Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.

Product Strengths

  • Stainless steel build, superb finish, accurate machining, and stylish design
  • Comes with a new cable with a modular jack system for different connectors (3.5mm, 4.4mm, 2.5mm)
  • Provides a good level of detail in the midrange
  • Comfortable for long listening sessions once the best ear tip is found
  • Isolates better than the average IEM, especially in outside noise

Product Considerations

  • Can sound boring, lifeless, and wooden
  • Ear tips are very important and affect the sound, bass can be anemic if the right seal is not found
  • Treble can become harsh at higher volume levels
  • Soundstage might be wide for some people

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. FiiO FD5: FA7s is tuned closer to reference sound while FD5 is closer to Harman target, FD5 has more low-end reach, but FA7s has warmer lows
  • Vs. Moondrop Blessing 2: FA7s is more durable, Blessing 2 has deeper lows, FA7s has slightly more detailed mids and smoother treble
  • Vs. Dunu 2000J: FA7s has better tonality and detail
  • Vs. Fearless S6 Pro: Similar lows but FA7s is slightly warmer, FA7s has a slight edge in timbre, S6 Pro has a more open and spacious top end
  • Vs. FiiO FH7: FH7 has more visceral lows, but FA7s has more tonally accurate lows; the biggest decision point is how much bass is desired vs. how much accuracy
  • Vs. FiiO FA9: FA9 is not quite as warm and has a bit more top end comparatively; the biggest separator is the shell, with FA9 having an all-acrylic custom shape vs. the steel barrel design of the FA7s

Takeaway: The FiiO FA7S is a well-built IEM made from quality materials, and it comes with all sorts of ear tips. It is for people that like a balanced, natural sound that is good for lots of music types.

What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.

All

FA7S

reviews

[{"title":"in-Ear Fetish Review \\\\ FiiO FA7s IEM","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3rL78FTbNE","source":"in-Ear Fetish","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"FiiO FA7S earphones — total rejuvenation","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eyJWSPaJHHc","source":"5best Deals","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Fiio Fa7s","link":"https://audiofool.reviews/2022/04/27/fiio-fa7s","source":"audiofool.reviews","datePublished":""},{"title":"FiiO FA7s Review","link":"https://majorhifi.com/fiio-fa7s-review","source":"majorhifi.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"FiiO FA7S Review","link":"https://www.headfonia.com/fiio-fa7s-review","source":"headfonia.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"FiiO FA7S Review","link":"https://headfonics.com/fiio-fa7s-review","source":"headfonics.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"FiiO FA7S IEM Review","link":"https://moonstarreviews.net/fiio-fa7s-iem-review","source":"moonstarreviews.net","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Drivers: 6 Balanced Armature Drivers
  • Construction: 316L stainless steel
  • Cable: 8 strands of 19 wires each (152 total wires), silver-plated monocrystalline copper
  • Connector: MMCX
  • Plug Options: 2.5mm balanced/3.5mm single-ended/4.4mm balanced
The FA7S features 6 balanced armature drivers with a three-way crossover system, housed in a 316L stainless steel construction with 3rd-gen industrial design. It comes with a high-purity silver-plated monocrystalline copper cable and features twist-lock swappable plugs.
Manufacturer Site

Brand highlights

Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:

  • FIIO combines Bluetooth capability, high power output, and a desktop mode in their portable DAC/amp designs.
  • They offer a high degree of user customization through their control app, allowing for adjustments such as parametric EQ and device behaviors.

K7  

  • Positioning: An all-in-one balanced desktop DAC and headphone amplifier designed for affordability and compact convenience.  
  • Description: Uses THX AAA 788+ amplifier technology and a six-stage audio circuit to provide clean, balanced sound suitable for everyday listening in small room setups. Compared to the other models, its feature set is streamlined without some of the advanced digital processing and power management found in the higher-end products.

K9AKM  

  • Positioning: A desktop DAC and headphone amplifier built around AKM DAC chips to offer enhanced audio clarity at a moderate price point.  
  • Description: Focuses on a refined AKM-based design that delivers lower distortion and improved detail over the entry-level K7 while keeping the design compact and easy to use. In comparison with more premium models, it strikes a balance between performance and cost, offering better resolution.

K19  

  • Positioning: A high-power DAC and headphone amplifier aimed at users who need robust output for driving demanding headphones.  
  • Description: Incorporates advanced circuitry and a design optimized for high-current performance to maintain clear and natural sound even at louder volumes. Relative to the K7 and K9AKM, the K19 adds more power and precise output control while being less digitally complex than the top-tier models.

K11R2R  

  • Positioning: A desktop DAC and headphone amplifier that employs a fully differential 24-bit R2R resistor ladder for superior resolution and detail.  
  • Description: Offers dual NOS and OS modes along with a high-quality electronic volume control to enhance dynamic range and clarity. Compared to the more basic K7 and K9AKM, its advanced resistor architecture and multi-stage power supply deliver lower noise and customizable gain settings.

K17  

  • Positioning: A high-end desktop DAC and headphone amplifier designed for uncompromising performance and extensive functionality.  
  • Description: Features a fully discrete amplifier circuit with advanced DSP, dual AK4499 DAC chips, and separate analog/digital circuitry to ensure smooth, natural sound with high output power. In contrast to other products in the lineup, the K17 provides top-tier build quality, multiple protection systems, and an extensive set of digital processing features.
See All Products
Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
31
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
226
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
69
Founding Year
2007

Our take on the brand

FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

What's your approach to customer support?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
.
Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
FIIO
FH9
558
558
/
12
Reviews
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Convincingly balanced sound performance with a slight bass emphasis
  • A wide and deep soundstage
  • High-quality build, using a titanium housing, making it feel robust
  • Good clarity and sparkle in the highs, with a natural and airy treble that feels relaxed
  • Comes with a decorative, braided balanced cable made of silver wire, with interchangeable ends

Product Considerations

  • A larger earbud which may affect the fit for some users
  • A slight emphasis in the bass area and a sober sound, which may be a matter of taste
  • Semi-open design is less isolating
  • High frequencies might be too elevated for some

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs FiiO FH5s: Better bass texture, transparency, resolution, and treble definition, and sounds more cohesive and balanced
  • Vs FiiO FH7: Better design, a better carrying case, more accessories, better build quality, better refinement, more resolution, transparency, treble definition, dynamism, and a wider and deeper soundstage
  • Vs Kinera Norn: Better mid-range definition, tonality, and transparency, the Norn has a more V-shaped sound signature with splashy and aggressive treble

Takeaway: The FiiO FH9 is a well-crafted IEM with a balanced sound signature and customizable options, making it enjoyable for a wide range of listeners. It has excellent detail retrieval and a wide soundstage that immerses the listener in the music.

Video review

Our take on the brand

FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
FIIO
FA19
999
999
/
11
Reviews
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Excellent selection of eartips ensures a good fit and optimal sound
  • The FA19 build is very nice with a premium feel, nice and smooth, and good-looking
  • Bass performance is reminiscent of high end dynamic driver setups, while keeping the clarity and speed characteristic of balanced armature drivers
  • Provides a very comfortable fit for long listening sessions with a lightweight and ergonomic shell design

Product Considerations

  • Treble response may be too spicy for some, requiring EQ adjustments, and some reviewers note the treble is unexceptional for the price range
  • The 'HiFi mode' (bass boost) may sound bloated and muddy, compromising clarity and detail
  • The cable is a bit stiff, making it springy, which could be a minor inconvenience
  • Isolation of outside noises is only okay because there is a vent for the base driver, which lets in a little bit of outside noise

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs 64 Audio U4S: The U4S is better overall, has better balanced bass, more neutral midrange, and smoother treble than the FA19
  • Vs Westone Mach-60: The Mach-60 is more neutral with more details and resolution, while the FA19 has a larger and deeper soundstage
  • Vs FiiO FX15: FX15 has more pronounced V-shaped tuning with a more detailed and sophisticated treble and brighter sound profile

Takeaway: The FiiO FA19 IEMs are a comfortable set of earphones that come with a great selection of accessories. They offer a good balance of musicality and technical precision making for a great sound experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
FIIO
FH7
599
599
/
11
Reviews
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Plentiful and excellent quality accessories including two carry cases, a wide variety of ear tips, and adjustable filter tips to change the sound signature
  • Features an all-metal body, inspiring confidence in its long-term durability, with an ergonomically efficient design suitable for many ears
  • Has a neutral-ish sound signature that can extend either way in the sound spectrum, performing well with all genres and sources
  • Bass is deep and fast, retaining a lot of detail, and punches hard and rumbles when required
  • Mids are prominent, clear, and detailed, highs are crisp and emphasized with a lot of detail

Product Considerations

  • The stock cable can be prone to tangling and retains some memory in its form
  • The shell is metallic and on the larger side, which might affect the fit for some users
  • Sound isolation is below average due to the vents on each earpiece
  • Highs can be a little too much with the wrong source, potentially leading to sibilance

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs FiiO FH5: FH7 is a direct upgrade with better balance in bass regions, crisper treble, more detail, larger soundstage and better imaging
  • Vs Campfire Audio Polaris 2: FH7 is more refined and nuanced, with better accuracy and micro-detail retrieval
  • Vs Fearless Audio S8Z: FH7 provides more warmth and enhanced low end, whereas S8Z is more revealing and transparent
  • Vs Final Audio B3: Both offer similar tonality towards neutral clarity, but the FH7 feels like a B3 with extra fun

Takeaway: The FiiO FH7 is an excellent all-rounder IEM with a robust build, generous accessory set, and a sound signature that can be tweaked to suit various preferences. Its balanced and detailed sound makes it a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
FIIO
FD7
599
599
/
10
Reviews
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • High-quality pure silver cable with swappable plugs
  • Many accessories are included, such as a variety of ear tips
  • Well-built with a great look
  • More natural and organic sounding than other FIIO IEMs
  • Good detail retrieval and transparency
  • Wide and deep soundstage

Product Considerations

  • Requires a lot of power and might need an external amp to get the full experience
  • Can have a sibilance peak in the lower treble area
  • Treble lacks air and extension
  • Bass does not hit as hard
  • Mid-bass has a little bit of a tendency to drone
  • Fit security might not be the greatest, it might not stay in the ear during activities like talking or chewing

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs FD5: More neutral and has better technical performance
  • Vs Dunu Zen: The Dunu Zen has more interesting character to the bass
  • Vs Sony M7: Has a similar warm, neutral signature but more energy than the M7

Takeaway: The FD7 is a well-built IEM that comes with many accessories and has a natural, detailed sound. If the user likes the FD5 and wants something more refined with a good soundstage, the FD7 is a solid upgrade.

Video review

Our take on the brand

FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

FIIO
FH5S/FH5S Pro
254
/
Released
2021
Thanks to the excellent designs and great sound, FiiO balanced armature and dynamic driver hybrid earphones have always been highly praised and become best sellers due to positive word-of-mouth. The all-new rookie FH5s is a true upgrade from the veteran FH5, with significant advancements and innovations in all aspects including appearance, comfort, sound quality. The student has now surpassed the master.
Check Amazon
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Detailed and clean sound, putting plenty of micro-details on the foreground
  • Good build quality and comfortable design
  • Swappable audio plugs included
  • Tuning switches featured
  • Open and wide soundstage

Product Considerations

  • Treble can be a bit sharp and metallic sounding
  • A dedicated DAP, Bluetooth dongle, or external DAC/Amp is needed to shine
  • Below-average noise isolation due to its semi-open nature

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Approaches the FiiO FH7 closely, but is not exactly as punchy and engaging when bass notes are coming to play, FH7 has a better midrange rendition
  • The FH5s gives a harder edge to treble notes, but at the same time creates a wider and more spacious soundstage
  • The FiiO FD5 emphasizes warmth, smoothness, and a lush sound with prominent bass and midrange, where the FH5S has a more textured midrange, and a cleaner bass with less emphasis

Takeaway: The FiiO FH5S provides an outstanding unboxing experience and impressive features, along with a clear sound. The IEM allows for long listening sessions.

Video review

Our take on the brand

FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
FIIO
FH3
119
/
Released
2020
One of FiiO's classic earphones is getting a thorough upgrade to the next level! The FH3 utilizes an expertly tuned hybrid system of a 10mm beryllium-plated diaphragm dynamic driver + 2 Knowles BA paired with a high-purity monocrystalline silver-plated copper cable for a truly excellent high-fidelity sound.
Check Amazon
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Well-constructed with a nice design, comfortable for long listening sessions with no rough edges
  • Versatile IEM suitable for various genres with good sub-bass and treble extension, and uncongested vocals
  • Good soundstage, wider than average for IEMs under $150 or even $200
  • Package offers great value with a wide selection of ear tips and carry cases
  • Good imaging, fast attack, and nuanced texture

Product Considerations

  • Mid-bass can feel textureless with weak details
  • Some reviewers find the bass boomy, lacking articulation, and being slightly out of balance with the other drivers
  • The cable may have a memory, not hanging straight, and being somewhat rubbery/stiff
  • Has a more intimate rather than wide-open soundstage
  • There is fairly significant driver flex

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the FH5, the FH5 is more detailed, neutral, and cleaner sounding overall, while the FH3 is more V-shaped and fun to listen to
  • Compared to the Moondrop Starfield, the FH3 has much stronger imaging and separation, while the Starfield is smoother and more relaxing with a more forward upper mid-range

Takeaway: The FH3 is a great choice if someone wants fun sound and good soundstage in an IEM at a reasonable price. This IEM provides a great listening experience that will not be fatiguing.

Video review

Our take on the brand

FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
FIIO
FD5
409
/
Released
2020
The FD5 features a Beryllium-coated DLC diaphragm with front acoustic prism, rear volcanic field system, and semi-open acoustic design. It includes interchangeable sound tubes and audio jacks.
Check Amazon
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Cohesive sound due to single dynamic driver design.
  • Nostalgic design reminiscent of 1940s with beautifully built stainless steel and chrome finish.
  • Comes with a high-quality 8-core silver coated copper cable with swappable plugs (3.5mm, 2.5mm balanced, 4.4mm Pentaconn).
  • Full-bodied and punchy bass, warm and well-defined mids, and smooth, liquid highs.
  • Wide soundstage compared to other IEMs, with instruments rendered with natural timbre and great separation.

Product Considerations

  • Treble can get shouty and harsh at higher volumes, possibly requiring longer burn-in.
  • Stock sound signature is a bass-heavy v-shape, which might veil the mid-range for some listeners.
  • Included tri-flange tips and interchangeable tubes may not significantly change the sound.
  • Semi-open design offers mediocre isolation, making it unsuitable for very noisy environments.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs FD3: FD5 is a little more refined and has sufficient detail for the price, whereas FD3 is a little too veiled.
  • Vs Softears Twilight/Kingfisher: Softears Twilight and Kingfisher completely outperform the FD5 in sheer level of tuning and detail.
  • Vs Letshuoer S12: The S12 tunes better with a bass that is just as strong as the FT5, while not bleeding into the mid-range in any way.
  • Vs SIVGA Nightingale: The Nightingale has a somewhat larger sound with more air, and the imaging is more precise, but the FD5 has a fuller sounding midrange and stronger midbass presence.
  • Vs FiiO FH5S: FD5 is thick, warm, smooth, and lush, the FH5S offers crisper highs, a more textured midrange, and a tighter bass with less fullness.

Takeaway: The FD5 offers a cohesive and nostalgic listening experience. With great build and an included modular cable, this IEM is a good choice for listeners who enjoy a bass-forward sound with musicality.

Video review

Our take on the brand

FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
FIIO
FH7S
299
/
Released
2022
The FH7S features a 1 Dynamic and 4 BA driver setup with a large 13.6mm DLC dynamic driver, 4 custom Knowles BA drivers, and a sci-fi armor design. It incorporates a 2nd-gen semi-open design, unique notch filter, and patented S.TURBO acoustic technology.
Check Amazon
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Well-extended treble
  • Good bass extension capability
  • Tuning filters to adjust sound signature, though the difference is minimal
  • Good detail retrieval
  • High-quality accessories

Product Considerations

  • Bass bleeds into the lower mids, creating a bloat sensation
  • Small vertical soundstage
  • Fit security is so-so
  • A 2.5mm connector is omitted
  • The cable may be a little bit stiff

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Dunu Vulcan: The Dunu Vulcan has the best bass of the bunch
  • Vs Zenz Mangard T2: The Zenz Mangard T2 is the most neutral of the three
  • Vs FH5S: The FH7S has a better top end than the FH5S

Takeaway: The FH7S is a well-built IEM with good treble tuning, and its bassy sound is fun to listen to. It can be suitable for a wide range of sources, and its head stage is quite wide.

Video review

Our take on the brand

FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
FIIO
FA9
499
/
Released
2020
The FA9 features 6 Knowles BA drivers per ear, together with a carefully-designed 4-way crossover and low-frequency ultra-long sound tube, completely covering the entire audible frequency range with a sound that will take your breath away.
Check Amazon
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent build with skin-friendly resin making the IEM transparent and solid
  • Very comfortable
  • Very balanced sound across the whole frequency range, while still sounding energetic, lively, and slightly warm
  • Excellent and well-tuned mids; vocals sound very clear and distinct
  • Offers a wide selection of accessories including Spin-Fit ear tips and a leather carry case

Product Considerations

  • The metal grill or mesh covering on the nozzle can come off
  • Silicone tips can create slight pressure in the ear when moving the head, though foam tips resolve this but dampen the highs
  • The tuning switches, while effective, can be difficult to adjust without a tool
  • The soundstage is not particularly massive or open

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the FiiO FA7, the FA9 has a higher degree of detail, a higher transparency, and a faster pace, while the FA7 has a softer bass, which lingers longer
  • Compared to the FiiO FH7, the FA9 has a slightly less sub-bass performance and thump

Takeaway: The Fiio FA9 is a premium IEM that is comfortable, well-built and comes with plenty of accessories. It has a balanced, lively sound that makes music sound great.

Video review

Our take on the brand

FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

How to buy

Headphones

Search all hifi products

Explore our database of 10,000+ new and 25,000+ used hifi products.