[ClieOS]

Kanon MD-52

Variation: N/A
Transducer: 10mm Dynamic
Spec: 32Ω (@1kHz) | 106dB SPL |10Hz ~ 28kHZ
Cord Style: Y-cord, m.
Mini Jack Style: {┃} style, very light build.
Eartips Used: Stock single flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★☆
┣ Accessories: ★★☆
┣ Build Quality: ★★
┣ Isolation: ★★★
┣ Microphonics: ★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: Fairly poor packaging, three pair of different sized eartips and warranty note are what you get with the MD-52. The build quality is quite poor overall.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★☆
┣ Mid: ★★★
┣ Bass: ★★★
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ - Good / Average
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [2.5 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is slightly warm, fun and energetic with a full mid and very decent bass response. Treble isn't bad either but lacks refine detail. It resembles PL11 sound signature, but does things slightly better.
Overall Value: [3.2 / 5] ($10)
Final Remark: For a $10 pair of IEM, MD-52 sounds very good. However, the poor build quality makes it only a decent deal overall. It would have been a better buy for twice the money if only it has a better build quality.


Hippo Boom

Variation: N/A
Transducer: 9mm Dynamic
Spec: 32Ω (@1kHz) | 102 + 4dB SPL | 20Hz ~ 22kHZ
Cord Style: Y-cord, m.
Mini Jack Style: {┏━} style, light build.
Eartips Used: Stock double flanges
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★☆
┣ Accessories: ★★★☆
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★
┣ Isolation: ★★★☆
┣ Microphonics: ★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: Decent paper box without anything too fancy. In the box, you will find a pair of double flanges and 5 pair of different sized single flange eartips (XL, L, M, S, XS), a shirt clip and a fordable soft pouch. Overall build quality is pretty good. Isolation is more than enough for daily use while microphonics is average (but the shirt clip helps).
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★☆
┣ Mid: ★★☆
┣ Bass: ★★★☆
┣ Soundstage: ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ - Small / Acceptable
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [2.5 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is warm, slightly dark and as the name suggested, with a boomy bass. Mid is recessed and treble isn't quite as detail. Soundstage is small due to the heavy bass. An sound signature that is completely opposite of what PL30 offered.
Overall Value: [4 / 5] ($35)
Final Remark: Boom is definitely built for basshead. Thought it might not be any where nears 'accurate', Boom still retains enough control to make the music enjoyable (unless you are not a basshead, of course).


Fischer Audio FA-999

Variation: N/A
Transducer: Dynamic
Spec: 16Ω (@1kHz) | 101dB SPL | 20Hz ~ 22kHZ
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.1m.
Mini Jack Style: {┏━}style, light build.
Eartips Used: Single flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★☆
┣ Accessories: ★★★
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★
┣ Isolation: ★★★
┣ Microphonics: ★★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: Blister pack over hard paper box. Not much accessories to speak of beside the shirt clip and manual. Good build quality and decent isolation.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★☆
┣ Mid: ★★★
┣ Bass: ★★★
┣ Soundstage: ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ - Small / Acceptable
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [2.4 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is warm, smooth and very full with a pretty good bass response going down to the 20Hz. Treble rolls off early at 16kHz and the air killing fullness makes it veil. Bass can be a bit boomy on bass heavy music.
Overall Value: [3.5 / 5] ($21)
Final Remark: A decent deal for its asking price only if you are a basshead. In depth review can be found here.


Fischer Audio Omega

Variation: N/A
Transducer: Dynamic
Spec: 32Ω (@1kHz) | 105dB SPL | 12Hz ~ 22kHZ
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.25m.
Mini Jack Style: {┏━} style, normal build.
Eartips Used: Single flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★☆
┣ Accessories: ★★★
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★
┣ Isolation: ★★★☆
┣ Microphonics: ★★★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: Like the FA-999, not much accessories to speak of. There is a Velcro strip on the cable for warping. Good build quality and better than average isolation. Microphonics is low due to the over-the-ear design.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★
┣ Mid: ★★★
┣ Bass: ★★★
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ - Good / Average
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [2.7 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is fairly balanced without any major flaw. Good treble and airiness though lacks very fine detail, Vocal is neither too close nor too far, bass is very solid and goes down deep with good slam and speed. Soundstage is better than average.
Overall Value: [4.6 / 5] ($22)
Final Remark: Omega is definitely the best sub$30 IEM I have ever heard so far. The SE530 like design and the good fit also add more points to the listening experience. For only $1 more expensive, it represents a big jump in SQ over FA-999. In depth review can be found here.


Fischer Audio Paradigm v.2

Variation: N/A
Transducer: Dynamic
Spec: 16Ω (@1kHz) | 104dB SPL | 10Hz ~ 20kHZ
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.25m.
Mini Jack Style: {┏━} style, heavy build.
Eartips Used: Single flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★★
┣ Accessories: ★★★☆
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★
┣ Isolation: ★★★☆
┣ Microphonics: ★★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: Good paper box design, three set of eartips, soft pouch and manual. Good build quality and better than average isolation. Microphonics is acceptable.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★
┣ Mid: ★★★☆
┣ Bass: ★★★
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ - Good / Average
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [2.8 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: Slightly warm with very decent treble and bass response (which also goes down to 20Hz but much less in quantity compared to Omega), the strength of Paradigm v.2 lies in its clear vocal and mid range, yet remains fairly neutral without too much coloration. Soundstage is about average.
Overall Value: [4.5 / 5] ($31)
Final Remark: An overall solid performer. In depth review can be found here.


Fischer Audio Enigma

Variation: N/A
Transducer: Dynamic
Spec: 18Ω (@1kHz) | 102dB SPL | 8Hz ~ 22kHZ
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.25m.
Mini Jack Style: {┏━} style, heavy build.
Eartips Used: Single flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★★
┣ Accessories: ★★★☆
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★
┣ Isolation: ★★★★☆
┣ Microphonics: ★★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: Good paper box design, three set of eartips, soft pouch and manual. Good build quality and isolation. Microphonics is acceptable.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★☆
┣ Mid: ★★★
┣ Bass: ★★★☆
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ - Good / Average
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [3.25 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is warm and full with a good treble and an excellent bass response. Vocal is slightly more laid back but not to a point of being recessed. Soundstage is very good but the warmness does reduce the airiness a bit. It plays well with all type of music genres but really excels in none.
Overall Value: [4.2 / 5] ($40)
Final Remark: Enigma is yet another very solid offer. In depth review can be found here.


Fischer Audio Silver Bullet

Variation: N/A
Transducer: Dynamic
Spec: 18Ω (@1kHz) | 102dB SPL | 12Hz ~ 22kHZ
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.25m.
Mini Jack Style: {┏━} style, heavy build.
Eartips Used: Single flange (generic replacement)
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★★
┣ Accessories: ★★★
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★☆
┣ Isolation: ★★★★
┣ Microphonics: ★★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: Good paper box design, three set of eartips, soft pouch and manual. Stock eartips are too soft for a good seal. Once replaced, good seal and isolation. The earpiece housing is fully metal and have some weight to it. Microphonics is acceptable.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★★
┣ Mid: ★★★★
┣ Bass: ★★★★☆
┣ Soundstage: █ ▆ ▄ ▂ ▄ ▆ █ - Great / Wide
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [4.5 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: Once you replace the stock eartips with any good quality single flange, you will find the over sound signature to be slightly warm with good airy and well detailed treble, better than average bass that is a bit low in speed and impact and a recessed yet not totally out of place vocal. The sound signature resembles that of TF10 except Silver Bullet is even more laid back with bigger space.
Overall Value: [4.75 / 5] ($53)
Final Remark: While not everyone will like the very airy and spacious presentation, the overall performance is still commendable for a pair of $53 IEM. Depends on how you like your music to sound like, Silver Bullet can very well be the match made in heaven because of its unique sound signature. In depth review can be found here.


Fischer Audio Eterna

Variation: N/A
Transducer: Dynamic
Spec: 18Ω (@1kHz) | 1110dB SPL | 8Hz ~ 22kHZ
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.25m.
Mini Jack Style: {┏━} style, Normal build.
Eartips Used: Stock Bi-flanges
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★★
┣ Accessories: ★★★★☆
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★☆
┣ Isolation: ★★★★★
┣ Microphonics: ★★★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: Good paper box design, two set of eartips (L, S), one set of bi-flange, soft pouch, silicone ear guide and manual. Good build quality. Very good seal, isolation and comfort. Microphonics is low due to over-the-ear design.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★★☆
┣ Mid: ★★★★☆
┣ Bass: ★★★★★
┣ Soundstage: █ ▆ ▄ ▂ ▄ ▆ █ - Great / Wide
┣ ABF: [Low ]
┣ Overall SQ: [4.75 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is slightly warm and upfront. Treble is there but not on the center stage. Midrange is full and vocal is sweet. Bass has a really good body, depth and decent speed though it still misses the deepest of sub-bass compared to that of real bass monster (i.e. Atrio). Airiness and soundstage are almost spot on for a pair of IEM, neither too far or near and yet retains clear separation and layers
Overall Value: [5 / 5] Sonic Diamond™ ($59)
Final Remark: Eterna is a pair of very musical sounding IEM - it is not about accuracy of the sonic reproduction, but the 110% dedication to fun and music enjoyment. Technically it doesn't have SQ (treble, mid, bass, soundstage) as good as other top-tier IEM, but it 'blends' them so well that I consider It to be one of the best dynamic universal I have heard (placing it alongside with IE8 and just slightly ahead of RE0 - * I am making a point of Eterna being 'one of the best' dynamic, not comparing it directly to IE8) and to best them all - it only costs $59. I dare to say I even prefer it over almost dull sounding SE530 and almost on par of TF10 (only because TF10 offers better accuracy with less coloration). To add more points to Eterna, it is almost as comfortable as UM2 and has a really good build quality. If I have to pick a weak point from Eterna, it is the lack of hard case since it is rather bulky with the ear guide in place. Highly recommended with a Sonic Diamond™ Award. In depth review can be found here.


MEElectronics M2

Variation: w/ iPhone mic.
Transducer: 9mm Dynamic
Spec: 16 + 15% Ω (@1kHz) | 95 + 3dB SPL | 20Hz ~ 20kHZ
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.10m.
Mini Jack Style: {┏━} style, light build.
Eartips Used: Single flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: N/A
┣ Accessories: ★★★☆
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★☆
┣ Isolation: ★★☆
┣ Microphonics: ★★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: M2 has transparent cable with silver lining inside that is flexible and functions well. Microphonics is surprisingly low. Overall build quality is good. As bundle earphone, it has is the 3 set of different sized eartips and a shirt clip. Will be good if a pair of bi-flanges is included for the slightly odd shape (big diameter on the base of the nozzle). Due to the fact that it is open back in design, isolation is slightly worst than average.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★☆
┣ Mid: ★★★
┣ Bass: ★★☆
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ - Good / Average
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [2.7 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is fairly balanced with slight brightness. Treble has good extension but there is a bit of sibilance. Mid is slightly further away but not really recessed. Bass lacks real depth but still has good control and speed. Soundstage is about average.
Overall Value: [4.6 / 5] ($12)
Final Remark: M2 is a good performer that punches above its weight. In depth review can be found here.


MEElectronics M6

Variation: Black and Maroon color
Transducer: 9mm Dynamic
Spec: 16 + 15% Ω (@1kHz) | 95 + 3dB SPL | 20Hz ~ 20kHZ
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.25m.
Mini Jack Style: {┏━} style, light build.
Eartips Used: Single flange
Eartips Used:
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★★
┣ Accessories: ★★★★☆
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★☆
┣ Isolation: ★★★
┣ Microphonics: ★★★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★☆
┗ Quick Sum: Over-the-ear design with transparent cable like that of M2. It comes with a shirt clip, cable warp, airline adapter, soft pouch, 3 set of single flange eartips (S, M, L) and a pair of tri-flange. The included tri-flange actually doesn't fit the IEM that well. The rather odd nozzle size (5mm diameter) also presents another problem for future eartips replacement. The other minor problem is the memory wire which has thick copper wire that makes the memory wire hard to bend thought probably more resistant to breakage. There is still room for improvement on the nozzle (should be slightly longer and wider) and eartips selection but the overall build quality is quite good. Isolation is about average. Microphonics is next to none. A hard case will be nice.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★
┣ Mid: ★★★☆
┣ Bass: ★★★
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ - Good / Average
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [3.2 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature resembles that of M2 but warmer with better energy. In comparison, M6's treble is slightly smoother and better presented (there are still a tiny amount of sibilance in the brightest note), mid is more upfront with better texture while bass has better impact and body. Soundstage is pretty good with decent airiness.
Overall Value: [4.6 / 5] ($40)
Final Remark: While getting a good seal (and a good sound) is more difficult with M6 due to its thick memory wire and eartips, it is still a noticeable improvement over M2 and a very decent sounding IEM in its own right. In depth review can be found here.


MEElectronics M9

Variation: w/ iPhone mic.
Transducer: 9mm Dynamic
Spec: 16 + 15% Ω (@1kHz) | 95 + 3dB SPL | 20Hz ~ 20kHZ
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.10m.
Mini Jack Style: {┃} style, light build.
Eartips Used: Bi-flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★★
┣ Accessories: ★★★★☆
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★
┣ Isolation: ★★☆
┣ Microphonics: ★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: M9 uses more typical black cable. Thought not as good as the transparent cable, it is adequate for the job and the asking price but it does have a lot more microphonics in comparison. It comes with a hard case, cable warp, 4 set of single flange eartips and a pair of bi-flanges, plus one airline adapter. The one thing that should have been included is shirt clip. Overall, M9's build quality is still very decent. For the same reason as M2, isolation is slightly below average.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★
┣ Mid: ★★★
┣ Bass: ★★★☆
┣ Soundstage: █ ▆ ▄ ▂ ▄ ▆ █ - Great / Wide
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [3.1 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature also resembles that of M2 and M6, but not as warm as M6. Treble also has good extension but there is harshness (especially on bi-flange). Mid is slightly recessed in comparison. Bass is not as full as M6 but still has good body and decent depth. Soundstage is better than M6 with good sense of airiness and space.
Overall Value: [4.7 / 5] ($18) [4.85 / 5] ($20)
Final Remark: With performance almost as good as M6, M9's much lower price is practically a steal even with lesser build quality and harsher sound. In depth review can be found here.
A Sonic Diamond™ is given to the new revised M9 with transparent cable. Yes, it is $2 more expensive than before, but the improvement in build quality is beyond that small increment in price. You can hardly ask for a better $20 IEM than the new M9.


MEElectronics M11

Variation: w/ iPhone mic. Black and Red color.
Transducer: 7mm Dynamic
Spec: 16 + 15% Ω (@1kHz) | 95 + 3dB SPL | 20Hz ~ 20kHZ
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.25m.
Mini Jack Style: {┏━} style, light build.
Eartips Used: Bi-flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★★
┣ Accessories: ★★★★☆
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★☆
┣ Isolation: ★★★☆
┣ Microphonics: ★★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: M11 has transparent cable and a shiny metal housing which feels a lot classy. It comes with a soft pouch, 3 pair of single flange eartips, a pair of bi-flange, a pair of tri-flanges (which work out better on M11 than M6), cable warp, shirt clip and airline adapter. Isolation is slightly better than average. The smallish earpieces actually make it possible from deep insertion, but a shallower fit tend to have better detail and soundstage. Microphonics is better than average.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★
┣ Mid: ★★★☆
┣ Bass: ★★★
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ - Good / Average
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [3.2 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is slightly on the darker, smoother side compared to that of M2 / M6 / M9. Treble extents quite far but in much smoother, sparkle-less fashion. Mid is slightly recessed but not too far away. Bass has a fairly good body but not as impactful as M6 or M9. Soundstage is decent with a fainted sense of airiness.
Overall Value: [4.6 / 5] ($40)
Final Remark: While M11 might not sound as exciting as M6 or M9 in a direct comparison, its smoother sound signature allows for more relaxing / less fatiguing listening session without losing quality. It will be good for those who don't like brightness yet demand a decent amount of detail. In depth review can be found here.


MEElectronics R1

Variation: N/A
Transducer: 10mm Dynamic
Spec: 16 + 15% Ω (@1kHz) | 95 + 3dB SPL | 20Hz ~ 20kHZ
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.10m.
Mini Jack Style: {┏━} style, light build.
Eartips Used: Single flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★★
┣ Accessories: ★★★★☆
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★
┣ Isolation: ★★★
┣ Microphonics: ★★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: R1 is mostly made of wood, even on the nozzle portion (which is usually metal on other woody IEM). It uses the same type of transparent cable as other MEElec models, but has a blackish color to it. It comes with a soft pouch, 3 pair of single flange, cable warp, shirt clip and airline adapter. The wooden housing itself is painted with a clear coat of water proof sealant, but one should probably be best avoiding too much moisture near the housing. The overall build is good but the marking (company logo and left/right channels) gets wiped off too easy, making it hard to tell which side is which. Isolation is about average. Microphonics is better than average.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★☆
┣ Mid: ★★★
┣ Bass: ★★☆
┣ Soundstage: ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ - Small / Acceptable
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [2.75 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is warm and full. Treble is decent with a fainted sense of harshness. Mid is a bit distanced and has a sense of hollowness to it, bass is full but can get bloated on bass heavy music. Soundstage is below average due to the excess warmness.
Overall Value: [4.4 / 5] ($40)
Final Remark: While R1 has been blessed with some woodified lushness to its sound, the lack of fine control at the bottom end renders it to be less impressive than it can be, or else it could very well be another great choice for basshead. In depth review can be found here.


HifiMAN RE252

Variation: N/A
Transducer: 9mm Dynamic with silver coil
Spec: 16Ω (@1kHz) | 103 dB SPL | 16Hz ~ 22kHZ
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.2m.
Mini Jack Style: {┏━} style, Light build.
Eartips Used: Single flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★★
┣ Accessories: ★★★★
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★☆
┣ Isolation: ★★★
┣ Microphonics: ★★★☆
┣ Comfort: ★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: Decent hard plastic case, three pairs of single flange, one pair of big and normal bi-flange, 5 pair of replacement filters and a shirt clip. Would be nice to include a soft pouch as well. Improvement build quality since RE0 especially on the new PPE cable. Average isolation and microphonics problem on the Y-splitter up. Decent fit though requires sometime to break in the semi-custom silicone housing.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★★☆
┣ Mid: ★★★★★
┣ Bass: ★★★★
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ - Good / Average
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [4.7 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is balance, yet neither totally neutral nor colored. Very good treble and detail, rather dominate yet not very upfront mid and vocal, and decent while still remains mostly neutral bass performance. Decent soundstage but lacks real depth. While not needed, pairing with a warm source or amp is recommended.
Overall Value: [4.7 / 5] ($199) | [5 / 5] ($99) (Black Friday '09 sale)
Final Remark: My first impression of RE252 resembled that of UM3X (in a brief audition, I might add) - not that they sound alike but that I find them both to be lacking of personal characteristic. It is not always a bad thing for an IEM to not have a strong characteristic. It means the IEM is less picky about the genre of the music and be more of a Jack-of-all-trades (the downside is of course 'master-of-none'). In the end, I think RE252 really redefines what I would call as a 'balance' sounding IEM in its own terms as I can hardly say if there is any major flaw in its sound. Perfect it might not be, I think RE252 is still earn to be crowned the new flagship of the RE series. In depth review can be found here.
A Sonic Diamond™ is given to RE252 for the ongoing Black Friday 48hrs sale price of $99.


Hippo Shroom

Variation: N/A
Transducer: 6mm Dynamic
Spec: 16Ω (@1kHz) | 95 dB SPL | 10Hz ~ 20kHZ
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.25m.
Mini Jack Style: {┏━} style, light build.
Eartips Used: Stock Single Flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★★
┣ Accessories: ★★★☆
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★
┣ Isolation: ★★★★
┣ Microphonics: ★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★☆
┗ Quick Sum: Packaging is more shiny than other models in the Hippo lineup. Besides the IEM itself, there are a synthetic leather soft pouch (like that of NuForce NE-7M), three pair of different sized black eartips (small, mid, large) and three pair of different sized red/blue colored eartips. The earpieces are small and resembles that of CrossRoads' Quattro. Isolation is above average and good enough for fairly noisy environment. Microphonics is only about average so a shirt clip is likely to be helpful. Decent comfort but small ear canal might has a harder time with the larger nozzle. Nice mini plug but lacks effective strain relief. The transducer is housed in the front of the nozzle just behind the vent, will need regular cleaning to avoid earwax and dust accumulation. Overall still a very decent build quality but not for rough use.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★★
┣ Mid: ★★★
┣ Bass: ★★★
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ - Good / Average
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [3.45 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is between neutral and balanced, but more toward neutral and analytical. Treble is well extended with good sparkle and resolution, but can occasionally sound a little bit sibilant on brightest note. Mid is well presented. Vocal is clean and a bit upfront, but can sound a little lean at time. Bass has good speed and decent impact, but not excessive in quantity and rolls off more significantly on the lowest part of the sub-bass region. Basshead needs not apply. Soundstage is above average, airy and transparent with good decay.
Overall Value: [4.4 / 5] ($57)
Final Remark: Clean, transparent, and analytical sound is where Shroom's strengths lie, but in a sense it can be too lean for those enjoy a warmer, sweeter vocal or big bass. Shroom is more in line with ADDIEM's sound signature, but slightly better on overall performance. The overall SQ is on par with iM-590 - just that iM-590 has better bass and mid while Shroom is better at treble and transparentness. In depth review can be found here.


Hippo VB

Variation: N/A
Transducer: 10mm Dynamic
Spec: 32Ω (@1kHz) | 105 + 4 dB SPL | 18Hz ~ 22kHZ
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.30m.
Mini Jack Style: {┏━} style, Normal build.
Eartips Used: Generic Audio-Technica style Single Flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★☆
┣ Accessories: ★★★★
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★
┣ Isolation: ★★☆ ~ ★★★☆
┣ Microphonics: ★★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: Packaging is similar to that of Hippo Boom, very simple. There are a decent hardcase, a shirt clip, three pair of different sized eartips and three pair of bass tuning plates (which printed in reverse on the degree of bass strength indicated on the box). Anodized aluminum housing has a solid feel and weight. The bass tuning plates concept is similar to that of Quattro's, but improved with the inclusion of rubber o-ring that prevents accidental unscrewing. Stock eartips are a bit too springy and uncomfortable. Overall build quality is good due to the more robust design. Isolation varies based on bass plate but decent overall. Microphonics issue is decent as well. With generic eartips, it is quite comfortable.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★☆
┣ Mid: ★★★☆
┣ Bass: ★★★★
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ - Good / Average
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [ 3.95 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature of VB is lively and on the warm side. On the triple dotted / small bass plate, bass has a decent impact but less in quantity and more toward neutrality. Mid and treble are drier and brighter. Soundstage is also noticeably narrower. On the two dotted / mid bass plate, bass has a very good body and depth, especially on the mid-bass region (and it does go down deep). Mid and treble have better resolution due to better airiness which also give a better soundstage. This by far is the best sounding bass plate. On the dot-less / big bass plate, bass is noticeably more boomy and much warmer, which in term floors over the detail and mud up the mid, treble and soundstage. On all the bass plate, treble does get sibilant from time to time on brighter music (except it is less noticeable in big bass plate due to the excessive warm muddiness). Sometime there can also have too many sparkles in the treble which will sounds too 'busy'. However, the sibilance is not to the level of annoyance as long as the volume is kept at a reasonable level.
Overall Value: [4.6 / 5] ($79)
Final Remark: In many ways VB sounds like the CrossRoads Woody 2 without the wood lushness, while tuned more toward a livelier, focus sound signature (and no doubt both have been benefited from the larger dynamic transducer). It might have minor issue here and there, but VB has outperformed its price tag. For those who enjoy a warm, musical, and lively sound, VB is a great sub-$100 option. In depth review can be found here.


Ortofon e-Q7

Variation: Black / Red / Silver colors
Transducer: Single Balanced Armature
Spec: 40 Ω (@1kHz) | 120 dB SPL | 10Hz ~ 20kHZ
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.20m.
Mini Jack Style: {┃} style, Light build.
Eartips Used: Single Flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★★★
┣ Accessories: ★★★★☆
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★☆
┣ Isolation: ★★☆
┣ Microphonics: ★★★★☆
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: One of the best packaged IEM. Velvet inner-lining hard paper box, real leather hard case, 3 pair of eartips (S, M, L), 3 pairs of replacement filters, a filter removing tool, a pair of replacement filter locking rings, and a pair of mid size Comply T400 foam tip. Strain relief on mini plug is too rigid, no cable guide - other that those, build quality is top notch. Two parts cable design (fabric and regular) works well to reduce microphonics, but isolation is slightly below average. Very comfortable but will lose seal if move a lot.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★★☆
┣ Mid: ★★★★★
┣ Bass: ★★★★☆
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ - Good / Average
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [4.65 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is warm and mid focus, well suited for vocal lover. Treble is clean and smooth, though does roll off on the top end, but not more so than SE530 or UM2. Mid is full, focus and sweet, but not overpowering nor sibilant. Bass has good impact, body and extension, but no rumbling big bass. Soundstage is only average. In many ways e-Q7 sounds like the midway of SE530 and UM2, with pros and cons in between the two.
Overall Value: [4.5 / 5] (¥24100 ~ US$270)
Final Remark: Ortofon e-Q7 is by far the best single BA based IEM I have ever heard, placing it alongside with some of the best multi-ways universal IEM in the market. This proves again that more transducer is not the only answer to the question of better sound quality, even in the world of balanced armature. The lower in overall value reflects the fact that e-Q7 can not as easily acquired as many other IEM which often results in higher mark up and/or shipping fee. In depth review can be found here.


SoundMAGIC PL-21

Variation: Color variation, Microphone support (MP21)
Transducer: 9mm Dynamic
Spec: 12 Ω (@1kHz) | 97dB±2dB SPL | 15Hz ~ 22kHZ
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.20m.
Mini Jack Style: {┏━} style, normal build.
Eartips Used: Sony Hybrid Clone
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★★
┣ Accessories: ★★★★
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★☆
┣ Isolation: ★★★
┣ Microphonics: ★★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: Similar style packaging as PL50, Nice looking for its price tag. Accessories include 4 pair of silicone single flange eartips (S, M, L, XL) and 3 pair of foam tips (S, M, L), warranty card, shirt clip, soft pouch and a pair of ear hook. Build quality is close to PL50, similar design with slightly lesser quality material. Microphonics is about average, but the inclusion of shirt clip, ear hook and the angled nozzle make it easier to wear it over-the-ear to solve any microphonics issue. Isolation is a tiny bit below average on the stock eartips, but better on the foam tips. Overall, PL21 has one of the best build quality on among $20-ish IEM.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★☆
┣ Mid: ★★★
┣ Bass: ★★★☆
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ - Good / Average
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [2.7 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is warm to slight dark, musical, smooth, and has a small emphasis on the mid. Bass extends very deep, does rumbling sub-bass better than any IEM of its class while retaining very good control. Quantitatively not a bass monster but it does show a good bass impact and body. Mid is full, a little forward and vocal is sweet, no sibilance to speak of. Treble has a decent extension but lacks sparkle to show fine detail. Soundstage is about average.
Overall Value: [4.7 / 5]
Final Remark: Well priced, well built, and a good sound - PL21 is one very solid IEM in the $20 range. As an overall package, perhaps it even rivals most of the sub-$40 options out there as one of the best all-arounder. In depth review can be found here.