Overview
For most earphone enthusiasts, in-ear monitors (IEMs) mean just the sound signature, driver configuration and build quality. However, the iem connection cable to audio source also plays a massive part in the whole experience. FiiO appears to also understand this aspect and has integrated it into the FH5s packaging design especially when you consider the provided cable. FiiO has thrown in a flexible yet very functional modular cord that suits the sounding nature of the IEMs but primarily functions to improve the general use of the device, enhancing it’s versatility.
This review will discuss, in detail, the cable that FiiO has included in the package with the FH5S and its properties related to construction, design, materials and their influence on sound quality. Also, we will examine the connector system that FiiO has supplemented with the cable which can be very helpful to people using more than one audio source.
About Cable Construction and Design
The provided cable with FiiO FH5S is a high grade silver plated copper cable. The plaited silver on the copper conductors is meant to lower the resistance and boost the conductivity which may translate to clearer, more detailed and higher resolution sound signals. Silver plated cables are little bit on the brighter side which is always good when listening to the FH5S’s hybrid drivers.
Cable Material: Silver-Plated Copper
Choosing silver-plated copper for the FiiO FH5S cable is significant. While copper is the most preferred metal used in audio cables due to its high degree of electrical conductivity, a silver-plated copper cable will generally enhance the performance of high frequencies. Silver is among the top three best conductors of electricity, and FiiO has a cable where the bass performance is fully from copper and treble clarity comes from the silver plated coating.
Copper Core: Copper gives a pleasant rich sound, hence suited for a core of the cable, as it works well with punchy bass and clear midrange frequencies. Silver Plating: The silver-plating improves the cable’s capacity to reproduce high-frequency detail and air, which can help give an overall sound signature sparkle and brilliance. It assists in the articulation of sound produced by other instruments that are higher in pitch like cymbals, strings, and vocals.
Due to this mix of materials, the FiiO FH5S cable is adept in rendering the complexity of the frequency responses that the IEM’s hybrid drivers produce. The silver-plated copper design influences the sound rendered by the cable making it even and detailed without any one part of the sound being exaggerated or losing any information.
Designing the Shape of a Cable Besides Its Sheath Braiding
The cable is finished with a four-strand modification twisted together to form a braid which is pleasing but serves its purpose effectively. While such cables are more flexible and do not tangle easily, withstands more abusive handling and pays less attention to probably microphonic effects, which is the noise that might be generated when the cable rubs against one’s clothes. Therefore the cable of the FiiO FH5S appears strong without being too rigid for everyday use especially for individuals who travel a lot with their IEMs.
Twisted Pair Design: The Contact on Sic often has a coupler contact design, which is a twisted pair of wires. This design effectively reduces EMI and RFI, which may reduce the quality of sound performance. In general, the reduction of the rear cable wrap helps in enhancing the audio by minimizing the chances of external interference on the cables. Accordingly, more sound is achieved.
Braiding enhances the structure of the cable. This is because the rigidity imparted by the process protects the braids from being broken so easily. Such a design is flexible and can conveniently be bent and worn out in the course of use without altering its efficiency.
There is an optimal level of overall thickness achieved with the cable for both flexibility and strength. It’s solid enough to provide a sense of premium quality and durability, however, it is still bendable enough to prevent it from being an obstacle when in use. The outer sheath of the cable is smudge-free and seamlessly smooth, unlike most low-end cables that have a sticky feeling to them.
A System of Connecting Modules
The FiiO FH5S cable has one more impressive feature, a modular connector system allowing users to replace the termination plugs in seconds. The cable itself includes three connectors that can be changed: 3.5mm single-ended, 2.5mm balanced and 4.4mm balanced connectors. Such a modular design is seldom found even on additional stock cables that come with IEMs.
All-inclusive 3.5mm Termination
Out of all the audio connectors, the 3.5mm is the most commonly used especially for portable electronic audio players such as smartphones, tablets, laptops and even portable VHS players. This connector is said to be single ended, This translates that the left and right audio channels of the device share a ground common to them both. Although single ended connections do not provide much insulation from crosstalk and reflected signals compared to their balanced counterparts, they are suited for daily application and give a clear healthy enough signal for most of the casual listeners.
Versatility: The 3.5mm which is the standard type of connector indicates that the FH5S is expandable and can be integrated easily with almost all audio devices making it a viable option even for listeners without the help of auxiliary hardware.
Sound Performance: Quality sound is still maintained when using the 3.5mm jack despite the unbalanced nature of the connection, this is due to a good dynamic range and practically no merging of left and right sounds.
2.5 mm Balanced Plug
The 2.5mm Balanced Audio Connector is widely employed in digital audio portable players and also other advanced audio devices. Balanced connectors help in achieving better separation of channels, reduction of noise, and minimized distortion attached to the circuit in comparison to single-ended connection. A balanced connection is such that each audio channel has an independent ground in order to avoid interference and crosstalk.
Improved Clarity: Enhanced clarity, imaging and sound stage dimensions can be realized by Connecting a 2.5mm balanced connector (for example the one shown in figure 8) to a compatible DAP/amplifier. There is a greater contrast in the instrumentation and vocals allowing a more engaging listening experience overall.
The 4.4mm balanced design also has the advantage of minimizing background noise and other hiss especially when used with IEMs of the higher sensitivity rating such as FH5S assisted.
4.4mm Balanced Connector
()3.5mm, especially sometimes used to determine a specific type, which has broader usage in audio devices than the 4.4. mm connector has a limited range of applications. This new connector has been widely adopted even among audiophiles who appreciate its strength and better functionality. Like the 2.5mm without the screw lock, the 4.4mm balanced jack enables high-fidelity sound reproduction owing to better channel segregation, low noise, and high load power.
Power Delivery: The 4.4mm connector is able to provide considerable amounts of power to the IEMs enabling them to produce clearer and more vibrant sound. This is very helpful for listeners who like to listen at high volumes or when there is a need to extend the dynamic range for more demanding tracks.
Wider Soundstage: The 4.4mm connector further enhances the soundstage making it possible to appreciate more width and depth in the music listened. It is perfectly suited for the users who respect sound spatiality and want to get the maximum out of their IEMs.
Sound Performance with Different Connectors
The supporters of FiiO FH5S cable love it to the extent that the cable’s modular connector system enables them to try replacing the cable endings and hear the differences in the cable’s sound performance. Every connector in this series has different parameters, making it possible for the listening-sound to be optimized with respect to the set of devices and the individual’s own liking.
3.5mm Single-Ended: While sound through the 3.5mm jack is warm and well balanced with musicality taking precedence over technical precision, this option works well for relaxed listening or with devices that do not have a balanced sound connection.
2.5mm Balanced: There is more detail and clarity revealed in the FH5S with the 2.5mm balanced connector, especially in the upper midrange and treble regions. The soundstage, as well as the imaging, improves its precision in this mode which makes it suitable for more analytical listening.
4.4mm Balanced: The 4.4mm connector renders a sound that is most dynamic and powerful with the best control in the bass region and enhanced instrument separation as well. The sound stage offered is the widest among the three options which makes the general feel more vast and engaging.
Practical Use and Everyday Use
The modular design of the FiiO FH5S cable is an added advantage for audiophiles since they tend to use different devices and setups. From a portable player having a 2.5mm balanced output to a desktop amplifier using a 4.4mm output and to even a smartphone with a 3.5mm jack, the FH5S cable can be used.
Thanks to a certain twist-and-lock mechanism, changing connectors is not a difficult task as the connectors lock solidly in place during action and do not easily come off with motion. The modular approach also enhances the reliability of the cable since it minimizes damage to the connectors themselves — if one connector gets spoilt, it is possible to purchase and fix only that part without having to order for a whole new cable.
An extra carrying case for the connectors is a nice feature as it keeps the various terminations neat and safe while not in use.
Design and Construction Quality
FiiO has gone a notch higher in making the FH5S cable not only functional but beautiful. The twisted silver-plated copper wires give the cable a mesmerizing glossy look while the clear exterior shows the layout of the internal wiring which enhances the quality of the cable even further. The ends of the cable do not disappoint either; they come with gold contacts to aid in signal transfer and are corrosion resistant.
The Y-splitter and chin slider are also metal, thus adding sturdiness and a layer of sophistication. These minor characteristics enhance the feel of the FH5S cable as a premium device. The structure of the Y-splitter, chin slider, and connectors speaks volumes about FiiO’s philosophy of making devices that not only have wonderful performance but also a very attractive and luxurious feel. Many cables tend to marginalize the design aspect; however, in this case, just like with the design of the IEMs, the cables are equally aesthetically pleasing ensuring that the whole set up is integrated and well planned.
The use of high-quality components, especially metal parts and patented advanced sheathing, ensures that the foldable can withstand considerable wear and tear. If it’s just stress over performance they would have etched out curves and some slicks on the cable and called it good for the FH5S – its promise in looks by the imagery does not just cut short.
Versatility and Ease Of Use
The feel of an IEM cable during use is undeniably one of the most important attributes of a cable convince, particularly for users who have to wear EIMs for a very long time. In this aspect, the FiiO FH5S cable does a great job striking a good balance between being flexible enough and being firm enough. It isn’t overly stiff which is a problem sometimes associated with silver plated cables and it has just the right amount of give such that it can be worn comfortably without the fear of tangling, and discomfort.
The weight of the cable is on the lighter side which is very critical especially in in ear monitors. Weighing cables or connectors for that matter, is even more, unwanted especially during extended hours of listening. FiiO has succeeded in as far as making a cable which one can describe as tough but the user will hardly feel its weight when fixed on the person. In addition, the cable’s design is over the ear and with the help of preformed hooks, the IEMs are in place and the comfort level is even higher.
The ear hooks are soft and can be adjusted to fit the wearer’s ears in the best way possible. Such design consideration means that the FH5S will remain at ease regardless of the long hours of listening whether at home or anyone on the go.
Microphonics
Microphonics, or the sound due to the movement of the wire, can turn out to be a real bane for IEM users. In contrast, microphonic noise, thanks to its braided design, is not much apparent while using the FiiO FH5S cable. The fine sheathing of the wire minimizes the chances of rubbing against the wearers clothing, and also the over ear design prevents microphonics by the cable from unnecessary movement and immobility.
During practical applications, the FH5S cable micromanagement is almost unperceptive, which makes it quite ideal for the users who are prone to microphone cable noise or intend to utilize the IEMs in moving scenarios. The low level of microphonics also makes the FH5S a good option appreciated by people working in a studio where clarity and seclusion from the outside are crucial.
Upgradability and Aftermarket Options
For those audiophiles who appreciate altering different cables to rectify their listening experience, modular structure of the FiiO FH5S cable book is the primary benefit. The removable connection system provides an opportunity to use different configurations and sources without the need for several wires. Moreover, for those who wish to change the wire in favour of an aftermarket cable, the FH5S has look-alike standard MMCX connectors which accommodate a lot of third-party cables.
Plenty of cable lovers also dabble in altering the lead wires such as pure silver, hybrid cables and even 100% copper cables to achieve a particular sound signature of the IEMs. Though the stock cable that comes with the FH5S is already a good quality one, people looking for a different sound can geographically easily source cables in the dedicated aftermarket.
Final thoughts
More than just an accessory, the FiiO FH5S cable has a component that has been aesthetically designed to fit the IEMs. It is made from high-purity electroplated copper which allows high-quality signal transmission necessary for the hybrid driver configuration of the FH5S. The braided design adds both comfort and strength, with a detachable connector system that allows for an application of the rarely found versatility in stock cables.
Providing 3.5mm, 2.5mm, and 4.4mm connectors that can be switched depending on the source makes it easy for the user to use a smartphone, portable player, or desktop amplifier. This effective feature paired with a quality construction and impressive sound makes the FiiO FH5S cable great for consumers and serious listeners alike.
Practically, the cable is lightweight, comfortable and breathable, reduces microphonics making it suitable for different qualitative listening. Regardless of using it at home, in the studio, or traveling with it, sound performance of the cable with the FH5S is very good and adds to the general experience of using the IEMs.
Given how the FiiO FH5S cable can be used even when one wants to play around with different set-ups, or simply wants to take performance out of their gear, our conclusions are simple: it’s a versatile cable. The elements of its modular structure, high-grade materials, and well thought-out construction will not go unnoticed as they are some of the main highlights of the FH5S package and reveal FiiO’s high level of craftsmanship.