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AKG K3003 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.

FiiO FX17 leads on 3 of 4 measures.

  • AKG K3003
  • FiiO FX17
HearWiki score
59
83
Sound
7.6
9.0
Value
-
6.0
Price (USD)
$840
$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.

  • K30032018
  • FX1720268 yr newer

Specifications

K3003FX17
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$840
$1,500
HearWiki score
59
83
Released
2018
2026
Availability
Discontinued
Sold new
Driver
1DD + 2BA hybrid
1DD + 4BA + 8EST tribrid
Driver type
hybrid
tribrid
Driver configuration
1DD + 2BA
1DD + 4BA + 8EST
Driver size
-
10 mm
Drivers per side
3
13
Frequency response
10 Hz - 30 kHz
-
Impedance
8 Ω
16 Ω
Sensitivity
-
99 dB/mW
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Weight
10 g
12.2 g
Detachable cable
No
Yes
USB-C
No
-
Connector
3.5 mm
4.4 mm balanced

What reviewers said

AKG K3003

The AKG K3003 is a premium hybrid in-ear monitor that pairs a dynamic driver with two balanced armatures to deliver a detailed, class-leading sound signature. Its build quality is excellent, and it offers tuning filters for slight sound adjustments, though its high price and non-detachable cable may give some buyers pause. While wired and lacking ANC, it remains a notable choice for audiophiles seeking a reference-grade portable listening experience.

  • Pro:Excellent build quality and premium materials
  • Pro:Detailed, class-leading hybrid sound
  • Pro:Tuning filters for minor sound adjustments
  • Con:Very high price for the feature set
  • Con:Non-detachable cable limits longevity
  • Con:Comfort may be average for some listeners

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

Swap either side out, or start again from the picker.

New comparisonAKG K3003FiiO FX17