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TRINITY AUDIO ENGINEERING LAUNCH NEW CAMPAIGN FOR HIGH-END SPORTS IEM's
Sep 5, 2015 at 12:39 PM Post #121 of 713
meringo said:
  Just backed the Atlas, plus an extra $10 for the Bluetooth cable.
 
Can't wait to have high end audio for the gym!
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same here!
@Bobtrinity sorry to bug, but any update on a pic of the bluetooth cable?
 
Sep 5, 2015 at 7:18 PM Post #123 of 713
Will the 3.5mm TRRS balanced cable currently designed for the Pono work on the Sony ZX2?
 
Sep 6, 2015 at 8:56 AM Post #125 of 713
Sorry guys - I have the new IEMs and promise I'll get you a quick update within the next few days.
 
In the meantime - here is something from Bob that I have been listening to over the weekend, and I think sound pretty darn good ....
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Notice the ports.  Quick rotation, and they go from open to closed.  Took them to Auckland for our recent Meet - and comments were pretty positive.  More soon :)
 
Sep 6, 2015 at 4:01 PM Post #129 of 713
Definitely metal :)
 
Sep 6, 2015 at 4:54 PM Post #131 of 713
Was hoping you guys would say metal, I have been very impressed for they build quality of the trinity stuff I have seen so far. Would have been slightly disappointed to read they where plastic.
 
Sep 7, 2015 at 8:02 AM Post #134 of 713
Dedicated headphone thread just started here http://www.head-fi.org/t/780221/triity-audio-engineering-prepare-to-launch-new-vario-switchable-open-and-closed-back-full-size-headphone
 
Sep 11, 2015 at 5:43 AM Post #135 of 713

Trinity Atlas and Helio - Impressions​

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Warning - fairly photo intensive post ahead. For better images, click the pics, and you should get up to 1200 x 800.​
 
INTRO
 
I guess we all know about Bob's KS for the Helio and Atlas sports headphones. If you don't - the link is here. Well about 11 days ago I received a courier pack from the UK - and inside were the two prototypes, and 4 of the 5 prototype filters for me to have a play with.
 
Now the reason I'm posting my impressions in the thread, rather than a full review is simply because these are prototypes / ie work in progress. Last time with the Delta / Techne - we were still changing filters slightly well after my review was posted. I then had to go back and re-edit everything, and i thought this time we could do it a little smarter.  I'll give you my first impressions - and for those interested, you'll also get to see a little of what goes on in my head when I'm doing this - as within this post are a couple of ideas for changes - which I'll be discussing with Bob later. It's what we usually do by email and PM.  I will still fully review these at some stage in the future - but it will be when filters, packaging, accessories and tuning are finalised.
 
TEST GEAR
 
For measurements, I used the Vibro Veritas IEM coupling system, along with the excellent ARTA measurement suite.  As soon as I get time, I do plan to review this measurement system.  I really like it.  When measuring, I used foam tips - as they tend to sit most securely in the coupler, and give me the most consistency.  Basically I could take 10 sets of 5 measurements in the space of 10 minutes, and most of the time have every measurement be only a fraction of a dB out. I have to admit though, the Atlas and Helio were a little more difficult to get consistency because of their shape. Overall though I'm reasonably happy with th measurements as they were repeatable.  The microphone in the Veritas is not professionally calibrated yet, and I know I need to get this done as soon as I get more time. But it is showing results which are reasonably close to Tyll's raw data plots on a lot of the earphones we have in common - so I have a reasonable level of confidence that the measurements are giving really good relative info.
 
When measuring the Atlas and Helios - I have included the Delta with gunmetal filter for a relative data point.
 
For the subjective bit - I've just used my Fiio X3ii.  I use this a lot for testing so I know it's signature well.
 
DISCLAIMER
 
This is the "about me" stuff.  Most of you will know my tastes by now - so putting this in a spoiler (hidden box) hopefully will save you going over old ground.
 
[size=14.95px]I'm a 48 year old music lover.  I don't say audiophile – I just love my music.  Over the last couple of years, I have slowly changed from cheaper listening set-ups to my current set-up.  I vary my listening from portables (Fiio X5ii, X3ii, LP5 and iPhone 5S) to my desk-top's set-up (PC > USB > iFi iDSD).  I also use a portable set-up at work – either X5ii/X3ii > HP, or PC > E17K > HP.  My main full sized headphones at the time of writing are the Beyer T1, Sennheiser HD600, and AKG K553.  Most of my portable listening is done with IEMs - and at the moment it has mainly been with the Dunu DN-2000J and Trinity Delta. A full list of the gear I have owned (past and present is listed in my Head-Fi profile).[/size]
[size=14.95px] [/size]
[size=14.95px]I have very eclectic music tastes listening to a variety from classical/opera and jazz, to grunge and general rock.   I listen to a lot of blues, jazz, folk music, classic rock, indie and alternative rock.  I am particularly fond of female vocals.  I generally tend toward cans that are relatively neutral/balanced, but I do have a fondness for clarity, and suspect I might have slight ‘treble-head’ preferences.  I am not treble sensitive (at all), and in the past have really enjoyed headphones like the K701, SR325i, and of course the T1 and DT880.[/size]
[size=14.95px] [/size]
[size=14.95px]I have extensively tested myself (abx) and I find aac256 or higher to be completely transparent.  I do use exclusively redbook 16/44.1 if space is not an issue.  All of my music is legally purchased (mostly CD – the rest FLAC purchased on-line).[/size]
[size=14.95px] [/size]
[size=14.95px]I tend to be sceptical about audiophile ‘claims’, don’t generally believe in burn-in, have never heard a difference with different cables, and would rather test myself blind on perceived differences.  I am not a ‘golden eared listener’.  I suffer from mild tinnitus, and at 48, my hearing is less than perfect.[/size]
[size=14.95px] [/size]
[size=14.95px]This is a purely subjective review - my gear, my ears, and my experience.  Please take it all with a grain of salt - especially if it does not match your own experience.[/size]
 
TECH SPECS
 
This is pretty much straight off the website.  I've just thrown the table in because it's handy for comparisons.  I've listed what we know about Atlas, Helios and also the Delta for comparison.
 
Specs                                       Atlas                                            Helio                                            Delta                                            
Driver typeHybrid BA + 8mm Dynamic Driver8mm Dynamic DriverHybrid BA + 8mm Dynamic Driver
Frequency range19 Hz – 21 Khz19 Hz – 21 Khz19 Hz – 21 Khz
Impedance16 ohm16 ohm16 ohm
Sensitivity110 +/- 3dB @ 1kHz 1mW 108 +/- 3dB @ 1kHz 1mW 110 +/-3dB @ 1kHz 1mW
Jack3.5mm gold plated, straight jack3.5mm gold plated, straight jack3.5mm gold plated, straight jack
Cable (s)Removable, OFC, 3 typesRemovable, OFC, 3 typesFixed single 1.2m – OFC
Weight (with cable + tips)Approx 17gApprox 17gApprox 16g
IEM ShellCNC polished aluminiumCNC polished aluminiumCNC polished aluminium
Filter systemProposed 5 filtersProposed 5 filtersCurrently 3 filters
 
 
THE CABLE(S)
 
For those who already have any of the original Trinity Delta , Techne or Hyperion - the cable that I have is exactly what you know now. It is the same "sprung" braid - very light weight, very flexible, very maleable, very high quality.  I'd go as far as to say that it is my favourite cable of any IEM I've owned. It has a gold plated straight jack, Y split with neck cinch, only this time it has MMCX connectors and is removable.
 
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The connectors look very robust and nicely put together. The fit on the prototype Atlas is very firm, and I've had no issues with connectivity.  On the Helio (and remember these are prototypes), one side is very firm, the left is a little loose - but still secure.  To be honest I have misgivings about this system - and I have listed them, plus an alternative at the very bottom of this post.
 
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Now Bob has been very generous with the Atlas and Helio - and this time will be including 3 cables - with other options as well.  Here's what the KS says:
 3 detachable cables, 2 for sports use (1.2M & 0.6M) equipped with a multifunction remote and Mic (works on Android/iOS/Windows devices), the third cable features our exquisite multi-braid cable design and regular spring loaded 3.5mm jack. Additional optional cables are PONO player balanced cable (add £10.00 to your pledge) or Bluetooth cable (add £10.00 to your pledge) or both (add £20.00 to your pledge)
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I don't have any of the other cables - just the regular one shown in my own pictures. I will give you more information when I get a chance to try the other cables
 
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HELIO
 
The Helio measures approx 18mm across, and 16mm from top to bottom (11mm if you're just counting the main body).  It is 12mm at it's deepest width (no filter), and this extends another 5mm with filter (nozzle) fitted. The filter/nozzle are exactly the same size as the filters on the Alfa Genus and Techne (so if you have either, you can also experiment with those). Both earpieces have a small vent adjacent to the cable exit socket. The shell on the prototypes is two piece and has a visible seam, but the body is nicely rounded, and the fit is extremely comfortable.  The nozzle is angled forward, and the Helio is designed to be worn over ear. The overall comfort for me is really good - except that the flattish surface does have a slight edge - it's not sharp, but could do with a little more rounding to make it perfect.
 
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The fit with the Helio is relatively shallow (personally I would have liked a slightly longer nozzle), but with my preferred Sony Isolation tips, I get a brilliant seal every time, and the Helio feels very secure.  Isolation is decent for a vented dynamic, but it's never going to be as good as Shure's BAs or a deep fitting Ety.
 
ATLAS
 
The Atlas also measures approx 18mm across, and 16mm from top to bottom (11mm if you're just counting the main body).  The difference is in it's depth - at least a couple of mm deeper than Helio.  Like the Helio, the filter extends the overall width another 5mm once the nozzle has been fitted. Again, the filter/nozzles are interchangeable with Helio (and therefore Alfa Genus and Techne too). Both earpieces have a small vent adjacent to the cable exit socket. The shell on the prototypes is two piece and also has a visible seam, but the body is nicely rounded, and the fit is comfortable.  The nozzle is angled forward, and the Atlas is designed to be worn over ear. The overall comfort for me is also good - and again with the exception that the flattish surface does have a slight edge and could do with a little more rounding to make it perfect. Both Helio and Atlas fit flush with my own outer ear when worn, so would be be easy to sleep with.
 
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The fit with the Atlas is also relatively shallow (again I would have liked a slightly longer nozzle), but with the Sony Isolation tips, I again get a brilliant seal every time, and the Atlas also feels very secure.  Isolation is decent for a vented dynamic, but again not at the same level of Shure or Ety.
 
So build quality for both is very good.
 
FILTERS
 
The filters I was sent with the prototypes are still in development (Mark, Vince and I will still be discussing these with Bob over the coming week's to fine tune if necessary).  So please take this next bit with an appropriate "grain of salt" - it could (should) well change.  The filters, according to the website are:
 
 
  1. RED = Enhanced bass. Offering a V shape signature while retaining plenty of musical detail 
  2. ORANGE = V shape signature with slightly decreased bass 
  3. YELLOW = Neutral + Offering a more balanced sound signature with a very slight increase bass over neutral with a great mid and high range sparkle 
  4. PURPLE = Neutral - Offering a more balanced sound signature across the frequencies. 
  5.  GUNMETAL = Treble. Offering a reduced bass signature with an focus on upper mids and treble. 
Click to expand...

 
 
I received four of the 5 filters - Red, Orange, Yellow and Purple.  I haven't photographed the Yellow and Orange simply because the prototypes I have are silver 
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.  It makes switching back and forth a little painstaking as I have to make sure to keep them very separate - but so far I've managed.
 
 
I've graphed both the Atlas and Helio with the filters I have - but I do suspect that either I have something wrong with the purple (bass), or it is actually supposed to be the gunmetal, and my red filter measures less bassy on the Helio than the Orange.  Could be my measurements on that one - but it repeated half a dozen times this afternoon.  This is a topic for Bob and I over the next couple of days I think.
 
 
 
 
Here is my (extremely subjective) impression with the Helio.
  1. Red filter - very clear and quite sharp and detailed in vocals, but I quite like this.  Quite V shaped.  Bass is above neutral, and extends pretty well.  A lot of detail throughout, and although the bass is definitely quite copious it is not loose or boomy with the Helio.  In a lot of ways it reminds me somewhat of the Hyperion. Moving to bassy music like Lorde's Royals, and when the bass guitar hits, there is a lot of rumble. Overall (not being a bass lover), I could still live with presentation, and my only concern would be that for those looking for a mellower warmer filter, this may just have a little too much top end.
  2. Orange filter - very similar to red with bass and I couldn't really tell you which has more bass as they sound very similar.  All of above comments for red still apply. One thing I will note is that although both red and orange are supposed to be the bassy filters, they don't feel over done in this area. And both are gorgeous with female vocals.  Aventine (Agnes Obel) was brilliant with the orange filter - as good as I've ever heard it. Maybe some shades of the Altone200 with the Helio?
  3. Yellow filter next and again very similar signature to both Red and Orange with a shade less bass. This would be my favourite filter with the Helio, and for my tastes has an almost perfect blend of bass and mid-range. Strength again is with female vocals (that vocal presentation and touch of euphonics is addictive). London Grammar was incredible (Hannah you are so talented!), but the downside is that male vocals can be slightly on the thin side with the current tuning. Clarity is their strong point definitely.
  4. Purple filter next, and the first thing to notice is the big change (lack of) bass overall - mainly the low bass. I'm pretty sure this filter either needs rework, or is supposed to be the gunmetal.  Not a big fan with the Helio and Purple - just too anaemic and sharp.
 
So my impression of the current Helio IEM is pretty similar to the Hyperion - very vivid and clear, and probably just a tendency to lean toward the brighter end of the scale.  The filters mostly subtly change the bass at the moment, and I do wonder if there is possible need for a filter or two to smooth the highs a little. I am definitely OK with them - they suit my overall tastes - but lovers of a warmer signature may be left wanting with no real option for a little more warmth.
 
 
 
 
Now on to the Atlas:
  1. Red filter - this is quite a different sonic presentation.  This time the bass is really coming through quite strong.  The mid-range is still quite prominent, but they don't seem quite as bright overall as the Helio (this may be the bass).  There is a lot more heft - especially in the mid bass. Bass is a little thicker with a lot more reverb. When I switched to Lorde's Royals, this time my head was practically shaking - this filter might be a bass heads dream.  They are still very clear in the vocals, and still a little thin with male vocals (better than the Helio - but I wouldn't call this a warm signature).  Yes there is copious bottom end, but it is quite V shaped.
  2. Orange filter - very similar to red, and this time I'm not actually noticing a lot of bass reduction. In fact going back and forth between the two is kind of weird, because I don't think I could reliably tell the two apart. Pretty much my comments on the red are repeated here.
  3. Yellow filter - this is easily my favourite filter on the Atlas.  Bass is noticeably less than the Orange and Red filters, but it is still very present.  Mid range is still clean and clear, and the sound is very reminiscent of the Trinity Delta - but with a brighter top end. Once again - this tuning is brilliant with female vocals, a little less so with male. And again, it has quite a V-shaped nature, although less so than the Red and Orange.
  4. Purple filter - the tuning with the Atlas I actually find better than the Helio with the Purple. It is somehow a little more cohesive and less strident.  The mid-range bump is quite nice too - giving a littme ore body through the mid-range. But the lack of bass on this filter is definitely it's downfall. 
 
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EQING THE ATLAS
 
I concentrated primarily on the Atlas for this section and using the X3iis 10 band equaliser, tried to see if I could get closer to a more balanced signature.  I started with the Purple filter, giving a sloping rise from 250 Hz down to 30 Hz, and then trimmed a couple of dB off the peak 4-5 kHz.  The resulting signature was a lot smoother while still retaining it's overall detail - but unfortunately was still fairly bass light.  So I switched to the Yellow filter and this time I simply cut some of the bass from 30- 125Hz, and had the same cut as last time at 4-5 kHz.  This was a lot better and for me would be the ideal filter - detailed, but still balanced.
 
SOUNDSTAGE & IMAGING
 
Both IEMs convey very similar soundstage to their other Trinity counterparts. The soundstage is about average for an IEM, sitting on the periphery of my head for binaural recordings.  Imaging continues to be a strong point of the Trinity line-up and both the Helio and Atlas perform well - delivering consistent cues, and providing very good instrument separation and layering.
 
OVERALL EARLY IMPRESSIONS
 
For my tastes, I find both IEM's definitely headed in the right direction, but if I had my choice I would do a little bit of fine tuning either in the default tuning (to allow the filters a little more ability to change), or to the filters themselves (I've outlined my thoughts below this section). I find both IEMs slightly on the bright side, even for my tastes - especially the Helio.  They are beautiful clear, and really strong on vocal presentation, but just a little thin in the lower mid-range.  The build on both is really good, and I like the fit (albeit shallow).  I have no issues getting a seal. When I look at the accessory package Bob is offering - especially the cable options, I'm left thinking that he is setting the bar even higher for competition in this market. My only concern - other than they initial tuning - is the cable connectors.
 
POTENTIAL ISSUES / THOUGHTS
 
First up is tuning.  The red and orange filters (for me anyway) seem far too close to be effective, and there is too big a gap between them and yellow.  Purple appears to be the bass light filter - and if keeping this one, there really needs to be one between yellow and the current purple.  My major concern though would be that there is no obvious warm or mellow filter - which some people may like (rolling of the 5 kHz peak a little, and perhaps even adding a little warmth to the lower mids.  That's not my kind of sound - but it may be more attractive to others.
 
Second is the connectors.  I've seen issues in the past with MMCX connectors - particularly the Fiude A83, and Shure also had their share of issues with the SE215.  the difference between Shure/Fidue and the Trinity sports range is that with the Atlas and Helio, you're meant to change the cables quite often (exercise etc).  in a high use situation, I simply see potential wearing of sockets.  Luckily there is an ideal solution which gives great stability and still allows cables to be removable. Jays have very recently released their Q-Jays (see photo), and they use a threaded socket and MMCX. The result is a connection that threads together, doesn't move, and puts no pressure on sockets or male connectors. You can change as often as you like and they should stay fully connected and stress free.  Of course the issue with this is that people won't be able to use the Trinity cables with their other IEMs - but really that shouldn't be Bob's concern.  What would be great is if Trinity get's together with companys like Jays to adhere to a common connector threading standard.  They play in different markets, and building a common standard can only be good for manufacturers and consumers alike.
 
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Well that's it from me if there are any specific questions - please fire away and I'll answer what I can.
 
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