FiiO FX17 vs Sony IER-Z1R: 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.

Wired IEMs

FiiO FX17

83Outstanding

$1,500

Full review data

Wired IEMs

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.

FiiO FX17
Sony IER-Z1R

HearWiki score

Sound

9.0

9.1

Value

6.0

7.3

Price (USD)

$1,500

$1,700

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.

FX1720268 yr newer
IER-Z1R2018

Specifications

FX17IER-Z1R

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $1,500; $1,700
HearWiki score: 83; 69
Released: 2026; 2018
Availability: Sold new; Discontinued
Driver: 1DD + 4BA + 8EST tribrid; hybrid
Driver type: tribrid; hybrid
Driver configuration: 1DD + 4BA + 8EST; -
Driver size: 10 mm; 12 mm
Drivers per side: 13; -
Impedance: 16 Ω; 40 Ω
Sensitivity: 99 dB/mW; 103 dB/mW
Active noise cancelling: No; No
Weight: 12.2 g; 26.1 g
Detachable cable: Yes; Yes
Connector: 4.4 mm balanced; -

Specification comparison of FiiO FX17 vs Sony IER-Z1R
Spec	FiiO FX17	Sony IER-Z1R
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$1,500	$1,700
HearWiki score	83 / 100 Outstanding	69 / 100 Good
Released	2026	2018
Audio
Driver	1DD + 4BA + 8EST tribrid	hybrid
Driver type	tribrid	hybrid
Driver configuration	1DD + 4BA + 8EST	-
Driver size	10 mm	12 mm
Drivers per side	13	-
Impedance	16 Ω	40 Ω
Sensitivity	99 dB/mW	103 dB/mW
Features
Active noise cancelling	No	No
Design
Weight	12.2 g	26.1 g
Detachable cable	Yes	Yes
Connector	4.4 mm balanced	-

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

Sony IER-Z1R

The Sony IER-Z1R is a flagship hybrid in-ear monitor that prioritizes a powerful, immersive sound with deep, impactful bass and a wide soundstage. Its tuning is far from neutral, favoring excitement and engagement over reference accuracy, making it a top choice for bass lovers despite some ergonomic and midrange compromises. Build quality and technical performance are exemplary, though the fit can be challenging for some users.

Pro:Deep, powerful bass with excellent impact
Pro:Expansive soundstage and strong imaging
Pro:High-quality build and elegant design

Con:Mids can sound recessed or overshadowed
Con:Fit may be uncomfortable for some ears
Con:Requires significant burn-in for optimal performance

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

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