The FiiO FA19 was kindly provided free of charge in exchange for an honest review. I didn’t receive monetary or any other kind of compensation and I don’t use affiliate links. The price of the FiiO FA19 is $999 and you can buy it from here.
FiiO FA19 / Technical highlights
The FA19 is FiiO’s flagship earphone, featuring a complete balanced armature design and is the successor to the renowned FiiO FA9. With a price tag of $999, the FA19 stands as FiiO’s most premium and expensive earphone, regardless of the configuration of its internal drivers.
The earphones feature a total of 10 high-performance balanced armature (BA) drivers on each side, sourced from Knowles. Specifically, they incorporate four custom-designed Knowles BA drivers to deliver a robust bass response, two Knowles ED midrange BA drivers for enhanced midrange clarity, and four Knowles SWFK BA drivers that ensure a smooth and detailed treble performance. This sophisticated 10-BA driver configuration is arranged by a combination of physical and electronic crossovers. The electronic crossover utilizes premium Rubycon audiophile-grade capacitors, featuring an impressively low error tolerance of just 0.1%.
The engineers have innovatively utilized 3D-printed ear shell technology to design a shell that directs strong lower-end energy into the rear cavity. This approach, referred to as negative feedback bass enhancement technology, significantly enhances lower-end performance. Additionally, the FiiO FA19 incorporates a precisely engineered mid-frequency notch filter, which improves midrange performance by reducing sibilance and ensuring a smooth transition into the high frequencies.
The FiiO FA19 features a two-way switch that enables users to select between two carefully calibrated tuning modes: HiFi Tuning and Monitor Tuning. The Monitor Tuning offers a clear and detailed audio experience, making it ideal for music production and editing, whereas the HiFi mode caters to audiophiles, delivering enhanced bass and midrange performance.
You can read everything about the FiiO FA19 here.
Design and wearing comfort
The FiiO FA19 shells are constructed from premium photosensitive resin, utilizing advanced DLP 3D printing technology. They are remarkably compact in design despite accommodating 10 drivers along with electronic components. Weighing only 7 grams each, the anatomically designed shells offer an exceptional level of comfort, providing a custom-like fit that minimizes stress during use. The sound nozzle features a shorter profile, and while the overall fit is somewhat shallow, the ear shells secure firmly in place, ensuring they do not dislodge easily. Additionally, passive noise isolation is notably effective, even with the small venting grill located at the back of each shell.
The build quality is exceptional, with the ear shells exhibiting flawless finishing and polishing. The elevated MMCX connectors are seamlessly incorporated into the main body. The design is notably minimalistic, characterized by a semi-transparent black finish on the main body of the ear shells, complemented by faceplates that showcase a silver, enigmatic line pattern.
The stock cable
The FA19 is equipped with a 1.2m cable, specifically FiiO’s LC-RD Pro 2022 model, which is also available for separate purchase. This premium cable is crafted from pure silver and features an 8-strand Litz construction. Each strand is composed of 28 individually insulated wires. The outer sheath is made from a transparent, eco-friendly TPU material that resists yellowing over time.
Additionally, the cable is designed with expanded MMCX connectors and includes a straight twist-lock swappable audio plug, with both 3.5mm and 4.4mm options provided in the package. Although the cable is thicker and heavier than typical models, it features exceptional craftsmanship, remaining flexible and easy to bend without tangling, while also minimizing microphonic noise.
The stock cable is truly exceptional but as per usual practice i also used pure silver cables by Lavricables which I value for their transparency.
Accessories
As per usual FiiO practice, the package includes a wealth of high quality accessories.
Power requirements
The FiiO FA19 features a low impedance of 10Ω and a sensitivity rating of 106dB/mW, making them easy to drive. However, they are also susceptible to source noise, so it is recommended to pair them with high-quality audio devices. For this review, I primarily utilized the FiiO M15S and iBasso DX260 digital audio players. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the source has an output impedance of no more than 1Ω, as higher impedances could adversely affect the frequency response of the FA19.
Listening impressions
The following listening impressions apply to the monitor mode.
The FiiO FA19 features a sound profile that is quite natural, characterized by a subtly enhanced bass, outstanding mid-range clarity, and a treble that is both smooth and lively. Its tuning is similar to that of the FiiO FX15, although there are some significant distinctions, which are detailed in the comparisons section.
The low-end features impressive sub-bass extension without excessive enhancement, accompanied by a subtly pronounced bass that transitions seamlessly into the mids, maintaining their clarity and presence. While I typically favor a more neutral bass response, the tuning of the FA19 is exceptionally executed, resulting in a pleasing low-end that offers excellent tonal accuracy and precision, making it well-suited for critical listening without any significant drawbacks.
The technical performance is truly remarkable, with layering, definition, and articulation that set a new standard. The bass is exceptionally tight and controlled, delivering energy and speed that match the demands of the music, all while maintaining superior clarity and transparency. Every instrument can be distinctly heard, even the faintest notes in the most complex symphonic compositions. While the bass may not be the most visceral or weighty, it strikes a balance that avoids being overly lean or sterile.
These custom balanced armature subwoofers excel in producing bass that is both resolving and refined, approaching the punchiness and impact typically associated with larger dynamic drivers. However, they do lack the natural reverb and decay found in dynamic drivers, which lends a more elastic and organic quality to the bass, making the FA19 sound slightly dry in comparison. In conclusion, the FA19 delivers exceptional bass performance that defies the usual expectations of balanced armature drivers.
More listening impressions
The mid-range of the FA19 is expertly tuned, offering a balanced sound profile that avoids any noticeable recession or the common emphasis found in the upper mid-range. This results in a vibrant sound that remains free from sharpness and sibilance. The tuning achieves an impressive level of accuracy, allowing the timbre to be experienced as both natural and realistic, with outstanding tonal balance and coherence among instruments and vocals.
The tonal precision is remarkable, enabling the FA19 to deliver an organic sound rich in colorful harmonies and lush overtones. It poses high resolution and refinement, steering clear of the artificiality often associated with lower-quality balanced armature drivers. The mid-range is both musical and engaging, featuring a mature and sophisticated tuning that enhances the listener’s connection to the music rather than drawing attention to itself.
The higher frequencies exhibit a natural quality, devoid of any metallic luster, artificial characteristics, or the typical balanced armature sound. The timbre is impressively realistic and lifelike, while the textures remain robust and well-defined, even as the frequencies ascend. The transition from low to mid to high frequencies is exceptionally smooth, showcasing top-tier coherence. The treble is smooth and free from noticeable peaks, yet it delivers fine detail without sounding harsh.
And more
While the FA19 may not be the most analytical or magnifying earphones available, it excels in detail retrieval, offering plenty of energy, outstanding clarity, and remarkable fidelity. Unlike other flagship models, the FA19 prioritizes smoothness and musicality, allowing these qualities to take precedence over analytical sharpness during music playback. Although the highs are impressive, they may not have the same striking presence as those found in the FiiO FX15, which might lead some users to prefer the latter or similar models that emphasize a more pronounced treble.
The soundstage is impressive, though it doesn’t quite reach the level of holographic immersion I had hoped for. Nevertheless, it offers a spacious and expansive quality that accommodates various music genres without any noticeable congestion. It particularly shines in terms of positioning accuracy and depth layering. The center image is well-defined, allowing the soundstage to extend outward, creating a sensation of being near the action. While the presentation isn’t overly intimate, it still gives the impression of being seated in the first few rows.
The HiFi tuning mode
The ON setting of the tuning switch activates the HiFi mode, which significantly boosts the bass, albeit at the cost of some clarity and definition. In this mode, the FA19 transforms into a bass-centric earphone, where the low frequencies slightly obscure the mids and highs. This tuning approach adds considerable coloration to the mid-bass, which can detract from tonal accuracy. Additionally, the treble response is subtly reduced, resulting in the FA19 sounding darker and warmer compared to the Monitor mode, with a less airy and vibrant treble.
While this tuning may lead to some compromises in bass control and overall technical performance, as well as a mild impact on transparency and timbral realism, it presents a compelling alternative that can enhance the listening experience for certain music genres, appealing to those who favor a bass-heavy sound profile.
Vs the FX15
The FX15, priced at $749, stands out in FiiO’s lineup as it is the sole model equipped with a tribrid driver configuration, which includes one dynamic driver (1DD), one balanced armature (1BA), and four electrostatic drivers. Both the FA19 and FX15 exhibit a similar design and form factor, ensuring that they are both remarkably comfortable and lightweight.
The FX15 features a more pronounced V-shaped tuning in contrast to the FA19 (Monitor mode), offering slightly enhanced sub-bass. The mids experience a subtle dip, which is followed by a gentle emphasis in the upper mid-range, while the treble stands out as vibrant and dynamic, capturing attention. The EST drivers deliver a more detailed and sophisticated treble with refined, airy textures, resulting in an overall brighter and sharper sound profile compared to the FA19. Although the dynamic driver in the FX15 provides a more impactful and substantial bass experience, it lags slightly behind the FA19 in terms of overall technical performance and clarity.
Vs the FiiO FH19
The FH19, priced at $599, represents FiiO’s premier offering in the hybrid driver segment. It features dual 13.7mm dynamic drivers arranged in a push-pull setup, complemented by six balanced armature drivers that manage the remaining frequency range. The ear-shells are constructed from a titanium and aluminum blend, providing a compact and lightweight design; however, they do not quite achieve the same level of comfort as the FA19.
These two earphones exhibit a comparable tuning style, yet they present some significant distinctions in their sound signature and overall technical capabilities. The FH19 features a slightly more mid-bass emphasis compared to the FA19 (in monitor mode), while still maintaining a neutral tuning with excellent sub-bass extension and no overwhelming emphasis. The primary distinction lies in the FH19’s ability to deliver a more powerful and impactful sound, characterized by richer and more textured bass.
The bass response is substantial and highly dynamic; although it is not overly pronounced and does not overshadow other frequencies, it possesses a captivating quality that draws the listener’s attention across various music genres. Conversely, the FA19 shines in terms of technical performance and clarity, but it lacks the natural reverb found in the FH19’s bass, resulting in a less elastic and somewhat drier sound.
Further comparison
The mid-range frequencies are slightly more pronounced in this model, featuring additional emphasis in the upper mid-range, resulting in a more vibrant and engaging sound profile that remains smooth and non-fatiguing. The treble characteristics are largely comparable, though the FH19 may exhibit a touch more sharpness and brightness compared to the FA19.
Users can also customize the FH19’s sound by selecting treble or bass sound tubes instead of the standard balanced ones. The FH19 offers a more immersive experience with enhanced ambiance, akin to being seated a few rows further back from the stage. However, the FiiO FA19 excels in imaging accuracy and layering, providing superior positional cues.
In the realm of critical listening, I believe the FA19 justifies the additional cost due to its more neutral tuning and superior technical performance. However, the FH19 offers a more enjoyable and entertaining sound, making it better suited for casual listening.
In the end
The FiiO FA19 earphones deliver outstanding audio performance, featuring a comprehensive balanced armature configuration that merges top-tier technical capabilities with a natural and well-rounded sound profile, making them ideal for both casual listeners and audiophiles. This flagship model excels across various music genres, appealing to a wide range of listeners.
Additionally, the earphones are remarkably comfortable, a quality not always found in multi-driver designs, and they feature exceptional craftsmanship along with a generous selection of accessories. Priced at $999, the FiiO FA19 offers remarkable value, making it a highly recommended choice for anyone seeking a premium earphone experience without any notable drawbacks.
Copyright – Petros Laskis 2024.
+ Exceptional sound performance
+ Even and balanced tuning
+ Excellent bass technicalities
+ Mid-range coherency
+ Lively but smooth treble
+ Natural and realistic timbre
+ Stellar resolution and refinement
+ Suitable for both casual and critical listening
+ Great positioning accuracy
+ Two tuning modes
+ High quality modular cable
+ Luxurious carrying case and plenty of ear-tips
- The bass is not as visceral and impactful as with the best dynamic drivers
- Not the most holographic soundstage
- The HiFi tuning mode is too bass focused
- Slightly heavy cable
Leave a comment