FiiO Launches FT13 Wooden Headphones with Purpleheart Wood Earcups.
Audio manufacturer FiiO has announced the launch of its new FT13 closed-back dynamic headphones, the latest addition to its FT series following the FT1, FT3, FT5, and FT7 models. The FT13 stands out for its use of purpleheart wood — a dense South American hardwood known for its tonal warmth and evolving appearance. According to FiiO, the wood’s color changes over time from light brown to a rich, deep purple, while its acoustic qualities are similar to those prized in modern guitars.
Each pair of FT13 headphones is said to be unique, with earcups shaped through CNC machining, stabilized, and finished with a high-gloss lacquer. FiiO claims that this design approach enhances not only the headphones’ durability but also their sonic performance.
Inside the FT13, a 60 mm dynamic driver features what the company describes as a “W-shaped diaphragm,” intended to expand the vibration area and improve efficiency. The result, according to FiiO, is “fast transients, extended lows, and clean, detailed highs.” To minimize ambient sound, the FT13 employs a U-shaped damping tube, a noise-reduction chamber, and layers of sound-absorbing cotton. The company states these elements together can reduce outside noise by up to 26 dB, creating what it calls a “naturally immersive closed-back environment.”
The FT13 is designed for broad compatibility, with low impedance and high sensitivity allowing it to be driven by a range of devices — from smartphones and laptops to high-end audio systems. FiiO highlights comfort as a key consideration, noting that the FT13 uses breathable memory foam in its ear pads to improve long-term wearability.
For connectivity, the headphones include a detachable cable system made from Furukawa monocrystalline copper and silver-plated wiring. Both 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm connectors are supplied in the box, supporting balanced and unbalanced connections.
FiiO positions the FT13 as an ideal partner for its JM21 music player and K11 R2R desktop DAC and headphone amplifier, though it can be used with any compatible source.
FiiO FT13 Key Specifications
- Type: Closed-back dynamic headphones
- Driver: 60 mm dynamic
- Frequency response: 7 Hz–40 kHz
- Impedance: 32 Ω
- Sensitivity: 98 dB/mW @ 1 kHz
- Weight: Approx. 356 g (excluding cable)
- Cable: 1.5 m detachable Furukawa copper and silver-plated wire
- Connectors: Dual 3.5 mm headphone connectors; 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm plugs
- Earcup material: Purpleheart wood
- Earcup colors: Natural wood or black
Availability and Pricing
The FT13 headphones are available now at a retail price of £269 in the UK from Advanced MP3 and $329 in the United States via Amazon. Review samples are currently available to media outlets.