FiiO FH7 Wired Headphones: Affordable Audiophile Excellence
Update on Oct. 19, 2024, 4:53 p.m.
FiiO has long been known for making high-value audio gear, but with the FH7 earphones they have truly outdone themselves. Offering stunning sound quality rivalling models costing several times more, the FH7s represent one of the best bang-for-buck purchases an audiophile can make.
Overview
The FiiO FH7 Wired Headphones utilize a hybrid driver setup consisting of 1 dynamic driver and 4 balanced armatures to cover the entire frequency range with exceptional finesse. The dynamic driver’s beryllium diaphragm reproduces deep bass with speed and control, while the Knowles armature drivers handle the mids and highs with clarity and resolution. FiiO’s ingenious S.TURBO acoustic design optimizes the bass performance, and the included sound filters allow customization of the sound signature. Encased in a durable metal shell and equipped with a detachable cable, the FiiO FH7 Wired Headphones are built to deliver years of listening enjoyment.
Design
Drawing inspiration from the flowing forms of ocean waves, FiiO sculpts the FiiO FH7 Wired Headphones housings from a shimmering block of aerospace-grade aluminum-magnesium alloy using high-precision 5-axis CNC machining. The ergonomic shape and lightweight construction provide all-day wearing comfort. FiiO outfits the FiiO FH7 Wired Headphones with easily detachable MMCX connectors, so you can swap cables or go wireless with a Bluetooth module. The pre-formed earhooks on the stock cable ensure a stable fit during active use.
Ease of Use
Despite their advanced internals, the FiiO FH7 Wired Headphones are easy and intuitive to operate. Simply choose your preferred eartips for optimal fit and isolation, select a sound filter to tune the signature, plug the cable into your audio source, and indulge in musical bliss. The over-ear cable design offers excellent noise reduction and security. Controls on the cable allow convenient playback control. An organized case keeps all the accessories neatly stowed for travel.
Sound Quality
According to reviewers, the FiiO FH7 Wired Headphones’s sound quality competes with models costing several times more. The 13.6mm beryllium dynamic driver delivers impactful yet nuanced bass, melding deep sub-bass rumble with textured mid-bass punch. Mids sound natural and lifelike, with no harshness or coloration. Highs extend smoothly into the upper registers with airy clarity and detail. The quad Knowles balanced armature drivers are meticulously tuned for coherency. Imaging is precise with an expansive soundstage. Whether you prefer thumping EDM or sweeping orchestrals, the FiiO FH7 Wired Headphones enraptures with its holographic sonic realism.
Microphone and Noise Isolation
A microphone is not included on the stock FiiO FH7 Wired Headphones cable, so the earpieces are focused purely on musicality. Passive noise reduction is very good thanks to the optimized eartips forming an acoustic seal within the ear canal. For outdoor use, activating noise cancelling on your source device is recommended to reduce ambient noise further.
Battery and Connectivity
As a wired IEM, the FiiO FH7 Wired Headphones does not contain an internal battery. It connects to source devices via a standard MMCX cable. For wireless functionality, Bluetooth adapters are available that attach to the MMCX connectors. The FiiO FH7 Wired Headphones is easy to drive from portable players and phones but scales up nicely with dedicated headphone amplifiers and DACs.
Comfort and Build Quality
The FiiO FH7 Wired Headphones earpieces are molded from premium metals in an exotic flowing shape inspired by ocean waves. This high-grade material construction gives the headphones a luxurious feel in the hand. Despite their aluminum enclosures, the earpieces remain fairly lightweight. Reviewers note the ergonomic shape and rotating nozzles allow a customizable fit. The stock cable has some stiffness, but aftermarket cables can further improve comfort and noise isolation.
Water Resistance
FiiO does not specify any water resistance rating for the FiiO FH7 Wired Headphones. The open port design means the drivers are not fully sealed from the elements. Caution should be exercised to keep the FiiO FH7 Wired Headphones away from moisture, rain, and debris to prevent damage.
Use Cases
With their versatile sound tuning and premium construction, the FiiO FH7 Wired Headphones excel in a wide variety of listening scenarios:
- Enjoying lossless music albums across genres
- Critical listening for mixing/mastering
- Commuting and travel listening
- Podcast and audiobook enjoyment
- Gaming and movies on the go
- Outdoor activities like running and hiking
Value - Unbeatable at this Price
Considering their superb construction, accessories, and benchmark sound quality, the FiiO FH7 Wired Headphones are an incredible bargain at their moderate price point. While the market is crowded with models costing far more that fail to reach the FiiO FH7 Wired Headphones’s level of performance, these FiiOs stand tall as giant killers that outclass the competition. For shoppers looking to maximize their audio dollar, the FiiO FH7 Wired Headphones should be at the top of their list.
Conclusion
With the FiiO FH7 Wired Headphones, FiiO has succeeded in bottling audiophile magic at an accessible price. Their accurate sound, premium build, and generous accessories make these IEMs an easy recommendation. For discerning listeners on a budget, the FiiO FH7 Wired Headphones are a must-buy.