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64 Audio U12t vs FiiO FX17: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the FiiO FX17 comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 83. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: FiiO FX17 - Outstanding overall at around $1499.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

Neither pulls ahead overall - they trade wins across the measures.

  • 64 Audio U12t
  • FiiO FX17
HearWiki score
72
83
Sound
9.2
9.0
Value
6.4
6.0
Price (USD)
$2,000
$1,500

Generation & platform

The scores rank quality. This is the other question: is the newer one actually newer technology, or the same platform in a new shell?

Same generation

The FiiO FX17 is 8 years newer, but it is the same generation of hardware: nothing in the radio, the codecs or the noise cancelling separates them. Nothing separates them on convenience features either, so the choice comes down to tuning and price. For 8 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • U12t2018
  • FX1720268 yr newer

Specifications

U12tFX17
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$2,000
$1,500
HearWiki score
72
83
Released
2018
2026
Availability
Discontinued
Sold new
Driver
12BA
1DD + 4BA + 8EST tribrid
Driver type
balanced-armature
tribrid
Driver configuration
12BA
1DD + 4BA + 8EST
Driver size
-
10 mm
Drivers per side
12
13
Impedance
12.6 Ω
16 Ω
Sensitivity
108 dB/mW
99 dB/mW
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Weight
-
12.2 g
Detachable cable
-
Yes
Connector
2-pin 0.78 mm
4.4 mm balanced

What reviewers said

64 Audio U12t

The 64 Audio U12t is a flagship 12-driver balanced-armature in-ear monitor that delivers a transparent, neutral midrange with powerful lows and airy highs. Its exceptional resolution, precise imaging, and spacious soundstage make it a technical benchmark in its class, while swappable APEX modules offer tuning flexibility. Priced at around $2000, it's a premium wired IEM with no active noise cancellation, aimed at audiophiles seeking an immersive, detailed listening experience.

  • Pro:Excellent transparency and neutral balance
  • Pro:Powerful, extended bass with strong quality
  • Pro:Spacious three-dimensional soundstage
  • Con:Very expensive price point
  • Con:Minor treble quirks noted
  • Con:Requires a good source to perform fully

FiiO FX17

The FiiO FX17 is a premium wired tribrid IEM that combines a 10mm dynamic driver, four balanced armatures, and eight electrostatic drivers per side for a detailed, multi-layered sound. Its titanium shell and five-way crossover aim to deliver a refined, high-resolution listening experience, while the included 4.4mm balanced cable offers versatility for audiophile setups.

  • Pro:Precision-milled titanium shell for durability and resonance control
  • Pro:Hybrid driver array (1DD + 4BA + 8EST) offers expansive treble and dynamic bass
  • Pro:Swappable plugs on the cable provide flexible connectivity
  • Con:No active noise cancellation, requiring a quiet environment or isolation tips
  • Con:High price point may limit accessibility
  • Con:16-ohm impedance may need a powerful source for optimal performance

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

Compare something else

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New comparison64 Audio U12tFiiO FX17