Sound Quality
The FT3 is a 32Ω headphone, and compared to the 350Ω version, it’s much easier to drive. So a reasonably powerful system is sufficient to fully utilize the character and performance of the FT3 32 Ohm.
The FiiO FT3 32 Ohm is a warm and smooth-sounding headphone with nice resolution and a full-bodied musical presentation, with good dynamics and good imaging. It has a coherent signature with a good sense of warmth and immersive performance. Compared to the 350 Ohm, it’s less clean sounding with a touch less clarity, but the easier driveability makes it an appealing choice for starter audiophiles.
Bass
When it comes to bass performance, it’s important to choose the right earpads to achieve the desired bass response here. The difference in presentation between the two earpad materials is significant. In my experience, I’ve found that leather earpads are my preferred choice, just like with the 350 Ohm version.
The suede earpads provide a deep, impactful bass that recovers well. The mid-bass body is good and the sub-bass rumbles when needed. The bass has great punch, texture, and resolution. However, if you’re looking for a tighter bass with better PRaT and quicker recovery, the leather earpads are a better choice. They offer better depth, quick recovery, and although the impact and rumble are lesser, the decay is good. The texture of the bass is slightly reduced, but overall, the leather earpads provide a more balanced and detailed sound.
In general, the FT3 32 Ohm has a good amount of bass, which makes it appealing to those who prefer a warm sound, especially with the use of suede pads. Its mid-bass performance is quite similar to the 350 Ohm version in particular, displaying good texture and definition.
Although the 32-ohm version offers a more impactful bass with less powerful sources, there is still room for improvement in terms of its decay and clarity. While the bass is undeniably powerful, it lacks the quick decay and clarity that would elevate the overall audio experience. Additionally, the depth of the bass is somewhat limited, which can be improved upon.
Midrange
The midrange frequencies of the FT3 32 Ohm produce variations in sound depending on the type of ear pads once again. Opting for the suede ear pads yields a forward, warm, and definitive midrange that is clear and well-defined. The tonality is particularly likeable due to the natural and full-sounding midrange, which is both organic and rich.
The leather earpads seem to have an effect on the mids as they are slightly pushed back. However, the mid-range is still quite assertive and pronounced. In my opinion, this configuration has a positive impact on the soundstage, giving it a delightful natural, smooth, and fluid sound with excellent positioning. The vocals are particularly impressive, with distinct definition and a rich, pleasing timbre. Nevertheless, there are times when the instruments and vocals can seem a tad too loud and aggressive. Overall, the sound quality is very lively and realistic, with commendable tonal accuracy. The vocals are especially noteworthy, as they sound breathy and charming.
Although the clarity and transparency may not be exceptional, it’s important to consider the price range. Nonetheless, the mid-range is easy to listen to and offers a good body and definition. Overall, it’s a solid option in its price bracket if you like warm and forward mids, but the technical performance here isn’t groundbreaking.
Treble
The treble presentation of the 32 Ohm version differs from the 350-ohm version. It can be described as relaxed yet rolled off. The treble is reproduced in a smooth manner, lacking any harshness or sharpness. While some listeners may appreciate the lack of sharpness, others may find the treble presentation lacking in detail and clarity. Nonetheless, the overall sound signature remains pleasing and enjoyable.
The suede pads provide a smooth, forgiving and inoffensive higher treble range. Leather pads enhance treble and consistency with nice extension, but it’s not exceptional at all. If you like your treble crisp, but effortless, the FT3 350 Ohm gives you that, but the 32 Ohm version has a treble that is too thick and smooth, so it lacks the clarity of the 350 Ohm, which itself isn’t spectacular either. So the treble doesn’t have a very good resolution.
The treble transparency of the 350 Ohm is better than this one, with a natural, realistic delivery and more definition, together with good resolution.
Page 1: Info, Package, Design, Build, Comfort
Page 3: Technical Performance, Comparisons, Conclusion
