FiiO Revives the ’60s: Affordable Hi-Res Headphones with Retro Vibes

Step back in time with FiiO’s EH11 headphones—a perfect blend of vintage style and modern Hi-Res Bluetooth audio.

If you’ve ever caught a glimpse of the legendary Sennheiser HD414 headphones from the swinging '60s—with its bright yellow foam ear pads and peculiar “skeleton” frame—you know what true retro headphones look like. Over 10 million pairs sold made it an icon of its time. Now, FiiO EH11 headphones has tapped into that nostalgia and brought us the EH11—headphones that look straight out of a vintage photo album but pack today’s tech punch.

Retro Looks, Modern Soul

Just one look at the EH11 and you’re instantly transported back decades: lightweight frames, round over-ear cups, and a design that seems to shout, “Hello from the past!” But beneath this classic shell lies a fully contemporary setup. These aren’t just pretty faces; they’re wired with Bluetooth and loaded with features that make them relevant for today’s audiophiles.

What’s Under the Hood?

FiiO’s engineers went for a semi-open design in the EH11. This means the ear cups have ventilation holes and special damping filters. Why does that matter? It keeps your ears cool and avoids that “vacuum” feeling you get from fully closed-back headphones. Plus, it cleverly balances airflow so your tunes don’t blast everyone around you—unlike fully open headphones that can sound like a mini concert in public transit.

Sound-wise, the EH11 packs 40mm dynamic drivers with long excursion and composite diaphragms. FiiO promises punchy, controlled bass with crisp detail. Thanks to a hybrid design, vocals come through natural and warm while the soundstage remains wide and clear, making your favorite tracks feel alive.

The Hi-Res Bluetooth Touch

What’s especially impressive is the EH11’s support for the LDAC codec—something usually reserved for pricier models. LDAC lets you stream high-resolution audio up to 32bit/96kHz at speeds reaching 990 kbps, provided your smartphone supports it. For budget headphones, this is a rare treat and a big win for sound quality lovers.

Let’s break down the key specs:

• Microphone: Built-in for hassle-free calls on the go.
• Battery Life: Up to 30 hours on a single charge—plenty for a whole day of listening.
• Controls: Compatible with the FiiO Control app, which offers an equalizer and gaming modes with low latency.
• Extras: Comes with interchangeable ear pads in two colors for a personal touch.

Pricing and Availability

FiiO has a well-established reputation among audiophiles and is widely available through official channels. If you’re eager to grab the EH11, you’ll find it easiest right now on AliExpress in FiiO’s official store or through major Chinese resellers. In local retail stores such as DNS, Dr.Head, Audiomania, and Ozon, the EH11 should appear in about a month or so.

Pricing is a standout feature here: the global price is just about $30, making these headphones an absolute steal. While the local market might see prices rise to around $47–54 due to logistics and retail markup, AliExpress sales often bring them closer to $38–42.

Tips for Using EH11 in Daily Life

Planning to buy? Here are some practical notes for using the EH11 in everyday environments:

• Sound Isolation: Due to their semi-open nature, noisy places like packed metro cars or buses might drown out your music. However, they’re perfect for outdoor strolls, parks, or offices where you want some ambient awareness.
• Codec Compatibility: LDAC requires an Android phone. iPhone users will get standard AAC quality, missing out on the full Hi-Res potential.
• App Availability: FiiO Control app is available on Google Play and the App Store, with Russian language support—though some translations can get quirky.
• Cold Weather Use: Metal headbands and thin ear pads aren’t ideal for freezing temperatures. Wearing the headphones over your hat or under a hood is a smart move to protect battery life and comfort.

The EH11 comes in a variety of colors—transparent, white-gray, blue, burgundy, and transparent black—so you can match your vibe.

“The EH11's vintage charm combined with modern features is a perfect example of how old-school design can meet today’s tech demands.” — Audio Enthusiast

FAQ

• What makes the EH11’s semi-open design special? It balances airflow to keep ears comfortable and prevents sound from leaking too much, unlike fully open headphones.
• Can I use the EH11 with my iPhone and still get Hi-Res sound? iPhones support AAC codec, so the headphones will work fine but won’t deliver the full Hi-Res LDAC experience.
• How long does the battery last on a full charge? Up to 30 hours, making them ideal for extended use without frequent charging.
• Are replacement ear pads included? Yes, the package includes two sets of ear pads in different colors for customization.
• Is there an app for customizing sound and settings? Yes, the FiiO Control app offers an equalizer and low-latency gaming modes, available on Android and iOS.

If you’re as smitten by the EH11’s retro flair and modern sound as we are, why not dress your space with your favorite album cover? Shop stunning posters that celebrate the golden eras of music and design at our store.