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FiiO FX17 vs Unique Melody MEST MKII: 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.

  • FiiO FX17
  • Unique Melody MEST MKII
HearWiki score
83
70
Sound
9.0
8.6
Value
6.0
8.3
Price (USD)
$1,500
$950

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 5 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 5 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • FX1720265 yr newer
  • MEST MKII2021

Specifications

FX17MEST MKII
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$1,500
$950
HearWiki score
83
70
Released
2026
2021
Availability
Sold new
Discontinued
Driver
1DD + 4BA + 8EST tribrid
1DD + 4BA + 2EST tribrid
Driver type
tribrid
tribrid
Driver configuration
1DD + 4BA + 8EST
1DD + 4BA + 2EST
Driver size
10 mm
10 mm
Drivers per side
13
7
Impedance
16 Ω
12.3 Ω
Sensitivity
99 dB/mW
-
Active noise cancelling
No
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

Unique Melody MEST MKII

The Unique Melody MEST MKII is a tribrid in-ear monitor that combines a dynamic driver, balanced armatures, and electrostatic drivers with a bone-conduction system for a layered, immersive soundstage. It delivers powerful bass, detailed mids, and crisp highs, though its specialized tuning may not appeal to everyone. The build is premium and comfortable, making it a strong choice for enthusiasts seeking a high-end, engaging listening experience.

  • Pro:Powerful and impactful bass response
  • Pro:Excellent detail retrieval and layering
  • Pro:Immersive bone-conduction presentation
  • Con:Specialized tuning may not suit all tastes
  • Con:High price point for the performance
  • Con:Requires a capable 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

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

New comparisonFiiO FX17Unique Melody MEST MKII