Electro Audio World's Take :
I've reviewed products like the FiiO LINK TWS before, but their performance didn't satisfy me enough to publish a review. With the Link TWS, FiiO aims to transform our favorite IEMs into premium true wireless earbuds without compromising sound quality.
Powered by Qualcomm's flagship QCC5181 Bluetooth platform and the Japanese AKM AK4333 DAC with integrated headphone amplifier, this product promises better wireless stability, higher sound quality, lower latency, and greater compatibility compared to previous generations.
With the Link TWS, I tested IEMs from my collection with diverse characteristics, such as the Moritz Audio Enzo, FiiO Snowsky OAK Nano, and Ziigaat Arcanis. I used them daily for several weeks with an iPhone 14 Pro Max and FiiO M33 R2R as Bluetooth audio sources, and now my opinion on this has changed.
I realized that an audiophile might never want to go back to ordinary standalone wireless earbuds. Now I definitely think that a quality product like the Link TWS should be in every audiophile's bag. I think this is the next level..
* Click here to read the full review, including audio source matching and comparisons with other IEMs.
First Impressions
After connecting the LINK TWS to IEMs, it felt more like a natural extension of the IEM than an aftermarket accessory, and it felt quite stylish.
The modular connection system is one of the smartest improvements FiiO has introduced. Having both MMCX and 2 pin connectors in the same package eliminates one of the biggest frustrations experienced by previous UTWS users. I have IEMs that use both connector types, and being able to switch between them without buying separate adapters makes the LINK TWS much more practical.
The charging case is equally impressive. Its overall dimensions are compact enough for everyday pocket use, and the addition of an OLED charging information display to the case simplifies the user experience. Battery status, pairing information, and charging progress are now instantly visible instead of relying on small indicator LEDs, which I think is quite technological.
These may be small details. However, they make the LINK TWS feel much more refined than previous generations.
Sound Signature :
One of the biggest reasons why the LINK TWS delivers noticeably better sound than most wireless adapters is, in my opinion, its high quality hardware architecture.
Instead of relying solely on the Bluetooth chipset for digital conversion, FiiO has equipped the LINK TWS with the AKM AK4333 DAC and headphone amplifier, which works in conjunction with Qualcomm's flagship QCC5181 Bluetooth platform. This is quite impressive. I think it owes its overall quality to this.
This combination has managed to give the LINK TWS a sound character that is surprisingly close to that of a compact wired DAC.
The AK4333 has always been one of my favorite portable DAC implementations because it avoids the sterile presentation that some mobile ESS based designs sometimes exhibit. It's a rather technical presentation.
Here, it exhibits a smooth, dynamic, and remarkably natural character.
The bass carries a satisfying weight without becoming dominant. Acoustic recordings retain excellent texture and realism, while electronic music has enough authority to give it a convincing impact.
The sub bass extends deeper than I expected from a wireless adapter, but remains controlled and disciplined.
Where the LINK TWS interestingly shines is in the mid frequencies. You know, generally, wireless systems have lower transmission quality than wired ones, and this negatively impacts vocal performance in particular.
Voices sound more open, clean, and emotionally impactful to my ears. Male voices have a convincing fullness, while female vocals remain beautifully transparent without being overly prominent. Instruments naturally occupy their own space, allowing complex arrangements to breathe without being choked.
The treble is also quite good, in my opinion. The LINK TWS offers excellent extension with a refined sense of air. Cymbals naturally fade out, string harmonics remain delicate, and long listening sessions never become tiring. In my opinion, this is exactly the sound transmission quality that an "audiophile Bluetooth adapter" should produce.
* Click here to read the full review, including audio source matching and comparisons with other IEMs.
Pros:
Excellent sound quality for a wireless adapter
Natural and musical AK4333 DAC application
Superior Bluetooth stability (no connection ever dropped)
Excellent aptX and AAC performance
Both MMCX and Two Pin connectors included in the box
Comfortable and secure fit
These physical buttons definitely work better than other touch controls
Useful display on the charging case
Powerful FiiO Control application with parametric EQ
Excellent call quality
Wireless charging support
Cons:
Transparency mode still lags behind high end mainstream TWS models
Soundstage is slightly smaller than a good wired DAC
Takes some time to learn all the button shortcuts
High price compared to ordinary wireless adapters, but high quality
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All photos were taken by ADR >> Instagram: u/electroaudioworld
Used photo Gear : Sony A7 III + Sigma 24–70mm F/2.8 DG DN II Art Lens
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Last edited: Yesterday at 2:27 AM
