FiiO FT5

The FiiO FT5 marks a decisive milestone in the evolution of the Chinese brand, as it ventures for the first time into planar magnetic technology. This open-back headphone with 90 mm drivers breaks the traditional codes of this demanding technology by offering an exceptional sensitivity of 110 dB/Vrms, making it compatible with most portable sources. Weighing 456 grams, it aims to democratize access to planar transducers without compromising on build quality.

A Rethought Planar Magnetic Technology

The FT5 revolutionizes the traditional approach to planar magnetic headphones by addressing their main drawback: driving difficulty. While most models in this category require powerful amplifiers due to their often sub-90 dB sensitivity, the FT5 boasts a remarkable 110 dB/Vrms sensitivity thanks to its 20 neodymium magnets per transducer and ultra-thin 6 μm diaphragm. This technical feat allows it to be efficiently powered by a smartphone or portable audiophile player, greatly expanding its range of use.

The 90 mm transducers feature a PAR diaphragm with aluminum-silver alloy coils, applied using a nanometric coating process borrowed from the semiconductor industry. This technology ensures an even distribution of weight and thickness across the entire diaphragm surface, minimizing phase distortion while maximizing movement synchronization.

Premium Construction and Finishes

FiiO has invested heavily in the FT5’s build quality, using an aluminum-magnesium alloy for the frame that combines lightness and strength. The three-axis automatic adjustment system naturally adapts to each user’s head shape, while the finishes rival those of much more expensive models. Attention to detail is evident in every component, from the adjustment mechanism to the connectors, reflecting a truly premium approach.

The open-back structure features a specially designed grille to control and accelerate airflow generated by the movement of the transducers. The rear of the earcups acts as an acoustic deflector, contributing to a wide soundstage and treble resolution that FiiO claims surpasses traditional dynamic transducers.

Comprehensive Professional Connectivity

The FT5 comes with a particularly refined detachable cable, made up of 392 strands of single-crystal copper plated with silver. Measuring 1.5 meters, it connects to the headphones via two 3.5 mm mono mini-jack connectors and offers an interchangeable screw-on plug system on the source end. This modularity includes 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm Pentaconn connectors, complemented by 6.35 mm and XLR-4 adapters, extending compatibility to home hi-fi systems and professional equipment.

This modular approach meets the needs of audiophiles with multiple sources, from smartphones to headphone preamplifiers, as well as DAPs and professional audio interfaces. The cable’s build quality, with its machined connectors and braided sheath, demonstrates the attention given to every link in the audio chain.

Positioning and Product Line Evolution

The FT5 is FiiO’s second open-back model after the FT3, but represents a major technological leap with the adoption of planar magnetic transducers. This evolution is part of the brand’s strategy to move upmarket, gradually expanding its expertise beyond amplifiers and portable players to high-fidelity transducers.

Its price positioning puts it in direct competition with entry-level models from established specialists, while offering features often reserved for higher-end segments thanks to its extensive connectivity and comprehensive accessories.

Technical Specifications

Design and Technology

• Headphone type: open-back planar magnetic headphones
• Drivers: 90 mm planar magnetic
  • Diaphragm material: PAR with aluminum alloy voice coils
  • Diaphragm thickness: ultra-thin 6 μm
  • Magnets: 20 neodymium magnets per driver
• Construction material: lightweight and robust aluminum-magnesium alloy
• Ear cup design: 3-axis articulation for optimal fit
• Structure: open-back design

Acoustic Performance

• Frequency response: 7 Hz – 40 kHz
• Impedance: 36 Ω
• Sensitivity: 110 dB / Vrms (at 1 kHz), 96 dB / mW (at 1 kHz)
• Maximum input power: 2000 mW
• Ear cup pressure: 4.0 N ± 0.3 N
• Weight: approximately 456 g (excluding cable)

Connectivity and Cabling

• Configuration: Y-cable
• Length: approximately 1.5 m
• Material: 392 strands of high-purity, silver-plated monocrystalline copper
• Headphone-side connectors: dual 3.5 mm jacks
• Source-side connectors: interchangeable audio plugs
• Included connector types: interchangeable 3.5 mm plug, interchangeable 4.4 mm plug (factory pre-installed)
• Supplied adapters: 6.35 mm male to 3.5 mm female adapter, balanced XLR-4 male to 4.4 mm female adapter

Comfort and Ergonomics

• Available earpads:
  • 1 pair in synthetic leather: clear sound, wide soundstage, high precision
  • 1 pair in velour (pre-installed): balanced sound, immersive stage, warm reproduction
• Headband: synthetic leather
• Replaceable parts: earpads and cable

Contents and Accessories

• FiiO FT5 headphones
• Detachable audio cable
• Interchangeable plugs: 3.5 mm, 4.4 mm (pre-installed)
• Adapters: 6.35 mm male to 3.5 mm female, XLR-4 male to 4.4 mm female
• Leather carrying case
• Velour storage pouch
• 1 pair of synthetic leather earpads
• 1 pair of velour earpads (pre-installed)
• User manual