ARTTI R1

Thanks to Concept Kart and gadgetgod for organising the tour of the Artti iems. Below is the review of the Artti R1.
All views of the iem are my own and have no incentives of any sort for the same.

Artti is a relatively new brand to hit the market with a set of iems that have gathered positive reviews quickly.

Build and fit

The R1 sports an all metal shell and is very reminiscent of the MP145 in terms of feel or alteast the faceplate. The iems come with a very nice
looking braided brown cables with no microphonics and feels nice and sturdy. The iems sport 2pin connectors and the stock cable came with the 3.5mm termination.

The iems sport a 3 DD combination that I was quite surprised (having not read reviews of the iems before the listen! I roll like that).
The shells seem to be normal sized, and fit quite well even with the above normal sized nozzles.

The iems came in a standard fabric covered carry case that seems sturdy enough for every day usage.

Sound impressions

The iems drive well with most sources and dont need much power. However, they can scale with amping, give the 3 DD setup of the iems. I paired them with the Penon Liquer tips due to the fairly large size nozzles (I have small ears)

Overall sound is very large, with a lot of reverb that makes a lot of tracks sound like being listened to in a theatre. The largeness of the sound makes me think they will be wonderful for open world games and action movies!

The tuning is quite mature, with hardly any bass bleed into mids. The iems sport 3 way crossovers that have done an excellent job of controlling bleed.

The vocals are slightly recessed, with the instruments on both ends of the spectrum being given a more prominent positioning. However, vocal nuances are not lost.

Bass - 4/5 - There is plenty of slam and rumble with a deep insert. I docked about 0.5 points for the nozzle size that makes it a little painful for me to get a deep insert.
However, for whatever little time that I got a deep fit, the bass goes deep and slam hard. The texture is a little bit muddied though, just a tiny bit, to get a higher score.

Mids - 3.75/5 - As mentioned, the mids are slightly recessed in comparison to the rest of the spectrum, especially with the deep fit. Nuances and details are good and enjoyable.

Treble - 3.75/5 - Treble extends quite a bit with a lot of details. However, speed is touch slower for the faster tracks, along with a slight bit of harshness in the upper registers.

Soundstage - The stage is super sized. One of the larger stage sounds that I have heard in recent times. The experience is theatre like and there is no missing the largeness of sound.
They remind me of the Final VR3000 in terms of stage size, that extends in height and width equally.

Imaging - Above average imaging provides a very nicely done instrument presentation. These will add atmosphere to open world and FPS games alike.

Conclusions

Artti R1 definitely took me by surprise on first listen, giving a very different flavour from the competition, that makes it well worth adding to the collection! And at budget! I am looking at you, very expensive but poor implemented iem!

Review Of The ARTTI R1​

Introduction​

I have recently discovered a company called Artti, but I am not entirely sure of its origins aside from being seen on an AliExpress seller page. Artti appears to specialise in producing elector-acoustic products, particularly in-ear monitors (IEMs). As far as I know, they launched their brand with four IEMs featuring different tuning and technology: the T10, R1, R2, and their latest product, the R3. Fortunately, I was able to acquire their first multi-driver IEM, the Artti R1. Before we proceed, I would like to clarify a few points.

Disclaimer​

*This is a review unit, courtesy of Concept Kart. All thanks to them for providing. As I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to these IEMs as “R1.”
*I am using different Ear-tips for convenience and better versatility.
*Finally, I will only evaluate the R1 based on its performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification​

The R1 earphones have a three-driver setup on each side, with two dynamic drivers made of titanium-done diaphragm and one with a custom composite beryllium diaphragm. The earphone shells are made of 6063 aerospace-grade aluminium alloy, and the faceplate has a raised silver boundary that looks a bit weird. The earphones come with a 4-strand cable made of 216-core Australian high-purity copper wire with two pin connectors and a 3.5mm straight termination jack. The package also includes three pairs of ear tips and a fabric storage case. The earphones have an impedance of 20.4 ohms, a sensitivity of 102dB, a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, and a total harmonic distortion of less than or equal to 3%. The size of the earphones may be a bit large for some people, but they are comfortable to wear.

Sound​

The comparison drawn here is quite similar to a recent experience I had with the Tin Hifi T5S. Both the R1 and T5S have a dark, warm bass response, with a particular emphasis on the sub-bass and forward mid-range. However, the R1’s bass is much heavier than the T5S, and it also has a better elevation in the upper treble, allowing for a more extensive treble response. The mid-range on the R1 is not too forward, which is a positive trait. The R1’s bass has a tucked lower mid-range, which gives it a more powerful sound, but it is less warm than the T5S. The T5S has less boom and more punch in the bass region. If you are looking for a more in-depth understanding of these differences, let’s dive into the specifics.

Treble​

Initially, I had assumed that the audio quality would be subdued and dark, but to my surprise, it had a subtle yet lively energy around the 10k-11k range, which resulted in a smooth and immersive experience. I attribute this to the upper mid-range not being too prominent. The upper treble, while not airy, sounded extensive and intimate, with all the sound elements occurring within the listener’s proximity. The vocals and instruments lacked some of the sparkle and note definition but compensated for it with a smooth, flowing sound. In contrast, the lower treble was energetic and forward, but the bass heaviness influenced it, making it sound weighty and less lively. Although the warmth in that region produced an organic sound, it lacked clarity and effectiveness. Nevertheless, the vocals and instruments were still vividly presented. Overall, the treble region presented a smooth, clean, and laid-back sound.

Mid Range​

When considering the mid-range, it doesn’t quite capture my attention as it has a more relaxed feel. The notes have a distinct weightiness and a slight muffled quality, which could be described as dense, but with a little more nuance. The upper mid-range shares the same energy as the lower treble, but comes across as even heavier, with both vocals and instruments having a tonally dense and natural sound, yet feeling somewhat muted. Male vocals are beautifully rendered, and listening to tracks with metal or male-centric vocals is a real treat. However, when it comes to female vocals, they sound lacklustre and unappealing. As for instruments, vocals tend to drown out the notes, even in instrumental tracks, and the heavy notes don’t do justice to the flute, snares, synths, or percussion instruments, making them sound dull and unclear. The lower mid-range is particularly heavy and lifeless, making it difficult to distinguish between vocal and instrumental notes. While the tuck in this range may prevent it from affecting the upper frequencies too much, it doesn’t quite succeed in making it sound better. Overall, the mid-range presents itself as dense, thick, and laid-back.

Bass​

In terms of bass response, my personal preference is for a sound similar to that offered by the R1. However, I find that the impact and influence it has over the other regions can sometimes make me dislike it. Nonetheless, when it comes to bass-heavy tracks, the R1 more than makes up for this. The emphasis is on the sub-bass region, which goes deep and produces an effective rumble and punch. The mid-bass region also produces a good amount of slams and thumps, which makes it an overall bass set in that manner. That being said, the bass can be very influential and can affect the higher frequencies. It is not, however, so emphasized that it would make the sound only bass-heavy. It is still balanced enough to keep it from sounding drowned or hollow. The texture or details of the bass are not particularly impressive, but they do their job by making the notes sound distinct.

Technical Performance​

When it comes to analyzing the technical specifications of the R1, I have observed that it falls short of the required standards to be in line with its competitors in this particular price bracket. This holds irrespective of the tuning of the device. To delve deeper into the matter, let’s take a closer look at some of the specifics.

Soundstage, Sound Imaging & Separation​

The way the stage is set creates an intimate atmosphere that keeps you entertained. However, the precision and layering of the notes are not very sharp or clear. The imaging is also lacking, but it manages to do its job to some extent. While the separation between the notes is distinct, it’s still difficult to pinpoint where the instruments and vocals are coming from.

Speed & Resolution​

The overall quality of the sound, whether it pertains to the macro or micro details, can be described as average. While the sound is not particularly revealing or resolving, it does not sound chaotic either. The attack and decay of the notes are not very fast-paced, which can affect the overall response to some extent. However, despite this, the sound retains a sense of coherence and stability.

Sound Impressions ​

Sources​

Sony WM1A - As I was listening to R1 with the WM1A, I noticed a significant improvement in the clarity, expansiveness, and overall cleanliness of the response. The soundstage seemed to have expanded, which improved the separation and layering of different frequencies, resulting in a better overall response. The treble notes were smoother and cleaner, while the mid-range had a certain heaviness to it that made the vocals sound more spacious and open, albeit a bit dull. However, the female vocals had a hint of liveliness in their notes, which added a unique flavour to the sound. The bass notes were well-controlled in the mid-bass range, but the sub-bass did tend to overpower at times. Nevertheless, this gave the presentation a unique characteristic. The technical quality of the sound was also enhanced, and the details seemed to be more pronounced than before.

Tempotec V6 - As I was listening to R1 through the V6, I noticed that the sound response seemed to be more forward and cleaner. The notes were pushed up to produce a more revealing response, which it did to some extent. However, I also noticed that the sound didn’t flow finely or smoothly. Despite this, the vocals seemed a little clearer, and I could feel that the bass was a little more in control, though the overall sound response remained largely the same.

Simgot DEW4X - As I was listening to R1 using the DEW4X, I couldn’t help but notice how robust and well-defined the response was. The audio quality was notably superior compared to any other source I’ve used before. The bass was tightly controlled, resulting in a more well-balanced and harmonious sound. The vocals were tonally precise and clear, with less crowded notes that allowed the instruments to shine through with greater clarity. The treble was smooth and cohesive, creating a light and airy sound that was further enhanced by the forward mid-range and reduced bass. The overall presentation of the audio was remarkably soothing and pleasing to listen to, making it the best pairing of all.

Tracks​

Millet - Anytime Anywhere
Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness
Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo
Uru - Kamihitoe
Kujira Yumemi - Kenka
Majiko - Kokoronashi
Anly - Sukinishinayo
Kohama Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade
Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love
Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope
Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow
Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Jawns - Erotica
ISOxo - how2fly
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Weeknd - Popular
YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High)
Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid
Middle Kids - Bend
FLETCHER - Leads Me On
Loathe - Aggressive Evolution
The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
Sigrid - Burning Bridges
AURORA - Black Water Lilies
AURORA - Runaway
X Ambassadors - Renegades
Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold Us
Gotye - Somebody That I Used To Know
Jay-Z - Run This Town
Lady Gaga - Poker Face
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Ladytron - Ghost
Travis - Love Will Come Through
LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong
DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix)
Hoobastank - The Reason
Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care
Tool - 7empest
Tool - Vicarious
A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song
Zack Hemsey - Vengeance
Elton John - I’m Still Standing
The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin
Micheal Sembello - Maniac
Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine
A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun

Conclusion​

Although I feel that the ARTTI R1 doesn’t match up to the sound quality of other companies’ offerings and the target market they cater to, the ARTTI R1’s dynamic drivers produce a natural timbre, resulting in a safe, pure, and attention-grabbing sound. If you’re someone who prefers a sound that is more relaxed, warm, and bass-heavy, without any sudden treble spikes, then the ARTTI R1 could be a viable option for you. Overall, I would recommend it as an IEM that sounds good.