FiiO FX15 Review

If Google took you here directly, click here to go to the start of the article.

Treble

The FiiO FX15 provides an impressive treble performance, with clear and distinct high tones that are also well-managed. While some ear tips can cause a slight harshness in the sound, I find that the treble is generally well-controlled despite its bright and assertive character. In my opinion, the tuning of the treble is perfect for those who appreciate detailed and splashy presentation. If you’re looking for a clear and precise sound in the treble region, the FX15 can deliver exactly that.

This exceptional treble presentation is the highlight of the new FX15 for sure. The EST drivers utilized in this IEM produce a smooth, precise, and extended treble that is both expressive and articulated. The level of detail and transparency achieved in this aspect is truly remarkable. There is a lot of detail with a transparent and resolving sound. The sound has a bright and open presence with excellent transparency. However, the lower treble can be sharp depending on the tips used.

After a long listening session, the treble performance can be tiring for the ears, but not because of an over-aggressive response or sibilance. I might say it’s rather a consequence of too much detail and treble crispness from the EST drivers, and of course, that also would depend on your tip selection and sources. Regardless, the treble performance of the FX15 is simply exceptional, and I’m not sure if there’s any better out there for this price bracket.

Technical Performance and Source Matching

In technicalities, we continue to witness the remarkable capabilities of the FX15. Its high resolution and superb imaging are further complemented by a broad and immersive sound stage. It would be challenging to find a better staging performance at this price range. I am impressed by the staging performance, especially when listening to high-quality recordings. In conclusion, the sound stage of the FX15 is possibly the best in its price range. FiiO has done an excellent job with the acoustic design.

The FX15 boasts exceptional imaging capabilities, with impressive instrument separation and definition across the spectrum. Its excellent detail and articulation, combined with noteworthy detail pickup, allow for a great level of nuance detection in any given song. Additionally, its resolution is nothing short of fantastic, especially at its price point. Should you require a higher-end technical performance with pure transparency, micro details, and resolution, it is necessary to invest much more than $749. This is the law of diminishing returns in our hobby. 

Driving the FX15 is pretty easy, I think every type of source can smoothly drive it without any issues. For synergy, I wouldn’t recommend pairing it with analytical or neutral character sources, that would be too sharp. An iBasso DX320 is a good choice, as well as an A&K SE300. Another option would be a HIBY RS2 or another R2R DAP. In short, pick a warm-sounding source to get the best possible synergy. 

Comparisons

Are you wondering if the FX15 is worth the higher price compared to the FH9? The answer is yes. Although it may cost more, if you want to experience FiiO’s best hybrid IEM and enjoy crisp treble, the FX15 is the way to go. In terms of treble articulation, definition, and extension, the FX15 exceeds the FH9.

The mid-range is more transparent and has better resolution, while the bass is tighter and more controlled. Most importantly, the FX15 provides a more transparent and resolving sound. If you have the budget, don’t hesitate to choose the FX15.

A completely different IEM, the Meze Advar, has no common points to the FX15 whatsoever, as it’s a single dynamic driver IEM. However, I think it’s a wonderful monitor for musical, fun and toe-tapping delivery.

To me, the Advar’s bass is a bit more balanced, whilst the FX15 has more presence in the sub-bass region. The Advar’s mid-range is more musical, with a more fluid transition from bass to treble. It also has a better timbre with great naturalness in its sound. The treble is undoubtedly the FX15’s masterclass, as it surpasses the Advar in that regard. 

Another difference is imaging. The FX15 provides sharper and more focused imaging with better separation. It’s also better in terms of PRaT. For the sound-stage perception, both are spacious, especially in their own price ranges. The difference is that the FX15 sounds wider, and the Advar sounds a bit deeper. Both are great IEMs and you should pick one depending on your sound preference. It’s mid-range timbre and musicality versus treble crispness and air. Or ultimate coherency versus sharp imaging. These two are very different but they both perform great for the price. 

Conclusion

The FiiO FX15 might be the best FiiO IEM I’ve tested to this day. I also liked the FH7 and FH9 models, but this one is a step above in my opinion. The technical performance is on a level that we only see from flagship IEMs in the market. It can be improved for better sub-bass/mid-bass balance or the treble can be even more refined, so it’s not the end of the road of course, but the way it sounds is very, very good for the price.

The price tag of this particular IEM from FiiO may exceed your usual expectations, but this is due to the level of quality and effort that has been invested in its development. In my opinion, FiiO has accomplished an impressive feat in delivering a product of such ambition. The sound is notable for its great bass, soundstage, and treble response, all of which are offered at a competitive price point. Furthermore, it comes with a useful set of accessories and is packaged impressively.

Another best gear recommendation for our Best Universal IEM list. Well done to FiiO.

Pros:

• Great packaging
• Good build and fit
• High-performing sound with excellent technical performance
• Exemplary treble response
• Good sound-stage

Cons: 

• The mid-range is not the best part
• Treble can be fatiguing over long periods of listening
• FiiO should work with established cable makers for flagship units, the stock cable isn’t the best. 

Page 1: Packaging, Design

Page 2: Build, Fit, Sound Quality