AwakenedBeing
100+ Head-Fier
- Joined
- May 4, 2008
- Posts
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Hi, this is my first review here. I am a noob at this, but I will try to keep everything short, simple, and to the point.
Please read this first before you continue: This comparison is subjective since I am basing it off what I am hearing. What I hear and what others hear can be completely different. What I like and what others like can be completely different. I do not have expensive audio equipment like other members, so I can not fully test these IEMs to their full potential. All testing is done through my iPhone 3G, Meizu M6, and from my computer's integrated sound card. There is no quantitative data, graphs, or charts. Sorry if some of this comparison seems vague/lacking since my ears aren't as experienced as other members here. I tried my best to describe what I am hearing. Please search the forum for other member's reviews, comparisons, impressions, and comments before deciding to buy. Enjoy!
*Update (January 20, 2010): Added some member reviews/impressions of the CK10 after the summary.
ATH-CK10 vs UE TF10
Price, Packaging, and Accessories
I got a bargain on both of these.
$99 for TF10 (Amazon sale) | Current Price (US): ~$100-$150
$160 for CK10 (eBay Bing Cashback) | Current Price (US): ~180-$200
The CK10 comes with 3 pairs of silicon tips, a carrying case, and a microfiber cloth.
The TF10 includes a wax cleaner, 4 pairs if silicon tips, and 2 pairs of comply tips. There is also a metal carrying case, an airline adapter, extension cable and 1/4" adapter.
Build Quality and Design
The ATH-CK10, like many have said, is built like a tank. The housing is extremely small and compact. The wire is soft, flexible, and thick. It has the best wire I have tried so far. I can see how the stress relief at the housing can be a downside.
*Update (January 12, 2010): Went back to double check my review, and I saw that I didn't finish typing about the downside of stress relief. First thing it reminded me of was the Klipsch X5's stress relief. Brought back some bad memories of the stress relief splitting on the Klipsch. However, upon further inspection, the CK10's stress relief is thicker and sturdier than what is found on the Klipsch. I remember reading somewhere on this forum (forgot who the member was or where I read that) that the cable is not anchored to the stress relief, which can be a problem. Other than that, it is top notch in build and quality.
The TF10 has a solid build compared to other IEMs. Compared to the CK10, it has a below average build. The housing is HUGE compared to the CK10. I have read several posts on here where the housing would split apart when changing the tips. The wire is poorly built. The memory wire is very annoying, the 3.5mm plug is small, and the wire is “nicked up” all over the place. Running my fingers across the entire wire, I can feel at least 20 imperfections in the wire. I don’t know if I got a bad batch from Amazon, but I hope this isn’t how the wire is suppose to be.
CK10 is the bigger wire on top. TF10 on bottom.
CK10 on the left. TF10 on the right.
Smaller than a dime!
About the same size as the iPhone Home button.
Size comparison between TF10, CK10, and Crossroads Bijou3
Comfort, Fit, and Isolation
The CK10 is meant to be worn over-the-ear. However, it can be worn with the wires straight down very easily. The CK10 can also be flipped to be worn straight down for a more flush fit. The CK10 is very comfortable, comparable to the comfort of the Klipsch X5 and X10. I can sleep on the side of my head comfortably with the CK10 worn over-the-ear or straight down.The CK10 is not meant to go deep in the ear, so isolation is average.
*Update (January 11, 2010): Isolation is very good for the CK10. In order to get good isolation, you have to find the right angle of insertion. I am listening to several songs on my iPhone at half volume while typing this. I can hear myself typing on the keyboard with the TF10, but with the CK10, I can't hear the keystrokes.
The TF10 can be worn over-the-ear or straight down. There is also the flip mod that makes the fit better since it is almost flush with the ear. The TF10 were surprisingly comfortable to me. Isolation is slightly less than the CK10.
Tips
*Update (February 5, 2010)
Mini Tips Comparison here
1) SoundMagic Foam Tips:
These are foam tips, with a smooth, slightly harder feel to them compared to comply. There is no core at all.
These tips fit the CK10 perfectly well. Since these foam tips are longer than the stock tips, it goes in slightly deeper. I can't tell a difference between these and stock in terms of how deep they are in my ear. Both the stock and foam tips are completely inside my ear canal when worn over-the-ear.
Isolation is good, not as good as the stock tips in my opinion. The seal is not as solid as the stock tips either. How does it sound? The first thing I hear different is the bass impact. However, the cost of having slightly more thump is an overall sound, mainly the highs, that seems very dampened. The bass impact isn't a noticeable difference, but there is more bass impact present. The sound isn't muddled, just quieter compared to the stock tips. Overall, these tips are comfortable and provide more bass impact, but at the expense of less treble at the same volume.
2) Sony Hybrid Tips (EPEX10A):
These are silicone tips with a hard inner core and a very soft outer layer. They are slightly shorter than the stock tips and have a bigger opening, exposing a good amount of entire nozzle. The nozzle/filter and the end of the tip is almost flush with each other. Comfort and isolation is about the same for me compared to the stock. I can see how the Sony can be more comfortable since it is softer. The seal on the Sony reminds me of the Klipsch gel tips, not as good but very close. I get an "instant seal" right when I insert them in my ear! No fiddling around. Since they are soft and shorter, it goes in deeper.
Stock tip on top. Sony on bottom.
Sony on left. Stock on right.
The Sony retains most of the sound signature of the original tips. There is slightly more bass impact. I think that this has a lot to do with them being deeper in my ear, tighter seal, and an exposed nozzle. Again, almost identical to the stock tips with just a tad of bass impact. I really like the Hybrids since they give me that Klipsch-like seal that I have been longing for.
Sound
The sound signature of the CK10 is very neutral and anayltical. For the bass, there is not too much but a good amount, more than the Klipsch X5, for an enjoyable listening experience. The mids are smooth with very crisp highs. The highs are comparable to the TF10 but not overly pronounced or "sparkly" as the TF10.
On the other hand, the TF10 had a warm presentation with slightly recessed mids. If you like bass, you will love the TF10. The bass can sometimes overwhelm the mids depending on the song, which can get annoying. They sound similar to a dynamic IEM but quicker in speed and more transparent. In terms of detail, there are IEMs that are more detailed (having heard the Klipsch X5, SCL4, ER4P, RE0, CK10). Overall, the sound is very smooth and will appeal to many.
*Update (January 12, 2010): Below are some songs of multiple genres I used for A/B comparisons. Again, very short notes and comments.
1) Pendulum - Slam:
This is a warm-up song to test both IEMs. The CK10 performed quite well. This IEM is very fast. It kept up easily with the speed of the beat and drums. Concise, clean, and detailed. There is enough bass to enjoy this song.
The TF10 is amazing. Sounds very open and airy. The bass hits with authority compared to the CK10. A bit slower than the CK10. Clean and concise, but less detailed on the bottom end due to the heavy bass. Very fun and enjoyable. I would give the slight edge to the TF10.
2) Pendulum – Blood Sugar:
Same as above #1
3) ATB – Justify:
Crisp highs, smooth vocals, and rich, clean bass. Very balanced sound and sweet vocals.
The TF10 sounds excellent. Very sweet vocals, but slightly recessed compared to the CK10. As detailed as the CK10. Bass is very similar to the CK10, but it has more impact. CK10 wins this due to vocals.
4) Benassi Bros – Feel Alive:
I’m speechless at the CK10. Speed is amazing on these. Amazing separation of layers. Awesome vocals and bass. Not far behind the TF10 in terms of bass impact for this song.
The TF10 makes me want to get up and dance. Very fun and open sound. Bass hits hards and fast. Slight sibilance in the highs. Going with the CK10 on this one.
5) deadmau5 – Ghosts n Stuff (feat. Rob Swire):
Plenty of bass for the CK10. Crisp highs and smooth vocals. Awesome song for the CK10.
Very engaging and immersive. It sounds very open. I just love the bass for this song. The bass is no way intrusive to the vocals. My vote goes to the TF10.
6) Adele – Chasing Pavements:
The CK10 gives me chills listening to Adele’s voice. Very rich sound coming from the CK10.
The TF10 sounds very similar to the CK10, except more open and airy. There is noticeably more bass impact. This is tough, but I have to go with the CK10 since vocals is just stunning.
7) Susan Wong – Close to You:
The CK10 does it again. Very transparent, smooth vocals, and crisp highs. Excellent separation of the vocals, piano, drum, and guitar.
The TF10 sounds incredible. Very similar to the CK10. Another tough call. I’m going to call this a tie.
8) Camera Obscura – French Navy:
The CK10 is so detailed, yet they smooth sounding at the same time. This is what I like about the CK10 the most.
As mentioned before, the TF10 is very fun and enjoyable. I love both sounds produced by both IEMs. However, the TF10 wins this since the music fits the TF10 better.
10) Foo Fighters – Everlong:
The CK10 performs really well with rock music. Rich, clean bass, speed, and spearation that will more than satisfy many listeners. Very, very detailed. Vocals are very smooth.
The TF10 also performs well with rock music. Very engaging. Open, airy sound similar to that of a dynamic driver IEM. Bass lover’s dream come true with the speed and detail in balanced armatures. I am going to go with a tie.
11) Interpol – Evil:
Same as above #10
12) Linkin Park – Faint:
The CK10 can handle pretty much any genre I throw at them and sound amazing. Transparency, speed, and smoothness is the CK10.
The TF10 can also do the same. The TF10 likes to make its presence known. Very fun, punchy bass, and smooth. I feel like the CK10 and TF10 are perfect compliments to each other. Going with a tie on this.
13) Muse – Hysteria:
The bass on the CK10 is very tight, clean, and rich. Superb separation and detail.
The TF10 is simply wonderful. Not as tight as the CK10 on the bass, but there is so much more energy. Much more enjoyable on the TF10. TF10 hands down.
14) Phoenix – 1901:
Same as above #13
15) The Strokes – You Only Live Once:
Again, transparency and separation. Sweet guitars and drums.
The TF10 sounds amazing. Vocals are slightly recessed. This goes to the CK10.
16) 30 Seconds to Mars – The Kill:
Same as above #15
The best features to the CK10 would be transparency, speed, and smoothness. The best features to the TF10 would be bass, energy, and open/airy sound. If the bass on the CK10 is equivalent to pounding on a door, then the TF10 would be kicking down the door and stomping on it. As noted above, both these IEMs are great compliments to one another.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both of these IEMs offer the best in sound quality. Both are excellent if you listen to multiple genres. Both can be had for a very great price in the U.S.
If I were to choose one, it would be the CK10. Sound signature is all preference, but the build, fit, and comfort is superb. I feel like the CK10 has set the bar for a reference build.
Summary:
Build: CK10>>TF10
Fit and Comfort: CK10>>TF10
Isolation: CK10>>TF10
Bass Quantity: TF10>>CK10
Bass Quality: CK10>TF10
Mids Quantity: CK10>TF10
Mids Quality: CK10>TF10
Highs Quantity: TF10>CK10
Highs Quality: CK10=TF10
Speed: CK10>TF10
Separation: CK10>TF10
Soundstage: TF10>CK10
Transparency: CK10>>TF10
*Subject to change
> means slightly better
>> means noticeably better
= means equal/very close
*Update (January 21, 2010)
More reviews/impressions of the CK10 from other members: There doesn't seem to be much information about these. Took some digging, but found more reviews. Some old, some new.
jant71
Head-Direct RE0 vs. Audio-technica CK10
Upgrading from Koss KE29E's << Impressions and comparison pictures
AudioDwebe
Audio Technica ATH-CK10
mp3
My review of Audio Technica ATH-CK9 and ATH-CK10
eightbitpotion
Got some new CK-10s....
shigzeo
WIP/Review: Audio Technica CK-10 Dual Armature IEM
ljokerl
Multi-IEM review In second post of thread
Please read this first before you continue: This comparison is subjective since I am basing it off what I am hearing. What I hear and what others hear can be completely different. What I like and what others like can be completely different. I do not have expensive audio equipment like other members, so I can not fully test these IEMs to their full potential. All testing is done through my iPhone 3G, Meizu M6, and from my computer's integrated sound card. There is no quantitative data, graphs, or charts. Sorry if some of this comparison seems vague/lacking since my ears aren't as experienced as other members here. I tried my best to describe what I am hearing. Please search the forum for other member's reviews, comparisons, impressions, and comments before deciding to buy. Enjoy!
*Update (January 20, 2010): Added some member reviews/impressions of the CK10 after the summary.
ATH-CK10 vs UE TF10
Price, Packaging, and Accessories
I got a bargain on both of these.
$99 for TF10 (Amazon sale) | Current Price (US): ~$100-$150
$160 for CK10 (eBay Bing Cashback) | Current Price (US): ~180-$200
The CK10 comes with 3 pairs of silicon tips, a carrying case, and a microfiber cloth.
The TF10 includes a wax cleaner, 4 pairs if silicon tips, and 2 pairs of comply tips. There is also a metal carrying case, an airline adapter, extension cable and 1/4" adapter.
Build Quality and Design
The ATH-CK10, like many have said, is built like a tank. The housing is extremely small and compact. The wire is soft, flexible, and thick. It has the best wire I have tried so far. I can see how the stress relief at the housing can be a downside.
*Update (January 12, 2010): Went back to double check my review, and I saw that I didn't finish typing about the downside of stress relief. First thing it reminded me of was the Klipsch X5's stress relief. Brought back some bad memories of the stress relief splitting on the Klipsch. However, upon further inspection, the CK10's stress relief is thicker and sturdier than what is found on the Klipsch. I remember reading somewhere on this forum (forgot who the member was or where I read that) that the cable is not anchored to the stress relief, which can be a problem. Other than that, it is top notch in build and quality.
The TF10 has a solid build compared to other IEMs. Compared to the CK10, it has a below average build. The housing is HUGE compared to the CK10. I have read several posts on here where the housing would split apart when changing the tips. The wire is poorly built. The memory wire is very annoying, the 3.5mm plug is small, and the wire is “nicked up” all over the place. Running my fingers across the entire wire, I can feel at least 20 imperfections in the wire. I don’t know if I got a bad batch from Amazon, but I hope this isn’t how the wire is suppose to be.
CK10 is the bigger wire on top. TF10 on bottom.
CK10 on the left. TF10 on the right.
Smaller than a dime!
About the same size as the iPhone Home button.
Size comparison between TF10, CK10, and Crossroads Bijou3
Comfort, Fit, and Isolation
The CK10 is meant to be worn over-the-ear. However, it can be worn with the wires straight down very easily. The CK10 can also be flipped to be worn straight down for a more flush fit. The CK10 is very comfortable, comparable to the comfort of the Klipsch X5 and X10. I can sleep on the side of my head comfortably with the CK10 worn over-the-ear or straight down.
*Update (January 11, 2010): Isolation is very good for the CK10. In order to get good isolation, you have to find the right angle of insertion. I am listening to several songs on my iPhone at half volume while typing this. I can hear myself typing on the keyboard with the TF10, but with the CK10, I can't hear the keystrokes.
The TF10 can be worn over-the-ear or straight down. There is also the flip mod that makes the fit better since it is almost flush with the ear. The TF10 were surprisingly comfortable to me. Isolation is slightly less than the CK10.
Tips
*Update (February 5, 2010)
Mini Tips Comparison here
1) SoundMagic Foam Tips:
These are foam tips, with a smooth, slightly harder feel to them compared to comply. There is no core at all.
These tips fit the CK10 perfectly well. Since these foam tips are longer than the stock tips, it goes in slightly deeper. I can't tell a difference between these and stock in terms of how deep they are in my ear. Both the stock and foam tips are completely inside my ear canal when worn over-the-ear.
Isolation is good, not as good as the stock tips in my opinion. The seal is not as solid as the stock tips either. How does it sound? The first thing I hear different is the bass impact. However, the cost of having slightly more thump is an overall sound, mainly the highs, that seems very dampened. The bass impact isn't a noticeable difference, but there is more bass impact present. The sound isn't muddled, just quieter compared to the stock tips. Overall, these tips are comfortable and provide more bass impact, but at the expense of less treble at the same volume.
2) Sony Hybrid Tips (EPEX10A):
These are silicone tips with a hard inner core and a very soft outer layer. They are slightly shorter than the stock tips and have a bigger opening, exposing a good amount of entire nozzle. The nozzle/filter and the end of the tip is almost flush with each other. Comfort and isolation is about the same for me compared to the stock. I can see how the Sony can be more comfortable since it is softer. The seal on the Sony reminds me of the Klipsch gel tips, not as good but very close. I get an "instant seal" right when I insert them in my ear! No fiddling around. Since they are soft and shorter, it goes in deeper.
Stock tip on top. Sony on bottom.
Sony on left. Stock on right.
The Sony retains most of the sound signature of the original tips. There is slightly more bass impact. I think that this has a lot to do with them being deeper in my ear, tighter seal, and an exposed nozzle. Again, almost identical to the stock tips with just a tad of bass impact. I really like the Hybrids since they give me that Klipsch-like seal that I have been longing for.
Sound
The sound signature of the CK10 is very neutral and anayltical. For the bass, there is not too much but a good amount, more than the Klipsch X5, for an enjoyable listening experience. The mids are smooth with very crisp highs. The highs are comparable to the TF10 but not overly pronounced or "sparkly" as the TF10.
On the other hand, the TF10 had a warm presentation with slightly recessed mids. If you like bass, you will love the TF10. The bass can sometimes overwhelm the mids depending on the song, which can get annoying. They sound similar to a dynamic IEM but quicker in speed and more transparent. In terms of detail, there are IEMs that are more detailed (having heard the Klipsch X5, SCL4, ER4P, RE0, CK10). Overall, the sound is very smooth and will appeal to many.
*Update (January 12, 2010): Below are some songs of multiple genres I used for A/B comparisons. Again, very short notes and comments.
1) Pendulum - Slam:
This is a warm-up song to test both IEMs. The CK10 performed quite well. This IEM is very fast. It kept up easily with the speed of the beat and drums. Concise, clean, and detailed. There is enough bass to enjoy this song.
The TF10 is amazing. Sounds very open and airy. The bass hits with authority compared to the CK10. A bit slower than the CK10. Clean and concise, but less detailed on the bottom end due to the heavy bass. Very fun and enjoyable. I would give the slight edge to the TF10.
2) Pendulum – Blood Sugar:
Same as above #1
3) ATB – Justify:
Crisp highs, smooth vocals, and rich, clean bass. Very balanced sound and sweet vocals.
The TF10 sounds excellent. Very sweet vocals, but slightly recessed compared to the CK10. As detailed as the CK10. Bass is very similar to the CK10, but it has more impact. CK10 wins this due to vocals.
4) Benassi Bros – Feel Alive:
I’m speechless at the CK10. Speed is amazing on these. Amazing separation of layers. Awesome vocals and bass. Not far behind the TF10 in terms of bass impact for this song.
The TF10 makes me want to get up and dance. Very fun and open sound. Bass hits hards and fast. Slight sibilance in the highs. Going with the CK10 on this one.
5) deadmau5 – Ghosts n Stuff (feat. Rob Swire):
Plenty of bass for the CK10. Crisp highs and smooth vocals. Awesome song for the CK10.
Very engaging and immersive. It sounds very open. I just love the bass for this song. The bass is no way intrusive to the vocals. My vote goes to the TF10.
6) Adele – Chasing Pavements:
The CK10 gives me chills listening to Adele’s voice. Very rich sound coming from the CK10.
The TF10 sounds very similar to the CK10, except more open and airy. There is noticeably more bass impact. This is tough, but I have to go with the CK10 since vocals is just stunning.
7) Susan Wong – Close to You:
The CK10 does it again. Very transparent, smooth vocals, and crisp highs. Excellent separation of the vocals, piano, drum, and guitar.
The TF10 sounds incredible. Very similar to the CK10. Another tough call. I’m going to call this a tie.
8) Camera Obscura – French Navy:
The CK10 is so detailed, yet they smooth sounding at the same time. This is what I like about the CK10 the most.
As mentioned before, the TF10 is very fun and enjoyable. I love both sounds produced by both IEMs. However, the TF10 wins this since the music fits the TF10 better.
10) Foo Fighters – Everlong:
The CK10 performs really well with rock music. Rich, clean bass, speed, and spearation that will more than satisfy many listeners. Very, very detailed. Vocals are very smooth.
The TF10 also performs well with rock music. Very engaging. Open, airy sound similar to that of a dynamic driver IEM. Bass lover’s dream come true with the speed and detail in balanced armatures. I am going to go with a tie.
11) Interpol – Evil:
Same as above #10
12) Linkin Park – Faint:
The CK10 can handle pretty much any genre I throw at them and sound amazing. Transparency, speed, and smoothness is the CK10.
The TF10 can also do the same. The TF10 likes to make its presence known. Very fun, punchy bass, and smooth. I feel like the CK10 and TF10 are perfect compliments to each other. Going with a tie on this.
13) Muse – Hysteria:
The bass on the CK10 is very tight, clean, and rich. Superb separation and detail.
The TF10 is simply wonderful. Not as tight as the CK10 on the bass, but there is so much more energy. Much more enjoyable on the TF10. TF10 hands down.
14) Phoenix – 1901:
Same as above #13
15) The Strokes – You Only Live Once:
Again, transparency and separation. Sweet guitars and drums.
The TF10 sounds amazing. Vocals are slightly recessed. This goes to the CK10.
16) 30 Seconds to Mars – The Kill:
Same as above #15
The best features to the CK10 would be transparency, speed, and smoothness. The best features to the TF10 would be bass, energy, and open/airy sound. If the bass on the CK10 is equivalent to pounding on a door, then the TF10 would be kicking down the door and stomping on it. As noted above, both these IEMs are great compliments to one another.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both of these IEMs offer the best in sound quality. Both are excellent if you listen to multiple genres. Both can be had for a very great price in the U.S.
If I were to choose one, it would be the CK10. Sound signature is all preference, but the build, fit, and comfort is superb. I feel like the CK10 has set the bar for a reference build.
Summary:
Build: CK10>>TF10
Fit and Comfort: CK10>>TF10
Isolation: CK10>>TF10
Bass Quantity: TF10>>CK10
Bass Quality: CK10>TF10
Mids Quantity: CK10>TF10
Mids Quality: CK10>TF10
Highs Quantity: TF10>CK10
Highs Quality: CK10=TF10
Speed: CK10>TF10
Separation: CK10>TF10
Soundstage: TF10>CK10
Transparency: CK10>>TF10
*Subject to change
> means slightly better
>> means noticeably better
= means equal/very close
*Update (January 21, 2010)
More reviews/impressions of the CK10 from other members: There doesn't seem to be much information about these. Took some digging, but found more reviews. Some old, some new.
jant71
Head-Direct RE0 vs. Audio-technica CK10
Upgrading from Koss KE29E's << Impressions and comparison pictures
AudioDwebe
Audio Technica ATH-CK10
mp3
My review of Audio Technica ATH-CK9 and ATH-CK10
eightbitpotion
Got some new CK-10s....
shigzeo
WIP/Review: Audio Technica CK-10 Dual Armature IEM
ljokerl
Multi-IEM review In second post of thread
