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Reviews by briantbrain
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briantbrain
New Head-Fier
Pros: + V-shape tuning leaning towards warm, which many people like
+ Good build quality
+ Neutral timbre
+ Fun tuning with a good amount of power
+ Wide soundstage
+ Comfortable fitting
+ Good clarity and coherence from the single DD
+ Modular nozzles to enhance the treble
+ Good build quality
+ Neutral timbre
+ Fun tuning with a good amount of power
+ Wide soundstage
+ Comfortable fitting
+ Good clarity and coherence from the single DD
+ Modular nozzles to enhance the treble
Cons: - The Silver-Red nozzle has almost no impact change
- Poor quality cable
- Recessed vocal positioning (preference)
- Micro-detail is not the main focus of this IEM
- No complaints for this price range
- Poor quality cable
- Recessed vocal positioning (preference)
- Micro-detail is not the main focus of this IEM
- No complaints for this price range
Some time ago, I reviewed the Simgot EM6L, and thankfully, many people asked, "What's the difference between the Simgot EA500LM and EM6L since the price difference is minimal?" Without further ado, here's what you need to know.
Straight to the Point... Simgot EA500LM
- Fun and airy IEMs
- IEMs with modifiable nozzles
- Just want to read the review
- Kinera Verdandi
- Sennheiser IE900
- 634ears Loak-2 OP
- Fiio Q15
- HibyDigital M300
Unboxing:
First, when I received the box, my wife commented, "Why did you buy tarot cards?" I wasn't sure either, but it turns out it's not tarot cards. The box design has a hologram that looks like tarot cards. For a price range of 1.5 million IDR, this IEM has a decent box. Inside:
Fitting:
Still with the metal body from Simgot, this time the body is slightly oval and a bit bulging on the faceplate compared to the flat design of other Simgot IEMs like EM6L or EW200. No issues at all when using this IEM since the body is standard, even with just a Single DD configuration. The nozzle is also standard and comfortable for mixing and matching with various ear tips.
Bass:
Indeed, Simgot's Single DD has a bass sound that I like for the entry-level price range. The neutral timbre is pleasant. The bass is punchy and deep but not to the level of bass-head with a moderate speed. The sub-bass rumbles with an impact that is neither too long nor too short, tuned just right without exaggeration. The low-frequency layering feels dynamic, making the quantity and quality almost impeccable at this price range, combined with engaging energy. Honestly, I have no complaints about the low frequencies.
Mid:
Neutral is the right word to describe the mids of this IEM. It has good vocal control for both male and female voices, balancing the bass and treble aspects well. With just the right power and enough engagement, the vocals are presented right in the middle but slightly recessed compared to other sounds. There's no sibilance or shoutiness; the vocals are airy and not too thick, which might feel thin for some people, but for my taste, I prefer airy sounds, making it neutral. No complaints.
Treble:
The treble tuning of this IEM is relaxed. Relaxed doesn't mean weak due to lack of power, but because the cring and sparkling sensations are tuned very safely and appropriately. Although it has a long extended treble, it doesn't make this IEM fall into the treble-head category due to the lack of a shining-shimmering-splendid impression. For non-treble-heads, this IEM is very suitable as it still delivers good treble tuning without the distraction of over-sparkling or shining.
Clarity:
One of the clearest IEMs in its price range that I've tried. Very clear and comfortable. Perhaps its weakness lies in the micro-detail, which is less prominent, so many micro-details sound thin or not at all.
Soundstage:
Above average. The airy aspect and additional sub-bass rumble enhance the impression of a wide and spacious soundstage.
Imaging:
3D holographic imaging is just standard when the sound revolves around the head, nothing special. The pinpointing of instruments is very clear due to the clear and distinct sound separation. The imaging positioning of instruments is also very good.
- Silver/Black: My favorite. Clearly my favorite because it elevates the treble frequency. This nozzle gives a more aggressive treble tuning that was previously too relaxed. The cring and sparkling sounds are firm without being piercing. Additionally, this tuning is comfortable for treble-heads seeking a more shining-shimmering-splendid sound compared to the standard brass nozzle. For the mids, one needs to be a bit cautious as the vocals might feel more piercing in some songs. There is no noticeable change in the bass aspect.
- Silver/Red: Almost no difference from the Brass nozzle with its balanced sound, just a slight variation in the treble that is tuned more safely than the brass nozzle. The effect of this tuning makes the low frequencies sound more powerful but with differences that are almost imperceptible to most people.
+ V-shape tuning leaning towards warm, which many people like
+ Good build quality
+ Neutral timbre
+ Fun tuning with a good amount of power
+ Wide soundstage
+ Comfortable fitting
+ Good clarity and coherence from the single DD
+ Modular nozzles to enhance the treble
Cons:
- The Silver-Red nozzle has almost no impact change
- Poor quality cable
- Recessed vocal positioning (preference)
- Micro-detail is not the main focus of this IEM
- No complaints for this price range
Many asked for a comparison with the EM6L, so let's compare. Let's also include Kefine Delci, which is currently hyped. Can it still be better? Let's see.
EA500LM. Better ear tips and I prefer the IEM design.
Draw. All fit comfortably. Maybe because my ears are quite large (LOL).
EA500LM. I prefer the punchy and rumble bass that's more airy. Kefine, unfortunately, is darker in my opinion, not as airy as EA500LM. EM6L has decent bass quality and quantity, but it's just too weak, like soggy vegetables.
EM6L. Besides having more forward vocal presentation than the others, EM6L has vocals that sound more effortless and melodious. The vocals are thick but still airy, making it a strong suit of this IEM.
EA500LM with the Silver-Black nozzle. Energetic, cring, long extended treble, and slightly piercing. The best compared to the others.
EM6L. All are clear, but EM6L has better detail.
EA500LM. Spacious and airy soundstage.
Draw. All have good imaging aspects in their price range.
That's all.
Trust Your Own Ears.
Bye.
Straight to the Point... Simgot EA500LM
==DISCLAIMER==
All my impressions and reviews are subjective, adhering to the belief, "Only my savings can be lied to, but reviews must be honest." Agreed? Great. Disagree? That's fine too. I review because I want to and enjoy it, not because I need to (LOL). Important! I recommend you audition it yourself, who knows, maybe my ears need an ENT doctor, or perhaps you do (LOL).==THIS POST IS FOR==
- My recommended IEM around the 1 million IDR price range- Fun and airy IEMs
- IEMs with modifiable nozzles
- Just want to read the review
==MY DAILY DRIVERS==
- Symphonium Crimson- Kinera Verdandi
- Sennheiser IE900
- 634ears Loak-2 OP
- Fiio Q15
- HibyDigital M300
==STRAIGHT TO THE POINT WITHOUT FURTHER ADO==
Unboxing:
First, when I received the box, my wife commented, "Why did you buy tarot cards?" I wasn't sure either, but it turns out it's not tarot cards. The box design has a hologram that looks like tarot cards. For a price range of 1.5 million IDR, this IEM has a decent box. Inside:
- The IEM itself
- 2 braided cables (I'm quite tired of Simgot cables in this price range, they feel like sticky aquarium hoses)
- Ear tips (improved, these ear tips are more decent compared to other Simgot IEMs)
- Carrying case
- 2 additional nozzles (black-silver and red-silver, with brass already installed, making a total of 3 nozzles)
- Manual
Fitting:
Still with the metal body from Simgot, this time the body is slightly oval and a bit bulging on the faceplate compared to the flat design of other Simgot IEMs like EM6L or EW200. No issues at all when using this IEM since the body is standard, even with just a Single DD configuration. The nozzle is also standard and comfortable for mixing and matching with various ear tips.
==SOUND IMPRESSION==
All impressions are using the Brass Nozzle because it offers the most balanced tuning. Impressions with other nozzles will be explained after the sound impression section.Bass:
Indeed, Simgot's Single DD has a bass sound that I like for the entry-level price range. The neutral timbre is pleasant. The bass is punchy and deep but not to the level of bass-head with a moderate speed. The sub-bass rumbles with an impact that is neither too long nor too short, tuned just right without exaggeration. The low-frequency layering feels dynamic, making the quantity and quality almost impeccable at this price range, combined with engaging energy. Honestly, I have no complaints about the low frequencies.
Mid:
Neutral is the right word to describe the mids of this IEM. It has good vocal control for both male and female voices, balancing the bass and treble aspects well. With just the right power and enough engagement, the vocals are presented right in the middle but slightly recessed compared to other sounds. There's no sibilance or shoutiness; the vocals are airy and not too thick, which might feel thin for some people, but for my taste, I prefer airy sounds, making it neutral. No complaints.
Treble:
The treble tuning of this IEM is relaxed. Relaxed doesn't mean weak due to lack of power, but because the cring and sparkling sensations are tuned very safely and appropriately. Although it has a long extended treble, it doesn't make this IEM fall into the treble-head category due to the lack of a shining-shimmering-splendid impression. For non-treble-heads, this IEM is very suitable as it still delivers good treble tuning without the distraction of over-sparkling or shining.
Clarity:
One of the clearest IEMs in its price range that I've tried. Very clear and comfortable. Perhaps its weakness lies in the micro-detail, which is less prominent, so many micro-details sound thin or not at all.
Soundstage:
Above average. The airy aspect and additional sub-bass rumble enhance the impression of a wide and spacious soundstage.
Imaging:
3D holographic imaging is just standard when the sound revolves around the head, nothing special. The pinpointing of instruments is very clear due to the clear and distinct sound separation. The imaging positioning of instruments is also very good.
==NOZZLE COMPARISON==
- Silver/Black: My favorite. Clearly my favorite because it elevates the treble frequency. This nozzle gives a more aggressive treble tuning that was previously too relaxed. The cring and sparkling sounds are firm without being piercing. Additionally, this tuning is comfortable for treble-heads seeking a more shining-shimmering-splendid sound compared to the standard brass nozzle. For the mids, one needs to be a bit cautious as the vocals might feel more piercing in some songs. There is no noticeable change in the bass aspect.
- Silver/Red: Almost no difference from the Brass nozzle with its balanced sound, just a slight variation in the treble that is tuned more safely than the brass nozzle. The effect of this tuning makes the low frequencies sound more powerful but with differences that are almost imperceptible to most people.
==PROS & CONS==
Pros:+ V-shape tuning leaning towards warm, which many people like
+ Good build quality
+ Neutral timbre
+ Fun tuning with a good amount of power
+ Wide soundstage
+ Comfortable fitting
+ Good clarity and coherence from the single DD
+ Modular nozzles to enhance the treble
Cons:
- The Silver-Red nozzle has almost no impact change
- Poor quality cable
- Recessed vocal positioning (preference)
- Micro-detail is not the main focus of this IEM
- No complaints for this price range
==COMPARISON==
Many asked for a comparison with the EM6L, so let's compare. Let's also include Kefine Delci, which is currently hyped. Can it still be better? Let's see.
- **Unboxing:**
EA500LM. Better ear tips and I prefer the IEM design.
- **Fitting:**
Draw. All fit comfortably. Maybe because my ears are quite large (LOL).
- **Bass:**
EA500LM. I prefer the punchy and rumble bass that's more airy. Kefine, unfortunately, is darker in my opinion, not as airy as EA500LM. EM6L has decent bass quality and quantity, but it's just too weak, like soggy vegetables.
- **Mid:**
EM6L. Besides having more forward vocal presentation than the others, EM6L has vocals that sound more effortless and melodious. The vocals are thick but still airy, making it a strong suit of this IEM.
- **Treble:**
EA500LM with the Silver-Black nozzle. Energetic, cring, long extended treble, and slightly piercing. The best compared to the others.
- **Clarity:**
EM6L. All are clear, but EM6L has better detail.
- **Soundstage:**
EA500LM. Spacious and airy soundstage.
- **Imaging:**
Draw. All have good imaging aspects in their price range.
==CONCLUSION==
- If you're looking for an IEM with a good single DD configuration for around $85, the EA500LM might be the best choice with a myriad of options like modular nozzles that can provide significant sound changes.
- The fun tuning with engaging power makes it very suitable for all-around songs. The quantity and quality of bass and treble aspects are clean, neutral, and coherent, making it a strong point of this IEM despite having slightly recessed vocals and not being the best for micro-detail.
That's all.
Trust Your Own Ears.
Bye.
Attachments
briantbrain
New Head-Fier
Pros: + Very satisfying unboxing experience
+ Beautiful IEM and cable
+ Suitable for Old-School songs, Blues, etc.
+ Vocals segmented for low mid frequency lovers
+ Long sub-bass rumble
+ Punchy bass
+ Wide and grand soundstage
+ With the right cable, this IEM can have one of the best vocal sounds in its price range
+ Beautiful IEM and cable
+ Suitable for Old-School songs, Blues, etc.
+ Vocals segmented for low mid frequency lovers
+ Long sub-bass rumble
+ Punchy bass
+ Wide and grand soundstage
+ With the right cable, this IEM can have one of the best vocal sounds in its price range
Cons: - Micro details are not the strong point of this IEM
- Metallic upper treble
- Separation is not the best in the upper mid to treble range
- Needs a cable change to unlock its true vocal potential
- Sub-bass feels unclear in some songs
- Metallic upper treble
- Separation is not the best in the upper mid to treble range
- Needs a cable change to unlock its true vocal potential
- Sub-bass feels unclear in some songs
Beauty Requires InvestmentAt first, I was reluctant to review it since it hasn’t gained much traction in Indonesia. But after seeing the IEM, it looked stunning, and the driver configuration intrigued me with the inclusion of a micro planar driver. Does that mean it's a smaller planar driver? I’m not sure of the difference.
Let's dive in… Celest Phoenixcall.
==DISCLAIMER==All my impressions and reviews are subjective, adhering to the belief, "only my savings can be lied to, but reviews must be honest." Agree? Fine. Disagree? Fine. I review because I want to and enjoy it, not because I need to.
- But you might say I’m biased because I’m using it? Absolutely not. I’m a true audiophile hobbyist who will always be honest without bias. Don’t believe me? Read till the end, we’ll explore the pros and cons.
- You might think this is just the honeymoon phase? In this hobby, which is truly "dark and full of poison," it will remain so until the end of the world. Human desire never ends.
- But should you listen to me? Absolutely.
Important! I recommend auditioning it yourself; maybe it’s my ears that need an ENT doctor, or perhaps yours do.
==THIS POST IS FOR==
- What's my recommended IEM around $160?
- Which IEM has unique and pleasant vocals?
- Which IEM has good bass?
- Just want to read the review
==MY DAILY DRIVER==
- Symphonium Crimson
- Kinera Verdandi
- Sennheiser IE900
- Kontinum Soara
- Fiio Q15
- HibyDigital M300
==TESTED WITH==
- · YouTube Music
- · Tidal
- · Hiby M300
- · Fiio Q15
- · Celest Phoenixcall
- · Sena Acoustic Rinjani
==STRAIGHT TO THE POINT==Unboxing:
Honestly, I was very surprised during the unboxing. Besides the cool box with its asymmetric lid, you are immediately greeted with information about the origin of the name Phoenixcall, and you can see the IEMs with their stunning faceplates. The unboxing experience is very satisfying. Included are:
- The IEMs
- 8 braided cable with 3.5mm jack
- 2 types of Celest eartips with 3 sizes each (the standard Celest eartips are quite usable and decent in quality)
- Carrying case with a sticky zipper
- Phoenix keychain
- Manual
Fitting:
These IEMs are very beautiful!! With transparent resin shells, you can see the driver configuration inside. The shiny, star-studded faceplate adds to the beauty, paired with the white cable. With a fairly large body and long nozzle, these IEMs might be tricky to fit in some ears, especially needing the right eartips. But in my large ear canals, they fit perfectly fine.
Bass:
This IEM has punchy bass from the single DD that’s quite deep but with fast speed. What I love is the punchy bass that feels like it hits the back of my head and is great for headbanging. The kick drum feels more impactful.
For sub-bass, Phoenixcall has a long rumble that adds a sense of width, dynamics, and grandeur to the music. Unfortunately, in some songs, I find the sub-bass sound a bit unclear and slightly distracting.
Mid:
This is where the IEM becomes somewhat segmented for certain people. The vocals feel heavier, meaning male vocals sound good, but female high notes seem a bit restrained, though they add soul to certain songs like old-school or slow acoustic tracks.
The timbre of the mid-range lacks crispness, and the snare drum sounds a bit shy, making it feel like listening to a grown-up Justin Bieber who hasn't yet hit puberty.
Treble:
The treble is tuned tame with just enough power. The limited capacity sometimes feels unadventurous. Moreover, the upper treble sounds metallic and unnatural, which can be quite bothersome in songs requiring intense sparkling and crispness. Additionally, the upper treble feels cut off during sparkling segments.
Clarity:
The metallic upper treble is unpleasant. The micro details are not well rendered and feel shy.
Soundstage:
This is one of the plus points for this IEM. It's spacious and wide, with the added sub-bass rumble enhancing the grandeur.
Imaging:
The punchy bass overshadows the treble position, resulting in less than optimal separation. In some songs, the instruments in the upper mid to treble frequency range feel a bit clustered, with the BA and planar driver configuration lacking cohesion, resulting in subpar imaging.
==COMPARISON==I was advised to try changing the cable to one with a balanced port. I happened to have a Sena Rinjani cable with a 4.4mm jack and rhodium pins, tested with a Fiio Q15 DAC/AMP. This cable made a noticeable difference, so here we go:
Note: for those in the "cable changes don't matter" sect, that’s fine, I’m just sharing my experience.
Bass:
With engaging power remaining, the depth of the bass is reduced compared to the stock cable, but it feels more textured. The unclear sub-bass remains unchanged.
Mid:
This is the best part after changing the cable. The sound feels very natural, effortless, and sweet. Not overly wet or thick, but one of the best vocal IEMs I’ve heard. The only downside is its central presentation might feel lacking for vocal enthusiasts.
Treble:
More pronounced power, no longer shy. Still with a tame tone but slightly more sparkling, though the extended treble remains cut off. Unfortunately, the metallic upper treble is still present in some songs.
Clarity, Soundstage, Imaging:
The same as before changing the cable.
==CONCLUSION==
- One of the IEMs with the best unboxing experience and looks I’ve ever tried.
- Bass and sub-bass are the main aspects of this IEM, combined with a grand soundstage. Unfortunately, the mid-range is quite segmented for some ears, and the treble is less engaging, making the timbre feel less natural, which can be a consideration before purchasing this IEM.
- Changing to a balanced cable can be a solution I’ve proven to enhance the mid and treble aspects of this IEM.
-
briantbrain
New Head-Fier
One Step Closer to the Surface of the Rabbit Hole
Pros: - Neutral sound
- Forward vocal
- Wide bore ear tips from stock
- Good design IEM
- Clear and fun treble with enough extension for its price.
Cons: - No pouch or carrying case
- Poor cable and ear tips quality
- Unclear sub-bass
- Short impact of sub-bass
- Missing a lot of bass texture
- Dry and thin vocal
- Not for detail lovers
- Average soundstage
- Not dynamic sound
One Step Closer to the Surface of the Rabbit Hole
I think I remember when this IEM first came out around late 2022 and started to hype up in early 2023, it had quite a bit of enthusiasm from the Indonesian community. This review is a bit late, but well, because I was given the opportunity and I just wanted to, so I decided to dive into it.
As the caption of an Instagram post about engagement says, "One Step Closer," it perfectly describes this IEM. One step closer to diving into the "rabbit hole" of the audiophile world, wherever its origin is... sigh...
Anyway... TinHifi C2.
**==DISCLAIMER==** All my impressions and reviews are subjective and follow the belief of "I only deceive my savings; my reviews are always honest." Agree? Okay. Disagree? Okay. I review because I want to and because I enjoy it, not because I need to haha.
"But are you saying this just because you're using it right now?" Oh, absolutely not. I'm a true audiophile hobbyist who will always be honest without bias. Don't believe me? Read until the end, we'll dissect the pros and cons.
"But are you saying this because it's new, maybe you're just in the 'honeymoon' phase?" In this hobby, which is truly "dark and full of poison," things will remain the same until the end of the world. Human desire knows no bounds haha.
"But isn't it better to just listen and enjoy?" Yeah, you're right.
Important!! I suggest you audition it yourself, maybe it's my ears that need to see an ENT doctor, or maybe it's you who needs it haha.
**==THIS POST IS FOR==** My IEM recommendation around 500 thousand rupiah?
New to this hobby, which IEM should I buy?
Just want to read the review.
**==MY DAILY DRIVERS==** Symphonium Crimson
Kinera Verdandi
Sennheiser IE900
Fiio Q15
HibyDigital M300
**==TESTED WITH==** - Youtube Music
- Tidal
- Hiby M300
- Fiio Q15
- Lenovo Office Laptop (what series? who knows haha)
- TinHifi C2
**==STRAIGHT TO THE POINT==**
**Unboxing:**
For an IEM around $30 or under 500 thousand rupiah, the unboxing experience is minimal, nothing special or wow. But when I first opened it and saw the IEM shell, I thought it looked pretty good xixixi. It includes:
- The IEM itself (already fitted with a pair of ear tips)
- Ear tips (there are about 2 types of ear tips with 3 sizes each. It's quite annoying because all the ear tips are combined into 1 plastic, so it's a bit difficult to differentiate)
- The cable (The first time I saw it, I immediately touched my chest because it's so awful. I thought the Simgot EW200 had the worst IEM cable, but this one is even worse)
- User manual
**Fitting:**
An IEM made from some kind of metal, matte gray finish with shiny ear tips reminiscent of stainless steel. It has a single Dynamic Driver configuration with a standard-sized body for IEMs in a similar price range. It has slightly longer nozzles, but with a size that I think is average, so it shouldn't be a problem for most people's ears. The available ear tips are, in my opinion, just "okay" and can still be used for entry-level friends who don't have their favorite stock ear tips. And what I like is that there are wide bore sizes, so they're my favorite.
**Bass:**
Neutral and soft. That's the most accurate phrase to describe the low-frequency aspect of the Tin C2. Produced by the dynamic driver it has, we can enjoy the thumpy bass hits and the rumbling sub-bass. From an entry-level POV, I'm sure you'll feel quite happy with the sound you hear even though the perceived power is just enough. But there are some weaknesses, such as the very minimal texture of the bass with shallow thumps, so it doesn't feel lively. Then, the sub-bass rumble it produces is very fast and lacks dynamics, so it feels very breathless and has minimal energetic rumble. Also, I feel that the sound from the sub-bass lacks clarity, so you can hear a "bzztt" sound in its rumble tail. If entry-level friends are hoping this IEM is for bass heads, they are mistaken.
**Mid:**
Forward but dry. Although the vocal sound is presented more forward than other aspects, the vocals produced have a problem that I find disturbing. For the upper mid part, especially the male voices sound dry, which is disturbing, so it feels like you want to give the singer a drink because their throat sounds very dry. Also, the sound feels thinner, so the energy from the song being performed is less than optimal. In my opinion, songs with high notes in male voices and songs that require heavy vocals will not be optimally performed.
**Treble:**
Clean and Fun. Of all aspects, I like the treble the most. This IEM has clean treble with good micro-detail in its price range. I like it not because this IEM is shining-shimmering-splendid (because it's not at all), but because I appreciate this IEM at this price having clean treble presentation with a fun and neutral sound to listen to. Don't expect a treble tail that's sharp and long because it's relatively short, but it's tuned with a clear presentation, not overshadowed by other aspects, and has sufficient power. For entry-level IEMs, this can be a good starting point for okay treble IMO.
**Clarity:**
The rumble tail from the sub-bass that's not clean sometimes disturbs in some songs. But other than that, all the sounds are clear. Micro-detail clarity isn't the best aspect of this IEM because many micro-details are not presented.
**Soundstage:**
Average. Don't expect "like watching a concert, bro?" because it's definitely not, but you can feel a wide and pleasant stage.
**Imaging:**
There's no impression of a 3D holographic rotation in your head because this IEM has a relatively flat dynamic and minimal dynamic range according to its price range. Each instrument can be pinpointed in terms of sound separation, but for the micro-detail sound produced, it feels stuck with other main instruments.
**Specs:**
Available in the photo, see for yourself.
**==CONCLUSION==**
- The neutral sound of the treble tuned with fun and clarity is the main advantage of this IEM. Moreover, with the forward vocal position, it feels more comfortable for jazz and slow acoustic songs.
- However, unfortunately, there are weaknesses in the unclear sub-bass sound and the bass thump that lacks texture and depth. Also, the thin vocals and problems with the upper mid-range sound dry, especially with male singers, which is very torturous in some songs.
- Is this IEM worth it? For entry-level users looking for their first IEM to understand the "surface of the rabbit hole" of this hobby, this IEM could be the right option because the sound it produces reasonably answers the "hi-res sound IEM" from a Counter IEM.
That's all.
Trust your ears.
Goodbye.
Attachments
Last edited:
briantbrain
New Head-Fier
All-Arounder Entry Level King!
Pros: + Engaging power from low to high frequencies
+ Clear, no issues with clarity
+ Neutral sounding
Cons: - Entry-level cable quality
- MMCX connector (some people might prefer 2-pin)
- Extended treble could be longer
- Bass and sub-bass feel short (depends on preference)
- Micro-detail is nothing special
After previously reviewing its sibling, the EPZ Q1 Pro released in 2024, it turns out that EPZ also released the Q5 in late 2023. I thought the Q1 Pro would be an improvement over the Q5, but why is the Q5 slightly more expensive? And graphically, there doesn't seem to be a noticeable difference. However, the Q5 is quite surprising for its price range.
Let's dive into the EPZ Q5.
==DISCLAIMER:==All impressions and reviews are subjective and adhere to the belief that "I'll only lie to my savings; I'll be honest in my reviews." Agree? Alright. Disagree? Alright. Because I review out of desire and enjoyment, not out of necessity.
- But if you say this because you're using it now? Oh, definitely not. I'm a true audiophile hobbyist who will always be honest without bias. Don't believe it? Read until the end, and we'll dissect the pros and cons.
- But if you say this because it's new, probably just during the "honeymoon" phase? In this hobby, which is truly "dark and full of toxins," it will always be like that until the end of time. Human desires truly have no end.
- But it's better to listen and understand, right? Absolutely.
Important!! I suggest you still audition it yourself, maybe my ears need to visit an ENT specialist or you need to (haha).
==THIS POST IS FOR:==
- What's my recommended IEM around $50?
- An IEM with a safe tonal balance in all aspects, engaging power, and suitable for all-around use?
- Just want to read the review.
==MY DAILY DRIVERS:==
- Symphonium Crimson
- Kinera Verdandi
- Sennheiser IE900
- Fiio Q15
- HibyDigital M300
==TESTED USING:==
- YouTube Music
- Tidal
- Hiby M300
- Fiio Q15
- Lenovo Office Laptop (what series is this)
- EPZ Q5
- EPZ Q1 Pro
- Simgot EW200
==LET'S DIVE IN WITHOUT FURTHER ADO:==*Unboxing:*
Surprisingly, for about $8 more, they provided a better IEM box and decent accessories compared to the Q1 Pro. Here's what's inside:
- The IEM itself (I chose the white color, and it's indeed beautiful)
- 2-braid cable (a decent cable for its price range, not as prone to tangling as other entry-level IEM cables)
- 2 types of eartips with 3 sizes for each type (quite useful)
- Manual
*Fitting:*
The combination of white and gold on the front, which I thought would make it an open-back IEM, turned out to be not, but it makes this IEM look beautiful. The shell is made of lightweight plastic with a good finish, making it not seem like this IEM is only about +/- $35. The IEM body and small nozzle don't cause any discomfort when worn and are comfortable for long periods.
*Bass:*
The low frequencies have energy but don't cause ear fatigue. You can feel the punchiness of the bass, but it feels shallow, not too deep. The impact produced by the sub-bass is also relatively fast, with a short rumble. This makes the bass impact from songs feel more exciting. It's a typical bass and sub-bass from a single dynamic driver that I think is quite suitable for many people's ears. Despite that, there's no harsh or muddy sound from the bass produced. Clean low frequencies.
*Mid:*
Sweet and melodious. The vocals sound natural without any added spices. The sound is similar to the presentation of the Q1 Pro, with vocals slightly more forward but without elevation in the lower mids. This makes male vocals in the low register not sound heavier, making them sound more "real" as they naturally would. The natural mid timbre, especially good snare drum and guitar sounds, make the midrange frequencies of this IEM even more enjoyable to listen to, especially with no vocal sibilance to disturb.
*Treble:*
Fun and engaging treble. This IEM can be said to have a W-shape character, with treble that has enough power to make us feel the sparkling and tinkling treble without feeling sibilance. Perhaps this is what sets it apart from one of its competitors in a similar price range, the EW200. The Q5 can present treble that feels safer without losing the sparkling impression in its price range, whereas the EW200 still feels a bit piercing to some people. Like most IEMs in its price range, the Q5 has relatively short but decently extended treble that allows you to hear percussion sounds.
*Clarity:*
Clear, with no sibilance, unclear sounds, or muddiness in any aspect.
*Soundstage:*
Average, not considered large but not intimate either.
*Imaging:*
Good instrument separation in this IEM makes it easy to pinpoint each instrument in a song. Unfortunately, this is not supported by micro-detail, which is considered average and below that of the Q1 Pro.
==COMPARISON:==Because I was confused about these two lineups of EPZ IEMs at a similar price, let's just compare both, the Q1 Pro and Q5, oh and let's add the Simgot EW200 since the prices are similar:
- *Unboxing:*
Q5 wins slightly, with a box and accessories (case, eartips, cable) that are more thoughtful for the customer. EW200 and Q1 Pro come with just average boxes.
- *Fitting:*
Draw. All feel equally good, but I'd choose the Q5 slightly better because of its size and weight. The plastic material also feels more comfortable than the Q1 Pro and EW200.
- *Bass:*
Q5 and EW200. They both have the same engaging power with bass quality and quantity that are almost similar. Meanwhile, the Q1 Pro has a more relaxed tuning.
- *Mid:*
Q5. Melodic and more natural vocal tuning than the Q1 Pro. Meanwhile, the EW200 still has some sibilance in some songs.
- *Treble:*
EW200. I prefer piercing treble. That's all, haha.
- *Clarity:*
Q5. Natural timbre with engaging power makes the Q5 the best of the three.
- *Soundstage:*
Q5 and EW200, slightly better than the Q1 Pro.
- *Imaging:*
Q1 Pro. It has the same good instrument separation as the other two, but the Q1 Pro has better detail.
==CONCLUSION:==
- The Q1 Pro, released later than the Q 5, is not an upgrade from the Q5.
- The EW200, as a favorite single dynamic driver in this price range, seems to have to yield to the Q5 because it feels more like an all-rounder. The only reason to prefer the EW200 might be if you're a treblehead.
- Having sound and tonal qualities that can be considered better than the Q1 Pro in all aspects (except micro-detail), the Q5 feels more worthwhile, especially with just an $8 difference in budget.
- However, different tonalities could be an option for some people who prefer a relaxed sound but with detail, you can choose the Q1 Pro, or a more fun and energetic sound, you can choose the Q5.
That's all.
Trust your ears.
Bye.
Attachments
-
At first, I was reluctant to review it since it hasn’t gained much traction in Indonesia. But after seeing the IEM, it looked stunning, and the driver configuration intrigued me with the inclusion of a micro planar driver. Does that mean it's a smaller planar driver? I’m not sure of the difference.
Let's dive in… Celest Phoenixcall.
Let's dive in… Celest Phoenixcall.
==DISCLAIMER==All my impressions and reviews are subjective, adhering to the belief, "only my savings can be lied to, but reviews must be honest." Agree? Fine. Disagree? Fine. I review because I want to and enjoy it, not because I need to.
- But you might say I’m biased because I’m using it? Absolutely not. I’m a true audiophile hobbyist who will always be honest without bias. Don’t believe me? Read till the end, we’ll explore the pros and cons.
- You might think this is just the honeymoon phase? In this hobby, which is truly "dark and full of poison," it will remain so until the end of the world. Human desire never ends.
- But should you listen to me? Absolutely.
Important! I recommend auditioning it yourself; maybe it’s my ears that need an ENT doctor, or perhaps yours do.
==THIS POST IS FOR==
- What's my recommended IEM around $160?
- Which IEM has unique and pleasant vocals?
- Which IEM has good bass?
- Just want to read the review
==MY DAILY DRIVER==
- Symphonium Crimson
- Kinera Verdandi
- Sennheiser IE900
- Kontinum Soara
- Fiio Q15
- HibyDigital M300
==TESTED WITH==
- · YouTube Music
- · Tidal
- · Hiby M300
- · Fiio Q15
- · Celest Phoenixcall
- · Sena Acoustic Rinjani
==STRAIGHT TO THE POINT==Unboxing:
Honestly, I was very surprised during the unboxing. Besides the cool box with its asymmetric lid, you are immediately greeted with information about the origin of the name Phoenixcall, and you can see the IEMs with their stunning faceplates. The unboxing experience is very satisfying. Included are:
- The IEMs
- 8 braided cable with 3.5mm jack
- 2 types of Celest eartips with 3 sizes each (the standard Celest eartips are quite usable and decent in quality)
- Carrying case with a sticky zipper
- Phoenix keychain
- Manual
Fitting:
These IEMs are very beautiful!! With transparent resin shells, you can see the driver configuration inside. The shiny, star-studded faceplate adds to the beauty, paired with the white cable. With a fairly large body and long nozzle, these IEMs might be tricky to fit in some ears, especially needing the right eartips. But in my large ear canals, they fit perfectly fine.
Bass:
This IEM has punchy bass from the single DD that’s quite deep but with fast speed. What I love is the punchy bass that feels like it hits the back of my head and is great for headbanging. The kick drum feels more impactful.
For sub-bass, Phoenixcall has a long rumble that adds a sense of width, dynamics, and grandeur to the music. Unfortunately, in some songs, I find the sub-bass sound a bit unclear and slightly distracting.
Mid:
This is where the IEM becomes somewhat segmented for certain people. The vocals feel heavier, meaning male vocals sound good, but female high notes seem a bit restrained, though they add soul to certain songs like old-school or slow acoustic tracks.
The timbre of the mid-range lacks crispness, and the snare drum sounds a bit shy, making it feel like listening to a grown-up Justin Bieber who hasn't yet hit puberty.
Treble:
The treble is tuned tame with just enough power. The limited capacity sometimes feels unadventurous. Moreover, the upper treble sounds metallic and unnatural, which can be quite bothersome in songs requiring intense sparkling and crispness. Additionally, the upper treble feels cut off during sparkling segments.
Clarity:
The metallic upper treble is unpleasant. The micro details are not well rendered and feel shy.
Soundstage:
This is one of the plus points for this IEM. It's spacious and wide, with the added sub-bass rumble enhancing the grandeur.
Imaging:
The punchy bass overshadows the treble position, resulting in less than optimal separation. In some songs, the instruments in the upper mid to treble frequency range feel a bit clustered, with the BA and planar driver configuration lacking cohesion, resulting in subpar imaging.
==COMPARISON==I was advised to try changing the cable to one with a balanced port. I happened to have a Sena Rinjani cable with a 4.4mm jack and rhodium pins, tested with a Fiio Q15 DAC/AMP. This cable made a noticeable difference, so here we go:
Note: for those in the "cable changes don't matter" sect, that’s fine, I’m just sharing my experience.
Bass:
With engaging power remaining, the depth of the bass is reduced compared to the stock cable, but it feels more textured. The unclear sub-bass remains unchanged.
Mid:
This is the best part after changing the cable. The sound feels very natural, effortless, and sweet. Not overly wet or thick, but one of the best vocal IEMs I’ve heard. The only downside is its central presentation might feel lacking for vocal enthusiasts.
Treble:
More pronounced power, no longer shy. Still with a tame tone but slightly more sparkling, though the extended treble remains cut off. Unfortunately, the metallic upper treble is still present in some songs.
Clarity, Soundstage, Imaging:
The same as before changing the cable.
==CONCLUSION==
- One of the IEMs with the best unboxing experience and looks I’ve ever tried.
- Bass and sub-bass are the main aspects of this IEM, combined with a grand soundstage. Unfortunately, the mid-range is quite segmented for some ears, and the treble is less engaging, making the timbre feel less natural, which can be a consideration before purchasing this IEM.
- Changing to a balanced cable can be a solution I’ve proven to enhance the mid and treble aspects of this IEM.
-
briantbrain
New Head-Fier
One Step Closer to the Surface of the Rabbit Hole
Pros: - Neutral sound
- Forward vocal
- Wide bore ear tips from stock
- Good design IEM
- Clear and fun treble with enough extension for its price.
Cons: - No pouch or carrying case
- Poor cable and ear tips quality
- Unclear sub-bass
- Short impact of sub-bass
- Missing a lot of bass texture
- Dry and thin vocal
- Not for detail lovers
- Average soundstage
- Not dynamic sound
One Step Closer to the Surface of the Rabbit Hole
I think I remember when this IEM first came out around late 2022 and started to hype up in early 2023, it had quite a bit of enthusiasm from the Indonesian community. This review is a bit late, but well, because I was given the opportunity and I just wanted to, so I decided to dive into it.
As the caption of an Instagram post about engagement says, "One Step Closer," it perfectly describes this IEM. One step closer to diving into the "rabbit hole" of the audiophile world, wherever its origin is... sigh...
Anyway... TinHifi C2.
**==DISCLAIMER==** All my impressions and reviews are subjective and follow the belief of "I only deceive my savings; my reviews are always honest." Agree? Okay. Disagree? Okay. I review because I want to and because I enjoy it, not because I need to haha.
"But are you saying this just because you're using it right now?" Oh, absolutely not. I'm a true audiophile hobbyist who will always be honest without bias. Don't believe me? Read until the end, we'll dissect the pros and cons.
"But are you saying this because it's new, maybe you're just in the 'honeymoon' phase?" In this hobby, which is truly "dark and full of poison," things will remain the same until the end of the world. Human desire knows no bounds haha.
"But isn't it better to just listen and enjoy?" Yeah, you're right.
Important!! I suggest you audition it yourself, maybe it's my ears that need to see an ENT doctor, or maybe it's you who needs it haha.
**==THIS POST IS FOR==** My IEM recommendation around 500 thousand rupiah?
New to this hobby, which IEM should I buy?
Just want to read the review.
**==MY DAILY DRIVERS==** Symphonium Crimson
Kinera Verdandi
Sennheiser IE900
Fiio Q15
HibyDigital M300
**==TESTED WITH==** - Youtube Music
- Tidal
- Hiby M300
- Fiio Q15
- Lenovo Office Laptop (what series? who knows haha)
- TinHifi C2
**==STRAIGHT TO THE POINT==**
**Unboxing:**
For an IEM around $30 or under 500 thousand rupiah, the unboxing experience is minimal, nothing special or wow. But when I first opened it and saw the IEM shell, I thought it looked pretty good xixixi. It includes:
- The IEM itself (already fitted with a pair of ear tips)
- Ear tips (there are about 2 types of ear tips with 3 sizes each. It's quite annoying because all the ear tips are combined into 1 plastic, so it's a bit difficult to differentiate)
- The cable (The first time I saw it, I immediately touched my chest because it's so awful. I thought the Simgot EW200 had the worst IEM cable, but this one is even worse)
- User manual
**Fitting:**
An IEM made from some kind of metal, matte gray finish with shiny ear tips reminiscent of stainless steel. It has a single Dynamic Driver configuration with a standard-sized body for IEMs in a similar price range. It has slightly longer nozzles, but with a size that I think is average, so it shouldn't be a problem for most people's ears. The available ear tips are, in my opinion, just "okay" and can still be used for entry-level friends who don't have their favorite stock ear tips. And what I like is that there are wide bore sizes, so they're my favorite.
**Bass:**
Neutral and soft. That's the most accurate phrase to describe the low-frequency aspect of the Tin C2. Produced by the dynamic driver it has, we can enjoy the thumpy bass hits and the rumbling sub-bass. From an entry-level POV, I'm sure you'll feel quite happy with the sound you hear even though the perceived power is just enough. But there are some weaknesses, such as the very minimal texture of the bass with shallow thumps, so it doesn't feel lively. Then, the sub-bass rumble it produces is very fast and lacks dynamics, so it feels very breathless and has minimal energetic rumble. Also, I feel that the sound from the sub-bass lacks clarity, so you can hear a "bzztt" sound in its rumble tail. If entry-level friends are hoping this IEM is for bass heads, they are mistaken.
**Mid:**
Forward but dry. Although the vocal sound is presented more forward than other aspects, the vocals produced have a problem that I find disturbing. For the upper mid part, especially the male voices sound dry, which is disturbing, so it feels like you want to give the singer a drink because their throat sounds very dry. Also, the sound feels thinner, so the energy from the song being performed is less than optimal. In my opinion, songs with high notes in male voices and songs that require heavy vocals will not be optimally performed.
**Treble:**
Clean and Fun. Of all aspects, I like the treble the most. This IEM has clean treble with good micro-detail in its price range. I like it not because this IEM is shining-shimmering-splendid (because it's not at all), but because I appreciate this IEM at this price having clean treble presentation with a fun and neutral sound to listen to. Don't expect a treble tail that's sharp and long because it's relatively short, but it's tuned with a clear presentation, not overshadowed by other aspects, and has sufficient power. For entry-level IEMs, this can be a good starting point for okay treble IMO.
**Clarity:**
The rumble tail from the sub-bass that's not clean sometimes disturbs in some songs. But other than that, all the sounds are clear. Micro-detail clarity isn't the best aspect of this IEM because many micro-details are not presented.
**Soundstage:**
Average. Don't expect "like watching a concert, bro?" because it's definitely not, but you can feel a wide and pleasant stage.
**Imaging:**
There's no impression of a 3D holographic rotation in your head because this IEM has a relatively flat dynamic and minimal dynamic range according to its price range. Each instrument can be pinpointed in terms of sound separation, but for the micro-detail sound produced, it feels stuck with other main instruments.
**Specs:**
Available in the photo, see for yourself.
**==CONCLUSION==**
- The neutral sound of the treble tuned with fun and clarity is the main advantage of this IEM. Moreover, with the forward vocal position, it feels more comfortable for jazz and slow acoustic songs.
- However, unfortunately, there are weaknesses in the unclear sub-bass sound and the bass thump that lacks texture and depth. Also, the thin vocals and problems with the upper mid-range sound dry, especially with male singers, which is very torturous in some songs.
- Is this IEM worth it? For entry-level users looking for their first IEM to understand the "surface of the rabbit hole" of this hobby, this IEM could be the right option because the sound it produces reasonably answers the "hi-res sound IEM" from a Counter IEM.
That's all.
Trust your ears.
Goodbye.
Attachments
Last edited:
briantbrain
New Head-Fier
All-Arounder Entry Level King!
Pros: + Engaging power from low to high frequencies
+ Clear, no issues with clarity
+ Neutral sounding
Cons: - Entry-level cable quality
- MMCX connector (some people might prefer 2-pin)
- Extended treble could be longer
- Bass and sub-bass feel short (depends on preference)
- Micro-detail is nothing special
After previously reviewing its sibling, the EPZ Q1 Pro released in 2024, it turns out that EPZ also released the Q5 in late 2023. I thought the Q1 Pro would be an improvement over the Q5, but why is the Q5 slightly more expensive? And graphically, there doesn't seem to be a noticeable difference. However, the Q5 is quite surprising for its price range.
Let's dive into the EPZ Q5.
==DISCLAIMER:==All impressions and reviews are subjective and adhere to the belief that "I'll only lie to my savings; I'll be honest in my reviews." Agree? Alright. Disagree? Alright. Because I review out of desire and enjoyment, not out of necessity.
- But if you say this because you're using it now? Oh, definitely not. I'm a true audiophile hobbyist who will always be honest without bias. Don't believe it? Read until the end, and we'll dissect the pros and cons.
- But if you say this because it's new, probably just during the "honeymoon" phase? In this hobby, which is truly "dark and full of toxins," it will always be like that until the end of time. Human desires truly have no end.
- But it's better to listen and understand, right? Absolutely.
Important!! I suggest you still audition it yourself, maybe my ears need to visit an ENT specialist or you need to (haha).
==THIS POST IS FOR:==
- What's my recommended IEM around $50?
- An IEM with a safe tonal balance in all aspects, engaging power, and suitable for all-around use?
- Just want to read the review.
==MY DAILY DRIVERS:==
- Symphonium Crimson
- Kinera Verdandi
- Sennheiser IE900
- Fiio Q15
- HibyDigital M300
==TESTED USING:==
- YouTube Music
- Tidal
- Hiby M300
- Fiio Q15
- Lenovo Office Laptop (what series is this)
- EPZ Q5
- EPZ Q1 Pro
- Simgot EW200
==LET'S DIVE IN WITHOUT FURTHER ADO:==*Unboxing:*
Surprisingly, for about $8 more, they provided a better IEM box and decent accessories compared to the Q1 Pro. Here's what's inside:
- The IEM itself (I chose the white color, and it's indeed beautiful)
- 2-braid cable (a decent cable for its price range, not as prone to tangling as other entry-level IEM cables)
- 2 types of eartips with 3 sizes for each type (quite useful)
- Manual
*Fitting:*
The combination of white and gold on the front, which I thought would make it an open-back IEM, turned out to be not, but it makes this IEM look beautiful. The shell is made of lightweight plastic with a good finish, making it not seem like this IEM is only about +/- $35. The IEM body and small nozzle don't cause any discomfort when worn and are comfortable for long periods.
*Bass:*
The low frequencies have energy but don't cause ear fatigue. You can feel the punchiness of the bass, but it feels shallow, not too deep. The impact produced by the sub-bass is also relatively fast, with a short rumble. This makes the bass impact from songs feel more exciting. It's a typical bass and sub-bass from a single dynamic driver that I think is quite suitable for many people's ears. Despite that, there's no harsh or muddy sound from the bass produced. Clean low frequencies.
*Mid:*
Sweet and melodious. The vocals sound natural without any added spices. The sound is similar to the presentation of the Q1 Pro, with vocals slightly more forward but without elevation in the lower mids. This makes male vocals in the low register not sound heavier, making them sound more "real" as they naturally would. The natural mid timbre, especially good snare drum and guitar sounds, make the midrange frequencies of this IEM even more enjoyable to listen to, especially with no vocal sibilance to disturb.
*Treble:*
Fun and engaging treble. This IEM can be said to have a W-shape character, with treble that has enough power to make us feel the sparkling and tinkling treble without feeling sibilance. Perhaps this is what sets it apart from one of its competitors in a similar price range, the EW200. The Q5 can present treble that feels safer without losing the sparkling impression in its price range, whereas the EW200 still feels a bit piercing to some people. Like most IEMs in its price range, the Q5 has relatively short but decently extended treble that allows you to hear percussion sounds.
*Clarity:*
Clear, with no sibilance, unclear sounds, or muddiness in any aspect.
*Soundstage:*
Average, not considered large but not intimate either.
*Imaging:*
Good instrument separation in this IEM makes it easy to pinpoint each instrument in a song. Unfortunately, this is not supported by micro-detail, which is considered average and below that of the Q1 Pro.
==COMPARISON:==Because I was confused about these two lineups of EPZ IEMs at a similar price, let's just compare both, the Q1 Pro and Q5, oh and let's add the Simgot EW200 since the prices are similar:
- *Unboxing:*
Q5 wins slightly, with a box and accessories (case, eartips, cable) that are more thoughtful for the customer. EW200 and Q1 Pro come with just average boxes.
- *Fitting:*
Draw. All feel equally good, but I'd choose the Q5 slightly better because of its size and weight. The plastic material also feels more comfortable than the Q1 Pro and EW200.
- *Bass:*
Q5 and EW200. They both have the same engaging power with bass quality and quantity that are almost similar. Meanwhile, the Q1 Pro has a more relaxed tuning.
- *Mid:*
Q5. Melodic and more natural vocal tuning than the Q1 Pro. Meanwhile, the EW200 still has some sibilance in some songs.
- *Treble:*
EW200. I prefer piercing treble. That's all, haha.
- *Clarity:*
Q5. Natural timbre with engaging power makes the Q5 the best of the three.
- *Soundstage:*
Q5 and EW200, slightly better than the Q1 Pro.
- *Imaging:*
Q1 Pro. It has the same good instrument separation as the other two, but the Q1 Pro has better detail.
==CONCLUSION:==
- The Q1 Pro, released later than the Q 5, is not an upgrade from the Q5.
- The EW200, as a favorite single dynamic driver in this price range, seems to have to yield to the Q5 because it feels more like an all-rounder. The only reason to prefer the EW200 might be if you're a treblehead.
- Having sound and tonal qualities that can be considered better than the Q1 Pro in all aspects (except micro-detail), the Q5 feels more worthwhile, especially with just an $8 difference in budget.
- However, different tonalities could be an option for some people who prefer a relaxed sound but with detail, you can choose the Q1 Pro, or a more fun and energetic sound, you can choose the Q5.
That's all.
Trust your ears.
Bye.
Attachments
-
All my impressions and reviews are subjective, adhering to the belief, "only my savings can be lied to, but reviews must be honest." Agree? Fine. Disagree? Fine. I review because I want to and enjoy it, not because I need to.
- But you might say I’m biased because I’m using it? Absolutely not. I’m a true audiophile hobbyist who will always be honest without bias. Don’t believe me? Read till the end, we’ll explore the pros and cons.You might think this is just the honeymoon phase? In this hobby, which is truly "dark and full of poison," it will remain so until the end of the world. Human desire never ends.But should you listen to me? Absolutely.Important! I recommend auditioning it yourself; maybe it’s my ears that need an ENT doctor, or perhaps yours do.==THIS POST IS FOR==
- What's my recommended IEM around $160?Which IEM has unique and pleasant vocals?Which IEM has good bass?Just want to read the review==MY DAILY DRIVER==
- Symphonium CrimsonKinera VerdandiSennheiser IE900Kontinum SoaraFiio Q15HibyDigital M300==TESTED WITH==
- · YouTube Music· Tidal· Hiby M300· Fiio Q15· Celest Phoenixcall· Sena Acoustic Rinjani==STRAIGHT TO THE POINT==Unboxing:
Honestly, I was very surprised during the unboxing. Besides the cool box with its asymmetric lid, you are immediately greeted with information about the origin of the name Phoenixcall, and you can see the IEMs with their stunning faceplates. The unboxing experience is very satisfying. Included are:
- The IEMs8 braided cable with 3.5mm jack2 types of Celest eartips with 3 sizes each (the standard Celest eartips are quite usable and decent in quality)Carrying case with a sticky zipperPhoenix keychainManual
Fitting:
These IEMs are very beautiful!! With transparent resin shells, you can see the driver configuration inside. The shiny, star-studded faceplate adds to the beauty, paired with the white cable. With a fairly large body and long nozzle, these IEMs might be tricky to fit in some ears, especially needing the right eartips. But in my large ear canals, they fit perfectly fine.
Bass:
This IEM has punchy bass from the single DD that’s quite deep but with fast speed. What I love is the punchy bass that feels like it hits the back of my head and is great for headbanging. The kick drum feels more impactful.
For sub-bass, Phoenixcall has a long rumble that adds a sense of width, dynamics, and grandeur to the music. Unfortunately, in some songs, I find the sub-bass sound a bit unclear and slightly distracting.
Mid:
This is where the IEM becomes somewhat segmented for certain people. The vocals feel heavier, meaning male vocals sound good, but female high notes seem a bit restrained, though they add soul to certain songs like old-school or slow acoustic tracks.
The timbre of the mid-range lacks crispness, and the snare drum sounds a bit shy, making it feel like listening to a grown-up Justin Bieber who hasn't yet hit puberty.
Treble:
The treble is tuned tame with just enough power. The limited capacity sometimes feels unadventurous. Moreover, the upper treble sounds metallic and unnatural, which can be quite bothersome in songs requiring intense sparkling and crispness. Additionally, the upper treble feels cut off during sparkling segments.
Clarity:
The metallic upper treble is unpleasant. The micro details are not well rendered and feel shy.
Soundstage:
This is one of the plus points for this IEM. It's spacious and wide, with the added sub-bass rumble enhancing the grandeur.
Imaging:
The punchy bass overshadows the treble position, resulting in less than optimal separation. In some songs, the instruments in the upper mid to treble frequency range feel a bit clustered, with the BA and planar driver configuration lacking cohesion, resulting in subpar imaging.
==COMPARISON==I was advised to try changing the cable to one with a balanced port. I happened to have a Sena Rinjani cable with a 4.4mm jack and rhodium pins, tested with a Fiio Q15 DAC/AMP. This cable made a noticeable difference, so here we go:
Note: for those in the "cable changes don't matter" sect, that’s fine, I’m just sharing my experience.Bass:
With engaging power remaining, the depth of the bass is reduced compared to the stock cable, but it feels more textured. The unclear sub-bass remains unchanged.
Mid:
This is the best part after changing the cable. The sound feels very natural, effortless, and sweet. Not overly wet or thick, but one of the best vocal IEMs I’ve heard. The only downside is its central presentation might feel lacking for vocal enthusiasts.
Treble:
More pronounced power, no longer shy. Still with a tame tone but slightly more sparkling, though the extended treble remains cut off. Unfortunately, the metallic upper treble is still present in some songs.
Clarity, Soundstage, Imaging:
The same as before changing the cable.
==CONCLUSION==- One of the IEMs with the best unboxing experience and looks I’ve ever tried.Bass and sub-bass are the main aspects of this IEM, combined with a grand soundstage. Unfortunately, the mid-range is quite segmented for some ears, and the treble is less engaging, making the timbre feel less natural, which can be a consideration before purchasing this IEM.Changing to a balanced cable can be a solution I’ve proven to enhance the mid and treble aspects of this IEM.
briantbrain
New Head-Fier
One Step Closer to the Surface of the Rabbit Hole Pros: - Neutral sound
- Forward vocal
- Wide bore ear tips from stock
- Good design IEM
- Clear and fun treble with enough extension for its price.Cons: - No pouch or carrying case
- Poor cable and ear tips quality
- Unclear sub-bass
- Short impact of sub-bass
- Missing a lot of bass texture
- Dry and thin vocal
- Not for detail lovers
- Average soundstage
- Not dynamic soundOne Step Closer to the Surface of the Rabbit Hole
I think I remember when this IEM first came out around late 2022 and started to hype up in early 2023, it had quite a bit of enthusiasm from the Indonesian community. This review is a bit late, but well, because I was given the opportunity and I just wanted to, so I decided to dive into it.
As the caption of an Instagram post about engagement says, "One Step Closer," it perfectly describes this IEM. One step closer to diving into the "rabbit hole" of the audiophile world, wherever its origin is... sigh...
Anyway... TinHifi C2.
**==DISCLAIMER==** All my impressions and reviews are subjective and follow the belief of "I only deceive my savings; my reviews are always honest." Agree? Okay. Disagree? Okay. I review because I want to and because I enjoy it, not because I need to haha.
"But are you saying this just because you're using it right now?" Oh, absolutely not. I'm a true audiophile hobbyist who will always be honest without bias. Don't believe me? Read until the end, we'll dissect the pros and cons.
"But are you saying this because it's new, maybe you're just in the 'honeymoon' phase?" In this hobby, which is truly "dark and full of poison," things will remain the same until the end of the world. Human desire knows no bounds haha.
"But isn't it better to just listen and enjoy?" Yeah, you're right.
Important!! I suggest you audition it yourself, maybe it's my ears that need to see an ENT doctor, or maybe it's you who needs it haha.
**==THIS POST IS FOR==** My IEM recommendation around 500 thousand rupiah?
New to this hobby, which IEM should I buy?
Just want to read the review.
**==MY DAILY DRIVERS==** Symphonium Crimson
Kinera Verdandi
Sennheiser IE900
Fiio Q15
HibyDigital M300
**==TESTED WITH==** - Youtube Music
- Tidal
- Hiby M300
- Fiio Q15
- Lenovo Office Laptop (what series? who knows haha)
- TinHifi C2
**==STRAIGHT TO THE POINT==**
**Unboxing:**
For an IEM around $30 or under 500 thousand rupiah, the unboxing experience is minimal, nothing special or wow. But when I first opened it and saw the IEM shell, I thought it looked pretty good xixixi. It includes:
- The IEM itself (already fitted with a pair of ear tips)Ear tips (there are about 2 types of ear tips with 3 sizes each. It's quite annoying because all the ear tips are combined into 1 plastic, so it's a bit difficult to differentiate)The cable (The first time I saw it, I immediately touched my chest because it's so awful. I thought the Simgot EW200 had the worst IEM cable, but this one is even worse)User manual
**Fitting:**
An IEM made from some kind of metal, matte gray finish with shiny ear tips reminiscent of stainless steel. It has a single Dynamic Driver configuration with a standard-sized body for IEMs in a similar price range. It has slightly longer nozzles, but with a size that I think is average, so it shouldn't be a problem for most people's ears. The available ear tips are, in my opinion, just "okay" and can still be used for entry-level friends who don't have their favorite stock ear tips. And what I like is that there are wide bore sizes, so they're my favorite.
**Bass:**
Neutral and soft. That's the most accurate phrase to describe the low-frequency aspect of the Tin C2. Produced by the dynamic driver it has, we can enjoy the thumpy bass hits and the rumbling sub-bass. From an entry-level POV, I'm sure you'll feel quite happy with the sound you hear even though the perceived power is just enough. But there are some weaknesses, such as the very minimal texture of the bass with shallow thumps, so it doesn't feel lively. Then, the sub-bass rumble it produces is very fast and lacks dynamics, so it feels very breathless and has minimal energetic rumble. Also, I feel that the sound from the sub-bass lacks clarity, so you can hear a "bzztt" sound in its rumble tail. If entry-level friends are hoping this IEM is for bass heads, they are mistaken.
**Mid:**
Forward but dry. Although the vocal sound is presented more forward than other aspects, the vocals produced have a problem that I find disturbing. For the upper mid part, especially the male voices sound dry, which is disturbing, so it feels like you want to give the singer a drink because their throat sounds very dry. Also, the sound feels thinner, so the energy from the song being performed is less than optimal. In my opinion, songs with high notes in male voices and songs that require heavy vocals will not be optimally performed.
**Treble:**
Clean and Fun. Of all aspects, I like the treble the most. This IEM has clean treble with good micro-detail in its price range. I like it not because this IEM is shining-shimmering-splendid (because it's not at all), but because I appreciate this IEM at this price having clean treble presentation with a fun and neutral sound to listen to. Don't expect a treble tail that's sharp and long because it's relatively short, but it's tuned with a clear presentation, not overshadowed by other aspects, and has sufficient power. For entry-level IEMs, this can be a good starting point for okay treble IMO.
**Clarity:**
The rumble tail from the sub-bass that's not clean sometimes disturbs in some songs. But other than that, all the sounds are clear. Micro-detail clarity isn't the best aspect of this IEM because many micro-details are not presented.
**Soundstage:**
Average. Don't expect "like watching a concert, bro?" because it's definitely not, but you can feel a wide and pleasant stage.
**Imaging:**
There's no impression of a 3D holographic rotation in your head because this IEM has a relatively flat dynamic and minimal dynamic range according to its price range. Each instrument can be pinpointed in terms of sound separation, but for the micro-detail sound produced, it feels stuck with other main instruments.
**Specs:**
Available in the photo, see for yourself.
**==CONCLUSION==** - The neutral sound of the treble tuned with fun and clarity is the main advantage of this IEM. Moreover, with the forward vocal position, it feels more comfortable for jazz and slow acoustic songs.However, unfortunately, there are weaknesses in the unclear sub-bass sound and the bass thump that lacks texture and depth. Also, the thin vocals and problems with the upper mid-range sound dry, especially with male singers, which is very torturous in some songs.Is this IEM worth it? For entry-level users looking for their first IEM to understand the "surface of the rabbit hole" of this hobby, this IEM could be the right option because the sound it produces reasonably answers the "hi-res sound IEM" from a Counter IEM.
That's all.
Trust your ears.
Goodbye.Attachments
Last edited:
briantbrain
New Head-Fier
All-Arounder Entry Level King! Pros: + Engaging power from low to high frequencies
+ Clear, no issues with clarity
+ Neutral soundingCons: - Entry-level cable quality
- MMCX connector (some people might prefer 2-pin)
- Extended treble could be longer
- Bass and sub-bass feel short (depends on preference)
- Micro-detail is nothing specialAfter previously reviewing its sibling, the EPZ Q1 Pro released in 2024, it turns out that EPZ also released the Q5 in late 2023. I thought the Q1 Pro would be an improvement over the Q5, but why is the Q5 slightly more expensive? And graphically, there doesn't seem to be a noticeable difference. However, the Q5 is quite surprising for its price range.
Let's dive into the EPZ Q5.
==DISCLAIMER:==All impressions and reviews are subjective and adhere to the belief that "I'll only lie to my savings; I'll be honest in my reviews." Agree? Alright. Disagree? Alright. Because I review out of desire and enjoyment, not out of necessity.
- But if you say this because you're using it now? Oh, definitely not. I'm a true audiophile hobbyist who will always be honest without bias. Don't believe it? Read until the end, and we'll dissect the pros and cons.But if you say this because it's new, probably just during the "honeymoon" phase? In this hobby, which is truly "dark and full of toxins," it will always be like that until the end of time. Human desires truly have no end.But it's better to listen and understand, right? Absolutely.Important!! I suggest you still audition it yourself, maybe my ears need to visit an ENT specialist or you need to (haha).
==THIS POST IS FOR:==- What's my recommended IEM around $50?An IEM with a safe tonal balance in all aspects, engaging power, and suitable for all-around use?Just want to read the review.
==MY DAILY DRIVERS:==- Symphonium CrimsonKinera VerdandiSennheiser IE900Fiio Q15HibyDigital M300
==TESTED USING:==- YouTube MusicTidalHiby M300Fiio Q15Lenovo Office Laptop (what series is this)EPZ Q5EPZ Q1 ProSimgot EW200
==LET'S DIVE IN WITHOUT FURTHER ADO:==*Unboxing:*
Surprisingly, for about $8 more, they provided a better IEM box and decent accessories compared to the Q1 Pro. Here's what's inside:
- The IEM itself (I chose the white color, and it's indeed beautiful)2-braid cable (a decent cable for its price range, not as prone to tangling as other entry-level IEM cables)2 types of eartips with 3 sizes for each type (quite useful)Manual
*Fitting:*
The combination of white and gold on the front, which I thought would make it an open-back IEM, turned out to be not, but it makes this IEM look beautiful. The shell is made of lightweight plastic with a good finish, making it not seem like this IEM is only about +/- $35. The IEM body and small nozzle don't cause any discomfort when worn and are comfortable for long periods.
*Bass:*
The low frequencies have energy but don't cause ear fatigue. You can feel the punchiness of the bass, but it feels shallow, not too deep. The impact produced by the sub-bass is also relatively fast, with a short rumble. This makes the bass impact from songs feel more exciting. It's a typical bass and sub-bass from a single dynamic driver that I think is quite suitable for many people's ears. Despite that, there's no harsh or muddy sound from the bass produced. Clean low frequencies.
*Mid:*
Sweet and melodious. The vocals sound natural without any added spices. The sound is similar to the presentation of the Q1 Pro, with vocals slightly more forward but without elevation in the lower mids. This makes male vocals in the low register not sound heavier, making them sound more "real" as they naturally would. The natural mid timbre, especially good snare drum and guitar sounds, make the midrange frequencies of this IEM even more enjoyable to listen to, especially with no vocal sibilance to disturb.
*Treble:*
Fun and engaging treble. This IEM can be said to have a W-shape character, with treble that has enough power to make us feel the sparkling and tinkling treble without feeling sibilance. Perhaps this is what sets it apart from one of its competitors in a similar price range, the EW200. The Q5 can present treble that feels safer without losing the sparkling impression in its price range, whereas the EW200 still feels a bit piercing to some people. Like most IEMs in its price range, the Q5 has relatively short but decently extended treble that allows you to hear percussion sounds.
*Clarity:*
Clear, with no sibilance, unclear sounds, or muddiness in any aspect.
*Soundstage:*
Average, not considered large but not intimate either.
*Imaging:*
Good instrument separation in this IEM makes it easy to pinpoint each instrument in a song. Unfortunately, this is not supported by micro-detail, which is considered average and below that of the Q1 Pro.
==COMPARISON:==Because I was confused about these two lineups of EPZ IEMs at a similar price, let's just compare both, the Q1 Pro and Q5, oh and let's add the Simgot EW200 since the prices are similar:
- *Unboxing:*Q5 wins slightly, with a box and accessories (case, eartips, cable) that are more thoughtful for the customer. EW200 and Q1 Pro come with just average boxes.
- *Fitting:*Draw. All feel equally good, but I'd choose the Q5 slightly better because of its size and weight. The plastic material also feels more comfortable than the Q1 Pro and EW200.
- *Bass:*Q5 and EW200. They both have the same engaging power with bass quality and quantity that are almost similar. Meanwhile, the Q1 Pro has a more relaxed tuning.
- *Mid:*Q5. Melodic and more natural vocal tuning than the Q1 Pro. Meanwhile, the EW200 still has some sibilance in some songs.
- *Treble:*EW200. I prefer piercing treble. That's all, haha.
- *Clarity:*Q5. Natural timbre with engaging power makes the Q5 the best of the three.
- *Soundstage:*Q5 and EW200, slightly better than the Q1 Pro.
- *Imaging:*Q1 Pro. It has the same good instrument separation as the other two, but the Q1 Pro has better detail.
==CONCLUSION:==- The Q1 Pro, released later than the Q 5, is not an upgrade from the Q5.The EW200, as a favorite single dynamic driver in this price range, seems to have to yield to the Q5 because it feels more like an all-rounder. The only reason to prefer the EW200 might be if you're a treblehead.Having sound and tonal qualities that can be considered better than the Q1 Pro in all aspects (except micro-detail), the Q5 feels more worthwhile, especially with just an $8 difference in budget.However, different tonalities could be an option for some people who prefer a relaxed sound but with detail, you can choose the Q1 Pro, or a more fun and energetic sound, you can choose the Q5.
That's all.
Trust your ears.
Bye.Attachments