Reviews by Audio Fun

Introduction
Thieaudio is a Chinese company which is owned by well known online retailer Linsoul. They have been release some of the class leading IEMs recently, which are well know by our audio community. In today’s review, I’m checking out their’s latest model from legacy series, which is also the most affordable IEMs form their lineup, the Legacy 2. It is priced at $99USD ($89USD 08/09/21) and configured 1DD+1BA.




Disclaimer
I would like to thanks Lillian from Linsoul audio for given this opportunity, and the review will be based on my honest opinion through the music I listen to.


Package & Accessories
The Legacy 2 come with a moderate sizes box with a minimalistic black color finish, there is the brand name located at the the front cover. After the box opened, there is the IEMs itself sited in the foam with the cable pre connected. The carry case is underneath it with a manual and QC check card contain on top of it, which contain the ear tips.






Accessories list:
1 pair x Thieaudio Legacy 2 In-Ear Monitors
1 pcs x 0.78 2-Pin Detachable Cable
3 pairs x White Silicone Eartips (S/M/L)
3 pairs x Black Silicone Eartips (S/M/L)
1 pcs x Leather Case



The accessories it come with the Legacy 2 is pretty good consider its price. The leather carry case included is well made, and it finished in dark blue color with a branded logo sported. There is the fluffy material inside to provide a better protection.





The Legacy 2 come with two different type of ear tips in 3 different sizes to provide the best fits and the sound. The ear tips included have great build quality as well.



The Legacy 2 come with the silver 4 core braided OOC cable, it has 3.5 mm straight connector in metal shell finished. It features the 0.78mm 2 pin connector with the color indicator to show left and right. The Y-splitter are in metal shell finished, whereas the 2 pin connector are in metal shells which. There are cable slider in transparent plastic finished. It is overall well build and well behaved cable.




Design & Build & Comfort
The Legacy 2 has semi-custom shells design. The shells are in blue color with great transparency levels. The shell is made by the medical grade resin, which is printed by 3D printer. It come with the hand painted faceplate which has a swirling pearl finished. There are Thieaudio branded logo located at the left earpieces, at the rear side of the shells, there is the model name and series number printed in white front. The are two vents on the top of the shell that are close to the 2-Pin female connector.





The Legacy 2 has solid and outstanding build quality. The shell are well rounded, with out any gap and sharp edges. The Legacy 2 has resin filled in at the nozzle part to around 1/3 of the IEM for holding the components. The BA drivers in side are perfectly placed at the place, while the wire inside are well organized. It has two sound bores and holes for each of drivers, the nozzle are perfectly drilled and divided into two holes. The 2 pin female connectors are tight, and do not have sign of wear and tear after I swapped few times of cable.





The fits on the Legacy 2 is outstanding, thanks to its semi-custom shell design. The nozzle has moderate length, so it can fit pretty stable in the ears. The isolation is slight above average, and thanks to the vents there are no pressure build up after a long listening.





Technical specifications:
Driver: Closed-back 10mm Beryllium Dynamic Driver + Knowles ED-29689
Impedance: 32Ω
Sensitivity: 108dB
Frequency response: 20Hz-20KHz


Sound

Paring
I pair up with the stock cable and white tips, as the it provides a sharper sound midrange and clearer bass compare to the black ear tips. I run through my music library on the Fiio M11 and Topping E30.




Overall tonality
The Legacy 2 has fairly close to neutral tonality, with a moderate amount of sub bass boost, it is presented in a smooth yet engaging manner.

Bass
The bass is a tad warmer than the neutral. It has moderate levels of sub bass extension with moderate decay speed, which is more pronounced than mid bass. The bass has good amount of impact and punch with fair amount of rumble. On the other hand, the bass has good level of speed and control, while the detail retrieval and clarity are really well. It is overall quite fast and well controlled bass.

Mids
The midrange is fairly close to neutral, with fair amount of warmth. There is a warm yet smooth presentation. The lower midrange has fair amount of bodies, it is presented in the smooth yet engaging manner with reduce lushness. The upper midrange is well pronounced, it has lively yet soothing presentation, with moderate levels of transparency. The detail retrieval and clarity are well done.

Treble
The treble has moderate brightness and it is presented in a smooth manner. The lower treble has moderate of energy presented in the fatiguing free manner. The upper treble are slightly roll off, but it still remains fair amount of crispness and sparkle on the top end. The detail retrieval and clarity are average.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage width is above average, whereas the depth is average.
The imaging is average.





Comparison
Moondrop Aria ($79)

Bass
The bass on both are tad warmer than the neutral. The Aria provide a fuller and also slightly warmer bass with more rumble but less extension. The bass on the Aria provide slightly heavier weight and additional lusher, while the L2 has clear presentation with less bodies. The L2 provide better sense of impact and slam, where the Aria is generally slower in presentation. The detail retrieval and clarity is tad better on L2.

Mids
The midrange on both are fairly neutral, but the Aria is slightly warmer, where the is L2 relatively linear. The lower midrange on the L2 provide a slightly warmer presentation with lusher tone carry from the mid bass. The upper midrange on both has fairly similar tone and both have great levels of control. The Aria has relatively more spacious and sharper presentation, where the L2 is generally smoother and fuller in comparison. The detail retrieval and clarity is on par.

Treble
The treble on both are fairly smooth and roll off early. The lower treble has slightly more energy and sound sharper on the Aria, on the other hand, the L2 has relatively fuller and smoother tone. The upper treble on both has fair amount of airiness and sparkle, but the Aria on the upper hand has better sense of spaciousness. The detail retrieval and clarity is tad better on Aria.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider on Aria, depth is comparable
The imaging on both are great.


NF audio NM2 ($99USD)

Bass
There are more sub bass and slightly more mid bass quantity on the NM2, the extension are on par. The bass on the NM2 provide a warmer tonality compare to relatively neutral and lighter L2. There are slightly better sense of punch and slam on the NM2, where the L2 on the other hand is better in term of speed. Both have good levels of control, but the NM2 has tighter presentation. The detail retrieval and clarity are on par.

Mids
The midrange is mostly neutral on the L2, where the NM2 has slightly warmer tone and owing a more V shape tonality. The lower midrange has slightly more bodies and additional depth on the NM2, where the L2 is generally linear in presentation. The upper midrange on both are emphasis, the NM2 has more vividly and forwarded presentation, where the L2 has relatively smoother and more fullness in its presentation. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on NM2.

Treble
The treble has brighter tonality on the NM2, where the L2 is generally more laid back. The lower treble has more energy and sharpness on the NM2, on the other hand, the L2 is smoother. The upper treble has better sense of airiness and spaciousness on the NM2. The detail retrieval and clarity slight better on NM2.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider and tad deeper on the NM2.
The imaging is better on NM2.


Shanling ME80 ($99SUSD)

Bass
There are more sub bass and mid bass quantity on the ME80, and they both extend well. The bass on the ME80 provide a warmer tonality compare to relatively neutral and lighter L2. There are slightly better sense of punch and slam on the ME80, where the L2 on the other hand is better in term if speed and control, and it has tighter presentation. The detail retrieval and clarity are on par.

Mids
The midrange is mostly neutral on the L2, where the ME80 show slightly warmer tone and owing a more V shape tonality. The lower midrange has slightly more bodies and additional depth on the ME80, where the L2 is generally linear in presentation. The upper midrange on both are emphasis, the ME80 has more vividly but edgier presentation, where the L2 has relatively smoother and more fullness in its presentation. The detail retrieval and clarity is slightly better on ME80.


Treble
The treble has brighter tonality on the ME80, where the L2 is generally more laid back. The lower treble sound more edgy and sharp on the ME80, on the other hand, the L2 is smoother with better sense of control. The upper treble has better sense of airiness and spaciousness on the ME80. The detail retrieval and clarity slight better on ME80.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider on ME80, depth is on par.
The imaging is better on L2.




Conclusion
The Thieaudio Legacy 2 has a outstanding build quality and beautiful design especially for its price. The tonality on the Legacy 2 is definitely one of the best in the price range, that offer a well tuned neutral profile with a smooth yet engaging presentation. The Legacy 2 is a no brainer in sub $100USD catalogue. Thank you for reading, Happy Listening as always!!

Thieaudio official website: https://www.thieaudio.com/
Thieaudio Legacy 2 product page: https://www.linsoul.com/products/thieaudio-legacy-2

Introduction
Panther audio is a Hong Kong based company founded in 2018, they specialize in both of custom and universal IEMs manufacturing. In today’s review I’m checking out their Aura D2X from their hybrids line up. Which retail for $1980HKD (～250USD) with standard design, it has the configuration of 1DD+1BA.




Disclaimer
I would like to thanks Panther audio themself for given this opportunity, and the review will be based on my honest opinion through the music I listen to.


Package & Accessories
The D2X come with a large sizes fully black box, there are the brand name and a Panther’s illustration located at the front cover, whereas the specifications and the model name at the rear side of it. After the box opened, the IEMs are sited in the foam with the cable pre connected, there is a letter that contained the welcome card, tuning switches instruction and warranty card on top of it. The accessories and ear tips are clearly contained in the box/ foam under it respectively.










Accessories list:
1 pair x Panther audio D2X In-Ear Monitors
1 pcs x 0.78 2-Pin Detachable Cable
3 pairs x Red Silicone Eartips (size S/M/L)
3 pairs x Black Silicone Eartips (size S/M/L)
1 pair x Orange Silicone Eartips (size M)
1 pcs x Cleaning Tool
1 pcs x Tuning Switch Tool
1 pcs x 6.5mm to 3.5mm Adaptor
1 pcs x Microfiber Cloth
1 pcs x Leather Carry Case



The accessories it come with the D2X are really great and feel premium. The carry case include is nicely made with leather and finished in black color, there is the fluffy material inside for better protection.





The D2X come with two different types of ear tips, with additional pair of orange ear tips to provide the best sound and fit. There are the cleaning tool and 6.5mm to 3.5m adaptor included. The microfiber cloth is also included, which is nicely made with Panther branded logo. There is the switching tools provided that use for the tuning switches as well.





The D2X come with the 8 core branded cable, it has 3.5 mm L angled connector in matted metal finished with branded logo. It features the 0.78mm 2 pin connector with L&R to indicated left and right. The Y-splitter are in black metal shell finished, where the 2 pin connector are made with black metal housing. There are cable slider finished in rounded black plastic shell. It is overall solid cable.




Design & Build & Comfort
The D2X has well ergonomic shell design. The shell are finished in dark brown color with the golden foil fully decorated around the IEMs it self, apart from my set which is the standard design, there are also variety of different stunning faceplate and shell options to choose from for around $300HKD (~38USD) to $750HKD (~96USD)The shell is handmade with medical grade resin, which is durable than 3D printeshell. There are branded logo located at the faceplate on the right earpiece, while the brand name “Panther” sported at the left earpiece on the faceplate. There are the vents with a filter located at the rear side of the shell, whereas the tuning switches are next to it.





The build quality on the D2X are outstanding. The shell are well rounded, with out any gap and sharp edges. It has resin filled in at the sound bore part of the IEM for holding the components. The BA and dynamic driver in side are perfectly placed at the place, while the wire inside are neatly organized. It has two sound bores and holes for each of driver, the nozzle are perfectly drilled and divided into two holes. The 2 pin female connectors are tight, and do not have sign of wear and tear after I swapped few times of cable.





The D2X has really good ergonomic design with short nozzle. The fits of it are really good with average isolation. There are no pressure build up after an hours of listening, thanks to the vents on the shell. There are also the custom fits option for additional $850HKD (~110USD) to provide a better fit.






Technical specifications:
Driver: Graphene diagram dynamic driver + Knowles balanced armature
Impedance: 22Ω@1KHz
Sensitivity: 112dB@1mW
Frequency response: 20Hz-22KHz


Sound

Tuning switch systems summary:
The D2X offer the two tuning switches, the switches indicate in number 1 and 2 (from top to bottom). Flip the switch it up is on, while flipping it to down is off.



ON-OFF (ACG & Gaming)
This setting has boosted mid bass and a bit in sub bass area. Which in result has overall warmer tonality with punchier and fuller mid bass, it also provide slightly more bodies to the lower midrange.

OFF-ON (POP)
This setting emphasized the upper midrange and boosted subtlety to the lower treble region. Which in result has overall brighter tonality with vivid-ier vocalbut remaining a good levels of control without any harshness.

ON-ON (Balance)
This setting has slightly more V shape tonality compare to the rest of combination. It has more punchy mid bass with tad boosted on the upper midrange and lower treble region, which in result has more vividly vocal and more recessed midrange in its presentation.

OFF-OFF (Original sound)
This setting is just same as it’s name, most pure sound in comparison to other setting. without emphasis any region specifically.


Paring
I pair up with the stock cable and red ear tips, as the it provides fuller midrange and tighter bass compare to the black ear tips. I run through my music library on the Fiio M11 and Topping E30.




Overall tonality (The review will be based on my favorite mode OFF-ON)
The D2X has a mildly U shape tonality, it is presented in musical yet clear manner, with a smooth expression.

Bass
The bass is rich and punchy. It has good levels of sub bass extension with fast decay speed, which is slightly more pronounced than mid bass. The bass has good amount of impact and punch with moderate amount of rumble. On the other hand, the bass has good level of speed and control, while the detail retrieval and clarity are really well. Overall the bass is outstanding, it can be easily on par with the Penon ORBs’ bass, which is also awesome.

Turn on the switches 1, the bass become significantly weightier and punchier, which can easily reach to bass head levels. The bass remains good levels of control and clarity, with more mid bass warmth carry to midrange, which lead the overall signature become warmer.

Midrange
The midrange has tad warmer than the neutral tone, with a musical presentation, which has fair amount fullness in its presentation. The lower midrange has moderate amount of bodies and texture, it is presented in a smooth and clean manner. The upper midrange is well balanced with the lower midrange, it sound fairly lively yet detailed, with good levels of transparency and control. The detail retrieval and clarity are above average.

Turn on the switch 1, the midrange become warmer and has more intimate presentation. The lower midrange has additional fullness and warmth to it, with tad more depth in comparison to OFF position. Where the upper midrange doesn’t change a lot, probably a little bit warmer and less spacious in its tone.

Treble
The treble is smooth yet engaging, without any harshness. The lower treble has fairly laid back presentation with moderate amount of brightness and good levels of control. The upper treble is slightly roll off, which lead the tonality fairly smooth and easy to listen to. The detail retrieval and clarity are really good.

Turn off the switch 2, no significantly change has been made, perhaps the lower treble become tad darker with less sharpness definition. The upper treble has zero affect, while the overall detail retrieval is not as good as the number 2 switch on.

Soundstage imaging
The soundstage width and depth are both average, it will reach to above average when both switches are on.
The imaging is pretty solid.


Comparison (Based on OFF-ON position)
BGVP VG4 (ON-ON-OFF) ($229USD)

Bass
The bass has linear and close to neutral type of presentation on VG4, where the D2X provide a full bodies bass with better extension. The bass has more weight and sound warmer on the D2X, where the VG4 has cleaner and cleaner presentation. The D2X has better sense of impact and punch, while the VG4 has better sense of tightness abs quicker speed. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on VG4.

Mids
The midrange on both are fairly neutral tone, but the VG4 has more neutral tone, while the D2X has slightly more V shape tonality. The lower midrange on the VG4 has fair amount of bodies presented in a reduce lushness manner. On the other hand, the D2X provide better sense of richness and it has fuller tone. The upper midrange on both are well pronounced and controlled, the VG4 has sense of transparency and sound relatively more vividly, where the D2X has relatively less sharpness in its tone and sound more laid back. The detail retrieval and clarity is slightly better on VG4.

Treble
The treble has brighter tonality with better sense of extension on the VG4, where the D2X has much more laid back presentation. The lower treble on both are fairly smooth with good amount of energy, but the VG4 is generally sharper and brighter. The upper treble has better sense of crispness and sparkle on the VG4, while the D2X is relatively smoother and it is rolling off. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on VG4.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider and slightly deeper in VG4.
The imaging is on par.


Final E5000 ($249USD)

Bass
The bass has warmer and fuller tone with more mid bass quantity on E5000, where the D2X has slightly more sub bass quantity and it extend further. The E5000 provide lusher tone with extra sense of rumble, while the D2X provide better senses of impact and fuller slam. The bass on D2X has better control and sound cleaner, while the E5000 sound muddier in comparison. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on D2X.

Mids
The midrange again has warmer and lusher tone on the E5000, where the D2X has relatively more neutral colorless tone in comparison. The lower midrange has warmer and fuller bodies presentation on the E5000, where the D2X has less bodies and sound clearer. The upper midrange on both are fairly similar in term of tonality, but the D2X has slightly brighter tone with more lively presentation and higher transparency levels. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on D2X.

Treble
The treble on the D2X is slightly brighter and extend further, where the E5000 is generally darker. The lower treble on both are fairly smooth with moderate amount of energy, but the D2X is shaper with extra sense freshness in its tone. The upper treble on both are roll off and sound fairly smooth, but the D2X provide better sense of airiness and extra sparkle at the to end. The detail retrieval and clarity is beefed on D2X.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is tad wider on D2X, and deeper on E5000.
The imaging is better on D2X.


Penon ORB ($259USD)

Bass
The bass on both are full bodies with outstanding extension, but the ORB has richer tone compare to relatively cleaner sounding D2X. The mid bass on both are meaty and punchy, but the ORB provide more texture and sound thicker in its presentation. The bass on both has good levels of impact, while the ORB provide more fuller rumble, whereas the D2X has clearer presentation. The detail retrieval and clarity is slightly better on D2X.

Mids
The midrange has more neutral tone and lighter weight on the D2X, where the ORB has relatively warmer and more color it its presentation. The lower midrange on both has good amount of bodies and depth, the ORB has better sense of texture and sound richer, while the D2X has cleaner presentation. The upper midrange on both have great pronunciation with a smooth yet engaging presentation, the D2X sound just a tad brighter and more lively, on the other hand, the ORB has tad more soothing and laid back presentation. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on D2X.

Treble
The treble has tad brighter tonality with slightly better extension on the D2X. The lower treble has fairly similar tonality, both are smooth and pretty easy to listen to. The upper treble has slightly more air and sparkle on the D2X, while the ORB is rolling off early here. The detail retrieval and clarity are on par.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider on D2X, depth is on par.
The imaging is better on D2X.


Oriveti OH300($299USD)

Bass
The bass on the OH300 has clearer presentation with less lushness, while the D2X provide better extension and sound warmer. There are more mid bass quantity on the D2X, which provide fuller impact and better sense of slam. On the other hand, the OH300 provide better sense of tightness with cleaner background. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on OH300.

Mids
The midrange on fairly neutral in term of tone, but the OH300 has less lushness in its presentation, while the D2X has slightly warmer tonality here. The lower midrange has fuller bodies and sound richer in the D2X, where the OH300 sound clearer with better sense of detail. The upper midrange is more pronounced on the OH300, which in result has a more lively and intimate presentation, where the D2X has relatively smooth and more forgiving tonality here. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on OH300.

Treble
The treble has slightly brighter tonality with better sense of extension on the OH300, while the D2X is more laid back in presentation. The lower treble on both are fairly smooth and easy to listen to. The upper treble has extra sense of airiness and crispness on the OH300, where the D2X is roll off. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on OH300.

Soundstage and imaging
The width is comparable, depth is better on D2X.
The imaging is better on OH300.


Etymotic ER4XR ($305USD)

Bass
The ER4 has less sub bass and mid bass quantity, where the D2X has more sub bass and slightly more mid bass to provide a fuller bodies bass. The sub bass has fuller rumble and extend further on the D2X. The bass has better sense of impact and punch on the D2X, while the ER4 has clear and tighter presentation with faster transaction speed. The detail retrieval and is better on ER4.

Mids
The midrange on both are generally neutral, but the D2X provide a extra bodies and warmth to its tone. The lower midrange has fuller bodies and sound warmer on D2X, while the ER4 is cleaner and linear. The upper midrange are both emphasis and presented smooth, the ER4 has more lively presentation, compare to relatively more relax and forgiving tone on D2X. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on ER4.

Treble
The treble on both are fairly smooth with good amount of brightness. The lower treble on both are smooth and fairly easy to listens to, there are slight more sharpness on the D2X. The upper treble on both roll off, there are extra sense of airiness on top end of the D2X. The detail retrieval and clarity is tad better on ER4.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider on the DX2 and also tad deeper.
The imaging is better on D2X.




Conclusion
The Panther audio Aura D2X is a outstanding IEMs in term of the build quality and its musical tonality. The bass performance on the D2X is one of a best in this price range. Not surprisingly, the midrange has also been well tuned, the fairly neutral yet natural tonality make it really enjoyable to listen to. For $250USD, it will definitely be recommended from me if you looking for a musical sounding IEMs. Thanks for reading, as always, enjoy the music!!

Panther audio official website: https://pantheraudiohk.com/
Panther audio Aura D2X product page: https://pantheraudiohk.com/products/aura-d2x

Introduction
Moondrop Lab is a Chinese company that founded back in 2014, and they already been well known as their anime style marketing and harman kind of tuning. They have been released few really successful products since then. In today’s review I am checking out their latest single DD IEM, the Aria, which recital for $79.99USD.



Disclaimer
I would like to thanks Cloris from Shenzhen audio for given this opportunity, and the review will be based on my honest opinion through the music I listen to.


Package & Accessories
The Aria come with a moderate sixes box, there is a typical Moondrop style illustration at the front cover with the brand name, model name and other information, whereas the specifications at the rear side of it. After remove the cover, there is the black box with the golden lines patterns, and the IEM itself are sited in the foam after the box is opened. There is the carry case that contained the ear tips and cable is located below, whereas the filter switching tools are located at the bottom in the black box, along with the warranty card and welcome card.










Accessories list:
1 pair x Moondrop Aria In-Ear Monitors
1 pcs x 0.78 2-Pin Detachable Cable
6 pairs x Black Silicone Eartips (size S*2/M*2/L*2)
3 pairs x Metal Screen & Filters
1 pcs x Tweezer (for filter replacement)
1 pcs x Zipper Carry Case



The accessories it come with the Aria is fairly good consider its price. The carry case is well made by the PU material, it is finished in black color with golden branded logo sported.





The Aria come with two set of 3 different sizes of ear tips to provide the best fits, and also to avoid a situation lost. There are 3 pairs for the metal screen and filter for the replacement of the filter on the nozzles, the tweezer is also provided for a easy replacement, which is a pretty good offered.





The Aria come with the 2 core silver plated copper cable that has branded design, it has 3.5 mm L angled connector in black plastic shell finished. It features the 0.78mm 2 pin connector with L&R indicator to show left and right. The Y-splitter are in metal shell finished, whereas the 2 pin connector are in plastic shells. There are cable slider in metal finished. It is overall well build and decent looking cable.





Design & Build & Comfort
The Aria come with a well ergonomic shell design. The faceplates and shells are entirely made by the metal with black matte finished. There are fews golden strips that crossing each others that decorated on the faceplate, which looks pretty unique. There are the words “Aria” in the golden front located at the rear side of the shells. There are no L&R indicators sported. There are two vents located on the shells, one of them is on the back near rear side of the shells, where the other one is near the nozzle.





The build quality on the Aria is outstanding. The IEMs are made with two pieces of metal, the faceplate and the shell. There are all made with aluminum alloy cavity material that is processed by the metal injection molding and CNC process. There are no shape edges or glue around the gap of the shell. The filter on nozzle are made by metal with the patented anti clogging filter to prevent from the ear dust. The 2 Pin female connectors are tight, and the connector do not have sign of wear and tear after I swapped few times of cable.





The fits on the Aria is pretty good, thanks to its well ergonomic shell design. The nozzle has moderate length, so it can fit pretty stable in your ears. The isolation is slight above average, and thanks to the vents there are no pressure build up after a long listening.






Technical specifications:
Driver Type: 10mm Dual-Cavity Magnetic Dynamic Driver with LCP diaphragm material
Frequency response: 20Hz – 20kHz (Effective frequency range 5Hz-36kHz)
Sensitivity: 122db/Vrms (@1kHz)
Impedance: 32 Ohm


Sound

Paring
I pair up with the stock cable and Final Type-E ear tips, as I find out it provide more bass quantity and fuller sound compare to the stocks ear tips. I run through my music library on the Fiio M11 and Topping E30.




Overall tonality
The Aria has a mildly U shape tonality, with a fairly neutral tonality that has touch of warmth carry form mid bass, it is presented in a smooth and clean manner.


Bass
The bass is clear and light. It has moderate levels of sub bass extension with moderate decay speed, which is more pronounced than mid bass. The bass has good amount of impact and punch with fair amount of rumble. On the other hand, the bass has good level of speed and control, while the detail retrieval and clarity are really well. It is overall fast and well controlled bass.

Mids
The midrange has slightly warmer than neutral tone, there is a clean yet smooth presentation. The lower midrange has moderate amount of bodies, it is presented in the clear manner with reduce lushness. The upper midrange is well pronounced, it has lively yet smooth presentation, with good levels of transparency. The detail retrieval and clarity are well done.

Treble
The treble has moderate brightness and it is presented in a fatiguing free manner. The lower treble has good amount of energy presented in the smooth manner. The upper treble are slightly roll off, but still remains fairly amount of crispness and airiness on the top end. The detail retrieval and clarity are slightly above average.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage width is above average, whereas the depth is average.
The imaging is above average.



Comparison
Nf audio NM2 ($99USD)

Bass
There are slightly more sub bass and mid bass quantity on the Aria, which lead to the warmer tonality. The sub bass on both extended well, but the NM2 has fuller rumble. The bass has less weight and clearer tone on the NM2, while the Aria has relatively fuller tone and slightly lusher. The Aria provide slightly better sense of impact, while the NM2 is punchier and tighter. Both of them have pretty control bass, but the NM2 is slightly better. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on NM2.

Mids
The midrange on both are both fairly neutral with bit of warmth, but the NM2 has clearer tone, while the Aria has fuller tone. The lower midrange is tad clearer NM2, whereas the Aria is tad lusher, no significantly different here. The upper midrange on both are pronounced, the NM2 has relatively brighter tonality with a lively presentation, same as NM2, but the Aria has slight laid back kind of presentation. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on NM2.

Treble
The treble are both tuned toward the bright side, and both extended well with good levels of control. The lower treble has more energy on NM2 and it is tad brighter and sharper, where the Aria is more relax here. The upper treble has slightly more crispness and sparkle on Aria, where the NM2 is roll off and smoother here. The detail retrieval and and clarity are both well done.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage width is comparable, depth is better on NM2.
The imaging is better on NM2.


Shanling ME80 ($99USD)

Bass
There are fairly similar amount of sub bass and mid bass quantity here, but the Aria provide a fuller rumble and better extension. On the other hand, the ME80 has fuller mid bass, which provide a punchier expression with better sense impact, whereas the Aria sound linear and tighter. The bass has slightly quicker decay speed with better sense of control on the Aria, the detail retrieval and clarity is better on Aria as well.

Mids
They both have fairly neutral tone in the midrange, but the ME80 are brighter and vivid-ier. The lower midrange has fuller presentation with more lushness on Aria, where the ME80 is clearer due to its brighter tone. The upper midrange on both are well emphasis, the ME80 has brighter tone with more vividly presentation, while the Aria has better sense of control and sound more relax. The detail retrieval and clarity is tad better on ME80.

Treble
The treble has brighter presentation on the ME80, where the Aria sound softer with a smoother presentation. The lower treble sound sharper with more energy on the ME80, whereas the Aria has a fatiguing free presentation. The upper treble has slightly better sense of crisp and air on the ME80, while the Aria is tuned darker and more relax. The detail retrieval and clarity are on par.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is tad wider on ME80, but more deeper on Aria.
The imaging is better on Aria.




Conclusion
The Moondrop Aria is a outstanding IEMs, with a great build quality and unique appearance. In term of the sound, the Aria provide a really easy to like sound signature, that is extremely well tuned. It has smooth yet refined tonality with a fatiguing free presentation. For $79USD, it is a no brainer and even sound better than Starfiled and on par with KXXS in my opinion.The Aria will be one of my best sub $100USD IEMs, such a great jobs again Moondrop!! Thank you for reading and Happy Listening!!

Moondrop Lab official website: https://www.moondroplab.com/
Moondrop Aria product page: https://shenzhenaudio.com/products/...diaphragm-dynamic-driver-iems-in-ear-earphone

Introduction
NF Audio is the Chinese company founded in 2014, they are specialized in the CIEM and recently they were focus on the UIEM products that is more affordable price. In this review, I am taking a look at the NA2+, which is the successor of the NA2, and it is currently the flagship of their single DD IEMs lineup along with the NM2. The retail price is $169USD, and the driver configuration is single DD.




Disclaimer
I would like to thanks Yihua Chen form Aoshida Hifi for given this opportunity, and the review will be based on my honest opinion through the music I listen to.


Package & Accessories
The NA2+ come with the moderate sizes box, there are the brand name, model name and IEMs illustration located at the front cover, whereas the specifications at the button. There is the black box with the brand logo in the located at the middle removed the cover. After the box is opened, one side of it has the IEMs sited in the foam, with the ear tips contained underneath. Moving on the other side, the user manual with the carry pouch underneath, which contains the cable and other accessories.










Accessories list:
1 pair x NF Audio NA2+ In-Ear Monitor
1 pcs x Detachable Cable with 0.78mm 2-Pin Connector
4 pairs x Silicone Atmosphere Ear Tips
3 pairs x Silicone Balanced Ear Tips
1 pcs x Carry pouch
1 pcs x 3.5mm to 6.3mm Headphone Adaptor



The accessories come with the NA2+ is pretty good for its price. The hard shell carry pouch it come with is well build and feel solid, there is the brand logo located at the front.





The NA2+ come with two different types of ear tips, which are balanced-black ear tips; amto-white ear tips respectively to provide the best sound and fit. There are also the nicely made 3.5mm to 6.3mm headphone adaptor included.





The NA2+ come with the 4 core twisted cable, it has 3.5 mm straight connector in matted metal finished with branded logo. It features the 0.78mm 2 pin connector with L&R to indicated left and right. The Y-splitter are in silver metal shell in matted finish, where the 2 pin connector are finished with plastic housing. There are cable slider in transparency plastic shell finished. It is overall solid and flexible cable.




Design & Build & Comfort
The NA2+ has semi-custom shells design. The shell and faceplate are in the gray color which is fuller made with metal. There are NF audio branded logo engraving on the faceplate, while the word “NA2+ Music” are located at the bottom of the IEMs. There are left and right indicators sported at the rear side of the shells. The vent are located on the top of the shell, along with the orange dots that have the NF audio branded logo next to it.





The build quality on the NA2+ is outstanding. The IEMs are made with two pieces of metal, the faceplate and the shell. There are all made with Aeronautical-grade Aluminum alloy cavity material and processed by High-precision 5-axis CNC machine. There are no shape edges or glue around the gap of the shell. The filter on nozzle are made with metal to prevent from the ear dust. The 2 Pin female connectors are tight, and the connector do not have sign of wear and tear after I swapped few times of cable.





The fits on the NA2+ is outstanding, thanks to its semi-custom shell design. The nozzle has moderate length, so it can fit pretty stable in your ears. The isolation is above average, and thanks to the vents there are no pressure build up after a long listening.





Technical specifications:
Frequeney response range: 9-40kHz
Maximum SPL: 125dB
Sensitivity: 107dB/mW Distortion:<1%
Impedance: 32Ω
Sound isolation: 25dB


Sound

Paring
I pair up with the stock cable and atmosphere ear tips, as the balance ear tips sound a little bit harsh in the upper midrange, and run through my music library on the Fiio M11 and Topping E30.




Overall tonality
The NA2+ has a mildly U shape tonality, it is presented in vividly yet clear, and smooth manner.

Bass
The bass is slightly warmer than neutral and it is well controlled. It has good levels of sub bass extension with moderate decay speed, which is more pronounced than mid bass. The bass has above average impact and punch with moderate amount of rumble. On the other hand, the bass has good level of speed and control, while the detail retrieval and clarity are really well. It is overall clear yet well textured bass.

Mids
The midrange has a slightly warmer than neutral tonality. There is an clear yet vividly presentation. The lower midrange has moderate amount of bodies presented in clear yet clean manner. The upper midrange has great emphasis and slightly more pronounced than lower midrange. The upper midrange sound vividly with good levels of transparency and without sounding harsh (but a bit edgy).The detail retrieval and clarity are both great.

Treble
The treble is towards the bright side, it sound generally smooth, but it still can cause fatiguing for long listening sessions. The lower treble has good amount of energy and brightness, there is also good levels of control. The upper treble is well extend, there are good amount of airiness and sparkle on the top end. The detail retrieval and clarity are really good.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is pretty wide with good levels of depth.
The imaging is 3D holographic.



Comparison
Audiosense AQ3 ($169USD)

Bass
There are more sub bass and slightly more mid bass on the AQ3. The bass has warmer and fuller tone in AQ3, where the NA2+ has clearer and relatively cleaner tone. There are clear sense of punchy and slam on the NA2+, while the AQ3 sound life less in comparison. The NA2+ provide better sense of control and has tighter presentation, where the AQ3 has heavier weight and sound thicker. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on NA2+

Mids
The midrange on both has fairly neutral tone, but the NA2+ has brighter tonality. The lower midrange sound fuller and warmer on the AQ3, where the NA2+ sound leaner and clearer. The upper midrange sound smooth and relatively more laid back on AQ3, where the NA2+ sound more vividly and lively. The detail retrieval and is better on NA2+.

Treble
The treble has brighter tonality with better sense of extension on the NA2+. The lower treble has more energy and sound brighter but edgier on NA2+, while the AQ3 sound smoother and laid back-ier. The upper treble has more airiness and sparkle on the NA2+, where the AQ3 is rolling off and sound bit life less. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on NA2+.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider and deeper on he NA2+.
The imaging is better on NA2+.


IKKO OH10 ($189USD)

Bass
There are more sub bass and mid bass quantity on the OH10, which has fuller rumble in presentation and extra sense of extension. The bass on the OH10 has thicker tone and provide extra sense of slam and punch, where the NA2+ has clearer tone and provide better sense of tightness and control. The bass has more weight on the OH10, where the NA2+ has less impact. The detail retrieval and clarity is tad better on NA2+.

Mids
The midrange on both has fairly similar V shape tonality, both sound clear and vividly with great upper midrange emphasis. The lower has slightly more texture on the NA2+, where as the OH10 has less lushness and has extra sense of clarity. The upper midrange both sound vividly and lively, the OH10 is tad more spacious in comparison, on the other hand, the NA2+ sound tad more intimate and slight fuller. The detail retrieval and clarity are both great.

Treble
The treble on both has again fairly similar tonality, both are well extend and sound vividly and spacious. The lower treble has extra sense of energy on the NA2+, which make it sound brighter but edgier compare to smoother OH10. The upper treble both have good levels airiness and sparkle, but the OH10 feel more spacious on the top end. The detail retrieval and clarity is tad better on OH10.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider on the OH10, but deeper on the NA2+.
The imaging is tad better on the NA2+


NF audio NM2+ ($169USD) Just a brief comparison, as I sold it already.

They both sharing extreme identical tonality, which are well tuned V shape with a tad warmer than neutral tone, also have a same characteristics on the upper midrange area. The bass has slightly more weight with tad more texture on the NA2+, where the NM2+ sound clearer with extra sense of tightness. The midrange has fairly similar tonality, the NM2+ sound relatively brighter and more open, where the NA2+ sound relatively less vividly and feel more intimate. The treble area has not different between both of them in term of extension and airiness. The NM2+ has slightly more emphasis on the lower treble region, which has edgier sound compare to relatively smoother NA2+. The detail retrieval and clarity is tad better on NM2+, which take more emphasis on upper midrange. The soundstage is wider on NM2+, but tad deeper on NA2+. The imaging are on par.




Conclusion
The NF audio NA2+ has a class leading build quality, and the design of it is pretty cool as well. The sound of it inherit their house sound signature with fairly vividly upper midrange and boosted lower treble in the presentation. The technical performance is outstanding on the NA2+, especially the soundstage and imaging, I am truly impressed by how well it done in this price. But, the sound of NA2+ just not for everyone. Thank you for reading. Happy listening as always!!

NF audio official website: http://www.nfaudio.cn/en/index.html
NF audio NA2+ product page: https://www.aoshida-audio.com/products/nf-audio-na2-1

Introduction
BQEYZ audio is the Chinese company that specialized in the IEMs, they are well known by their interesting tri-bird configuration, which has the piezoelectric driver been used. The Bqeyz Summer is the successor of the Spring line up, which I review last year. The driver configuration of the Summer is 1DD+1BA+5 layers piezoelectric, price of it is $129USD.




Disclaimer
I would like to thanks Elle Zhou form BQEYZ for given this opportunity, and the review will be based on my honest opinion through the music I listen to.


Package & Accessories
The Summer come with the moderate sizes box. The box has bqeyz logo and model name located at front, whereas the specifications at the rear side of it. There is the black box with the brand logo located at the middle after removed the cover. After the box open from side, the IEMs itself sited in the foam along ear tips underneath. There is the cable and other accessories contain in the carry case at the button of the box.








Accessories list:
1 pair x BQEYZ Summer In-Ear Monitors
1 pcs x 0.78 2-Pin Detachable Cable
3 pairs x Black Silicone Eartips (size S/M/L)
3 pairs x White Silicone Eartips (size S/M/L)
1 pcs x Cleaning Tool
1 pcs x Carry Case




Build & Design & Comfort
The Summer has well ergonomic design. The shells are in blue color with moderate transparency levels, there are also black colors available. The shell is made plastic, which is light weight. There are the wave design on the faceplate, with touch of glitter decorated. There are the branded logo”BQEYZ” located at the bottom of the left ear pieces, where the right side has a word “Summer” sported. There are left and right indicator located at the rear side of the shell. There are three vents on the rear side of the shell.





The build quality on the Summer is pretty solid. It is made with two pieces of the resin, which is the shell and faceplate respectively. The shell are well rounded with smooth curve. The drivers inside are perfectly placed in the place, and the wires inside are averagely organized. There are no shape edges or glue around the joint part of the shell. There are the metal filter to prevent from the ear dust. The recessed 2 pin female connectors are tight, and do not have sign of wear and tear after I swapped few times of cable.





The fits on the Summer is alright, it is on the thick side, and I find out the ergonomic design is just not fit my ears well. The nozzle has moderate length, so it can fit pretty stable in your ears. The isolation is average, and thanks to the vents there are no pressure build up after a long listening.






Technical specifications:
Driver: 13mm dynamic + 5 layers piezo electric + balanced armature
Impedance: 32Ω
Sensitivity: 107dB
Frequency response: 7-40kHz


Sound

Paring
I pair up with the stock cable and white ear tips, as the white ear tips sound clearer compare to the black ear tips. I run through my music library on the Fiio M11 and Topping E30.




Overall tonality
The Summer has a mildly U shape tonality, it is presented in soothing and musical manner, with a fatiguing free presentation.

Bass
The bass is thick and meaty. It has moderate levels of sub bass extension with moderate decay. The mid bass quantity is well balanced with sub bass and it is well controlled. The bass has average impact and punch with fair amount of rumble. On the other hand, the bass has moderate amount of texture and sound averagely clean. It is overall weighty and full bodies bass. The detail retrieval and clarity is average.

Mids
The midrange is soothing and musical, the tonality is warmer than the neutral. The lower midrange has moderate amount of bodies, it sound clean yet smooth. The upper midrange sound soothing and it is more pronounced compare to the lower midrange, it has moderate levels of transparency with good levels of control. The detail retrieval and clarity are above average.

Treble
The treble is smooth and fairly laidback with good amount of sparkle on the top end. The lower treble is well controlled and it is smooth yet well defined. The upper treble are well extend, and thanks to the piezoelectric drivers, the transaction speed is faster and controlled. There are good amount of sparkle on top with fair amount of airiness. The detail retrieval and clarity are above average.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage has average depth and width.
The imaging is slightly above average.



Comparison
Fiio FH3 ($129USD)

Bass
There are more sub bass quantity on the FH3 and it extend further, on the other hand Summer has more mid bass quantity with thicker presentation. The bass has cleaner tone on the FH3, where the Summer is on the lusher side. There are fuller rumble on the FH3, while the Summer has better sense of punch. The bass has more weight and decay slower on the Summer, where as the FH3 is tighter with better sense of control. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on FH3.

Mids
The midrange sound has warmer and fuller presentation on Summer, on the other hand, the FH3 has slightly warmer than neutral tone with relatively leaner presentation. The lower midrange sound lusher and a tad thicker on the Summer, where the FH3 sound cleaner with less bodies here. The upper midrange has more soothing presentation on the Summer, where the FH3 sound more lively with better sense of transparency. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on FH3.

Treble
The treble on both extended well, the FH3 has more relax tone here, where the Summer has strong upper treble emphasis. The lower treble sound smoother on the FH3, while the Summer sound a little bit edgy relatively. The upper treble has more emphasis on the Summer, which lead it to be sharper but harsher compare to the FH3 which is smoother. The detail retrieval and clarity are both pretty good.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage width is better on Summer, depth is on par.
The imaging is tad better on FH3.


IKKO OH1 ($139USD)

Bass
There are more sub bass quantity and extended further on the OH1, where as the mid bass has slightly more quantity and sound fuller on the Summer. There are better sense of rumble with cleaner tone on the OH1, on the other hand, the Summer sound lusher and thicker with tad more slam. The bass sound clearer with better control on the OH1, where the Summer has more weight and slower speed. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on OH1.

Mids
The midrange on both has a V shape tonality, but the Summer has a lusher and more textured tone, where the OH1 has clearer tone with less bodies in its presentation. The lower midrange has relatively more bodies and sound thicker on the Summer, where the OH1 has cleaner presentation. The upper midrange sound more vividly with more emphasis on the OH1, while the Summer is more soothing with fuller tone. The detail retrieval and clarity is tad better on OH1.

Treble
The treble extend further on the Summer with relatively brighter tonality. The lower treble on both sound smooth, but the Summer is bit edgy in certain track. The upper treble has more airiness and sparkle on the Summer but it sound relatively stronger in this region compare to lower treble, where as the OH1 is roll off early here. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on Summer.

Soundstage and imaging
The width is tad wider on the Summer, deeper on the OH1.
The imaging is tad better on the Summer.


Dunu SA3 ($139USD)

Bass
There are more sub bass and mid bass quantity on the Summer, the sub bass extend further and provide fuller rumble on the Summer. The mid bass has thicker tone with more slam on the Summer, where the SA3 has clearer and leaner tone with less bodies. The bass has quicker decay speed with better sense of control on the SA3, while the Summer has more weight with thicker tone. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on SA3.

Mids
The midrange has neutral-ish tonality one the SA3 with less bodies, while the Summer has warmer tonality with lusher bodies. The lower midrange has thicker tone on the Summer, where the SA3 has leaner presentation with reduce lushness. The upper midrange on both are smooth yet lively, the SA3 has tad more intimate presentation, where the Summer has extra sense of spacious. The detail retrieval and clarity on both are well done.

Treble
The treble on the Summer extended further win extra sense of airiness. The lower treble has more emphasis on the Summer, which can sound bit edgy compare to smoother SA3. The upper treble sound sharper with extra crispness on the Summer, where the SA3 is roll of earlier. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on Summer.

Soundstage and imaging
The width and depth are both better on Summer.
The imaging is on par


BQEYZ Spring1 ($139USD) The Spring1 share fairly similar BQEYZ house sound, so I won’t do the full comparison here.

The bass on the Summer is a improvement in term of the sub bass extension, tightness and clarity, it also provide extra sense of slam in comparison to Spring1. The midrange is tad clearer and more spacious on Spring1, while the Summer sound tad lusher and owing a more intimate presentation. The treble has brighter presentation on the Spring1 with more extra airiness on the top end, where the Summer has less energy and sound more soothing. The overall detail retrieval and clarity is on par. The soundstage is wider and slightly deeper on Spring1, but imaging is better on Summer.


Final E4000 ($149USD)

Bass
The sub bass has slightly more quantity and extended further on the Summer with fuller rumble, while the E4000 has more mid bass quantity, which sound muddier compare to Summer. The Summer provide better sense of punch and slam compare to the more the E4000. The Summer also provide better speed and extra tightness, where the E4000 sound less clear and thicker in tone. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on Summer.

Mids
The midrange on both has V shape tonality, the E4000 has extra sense of warmth and bodies carried from mid bass, where the Summer sound cleaner and more spacious. The lower midrange has more bodies and sound fuller on the E4000, where the Summer sound cleaner and clearer. The upper midrange sound more lively with better transparency on the Summer, while the E4000 sound duller and warmer in comparison. The detail retrieval and is better on Summer.

Treble
The treble extend further and sound brighter and more airy on the Summer. The lower treble has more energy and sound more engaging on the Summer, where the E4000 has darker and laid back type of presentation here. The upper treble has extra sense of airiness and sparkle on the Summer, while the E4000 is a roll off here. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on Summer.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider and deeper on the Summer.
The imaging is also better on Summer.




Conclusion
The BQEYZ Summer is a well done successor after the Spring series, which take a slightly different sound signature, but remaining a well extend and fast piezoelectric driver treble. The Summer has really soothing and well balanced sound signature, with full bodies and extended bass, clean yet musical midrange, and fatiguing free treble with good extension. Overall, the Summer is definitely a good competitor in this price range. Thank you for reading, Happy Listening!!

BQEYZ AliExpress official store: https://a.aliexpress.com/_m0nRCLL
BQEYZ Summer product page:
https://a.aliexpress.com/_m0hHdpT

Introduction
Geekfly is the American based company that specializes in wireless audio products. They are focusing on developed thri-bird configuration TWS earbuds, which has a piezoelectric driver beside of the typical DD and BA drivers. The Geekfly GF8s is the successor of the original GF8, which used the 1DD+1BA+10 layers piezoelectric, the price of it is $219USD.




Disclaimer
I would like to thanks Penon audio for given this opportunity, and the review will be based on my honest opinion through the music I listen to.


Package & Accessories
The GF8s come with the small and compact box, there are the GF8s’s illustration at the front cover with the brand name, model name and other information, whereas the specifications at the rear side of it. After remove the cover and open the box, there are the earbuds themself along with the charging case sited in the foam orderly. The ear tips and the charging cable are store in the black box which is located at the bottom of the box.





Accessories list:
1 pair x GF8s TWS Earbuds
1 pcs x Charging Case
3 pairs x Silicone Ear Tips (S, M, L)
1 pcs x USB A To USB Type C Charging Cable




Design & Build & Comfort
The GF8s has a simple and well ergonomic design, it is finished in black color with the polished grey faceplate in mirror finished. There are the LED indicator located at the upper corner of the front faceplate, while at the rear side there is the L&R indicator to show left and right. There are microphones on the upper corner of the faceplate on each of earbuds, which share same place of the LED indicator.





The design on the charging case is simple and compact. The case are finished in polished mirror black color, at the top of the case there is the Geekfly logo sported. The USB C charging port is located at the back of the case, along with the LED indicator. There is the specifications of the earbuds located at the bottom of the charging case.





The build on both of earbuds and charging case are pretty good but feel somehow plasticity when asked the price, especially the charging case. The earbuds are made with three type of materials, the plastic faceplate and shell with the metal nozzle. The earbuds and charging case are well rounded and their is no sharp edges or gap between the joints at all. The charging case has average open and closing experience. The female USB charging port are well constructed. It has no water and dust resistant.





The comfort on GF8s is pretty good, beside form the large shell, it has really well ergonomic design. It has moderate length nozzle, so it can fit in the ear canal pretty well. It provide the average isolation, and there will be pressure build up after few hours of listening.






Control & Paring
The controls of GF8s are touch controls and it is averagely responded.

Left earbuds:
Long press 5sec: Power on/off
Tap once: Pause/Play/Answer the call
Tap two times: Pause/Play/Reject the call
Tap three times: Next track
Long press 3sec: Voice assistant

Right earbuds:
Long press 5sec : Power on/off
Tap once: Pause/Play/Answer the call
Tap two times: Pause/Play/Reject the call
Tap three times: Previous track
Long press 3sec: Voice assistant

The first time paring require the users to pair it manually. By putting the earbuds back in the charging case the take it out, once the blue&red indicator is flashing, you can connect the earbuds through your devices. After this, the earbuds will automatically pair to the devices once the charging case is open, the paring speed is really fast, it will be connected before you put it on your ears. The GF8s can be used in single earbuds, but the functionality is not as good as the both earbuds on.


Microphone quality
The microphone on GF8s catch the human voice averagely with some noise from surround. There some robotic sound and sometimes it can be loose.


Connectivity & Latency
The connectivity are really stable, they are no significant single lost in most of cases. There are slightly single lost or not stable situations on the public transports or shopping center as well.

The latency on GF8s are quite significant while gaming, but not at all when watching movie or listen to music, probably just about a millions seconds.

Operational distance & Battery life

The operating distance on the GF8s is around 10-12 meters. It has stable connection until 10 meters, after that the single will not be as stable as before 10 meters.

The battery life are above average for its size and price. The earbuds themself have 5hrs of playback times, plus the 20hrs on charging case, so you get totally 25hrs of playback times, which is pretty solid. After I test it out, the earbuds themself can play around 4.5hrs for single charge by using 35% of volume, while the charging case can a least fully charged for 3 times. The earbuds charging process is average, you can get 1hrs of play back times by charging it for 30 minutes. The earbuds can be fuller charge by less than a hours, whereas the charging case can be fully charge by around a hours.


Technical specifications:
Bluetooth version: 5.0
Charging interface: type-c
Power input: DC5V/600mAh
Headphone battery capacity: 3.7V/70mAh
Charging compartment battery capacity: 3.7V/700mAh
Supporting agreement: HSP1.2/HFP1.7/A2DP1.3/AVRCP1.6/SPP1.2/PBAP1.0
Sensitivity: 106dB
Frequency range: 20-50khz
Impedance: 10Ω


Sound

Paring
I pair the Air Pro to the iPhone 12 and Fiio M11 and play through my music library.




Overall tonality
The GF8s has a mildly U shape tonality, with a clear and smooth presentation.

Bass
The bass is rich with good amount of texture. The sub bass has above average extension with moderate decay speed, there are good amount of mid bass, which carry through a touch of warmth midrange without being muddy. It has average amount rumble, impact and punch. The bass has good levels of control, Whereas the detail retrieval and clarity are above average.

Mids
The midrange is slightly recessed but remaining the good balanced, it has a smooth and clear presentation. The lower midrange has moderate amount of bodies presented in clean manner. The upper midrange is well emphasized with good transparency levels, it is presented in lively and smooth manner. The midrange has really good levels of detail retrieval and clarity, especially for the TWS earbuds.

Treble
The treble are extended well with slightly bright tonality. The lower treble is clear yet well controlled, and it is slightly pronounced than the upper treble. The upper treble has good amount of sparkle and airiness. It also has good levels of crispness on the top end. The detail retrieval and clarity are above the average.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage width is above average, depth is average.
The imaging is pretty well done for TWS earbuds.



Comparison
Lyperteck Tevi ($90USD)

Bass
The bass has more mid bass quantity on the GF8s with better sub bass extension. The bass has warmer and lusher tonality on the GF8s, where the Tevi sound cleaner with less bodies. There are fuller rumble with more impact on the GF8s, where the Tevi is generally tighter and faster. The detail retrieval and clarity are both really good.

Mids
The midrange has more neutral tone on the Tevi with less V shape tone. The lower midrange has more bodies and sound warmer and lusher on the GF8s, where the Tevi is leaner. The upper midrange on both are forwarded, but the GF8s has more vividly presentation with higher transparency levels. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on GF8s.

Treble
The treble has better extension and more intimate presentation on GF8s. The lower treble has more energy and sound brighter on the Tevi, where the GF8s is smoother here. The upper treble has more airiness and sparkle on the GF8s, while the Tevi tend to roll off here. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on GF8s.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider and deeper on GF8s.
The imaging is better on GF8s.


Samsung galaxy buds pro ($199USD)

Bass
The sub bass on both have same amount of quality and quantity. The mid bass has more bodies and sound fuller on the GF8s, where the Pro sound leaner and clearer. There are fuller impact on the GF8s with better slam, on the other hand, the Pro sound cleaner with better sense of tightness. The detail retrieval and clarity are both pretty good.

Mids
The midrange has leaner and more neutral tonality on the Pro, where the GF8s is fuller and also warmer. The lower midrange has better texture and sound fuller and deeper on the GF8s. The upper midrange sound more vividly and lively on GF8s, where as the Pro sound smoother. The detail retrieval and clarity is slightly better on Pro.

Treble
The treble has better extension on the GF8s and it sound crisper. The lower treble on both are fairly similar, but the GF8s has more ultimate presentation. The upper treble has more air and sparkle on hr top end of GF8s, where the Pro is less here. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on GF8s.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider on GF8s, with same levels of depth.
The imaging are both well done.


Airpods pro ($249USD)

Bass
The sub bass on both extended well. The mid bass has more quantity and sound fuller on the GF8s, where the Pro sound cleaner. There are fuller rumble with better impact on the GF8s, where the Pro has quicker decay speed. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on Pro.

Mids
The midrange on both has warmer than neutral and owning the mildly U shape tonality. The lower midrange has slightly more bodies with more texture on the Pro, where the GF8s sound slightly cleaner. The upper midrange sound fuller and smoother on the Pro, on the other hand, the GF8s sound more vividly and relatively sharper. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on GF8s.

Treble
The treble extended further on the GF8s and sound brighter. The lower treble sound crisper with more energy on GF8s, where the Pro sound smoother without any harshness. The upper treble is early roll off on he Pro p, where the GF8s has more open presentation with more airiness. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on GF8s.

The soundstage is wider on GF8s and slightly better sense of depth also.
The imaging is tad better on GF8s.




Conclusion
The Geekfly GF8s is a outstanding IEMs, it has a sound quality and technical performance that is on par with most of great wired IEMs out there for its price range. The tonality on the GF8s are extremely well tuned, with full bodies bass, clear yet smooth midrange, and fast yet extended treble. The GF8s is definitely the best TWS earbuds for audiophile in term of the sound, and even bring shame on a lot of wired IEMs out there. Thanks for reading, Happy Listening!!

Geekfly official website: https://geekflyaudio.com/
Geekfly GF8s products page:
https://penonaudio.com/geekfly-gf8s.html

Introduction
Avara custom is the Indonesia company that specializes in both of customize and custom fits IEMs in the affordable price. The Neo+ is their entry levels IEMs, which can be fully personalized, and available only with universal shell.
The price of it $40 with basic design, the price will be adjust based on your design. The driver configuration is 1DD+1BA.

My set of Neo+ cost:
40 USD base price + 25 USD x 2 (Galaxy Swirl full Shell 2 sides) + 15 USD x 2 (artwork 2 sides).




Disclaimer
I would like to thanks Alvon from Avara for given this opportunity and spending a lot of time to have a discussion with me about the IEM’s design. The review will be based on my honest opinion through the music I listen to.


Package & Accessories
The Neo+ come with the small and compact box, there are the Neo+ illustration at the front cover with the brand name, model name and other information, whereas the specifications at the rear side of it. After remove the cover, there is the QC card with serial number on it. Beside that, the IEMs itself are sited in the carry case, along with the ear tips and cable pre- connected.








Accessories list:
1 pair x Avara Neo+ In-Ear Monitors
1 pcs x 0.78 2-Pin Detachable Cable
3 pairs x Silicone Eartips (size S/M/L)



The accessories come with it fairly simple, but pretty good considered for its price. The hard shell carry case included is nicely made in purple color with branded logo at the front.





The Neo+ come with three pair of ear tips in different sizes, to provide the best fitting experience to the users.



The Neo+ come with the 2 core branded cable, it has 3.5 mm straight connector in black metal shell finished. It features the 0.78mm 2 pin connector with L&R to show left and right. The Y-splitter are in black metal shell, whereas the 2 pin connector is in plastic shell. There are cable slider in black color with black metal finished. It has the three buttons control microphone, which is functional and received the voice clearly. It is overall basic but well build cable.





Design & Build & Comfort
The Neo+ has well ergonomic and compact design. The shell are made with my own design, overall the design on both earpieces are just amazing. There are hundreds of stunning design to be chose from, which can be checkout on their Instagram. The left earpieces has a black galaxy swirl design, with a slightly glitter purple and blue adorned. There is Snoopy with space suit located on the front faceplate, which is my favorite cartoon character, the overall design looks extremely identical to the real galaxy. For the right earpieces, it has a same galaxy swirl design, but for this time, it is mainly colored with orange, and decorated with touch of black and white brushed. There is the real wood cover the half of faceplate, with my Snoopy’s foot print design located on top of it. There are no L&R indicators on the Neo+, while the vents is located at the inner layer of the shell.





The build on Neo+ is extremely good, especially for its prices. The shell are made with resin, and each shell are carefully hand painted from inside. There are no complaint for me about the artwork for my pairs of Neo+, it just look so gorgeous! The shell are well rounded, with out any gap and sharp edges. There is the metal filter to prevent from the ear dust. The 2 pin female connectors are tight, and do not have sign of wear and tear after I swapped few times of cable.





The fits on the Neo+ is really good, thanks to its small and fairly compact design. The nozzle has moderate length, so it can fit pretty stable in your ears. The isolation is above average, and thanks to the vents there are no pressure build up after a long listening.





Technical specifications
Frequency response: 20Hz-22khz
Sensitivity: 112db SPL @1khz, 1mW
Impedance: 12Ohm @ 1khz, 1mW


Sound

Pairing
I pair up with the stock cable and medium stock tips, and run through my music library on the Fiio M11 and Topping E30.




Overall tonality
The Neo+ has a well balanced V shape tonality, with the clean and vividly presentation.

Bass
The bass is quite thumping and it is well controlled and clean. It has good levels of sub bass extension with moderate decay speed, the mid bass are slightly less pronounced compare to mid bass. The bass has above average of impact, and punch with good amount of rumble. The bass has good level of speed and control, the detail retrieval and clarity are really well. It is overall thumping and quick bass.

Mids
The midrange has a engaging mildly V shape tonality, there is a well balanced and clean presentation. The lower midrange has fair amount of bodies presented in lush-less manner. The upper midrange has vividly and clear presentation, with above average transparency levels and good levels of control. The detail retrieval and clarity are really good.

Treble
The treble is bright and crispy, with a smooth and control presentation. The lower treble has good levels of control and brightness, but it still may cause fatiguing for long term listening. The upper treble has good amount of crispness and sparkle, with fairly open presentation. The detail retrieval and clarity are pretty well.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is really wide, with good levels of depth.
The imaging is really well done.



Comparison
Kbear Lark ($29USD)

Bass
There are more sub bass and bass quantity and extended further on the Neo+. The bass has less weight with cleaner tone on the Lark, on the upper hand, the Neo+ provide more rumble and better slam. The bass presented tighter and quicker on the Lark, while the Neo+ provide a dynamic bass with more natural decay. The bass hit harder with better impact on Neo+. The detail retrieval and clarity are both well done.

Mids
The midrange is more recessed on the Neo+ while the Lark is relatively neutral. The lower midrange has more bodies and sound fuller on the Lark, on the other hand, the Neo+ has leaner tonality with extra clarity. The upper midrange has more emphasis and on the Neo+ with more vividly presentation, where the Lark has relatively smoother presentation. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on Neo+

Treble
The treble on both are bright and vividly, but the Neo+ is more control and less peaky compare to Lark. There are similar amount of lower midrange energy and brightness on both, but the Neo+ is smoother. The upper treble has more sparkle and crisp definition on the Neo+ with more open presentation. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on Neo+.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider on Neo+, depth is comparable.
The imaging is better Neo+.


Moondrop SSP ($39USD)

Bass
There are more sub bass quantity on Neo+. The bass has cleaner tonality on Neo+, while the SSP is more meaty. The bass has tighter presentation on Neo+, on the other hand the SSP sound lusher. Both of them have good amount of rumble, while the Neo+ has better impact and sound more punchy. The NEO+ has quicker decay speed, where the SSP are quicker. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on Neo+

Mids
The midrange has clearer tone on Neo+ with less bodies, where the SSP is slightly warmer and lusher. The lower midrange has more bodies on SSP, while the depth is better on Neo+with cleaner expression. The upper midrange are both highlighted, the Neo+ has more vividly presentation, and better transparency levels, on the other hand, the SSP sound less prominent. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on Neo+.

Treble
Tar treble is brighter on the Neo+with better extension. The lower treble has more energy and brightness on Neo+, while the SSP is smoother here. The upper treble has more crispiness and airiness on the Neo+, where the SSP is slightly off here. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on Neo+

Soundstage and imaging
The sound is wider on Neo+ with same depth.
The imaging is better on Neo+


Tripowin TC-01 ($49USD)

Bass
The sub bass both extended. There is slightly more quantity on Neo+, on the other hand, the TC-01 has more mid bass, which lead to warmer tonality. The bass has more texture with slower decay speed on TC-01, while the Neo+ has cleaner tone and quicker decay. There is more rumble on TC-01, where the Neo+ hit harder and it is punchier. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on Neo+.

Mids
The midrange on both are recessed, the Neo+ has cleaner tonality, on the other hand, the TC-01 has warmer and it has more textured. The lower midrange are leaner on Neo+, fuller on TC-01. The upper midrange sound more vividly and engaging on Neo+, where the TC-01 is relatively smoother and laid back. The detail retrieval and clarity is both well done.

Treble
The treble is brighter but peakier on Neo+. The lower treble has more energy, but generally harsher on Neo+, while the TC-01 is slightly smoother here. The upper treble has more sparkle and crispness on Neo+, with more open presentation. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on Neo+.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider on Neo+, with same levels of depth.
The imaging is both great.


Hifiman RE-400 ($49USD)

Bass
There are more sub bass and slightly more mid bass quantity on the Neo+, while the RE-400 are fairly close to leaner. The sub bass extension is better on Neo+. The Neo+ provide fuller bass rumble with slightly lusher notes, where the RE-400 are slightly clearer. The Neo offers better impacts and it is more punchy, while the RE-400 is tighter. The RE-400 has slightly better control, as well as the detail retrieval and clarity.

Mids
The midrange sound more neutral on RE-400, on the other hand, the Neo+ sound slightly warmer with recessed tonality. The lower midrange are both close to leaner, but the Neo+ has better depth and slightly fuller. The upper midrange on both are vividly and pretty bright, but the Neo+ has better control, and it is smoother. The detail retrieval and and clarity are both pretty well.

Treble
The treble are both bright and fairly control, the Neo+ has better extension. The lower treble has more energy and sound slightly brighter on Neo+, where the RE-400 are slightly laid back here. The upper treble has more airiness and sound more open on the Neo+. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on Neo+.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider on Neo+, with same levels of depth.
The imaging is better on Neo+.


Trn V90s ($49USD)

Bass
There are both good amount sub bass and rumble, but the V90s has slightly more bodies in mid bass, where the Neo+ is cleaner. The bass on both have good levels of impact and sound meaty and punchy. The Neo+ has clearer and tighter bass with natural decay speed, where the V90s has more weight and with quicker decay speed. The detail retrieval and and clarity is better on Neo+.

Mids
The midrange are both recessed, and both has a vividly upper midrange emphasis. The lower midrange has more bodies on Neo+, the V90s is tad leaner. The upper midrange are both vividly with pretty engaging presentation, the Neo+ has better control with less metallic sound. The detail retrieval and clarity is slightly better on V90s.

Treble
The treble are both bright and crispy, the Neo+ has better control and timbre. The lower treble are both full of energy with bright and it is fairly pronounced. The upper treble on both are airy with good amount of sparkle. The detail retrieval and clarity are both well done.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage width is comparable, depth is tad better on Neo+
The imaging on both are pretty good.


Tin T2 Plus ($54USD)

Bass
There are more sub bass and mid bass quantity on the Neo+, and it extend further. The bass has tone on both are clean but the Neo+ is tighter. The bass has fuller rumble and better impact on the Neo+, both has good levels of control. The Neo+ has punchier bass, where the T2Plus is lacking here. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on Neo+.

Mids
The midrange has more neutral tone on the T2 Plus, where the Neo+ has more V shape tone. The lower midrange sound slightly fuller on T2 Plus, where the Neo+ is clear. The upper midrange sound more vividly and relatively brighter on a Neo+, while the T2 Plus has more laid back presentation. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on Neo+.

Treble
The treble is brighter and extended further on the Neo+. The lower treble has more energy and sound relatively harsher on Neo+, where the T2Plus is relatively laid back. The upper treble is roll off on T2Plus, where the Neo+ is more airy and open. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on Neo+.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider and deeper on Neo+.
The imaging is better on Neo+.




Conclusion
The Neo+ is overall really well done V shape sounding IEMs, the fully custom option make it a strong competitors in the price range. The build quality and artwork of the IEMs is outstanding, especially for its price. The Neo+ is definitely one of my favorite IEMs for sub$50USD. Thank you for reading, Happy Listening!!

Avara audio official website: https://www.avara-custom.com
Avara audio NEO+ product page: https://www.avara-custom.com/products/earphone/avara-neo/

Introduction
NF Audio is the Chinese company founded in 2014, they are specialized in the CIEM and recently they were focus on the UIEM products that is priced more affordable. In this review, I am taking a look at the NM2, which is their entry levels IEM in the NM(monitor) line up. The retail price is $99USD, and the driver configuration is single DD.




Disclaimer
I would like to thanks Yihua Chen form Aoshida Hifi for given this opportunity, and the review will be based on my honest opinion through the music I listen to.


Package & Accessories
The NM2 come with the moderate sizes box, there are the brand name, model name and IEMs illustration located at the front cover, whereas the specifications at the button. There is the black box with the brand logo in the located at the middle after removed the cover. After the box opened, one side of it has the IEMs sited in the foam, with the ear tips contained underneath. Moving on the other side, the user manual with the carry pouch underneath, which contains the cable and other accessories.










Accessories list:
1 pair x NF Audio NM2 In-Ear Monitor
1 pcs x Detachable Cable with 0.78mm 2-Pin Connector
3 pairs x Silicone Bass Ear Tips
3 pairs x Silicone Balanced Ear Tips
1 pcs x Cleaning Tool
1 pcs x Carry pouch
1 pcs x 3.5mm to 6.3mm Headphone Adaptor



The accessories come with the NM2 is pretty good for its price. The hard shell carry pouch it come with is well build and feel solid, there is the brand logo located at the front.





The NM2 come with two different types of ear tips, which are bass-black ear tips; balanced-white ear tips respectively to provide the best sound and fit. There are also the nicely made 3.5mm to 6.3mm headphone adaptor included.





The NM2 come with the 4 core twisted cable, it has 3.5 mm straight connector in matted metal finished with branded logo. It features the 0.78mm 2 pin connector with L&R to indicated left and right. The Y-splitter are in silver metal shell in matted finish, where the 2 pin connector are finished with plastic housing. There are cable slider in transparency plastic shell finished. It is overall solid and flexible cable.




Design & Build & Comfort
The NM2 has semi-custom shells design. The shells are in blue color with great transparency levels. There are also different colors options to choose from, pink and black respectively. The shell is made high-strength polycarbonate material, which is durable and significantly light weight. There are branded logo located at the faceplate, while the word “NM2 Monitor” and left and right indicator are located at the backside of IEMs. There are the vent on the rear side of the shell.





The build quality on the NM2 is outstanding. It is made with two pieces of the polycarbonate material, which is the shell and faceplate respectively. The shell are well rounded with smooth curve. The drivers inside are perfectly placed in the place, and the wires inside are neatly organized. There are no shape edges or glue around the joint part of the shell. There are the metal filter to prevent from the ear dust. The 2 pin female connectors (QDC) are tight, and do not have sign of wear and tear after I swapped few times of cable.





The fits on the NM2 is outstanding, thanks to its semi-custom shell design. The nozzle has moderate length, so it can fit pretty stable in your ears. The isolation is above average, and thanks to the vents there are no pressure build up after a long listening.






Technical specifications:
Driver: MCL2-10 Double Cavity Dynamic Driver
Impedance: 18Ω
Frequency range: 9 Hz – 40 kHz
Sensitivity: 110dB/mW
Distortion: <%1
Max. SPL: 125dB
Isolation: 25dB


Sound

Paring
I pair up with the stock cable and balance ear tips, as the bass ear tips emphasis too much bass for my preference, and run through my music library on the Fiio M11 and Topping E30.




Overall tonality
The NM2 has a mildly U shape tonality, it is presented in lively yet clear, and fatiguing free manner.

Bass
The bass is clear and well controlled. It has good levels of sub bass extension with quick decay speed, which is more pronounced than mid bass. The bass has average impact and punch with fair amount of rumble. On the other hand, the bass has good level of speed and control, while the detail retrieval and clarity are really well. It is overall clean and tight bass.

Mids
The midrange has a slightly warmer than neutral tonality. There is an clear yet lively presentation. The lower midrange has moderate amount of bodies presented in clear manner. The upper midrange has great emphasis and slightly more pronounced than lower midrange. The upper midrange sound lively with good levels of transparency and control. The detail retrieval and clarity are both great.

Treble
The treble is smooth yet engaging, without any harshness. The lower treble has good amount of energy and brightness, there is also good levels of control. The upper treble is slightly roll off, which lead the tonality fairly smooth and easy to listen to. The detail retrieval and clarity are really good.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is pretty wide with good levels of depth.
The imaging is holographic, which is outstanding for its price range.



Comparison
Moondrop Aria ($79USD)

Bass
There are slightly more sub bass and mid bass quantity on the Aria, which lead to the warmer tonality. The sub bass on both extended well, but the NM2 has fuller rumble. The bass has less weight and clearer tone on the NM2, while the Aria has relatively fuller tone and slightly lusher. The Aria provide slightly better sense of impact, while the NM2 is punchier and tighter. Both of them have pretty control bass, but the NM2 is slightly better. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on NM2.

Mids
The midrange on both are both fairly neutral with bit of warmth, but the NM2 has clearer tone, while the Aria has fuller tone. The lower midrange is tad clearer NM2, whereas the Aria is tad lusher, no significantly different here. The upper midrange on both are pronounced, the NM2 has relatively brighter tonality with a lively presentation, same as NM2, but the Aria has slight laid back kind of presentation. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on NM2.

Treble
The treble are both tuned toward the bright side, and both extended well with good levels of control. The lower treble has more energy on NM2 and it is tad brighter and sharper, where the Aria is more relax here. The upper treble has slightly more crispness and sparkle on Aria, where the NM2 is roll off and smoother here. The detail retrieval and and clarity are both well done.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage width is comparable, depth is better on NM2.
The imaging is better on NM2.


Shanling ME80 ($99USD)

Bass
There are slight more sub bass NM2, where the mid bass has tad more quantity on the ME80. They both have clean and clear bass presentation. The sub bass has better extension on NM2 with more rumble. The mid bass sound fuller with a tad punchier and warmer tone on the ME80, where the NM2 sound leaner with better sense of clarity here. The NM2 has better control and both have pretty tight bass. The detail retrieval and and clarity are both well done.

Mids
The midrange on both are neutral, but the NM2 is tad warmer, where the ME80 are tad brighter. The lower midrange has more bodies and better depth on NM2, where the ME80 sound leaner. The upper midrange sound pretty similar, both are lively and slightly brighter than neutral, the transparency is slightly better on ME80, but the NM2 has better control, without being too hot. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on NM2.

Treble
The treble are both bright done well, with a smooth presentation and both extended well. The lower treble are more pronounced on ME80, whee the NM2 is smoother with better control here. The upper treble on both are smooth and airy, the ME80 has more slightly crispness on the top end. The detail retrieval and clarity are both pretty solid.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is slightly wider and deeper on NM2.
The imaging is better on NM2.




Conclusion
The NM2 is outstanding IEMs for its price range. It offers really cool package, and the shells is extremely light and feel solid. Not surprisingly, the NM2 is really well tuned IEMs that provides a clear yet smooth tone, with highly detailed and natural upper midrange. The imaging is also the strong parts of NM2, the 3D holographic experience punch way above its price range. The NM2 will be my best sub$100 dollars IEMs in any aspects, definitely look forward for others IEMs from NF audio. Thank you for reading, and Happy Listening!!

NF audio official website: http://www.nfaudio.cn/en/index.html
Aoshida audio website: https://aoshida-audio.com/
NF audio NM2 product page: https://www.aoshida-audio.com/products/nf-audio-nm2

Introduction
Dunu is the Chinese company founded in 1994, they have been in audio market for the long time and well known by the audiophiles community. The EST112 is their new IEM in their EST line up, which is the follow up to the DK series. The price of the EST112 is $489USD, the driver configuration is 1DD+1BA+2EST.




Disclaimer
I would like to thanks Kevin and Tom from Dunu for given this opportunity, and the review will be based on my honest opinion through the music I listen to.


Package & Accessories
The EST112 come with the large sizes box, there are the brand name, model name and IEMs illustration located at the front cover, whereas the specifications at the rear side of it. There is the black box with the brand logo located at the middle after remove the cover. After flip open the box, the IEMs are sited in the foam with the cable pre connected. The other accessories and ear tips are clearly contained in the box/ foam under it respectively.









Accessories list:
1 pair x Dunu EST112 In-Ear Monitors
1 pcs x MMCX Patented Catch-Hold Detachable Cable with self-locking quick-switch modular plug system (contains 2.5mm/3.5mm/4.4mm plugs)
3 pairs x Grey Silicone Eartips (size S/M/L)
3 pairs x White Silicone Eartips (size S/M/L)
3 pairs x SpinFit Eartips (size S/M/L)
1 pairs x Foam Tips
1 pcs x Blue Lather Carry Case
1 pcs x Cleaning Tool
1 pcs x Microfiber Cloth
1 pcs x 3.5 to 6.3 mm Adapter (DC-16)
1 pcs x Airline Adaptor



The accessories it come with the EST112 are really great and feel premium. The carry case include is nicely made with leather and finished in blue color, there is the fluffy material inside for better protection.





The EST112 come with three different types of ear tips (included the SpinFit CP100) and additional pair foam tips to provide the best sound and fit. There are cleaning brush and the airlines adapter included. The microfiber cloth is also included, which is nicely made with Dunu logo.





The EST112 come with 4 core branded High-Purity Monocrystalline Silver-Plated cable, it has 3.5 mm L angled connector in bronze metal shell. The plug part feature the self-locking quick-switch modular plug system which allow the user to switch around the connector type easily and quickly. It features the Patented Catch-Hold MMCX Connector connector with L&R indicator to show left and right. The Y-splitter are in bronze metal shell as well as the MMCX male connector. There are cable slider in transparency plastic shell. It is overall flexible and well build cable.






Design & Build & Comfort
The EST112 has large but well ergonomic design. The shell and faceplate are finished in metal. The Dunu branded logo are sported at the front faceplate with a radiance design around it, beside that, there are the big vents call “Air Control Impedance System (ACIS)”, which is located under it. There are L&R indicators on the rear side of the shells respectively. The overall design on EST112 is gorgeous and futuristic.





The build on the EST112 are outstanding and feel solid. The IEMs are made with three pieces of metal, the nozzles, shell and faceplate, which are all 5-axis CNC lathe and finished with a scratch-resistant gunmetal anodiz. The faceplate are made with stainless steel with polished finished. On the other hand, the shell are made with metal and it is well rounded. There are no shape edges or glue around the gap of the shell. The filter on nozzle are made with metal to prevent from the ear dust. The MMCX female connectors are tight, and the connector do not have sign of wear and tear after I swapped few times of cable.





The fit on the the EST112 are good for me, thanks to the well ergonomic design. The nozzles is on the short side, and the shell is relatively large, so people with small ear may find it hard to fit in. The isolation is average, and thanks to the ACIS there are no pressure build up after a few hours of wearing.






Technical specifications:
Frequency response: 5Hz- 40 kHz
Impedance: 100at 1 kHz
Sensitivity: 110dB ± 1 dBat1 kHz
THD: <0.3%at 1 kHz


Sound

Paring
I pair up with the stock cable and SpinFit tips, as I find out it is the most comfortable to fit, and run through my music library on the Fiio M11 and Topping E30.




Overall tonality
The EST112 has a mildly U shape tonality, with a slightly warmer than neutral tone. It is presented in the clear and smooth manner.

Bass
The bass is clean and tight. It has good levels of sub bass extension with naturally decay speed, which have more quantity compare to mid bass. The bass has good levels of impact and punch with moderate amount of rumble. On the other hand, it has above average levels of speed and control. The detail retrieval and clarity are really well. It is overall light but punchy bass.

Mids
The midrange is mostly neutral with slightly warm tuned, the midrange is presented in clear and smooth manner. The lower midrange has fair amount of bodies with good levels of depth, presented in clean and clear manner. The upper midrange are slightly forwarded than the lower midrange, it is presented in highly transparent yet lively manner. The midrange clarity and detail retrieval are amazing, but there are touch of warmth and fullness, so it doesn’t sound too analytical.

Treble
The treble is vividly yet silky, and it is presented in the smooth manner. The lower treble has good amount of the brightness and energy without being too harsh. The upper treble has good amount of airiness and crisp definition, with the EST driver been used, the upper treble sound full of glossy. A extremely transparent and detail treble is the typical BA driver can not be handled, that being said, the EST112’s treble is definitely punch above its price range.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is really really wide and feel extremely open, the depth are also above the average.
The imaging is 3D holographic.



Comparison
Tansio Mirai TSMR-4 PRO ($319USD)

Bass
There are less sub bass but more mid bass on the 4PRO, it lead the tonality warmer. The bass on both are clean and pretty tight, but the EST112 has more natural timbre and decay speed due to the dynamic driver. The 4PRO has slightly clearer bass and it is snappier, where the EST112 has better impact and punch. The 4PRO provide cleaner rumble, while the EST112 has fuller rumble. The detail retrieval and clarity are touch better on 4PRO.


Mids
The midrange has more V shape tonality on 4PRO with more energetic presentation, on the other hand, the EST112 is warmer and relatively smoother. The lower midrange has better depth and and additional lushness on EST112, whereas the 4PRO has leaner tone with better clarity. The upper midrange has more vividly and forwarded presentation on 4PRO, while the EST112 are relatively laid back and smoother. The detail and clarity are slightly better on 4PRO.

Treble
The treble is both well controlled with good amount of brightness, but the 4PRO is relatively peakier. The lower midrange on both have good levels of energy, and without any fatiguing, but the EST112 has smoother presentation here. The upper treble has more crispness on 4PRO, on the other hand, the EST112 has more airiness with silkier expression. The detail retrieval and clarity slightly better on EST112.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider and and slightly deeper on EST112.
The imaging on both are well done, but the EST112 is better.


Oriveti OH500 ($499USD)

Bass
The bass has overall fuller and lusher tonality on OH500, on the other hand the EST112 is cleaner and has less organic presentation. The sub bass both extended well, there are quantity on OH500. The OH500 provide more rumble with slower decay speed, on the other hand, the EST112 provide faster and tighter bass. The OH500 has a smoother presentation and provide fuller slam and punch harder, where the EST112 provide more neutrally done bass, and still remain good amount of punch and impact. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on EST112.

Mids
The midrange has again lusher and more organic kind of presentation on OH500, where as the EST112 is clearer and tuned more neutral and colorless. The lower midrange has more bodies on OH500 and sound warmer, while the EST112 sound cleaner and clearer, both have good amount of depth in presentation. The upper midrange has more lively and forwarded presentation on EST112, on the other hand, the OH500 is more laid back and relatively smoother. The detail retrieval and clarity are both pretty well.

Treble
The treble has better extension on EST112 with more vividly presentation, where the OH500 is more laid back. Both of them have smooth and fatiguing free presentation, but the EST112 has more energy and extra brightness in lower midrange. There are more airiness and feel opener on the EST112, the EST112 also has extra silky kind of texture that OH500 doesn’t have. The detail retrieval and clarity are slightly better on EST112.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider on EST112, while the depth is similar.
The imaging are both pretty well, but the EST112 is slightly better.


Vision ears Elysium (around$2500USD)
Due to the driver configuration is somehow similar, I decided to this comparison.

Bass
There are more sub bass quantity and fuller rumble on the EST112, while the Elysium has more mid bass quantity. There are more punchy and impactful presentation on EST112, on the other hand the Elysium has faster and clearer bass. The bass are both tight and pretty clean, but he EST112 provide a natural-er decay. The detail retrieval and clarity are similar.

Mids
The midrange on both are pretty neutral and sound natural yet smooth. The midrange has better textured and sound richer and it is more color on Elysium, on the other hand, the EST112 sound cleaner and relatively brighter and slightly thinner. The lower midrange sound fuller on Elysium, whereas the EST112 sound clearer. The upper midrange sound smoother with better depth on Elysium, while the EST112 sound more vividly and relatively brighter. The detail retrieval is better on Elysium, where clarity is tad better on EST112 throwing the brighter tone.

Treble
They both extended well. The treble sound smoother and relatively darker on the Elysium, on the other hand, the EST112 sound brighter and crisper. The lower treble on both are smooth and silky, there are more energy and tuned brighter on EST112, on the other hand, the Elysium is smoother and little bit life less. The upper treble are fairly similar, both of them are full of glossy with good amount of crisp on the top end. The EST122 has more airiness presentation on the top end. The detail retrieval and clarity are both better on Elysium.

Soundstage and imaging
The width is comparable, and it is deeper on Elysium.
The imaging is slightly better on Elysium.




Conclusion
The Dunu EST112 is a well designed and build IEMs with extremely solid tonality. The EST112 has clean and lively tonality, with tight and controlled bass, clear and smooth midrange and silky yet vividly treble. The EST drivers been used show the outstanding soundstage and treble performance, which is class leading in this price range. This will be my favorite sub $500USD IEMs, great work again, Dunu!! Thank you for reading, Happy Listening!!

Dunu official website: https://www.dunu-topsound.com
Dunu EST112 product page: https://www.dunu-topsound.com/est-112

Introduction
Tripowin is the Chinese company that specializes in cables and IEMs, the Tripowin TC-01 is the the IEMs that coming out later 2020. Today, I am take a look at the TC-01, the retail price is $49.00USD



Disclaimer
I would like to thanks Lillian from linsoul for given this opportunity, and the review will be based on my honest opinion through the music I listen to.


Package & Accessories
The TC-01 come with the moderate sizes box, there are the brand name, model name and IEMs illustration located at the front cover, whereas the specifications at the rear side of it. After remove the cover, there is the IEMs itself sited in the foam, and the carry case under it after removing the cover which contain the cable and other accessories.








Accessories list:
1 pair x Tripowin TC-01 In Ear Monitor
1 pcs x Detachable Cable with 0.78mm 2 Pin Connector
3 pairs x Silicone Eartips (size S/M/L)
1pcs x Hard Carry Pouch



The accessories come with TC-01 is fairly simple but useful. The hard carry case it come with is well build and feel solid, there is the hand strap on the corner which is detachable.





The TC-01 come with three pair of ear tips in different sizes, which allow the user to get the best fit as well as the sound.



The TC-01 come with the 2 core twisted cable, it has 3.5 mm straight connector in silver metal mirror finished. It features the 0.78mm 2 pin connector with both of L&R/blacks&red to show left and right. The Y-splitter are in silver metal shell in mirror finish as well as the 2 pin connector. There are cable slider in transparency plastic shell finished. It is overall well behave and flexible cable.




Design & Build & Comfort
The TC-01 has small and well ergonomic design. The shell and faceplate are finished in iridescent metal. The Tripowin branded logo sported at the front faceplate, while the vents is next to it. There are no L&R indicators on the IEMs itself, while there are two vents on the rear side of the IEMs respectively. The design on TC-01 is beautiful and definitely stand out in the price point.





The build on the TC-01 are really solid and feel durable. The IEMs are made with three pieces of metal, the nozzles, shell and faceplate. The shell are well rounded with smooth curve. There are no shape edges or glue around the gap of the shell. The filter on nozzle are made with metal to provide the prevent from ear dust. The 0.78mm 2 pin female connectors are tight, and the connector do not have sign of wear and tear after I swapped few times of cable.





The fit on the the TC-01 are really good, thanks to the small and compact design. The nozzles is on the short side, but the shell is thin so it fit in pretty well. The isolation is average, and thanks to the vents there are no pressure build up after a few hours of wearing.






Technical specifications:
Sensitivity: 104dB SPL/mW
Frequency range: 20Hz-20KHz
Impedance: 16ohm
Noise isolation: 26dB


Sound

Paring
I pair up with the stock cable and medium stock tips, and run through my music library on the Fiio M11 and Topping E30.




Overall tonality
The TC-01 has a V shape with slightly warm tonality. It is fun and musical with a fatiguing free presentation.

Bass
The bass is warm and full bodies with slightly thick timbre. The sub bass has above average extension with moderate decay speed.The sub bass has slight more pronounced compare to mid bass. It has above average rumble, with average impact and punch. It has moderate speed with good levels of control. The detail retrieval are pretty well, while the clarity are average.

Mids
The midrange is slightly recessed but well balanced. There are good amount of texture with surprisingly clear tone. The lower midrange has good amount of bodies presented in lush manner. The upper midrange is well emphasis, it is presented in lively yet rich manner. The midrange has a musical presentation with good levels of detail and above average clarity.

Treble
The treble is crisp yet smooth, without any harshness or being too bright. The treble has moderate extended. The lower treble has good amount of energy and brightness with a fatiguing free presentation. The upper treble has above average amount of airiness and average amount of sparkle. The detail retrieval and clarity are average.

Soundstage and imaging
It has above average width with slightly below average depth.
The imaging are slightly above average due to the depth.



Comparison
Kbear Lark ($29USD)

Bass
The sub bass on both extend well and the TC-01 has more quantity. The TC-01 has warmer and fuller presentation compare to cleaner and tighter presentation on Lark. The TC-01 provide slower decay with better dynamic, while the Lark provide tighter and quicker bass response. The TC-01 has more bass impact and rumble, while the Lark hit harder and punchier. The detail retrieval and clarity are slightly better on the Lark.

Mids
The midrange has more neutral and leaner presentation on the Lark, while the TC-01 has warmer with slightly more V shape presentation. The lower midrange has more body with better depth on the TC-01, while the Lark sound cleaner with reduce lushness. The upper midrange has more vividly presentation on Lark, on the other hand, the TC-01 provide more bodies and sound fuller. The detail retrieval and clarity are both pretty well.

Treble
The treble has crisper and brighter on the Lark, while the TC-01 are relatively laid back and smoother. The lower treble has brighter but more sharp presentation on the Lark, while the TC-01 is smoother here. The upper treble has sparkle on the Lark, while the TC-01 has more airiness and sound slightly more open. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on the TC-01.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are slightly wider on the Lark, while the TC-01 has better depth.
The imaging are better on TC-01.


Moondrop SSP ($39USD)

Bass
The sub bass on both extend well and the TC-01 has more quantity. The TC-01 has slightly more warmer and meaty presentation with better texture, while the SSP are relatively slightly cleaner. The bass on TC-01 provide better punch and impact, while the SSP are lack of definition here. The TC-01 has tighter bass with better control. The detail retrieval and clarity are slightly better on TC-01.

Mids
The midrange on both has V-shape type of tuning, both are presented in pretty balance manner. The lower midrange on both sound similar, but the TC-01 has better texture and sound clear. The upper midrange sound less forward on TC-01 with higher transparency levels and better thicker timbre, on the other hand, the SSP provide more forwarded presentation with relatively thinner presentation. The detail retrieval and clarity are slightly better on TC-01.

Treble
The treble on TC-01 are slightly more attacked and extended further, while the SSP are smoother here. The treble has less treble energy cmompare to TC-01, where as the TC-01 has more air and crisp presentation on the top end. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on TC-01.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are pretty similar, but feel more open on TC-01.
The imaging are better on TC-01.


Avara audio Neo+ ($40USD)

Bass
The sub bass both extended. There is slightly more quantity on Neo+, on the other hand, the TC-01 has more mid bass, which lead to warmer tonality. The bass has more texture with slower decay speed on TC-01, while the Neo+ has cleaner tone and quicker decay. There is more rumble on TC-01, where the Neo+ hit harder and it is punchier. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on Neo+.

Mids
The midrange on both are recessed, the Neo+ has cleaner tonality, on the other hand, the TC-01 has warmer and it has more textured. The lower midrange are leaner on Neo+, fuller on TC-01. The upper midrange sound more vividly and engaging on Neo+, where the TC-01 is relatively smoother and laid back. The detail retrieval and clarity is both well done.

Treble
The treble is brighter but peakier on Neo+. The lower treble has more energy, but generally harsher on Neo+, while the TC-01 is slightly smoother here. The upper treble has more sparkle and crispness on Neo+, with more open presentation. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on Neo+.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider on Neo+, with same levels of depth.
The imaging is both great.


Hifiman RE-400 ($49USD)

Bass
The RE-400 has close to linear presentation, whereas the TC-01 has more sub bass and bass quantity, overall fuller presentation. The sub bass has better extension on TC-01. The TC-01 has more meaty presentation with better texture, on the other hand, the RE-400 has cleaner and slightly less dynamic bass. The RE-400 has faster decay with a snappy punch, while the bass on TC-01 is slower with better impact and provides harder punch and slam. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on RE-400.

Mids
The midrange is leaner and tuned neutral on the RE-400, while the TC-01 has C shape sound signature. The lower midrange has more depth and sound fuller on the TC-01, while the RE-400 has linear presentation. The upper midrange sound more forwarded but smoother on the TC-01, on the other hand, the RE-400 sound brighter and more vividly. The detail retrieval and clarity are both well done.

Treble
The treble is brighter but peaky-er on RE-400, while they TC-01 has smoother and slightly laid back presentation. The lower treble has slightly brighter and shaper presentation on RE-400, while the TC-01 is relatively less bright. The upper treble has more airiness and sparkle on the TC-01, while the RE-400 slightly roll off here. The detail retrieval and clarity are fairly comparable.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider and deeper on the TC-01.
The imaging is in the same levels.


Trn V90s ($49USD)

Sound
The tonality is almost identical here, so I won’t do the full comparison. The bass has less quantity and sound slightly cleaner and tighter on the V90s. The midrange and treble tuned really close, but the TC-01 has better timbre and texture, while the V90s has unforgivable BA timbre and more peaky/harsh treble. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on V90s. The soundstage and imaging is pretty similar as well.


Tin Hifi T2 Plus ($54USD)

Bass
The sub bass has better extension on the TC-01. There are more sub bass and bass quantity on the TC-01 also. The bass has more meaty and fuller presentation on the TC-01, while the T2 Plus has better cleaner presentation. The bass has more rumble and impact on TC-01, whereas the T2 Plus has tighter and snappy-er bass. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on T2 Plus.

Mids
The midrange has mostly neutral and leaner presentation on the T2 Plus, on the other hand, the TC-01 sound warmer and more recessed. The lower midrange has more bodies and sound fuller on TC-01, while T2 Plus are more linear and cleaner. The upper midrange sound more forwarded and engaging on TC-01, where the T2 Plus sound more laid back and fuller. The detail retrieval and clarity are both well done.

Treble
The treble are slightly brighter and crisper on the TC-01, while the T2 plus more rounded and laid back. The TC-01 has more lower treble energy, on the other hand, the T2 Plus is smoother. The upper treble has more crisp definition on Tc-01, where the T2 Plus has more sparkle. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on TC-01.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are slightly deeper on TC-01, while the width are similar.
The imaging are better on TC-01.




Conclusion
The Tripowin TC-01 are overall really well tuned V shape IEMs, which high standard of build quality. The TC-01 provides warm and musical sound, without being fatiguing, and really surprisingly the detail retrieval and clarity are outstanding for this price range. The TC-01 is definitely the class leading IEMs for this price range. Thank you for reading, and Happy Listening!!

Tripowin official website: https://www.tripowin.com
Tripowin TC-01 product page: https://www.linsoul.com/products/tripowin-tc-01

Introduction
Tansio Mirai is the Chinese company founded in 2018, they are well known by the audiophile community for their craftsmanship and all BA IEMs series set up. The founders and producers of Tansio Mirai are all graduate from Academy of art based on their website claims, which all show on their IEMs’s aesthetics. In this review, I am taking a look for their TSMR-4 PRO, which has 4 BA drivers set and retail for $319USD.




Disclaimer
I would like to thanks Penon audio for given this opportunity, and the review will be based on my honest opinion through the music I listen to.


Package & Accessories
The TSMR-4 PRO come with the moderate sizes box. The box has Tansio Mirai logo in golden front located at the front with the gorgeous aesthetics finished, whereas the specifications at the rear side of it. After opening the box, there is the IEMs itself sited in the foam and sets of ear tips under it, along with the other sets of ear tips, cables and other accessories contain in the carry case down below.

Accessories list:
1 pair x Tansio Mirai TSMR-4 Pro
1 pcs x Detachable Cable with 0.78mm 2 Pin Connector
3 pairs x Green/Grey Silicone Eartips (size S/M/L)
3 pairs x Green Silicone Eartips (size S/M/L)
3 pairs x Orange Silicone Eartips (size S/M/L)
1 pair x Double Flange Silicone Eartips (size M)
1 pcs x Cleaning Tool
1 pcs x Tuning Switches Tool
1 pcs x Small Zipper Case



The accessories it come with is much enough yet useful. The carry case included is small and compact, it provide the space for pair of IEMs. The case are finished in hard shell with Tansio Mirai logo and gorgeous aesthetics on the front, the inner layers has fluffy-ish material to provide the scratches-less protection.





The TSMR-4 PRO come with three types of ear tips and additional double flange ear tips provide the best fits and sound to the users. It also come the cleaning tools and tuning switches, which is great to see. The switches tools it provided it not just the SIM card pin or the one that BGVP provided, it is well finished and feed primary.





The TSMR-4 PRO come with the 4 core branded cable, it has 3.5 mm L angled connector in black metal finished. It features the 0.78mm 2 pin connector with L&R to show left and right. The Y-splitter are in black plastic shell as well as the 2 pin connector. There are cable slider in transparency plastic shell finished. It is overall basic but well build cable.




Design & Build & Comfort
The TSMR-4 PRO has a well ergonomic design. The shell are in red color with great transparency levels, there are also variety of different stunning faceplate and shell options to choose from for around $35USD to $55USD. The shell is handmade with medical grade resin, which is durable than 3D printer shell. There are branded logo located at the faceplate on the right earpiece, while the word “TSMR” sported at the left earpiece on the faceplate. There are model name “TSMR-4 PRO” engraved on the rear side of the shell for both side, but there are no left and right indicator. There are no vents on the TSMR-4 PRO.





The TSMR-4 PRO has solid and outstanding build quality. The shell are well rounded, with out any gap and sharp edges. The TSMR-4 PRO has resin filled in at the sound bore part to about 1/2 of the IEM for holding the components. The BA drivers in side are perfectly placed at the place, while the wire inside are well organized. It has two sound bores and holes for each of two drivers, the nozzle are perfectly drilled and divided into two holes. The 2 pin female connectors are tight, and do not have sign of wear and tear after I swapped few times of cable.





The TSMR-4 PRO has really good ergonomic design with moderate length nozzle. The fits on it is really good with above average isolation. The width on the nozzles are slightly wider than typical, but it provide really good fit for me.
There will be the pressure build up after listening for a hour. There are also custom fit version to provide better fits.






Technical specification:
Sensitivity: 112dBL/mW
Frequency range: 15Hz-20kHz
Passive noise reduction: 26dB
Impedance: 20Ω


Sound
Tuning switch systems summary:
The TSMR-4 PRO offer the three tuning switches, the switches indicate in number 1, 2 and 3 (from left to right). Flip the switch up is on, while flipping it down is off.



OFF-OFF-OFF
This is the mode with no bass and lower midrange, which is totally useless.

ON-OFF-OFF
This mode has the boost bass and also slightly on the sub bass, it still does not reach the bass head levels, and there are no effect to the midrange. It bring the overall tonality slightly warmer and fuller in comparison to balance mode.

OFF-ON-OFF
This mode is balance mode, nothing change a lot here, probably the midrange are little bit warmer and forwarder compare to OFF position.

OFF-OFF-ON
This mode boost the upper midrange and also on treble, the female vocal sound more vividly compare to balance mode, the treble sound more shinny but also brighter. The soundstage are wider and more micro detail in comparison to balance mode.

ON-ON-OFF
This mode is my favorite mode, as I mentioned the number 3 switch on does increase the micro detail retrieval. But I find out even without the switch on, it already has amazing detail retrieval. The number 1 and 2 switches on, provide overall warmth and more musical presentation. The midrange also sound fuller and less vividly, to me it is more natural presentation, and it does not effect to treble in anyway.


Paring
I pair the TSMR-4 PRO with the IKKO CTU-01 cable, and use the stock green ear tips. The sources being used is Fiio M11 and Topping E30.




Overall tonality (The review will be based on my favorite mode ON-ON-OFF)
The TSMR-4 PRO has mildly U shape tonality, it has smooth yet engaging presentation.

Bass
The bass is is fairly linear and close to neutral, with moderate amount of sub bass. It has moderate sub bass extension with quick decay speed. The mid bass are slightly more pronounced compare to sub bass. The Bass has average impact, rumble and punch, While the clarity and detail retrieval are really good. The Bass has good level of speed and control, the detail retrieval and clarity are really well. It is overall clean and tight bass

Turn on the switches 1, the bass has more weight and bodies. It provide more rumble and impact, while there are no impact to its speed and punches to it. It does not have any effect to the speed and control of the bass, so if you like bass with more weight and rumble, flip on the switches 1.

Mids
The mids is close to neutral and well balanced with slightly warm tuned. The low mids has moderate of bodies with good amount of depth presented in clean and clear manner, the upper mids has above average transparency and level , presented in lively and vividly manner. The midrange show really good levels of detail, clarity and transparency with out sound too thin or analytical.

Turn the switch 2 to OFF position, the mids sound less forwarded, and it present the has less recessed presentation. The lower mids sound slight less bodies and lusher compare to ON position, while the upper mids sound less vividly and shinny. It also provide less warm tonality.

Turn the switch 1 to OFF position, but leave the switch 2 on ON position, the mids has more detail and slightly brighter tonality compare to switch 1 on the ON position. The lower mids sound slightly less bodies and also provide clearer tonality. The upper mids does not have significant lay change, probably sound slightly warmer, just slightly.

Treble
The treble is shinny and engaging, and it sound smooth and never get fatiguing. It is well control and extended. The upper treble has good amount of energy and above average amount of crisp definition. It has good amount of sparkle and sound fairly open. The treble has above average detail retrieval and clarity.

Turn on the switches 3, the treble sound brighter with more energy, it increase the amount of lower treble, and it may cause fatiguing for long time listening. The upper treble are slightly crisper and feel more open.


Soundstage and imaging
The width is above an average, the width is way above an average.
The imaging is 3D holographic.


Comparison
BGVP VG4 ($229USD)

Bass
The VG4 bass has leaner bass, even when the number 3 switch on. The sub bass has more quantity with slightly fuller presentation on 4PRO. The bass has more weight and sound thicker on the 4PRO, while the VG4 hit harder and and transition faster. The 4PRO and VG4 both have good levels of punch and control, but the VG4 has a better dynamic driver likes bass. The detail retrieval and clarity are both pretty well.

Mids
The midrange are both tuned leaner with the emphasis on upper midrange. The lower midrange on 4PRO has slightly more body and lushness, on the other hand VG4 has slightly better clarity but sound leaner. The upper midrange has similar type of tuning, but the 4PRO has more forwarded and vividly presentation, whereas the VG4 are slightly backward and less prominent here. The detail retrieval are tad better on 4PRO

Treble
The treble are brighter and more attacked on VG4, while the treble on 4PRO slightly smoother with more bodies. The treble are tuned very similar and both extended well. The mid treble probably a little more attacked on VG4, while the 4PRO are slightly smoother. The upper treble have more sparkle and crisp definition on VG4, on the other hand the 4PRO are tuned smoother with shiny top end. The detail retrieval and clarity are tad better VG4.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider and feel more on VG4, while the depth are fairly similar.
The imaging are better on 4PRO.


Oriveti OH300 ($299USD)

Bass
The 4PRO has less sub bass but more mid bass than the OH300, the OH300 on the other hand has more sub bass focus presentation. The bass signature is fairly similar, the OH300 has better dynamic with slower decay speed, while the 4PRO has quicker and tighter bass. The bass on OH300 has more depth and sound fuller, while the bass on the 4PRO has better control and sound cleaner. There are more punch and impact on the OH300, while the 4PRO are slightly lacking here. The detail retrieval and clarity are slightly better on 4PRO.

Mids
The midrange are both clear and fairly smooth, while the 4PRO has more significantly upper midrange boost. The lower midrange on the OH300 has more depth and sound fuller, on their other hand, the 4PRO provide better clarity and sound clearer. The upper midrange sound more vividly and forwarded, with a engaging presentation on 4PRO, where as the OH300 sound smoother with more easy to listen to presentation. The midrange clarity are both pretty well, the detail retrieval are better on 4PRO.

Treble
The treble sound shinny with more energy on 4PRO, while the OH300 has a fatiguing free presentation. The lower treble sound brighter and more vividly on the 4PRO, while the OH300 has a smoother presentation here. The upper treble has more sparkle and air on the the 4PRO, where the OH300 has less sparkle and crisp definition on the top end. The detail retrieval does clarity really better on 4PRO.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are deeper on 4PRO. The width are similar.
The imaging are slightly better on 4PRO.


Final E5000 ($259USD)

Bass
The E5000 has fuller and warmer bass, while the bass on 4PRO are cleaner and tighter. The sub bass has more quantity on E5000, with more rumble and better dynamic, on the other hand, the 4 PRO provide quicker and less organic bass. The bass has more depth on the E5000, where the 4PRO has better control. The detail retrieval and and clarity are better on 4PRO.

Mids
The midrange has more organic and fuller presentation on E5000, while the 4PRO has cleaner and neutral type on presentation. The E5000 has more bodies and sound lusher on E5000, while the 4PRO provide better depth and clarity, it also sound relatively cleaner. The upper midrange sound more vividly and detailed on 4PRO, whereas the E5000 has slightly warmer tonality, with forwarded presentation. The detail retrieval and clarity are way more better on E5000.

Treble
There are more energy and sound clearer on the 4PRO, while the E5000 sound more laid back. The lower treble has more brightness and with more pronounced on the 4PRO, while the E5000 are more laid back and less vividly here. The 4PRO has more air and sparkle on upper treble, the E5000 has rounded and smoother upper treble presentation. The treble’s detail retrieval and clarity are better on the 4PRO.


Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are wider and deeper on 4PRO.
The imaging are better on 4PRO as well.


Obravo Cupid ($250-350)

Bass
The bass on Cupid is fuller and warmer with more quantity, on the other hand the bass on 4PRO are cleaner and clearer. The sub bass has deeper extension on Cupid, while the 4PRO provide quicker decay. The bass has more organic and dynamic presentation on Cupid, while the 4PRO provide tighter and more control bass. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on 4PRO.

Mids
The midrange are more recessed on Cupid, while the 4PRO has better tonal balance. The lower midrange has better depth and sound cleaner on 4PRO, while the Cupid sound slightly recessed here. The upper midrange both presented in vividly and forwarded manner, but the 4PRO has better timbre and sound more realistic, with less sharp edges. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on 4PRO.

Treble
The treble are more vividly with more airy presentation on Cupid, while the 4PRO are smoother but remaining the shine. The lower treble are more peaky on Cupid, and it is tuned brighter, on the other hand, 4PRO presented in smoother manner. The upper treble has slightly more air and sparkle on Cupid, but there are relatively sharp presentation. The detail retrieval and clarity are fairly similar.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is fairly similar, but the depth is tad better on 4PRO.
The imaging is wired on Cupid, but it is fairly well done. While the 4 PRO are pretty good as well.


Etymotic ER4XR ($305USD)

Bass
The bass on ER4 has less quantity and leaner, while the 4PRO has better dynamic and sound fuller. The sub bass has better extension on 4PRO. The bass has more rumble and hit harder on 4PRO, while the ER4 are typical BA bass that provide a snappy sound. The bass has more weight on 4PRO and it is punchier, while the ER4 are weaker here. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on 4PRO.

Mids
There are neutral and clean tone on both, but the 4PRO are slightly warmer with mildly V shape type of presentation. The lower midrange has better depth and sound fuller on 4PRO, while the ER4 are leaner and slightly clearer. The upper midrange are more forward and vividly with a engaging presentation on 4PRO, in the comparison, the ER4 sound relatively laid back and smoother. The detail retrieval is better on 4PRO, clarity are both well done.

Treble
The treble has more energy and sound more vividly on 4PRO, while the ER4 is slightly darker and more laid back in comparison. The lower treble sound brighter and clear on 4PRO, while the ER4 is smoother overall. The upper treble has slightly more air and sparkle on 4PRO, which ER4 lack on. The detail retrieval are better on 4PRO, clarity just tad better on 4PRO.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is better on 4PRO.
The imaging is better on 4PRO, in term of layering, they are fairly similar.


Dunu EST112 ($489USD)

Bass
There are less sub bass but more mid bass on the 4PRO, it lead the tonality warmer. The bass on both are clean and pretty tight, but the EST112 has more natural timbre and decay speed due to the dynamic driver. The 4PRO has slightly clearer bass and it is snappier, where the EST112 has better impact and punch. The 4PRO provide cleaner rumble, while the EST112 has fuller rumble. The detail retrieval and clarity are touch better on 4PRO.

Mids
The midrange has more V shape tonality on 4PRO with more energetic presentation, on the other hand, the EST112 is warmer and relatively smoother. The lower midrange has better depth and and additional lushness on EST112, whereas the 4PRO has leaner tone with better clarity. The upper midrange has more vividly and forwarded presentation on 4PRO, while the EST112 are relatively laid back and smoother. The detail and clarity are slightly better on 4PRO.

Treble
The treble is both well controlled with good amount of brightness, but the 4PRO is relatively peakier. The lower midrange on both have good levels of energy, and without any fatiguing, but the EST112 has smoother presentation here. The upper treble has more crispness on 4PRO, on the other hand, the EST112 has more airiness with silkier expression. The detail retrieval and clarity slightly better on EST112.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider and and slightly deeper on EST112.
The imaging on both are well done, but the EST112 is better.




Conclusion
The Tansio Mirai TSMR-4PRO is extremely well build IEMs, with different stunning option of faceplate and shell color, it is definitely a strong competitor for its price range.Not surprisingly, the TSMR-4PRO provide a really strong tonality and technical performance. The coherence and tonal balance is extremely well done, it presented clear yet engaging presentation. The TSMR-4PRO is definitely one of the best IEMs for $300USD price range! Thank you for reading, and Happy Listening!

Tansio Mirai official website: https://tansio-mirai.com
Tansio Mirai TSMR-4PRO product page: https://penonaudio.com/tansio-mirai-tsmr-4pro.html

Introduction
The Moondrop lab is a Chinese company that founded back in 2014, and they have been well known as their anime style marketing and harman style tuning. They have been already release few really successful products, today I am checking out their new single DD IEM, the SSP(Super Spaceship Pulse), which recital for $39.99USD




Disclaimer
I would like to thanks Cloris from Moondrop for given this opportunity, and the review will be based on my honest opinion through the music I listen to.


Package & accessories
The ITM03 come with the small and compact box, there are the typical Moondrop style illustration at the front cover with the brand name, model name and other information, whereas the specifications at the rear side of it. After remove the cover, the IEM itself are sited in the foam, along with the accessories box that contained the ear tips and carry pouch.






Accessories list:
1 pair x Moondrop SSP (Super Spaceship Pulse)
1 pcs x Detachable Cable with 0.78mm 2 Pin Connector
3 pairs x Silicone Eartips (size S/M/L)
1pcs x PU Carry Pouch



The accessories come with SSP is fairly simple but useful, the PU carry pouch allow the user to store one pair of IEMs, it has Moondrop branded logo at the front and finished in the black color.



The SSP come with three pair of ear tips in different sizes, which allow the user to get the best fit as well as the sound.



The SSP come with the 4 core silver plated copper cable, it has 3.5 mm L angled connector in transparent plastic shell finished. It features the 0.78mm 2 pin connector with both of blue & red / L&R indicator to show left and right. The Y-splitter are in plastic transparent shell finished as well as the 2 pin connector. There are cable slider in transparent plastic finished. It is overall soft and flexible cable.




Design & Build & Comfort
The design on the SSP are minimalistic and unique. The shell has matte finished in navy blue color. The shell and faceplate are jointed with the screw in gold finished, which is easy to be open and repair. There are the L&R indicator on inner surface of the shell to indicate left and right, while the vents are located at the rear side of the nozzle.





The build quality on SSP are really good, especially for its price. The shell are well rounded, with out any gap and sharp edges. The shell and faceplate are made with amorphous metal alloy material, and screw in with the golden screw. The CNC processed is definitely finished in high standard, there are no significant gap between the edges of the joints. The SSP has the metal filter on the outside with the anti clogging filter and damper inside, which can minimize the effect form the the dust. The 2 pin female connectors are tight, and do not have sign of wear and tear after I swapped few times of cable.





The fits are good on the SSP, but I find out it is fitting like a bullet type of earphone. Because the shell are not supported the fit, most of the supported come from the nozzle, so it is more depended on the ear tips itself.






Technical specifications:
Frequency response: 20Hz-20kHz(IEC60318-4)
Impedance: 16Ω
Sensitivity: 112dB/Vrms
THD+N: ≤ 1%



Sound

Paring
I use M sizes stock ear tips with stock cable run through my music library on the Fiio M11.




Overall tonality
The SSP has mildly V shape tonality, with a upper midrange emphasis presented in balanced yet fatiguing free manner.

Bass
The bass is rich with slightly warm-ish tonality. It has moderate sub bass extension with slightly slow decay speed. The sub bass has more pronounced than the mid bass in term of quantity. The bass has average impact, rumble and punch, While the clarity and detail retrieval are average as well. The bass has good level of control with a average speed. It is overall rich and well controlled bass.

Mids
The mids is close to neutral and well balanced with slightly warm tuned. The low mids has right amount of bodies with average level of depth presented in clear manner. The upper midrange has harman-isn emphasized with great transparency levels, it has moderate amount of bodies and presented in and forwarded and engaging manner. The midrange show really good levels of detail and transparency without sounding too thin or fatiguing.

Treble
The treble has moderate levels of brightness, it is presented in fatiguing free manner. The treble is smooth and well controlled. The upper treble has moderate amount of sparkle with average amount of crisp. The treble has good amount of airiness. The detail retrieval and clarity are above the average.

Imaging and soundstage
The imaging is above the average, while the soundstage are just alright for both of depth and width.



Comparison
Hifiman RE-400 ($49USD)

Bass
The RE-400 has less sub bass and bass quantity, and presented in clearer and cleaner manner, where as the SSP provide better impact and punch. Both of them extended well, the RE-400 has tighter and better control bass, while the SSP has more bodies and fuller. There are more rumble on SSP, on the other hand RE-400 has more clarity. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on RE-400.

Mids
The midrange is more recessed on SSP, while the RE-400 are more linear and owing the close to neutral presentation. The lower midrange on both have same amount of bodies, but the RE-400 sound cleaner with higher clarity.
The upper midrange on both sound lively and tuned well, the SSP has slightly backwards presentation by its V-shape tuning, the RE-400 has more forwarded presentation. There is higher transparency levels on RE-400, while the detail and clarity on both are really well.

Treble
The treble extend further with slightly brighter tonality on RE-400, both presented smooth and fatiguing free. The RE-400 has more crisp and air on the upper treble, while the SSP are smoother there. The detail retrieval and clarity are slightly better on RE-400.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are wider but less deeper on SSP.
The imaging are slightly better on SSP.



Tripowin Tc-01 ($49USD)

Bass
The sub bass on both extend well and TC-01 has more quantity. The TC-01 has slightly more warmer and meaty presentation with better texture, while the SSP are relatively slightly cleaner. The bass on TC-01 provide better punch and impact, while the SSP are lack of definition here. The TC-01 has tighter bass with better control. The detail retrieval and clarity are slightly better on TC-01.

Mids
The midrange on both has V-shape type of tuning, both are presented in pretty balance manner. The lower midrange on both sound similar, but the TC-01 has better texture and sound clear. The upper midrange sound less forward on TC-01 with higher transparency levels and better thicker timbre, on the other hand, the SSP provide more forwarded presentation with relatively thinner presentation. The detail retrieval and clarity are slightly better on TC-01.

Treble
The treble on TC-01 are slightly more attacked and extended further, while the SSP are smoother here. The treble has less treble energy cmompare to TC-01, where as the TC-01 has more air and crisp presentation on the top end. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on TC-01.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are pretty similar, but feel more open on TC-01.
The imaging are better on TC-01



Kbear Lark ($29USD)

Bass
The sub bass and bass has less quantity on Lark, the bass has fuller and lusher presentation on SSP, where as the Lark has cleaner and clear bass. The bass has tighter presentation on Lark, while the SSP provide the better impact. Both give same amount of punch, where as the Lark are tighter. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on Lark.

Mids
The midrange has more recess presentation on SSP, with the Lark has leaner presentation. The lower midrange has less bodies on Lark, and it sound cleaner but linear, while the SSP sound slightly lusher. The upper midrange on SSP sound slightly forwarded in comparison, both of them tuned well, presented in lively manner. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on SSP.

Treble
The treble sound less peaky, and owing the smoother presentation on SSP, the treble on SSP has fuller timbre and extended less further in comparison to Lark. The lark has crisper and more vividly presentation with more air on the top end. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on Lark.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are wider but less depth on Lark.
The imaging are better on SSP.


Trn V90s ($49USD)

Bas
The V90s has more sub bass and bass quantity and extended further. The bass on both sound meaty with good amount of fuller, but V90s provide better punch and impact. The bass are tighter and clear on V90s, where the SSP are lack of definition here. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on V90s.

Mids
The midrange are both V-shape, while the SSP has less V-shape tonality. Both of them presented in a balance manner. The lower midrange has slightly more quantity on V90s with fuller presentation, while the SSP has less bodies and sound relatively clearer. The upper midrange are slightly more forwarded and also attacked on V90s, while the SSP sound smoother with thicker timbre. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on V90s

Treble
The treble are hotter and extended further on V90s, while the SSP sound smoother with better tonality. The V90s has more air and crisp on the top end. The SSP has less vividly presentation with fuller timbre compare to SSP. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on V90s


Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are wider and slightly deeper on V90s.
The imaging are both pretty good, probably the V90s did better.


Tin Hifi T2 Plus ($53.99USD)

Bass
The sub bass and bass on both have similar quantity. The SSP provide fuller and more meaty bass, where the T2 Plus provide cleaner bass. The SSP provide more impact and slam, while the T2 Plus are bit of lacking here. The bass are tighter with better control on T2 Plus. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on T2 Plus.

Mids
The midrange on both are fairly close to neutral, while the T2 Plus has slightly fuller and thicker tonality. The lower midrange has more bodies on T2 Plus, while the SSP has less lusher presented in clean manner. The upper midrange has smoother and fuller presentation on T2 Plus, where as the SSP has more vividly and engaging presentation. The detail retrieval and clarity are both similar.

Treble
The treble are brighter and extend better on T2 Plus, while the SSP sound smoother and less vividly. The T2 Plus has more airy and crisp on the top sand, the treble sound more open with better detail retrieval T2 plus.


Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are wider and slightly deeper on T2 Plus.
The imaging on both are average.




Conclusion
The Moondrop SSP is well build IEMs for the price range, the simple and cool design make it stand out in the crowded sub $50 dollar price range. Not surprisingly, the SSP offer a strong tonality and technical performance for its price as well. It has well balanced V shape type of tonality, that provide an engaging listening, without being fatiguing. Overall, the Moondrop SSP live up to the benchmark of its price.

Moondrop official website: https://www.moondroplab.com
Moondrop SSP product page: https://shenzhenaudio.com/products/...dome-diaphragm-dynamic-driver-in-ear-earphone

Introduction
EarFun was established in 2018 by an experienced group of industrial designers, acoustic engineers and music enthusiasts who shared the goal of creating next-generation wireless audio devices. Today I am checking out the Air Pro active noise canceling TWS earbuds, which retail for $99.99USD.




Disclaimer
I would like to thanks Gabrielle from EarFun for given this opportunity, and the review will be based on my honest opinion through the music I listen to.


Package & accessories
The Air Pro come with the compact sizes box, there are the image of the Air Pro at the front cover with the brand name, model name and other information, whereas the specifications at the rear side of it. After open the cover from the side, there is the black box on the top, which contain the manual. After removing it, the Air pro with its charging case are sitted in the foam, there is the ear tips and charging cable housed inside the box next to it.








Accessories list:
1 pair x EarFun Air Pro TWS Earbuds
1 pcs x EarFun Air Pro Charging Case
3 pairs x Silicone Ear Tips (S, M, L)
1 pcs x USB A To USB Type C Charging Cable




Design & Build & Comfort
The Air Pro has unique and futuristic design, it is finished in black color with the pearl grey faceplate. There is the EarFun logo located at the front faceplate, while at the rear side there is the L&R indicator to show left and right. There are three microphone located on faceplate, internal shell and bottom of each earbuds.





The design on the charging case is simple and compact. The case are finished in matte black color, at the top of the case there is the EarFun logo sported. The USB C charging port is located at the back of the case, along with the LED indicator. For the internal, the button at the middle used for pairing, and there is the LED indicator next to it. There is the L&R labels in the case for indicating.





The build on both of earbuds and charging case are pretty good for its price range. It is made with plastic, but it doesn’t feel cheap or plasticity. The earbuds and charging case are well rounded and their is no sharp edges at all. The earbuds has the plastic filter on the nozzle to prevent the dust. The charging case has really great open and closing experience. The female USB charging port are well constructed. The earbuds themself are IPX5 rating, which can fully prevent from dust and raining water.





The comfort on the Air Pro are really good. The Air Pro has ergonomic design in the inner shell, so it can fit in the ear canal pretty well. The nozzle are slightly short, and it provide the average isolation, with the ANC mode on, it can reach up to above average isolation.






Control & Paring
The controls of Air Pro are touch controls and it is well responded.

Left earbuds:
Tap two times: Active the Google/ Siri assistance
Tap three times: Switch around normal/ANC/Ambient modes & ignore a call

Right Earbuds
Tap two times: Pause/Play & answer/end a call
Tap three times: Next tracks & ignore a call


The first time paring require the users to pair it manually. By putting the earbuds in the charging case, and press the button in the charging case for 3s to enter the pairing mode, then you can connect the earbuds through your devices. After this, the earbuds will automatically pair to the devices once you open the charging case, the paring speed is really fast, it will be connected before you put it on your ears. The Air Pro can be used in single earbuds, but the functionality is not good as the both earbuds on.


ANC(Active Noise Cancelling)/Transparency mode & microphone
The Air Pro provide the ANC and transparency mode, which is great to see for its price range. The users can switch mode around by triple tape the left earbuds. Both of the ANC and transparency mode are pretty successfully done, thanks to the Quiet Smart Hybird ANC Technology that feature two microphone on each earbuds(inner and outer).

The ANC mode can reduce 38db of noise which EarFun claims. After I test it, it can reduce about 70% of low frequency noise, and 40%-50% of mids to high frequency noise. The Transparency mode allow the users to hear the surrounding. Which is the great feature to make sure you can still hear ambient sound while wearing it, and the result is surprisingly good.

The Air pro feature the 6 microphones call technology, which claims to provide crystal clear vocal with out background noise. After I test it, the microphone catch the human voice clearly without any noise from surround. The voice have good amount of fullness without sounding robotic.


Connectivity & Latency
The connectivity are really stable, they are no significant single lost in most of cases. There are no single lost or not stable situations on the public transports or shopping center as well.

The latency on Air Pro are quite significant while gaming, but not at all when watching movie or listen to music, probably just about a millions seconds.


Operational distance & Battery life
The Operating distance on the Air Pro is around 7-8 meters. It has stable connection until 7 meters, after that the single will not be as stable as before 7 meters.

The battery life are really successfully done for its size and price. The earbuds themself have 9hrs of playback times, plus the 23hrs on charging case, so you get totally 32hrs of playback times, which is impressive. After I test it out, the earbuds themself can play about 8.5hrs (6.5hrs for ANC/Transparency mode) for single charge by using 35% of volume, while the charging case can a least fully charged for 3 times.

The charging process of Air Pro is pretty fast, you can get 2hrs of play back times by charging it for 10 minutes. The earbuds can be fuller charge by less than a hours, whereas the charging case can be fully charge by less then 2 hours.


Technical specifications
Bluetooth version: V5.0
Bluetooth frequency: 2,402GHz-2.48GHz
Bluetooth profile: A2DP, AVRCP, HFP, HSP
Maximum working range: 15m(without obstacle)
Battery capacity: 60mAh x 2(earbuds); 500mAh(charging case)
Charging time: 1.5 hours(for earbuds); 2 hours(for charging case via USB-C)
Playtime: Other Mode--Up to 9 hours, Totally 32 hours with the charging case;
(varies by volume level and audio content)
ANC Mode--Up to 7 hours, Totally 25 hours with the charging case;
(varies by volume level and audio content)
Input: 5V---1A
Dimensions: 67mm x 55mm x 31mm
Weight: 53g


Sound

Paring
I pair the Air Pro to the iPhone 12 and Fiio M11 and play through my music library.




Overall tonality
The Air pro has mildly V shape tonality, with clean yet musical presentation.

Bass
The bass is full bodies with moderate amount of texture. The sub bass has average extension with slow decay speed. It has average amount rumble, impact and punch. The bass has moderate speed with good levels of control. The detail retrieval and clarity are just average.

Mids
The midrange is slightly recessed but remaining the good balanced. The lower midrange has moderate amount of bodies presented in clean manner. The upper midrange are emphasized with good transparency levels, it is presented in vividly yet engaging manner. The midrange show really good levels of detail, clarity and

Treble
The treble are extended well and relatively bright. It is clear and detailed. The upper treble has good amount of sparkle and airiness. It has good levels of crispness on the top end. The detail retrieval and clarity are above the average.

Soundstage and imaging
It has average width and depth.
The imaging are average.




Conclusion
The EarFun Air Pro is the well build TWS earbuds, for its price range, it is extreme functional and easy to used during everyday life. Both of the ANC and transparency modes are great, and the touch control panel are well responded. It also has the automatic pause features when you remove them, which is awesome. The sound is typical V shape, but it is well balanced yet detailed. The Air Pro are definitely worth every bit you paid for, really great everyday carry TWS earbuds overall. Thank you for reading and Happy Listening!!

EarFun official website: https://www.myearfun.com
EarFun Air Pro product page: https://www.myearfun.com/headphones/earfun-air-pro-anc-true-wireless-earbuds-black

Introduction
The Maktar is the Taiwanese company that design and manufactured the Apple MFi certified accessories. The Spectra X2 is the Dac/Amp dongle designed by Nextdrive, which is also the Taiwanese company that specializes in Dac/Amp products. Two companies has work together as collaboration to make sure the Spectra X2 can support the iOS devices. The price of the Spectra X2 is $199USD.




Disclaimer
I would like to thanks Wei from Nextdrive for given this opportunity, and the review will be based on my honest opinion through the music I listen to.


Package & accessories
The Spectra X2 come with the moderate sizes box, there are the image of the Spectra X2 at the front cover with the brand name, model name and other information, whereas the specifications at the rear side of it. After open the cover from the side, the dongle it self is sited in the foam. There are carry pouch and handbook contain under the dongle.






Accessories list
1 pcs x Maktar Spectra X2 Dac Dongle
1 pcs x Carry Pouch



The Spectra X2 come with really nice finished carry pouch, it is made with non-woven fabric, and there is the Maktar branded logo on top.






Design & Build
The design on Spectra X2 is fairly simple and minimalistic. The main body and lightning connector part are in the aluminum shell with matte finished in the black color. On the main body there is the model name “Spectra X2” located on top along with the unique waveform pattern.





While at the rear side of the main body there is the two brands sported. The wire that connect with the main bodies and connector are finished with the braided wire.





The build quality on the Spectra X2 are really good, it is well rounded and polished. The 3.5 mm jack and the connector part do not have any loose after I used for few weeks. The cable also has additional strain reliever to provide the better durability.






Technical specifications:
Type : USB DAC/AMP
DAC : SABRE ES9118EQ
Sample rate : PCM : 8Hz – 384kHz (16/24/32bits) native – DSD64/128/256
Outputs : 3.5mm (single-ended)
Input : Lightning (8-pin)
Frequency Response : 20Hz – 20kHz (+/- 0.5dB)
Output power : 15mW@32ohms
THD : – 105dB
Weight: 17g


Driving power & connectivity & hissing
The Maktar & Nextdrive claims that Spectra X2 can drive up to 150 Ω, As far as I tried he Final audio B1, it required 30-35% of volume. The Spectra X2 don’t need any driver or app to be installed before using them. There are no background noise on Spectra X2.


Sound

Paring
I used both of the iPad mini 5 and iPhone 12 as the source to play my music library through the Spectra X2 and connected to my IEMs.


Overall tonality
The tonality on Spectra X2 are fairly neutral and articulated. It has well controlled and fast bass, refined yet smooth mids, and clear yet crisp treble compare to iPad mini 5 and iPhone 12.

Bass
The bass are clean and articulated, the sub bass has average extended and quick decay speed. The bass has above average punch and impact. It has good levels of detail and clarity. The bass are well well controlled and detailed.

Mids
The midrange are close to neutral with slightly bright tonality. The lower midrange has moderate bodies and sound clean with high levels of clarity. The upper midrange sound vividly with good balance of forwardness. It has high levels of transparency and detail midrange.

Treble
The treble are extended well and sound sparkly. The treble are detailed and clear. The upper treble has good amount of sparkle and airiness. It has above average levels of crispness. The detail retrieval and clarity are above the average.

Soundstage and imaging
The width and depth are both above the average.
The imaging are really good as well.


Comparison
IKKO Zerda ITM03 ($99USD)

Bass
The bass on X2 are more linear compare to ITM03, while the ITM03 provide more powerful bass with slightly more depth. The bass has more clarity and detail on X2, whereas the ITM03 has warmer and fuller tonality.

Mids
The midrange are cleaner on X2, fuller on ITM03. The X2 has more neutral timbre in comparison, while the ITM03 has more natural presentation. The midrange has higher transparency level and clarity on X2, while the both did the pretty good jobs in term of detail retrieval.

Treble
The treble are brighter and extended further on X2, both has similar tonality, but the ITM03 has more bodies, while he X2 are slightly clearer. The treble has more airiness and crisp on X2. The detail retrieval and clarity are slightly better on X2.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are wider on X2, with same levels of depth.
The imaging are pretty similar.




Conclusion
The Maktar Spectra X2 are nicely finished Dac dongle, it is well constructed and finished in high standard. The output power is fairly enough and stable. It offer the great detail sound for its price range. The sound is neutral and articulated. It is able to provide clean bass, smooth yet detailed midrange, crisp yet clear treble. Thank you for reading, Happy listening!

Maktar Spectra X2 product link: https://www.amazon.com/Maktar-Spectra-Lightning-Portable-DAC/dp/B08GLY69G9

Introduction
The DD hifi is Chinese company founded in 2017, they are specialized in accessories, storage, connected products that is related to audio market. Such as the cables, adapter, carry case and DAP cases... In this review I am checking out their C-2019 carry bag, the price of it is $36USD.



Disclaimer
I would like to thanks Lily from DD hifi for given this opportunity, and the review will be based on my honest opinion through the music I listen to.


Package & Accessories
The C-2019 carry case come inside the plastic sealed bag, the carry case itself are wrapped with the paper sleeve that has the model name and brand name in front, whereas the specification at he rear side.




Accessories list
1 pcs x DD Hifi Carry Case
2 pcs x Velcro Separators




Design & Build & Sizes
The C-2019 has a minimalistic design language. The carry case has black finished with the leather DD branding adorns at the corner. The zippers has mirror-ish finished.





For the inside, DD Hifi did the good job of organized the internal storage. There are two elastic pockets that allow users to store the cable, dongle or adapter... There are five SD card holders which provide the storage for SD cards.





On the other side, there are two elastic straps for holding the DAP securely. The additional two velcro separators can be used to organize the space yourself.



It has the handle stitched on the upper corner, which is easy for holding it.



The build quality on C-2019 carry case are outstanding for its price. The carry case itself are made with doubled layer fabric and every stitch line are perfect done. The zippers are running smoothly and it is made with the SBS material. The detail on inner layer are perfectly done as well. It has the soft padded in the top layer, while the hard internal materials used for button and all around, which give the good protection.



The sizes of C-2019 are well projected. The sizes is according to widely used 2:1 aspect ration with 40mm thickness. The top layer can fit most of audio accessories or products easily, for example, the dongle, cable, adapter or SD cards...





The lower layer can be organized to what users would like, for instance, the combination of DAP and dongle, DAP and IEM, DAP and cable, or a least three pairs of IEMs.






Conclusion
The DD hifi C-2019 are amazing carry case for its price range. I am happy to announce that we finally had the affordable price carry case with great build quality for the audio market!! The C-2019 carry case is definitely one of the best carry case in the market, probably the only one. I am really excited to checkout more DD hifi product. Thank you for reading, and Happy listening!

DD Hifi official website: https://www.ddhifi.com/products
DD Hifi C-2019 product page:https://www.ddhifi.com/productinfo/1431284.html

Introduction
The IKKO audio are relatively young Chinese company, they developed wider range of audio products, the OH1 & 10 hybrid IEMs are especially well known. After that, they start to release some audio products, like the DAC/AMP, USB DAC, cable and Bluetooth cable. Today I am checking out their Bluetooth cable which is the Arc ITB05. The price of it is $129USD.




Disclaimer
I would like to thanks Watson from IKKO audio for given this opportunity, and the review will be based on my honest opinion through the music I listen to.


Package & Accessories
The Arc ITB05 come with the large size box, there are the typical IKKO style illustration at the front cover with the brand name, model name and other information, whereas the specifications at the rear side of it. There is the black box after remove the cover. After open the box from the side, there is the bluetooth cable it self sit it in the foam, while the carry bag, charging cable and ear hook in the bottom of box.






Accessories list
1 pcs x IKKO Arc ITB05 Bluetooth Cable
1 pcs x Carry Bag
1 pair x Ear Hook
1 pcs x USB A To Type C Charging Cable



The accessories it come with is useful and reasonable. The leather carry pouch has well finished, it has fluffy material inside to provide the better protection.



The ITB05 come with the USB A to Type C charging cable, the cable has green color finished in the braided. It also come with the additional pair of ear hook for providing the better wearing experience.








Design & Build & Comfort
The ITB05 has beautiful design of combining the leather and metal materials.

9

The ITB05 cable has two housing which is made by aluminum alloy material with mirror finished. The two housing has the leather strap winded around. The right housing features 3 buttons for remote control. The led light is located at the middle button, while the microphone is located at the side of the upper button. The USB Type C charging plot is also located at the right housing. There is the IKKO brand logo sports on the right housing in silver front.





The neckband is made with leather finished in dark brown color.



The cable is made with single crystal copper gold plated material in rubber-ish finished. There are both of 2 pin and MMCX version available. Overall the design is beautifully made.



The build quality on the ITB05 are really good, especially the material used is way above its price range. The two metal housing do not have any sharp edges or glue around the joints. The sketch leather show the good craftsmanship. Both of the connector do not have sign of wear and tear after I swapped few times of cable.



The comfort on ITB05 are pretty good, it look heavy, but it is surprisingly lighter than I thought. The neckband is soft enough to wear it around your neck, the two housing are well balanced. The cable can be adjust easily, the additional ear hook can provide the better wearing experience.


Control & Paring



The control both the ITB05 are quite easy to understand.
Top button (near the neck band) is:
Volume down (press one)/previous track (long press) button.
Middle button is:
Play/pause/call answer or ignore (press one)/turn on and turn off (press for 3sec)/paring (press for 5 sec while shutdown) button.
Bottom button (opposite side to the neck band) is :
Volume up (press one)/next track (long press) button.

The first time pairing of the ITB05 require the users to pair it manually, by pressing the middle button for 5 sec while shutdown will enter the paring mode, then you can connect it through their devices. After this, when you turn on the ITB05, it will automatically connect to your devices when the Bluetooth is on.


Connectivity & Latency
The connectivity on ITB05 are pretty stable in most of cases, but there will be some of single lost when you are on public transport, shopping centers.. which is acceptable.

The latency on ITB05 are quite significant while gaming, but not at all when watching movie or listen to music, probably just about a millions seconds.


Driving power & Battery life
The driving power on ITB05 is powerful enough to driver my Final audio B1 and E5000 by using 25% of volume.

The battery life of ITB05 are really good, it has capacity of >280mAh. Which IKKO claims for provide 9hrs of play back, after my personal testing it provide 9hrs and 20mins of play back time by using 20% of volume through iPhone 12. The charging process take about 1.5hrs.


Operating distance & microphone
The Operating distance on the ITB05 is around 6 meters. It has stable connection until 5 meters, after that the single will not be as stable as before 5 meters.

The microphone of the ITB05 can provide clear and detail voice with good amount of bodies without sounding robotic.


Technical specifications:
Dac Chip: Dual AKM4377
Bluetooth Version: 5.0
SNR: 120dB
TNR: 0.001%
Output power: 64mW@32ohm
Charger input: 5V 500mA
Battery capacity: 280mAh
Working time: 9 hours
Support format: SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD



Sound

Paring
I connect the ITB05 to the Oriveti OH300, Final audio B1, BGVP VG4, Penon Orb, IKKO OH10, pair it with iPhone 12 and Fiio M11. The conclusion of the sound is based on the sound comparison between the ITB05 and stock cable.


Overall tonality
The ITB05 has a neutral tonality with out any coloration or weird emphasis, which will be effect to the original sound. It has good bass punch and speed, detailed midrange, along with refined and extended treble.

Bass
The bass are presented in clean manner, the sub bass has average extended and decay speed. The bass has above average punch and impact. It has good levels of detail and clarity. The bass are well controlled and clean.

Mids
The midrange has close to neutral with no overly coloration. The lower midrange has fair amount of bodies and sound clean and highly detailed. The upper midrange are well done. It has good levels of transparency and detail. It sound lively yet smooth.

Treble
The treble are extended well and slightly bright. The treble are well refined and control. The upper treble has good amount of sparkle and airiness. It has good levels of crispness. The detail retrieval and clarity are above the average.

Soundstage and imaging
It has above average width and depth.
The imaging are well done.



Conclusion
The IKKO Arc ITB05 Bluetooth cable are well build with nice looking. It provide stable connectivity and good levels of comfort. The sound on ITB05 is able to provide how the original tonality is. There are decent bass punch, great midrange detail, well tuned treble. Overall the cable is the really good deal for people who looking for the Bluetooth cable. Thank you for reading, Happy Listening!!

IKKO Audio official website: https://ikkoaudio.com/?ref=1
IKKO ARC ITB05 produt page: https://ikkoaudio.com/product/ikko-itb05/?ref=1

Introduction
Penon audio is well known as the online retailer for wide range of audio brand. They start their own house brand under the name Penon audio since 2017, and they manufacture the IEMs, earbuds and cable. In this review I am checking out the Orb, the drivers configuration is 1DD+1BA, price of it is $259.




Disclaimer
I would like to thanks Penon audio for given this opportunity, and the review will be based on my honest opinion through the music I listen to.


Package & Accessories
The Orb come with the small and compact box. The box has Penon audio logo in golden front located at the front, whereas the specifications at the rear side of it. After opening the box, there is the carry case with IEM and cable contain inside, along with the ear tips contain in small carry pouch. There are cleaning tool, cable wrap and cable clip contain inside the carry pouch under the bottom of box after removing the carry case.










Accessories list:
1 pair x Penon Orb In-Ear Monitors
1 pcs x 0.78mm 2 Pin Detachable Cable
4 pairs x Orange Silicone Eartips (size S/M/L)
4 pairs x Green Silicone Eartips (size S/M/L)
1 pcs x Blue PU Case
2pcs x Carry Pouch (Small and large)
1 pcs x Cleaning Tool
1 pcs x Cable Wrap
1 pcs x Cable Clip



The accessories it come with is rich and luxury. The carry case included are nicely made with PU material in blue color with golden Penon audio front and zipper, it allow the users to store a least one pair of IEM, with different sizes of accessories slots inside, which is great for cable, ear tips, cleaning tools or SD cards.... It also contain two different sizes of carry pouch finished in fluffy material with brand logo on top.







The Orb come with two types of ear tips to provide the the best fits and sound to users. It also come with the additional cleaning tools, cable wrap with their logo and cable clips, which is great for users.





The Orb come with the 8 core silver plated copper cable, it has 3.5 mm straight connector in silver metal finished with brand logo. It features the 0.78mm 2 pin connector with L&R to show left and right. The Y-splitter are in metal shell as well as the 2 pin connector. There are cable slider in silver metal finished. It is overall well build and flexible cable.




Design & Build & Comfort
The shell on orb has a good ergonomic design. The shell are superb clear and fully transparent. It is handmade with the medical grade resins, which is solid than the 3D printer shell. The faceplate has a word Penon in the golden color located on the left earpiece, while the word ORB located on the right earpiece. There are the blue and red mark on the dynamic driver inside of the IEM to indicate left and right. There are the vents on the back of the shell with filter.





The build quality on Orb are really good especially the shell are superb clear. The shell are well rounded, with out any gap and sharp edges. The Orb has resin filled in at the sound bore part of the IEM for holding the components. The BA and dynamic driver in side are perfectly placed at the place, while the wire inside are organize in the high standard. It has two sound bores and holes for each of driver, the nozzle are perfectly drilled and divided into two holes. The 2 pin female connectors are tight, and do not have sign of wear and tear after I swapped few times of cable.





The Orb has really good ergonomic design with short nozzle. The fits on Orb are really good with average isolation. There are no pressure build up after an hours of listening, thanks to the vents on the shell.






Technical Specification
Impedance: 10 Ω @1khz
Sensitivity: 112 ± 3dB @1khz
Frequency response: 20hz-20Khz


Sound

Paring
I use the orange ear tips with the stock cable run through my music library on the Fiio M11. The orange ear tips has less bass and more treble energy.




Overall tonality
The Orb has mildly U shape tonality, it has smooth and melodious presentation.

Bass
The bass is full bodies with slightly thick timbre. The sub bass has above average extension with moderate decay speed. It has above average rumble impact and punch. It has moderate speed with good levels of control. The detail retrieval are pretty well, while the clarity are above the average. The bass on the Orb is probably the best I ever heard for under the $500USD.

Mids
The midrange is well textured and musical. The low midrange has good amount of bodies and depth presented in lush yet clean manner. The upper midrange has well emphasis, it has good amount of bodies and presented in melodious yet lively manner. The midrange show extremely good levels of texture without losing the detail and clarity.

Treble
The treble has smooth yet clear presentation. The treble has average extended with a fatiguing free listen. The upper treble has average amount of airiness with moderate amount of sparkle and crisp. The detail retrieval and clarity are slightly above the average.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is average on both of width and depth.
The imaging are slightly above the average, as the background is slightly muddy.



Comparison
BGVP VG4 ($229USD)

Bass
The ORB has more sub bass and bass quantity compare to VG4. The sub bass has better extension on ORB, whereas the VG4 provide the quicker decay. The bass has more weight on the ORB and sound warmer, while the VG4 has close to neutral type bass. The ORB has better punch and impact in the bass, while the VG4 has quicker speed and slightly better clarity. Both of them has good amount of detail, but the VG4 did it cleaner.

Mids
The midrange has warmer and lusher presentation on ORB, whereas the VG4 has more slightly less fuller and colder presentation. The lower midrange has more bodies and sound lusher on ORB, while the VG4 has more clarity and own the cleaner presentation. The upper midrange are both push forward and, the ORB has fuller timbre and sound more natural in my opinion. The VG4 has more vividly presentation with better transparency levels. The detail and clarity are better on VG4.

Treble
The treble are both smooth, but the VG4 has brighter tonality. The treble has better extension on VG4 with more open sound, while the ORB provide the smooth and fatiguing free listening. The upper treble has slightly more sparkle and airiness on VG4, whereas the ORB are smoother here.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are wider on VG4, with similar depth.
The imaging are better on VG4


Oriveti OH300 ($299USD)

Bass
The sub bass on both has similarly quantity, the sub bass has better extension on ORB, while the OH300 has quicker decay. The bass has more weight and sound thicker on the ORB, while the OH300 has cleaner and less warmer presentation. The bass has better punch and impact on ORB, while the bass on OH300 are quicker with speed with better clarity. The bass on ORB has more depth compare to OH300. The detail retrieval are fairly similar.

Mids
The midrange has more texture and sound lusher on the ORB, while the OH300 has close to neutral tonality with tad of warmth. The lower midrange has more bodies and sound significantly lusher on ORB, while the OH300 has better clarity and sound cleaner. The upper midrange are more vividly on OH300 with better transparency levels, while the ORB has fuller and more natural presentation. The clarity and detail retrieval are both pretty good on both of them.

Treble
The treble on both are smooth, but the OH300 has brighter treble with better extension. Both of them provide the fatiguing free listening, while the ORB has fuller and softer presentation. The upper treble has similar amount of sparkle and airiness, but the OH300 feel slightly more open. The detail retrieval are better on OH300. The clarity on are well done.


Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are wider on OH300, with similar depth.
The imaging are slightly better on OH300, as the OH300 has cleaner and darker background


Final audio E5000 ($269USD)

Bass
The sub bass on the E5000 has warmer tonality, while the Orb are cleaner. The sub bass has slightly better extension and quicker decay speed on Orb. The bass has thicker timbre with slightly more weight on E5000, while the Orb has less weight but offer clearer presentation. The bass has better punch and impact on the Orb, it also provide the deeper bass. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on Orb.

Mids
The midrange on both are smooth and well textured, but the E5000 has warmer and slightly lusher presentation. The lower midrange sound slightly lusher on E5000, while the Orb provide more clarity. The upper midrange has more lively presentation on Orb with higher levels of transparency, whereas the E5000 has more bodies, which sound more natural. The detail retrieval and clarity are bette on Orb.

Treble
The treble are both tuned toward the laid back manner. But the Orb offer slightly more airiness and sparkle. The E5000 has darker tonality, while the Orb has crisp presentation on the upper treble section. The detail retrieval and clarity on Orb are slightly better.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are slightly wider on Orb, with same level of depth.
The imaging on both are pretty average.


Obravo Cupid ($250-350USD)

Bass
The sub bass and bass has more quantity on Cupid, while the Orb offer the better extension. The bass has more weight on Cupid, whereas the Orb has clearer bass with slower decay speed. The bass on boss has good levels of impact and slam, but the Orb has deeper bass and punch more pronounce. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on Orb.

Mids
The midrange are more recessed on Cupid with thinner timbre, while the Orb has lusher and warmer tonality. The lower midrange has more bodies and depth on Orb, while the Cupid has thinner presentation. The upper midrange has vividly presentation on Cupid with thinner timbre, whereas the Orb has fuller timbre, which sound more realistic and lively in my opinion. The detail retrieval and clarity are both pretty good.

Treble
The treble has brighter tonality on Cupid, while the Orb offer a fatiguing free listen. The Cupid has more airiness and crisp on the upper treble, while the Orb are slightly laid back here. Both of them have good amount of sparkle. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on the Cupid.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are wider on Cupid, deeper on Orb.
The imaging are better on Cupid.


Etymotic ER4XR ($305USD)

Bass
The ER4 has less sub bass and bass quantity, whereas the Orb provide better sub bass extension and go deeper. The bass has more weight and sound fuller on the Orb, while he ER4 has quicker bass decay. The Orb has more rumble, impact and punch, while the ER4 sound relatively clearer. The detail retrieval and clarity are both pretty similar.

Mids
The midrange has more bodies and sound lusher on he Orb, while the ER4 has less bodies and tuned toward the neutral target. The lower midrange sound fuller with more bodies on the Orb, while the ER4 has slightly better clarity. The upper midrange has similar kind of presentation, but the Orb has slightly more bodies and sound forward in comparison. The detail retrieval are similar, while the clarity are slightly better on ER4.

Treble
The treble on both are smooth and tuned more laid back, but the Orb has more airiness and crisp at the top end. The upper treble has slightly more sparkle on the Orb. The detail retrieval and clarity are both similar, probably Orb did it slightly better in comparison.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are wider and deeper on Orb.
The imaging are better on Orb, but the ER4 has better layering thanks to cleaner backgrounds.




Conclusion
The Penon Orb has top build quality, especially the internal driver wiring is the neatly I ever seen. The tonality on Orb are excellent, it has extreme musical and smooth presentation with enough of treble energy. The vocal has well texture with top tier timbre. The bass on Orb are just amazing. The Orb will be added to my best $250USD to $300USD list. If you are looking for IEMs in this price range should not miss it. Lastly, I am glad to tell you all, the Orb is the best IEM in my collection, no matter what the price is!!

Penon audio official website:https://penon-official.com
Penon Orb product page: https://penon-official.com/product/penon-orb/

Introduction
Dunu is the Chinese company founded in 1994, they have been in audio market for the long time and well know by audiophiles community. The SA3 is their entry level IEM in their Studio line up. The Studio series is their brand new line up, and it is also the first time they using the all BA set up in their IEMs. The price of the SA3 is $139USD, the driver configuration is 3BA.




Disclaimer
I would like to thanks Kevin from Dunu for given this opportunity, and the review will be based on my honest opinion through the music I listen to.


Package & Accessories
The SA3 come with the small and compact box, there are the brand name, model name and series name located at the front cover, whereas the specifications at the rear side of it. After remove the cover, there is the black box with Dunu logo, and it contain the carry case with IEM and cable inside. There are ear tips and cleaning tool on the bottom of box after removing the cover.








Accessories list:
1 pair x DUNU SA3 In-Ear Monitors
1 pcs x 0.78mm 2 Pin Detachable Cable with
4 pairs x Blue Silicone Eartips (size S/2xM/L)
3 pairs x Grey Silicone Eartips (size S/M/L)
3 pairs x White Silicone Eartips (size S/M/L)
1 pcs x Blue Leather Case
1 pcs x Cleaning Tool
1 pcs x Manual + Warranty Card



The accessories it come with is really good for its price range. The carry case include is nicely made with leather and finished in blue color, there is the fluffy material inside for better protection.





The SA3 come with three different types of ear tips for provide the best fit and sound to the users. It also come with the additional cleaning tools, which is nice to see that in the price range.





The SA3 come with the 4 core high-purity monocrystalline silver plated OFC (Oxygen Free Copper) cable, it has 3.5 mm straight connector in silver metal finished. It features the 0.78mm 2 pin connector with L&R to show left and right. The Y-splitter are in metal shell, whereas the 2 pin male connector are made with plastic material. There are cable slider in silver metal finished. It is overall well looking and flexible cable.




Design & Build & Comfort
The shell on SA3 has a semi-custom style design. The shell are in blue color with slightly transparent design. It is made with the 3D printed biocompatible photopolymer material, while the faceplate are made by Photocurable Resin material. The faceplate has beautiful design, with a white brush painted on the blue faceplate, which is the hand painted. There are golden Dunu logo located on the left earpiece, while the 3 in gold color sport on the right earpiece. There are L&R mark on the inner side of the IEM to indicate left and right. There are no vents on the SA3.





The build quality on SA3 are really good and feel solid, especially for its price. The shell are well rounded, with out any gap and sharp edges. The SA3 has resin filled in at the sound bore part to about 1/2 of the IEM for holding the components. The BA driver in side are perfectly placed at the place, while the wire inside are well organized. There are two sound bore in the IEM, with a metal filter at the nozzle part for prevent the dust. The 2 pin female connectors are tight, and do not have sign of wear and tear after I swapped few times of cable.





The SA3 are on the large side and the nozzle are bit short, but it doesn’t effect the fits in any way. The fits on SA3 are really good, thanks to the semi-custom shell design, and it has above average isolation. The peoples who own the small ear may find out it fit really tight, but not the problem for regular size ear at all. There will be the pressure build up after listening for a hour.






Technical Specification
Frequency response: 5 Hz – 40 kHz
Sensitivity: 112 dB
Impedance: 13 Ω @ 1 kHz
Total harmonic distortion: <0.5% at 1kHz


Sound

Paring
I use the blue ear tips with stock cable run through my music library on the Fiio M11. The blue ear tips has fuller and forwarder midrange presentation follow by white one then black one. The black one has more balanced presentation, while the white one has more emphasis on bass, the blue one has more emphasis on midrange. The treble has sparkle and airiness on blue tips are better follow by black one then white one.




Overall tonality
The Dunu SA3 has close to neutral and slightly warm tonality, presented in smooth and engaging manner.

Bass
The bass is linear and close to neutral, with moderate amount of sub bass. It has moderate sub bass extension with quick decay speed. The Bass has average impact, rumble and punch, While the clarity and detail retrieval are really good. The Bass has good level of speed and control. It is overall clean and tight bass.

Mids
The mids is close to neutral and well balanced with slightly warm tuned. The low mids has moderate amount of bodies with good level of depth presented in clean and clear manner. The upper midrange has well emphasized with great transparency levels, it has good amount of bodies and presented in vividly and engaging manner. The midrange show really good levels of detail, clarity and transparency without sounding too thin or fatiguing.

Treble
The treble has good levels of brightness, but it never get harsh or fatiguing. The treble is smooth and well controlled. The upper treble has good amount of sparkle with average amount of crisp. The treble has good amount of airiness.
The detail retrieval and clarity are really well.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage has average depth with good level of width.
The imaging are really good, especially for its price.



Comparison
IKKO OH1 ($139USD)

Bass
The OH1 has more sub bass and bass quantity compare to the SA3. The sub bass has better extension on OH1. The bass has more weight on OH1, and it has more impactful rumble and punch on OH1. The bass are warmer on OH1, While the SA3 are smoother and has better speed and control. Both have similar amount of detail, while the SA3 offer better clarity.

Mids
The midrange are more recessed and warmer on OH1, whereas the SA3 are more balanced and fuller. The lower midrange has slightly fuller bodies on SA3, while the OH1 are cleaner. The upper midrange has more lively but thin presentation on OH1, while the SA3 are fuller and more realistic in my opinion. The transparency levels are both pretty good. They have similar amount of detail. The OH1 has better clarity.

Treble
The treble are slightly brighter and smoother on SA3, while the OH1 are and more open. The treble has thinner and dryer presentation on the OH1. The upper treble has more sparkle and airiness on SA3, whereas the OH1 are less prominent here. The detail retrieval are both pretty similar. The OH1 has better clarity.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are slightly wider on OH1, depth are better on SA3.
The imaging are better on SA3.


Final audio E4000 ($149USD)

Bass
The E4000 has more sub bass and bass quantity compare to SA3. The sub bass has better extension on E4000 with slower decay. The bass has more weight and rumble on E4000, whereas the SA3 has better impact and speed.
The E4000 has warmer and smoother bass, while the SA3 also has smooth bass but more cleaner. The SA3 has better control on bass along with better clarity and detail.

Mids
The midrange are both smooth and slightly warm. The midrange has more engaging presentation on SA3 compare to E4000. The lower midrange has more bodies on E4000, whereas the SA3 has more clarity. The upper midrange has more emphasis on SA3 and sound more forwarder. The SA3 has more vividly upper midrange, both are pretty natural in term of timbre. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on SA3.

Treble
The treble are more brighter and has better extension on SA3. The E4000 has more laid back presentation. The upper treble has more sparkle and airiness on SA3 and feel more open, while the E4000 are more smooth here. The detail and clarity both better SA3.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are wider on E4000, deeper on SA3.
The imaging are better on SA3.


BQEYZ Spring 1 ($139USD)

Bass
The are more sub bass and bass on Spring1. The sub bass has better extension on Spring1, the SA3 has quicker decay speed. The bass has more punch and rumble on the Spring1. Where as SA3 has better speed and control. The bass are fuller on Spring 1, while the SA3 are smoother. The bass on both have similar amount of detail retrieval and clarity.

Mids
The midrange both smooth, but the SA3 has fuller and more natural timbre. The lower midrange has more bodies on SA3, whereas the Spring1 has more clarity. The upper midrange on both are push forward, but the SA3 has fuller and more vividly presentation. The detail retrieval are better on the SA3. The clarity are better on Sphttps://www.dunu-toring1.

Treble
The treble are brighter on Spring1 and extended further, while the SA3 are more smoother and fuller. The upper midrange on both has good amount of airiness and sparkle. The treble on both have good detail retrieval. Both have good levels of clarity.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are wider on Spring1, where as SA3 has depth.
The imaging on both are similar.



BQEYZ Summer ($139USD)

Bass
There are more sub bass and mid bass quantity on the Summer, the sub bass extend further and provide fuller rumble on the Summer. The mid bass has thicker tone with more slam on the Summer, where the SA3 has clearer and leaner tone with less bodies. The bass has quicker decay speed with better sense of control on the SA3, while the Summer has more weight with thicker tone. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on SA3.

Mids
The midrange has neutral-ish tonality one the SA3 with less bodies, while the Summer has warmer tonality with lusher bodies. The lower midrange has thicker tone on the Summer, where the SA3 has leaner presentation with reduce lushness. The upper midrange on both are smooth yet lively, the SA3 has tad more intimate presentation, where the Summer has extra sense of spacious. The detail retrieval and clarity on both are well done.

Treble
The treble on the Summer extended further win extra sense of airiness. The lower treble has more emphasis on the Summer, which can sound bit edgy compare to smoother SA3. The upper treble sound sharper with extra crispness on the Summer, where the SA3 is roll of earlier. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on Summer.

Soundstage and imaging
The width and depth are both better on Summer.
The imaging is on par




Conclusion
The Dunu SA3 are well build IEM with unique looking, especially for the price range. The tonality on SA3 is really well done, it has engaging yet smooth presentation. The female vocal is realistic and well position, probably the best for its price. The SA3 will be added to my top tier for best $100-$150 USD list.
Thank you for reading, HAPPY LISTENING!

Dunu official website: https://www.dunu-topsound.com
Dunu SA3 product link: https://www.dunu-topsound.com/sa3-detail

Introduction
The IKKO audio are relatively young Chinese company, they developed wider range of audio products, the OH1 & 10 hybrid IEMs are especially well known. After that, they start to release some audio products, like the DAC/AMP, USB DAC, cable and Bluetooth cable. Today I am checking out their Metror OH1, which is their hybrid IEM released at 2018. The driver configuration is 1DD+1BA, price of it is $139USD.




Disclaimer
I would like to thanks Watson from IKKO audio for given this opportunity, and the review will be based on my honest opinion through the music I listen to.


Package & accessories
The OH1 come with the moderate size box, there are the typical IKKO style illustration at the front cover with the brand name, model name and other information, whereas the specifications at the rear side of it. There is the black box with golden design theme at the side after remove the cover. After open the box from the side, there is the IEM it self sit it in the foam, while the cable is in the carry pouch, with the ear tips store under the carry pouch.








Accessories list
1 pair x Ikko OH1 In-Ear Monitor
1 pcs x Detachable Cable with 0.78mm 2 Pin Connector
3 pairs x Vocal Type Silicone Ear tips (size S/M/L)
3 pairs x Balanced Type Silicone Ear tips (size S/M/L)
1 pcs x Leather Carry Pouch
1 piece x Shirt Pin With IKKO Branded



The accessories it come with is reasonable and useful. The leather carry pouch is well finished, and allow the user to store a pair of IEM. The additional rope connect from top can tied the pouch.





It come with two different type of tips, the vocal tips and the balanced tips. The package include the shirt pin with IKKO logo on the top, which is unique and well made.





It come with the 4 core 5N high purity silver plated OFC (Oxygen-Free Copper) cable, it has 3.5 mm L angled connector in blue metal shell. It features the 0.78mm 2 pin connector with red and blue ring around to show left and right. The Y-splitter are blue metal shell as well as the 2 pin male connector. There are no cable slider on this cable. It is overall flexible and slightly thin cable




Design & Build & Comfort
The design on OH1 are unique with beautifully made blue shell. The faceplate has meteor liked pattern, which is unique and nicely correspond their package cover. There is the L&R indicator in white color on the top of IEM, while the vents is next to it. The IKKO brand name is located at the rear side on shell in white front. The design is really beautiful and definitely stand out in the price point.





The build on OH1 are solid and well finished. The shell is made by aerospace alloy material, which is light weight and durable. The shell are well rounded with smooth curve. There are no shape edges or gap on the shell. The filter on nozzle are made with metal to provide the prevent from ear dust. The 0.78mm 2 pin female connectors are tight, and the connector do not have sign of wear and tear after I swapped few times of cable.





The fits on OH1 are really good, thanks to the well ergonomic design. The nozzles is short, but the shell is thin so it fit in well. The isolation are slightly above the average, thanks to the metal shell by cover the noise.







Sound

Paring
I use the balanced ear tips with the stock cable run through my music library on Fiio M11.




Tonality
The OH1 has V shape tonality, it is warm and musical sound with an engaging presentation.

Bass
The bass is full bodies with slightly thick timbre. The sub bass has above average extension with moderate decay speed. It has above average rumble, with average impact and punch. It has moderate speed with good levels of control. The detail retrieval are pretty well, while the clarity are above an average.

Mids
The midrange are slightly dry and thinner than the bass. The midrange has smooth yet engaging presentation. The lower midrange has good amount of bodies and sound lush and clean. The upper midrange has emphasis. The upper midrange has soft and lively presentation. The upper midrange has average levels of transparency. The clarity and detail retrieval are average.

Treble
The treble has harshness presentation. The treble are smooth and well extended. It has above average detail and clarity. The upper treble has moderate amount of spark and airiness. The upper treble has slightly roll off, so it is deal for treble sensitivity peoples.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage has above average width, with average depth.
The imaging are pretty well done.



Comparison

Final audio E4000 ($149USD)

Bass
The sub bass has better decay and extension on the OH1, while the quantity are tad more on the E4000. The bass has more quantity on the E4000, and it has warmer presentation compare to cleaner and thicker presentation on OH1. The bass has better speed and control on the OH1, while both of them have similar amount of rumble, but the OH1 provide better punch and impact to it. The detail retrieval and clarity are better on OH1.

Mids
The midrange are more recessed on the OH1, the E4000 has lusher and fuller presentation compare to dryer and cleaner presentation on OH1. The lower midrange has more bodies on the E4000, it sound noticeably thicker compare to OH1. The upper midrange has the good emphasis on OH1, which offer the more lively presentation, whereas the E4000 has fuller and more natural presentation. The OH1 has better clarity, transparency and detail in the midrange.

Treble
The treble has slightly better extension on OH1, while the E4000 are more laid back and darker. The OH1 has more open and dryer treble presentation, while the E4000 has more bodies in treble and sound less attacked. The treble has more sparkle and crisp expression on OH1. The treble has better detail, clarity, and airiness on OH1.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage feel more opener on OH1, the OH1 did slightly better job on imaging.


BQEYZ Spring 1 ($139USD)

Bass
The OH1 has slightly more sub bass quantity, the OH10 also offer the better sub bass extension and quicker decay. The bass has more quantity and feel more weight on the Spring1, the bass has better punch, speed and control on the Spring1, whereas the OH1 has more rumble and airiness in the bass. Both has pretty good clarity and detail.

Mids
The midrange are more recessed on the OH1. Both has slightly warm tonality, but the OH1 are warmer and fuller. The lower midrange has more bodies and lusher on the OH1, while the Spring1 take a cleaner notes. The upper midrange has great emphasis on both, both of them have lively presentation, but the Spring1 has more clarity. The Spring1 did the better jobs in term of clarity and transparency, while both of them has good amount of detail.

Treble
The treble slightly brighter and extended further on Spring1, while the OH1 has crisper and lower treble focus presentation. The treble sound more fuller on the Spring1, whereas the treble slightly dryer on OH1. The OH1 provide the relatively less fatiguing tonality. The Spring1 has more airness and detail in treble.

Soundstage and imaging
The OH1 has wider and deeper soundstage, while the Spring1 own slightly better imaging.


Dunu SA3 ($139USD)

Bass
The OH1 has more sub bass and bass quantity compare to the SA3. The sub bass has better extension on OH1. The bass has more weight on OH1, and it has more impactful rumble and punch on OH1. The bass are warmer on OH1, While the SA3 are smoother and has better speed and control. Both have similar amount of detail, while the SA3 offer better clarity.

Mids
The midrange are recessed and warmer on OH1, whereas the SA3 are more balanced and fuller. The lower midrange has slightly fuller bodies on SA3, while the OH1 are cleaner. The upper midrange has more lively but thin presentation on OH1, while the SA3 are fuller and more realistic in my opinion. The transparency levels are both pretty good. They have similar amount of detail. The OH1 has better clarity.

Treble
The treble are slightly brighter and smoother on SA3, while the OH1 are and more open. The treble has thinner and dryer presentation on the OH1. The upper treble has more sparkle and airiness on SA3, whereas the OH1 are less prominent here. The detail retrieval are both pretty similar. The OH1 has better clarity.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are slightly wider on OH1, depth are better on SA3.
The imaging are better on SA3.


BQEYZ Summer ($139USD)

Bass
There are more sub bass quantity and extended further on the OH1, where as the mid bass has slightly more quantity and sound fuller on the Summer. There are better sense of rumble with cleaner tone on the OH1, on the other hand, the Summer sound lusher and thicker with tad more slam. The bass sound clearer with better control on the OH1, where the Summer has more weight and slower speed. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on OH1.

Mids
The midrange on both has a V shape tonality, but the Summer has a lusher and more textured tone, where the OH1 has clearer tone with less bodies in its presentation. The lower midrange has relatively more bodies and sound thicker on the Summer, where the OH1 has cleaner presentation. The upper midrange sound more vividly with more emphasis on the OH1, while the Summer is more soothing with fuller tone. The detail retrieval and clarity is tad better on OH1.

Treble
The treble extend further on the Summer with relatively brighter tonality. The lower treble on both sound smooth, but the Summer is bit edgy in certain track. The upper treble has more airiness and sparkle on the Summer but it sound relatively stronger in this region compare to lower treble, where as the OH1 is roll off early here. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on Summer.

Soundstage and imaging
The width is tad wider on the Summer, deeper on the OH1.
The imaging is tad better on the Summer.




Conclusion
The IKKO Metror OH1 is beautifully made IEM, with an unique design. The tonality is pretty well done V shape. The sound is smooth and musical with an engaging presentation. It has fatiguing free listening but still remaining good amount of crips definition in the treble region. It has an well defined midrange with detail treble. The only problem on the OH1 is slightly dry timbre, and in my opinion it is kind of unnatural. But overall the OH1 is really great IEM for its price range.

IKKO audio official website: https://ikkoaudio.com/?ref=1
IKKO Metror OH1 product page: https://ikkoaudio.com/product/ikko-oh1/?ref=1

Introduction
The IKKO audio are relatively young Chinese company, they developed wider range of audio products, the OH1 & 10 hybrid IEMs are especially well known. After that, they start to release some audio products, like the DAC/AMP, USB DAC, cable and Bluetooth cable. Today I am checking out their DAC/AMP dongle, the Zerda ITM03, the price of it is $99USD




Disclaimer
I would like to thanks Watson from IKKO audio for given this opportunity, and the review will be based on my honest opinion through the music I listen to.


Package & Accessories
The ITM03 come with the small and compact box, there are the typical IKKO style illustration at the front cover with the brand name, model name and other information, whereas the specifications at the rear side of it. After remove the cover, the dongle are sited in the foam.






Accessories list:
1pcs x Zerda ITM03 DAC dongle


Design & Build
The design on Zerda ITM03 are fairly simple with compact sizes. The main body and lightning/Type-C connector part are in the aluminum shell with sandblasted oxidized finished in the blue color. On the main body there is the brand logo with the word “Zerda” located on top, while at the side of the main body there is the model name and the word “Made in China”. The wire connect the main bodies and connector are made by the OCC Silver-Plated material, and cover with the black rubber-ish material.





The build ITM03 are pretty good, it is rounded in well polished finished. The 3.5 mm jack and the connector part do not have any loose after I used for few weeks. The cable also has additional strain reliever to provide the better durability.






Driving power & connectivity & Hissing
The IKKO claims that Zerda ITM03 can drive up to 600Ω headphones, but unfortunately I do not own any of headphones that is 600Ω, but as far as I tried it can drive the Final audio E5000 & B1 fairy easily. The Zerda ITM03 don’t need any driver or app to be installed before using them. There are no background noise at all on ITM03.


Technical specification:
Digital Input: USB Type-C / Lighting
DAC: Cirrus Logic CS43198
Output: 3.5mm Single Ended/Optical Out
THD+N: 0.0015%
DNR: 120 dB
Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 40 KHz
Output Power: 1 V – 32mW
Fiber Optic Output: 32 bit/ 192kHz
Adaptive Impedance: 16Ω-600Ω
Weight: 12 grams


Images from IKKO Audio official webiste

Driving power & connectivity
The IKKO claims that Zerda ITM03 can drive up to 600Ω headphones, but unfortunately I do not own any of headphones that is 600Ω, but as far as I tried it can drive the Final audio E5000 & B1 fairy easily. The Zerda ITM03 don’t need any driver or app to be installed before using them.


Sound

Paring
I use both of the iPhone 11 and iPad mini 5 as the source to play my library through the Zerda ITM03 and connect to my IEMs.


Overall tonality
The ITM03 has mildly U shape with slightly warm and lush tonality. It has more bass punch and clarity, detail yet lush midrange with more emphasis on upper midrange, along with clear and better extended treble compare to my iPhone 11 and mini 5.

Bass
The bass are slightly warm, the sub bass has average extended and decay speed. The bass has above average punch and impact. It has good levels of detail and clarity. The bass are well controlled and impactful.

Mids
The midrange again has slightly warm tonality. The lower midrange has moderate amount of bodies and clear yet lush. The upper midrange are well emphasis. It has good amounts of transparency and bodies, It sound vividly with our harshness. The detail retrieval and clarity are really good.

Treble
The treble are extended well with slightly bright tuned, but never get fatiguing. The treble are smooth and well controlled. The upper treble has good amount of sparkle and airiness. It has average levels of crispness. The detail retrieval and clarity are above the average.

Soundstage and imaging
It has above average width, with average depth.
The imaging are decently done.


Comparison
Maktar Spectra X2 ($199USD)

Bass
The bass on X2 are more linear compare to ITM03, while the ITM03 provide more powerful bass with slightly more depth. The bass has more clarity and detail on X2, whereas the ITM03 has warmer and fuller tonality.

Mids
The midrange are cleaner on X2, fuller on ITM03. The X2 has more neutral timbre in comparison, while the ITM03 has more natural presentation. The midrange has higher transparency level and clarity on X2, while the both did the pretty good jobs in term of detail retrieval.

Treble
The treble are brighter and extended further on X2, both has similar tonality, but the ITM03 has more bodies, while he X2 are slightly clearer. The treble has more airiness and crisp on X2. The detail retrieval and clarity are slightly better on X2.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are wider on X2, with same levels of depth.
The imaging are pretty similar.




Conclusion
The IKKO Zerda ITM03 is well finish DAC dongle, it feel durable with high standard build quality. The output is powerful and stable. It offer the great sound for users who upgrade it from the phone. The sound is well done, it provide greater bass punch, detail midrange and smooth yet sparkly treble. Thank you for reading, HAPPY LISTENING!

IKKO audio official website: https://ikkoaudio.com/
IKKO Zerda ITM03 product page: https://ikkoaudio.com/product/ikko-zerda-itm03/