FiiO FT5 Review: Planar Headphones, but they sound like Sony!
The FiiO FT5 marks a significant departure from the manufacturer’s established tradition by introducing planar magnetic drivers in their lineup. This comes as a surprise, especially considering FiiO’s history of adhering to specific transducer types for each series of headphones. The debut of the FT5 is a bold move that showcases the company’s commitment to innovation and pushing boundaries in the world of audio technology.
What sets the FiiO FT5 apart is its competitive pricing, estimated at $449. This positions the headphones in an intriguing space, nestled between respected models like the Sivga SV023 and the Sennheiser HD 660S2, both renowned for their dynamic transducers. The affordability of the FT5 makes it an attractive option for those looking to enter the planar magnetic headphones market without breaking the bank.
FiiO FT5: Video Review
| Specs | FiiO FT5 |
| Design | Open-back, over-ear, planar magnetic |
| Drivers | Planar 90 mm |
| Frequency response | 7Hz-40kHz |
| Sensitivity | 110 dB/Vrms @1 kHz |
| Impedance | 36 ohm |
| Maximum input power | 2000 mW |
| Cable | Dual 3.5 mm TS (headphones) to 3.5/4.4 mm (6.35 mm and XLR via adapters) source connector |
| Weight (without cable) | 456 g |
| Materials | Magnesium/aluminium alloy frame + grill, protein leather suspension |
| band, suede/protein leather ear pads with foam filling | |
| Earpad pressure | 4.0N |
Design
The FiiO FT5, although reminiscent of the FT3 model, brings a refreshing touch to its design, embracing a simplified and more minimalist aesthetic. The reduction in complexity contributes to a more serious and professional appearance, a departure from the busier design of its predecessor. The metal covers, adorned with relatively small metallic logos, lend a touch of sophistication. The matte colors with a grainy finish further enhance the overall visual appeal.
Constructed primarily from a magnesium-aluminum alloy, the FT5 exudes durability and a premium feel. While plastic materials are limited to the band, covered in artificial leather and lined with “velvet,” the headband’s brushed finish imparts a sleeker look. The automatic size adjustment mechanism, reminiscent of AKG headphones, adds a touch of convenience to the overall design.
The round earcups, now connected to the headband via wide forks and secured with Torx screws, showcase a meticulous attention to detail. Notably, the 3.5 mm sockets are recessed into the ear cups, a design choice that not only protects the plugs but also imparts a more refined appearance. The gold-plated and grooved sockets resemble those found in FiiO players, showcasing a consistent design language across the brand.
A significant redesign extends to the cable, featuring a denser and tighter weave for enhanced durability. The flattened cable cross-section is a departure from the round braid of the FT3, contributing to a more modern look. The cable has been shortened to 150 cm and is now secured with a silicone band. The modular plugs, a signature feature of FiiO headphones, offer compatibility with 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm standards, along with dedicated adapters for 6.35 mm and 4-pin XLR.
The earmuffs have undergone a notable transformation, replacing the flat and sponge-filled pads with angular and foam-filled ones. The “velvet” earpads lack perforations, while the “leather” pads feature perforations on the inside. The transducer meshes now include large channel markings (gray letters L and R), adding a functional yet aesthetic touch that was absent in the FT3.
Ergonomics
The FiiO FT5, while offering a generally high level of ergonomics, presents a mix of advantages and drawbacks in terms of comfort and usability.
On the positive side, the FT5 maintains a proportional balance in its design, incorporating soft ear pads that contribute to comfort during extended listening sessions. The optimal headband pressure and flexible design ensure that the headphones sit comfortably for many hours without causing discomfort or neck pain. The wide size adjustment is a notable positive feature, accommodating various head sizes with ease, making it user-friendly for different users.
However, the weight of the headphones, totaling 456 grams due to the all-metal construction, is a notable downside. While the robust build contributes to the premium feel, it can potentially lead to some fatigue during prolonged use. Additionally, the earmuffs, though deep, may not be optimally spacious, measuring only 6 cm by 5 cm inside. This may cause slight contact with the auricles, potentially leading to irritation.
The tension system, while providing some advantages in preventing upward movement of the earcups, could benefit from a bit more resistance. This would ensure a more secure fit over time, addressing concerns about potential shifting or falling of the earcups.
The shortened 150 cm cable, though practical for desk setups or mobile use, may be inconvenient for those using a stationary channel from a distance, as was the case with the longer 3-meter cable in the FT3 model. The cable’s tendency to twist in the section from the plug to the splitter is a drawback, requiring occasional adjustments to straighten it out. This issue may stem from the flattened profile and slightly reduced flexibility of the new cable compared to its predecessor. However, the improved braid quality in the FT5 cable provides a more pleasant touch and prevents dragging, distinguishing it positively from the FT3 cable.
Sound
The FiiO FT5 headphones have left a positive impression right from the start, offering a refreshing departure from the typical characteristics associated with planar magnetic drivers. Unlike some planars that may exhibit a strong emphasis on the upper frequency range, potentially causing fatigue, the FT5 presents a more gentle and warm tuning. This is a noteworthy deviation from the stereotypical sound often associated with sources using ESS Technology chips, which can sometimes be overly strong in the upper range.
FiiO FT5 – with velor headphones
The tuning of the FT5 is aimed at those who appreciate a musical sound without sacrificing clarity. The bass response is particularly commendable, delivering a powerful and flexible performance without overwhelming the other frequency bands. The sub-bass extension and emphasized midbass contribute to a warm and weighted character without compromising the details or textures of the instruments. The dynamic and efficient decay of the low tones ensures an engaging listening experience across various genres, from classical and jazz to metal, rap, and electronic music.
In the midrange, there is a slight retraction, creating a musical and modern signature rather than a linear or analytical one. Despite this, the midrange remains expressive and clear, with vocals and instruments maintaining their prominence. The balance between the lower and upper midrange is well-maintained, offering a relatively neutral timbre that captures both warmth in guitars and vocals and the digital nuances of samples and synthesizers. The midrange is characterized by clarity, resolution, and transparency, striking a balance between smoothness and accessibility.
The top end of the frequency range is surprising, as the FT5 delivers a gentle, clear, and appropriately direct sound without being overly bright. The treble is well-extended and rounded, avoiding any harshness or veiling. High tones are presented in a controlled and precise manner, providing a refreshing change for those who may be accustomed to overly extended or sharp trebles. Hissing, sibilization, or unwanted artifacts are absent, allowing the details to shine without any distracting elements.
The soundstage of the FT5 is expansive, taking on the shape of a horizontal ellipsoid, prioritizing stereophony. Channel separation, especially in balanced connections, contributes to the wide and immersive presentation. Instruments are placed in three dimensions, maintaining exposure to the sides without sacrificing depth or height. The holography is noteworthy, with virtual sources appearing shapely and massive. The air between instruments enhances sound separation, and the layered presentation adds a musical and natural touch to the overall listening experience. The slightly moved midrange contributes to a sense of distance from the music, creating a freedom in presentation that may appeal to those seeking a more relaxed and enjoyable sound signature.
FiiO FT5 – with “leather” earpads
The FiiO FT5, when equipped with alternative “leather” earpads, undergoes a notable transformation in its sound profile, emphasizing and altering various frequency bands. This change enhances the character of the headphones, creating a distinct sonic signature that may appeal to different preferences.
With the “leather” earpads, there is a noticeable boost in the extreme frequency bands. The bass becomes more prominent, displaying a willingness to step forward, while the midrange takes a slight step back. The treble gains strength, resulting in a sound that is cooler, harder, and more defined. The overall tuning with leather-like earpads deepens into a “V” or “U” shape, contributing to a more impactful and effective sonic presentation. Additionally, the alternative earpads seem to modify the soundstage, making it more stereophonic, albeit at the cost of losing some depth and height. The scene is no longer as three-dimensional as with the “velvet” earpads.
While the sound with “leather” pads maintains its quality and offers an alternative tuning, some users may find the standard “velvet” earpads more versatile and universal. The original earpads provide a warmer sound with a closer midrange, accommodating a wide range of genres, including electronics, metal, rap, jazz, classical, and blues. On the other hand, the “leather” earpads excel in enhancing entertainment genres, but may not preserve the naturalness required for calmer musical genres.
Despite the sonic differences, both earpad options provide a good sound experience, and the choice between them becomes a matter of personal preference and the preferred genre of music.
Conclusion
The FiiO FT5 stands out as a delightful addition to FiiO’s lineup, offering a rich set of features, impeccable craftsmanship, and a satisfying ergonomic experience. The inclusion of two types of earmuffs provides users with the flexibility to tailor the sound to their preferences. The wide size adjustment range, along with memory foam-filled pads, ensures a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions. The new, slimmer, and shorter cable with modular plugs is a welcome addition, particularly for users listening to computers or portable players.
From a sonic perspective, the FT5 impresses with a fantastic sound profile. The bass is abundant without overpowering, and the high tones are gentle, avoiding any harshness. The three-dimensional soundstage adds an immersive quality to the listening experience. The U-shaped signature may not appeal to those seeking a transparent, neutral sound, but for enthusiasts of a musical and dynamic audio experience, the FT5 delivers.
While the new cable offers advantages, such as modularity and optimal length, it has some drawbacks, including a tendency to twist. The headphones’ weight, coupled with slightly narrow ear cups, might pose comfort challenges for some users, especially during prolonged use. The tensioning system, while functional, could benefit from a bit more resistance for a secure fit.
Considering its price point of $449, the FiiO FT5 offers a fantastic price-to-quality ratio. It deserves a strong recommendation, particularly for individuals seeking a musical sound profile with a gentle treble. The headphones cater to a variety of music genres and are suitable for computer gaming as well.
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