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FiiO EH13
FiiO has introduced the EH13, a pair of wireless over-ear headphones that look like an attempt to bring several typically audiophile features into a very affordable part of the market. The specification includes LDAC codec support, Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio Wireless certification, active noise cancellation, Bluetooth 6.0, app-based sound settings, wired operation and battery life of up to 75 hours. Not long ago, a list like that in headphones this inexpensive would have sounded like a wishful forum post, but FiiO clearly wants to show that even an entry-level model can receive features normally associated with more expensive designs.
This is an interesting move, because FiiO built much of its reputation among more aware listeners - people who know what a portable audio player is, what an external DAC does, why balanced headphone outputs exist and why codec support still matters. The EH13, however, reaches for a much broader audience. These are headphones for work, travel, everyday music listening, video calls and films, but with enough extra technology to attract listeners who do not want the first generic pair of Bluetooth headphones with noise cancellation. In other words, FiiO is stepping into one of the most crowded parts of the market with a very simple argument - more technology for less money.
Sound is handled by a 40-mm dynamic driver with a sapphire-coated composite diaphragm. FiiO says the use of a very rigid material helps reduce distortion and improve detail reproduction, especially in the treble. Descriptions involving sapphire always sound impressive, but the basic idea is easy to understand - stiffen the diaphragm without adding too much moving mass. Wireless transmission is handled by Bluetooth 6.0, with LDAC as the most important codec, allowing data rates of up to 990 kbps. AAC and SBC are also supported for broader compatibility, while the frequency response is quoted at 20 Hz - 40 kHz.
The EH13 also feature hybrid active noise cancellation, claimed to reduce outside noise by up to 42 dB. Users can choose between three noise-cancelling modes. Low is intended for city streets, Medium for the office and High for aircraft or train travel. That is a sensible approach, because noise cancellation does not always need to run at maximum strength. Sometimes the goal is simply to reduce air conditioning, ventilation or the murmur of voices, while in other situations one really does want to cut down the steady drone of travel. For calls and video meetings, five built-in microphones work with ENC algorithms to reduce background noise and improve voice clarity.
Battery life is one of the strongest parts of the specification. With noise cancellation switched off, the FiiO EH13 can run for up to 75 hours, while with ANC on they offer around 45 hours of playback. A full charge takes about 2 hours. In practical terms, that means the headphones should be charged occasionally rather than every day under normal use. The foldable design makes them easier to carry, and a weight of 278 g keeps them within the category of headphones one might wear for longer sessions rather than only for short commutes.
FiiO has also included a 3.5-mm input, so the EH13 can be used wired with a games console, in-flight entertainment system or any device that still has a conventional headphone output. The company also mentions intelligent DSP compensation, intended to help maintain a similar sound signature across wired and wireless listening modes when the headphones are powered on. That is a useful detail, because many Bluetooth headphones change character noticeably when used with a cable.
The software side is handled through the FiiO Control app. Users can adjust headphone settings, choose from professionally tuned EQ presets or create custom EQ profiles. Cinema and game profiles are also mentioned, which fits the everyday, multi-purpose positioning of the model. Dual-device Bluetooth connectivity is included as well, allowing the EH13 to remain connected to a laptop and phone at the same time. For anyone who works at a computer while taking calls from a smartphone, this may matter more in daily use than some of the prouder acronyms on the box.
The EH13 are available in black and beige. The design is clean and fairly minimalist, which suits the purpose of the model. FiiO is not trying to make them look like a fashion statement, a gaming accessory or a pseudo-studio tool. They are practical over-ear headphones for someone who wants one pair for several uses - phone music, computer work, films, travel and calls. At this price, there is no point pretending that the EH13 are competing with the most expensive noise-cancelling headphones on the market, but the feature set makes them an awkward rival for many basic Bluetooth models. The EH13 are available now, priced at €49/£49/$49. Info and photos by FiiO.
