After asserting its expertise with its DAPs, DACs, in-ear monitors and headphones, FiiO is taking another step towards the pinnacle of high-fidelity audio with the FiiO FT7. These open-back headphones with planar technology promise an exceptional sound experience thanks to their ultra-thin 1μm diaphragm, enhanced by a multi-layer structure combining 24K gold and pure silver. Let’s discover this new ambassador of high-end headphones.
An extremely thin diaphragm
The new FiiO FT7 is the latest addition to the Asian manufacturer’s now comprehensive range of headphones. Aiming to rival the most cutting-edge references on the market (Audeze, HiFiMAN, Meze…), this model features a revolutionary 106mm planar transducer integrated into an open-back design. Its distinctive characteristic is the ultra-thin 1-micrometer diaphragm. FiiO points out that the difference between even a 2μm and a 1μm diaphragm results in a significant improvement in performance, notably in terms of response speed, high-frequency extension and microdynamics.
This ultra-thin profile allows the diaphragm to respond more quickly to signal variations, limiting inertia and reducing distortion. This results in a more lively soundstage, details that are more defined and a greater sense of space. To achieve this feat, FiiO uses a PET (polyethylene terephthalate) base, a material renowned for its exceptional mechanical properties. The membrane is coated with a layer of 24-carat gold and a layer of pure silver, creating an optimized hybrid structure.
Gold has very high conductivity and exceptional resistance to oxidation. Silver, on the other hand, remains nature’s best electrical conductor, guaranteeing a fast, precise response. By combining these two precious metals, FiiO optimizes both signal transmission and stability over time, while enhancing the headphones’ tonal richness.
A process inspired by semiconductors
To apply the gold and silver layers, FiiO uses nanometric processes usually reserved for semiconductors. Gold and silver trace material is transformed into ionized particles, which accumulate on the diaphragm by electrical attraction. This nanometric control ensures that the metal layer is deposited evenly, which is crucial for guaranteeing a uniform response across the entire membrane surface.
An ultra-uniform magnetic field
In addition to the diaphragm, FiiO has also worked on the design of the magnetic motor. The FT7 adopts a uniform-field magnetic structure, using magnets with rounded edges to avoid distortion due to flux irregularities. A constant magnetic field ensures more precise and symmetrical movement of the diaphragm, enhancing sound fidelity, particularly in the low and high frequencies.
With the FiiO FT7, the Chinese brand seems to have reached a milestone, definitively establishing itself as a key player in the hi-fi headphone market. With its ultra-thin diaphragm, gold/silver multilayer coating, uniform magnetic motor and open design, the FiiO FT7 headphones seem to have everything it takes to offer a refined, lively and highly accurate listening experience. They are due to arrive in France in the coming months, priced at around €800.
