The RE272's resolving ability and clarity is simply
unreal. The dead silent background, imaging, and separation is astounding. With a highly transparent amp like the O2, I'll re-emphasize a prior point I made about these phones giving the sense that they're plugged into the very recording
mics which capture the sound. It sounds that
real. In that regard, I find that them nearly on par with orthos.
I don't think I've heard an IEM that better captures the nuances of the live, "you are there" feel than the RE272... particularly when in comes to vocals. While the spatial aspects of soundstage (as it pertains to a live performance) are replicated with jaw dropping ease by the Miracle (arguably the best I've ever heard).. its presentation is a little too colored (namely, too warm, airy, and smooth) to
accurately capture the feel of a live venue. Make no mistake, well recorded live sets are
spine-tingling to listen to from a pure enjoyment standpoint with the Miracle.. but it doesn't feel entirely accurate. But frankly.. that's one aspect I really
like about the Miracle, too. It's got a unique presentation that isn't concerned with totals accuracy.
The RE272's soundstage isn't as spacious as the Miracle's (hell, what IEMs soundstage
is?), but it's still mighty impressive. Where it excels is it's use of the space it has to work with.. and it does so with pinpoint precision and separation. Where it separates itself from some BAs that can deliver similar levels of clarity is that the RE272 has a wonderfully natural decay and (midrange through treble) delicate texturing that I've never heard from a comparable BA.
The RE272's sculpted clarity, timbre, & resolving ability has sometimes been described like it's been painstakingly etched out exquisite marble. While that's a high compliment, I'd take it a step further and say it's got just the right touch of coloration and nuance that gives it a natural flair.. akin to marveling at the beauty and delicacy of a butterfly's wings more than the precise masonry of a hard stone.
Again, three cheers for the RE272's synergy with the O2.. it's hard going back to anything else.
