7Hz G1 Single full-range 10mm DLC DD Universal IEM

General Information

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PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS:
Precision Design, Superior Comfort


The G1, part of 7HZ's latest G series, is a gaming HiFi earphone that delivers precision-tuned sound with a thoughtfully engineered cavity design. Built for comfort during extended wear, it’s perfect for long gaming sessions and even comfortable enough to wear while sleeping.

Flagship 10mm Dynamic Driver​

The G1 features an all-new 10mm dual-magnetic, dual-cavity dynamic driver, standing out in the latest series. Significant time and resources have been dedicated to the driver design and material selection to deliver high-end audio performance.

Premium DLC Diaphragm with N52 Magnets​

The diaphragm is made from a premium DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) material, known for its exceptional performance. It excels in key areas such as transient response, high-frequency extension, and resolution, delivering impressive sound quality across multiple dimensions.

Engineered for Precision Sound​

Featuring intricate, multi-layered tuning techniques, the driver configuration has been meticulously fine-tuned by expert sound engineers. After multiple refinements, it delivers smooth transitions across all three frequencies, balancing deep, powerful bass, transparent mids, and crisp, detailed highs. This careful fusion of techniques is designed to provide an optimized and immersive listening experience.

Stable and Reliable 0.78mm 2-Pin Replaceable Cable Structure​

Equipped with a high-quality, oxygen-free copper twisted cable featuring a 0.78mm 2-pin replaceable design, this product enhances sound separation and clarity, delivering a crystal-clear audio experience. Vocals and instruments sound more vibrant and clean. The replaceable cable design allows for future upgrades, adding flexibility and fun to the product. Additionally, the 2-pin connector system is built for durability, ensuring a longer lifespan.

High-Quality Silicone Microphone (Optional)​

The silicone microphone provides excellent sound capture, delivering crystal-clear communication for both gaming and everyday calls.

Tuned to Match the Harman Target Curve​

The G1's frequency response is highly consistent with the Harman Target Curve, offering excellent smoothness and ultra-low distortion. This results in a well-structured soundstage and a transparent, natural listening experience, catering to the needs of most music enthusiasts and gamers alike.


SPECIFICATION:
MODEL:
7HZ G1
IMPEDANCE: 18Ω
SENSITIVITY: 107dB
FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 10Hz - 20kHz
CABLE LENGTH: 1.2m
PIN TYPE: 0.78mm 2-PIN CONNECTOR
PLUG TYPE: 3.5mm
DRIVER UNIT(S): 1 DYNAMIC DRIVER

Latest reviews

cqtek

1000+ Head-Fier
A Revised Classic Profile
Pros: Powerful, voluminous, energetic, physical, resolving, effective and technical low end.
- Full upper mids and even more remarkable treble.
- Very good level of construction.
- Great ergonomics, comfort, fit and isolation.
- Good cable for the price range.
- Surprisingly large and original rubberized zippered Pac-Man case.
- Five sizes of silicone tips.
Cons: Sunken central range.
- Evidence of macro detail obfuscates micro detail.
- Excited and energetic profile at the extremes, moving away from balance and homogeneity.
Introduction

It seems that China-based brands are going in spurts. In a very short time 7Hz has presented several models: the long-awaited Timekess II, the collaboration with HBB Elua and also the G1. And it is precisely the G1 IEMS that I am going to analyze in this review. They are IEMS with a dynamic driver with a 10mm DLC diaphragm and double magnetic cavity, which mounts N52 magnets. As it is obvious from their name, they are part of the G series, they are HiFi gaming headphones that offer a precise tuning, adapted to the Harman curve, with a careful and ergonomic design, which seeks to ensure comfort during continuous and prolonged use, even suitable for wearing them while sleeping. Its tuning has been meticulously tuned to offer smooth transitions in all three bands, balancing deep and powerful bass, transparent mids and crisp treble to ensure an immersive listening experience. It comes with an oxygen-free copper braided cable with 2Pin 0.78mm interface that can incorporate microphone as an option. Let's take a closer look at this new 7Hz G1 model.

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Specifications

  • Type of Drivers: dual-cavity dynamic with 10mm DLC diaphragm and N52 magnets.
  • Frequency Response: 10Hz-20kHz.
  • Sound pressure level: 107 dB/V at 1 kHz.
  • Impedance: 18Ω.
  • THD (Total Harmonic Distortion): < 0.5% at 1 kHz.
  • Jack Connector: 3.5mm SE.
  • Capsule Connection Type: 2Pin 0.78mm.
  • Starting Price: $34.99.

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Packaging

The 7Hz G1 comes in a white box with dimensions 148x106x47mm. The main side shows a real photo of the capsules. At the top you can read the model name in large black letters, a small description and the brand logo on the right side. On the left side, vertically, the brand name is written. The content of the upper part of the main side is repeated on the back. Underneath is an exploded view of the capsule, the specifications in Chinese and the rest is information about the brand's own headquarters, importers and the standards it meets. After removing the cardboard the box is still white with the silver logo in its center and the name at the bottom. After lifting the lid you can see a translucent plastic sheet with an introduction to the product. The capsules are inside a block of white foam at the top of the box, lined with cardboard of the same color with the brand and model information. Underneath is a curious zippered case containing the accessories. To summarize:

  • The two G1 capsules.
  • One braided cable with 3.5mm SE plug and 0.78mm 2Pin interface.
  • One black rubber case with zipper.
  • Five pairs of silicone tips sizes XsxSxMxLxLxXL.
  • One user's manual.

The silicone tip set is the classic set in five sizes. The cable is not bad at all. But the rubber case is surprising, large and spacious, it reminds me of a Pac-Man.

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Construction and Design

The capsules are metallic and black, the material is not specified, but they are certainly made of aluminum alloy due to their light weight. They have a somewhat different shape, moving between a design with flat faces with very rounded vertices. The logo is shown in gold ink in the center of the outer face. The 0.78mm 2Pin connection interface is fully integrated into the capsule and consists of a circular black piece and gold-plated connectors. A red dot indicates its polarity. The edges are very rounded and tend to taper as you get to them. The inner face has a smooth curve, without protrusions, with three curved holes near the rim and another one very close to the mouthpieces. The mouthpieces are gold-plated, possibly brass, with a small ring as a base, a 5.6mm central cylinder and a 6.2mm crown. The approximate length is 5mm. To protect the interior is a perforated gold foil in the shape of a five-petal flower with a soft textile filter underneath. There is a gold letter on the inner side to indicate the channel.
The cable is composed of two gray strands wound together. The gold-plated 3.5mm SE plug has a gray metal sleeve, with a depressed cylindrical shape in its center. The cable outlet is protected by a black rubber sleeve. The splitter is a black plastic-rimmed tablet with mirror-like faces with the make and model engraved on each. The pin is a small oval plastic piece with two open holes inside. It has an over-ear guide formed by a transparent plastic sleeve. The sleeves of the 2Pin 0.78mm gold-plated connectors are black plastic pieces in the shape of a curve and a silver-plated ring.
The construction is very good and I'm glad it has a slightly alternative design, with an effort to find an ergonomic and durable shape. The cable is fine, not immediately inviting to be changed, manageable, not too stiff and nicely colored.

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Adjustment and Ergonomics

Slightly surprising is the shape of these IEMS and the manufacturer's description that blatantly seeks comfort for long sessions, even for sleeping. I am one of those who listens to music in bed and I have not even tried it for this occasion. But I do have to comment that the G1s are very comfortable. Their shape adapts very well to my pinna, with no room for rotation. There are no protrusions on the inner side so nothing rubs on the inside of my ear. The mouthpieces are thick, it may be necessary to look for suitable tips for those with narrow ear canals. But, in my case, since my canals are quite wide, using my very large foam-filled tips homemade I achieve a very high occlusive level, a great long-lasting and fixed fit, plus high isolation. It is true that it is very comfortable for long sessions and the weight is not noticeable. The shape of the cable sleeves ensures that the guides over the ears are not annoying.

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Sound

Profile


The 7Hz G1 profile is a clear V-U, with clear emphasis on the sub-bass and noticeable energy in the high end. The profile is not overly balanced and the midrange sag is more pronounced, with a 12-13dB difference from the sub-bass and upper mids. The downward slope of the bass is sustained, leaving hardly any hump in the mid-bass, while the rise towards the upper midrange is rapid and more abrupt. Then, from that point, a remarkable level of energy is maintained with hardly any control zone in the treble, all the way to the air zone. Undoubtedly, this is a more emphasized, less homogeneous profile with a higher degree of energy at the extremes.

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Bass

The 7Hz G1s are focused on the sub-bass while maintaining a good level of energy and power in this lower band. In this way the lower band is deep, dark, volumetric and forceful. In the very low frequency pure tone test a physical sub-bass is observed, quite sensory, with low undulatory/oscillatory character and little audible. The coloration level is low and you feel that power from quite low, as well as a realistic and natural feel. The power is noticeable from the first note and the energy level floods the ears. As I say, it has a good degree of darkness and physicality, but, in practice, it has a slight coloring that brings it back to earth, affirming that this is a very good low-priced IEM because of the excellent behavior of the lower range. The result is clear: fairly tight and dry bass, with a low elastic feel to bring some rubbery aura and help remarking the texture, quick recovery, low aftertaste, clean but powerful execution, full of energy. Technically it is very competent, quite precise, well marked and resolute.
In the dirty, complex, unfiltered bass test the G1s don't suffer one iota in reproducing the worst conditions. It adjusts quite well to the worst situations, executing the complex passages clearly, with plenty of control, but trying to simplify the situations slightly, but without being overly noticeable. It does not use the path of reduction to the minimum expression, but shows muscle and control in the worst scenarios, but without reaching a level of excellent resolution, that would be reserved for distinctly higher levels. In any case, the level of fidelity is very good for its range, as well as the level of realism. It is very competent at following bass lines, generating layers and discerning those elements from each other. Although the power level is very high and the energy level feels powerful and prominent, the G1s are capable of sounding quite clean and careful with the rest of the frequencies.

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Mids

The transition between bass and midrange is steep, but not as abrupt. The first half of the midrange retains a certain level of power and energy to ensure a good physical and corporeal base for the beginning of the male voices. As the frequencies advance the notes become thinner and slimmer, moving away from both that base and the listener. In this way, the male voices seem to thin out slightly. They have a marked and evident body, but the central part is somewhat less represented, while the high details become somewhat more prominent. The lower voices will feel fuller and more complete, while the higher ones will be very clear, but less physical, due to that central sinking. However, the energy level in the sibilances, details and harmonic nuances will be favored.
I can't claim that this is a warm profile, while the notes are hardly thick, but veer toward the resolving, even technical and descriptive side. The energy and volume of the lower range might deliver some of that warmth, but, again, the central sinking and powerful second half of the mids, thins out the central range, bringing more light, clarity and emphasis on the top end. This is how darker compositions come across as lighter and cleaner. Density is lightened, even the distance between elements seems to be revived. It is not a sharp or analytical profile, but more neutral in this respect. But it is true that it is fast, decisive, expressive and well defined. The driver is agile in fast compositions and is not slow in any case, being very capable of following fast transitions in an effective and reliable way. The upper middle notes are fine, thin and deft. But they possess a certain control that keeps them from being too sharp or piercing. The G1s have that splashy, obvious sound, but without becoming too exposed or obtrusive. Though of course, there are always tolerance levels around the 4kHz range. But I feel that slight drop in the early treble is much appreciated in this regard. In this way, the female vocals are described almost the other way around than the male ones, they may start with a weaker base, but they gain strength and body as they extend, to end in a quite explicit and extensive way, with very well described and evident details.
The highest details shine with pristine clarity and alternate with the bass in a power hand in hand, evidencing that V-U sound with the central part clearly farther away that can generate a sonorous hollowness in more than one occasion. In this way it acquires a more spectacular presence for its strength and energy, but it moves away from a more musical and calm balance or homogeneity.

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Treble

The treble is barely restrained, sparkling and crisp from the very first moment. Although the range starts with a slight control zone, it is almost a mirage. The energy level remains high until almost reaching the air zone, which means a first and second treble band full of power and presence. The result is obvious: a powerful, marked, full, forceful, elevated high zone, where the treble is very protagonist, showing fine, sharp, bright, luminous, crisp and extensive. In addition, although it may be a bit exaggerated, the behavior is not far from a somewhat more augmented and excited reality, but with a sound that is not unreal. Very good level of resolution and descriptive ability, despite the high energy level.

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Soundstage, Separation

The clear, evident and powerful presence of the macro detail and brighter elements that stand out in the foreground is superimposed on the micro detail in the background. The latter can be perceived thanks to the good level of resolution of the driver, but it is transposed, even drowned out. The energy level of the foreground mutes that micro detail, losing the opportunity to show itself as such. The exposure level of the foreground is energetic, very vivid, but very unsupportive.
The low zone is voluminous and wide, with which depth is obtained. Although much of the sound is shown in very close planes, leaving the middle part less visible. This generates a sensation of few planes: one very evident, close and very full, and another more expanded one that has a wider range, although not enough. The result achieves a good level of laterality and stereo feeling, although the scene is not too big. There are many splashy and vibrant elements in close proximity that produce a very dynamic feel, while the bass fills the scene, offering a sense of volume and space. In this way, the music seems large, but only up close, with a round image, also with height, but eminently frontal.
The distance between elements is good, but not if they are in different layers. In that case, the elements tend to overlap. And since much of the music is shown in the foreground, though well placed and shaped, the background is less discernible.

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Comparisons

Kiwi Ears Dolce


As usual, I like to compare models with similar tunings. In this case, the candidate has been the economical Kiwi Ears Dolce, whose current price is $25 versus $35 for the 7Hz G1. 10$ in such a reduced range can be a differential jump and that is something that is noticeable in the construction and accessories of both models. The Dolce's are made of ultra-durable medical grade resin, while the G1's are metal. The cable of the Dolce is a double strand of high purity OCC cable, which has a memory effect and a single set of tips in three sizes. On the G1s the cable is better, there are more tips and it comes with a large zippered rubber case. So these aspects of construction, presentation and content win the 7Hz. The most hard-fought section is ergonomics, with the Dolce's very low weight and very good fit. But the G1s are slightly smaller and shaped to fit the pinna very well, and they protrude less than the Dolce. Perhaps the smaller size of the G1s would make them better, as well as the better integration into the pinna. But the Dolce are lighter, it's like wearing nothing. There could be a technical tie but I prefer the G1s.
The G1s are easier to move, with the same power they sound louder.
There are similarities in the curve of both models, as you can see. But the G1s are more polarized: they have more sub-bass and more treble. In contrast, the Dolce seem to have a bit more air, and a more full-bodied first half of the mids.
Although the Dolce's frequency response seems more balanced, the G1s sound more refined, clearer and more defined. There is a bit more warmth and haze in the Dolce, as well as sounding a bit louder when set at the same volume, with lower dynamics and a more congested sound.
Dolce bass is simpler, with less texture, roughness and depth. But they are also drier and more restrained, even with less aftertaste, and they collect sooner. In the very low frequency pure tone test the G1s behave better, with a more natural character, without that wavy, colored feel of the Dolce. They are more physical and sensory, their timbre is more realistic and both the level of resolution and definition are better.
The Dolce's better balance in the ratio of lower and upper mids gives them a sonic advantage, generating a more homogeneous, fuller and denser midrange. The G1s are more polarized, with deeper, more distant and less grounded male voices. In contrast, the female voices of the G1s sound crisper, clearer and more defined, while the Dolce's are more nuanced and rounder, but also live up to their name, sweet.
The G1's treble is more energetic, bright, thin, incisive, crisp and clear. The Dolce's treble is softer and a bit more displaced, although you can see from the curve that they follow a very similar pattern. The energy level is different and so is the resolution and definition in favor of the G1s, sounding crisper and sharper, with more sparkle and realism.
The soundstage is closer on the Dolce's, it feels fuller. On the G1s the soundstage is more oval, with that central dip, but with good depth. There is more of a wall feel in the Dolce, but more separation and volatility in the G1.

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Conclusion

I remember a few years ago, the lower range IEMS were more polarized, with steeper profiles, more V-tendency and less balanced. There was more risk and less refinement, but there was always a standout set that provided great bass and treble. For some time now, the economic range has gained in neutrality and has balanced its profile, thanks to more complete and more economical drivers that have allowed to achieve a more homogeneous sound, without showing flaws, being much more all-round and resolute. The 7Hz G1 seems to go back to that older profile, but improving all the weak aspects of then. It certainly loses balance and wastes energy at the extremes. But it shows plenty of power, volume, resolution, technique and control in the lower range, as well as remarkable expertise in the upper mids and treble. The 7Hz G1s are a twist, a higher position, better executed and for the same money, from those IEMS of a few years ago.

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Sources Used During the Analysis

  • iFi GO bar Kensei.
  • EPZ TP50.
  • Tempotec V3.
  • Burson Audio Playmate 2.
  • Aune X8 XVIII Magic DAC + EarMen ST-Amp.

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Linsoul Audio Store, offered me this model, in exchange for writing an honest review. I want to make it clear that all my opinions written in this review have not been conditioned by this fact, nor will I ever write anything that I do not really think or feel here. I will only write about my personal opinion in relation to the revised product.

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Purchase Link

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You can read the full review in Spanish here

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Robin Kyle Datiles

New Head-Fier
7hz G1: Gaming IEM that I actually loved
Pros: - Good balance between sub-bass and mid-bass
- Mid-range clarity
- Well-textured treble
- Great imaging and soundstage
- Very comfortable
- Good build quality
- Price
Cons: - Treble and upper mid-range might be slightly too aggressive for some
DISCLAIMER
The review I'm about to share reflects my personal experience and provides an honest evaluation regarding this set. I am completely unaffiliated from the brands I review. I did not receive (or will receive) any financial or monetary incentives in exchange for writing this review, I wrote this review of my own free will and all of the opinions you'll read are my own.

This unit was provided by Linsoul Audio for free in exchange for an honest and detailed review. Rest assured, this does not affect my opinions about this set. Thank you, Linsoul, for the continuous support!

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INTRODUCTION
A handful of HiFi audio companies have attempted to create IEMs with great gaming performance. Similarly, some gaming companies have tried to make a mark in the audiophile community. Many have tried, but personally, I can't say any of those attempts have been successful—at least not until 7Hz released the 7Hz G1. This set is marketed as a gaming IEM, so my expectations were initially low. However, after using the 7Hz G1 for both critical listening and gaming for over a week, I was pleasantly surprised by how good it is, especially considering its price.

In this review, I'll take a slightly different approach by evaluating the 7Hz G1 from both an audiophile's perspective and a gamer's perspective. Here is the gear I used to test the 7Hz G1:

DAC Dongle: Jcally JM7l & Fiio K11
Phone/Device: Either my iPhone XR or my laptop
Music player: Spotify and Tidal
Games: Bloodborne, Farcry, Borderlands, League of Legends, and Valorant

PACKAGING
The unboxing experience is fairly average compared to other packaging within this price range. However, it includes multiple pairs of eartips in different sizes, which I find better than the typical stock tips provided with budget options like this. Honestly, I didn’t feel the need to use aftermarket eartips. There's also a rubber case included, which is spacious enough to fit both the IEMs and the pack of eartips. As for the stock cable, while there are definitely better options available, the included cable with the G1 gets the job done without any noticeable microphonics.

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BUILD QUALITY, DESIGN, AND COMFORT
The shell of this IEM feels very durable, as does the cable. It's not common to find a full-metal shell in this price range, so it's great to have another option like this. The shell design is pretty average and minimal—nothing particularly noteworthy. Even the shape of the shell is quite standard in terms of aesthetics. But when it comes to comfort? This is one of the most comfortable IEMs I've ever tried. It fits my ears perfectly, with no harsh corners or bulky bumps. I can wear it all day without even noticing it.

SOUND IMPRESSIONS
The 7Hz G1 follows the Harman target but leans slightly more toward a V-shaped sound signature. The tuning feels fun and lively, striking a balance that ensures you'll never find it boring while still maintaining coherence and clarity.

This set is tuned to appeal to a wide audience, making it enjoyable for virtually any track. The 7Hz G1 is a great choice for anyone looking for a fun sound signature and an all-rounder IEM.

Bass
The bass region is very authoritative, and I feel it could appeal to some bass-heads as well. You'll definitely hear and feel the bass—it makes its presence known. The balance between sub-bass and mid-bass is well-tuned, allowing the sub-bass rumble to shine without overpowering the mid-bass punch and attack. The bass decay is spot-on—not too slow and not too fast—adding to the immersive feel of this IEM.

Mids
I wasn’t expecting this level of clarity in the G1’s midrange, especially given its tuning and how well-bodied the bass region is—but it’s just that good. There’s no muddiness in the lower midrange, and the upper midrange is relatively forward as well, bringing vocals to the forefront without feeling overly intimate. I personally love my upper midrange slightly boosted, so I really enjoyed this set. However, I can see how some listeners might find it a tad too aggressive.

Treble
The treble region is full of energy and has a satisfying sparkle. There’s not much else to say, but I loved how the treble is tuned. There’s also a good amount of air, which adds to the spaciousness of the overall sound. That said, I think a touch more treble smoothness and slightly toned-down energy could make this IEM even better. However, if you love highly energetic treble with good texture, this set is for you. The higher frequencies don’t feel dry at all.

Details and Soundstage
The detail retrieval of the 7Hz G1 is above average for its price range. It holds its own against other well-known IEMs in the sub-$60 category, such as the Truthear Zero, Zero Red, and Twistura D-Major. You can easily pick up micro-details, which adds a textured and colorful feel to this IEM. For me, though, the imaging and soundstage of the G1 are what truly stand out beyond its tuning. The soundstage offers impressive depth, but the width is even better, paired with excellent imaging accuracy. This makes the G1 particularly well-suited for gaming.

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GAMING
For gaming, I tested this IEM across various genres—casual story-based games, MOBA, FPS, and even competitive titles where technical precision is crucial. All I can say is that the 7Hz G1 delivers. Pinpointing footsteps is relatively easy thanks to its accurate imaging, and the soundstage further enhances this capability.

That said, I think the G1 is better suited for casual games rather than highly competitive ones like Valorant or CS:GO. While its imaging and detail retrieval are impressive, the bass region leans more toward providing an immersive experience rather than pure clarity.

Don’t get me wrong—it’s still a solid choice for competitive games, but I found myself appreciating the G1 more in story-driven and one-shot games because of its added immersion.

CONCLUSION
I’ve been using the Truthear Zero Reds as my go-to gaming IEM, but I think I’ve found a better, cheaper, and more comfortable option specifically for gaming. I never imagined a gaming IEM could sound this good.

The 7Hz G1 is one of the easiest 5-star ratings I’ve ever given to a budget set. It’s a must-have, especially for audiophiles who also love gaming.

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LINKS
Linsoul website: https://www.linsoul.com/
Linsoul Aliexpress Store: https://ddaudio.aliexpress.com/store/2894006
Linsoul USA Amazon Store link: https://www.amazon.com/s?me=A267P2DT104U3C&marketplaceID=ATVPDKIKX0DER
7hz G1: https://www.linsoul.com/products/7hz-g1
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baskingshark

Headphoneus Supremus
Pros: Excellent price-to-performance
Decent accessories
Robustly built
Easy to drive
Bright and technical Harmanish tonality
Clean and fast bass
Clear midrange
Class-leading layering and imaging, can compete with pricier single DDs in technicalities
Cons: Below average isolation
Short nozzles may not fit those with larger ears
Note weight on the thinner side
Upper mids/lower treble at the edge (Fletcher munson curve; may be bright at louder volumes), slight sibilance
DISCLAIMER

I would like to thank Linsoul for providing this review unit.

The 7Hz G1 can be gotten here: https://www.linsoul.com/products/7hz-g1(no affiliate links).


INTRODUCTION

The G1 is different from the run-of-the-mill weekly sidegrade releases, in that this IEM is touted to be a gaming-focused IEM. Let's read on to check out if these claims are legit!

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SPECIFICATIONS
  • Driver configuration: 10 mm DLC dynamic driver
  • Frequency response: 10 Hz - 20000 Hz
  • Impedance: 18 Ω
  • Sensitivity: 107 dB/V
  • Cable: 2-pin 0.78 mm; oxygen-free copper cable; 3.5 mm termination
  • Tested at: $34.99 USD for non-mic version; $36.99 USD for mic version

ACCESSORIES

Other than the IEM, these are included:
- 5 pairs of silicone eartips (XS/S/M/L/XL)
- Case
- Cable

For a $30ish USD IEM, we have quite a decent accessory spread.


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The provided eartips range from XS to XL, and are comfortable during usage.


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The stock cable is a 2-pin oxygen-free copper cable. It is quite tangly, with microphonics present, and honestly is nothing to write home about. During ordering, one can opt for a mic version - useful if one needs a set for gaming or calls - or a slightly cheaper non-mic version. As we have discussed, the G1 is designed to be specialist gaming IEM, so it might not be a bad idea to select the mic version if you are obtaining it for this purpose.


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Lastly, we have a practical soft carrying case. It is quite spacious, with a lanyard to hook it.

The rest of this review was done with the stock cable and stock silicone eartips. No aftermarket accessories were used, so as not to add any confounders to the sound.


BUILD/COMFORT

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Fashioned from metal with a matte finish, the G1 is bean-shaped and small in profile. Personally, I did not encounter issues using it for longer listening sessions in terms of comfort, but the nozzle lies on the shorter side, and I suspect those with gargantuan ears might find the nozzle length to be sub-optimal. Thankfully, this may possibly be mitigated with a longer nozzle aftermarket eartip.

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Being a heavily vented IEM, isolation is below average. However, there is no driver flex, which is always a plus in my book.

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INTERNALS

The 7Hz G1 packs a 10 mm DLC diaphragm with N52 magnets.


DRIVABILITY

I tested the G1 with the following sources:
- Apple dongle
- Cayin RU7
- Chord Mojo 2
- Fiio KA15 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 WM1A DAP (Walkman One WM1Z Plus v2 Mod)
- Smartphone

This IEM is easily driven, with no hard requirements for amplification.


SOUND & TECHNICALITIES

7Hz G1.jpg

Graph of the 7Hz G1 via IEC711 coupler. 8 kHz is a coupler artefact peak.

Tonally, the G1 sports a crisp and bright Harmanish profile with a sub-bass boost.

The sub-bass focus furnishes good rumbling descent, though quantity wise, it may not be for bassheads as there is some thinning out of the mid-bass. The bass is however, tight and fast, with good texturing, so this is a case of quality over brute quantity. Bass has no bleed to muddy the midrange, and it isn't boomy to obscure footsteps or gun shots, which is its original purpose as a gaming IEM.

The lower midrange is crystal clear, with no bass encroachment, as discussed. The upper mids hit nearly 10 dB ear gain - this translates to forward vocals at low to moderate volumes, but those from the anti-pinna gain gang might find this area a tinge shouty, especially at louder volumes (Fletcher Munson curve).

The lower treble is resolving, with good sparkle. Those with treble sensitivities may find this area a hair bright, but once again treble sensitivity is dependent on hearing health, eartip choice, volume played at, source, ear anatomy etc. But for sure, what we hear is good clarity and nuanced micro-details, though there are instances of sibilance.

Timbre is quite well portrayed, though note weight is on the lighter side.

The G1 is arguably a gatekeeper at the $30ish bracket when it comes to technicalities. Soundstage is wide and projects beyond the ears, with pinpoint imaging. Layering and instrument separation belie its humble price point and the G1 definitely lives up to its namesake of a gaming IEM due to these properties. Indeed, it may even compete with pricier single DDs in this department.


COMPARISONS

The 7Hz G1 will be compared against other budget single DDs around $30 USD. Planars, BAs and hybrids are left out of the conversation, as the different transducer types have their own pros and cons.

G1 7.jpg



Tin HIFI C2 2025

The C2 2025 is a warmer IEM, with less boost in the upper mids and lower treble. Sibilance and fatigue are hence mitigated on the C2 2025, though in all other metrics other than note weight, the C2 2025 is inferior.

The C2 2025 has a claustrophobic soundstage, with veiled imaging and instrument separation, and is a league behind in technical aspects. It also has a more flabby bass that has less texture.


Simgot EW200

The EW200 furnishes a bright Harmanish profile. It has less sub-bass and sounds a bit more anemic in the low-end.

The EW200 has a smaller soundstage and weaker imaging, and is a marginal downgrade from the 7Hz G1.


CONCLUSIONS

G1_1.jpg


With every week churning out more and more Harmanish releases, a decent sounding IEM can be easily lost in the purgatory of sidegrade spam. Thankfully, despite being tuned to a bright Harmanish affair, the 7Hz G1 stands out from the competition, courtesy of its technical prowess.

Touted to be a budget gaming IEM, the G1 surpasses expectations for the coin, with class-leading imaging and layering on display. Verily, the G1 may even beat higher priced single DDs in this arena, and coupled with a fast and clean bass - plus a transparent midrange - the G1 certainly fits the bill for a gaming IEM.

This is no one-trick-pony though, and other than gaming, the 7Hz G1 can also be used for music appreciation, with its outstanding technical chops, easy drivability, good fit and build. Nothing is perfect, and there are some nitpicks, such as a thinner note weight, below average isolation and perhaps the pinna-gain sensitive and treble-averse folk might find the tuning polarizing in the top-end.

Transcending the usual Harman sidegrade hoards, the G1's calling card is its imaging and layering. It has the price-to-performance ratio to back it up too, and the G1 gets my recommendation for gamers and newbies looking for an affordable entry IEM. I would also peg the 7Hz G1 as one of the new benchmarks at the $30 range for a technical and single DD, dethroning the previous incumbent in the Simgot EW200.
Last edited:
Redcarmoose
Redcarmoose
@baskingshark,

"Transcending the usual Harman sidegrade hoards, the G1's calling card is its imaging and layering, and is well-suited for our gaming brethren."

Great review!

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