The FX17. Image: HWZ
Fiio is no stranger to producing metal-shelled IEMs, and its latest release, the FX17, continues that tradition. As the company’s latest flagship IEM, the FX17 has a titanium shell and a 13-driver hybrid configuration that consists of one dynamic driver, four balanced armature (BA) drivers, and eight electrostatic (EST) drivers.
With its CNC-machined titanium shell, the FX17 is undeniably stunning. Its polished, triangular design is comfortable when worn, and because of its titanium construction, it remains lightweight at just 12.2g per side.
I had the chance to try the Fiio FX17 at CanJam Singapore last month, and despite the suboptimal setup amidst the event’s hustle and bustle, the listening experience left a strong impression.
Throughout my listening session, the FX17’s soundstage impressed me with its wide, three‑dimensional presentation, allowing each instrument to breathe more like an open‑back headphone than an IEM.
Plenty of connection options are available. Image: Fiio
According to Fiio, the eight electrostatic drivers help the FX17 achieve a frequency response of up to 50 kHz. Although electrostatic drivers often suffer from low sensitivity, Fiio compensates by combining multiple units per side, boosting sound pressure above 6 kHz. The result is airy, sparkly highs that add clarity without excessive harshness.
The mid-range is handled by four custom Knowles balanced armature drivers, each split into mid and mid‑high sections. According to the company, Fiio has also integrated a proprietary “Midrange Enhanced BA Unit” with rear acoustic vents to support these frequencies and also allow for more lifelike vocals.
I found that this configuration produces a natural-sounding mid-range that pops out vividly. For example, when listening to One Direction, the separation between singers and instruments remained distinct and clear.
Moving on to the low end, a 10mm lithium‑magnesium alloy dynamic driver provides clean, tight, and well‑controlled bass. I won't call it a bass-heavy IEM, but there's certainly sufficient low-end punch to suit a wide variety of music.
Besides the IEMs, the FX17 comes with Fiio’s high-end LC-RE Pro cable, which is made from a hybrid of gold, silver, and copper strands. The cable features swappable connectors ranging from the standard 3.5mm single-ended plug, a 4.4mm balanced option, and a USB-C plug with an integrated DAC and DSP.
The USB-C DAC supports up to 32-bit/384kHz audio and includes an 8-band parametric EQ accessible via the Fiio Control app or web interface. This is a nice addition for those who want to fine-tune their listening experience.
All in all, the FX17 seems like a well-rounded package. If you’re in the market for a high-end multi-driver IEM that delivers clarity, depth, and versatility in a nice titanium housing, the FX17 is worth taking a closer look.
Pricing and Availability
The Fiio FX17 is available now and will set you back S$2,399. You can find it on Lazada, Shopee, and AV One's online store.
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