INTRODUCTION

   When i first started my journey with "modern" PCs in the early 90's the PC industry was so tiny (at least where i lived) that only two types of multimedia speakers were available in the market, mono (single) and stereo (pair). It actually took quite a while for the industry to move from mono and stereo solutions to 2.1 channel and above speakers (mid-late 90's) and as I've mentioned before in my reviews ever since the late 90's I’ve always equipped my systems with 5.1/7.1 surround sound systems, first ready solutions (low-cost, plug and play) and then speaker and A/V amplifier combos/sets. Still the arrival of hi-end gaming soundbars changed all that and even though i still believe 5.1/7.2 surround sound systems are superior, due to space requirements (not to mention all the cables) they are no longer ideal for me. What i certainly never imagined however was moving back to a regular stereo system but the latest SP3 HiFi Desktop Active Speakers by FiiO might actually change that.

   FIIO was established in 2007 and has experience in researching and developing countless portable music products of different types, and sell FIIO-branded products through sales agents worldwide. The brand name FIIO is composed of Fi (fidelity from HiFi) and iO (number 1&0), representing the real feeling and convenient life that digital brings to life. Meanwhile, the Chinese “飞傲” is the transliteration of FIIO, indicating the positive and innovative spirit as thriving as spring. FIIO is focused on product quality, adheres strictly to ISO9001 standards in quality management and works hard to attain the lowest repair-related product returns rate.

   The compact enclosures of the SP3 HiFi Desktop Active Speakers by FiiO (2.35L volume) are made out of pressure die-cast liquid metal for optimal durability and are currently available in black and white color. Inside each enclosure FiiO has squeezed a 3.5-inch (90mm) carbon fiber midwoofer (dual magnet asymmetrical design for maximum performance - 30W output), 1-inch (25mm) silk tweeter (with KSV copper-clad aluminum voice coil - 10W output), 2-way active crossover (3.4KHz), TPA3118 digital audio amplifier (60W each, 120W total), RGB LEDs (24 colors), double diffused S-shaped porting tube, stereo RCA and 3.5mm audio inputs and volume and bass control knobs. Thanks to the 3.5-inch midwoofer & 1-inch silk tweeter the SP3 offer a frequency response of 65Hz-20KHz (Hi-Res certified) with 8 Ohm impedance, 85dB sensitivity and a power output of 80W. FiiO also packs 2 silicon stand pairs with the SP3 one of which offers a 7-degree elevation making it ideal for use on a desk (this is a nearfield speaker set after all). So, time to see just how well the brand new SP3 HiFi Desktop Active Speakers by FiiO really are and whether or not they deserve a spot on your desk.