How to Set Up and Use the FiiO FT13 Headphones

By T K FOTO TECHNIC PTE LTD | Published: 2026-10-28

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to unbox, connect, and get the best sound from your FiiO FT13 headphones. Covers cable choice, earpad swapping, and break-in tips.

Quick Answer

Unbox your FiiO FT13, attach the braided cable, choose your preferred earpads, and start listening. The headphones are easy to drive, so no special amplifier is required.

Choosing the Right Cable and Connection

The FiiO FT13 comes with a Furukawa monocrystalline copper and silver-plated oxygen-free copper braided cable. This cable is designed for low signal loss and good flexibility. Connect it to the headphone's left and right earcup inputs, then plug the other end into your device. The headphones have a standard 3.5mm jack, so they work with most phones, laptops, and audio players. If you want to use a balanced output, check if your source has a 3.5mm balanced port or use an adapter.

Earpad Options for Comfort and Sound

The FT13 includes both lambskin and suede earpads. Lambskin pads provide a softer, more sealed fit, which can enhance bass response and noise isolation. Suede pads feel more breathable and may slightly open up the treble. Try both to see which suits your listening environment and comfort preference. Swapping them is straightforward: gently pull off the old pad and press the new one onto the earcup ring until it snaps into place.

Step-by-Step Setup Guide

Unbox and Inspect: Remove the FT13 headphones, cable, and earpads from the box. Check that the wooden earcups are free of scratches and the cable connectors are clean. Avoid forcing the cable into the earcup jacks; align the connector notch before inserting.
Attach the Cable: Insert the left and right cable connectors into the corresponding earcup sockets. The connectors are keyed, so they only fit one way. Then plug the 3.5mm end into your audio source. If you hear only one channel, the cable may not be fully seated. Disconnect and reinsert firmly.
Choose and Install Earpads: Select either the lambskin or suede earpads. Stretch the pad over the earcup rim, starting at the top and working around. Ensure the pad sits evenly without wrinkles. Do not pull the pad too hard; it can tear. If it feels too tight, try the other pair.
Adjust Headband and Fit: Extend the headband sliders to match your head size. Place the headphones on your head with the earcups centered over your ears. The headband should rest gently on your crown. Over-tightening the headband can cause discomfort. The FT13's closed-back design already provides good passive isolation.
Start Listening and Break-In: Play music at a moderate volume for the first 20-30 hours. The wool composite diaphragm may need this break-in period to reach its intended tonal balance. Use a variety of genres to exercise the driver. Don't expect the final sound immediately. After break-in, the bass may tighten and treble become smoother.

Product Details

FiiO FT13: Natural purpleheart wooden earcups with a large 60mm dynamic driver and a wool composite nano-fiber wood diaphragm. The wooden housing and large driver contribute to a warm, natural sound signature with good detail retrieval, making the FT13 suitable for critical listening.
FiiO FT13