Table of Contents
Introduction
The FiiO FH5S is an in-ear monitor (IEM) known for its hybrid driver configuration, modular design, and aesthetic appeal. A significant factor in evaluating any IEM is its frequency response graph, which provides insight into its tonal balance and overall sonic signature. For audiophiles and sound engineers, frequency response graphs are crucial tools that help in understanding how a pair of IEMs perform across different frequencies. The FiiO FH5S has garnered attention for its specific frequency response, and this review delves into the nuances of its graph, breaking down how each part of the spectrum contributes to the IEM’s sound.
Overview of the FiiO FH5S
Before we dive into the frequency response graph, it’s important to understand the FiiO FH5S as a product. The FH5S is a hybrid IEM featuring four drivers per ear, comprising two balanced armature (BA) drivers, a dynamic driver, and an electrostatic driver. This multi-driver setup is designed to deliver a wide and detailed sound signature that balances bass, mids, and treble. With its modular cable system and switchable tuning options, the FH5S aims to provide flexibility for listeners who prefer to tweak their sound based on preferences or genres.
FiiO’s decision to include a switchable tuning system, which allows users to adjust the bass, mids, and treble independently, is reflected in the frequency response graph. This review will focus on how the graph shifts with different tuning options and what it means for the overall listening experience.
Understanding Frequency Response Graphs
A frequency response graph visually represents how a device (in this case, the FiiO FH5S) responds to different frequencies. The x-axis represents frequency, measured in hertz (Hz), typically ranging from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, which is the approximate hearing range for humans. The y-axis represents amplitude (usually in decibels, or dB), showing the relative volume of each frequency. A flat line across the graph would indicate a perfectly neutral response, meaning no frequency is emphasized or recessed. However, most IEMs, including the FH5S, are tuned to accentuate or reduce certain frequencies, resulting in a unique sound signature.
The FiiO FH5S Frequency Response Graph
The frequency response of the FiiO FH5S can be broken down into three major regions: bass, mids, and treble. Each region affects how different aspects of music, such as vocals, drums, and cymbals, are perceived. Let’s break down each part of the frequency response graph.
1. Sub-Bass and Mid-Bass (20 Hz to 200 Hz)
On the graph, the sub-bass region (20 Hz to 60 Hz) is where you’ll find the deepest bass frequencies, often felt more than heard. The FH5S’s sub-bass performance is relatively controlled, providing adequate extension without overwhelming the rest of the spectrum. For listeners who enjoy genres like electronic, hip-hop, or movie soundtracks, the sub-bass may feel slightly underpowered compared to bass-heavy IEMs, but it is well-tuned for those who prefer a more balanced presentation.
The mid-bass region (60 Hz to 200 Hz) is where the impact and punch of bass instruments reside. In the FH5S, the mid-bass is more pronounced than the sub-bass, creating a warm and rich low-end. The graph shows a moderate hump in the mid-bass, which contributes to a full and rounded sound, particularly beneficial for genres like rock, pop, and jazz. The slight emphasis on mid-bass adds weight to drums, bass guitars, and lower-register instruments without causing muddiness.
In terms of tuning options, the bass switch on the FH5S allows users to adjust the prominence of the bass frequencies. Engaging the bass boost feature raises both sub-bass and mid-bass, providing more rumble and impact for those who prefer a bass-heavy sound signature. However, even with the bass boost activated, the FH5S maintains a sense of control, avoiding excessive bass bleed into the midrange.
2. Midrange (200 Hz to 4 kHz)
The midrange is critical in determining how vocals and instruments such as guitars and pianos sound. On the FH5S graph, the lower midrange (200 Hz to 1 kHz) is relatively flat, with a slight dip around 400 Hz. This slight recess in the lower mids helps to prevent the IEMs from sounding too thick or congested, especially when listening to complex mixes. Instruments in this range sound clear but may lack some warmth due to the dip.
The upper midrange (1 kHz to 4 kHz) is where the FH5S shines. The graph shows a noticeable peak around 3 kHz, which enhances the clarity and presence of vocals, particularly female vocals and higher-pitched instruments. This peak also contributes to a sense of forwardness in the soundstage, bringing vocals and lead instruments to the forefront. However, some listeners may find this peak a bit aggressive or shouty, particularly at higher volumes.
The tuning switches on the FH5S allow for some adjustment in the midrange as well. Engaging the “midrange boost” elevates the presence region (2 kHz to 4 kHz) even further, which can be beneficial for vocal-centric tracks but may become fatiguing over long listening sessions. Conversely, leaving the mids switch off provides a more relaxed and neutral midrange, ideal for listeners who prefer a smoother presentation.
3. Treble (4 kHz to 20 kHz)
The treble region, particularly the area above 8 kHz, affects the perception of detail, air, and brightness in the sound. The FH5S graph shows a noticeable peak around 6 kHz, followed by a more gradual roll-off in the upper treble. This 6 kHz peak adds sparkle and brightness to the sound, making high-hats, cymbals, and other percussive elements stand out. For some listeners, this peak may add excitement and a sense of liveliness to the music, but others may find it too sharp or sibilant, especially with poorly recorded or bright-leaning tracks.
The upper treble (10 kHz to 20 kHz) on the FH5S extends reasonably well, though not as far as some electrostatic or planar magnetic IEMs. The treble roll-off around 15 kHz prevents the sound from becoming too bright or harsh, maintaining a good balance between detail and smoothness. The result is a treble response that is energetic but not overly analytical or fatiguing.
The treble switch on the FH5S allows for more customization in this region. Activating the treble boost increases the presence of higher frequencies, making the sound more detailed and airy. This can be especially useful for classical music or acoustic tracks where you want to hear the subtle nuances of the recording. However, as with the mids, engaging the treble boost may lead to listener fatigue over extended periods, particularly if you’re sensitive to high frequencies.
Overall Sound Signature and Impressions
The frequency response graph of the FiiO FH5S paints a picture of a mildly V-shaped sound signature, characterized by a slightly elevated bass and treble with a recessed midrange. This tuning is common among IEMs aimed at providing an exciting and dynamic listening experience. The V-shaped signature emphasizes the low-end and high-end, making the FH5S suitable for genres like pop, electronic, and rock, where punchy bass and sparkling treble are desired.
However, thanks to the tuning switches, the FH5S offers more versatility than a typical V-shaped IEM. With the bass, mids, and treble adjustments, users can tweak the sound signature to better suit their preferences. For instance, engaging the bass boost adds warmth and impact to the low-end, while the treble boost enhances clarity and airiness in the upper frequencies. This flexibility makes the FH5S a good option for listeners who enjoy a variety of music genres and prefer a customizable listening experience.
In terms of technical performance, the FH5S performs admirably. The frequency response graph reveals good extension at both ends of the spectrum, providing a sense of depth and width in the soundstage. The bass is controlled, the mids are clear, and the treble is detailed, making the FH5S a well-rounded IEM that can handle both casual listening and more critical audiophile use.
Comparisons to Other IEMs
When comparing the FiiO FH5S frequency response to other IEMs in its price range, it stands out for its modularity and tuning flexibility. Many IEMs with similar V-shaped signatures, such as the Campfire Audio Polaris or the Moondrop KXXS, offer excellent bass and treble performance but lack the adjustability of the FH5S.
In terms of bass response, the FH5S is slightly more refined than the Polaris, which has a more prominent and aggressive low-end. The FH5S offers better control in the sub-bass and avoids the bloat that can sometimes affect the midrange in bass-heavy IEMs. Compared to the Moondrop KXXS, the FH5S has a more energetic treble, which can be either a pro or con depending on your preference for brightness.
The midrange on the FH5S is slightly recessed compared to more neutral IEMs like the Etymotic ER4XR, but the ability to boost the mids via the tuning switches gives the FH5S an edge in versatility. Listeners who prefer a more mid-centric sound may still prefer the ER4XR for its accuracy and linearity, but the FH5S provides more flexibility for those who enjoy adjusting their sound to fit different listening scenarios.
In the treble department, the FH5S offers a detailed and energetic response, particularly with the treble boost switch activated. This can make it a good competitor to IEMs like the Moondrop Blessing 2, which also has a reputation for its articulate treble. However, the Blessing 2 has a smoother and more neutral high-end, which some listeners may prefer over the more lively and sometimes sharp treble peaks of the FH5S. For treble-sensitive listeners, the FH5S may require more cautious use of the treble boost to avoid any potential harshness.
Soundstage and Imaging
The frequency response graph doesn’t directly show soundstage and imaging capabilities, but certain features in the graph can hint at how an IEM might perform in these areas. For instance, the controlled sub-bass and emphasized upper mids and treble often contribute to a larger perceived soundstage and more precise imaging.
The FH5S does a solid job of creating a sense of space. Its slightly recessed midrange and boosted upper mids help vocals and instruments sit forward in the mix without sounding too congested. The treble extension, while not as airy as some high-end IEMs, gives a sense of openness that enhances the spatial separation between instruments.
Imaging on the FH5S is accurate, particularly in the midrange and treble frequencies. Instruments and vocals are placed well within the soundstage, allowing listeners to easily pinpoint the directionality of each element. This makes the FH5S a good choice for genres that benefit from detailed spatial performance, such as classical music, jazz, or live recordings. In comparison to other IEMs in its price bracket, the FH5S offers a competitive soundstage and imaging experience, though it may not match the holographic depth of some higher-end models.
Build Quality and Comfort
Though the frequency response graph primarily deals with sound, it’s worth mentioning the build quality and comfort of the FiiO FH5S, as these factors influence the overall listening experience.
The FH5S features a well-designed chassis made from a combination of metal and resin. The build is solid and durable, ensuring that the IEMs can withstand daily use. The faceplates are adorned with a unique design that gives the FH5S a distinct and premium appearance.
Comfort-wise, the FH5S is relatively lightweight and fits comfortably in most ears, though users with smaller ear canals might find the fit slightly more challenging due to the size of the housings. The inclusion of multiple eartips in the package allows users to find a seal that works for them, which is crucial for achieving the best sound quality, particularly in the bass region. A proper seal ensures that the frequency response graph matches real-world listening experiences, especially in the lower frequencies where leakage can cause bass loss.
Conclusion
The FiiO FH5S is an IEM that offers a versatile and dynamic listening experience, enhanced by its unique tuning switches that allow users to customize the sound signature to their liking. The frequency response graph reveals a mildly V-shaped sound, with an emphasis on bass and treble, making it suitable for a wide range of music genres. The ability to tweak the bass, mids, and treble independently gives the FH5S a level of flexibility not commonly found in similarly priced IEMs.
From a technical perspective, the FH5S provides good extension in both the low and high frequencies, with a controlled bass response, clear midrange, and detailed treble. While the upper mids and treble peaks may be too aggressive for some listeners, the tuning options allow for adjustments that can mitigate this issue. The FH5S is a well-built and comfortable IEM, suitable for both casual listeners and audiophiles who appreciate the ability to customize their sound.
For those who are fans of a slightly V-shaped sound signature but want the ability to adjust their IEM’s performance across different genres, the FiiO FH5S offers a compelling option. While it may not compete with some higher-end IEMs in terms of soundstage depth or neutrality, its modular design, solid technical performance, and adjustable tuning make it a strong contender in its price range. Whether you’re listening to bass-heavy electronic music or intricate acoustic tracks, the FH5S provides a sound profile that can be adapted to fit your preferences, all of which is reflected in its detailed and well-executed frequency response graph.