FiiO is leaning hard into retro with its latest audio release, and the result might be one of the most stylish pairs of budget headphones we’ve seen in a while. The newly revealed FiiO EH11 Retro Bluetooth Mini Headphones are a deliberate nod to classic 1980s on-ear designs, blending old-school hi-fi aesthetics with thoroughly modern audio tech. They boast transparent shells that show off the internals and satisfyingly tactile physical knobs instead of touch controls. Those knobs aren’t just for show, either. Twist them to adjust volume or skip tracks, channelling the feel of vintage stereo gear in a form that’s light enough to wear all day. At just 92 grams, the EH11 are about as portable and wearable as headphones get. Under the throwback exterior, FiiO hasn’t skimped on sound. The EH11 use a 40mm long-throw dynamic driver with a composite diaphragm, delivering bass that digs down to 17Hz while keeping things tight and controlled. A semi-open acoustic design helps avoid the boxed-in feel typical of on-ear headphones, giving vocals more space and a wider, airier soundstage.
Published: January 22, 2026 12:24 pm
Source: Shortlist — Read original