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FiiO FX17 vs MOONDROP DARK SABER: 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.

  • FiiO FX17
  • MOONDROP DARK SABER
HearWiki score
83
53
Sound
9.0
6.5
Value
6.0
3.4
Price (USD)
$1,500
$900

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 3 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 3 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • FX1720263 yr newer
  • DARK SABER2023

Specifications

FX17DARK SABER
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$1,500
$900
HearWiki score
83
53
Released
2026
2023
Availability
Sold new
Still sold new
Driver
1DD + 4BA + 8EST tribrid
2DD + 8BA hybrid
Driver type
tribrid
hybrid
Driver configuration
1DD + 4BA + 8EST
2DD + 8BA
Driver size
10 mm
10 mm
Drivers per side
13
10
Impedance
16 Ω
22 Ω
Sensitivity
99 dB/mW
-
Active noise cancelling
No
-
Weight
12.2 g
-
Detachable cable
Yes
-
Connector
4.4 mm balanced
2-pin 0.78 mm

What reviewers said

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

MOONDROP DARK SABER

The DARK SABER is a premium wired in-ear monitor that combines two 10mm dynamic drivers with eight balanced-armature drivers in a hybrid configuration. It is designed for critical music listening, offering a detailed and layered soundstage without active noise cancellation. With a 22-ohm impedance and a standard 2-pin 0.78mm connector, it is built for audiophiles seeking a high-end, versatile listening experience.

  • Pro:Hybrid 2DD + 8BA driver setup delivers rich, detailed sound
  • Pro:Wired design ensures zero latency and pure audio signal
  • Pro:Standard 2-pin connector allows easy cable swapping
  • Con:No active noise cancellation, so external noise may intrude
  • Con:Premium price point may not suit casual listeners
  • Con:Hybrid tuning may require a good source to shine

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 comparisonFiiO FX17MOONDROP DARK SABER