7Hz Aurora
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Introduction!
Hello friends!
Today in our review we will look at amazing tribrid headphones from the 7hz company worth $400!
They arrive in a very nicely designed medium-sized box that contains the company logo, an image of the headphones themselves and the name of this model Aurora.
And at the back are the technical specifications, and the sound is controlled by a 12mm dynamic driver responsible for reproducing low frequencies, and here we were also supplied with two custom armature drivers for mid-frequencies, and all this is complemented by a planar micro driver with a diameter of 6 mm, responsible for reproducing high frequencies, and the sensitivity is 105 decibel and they got 30 ohm impedance.
Let's take a look at what's included!
- Excellent set of ear tips in a transparent case
- Good branded case for storing headphones
- Excellent heavy copper cable with 2 pin connectors and a modular system of replaceable plugs here we have both 3.5 and balanced 4.4 jacks.
- Manual for use
And this is what the 7hz Aurora headphones look like, made of darkened medical resin, and they have an extremely interesting and rare front panel design that shimmers very beautifully in the light.
They received a standard 2-pin connector and next to it they gave us three compensation holes back.
And at the bottom there is a large inscription AURORA and channel markings.
The sound guide here is quite short but has a clear edge for better fixation of the ear pads and a gold insert.
And despite the rather large body of this model, they fit perfectly in the ears, even with the included ear tips, or with any other type of Divinus and Tangzu Sancai, the fit here is quite deep and everything is in perfect order with sound insulation.
How do these headphones sound?
And now, friends, we have come to the most important part of the review, namely the analysis of the sound of the 7hz Aurora tribrid headphones, and here everything is very familiar to me from the point of view of the approach to tuning, since there is a powerful and accurate low-frequency boost by as much as 10 decibels, with a neat transition from the midbass region to the midrange frequencies right up to that very familiar gain in the upper midrange region, and the high frequencies here have excellent extension.
Low Frequencies:
The low frequencies here are presented as super massive with deep sub-bass, excellent transparency and simply a gorgeously highlighted attack, the bass here does not sound relaxed or smeared and we have a very clear and highlighted kick and a clear punch in the mid-bass, which should especially please bassheads , since recently there have been few such bassier headphones in my reviews, and now the 7Hz Aurora just allows us to remember that same rolling and percussive bass, and for such a voluminous and pumped-up low end, respect from me.
Mid Frequencies:
But at mid frequencies itโs even more interesting, they are presented as very energetic with excellent weight and drive in the guitars, truly gorgeous airiness and excellent separation of images, and the presentation here does not feel dry or monitory at all, but on the contrary, it is a little warm, with a slight emphasis on upper mid to make the drums and vocals sound more prominent and exciting and I know that many of you like this less neutral and relaxed approach to tuning, and I can understand you perfectly, especially in comparison with the more neutral Tangzu Nezha headphones that play much more relaxed with less emphasis on the upper mids and such powerful drive and energy especially in the heavy genres of rock or metal, they definitely wonโt give you anything for that, hereโs an ะคurora please.
The vocals here have excellent resolution without any hint of an armature timbre or its residual overtones, there is also excellent transparency of the voice and its image is perceived to be pushed a little forward along with the drum part, and this gives in many compositions a very pleasant immersion effect and more. enveloping deep stage design, and the drum part here with very confident emphasized transient processes simply perfectly complements this whole large-scale stereo panorama picture.
High Frequencies:
But at high frequencies here everything is exactly as I like, there is killer technology and simply insane analytics due to which these headphones literally disassemble heavy instrumental genres into separate parts and layers, and I note that all this is done extremely tactfully through the use of a planar driver, but Friends, agree that what is equally important is the detail in this area , and personally, I like it so that all the percussion cymbals sound very detailed in the overtones and have tails from reverberations that are not hidden anywhere, and various micro details and nuances, I think they should definitely be clearly audible and distinguishable, especially if we are already talking about these are top-end headphones in this price category, and they definitely work out this range as it should , and the excellent expansion of this area has definitely borne fruit here, which cannot but please me because of this, with all the trails and residual after-sounds, there is complete order here, even if the presentation here is not as neutral as in Nezha, but the resolution and increased detail and transparency here are simply mine respect, and of course I am glad that there is no hint of a fake resolution, and everything here sounds completely harmonious and correct, and at the same time, the most important thing is that only positive emotions remain after prolonged listening.
My conclusion on this headphones:
7hz Aurora are truly unique headphones due to the use of different types of emitters with extremely interesting settings and, most importantly, the output has a very driving, super emotional and bassy presentation, which should satisfy your taste. If you are tired of neutral and imposing headphones, then this is definitely your choice.
Aliexpress DD-Audio Store:https://aliexpress.ru/item/1005006833190177.html
Linsoul:https://www.linsoul.com/products/7hz-aurora
I will be glad if you subscribe to my YouTube channel and watch this full review on 7HZ AURORA!
Hello friends!
Today in our review we will look at amazing tribrid headphones from the 7hz company worth $400!
They arrive in a very nicely designed medium-sized box that contains the company logo, an image of the headphones themselves and the name of this model Aurora.
And at the back are the technical specifications, and the sound is controlled by a 12mm dynamic driver responsible for reproducing low frequencies, and here we were also supplied with two custom armature drivers for mid-frequencies, and all this is complemented by a planar micro driver with a diameter of 6 mm, responsible for reproducing high frequencies, and the sensitivity is 105 decibel and they got 30 ohm impedance.
Let's take a look at what's included!
- Excellent set of ear tips in a transparent case
- Good branded case for storing headphones
- Excellent heavy copper cable with 2 pin connectors and a modular system of replaceable plugs here we have both 3.5 and balanced 4.4 jacks.
- Manual for use
And this is what the 7hz Aurora headphones look like, made of darkened medical resin, and they have an extremely interesting and rare front panel design that shimmers very beautifully in the light.
They received a standard 2-pin connector and next to it they gave us three compensation holes back.
And at the bottom there is a large inscription AURORA and channel markings.
The sound guide here is quite short but has a clear edge for better fixation of the ear pads and a gold insert.
And despite the rather large body of this model, they fit perfectly in the ears, even with the included ear tips, or with any other type of Divinus and Tangzu Sancai, the fit here is quite deep and everything is in perfect order with sound insulation.
How do these headphones sound?
Low Frequencies:
The low frequencies here are presented as super massive with deep sub-bass, excellent transparency and simply a gorgeously highlighted attack, the bass here does not sound relaxed or smeared and we have a very clear and highlighted kick and a clear punch in the mid-bass, which should especially please bassheads , since recently there have been few such bassier headphones in my reviews, and now the 7Hz Aurora just allows us to remember that same rolling and percussive bass, and for such a voluminous and pumped-up low end, respect from me.
Mid Frequencies:
But at mid frequencies itโs even more interesting, they are presented as very energetic with excellent weight and drive in the guitars, truly gorgeous airiness and excellent separation of images, and the presentation here does not feel dry or monitory at all, but on the contrary, it is a little warm, with a slight emphasis on upper mid to make the drums and vocals sound more prominent and exciting and I know that many of you like this less neutral and relaxed approach to tuning, and I can understand you perfectly, especially in comparison with the more neutral Tangzu Nezha headphones that play much more relaxed with less emphasis on the upper mids and such powerful drive and energy especially in the heavy genres of rock or metal, they definitely wonโt give you anything for that, hereโs an ะคurora please.
The vocals here have excellent resolution without any hint of an armature timbre or its residual overtones, there is also excellent transparency of the voice and its image is perceived to be pushed a little forward along with the drum part, and this gives in many compositions a very pleasant immersion effect and more. enveloping deep stage design, and the drum part here with very confident emphasized transient processes simply perfectly complements this whole large-scale stereo panorama picture.
High Frequencies:
But at high frequencies here everything is exactly as I like, there is killer technology and simply insane analytics due to which these headphones literally disassemble heavy instrumental genres into separate parts and layers, and I note that all this is done extremely tactfully through the use of a planar driver, but Friends, agree that what is equally important is the detail in this area , and personally, I like it so that all the percussion cymbals sound very detailed in the overtones and have tails from reverberations that are not hidden anywhere, and various micro details and nuances, I think they should definitely be clearly audible and distinguishable, especially if we are already talking about these are top-end headphones in this price category, and they definitely work out this range as it should , and the excellent expansion of this area has definitely borne fruit here, which cannot but please me because of this, with all the trails and residual after-sounds, there is complete order here, even if the presentation here is not as neutral as in Nezha, but the resolution and increased detail and transparency here are simply mine respect, and of course I am glad that there is no hint of a fake resolution, and everything here sounds completely harmonious and correct, and at the same time, the most important thing is that only positive emotions remain after prolonged listening.
My conclusion on this headphones:
7hz Aurora are truly unique headphones due to the use of different types of emitters with extremely interesting settings and, most importantly, the output has a very driving, super emotional and bassy presentation, which should satisfy your taste. If you are tired of neutral and imposing headphones, then this is definitely your choice.
Aliexpress DD-Audio Store:https://aliexpress.ru/item/1005006833190177.html
Linsoul:https://www.linsoul.com/products/7hz-aurora
I will be glad if you subscribe to my YouTube channel and watch this full review on 7HZ AURORA!
A
audiophilius
Wow that price so big 
but this tuning and design looks interesting
but this tuning and design looks interesting
Introduction
7hz have been making strides with their low-key yet very competitive releases so far. As a fan of the original Timeless all the while still keeping it in my collection, they have established their name as synonymous to budget-mid tier recommendations akin to the Timeless in the planar space to the Zero & Zero 2 in the budget-tier. The Sonus and the Dioko have their fans while the Legato has its niche basshead fans. I have to say I admire their release-window pacing and their attitude towards not fully launching the Timeless II without being confident of it which should be a pattern some chi-fi companies should take a note of, instead of churning out half-baked efforts. Now with the Aurora standing as their flafship to date and some good positive feedback from the recent Canjam SG behind it, the Aurora seems poised to be another success under 7hz's belt. Let's take a look into this nice-looking set shall we.
Packaging and Inclusions
The Aurora comes in a slide-out box with an attractive slipcover showing the product namesake without relying on any waifu. Upon sliding and taking out the inner box, you are then welcomed by a nice-looking faux white leather flip-top case which contains the IEMs along with 6 pairs of eartips + case holder (3 pairs similar to Acoustune AET07 and 3 pairs of their new first-party produced tips similar to S&S) . You are also then graced by the nice-feeling, no tangle premium cable with 3.5mm SE and 4.4mm BAL modular termination plugs. I have to say that the stock cable itself felt really nice and premiumly hefty. Just the exact nice set of accessories to fit your needs with satisfying quality.
Build
The 7hz Aurora out-of-the-box is a beautiful looking set, with shifting colors of the somewhat Damascus finish hoghlighting the faceplate. The shell itself is a dark translucent one that does not feel cheap or would crack soon but it is very lightweight that makes you wonder how were they able to jam a tribrid configuration of a 12mm DD and a 6mm planar along with dual BAs onto this setup.
Sound and Comparisons
The 7hz Aurora will impress you and outright give you some 'wow' moments upon pushing that play button that will immediately justify the price you pay for it. Its sound signature is of a balanced signature with somewhat of a upper-mids boost that makes it vocal-foward in a number of tracks and genres especially with jpop, female vocals, and mainstream. Ariana Grande, milet, and LiSA are definitely singing on these sets. What definitely complements is set is its execution of acoustic tracks and instrumentals. Pianos are lovely with the Aurora. Those key hit reverbs are really felt, Steinway & Sons would be proud
Guitar plucks and strums sound alive and energetic. Best of all, the overall implementation is very detailed and airy. The Aurora is very resolving, jamming a lot of information at you upon playback yet imaging is ponpoint. Hence, it is somewhat its own disadvantage as others may find it fatiguing and even borderline bright in the upper mids going to lower treble. Playback of genres such as heavy metal, rock, and EDM is ranging from ok to quite busy as it does have a bit of trouble handling those with finesse because of the mix of planar timbre and busy resolution. Bass is punchy but may not have enough subbass to satisfy those who love the rumble, I wouldn't say they're deficient though. Just more than enough. On a similar note, orchestrals, concertos, and classicals also shine on this set. Microdetails pop out and are apparent and movie soundtracks are a delight to listen to. Male vocals and jazz though are a mixed bag and kind of a double-edged sword with these, some remarkably good and some are a bit dull and rough, weirdly putting some male vocals in the back despite being vocal-forward with the majority. An immediate comparison and reminder upon listening to these would be the AFUL Performer8, both being very detailed with copious amounts of resolution while playback of your music in a delicate balance. The Performer8 though is more neutral in tonality and soinds more cohesive compared to Aurora's sometimes off-put timbre but I would say the bass quantity and quality is just the right proportion for sets priced at this level while both execute treble in a very airy and extended manner. Staging is also very well-executed with width and depth going to the Aurora even if vocals do tend to be in the front, other elements are well distributed across the stage.
Conclusion
7Hz has a winner here with the Aurora, being a good balanced set that works really well with a lot of genres while being the utmost delight with female vocals, pianos, and acoustic guitars. I do recommend an actual listen with these as they could be a tilt sharp or shouty for your music preferences and if the sometimes unnatural timbre may put you off but if not, it's on the other extreme end towards enjoyment as it is very proficient with its strengths. It's also a fresh set thay set itself as a standout among the repetitive chi-fi tuning and Harman implementations. Very nicely done 7hz and if you do decide to launch the Timeless II properly, I do hope that it's going for something revolutionary worthy of a sequel but plays to its strengths like this.
Sidenotes:
IEM set has been listened via the Sony ZX-707, AK Kann Alpha, and Cayin RU7 separately using the stock eartips over the course of multiple genres across FLACs (16bit&24bit) and streaming (Tidal). The 7hz Aurora is available in Linsoul for $399 -
https://www.linsoul.com/products/7hz-aurora
DISCLAIMER
I would like to thank Linsoul for providing this review unit.
The 7Hz Aurora can be gotten here: https://www.linsoul.com/products/7hz-aurora (no affiliate links).
SPECIFICATIONS
Driver configuration: 1 x 12 mm composite diaphragm dynamic driver + 2 x custom balanced armature drivers + 1 x 6 mm micro-planar driver
Frequency response: 5 Hz - 40 kHz
Impedance: 30 ฮฉ
Sensitivity: 105 dB/V @ 1 kHz
Cable: 2-pin, 0.78 mm; single-crystal copper cable; 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm modular terminals
Tested at: $399 USD
ACCESSORIES
Other than the IEM, these are included:
- 4 pairs of 7Hz H07 silicone eartips
- 3 pairs of long nozzle silicone eartips
- Plastic case for eartips
- Cable
- Cable terminations for 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm modules
- Carrying case
The accessory spread is generous, and definitely befitting of a MidFI IEM.
While no foam tips are included, we have 2 variants of silicone tips. First up, we have 4 pairs of 7Hz H07 silicone tips - which are short-bore - and these present a balanced signature. Interestingly, 7Hz has debuted a long-nozzle eartip - which looks similar to the DUNU S&S types; these are also extremely balanced in sonics, but with improved soundstaging and isolation.
These S&S doppelgangers are my favourite pairing, as they furnish an expansive soundsage without overly boosting any part of the frequency response. However, they have longer nozzles and a sticky feel, and are not as soft in the ears as the other H07 silicone tips. The eartips come in their own plastic case, which is a nice touch.
We have a 2-pin single-crystal copper cable provided, and this comes with distal 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm modular terminals, for pairing with single-ended and balanced sources, depending on your needs. This cable is well-braided and thick, with minimal microphonics. A chin cinch is added for practicality, and the L-shaped terminals are useful during field-use.
Last but not least, we have an ovoid leatherette carrying case. The innards have webbing and soft cushioning, while the externals are tough enough to withstand compressive forces.
The rest of this review was done with the stock cable and stock long nozzle silicone tips. No aftermarket accessories were used, so as not to add any confounders to the sound.
BUILD/COMFORT
The housings are fashioned from 3D-printed medical-grade resin. The faceplates contain titanium filaments, which are unique to each housing - thus consumers will get their own individualized IEM so to speak. The shells have a mirror-like, psychedelic and colourful tiger-striped motif, which is certainly eye-catching. They may be prone to smudging, but build quality is top-notch.
The earpieces are quite large to house the numerous drivers. Thankfully, despite the bigger dimensions, comfort is still agreeable, due to the mere 5 g weight of each side. I had no issues wearing the Aurora for hour long sessions, with the smooth inner surfaces not poking the ears.
With the long-nozzle S&S look-alike tips installed, isolation is above average. I did not find any driver flex on my pair, which is a sign of good acoustic airflow.
INTERNALS
The Aurora is a tribrid, boasting of the following eclectic configuration with a 3-way cross-over:
DRIVABILITY
I tested the Aurora with the following sources:
- Apple dongle
- Cayin RU7
- Chord Mojo 2
- Fiio KA11 dongle
- Fiio KA17 dongle
- Khadas Tone Board -> Schiit Asgard 3 amp
- Questyle M15 DAC/AMP dongle
- Sony Walkman NW A-55 DAP (Walkman One WM1Z Plus v2 Mod)
- Sony Walkman NW A-55 DAP (Walkman One Neutral Mod)
- Sony Walkman NW WM1A DAP (Walkman One WM1Z Plus v2 Mod)
- Smartphone
This IEM is moderately easy to drive. While weaker sources may juice it, the Aurora does benefit from amplification, in terms of soundstage, dynamics and bass control.
SOUND & TECHNICALITIES
Graph of the 7Hz Aurora via IEC711 coupler.
Tonally, the Aurora showcases a U-shaped, balanced sonic profile. This is quite genre agnostic, and should cover most consumer demands.
This is a sub-bass focused IEM. Bass extends deeply, with good rumble felt. However, it is not a bona fide basshead IEM in terms of sheer quantity. Quality-wise, the Aurora provides a textured, fast and tight bass, with not an ounce of mid-bass bleed. Even with complex bass tracks, the Aurora handles these with aplomb; case in point, for Sting's Englishman In New York, the Aurora aces the fast double bass solo in the middle of the track, where many other sets may fall apart.
The lower midrange is a tinge recessed, but this frequency band is very transparent and clean due to no bass impingement. This allows excellent layering and pinpointing of instruments and vocals on a dark background. On graphs, there appears to be a peak at the 3ish kHz region - I personally hate over-zealous upper mids - but on actual listening at moderate volumes (as per the Fletcher Munson curve), I found this region forwards without overt shoutiness, which is a tough line to balance. This slight peak actually furnishes clarity and resolution without being an ice-pick, and as we will read below, the technicalities on this IEM are top-notch.
The Aurora has good treble sparkle, but once again, this area is nicely balanced, in bestowing air but not veering to harshness. Sibilance is minimal, and the Aurora manages to get cymbal strikes and high-hat hits just right - they are present but not jarring. Of note, there's a 6/7 kHz dip in the treble which is something of a trade-secret used in TOTL tuning to decrease sibilance and splashiness without overly damping resolution.
As alluded to, the Aurora is a technicalities champ. Micro-detailing is very well portrayed. Soundstage width and height is expansive, especially when amped, and the Aurora sounds grand, yet with a very clean soundscape. Music never sounded compressed or claustrophobic. Imaging and layering is accurate, and technical junkies will be pleased to be able to locate instruments easily in the headspace.
Unlike other very technical sets, the Aurora doesn't sound sterile and maintains a decent note weight. However, where the Aurora loses some marks in my book, is in its timbral accuracy. In the upper frequencies, there is a slight hollowness to notes, especially for acoustic instruments like brasses and woodwinds. Vocals have a nasal twang too - this is a bit more prominent in female vocals.
COMPARISONS
Due to its very specialized driver configuration, I do not have any like-for-like IEMs with this setup in MidFI territory. Nevertheless, the Aurora will be compared against some other benchmark MidFI products.
Moondrop Variations
The Variations is a Harman measurebator's gold-standard. The Variations has a prominent mid-bass scoop out, so it sounds much thinner and anemic than the Aurora in this region. The Aurora is a bit brighter in the treble.
The Variations is slightly weaker in micro-detailing and imaging, but has a bit more natural timbre and a slightly bigger soundstage and better layering.
I would consider them sidegrades at the MidFI segment. The Variations is about $120 USD more expensive though, and there are widespread reports of QC issues dogging this IEM (my Variations faceplate dropped out spontaneously without trauma, for example LOL).
Letshuoer EJ07M
The EJ07M is also U-shaped, but has a bit of a darker treble, and a thinner lower midrange.
The EJ07M has a hair better imaging, but has weaker instrument separation, soundstage and micro-detailing. In fact, the EJ07M's soundstage is notably small and claustrophobic on doing A/B comparisons back-to-back with the Aurora.
The EJ07M suffers from horrendous driver flex, which may be a deal-breaker for some.
CONCLUSIONS
For folks wanting a balanced U-shaped pair with stellar technical prowess, the 7Hz Aurora is one to mull over. Technical chops are a highlight, in particular for imaging, soundstage and micro-detailing. Bass is very fast and clean, though not at bona fide basshead amounts, so it is a case of quality over quantity. The transparent midrange allows instruments and vocals to breathe, with good treble sparkle noted.
In terms of non-sonic tangibles, the Aurora is generously accessorized, with a modular cable for myriad source matching. Isolation is above average with relatively fuss-free drivability. While the shells are on the larger side, comfort is surprisingly decent in view of the lightweight shells.
For the ardent timbre-freaks amongst us, a negative would be a metallic timbre noted in the upper frequencies for female vocals and acoustic instruments. By and large, this is a bit more prominent for acoustic genres, and may be mitigated somewhat with tip choice or perhaps source pairing.
All things considered, the 7Hz Aurora belongs in the MidFI conversation, doing most departments well.
I would like to thank Linsoul for providing this review unit.
The 7Hz Aurora can be gotten here: https://www.linsoul.com/products/7hz-aurora (no affiliate links).
SPECIFICATIONS
Driver configuration: 1 x 12 mm composite diaphragm dynamic driver + 2 x custom balanced armature drivers + 1 x 6 mm micro-planar driver
Frequency response: 5 Hz - 40 kHz
Impedance: 30 ฮฉ
Sensitivity: 105 dB/V @ 1 kHz
Cable: 2-pin, 0.78 mm; single-crystal copper cable; 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm modular terminals
Tested at: $399 USD
ACCESSORIES
Other than the IEM, these are included:
- 4 pairs of 7Hz H07 silicone eartips
- 3 pairs of long nozzle silicone eartips
- Plastic case for eartips
- Cable
- Cable terminations for 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm modules
- Carrying case
The accessory spread is generous, and definitely befitting of a MidFI IEM.
While no foam tips are included, we have 2 variants of silicone tips. First up, we have 4 pairs of 7Hz H07 silicone tips - which are short-bore - and these present a balanced signature. Interestingly, 7Hz has debuted a long-nozzle eartip - which looks similar to the DUNU S&S types; these are also extremely balanced in sonics, but with improved soundstaging and isolation.
These S&S doppelgangers are my favourite pairing, as they furnish an expansive soundsage without overly boosting any part of the frequency response. However, they have longer nozzles and a sticky feel, and are not as soft in the ears as the other H07 silicone tips. The eartips come in their own plastic case, which is a nice touch.
We have a 2-pin single-crystal copper cable provided, and this comes with distal 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm modular terminals, for pairing with single-ended and balanced sources, depending on your needs. This cable is well-braided and thick, with minimal microphonics. A chin cinch is added for practicality, and the L-shaped terminals are useful during field-use.
Last but not least, we have an ovoid leatherette carrying case. The innards have webbing and soft cushioning, while the externals are tough enough to withstand compressive forces.
The rest of this review was done with the stock cable and stock long nozzle silicone tips. No aftermarket accessories were used, so as not to add any confounders to the sound.
BUILD/COMFORT
The housings are fashioned from 3D-printed medical-grade resin. The faceplates contain titanium filaments, which are unique to each housing - thus consumers will get their own individualized IEM so to speak. The shells have a mirror-like, psychedelic and colourful tiger-striped motif, which is certainly eye-catching. They may be prone to smudging, but build quality is top-notch.
The earpieces are quite large to house the numerous drivers. Thankfully, despite the bigger dimensions, comfort is still agreeable, due to the mere 5 g weight of each side. I had no issues wearing the Aurora for hour long sessions, with the smooth inner surfaces not poking the ears.
With the long-nozzle S&S look-alike tips installed, isolation is above average. I did not find any driver flex on my pair, which is a sign of good acoustic airflow.
INTERNALS
The Aurora is a tribrid, boasting of the following eclectic configuration with a 3-way cross-over:
- 1 x 12 mm composite diaphragm dynamic driver
- 2 x custom balanced armature drivers
- 1 x 6 mm micro-planar driver
DRIVABILITY
I tested the Aurora with the following sources:
- Apple dongle
- Cayin RU7
- Chord Mojo 2
- Fiio KA11 dongle
- Fiio KA17 dongle
- Khadas Tone Board -> Schiit Asgard 3 amp
- Questyle M15 DAC/AMP dongle
- Sony Walkman NW A-55 DAP (Walkman One WM1Z Plus v2 Mod)
- Sony Walkman NW A-55 DAP (Walkman One Neutral Mod)
- Sony Walkman NW WM1A DAP (Walkman One WM1Z Plus v2 Mod)
- Smartphone
This IEM is moderately easy to drive. While weaker sources may juice it, the Aurora does benefit from amplification, in terms of soundstage, dynamics and bass control.
SOUND & TECHNICALITIES
Graph of the 7Hz Aurora via IEC711 coupler.
Tonally, the Aurora showcases a U-shaped, balanced sonic profile. This is quite genre agnostic, and should cover most consumer demands.
This is a sub-bass focused IEM. Bass extends deeply, with good rumble felt. However, it is not a bona fide basshead IEM in terms of sheer quantity. Quality-wise, the Aurora provides a textured, fast and tight bass, with not an ounce of mid-bass bleed. Even with complex bass tracks, the Aurora handles these with aplomb; case in point, for Sting's Englishman In New York, the Aurora aces the fast double bass solo in the middle of the track, where many other sets may fall apart.
The lower midrange is a tinge recessed, but this frequency band is very transparent and clean due to no bass impingement. This allows excellent layering and pinpointing of instruments and vocals on a dark background. On graphs, there appears to be a peak at the 3ish kHz region - I personally hate over-zealous upper mids - but on actual listening at moderate volumes (as per the Fletcher Munson curve), I found this region forwards without overt shoutiness, which is a tough line to balance. This slight peak actually furnishes clarity and resolution without being an ice-pick, and as we will read below, the technicalities on this IEM are top-notch.
The Aurora has good treble sparkle, but once again, this area is nicely balanced, in bestowing air but not veering to harshness. Sibilance is minimal, and the Aurora manages to get cymbal strikes and high-hat hits just right - they are present but not jarring. Of note, there's a 6/7 kHz dip in the treble which is something of a trade-secret used in TOTL tuning to decrease sibilance and splashiness without overly damping resolution.
As alluded to, the Aurora is a technicalities champ. Micro-detailing is very well portrayed. Soundstage width and height is expansive, especially when amped, and the Aurora sounds grand, yet with a very clean soundscape. Music never sounded compressed or claustrophobic. Imaging and layering is accurate, and technical junkies will be pleased to be able to locate instruments easily in the headspace.
Unlike other very technical sets, the Aurora doesn't sound sterile and maintains a decent note weight. However, where the Aurora loses some marks in my book, is in its timbral accuracy. In the upper frequencies, there is a slight hollowness to notes, especially for acoustic instruments like brasses and woodwinds. Vocals have a nasal twang too - this is a bit more prominent in female vocals.
COMPARISONS
Due to its very specialized driver configuration, I do not have any like-for-like IEMs with this setup in MidFI territory. Nevertheless, the Aurora will be compared against some other benchmark MidFI products.
Moondrop Variations
The Variations is a Harman measurebator's gold-standard. The Variations has a prominent mid-bass scoop out, so it sounds much thinner and anemic than the Aurora in this region. The Aurora is a bit brighter in the treble.
The Variations is slightly weaker in micro-detailing and imaging, but has a bit more natural timbre and a slightly bigger soundstage and better layering.
I would consider them sidegrades at the MidFI segment. The Variations is about $120 USD more expensive though, and there are widespread reports of QC issues dogging this IEM (my Variations faceplate dropped out spontaneously without trauma, for example LOL).
Letshuoer EJ07M
The EJ07M is also U-shaped, but has a bit of a darker treble, and a thinner lower midrange.
The EJ07M has a hair better imaging, but has weaker instrument separation, soundstage and micro-detailing. In fact, the EJ07M's soundstage is notably small and claustrophobic on doing A/B comparisons back-to-back with the Aurora.
The EJ07M suffers from horrendous driver flex, which may be a deal-breaker for some.
CONCLUSIONS
For folks wanting a balanced U-shaped pair with stellar technical prowess, the 7Hz Aurora is one to mull over. Technical chops are a highlight, in particular for imaging, soundstage and micro-detailing. Bass is very fast and clean, though not at bona fide basshead amounts, so it is a case of quality over quantity. The transparent midrange allows instruments and vocals to breathe, with good treble sparkle noted.
In terms of non-sonic tangibles, the Aurora is generously accessorized, with a modular cable for myriad source matching. Isolation is above average with relatively fuss-free drivability. While the shells are on the larger side, comfort is surprisingly decent in view of the lightweight shells.
For the ardent timbre-freaks amongst us, a negative would be a metallic timbre noted in the upper frequencies for female vocals and acoustic instruments. By and large, this is a bit more prominent for acoustic genres, and may be mitigated somewhat with tip choice or perhaps source pairing.
All things considered, the 7Hz Aurora belongs in the MidFI conversation, doing most departments well.
theintention
Good review! Sounds like a better Phoenixcall or Dark Phoenix.
7๐ฏ๐ ๐จ๐๐๐๐๐ ๐น๐๐๐๐๐: 7๐ฏ๐โ๐ ๐๐๐
๐๐๐๐๐ ๐
๐๐๐
|| ๐๐ป๐๐ฟ๐ผ๐ฑ๐๐ฐ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ||
After 7HZโs Timeless runaway success along with their Salnotes Zero dominating the budget segment, they for the most part occupy the $20-$200 price range with some offerings in between those two like the Sonus and the Dioko.
The Aurora will be 7HZโs 2nd attempt in penetrating the more pricier side of the hobby with a $399 price point. This price range is often occupied by the likes of Thieaudio Hype, Moondropโs Blessing, and along with Tanchjimโs Oxygen series.
7HZ packed the Aurora with a 12mm DD+2BA+6mm Micro-planar magnetic driver to produce a wide frequency output. The dynamic driver is for the low frequencies, balanced armatures for the midrange, acting as an intermediary and lastly, the 6mm micro-planar magnetic driver for the the high frequencies
|| ๐๐ถ๐๐ฐ๐น๐ฎ๐ถ๐บ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ ||
I am in no way, shape, or form affiliated with the brands I review and do not give out preview privileges.
This set is sent in exchange for an honest review. There is no material or financial incentive for me to do this review and I guarantee no exchange has been done by both parties to influence or sway our opinions on this product.
My thoughts and opinions are of my own. My experience will entirely differ from everybody else. The contents of this review should not be considered factual as this hobby heavily leans on subjectivity. YMMV.
I donโt do rankings or tier lists as they can get outdated immediately as a reviewer can change their thoughts of a product to a certain extent. If you do want a recommendation then feel free to reach out so I can help out
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
๐ ๐ฎ๐บ ๐ป๐ผ๐ ๐ฎ๐ณ๐ณ๐ถ๐น๐ถ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฑ ๐๐ผ 7Hertz ๐ป๐ผ๐ฟ ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฐ๐ฒ๐ถ๐๐ฒ ๐บ๐ผ๐ป๐ฒ๐๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ ๐ถ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ถ๐๐ฒ๐ ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐ณ๐ถ๐ป๐ฎ๐ป๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ด๐ฎ๐ถ๐ป๐ ๐ฎ๐ ๐๐ต๐ฒ๐ ๐ฝ๐ฟ๐ผ๐๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ ๐บ๐ฒ ๐ฎ ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐๐ถ๐ฒ๐ ๐๐ป๐ถ๐ ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ ๐ฎ๐ป ๐ฒ๐ ๐ฐ๐ต๐ฎ๐ป๐ด๐ฒ ๐ผ๐ณ ๐ณ๐ฎ๐ฐ๐๐๐ฎ๐น ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐๐ถ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ฒ ๐ณ๐ฒ๐ฒ๐ฑ๐ฏ๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ธ ๐ณ๐ฟ๐ผ๐บ ๐๐ผ๐๐ฟ๐ ๐๐ฟ๐๐น๐.
๐ข๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ ๐ฎ๐ด๐ฎ๐ถ๐ป, ๐ ๐๐ผ๐๐น๐ฑ ๐น๐ถ๐ธ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ ๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฑ ๐บ๐ ๐ด๐ฟ๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐๐๐ฑ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ Linsoul Audio ๐ฒ๐๐ฝ๐ฒ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น๐น๐ ๐๐ผ ๐ ๐ฆ. ๐๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ถ๐ป๐ฎ ๐๐ต๐ฒ๐ป ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ ๐ฝ๐ฟ๐ผ๐๐ถ๐ฑ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐๐ต๐ถ๐ ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐๐ถ๐ฒ๐ ๐๐ป๐ถ๐. ๐ ๐๐ฟ๐๐น๐ ๐ฎ๐ฝ๐ฝ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ ๐๐ต๐ฒ๐ถ๐ฟ ๐ด๐ฒ๐ป๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ผ๐๐ถ๐๐ ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐๐ฟ๐๐๐ ๐๐ผ๐๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ฑ๐ ๐บ๐ฒ ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐ผ๐๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐๐ถ๐ฒ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ๐.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
| ๐ฃ๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ธ๐ฎ๐ด๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐จ๐ป๐ฏ๐ผ๐ ๐ถ๐ป๐ด & ๐๐ฐ๐ฐ๐ฒ๐๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐ถ๐ฒ๐ |
The Aurora comes in a decently sized black cardboard box that will most definitely protect it during logistics. It has a render of the IEM itself on the front aligned with some text and branding. The back of the box contains an exploded overview of the internals of the Aurora along with its specifications. All the manufacturer's details are listed here as well.
The unboxing experience is nothing new and is straightforward. Sliding off the initial illustrated cover, and removing the top cardboard will showcase the free included case on the top with an ear tip container on the bottom. Both of which are surrounded but a dense layer of foam with a cardboard top for protection. Underneath that layer is another box containing the cable, paperwork and modular plugs. The IEMs themselves are situated inside the included case and are also surrounded by dense foam that is form-fitted for the said case.
๐๐ฐ๐ฐ๐ฒ๐๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐ถ๐ฒ๐ ๐ฏ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฎ๐ธ๐ฑ๐ผ๐๐ป:
Paperwork
7HZ Aurora driver shells
4-core L-type modular gold plated SPC 2-pin cable
Both 3.5mm SE and 4.4mm BAL termination plugs
White faux-leather case
Eartip container
3 pairs of 7HZ eartips (S/M/L)
4 pairs of normal-bore tips(S/M/M/L)
The cable, although thick and somewhat stiff, feels premium and high quality, not to mention it being modular as well, but didnโt include a 2.5mm termination plug for some reason. The ear tips especially the 7HZ branded ones are really great, it reminds me of that one DUNU S&S tips whilst the other set of eartips looks to be either clones or are actually KB Ear 07 or AET 07 but they do feel nice.
The case included feels great as well, it can fit the Aurora with its stock cable and some accessories with no issue, although the color can be a cause for dirt or grime being more obvious in the long run.
Overall a very solid set of accessories. It doesnโt have those quirks, accessories or features that allows the user to somewhat modify the sound like swappable nozzles, or switches but the quality of each inclusion is especially notable.
| ๐๐๐ถ๐น๐ฑ & ๐๐ฟ๐ถ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐ณ๐ถ๐ด๐๐ฟ๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป |
The Aurora has 2 with differing materials, one metallic faceplate, and a medical-grade black translucent resin for the rest of the body. It feels great in the hand with a nice heft to make it feel premium and substantial. The faceplate is quite a stunner as well, it has this pattern very reminiscent of damascus steel patterns with a mixture of glossy gold and blue coloring. Despite the color choice, it doesnโt stand out as much and is quite subdued still.
Design-wise, the Aurora hinges its appeal on the faceplate. The name of the Aurora is quite apt for the type of pattern that the faceplate has which is similar to an aurora borealis. Overall, I really like the design of the Aurora, it has a nice mixture of being minimal and lowkey whilst at the same time having its own character to make it stand out against the sea of IEMs. However all this design will require a little bit of maintenance. Because of the glossy nature of the faceplate, it can be prone to hairline scratches.
Onto the shape of the Aurora. 7HZ made the Aurora have this universal fit, with no grooves or fins but instead it has this continuous body for a more friendly fit. The 2-pin connector is located on the top of the IEM and 3 vents positioned in the rear are present. The nozzle of the Aurora is quite stubby, meaning it is quite short and thick/wide. It doesnโt protrude as much from the body but it has a depression and a lip on the nozzle to accommodate ear tips and keep them in place.
7HZ was able to pack the Aurora with a 12mm DD+2BA+6mm Micro-planar magnetic driver setup. Each type is dedicated to executing a specific frequency range, the dynamic driver for the lows, the balanced armatures for the midrange, and the micro-planar magnetic for the high frequencies. This is definitely a stacked set of drivers, yet some sets have more niche or not-yet-mainstream drivers like bone-conduction drivers or even piezo-electrics for the same price range.
| ๐๐๐ผ๐น๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป |
Even with the universal fit, and the abundance of vents located on the rear side of the IEM, the Aurora has ample isolation to keep you immersed during playback. I find this useful during my bus trips as of late, I didnโt need to push that high of a volume just to block out noise from the outside world.
| ๐๐ผ๐บ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ๐ |
With the straightforward fit, the Aurora fits snug and comfortable in my ears. I never found the need to remove it after some time to let my ears rest or take a breather. The fit is also snug enough that it wonโt easily tangle even with drastic head movements. I would also like to note the occlusion effect on the Aurora doesnโt seem to be better or worse compared to most IEMs.
The nozzle can be quite an issue, it is quite short and thick, making me go for an ear tip that is generally longer than the standard ones, fortunately, 7HZ included an ear tip with a longer base to help with this issue
** ๐ณ๐๐ญ ๐ฆ&๐ฆ-๐น๐ถ๐ธ๐ฒ ๐๐ฎ๐ฟ๐๐ถ๐ฝ๐ (๐ฆ๐บ๐ฎ๐น๐น) | ๐๐ถ๐๐ถ๐๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ ๐๐น๐น๐ฒ๐ด๐ฟ๐ผ(๐ฐ.๐ฐ) | ๐๐ฝ๐ฝ๐น๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐ด๐น๐ฒ (๐๐ถ๐ด๐ต๐๐ป๐ถ๐ป๐ด) **
| ๐๐ฟ๐ถ๐๐ฎ๐ฏ๐ถ๐น๐ถ๐๐ |
Despite the abundance of drivers and even a presence of a planar magnetic driver, the Aurora can be surprisingly powered by my Apple Dongle and give off enough
volume, however a better source is recommended as I notice slight improvement going from that dongle to a better source.
|| ๐ฆ๐ผ๐๐ป๐ฑ ||
The Aurora is quite an engaging set, it has this U-shape sound that is very revealing and transparent with ample bass to give it some slam. It has the bits and bobs to be a versatile set, I can see doing well or somewhat good in most genres.
| ๐๐ฎ๐๐ |
Lows of the Aurora is quite good. It may not wow you in terms of quantity but it will definitely win over the quality of the bass. Midbass kicks are fast and very quick decay. They feel very impactful for their amount and don't sound sloppy. Subbass is present, it goes deep for a nice sense of rumble. Again, not the most abundant, but it doesnโt sound messy and is very well kept.
| ๐ ๐ถ๐ฑ๐ |
As per HBBโs observation in his video review of the Aurora, it does have this forwardness of the vocals that makes them standout. Speaking of which, vocals sound full and well bodied. Feminine vocals sound a bit more forward than their masculine counterparts but both have good air, detail and extension. Sibilance can be a concern especially for sibilant voices still but it is controlled for the most part.
Instruments sound nice and precise on the Aurora. Like the vocals, the instruments have warmth to make them sound less thin. Extension and details are also great for instruments. The upper midrange gain that can make it sound metallic from time to time.
| ๐๐ถ๐ด๐ต๐ |
Treble of the Aurora is very well executed. It has a very forward treble with the cons of sounding harsh or fatiguing. It has excellent detail retrieval and is very revealing in general. The sense of air is very good as well along with extension, it never once sounded as if sounds were cut-off prematurely.
Be careful with the gain though, despite it not being harsh and fatiguing in general, pushing the gain and volume way past the recommended amount will definitely have diminishing returns.
| ๐ง๐ฒ๐ฐ๐ต๐ป๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฎ๐น๐ถ๐๐ถ๐ฒ๐ |
Another excellent performance for the Aurora. Perceived staging is quite wide and open. Imaging, layering and separation are also excellent, all sound sources have their own distinct and distinguishable position during playback and even on the most hectic segment of songs.
This is a wonderful recommendation for any analytical use case and can even be good immersive sounding set in a pinch
|| ๐๐ผ๐ป๐ฐ๐น๐๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป๐ ||
Definitely a noteworthy performer, the Aurora provides all the bells and whistles one can want on an IEM. It doesnโt defeat others on one specific use case, but it does win over in terms of versatility. This is a definitive example of a โmaster of none, jack of all tradesโ kind of IEM.
There are still faults of course, if you are looking for a warm set that give you that relaxing, and thick sound, then the Aurora may not fit that description, but if you are looking for something that has ample and good quality bass, without compromise on the technicalities along with not being harsh, then the Aurora might fit that need.
Maybe one of the clear faults that I could give the Aurora is the metallic timbre from time to time and maybe the nozzle being quite stubby might limit your options in terms of ear tips to use with it.
|| ๐๐ป๐๐ฟ๐ผ๐ฑ๐๐ฐ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ||
After 7HZโs Timeless runaway success along with their Salnotes Zero dominating the budget segment, they for the most part occupy the $20-$200 price range with some offerings in between those two like the Sonus and the Dioko.
The Aurora will be 7HZโs 2nd attempt in penetrating the more pricier side of the hobby with a $399 price point. This price range is often occupied by the likes of Thieaudio Hype, Moondropโs Blessing, and along with Tanchjimโs Oxygen series.
7HZ packed the Aurora with a 12mm DD+2BA+6mm Micro-planar magnetic driver to produce a wide frequency output. The dynamic driver is for the low frequencies, balanced armatures for the midrange, acting as an intermediary and lastly, the 6mm micro-planar magnetic driver for the the high frequencies
|| ๐๐ถ๐๐ฐ๐น๐ฎ๐ถ๐บ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ ||
I am in no way, shape, or form affiliated with the brands I review and do not give out preview privileges.
This set is sent in exchange for an honest review. There is no material or financial incentive for me to do this review and I guarantee no exchange has been done by both parties to influence or sway our opinions on this product.
My thoughts and opinions are of my own. My experience will entirely differ from everybody else. The contents of this review should not be considered factual as this hobby heavily leans on subjectivity. YMMV.
I donโt do rankings or tier lists as they can get outdated immediately as a reviewer can change their thoughts of a product to a certain extent. If you do want a recommendation then feel free to reach out so I can help out
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
๐ ๐ฎ๐บ ๐ป๐ผ๐ ๐ฎ๐ณ๐ณ๐ถ๐น๐ถ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฑ ๐๐ผ 7Hertz ๐ป๐ผ๐ฟ ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฐ๐ฒ๐ถ๐๐ฒ ๐บ๐ผ๐ป๐ฒ๐๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ ๐ถ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ถ๐๐ฒ๐ ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐ณ๐ถ๐ป๐ฎ๐ป๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ด๐ฎ๐ถ๐ป๐ ๐ฎ๐ ๐๐ต๐ฒ๐ ๐ฝ๐ฟ๐ผ๐๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ ๐บ๐ฒ ๐ฎ ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐๐ถ๐ฒ๐ ๐๐ป๐ถ๐ ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ ๐ฎ๐ป ๐ฒ๐ ๐ฐ๐ต๐ฎ๐ป๐ด๐ฒ ๐ผ๐ณ ๐ณ๐ฎ๐ฐ๐๐๐ฎ๐น ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐๐ถ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ฒ ๐ณ๐ฒ๐ฒ๐ฑ๐ฏ๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ธ ๐ณ๐ฟ๐ผ๐บ ๐๐ผ๐๐ฟ๐ ๐๐ฟ๐๐น๐.
๐ข๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ ๐ฎ๐ด๐ฎ๐ถ๐ป, ๐ ๐๐ผ๐๐น๐ฑ ๐น๐ถ๐ธ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ ๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฑ ๐บ๐ ๐ด๐ฟ๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐๐๐ฑ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ Linsoul Audio ๐ฒ๐๐ฝ๐ฒ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น๐น๐ ๐๐ผ ๐ ๐ฆ. ๐๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ถ๐ป๐ฎ ๐๐ต๐ฒ๐ป ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ ๐ฝ๐ฟ๐ผ๐๐ถ๐ฑ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐๐ต๐ถ๐ ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐๐ถ๐ฒ๐ ๐๐ป๐ถ๐. ๐ ๐๐ฟ๐๐น๐ ๐ฎ๐ฝ๐ฝ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ ๐๐ต๐ฒ๐ถ๐ฟ ๐ด๐ฒ๐ป๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ผ๐๐ถ๐๐ ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐๐ฟ๐๐๐ ๐๐ผ๐๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ฑ๐ ๐บ๐ฒ ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐ผ๐๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐๐ถ๐ฒ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ๐.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
| ๐ฃ๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ธ๐ฎ๐ด๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐จ๐ป๐ฏ๐ผ๐ ๐ถ๐ป๐ด & ๐๐ฐ๐ฐ๐ฒ๐๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐ถ๐ฒ๐ |
The Aurora comes in a decently sized black cardboard box that will most definitely protect it during logistics. It has a render of the IEM itself on the front aligned with some text and branding. The back of the box contains an exploded overview of the internals of the Aurora along with its specifications. All the manufacturer's details are listed here as well.
The unboxing experience is nothing new and is straightforward. Sliding off the initial illustrated cover, and removing the top cardboard will showcase the free included case on the top with an ear tip container on the bottom. Both of which are surrounded but a dense layer of foam with a cardboard top for protection. Underneath that layer is another box containing the cable, paperwork and modular plugs. The IEMs themselves are situated inside the included case and are also surrounded by dense foam that is form-fitted for the said case.
๐๐ฐ๐ฐ๐ฒ๐๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐ถ๐ฒ๐ ๐ฏ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฎ๐ธ๐ฑ๐ผ๐๐ป:
Paperwork
7HZ Aurora driver shells
4-core L-type modular gold plated SPC 2-pin cable
Both 3.5mm SE and 4.4mm BAL termination plugs
White faux-leather case
Eartip container
3 pairs of 7HZ eartips (S/M/L)
4 pairs of normal-bore tips(S/M/M/L)
The cable, although thick and somewhat stiff, feels premium and high quality, not to mention it being modular as well, but didnโt include a 2.5mm termination plug for some reason. The ear tips especially the 7HZ branded ones are really great, it reminds me of that one DUNU S&S tips whilst the other set of eartips looks to be either clones or are actually KB Ear 07 or AET 07 but they do feel nice.
The case included feels great as well, it can fit the Aurora with its stock cable and some accessories with no issue, although the color can be a cause for dirt or grime being more obvious in the long run.
Overall a very solid set of accessories. It doesnโt have those quirks, accessories or features that allows the user to somewhat modify the sound like swappable nozzles, or switches but the quality of each inclusion is especially notable.
| ๐๐๐ถ๐น๐ฑ & ๐๐ฟ๐ถ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐ณ๐ถ๐ด๐๐ฟ๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป |
The Aurora has 2 with differing materials, one metallic faceplate, and a medical-grade black translucent resin for the rest of the body. It feels great in the hand with a nice heft to make it feel premium and substantial. The faceplate is quite a stunner as well, it has this pattern very reminiscent of damascus steel patterns with a mixture of glossy gold and blue coloring. Despite the color choice, it doesnโt stand out as much and is quite subdued still.
Design-wise, the Aurora hinges its appeal on the faceplate. The name of the Aurora is quite apt for the type of pattern that the faceplate has which is similar to an aurora borealis. Overall, I really like the design of the Aurora, it has a nice mixture of being minimal and lowkey whilst at the same time having its own character to make it stand out against the sea of IEMs. However all this design will require a little bit of maintenance. Because of the glossy nature of the faceplate, it can be prone to hairline scratches.
Onto the shape of the Aurora. 7HZ made the Aurora have this universal fit, with no grooves or fins but instead it has this continuous body for a more friendly fit. The 2-pin connector is located on the top of the IEM and 3 vents positioned in the rear are present. The nozzle of the Aurora is quite stubby, meaning it is quite short and thick/wide. It doesnโt protrude as much from the body but it has a depression and a lip on the nozzle to accommodate ear tips and keep them in place.
7HZ was able to pack the Aurora with a 12mm DD+2BA+6mm Micro-planar magnetic driver setup. Each type is dedicated to executing a specific frequency range, the dynamic driver for the lows, the balanced armatures for the midrange, and the micro-planar magnetic for the high frequencies. This is definitely a stacked set of drivers, yet some sets have more niche or not-yet-mainstream drivers like bone-conduction drivers or even piezo-electrics for the same price range.
| ๐๐๐ผ๐น๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป |
Even with the universal fit, and the abundance of vents located on the rear side of the IEM, the Aurora has ample isolation to keep you immersed during playback. I find this useful during my bus trips as of late, I didnโt need to push that high of a volume just to block out noise from the outside world.
| ๐๐ผ๐บ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ๐ |
With the straightforward fit, the Aurora fits snug and comfortable in my ears. I never found the need to remove it after some time to let my ears rest or take a breather. The fit is also snug enough that it wonโt easily tangle even with drastic head movements. I would also like to note the occlusion effect on the Aurora doesnโt seem to be better or worse compared to most IEMs.
The nozzle can be quite an issue, it is quite short and thick, making me go for an ear tip that is generally longer than the standard ones, fortunately, 7HZ included an ear tip with a longer base to help with this issue
** ๐ณ๐๐ญ ๐ฆ&๐ฆ-๐น๐ถ๐ธ๐ฒ ๐๐ฎ๐ฟ๐๐ถ๐ฝ๐ (๐ฆ๐บ๐ฎ๐น๐น) | ๐๐ถ๐๐ถ๐๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ ๐๐น๐น๐ฒ๐ด๐ฟ๐ผ(๐ฐ.๐ฐ) | ๐๐ฝ๐ฝ๐น๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐ด๐น๐ฒ (๐๐ถ๐ด๐ต๐๐ป๐ถ๐ป๐ด) **
| ๐๐ฟ๐ถ๐๐ฎ๐ฏ๐ถ๐น๐ถ๐๐ |
Despite the abundance of drivers and even a presence of a planar magnetic driver, the Aurora can be surprisingly powered by my Apple Dongle and give off enough
volume, however a better source is recommended as I notice slight improvement going from that dongle to a better source.
|| ๐ฆ๐ผ๐๐ป๐ฑ ||
The Aurora is quite an engaging set, it has this U-shape sound that is very revealing and transparent with ample bass to give it some slam. It has the bits and bobs to be a versatile set, I can see doing well or somewhat good in most genres.
| ๐๐ฎ๐๐ |
Lows of the Aurora is quite good. It may not wow you in terms of quantity but it will definitely win over the quality of the bass. Midbass kicks are fast and very quick decay. They feel very impactful for their amount and don't sound sloppy. Subbass is present, it goes deep for a nice sense of rumble. Again, not the most abundant, but it doesnโt sound messy and is very well kept.
| ๐ ๐ถ๐ฑ๐ |
As per HBBโs observation in his video review of the Aurora, it does have this forwardness of the vocals that makes them standout. Speaking of which, vocals sound full and well bodied. Feminine vocals sound a bit more forward than their masculine counterparts but both have good air, detail and extension. Sibilance can be a concern especially for sibilant voices still but it is controlled for the most part.
Instruments sound nice and precise on the Aurora. Like the vocals, the instruments have warmth to make them sound less thin. Extension and details are also great for instruments. The upper midrange gain that can make it sound metallic from time to time.
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Treble of the Aurora is very well executed. It has a very forward treble with the cons of sounding harsh or fatiguing. It has excellent detail retrieval and is very revealing in general. The sense of air is very good as well along with extension, it never once sounded as if sounds were cut-off prematurely.
Be careful with the gain though, despite it not being harsh and fatiguing in general, pushing the gain and volume way past the recommended amount will definitely have diminishing returns.
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Another excellent performance for the Aurora. Perceived staging is quite wide and open. Imaging, layering and separation are also excellent, all sound sources have their own distinct and distinguishable position during playback and even on the most hectic segment of songs.
This is a wonderful recommendation for any analytical use case and can even be good immersive sounding set in a pinch
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Definitely a noteworthy performer, the Aurora provides all the bells and whistles one can want on an IEM. It doesnโt defeat others on one specific use case, but it does win over in terms of versatility. This is a definitive example of a โmaster of none, jack of all tradesโ kind of IEM.
There are still faults of course, if you are looking for a warm set that give you that relaxing, and thick sound, then the Aurora may not fit that description, but if you are looking for something that has ample and good quality bass, without compromise on the technicalities along with not being harsh, then the Aurora might fit that need.
Maybe one of the clear faults that I could give the Aurora is the metallic timbre from time to time and maybe the nozzle being quite stubby might limit your options in terms of ear tips to use with it.
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