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Review cover FiiO FF3S (Hardware)
Official GBAtemp Review

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Audio specialist FiiO just launched the FF3S earphones. Do they sound any good?

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After trying out their over-ear headphones, the FT3, I was curious to see what FiiO had to offer in terms of more pocketable earphones. The company’s latest addition in this range is the FF3S, a revamped version of the FF3. Costing €110 on the official AliExpress store at the time of writing, it comes with the following items:

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Specs of the FiiO FF3S can be found below:

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As with other FiiO products, the FF3S packs a premium build quality. The aluminium shell of the earpieces ensure that they are sturdy and the matte finish endows them with a nice look and finish while making them lightweight. 

Of note, each earpiece’s cable is detachable, which is a rather uncommon feature of earphones. But then again, these are not common earphones but €110 ones. Having detachable cables is a very welcome feature as it enables replacement in case of damage or to swap with cables of different materials easier. Also swappable is the plug. The default 3.5mm plug can be unscrewed and swapped with an included 4.4mm one, further catering to a wider range of uses and repairability.

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While in use, the FF3S reflects FiiO’s audio expertise. The large 14.2mm dynamic driver outputs a clear soundscape, with textured bass, balanced mid and treble that combine to make subtle audio cues discernible. The audio quality is also enhanced thanks to the combination of a beryllium-plated dome and PU gasket dynamic driver. 

It’s an adequate companion for listening to your playlists on a dedicated audio player like the FiiO M15S or to enjoy gaming soundtracks on a handheld like the AYANEO Pocket Air. The latter has been my main use case for the FF3S thanks to its portability and the included velcro strap helps keep the cable from tangling while stored in my bag or pocket. 

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While the FF3S won’t disappoint in terms of audio, there are some areas where FiiO could still improve. As with the FT3, comfort could be improved. Even if the FF3S comes with a range of different covers for the earpieces, they are not that comfortable, Comfort would be enhanced if they were more padded, allowing them to be used for longer stretches. Another aspect that could be improved is with in-line controls. This might be up to personal preferences but I prefer being able to control at least the volume from the earpiece, rather than having to reach out to the source device.

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Even if the FiiO FF3S is a pricey pair of earphones, it will definitely appeal to audiophiles and those looking for a pair of high quality, durable and pocketable earphones. It could be improved in terms of comfort but the high quality audio output and replaceable components help set it apart.

Verdict

What We Liked ...
  • High quality audio output
  • Build quality
  • Detachable cable and plug
What We Didn't Like ...
  • Covers could be more padded
  • No in-line controls
7.5
out of 10

Overall

The FiiO FF3S is a small but mighty pair of earphones with replaceable components that delivers high quality audio but could be improved in terms of comfort.
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Reactions: CoolMe
PaBo
seriously, these are absolutely disqualified for the price to performance ratio.
only dynamic drivers? seriously?

the competition delivers combinations of at least balanced armatures, electrostatic or planar magnetic drivers at this price range.

quite the disappointment for a company that is expected to deliver hi-res and high-end audio gear...
 
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