FiiO FH5S

amazon FiiO FH5S reviews

FiiO FH5S is an in-ear headset that uses two balanced armature drivers and two dynamic drivers for each earphone, semi-open design (with a vent hole in the faceplate surface), allowing users to switch 3.5 connections mm, 4.4mm, and 2.5mm quickly and conveniently.

FH5S has very good artistry. The sophistication and contours of the headset are nothing to criticize. The silver-plated OCC copper wire that comes with the FH5S looks durable and sturdy.

The headset comes with an elegant Fiio HB5 leather case, along with quite a few sets of silicone and foam ear tips. FH5S uses an MMCX connector; the wire can be upgraded and replaced easily. The accessory set has quite a few sets of silicone and foam ear tips. Each type of ear tip will give different sound quality.

Appearance

The headphone shell has a sandwich structure, the frame is magnesium, and the protective outer layer is an aluminum case. The reason why people use magnesium for the inner frame is that magnesium has anti-vibration and anti-resonance properties.

FH5S feels comfortable to wear; wearing for 2 hours listening to music still does not feel uncomfortable or hot. Behind the headset, there are three switches B-M-T, which stands for three basic frequency bands: bass, mid and treble. FH5S has 40 ohms impedance, 106 dB/1kHz sensitivity.

Fiio has two dynamic drivers, 1 12mm for bass and 1 6mm for mid; both drivers have beryllium-coated drivers. Knowles’ two balanced armature TWFK-30017 drivers for mid and treble are located right at the nozzle (sound duct), as explained by Fiio, to limit the phenomenon of acoustic resonance inside the headphone shell improve the timbre. These two drivers are full-range drivers and are stratified by Fiio specifically for mid and treble.

Unboxing

The FiiO FH5S headphones, when opened, have a strange sound; the midrange is dry, detailed, the soundstage is wide but not airy. The bassline in Le Niger in the album The Tel Aviv Session has good internal force, strong and strong, but not deep and smooth. However, the FH5S soon revealed good mids and treble, with good balance, bright and clear, great for listening to guitar and piano. In addition to the round, bright guitar sound, the ethnic guitar sounds of Iran, such as the tar and kamancheh, have a clear, crisp, and crisp sustain. At this time, I use it with Fiio Q3 and use a balanced 4.4mm jack. I listened for about 2 hours, then changed to BTR5 and used it for four days, ~ 12 hours.

Continue using BTR5 to listen to instrumental music to test the mid-range like Wayne Shorter’s Night Dreamer and a passionate ballad is Virgo. The tenor sax is smooth, strong, firm, and confident. The low mid is not convex but clear and easy to catch the ear. The vibrato of the trumpet is round and bright, not harsh and bright. In my opinion, vocals for men and women are not sweet, balanced, bright, not harsh. To enjoy the top music quality, you should choose a music source from Tidal or Apple Music, Quobuz.

Treble of FH5S, I feel, is bright, has good detail but not very good. Treble is bright and strong, but I like the feeling that it has to have better separation, instruments like cymbals, and shakers like calabash and tambourine. If there is a faster deposition of the instrument, it will be much better.

When turning on bass on the EQ system, the sub-bass and upper-bass sound increase significantly, suitable for those who like to listen to bass a lot, like EDM and Hip hop players. Increasing the bass, the mid and treble will have a slight decrease in intensity. The midrange will now be backward, softer, and slightly sweet, so listening to Bolero is more suitable, or music mid and treble is louder. Playful sounds like On The Ground by Rose also like.

where can you get a FiiO FH5S online

FiiO FH5s 2BA+2DD Quad Driver Hybrid in-Ear HiFi Stereo Earphones with MMCX High-Purity Cable, Swappable Plug 2.5mm/3.5mm/4.4mm(black): Buy it now

Comfort and Fit

When it comes to comfort, the FiiO FH5S does an excellent job. The ergonomic design ensures that the IEMs sit comfortably in the ear without causing fatigue, even after hours of use. The contoured shape fits snugly into the ear canal, providing a secure fit that stays in place during physical activity or movement.

The variety of ear tips also helps in achieving a good fit. Users can experiment with the different options to find the one that suits their ear shape and sound preferences. Foam tips, for instance, offer better noise isolation and a slightly warmer sound, while silicone tips might provide a more balanced sound with greater comfort for longer listening sessions.

One downside to the semi-open design is that it offers less passive noise isolation compared to fully closed IEMs. While this might be a trade-off for the improved soundstage and reduced ear pressure, users in noisy environments might find that some external noise bleeds in, potentially disrupting their listening experience.

Technical Specifications

The FiiO FH5S boasts an impressive array of technical features that set it apart from many competitors in its price range. Key specifications include:

• Drivers: 4-driver hybrid setup (2 dynamic drivers, 2 balanced armature drivers)
• Frequency Response: 10 Hz – 40 kHz
• Impedance: 40 ohms
• Sensitivity: 106dB/mW
• Detachable cable: MMCX connectors
• Cable material: Silver-plated copper
• Connector type: 3.5mm (with adapters for balanced 2.5mm and 4.4mm)

The hybrid driver configuration is where the FH5S shines. The two dynamic drivers handle the low and mid frequencies, while the balanced armature drivers take care of the high frequencies, offering a detailed and nuanced sound that’s difficult to achieve with a single driver setup.

Sound Performance

The sound quality of the FiiO FH5S is the heart of this review, and it’s where these IEMs truly deliver. With the hybrid setup of two dynamic drivers and two balanced armature drivers, the FH5S offers a highly detailed, balanced, and versatile sound signature that caters to a wide range of music genres and listening preferences.

Bass

Starting with the low end, the FH5S delivers a punchy, well-controlled bass that has both depth and texture. Thanks to the large 12mm beryllium-coated dynamic driver, the bass response is tight and authoritative without being overly boomy or muddy. It extends well into the sub-bass region, giving tracks that require a strong low-end presence—such as electronic or hip-hop music—a satisfying rumble.

What sets the FH5S apart is its ability to balance bass quantity with quality. While there is enough bass to satisfy bass lovers, it never overwhelms the rest of the frequency range. The mid-bass is clean and impactful, ensuring that kick drums and bass guitars are well-articulated, while the sub-bass adds just the right amount of weight without becoming overbearing.

Midrange

The midrange is where the balanced armature drivers shine. Vocals are clear and forward without being overly emphasized, and instruments such as guitars, pianos, and strings are presented with excellent separation and detail. Male and female vocals are equally well-represented, with a natural tone that doesn’t sound overly colored or recessed.

One of the highlights of the FH5S’s midrange is its transparency. The mid frequencies are clean and devoid of any noticeable distortion, even at higher volumes. This makes the FH5S particularly suitable for vocal-centric genres like jazz, acoustic, or folk music, where midrange clarity is essential.

Treble

The treble on the FiiO FH5S is crisp and detailed, thanks to the inclusion of two balanced armature drivers dedicated to the upper frequencies. The highs are well-extended and sparkle without being harsh or sibilant, making the FH5S suitable for long listening sessions without causing listener fatigue.

While the treble is clear and detailed, it does lean towards the brighter side of the spectrum. This adds to the overall sense of airiness and openness in the soundstage, but it may be a bit too bright for users who prefer a more laid-back or warmer sound signature. However, for those who enjoy detailed, analytical listening, the treble on the FH5S will likely be a strong point.

Soundstage and Imaging

One of the benefits of the semi-open design is the expanded soundstage. The FiiO FH5S offers a wide, spacious soundstage that gives the listener the impression of being in a larger, more open space. This is particularly noticeable when listening to live recordings or orchestral music, where instrument placement and spatial cues are critical.

The imaging is also top-notch, with instruments and vocals being precisely placed within the soundstage. This adds to the overall sense of immersion and realism, making the FH5S a great choice for those who appreciate a three-dimensional sound experience.

Customizability: Switches for Tuning

One of the standout features of the FiiO FH5S is the inclusion of three physical switches on the back of each earpiece. These switches allow users to adjust the tuning of the IEMs to suit their preferences by boosting or attenuating the bass, mids, or treble.

• Bass Switch: This enhances the low-end response, making the bass more prominent. It’s useful for genres that require more thump, like EDM or hip-hop.
• Mids Switch: Engaging this switch brings the midrange forward, making vocals and instruments more present. It’s ideal for vocal-heavy genres or acoustic music.
• Treble Switch: This boosts the high frequencies, adding more sparkle and air to the treble. It can be useful for those who enjoy a brighter, more detailed sound signature.

The tuning switches provide a level of customization that is rarely seen in IEMs at this price point. While the changes are not dramatic, they are noticeable enough to allow users to tailor the sound signature to their liking.

Cable and Accessories

FiiO has included a high-quality silver-plated copper cable with the FH5S, which complements the IEMs’ overall performance. The cable is well-constructed, with a braided design that reduces tangling and adds durability. The MMCX connectors are sturdy and allow for easy cable replacement or upgrades.

The package also includes adapters for balanced 2.5mm and 4.4mm connectors, making the FH5S compatible with a wide range of audio sources, including balanced amplifiers and DACs. This versatility is a nice touch, as it ensures that users can get the most out of their IEMs, regardless of the equipment they are using.

Durability and Build Quality

The FiiO FH5S is built to last, with high-quality materials and attention to detail in the construction. The aluminum-magnesium alloy shell is robust and resistant to scratches and wear, ensuring that the IEMs can withstand daily use without showing signs of deterioration.

The detachable cable design is also a plus in terms of durability. If the cable gets damaged, it can be easily replaced without the need to buy a whole new set of IEMs. The MMCX connectors are well-constructed and offer a secure connection, preventing accidental disconnections during use.

Comparisons with Other IEMs

When evaluating the FiiO FH5S against other in-ear monitors (IEMs) within its price range, it stands out for its hybrid driver configuration, sound customization options, and design. However, several competitors offer similarly compelling packages, making a comparison worthwhile to better understand where the FH5S excels and where it might lag behind.

FiiO FH5S vs. FiiO FH5

As the predecessor to the FH5S, the original FiiO FH5 set a strong precedent for hybrid IEMs in the mid-tier market. The FH5 featured a 4-driver setup (1 dynamic driver and 3 balanced armature drivers), while the FH5S boasts two dynamic and two balanced armature drivers. The FH5 had a warm, smooth sound signature, with a focus on bass and mids, while the FH5S offers a more balanced, detailed presentation with a brighter treble and more expansive soundstage.

One of the major improvements in the FH5S is the inclusion of the tuning switches, allowing for more customization in sound. The FH5 did not offer such flexibility, making the FH5S the better choice for those who like to tweak their listening experience based on genre or personal preference.

Additionally, the semi-open back design of the FH5S contributes to a more spacious and airy soundstage, while the closed-back design of the FH5 provides more isolation but a more intimate presentation. If sound isolation is a priority, the FH5 might still be preferred, but for those seeking a broader soundscape, the FH5S is the clear winner.

FiiO FH5S vs. Moondrop Blessing 2

The Moondrop Blessing 2 is another highly regarded IEM in the same price range as the FH5S. Both models feature a hybrid driver setup, but the Blessing 2 employs a five-driver system (1 dynamic driver and 4 balanced armature drivers), which gives it a slight edge in terms of technical performance, particularly in the upper-mid and treble regions.

The Blessing 2 is often praised for its reference-style tuning, offering a neutral, detailed, and natural sound signature. Its midrange clarity and treble extension are exceptional, making it a favorite among audiophiles who value neutrality and precision. On the other hand, the FiiO FH5S provides a more versatile sound profile with its tuning switches, which allows users to tailor the sound to their liking, particularly if they prefer a bit more bass or treble sparkle.

In terms of comfort, both IEMs are well-designed, but the smaller, more streamlined shell of the Blessing 2 might be better suited for users with smaller ears. The FH5S, while comfortable, is slightly bulkier due to its hybrid design and tuning switches. Both offer excellent build quality, but the FH5S’s semi-open back design results in less isolation compared to the fully closed design of the Blessing 2.

FiiO FH5S vs. Campfire Audio Polaris II

The Campfire Audio Polaris II is another strong competitor, known for its robust low-end and dynamic sound signature. It features a dual-driver hybrid setup (1 dynamic and 1 balanced armature driver), with an emphasis on delivering powerful bass alongside clear mids and highs. The FH5S, with its four-driver configuration, offers a more balanced and refined sound, particularly in the midrange and treble regions.

Where the Polaris II excels is in its bass response, with a fuller, more powerful low end that will appeal to bass lovers. However, the FH5S provides more versatility due to its tuning switches, allowing for a more tailored experience across different genres of music. In terms of soundstage, the semi-open design of the FH5S gives it a slight advantage, offering a wider and more spacious sound compared to the more intimate presentation of the Polaris II.

In terms of build, both IEMs are solid, but the Polaris II has a distinctive design with its angular shell and rugged aesthetic, which some may find more appealing. However, for those seeking versatility and a more balanced sound signature, the FH5S edges out the Polaris II.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Customizable sound signature with three tuning switches for bass, mids, and treble
• Excellent build quality with an ergonomic, durable aluminum-magnesium alloy shell
• Wide soundstage due to the semi-open back design
• Punchy, controlled bass and detailed treble with great clarity in the midrange
• Detachable silver-plated copper cable with MMCX connectors for easy upgrades
• Comprehensive accessory package with a variety of ear tips and balanced adapters

Cons:

• Semi-open design results in less isolation and potential sound leakage
• Treble can be bright, which may not appeal to users who prefer a warmer sound
• Bulkier shell might not fit smaller ears as comfortably
• Sound tuning switches offer subtle changes rather than dramatic shifts in sound profile

Conclusion

The FiiO FH5S is a versatile, well-engineered IEM that stands out in the crowded mid-range market. With its hybrid driver configuration, ergonomic design, and tuning switches, it offers a unique blend of features that cater to both casual listeners and audiophiles alike. The FH5S excels in delivering a balanced and detailed sound signature with the flexibility to adapt to various music genres and listening preferences.

For those who value a wide soundstage, clear mids, and crisp treble, the FH5S is a strong contender. The semi-open design enhances the sense of space and airiness in the sound, making it a great choice for listeners who enjoy live recordings, classical music, or any genre that benefits from a broad, immersive soundstage.

While it may not provide the same level of isolation as fully closed IEMs, and the treble may be a bit too bright for some listeners, the FH5S offers a well-rounded, customizable listening experience that is hard to beat at its price point. For users looking for a high-quality, hybrid IEM with versatile sound options, the FiiO FH5S is a fantastic choice that provides excellent value for money.