FIIO 2024 New Product Schedule-From FIIO James
It's says in the last line:
Therefore, in 2024, FIIO's product line of over-ear headphones will consist of JT1, FT1, FT3, FT5, and FT7, covering a price range from 45 to 1,000 USD.
Given the absolulte success of Modhouse tungsten where Ryan has been getting so many orders for his headphone that he cannot keep up with demand and his headphone has become a complete market disruptor in the TOTL market at a relatively affordable price and also DMS using 3D printing to make his new headphone, I think the barrier for entry into the headphone market is coming down considerably, so with those caveats and many others that I haven't mention, I think some of what you're saying no longer holds true, at least not completely.
Anyways, I'm happy to hear that Fiio will continue launching new headphone models for the foreseeable future. keep up the good work!!!
(10) HiFi Open Earbuds
Open earbuds can be considered a retro-style product. In the era of Walkman and MP3 players, open earbuds were the standard partner. However, with the widespread popularity of Bluetooth headphones and in-ear monitors among most audiophiles, HiFi open earbuds have gradually fallen out of fashion.
The reason behind this shift is likely the constant device upgrading of audiophiles, focusing on high-resolution lossless music with resolutions as high as 192K/24B. In-ear monitors offer high resolution, good noise isolation, and wide frequency response, contributing to their popularity.
However, open earbuds also have their advantages. For instance, they provide a comfortable fit for long listening sessions, and their sound signature is mellow with a grand soundstage. Despite being less popular, there is still a considerable number of audiophiles who appreciate open earbuds.
In response to the requests of our senior users, FIIO has introduced three models of HiFi open earbuds in the last two years: FF1, FF3, and FF5. These models have garnered appreciation from audiophiles.
Of course, HiFi headphones themselves are niche products, and HiFi open earbuds are even more niche within that niche. The market volume is not large, and FIIO would not set high prices to profit from low sales. Additionally, FIIO has consistently avoided using off-the-shelf molds, which keep high costs and long cycles for development.
From a personal perspective, offering three models is already a satisfactory response from FIIO to its users, in terms of the economic aspects the company has to consider.
Moreover, unlike in-ear monitors, open earbuds have limited technical potential. They cannot adopt new types of driver units like balanced armature or electrostatic drivers, and stacking multiple units does not make much sense. The acoustic cavity design for open earbuds is already mature. In terms of sound performance, the only aspect that can be improved is the diaphragm material (personal opinion, only for reference).
Therefore, when people ask about plans for flagship open earbuds, it really puts us in a difficult position. When discussing this issue with engineers, the options seem limited. The only possibility might be to use high-end materials for the housing, such as titanium alloy or gold-plated brass. Otherwise, if we cannot increase the material cost, simply increasing the profit margin would not align with our principles.
As a result, as of 2024, we currently do not have plans for new open earbuds. We may only consider producing different color versions based on user needs, such as the transparent version of the FF1 that we are currently considering. This would allow them to match with future transparent cassette players and portable CD players.
Open earbuds can be considered a retro-style product. In the era of Walkman and MP3 players, open earbuds were the standard partner. However, with the widespread popularity of Bluetooth headphones and in-ear monitors among most audiophiles, HiFi open earbuds have gradually fallen out of fashion.
The reason behind this shift is likely the constant device upgrading of audiophiles, focusing on high-resolution lossless music with resolutions as high as 192K/24B. In-ear monitors offer high resolution, good noise isolation, and wide frequency response, contributing to their popularity.
However, open earbuds also have their advantages. For instance, they provide a comfortable fit for long listening sessions, and their sound signature is mellow with a grand soundstage. Despite being less popular, there is still a considerable number of audiophiles who appreciate open earbuds.
In response to the requests of our senior users, FIIO has introduced three models of HiFi open earbuds in the last two years: FF1, FF3, and FF5. These models have garnered appreciation from audiophiles.
Of course, HiFi headphones themselves are niche products, and HiFi open earbuds are even more niche within that niche. The market volume is not large, and FIIO would not set high prices to profit from low sales. Additionally, FIIO has consistently avoided using off-the-shelf molds, which keep high costs and long cycles for development.
From a personal perspective, offering three models is already a satisfactory response from FIIO to its users, in terms of the economic aspects the company has to consider.
Moreover, unlike in-ear monitors, open earbuds have limited technical potential. They cannot adopt new types of driver units like balanced armature or electrostatic drivers, and stacking multiple units does not make much sense. The acoustic cavity design for open earbuds is already mature. In terms of sound performance, the only aspect that can be improved is the diaphragm material (personal opinion, only for reference).
Therefore, when people ask about plans for flagship open earbuds, it really puts us in a difficult position. When discussing this issue with engineers, the options seem limited. The only possibility might be to use high-end materials for the housing, such as titanium alloy or gold-plated brass. Otherwise, if we cannot increase the material cost, simply increasing the profit margin would not align with our principles.
As a result, as of 2024, we currently do not have plans for new open earbuds. We may only consider producing different color versions based on user needs, such as the transparent version of the FF1 that we are currently considering. This would allow them to match with future transparent cassette players and portable CD players.
mochill
Headphoneus Supremus
Definitely want 16mm DD flagship with audiophile basshead tuning
(11) Active Speaker
Our senior fans might know that FIIO's first product was a small speaker. Later, we stumbled into the unfamiliar territory of the HiFi headphone market. Therefore, we still have a deep understanding of technology and the market for speakers.
In short, in the low-end market, domestic brands like Edifier, have already dominated the market with their advantages in quantity and supply chain, squeezing out any profit margins.
In the high-end market, foreign brands have their brand advantage. After all, they've been in the industry for so many years. Not to mention the technology and sound quality, the market itself is not large. Let alone new brands, even Edifier has not won.
So why did FIIO release the active speaker SP3 in 2023? This goes back to FIIO's product concept of the FIIO HiFi Desktop System. We found that many users of FIIO DAC/Amps use them for both headphones and speakers. Therefore, considering the system configuration and ecological needs, we decided to create a desktop HiFi system for FIIO users, so that these products can be better matched in appearance, functionality, and sound quality.
In 2024, FIIO's speakers will continue to make up for deficiencies, and the two delayed speakers will be produced. If possible, we will also make a more cost-effective entry-level model, the SP1. Below is a brief introduction:
1. SP3 BT
This is to add the Bluetooth reception function to the SP3. The SP3 was originally intended to be paired with FIIO's desktop DAC/Amps or the all-in-one unit R7, as well as FIIO's Bluetooth receivers such as the BR13 and BTA30 Pro. So when we designed it, we didn't consider adding Bluetooth function, because our DAC/Amps, R7, and Bluetooth receivers all support Bluetooth reception.
However, many consumers hope that we can add the Bluetooth reception function so that they can use it even if they don't buy FIIO's desktop DAC/Amps or the R7.
Moreover, we hope to see how much the addition of Bluetooth input function will affect sales. This is the same principle as the K7 and K7 BT.
The SP3 BT is expected to be released in March.
2. SP5
The SP3 is positioned to form the best sound quality and space solution with the R7. Although with the same size (desktop space), the SP3 has its own advantages in sound quality compared with foreign brands, it has an advantage in offer price. However, the sound quality of the speaker (especially in terms of low frequency, dynamics, and maximum THD+N) is still significantly affected by the diaphragm diameter and size of the speaker.
Therefore, the positioning of the SP5 is one level higher than the SP3, and it is still truly independent-driven (both left and right speakers have built-in amplifiers). The appearance is basically an enlarged version of the SP3, and aluminum alloy die-casting technology is still applied.
At present, the SP5 is still in the tuning stage, and we expect it to be released in June.
3. SP1
Looking at the model number, you may know that the SP1 is the entry-level model of FIIO speakers. However, according to the appearance style, we may not necessarily call it SP1, since it looks unlike the SP3 and SP5.
As an entry-level model, the biggest difference is that it will use much lower-cost wooden cabinets (in fact, we are reluctant to make a wooden cabinet series, because it will definitely compete with Edifier).
At present, the appearance design has not been finalized so far. After all, it is challenging to control costs, while making them different and recognizable.
So, at that time, we will introduce some of the solutions that we are satisfied with for you to decide.
Therefore, it is still difficult to determine the release time of the SP1.
In general, FIIO's purpose in making speakers is not to make money, but to create a HiFi desktop system.
Our senior fans might know that FIIO's first product was a small speaker. Later, we stumbled into the unfamiliar territory of the HiFi headphone market. Therefore, we still have a deep understanding of technology and the market for speakers.
In short, in the low-end market, domestic brands like Edifier, have already dominated the market with their advantages in quantity and supply chain, squeezing out any profit margins.
In the high-end market, foreign brands have their brand advantage. After all, they've been in the industry for so many years. Not to mention the technology and sound quality, the market itself is not large. Let alone new brands, even Edifier has not won.
So why did FIIO release the active speaker SP3 in 2023? This goes back to FIIO's product concept of the FIIO HiFi Desktop System. We found that many users of FIIO DAC/Amps use them for both headphones and speakers. Therefore, considering the system configuration and ecological needs, we decided to create a desktop HiFi system for FIIO users, so that these products can be better matched in appearance, functionality, and sound quality.
In 2024, FIIO's speakers will continue to make up for deficiencies, and the two delayed speakers will be produced. If possible, we will also make a more cost-effective entry-level model, the SP1. Below is a brief introduction:
1. SP3 BT
This is to add the Bluetooth reception function to the SP3. The SP3 was originally intended to be paired with FIIO's desktop DAC/Amps or the all-in-one unit R7, as well as FIIO's Bluetooth receivers such as the BR13 and BTA30 Pro. So when we designed it, we didn't consider adding Bluetooth function, because our DAC/Amps, R7, and Bluetooth receivers all support Bluetooth reception.
However, many consumers hope that we can add the Bluetooth reception function so that they can use it even if they don't buy FIIO's desktop DAC/Amps or the R7.
Moreover, we hope to see how much the addition of Bluetooth input function will affect sales. This is the same principle as the K7 and K7 BT.
The SP3 BT is expected to be released in March.
2. SP5
The SP3 is positioned to form the best sound quality and space solution with the R7. Although with the same size (desktop space), the SP3 has its own advantages in sound quality compared with foreign brands, it has an advantage in offer price. However, the sound quality of the speaker (especially in terms of low frequency, dynamics, and maximum THD+N) is still significantly affected by the diaphragm diameter and size of the speaker.
Therefore, the positioning of the SP5 is one level higher than the SP3, and it is still truly independent-driven (both left and right speakers have built-in amplifiers). The appearance is basically an enlarged version of the SP3, and aluminum alloy die-casting technology is still applied.
At present, the SP5 is still in the tuning stage, and we expect it to be released in June.
3. SP1
Looking at the model number, you may know that the SP1 is the entry-level model of FIIO speakers. However, according to the appearance style, we may not necessarily call it SP1, since it looks unlike the SP3 and SP5.
As an entry-level model, the biggest difference is that it will use much lower-cost wooden cabinets (in fact, we are reluctant to make a wooden cabinet series, because it will definitely compete with Edifier).
At present, the appearance design has not been finalized so far. After all, it is challenging to control costs, while making them different and recognizable.
So, at that time, we will introduce some of the solutions that we are satisfied with for you to decide.
Therefore, it is still difficult to determine the release time of the SP1.
In general, FIIO's purpose in making speakers is not to make money, but to create a HiFi desktop system.
(12) DD BA Hybrid and DD BA Electrostatic Tribrid In-Ear Monitors
The dynamic and BA hybrid in-ear monitors (IEMs) have always been FIIO's main product line for IEMs, bringing high reputation to FIIO's IEMs. For instance, the flagship hybrid IEM FH9 has received strong recommendations and recognition from audiophiles for its sound quality, craftsmanship, configuration, and build quality. It has been selling well so far, which is not easy considering the half-year iteration cycle of domestic earphones.
However, nothing lasts forever. There should be some changes in 2024, especially the much-anticipated upgraded version of FH9, the FH19, as introduced below.
1. FH19
This is the successor to the FH9, expected to be released around July. The FH19 has undergone significant changes in appearance design with improvements in wearing experience. In particular, the appearance identification has been enhanced, giving it a more masculine look. Of course, the focus is still on the sound quality, mainly improving some aspects based on the feedback of the FH9, striving to take it to the next level based on the FH9.
2. FX17
The FX17 can be considered as the flagship model of FIIO's DD+BA+electrostatic tribrid IEMs, representing our further exploration of this category. And the price will be higher.
Our personal opinion on DD+BA+electrostatic tribrid structure depends on how many users have highly sensitive hearing (commonly known as "golden ears").
This is because the effective operating frequency range of the added electrostatic driver is mostly above 15kHz, while the upper limit of hearing frequency for most people is around 16kHz.
In the early days, there were quite a lot of tribrid IEMs, which were mostly driven by the trend of new products, resulting in fewer purchases later on. Moreover, the price of electrostatic drivers was also very high at that time. Now that the cost of electrostatic drivers has decreased, and consumers have become more rational. We have received some feedback from the FX15 users. So, we are exploring whether we can make some technological improvements to make tribrid IEMs more mature, allowing consumers to experience the development of acoustic technology and the sense of atmosphere brought by ultra-high and super-high frequencies.
In addition to the above two new products, we will continue to produce and sell other hybrid IEMs, including:
JH3 and JH5 from JadeAudio (FIIO's subsidiary brand).
Under the sub-brand "FIIO": FH1S, FH11, FH3, FH15, FH7S and FX15.
We have to apologize for that as some models are selling well. Therefore, there are situations where old and new generations are sold simultaneously, such as the FH1S and FH11. Also, although the FH3 has been selling for three years, its sales are still good, and the FH1S has been selling for four years. They are indeed aging gracefully. Some users always say that domestic brands release new products too quickly, but it's not entirely true.
Different environments create different markets. The FH1S and FH3 are currently mainly sold in foreign countries. As long as they are classic enough, they have enough vitality. If no one buys them in the market, what's the point of the manufacturer sticking to the old models without upgrading?
The dynamic and BA hybrid in-ear monitors (IEMs) have always been FIIO's main product line for IEMs, bringing high reputation to FIIO's IEMs. For instance, the flagship hybrid IEM FH9 has received strong recommendations and recognition from audiophiles for its sound quality, craftsmanship, configuration, and build quality. It has been selling well so far, which is not easy considering the half-year iteration cycle of domestic earphones.
However, nothing lasts forever. There should be some changes in 2024, especially the much-anticipated upgraded version of FH9, the FH19, as introduced below.
1. FH19
This is the successor to the FH9, expected to be released around July. The FH19 has undergone significant changes in appearance design with improvements in wearing experience. In particular, the appearance identification has been enhanced, giving it a more masculine look. Of course, the focus is still on the sound quality, mainly improving some aspects based on the feedback of the FH9, striving to take it to the next level based on the FH9.
2. FX17
The FX17 can be considered as the flagship model of FIIO's DD+BA+electrostatic tribrid IEMs, representing our further exploration of this category. And the price will be higher.
Our personal opinion on DD+BA+electrostatic tribrid structure depends on how many users have highly sensitive hearing (commonly known as "golden ears").
This is because the effective operating frequency range of the added electrostatic driver is mostly above 15kHz, while the upper limit of hearing frequency for most people is around 16kHz.
In the early days, there were quite a lot of tribrid IEMs, which were mostly driven by the trend of new products, resulting in fewer purchases later on. Moreover, the price of electrostatic drivers was also very high at that time. Now that the cost of electrostatic drivers has decreased, and consumers have become more rational. We have received some feedback from the FX15 users. So, we are exploring whether we can make some technological improvements to make tribrid IEMs more mature, allowing consumers to experience the development of acoustic technology and the sense of atmosphere brought by ultra-high and super-high frequencies.
In addition to the above two new products, we will continue to produce and sell other hybrid IEMs, including:
JH3 and JH5 from JadeAudio (FIIO's subsidiary brand).
Under the sub-brand "FIIO": FH1S, FH11, FH3, FH15, FH7S and FX15.
We have to apologize for that as some models are selling well. Therefore, there are situations where old and new generations are sold simultaneously, such as the FH1S and FH11. Also, although the FH3 has been selling for three years, its sales are still good, and the FH1S has been selling for four years. They are indeed aging gracefully. Some users always say that domestic brands release new products too quickly, but it's not entirely true.
Different environments create different markets. The FH1S and FH3 are currently mainly sold in foreign countries. As long as they are classic enough, they have enough vitality. If no one buys them in the market, what's the point of the manufacturer sticking to the old models without upgrading?
frkasper
100+ Head-Fier
Great news, FiiO. I look forward to the FH19.
I truly hope the feedback received is not related to the midbass. The thick midbass is what set FiiO IEMs apart from the other thin/shouty sounding products out there.
Please, FiiO, write this down somewhere: clean midrange is boring midrange. But still, should you decide to take this path, I already got myself covered.
jeromeoflaherty
New Head-Fier
While I do like the SP3 I do think the lack of a subwoofer output port greatly reduced its appeal to lots of people. Are you thinking of adding an optional subwoofer port to the SP5 so that the lower bass / sub-bass can be handled by a dedicated subwoofer?
mcnaugha
100+ Head-Fier
They’re saying BT11 is LDAC only.It's coming and I look forward to it.
Wait...
Is BT11 its name? It's always easier from the future.
Waiting for SP5 for a year, I decided that would be my first hifi speakers
@FiiO
Wonderful new earphones but what we really need is a flagship single DD one.
Come on, bring us the FD19.
Wonderful new earphones but what we really need is a flagship single DD one.
Come on, bring us the FD19.
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@FiiO are you planning to show FD15 at CanJam NYC next month?
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