FiiO JD7 Review

iem-fiio-jd7-headfonia-11

Bundle

Inside the box

In terms of bundle, the FiiO JD7 leans more toward the likes of FiiO FH3 than the FA7S, but, for a sub-$100, that’s to be expected. In the box you have:

  • the FiiO JD7
  • a set of silicon sleeves (FiiO HS18)
  • a set of black memory foam eartips
  • an acrylic storage case (lovely one)
  • the 120cm monocrystalline silver-plated copper cable
  • the mighty MMCX quick release tool

A correct bundle for the price, as I didn’t expect much. If you want more, you shall look for something a bit expensive, like the FiiO FD3 Pro.

iem-fiio-jd7-headfonia-12

Additional accessories

If you want to go further with your FiiO JD7, there are only two upgrades you should do:

  • get a DAP or a DAC to drive them nicely 
  • get a balanced cable, with MMCX ports

It could be something as simple as FiiO’s own KA3 or something a bit more fancy like the ddHiFi’s TC44C, but please don’t use your computer headphone out (unless it’s the new MacBook Pro, which is pretty impressive in this regard).

Specifications

For the nitpickers and nerdy ones here, I’m giving the specs and technical sheets. For all the others, you can just go lower to see how the FiiO JD7 performs.

Dual magnetic circuit Dynamic Driver + dual-layer housing

Even if the FiiO JD7 is entry-level IEMs, that doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy the same features found in upper models.

Made from “carefully chosen” materials, the 10mm dynamic driver features an internal and external magnetic circuit setup that seems to “greatly improves the magnetic flux density”, so that the driver can push more air. A design enhanced by the use of a semi crystalline polymer diaphragm, directly inspired by the work achieved on the FDx series.

iem-fiio-jd7-headfonia-14

 

Designed to output “a unique, lush, sound”, this new diaphragm is also paired with a PU gasket, specifically chosen for its unique and favorable characteristics. The results? Less unwanted vibrations during large driver movements, resulting in a fast, clean sound – on paper. Cherry on-top? The driver is housed in a dual-layer chamber for improved damping and better control of unwanted vibrations and resonances. Hurray!

Semi-open design + Harman Curve

On top of that, the brand gave the JD7 the same semi-open shell used on the FA7S. A design that reduces pressure on the eardrum, protecting the hearing over long-listening sessions. 

This setup offers numerous benefits like:

  • less air pressure on the eardrum
  • reduced distortion for cleaner bass
  • deeper bass at low volume

iem-fiio-jd7-headfonia-13

Combined with a stronger magnet, capable of generating over 1 Tesla and displaying an increased sensitivity (108dB/mW) the FiiO JD7 should be a breeze to drive, and shall be able to deliver lots of micro-details, even paired with a low-power source.

A bit more surprising is the fact that FiiO decided to follow the Harman curve with the JD7. For those oblivious to that curve, it was designed by Sean Olive – an audio engineer – and should, on paper, be the most “natural sounding curve” if you ever tune a set of earphones or headphones. We’ll have to see if that makes a real difference.

Sensitivity / Hiss 

Impedance is low (32ohm), sensitivity is good (108dB/mW), so you should have no problem driving those IEMs with your usual DAP, even your phone.

On my FiiO KA3, the IEM behaves exceptionally well. Same with my ddHiFi TC35C or even plugged into my computer, all were able to drive the IEM with ease, even in noisy environments.

Last but not least, hiss never was an issue – but that hasn’t been the case for years with FiiO now…

iem-fiio-jd7-headfonia-1

Full specs

  • Type: IEM
  • Style: 1DD
  • Drivers: 1x 10mm semi-crystalline PU Polymer diaphragm
  • Socket: MMCX
  • Cable: silver plated copper – 3.5mm L-shaped jack
  • Shell: 316L stainless steel
  • Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20 KHz
  • Impedance: 32 ohms
  • Sensitivity: 108dB
  • Sound Isolation (up to): 20 dB
  • Cable length: 120 cm 
  • Weight: 8.3g (per ear)
  • Price: $99

Page 1: About the brand, design and build quality

Page 3: Sound Performance

4.4/5 - (52 votes)
Facebooktwitterredditpinterestlinkedin

A nerdy guy with a passion for audio and gadgets, he likes to combine his DAC and his swiss knife. Even after more than 10 years of experience, Nanotechnos still collects all gear he gets, even his first MPMAN MP3 player. He likes spreadsheets, technical specs and all this amazing(ly boring) numbers. But most of all, he loves music: electro, classical, dubstep, Debussy : the daily playlist.

Be first to comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.