11S, M15, or M17, there is a straightforward and secure way to use Spotify on FiiO. That is, you can install Spotify app from FiiO app stores as these FiiO players run on a customized and open version of Android operating system. Now, start to learn how to install and use Spotify with FiiO modern players.
Step 1. First, you need to connect your FiiO player to a WiFi network. Please swipe down from the top of the screen to access the settings panel and connect to your local WiFi network.
Step 2. Locate and open the Google Play Store or App Market on your FiiO player. If it's your first time, you may need to sign in with your Google account.
Step 3. Type 'Spotify' in the search bar on the screen to search for the Spotify app. Then tap on the official Spotify app result, and then tap the 'Install' button to download and install Spotify app onto your FiiO player automatically.
Step 4. Once installed, open Spotify app from your FiiO's home screen. Log in with your existing Spotify account credentials. After that, you can stream Spotify music on FiiO player directly.
Tips: If you have a Spotify Premium subscription, you can download Spotify music for offline listening on your FiiO player. In this case, you can save data usage while on the go. Besides, if you use high-end headphones, you can alter the sound settings in the FiiO Music app to enhance your listening experience.
Note: By using this method, you can receive official updates of the Spotify app through the app market so that you always have the latest features and security patches.
Part 2. How to Play Spotify on FiiO Manually by Sideloading Spotify APK
If your FiiO player runs Android but doesn't have the Google Play Store or FiiO Market for downloading new apps, or you want to use an older version of the Spotify app, then you can sideload Spotify app manually for using on FiiO. Here are the steps to do that.
Step 1. First, you need to enable installation from unknown sources on your FiiO device. By default, Android blocks installations from outside its official app store for security. So, go to Settings > Security on your FiiO player. Locate the 'Install unknown apps' or 'Allow installation from unknown sources' and enable it.
Step 2. Open the web browser on your computer and visit a trusted and safe APK repository like APKMirror. Then search for 'Spotify' and download its latest version that is compatible with your FiiO's Android version.
Step 3. Once downloaded, connect your FiiO player to your computer using a USB cable. Later, find and copy the downloaded Spotify .apk file from your computer. Then paste it into a memorable folder on your FiiO's internal storage or microSD card, such as the 'Download' folder.
Step 4. After that, safely disconnect your FiiO from the computer. Open the 'File Management' or 'File Explorer' app on your FiiO player, go to the folder where you saved the Spotify APK file and tap on it. Then tap 'Install' to begin to install Spotify app on FiiO player. Once finished, you will see the Spotify icon on your FiiO's home screen.
At last, you can open the Spotify app from your FiiO player and start enjoying music.
Note: Please download the Spotify APK file from a reputable source to avoid malware.
Part 3. How to Use Spotify on FiiO Offline (For All FiiO Players)
If you have an older FiiO model that doesn't run Android, such as FiiO M3, M5, or the X-series (X1, X3 and X5), then this method helps you out. It can help you play Spotify on any FiiO player without using the Spotify app and Spotify Premium, and even without network connection.
How does it work? You just need to convert Spotify music to common audio files that are supported by FiiO player and transfer the files to FiiO for playback. This method is best for users who want a permanent and offline backup of their favorite Spotify music on FiiO or other devices.
To do that, it requires a dedicated tool as Spotify music is DRM-protected, which can't be used on other devices or platforms. So, you need to remove the protection and convert the Spotify files. In this case, a special tool is needed. One such tool is AudFree Spotify Music Converter.
It enables you to download songs from Spotify for free and rip Spotify music to MP3, FLAC, AIFF, WAV, M4A and M4B audio files. Then you can load Spotify songs onto FiiO for playing freely. Furthermore, the converted Spotify tracks are kept with original quality and full ID3 tags. You are able to get the files within a coffee time because this tool runs at 13X faster speed.
Now, let's see how to convert Spotify songs for FiiO. Please download the AudFree Spotify Music Converter on your computer. The AudFree software works with both Windows and Mac computers.
- Step 1 Import Spotify tracks to AudFree program
- Open the AudFree Spotify Music Converter. In the built-in Spotify web player, log in to your Spotify account and select some songs for conversion. Tap the track, click the "+" button and press the 'Add to list' button to load it.
- Step 2Choose output format of Spotify songs for FiiO
- Press the Menu icon on the upper right of the AudFree main page and then choose "Preferences". Next, select "Conversion". Then you can pick up the output format for Spotify music to MP3, FLAC, etc., and reset the channel, bit rate as well as sample rate for better quality. Once done, press OK.
- Step 3Convert Spotify music for FiiO
- Tap the "Convert" button on the lower-right corner of the Converting window. The AudFree Spotify Music Converter will download the songs at once. You can gain the Spotify tracks on the output folder. The ID3 tags of the songs, including title, group, year, genre, album cover, etc. are all preserved. Hence, it's easy for you to organize the converted Spotify songs.
- Step 4Play Spotify on FiiO
Now, you have got the Spotify music files on your computer. Please link the FiiO music player with your computer via the USB cable. Copy the Spotify songs on computer and move them to FiiO. At last, you can listen to Spotify songs on FiiO music player offline with ease.
Part 4. Troubleshoot Spotify Issues on FiiO Music Player
While using Spotify on FiiO, you may encounter some problems. This part lists some solutions to the most common issues. Check them out now.
Issue 1: Spotify Crashes, Freezes, or Not Responding on FiiO Player
This is often caused by a corrupted cache or a software bug.
1. Clear the Spotify App Cache on FiiO: Go to Settings > Apps > Spotify > Storage on your FiiO and tap 'Clear Cache' to clear Spotify app cache. This method won't delete your downloaded Spotify songs.
2. Reinstall the Spotify App: You can also try to uninstall Spotify completely and then reinstall it on your FiiO device.
3. Check for FiiO Firmware Updates: Ensure your FiiO player's firmware is up to date. If not, there will be a compatibility issue with Spotify app.
Issue 2: Spotify Offline Downloads Disappear or Won't Play on FiiO
1. Confirm Storage Location: Go to Spotify's settings to ensure the download location is set to your high-capacity microSD card, not the limited internal storage.
2. Go Online Once a Month: Spotify requires you to connect your device to its servers at least once every 30 days to verify your Premium subscription. If not, your Spotify offline downloads will be gone.
3. Avoid Using 'Cleaner' Apps: If you use battery-saving or file-cleaning apps on your device, they will aggressively delete what they perceive as temporary files, including Spotify's offline cache.
Issue 3: High Battery Drain When Using Spotify on FiiO
Streaming music over WiFi while powering a high-end DAC can be power-intensive.
1. Use Offline Mode: You can try to download your Spotify playlists on your device in advance and listen to them in Spotify Offline Mode. This is the single best way to save power.
2. Lower Screen Brightness: Try to lower the brightness of your FiiO player's screen while you're just listening to music to reduce power consumption.
Part 5. Bonus Tips: Optimize Spotify on FiiO Sound Quality
For audiophiles who want the best audio quality while playing Spotify music on FiiO music player, please check the pro-tips in this part.
Tip 1: Maximize Spotify's Streaming Quality Settings
In the Spotify app, go to Settings > Audio Quality. Set both "WiFi streaming" and "Downloads" to "Very High". After that, you can stream and download Spotify music at the highest possible bitrate (approximately 320 kbps Ogg Vorbis).
Tip 2: Use FiiO's Pure Music Mode
Many FiiO players offer a "Pure Music Mode". After enabling this feature, all other Android processes and background apps will be shut down, dedicating the device's full processing power to the FiiO Music app. This is available for playing the converted Spotify music files on FiiO player.
Tip 3: Use the DAC and Equalizer
You can use the built-in equalizer in the FiiO's audio settings to tailor the sound to your specific headphones. Your FiiO's superior Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) provides a clean canvas; the EQ allows you to paint your perfect sonic picture.
View also: How to Use Spotify Equalizer
Part 6. FAQs about Spotify on FiiO
Does Spotify Connect Work with FiiO DAPs?
Yes, you can use Spotify Connect on FiiO as long as your FiiO player is running the Spotify app and is on the same WiFi network.
Is It Worth Buying a FiiO Player Just for Spotify?
If you prefer the best possible audio quality of Spotify, then you could buy a FiiO player. The FiiO's audio hardware (DAC and amp) offers a far superior listening experience than any smartphone.
Should I Use Spotify or Tidal on My FiiO for the Best Quality?
Tidal is better as it offers lossless and CD-quality streams.
Is the Spotify Experience on FiiO the Same As on My Phone?
The interface looks almost identical. But the main difference lies in the sound quality - it's noticeably better on FiiO. Just keep in mind that performance might be a bit slower compared to a high-end smartphone.
Is It Safe to Get Spotify on FiiO by Sideloading the Spotify APK?
It's only safe if you download it from reputable, well-known sources like APKMirror. Getting it from random or untrusted sites can expose your device to malware.
Part 7. In Conclusion
No matter which FiiO player you own, a world of music awaits through Spotify. For modern Android-based FiiO DAPs, the official Spotify app provides the most seamless experience. For all other FiiO devices, converting your Spotify music via AudFree Spotify Music Converter for offline playback offers a universal and permanent solution.
By following this guide, you have not only installed the app but also learned how to troubleshoot common issues and optimize your settings for a true audiophile experience. Now, you can finally enjoy the unmatched combination of Spotify's endless library and FiiO's legendary sound quality.

Charles Davis
Chief Editor