So this is FiiO FB1, FiiO’s latest IEM with Bluetooth capabilities. Inside the box, we find a small carrying pouch, the IEM itself, and besides some paperwork, the extra bundled different type of ear tips and ear hooks. Yes ear hooks, with different size, dedicated for sports activities, to give more secure fit and comfort. I find the biggest hook for me the best option, it feels really good, no ear fatigue, and fits firmly without worrying to fall out. Perfect for running or similar activities! Speaking of design this IEM is inspired by the famous Devialet Phantom Gold, it is nowhere mentioned by FiiO, but I’m pretty sure about it!
Battery life
Besides these additional accessories, we get a small micro USB cable for charging. The full charging takes around 2 hours, where the battery life is promised at an almost standard 8 hours of constant music listening. This battery life is quite accurate, at moderate volume level, I was able to reach 7:30 hours.
Technology
The built-in Bluetooth 4.1 module promises a fair distance, at around 10 meters, which is also accurate. The Qualcomm aptX support gives the option to provide better audio quality over Bluetooth, which is a huge deal. Sadly since its a Qualcomm exclusive technology, it is not supported by Apple devices. One more thing to mention and worth to talk about is the delays during video watching. There’s none, so you don’t have to worry about watching YouTube, or any other kind of movie from your smartphone, you will have zero delays, no lipsync issue. Oh and no issue during gaming as well! Huge thumbs up for that!
Sound Quality
Now let’s talk about the sound quality. Should I say surprisingly it sounds pretty good? It is a FiiO product, so obviously quality is a priority, but usually wireless audio is not always famous about the good soundstage. Well, the Fiio FB1 is really that good. Bass is just right, highs are bright, but not too bright, so ear fatigue is not an issue, mids a bit weak, so we can see here an almost standard V shape, regards of the sound characteristic. Usually, I experience with almost every single Bluetooth unit a very low quiet hiss, during idle mode. Here we have the same experience, but with a more settled variant. Not disturbingly loud to annoy me, but worth to mention. During playback, you will notice none for sure.
Verdict
So, as for verdict, this is a Bluetooth IEM for 40 dollars. Is it worth it? Simply, yes. Not because I say so, but because it is really that good and worth every penny.
Specifications: | |
---|---|
Driver Type | 13mm Dynamic |
Bluetooth | Bluetooth 4.1 |
Bluetooth Protocol | aptX, AAC, SBC |
Battery life | ~8 hours |
Power supply | DC 5V 500mA |
Charging time | ~2 hours |