The Fiio FP3 is one of those IEMs that sneak up on you. At first glance, it seems like just another entry in a crowded market, but once you hit play, it opens up a whole new world of sound. With a spacious soundstage, natural warmth, and clear imaging, it’s designed to handle everything from soulful acoustic tracks to bass-heavy electronic beats. What makes it even more exciting is how adaptable it is—pair it with different sources or cables, and it transforms into something completely fresh. Let’s dive in and see what makes the FP3 such an engaging companion for all kinds of music.
Unboxing & Build Quality
Let’s be real—Fiio always knows how to nail that unboxing experience. The FP3 is no different. The packaging is clean and straightforward, nothing too flashy but still feels like you’re getting something special. When I first held these IEMs, the smooth matte finish caught my attention.
They feel sturdy and well-made, but the real win here is the fit. Once they’re in, they just stay put, no annoying shifting around. Plus, with all the included ear tips, it’s easy to find the perfect fit for that sweet seal you need. However, you won’t be finding more. Don’t be surprised lol.
Sound Technical Details
Now, let’s get into what really matters—the sound. The FP3 nails that sweet spot between warmth and clarity. There’s this analog-like warmth in the mids that’s just super inviting, especially when you turn up the volume a bit. It’s like Fiio found a way to blend the precision of digital audio with the soul of live music. The highs? They’ve got that nice sparkle without making your ears ring, though there’s a hint of metallic shimmer at the very top. But to me, that just adds a bit of character.
What really caught me off guard was how the FP3 handles those complex tracks that usually turn into a mess of sounds. Instruments are clearly spaced out; you’re not just getting left and right separation, but also this sense of depth that makes everything feel more… real.
Bass___
Alright, let’s talk bass. The FP3 doesn’t try to blow your eardrums out, but when the track demands it, it delivers. I tested it with Knife Party’s “Centipede,” and let me tell you, that bass drop was just right—not too boomy, not too shy. It’s got that punch that makes your head bob without getting sloppy. Sub-bass reaches low enough to keep bass-heavy tracks satisfying but never overwhelms the rest of the music.
Switching to “House of the Rising Sun,” I was impressed by how controlled the bass stayed. No bloated thump that drowns out everything else. It really shows that the FP3 knows when to show restraint, letting the vocals and guitars shine through.
Midrange___
Here’s where the FP3 really shows off. The mids are where it’s at—open, full, and just beautifully clear. Listening to Pink Floyd’s “High Hopes,” I could almost feel David Gilmour’s voice surrounding me. And those church bells? I actually got chills. It’s like you can almost see the band playing in front of you.
Then there’s Pinetop Perkins’ “Boogie Woogie.” The piano keys dance around, and the rhythm is just so crisp. It’s the kind of clarity that keeps you hooked. Yet, the FP3 still manages to stay laid-back enough that you can listen for hours without getting tired, even when things get intense.
Treble___
The highs on the FP3 walk that tricky line between being detailed and ear-piercing, and somehow, they get it right. I used Toto’s “Africa” as my test track here. Those brass (off the synth ofc) sections come in clear and bright without making me disappinted. It’s got that crispness without going overboard. Sure, there’s a tiny hint of metallic sheen if you really focus, but honestly, it’s more like an extra layer of character rather than a flaw.
When I played Donald Fagen’s “Morph the Cat,” I could really appreciate the FP3’s dynamic range. But when the chorus gets busier, I did notice the vocals slipping into the background a bit. That’s where the Letshuoer S12 pulls ahead with its sharper treble control, but for me, the FP3’s smoother, more relaxed highs are perfect for those longer listening sessions.
Comparison with Letshuoer S12_
I paired the FP3 with my HiBy R4, and at around 32/100 volume, it hit a sweet spot—plenty loud without any distortion creeping in. Compared to the S12, the FP3 takes a more upfront, in-your-face approach, especially with the mids and bass. The S12 leans back a bit, focusing more on detail and resolution, but sometimes at the cost of that engaging, full-bodied sound that the FP3 brings.
When I threw on Victor Wooten’s “Classical Thump,” I could easily pick out each bassist, almost like they were jamming right there in my living room. The FP3 isn’t laser-precise in its imaging, but it’s more than good enough to catch the nuances. The S12 might win on raw clarity, but the FP3 delivers a fuller, warmer sound that’s just more fun to listen to.
Pros:
• Wide, spacious soundstage with great instrument separation
• Warm, inviting midrange that really brings vocals to life
• Balanced, deep bass that doesn’t overwhelm
• Smooth highs that manage to stay detailed without fatigue
• Super comfortable fit for long sessions
Cons:
• Slight metallic sheen in the upper treble could bug some listeners
• Can get a bit congested on super busy tracks
• S12 has a slight edge in resolution and precision
Fiio FP3 Review First Conclusions
At the end of the day, the Fiio FP3 has been a real pleasure to listen to. It’s not just about checking all the boxes—it’s about the kind of listening experience that makes you want to keep coming back. Whether you’re spinning some classic rock, diving into blues, or losing yourself in electronic beats, the FP3 somehow manages to bring out the best in each genre. Sure, it’s not perfect, but the slight quirks only add to its charm.
If you’re looking for that sweet balance between detail and musicality, this is one IEM you’ll definitely want to check out. And hey, stay tuned—more comparisons with the S12 and other gear are coming up. There’s plenty more to explore!
Fun Listening_
Sometimes, you just want to sit back and enjoy the music without dissecting every detail. In one session, I used the R1 as my source, and while it was decent, the switch to the R4 made everything come alive.
The bass felt stronger, more impactful, and the overall playback became noticeably warmer and more engaging. It was the kind of listening experience where you find yourself nodding along, completely immersed. The R4 gave the FP3 a more intimate, fun character that made every track feel like a private concert.
Cable Effects_
Everything in the earlier sections was tested with the stock cable using a single-ended (SE) connection. But of course, curiosity got the better of me, and I had to try a couple of aftermarket cables to see how far the FP3 could go.
Effect Audio Ares S
The Ares S is a cable that instantly transforms the sound, infusing it with warmth and life. Right from the first listen, it was clear that the lower frequencies were noticeably improved. The bass gained more weight and authority, making it feel fuller and more grounded. On bass-heavy tracks like Knife Party’s “Centipede,” the energy of the basslines took the rhythm to a whole new level, adding a layer of excitement without overwhelming the other frequencies.
But this isn’t just a cable for bass lovers. Its warmth also enhances the midrange, especially vocals and acoustic instruments. For example, in Pink Floyd’s “High Hopes,” Gilmour’s vocals felt more intimate, like he was right there on stage. The Ares S didn’t alter the treble much, so you won’t notice dramatic changes in the higher frequencies. However, the overall tonality felt smoother, warmer, and more enjoyable. If you’re someone who enjoys a touch of richness and depth in your music, the Ares S is a fantastic match for the FP3.
Effect Audio Ares S II
The Ares S II builds on everything great about the Ares S and pushes it even further. It retains that signature warmth but adds a level of refinement and richness that elevates the FP3’s performance significantly. Listening to Victor Wooten’s “Classical Thump,” I was struck by how much more distinct and textured the bass guitars sounded. Each note was clear and articulate, with a sense of space that felt almost tangible. The Ares S II improved the FP3’s soundstage, making every instrument feel like it had its own space to breathe.
Another standout quality of the Ares S II was its ability to enhance dynamics. In Donald Fagen’s “Morph the Cat,” complex chorus sections remained cohesive, with the vocals maintaining their clarity and prominence. Even in dense musical passages, the Ares S II helped the FP3 stay composed, allowing me to appreciate every detail without feeling overwhelmed. If you’re after a cable that offers both detail and warmth, the Ares S II delivers a rich, textured sound that doesn’t compromise on musicality.
DAP Effects
HiBy R4__
Most of my initial impressions were based on the R4 as the source. It’s a reliable companion for the FP3, striking a balance between power and musicality. With the R4, the FP3 sounded lively and engaging, especially in tracks with strong basslines or intricate instrumentals. It provided enough detail and warmth to make long listening sessions enjoyable without fatigue.
Cayin N8ii__
Switching to the Cayin N8ii was like opening a door to a whole new level of performance. Compared to the R4, the N8ii felt like an entirely different beast, bringing out the full potential of the FP3. The planar drivers in the FP3 seemed to thrive with the clean, raw power of the N8ii, delivering a combination of technical precision and musicality that was breathtaking. Even without engaging the tube mode, the 3D imaging was stunning.
On Pink Floyd’s “High Hopes,” the N8ii produced one of the most refined and immersive performances I’ve experienced. Vocals were rich, instruments were precisely placed, and the atmosphere was absolutely captivating. When I switched to dubstep tracks, the bass became a thrilling force—hitting hard but with incredible control and finesse. Everything felt high-resolution, from the deepest bass drops to the crispest highs. The N8ii and FP3 pairing is, without a doubt, a match made in audiophile heaven.
The Final Fiio FP3 Review Conclusion
The Fiio FP3 isn’t just another IEM—it’s a tool for rediscovering your favorite music. It has this wonderful ability to adapt and grow depending on how you pair it. With the HiBy R4, it delivers a warm, engaging sound that’s easy to love and perfect for hours of uninterrupted listening. But when you connect it to a powerhouse like the Cayin N8ii, the FP3 really comes alive. The soundstage expands, the imaging sharpens, and every note feels more lifelike. Even dubstep tracks like “Centipede” take on an energy that’s hard to match.
Then there’s the magic of cable swapping. The Ares S brings out a deeper, richer bass, making the FP3 feel fuller and more dynamic, while the Ares S II takes things a step further, adding clarity and texture to every note. It’s like tuning the IEM to your own personal preferences without losing its core musicality.
Of course, it’s not perfect. In dense, busy tracks, there’s a slight tendency for things to get congested, but this is more of a nitpick than a dealbreaker. What stands out is its versatility. Whether you’re a casual listener looking for an upgrade or an audiophile experimenting with setups, the FP3 is a solid choice that won’t disappoint
