Who needs three IEMs when the FiiO FH19 can do all their jobs?
Audiophiles no longer need to choose between different sound signatures when buying high-end IEMs, thanks to the new FiiO FH19. These come with interchangeable audio filters so users can adjust their tuning from bass-heavy to neutral to treble-boosted, all in one pair.
FiiO FH19 Features
Building upon the FH9, FiiO maintained the renowned balanced sound signature and semi-open design of the FH19’s predecessor. But the FH19 offer some new upgrades that will interest even picky listeners.
The most notable change is the addition of a second dynamic driver, bringing the total to two 13.7mm high-magnetic drivers with PU+DLC composite diaphragms per ear.
They didn’t just add one more dynamic driver just for the sake of it, though. Instead, they used a smart push-pull setup that puts the drivers in an opposing configuration.
What’s particularly impressive about this arrangement is how the drivers provide air damping for each other. This leads to more steady movement and better control of leftover sound after the audio signal stops. All this makes for tighter, more controlled bass.
And, to make the dynamic drivers even better, FiiO also used a floating voice coil design.
By letting the voice coil float in the gap, this method cuts down on extra contact and avoids additional adhesive load. The result? A diaphragm that moves more evenly and smoothly, letting the drivers work their best with less interference.
The FH19’s low-end prowess doesn’t stop there.
FiiO also used a four-way crossover design and their own S.Turbo acoustic structure for better bass. Plus, they added a turbine low-frequency boost tech for physical low-pass filtering, giving relaxed but natural bass.
Moving up the frequency spectrum, the mid and high frequencies are handled by six customized Knowles balanced armature drivers. And, FiiO made sure these drivers work well together by using advanced designs and techniques.
One standout feature is the new ‘3+1 Semi-open’ acoustic layout for the mids, along with a newly designed resonant cavity.
This setup allows for two separate mid-frequency areas, aiming to give a more engaging and emotional midrange sound. It’s a small touch that could make a big difference in bringing vocals and instruments to life.
FiiO also added a mid-frequency notch filter device to fine-tune the overall sound. This not only boosts the mid-frequency sound level but also cuts down on sibilance. With this, the FiiO FH19 promise a unified, well-mixed sound across all frequencies.
High-frequency performance hasn’t been overlooked either.
The FH19 use a coaxial design with an acoustic guide, paired with Rubycon audiophile-grade film capacitor crossovers. These high-quality parts, with a very low 0.1% error rate, help make more accurate crossover points and better high-frequency detail.
All in all, FiiO claims these achieve greater sound energy density, resulting in rich and detailed vocals.
If that’s not enough, however, FiiO also gives users a chance to tweak the sound more with three pairs of swappable audio filters. Each filter boosts different frequencies:
- The red filter boosts bass
- The green refines treble
- The black gives balanced sound
It’s not all about sound quality, though. Comfort was also improved in the FH19’s design.
These IEMs feature a 10° angled nozzle and optimized shell shape for improved fit. And, FiiO also included 22 pairs of ear tips in different sizes and materials, so users can find the best fit for long listening.
Technical specifications
- Form Factor: Semi-open in-ear monitors (IEMs)
- Drivers per ear:
- Push-pull dynamic drivers: 2 (13.7mm each)
- Custom Knowles enhanced mid-frequency balanced armature: 4
- Knowles SWFK treble balanced armature: 2
- Frequency response: 8Hz-40kHz
- Impedance: 16Ω@1kHz
- Sensitivity: 109dB/mW@1kHz
- Cable type: 8 strands totaling 224 wires of high-purity pure silver
- Connection type: Straight twist-lock swappable (3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced)
- Cable length: About 1.2m
- Ear unit weight: About 12g (excluding cable)
Where to Buy
The FiiO FH19 will be available in August for $599. For that price, you’ll get the IEMs, the high-quality silver cable, a carrying case, a quick start guide, a USB-C to 3.5mm jack cable, and a USB-C to USB-C cable.