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FiiO SP5
FiiO is expanding its range of active desktop speakers with the SP5, a pair of nearfield monitors aimed at users looking for something more substantial than typical computer speakers. This is a product designed not only as a desk-based work tool, but also as a compact listening system for music in a domestic setting. Even the way FiiO presents the model makes it clear that this is not meant to be another basic speaker set placed next to a monitor, but an attempt to combine studio-style functionality with a sound that should appeal to demanding listeners.
The SP5 is a two-way active design built around a 5.25-inch composite-fibre woofer and a 1-inch silk soft-dome tweeter. FiiO states that each driver is given its own amplification channel, with a four-way active arrangement rated at 60 W x 2 plus 20 W x 2, which is intended to improve control, reduce distortion and allow more precise tuning of the whole system. In the company's own wording, the SP5 is supposed to combine 'studio precision' with a more emotionally engaging musical presentation, which places it in a category that increasingly tries to bridge the gap between traditional nearfield monitors and compact hi-fi speakers.
From a construction point of view, this is a considerably more ambitious design than most consumer desktop speakers. The cabinets are made from die-cast aluminium, which according to FiiO is intended to improve rigidity and suppress unwanted resonances. The company also points to the acoustic architecture itself, including a rear horn-shaped bass reflex port, as part of an effort to achieve a broad frequency range, convincing dynamics and precise stereo imaging. That is an important distinction, because the SP5 is being marketed not simply as a visually attractive desktop accessory, but as a serious active monitor for people who genuinely want to listen to music on it rather than just use it as background sound.
The new model is also designed to be fairly versatile in the way it can be connected and used. Available inputs include XLR, RCA and AUX, alongside Bluetooth 5.1. FiiO lists support for high-resolution wireless codecs including LDAC and aptX Adaptive, while some retail listings also mention aptX HD. Support for the FiiO Control app is included as well, with features such as a 10-band PEQ, which makes the SP5 more flexible in mixed desktop, hi-fi and light studio applications.
FiiO also highlights the ability to adjust the sound balance. The user can choose treble settings of -2, 0 and +2 dB, bass settings of 0, +3 and +6 dB, and low-frequency extension modes reaching either 50 Hz or 60 Hz. The standard frequency response is given as 65 Hz to 20 kHz, extending to 50 Hz with the bass extension function engaged. These options make it clear that the SP5 is not aimed solely at audio engineers or music producers, but also at desktop hi-fi users who want some freedom to tailor the sound to their room, speaker placement and personal taste. The FiiO SP5 is available as a pair in black or white. Current pricing appears to vary slightly by market, but the launch price is £719/$749/€819 per pair. Info and photos by FiiO.
