ADV. M5-6D
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ADV M5 6D
"My Ferrari of IEMs"($999.99)
SPECIFICATION
Driver unit 4 BA + 2 EST hybrid driver with active crossover
Impedance 13ohm+/-15%
Sensitivity 107dB+/-3dB at 1kHz
Frequency response Ultra Wideband 10Hz – 40kHz
THD <0.2% at 1kHz
Input power 5mW
Cable composition Silver-plated copper
Cable length (SPC) 1.5M
IEM connector 2-pin (0.78mm)
Plug 3.5mm gold plated
WHAT'S INCLUDED
1 pair of M5-6D IEM
1 2-pin silver-plated copper quad-braided cable
3 pairs of black foam tips
3 pairs of black single-flange silicone tips
3 pairs of black dual-flange silicone tips
1 CNC-machined aluminum carrying case
1 leather cable tie
1 microfiber cleaning cloth
1 cleaning brush
PROS
Excellent treble response.
Very snappy and holographic.
Bass can be big! Fast attacks! Punchy!
Mids are very prominent in both male and female vocals
Generously textured details.
Natural timbre!
Realistic instruments
Great on edm
Is it worth investing $999.99 for an IEM? Yes for me, but only M5 6D! I'll discuss it even further.
To begin with I was sent 4 of their best selling IEMs as mentioned in my M5 12D review. M5 12D, M5 6D, BA3 and BA2. Although they were sent without boxes to unbox, at least they sent it with some of the corresponding freebies. I am reviewing these with no directives, incentives or anything that would influence my reviews hence you shall get nothing but honesty from me. Also I don't read reviews from other reviewers to prevent myself from being influenced too. Call my reviews nothing but subjective but I truly don't mind where you're coming from it's not stopping me from telling my experiences.
M5 6D is ADV's Bassy entry for their M series. It is bassy but I don't know if it will please the hyper bassheads out there. I'm not a basshead myself so I'm not sure what pleases them, I like my IEMs to be more midcentric or balanced brightish or even flat for more versatility. Thus I find M5 6D to be balanced for getting quite impressive mids while having excellent extensions from both ends.
Shells are 3D printed and are huge. The biggest I have seen, same with M5 12D. Surprisingly I find it very comfortable to wear. It protrudes but it doesn't bother me, I even find it cool to see ADV peeking out from the side of the iem. After all it is a very confident IEM and you would want others to see that you're wearing ADVs. The shells are incredibly smooth and you won't feel any edges, not even where the faceplate is attached to.It has long semi aggressively angled nozzles which penetrate well and sits deep for more sealing and details just like M5 12D. The model and serial # are actually embedded on each pair too. No L and R markings but has color coded nozzles(black and red), that says Designed for Musicians. It is made of clear shells too that allows you to get mesmerized by the insides. The cables inside are not as neat as 12Ds but it brags about the EST tweeters.
SPC Cables included are pretty much bad.. It can be better. Feels a few steps classier than the typical chifi stock cable that has the ultimate similarity in requiring mental fitness in untangling them every single freaking time you need to use them. Seriously, I have seen mid tier IEMs where you can see the value even from the cables only. - this led me to use a Single crystal Copper cable that's included in BQEYZ Spring 2 and man the soundstage got even bigger and micro details are much more snappy.
Bass really responds quite well. Almost like listening to DDs. It sounds very impressive despite having a rather wide soundstage, no trade offs were placed. Bass is EQ sensitive and gets big only when required, the rest is just packed with a sweet lavish amount of details in every kick. Fast, realistic and punchy that serves almost all genres. Sub and mid bass can go really deep and still manage to be smooth.
Mids is 1 of its strengths too, giving off somewhat warm tonality for male vocals and smooth and airy quality for female vocals. Strings have tons of details to it and wind instruments lingers soulfully. Synthesizers sound impressive too, giving it a fuller body which makes it more realistic despite being electronically produced. I have been using this for 4days now and still haven't come across any issues with the mids. Even on tracks that have multiple singers, this IEM is still a beast.
Trebles on this IEM are also really damn good. It extends well enough that it leaves this overwhelming signature to anyone that listens to it. I have tested this IEM brutally in different levels of torture from RHCP's badly recorded album to MP3s and even to mere Youtube and facebook.. Damn even the ads sound so good! Trebles are mostly the weakness of badly recorded tracks and in this IEM it is never sibilant nor shouty, just well extended with natural timbre to every note it hits. Cow bells, cymbals, chimes, even thunder and gun clicks are very true to absorb.
Imaging is expected to perform well given its 4ba+2est set up and its price range but it even exceeded my expectations. Sounds resonate pretty fast and transition smoothly from 1 ear to another. The Placement of instruments is very realistic too. Forwarded micro details also help in stimulating the brain to create a world of different layers and depth giving you an intense holographic experience.
Soundstage works hand in hand with its imaging. Despite having penetrating details it still has the same borderless soundstage as M5 12D. There are tracks that don't seem to be recorded in a studio with 4 walls but rather seem like they were recorded in the middle of a battlefield with no boundaries to bounce the sounds. 1 thing a top of the line IEM should obtain in my opinion.
Bass
Mids
Trebles
Imaging
Layering
Micro Details
Soundstage
Spatial Panning
Timbre
Tonality
Affordability★★
Overall rating
Set up used to test:
LG V50 - UAPP - TIDAL - stock IEM set up
PC - TIDAL MASTERS - ZEN DAC - 4.4 Hibiscus Balanced cable
LG V50 - UAPP - Local Flac - zen dac w/ power match ON - 30% volume - 4.4 balanced - BGVP W01/A08 tips
With BGVP W01 mids are airier and cymbals are brighter
With BGVP A08 Bass is marginally tighter. Mids leaner.
Additional Comparisons: based on similar set up, price range and tuning
ADV M5 12D - 12BA, In low impedance mode there's not much of a competition but in High Impedance mode on my V50, M5 6D won in every segment. It just scales way better. Best texture in micro details. Better and snappier spatial pannings. Better treble extension and leaner and airier mids. More accurate drum placing than 12D. For USD 300 less, I'd go for M5 6D instead.
Toneking T4. Both have 4 BA set up but M5 6D has 2 EST which basically drew the line to victory. T4 sells at 5x lower than M5 6D but the difference is all around. More natural sounding. Wider and more detailed soundstage. Imaging, layering and spatial pannings are more prominent in M5 6D. So if you have the means in buying a thousand dollar IEM, go ahead, but if not T4 should be a good IEM to settle in.
BQEYZ Spring 2 - I compared the 2 mainly for having almost similar sensitivity, both are clinical in most aspects and for being balanced and neutral. I usually recommend spring 2 for being a great sound engineer IEM but to have spring 2 capabilities and being able to cover your leisures too as an audiophiliac, go for M5 6D.
CVJ CSN - at a fraction of what M5 6D is currently sold at, CSN stands tall with its 1dd 5ba set that has quite the similar characteristics in terms of imaging but of course not at par. CSN is great for those who are coming from BQEYZ KC2 who are on a tight budget but needs upgrading. You get that fraction of the quality too from M5 6D, maybe a fraction but it's a good start rather than getting a Ferrari. You'd better start with a honda civic.
GSAudio GD3B - both have a lot of characteristics in common so if you'd ask me M5 6D would really be a TOTL upgrade from the GD3B modesty. Similar throughout the segment. Similar in experience too, prolly a sonion signature. GD3B also has a borderless soundstage too. Similarities doesn't mean exactly the same, for those who want to dissect my reviews.
Final say:
You know when you see a Ferrari car, you know you're never gonna be able to own 1 of those or even drive 1, but then someone sends you 1 to test drive..suddenly you get the instinct to strive harder and buy 1 someday. That's M5 6D!
Should I say more? It's literally the best IEM I have tried. My only caveat is its cable. I wish it was better given that it is USD 1K. I used to think that it's really silly for an IEM to cost this much but the M5 6D proved to me that top of the line IEMs provide a stellar experience that any mid range IEMs may not be able to give.
I am pleased that my LG V50 can drive it easily even in low impedance mode but sure makes it shine even more when in high impedance mode. Zen DAC makes the staging even wider and pops the details even more. Regarding tips, I recommend BGVP W01 or JVC Spiraldots.
You noticed there's no CONS? Yeah it's just the cable.
I'm happy to get a chance in trying this End Gamer IEM and I'm also saddened by the fact that the only take away I got are the good memories and level of standards I will be enforcing on my next reviews. I really wish I could hang on to these forever.
Thank you again PH Review Circle! Thanks Marlowe for letting us try ADV!
These are all my honest opinions and I only hope that my audience may find my reviews credible and somehow informative.
Watch my video reviews on YT
https://youtube.com/channel/UCnAYLTwl8G-8Sc4INfeZe1Q
#berrywhitegamingandreviews
"My Ferrari of IEMs"($999.99)
SPECIFICATION
Driver unit 4 BA + 2 EST hybrid driver with active crossover
Impedance 13ohm+/-15%
Sensitivity 107dB+/-3dB at 1kHz
Frequency response Ultra Wideband 10Hz – 40kHz
THD <0.2% at 1kHz
Input power 5mW
Cable composition Silver-plated copper
Cable length (SPC) 1.5M
IEM connector 2-pin (0.78mm)
Plug 3.5mm gold plated
WHAT'S INCLUDED
1 pair of M5-6D IEM
1 2-pin silver-plated copper quad-braided cable
3 pairs of black foam tips
3 pairs of black single-flange silicone tips
3 pairs of black dual-flange silicone tips
1 CNC-machined aluminum carrying case
1 leather cable tie
1 microfiber cleaning cloth
1 cleaning brush
PROS
Excellent treble response.
Very snappy and holographic.
Bass can be big! Fast attacks! Punchy!
Mids are very prominent in both male and female vocals
Generously textured details.
Natural timbre!
Realistic instruments
Great on edm
Is it worth investing $999.99 for an IEM? Yes for me, but only M5 6D! I'll discuss it even further.
To begin with I was sent 4 of their best selling IEMs as mentioned in my M5 12D review. M5 12D, M5 6D, BA3 and BA2. Although they were sent without boxes to unbox, at least they sent it with some of the corresponding freebies. I am reviewing these with no directives, incentives or anything that would influence my reviews hence you shall get nothing but honesty from me. Also I don't read reviews from other reviewers to prevent myself from being influenced too. Call my reviews nothing but subjective but I truly don't mind where you're coming from it's not stopping me from telling my experiences.
M5 6D is ADV's Bassy entry for their M series. It is bassy but I don't know if it will please the hyper bassheads out there. I'm not a basshead myself so I'm not sure what pleases them, I like my IEMs to be more midcentric or balanced brightish or even flat for more versatility. Thus I find M5 6D to be balanced for getting quite impressive mids while having excellent extensions from both ends.
Shells are 3D printed and are huge. The biggest I have seen, same with M5 12D. Surprisingly I find it very comfortable to wear. It protrudes but it doesn't bother me, I even find it cool to see ADV peeking out from the side of the iem. After all it is a very confident IEM and you would want others to see that you're wearing ADVs. The shells are incredibly smooth and you won't feel any edges, not even where the faceplate is attached to.It has long semi aggressively angled nozzles which penetrate well and sits deep for more sealing and details just like M5 12D. The model and serial # are actually embedded on each pair too. No L and R markings but has color coded nozzles(black and red), that says Designed for Musicians. It is made of clear shells too that allows you to get mesmerized by the insides. The cables inside are not as neat as 12Ds but it brags about the EST tweeters.
SPC Cables included are pretty much bad.. It can be better. Feels a few steps classier than the typical chifi stock cable that has the ultimate similarity in requiring mental fitness in untangling them every single freaking time you need to use them. Seriously, I have seen mid tier IEMs where you can see the value even from the cables only. - this led me to use a Single crystal Copper cable that's included in BQEYZ Spring 2 and man the soundstage got even bigger and micro details are much more snappy.
Bass really responds quite well. Almost like listening to DDs. It sounds very impressive despite having a rather wide soundstage, no trade offs were placed. Bass is EQ sensitive and gets big only when required, the rest is just packed with a sweet lavish amount of details in every kick. Fast, realistic and punchy that serves almost all genres. Sub and mid bass can go really deep and still manage to be smooth.
Mids is 1 of its strengths too, giving off somewhat warm tonality for male vocals and smooth and airy quality for female vocals. Strings have tons of details to it and wind instruments lingers soulfully. Synthesizers sound impressive too, giving it a fuller body which makes it more realistic despite being electronically produced. I have been using this for 4days now and still haven't come across any issues with the mids. Even on tracks that have multiple singers, this IEM is still a beast.
Trebles on this IEM are also really damn good. It extends well enough that it leaves this overwhelming signature to anyone that listens to it. I have tested this IEM brutally in different levels of torture from RHCP's badly recorded album to MP3s and even to mere Youtube and facebook.. Damn even the ads sound so good! Trebles are mostly the weakness of badly recorded tracks and in this IEM it is never sibilant nor shouty, just well extended with natural timbre to every note it hits. Cow bells, cymbals, chimes, even thunder and gun clicks are very true to absorb.
Imaging is expected to perform well given its 4ba+2est set up and its price range but it even exceeded my expectations. Sounds resonate pretty fast and transition smoothly from 1 ear to another. The Placement of instruments is very realistic too. Forwarded micro details also help in stimulating the brain to create a world of different layers and depth giving you an intense holographic experience.
Soundstage works hand in hand with its imaging. Despite having penetrating details it still has the same borderless soundstage as M5 12D. There are tracks that don't seem to be recorded in a studio with 4 walls but rather seem like they were recorded in the middle of a battlefield with no boundaries to bounce the sounds. 1 thing a top of the line IEM should obtain in my opinion.
Bass
Mids
Trebles
Imaging
Layering
Micro Details
Soundstage
Spatial Panning
Timbre
Tonality
Affordability
★★Overall rating
Set up used to test:
LG V50 - UAPP - TIDAL - stock IEM set up
PC - TIDAL MASTERS - ZEN DAC - 4.4 Hibiscus Balanced cable
LG V50 - UAPP - Local Flac - zen dac w/ power match ON - 30% volume - 4.4 balanced - BGVP W01/A08 tips
With BGVP W01 mids are airier and cymbals are brighter
With BGVP A08 Bass is marginally tighter. Mids leaner.
Additional Comparisons: based on similar set up, price range and tuning
ADV M5 12D - 12BA, In low impedance mode there's not much of a competition but in High Impedance mode on my V50, M5 6D won in every segment. It just scales way better. Best texture in micro details. Better and snappier spatial pannings. Better treble extension and leaner and airier mids. More accurate drum placing than 12D. For USD 300 less, I'd go for M5 6D instead.
Toneking T4. Both have 4 BA set up but M5 6D has 2 EST which basically drew the line to victory. T4 sells at 5x lower than M5 6D but the difference is all around. More natural sounding. Wider and more detailed soundstage. Imaging, layering and spatial pannings are more prominent in M5 6D. So if you have the means in buying a thousand dollar IEM, go ahead, but if not T4 should be a good IEM to settle in.
BQEYZ Spring 2 - I compared the 2 mainly for having almost similar sensitivity, both are clinical in most aspects and for being balanced and neutral. I usually recommend spring 2 for being a great sound engineer IEM but to have spring 2 capabilities and being able to cover your leisures too as an audiophiliac, go for M5 6D.
CVJ CSN - at a fraction of what M5 6D is currently sold at, CSN stands tall with its 1dd 5ba set that has quite the similar characteristics in terms of imaging but of course not at par. CSN is great for those who are coming from BQEYZ KC2 who are on a tight budget but needs upgrading. You get that fraction of the quality too from M5 6D, maybe a fraction but it's a good start rather than getting a Ferrari. You'd better start with a honda civic.
GSAudio GD3B - both have a lot of characteristics in common so if you'd ask me M5 6D would really be a TOTL upgrade from the GD3B modesty. Similar throughout the segment. Similar in experience too, prolly a sonion signature. GD3B also has a borderless soundstage too. Similarities doesn't mean exactly the same, for those who want to dissect my reviews.
Final say:
You know when you see a Ferrari car, you know you're never gonna be able to own 1 of those or even drive 1, but then someone sends you 1 to test drive..suddenly you get the instinct to strive harder and buy 1 someday. That's M5 6D!
Should I say more? It's literally the best IEM I have tried. My only caveat is its cable. I wish it was better given that it is USD 1K. I used to think that it's really silly for an IEM to cost this much but the M5 6D proved to me that top of the line IEMs provide a stellar experience that any mid range IEMs may not be able to give.
I am pleased that my LG V50 can drive it easily even in low impedance mode but sure makes it shine even more when in high impedance mode. Zen DAC makes the staging even wider and pops the details even more. Regarding tips, I recommend BGVP W01 or JVC Spiraldots.
You noticed there's no CONS? Yeah it's just the cable.
I'm happy to get a chance in trying this End Gamer IEM and I'm also saddened by the fact that the only take away I got are the good memories and level of standards I will be enforcing on my next reviews. I really wish I could hang on to these forever.
Thank you again PH Review Circle! Thanks Marlowe for letting us try ADV!
These are all my honest opinions and I only hope that my audience may find my reviews credible and somehow informative.
Watch my video reviews on YT
https://youtube.com/channel/UCnAYLTwl8G-8Sc4INfeZe1Q
#berrywhitegamingandreviews
SPECIFICATION:
Driver unit: 4 BA + 2 EST hybrid driver with active crossover
Impedance: 13ohm+/-15%
Sensitivity: 107dB+/-3dB at 1kHz
Frequency response: Ultra Wideband 10Hz – 40kHz
THD <0.2% at 1kHz
Input power: 5mW
Cable composition: Silver-plated copper
Cable length (SPC): 1.5M
IEM connector 2-pin (0.78mm)
Plug 3.5mm gold plated
Disclaimer:
-Product was provided for review units for some PH audio enthusiasts/hobbyists & reviewers. Thanks to sir Marlowe Cruz for giving us the opportunity to try the best ADV products.
-Your mileage may vary.
Source Used:
Ibasso DX160 ( Dual CS43198 DAC)
XDuoo X3 (CS4398)
Realme 6 (Normal Smartphone DAC)
(MP3 320kbps, FLAC 16bit,FLAC 24bit,WAV,DSD256)
Packaging:
1 pair of M5-6D IEM
1 2-pin silver-plated copper quad-braided cable
3 pairs of black foam tips
3 pairs of black single-flange silicone tips
3 pairs of black dual-flange silicone tips
1 CNC-machined aluminum carrying case
1 leather cable tie
1 microfiber cleaning cloth
1 cleaning brush
ADV M5-6D Offers a lot of inclusion compared to other products. One thing i like about the packaging is their CNC-machined aluminum carrying case which is essential for the storage of our IEMs. Leather Cable Winder, microfiber cleaning cloth & cleaning brush is an extra deal too. I'd say you've got what you've paid for from these freebies.
Build:
The M5-6D is crafted with medical-grade acrylic which stated that one of the safest materials for your skin contact. Shells feels bulky for small ears, but reasonable for its multi-driver inside. They also use 4-core Silver Plated Copper which im a fan of because of the simplicity of it. Plug & Splitter with printed label looks good & sturdy too.
Sound Quality;
Lows:
One of the first things I look for when judging a gear is whether it satisfies me of its lower frequency.
Bass rumble starts at 15hz and i was amazed it can go that low. I love how the subbass behaved and controlled on these iem.
Midbass has a strong but not aggressive attack which makes the bassy tracks not tiring to listen to unlike other iems my head hurts. Every bass attacks that are thrown is clean and not shouty.
Mids:
Mids are detailed, clear, but dynamic, and slightly forward - they are really well-done, and one of the best parts of the M5-6D. Not the shouty type of details but more on the musical type of details. Every poorly recorded tracks thrown in this IEM makes it musical like a magic. First time i've enjoy listening to busy tracks since it can deliver it easily. Everything sounded extremely realistic while being non-offensive and easy to listen to.
Treble:
Treble are crisp and clear. I love listening to random micro-details that i havent heard before. Cymbals, Hi-hats, Crash and other instruments sounded sweet. This is one of the best treble i've heard everything sounds precisely and perfectly
Soundstage & Imaging:
Imaging is very good on these. One of the most natural while being musical at the same time. I have no problem telling where the sounds/details are coming from. Sound signature is more on balanced but musical and fun to listen to.
Conclusion:
ADV Model never fails me from making me amazed of their models. I've remembered the first ADV i've tried fron a friend which is the ADV MODEL 3 and from that day i've said that this is one brands to look after to. I think M5-6D is more on a experience, not a purchase. You'll get what you've paid for from its price range. I think it is a good all arounder IEM Suitable for all genres since i've tried all the different tracks and none of it has been failed me, they all sounded musical as it should be. Even random noises generated from digital instruments from tracks sounded musical too. If you're reading this because you are planning to buy one, go take it and you'll never regret it.
Test Tracks
Getting Older - Billie Eilish
Foxey Lady- Jimi Hendrix
First of the Year - Skrillex
The Husk - Rings of Saturn
Airplane Mode - Cory Wong
The Crying Machine - Steve Vai
Take the "A" Train - Nikki Yanofsky
A Little Piece of Heaven - Avenged Sevenfold
PLUR POLICE (Jauz Remix) - Knife Party
It's Oh So Quiet - Björk
Thank you for reading!
Driver unit: 4 BA + 2 EST hybrid driver with active crossover
Impedance: 13ohm+/-15%
Sensitivity: 107dB+/-3dB at 1kHz
Frequency response: Ultra Wideband 10Hz – 40kHz
THD <0.2% at 1kHz
Input power: 5mW
Cable composition: Silver-plated copper
Cable length (SPC): 1.5M
IEM connector 2-pin (0.78mm)
Plug 3.5mm gold plated
Disclaimer:
-Product was provided for review units for some PH audio enthusiasts/hobbyists & reviewers. Thanks to sir Marlowe Cruz for giving us the opportunity to try the best ADV products.
-Your mileage may vary.
Source Used:
Ibasso DX160 ( Dual CS43198 DAC)
XDuoo X3 (CS4398)
Realme 6 (Normal Smartphone DAC)
(MP3 320kbps, FLAC 16bit,FLAC 24bit,WAV,DSD256)
Packaging:
1 pair of M5-6D IEM
1 2-pin silver-plated copper quad-braided cable
3 pairs of black foam tips
3 pairs of black single-flange silicone tips
3 pairs of black dual-flange silicone tips
1 CNC-machined aluminum carrying case
1 leather cable tie
1 microfiber cleaning cloth
1 cleaning brush
ADV M5-6D Offers a lot of inclusion compared to other products. One thing i like about the packaging is their CNC-machined aluminum carrying case which is essential for the storage of our IEMs. Leather Cable Winder, microfiber cleaning cloth & cleaning brush is an extra deal too. I'd say you've got what you've paid for from these freebies.
Build:
The M5-6D is crafted with medical-grade acrylic which stated that one of the safest materials for your skin contact. Shells feels bulky for small ears, but reasonable for its multi-driver inside. They also use 4-core Silver Plated Copper which im a fan of because of the simplicity of it. Plug & Splitter with printed label looks good & sturdy too.
Sound Quality;
Lows:
One of the first things I look for when judging a gear is whether it satisfies me of its lower frequency.
Bass rumble starts at 15hz and i was amazed it can go that low. I love how the subbass behaved and controlled on these iem.
Midbass has a strong but not aggressive attack which makes the bassy tracks not tiring to listen to unlike other iems my head hurts. Every bass attacks that are thrown is clean and not shouty.
Mids:
Mids are detailed, clear, but dynamic, and slightly forward - they are really well-done, and one of the best parts of the M5-6D. Not the shouty type of details but more on the musical type of details. Every poorly recorded tracks thrown in this IEM makes it musical like a magic. First time i've enjoy listening to busy tracks since it can deliver it easily. Everything sounded extremely realistic while being non-offensive and easy to listen to.
Treble:
Treble are crisp and clear. I love listening to random micro-details that i havent heard before. Cymbals, Hi-hats, Crash and other instruments sounded sweet. This is one of the best treble i've heard everything sounds precisely and perfectly
Soundstage & Imaging:
Imaging is very good on these. One of the most natural while being musical at the same time. I have no problem telling where the sounds/details are coming from. Sound signature is more on balanced but musical and fun to listen to.
Conclusion:
ADV Model never fails me from making me amazed of their models. I've remembered the first ADV i've tried fron a friend which is the ADV MODEL 3 and from that day i've said that this is one brands to look after to. I think M5-6D is more on a experience, not a purchase. You'll get what you've paid for from its price range. I think it is a good all arounder IEM Suitable for all genres since i've tried all the different tracks and none of it has been failed me, they all sounded musical as it should be. Even random noises generated from digital instruments from tracks sounded musical too. If you're reading this because you are planning to buy one, go take it and you'll never regret it.
Test Tracks
Getting Older - Billie Eilish
Foxey Lady- Jimi Hendrix
First of the Year - Skrillex
The Husk - Rings of Saturn
Airplane Mode - Cory Wong
The Crying Machine - Steve Vai
Take the "A" Train - Nikki Yanofsky
A Little Piece of Heaven - Avenged Sevenfold
PLUR POLICE (Jauz Remix) - Knife Party
It's Oh So Quiet - Björk
Thank you for reading!
Attachments
I would like to give my thanks to Marlowe Cruz for giving the Philippine circle of reviewers a tour of ADV products. Special mention to a co-reviewer who made this tour possible also, Adrian Yambao. For more details on this product, please visit this link
https://www.adv-sound.com/products/m5-6d-universal?_pos=1&_psq=m5-6d&_ss=e&_v=1.0
DISCLAIMER:
I did not buy this product. It was provided as a review unit for the Philippines reviewer circle tour. Manage your expectations as what works for me, might not work for you. We all have different perception when it comes to sound.
INTRODUCTION
This is my first TOTL (top-of-the-line) review. And I was quite pressured how can I give an honest, detailed and accurate take on this. This IEM took me on a breathtaking expedition. As my firsthand experience, the mystery of what really is there in a TOTL, was answered. I hope you will find this review informative. I will give my best to share my enlightenment to you.
LOOKS and OUTER APPEARANCE
I was surprise to find a very large IEM in my hands when I got the M5-6D. Straight away I thought how is this going to fit in my ears. More on its fitting later. It is made of medical-grade acrylic. Acrylic sheet is easy to fabricate, bonds well with adhesives and solvents. It has superior weathering properties compared to many other transparent plastics. ADV promotes their 3d printing on this one. M5-6D has a nice slick look, clear and transparent. You can see the drivers namely 4BA + 2 electrostatic tweeters and wirings. You can check out their promotional video here
.
It’s something you can brag in front of your friends and show off how good your IEM looks. LOL
TREBLE
Treble is well presented. Without any sibilance. Transparent and detailed. For the treble heads, you will smile on this one. Hi hats and cymbals are accurately produced. Vocals of both genders are detailed. Brass sections are neat. High registers of instruments are well sounding. I am a bit sensitive to treble and M5-6D didn’t feel shouty at least for me. The alto sax, which I personally know how to play, can reach the high frequencies. Kenny G’s Midnight Motion, the live version, was very pleasing indeed. Listening to this again, gave me a nostalgic feeling. It was one of the tracks I grew up on and 6D relived those moments.
BASS
ADV claims this as a bass leaning model. And yes, it is. A clean and punchy one. Excellent bass thump presentation. Full and chunky. Undoubtedly for a bass head. It has bite and grittiness. Details and texture. The bass on Another One Bites the Dust by Queen had me nodding on the first seconds. Bass never felt boomy or muddy even for bassy tracks.
MIDS
Mids are still pretty decent here. Though the tuning shows a dip in the mids (see product link above for the frequency tuning), details are not compromised. On some tracks, instruments can be a tad pushed back because of that dip. Body of instruments falling in this frequency range still sounded full.
VOCALS
M5-6D offers rich and detailed vocals. Again, the dip in the mids as mentioned above, pushes back the vocals sometimes. I’m a mid-centric guy, and I prefer my vocals a bit forward. Yet 6D did not let me down on vocals. I can also say that the 6d has a sweet spot for the female voice. Overall very pleasant and superb vocal production here.
SOUNDSTAGE AND IMAGING
I used to think that sound stage is merely just a bonus among IEMs. M5-6D changed that. Without proper sound stage and imaging, what we hear in a musical track can possibly be all over the place. M5-6D offers a very generous sound stage. Instruments never felt congested because of this. I can say that this is one of 6D’s key strength. Be it studio recorded or live recorded performance, sound stage is superb here. Marlowe Cruz provided and proposed some well mastered tracks. One of this is an album from Balmorhea. An instrumental album, full of different lushfull instruments. Banjos, authentic pianos, guitars, cellos, violins, flutes, percussions, timpani, and many many more. Mostly acoustic instruments. All sounded astounding and organic. Instruments were naturally placed, and the instruments has a place of its own. It gave me a new level of listening pleasure.
TONALITY/TIMBRE/TEXTURE
The 6D renders exceptional tonality. Instruments never felt boring. A piano can be warm on a track, and then sparkly on the next. Same goes to guitars, drums, bass, synths and vocals. The intended production of instruments and vocals are well put together. Timbre is quite accurate offering instrument definition at its finest. Texture on elements is satisfying and pleasing even for busy tracks.
FITTING
So now we come to one of 6D’s unconventional part. The fitting is not bad at all. But it felt weird for me on the first day. This is subjective. Though the shell build, given its size, is not heavy at all, the fitting is not perfect. The nozzle fits just right though. It holds pretty well for a big a** IEM. It never fell off my ears nor did my ears pushed it out. Safe to say the 6D is suited well for stationary listening rather than on-the-go or live performances. ADV offers ear impression on this model for a customize fit.
PACKAGE
As a review unit, I did not get the original packaging. Not that I’m complaining. Check out the official product link provided above. It comes with the essentials and much more like a cleaning cloth and brush to maintain your gorgeous IEM.
Here are some TRACKS that I used for reference. Allow me to share you some notes I’ve taken.
There are so much more tracks I’ve tested but this 4 will do. I think you will have an idea how details I can hear on 6D. Particularly the sound stage.
SOURCES AND GEARS
VERDICT
This is a debut review for me. It is my first TOTL experience. And if I am to describe my experience in one word, it would be ENLIGHTENMENT. Now I know what a high-end IEM is capable of. And it took me on a journey back to my home hi-fi moments with my dad and brought back some nostalgic moments.
I would have given 6D an easy 5 star if it weren't for the bulky weird fit. Other than that, everything is just right here.
I hope that my review gave you a decent idea of what to expect from 6D. Though the price tag is not for everyone. It is aimed for those who want to take their listening experience in a whole new level. It can also be used as a reference for a mixing engineer especially when it comes to sound stage. The quality here is just pristine. Prestige. From the build, tech and SQ. For the casual listener, the u-shaped tuning will be desirable. Treble and bass heads alike. For the analytical, well I have the 12D review coming up, a neutral-balanced tuning compared to 6D. I had a blast with this one and I can say, it is an “end-game” entry. This one is a keeper for an audiophile.
https://www.adv-sound.com/products/m5-6d-universal?_pos=1&_psq=m5-6d&_ss=e&_v=1.0
DISCLAIMER:
I did not buy this product. It was provided as a review unit for the Philippines reviewer circle tour. Manage your expectations as what works for me, might not work for you. We all have different perception when it comes to sound.
INTRODUCTION
This is my first TOTL (top-of-the-line) review. And I was quite pressured how can I give an honest, detailed and accurate take on this. This IEM took me on a breathtaking expedition. As my firsthand experience, the mystery of what really is there in a TOTL, was answered. I hope you will find this review informative. I will give my best to share my enlightenment to you.
LOOKS and OUTER APPEARANCE
I was surprise to find a very large IEM in my hands when I got the M5-6D. Straight away I thought how is this going to fit in my ears. More on its fitting later. It is made of medical-grade acrylic. Acrylic sheet is easy to fabricate, bonds well with adhesives and solvents. It has superior weathering properties compared to many other transparent plastics. ADV promotes their 3d printing on this one. M5-6D has a nice slick look, clear and transparent. You can see the drivers namely 4BA + 2 electrostatic tweeters and wirings. You can check out their promotional video here
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It’s something you can brag in front of your friends and show off how good your IEM looks. LOL
TREBLE
Treble is well presented. Without any sibilance. Transparent and detailed. For the treble heads, you will smile on this one. Hi hats and cymbals are accurately produced. Vocals of both genders are detailed. Brass sections are neat. High registers of instruments are well sounding. I am a bit sensitive to treble and M5-6D didn’t feel shouty at least for me. The alto sax, which I personally know how to play, can reach the high frequencies. Kenny G’s Midnight Motion, the live version, was very pleasing indeed. Listening to this again, gave me a nostalgic feeling. It was one of the tracks I grew up on and 6D relived those moments.
BASS
ADV claims this as a bass leaning model. And yes, it is. A clean and punchy one. Excellent bass thump presentation. Full and chunky. Undoubtedly for a bass head. It has bite and grittiness. Details and texture. The bass on Another One Bites the Dust by Queen had me nodding on the first seconds. Bass never felt boomy or muddy even for bassy tracks.
MIDS
Mids are still pretty decent here. Though the tuning shows a dip in the mids (see product link above for the frequency tuning), details are not compromised. On some tracks, instruments can be a tad pushed back because of that dip. Body of instruments falling in this frequency range still sounded full.
VOCALS
M5-6D offers rich and detailed vocals. Again, the dip in the mids as mentioned above, pushes back the vocals sometimes. I’m a mid-centric guy, and I prefer my vocals a bit forward. Yet 6D did not let me down on vocals. I can also say that the 6d has a sweet spot for the female voice. Overall very pleasant and superb vocal production here.
SOUNDSTAGE AND IMAGING
I used to think that sound stage is merely just a bonus among IEMs. M5-6D changed that. Without proper sound stage and imaging, what we hear in a musical track can possibly be all over the place. M5-6D offers a very generous sound stage. Instruments never felt congested because of this. I can say that this is one of 6D’s key strength. Be it studio recorded or live recorded performance, sound stage is superb here. Marlowe Cruz provided and proposed some well mastered tracks. One of this is an album from Balmorhea. An instrumental album, full of different lushfull instruments. Banjos, authentic pianos, guitars, cellos, violins, flutes, percussions, timpani, and many many more. Mostly acoustic instruments. All sounded astounding and organic. Instruments were naturally placed, and the instruments has a place of its own. It gave me a new level of listening pleasure.
TONALITY/TIMBRE/TEXTURE
The 6D renders exceptional tonality. Instruments never felt boring. A piano can be warm on a track, and then sparkly on the next. Same goes to guitars, drums, bass, synths and vocals. The intended production of instruments and vocals are well put together. Timbre is quite accurate offering instrument definition at its finest. Texture on elements is satisfying and pleasing even for busy tracks.
FITTING
So now we come to one of 6D’s unconventional part. The fitting is not bad at all. But it felt weird for me on the first day. This is subjective. Though the shell build, given its size, is not heavy at all, the fitting is not perfect. The nozzle fits just right though. It holds pretty well for a big a** IEM. It never fell off my ears nor did my ears pushed it out. Safe to say the 6D is suited well for stationary listening rather than on-the-go or live performances. ADV offers ear impression on this model for a customize fit.
PACKAGE
As a review unit, I did not get the original packaging. Not that I’m complaining. Check out the official product link provided above. It comes with the essentials and much more like a cleaning cloth and brush to maintain your gorgeous IEM.
Here are some TRACKS that I used for reference. Allow me to share you some notes I’ve taken.
- Another One Bites the Dust by Queen – Apple lossless 24 bit ALAC
- Bass guitar has grit and bite. Very detailed,
- Drums sounds natural and clean. Drum kicks are punchy.
- Muted guitar is well placed in the mix. Details still prominent.
- The swooping synth sound that makes this track unique offers a very immersive sound stage. Almost holographic.
- Mercury’s voice is exceptionally good and captivating.
- No congestion or bleeds on this track.
- The synth around 1:20 time stamp, is a bit shouty here. Well a good sign the electrostatic tweeters are functioning well.
- The clean tone guitars are nowhere short of details.
- Can’t Hide Love by EWF – offline FLAC 24 bit
- Brass section is detailed. Not shouty. Just the right amount of treble to shine.
- Vocals and harmony are clear and have adapt separation.
- Rhodes are meant to have a panning effect. 6D delivers.
- Bass guitar is well presented. It sits in the mid as 80’s bass guitar are.
- Drum kit placement is spot on. Hi hats not shouty, snares are snappy, toms are very natural and organic.
- Bass drum sits behind the bass guitar. Could be more boosted but who am I to question the producer’s intent. LOL
- Harm and Boon by Balmorhea – offline FLAC 16 bit
- Piano is warm and airy.
- Cellos details are unprecedented. You can hear the vibrations of the strings.
- When the full instruments came in at 1:46, the guitar is on my left, cellos on lower middle, violins are on the far upper right, acoustic bass on the center with a little left panning.
- Snares and cymbals are panned a bit right.
- Pizzicato strings are rendered far right where the violins at.
- This is how good the sound stage and imaging is. You can accurately pin point the placement of the instruments just like in an orchestra.
- Free Bird by Lynyrd Skynyrd – Apple lossless 24 bit ALAC
- Notable tonality and timbre of different guitars here. I am no guitarist, but I can hear the different kinds of guitar used here.
- Drums are very organic.
- Organ and string section still noticeable even behind the guitars. This is a guitar-oriented track after all.
- Solo starts at 4:56, solo guitar is on stereo track. One panned upper right, the other upper left.
- The strumming rhythm guitar is still prominent at the far left.
- Bass guitar is just right for a rock old classic mix.
- The over drive solo never felt congested. Even with all the elements sounding all together.
- Vocals a bit pushed back on this one.
There are so much more tracks I’ve tested but this 4 will do. I think you will have an idea how details I can hear on 6D. Particularly the sound stage.
SOURCES AND GEARS
- Iphone 7 plus and Ipad Air gen2 with apple dongle
- offline flacs played via VOX app
- Apple lossless
VERDICT
This is a debut review for me. It is my first TOTL experience. And if I am to describe my experience in one word, it would be ENLIGHTENMENT. Now I know what a high-end IEM is capable of. And it took me on a journey back to my home hi-fi moments with my dad and brought back some nostalgic moments.
I would have given 6D an easy 5 star if it weren't for the bulky weird fit. Other than that, everything is just right here.
I hope that my review gave you a decent idea of what to expect from 6D. Though the price tag is not for everyone. It is aimed for those who want to take their listening experience in a whole new level. It can also be used as a reference for a mixing engineer especially when it comes to sound stage. The quality here is just pristine. Prestige. From the build, tech and SQ. For the casual listener, the u-shaped tuning will be desirable. Treble and bass heads alike. For the analytical, well I have the 12D review coming up, a neutral-balanced tuning compared to 6D. I had a blast with this one and I can say, it is an “end-game” entry. This one is a keeper for an audiophile.
Zerstorer_GOhren
That's indeed a TOTL quality, thank you for your review, mate.
RemedyMusic
@Brionced yeah. i felt like it is the best way i can share my experience to the reader. thanks man!
RemedyMusic
@Zerstorer_GOhren you're most welcome mate!
