FiiO FT3

This ‘Sensible Sibling’ is possibly FiiO best open back headphone​

In my recent review of the FiiO FT3 32 Ohm version, I called it the “Fun” sibling to the more serious “twin”, but I recently got the opportunity to spend many hours with both these headphones, effectively A/B testing, so I thought I should share my specifics thoughts about the 350 Ohm version.



So, I thought it would be interesting for me to drill into the specific differences and ultimately give my opinion as to which one of these “twin” headphones is the best, the short answer is “it depends on what you want” but for pure Audio quality I do have a personal favourite.

Build Quality and Accessories​

Both FT3 comes with exactly the same unboxing experience and mostly the same accessories, so for a detailed look at the build quality and accessories, I recommend checking out my FT3 32 Ohm review.

But, here are both of the headphones:



In summary, for those you haven’t checked out other reviews of the FT3, FiiO have provided a stunning overall package for relatively little money, with both headphones costing roughly $299. Anyone opening up either of these headphones will be incredibly impressed with everything provided.

But I did spot a few differences, one is the cable length, with the 350 Ohm version getting the longer 3M cable while the 32 Ohm version has the more “portable” 1.5M cable. This makes perfect sense as you will see in the technical specifications section as the 350 Ohm version is harder to drive and therefore really needs a desktop amplifiers, while the shorter cable is ideal if you can drive your headphone from a mobile device / usb dongle as is the case with the 32Ohm version.

The second difference I spotted was with the pleather earpads, in the 2 models I have they are slightly different though the velvet ones were the same in both boxes.

Here is a comparison photo of both earpads:

All the FT3 earpads use the same “clip” mechanism on the back so can be easily swapped:

But the key difference is internally, they have a different driver audio architecture while the driver itself is the same size on both models, the diaphragm in the 32 Ohm version is made from aluminum, as opposed to the beryllium used in the 350 Ohm model. This difference is crucial to rigidity of the driver and this different material gives the 350 Ohm model more consistent frequency response especially in the higher frequencies but does make it considerable harder to drive, hence why its 350 Ohms.

But from the outside you would not notice a difference between each driver with both headphones having the same angled drivers:

But since this change in architecture does make a considerable change to the sound signatures of both variations, lets get into the differences:

Sound Impressions​

In general, the FT3 350 Ohm version offers a much more neutral and reference-oriented sound signature compared to the more V-shaped 32 Ohm sibling. I found the bass had better textures on the 350 Ohm version especially with the pleather pads but the treble was also significantly better / smoother giving instruments a more accurate tonality.

With that said if you are a bass head you should still go for the 32 Ohm version.

But let’s get into some details:

Bass​

The bass on the 350 Ohm version is much more restrained and controlled compared to the 32 Ohm model. The V-shaped tuning of 32 Ohm sibling gives a boosted low-end, making it fun and punchy but also removes some of the midrange clarity that is restored with the 350 Ohm version. Listening to “Bad Guy” by Billie Eilish, the bass was present but never overwhelming with the 350 Ohm, blending well into the mix, but I can imagine lots of people will appreciate the extra bass provided with the 32 Ohm version.

In contrast, the 350 Ohm offers a more neutral bass is perfect for those looking for precision and texture in the lower frequencies. Listening to a recent release “Simplify” by Leon Bridges has a lovely bass line that comes in after about a minute which is perfect with the 350 Ohm but the bass was a little too much I thought on the 32 Ohm version.

This is the one of the 2 key questions, if you are buying this headphone for yourself or for a present, if deeper bass is a priority go for the 32 Ohm version, if you want more of a reference sound go for the 350 Ohm version.

Midrange​

The midrange is where the 350 Ohm version shines, providing a clean and detailed presentation. Vocals and instruments are more forward and clear compared to the 32 Ohm version. Tracks like “Someone Like You” by Adele and “Hotel California” by Eagles showcase the balanced mids with no hint of muddiness that was slightly present in the 32 Ohm version. Again selecting a recent release the vocal on “Deeper Well” by “Kacey Musgraves” had beautifully forward vocals just over the guitars with the correct tonality. But the midrange in the 32 Ohm version was not bad, only in songs where there is a little too much bass did I feel the 32 Ohm was inferior, so less bass heavy genres like Jazz will still sound excellent on the 32 Ohm version.

Treble​

The treble on the 350 Ohm version is smooth and detailed, without being too harsh or bright. The treble was more consistent in the 32 Ohm version, this manifests itself in a more accurate sound with the harmonics of some instruments. On “Your Blood” by “Aurora” the high-pitched vocals where perfectly matched by the high hats without every getting sibilant.

So while the Bass differences can be easily EQ to normalise the differences between these headphones, this treble cannot ( at least not accurately ) due to differences in peoples HRTF. For this reason alone, I think the 350 Ohm version is the better version.

Soundstage and Imaging​

The soundstage on the 350 Ohm version remains airy, much like the 32 Ohm model. Imaging is precise, with excellent separation of instruments, making this headphone great for complex tracks. In “Time” by Pink Floyd, the layering of instruments was clear, with a real sense of depth and positioning.

In summary, If you’re looking for a balanced, detailed sound with less emphasis on the bass, the version is a better choice, especially considering both versions are available at the same price.

Specification and Measurements​

Here are the technical specifications of the FT3 350 Ohm version:

Frequency Response​

So lets look the frequency response - firstly the channel matching - in REW:

Nothing too dramatic given the FR will be slightly different after each reseating.

Next the 2 ear pads compared to Harman OE-2018:



I have highlighted 3 things on this:

1. The pleather has slightly less bass and is more ‘reference’ than the velvet pads
2. The pleather also seems to be more balanced in the lower midrange
3. This wasn’t in every measurement of the Velvet but depending on the seating it can have a treble boost

Finally compared to the 32 Ohm version:



So with this graph I am highlighting 2 major differences (which came up in my subjective listening earlier):

1. The 32 Ohm version is more Bass Boost so will appeal much more to bass heads
2. The 32 Ohm version has some Treble inconsistencies compared to the smoother 350 Ohm version

Distortion​

Comparing the distortion graphs is also interesting, classically a 350 Ohm headphone should have less distortion, and it does have fractionally less distortion, but it’s really not that much different between the headphones:

Headphone Comparisons​

FiiO have been on a roll with their headphones - I have now been lucky enough to try all their recent headphones:


The FT1 on the right is exception value for money and probably my favourite closed back headphone from this year and certainly the best bargain in closed back headphones every.

With the FT3 I would take the 350 Ohm version over the 32 Ohm version for sound quality, but I can imagine the benefit of being easier to drive and that boosted bass will be very attractive to some users.

With the FT5, I would also pick the FT3 with the pleather pads as an ideal sound signature but If I were to use EQ I might pick the FT5 for the more premium quality - though obviously at a more premium price.

Comparing with some other similar priced and also excellent open back headphones that I have recently reviewed:

I have highlight 4 areas on this comparison chart:

1. The bass on the FT3 shows an excellent smooth extension - better than the HD600, MM-100 and arguable better than the Edition XS with only the HD-490 Pro having similar bass performance
2. The midrange on the FT3 is similar to these - hard to say which is better
3. The FT3 goes for a more tonally accurate upper midrange rather than the Edition XS and the HD-490 Pro which go for that Soundstage dip that is typical of Hifiman headphones
4. The treble on the FT3 is arguable better than these - though again the Edition XS and 490-Pro have that typical slightly boosted treble region which is part of that “soundstage” effect (at the cost of accurate tonality)

Which of these is better? I actually love all these headphones for slightly different reasons, so I would not be able to pick a clear winner, but the FT3 350 Ohm is easily holding its own against these headphones.

Rating​

I would rate the FT3 350 Ohm as a 5-star headphone in my pragmatic rating system. It’s a great neutral-sounding headphone, ideal for those who want a more accurate sound signature without excessive bass. However, it’s not the easiest to drive and may require a decent amp, especially if you plan to EQ the headphone to your taste, e.g. a bass boost would “cost” more gain.

In comparison to the 32 Ohm version, I think the key difference is not so much the bass (which can be EQed) but the smoother treble response of the 350 Ohm would be harder to “fix” with EQ. However, the 32 Ohm version remains a more portable and fun headphone, especially for casual listening or on-the-go use.

Conclusion​

The FT3 350 Ohm version is an outstanding highly competitive open-back headphone, offering excellent build quality, amazing accessories, and a high quality neutral sound signature at a reasonable price. If you’re in the market for a comfortable, well-built headphone with reference-grade sound and don’t mind using a dedicated amp, the FT3 350 Ohm is easily one of the best headphones in the $300 price range.

FIIO FT3 350ohm
1DD 60mm Beryllium plated
$300


First of all, let me thank FIIO for providing me with this headphone sample for this review.
Rest assured, my review is always 100% my own personal opinion.

Unboxing
Build Quality

Is very good, the FT3 is an open back design and the earcup is made from metal, while the headband is suspension type design coated with pleather.

From looks standpoint, it is somewhat giving me a “toy like” vibes? Or “Sci-Fi”? I don't know what FIIO try to aim with its beyblade looking earcup design.

Anyway, the looks is not my thing, but hey it is subjective I guess.

While the cable is made from Furukawa Monocrystaline cable, sounds fancy, the length of the cable is 3 meters, which is a bit too long to be honest.
Oh by the way the end of the connector is modular, very nice.

Comfort
Is very good, and I do use glasses for context. I can wear the FT3 for more than 3 hours before I feel like I needed to take off the headphones, the clamping force is just right, not tight, but not that loose either.

Sound

Tested using FIIO K9 AKM, FIIO KB3
Music is mostly from Apple Music (J-POP, J-Rock, EDM, RAP, Jazz, Metal)
Sound in General : Neutral – Warm

Bass is depending on what earpads you're using, with the Suede pads, bass is getting a decent amount of lift, still on the neutral side, but lifted.
With the Pleather pads, its like your reference typed bass.
Bass presentation on the suede pads is more rich, deep, and powerful.
While on the Pleather pads, it is more tight, tamed, and agile.

One thing I must said about the bass is that, it is very well extended to the sub bass region, uncommon for an open back design, especially with the Suede pads, it hits really deep and hard, I'm impressed by how deep and impactful FT3 bass is.
Though keep in mind, the quantity is not bass head levels, its more like referenced type but with very good impactful presentation.

Midrange is just like a referenced type midrange, it sounded like that with either pads, it has very good note weight, a bit on the warmer side.
Due to the bass and treble not really having that much lift, midrange is getting the main focus here.
It sounds open, a bit forward, but not shouty in my opinion.
Though for context, if you find HD600 vocal to be shouty, the FT3 vocal presentation is a bit similar to the HD600, but to my ears, both headphones are not shouty.

Treble with the pleather pads is having a bit more shine because of the reduced bass, with the suede pads overall tuning is more balanced, it just add enough sparkle on the mid treble – air region.
Overall treble presentation is just having enough bite to make everything sounds exciting and more musical than your average referenced typed headphone.

My preference in general is to use the default Suede pads, because of how the bass is lifted, it adds more body and character to the overall sound, and is very pleasing to listen.
Though if you plan to use the FT3 for audio related works, you can use the Pleather pads, I think with that it will suits your needs more.

Technicalities
is "Good" for its asking price of $300

Stage is decently wide, not the widest that I've heard, but it has very good stage layering, it feels like everything is very well placed.

Imaging is good, it sounds holographical with the right source.

Positioning and Separation is very good, probably thanks to its very good stage layering.
Object is very well positioned and is free from overlapping, even when playing a complex sound.

Detail Retrieval is average, to be honest with you, the FT3 is not a detail monster type of headphone, it has good amount of micro details but I think there is some micro details still missing from the presentation.

Comparation

Sennheiser HD600
The HD600 is more tamed and precise in sound presentation.
The sub-bass of the FT3 is much more extended compared to the HD600, but HD600 has very good overall control to all of its frequency spectrum, While on the FT3, it is more playful and musical.

Technicality wise, the stage size of FT3 is much more wide and grand compared to the HD600, and thanks to that, sound is much more well separated and positioned. Other aspects such as imaging, detail retrieval, is more or less on the same level.

Conclusion
Is the FT3 worth the asking price?

Well, from sound perspective, if you want an open back headphone with superb sub bass presentation, you should definitely check the FT3 or at least give it a try.
No joke, I'm super impressed by how deep the sub-bass can reach, the FT3 sub bass is somehow sounding more deep than my other set of closed back headphones which is crazy !
The FT3 is also very comfortable to wear for my head, and I do wear glasses for context.
And not only that, the overall build, packaging and accessories of FT3 is very well made for its asking price of only $300.

Well I guess thats all from me for now, thanks for reaching this far !

Just in case you're Indonesian or understand Bahasa Indonesia, you can watch the review video of this review below


-littlenezt.

My thanks to Apos audio for the chance to review this amazing set of headphones. as always my opinions are my own.
https://apos.audio/products/fiio-ft3-open-back-dynamic-driver-headphones

Product highlights
60mm large dynamic driver for powerful sound
Beryllium-plated gasket and DLC diaphragm
350Ω high impedance for pure sound
Asymmetrical magnetic circuit system
Furukawa monocrystalline copper wire cable
Aluminum alloy construction
Comfortable open-back design with hollow mesh
3-axis swiveling design for a perfect fit
Angled drivers for reduced frequency response distortion
Open-back design
2 distinct sounding ear pads
Specs
Impedance: 350Ω
Sensitivity: 102dB
Frequency Response Range: 7Hz-40kHz
Driver Type: 60mm Dynamic Driver
Diaphragm Material: Beryllium-plated Gasket + DLC Diaphragm
Weight: 13oz (391g)
Earpad Pressure: 4.0N±0.3N
Cable Length: ~9.8ft (~3m)

What’s included
3.5mm interchangeable plug
4.4mm interchangeable plug
3.5mm female to 6.35mm male adapter
4.4mm female to XLR-4 male balanced adapter
Leather storage case
Protein leather earpads
Suede earpads
Headphone cable
Instructions

Build:
The FT3 is made of all aluminum giving it both strength and a lighter weight compared to other metal headphone, while it does have a decent heft it still is comfortable for music or gaming for a few hours. The Cable is made of over 9 feet of Furukawa monocrystalline copper cable and made so well, my only gripe is foe me the length is unnecessary and very cumbersome. I luckily have a large assortment of cables that fit. while the pads are on the thinner side, they still feel quite plush and comfortable, although my ears were rubbing against the round and much smaller internal diameter. Sitting listening to music this wasn't much of a bother only moving around it was noticed. Build in general is much superior to HifiMan or Sennheiser in the same price range. Acessories with the Fiio are amazing quality, the case looks so nice, and the additional pads are a welcome feature. Between the velour and leatherette, I prefer the leatherette. The velour makes it a little more V-shaped and less airy.




Sound Impressions:

Bass:
The Bass is well defined with a nice but somewhat reserved impact, it is not to say the Bass does not dig down low but has a more controlled approach to its delivery. It becomes slightly more emphasized with the Velour pads. In general, the Bass is very good for an open back set of headphones. I think the Philips X2HR has slightly more Bass reach but not more Bass quality.

Midrange:
The Midrange presents Neutral and detailed with a hint of warmth in the lower mIds, mids are well placed and vocals both male and female are positioned centered. The vocals are more towards the thin side with colder sounding upper mids and female vocals. they are open and there is an almost analytical quality to the midrange in general.

Treble:
The highs are well extended well with excellent details and compliment the Bass well like a textbook Harman should. There is good air and separation throughout.

Soundstage:
The staging is wide, and imaging is very good, this however is not as deep or height wise. the FT3 can handle just about anything and from gaming to music and even movies and soundstage keep up with even the busiest of recordings.

Afterthoughts:
The Fiio FT3 is a very well made, Harman V-shaped headphone with a comfortable fit and signature It would be a good choice for casual listening with its detailed and pleasant tuning.