To reach a broader audience and tackle limitations of its original FT3 headphones, FiiO has introduced a new variant, the FT3 32Ω Edition. This updated version brings several enhancements aimed at significantly improving the user experience, particularly for individuals using lower-powered audio devices.
Reduced Impedance for Enhanced Experience
The key feature of the FT3 32Ω Edition is its decreased impedance, addressing a common user concern with the original FT3 headphones. Initially sporting a 350-ohm impedance, the FT3 faced compatibility issues with lower-powered Digital Audio Players (DAPs) or smartphones, demanding more power to drive, potentially deterring some buyers.
FiiO responded to this feedback by crafting the FT3 32Ω Edition with a substantially lower impedance of 32 ohms. This impedance reduction is a remarkable achievement, especially considering the driver size remaining at an impressive 60mm. The shift in driver diaphragm material plays a crucial role in this adjustment, with the new model utilizing an LCP aluminium-plated and aluminium metal composite diaphragm instead of the original's diamond-like carbon (DLC) diaphragm with a beryllium-coated gasket. This alteration ensures easier drivability, even with less potent equipment, while maintaining the renowned audio quality associated with FiiO.
Sensitivity Enhancement and Cable Upgrade
In addition to the lowered impedance, the FT3 32Ω Edition witnesses a slight sensitivity boost, now at 110dB (1Vrms) @1kHz. This heightened sensitivity furthers the ease of driving these headphones with lower-powered devices, guaranteeing crisp and clear audio output even at reduced power inputs.
The cable has also undergone a transformation. Initially equipped with a 3m Furukawa Monocrystalline Copper cable, the FT3 now adopts a 1.5m 392 wire high-purity silver-plated monocrystalline copper cable due to the discontinuation of the former cable. This change not only signifies a pragmatic adjustment but also a quality upgrade, promising superior audio transmission.
Unchanging Accessory Package
The accessory bundle remains consistent between the original FT3 and the FT3 32Ω Edition. Users will discover interchangeable connector plugs for 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced terminations, a 6.35mm single-ended adapter, and an XLR-4 balanced adapter in the package. Furthermore, two sets of ear pads (leather and suede) and the same hard-sided leather storage case are included. This uniformity in accessories underscores FiiO's dedication to delivering a top-tier user experience throughout its headphone range.
Final Thoughts
The FiiO FT3 32Ω Edition exemplifies FiiO’s receptiveness to user input and its relentless pursuit of excellence. Priced at £289/ €299 RRP, this new offering is now available for purchase, expanding the headphones' appeal and solidifying FiiO’s standing in the high-fidelity audio market.
Sources:
- StereoNET UK Article
- The Ear Article
