Reviews by bhazard

Introduction


Audbos approached me to review one of their sets, the DB-02. Available through Amazon, this hybrid set seemed to be a good value, but it also seemed very familiar.


As an enthusiast of Asian brands, I came to realize the DB-02 is a rebadged Magaosi BK50 which had very good reviews. Through further digging, I found that Magaosi and Audbos were owned by the same company, making Audbos the brand name geared toward the western market.


With Magaosi being a very good brand I was familiar with, I eagerly started burning in the DB-02.


REVIEW



Specifications


Brand: AUDBOS
Sensitivity: 101dB/mW
Impedance: 16Ω
Frequency response: 20~20000Hz
Distortion: ≤1%
Rated power: 3 mw
Max power: 10 mw
Jack: 3.5MM gold-plated straight insert
Wire length: 1.2M / 3.9 foot

Included Accessories

· 3 pairs of Silicone tips

· Zippered carrying case

Housing/Fit/Isolation


There are two things that stand out with the DB-02 design, the wood and the comfort. The housing is nice and light in ear and never feels intrusive. With KZ Starlined eartips, I’m able to achieve a deep seal that doesn’t need adjusting while walking, making this an ideal pair for someone active. The wood veneer above the aluminum alloy adds a touch of class and refinement. The vented back helps provide a nice soundstage with slight sound leakage. Isolation is ok, and the leakage is minimal compared to something like the Fiio EX1.



Cable


Let’s start with the bad. The cable is noisy. The cable noise is easily noticeable at lower volumes and can be distracting. With replaceable cables being found on many earphones at all price ranges, I feel a replaceable cable would have been a better choice.


The good is that the mic and in-line controls work without issue via my Axon 7. It supposedly works without issue on iPhones as well which is a nice plus.



Sound Review

Testing Gear (in order of quality)


LH Labs Pulse X Infinity 2.0

LH Labs Geek Out V2+ Infinity (Balanced)

Axon 7

Asrock Fatality amped onboard DAC/amp


Music used for testing

Lots of Rock, Metal, EDM, Pop, Acoustic, anything that shuffles up.


Amplifier Needed?


No amp needed


Sound Signature


Geared toward Pop, R&B, EDM, vocals. A bit less clear for rock and instrument filled music. W-shaped, sharp treble peaks.



Bass


The ability to achieve strong bass levels is a requirement in my collection and the DB-02 delivers… to a point. My measurements may be off, but there seems to be a dip in subbass levels lower than 50hz. It doesn’t sound this way at first, so I may need to retest at some point. The strong midbass is more noticeable and fills out most music nicely with little to no bleed. If you love a good, clean, heavy bass line, you’ll enjoy the DB-02.


Midrange


Mids on the DB-02 are a bit off. The sloping frequency response is apparent in the lack of clarity and recession in the mids. Complex Rock passages in most genres sound a bit muffled and distant, where Rap and EDM come through much better. Vocals suffer the same, falling back into the mix when they should be more upfront. The tuning is geared towards most Pop music, which is fine for most people, but it comes at a cost to those who want to listen to anything else.


There is also a big spike in the upper mids/lower treble which can make the DB-02 sound bright and harsh at times. Different eartips can help tame this, such as foam tips.



Treble


The several dips and spikes in the frequency response also affect the treble. Much like with the mids, some tracks can sound harsh and sibilant. Foam tips can help tame this too, but foam tips often remove too much, making the already laid back vocals less audible.


There is a bit more clarity in the treble than the mids (which may be due to the balanced armature driver). At $59.99, clarity and performance are right around expectations for the price range. $49.99 would be a bit more of a value to me.


Soundstage, Imaging, Resolution


The DB-02’s strengths lie in its imaging, separation, and soundstage. Instrument locations can be pinpointed in the mix much like with a bit higher priced IEMs. Nothing sounds blended together, which gives the effect of a wide soundstage.



Conclusion


The DB-02 offers what I would expect from a $59.99 hybrid earphone. Its performance is priced right, and it is a good choice for those who love good bass and emphasized treble.


There is some serious competition in hybrids now however, and competitors like the KZ ZST have a very similar setup for less than $15. It becomes hard to justify the DB-02 over something that has a detachable cable and performance that isn’t too far off for 1/4th the price.


I do love that Audbos is bringing Magaosi equipment rebranded into the US via Amazon though. This is huge, as Magaosi makes some great gear and it is much easier to purchase via Amazon than through overseas sellers.


Having listened to their K3 model, I would recommend it over the DB-02 if you want higher quality sound. It is double the price of the DB-02 though, so if you aren’t willing to spend $100+ on a pair of earphones, the DB-02 does offer a lot otherwise.


You can buy a pair of the Audbos DB-02 here:


https://www.amazon.com/AUDBOS-Isolating-Earphones-Headphones-Earbuds/dp/B01NACLDSE

Introduction


One of the very first headphone amps I ever owned was the Aune T1. The hybrid solid state/tube sound was my introduction into Tube amps and helped give me a better understanding of how DACs and Amps worked. I was able to experience the difference between a normal computer or phone output compared to what a DAC and amp could do. Switching between tubes changed the sound even further.


The build and sound quality of the T1 was very good and something I wasn’t expecting for such an affordable price. I became an Aune fan right after that.


I was lucky enough to participate in the S6 review tour, and here are my impressions.


NOTE* I spent a little less than a week with the unit due to shipping issues, so my experience and review will be a bit abbreviated.


REVIEW



SPECIFICATIONS:
White TFT display
DAC: AK4495S
Natively recognized on Mac OS and Linux without drivers
Bitperfect: Wasapi / Asio for Microsoft XP to Win10
Inputs: 1x Optical Toslink, 1x Coaxial, 1x USB B and 1x AES / EBU
Decoding up to 32bit / 384kHz (USB) via XMOS interface and 24bit / 192kHz for other digital inputs
DSD native support (DSD64 (DOP / native), DSD128 (DOP)
Support for DXD 32bit 384khz
Digital isolation of USB and Coaxial inputs
2x high precision clocks
Shielded transformer
Stereo analog outputs on RCA and XLR
Balanced 4-pin XLR headphone output
Headphone output asymmetrical 6.35mm jack

TECHNICAL CHARACTERISTICS :
Bandwidth: 20hz to 20khz
Total harmonic distortion: 0.0008% to 1khz
Dynamic capacity: 116dB
Crosstalk: -132dB
Output voltage (RCA): 2 Vrms
Output Voltage (XLR): 4.2Vrms

POWER OUTPUT:
Symmetric output port: 246mW @ 300ohm
Asymmetric Output Port: 72mW @ 300ohm


PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS :
Selecting sources by pushbutton
Volume control for helmet with notched potentiometer
Chassis Aluminum Black anti-oxidation treated
DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHTS:
Housing dimensions: 288 x 211 x 63mm
Weight: 3kg


Design



Aune went with an interesting design choice on the S6. The top of the S6 is curved, which looks unique compared to many desktop DAC/Amps, but makes stacking of other audio equipment very difficult. I use an LH Labs LPS power supply to filter my USB connection, and it could not be safely stacked atop the S6. For those willing to spend $500+ on their desktop setup, you would expect them to have other audio devices. I can’t say I’m a fan of that design choice, as I can’t even put a headphone stand on top to save desk space.


The casing is made of a sturdy matte black Aluminum. Based on the material, the case doesn’t quite look or feel as premium as it could be. When I think of a good use of Aluminum, I think along the lines of the older iPhones. The way it is used on the S6 feels more utilitarian in design, lacking that sexy look and feel of a more premium device.


Another knock on the design is the volume knob. It feels a bit cheap in the way it clicks between volume notches. It does make things a bit more precise, but also more annoying. Pushing the button in for different modes seemed a bit imprecise, but it got the job done.


The LCD screen is a nice touch, showing exactly what info is needed on screen with no frills.


I do like the 4-pin XLR front jack and 6.35mm single ended input up front for ease of use.


The back includes dual XLR, RCA, AES, optical, coax, and a USB input. Just about any input and output type is available.


Sound Review


Testing Gear (in order of quality)

LH Labs Pulse X Infinity 2.0

Aune S6

LH Labs Geek Out V2+ Infinity (Balanced)

Axon 7

Asrock Fatality amped onboard DAC/amp


Music used for testing

Metal, EDM, Classic Rock, Acoustic, Top 40, Rap, anything that shuffles up.




Sound Signature


AKM DACs tend to be on the warmer side, and the 4495 used in the S6 is no exception. Compared to the many ESS Sabre DACs I have owned, the 4495 trades a little less sparkle and treble for a satisfying warmth. Those that find Sabre DACs a bit too bright will enjoy the S6’s sound. Soundstage, resolution, imaging is all there depending on how good your headphone/IEM is. The S6 won’t hold it back.



Power


There is an abundance of power on hand running Balanced on the S6. You get an easy 1 Watt of power at 32 ohm with a THD of .001 at 1khz. That is a strong amount of clean, distortion free power. The S6 can handle nearly any headphone you throw at it, including 600 ohm sets and most Planar Magnetic headphones. Only the most difficult Planars and headphones will have some trouble (like the HE-6). If you truly need that extra bit of power, Aune offers the S7 balanced amp that can be added (at nearly the same price of the S6 itself)



Conclusion



DSD capable, powerful Balanced desktop DAC/Amp combos used to easily cost in the $1000+ range, but we have started to see units like the S6 and Schiit Jotunheim in the $500 range. This is a stellar achievement in Headphone audio, as running Balanced really does give that extra bit of clean sound anyone can appreciate.


So should you get the S6 or Jotunheim? I can say it is much easier to purchase the Jotunheim in the US. Aune seems to not have many distributors that I can find selling the S6 compared to its other products. You can buy the S6 from Aune directly at http://mall.auneaudio.com/ though.


I can’t say that the Jotunheim is truly better though based on specs. Schiit doesn’t show comparable THD numbers per mW, so it is tough to judge what seems to be power in favor of the Jotunheim. The Jot is also a little cheaper and made in the US.


The 4495 may outperform the dual 4490’s, but I cannot say for sure until I listen to the Jot. I don’t think you could go wrong with either setup


If I didn’t already own the Pulse X Infinity, I would have purchased the S6 myself. Well done Aune.

Score 4.5/5.0 (I can't seem to get this to show)

Introduction
 
I was introduced to LZ IEMs over a year ago out of the blue. I was approached by a Head-Fi member to try out a pair of LZ-a2 triple hybrids which were completely unknown at the time. Their price of $99 was groundbreaking for a triple hybrid, and based on the way a few people were gushing over them, I knew I had to try them.
 
Within the first 15 minutes of listening, I was hooked. The sound was detailed and engaging, yet so smooth to listen to. It was unlike any hybrid I had heard before. It immediately became my favorite daily driver for a very long time. It made me lose interest a bit in the hobby in looking for something better, because I didn’t feel I needed to.
 
I was then invited to participate in the LZ A4 prototype tour. A prototype model was sent around to a select group of Head-Fi members in which we were to give our impressions of the unit. Suffice to say, for the suggested price of $200, I was not originally impressed. I felt the soundstage was congested, the filters did more harm than good to the sound signature, and the ergonomics needed work. In what was a highly impressive move to me, LZ listened to our feedback and fixed ALL the issues we noted for him. In doing so, he has created a masterpiece in the A4 (in my opinion).
 
My LZ A4 is not a review unit, but was purchased at full retail price from HCK Audio on Aliexpress.
 
This will be an ongoing review over time. I have spent about two months with my pair now, and here are my thoughts.
 
 
REVIEW
 

 

 
 
Specifications:
 
 
 
LZ A4 2BA Balanced Armature + Dynamic Driver Hybrid In-Ear Earphones with Detachable MMCX Cable 

 

1. Driver unit: 1 dynamic + 2 Knowles balanced armatures
2. Impedance: 16 ohm
3. Headphone sensitivity: 120 dB
4. Frequency range: 20 Hz – 28 kHz
5. Connector: ⅛ in (3.5 mm)
6. Cable: MMCX detachable, 4 ft (1.2 m +/- 5 cm)
7. Weight: 1.1 oz (30 g)
8. Use Titanium silver composite diaphragm dynamic driver+ dual Knowles balanced armature driver

 
Included Accessories

1. 7 pairs of single-flange silicone tips
2. 1 pair of double-flange silicone tips
3. 3 rear filters and 5 nozzle filters in metal tin
4. Detachable cable
5. Zippered carrying case

 
The A4 comes with a wide array of silicone tips varying in shape and size. If you don’t already have a pair of preferred tips (Spiral Dots and KZ Acoustics for me), the different bore sizes will affect the sound per filter configuration. If you use bass filters (red), try for a wider bore. For treble enhanced filters (blue), try a smaller bore opening.
 
The filters are nicely arranged and easily accessible in a metal tin, while the carrying case provides enough room to fit everything inside.
 
My favorite combos are: Red/Black, Black/Black, Black/Blue, Red/Blue
 
The case, while a nice included touch with an LZ logo, didn’t really strike me as all that appealing. It does work great for storing everything however.
                                                                 
 
Housing/Fit/Isolation
 
The LZ-A4 is shaped in a unique teardrop/half circle configuration and made from a sturdy metal alloy. It allows the A4 to be worn over ear and down based on your preference. I prefer wearing them down, which feels more natural and easier to use. If you get a good tip seal, they stay in ear, even during a workout.
 
The rear chamber houses circular filters that you twist on and off to change the bass levels. The nozzles in the front are also removeable and change the sound based on their color.
 
Bass levels:
Back Filters: None > Red > Black > Blue
 
Mids/Treble:
Front Filters: Red < Pink < Grey < Black < Green < Blue
 
My favorite combos are: Red/Black, Black/Black, Black/Blue, Red/Blue Black/Pink
 
Isolation is good, as only a slight bit of sound leaks to an outside listener. I expected a lot more sound leakage based on the rear filter designs.
 
Cable
 
The cable included with the A4 has a quality, rounded bumpy plastic feel to it, but it is also extremely difficult to remove from the housings. I stupidly pulled very hard on the wire one day while trying to remove the right housing and snapped the wire right off it. This is not to say it is a poor cable, but more of a warning NOT to pull the wire while removing the housing. Grab from the lowest part of the housing, and the tip of the cable.
 
I switched to a silver plated MMCX cable and Fidue’s balanced MMCX cable (which brings the A4 to another level of sound). The Fidue cable allowed the A4 to shine on the few balanced sources I tried it on
 
Sound Review
Testing Gear (in order of quality)
 
LH Labs Pulse X Infinity 2.0
LH Labs Geek Out V2+ Infinity (Balanced)
Aune S6
Fiio X5 3^rd Gen
Axon 7
Asrock Fatality amped onboard DAC/amp
 
Music used for testing
 
Lots of metal, EDM, classic rock, vocal melodies, anything that shuffles up.
 
Amplifier Needed?
 
An amp isn’t needed, but the A4 does scale well with higher quality sources and some extra power. Bass extends deep, so more power can give you a few more dB of clearer sound down low, especially when using the red back filter.
 
Go with a balanced source if you can. There is a noticeable difference in clarity.
 
Sound Signature
 
The 18 possible filter combinations produce a wide range of sound signatures. The Blue back filter will create a bass light, mostly neutral signature. The Red back filter and no filter provide near basshead levels of bass. The flexibility of the sound is like the FLC8S at a much lower price.
 
The signature is balanced with a slight or massive V, depending on the filter used as seen below:
 
Graph Filter Colors: Green=Green, Blue=Blue, Grey=Grey, Red=Red, Pink=Pink, Yellow=Black
 
I consider Black/Black the "reference" tuning, as it seems to be the average midpoint of all the filters.
 
Blue Back

 
Black Back

 
Red Back

 
 
Bass
 
I enjoy slightly boosted bass with clarity. The A4 nails this signature better than almost any other IEM I’ve heard. I also tend to want more bass some days and less on others. A quick swap to the Red back filter gives me the slam I want for EDM listening one day, while a quick swap to Black will give me just enough kick drum power in a metal track to not overshadow the rest of the sound. If you want a flat, neutral sound, go with the Blue back filter.
 
There is plenty of subbass and midbass present, almost too much at times, but I enjoy it. Oddly enough, I get the biggest amount of bass from using wide bore Sennhesier type biflange tips. Normally tips like these reduce bass, but not on the A4.
 
The clarity of the bass with the Black back filter makes it my favorite. The Red back filter has more bass, but it is a bit loose in comparison and takes away from the mids a bit. Black gives a “just right” amount of slightly boosted bass that works well with all music genres.
 
Midrange
 
The mids of the A4 aren’t recessed, but they aren’t prominent either. Instruments and vocals never suffer or get lost in the mix despite the significant bass behind them. Some filters bring the mids forward (grey, green, blue), while others take a small step back or remain neutral.
 
The timbre, clarity, and sound is comparable to something your favorite tube amp would produce… organic, smooth, detailed with a bit of warmth to it.
 
Guitars really shine. From solos to acoustic, or to a sustained crunch… the sound is truly crisp and enjoyable. The A4 is one of my favorite IEMs to listen to all kinds of guitar driven music.  There is a ton of weight behind a power chord, and it makes me want to jam along.
 
Treble
 
One of the weaknesses of the LZ-a2, a previous model, is that the treble was a little too rolled off and missing detail. The A4 fixes that, with well extended treble with almost every filter. Measurements show the extension, but they also reveal significant peaks in some of the filters, most notably the Blue and Green fronts. The mid and treble peaks in those filters are best tamed via EQ if they sound fatiguing to you.
 
Some filters like the Pink one provide a smoother sound without sacrificing much detail. Personally, I like the slight boost the Black front filter provides, making Black/Black my reference. Black/Pink is a reminder of the LZ-a2 sound, but with more extension and detail.
 
 
Soundstage, Imaging, Resolution
 
There is a clarity and detail level here that the older a2 just cannot match. Imaging wise, while everything is well represented, instruments feel cohesively blended together instead of standing out. The soundstage is also a significant step up, providing a very 3D feeling while keeping vocals front and center. The A4 retains some of the best clarity and detail amongst bass heavy IEMs I’ve heard, making this incredibly ideal for my preferences.
 
Comparisons
 
A4 vs. Magaosi K3:
 
Very similar, but the K3 tends to lean a little bright and fatiguing without foam tips. Pricing differences between the two make it a toss up, as the A4 is more versatile, but the K3 isn’t far behind technically either. They play at nearly the same level of sound for a very value driven price.
 
A4 vs a2:
 
As mentioned throughout the review, the A4 bests the a2 in every way, and I loved the a2.
 
A4 vs Vibro Aria:
 
The Aria may have the A4 beat a bit in more detail at times, and the Aria is built a bit nicer, but the A4 is just much more enjoyable. The Aria doesn’t come close to the bass levels the A4 can output and can sound a bit cold, even though the signature leans towards a V shape. The Aria is also double the price.
 
Conclusion
 
This is the best IEM I own, and easily my favorite. I knew within the first 15 seconds of listening that I was going to love the A4. I haven’t been truly impressed with earphones in a long time, but the A4 does everything I want it to, and sounds just like I want it to. It would really be difficult to get better sound quality without spending hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars more. While $199 isn’t exactly a budget purchase, when you start comparing the sound to IEMs in the $499 and up level, it beats some (like the Aria) and comes close to a few others.
 
You can purchase the LZ-A4 here:
 
https://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/New-LZ-A4-In-Ear-Earphone-Dynamic-With-2BA-Hybrid-3-Unit-HIFI-Earphone-Earbud/1825606_32771039693.html?spm=2114.12010615.0.0.tKPMK6

Introduction
 
I’ve never been a fan of DAPs. I’ve always found the interfaces clunky and missing features compared to what I could do with my Android smartphone and its apps. When high quality DACs started appearing in smartphones and when USB external DACs started working on them, my interest waned even further. It didn’t seem like I would ever be happy with a DAP, and I just gave up on them.
 
Fiio’s release of the X5 Gen 3 changes all of that. It includes everything I felt was missing in a DAP (Android apps, Wifi transfer, balanced audio, USB DAC, OTA updates), and it does it very well. I was lucky enough to be chosen for the X5 Gen 3 tour, and I will be providing my impressions based on a week with the unit.
 
 
REVIEW
 
Specifications
 
DAC : 2 x AK4490
Processor : Quad-core RK3188 processor
ROM : 32GB built-in storage +
RAM : 1GB
Storage : Up to 512GB(2 x micro SD)
Headphone Out : 3.5mm + 2.5mm TRRS balanced output +
OS: Android 5.1
Connectivity : Bluetooth 4.0 (aptX) + 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
Usability: 4.0 in. touchscreen
Charging : 2 Fast charging modes(Qualcom QC and MTK PE)
 
Full specs here:
http://www.fiio.net/en/products/65/parameters
 
Accessories
 

 

 
 
Package Contents:
 
1 x Case 1 x Protective TPU Silicone Case  1x Screen Protector
 
The X5 comes packaged beautifully, similar to the packaging of a high-end smartphone. The pre-applied screen protector is a nice touch, and the silicone case helps prevent scratches and wear. Despite some annoying silicone pieces that are meant to cover the openings getting in the way, I think it was wise of Fiio to provide protection instead of having to have the customer search for some or pay extra.
 
 
Build Quality
 

 
 
The X5 size and shape reminds me of a deck of cards, albeit slightly larger.  Its compact size allows it to be carried easily on a commute or trip, far easier than it would be to strap a DAC to the back of your smartphone. It’s design is sleek but simplistic,  focusing your eyes onto the display, despite the enclosure giving a very polished, high quality look. While not heavy, it did feel sturdy enough to survive a drop and day to day use.
 
While not high res like a smartphone, the display resolution is more than acceptable.
 
The balanced port is 2.5mm, making it easy not to plug into the wrong output.
 
One of the things I somewhat disliked is the location of the back/skip buttons. They are entirely too easy to hit while holding the device or walking. The volume knob is fluid and far more useful than pressing buttons, and having the separate hardware play button was useful.
 
I had no issues with the touchscreen, and the interface behaved very much like the Android interface I’ve grown used to over the years.
 
 
Features
 
Quick Charge. Ever since it first debuted, it was a monumental battery achievement to me. Getting a full charge in less than two hours, and a useable one in 15-30 minutes was so convenient that I stopped caring about removeable batteries. Having this on the X5 is a beautiful thing.
 
Balanced audio: More power, more crisp audio in an affordable unit. With the prevalence of MMCX iems, not running balanced for every bit of power and other enhancements seem like a waste to me. The X5 had just enough power to drive my balanced AKG7XX at more than acceptable levels.
 
Dual MicroSD: Do you have several terabytes of music like I do? If so, running two 128GB MicroSD cards on the X5 gives you a very large collection for cheaper than an integrated 256GB of storage would cost. Transfer speeds are a bit slow though, so it can take a bit to load if you transfer to the cards in the X5 via USB. Apps like USB Audio Player Pro, Neutron, and even the Fiio Music app easily detects the music.
 
aptX: I like that Fiio included aptX (although aptX HD would have been a bit nicer). aptX provides substantial benefits in sound quality over a Bluetooth connection, and it works well on the X5. I believe that using Bluetooth on a DAP is a waste though, as you get the same experience you would from your aptX enabled smartphone. You also miss out on the sound quality of the balanced connection.
 
  
Functionality
 
The ability to sideload android apps is the killer functionality feature of the X5. While the “Fiio Market” contains many of the popular Android apps such as Spotify, adding your own favorite app just works the majority of the time.
 
ES File Explorer Wifi transfers provide another desperately needed function to the X5. You can connect to your media server without wires and download your music to the X5. This is incredibly useful while lying in bed or away from your PC. Transfer speeds are on the slow side however, as the Wireless N wifi connection and slow transfer speeds of the internal memory and SD card tend to transfer under 4 MB/s. It would be best to transfer a large collection onto the SD card first, where the wifi connection works well for a few albums to listen to on a whim.
 
USB DAC: This is the most useful function of the X5 to me surprisingly. In USB DAC mode, the X5 has the power and features to replace many desktop DAC/AMP setups with its dual balanced mono DAC and powerful amp implementation. While it doesn’t have the power to truly drive power hungry headphones, it was able to drive my AKG 7XX in balanced mode at more than acceptable levels with the volume knob at 90/100 in High Gain mode (you can also adjust Gain in normal use). My smartphone can’t do that, and I have the Axon 7 with the same AK4490 DAC.
 
You can adjust many features in USB DAC mode as seen below
 

 
I did have trouble finding out how to turn this feature on. You need to hit the “Storage” button in the notification pane to switch over to USB DAC mode. You also need to install the USB drivers from Fiio, then choose the Fiio ASIO driver in programs like Foobar2000. None of this is documented, which will confuse a lot of users.
 
ViperAudio & EQ: I've used ViperAudio a lot in the past. I didn't use it much on the X5, but it has extensive sound modeling features. Seeing it on a DAP for the first time is exciting. The Fiio EQ is a nice feature, but I didn't use it much. It is lacking compared to Viper and a Parametric EQ, such as the paid EQ within USB Audio Player Pro.
 

 
 
OTA Updates: OTA updates went very smoothly. I had no issues updating to version 1.1.1, although a semi detailed changelog would be nice before each update. Easy updates like this weren’t possible on DAPs before.
 
 
Sound Review
Testing Gear (in order of quality)
 
LH Labs Pulse X Infinity 2.0
LH Labs Geek Out V2+ Infinity + Moto X Pure
Axon 7
MSI Gaming 7 amped onboard DAC
 
Testing Songs
 
Random Metal, Rock, EDM, Rap, Top 40, Hip Hop, Blues, and anything else that comes along. I focus on songs I know well to spot differences in frequency amongst a/b comparisons.
 

 
 
Sound Signature
 
The AK4490 is a warm, smooth yet detailed DAC. The Dual Balanced Mono DAC configuration along with the amps chosen provide a more powerful, more refined, more detailed sound over the AK4490 configuration in my Axon 7, despite the same overall signature. The S/N ratio increase the X5 has is noticeable.
 
Compared to my Dual Mono Sabre ESS SABRE9018AQ2M setup in my LH Labs Infinity V2+, the Sabre has more forward mids and treble, which presents itself as a little bit clearer. Both the V2+ and AK4490 sound excellent in their implementations, but the AK4490 is a bit easier to listen to for longer periods of time.
 
Comparisons
 
There is no comparison to me in the price range unless you go by pure sound quality. You get so much more functionality over a custom DAP interface by using Android OS.
 
Conclusion
 
There are a few things that I wished were a bit different. I wish Fiio used a more powerful SoC to give the X5 faster transfer speeds and AC wifi. I also wish they used Android 7.0 Nougat as a base instead of Android 5.1, which is over 2 years old now. These are minor qualms though, as the X5 functions just fine otherwise.
 
This is the first DAP that I would ever purchase. If I did not already have a strong balanced DAC in the V2+ Infinity, I would own the X5 3^rd gen. The combination of sound quality, build quality, features, and price makes the X5 an incredible value to me. This says a lot because I have never truly liked DAPs in the past. Fiio really nailed it here.
 
Thanks to FiiO for the opportunity to review the X5! You’ve been a wonderful company to us music lovers for years, and we hope you continue being great.

Introduction
 
Axgio offered me a chance to review the Axgio Dash, and I was glad to do so. They look to be a great alternative to the Wireless Apple Airpods for a third of the price.
 
I’ve noticed that a lot of first gen unknown fully wireless earphones had connection issues that plagued their performance. It wasn’t until recently that this tech became somewhat fully stable. Are the Axgio Dash Wireless earphones worth a purchase? Let’s find out….
 
I’d like to thank Axgio Audio for providing me the Dash for review purposes.
 
Specifications
 
Chip: CSR64210
Bluetooth Version: 4.2
Profile Supported: HSP, HFP, A2DP and AVRCP
Frequency Response: 200Hz-10Khz
Battery Capacity: 100mAh
Charging time: about 1-2 hr
Charging port: USB cable
Talk and music time: 8hr
Weight: 22.6g
 
Package Includes:
1* Headphones
3* Ear Tips
1* Micro USB Charging Cable
1* Carrying Case
 
Presentation
 

 
 
Axgio provide the Dash in a simplistic yet modern box, like what you would get when buying adapters and batteries from companies like Anker. I personally like the efficient presentation, allowing less clutter for storage purposes. A standard case is included along with a split USB cable to charge both earpieces at the same time (which is a nice and necessary touch). Eartips are standard fare, and I immediately replaced them with KZ Starline tips.
 
Housing/Fit/Isolation
 
One of the best features of the Dash over the Apple Airpods is the ear hook design. The Airpods have nothing to secure them to your ear, making them easily lost if jarred out of your ear. The Dash’s hook allows the earpiece to sit securely in both ears, making them a much better choice for active users. There is something very freeing about not having to worry about wires at all. These are an excellent choice for the gym based on this alone.
 
The housing itself is a standard plastic elongated plastic shell. Volume and track buttons sit atop each earpiece, easily accessible. Isolation seemed to be very good.
 
Sound Review
Testing Gear (in order of quality)
 
LH Labs Pulse X Infinity 2.0
LH Labs Geek Out V2+ Infinity (Balanced)
Axon 7
Asrock Fatality amped onboard DAC/amp
 
Music used for testing
 
Vomitron, GaMetal (8 bit Metal)
Death Angel
Meshuggah
Metallica
Run the Jewels
Korn
Deadmau5
In Flames
Testament
Jamie Foxx
Etc…
 
 
Amplifier Needed?
 
N/A
 
Wireless and Battery performance
 
The Dash surprised me with its range. I could easily walk around my entire apartment without breaking the connection, even between rooms.
 
The other surprise is that I only experienced a dropout between both sides once in my entire time with them. This was impressive, as any sync issues would ruin wireless earphones for me. These had none.
 
The battery easily lasted 4-5 hours of listening, which isn’t much compared to most Bluetooth sets with a wire, but very good for a fully wireless pair.
 
The Dash also has a mic which can also be used for phone calls, which is a nice touch. I was unable to test this feature for the review though.
 
 
Sound Signature
 
Great Bass impact, recessed midrange with peaks, lacking treble extension (No aptX).
 
I tried measuring the Dash via a Vibro Veritas and ARTA, but I could not get an accurate measurement.
 
Bass
 
Bass levels are the highlight of the Dash. This is a very consumer oriented, Beats like bass sound. With most Top 40 music, the pleasing bass masks the lack of micro detail, focusing more on impact than accuracy. Deadmau5 was a very fun listen with these, making them very good for EDM. The Dash takes hard hitting bass lines with ease
 
Midrange
 
The Dash also carries a recessed midrange, but with a twist. There are some large peaks and dips near the 4k region. Certain vocal and guitar ranges can sound peaky, while the rest of the midrange is laid back. This could be due to tuning, or from the lack of aptX to provide a higher bandwidth sound.
 
Treble
 
Due to the lack of aptX, again the sound quality and extension of the treble suffers a bit. It starts to roll off around 8k, and drops sharply after 10k. Due to the recessed midrange, the treble can be heard despite the lack in quantity. This isn’t much different compared to other non aptX Bluetooth headsets however, so it should be a familiar relaxed sound (which many people enjoy)
 
Soundstage, Imaging, Resolution
 
Soundstage, Imaging, and Resolution are all average for the price range, accounting for the full wireless capabilities. Detail is decent, but lacking in micro details. Again, this is very much like other Bluetooth sets, with the major added benefit of true wireless capability. For non-critical listening and gym sessions, the wireless freedom is a tradeoff I would make over my wired, much more expensive sets.
 
Conclusion
 
Axgio did a heck of a job with the Dash. While I wish that the Dash had aptX HD and a higher quality sound that I’m normally used to, having no wires for the first time listening to music was liberating and inspiring. I hope the next version can really focus on sound quality, using 3 well-tuned hybrid drivers or so.
 
 
Axgio Dash Headphone: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01IHM2YJW    https://www.axgio.com/listing/axgio-dash-cordless-earbuds-for-iphone-7/8#ad-image-0 

Axgio official site: http://www.axgio.com/
 
Axgio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Axgio.Fans/
 
Axgio Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1ORAR8IUt_biiNR3l-zqzQ 
 
Thread here:
http://www.head-fi.org/t/831673/axgio-dash-wireless-earbuds

Introduction
 
Vibro Labs is a small company in Maine founded by Luke Pighetti. They specialize in “daily driver heirlooms”, and I was lucky enough to be picked for their ARIA tour. I am an owner of their IEM measurement device the “Veritas”, which I use to take measurements of all the IEMs I now purchase/receive.
 
REVIEW
 
This review will be a bit short as I only had the Aria for little more than a week, but I can give solid impressions of what I heard. To put things in perspective, it is easily one of the best IEMs I’ve heard to date ($500 and under), and one of the best measuring ones as well. There were a few hiccups though, which I will explain below.
 
Apologies for no pictures, as they were lost in a phone transfer.
 
Specifications
 
·         Circassian Walnut
·         Smoke SLA shells
·         20Hz – 20kHz
·         15Ω impedance
·         110 dB/mw sensitivity
 
Accessories/Packaging
 
·         Aria earphone
·         2-pin detachable cable
·         Standard case
·         Comply Comfort & Isolate tips
·         2-year warranty
 
Housing/Fit/Isolation
 
Let’s start with one of the strongest aspects of the Aria… the beautiful housing it comes in. When Luke claims the Vibro IEMs as “Heirlooms”, the quality of the design and materials back up that statement. The Walnut finish compares more to a finish that you would see on a high-end speaker than what you would normally find on an IEM. The build is solid, but the housing itself is quite large… which leads to one of the problems I had with the Aria.
 
The large size of the housing plus the Comply Tips (of any size) were simply too big for my ears. The housing would awkwardly sit on my ear, while the comply tips would never truly seal, robbing the Aria of its subbass. You could tell the Aria was tuned for the comply tips, as switching over to silicone tips like the JVC Spiral Dots caused the upper treble to hit with some harshness. Even though this was the most comfortable setup, I had to switch to the smallest Comply Isolate tips and really had to squeeze them in for the best results, despite being much less comfortable. Isolation was not a problem once a seal was made.
 
Cable
 
A nice 2 pin cable was included, and balanced options are available. I tried using a Fiio 2-Pin Balanced cable I have, but it didn’t fit the unit well. I’m not sure if it was from a beaten-up review unit, or if the cable itself just wasn’t truly made to handle it (I assume the latter)
 
Sound
Testing Gear (in order of quality)
 
LH Labs Pulse X Infinity 2.0
LH Labs Geek Out V2+ Infinity
ZTE Axon 7 (USB Audio Player Pro)
Asrock Fatality amped onboard DAC/amp
 
Music used for testing
Meshuggah, Metallica, Alter Bridge, Iron Maiden, Buckethead, Korn, Testament, Alice in Chains, Danny Brown, Deadmau5, many more
 
Amplifier Needed?
No (but use a good one anyway)
 
Sound Signature
 
U shaped with strong subbass (for a pure BA setup), slightly recessed mids around vocals, excellent treble extension
 
This measurement was taken with Vibro’s own Veritas, showing one of the better graphs I’ve measured
 

 
This mostly lines up with what Vibro measures it at, so I know my Veritas is working. Great job guys!
 
Bass
 
I wasn’t expecting much bass from a quad BA setup, but the Aria surprised me. There was more than enough bass present without having me yearn for an added dynamic driver. Bass levels, speed, and clarity were nice and tight. All of this gets ripped away if you do not get a proper seal however, which happened to me far too often from basic movement.
 
Midrange
 
Although it didn’t really show in the FR graph, some recession can be heard in the mids. The vocals and guitar mixes seem to take a step back to the rest of the sound, sounding a bit distant. Sure, you can increase the volume, but it doesn’t truly bring everything out evenly. The mids still have exceptional clarity, but they are a weak point in the sound.
 
Treble
 
The Aria has excellent treble extension and clarity. With the Comply tips, it rolls off before becoming harsh, but with silicone tips it can get to be a bit too much. It can get a bit hot at times, but it wasn’t the norm at regular listening volume. Everything is naturally presented, and the strength of the unit lies within its slightly boosted treble (and bass)
 
Soundstage, Imaging, Resolution
 
Soundstage is well above average with some nice width. Imaging and resolution are also well above average, with a slight knock against the slight sibilance that would appear every so often. It isn’t a holographic listen, but it is something you would expect and find that most IEMs under $400 lack.
 
Comparisons
 
I can’t really compare the Aria to anything else in my collection, as its price level and performance is much higher than what I normally use.
 
Conclusion
 
I loved listening to the Aria, but overall it wasn’t for me (mostly from the fit and mids). Now, if I went with the custom Aria, a lot of my problems would be solved, but I myself cannot stomach getting into that price range.
 
I’m more of a value oriented, bang for the buck, budget oriented Head-fi’er, and the Aria doesn’t really fit into that segment. It does offer a sound worthy of its $500 price tag, but in the back of my mind I kept thinking how it could shake up some competition if it were to be offered at say $350 or so.
 
Vibro offers excellent customer support, and their warranty/replacement policies are more than acceptable. Add to that their upgrade program and you get a lot of extras for your money than you would initially think.
 
I’d like to thank Luke and Vibro Labs for the review opportunity with the Aria. They will be on my radar in the future for sure!

Introduction
 
Simgot is a new name in Asian audio that is getting some attention with their new EN700 model. Supposedly, some that were involved in tuning the Ostry IEMs have tuned this one, so it immediately caught my interest upon hearing this.
 
I’d like to thank Shenzhen Audio for providing me the Simgot EN700 for review.
 
 
REVIEW
 
Specifications

1. Housing: Aluminum and stainless steel
2. Driver unit: Single 10 mm dynamic
3. Frequency response: 15 Hz – 25 kHz
4. Impedance: 24 ohm
5. Sensitivity: 101 +/- 3 dB/mW
6. Power rating: 10 mW
7. Cable length: 4 ft (1.2 m)
8. Conductor: Silver-plated oxygen-free copper wire, antibacterial TPU
9. Connector: 3.5 mm

 
Accessories/Packaging

1. Leather storage case
2. 6 pairs of silicone ear tips

 
 
 
 
 
The packaging is high quality, with the leather case being the highlight of the accessories. This kind of presentation is what I want in a purchase inching towards the $100 range.
 
Housing/Fit/Isolation
 

 
 
The design heavily borrows from HiFiMan’s Flagship HE-1000 headphone, no question about it.  It does makes the EN700 look very good, but also takes away from any originality that could have come from the design. I don’t think Simgot when I look at these, I think HiFiMan, which isn’t something you want when building a brand. The housing isn’t the most comfortable either, as it’s over-ear, shallow insertion creates seal and eartip issues. I was able to get the best results from the newest KZ black whirlwind type tips, which are quickly becoming my favorites alongside the JVC Spiral Dots.
 
Cable
 
Chin slider, sturdy, memory wire over ear. Nothing special, but not bad either.
 
Sound
Testing Gear (in order of quality)
 
LH Labs Pulse X Infinity 2.0
LH Labs Geek Out V2+ Infinity
Axon 7
Asrock Fatality amped onboard DAC/amp
 
Music used for testing
Alter Bridge, Iron Maiden, Buckethead, Korn, Testament, Die Antwoord
 
Amplifier Needed?
No
 
Sound Signature
 
Neutral bass, mid centric focusing on vocals, boosted and unnatural treble (almost to a point of distortion)
 
Bass
 
Insertion and seal play a huge part in bass levels. It is very easy to have little to no bass with a majority of eartips. An absolute perfect seal must be achieved or you will be disappointed in this IEM. It even throws off my Veritas measurements, with an almost 20dB difference in bass levels, as seen here:
 

 
 
With a perfect seal, bass is neutral to slightly elevated, reminding me a bit of Havi B3’s bass, with the EN700 having a bit more clarity and subbass. While you won’t always notice the bass, once you throw on a deep rap bassline you’ll all of a sudden feel all the bass that was seemingly missing before.
 
Midrange
 
If you love mid centric IEMs, you may love these. Much like the old Ostry KC06, the EN700 seems tuned specifically for vocal performances. Vocals excel and are the high point/strength of the EN700.
 
While providing the clarity for vocals to excel, guitar distortion can push into sibilant levels however. While this won’t be that noticeable during a rap or pop song, metal becomes fatiguing and a bit too sharp at anything above lower volumes. EQ can tame it, but it’s a shame because these are so close to being excellent.
 
Treble
 
While the dynamic driver in the EN700 is fully capable of providing full extension from lows to highs, I feel the IEM would have benefitted in being a BA/DD hybrid. I think the driver is tasked with doing too much, making treble suffer from the same sibilant sharpness found in the upper mids at times, making things sound a bit off without EQ to bring it down.
 
A warm source might be the key in synergy with this IEM, as the EN700 is more tolerable on my AKM DAC in the Axon 7 than with my Pulse Infinity. Still, extension is excellent for a single DD, and those that are less treble sensitive may not have an issue. At most times, a high quality sound IS there, but it doesn’t favor my music choices.
 
Soundstage, Imaging, Resolution
 
Soundstage is above average with nice width. Imaging and resolution are also above average, with a slight knock against being sibilance prone.
 
Comparisons
 
Simgot EN700 vs QY-20:  It EN700 is a detailed, mid centric IEM that reminds me of the Ostry KC06. The QY-20 has much more sub and midbass, making a more pleasing listen to me. The EN700 has more pronounced mids, a better soundstage, and equal to slightly better clarity.
 
Dunu Titan 1 vs EN700: The EN700 is slightly better than the Titan 1 in all aspects aside from the treble sibilance. I prefer the fit of the Titan, but find the open back difficult to use on a commute without annoying everyone around me.
 
Conclusion
 
The EN700 is a nice first entry into the market from Simgot, but it could use some slight improvements. Increase the bass a bit, add a BA, and fix the sibilance in the mids and highs and you’ll have a fantastic IEM.
 
At its current price of $99, it is difficult to recommend over budget hybrids such as the Urbanfun and **** 4in1, both of which can be bought for less than half of the price of the EN700 and sound a bit better.
 
It may sound as if I'm negative about the EN700, but that isn't really the case. While they aren't my personal preference, there is a lot to like here and it may be a fantastic purchase for quite a few people.
 
You can purchase the Simgot EN700 here:
 
http://www.shenzhenaudio.com/simgot-en700-in-ear-dynamic-earphone-24-original.html

Introduction
 
I’d like to thank Jim at HCK audio on Aliexpress for providing me the Qingyin Y20 at a discounted price in exchange for an honest review.
 
 
REVIEW
 
**NOTE** There seems to be a defect in my right housing, causing pressure/suction on the ear and not getting a seal unless I use long foam tips. This may be my unit, so I will review with foam tips inserted.
 
Specifications
                                                                                                       
 
    1. Product Name: QingYin-20 in ear earphone  
    2. Drive unit : Dynamic and Balanced Armature hybrid drive unit ED29689 Knowles
    3. Brand: QingYin
    4. Model: QingYin-20
    5. Earphone type: In-ear
    6. Impedance:18Ω 
    7. Headphone sensitivity:110dB
    8. Frequency range: 20-20000Hz
    9. Interface: 3.5mm Gilded
   10.Cable Length: 1.2m±5cm
   11.Headphone plug type: Line type
   12.Color: Silver, Gold
   13.Whether with mic and remote: No
 
Accessories/Packaging
 

1. Case
2. 3 Pairs of Silicone tips S/M/L
3. Clip
4. Ear inserts/spacer

 

 

 
 
 
 
The QY-20 comes in a fabric binded box, akin to something you’d find covering a hardcover book. The front adorns a Qingyin Technology logo in gold. With the back listing the specifications (In Chinese).
 
The presentation is well done, with the earphone case storing the accessories within. The tips included remind me a bit of Auvio and Dunu tips, which are of slightly better quality than most standard included tips.
 
 
Housing/Fit/Isolation
 
A golden colored metal alloy composes the housing, which also has grooved circle texture along it. These grooves make the QY-20 easy to grip.
 
The nozzles are a bit long, which could provide challenges for a good fit/seal for some. Otherwise, the fit is comfortable and provides good isolation.
 

 
 
Cable
 
The QY-20’s cable is above average and looks like a cable you would find on more expensive IEMs. Clean lines that look silver plated (but probably aren’t) run the length of the cable. The texture is not slippery, and it is easy to detangle.
 
Sound Review
 
Testing Gear (in order of quality)
 
LH Labs Pulse X Infinity 2.0
LH Labs Geek Out V2+ Infinity
Axon 7
Asrock Fatality amped onboard DAC/amp
 
Music used for testing
Steve Vai, Katatonia, Lamb of God, Sia, Cypress Hill, Dog Fashion Disco, Tremonti
 
Amplifier Needed?
 
No
 
Sound Signature
 
Balanced. Slight bass boost, a slight mid dip, controlled upper peaks with good extension across the spectrum.
 

 
 
 
 
Bass
 
A strong, steady bass presence extends through the bass frequencies. While nowhere near basshead levels, there is quite a bit more bass on tap than what a single BA would provide on its own. The DD/BA tandem work well together, and I’m easily able to enjoy deep bass rap beats, courtesy of Cypress Hill and their “IV” album. 
 
Midrange
 
Mids come through nice and clear with above average quality here. Male vocals come through with no recession or bass bleed. I really like the vocal clarity. Some brightness can occur at times, but nothing grating.
 
Based on my uncalibrated measurement with foam tips, there is a noticeable dip in the 2-5k region which does not appear on the official FR. A slight boost in that region does add a nice effect by bringing drums a bit more forward, but it is not needed.
 
Feedback on the QY-20 noted that it sounded similar to the Etymotic ER4S with a bit more bass, and based on the official FR graph, they do look quite similar. I have not heard the ER4S myself so I can’t confirm.
 
Treble
 
The Knowles driver shows its strengths in the QY-20’s upper mids and highs. Extension is better than most in this price range, and drop off doesn’t occur until the very high frequencies. I did not experience much fatigue during listening sessions, making the treble just right to my treble sensitive ears… fully present but not overdone.
 
 
Soundstage, Imaging, Resolution
 
Soundstage is slightly above average for the price range, with an expected width and depth. Separation and imaging blend together a bit compared to higher tier offerings, while resolution is very good. Some brightness did occur at times, but they were source and song dependant.
 
Comparisons
 
LZ-a2 vs. QY-20: The a2 is smoother all around with more bass and less treble. The QY-20 is a bit more detailed and extended, but lacks the bass punch. If you liked the a2 and wanted more extension you may really like these.
 
Simgot EN700 vs QY-20: The EN700 is getting a bit of attention lately, and for good reason. It is a detailed, mid centric IEM that reminds me of the Ostry KC06. The QY-20 has much more sub and midbass, making a more pleasing listen to me. The EN700 has more pronounced mids, a better soundstage, and equal to slightly better clarity.
 
Conclusion
 
Having never heard of Qingyin before, I can now say that I’m interested in what they have to offer product wise. The QY-20 sits in a crowded hybrid ~$50 price bracket and does very, very good performance wise for the price. Unfortunately, my pair has a possibly defective right housing (it caused bad seal/pressure in my left ear as well when tested. Foam tips fix this). I’m hoping this is a one off issue and that they all aren’t like this.
 
You can purchase the Qingyin QY-20 here:
 
http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/New-QingYin-20-In-Ear-Earphone-Dynamic-And-BA-Hybrid-Drive-Unit-HIFI-DIY-Kill-SE315/1825606_32662405867.html
 
Some pictures provided by HCK Audio

Introduction
 
Penon Audio was one of the first Asian audio stores I visited years ago. I’ve been consistently impressed with their products and service ever since. When a seller sends you a Christmas card to thank you for being a customer, you know they care.
 
Penon Audio provided me the TFZ Series 1 at a discount for review. I have heard that TFZ consists of members who brought about the TTPOD iems years ago, which were very good at the time. Many thanks to them for the opportunity and purchase.
 
TFZ also has the Series 3 and Series 5 models available.
 
 
REVIEW
 
 
Specifications
 

1. Model Number: TFZ SERIES 1
2. Driver: 12.5mm Titanium Crystal Dual Loop Dynamic Dual Chamber (N50)
3. Impedance: 12ohm
4. Sensitivity: 103dB/mW
5. Frequency Response: 18Hz-22 kHz
6. Style: In-Ear
7. Plug Type: Line
8. Connectors: 3.5mm
9. Mic: No
10. Lowest Power: 8MW
11. Interface: 3.5mm Giled
12. Cable length: 1.2M

 
 
Accessories
 

1. TFZ SERIES 1
2. 3 pairs of Silicone ear tips
3. 1 pair of double-flange silicone ear tips
4. 1 pair of Foam ear tips
5. 1 pair of Ear hook
6. Carry bag
7. Clip

 

 

 
 
When I unboxed the TFZ Series 1 for the first time, I came away impressed. The packaging is something you would find on much more expensive iems, from the abundance of accessories to the unique quotes written within and also on the IEMs.
 
The included selection of ear tips is well chosen which include double flange and foam eartips. These are a staple of my tip swapping collection, and it is nice to see them included.
 
The velvet like carry bag branding the TFZ logo is a nice touch, and a convenient carry case. I prefer velvet cases on less expensive iems for their ability to fit in pockets.
 

 
 
Housing/Fit/Isolation
 

 

 
TFZ offers a multitude of colors and designs for the housing which you get to choose from. Carbon Fiber, faux woodgrain, transparent, and solid color choices are amongst the variety available. For the review, I received a standard glossy black housing.
 
The housing itself is a strong plastic with an over ear fit. It is shaped very much like most custom iems, which allowed a comfortable ear fit. Isolation was pretty standard, allowing some loud sounds through, but not too much noise.
 
The cable was a standard plastic which I’m not too fond of, but it wasn’t necessarily bad. The 3.5mm plug has a nice, thick quality to it.
 
Sound Review
Testing Gear (in order of quality)
 
LH Labs Pulse X Infinity 2.0
LH Labs Geek Out V2+ Infinity
ZTE Axon 7 (AKM 4490)
Asrock Fatality amped onboard DAC/amp
 
Music used for testing
Devin Townsend Project, Temple of the Dog, Guns & Roses, Pearl Jam, Bassnectar, Of Montreal, Agnostic Front, Nick Jonas, Gwen Stefani, Alice in Chains, Iron Maiden, Drake, Buckethead, etc.
 
Amplifier Needed?
 
No
 
Sound Signature
 

 
 
Big bass, but surprisingly competent all around. Slight mid recession with some bass bloat. Smooth. Rolled off treble.
 
ARTA and the Vibro Veritas FR show the elevated bass levels, a peak at 2k, a diving dip to 7k, a peak at 9k, and the subsequent rolloff towards the end.
 
Slight EQ at the peak and dip areas can “fix” the sound a bit if desired.
 
The foam tips were used for the review and measurement, as they were the most coherent and lowered the mid bass for me.
 
Bass
 
Dat Bass! The highlight of the TFZ Series 1 is the deep bass available within every track. These are hip hop/EDM/Rock/Pop geared earphones with their pleasing bass tones. The bass is clear, not sloppy, but doesn’t quite reach true basshead levels (It can come close though). The newest Drake album is already bass enhanced, and the TFZ1 provides “Beats like” bass levels without drowning out vocals. Bass drums come through with force on rock tracks, a feeling which can be lost on mid-centric iems.
 
Midrange
 
The 2k peak gears towards guitars and male vocals which enhanced some Iron Maiden tracks by highlighting Bruce Dickinson’s trademark howl and their otherworldly guitar compositions. This peak allows the bass to be so big without muffled recession. Most music will benefit from this, but further down the mid frequency range will suffer in detail via some instruments, female vocals, ambience, etc.
 
Treble
 
Another peak at 9k brings forward the highs, but rolloff starts to occur from this point. Detail and resolution suffer a bit, but it also allows a non-fatiguing, smooth listen.
 
Soundstage, Imaging, Resolution
 
There is a surprising soundstage present with a good amount of depth. It isn’t wide, but it is still above average in the price category. The TFZ does well with imaging and placement, but doesn’t set itself apart in this area compared to similar iems. Same with its resolution, which is good but not great. The higher end TFZ models may fare better in this area.
 
Comparisons
 
TFZ Series 1 vs. Shozy Zero -  These two are very close in presentation. I feel the TFZ is more comfortable to wear and easier to seal, but the Zero edges the 1 in detail a bit. Both have elevated bass with a nice smooth signature, but the 2k peak of the 1 in the mids lets vocals through more. With some EQ, the Zero’s mids are easily brought up from recession however, making it slightly better for me.
 
 
Conclusion
 
I’m impressed with TFZ. The packaging, style, custom options, and sound make a well put together audio experience. Something like this would be a gift purchase for me to others, showing them just how good these lesser known brands can be. Hopefully I can hear the 3 and 5 Series in the near future, as TFZ is now on my radar.
 
The TFZ Series 1 can be found for purchase here:
 
http://penonaudio.com/TFZ-SERIES-1

Introduction
 
Lendmeurears of Singapore has been a quality, trusted store that has served audio lovers all over the world for a long time. They recently introduced their own in-house brand Alpha & Delta, and today we are going to focus on their sport model, the D2.
 
I’d like to thank Lendmeurears and Teo for the opportunity to review the D2.

 
REVIEW


 
 
Specifications
 

1. Driver unit: 10mm dynamic driver  
2. Impedance: 16 ohm  
3. Rated power: 1mW
4. Frequency Response: 10 Hz- 20 Khz
5. Speaker Sensitivity: 95 +/- db/ mW  
6. Cord Length: 1.2m  
7. Plug: 3.5 mm  

Accessories
 

1. 1 shirt clip
2. 3 pairs of silicon tips
3. 3 pairs of bifiange tips
4. 2 pairs of foam tips

 

 
 
 
Housing/Fit/Isolation
 
The housing is a simple, black matte plastic casing with a rubber type, sweat resistant coating. It is very lightweight, yet rugged, which is great for active purposes. The strain relief of the right earpiece is red, making it easy to figure out which side is which with a quick glance (a small but great feature)
 
The D2 fits almost perfectly in my ear. The sport type elliptical shape of the housing kept the D2 in my ears without issue during my workouts, no matter how hard I tried to get them to pop out.
 
The cable is pretty standard with a chin slider included. Despite not looking much different than most plastic coated cables that get tangled easily, these were pretty easy to untangle (another small but great feature for me on the go)

 

 

 

 
 
Sound Review
Testing Gear (in order of quality)
 
LH Labs Pulse X Infinity 2.0
LH Labs Geek Out V2+ Infinity (Balanced)
HTC 10
Asrock Fatality amped onboard DAC/amp
 
Music used for testing
New Gojira, Hatebreed, Lamb of God, Megadeth, Deftones, Katatonia, Slayer, Volbeat, Clutch, AC/DC, Van Halen, Hendrix, Clapton, Pink Floyd, Mudcrutch, Zac Brown Band, and hundreds more bands
Random EDM
New Drake, 2 Chainz, Havoc & Alchemist, Straight Outta Compton OST, Big K.R.I.T. and many more
Live concerts: Pearl Jam 4/16/16 soundboard
 
Amplifier Needed?
 
No
 
Sound Signature
 
Consumer oriented V shape signature. Fairly common in the $30 price range
 
Bass
 
The bass is nicely boosted with a good amount of energy, but there is a bit of bleed into the midrange with most silicone tips. It can become overpowering at times and hurts detail.
 
One thing I noticed is that foam tips removed a lot of this bass bleed. Normally foam tips enhance bass and decrease treble for me, but on the D2 it happens to work opposite and it works wonders. The tips can make the fit slightly less comfortable however, as it doesn’t let the housing sit as nicely in.
 
Midrange
 
The mids are recessed a bit to make way for the enhanced bass. This is normally found and expected in this price range, as it is more attractive to provide good bass levels at the expense of some midrange clarity. The vocals manage to avoid most of the recession and are very much present in the mix. I’ve heard $50 sets that were much worse in recession than the D2, so it does well in this regard.
 

 
You can see the peaks in the 3k and 6k region which seem to be intentionally tuned to bring out those vocal, guitar, and cymbal areas.
 
 
Treble
 
Treble is enhanced with a bit of roll off towards the end. Much like with the vocals, there are several upper peaks to provide some airiness to what would be an otherwise flat sound. While present, some of the treble detail is lacking a bit.
 
Soundstage, Imaging, Resolution
 
Resolution and detail are the weakest parts of the D2. While there is a good amount of detail and instrument separation for its price range, the D2 simply gets outclassed by $50 and up sets that aren’t meant for sport use. For a sport earphone, they are average to slightly above average in this regard, and the soundstage is a little wider than expected (possibly from the upper peaks).
 
 
Comparison
 
D2 vs Piston 3 = The D2 has a more balanced, less dark sound with better detail and soundstage characteristics. The D2 is better overall, but also technically almost twice the price.
 
 
 
Conclusion
 
For those looking for a good sounding, inexpensive earphone that will stay in your ears during the toughest of runs and workouts, the D2 is an easy recommendation.
 
The D2 can be found for purchase from LMUE here:
 
http://www.lendmeurears.com/alpha-delta-d2/

Little Dot MK II
 
Introduction
 
The Little Dot MK2 is and oldie but goodie, having been around since 2008. The MK2 is a testament of a solid, affordable tube amp. The tube selection, gain choices, and overall quality have stood the test of time, and it is well past time I’ve tried a pure, non hybrid tube amp in my music chain.
 
I’d like to thank George at Gearbest for providing me the MK2 for review. The MK2 price at Gearbest is one of the best on the net right now.
 
**NOTE** I was provided a 220v version of the MK2, as the 110v was not available during the review. If you are in the US or a country that uses 110v, it is strongly recommended to order the 110v and not run the 220v off of a voltage converter like I did (although it does work just fine this way).
 

 
 
 
 
REVIEW
 
 
Specifications
 

1. Input: Gold-Plated Unbalanced Phono (RCA) Jacks
2. Output: 1/4" Gold-Plated Stereo Headphone out, Gold-Planted RCA pre-amplifier out
3. Driver Tubes: 6JI
4. Power Tubes: 6N6
5. A newly designed SEPP (single-ended push-pull) circuit, which improves the output dynamic range
6. and sound quality far better than the old LD II++, which used a cathode, output circuit.
7. High quality ALPS-16 Potentiometer provides far better tracking between channels, which
8. translates into more precise sound imaging.
9. Upgraded circuit components include high quality NICHICON and German WIMA/ERO capacitors.
10. Improved Pre-amp functionality
11. Includes transient voltage suppression diode to shunt off voltage spikes.
12. Frequency Response:
13. 20HZ - 50KHz (-1 dB)
14. THD+N: 0.1% (50mW into 300 ohms)
15. Suitable Headphone Impedance: 32 - 600 ohms
16. Input Impedance: 50K ohms
17. Pre-Amplifier output impedance: 600 ohms
18. Pre-Amplifier Gain: 3-10x (also controlled via gain switches)
19. Pre-Amplifier Voltage: 10V RMS
20. Pre-Amplification circuit includes both driver and power tubes
21. Power Output:
22. 300mW @ 300/600 ohms
23. 200mW @ 120 ohms
24. 100mW @ 32 ohms
25. Power Consumption: 28W (228V * 0.124A)
26. Measurements:
27. Metric: 210mm (L) by 110mm (W) by 130mm (H)
28. English: 8.26 inches (L) by 4.33 inches (W) by 5.18 inches (H)
29. Weight: 2.5 kg or 5.5 lbs

 
Accessories
 
Tubes
RCA Cables
Power Cable
 
Tube and Gain Selection 
 
EF91
EF92
EF95
6N6/6H6P power tubes
 
4 Gain settings- default setting best for iems.
 

 
 
Design
 
Shiny, simplistic, effective. The black gloss matches my black tempered glass desk perfectly. The tubes are easy to install and remove (try not to touch them much), and the RCA inputs were easy enough to see during installation.
 
I wish I could easily get to the gain switch and jumpers without needing to remove screws and the housing. That's the one knock I have against the design and the MK II in general.
 
 
Sound Review
 
Equipment used
LH Labs Pulse X Infinity 2.0
 
Music used for testing
Gojira – Magma
Tiesto – Discography
Katatonia – The Fall of Hearts
Megadeth – Dystopia
Lamb of God – Discography
Blink 182 – California
Nonpoint – The Poison Red
Stone Temple Pilots – Core 24bit/96kHz FLAC
Tech N9NE, YG, Drake, Wu-Tang Clan
 
 
Sound Signature
 
Like most tube amps, the MK2 adds a touch of warmth to the music over what a solid state amp would provide. This both can elevate and hurt the sound depending on the earphone/headphone used. There are also noticeable differences switching between the different gains, in which each earphone/headphone also responds differently. This is just with the stock tubes as well. Tube rolling would bring a whole new plethora of sounds. Stock tubes will only be used for testing.
 
The most noticeable addition is the enhancement of “presence” in the music. Compared to the single ended headphone output of my Infinity (which is no slouch), there is an extra analog thickness added to the music. Purists may prefer more analytic Solid State amping, but the MK2 was very enjoyable as the amp to use out of the Infinity. Some iems that seemed cold from the stock amp (Qingyin-20 hybrid) came alive via the MK2. This is via the stock tubes, which many deem neutral. A tiny bit of detail seemed to be lost via the tubes compared to the Infinity amp, but the sound was smoother.
 
Since the MK2 has been around awhile, I’d suggest researching tube rolling results to get an idea of what kind of sound you would like. You could end up spending far more on rare tubes that what the MK2 costs.
 
Another big pro of the MK2 is the power it has available. I had no trouble powering everything in my collection. Aside from the most power hungry planar headphones, the MK2 can handle just about anything you can throw at it, which is quite a feat for the price.
 
There weren’t many large differences in soundstage, imaging, and resolution via my amps and the stock tubes. I believe the headphones/iems are far more important in that than the amp. A good amp will allow these to be heard as intended. These results can vary wildly between sources and tubes, so YMMV.
 
 
Comparisons
 
This is my first true tube amp (outside of my Laney Cub 12R guitar amp), so I can only compare it against some hybrid tube amps.
 
Compared to the Aune T1 and Bravo Ocean (both nice little amps), the MK2 has more power on tap, along with a warmer, livelier, and more engaging sound. You can tell the difference between the pure tube and hybrid sound/setup. Unfortunately, I could not use my extensive tube collection that worked in the T1, as the tube families are incompatible.
 
Conclusion
 

 
 
There is a reason the Little Dot series has been around for a long time and beloved by many. With the extensive tube rolling options available, multiple gain modes, quality internals, strong amplification, and great sound quality, the MK2 would make an excellent entry into Tube Amps. It’s an entry I should have made a long time ago, and now with the discounted pricing found at Gearbest, it’s an affordable entry as well.
 
You can purchase the Little Dot MK2 from Gearbest here:
 
http://www.gearbest.com/headphone-accessories/pp_368032.html?wid=10

Introduction
 
Brainwavz contacted me to provide a review for one of their products, and I was glad to participate.
 
Space is a luxury I don’t have much of, and my headphone collection is growing. The Truss intrigued me, as I don’t have the space for another stand (I already have the Brainwavz Quartz), but the Truss would allow me to use the underside of my desk to store headphones. It’s a great idea, made possible with some strong 3M double sided tape.
 
About me
 
 
REVIEW
 

 
 
Specifications
 

1. Mounting Method: 3M VHB™ adhesive tape
2. Material: All-Metal, Die-Cast Aluminium
3. Overall Dimensions: 162 x 45 x 60 mm
4. Headband Plate Dimensions: 45 x 50 mm each
5. Weight: 135 g

 
 
Thoughts
 

 
 
The first thing that caught my eye with the Truss is the all metal build. There is no flimsy plastic anywhere to be found. The Truss feels solid with some nice heft to it. I had no worries of breakage, nor did I think the Truss would fall while holding headphones despite being mounted with 3M adhesive tape. The tape is strong, so be careful if you ever need to remove it.
 
The black double hanger design is attractive and allows the outer cups of your headphones to show facing you. It’s a minor but nice touch, as my others stands place the headphone as it would be worn.
 
I currently have it right next to me at my gaming pc/audio station. While my AKG 7XX sits on an Omega stand, any other set that I currently wish to use goes right on the Truss within arm’s length. It’s incredibly convenient and hidden away, saving me some desk space in the process.
 
Installation
 

 
 
Installation is very simple. Attach one end of the 3M adhesive to the Truss, and stick the Truss underneath the area you desire to hang it from. That’s it.
 
Conclusion
 
I had no idea the Truss even existed, nor did I think I would ever need something like this. I’ve had the Brainwavz Quartz for a while which I really like, but the Truss is a must have item for someone needing both space and quick access to their headphones. Its price is modest as well, considering you’re getting a fully metal piece.
 
Simple, strong, modern, and a great idea.
 
I’d like to thank Brainwavz for providing me with the sample, along with providing nice affordable stands to the audio community.

Meizu EP-51
 

 
 
Introduction
 
The technology behind Bluetooth earphones can be pretty amazing to think about, even though many can be had for very cheap nowadays. Teenage me in the late 90’s would have had some great times with a Bluetooth earphone. Adult me appreciates their convenience in the gym and on a good run.
 
Meizu is no stranger to high quality at value pricing. The Meizu HD 50 I reviewed previously is one of my favorite headphone purchases that you can find under $100 (especially now that the Takstar Pro 80 is discontinued).  The EP-51 is Meizu’s entry into the sport Bluetooth earphone market, and I feel they have something special here that could make those budget conscious, active, casual listeners want to choose these EP-51’s over many other similarly priced Bluetooth earphones out there.
 
I’d like to thank George at Gearbest (A new Head-Fi sponsor) for providing me the EP-51 for review. Gearbest is one of the easiest and top shops to import some great audio equipment from China, yet they have quite a diverse offering of many other items. I bought my Xiaomi Hybrids and my Mi Band from Gearbest, and I just bought my iLife A4 robot vacuum from there!
 
About me
 
REVIEW
 
 
Specifications
 
Accessories
 

 

 
 
The EP-51 comes in an attractive packaging containing the earphones, special tips, and a storage case. The tips are important to keep around, as they are specifically made to fit the EP-51 and not much else. The nozzles are absolutely huge, practically earbud sized, making tip swapping very difficult.
 
I like the approach here, as I don’t feel as if I’m missing anything. The basics are here and they are presented well, especially for the price.
 
 
Housing/Fit/Isolation
 

 

 

 

 
 
Much like the HD50, Meizu uses a strong aluminum metal alloy on the housing of the EP-51 that also happens to be magnetic. I really like the extra nuance of the magnets. They aren’t overpowering, and they make organization a “snap” (pun intended).
 
The housing feels like they could survive an accidental stomp or mishap, which works in my favor at the gym or running the track. I don’t feel the need to baby these at all, as they are sturdy, yet lightweight.
 
The water resistant, anti-sweat coating is another nice touch. I sweat like an animal during a workout, and you can barely tell when I remove them after the workouts.
 
The fit is a mixed bag. The housing and tips do a wonderful job of staying in-ear, which is one of the things I require in a sport earphone. They can be a bit uncomfortable to insert or wear at times though, as the housing and fit is a bit big (for me) and doesn’t naturally sit in/on the ear as well as I’d like.
 
I have mixed feelings about the nozzle size as well, which is earbud sized. The nozzle sits outside of the ear though, with the tips acting as a chamber directing the sound into the ear. One of the Pros of this is that the sound quality is a step above most other Bluetooth earphones in the same price range, but it also can limit isolation and severely limit tip preferences. Isolation is very good however when you get a good seal, and you should be able to with the 3 different sized pair of tips included.
 
 
Cable/Mic
 

 

 

 

 
 
A tangle free flat cable runs about a foot wide, large enough to wrap around most necks with ease. The volume/mic unit sits very close to the right ear, and it is also where you can find the Micro USB charging insert. The cap over the usb removes easily and conveniently, unlike the QCY QY8 earphone which I can barely get open without resorting to finding a bent paper clip. Volume, pause, and skip controls worked perfectly on my HTC 10, and the mic performed admirably with no call distortion.
 
The battery lasts about 6 hours, or 3 days of commuting and workouts for me. This may be a bit less than other sets, but standby time seems to be as good or better than the competition to help make up for it.
 
Bluetooth range is standard and can get up to 10 meters, but it will usually cut off before that. The HTC 10 also cut out at times while walking with the phone in my left hand, but this did not seem to happen with a dongle via the PC. I’ll leave that as a possible firmware fix that HTC might upgrade in the future.
 
 
Sound Review
 
Equipment used
HTC 10
 
Music used for testing
Random songs from random genres. I favor hard rock/metal for accuracy testing, EDM and Rap for bass, and Pop for vocals.
 
Amplifier Needed?
 
Not Applicable. The EP-51’s built in DSP gets loud.
 
 
Sound Signature
 
The EP-51 is bassy, but not quite V shaped. Mids are slightly recessed, but less recessed than many of its competitors. Vocals are actually quite clear and prominent. Treble rolls off a bit, which is expected.
 
Bass
 
There is some nice midbass and decent extension here. While not quite at basshead levels, bass lovers like myself will be more than satisfied with these compared to such sets as the Mpow Megneto, which somewhat lacks in this area. There is a slight amount of bleed into the mids, but at a much lower rate than a lot of other sets I’ve heard. Bass is actually controlled better than average for this price range, making the rest of the music come across much clearer than expected.
 
Midrange
 
A big surprise with the EP-51 is the vocal clarity and coherency. Vocals absolutely shine here, and are very clear for a Bluetooth earphone. This is where I feel aptX starts to show its superiority over sets that don’t have it. The rest of the mids, while still good, aren’t the EP-51’s strong suit. They feel tuned for bass and vocals, but they still can give a great guitar crunch sound when called upon. Joe Satriani’s Crystal Planet was well represented, and the Lamb of God/Slayer gauntlet I put the EP-51 through passed with approval… a rarity for a Bluetooth earphone.
 
Treble
 
Another advantage of aptX is treble extension. The EP-51 has better treble extension than most non aptX sets, and it matches or exceeds similar sets that do have it. There is still a roll off, but the extension matches some wired IEMs in its price range and a bit above it, which is impressive. There is little to no fatigue, and everything up high is still audible. Cymbals and highs can still be heard, just not at the level and clarity that you would find wired and above $100, which is asking too much for a $30 sport earphone.
 
 
Soundstage, Imaging, Resolution
 
This is an area in which the $30 price range and Bluetooth just won’t provide the experience that higher priced wired equipment would. Even against those odds, instrument separation is very good, and there is a decent amount of a soundstage and ambience. Detail, resolution, and imaging are average, but above average for a sport Bluetooth earphone. I had no issues with using these as my daily driver for the review, and I could easily see these becoming a studying/reading pair. You get a good sound and the convenience to walk around untethered at bargain pricing.
 
 
Comparisons
 
I’ve used a bunch of previous gen ~$20 Bluetooth earphones, and the QCY QY8 was my previous favorite. It goes under various different names, and it can be found for $15. If you’re very price conscious, the QY8 is perfectly acceptable, but the Meizu EP-51 is better than it in every way, from build quality to sound quality, and is worth the extra cost.
 
The Moxpad X90 looks to be a good competitor at around the same price. The X90 features Dual Dynamic drivers, but does not have the metal build of the EP-51. I do not have the X90 on hand to compare however.
 
 
Conclusion
 
Meizu is quickly becoming a company that I pay attention to. The HD50 and EP-51 are budget kings, offering excellent sound quality for the prices they are going for. The EP-51 has become my new favorite workout pair, and I highly recommend them for this use.
 
I’d also love if Meizu were to offer their phones with US LTE bands. It would be great to pair their audio equipment with their phones here in the US. Meizu has used some good DACs and amps in their phones, and it would translate well for us audio lovers in the US and Europe.
 
You can purchase the Meizu EP-51 from Gearbest here:
 
http://www.gearbest.com/sports-fitness-headphones/pp_356162.html

Introduction
 
Zhiyin, a somewhat unknown company to anyone outside of China, has recently produced the QT5 which I am reviewing today. It is handmade, with four balanced armatures and one dynamic driver. It immediately caught my attention, as a configuration with these specs can normally run up to $1,000, such as with the Shure SE846. The SE846 actually does not have the extra dynamic driver that the QT5 has, making the QT5 an even higher spec IEM. Multiple drivers do not automatically equal good sound though, so I had to see for myself if the QT5 was worthy of competing with similar flagship models in its price range and beyond. Four Balanced Armatures (3 from Knowles) and one Dynamic Driver for $288, seems like a bargain… or maybe is it too good to be true considering similar specs cost much more just about everywhere else?  
 
I’d like to thank Jim at HCK audio on Aliexpress for providing me the QT5 at a discounted price in exchange for an honest review.
 
About me
 
I’m a price/performance value shopper in everything I purchase. I spend an extensive amount of time researching purchases and always look for a good value.
 
I have also spent many years as an A/V and music enthusiast. I have owned some high end audio equipment, from amps, speakers, subs, to just about anything audio related you can think of. I eventually moved on into building my own DIY custom speakers, as I felt the value and performance of most commercial speakers were lacking. I found out through this process that you could create high end setups from equipment costing thousands less than most branded commercial setups.
 
Since I cannot play music at 100+ decibels all day and night in an apartment complex, I started looking for similar values in the Headphone/Earphone/IEM world. In a Beats dominated setting, I was very disappointed.
 
I then found out about some excellent headphones/IEMs at great prices being made by Asian companies that are not known of here in the US. It renewed my interest in headphones and became the basis of the Asian audio thread.
 
My love of quality audio continues to this day, and I enjoy sharing my opinion of the gear I listen to. I have been guided toward purchasing some life altering, fantastic gear from great reviewers, and I feel if I can guide someone in the same way in which they truly appreciate what they have found, I’ve done what I wanted to accomplish.
 
REVIEW
 
 
**Update**  I need to do a rewrite on this review.
 
After taking measurements and A/Bing those measurements with an EQ correction curve, the dark lower mids are noticeable. The large dip in the 2kHz region hurts the sound as well. Once corrected via EQ, it becomes clearer. 
 
Attached is an EQ curve to help with this. Unzip and use in Foobar2000
 
 
 
I will update the review in the future. I still like the QT5's soundstage and resolution, but I also notice the problem areas a bit more. Apologies for not noticing these sooner.
 
 
The QT5 can be found for purchase here:
 
http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/2016-New-ZhiYin-QT5-Hybrid-5-Drive-Unit-In-Ear-Earphone-DIY-HIFI-Headphone-Kill-K3003/1825606_32640588846.html

 


 

 
 
Introduction
 
When the Oneplus One came out, I waited about two months for an invite to purchase it. When I did purchase it, I was floored by the performance for the price. Nothing in the smartphone market came close in value and performance. With the Oneplus Icons, Oneplus seems to look to do the same in the earphone market. Did they succeed like they did with the Oneplus One, or did they stumble a bit like they did with the Oneplus Two?
 
I'd like to thank Gearbest for providing the sample to review.
 
About me
 
I’m a price/performance value shopper in everything I purchase. I spend an extensive amount of time researching purchases and always look for a good value.
I have also spent many years as an A/V and music enthusiast. I have owned some high end audio equipment, from amps, speakers, subs, to just about anything audio related you can think of. I eventually moved on into building my own DIY custom speakers, as I felt the value and performance of most commercial speakers were lacking. I found out through this process that you could create high end setups from equipment costing thousands less than most branded commercial setups.
Since I cannot play music at 100+db all day and night in an apartment complex, I started looking for similar values in the Headphone/Earphone/IEM world. In a Beats dominated world, I was very disappointed.
I then found out about some excellent headphones/IEMs at great prices being made by Asian companies that are not known of here in the US. It renewed my interest in headphones and became the basis of the Asian audio thread.
 
REVIEW
 
Specifications
 

1. Impedance: 32 Ω
2. Driver Unit: 11mm, dynamic
3. Weight: 15g
4. Cable Length: 1.25m
5. In-Line Remote: Yes
6. Sound Pressure Level (SPL): 110±2dB
7. Colors: Gold, Graphite
8. Connector: 3.5mm jack (straight)
9. Wire Core Material: Enameled copper wire
10. Rated Power: 5mW
11. Coil Material: Copper-clad aluminum
12. Frequency Range: 20 – 20,000Hz
13. Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): <0.5%(1000Hz, 1mW)

 
Accessories
 
 

Package contents: Faux Leather Pouch. 3 Silicone tip sets. Oneplus Icons
 
 
 
Housing/Fit/Isolation
 
The Oneplus Icons have a beautiful and unique Organ Pipe shaped design to them. The housing extends upward in an asymmetrical fork like shape, with the driver attached in between. The angled nozzles and long body allow for a very snug yet comfortable fit, excellent for active users at the gym or running. I have seen a review stating the Icons fell out of the reviewer’s ears quite a bit. This is easily solved with a pair of tips that actually fit your ear. My favorite to use on the Icons (and many other IEMs) are the JVC Spiral Dots, large size.
 
The aluminum alloy the shell is constructed of is lightweight yet strong. The Icons have taken some serious pocket abuse and haven’t gotten a scratch on them.
 
Isolation is above average. Outside noise is blocked out nicely, while little to no sound escapes to the outside.
 
 
 
Cable/Mic Functionality
 
The Icon cable uses a regular plastic coating going to each ear after the Y split, but uses a Kevlar type rope coating for the rest of the wire. This has actually helped prevent tangling in my pockets by quite a bit, and I like the design. I only tested the mic briefly, but it worked clearly with no issues. 
 
 
Sound Review
Testing Gear (in order of quality)
 
LH Labs Pulse X Infinity 2.0
LH Labs Geek Out V2+ Infinity + Moto X Pure
Moto X Pure
MSI Gaming 7 amped onboard DAC
 
Testing Songs
Random Metal, Rock, EDM, Rap, Top 40, Hip Hop, Blues, and anything other music genres I feel like listening to at any given moment. I focus on songs I know well to spot differences in frequencies amongst a/b comparisons. 
 
Amplifier Needed?
No. The Icons are driven well by nearly any source.
 
Sound Signature
The Icons are so close to being balanced audiophile level IEMs, but the upper mid range places a slight metallic emphasis on guitars and vocals where it shouldn’t be.
 
Resolution
Above average. The clarity is comparable to sets in the $100-$150 range the majority of the time, with all parts of the sound well represented.
 
Bass
Bass levels are done very well, with a slight boost down low that adds a pleasingly tight and controlled level of fun to the music without bleeding into or muddying the rest of the spectrum. Along with the highs, bass is one of the Icons consistent strong suits. Bass lovers will very much enjoy these.
 
Midrange
The midrange is the crux of the Icons. At first, it seems excellent. It is not recessed and punches out a very good level of detail. To achieve this enhanced sense of clarity, the driver seems to be being pushed too much or tuned unnaturally.  This produces an uneven peak in the upper mids where guitars/vocals normally lie. Once you hear it, it can start to detract from the music a bit. This doesn’t mean the Icons aren’t highly enjoyable however. The Icons were almost on par with my current favorite (discontinued) set, the LZ-A2 during an extended listen of Megadeth Dystopia.
 
 
Treble
Despite the enhanced midrange, the highs remain natural and well extended. Cymbals hit with natural power and are easily heard within the music. Small enhancements can be heard within, but no major troubling peaks seem to jump out.
 
Soundstage and Imaging
Very good for a single dynamic driver. The soundstage is wide, but not open back headphone wide. Instruments can be individually heard, but tend to blend into the middle of the soundstage instead of being able to be easily picked apart in the left and right channels.
 
Comparisons
The Icons are appropriately priced for the quality of sound they put out. They compare easily with many sets in the $50-150 range from well-known companies. They sit alongside my Dunu Titans, LZ-A2, and Havi B3 Pro 1 as the go-to favorites in my collection.
 
Conclusion
 
Like the Oneplus One, I believe Oneplus has winner in the Icons that deserves more attention. It easily gets a thumbs in quality/value from me, and I hope it does for many others.
 
The OnePlus Icons can be found at OnePlus’ online store, and can be found at Gearbest here: 
http://www.gearbest.com/earphones/pp_261000.html

Pros: Handmade, Artsy, a great gift for creative types
Cons: Too much uncontrolled bass. Average sound quality.
 

 
 

 
Introduction
 
Handmade earphones are a unique and rare item in the audio industry, so I was happy to review the new Jelly Doux for Duong and Joinhandmade out of Vietnam.
 
About me
 
I’m a price/performance value shopper in everything I purchase. I spend an extensive amount of time researching purchases and always look for a good value.
I have also spent many years as an A/V and music enthusiast. I have owned some high end audio equipment, from amps, speakers, subs, to just about anything audio related you can think of. I eventually moved on into building my own DIY custom speakers, as I felt the value and performance of most commercial speakers were lacking. I found out through this process that you could create high end setups from equipment costing thousands less than most branded commercial setups.
Since I cannot play music at 100+db all day and night in an apartment complex, I started looking for similar values in the Headphone/Earphone/IEM world. In a Beats dominated world, I was very disappointed.
I then found out about some excellent headphones/IEMs at great prices being made by Asian companies that are not known of here in the US. It renewed my interest in headphones and became the basis of the Asian audio thread.
 
REVIEW
 
Specifications
8mm Dynamic Driver
Impedance: 16 Ohms
Sensitivity: 113db@1000Hz
Frequency Response: 18 – 21,000 Hz
 
 
Accessories
 

 


Package contents:
Silicon tips (3 Pairs)
Ceramic Case
 


Housing
 


 
The best quality of the Doux is the fact that it is handmade. Available in over 12 different colors and many variations, the Doux is a work of art… fashionable, and eye catching. A hand symbol adorns the right housing (clever). The housing goes through a 26 hour building process, creating individually unique units every time. Each Doux is technically “one of a kind”. Artistic and creative types may appreciate this quality of the Doux.
 
The housing itself is small and looks ceramic due to its highly polished sheen and glisten. Build quality is high, as the housing is very sturdy.
 
 

Cable

 
The Doux’s cable is thin and rope like, covered in fabric to help prevent tangling. It gets the job done, but it isn’t awe inspiring in its design.
 
 
  
Functionality
The fabric/acrylic pad which houses the 3 button controller is nice in design, but poor in practicality. There are no icons showing which button is which, leading to confusion at times. The Doux does work well as a quick “go-to” earphone while you’re on the go as its microphone worked pretty well off my smartphone.
 
 
Fit and Isolation
Due to its small size, the Doux fits perfectly in my ears. They stay firmly in place, and they feel comfortable doing so. They can be used actively without worry. The fit also allows excellent isolation and minimal cord microphonics. 
 
 
Sound Review
Testing Gear (in order of quality)
 
LH Labs Pulse X Infinity 2.0
LH Labs Geek Out V2+ Infinity + Moto X Pure
Moto X Pure
MSI Gaming 7 amped onboard DAC
 
Testing Songs
Random Metal, Rock, EDM, Rap, Top 40, Hip Hop, Blues, and anything else that comes along. I focus on songs I know well to spot differences in frequency amongst a/b comparisons. 
 
Amplifier Needed?
No. The Doux is easily driven and doesn’t benefit much from higher scaling equipment.
 
Sound Signature
V shaped. Lots of bass. Too much. The bass focuses so much on the midbass that it muddies up subbass and midrange frequencies more than it should, despite Joinhandmade’s claims that it does not. A treble boost adds clarity amongst this, while detail and resolution are comparable to other ~$35 sets. It is priced right for the performance.
 
Resolution
Average. Vocals and cymbals are clear and present, yet they are missing the layering and precision of more expensive equipment.
 
Bass
I’m an analytic basshead. I love big deep bass and got excited by the Doux’s deep, thunderous, fun midbass. I quickly realized that it overtook and bled far too much into other frequencies for my liking though. It provide more midrange than older Beats in-ears, but needs eartip swapping to tone the uncontrolled bass down. Go with short, wide bore opening tips for the best results.
 
Midrange
Surprising. Most V shaped, consumer tuned sets miss out on getting midrange right. The Doux does a very good job in keeping the mids at levels they are supposed to be at. This is the strongest asset of the Doux’s sound, and it bests many other similarly priced earphones in this area.
 
Treble
Treble extension is also very good, with obvious small peaks scattered across the frequency range. The treble isn’t too over-emphasized (which I like). A lot of companies do that to create a perceived clarity enhancement, but it actually hurts the overall sound, so I’m very glad Joinhandmade avoided that. The small increase complements the bass and pushes the vocal/cymbal ranges above the bass levels to allow them to be heard. In the process, it creates a bit of fatigue for long term or loud listening. I can’t see myself spending hours engaged in music because of it, but low volume commuting is a perfect scenario where it is beneficial.
 
Soundstage and Imaging
Good. Everything is balanced quite nicely, but separation is a bit hard to notice at times. Instruments can blend with each other due to the bass levels. 
 
Comparisons
There is no comparison in build. The handmade unique nature makes it a collectable work of art. Sound wise, they are similar to many of the $20-35 sets on the market from bigger brand names such as Skullcandy.
 
Conclusion
 
If the Jelly Doux was available sooner, I would have bought several as gifts for friends and my Cousin’s daughters. I appreciate the painstaking process to make these little pieces of art, and I feel that they sound good enough that they warrant the price tag. The Doux is fun and exciting, both in looks and sound.
For future sets, I would like Joinhandmade to focus more on improving the sound quality with better internal drivers and tunings. Another audiophile tuned model in Joinhandmade’s lineup (with nice bass and a good price) would be a welcome edition for those of us who need that extra bit of precision to make us happy.
 
 
The Jelly Doux can be found via their Indiegogo campaign here, with retail versions hitting the market next month:
https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/jelly-doux-redefining-handcraft-earphones#/
 
https://www.joinhandmade.com/

Pros: Comfort, style, quality build, bass, enjoyable on ear
Cons: Slight treble peak. Slight midrange recession
 


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Introduction
 
Meizu is one of my favorite smartphone companies out of China. They are equal in quality to Xiaomi in their smartphone offerings, and I was genuinely intrigued to see just how their HD 50 performed, as it seemed very promising. George at Gearbest was kind enough to provide me a review sample for my unbiased opinion.
 
About me
 
I’m a price/performance value shopper in everything I purchase. I spend an extensive amount of time researching purchases and always look for a good value.
I have also spent many years as an A/V and music enthusiast. I have owned some high end audio equipment, from amps, speakers, subs, to just about anything audio related you can think of. I eventually moved on into building my own DIY custom speakers, as I felt the value and performance of most commercial speakers were lacking. I found out through this process that you could create high end setups from equipment costing thousands less than most branded commercial setups.
Since I cannot play music at 100+db all day and night in an apartment complex, I started looking for similar values in the Headphone/Earphone/IEM world. In a Beats dominated world, I was very disappointed.
I then found out about some excellent headphones/IEMs at great prices being made by Asian companies that are not known of here in the US. It renewed my interest in headphones and became the basis of the Asian audio thread.
 
REVIEW
 

 
 
Specifications
Connectivity : Wired 
Connecting interface : 3.5mm 
Application : Portable Media Player, Aviation, Computer, DJ, Mobile Phone 
Plug Type: Full-sized 
Cable length : 1.2m 
Frequency response : 20~20KHz 
Impedance : 32ohms 
Sensitivity : 103dB + / - 3dB 
Microphone sensitivity: -42±3dB
 
Accessories
 

 


Package contents: 1 x Original Meizu HD50 Hi-Fi Headphones, 1 x 1.2m Cable, Case
 
 

 

Housing
 
The HD50 is a sexy looking headphone which looks far better than its asking price. Available in both White or Black leatherette padding, everything about this headphone screams of quality… from the comfort level and stitching of the headband, to the “apple like” quality of the metal housing. Meizu claims the housing itself has gone through a “high end rugged manufacturing process” along with CNC engraving, and I fully believe them. Meizu also talks of a front and rear “dual chamber” design which claims to enhance the soundstage, which will be talked about later in the review.
 
One unique feature I liked is that “L” and “R” are clearly marked inside each of the earcups, making it incredibly easy to decide on how to wear the headphone. Some may find it cheesy or cheap looking, but I dig it.  
 

 



 
Cable
Meizu’s cable is simple, yet highly effective. The main features are the better than average mic and the 99.99% high purity OFC cable encased in Kevlar. The cable itself is TPE with the Kevlar encasing the copper inside.  Microphonics are non existant.
 
 

 
  
Functionality
The mic was able to provide crystal clear voice while in use, and the volume/play buttons functioned as they should on my Moto X Pure (Marshmallow). The buttons themselves are clearly marked and easily accessible. I was able to play through my Xbox One and PS4 controllers with no issues. Unless there is a need for simulated 7.1, headphones like these make most dedicated video game headphone sets obsolete. If better dac/amps can be added to the controllers, it would make the sound quality noticeably better through these. It will happen eventually.
 

 
 
Fit and Isolation
I have no reservations in mentioning that I am not a fan of on-ear headphones in the slightest. Normally on-ears are very uncomfortable for my ears, which aren’t very large to begin with. I am pleased to say that not only do the HD50 fit pretty well on my ears, but they are also extremely comfortable. The soft leatherette feels like a mix between leather and memory foam (upon checking with Meizu, it does use Memory Foam, well done Meizu). Meizu really nailed it comfort wise on these. They remind me of how much I like my Takstar Pro 80 (Hyper X Cloud).
 
Isolation is excellent. My testing area is my daily commute to New York City. The city that never sleeps is also a city with very prominent noises at every corner. I cannot hear my fellow train commuters or the streets, and they cannot hear my music.
 
 
 
Sound Review
Testing Gear (in order of quality)
 
LH Labs Pulse X Infinity 2.0
LH Labs Geek Out V2+ Infinity + Moto X Pure
Moto X Pure
MSI Gaming 7 amped onboard DAC
 
Testing Songs
Random Metal, Rock, EDM, Rap, Top 40, Hip Hop, Blues, and anything else that comes along. I focus on songs I know well to spot differences in frequency amongst a/b comparisons. 
 
Amplifier Needed?
No. Any smartphone can drive the HD50 with ease. More power doesn’t increase the sound quality by any significance.
 
Sound Signature
Consumer oriented V signature, yet clearer than most consumer oriented bass lifted signatures. Bass is strong but cohesive and not overdone. Minimal bass bleed. Recessed mids, but slightly recessed. Strong peak in the mid-highs region, but nothing ear piercing. Overall the signature is enjoyable, but could induce fatigue during long sessions. Always keep a safe volume when listening.
 
Resolution
Average to above average for the price range, leaning more towards above average. The HD50 can’t compete with the resolution of most $200+ sets, but at its low price, it doesn’t need to. If the mids were a bit more prominent, the resolution would be strikingly good, as the rest of the frequency range is well represented.
 
Bass
Beefy, satisfying, thumping, clear. The subbass and midbass levels are surprising for an on-ear, not only in quantity, but also in its control. Most on-ear sets in the HD50’s price range have overly bloated, uncontrolled bass which bleeds into the rest of the music. The HD50 exhibits control similar to many sets in the $100 range, which is excellent. EDM lovers will fall in love with this.
 
Midrange
The midrange is the only average quality of this otherwise excellent headphone. The detail simply doesn’t match up with high end sets and is somewhat recessed at times. It isn’t bad by any means, nor is it overly recessed. You’ll get the full frequency range of your music and most people won’t notice it, but headphone enthusiasts will be able to hear it. Compared to my AKG 7XX, the midrange just can’t keep up. The 7XX is also 4x the price.
 
Treble
Engaging. There is a lift in the mid-highs which can get peaky and distracting at times, but the headphone does not distort, even at high volumes. Meizu claims distortion of less than 0.5%, and I agree with their claims yet again. .5% is actually high for a speaker and amp enthusiast when you hear this number, but the HD50 seems to fare well when I sent a high gain signal through them. Vocals, cymbals, and the rest of the highs maintain a nice clarity at all times.
 
Soundstage and Imaging
As noted before, Meizu’s soundstage claims are true. While the HD50 doesn’t match the soundstage of most open back headphones, they do a very good job and could be considered very much above average to excellent. The HD50 has a live, wide sound which is most noticeable through EDM tracks.
 
Imaging is somewhat forward in presence, with instruments able to be placed in each ear, yet they seem to be heard in front of the listener instead of all around.
 
 
Comparisons
There really aren’t many notable headphones in the $50-60 price range. The only other headphones that compare to me are the Xiaomi Headphone (More expensive), or the Takstar Pro 80. I haven’t head the Mi Headphone so I cannot comment on it, but the HD50 easily equals the Pro 80 and has become one of my favorites to recommend at $50-60.
 
Conclusion
 
I had a feeling going into this review that Meizu was going to have a winner on their hands with the HD50. Is it going to surpass most $120+ sets? No. It does easily compare with sets well over double its price though, and it looks beautiful. Highly recommended budget buy
The Meizu HD50 can be bought here at Gearbest:
http://www.gearbest.com/headsets/pp_265038.html

Faith Audio LZ-A2
 
About me:
I’m a price/performance value shopper in everything I purchase. I spend an extensive amount of time researching purchases and always look for a good value.
I have also spent many years as an A/V enthusiast. I have owned some high end audio equipment, from amps to speakers. I eventually moved on into building my own DIY custom speakers, as I felt the value and performance of most commercial speakers lacking. I found out through this process that you could create high end setups from equipment costing thousands less than most branded commercial setups.
Since I cannot play music at 100+db all day and night in an apartment complex, I started looking for similar values in the Headphone/Earphone/IEM world. In a Beats dominated world, I was very disappointed.
I then found out about some excellent headphones/IEMs at great prices being made by Asian companies that are not known of here in the US. It renewed my interest in headphones and became the basis of the Asian audio thread.
 
Intro
I was made aware of the LZ-A2 by fellow Head-Fi members RedJohn456 and yangian. They gave high praise to this IEM, and I had to see for myself if they were as good as claimed.
I was skeptical initially. The less than $99 price for a triple hybrid (Dual Balanced Armature + Dynamic Driver) was very intriguing, but TTPOD released a triple hybrid at this price range a while ago, and it failed to impress.
After being provided a review sample by Faith Audio (with RedJohn456’s help) and listening for myself, I can say that not only is the LZ-A2 as good as claimed, it has become my new favorite IEM in my collection.
 
Specifications:
 1. Product Name: LZ A2 Dynamic and Armature 3 unit Headphone   
 2. Brand: LZ
 3. Model: A2
 4. Type: In-ear  
 5. Impedance: 16Ω 
 6. Headphone sensitivity:120±3db
 7. Frequency range: 2-24000Hz
 8. Interface: 3.5mm 
 9. Cable Length: 1.2m±5cm
10.Weight: 25g
11.Color: Gold   
12. Mic:  Optional
13.Headphones category: HIFI, Monitor
14.Drive unit: dynamic and complex double unit armature (3 unit drive)
 

 

 
 
Build Features/Accessories: 

1. Case
2. Multiple eartips
3. Ear Hooks

 
The LZ-A2 did not ship with any packaging. It arrived in a case along with multiple (serviceable) eartips. I won’t spend much time comparing the tips, as I immediately set them aside to replace them with the wider bore tips of the JVC Spiral Dots.
The housing consists of a metal/metal alloy with a shiny gold appearance. The chin slider runs up and down a standard, plastic coated, clear, flexible cable that doesn’t tangle nearly as much as many other cables that I have.
I have no problems with comfort from the housings. I can listen (and have listened) for a few hours with them without any comfort or fatigue issues.
 
Sound Quality:
Source: LH Labs Pulse X Infinity, Moto X Pure + LH Labs V2+ Infinity
 

1. Excellent bass levels and clarity. Some of the best I’ve heard in a hybrid
2. Excellent midrange/vocals/guitar crunch. A treat to use with Rock music
3. Slight roll off in treble. Detail and resolution not up to the level of other flagship hybrids

 
Just like when meeting a new person, you usually get an idea within the first few minutes if you like them or not. Within the first few minutes of listening to the LZ-A2, I knew I found something special.
 
The first thing you notice is a bass slam/impact that you don’t normally hear from higher end earphones. When you listen further, you can hear a control in that bass impact that is noticeably absent from lower end earphones. This extended bass (sub bass and mid bass boost) gives a fun, pleasing boost which enhances the bass line in a rap song, but also brings out the bass drum in a good rock song. It does this while retaining the control and clarity hybrids are known for without muddying up the rest of the frequency spectrum. I have not heard this amount of bass from anything with a balanced armature unit in it before, so I was pleasantly surprised.
 
The midrange captures your attention next. This IEM is made to showcase vocals and guitars. Where the bass provides the appropriate bass needed for hip-hop, the slight lift in the midrange allows vocals to come through clearly and adds some bite to guitars, making the LZ-a2 and its sound signature an all-in-one IEM for the rap loving metalhead (a.k.a. me). I believe the clarity can be attributed to good use of the dual BAs, but I could be wrong. Distortion (THD) levels seem to be low.
 
Treble is the one area which takes a bit of a backseat to the rest of the sound. Highs are rolled off a bit, but they aren’t really recessed or missing like in most lower quality earphones. You can still hear the highs and the detail is still there, but it isn’t lifted or biting like most Balanced Armatures. On the bright side, this allows for extended listening sessions without treble fatigue, something which I couldn’t do with my previous favorite the Dunu Titan 1.
 
Detail and resolution in general are above average, but not quite as resolving as other triple hybrid flagships like the Dunu DN2000. I find the sound signature of the LZ-a2 much more enjoyable than the DN2000 however, which can overdo the treble and highs the majority of the time. I find the LZ-a2 as a median between ultra bass and ultra resolution.
PRaT is off the charts. With some Lamb of God or Gojira, I find myself moving to the music just as I would with my most prized equipment.
Isolation is above average. I’ve had family members literally scream at me while writing this review, and I couldn’t hear them.
Soundstage, separation and positioning are also above average. The a2 doesn’t beat the best IEMs in these categories, but it isn’t far off either. Everything is spaced appropriately and nothing is congested in the sound.
 
Comparisons:
 
vs. Vivo XE800 (VSonic GR07BE) = XE800 has a bit more top end, but the A2 is just more engaging and wins in everything else.
 
vs. Dunu DN2000 = The DN2000 has a little more detail, resolution, and soundstage, but can be very fatiguing/grating with highs. The a2 comes close and has a more appealing, warmer sound with none of the fatiguing treble.
 
vs. Dunu Titan 1 = The Titan 1 has slightly more detail, but suffers in isolation due to the open ports on the housing. Like the DN2000, the highs can also be fatiguing and too much at times due to the titanium dynamic driver. The a2 has a much more pleasing bass and sub bass level, better isolation, and almost as much detail.
 
Conclusion:
 
The LZ-a2 is a very fun listen for just about any genre. There really aren’t any glaring weaknesses or fatiguing peaks to speak of. It has become my new daily driver and my new favorite IEM, overtaking my Dunu Titan 1 for daily use. It can easily compete with many $300+ IEMs on the market. At the current price of ~$90, that kind of value is exceptional.
 
I cannot recommend this IEM enough. Being that this is the first of two IEMs that Faith Audio has put out, I cannot wait to see future product lines.
 
You can grab the LZ-a2 here:
 
Shenzhen HCkexin Electronic Technology Co., Ltd.
http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/2015-Newest-LZ-A2-Dynamic-and-Armature-3-unit-Headphones-HIFI-Fever-Earphone-As-K3003-DIY/1825606_32501370155.html

Ausdom M08
 
Intro
 
Gearbest and Ausdom contacted me and asked if I would provide a review of their M08 Bluetooth Headphone. I was happy to do so.
 
I have held a high interest in high quality, value priced equipment from China ever since I started the Chinese Audio thread here on Head-Fi a few years ago. Having never heard of Ausdom, I was curious to see just how well their equipment performed compared to the many other brands I have heard from companies based in Asia. Find out below how well they did.
 
Specifications:
 
Mic. Spec 
Microphone Unit：Φ 4*1.5mm 
S.P.L：-42±3dB S.P.L at 1KHz 
Impedance: ≤2.2kΩ 
Frequency response: 100Hz-10,000Hz 
Directivity: Omni-directional 

Speaker Spec 
Speaker diameter: Φ 10mm 
Frequency response: 20Hz-20KHz 
Impedance: 32Ω 
S.P.L: 92±3dB S.P.L at 1KHz 
Rated power: 20mW 

Bluetooth Spec
Bluetooth version: 4.0+EDR
Support profile: HSP,HFP,A2DP,AVRCP
Transmission frequency: 2.40GHz-2.48GHz
Transmission distance: 10m
Pairing name: Ausdom M08

Battery Spec
Charging port: Micro USB
Standby time: More than 250 hours
Talking time: About 25 hours
Playing time: About 25 hours
Charging time: About 2-3 hours
Battery type: Build in 500mah rechargeable lithium battery
Dimension:185*167mm

What's in the Box

1*Bluetooth headset
1*Micro USB charging cable
1*3.5mm audio cable
1*User manual
 
 
Build Features/Quality: 

1. Aluminum Magnesium Alloy on Headband and Cups
2. Plush Faux Leather Foam Pads
3. Fold up Design
4. FF/Play/RWD buttons on Right Cup
5. Long battery life

 
 
The Ausdom M08 has a lot going for it in its design. The Aluminium Magnesium alloy surrounding the majority of the headphone is sleek, sturdy, and surprisingly lightweight. While some people may prefer a little more heft and weight, I find the M08 to be comfortable and light without feeling cheap. I have some sunglasses consisting of the same material, and they have yet to show as much as a scratch.
 
It might be classified as an Over-Ear headphone, but the earcups are noticeably small and fit more like a pair of on-ear headphones.  Despite being smaller than a typical set of over-hear headphones, isolation is above average. I was able to walk the streets of NYC and not hear anything going on around me. My commute on the train consisted of Iron Maiden classics blasting loudly without bothering those sitting near me. In this regard, the M08 is excellent. The M08 also folds up easily, making it a good choice for a gym bag/commute.
 
The controls on the right earcup are placed in an easily accessible position, and I had no trouble playing, pausing, and seeking through songs.
 
Battery life was another strong suit. The battery lasted over 20+ hours during the review process and still had plenty of juice left.
 
 
Sound Quality:

1. Good clarity, decent detail retrieval
2. Bluetooth sound is good, but could use the aptX codec
3. Mid bass boosted, treble contains a slight boost with a quick rolloff

 
 
I was anxious to see how well the M08 performed in both wired and Bluetooth mode. It was no surprise that the wired mode sounded better by a good margin. Wired mode was just much more enjoyable. Using my Geek Pulse Infinity as a source, you could hear more detail and the treble drop off was much less (but still there). This is unfortunately the case for Bluetooth headphones in general, which is why I like that the wired option was included.
 
One of the biggest drawbacks of many Bluetooth 4.0 headphones are that they fail to include the aptX codec in their design. It may be a licensing or cost issue, but I have found that aptX offers noticeably better performance over EDR and any other Bluetooth codec. AptX seems to be missing from the M08 as well, which is unfortunate.
 
Even without the aptX codec included, the sound in Bluetooth mode is more than acceptable and beats out a few other sets in the same price range. Bluedio offers a similar headphone in their “Turbine” series, but I’ve always found Bluedio to be way too bass focused and lacking any sort of cohesive sound. The M08 maintains a good amount of clarity and crispness in the vocal and cymbal range. Bass is boosted slightly too much in the midbass levels, blending and bloating into vocals a little too often, hurting the clarity and detail of the sound a bit. Soundstage is a bit closed in and forward, but enjoyable. Treble drops off significantly through Bluetooth.  I also noticed that my Azio aptX Bluetooth dongle introduced distortion into the music via foobar2000 which wasn’t heard from any other source. If you use this dongle, be aware if this is an issue for you as well.
 
 
Conclusion:
Ausdom has created a well-designed, nicely priced Bluetooth headphone in the M08. While higher cost headphones have much better detail retrieval, resolution, and clarity, not everyone wants to spend $150+ to get that.
 
Including the aptX codec would have been a nice addition, and I hope Ausdom considers this in the future. I hope they can come out with a true giant killing flagship model in the future that provides $200+ balanced, reference sound in a value package of $80 or less.
 
At the under $40 price Gearbest is currently offering them for, anyone looking for a nice looking, serviceable, good isolating Bluetooth/wired headphone should give the M08 a try.
 
You can grab the M08 here:
(Cheaper than Amazon, and Gearbest has always been a consistent pleasure to buy from for me)
http://www.gearbest.com/headsets/pp_230468.html

Aune B1
 
If you’ve ever wondered how a Class A, discrete amp would sound with your portable music rig, Aune has given you the chance with the B1.
While I’m not going to go into the details of Class A nor comparisons to other amp types (Class AB, Class D), Class A is considered the best by many. I’ve found amps in all topologies that are so good that you’d never consider or care what type they are, so I don’t necessarily prefer one type over another. The design and components are what matters most.
 
Specifications:

1. Frequency range: 10 Hz – 20 KHz ± 0,15 dB
2. THD+N: <0,0008% @ 1 KHz, 600Ω
3. Signal/noise ratio: >124 dB @ 600Ω
4. Channel separation: > 110 дБ @ 1 КГц, 600Ω
5. Output power: 25 mW @ 16Ω, 50 mW @ 32Ω, 100 mW @ 300Ω
6. Headphone impedance: 16Ω — 300Ω
7. Battery: 4000 mA/h
8. Life time: 10 hours for 20 mA, 5 hours for 40 mA
9. Size: 65 mm × 110 mm × 18 mm
10. Weight: 230 g

 
Build Quality: 

1. Quality Aluminum Chassis
2. Unique window design showcasing internals
3. Stylish Faux Leather
4. Confusing switch placement

 
The B1 is a somewhat hefty amp to carry around, about the size of a smartphone lengthwise, and about 3-4 phones wide in girth. While it may be a bit wieldy to carry around, the actual quality of the device is high. The aluminum chassis and clear window casing showing the internals of the device provides a sleek look with a sturdy feel. The faux leather along the chassis also fits the design quite well without taking away from the overall appeal.
The switches and volume knobs did take away from the build though. I found the gain switch and volume knob placement to feel unnatural when I went to adjust them. It was nothing too distracting, but I’ve also used many amps that felt much better (Fiio and Cayin come to mind).
Battery life is not the greatest. The Class A design really eats up the battery, with 5-10 hours being the norm depending on your gain setting.
 
Sound Quality:

1. Good but not great power overall.
2. Slight bass tilt, 40mA mode better
3. Neutral sound

 
The B1 has plenty of power for most applications, and it excels at powering high impedance headphones. I ended up finding out that low impedance multi driver earphones do not do well with the B1 however (Havi B3). My smartphone drove the B3 at the same power level (even in high gain), which is not something I want in a $200+ amp. Every other IEM and headphone sounded stellar however. The O2 amplifier comes to mind with the overall neutral aspect of the sound.
Compared to my Geek Out 1000 V1, I found the GO1000 to be slightly more engaging and more powerful, with a slight edge in soundstage. Treble was enhanced over the B1, but I found the B1 more pleasing.
 
Conclusion:
There is a lot to like about the B1. I would very much recommend it as a portable amp for a high impedance headphone. For a portable IEM solution, I find that there are better dac/amp combo options available at similar pricing.
 
As a fan of Aune and their past products, I applaud their effort in making a unique amp that can satisfy a lot of people.