Aspects extraordinaire:
-Bass control and texture
-ADSR and speed
-Precise imaging
-Resolution and detail retrieval
Aspects I love:
-Neutral tuning
-Low and high frequencies extensions
-Sub-bass rumble and decay
-Nimble, authoritative and punchy bass
-Neutral and detailed mids
-Airy and sparkly treble
-Instrument layering
-Transparency and natural timbre
Aspects that could be better:
-Bass depth
-Vocal lushness and depth
-Instrument separation
-Soundstage dimensions
-Overall presentation could be more airy
Aspects I do not like:
-Occasional harshness in upper-mids and lower-treble
-Needs a powerful source
Rhapsodio Galaxy vs Other IEMs:
A10 has an airy and light presentation, while the Galaxy's presentation has more weight and accuracy. The extensions on the Galaxy is spectacular. A10's bass is textured and does not hit hard and deep, while Galaxy's bass hits with authority. Galaxy also has better decay. The lower mids on the A10 are lush and organic, while the Galaxy's lower mids are neutral with just a hint of warmth. Mids are more detailed on the Galaxy, while the A10's mids are smooth and can sound slightly veiled in comparison. Galaxy's upper mids/lower treble is bright, while A10 has a slight dip around this area, that gives a laid back feeling. The treble on the A10 is rather polite, while the Galaxy's treble is airy and sparkly and sometimes bright.
Soundstage width is pretty similar on both the IEMs, while the depth can be slightly better on the A10. The airy presentation on the A10 creates a holographic stage, compared to the dry and black presentation of the Galaxy. Timbre and tonality is almost similar on both. But in all the other technical aspects like instrument separation, layering, imaging, resolution, detail retrieval, transparency, ADSR, speed and extensions, Galaxy is slightly better than the A10.
A10 is like a butterfly with its organic, smooth and airy sound. But it's those very aspects, that prevents it from reaching the top. On the other hand, Galaxy is like a bee, with its accuracy, seriousness and weight in the sound. It shouldn't be taken for granted. The fact that Galaxy's sound is more of a reference class and the IEM needs a powerful source, it has to be recommended with caution. Where as, the A10, with its musical nature and easy-to-be driven spec, can be an easy recommendation if its tuning/signature is up your alley.
Yup I agree with just about all of that! The Galaxy was a real winner, for me the Aether just barely edged it out. Only other IEM i want to try is EE Zeus R
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