Ambient Acoustics AM7 LAM-U

Introduction

Ambient Acoustics is a company based in Ukraine and they specialize in in-ear monitors which can be available in either universal or custom form. I would like to thank Ambient Acoustics for the review unit of the AM7 LAM-U. At the moment, you can purchase the AM7 LAM-U on their official website, https://ambient-acoustics.ua/eng/naushniki-dlya-audiofilov/ambient-acoustics/am7-lam-u.html .



Specifications

• Driver Configuration: 7 Balanced Armature (5 way passive crossover)
• Frequency Response: 10Hz – 22kHz
• Sensitivity (50Hz): 110dB/mVt,116dB/mVt,120dB/mVt и 124dB/mVt
• Impedance (50Hz): 12 Ohm

Unboxing & Accessories

The AM7 LAM-U comes in a black Pelican 1010 micro case with a black protective cover that sports the brand logo. Inside the Pelican case, there are dehumidifier capsule, IEM wax tool, box of ear tips, instruction manual, warranty card, AM7 LAM-U, detachable cable and cable wrap.





IEM Build & Design

The AM7 LAM-U shell is made up of acrylic and it has a smooth black surface. On each faceplate, there are the model logo in silver color and 3 switches. At back of the iem, there is a color marking beside each switch – yellow, red and blue from top to bottom. On the inside of the iem, there is L & R marking on the left and right respectively. In addition, the model name and serial number are below the marking. The nozzle is slightly angled with 3 bores. The AM7 LAM-U is constructed well and there is a comfortable fit.









Cable Build & Design

The cable is a detachable 4 core silver cable with screwthread connectors. On the connectors, there are blue and red dot on the left and right side respectively so users can differentiate. The connectors have a black housing. The cable has a memory wire section that is enclosed in a transparent heat shrink tube. It is not very flexible due to the metal inside that helps to form the shape. The chin slider and y-splitter are black in color and they form the shape of the brand logo. The jack is 3.5mm rhodium plated straight with a silver housing that sports a blue carbon fibre design. There is strain relief.



Sound Analysis

Lows

The AM7 LAM-U has the ability to extend its sub-bass well with a great depth. There is body which improves the rumble and it is expressed in a natural manner. The bass texture is generally smooth and coupled with the moderately quick decay, it is able to strike a good balance. There is good dynamics with a consistent punch. Bass impact contributes to the engagement level and holds a high standard in terms of definition. The mid-bass has moderate quantity and the slam is not hard-hitting. It is being presented in a precise manner. The control AM7 LAM-U has on its bass reproduction creates a tight presentation which brings across a surge of authority without sounding aggressive. Moreover, the slight tinge of warmth enhances it. Each bass note is articulated with a good accuracy. The bass is captivating to listen to.

Mids

The AM7 LAM-U has a transparent midrange and it is presented in a clean manner. The lower mids has a moderate amount of body and male vocals do not sound thick. There is sufficient quantity to avoid any signs of hollowness. The upper mids is slightly boosted and the forwardness contributes to an engaging female vocals performance. It commands a high level of details retrieval and the definition is good. There is an organic presentation. The midrange is rendered in a moderately smooth manner. At times, there are signs of aggression but vocals are not shouty due to a tight control. Clarity is expressed well and it is a detailed listen.

Treble

The treble is extended greatly and there is a good bite which helps to inject some excitement into the overall sound. There is no sibilance and harshness. It operates on a bright approach with good crisp and the sparkle has an appropriate amount to accentuate the performance. In addition, the treble has good cleanliness but slight lacking for the body. The amount of air rendered is effective which helps to lighten the sound. It is able to give an airy feel which contributes to the portrayal of vocals. The treble definition is excellent and coupled with its precise articulation, the presentation is quite complete.


Soundstage

The expansion on the AM7 LAM-U has a moderate naturalness and the width magnitude is great. The depth is being expressed in such a way that it is not too closed in. There is a good amount of space. Congestion is minimal when tackling busier tracks. Positioning of vocals and instruments has a good precision.

Switches

By adjusting the switches, there are 8 different sound signatures in total.

1. Flat (Stock)
2. Balanced
3. Warm + Sweet
4. Bass
5. Analytical
6. Rock
7. Dance
8. Bass + Dance

More information can be found on https://ambient-acoustics.ua/eng/naushniki-dlya-audiofilov/ambient-acoustics/am7-lam-u.html .



Comparisons

Ambient Acoustics AM7 LAM-U vs Aroma Musical Box Twins

The AM7 LAM-U has similar sub-bass quantity as the Twins while the Twins is able to extend greater. There is additional warmth on the AM7 LAM-U. Each bass note on the Twins is articulated with extra precision. Bass texture on the AM7 LAM-U is smoother while the Twins excels in its bass decay which helps to create an agile presentation. The mid-bass on the the Twins has a little more quantity and it is capable of delivering a weighted slam. The midrange on both is presented in a clean manner with great transparency. The lower mids on the AM7 LAM-U is able to tackle male vocals effectively with its additional body. The upper mids on the Twins is more forward and there is extra crisp. It has the ability to create an intimate female vocals performance. There is liveliness present. For the treble section, the Twins extends better and commands a higher level of details retrieval. Both shows good crisp but there is an additional sparkle on the Twins. Treble articulation on the Twins is slightly more accurate. There is no sibilance and harshness. In terms of soundstage, the Twins expands in a more natural manner while the width magnitude on both is pretty similar. The depth on the Twins is slightly more closed in.

Ambient Acoustics AM7 LAM-U vs Campfire Audio Andromeda

The AM7 LAM-U has more sub-bass quantity than the Andromeda whilst the Andromeda takes on a greater extension. The extension is deeper and it operates in a more authoritative approach while there is extra punch. This helps to improve the overall dynamics. Moreover, bass texture on the AM7 LAM-U is rendered with additional smoothness and helps to create a soothing performance. The bass decay on the Andromeda is significantly greater and helps to enhance the speed. The Andromeda has an edge in the pace with a quicker rumble. The mid-bass on the Andromeda has more quantity with greater slam impact. The midrange on the AM7 LAM-U is rendered with good cleanliness. The lower mids on the AM7 LAM-U has more body and it is much thicker than the Andromeda. Male vocals benefit from it. The upper mids on the Andromeda is more forward and the crisp helps to accentuate the female vocals performance. There is a good engagement from the Andromeda with liveliness involved. Moving on to the treble, AM7 LAM-U has more extension while both iems show no signs of sibilance and harshness. There is a good amount of details presented. The air on the Andromeda has more quantity and the airiness provides more space. Treble articulation on the AM7 LAM-U is more accurate. The clarity and definition for both iems have a similar standard. The AM7 LAM-U has additional sparkle. Lastly, in terms of soundstage, the AM7 LAM-U has a more natural expansion with a greater magnitude. The depth on the AM7 LAM-U has slightly more space than the Andromeda.

Ambient Acoustics AM7 LAM-U vs UM Miracle V2

The AM7 LAM-U has more sub-bass quantity than the Miracle V2 and the extension on both is pretty similar. The sub-bass reproduction from the AM7 LAM-U is fuller and there is greater punch. The extra kick helps to create an impactful performance. The mid-bass on the Miracle V2 has slightly more quantity and the slam is less aggressive as AM7 LAM-U. Bass decay on the AM7 LAM-U is more pacey and the agility helps to elevate the overall engagement. Bass texture on the Miracle V2 is smoother. Each bass note on the AM7 LAM-U is articulated with extra precision. Rumble on the AM7 LAM-U is quicker. There is more warmth present on the Miracle V2. The lower mids of the AM7 LAM-U has more body than the Miracle V2 and it sounds fuller. Male vocals are better expressed on the AM7 LAM-U. The upper mids on the AM7 LAM-U is more forward and female vocals sound engaging. The midrange has a smoother presentation on the Miracle V2. Details retrieval on the AM7 LAM-U is similar. Moving on to the treble section, AM7 LAM-U has the edge for the crisp and sparkle. Treble on both is detailed. The amount of air rendered on the AM7 LAM-U is greater. Lastly, both expands naturally while the width on the AM7 LAM-U has greater magnitude. The Miracle V2 has a more closed in depth.

Conclusion

The AM7 LAM-U is a versatile detailed sounding iem that boasts tight bass reproduction, transparent midrange and well-extended treble. There is a high level of details retrieval and the execution is well done. In addition, there are 3 switches to change the sound signature. The Ambient Acoustics AM7 LAM-U is the flagship iem in the universal series and it delivers in a spectacular way.




For more reviews, visit https://audio123blog.wordpress.com/ .

Before starting this review, I would like to share technical aspects and package details.




Specifications:
7 BA drivers per ear
3 sound bores
5-way passive crossover
Frequency Response: 10Hz – 22kHz
Sensivity (50Hz): 110dB/mVt,116dB/mVt,120dB/mVt и 124dB/mVt
Impedance (50Hz): 12 Ohm
Fixing the drivers and crossover inside shells without air cavities

Package Details:

In-ear monitors AM7LAM-U (universal fit) with black transparent shells
Silver detachable Ambient Cord with sqrewthread plugs and straight 3,5 plug
Engraved waterproof case
IEM wax tool
Dehumidifier capsule
Carabiner
Service Manual + Warranty card



Test Equipment:
Lotoo Paw Gold Titanium
Opus #1
Astell Kern AK120
Audioquest Dragonfly Black



Package, Design & Isolation;
AM7 comes with solid black Pelican 1010 case. When you open the case, beautifully made AM7 shows up. Also, cable, screwdriver, silica gel and some tips come within the package. Package’s contents are not rich but it is satisfying. Maybe one thing is that more tips would be welcomed. When I saw the pictures of universal AM7 earphone, I was not impressed. Simple looking, black earphone and there is no fancy faceplate or shell design. However, when I received the AM7, I was quite impressed in terms of design and material quality. The pictures are absolutely misleading because It is much better than the pictures. Body shape is not same as the current earphone`s design. It is more like big bold SM-64. It is not identical of course, but both inside and outside of the shells are flat like Earsonics SM-64. I have to admit that this is a big earphone and people who have small ears might have some fit issues. My ears are average size and I didn’t feel any discomfort. I only felt a little bit pressure on my anti-helix part of my ear in long listening but that`s not a big issue.

AM7 is a quite heavy earphone but it never falls down from my ear, so do not be mistaken the shape of body. In addition, the fit is not the best but still pretty well. Another thing that I have to mention is the cable. I really like stock cable. I believe that there is no need to upgrade. Its sound is great, it looks great, it fits great. The outer material of the cable is more like ALO Audio SX8, so it is not too soft but it is tangle-free. I have only one complaint about the cable, it is microphonic. When the cable rubs somewhere else you can hear the well-known microphonic noises. You can add some earphone cable clip to solve or minimize the microphonic noise issue.

Isolation is good but not the best either. Like all the other earphones, it depends on kind of tips that you are using. I bought new Spinfit CP155 and it fits really great. Isolation and comfort is pretty good. As I mentioned before, it is not the best.

The content and design of the AM7 package had satisfied me in overall.



Sound:

8 sound signatures in one IEM? Yes! AM7 has 8 different sound signatures, so I want to write about all those sound settings. AM7 has powerful bass, smooth, slightly laid back mid and prominent detailed trebles. I wouldn’t expect that much differences between signatures but that switches really work! Some of the settings are quite similar to each other but they are differing in many other ways. I always thought that these sound settings are meaningless because I used to have some earphones with those sound switches and the differences were mostly just a nuance, but AM7’s sound settings are definitely noticeable. One thing that I would like to mention is that I always thought about changeable sounds earphones are somewhat lack of character, but somewhat I feel that AM7 has some major sound character. They putted their house sound and they served with 8 different sauces. Let me try to explain.



Flat - (All switches down):
This is the dullest sound setting of the AM7. Some of the users are going to love it but this setting is not cup of my tea. Low to high, every frequency is lifeless. It is good for listening classical music, jazz or easy listening genres, but it is not great for bassy tracks. Low-frequencies are not that much as quantity. If you prefer deep and full bass, Flat mode is not the best choice. High frequencies are detailed and fast, it feels like it doesn’t miss any detail in the music. I like quantity and quality of trebles. I listened with LPG which most of you may know that highs are little bit aggressive on LPG, but you don’t have to worry, it performs without fatigue and harshness. Soundstage is airy and pretty wide. Not as airy as like Andromeda but better than S-EM9 in terms of wideness. One of the things that impressed me is the instrument separation. It is really easy to hear every single instrument’s movement in the music. I think that, AM7 is a very capable earphone in terms of separation. Soundstage is airy and spacious. Width is not the best I have ever heard, but it is wider than S-EM9 and Reborn.

Overall, this mode is very safe for almost every type of source. It is more like the boys who are smart and handles everything in the class but still not popular like the other boys.



Balanced Mod – (Blue switch up, Red and Yellow down):
To be honest, I couldn’t hear any significant differences between Flat mode and Balanced mod. Balanced mod is tad of lively than the Flat mode and bass become a little bit prominent, it just hits harder. But I have to mention that the balanced mod doesn’t focus on having bass presence, so if you like EDM or other bass-heavy music you should have to look other mods. High and middle frequencies are almost same quantity and character with the Flat mod. Mids are not forward or laid back, and trebles are mostly the same quantity. Maybe mid notes are little bit bolder tone because of low mid bass, but overall it is almost same. I should specify that in Balanced mode, all the instruments, separation and resolution is quite high. I can hear every single instrument easily. There is nothing harsh about the sound signature which results in a fatigue free experience even with several hours of listening.



Warm + Sweet Mod – (Red switch up, the blue and yellow down):
Now things are starting to change. Probably one of my favorite setting is Warm-Sweet mode. This mod is
musical, warm, dynamic and sub bass can go deeper. Bass is right where it should be, powerful, deep,
rumbling but not overpowering. Mid frequencies are lush and effortless and feels little bit forward. Vocals are pretty damn good and silky mids make acoustic instruments shine. Very emotional and sweet tone. I am really pleased with this mode. Trebles is not the star of the show but it is not lack neither. This mode is great for EDM like music or vocal. Actually, this mode’s sound tone is very similar with Oriolus Reborn. I did some A/B test and I felt the similar sound experience. Both earphone’s mids are flawless and emotional, and powerful bass accompany to the other frequencies. Also, trebles are almost same quantity but they are differ in presentation.



Bass Mod – (red and blue switches up, yellow – down):
Mids, trebles where are you? Ok there you are, but the bass is shouting, yelling and roaring and other frequencies are sitting quietly behind of bass frequencies. Bass is really prominent in this mode. Bass lover might be love it but for me, nope. When I listening music, I would like to hear all frequencies in certain quantity and clarity which I can enjoy it, but with this bass mod all I hear is mostly bass. I couldn’t listen music with this mode, but I have to admit, it is fun to listen some bassy tracks.

Overall,

Bass bass bass. All about bass.



Analytical Mod – (red and blue switches down, yellow – up)
I wouldn’t call it analytical but definitely very close to the neutral and accurate presentation. This mode is reminded me Prophile 8, not clinical and dry but it shows its technical capability slightly in musical presentation. This mode is more likely for some serious listening and bringing out a lot of detail in the songs. Every instrument can be heard clearly and it may allow you to pinpoint in music. Highs are crisp, not piercing, very appropriate. Low-end is neutral and flat, closer to a monitor type bass. The lack of bass takes some time to get used to it and it is not suitable for every music genre. While you can hear every bass note, you don't feel the bass rumble as with other mods. Controls are adequate and not overwhelmed. This mod is most transparent and clear mod in AM7 I guess.



Rock Mod – (red switch down, blue and yellow switch up)
The Highs are good but can be a tad harsh on higher volumes but it depends on the type of song and your source. Middle and high frequencies are particularly detailed, but compare to the other modes, they come out with less details. Mid frequencies are slightly laid back, but vocal presentation is forward. Bass is very tight and loud but at the same time smooth and undistorted. Quantity is less than Dance mode but more than Balanced, Flat and Analytical modes. I like this mode but I think I never use it like the Bass mode.



Dance Mod – (red and yellow switches up, blue – down)
Dance mod is clearly louder and has bit more bass than the Rock Mod. General presentation is musical and fun. The bass response is excellent, and it can go quite low with excellent heavy bass. This is great for EDM or R&B tracks. Also this mode is similar with the Warm-Sweet Mode which I really liked. The main difference is the soundstage wideness. Dance mode feels narrower than Sweet mode and it feels all instruments are close each other. The mids are warm and lush yet detailed. Highs are prominent and
detailed too and it has good extension. Like Dance mod, I never heard any sibilance in any mode.



Bass + Dance Mod – (all switches – up)
This mod is very similar with the dance mod, except they're are a tad more bass heavy. Bass is rumbling and it is showing its authority. It is not muddy, and actually makes some EDM sound better, but also it is not great for long listening sessions. Powerful bass presentation makes stress in the mid area and it feels uncontrolled, but generally it is handled very well. But I have to say that Dance mod is more controlled and detailed. The treble is not bright and prominent like the other modes, but it is still detailed and
sparkly.



Verdict:
It’s always great to play different tuning with earphones. Ambient Acoustics did a great job with these tunable switches. Some of the mods are very similar but there are definite differences between some modes. For example, warm mode vs flat, it is like two different earphones. You may select which mods you like, or you can set it for your sources.
I am quite impressed by AM7. This is really great earphone that you can buy in terms of price performance ratio. You will have many earphones by owning only one earphone, it is like 8 in 1 multi tool.
In short, AM7 is great audiophile earphone for those who are looking for changeable sound tuning TOTL earphone. Also, it is extremely crafted and beautifully designed.