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FATFREQ MAESTRO SE vs FiiO FX17: which should you buy?

Specs, scores and condensed review verdicts for the FATFREQ MAESTRO SE vs FiiO FX17, side by side. Where a product has no HearWiki score yet, not enough reviews have been aggregated to rate it.

Score breakdown

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

FiiO FX17 leads on 4 of 4 measures.

  • FATFREQ MAESTRO SE
  • FiiO FX17
HearWiki score
-
83
Sound
-
9.0
Value
-
6.0
Price (USD)
$2,500
$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 4 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 4 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • MAESTRO SE2022
  • FX1720264 yr newer

Specifications

MAESTRO SEFX17
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$2,500
$1,500
HearWiki score
Not scored
83
Released
2022
2026
Availability
Discontinued
Sold new
Driver
tribrid
1DD + 4BA + 8EST tribrid
Driver type
tribrid
tribrid
Driver configuration
-
1DD + 4BA + 8EST
Driver size
-
10 mm
Drivers per side
-
13
Impedance
-
16 Ω
Sensitivity
-
99 dB/mW
Active noise cancelling
-
No
Weight
-
12.2 g
Detachable cable
-
Yes
Connector
2-pin 0.78 mm
4.4 mm balanced

What reviewers said

FATFREQ MAESTRO SE

The FATFREQ MAESTRO SE is a premium universal in-ear monitor that merges dynamic, balanced-armature, and electrostatic drivers—including four electrostats for the highs—to deliver a powerful low-end and airy treble. Built with stage and studio use in mind, this wired tribrid offers a rich, detailed sound signature that leans toward deep bass and sparkling extension, making it a versatile choice for critical listening and professional monitoring.

  • Pro:Deep, impactful bass response
  • Pro:Airy and extended treble detail
  • Pro:Hybrid driver design offers cohesive sound
  • Con:High price point limits accessibility
  • Con:Lacks noise cancellation for portable use
  • Con:Requires a quality source to shine

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 comparisonFATFREQ MAESTRO SEFiiO FX17