I was wondering when the next review of the A3H Pro would appear on Head-Fi... seems like our general impressions are similar, but you seem to like thick lower mids a lot more than I do. As for my assertion that the lack of treble extension was a tuning decision, I don't think it was a limitation of BA designs that caused the treble rolloff, since I reviewed AAW's Nebula Two universal dual driver hybrid after the A3H Pro, and with a single BA, they have insane treble extension and plenty of airiness, proving that multiple BA are not necessary for lots of treble extension. Of course, I concede that the BA in the Nebula Two is a custom-designed super-tweeter, but there was nothing stopping AAW from doing a similar thing with the dual BA in the A3H Pro, leading to my belief that the treble rolloff was intentional, which is backed up by the design goals AAW set for the A3H Pro, found in the comments section of a particular group-buying website where I got my A3H Pro.
I definitely agree with your review preamble that the reviewer's sound preferences should be taken into account when reading a review, which I why I stated that my preferred sound signature is close to the Harman Target Response Curve near the beginning of my A3H Pro review. Also, thanks for linking to my review!
It would make sense that this will be a different tuning direction among our line up. Take another triple driver hybrid setup W300AR for instance, you would have as much as treble extension as you would like to have. The key is differentiation for each price point A3H Pro's treble is adequate and suitable for non-fatiquing listening experience and we think it does its job very well.
Agreed wholeheartedly. The AAW A3H has its weaknesses but as a smooth and easy-sounding IEM, there isn't a lot that comes close in my listening experience. Seems like this could be a solid variant for a differently tuned A3H (like your previous A3H-V). Rolling off the dynamic driver earlier and lightening up the treble filters might be a good way to emulate tz's compensational EQ to have a more energetic and punchy sound signature that I'm positive many would love. Call it the A3H-Ref or something
On an unrelated note, I did send you an email but since you're here, how's progress on the aptX CIEM cable? I'm still very much anticipating it.