Reviews by David Haworth

Thanks to Hidizs for providing this review sample to Audio reviews Downunder. These are my honest reflections and assessment of the new model.

The MP143 is provided with two sets of tips and three pairs of tuning nozzles. There is a soft carry bag in the box. The provided 4.4mm balanced cable is OK quality but a little light and less than premium. I'd like to see Hidizs step up and supply a better cable as one of the other planar makers do.
Testing done with Hiby R3 DAP, Letshuoer DT03 and Cayin RU6 DACs, Open-heart cable and Divinus velvet open bore tips.
The elephant in the room
Hidizs had great success with their first planar the MP145. Designed with a whale fin motif and donating to certain research it was a distinctive design and was received very well by reviewers and consumers. The one criticism was its physical size. Hidizs responded with a smaller shelled model, again whale fin influenced and a slightly different planar driver. 13.3mm vs 13.5mm. Obviously the audiophile audience will want to know how the smaller model stacks up against its bigger brother. So, I will be referring to the 145 in this review.


Fit and comfort.

Like the 145 it's fairly big even though it's smaller than big brother. The contact with your pinna is virtually the same and I find both comfortable. It is a little lighter but there is still a chunk of metal hanging out of your ear. For me there are no issues.



Driveability.

MP143 performs well with mid volume settings. The 145 scales up with 44 to 46 volume settings. The 144 works best at 38 in my setup. Because it is a fuller sound it's very satisfying at these levels. Boosting the volume does not bring the gains of its big brother.

Nozzles.

Bass, balanced or treble? Once you have decided the two rejected sets go back in the box. Hidizs nozzles do change the sound significantly. Generally, they affect the bass and raising this changes the perceived mid and treble mixed and the good thing with the MP143 is that good bass depth is retained even with the treble nozzle. Choosing the bass one took too much sparkle out and the rose gold balanced option, while very good left me wanting a less forward, less warm vocal and more details and sparkles up high. So treble nozzle for me. No issues with sibilance of shoutiness. Refined and detailed.



The Sound & Bass

My initial impression was...
Damn..! This thing has still got the 145 DNA but with more bass. Mid bass is there in spades. The MP143 GROWLS! But the vocal clarity and naturalness is still there. Much better than NiceCHK F1Pro and all the Letshuoers. Mid bass hits hard with a complimentary sub bass component. The bass is fast but with great physicality. Bass guitars in particular can be felt as well as heard. This is a solid bass that's a tonne of fun and leaves the midrange to do its thing on top with no bleeding or masking the vocals. It digs deep but there is no boominess. You can tell I'm a fan.
On reflection after A/B comparing with the 145 I will correct myself, as the bass on the bigger planar model is still great, if more sub bass focused. It's also influenced by the wide soundstage. It has more room to fill.


The sound stage.

This was what I was most interested in as the MP145 large planar with its twin vents has an expansive soundstage with its ability to move air. The MP143, apart from two small holes in the shells, is a smaller sealed unit. I was expecting a reduction but unsure what I would hear. I am pleased to report that the soundstage is rather good with good width and is helped by the excellent instrument separation and airy presentation. If I was forced to compare, I'd say the 145 is an outdoor stadium and the 143 is an indoor 1930's concert hall.





Midrange/Vocals.

The vocals are very similar to the MP145. Very little BA timbre if any to my ears. I compared with my best single DD vocal IEM and the 143 compared well. The extra midrange density and warmth really did not alter or add to the vocals. Everything was finally very natural to my ears.


Treble
I'm using the silver treble nozzles as my preference. Again, benchmarking with the MP145, the Salt model, as Hidizs has called it, has virtually identical treble character, with very clear clean hi frequencies and no sibilance or hardness (to my ears). The difference in in perception. The boosted midrange tends to temper the treble and reduce its prominence.



Conclusion

One think that needs to be said when comparing the two Hidizs planars is that they are quite different. MP143 has a 13.3mm driver MP145 a 13.5mm. the MP143 is by no means a baby 145. It is unique planar with its own tuning and character. The mid-range boost provides a warmer and perhaps a slightly less planar sound. Very easy to listen to and very musical. I would be happy to own both and treat them as separate high-quality IEMs. As to which I would be stranded on a desert island with ? It wouldn't matter. I'd be happy with either.

The Penon Turbo IEM has been provided for review from Penon in conjunction with Audio Geeks Australia review tour. Audio reviews Downunder is pleased to offer our honest opinions on this premium set. The Penon Turbo is all Sonion brand BA set consisting of 2 vented bass drivers, two midrange and two treble drivers.It is provided with a Penon OCC and silver braided cable and a zippered leatherette carry case and several sets of silicone tips. Turbo sells for approximately $550 USD.

Fit and comfort.

The shells are light and well-shaped for my ears. The OG cable has no curved ear guides and this I found confusing with no direction indicated to insert the pins into the IEM. I could switch the pins 180 degrees. Isolation from outside noise is fine.



The Sound.

Slightly forward vocals with natural tone and timbre. Delicate intakes of breath are easily heard, and male vocals are both strong and nuanced. No hint of any BA timbre at all. My test tracks for female edgy and potentially harsh vocals all passed with flying colours. Turbo renders vocals, both male and female, with an authentic ease and in a very authentic and enjoyable way. Acoustic guitars are nicely defined, crisp and vivid strums, delicate finger picks with natural decay and resonance.

The super woofer vented BAs by Sonion are impressive. The bass drums have a physical presence with the weight of the drums beat actually being felt. The Sonion vented bass BA's really do move some air and give your ear drums a good thump. Snares have force and punch, and cymbals and snare edge strikes have satisfying crispness. Being BA bass it is fast and pacy but there is a warmth to the mid bass and enough sub bass to carry the sound with a good balance.

I have the Penon set up with the sound that most pleases me. I must admit it was a little bit of a journey. Initially I felt the bass boost switch was required but now I have it off and use tips with a lock solid fit to maximize the bass without boost. (Penon liquor black). For my tastes the bass boost switch elevated the bass to a level that was just Another essential piece of the puzzle for me was cable rolling. While the OG Penon cable is an attractive well-made item, switching through my cables brought a better bass level and a more powerful and detailed sound. I settled on an ivipQ 73 cable. The remaining 3 switches I set this. Gentle bass boost ON for the first switch. Mid boost, switch two ON. And the treble boost switch I found unnecessary as I find the Turbo treble detailed and subtle enough for my preference.

I'm enjoying the energetic yet nuanced sound from this Turbo. I find the sound is extended at both ends of the frequency spectrum with a natural and airy midrange that suits the majority of my music. There are no thoughts of the fact that this is an all BA set. No thoughts such as I wish it had a dynamic driver.




Stage and technicalities.
Example "Love over Gold" by Dire Straits. Starts with a delicate piano centre stage, and acoustic guitar well to the right-hand side followed by central bass and other instruments from the left. Drums come from a moderate depth behind the singer.
Drum timbre and impact is pretty near perfect for me. Instrument separation is also excellent. Small details are portrayed well although the Turbo is not what you'd describe as a detail monster. Everything is on the excellent side of adequate and the result is a musical earphone that doesn't disappoint in any aspect.
Switching to synth-based music with Rufus du Sol and the Penon Turbo produced an expensive detailed and energetic soundscape. Switch to rock and metal and you get similar results.



Verdict
This set is nothing if not versatile. I'd be more than happy to live with this IEM.
That's my verdict on the Penon Turbo. Now I'm off to listen some more before it travels to the next audiophile in town.

Introduction.

Kinera has provided the review sample of the QoA ( Queen of Audio ) Adonis New to our Australian review group, Audio Reviews Downunder for honest reviews. We thank Kinera for their generosity.

QoA Adonis is a 1DD + 2 BA hybrid IEM with an attractive resin shell and a more than adequate modular cable allowing 3.5mm and 4.4mm balanced connections.

They provide two sets of ear tips labelled balanced and vocal and also a nice faux leather case with a magnetic closing lid which is practical and innovative.

Listening tests were done with stored FLAC music from my Hiby DAP and a Cayin RU6 DAC. I tried various aftermarket tips settling on a wide bore set of TRN T tips which I found gave the best overall balance and enhanced Adonis’s vocal capabilities. These tips accentuate trebles and soundstage. Vocal presence is and placed mid the stage and with Adonis’s smooth treble there is just enough enhanced definition and nuance.


A word on fit and comfort.

The IEM is fitted with a metal nozzle which I much prefer over resin shaped nozzles which tend to have less grip on the ear tips. I don't like having to fish the out of my ear when they slip off. This nozzle has a good lip which remains the ear tip well. The shell is light and fits my ear comfortably with just moderate isolation from outside noise. The four-strand braided modular cable is so beautifully colour coordinated with the IEM it did not occur to me to change it. It has reasonable feel and a good neck slider that works!

The sound.
QoA Adonis is easy to drive, and I got good volumes at 34% on the Cayin RU6. Unlike some IEMs it does not scale well with greater input. It has a warm bassy nature that's best at mid volume.
Bass

Bass is definitely boosted with this set. If you like a warm tuned IEM then Adonis is for you. I'm hearing deep thump from the bass drum with a physical impact. Snares and rim taps are clean, sharp and detailed and there is a good sense of separation from other instruments and no conflict with the mids and vocals. Overall drums are solid and resonant but for my taste they could have more slap and impact. The drums are biased towards the more sub bass rumbly side of the spectrum. The good thing is the rest of the spectrum is so clean and atmospheric that the overall mix is very enjoyable.


Mids
The midrange is Adonis's highlight. It is smooth and creamy with excellent tone and timbre with male and female vocals showcased beautifully. Male vocals are realistic and full bodied with a masculine tone.
Female vocals also star with a sweet warmth and presence that is completely enjoyable. They have a go balance between warmth and clarity and in general have a natural timbre.


Treble
The treble is not extended or peaky. It is rather gentle with a nice smoothness but blends into the midrange to a degree. But it suits the overall tuning of the IEM. You don't want a bright analytical treble sitting on top of a warm musical bass and mid mix. You will hear details in the treble at a level that suits the rest of the tuning and there is no risk of harshness or sibilance withe this set. I chose ear tips to accentuate the treble region and if you have a choice of sources, a bright analytical source would be better than a warm one. I switched from the RU6 to the Letshuoer DT06 which is a neutral DAC and the balance changed, lessening the bass and letting the treble region show off a little more.



Technicalities

The soundstage is adequate without being super wide. There is a good sense of where each instrument is placed and good separation. The upper mids and treble have enough airiness to provide a good sense of space and dimension. Adonis is not an IEM to show off subtle details in the music and it is a musical rather than analytical IEM.



Conclusion.
We are seeing a lot more IEMs tuned towards a musicality rather than a V shaped dramatic sound and Kinera is at the forefront of this trend. I would have liked to have seen more sparkle in the treble and less bass emphasis but there will be plenty of other ears to disagree with me and say that Adonis's tuning is perfection. If you enjoy a warm musical sound with a big bass presence, then the QoA Adonis New will fit the bill.

Introduction

Kotori Audio in conjunction with Audio Geeks has provide this review sample for the Australia tour and it will be samples by audiophiles across this wide brown land. Kotori Audio is a Singapore-based audio company and at present have produced two IEM’s, the first called Dauntless is a single DD design. The Vampire we are testing here is a single full-range balanced armature IEM in a 3D resin shell with a hypoallergenic lacquer finish.


The Vampire is supplied with a single set of silicone tips and a rather nice cable with a 3.5mm termination. I did my listening using a Openheart 4.4mm balanced cable and the Letshuoer DT03 dongle attached to Hiby R3 and playing Flac files. The nozzles on this IEM are quite long. You need to use tips that allow a good seal with deep insertion for the full bass to be heard. Vampire is moderately easy to drive 34% on my setup of Dap and Letshuoer DT03 on high gain. I found for my ear canal the Divinus velvet wide bore tips wedged in tightly gave me a better sound balance and compared to other tips There was less harshness with vocals in the upper range. Some tips revealed a little coarseness in some male and female vocals in the upper registers.



The sound
Vampire is very midrange biased with trebles rolled off and an enjoyable fast bass that does not dip down deeply into sub bass regions. Sub bass is present and mid bass is boosted giving a warm tonality. Kotori has done amazing things with a single full range BA and a small non vented enclosure. The IEM has a very DD like sound with very good natural timbre and no BA timbre artifacts. The sound is airy and spacious and with its midrange focused tuning it has impact and power. Vampire has a relaxed approach to details, and musical subtilties. These are present but take a backstage to the forward musical presentation. This is an IEM to relax and enjoy the music with and not to analyse. Vampire is superbly musical. It does really well with both male and female vocals. Vocal timbre is natural and vocals are smooth and enjoyable. Vampires treble while not extended is perfectly adequate with cymbals and guitar strings rendered well and without any harshness or sibilance. The Kotari works very well with pop and inde rock/folk. Other genres such as EDM and rock fare OK but could use more sub bass and treble extension.

Conclusion
Priced at $139USD Vampire delivers a different musical experience from Harman single DD’s or most hybrid sets. Its an IEM for musical enjoyment and would make a great set to use as a daily driver when you are out and about. Its sound is warm, energetic and captivating. All from a single full range BA driver. Kotari, take a bow!

Tanchjim has provided the 4U IEM to Audio Reviews Downunder for an unbiased review and we thank them. This is Tanchjim’s first pair of In-ear monitors with the 4-Level Adjustable Circuit Filter System. It also features dual magnetic driver technology and a driver-front internal cavity design, for a better in ear fit. You get a set of silicone tip and a rather nice Litz silver cable.

I listened to the 4U with the Letshuoer DT03 and Hidizs S9 pro dacs with my Hiby DAP lossless music library.



For the 4U, Tanchjim has designed a special 4-way adjustable circuit filter system. This has a simple mechanism on the inner side of the pair, you can turn the mechanism around with the tool included in the package. It will adjust the bass response on the pair, giving you four different signatures in a single set. The switch that is turned by a small provide screwdriver has a good detent when you reach the setting so its easy to position it correctly.

The least bassy option is the monitoring mode. To my ears this throws the sound balance too far towards the upper mid and treble end of the frequency response and is the least enjoyable.

Moving onto the Natural switch, the increased bass level gives a better-balanced sound but to my ears is still bass light and too mid-centric.

The Pop setting is next and again, more bass and the rest of the frequency range is the same. Question is, do I need more bass?

So we switch to Atmosphere. Tanchjim has put some magic sauce in that setting. The sound becomes much bigger and expansive. Bass goes deeper, midrange is bolder and more forward and the treble swirls around in the stratosphere. The IEM demands you increase the volume level to planar levels because the sound is so beguiling. The 4U is not hard to drive but does enjoy a Dac with a bit of grunt. I pushed my volume up to 42% which is around where I play the Hidizs MP145 at.

The sound with Atmosphere selected, which is what I am using for my sound impressions, is very airy and spacious. The tonality is natural and vocals while forward are realistic and have proper timbre. Listening to Tom Petty, It’s Good to be King, Tom's unique voice is on point. This song off the well recorded Wildflowers features an ensemble of musicians and the 4U does an excellent job of separating and placing the various performers in the sound stage. Drums and cymbals are particularly well rendered.
Rufus du Sol's Alive has an awesome weighty atmospheric wash with solid synth lines and detailed treble percussion. Vocals are placed just right in the mix and I can even detect some sub bass rumble. Most bass is forcefully placed in the mid bass area and do not impinge on the midrange.
Billie Bossa Nova by Billie Eilish with its bass heavy production is a good example of the clean and balanced sound the 4U can produce. Treble is crystalline, Billies voice is warm and intimate, and the guitar accompaniment cuts through the bass lines nicely. Note that after tip rolling Spinfit W tips gave the best balance to my ears.
The soundstage is average but appears bigger due to the atmospheric effect of the tuning switch. This is aided by the excellent separation and the airy presentation. Detail retrieval is also very good with intricacies in compositions evident and easily audible.

Tanchjim Zero still holds a warm spot in my heart for a competent neutral budget set so I was hopeful for this set and they have not disappointed me. The Tanchjim 4U is musical, dynamic and enjoyable without any downsides. This is likely to be a favourite daily driver. It gets a recommendation by my ears.

I am listening to the Elysian Acoustic Labs Pilgrim as part of the Audio Geeks tour of Australia. Thanks to @GiullianSN @EffectAudio I am pleased to offer my honest opinion of this set.

The Pilgrim is a new lower priced sibling to the DIVA, and flagship Annihilator which launched in 2023. It sells for $399 USD and is a single DD and three BA hybrid. Its uses a LSR (Liquid silicone rubber ) Dynamic driver which its is claimed can produce frequencies as low as 10Hz. Midrange is handled by a Sonion Driver 2300 and the treble by a dual tweeter Sonon E50. Pilgrim uses a Pentaconn connect cable meaning you are unable to use .78 pin cables without purchasing an adaptor first. Luckily the cable is excellent.



Pilgrim’s shell is made from aluminum and has a very high-quality feel. It is lightweight but feels durable and I find it comfortable to wear. Pilgrim has six vents on its faceplate and this led me to expect a nice big soundstage (as per my MP145 planar) so high expectations. I found the staging respectably wide and deep, and it is enhanced by the IEM’s superb instrument separation. The sound is airy and detailed with the placement of instruments and backing vocals so precise and discrete that I can picture the stage of musicians vividly in my head.

In terms of tuning, the Pilgrim employs the Elysian w-shaped sound signature. The sub bass goes deeper than I have heard before with a physical impact and the bass in general has excellent texture and tonality. The midbass is balanced nicely giving enough impact without overpowering the midrange and allowing air and space for the midrange to perform. Pilgrim does electronic pop and EDM extremely well. Pilgrim has a widish nozzle and it took a lot of tip rolling to find a good seal to allow the bass to reach correct levels. I actually purchased some Spinfit W1 tips on recommendation and sure enough these worked perfectly with Pilgrim. Stage and vocals enhanced and a good seal for that great bass.

Midrange is energetic and prominent but tonally natural. I found some vocals could be forced and overpowering. This was ameliorated by using the W1 tips but I would primarily say that for my ears, Pilgrim has a forward energy that is exciting but can be a little draining in a long listening session. The best way I can explain this is regards volume. Many IEM’s I can push listening volume up to unhealthy levels without the sound signature troubling me. With the Pilgrim there is a fine line, which if crossed can bring an overly forward edge to vocals, especially female vocals. Reducing the volume brings the sound balance back. The good thing is the treble is sparkly and detailed while also being smooth and non-fatiguing. The detail retrieval is first rate. It bests my planar easily and uncovers new layers of delight in my favourite tracks.

I spent hours with The Elysian Pilgrim over the last 10 days and it performs well with every genre in my listening library. From Billie Eilish and Post Malone to classics from Dire Straits and Supertramp. As I mentioned, electronic music from Romy and Rufus Du Sol sound on point and digging out some 80’s rock was also rewarding. I really enjoyed my time with the baby of Effect Audios range and would love to hear their range topping products one day.

Introduction

This sample of the HiBy x FAudio Project Ace have been provided for review by Hiby through the Audio Geek brotherhood of Audiophiles, who facilitate review tours of many high-end IEMs and audio equipment across multiple countries including Australia. HiBy is well known for its DAP player range and DAC dongles. The company had paired with FAudio to produce this single dynamic drive IEM. Ace uses a 12mm Mg alloy beryllium coated driver. It’s selling for $249 USD.

What’s in the box?

Well, there is a nice square softly padded roomy case and a set of silicone tips and a set of foam tips. The cable has good feel, but the choice of dark brown is not the most aesthetic option give the IEMs are silver and blue. Having said that the cable is modular with right angled 3.5mm and 4.4mm plugs which I approve of given that most dacs have both options. I also like the fact that the connection is secured with a threaded sleave for additional security.

Test equipment.

Hiby R3 2022 DAP

Hiby R4 DAP, using lossless FLAC music files.

Letshuoer DT03, Hidizs S9 pro Martha, Dita navigator DACs.

The sound

Firstly, it's a very easy to drive. I had the R3, DT03 combo working at just 26 on the volume control (high gain) it goes loud at that level. Trying different tips, I was able to extract excellent levels of bass. Sub bass is present in excellent amounts using DD 35T D silicone tips, especially with EDM tracks. Open bore tips such as TRN T don't give as much thump and punch. Bass texture is very good and bass speed is fast and impactful.

Fit and comfort. The Ace looks very angular but in size they are nowhere and bulky as the Hidizs MP145. The nozzle is quite short so a longer bore nozzle is recommended. The larger 12mm driver coupled with a biggish metal shell provides a big airy sound with a very good soundstage. Left to right staging feels nice and wide and instrument separation is also good. Depth and height are more one dimensional with the sound not achieving the 3D levels of the afore mentioned planar IEM. Treble is clear and detailed without being sibilant.

So what does the Hiby ACE actually sound like? It's clear, clean, spacious with a smooth energy and a good level of punchy impact. The big driver delivers a big sound. I'd compare it with the Simgot EA1000. Tuning wise it's a little different though. Vocals are placed well and not forward or recessed but there is an unusual boost in the upper mids / lower treble that gives it a slightly unnatural forward placement in the stage. It’s noticeable but not unlikeable or a deal breaker. Vocals come across as natural and enjoyable. Female vocalists can sound close and intimate with little inflections and breaths apparent and emotions are transmitted direct to your brains Amygdala. (Yep, that's where your crying center is)
I feel like I'm racing a bit here so it's time to get another single DD IEM out (albeit with a passive radiator) the Simgot EA1000 is a fav set of mine. Can it drag me back to earth?




Comparison with Simgot EA1000



Bass. Project Ace has a physical open and deep bass with good sub bass and a spacious sounding mid bass. Switching to the EA1000 the mid bass has a much greater intensity with a similar sub bass. The overall effect is that the Simgot is a bassier set and to me the lower frequencies dominate the Simgot's sound, while the Ace sounds cleaner and more transparent.
Midrange/vocals.
The Simgot has a fuller midrange so vocals are richer and a little forward and full bodied. Switching to the Ace and the tuning change is immediately apparent. The midrange has a much lighter touch, sounding thinner until your brain adapts and you understand that the clearer sound allows you to hear the voice more clearly and hear every nuance.
Treble on both I enjoy. They both extend well and avoiding sibilance or harshness while remaining airy and detailed.
I'm finding the stage more open and engaging with more subtle details and atmospherics evident. In the end I decided I liked the novelty and fidelity of the Project ACE over the Simgot (which remains a favourite ).

Conclusion. HiBy and FAudio have produced an amazing result using this larger 12mm drive together with an innovative tuning approach. Try and audition them if you get the chance.

Introduction

This sample of the Project M IEM and also Dita’s own DAC the Navigator have been provided for review by Dita Audio through the Audio Geek brotherhood of Audiophiles, who facilitate review tours of many high-end IEMs and audio equipment across multiple countries including Australia.

The Dita navigator sells for $299 and is milled from 6000 series aluminium, CC precision cut and is quite solid and weighty for a dongle DAC. It sports an output of 340mW @ 32 Ohms. It has both 3.5mm and 4.4mm Bal outputs and is biased towards a detailed but warmer analogue sound.



The Project M IEM is Hybrid design with 9.8mm DD and a Knowles BA in a very hard clear and attractive looking clear resin shell. This shell feels very high quality and provides a wind into the internals of the IEM. The custom made 16 core copper cable also comes with a modular plus system for switching between 3.5mm and 4.4mm balanced connectors. I like the fact that it also has a screw sleeve providing a nice secure connection. Included is a rectangular carry case with a foam lining to protect the IEM’s. There is a nice set of Final E type silicone tips in multiple sizes with the unusual feature that they absorb light and glow green in the dark. Now that’s innovation! Comfort and fit are fairly good for my ears. They are well shaped and while bulky, fit securely and are quite light to wear.



The Sound.

The Project M’s sound is as transparent as its shells. This is as close to a reference monitor sound that I have heard. No part of the frequency range is artificially boosted or reduced. This is a great part is what makes the Project M so amenable to external tuning changes. By this I mean sources and ear tips. To get the best from these earphones it’s a journey to find the right synergy. The Final E type silicone tips work well but I found DD HiFi 35ST D tips better at reproducing the bass levels that the Project M is capable of.



Monitor speakers for studio use are built with the intention of playing whatever signal it receives as close to perfectly as possible. This design of stereo speaker is generally not favoured as an audiophiles choice of transducer. The reason is that reference speakers are not good at conveying atmosphere and hence emotion in the music. I feel that this is where Project M falls down. It does all things very well but does not evoke any emotional connection to the music being played. The sound is open, clear, well rounded and competent.

Conclusion

Monitor speakers for studio use are built with the intention of playing whatever signal it receives as close to perfectly as possible. This design of stereo speaker is generally not favoured as an audiophiles choice of transducer. The reason is that reference speakers are not good at conveying atmosphere and hence emotion in the music. I feel that this is where Project M falls down. It does all things very well but does not evoke any emotional connection to the music being played. To my ears there are more compelling choices at this price level and Project M is not for me.

Introduction


The new Letshuoer S08 planar IEM was provided to Audio reviews Down Under tour group for assessment and review and thanks are due to Letshuoer for their confidence in our unbiased and honest reviews.
Letshuoer has been one of the early adopters of planar technology with the famous S12 followed by the S12 pro and the S15 third generation model.
The new Letshuoer S08 planar utilises a fourth Generation Dual Voice Coil custom 13mm Planar Magnetic Driver that the company has had considerable input in the development.
I’ll let Letshuoer explain some of the process. The S08 utilizes nanoscopic magnetron sputtering process, a high-end production method, on the planar driver’s diaphragm of S08, sputters the copper material onto the substrate. The nanoscopic magnetron sputtering technology coats the diaphragm with a layer of voice coil in addition to conventional drivers’ single layer voice coil circuit. They incorporated a PTR elastic film surrounds at the edge of the diaphragm’s voice coil, which makes the diaphragm perform with greater extensibility and stability.


What’s in the box.

We have the earphones and Letshuoer’s usual hockey puck carry box with the screw on lid containing two sets of silicone tips and a quality cable with a good soft feel. I would like to commend the company for providing modular cables including 4.4mm balanced plugs. Most modern dacs including Letshuoer’s excellent DT03 DAC have both 3.5 and 4.4balanced outputs. Offering consumers the choice by way of a modular cable is excellent practice that I hope more companies follow.I note that Hiby has also used this feature with their Project M IEM. I also like the modular connection with its screw threaded bezel for increased security.
The CNC precision-milled metallic earphone shell is both simple and light, being very comfortable to wear. It is available in black and silver versions to meet different aesthetic preferences.


The Sound

I used Letshuoer’s own DT08 dac attached to my Hiby R3 2022 DAP. Iprefer the sound profile of the DAC to the player. It’s clean and powerful with great bass extension and uncoloured. It provides excellent treble and details with plenty of power. I used anOpenheart 8 core silver coated copper cable and TRN T tips for bass extension and open upper frequencies.
I own a Hidizs MP145, and have reviewed the Letshuoer S15 and the NiceHCK F1 pro. I had a few days with the good old S12 as well. This gives me a good grounding on the various tunings and the “Planar Sound” as verses dynamic drivers/ BA Hybrid sound.

Firstly the S08 has a most un-planar sound. There is no sign of the dreaded planar timbre. Indeed the overarching sound is much more akin to a single DD IEM. From sub to mid bass there is a power and a warmth despite my DAC being neutral. The bass is very controlled and precise and never intrudes into the mids. You can sense the planar speed and precision but never straying into a clinical presentation. The sound is very full and rich. Vocals seem to be perfectly placed in the sound mix. Female vocals have a good natural timbre but sound energetic and energized. Male vocals, likewise are well presented with natural timbre and depth The S08 is easy to drive but does respond well to a more powerful DAC. Turning up the volume, the IEM retains it's composure and tonality. Compared to other planars the sound is definitely more bass oriented but unlike the S15 there is good space and air through the mid range. Both IEMs are musical butthe S08 with its newer driver seems to give a bigger head space. It's soundstage is much wider to my ears . Not to the extend of a MP145but very acceptable. It's a much smoother listen than the original S12, or even the NiceHCK F1 Pro, while still providing good energy and musicality.


Instrument separation is acceptable but it's not a detail monster. There is a good treble response that is easy to listen to without sibilance but it does not reach the levels of the more expensive MP145. Most people will be more than happy with the treble performance. I also note that with the right tracks the sub bass dives very deep and powerful. Above all the S08 is musical and easy to listen to for hours. The comfort level is high. The fun level is also high!


Conclusion

Letshuoer have produced an excellent next generation planar with the S08. This planar brings an immersive and impressive listening experience to a wide range of music styles. With the price coming in below the $100 mark it's one of the strongest recommendations of any IEM design at this level.

TheLetshuoerDT03 was provided to Audio reviews Downunder tour group for assessment and review and thanks are due to Letshouer for their confidence in our unbiased and honest reviews.


Tech Specs and what’s in the box?


The Letshuoer DT03 Headphone DAC/AMP Supports PCM 32bit/384kHz with USB Inputs 3.5mm/4.4mm. It uses Dual ES 9219c DAC Chips with DSD decoding up toDSD 256. Signal to noise ratio of 119db and balanced output distortion figure of 0.0006%. the 3.5mm output power is 78mW into 32ohms and 4.4mm balanced is 195mW into 32 ohms.


The CNC milled alloy shell has a sampling rate indicator light. Green isPCM up to 96kHz, Blue up to 192 kHz and PCM up to 352.8 kHz red. DSD decoding is yellow. We have plus and minus volume buttons and a high/low gain switch. Two cables supplied are nice quality with firm USB C connections and one cable is 12.5cm long for use with PCs. A black faux leather case comes standard as well to protect the surface from scratches.









The sound is neutral and uncoloured. It's also clean and transparent. Even on low gain there is plenty of power . It drives the MP145 to good sound levels. I like the fact that using the dongle volume controls I can see the volume slider levels on my Hiby screen. Using the balanced 4.4mm output on high gain I use a volume level of 32 which equates to 44 on the Hiby DAP. The dongle buttons are small but easyto find and use even with the protective leather case on.

Some listening observations


Butterfly by Carolyn Polacheck. Her vocal has a reverb on it that clearly echos and fades into the distance behind her. The song is full of various percussive elements that are crystal clear and the imaging places with with pinpoint placement. Drums and bass have a realistic timbre and impact, imparting actual feeling almost like bone conduction with the MP145. There is no muddiness or smearing. Bass lines are natural and dense.

Fortnight is the first single of The Dead Poets Department and a song I am completely familiar with (Taylor Swift fan ) It's never sounded better . Thanks bass synth is full and rich with visual texture. It dips into a throaty growl that is less evident on other dacs, but on the DT03 it demands you attention and persists longer and deeper. The layers of synths and multiple backing vocals are all demanding of your attention and integrated with the song while audible separate.The bell like synth has a crystalline tone that rings for longer than on other hardware.


Comparisons.


Testtrack Wicked Game by Chris Issac.
HidizsS9 pro Martha.The bass weight is heavier and the vocal is warmer and a little more forward. The DT03 has an airier cleaner and more natural vocal.Snares hot cleaner. The S9 sounds slightly muted and softer around the edges. Less focused. The soundstage is significantly larger on the DT03 with better imaging.

IBassoDC04.
Immediately, compared to the S9 the sound is cleaner with more defined snares and a more natural vocal from Chris. Soundstage is good and vocal still has a bass boost with a touch of warmth. Bass guitar has more apparent weight and depth than the S9 but this could be because the soundstage seems more open. Switching to the Letshuoer I find a more defined bass guitar with cleaner definition but still the same weight. The vocal just has more shades of expression. You can sense the emotion of the song better. The DAC takes you onstage right next to the singer. The echo on the guitar goes all over, and the stage is wider and more defined. The DT03 is a very perceptible step up in fidelity from the DC04.




Conclusion
For the same price as the other two DACs ( all just under $90 usd ) the Letshuoer DT03 takes the hi fidelity to a higher plane. The DT03 increased the resolution and the overall sound presentation of every IEM I connected it to. Far greater than any eartip change or yes, cable change . For me as faras change goes it's a game changer. The company has a winner with this dongle. There will be one in my arsenal very soon.

I would like to thank the BQEYZ for providing this review unit to Audio reviews Downunder, the Australian tour group. This is my first experience of the brand and together with the Cloud variant I am very well impressed with both the build and sound qualities of these IEM’s

The Wind is an all metal open backed IEM with a single Dynamic driver and a Bone conduction driver. Supplied with two sets of silicone tips, a leather carry case and A 4 strand raided silver plated Litz copper cable of very good quality. Lets find out how the BQEYZ Wind sounds?



Listening impressions


Bass

The bone conduction driver is designed to amplify the bass from the DD and I have to say the bass does have a certain physicality. It’s not even near basshead levels in my opinion, just a solid low range. It has very good midbass impact and a sub bass that is I would rate as just adequate and not outstanding. What is outstanding is the character of the bass which is all enveloping and seems to permeate all aspects of the music you are listening too. This character plus the very open sound delivered by the vented shells gives the BQEYZ Wind is unique character.

Some notes on driveability and fit.

The Wind likes a good powerful source to show off its prowess. A balanced output and a DAC with a good power output is needed to get the best from the BC driver. The other must is a good seal in the ear canal. The IEMs nozzle is average sized, and I found some of the large tips I normally use felt loose. I found the best seal with Penon liquor black tips. The metal shells must be snug and in contact with the bones around your ear canal to transmit felt sound.

Using the 2.5mm output from my Hiby R3 the Wind sounded like a fairly average IEM, nothing special. Adding the Hidizs S9 Martha gave a small improvement in low frequencies and a denser midrange. Changing to the Ibasso DC04 pro amped up the power and the bass firmed up and reached deeper but digging out my old JCally JM10 dac with a 3.5mm input really made the Wind whistle! I had to drop the volume down by 10 and not only did the BC driver get the bass pumping but the details in the upper meds and trebles became more obvious.





Listening impressions

Massive Attacks "Angel" off Mezzanine starts with a sub bass rumble and a snare tap. You will feel the rumble vibrating as well as hear it if you get a good tight seal. Half way in, the distorted guitar kicks in and reverberates nicely inside your skull.

Supalonely by Benee has a bass which is full deep and felt. Percussion is fast and clean with good impact. Electronic pop works well. High frequency details are clear and resolving.

Trying to find some indi rock with big bass I turned to Spoon with their song The Devil & Mr Jones. Wind is well suited to rock and or electronic music in my opinion. Vocals are clear with good air and the highs, while extended are well controlled and energetic enough without edging into harshness.

Finally//beautiful stranger by Halsey stars with a reverbed guitar filling the background and a very natural close miked acoustic guitar in the foreground. Very atmospheric. Halsey’s voice if closed mike, forward and full of yearning emotion. Just lovely.

Midrange

The mids are very open and clear. Vocals sound full and rich with great timbre. They are powerful and yet airy, with clarity and definition. Male vocals could use a little more thickness and warmth but female vocals shine, being strong and powerful without edging into shoutiness. I enjoy the vocals from the Wind.

Bunny is a Rider by Caroline Polacheck. Shows off the IEMs imagining with complex modern electronic pop. Great bass floor to a detailed composition. Vocal is placed well, not too forward or recessed with natural tone. From the bass guitar to the tinkling percussion, the imaging and headspace has to be admired.




Treble

Trebles are smooth with just enough sparkle and the bone conduction driver seems to give them a little more fizz and emphasis that I usually hear. But they are not harsh or sibilant to my ears. Rather, I hear good extra details that please and can surprise.

Sound stage

The wind has a vented back plate which provides a very open sound where the notes decay naturally and the stage sounds very open and airy. This is a wide and deep soundstage. That drumkit is positioned right behind the singer instruments either side together with backing vocal. The combination of the BC driver and the vent gives a large headspace with the music seemingly all around you. I’m enjoying this immensely. Probably the only equivalent wide stage I have experienced is the Hidizs MP145. The surround sound effect does do the imaging no favours and if pinpoint imaging is important to you, be aware. But I find the whole sonic experience to be exhilarating and its easy to sit back and just enjoy the music.




Treble

Trebles are smooth with just enough sparkle and the bone conduction driver seems to give them a little more fizz and emphasis that I usually hear. But they are not harsh or sibilant to my ears. Rather, I hear good extra details that can surprise you.


Sound stage

The wind has a vented back plate which provides a very open sound where the notes decay naturally and the stage sounds very open and airy. This is a wide and deep soundstage. That drumkit is positioned right behind the singer instruments either side together with backing vocal. The combination of the BC driver and the vent gives a large headspace with the music seemingly all around you. I’m enjoying this immensely. Probably the only equivalent wide stage I have experienced is the Hidizs MP145. The surround sound effect does do the imaging no favours and if pinpoint imaging is important to you, be aware. But I find the whole sonic experience to be exhilarating and its easy to sit back and just enjoy the music.

Conclusion.

The energetic and uniquely addictive tuning that the addition of the bone conducting driver adds is the BQEYZ’s trump card. The encompassing headspace adds a different and compelling dimension to the music. If you are not a neutral head and are looking for something a little different, I think the Wind has the potential to blow your mind.

BQEYZ have provided this review sample to Audio Reviews Downunder for honest assessment, and we thank them for sharing their newest IEM.

Cloud is available for pre order on Kickstarter at significant discounts off full recommend retail. ($268 usd)

https://www.kickstarter.com/project...sive-air-assisted-vibration-tech-earphone-set

Specifications: BQEYZ CLOUD

Drivers: 1 Dynamic driver + 1 Passive radiator

Impedance: 32Ω Sensitivity: 110dB Frequency response: 7Hz - 40KHz



The light aluminium alloy body is quite small and understated. The nozzle is quite short and the fit is secure and comfortable with appropriate tips. It reminds me of the original Moondrop Chu with its muted dark finish and ease of fitting the ear. Using the provided "reference” tips I'd swear I was listening to a multi driver IEM. The sound is energetic but super well balanced.

Cloud comes with a leather feel case with a zipped closure and a reasonable size. It has two sets of tips, called reference and atmosphere.

The cable is a two core with a bit of heft to it but a soft feel. The terminations are elegant metallic finished items with a quality feel, but the neck slider does not want to cooperate with the braided cable itself.

DRIVABILITY
Cloud is easy to drive. 38 on my DAP. Harder to drive IEMs I raise that to 46-50. The Cloud has a certain synergy with Hiby R3 Saber 2022. Using the balanced connection the IEM is smoother and more emotive with details and nuances.



The sound

The implementation of the LCP diaphragm and BQEYZ’s passive radiator (flexible auxiliary diaphragm unit) mix of drivers has given the Cloud a unique combination of a balanced sound with a voluminous airy soundstage and a beguiling vocal presence.





BASS
Bass is punchy and solid with good speed. Mid bass is clean with more thump than slam. Sub bass is rolled off but still adequate. Changing to "Atmosphere" tips, bass improved. Did the clouds part? Not too sure. These earphones certainly have a ton of atmosphere. Last change. Penon Liquor black tips, my current fav. This nice. Very good weight and treble performance. Vocals very natural and first rate.

Treble

Treble is clean and well extended. It has a delicate and detailed quality. Easy on the ears. No problems if you are treble sensitive. And the quality of the treble, which is subtle, crystalline, and seductive.


MIDRANGE/VOCALS


This is a set to listen to vocals. Tone and timbre with both male and females are realistic and expressive. Vocals are pushed forward with energy as is the midrange. They have a prominence on the presentation that is captivating, involving, and dare I say, rather addictive.

Details and imagining.
Imaging is first rate. It's easy to pinpoint locations of instruments in the stage. There is also a corresponding excellent resolution of details in the mix. Small subtleties are present and easily heard. There is a lightness and airiness to the Cloud's sound that makes me want to explore my music catalogue.


Soundstage.

I'm hearing a reasonably wide stage with a good sense of space and left and right projecting. Certainly more than adequate for my tastes. The soundstage has also got good depth and air.



Conclusion
Again, I am surprised by the capabilities of this driver combination. It's equivalent to a good planar but with a subtle and full midrange. BQEYZ has a winner on their hands with Cloud. I’ve actually placed a kickstarter order for a set.

The Canpur CP54E has been provided to me for assessment by AudioGeeks IEM tours as part of the Australian arm of a worldwide tour.

The IEM is a 5BA and 4 EST driver earphone with a resin shell. It is easy to drive. It is supplied with a leather carry case, two sets of ear tips in all sizes and a 4.4mm balanced cable.



This is my first time with a set that retails well above one thousand usd and I was unsure what to expect from an all BA & EST set. From first listen I was captivated by what I was hearing. Acoustic guitars sound completely natural and real! You can hear fingers on fretboards and tone and timbre are natural. Instrument separation is pinpoint and it's as if you were standing at front of stage in front of players. Both male and female vocals sound realistic, with no alteration of timbre. You can hear subtleties of breathing and intonation, as if you are next to them at the microphone. Vocals are positioned perfectly within the mix.

Bass guitar is felt as well as heard. As are drums. Cymbals are crystalline, splashy, and lifelike. One of rocks better drumming powerhouse songs "Change" from the War on Drugs, hits hard and slams deep and low. Snare drums are snappy and punchy with a realistic and natural tone. Sub bass is present in good quantities,

where the track requires it, and proves a good Sonion BA set can reproduce the low range accurately. It does not have a boosted or overwhelming presence. “Cream" by Prince rocks hard with deep bass and rumbly sub bass and sharp snares. Drum sounds are full and felt as well as heard. I'm not missing a DD driver with the 54's. This BA bass is up with some of the best bass I have heard of any origin.



Highs are extended and cut through the mix surgically without damage. Indeed, the treble is like a laser, bathing your eardrums with scintillating sounds but never erring on the harsh or sibilant side. I'm constantly hearing new subtleties in tracks I am very familiar with. Additionally, because of the driver's fidelity, my attention is constantly drawn to the tones of individual instruments. The breathiness of a woodwind, the reverberation of a guitar. The soundstage is another triumph. While not the widest, I'm hearing good width but great depth and height. They recreate a large space for the elements of the song to occupy.





The Canpur 54 sets the standard for balanced sound to my ears, with no emphasis anywhere in the frequency range, just detailed and enjoyable fidelity. Listening to this is analogous to sitting in the engineer’s chair in a studio with 32 discrete tracks available to hear and marvel at.





It can be viewed and ordered at Lanstar at the following link. https://lanstar.asia/collections/new-arrival/products/cp54e?variant=42504635220141

I would like to thank the NiceHCK for providing this review unit to Audio reviews Downunder, the Australian tour group.
NiceHCK JIALAI Carat uses a 10mm DLC Titanium-Coated Diaphragm. It is supplied with a practical leather case and has a 32 Ohm impedance.

Fit and comfort

The Carat is a fairly small IEM and as such is a comfortable fit. Experimentation with other tips to get a good seal is vital to extract the pull bass levels the IEM is capable of. The nozzle is moderately short and I actually had to use a medium tip to get the proper insertion.


Testing equipment.

I used my Hiby R3 2022 Sabre DAP both with the balanced outputs on high gain and also with two DACs, a JCally JM10 and Hidizs S9 pro Martha. I also used the DACs with my pixel phone in all cases with stored lossless music files.

Source and tip dependent. Wide bore tips are no no. Bass tips with a strong deep bore work best. I used Penon liquor black tips. The Hiby S9 pro DAC gave a clean sound but without a lot of body. Reverting to my Hiby R3 Saber with high gain and 46 volume level gave a better balanced sound with correct weight in the lower registers.


Distinctly V shaped, the Jialai Carat had a boosted sub bass and an elevated treble.
Tuning is unique. Very vocal centric. Male and female vocals are front and center with natural timbre. Space and air around the vocalist allow the lyrics to live in the air with the rest of the instruments placed around and across the space in a very realistic way. The soundstage is not expansive, but the airy tuning gives the impression of a spacious setting. There is no congestion or muddiness with this IEM. Just dynamic and vigorous sound that is quite unlike most earphones you will have heard.



Perhaps the best way to describe this Carat is to describe some songs I used to audition it. You can follow the links so you can hear what I’m about.

Psycho by Amy Shark.

Great snare. Tambourine in drum kit clear and clean. Bold bass line, strong sub bass. Breathy Amy vocal until she belts it out at the end of the song. Hiby R3. Pixel phone with JCally JM10. DAC is neutral and pretty powerful. Big bass boost. Tom drums punchier and more impactful. Less airy vocal, fuller, and more forceful. Treble is a little hotter with the JCally, balanced to some extent by the bass boost. A different sound balance to the Hiby R3 DAP. This IEM is quite source dependent.

Literally every track you listen to will sound different to any other IEM . Some Iron Maiden rocks pretty darn hard. Guitars cut thru cleanly and the bass guitar and drums go hard and yet the sound balance is clean and sharp and spatially large.

Aching to be by The Replacements

Sounds smooth, with Paul Westerberg's vocals well placed center stage with good timbre and the rest of the band surrounding him. Tamborine to the right, harmonica to the left, drum kit behind. Easy to locate everything.

Finally Beautiful Stranger by Halsey

Her husky voice with a clear and vibrant acoustic guitar as backing. When the full instrumentation kicks in there is a nice deep sub bass underpinning the song. Trebles are detailed, snares crisp without being overdone.

Cream by Prince.

The first thing is a forceful snare with reverb sounding great followed the slinky low bass line and Princes distinctive guitar flair. Again, great sense of air and space in this song and nice left to right panning across the soundstage.

Dreamer. By Supertramp

One of the best audiophile pop recordings gives a great range of macro and micro details again in a wide soundstage. Very enjoyable.

Some smooth EDM with Rufus du Sol in the track Alive https://tinyurl.com/3sp7u9zf

This track pumps strongly and engagingly with satisfying deep bass counterpointed with a sea of high frequencies that never get sibilant.


Summary


Refreshing different, the Carat stands out from a sea of single DD IEMS that are tuned similarly tuned. You need to be a bit of a treble head because Carat has great clarity and good details, but the boisterous top end coupled with a good bass and sub bass makes for a different listening experience. I found I needed to experiment with tips and sources to find the sweet spot (as detailed above) but when I did, I enjoyed listening to the Jialai Carat. Similarly, you might find it works better with some genres compared to others. Horses for courses, as they say. Take the Carat challenge and Vive la difference!

Description

The NiceHCK was provided for our honest reviews and impressions, as part of an ongoing audio review tour in Australia with the Audio Reviews Downunder . We thank NiceHCK for this opportunity to experience their new planar IEM.


NiceHCK describes the F1 Pro as a new-generation planar magnetic driver IEM designed with a 14.2mm planar magnetic driver unit. The newly-developed 14.2mm planar driver adopts an ultra-thin diaphragm with strong N55 magnets for a comfortable and efficient performance throughout a wide frequency band.


Audio equipment used.


I played back music in FLAC form from my Hiby R3 Saber 2022 DAP via the balanced output on high gain. I also used a Hidizs DAC, the S9 ProMartha with the 4.4mm balanced output which has an increased power output . Tips I used are TRN T which give me a deep secure insertion with good bass and also vocal and soundstage enhancement. The F1 Properforms well with a range of tips included the supplied tips. I tried a few of my own cables but found no advantage as the supplied cable is excellent with good feel, ear hoops and sound.


The sound.

From the outset you can hear this is a quality IEM. Initially you will notice its balanced sound signature from punchy bass, smooth mids and easy highs. This is not an IEM to contemplate ducks on ponds on a spring morning. The F1 Pro wants you to party, to move about. It involves you with an energetic presentation that never becomes overbearing or harsh. You will then notice a wide soundstage with moderate depth and excellent separation and imaging. The high frequencies balance nicely with the midrange and there are plenty of details with good resolution on offer.


Bass.
It is planar bass, so its fast and powerful and I'd describe it as punchy, even slightly warm. The sub bass is there and goes low but could probably use more quantity compared to the best planars and DD's.
The good thing is the the bass integrates seamlessly with the mids with no upper bass dropoff. Indeed the bass gives the vocals a tinge of warmth with no hint of planar timbre. Everything is presented with a very natural resolution.


Treble
Highs are well behaved on the F1 Pro. The lower treble is more emphasized and compliments the upper mids giving air and nuances to female vocals. In general the highs are present but smooth and rarely straying into sibilance. There are a few tracks or artists where the upper energy or a close miked vocal can become harsh and too brilliant. This is a rare occurrence with the F1 Pro. The highs as arule are smooth yet energetic and provide plenty of details in an easy to listen way.
Technicalities
The NiceHCK F1 pro does everything well, being a musical listen without being an analytical monster. Details are nicely evident and easily heard and instrument locations are focused and sound correct. The soundstage is nice and wide and deep without being class leading. The sound is full-bodied and very natural. NiceHCK have tuned this onewith excellent balance to my ear.


Comparisons and Conclusion

First listen to the F1 Pro made me think this sounds like the Hidizs MP145 at half the price. It sounds that impressive. The differences become clear on comparative listening.
Comparing with everyone's favourite the Letshuoer S12 OG, my ears tell me the F1pro does the job better with a fuller note weight, equally good bass and a smoother treble. The Letshuoer S15 is a planar tuned more like a DD/BA hybrid and as such the sound profile is not planar like to my ears.
That brings us back to the MP145, the only other planar I can compareto and my personal favourite. The MP145 has a thinner midrange, a deeper subbass, a more expansive soundstage with a 3D like quality. The MP145 is also more technical with musical nuances more easily heard . MP145 has no issues with treble heavy or close miked vocals. in fact both these planars have excellent presentation with both male and female vocals.
I think the NiceHCK F1 Pro is an excellent planar with a great energetic yet natural sound. I recommend it if you are after your first planar and you think my description fits the bill.

Alpha& Delta are a Singapore company that along with this TWS set also make IEMs. They have provided one set of each design to Audio Reviews Downunder for honest appraisal and review.
Alpha& Delta will ship to virtually every country in the world.
The TWS are supplied with a range of tip sizes including a foam set and a USB C charging cable.

The case is made of metal and has a strong hinge. There are four lights indicating the charge status of the case and the ear buds also have an internal light which operates to show you it is charging and goes out when fully charged.
The case takes 3 hrs to charge from flat and the buds take one hour from flat. The earphone provides 6 hours of usage and the case 120 hours.
The resin shell is molded and shaped much like the Kinera IEMs and fits snug and very secure in my ear. You can see in the hybrid earbud, which is transparent, the position of the driver and the BA are just behind the nozzle and fire directly into it with no directional tubes fitted. The engineers have used the shape of the cavity to tune the drivers.


The sound. I have two variants you can see in the photos. The Blue one is the single dynamic driver, a V shaped sound signature designed for strong bass performance. The White faced TWS is the hybrid with a single DD and a BA for a more balanced sound signature. ( You can order any face plate colour for either and there is also black and pink options)

Firstly the single DD variant. Described as V shaped by A&D but the sound comes across as well balanced with clear vocals but great subbass. Bass is not over emphasized but more like a gentle V shape. Bass impact is good and miles ahead of my old Audiofly TWS set which sounds muddy and muted in compassion. As with all in ear products , a correct seal is important for good bass response. I found the second size up of supplied tips worked well for me and there is also a foam set of tips for those who prefer that type. Whizzer easytips SS20 also worked well. Overall the sound is detailed, airy and very natural. The upper mids and treble are boosted compared to the Hybrid.

The DD/BA hybrid earphones with the white faceplate are a different proposition. They eased up on the bass and the treble and details are more prominent, but smooth and easy to listen too. The soundstage is also nice and wide, the vocals are placed just right and have plenty of air around them. I grabbed a set of Letshuoer Galileo X Gizaudio which has the same driver configuration to use as a benchmark.Honestly they are lineball. Both smooth ,detailed, easy to listen to with great fidelity. And it is a wireless I am comparing to a wired earphone. Quite amazing.


I must stress the following. You have to find a tip that gives a good solid seal to get the full audio range. A&D supply a mix of sizes including foams. The tips the earphones came fitted with fitted did not give me a good seal but playing around with a bunch of tips I found a set that gave me a great seal and the earphones came fully to life. I used a narrow bore with a slightly taller core which meant removing them when casing the earphones or the auto shut off did not activate.



Summing up: For sound quality, design and build, battery life and excellent bluetooth performance getting this set is a no brainer.
Not mention value :The Dynamic single driver ( Blue ) is $85 USD . The hybrid DD plus BA is $100 USD .
That's crazy good value when you consider the price of top of the line Apple, Samsung and some other premium TWS that are north of $250USD.


Website if you are considering purchase. https://www.alphandelta.com/products/ks100-true-wireless-earphones?variant=43746720579778

TheTSMR X was provided for our honest reviews and impressions, as part of an ongoing audio review tour in Australia. We would like to thank Penon audio for their generosity.
TheTansio Mirai X 10th Anniversary Limited Edition is configured with 2DD + 4BA + 1 Custom Film Retarding Driver Hybrid with switchable bass profiles
"X"as the 10th anniversary of the establishment of TSMR is a collection of years of technical accumulation, we continue to learn from experience, countless fine tuning, ten years of grinding a sword,through this work, complete self-breakthrough, and interpretation of our new understanding of sound.
The film slow pressure driver creates a more comfortable and relaxed listening feeling, which not only expands the sound field, but also makes the overall sound more natural and smooth, and the bass is more flexible.
Hollow coaxial structure dual dynamic driver, the rear driver through the hollow’s hole complete sounding, and produce a certain push-pull force on the front driver, not only to ensure sufficient energy, but also to provide a richer sense of layer, so that the quality and quantity of low frequency are greatly improved.
Using more efficient filtering technology, the background sound is cleaner,the mid-frequency vocal is clear and pleasant, the spatial stratification and positioning are clearer, and the high frequency is smooth and non-irritating.


The driver configuration is as follows. One side with 7 drivers, both sides total 14 drivers

Low frequency: 2 x 8mm strong magnet dynamic, hollow coaxial structure,Carbon mixed diaphragm
Mid frequency: 2 x Knowles balanced armature
High frequency: 2 x Sonion balanced armature


Full frequency effect: 1 x custom film retarding driver (this driver is detachable design, frequent disassembly is not recommended)
Low frequency control switch settings
Default standard tuning mode is 020, recommended to use this mode as a reference. If you do not want to use the bass tuning function, please ignore the tuning switches to use standard mode all the time.

0 indicates that the switch is closed downward,

1/2/3 indicates that the switch is opened upward.
Standard tuning (020 Mode), control factor: 1.0
Bass enhancement (100 Mode), control factor: 0.51
Standard tuning (020 Mode), control factor: 1.0
Low frequency attenuation (003 Mode), control factor: 1.47
The higher the control factor, the lower the low frequency energy.

All switches are turned off to NO BASS mode. Literally, with all switchesoff the bass disappears! Weird! I used Standard tuning (020 Mode), which gave me ample bass levels and a pleasing balance across the frequencies.


EquipmentUsed:

Source.F lac Files on my Hiby R3


Dacs used JCally JM10 and Hidizs S9 Pro Martha


Stock pale green tips and cable were used as no advantage was found using others from my collection.
Synergy was perfect with supplied kit.


Sound Impressions.


Big stage with great width and depth. Every album I listened to gives me the sense of the room it was recorded in and live tracks put me right in the auditorium. Audio is underpinned with strong visceral sub bassand solid mid bass with drums having a physical impact and cymbals with a great crash and decay. This two DD’s do a great job of producing some truly thunderous bass. And the great feature is with three switches controlling only the bass you can chose the bass that pleases you. Switch 1 gives max bass enhancement. Switch 2 is the standard tuning which I preferred and I would describe this setting as still being pretty bass heavy. Switch three attenuates the bass from the standard setting and some will find this give the best of all worlds. Note, the switches are NOT designed to be used in combination. They provide three bass settings only with the rest of the frequency untouched. Turn off ALL the switches if you want to hear an IEM with no bass!! Note number two. By describing the X asshaving heaps of bass, it does, but not to the detriment of the midrange and certainly you don't describe it as a basshead IEM(unless you switch on switch one! ) The sound remains balanced and mids and trebles hold their own in the mix.


Piano has realistic tone and weight and piano tracks are natural and very enjoyable. The treble levels are spot on, with plenty of details and extension, without pushing the envelope. I never felt like I was being assaulted by overly boosted highs. The word to describe the integration of the treble with the rest of the range is balanced.


Vocals exist in a spacious and airy environment and are neither forward orrecessed to my ears. Female and male artist's voices have correct timbre and emotion is conveyed naturally and very enjoyably. Let'shave a listen now to some of the tracks I used to highlight the X's chops. Check these tracks out if you have the time. You will see what I mean.


“On and On” by Australian artist Grace Cummings is a track with great percussion and cinematic orchestration with keyboards and horns.Grace has a voice that appears to spring from a deep well connecting her diaphragm to the massive tectonic plates below, with gravelly edges concealing its true power. The overall impact of this combination is a powerful, dense yet transparent sound which theTSMR X portrays to perfection.


Lighter indie pop of “Cardinal” from Kasey Mulgraves showcases close miked acoustic guitar followed by a driving bass and crisp snare percussion. Her vocal is recorded and presented close to the listening and the overall effect is a coherent and enjoyable listen.


“Charlie Patton Songs” by the band Gomez is a good test track for cymbals,percussion and high frequency flourishes. The TSMR X renders these with exquisite detail and a lightness that never strays into harshness or sibilance. Instrument separation and positioning is first rate.


“Billie Bossa Nova” by Billie Eilish has a smooth cruisy production with a slinky low bass and clicks and taps in the percussion that are very tactile and physical. Although the TSMR X supplies plenty of bass and the sound is very full, it's still a neutral presentation, without being warm as some double DD IEM's can.


“Sundream”by Rufus Du Sol an Australian alternative dance group from Sydney, is melodic House and Techno music with a silky smooth vocal over synthsand electronic drum beats. This dives deep with soaring vocals over washes of synth sounds and great pulsing sub bass. The TSMR X works perfectly with this track. Bass with the X is felt as well as heard.No need for bone conduction in this unit.


Other types of music including Daft Punk and good old Ozzy Osbourne felt at home with the TSMR X. I think they will do a great job with any type of music. I don't do Jazz but with that piano, drum and cymbal sizzle and an upright bass almost seduced me! This IEM will immerse you in the music and if there are emotions being emoted prepare to use the teary emoji!


Conclusion


Obviously from the above you can tell I have really enjoyed my audition period with theTansio Mirai X. The company has produced a superb earphone that works supremely well with all genres and to my ears has no flaws. There is one major problem. I have to send it on to the next audiophile is our tour group, sob. So, should you avoid it, short list it, or go right ahead and buy it? My advice is go for it if it's in your price capability!

About Cadenza 4.

Letshuoer, the parents of the hugely popular planar IEM the S12 have a new baby for us.

Letshuoer provided this review sample to Audio Reviews Downunder for our honest assessment, and we would like to thank them.

Cadenza 4 is a 1 DD 3BA hybrid. The company also has the Cadenza 12 which is a 1DD 11BA flagship IEM. Cadenza definition: Technically brilliant sometimes improvised solo passage toward the close of a concerto.

In the box we have the IEMs which I find understated and elegant. A lot is made of the look of an IEM but once they are in your ears…out of sight, out of mind!

The cable is just great, Soft and substantial with a great feel, left and right marked pin connectors and modular at the other end with the three usual sized male connectors. This is one of the first cables I have not been tempted to change with some of my collection. Also included is a hard plastic round case with a screw cap. Solid and durable it also feels quite soft and tactile. Just don’t let the dog get hold of it!

The supplied tips are average and below par compared to those supplied with the dearer S15 planar.

The fit of the Cadenza works well for my ears. The body is molded and shaped to the ear cavity as opposed to a simple cone shape. (It is similar to the Kinera range) This gives me a good fit with my ear shape and has the advantage of good noise isolation.

Drivability was good. I used my Hiby R3 Saber DAP with high gain and while a volume level of 36 (which is average for an easy to drive IEM) gave a good sound level, I found the Letshuoer scaled well when I boosted the volume into the 40’s. The music grew in power and grandeur without any corresponding harshness or distortion. Similar to the way my Hidizs MP145 planar performs.

The Sound

Remember these are my impressions and may not relate to all ears or ear canals!

When you first listen to Cadenza 4 you should be impressed by the superb balanced and musical presentation. This set is the best hybrid I have spent time listening to this year. Every part of the sound spectrum is presented so correctly that you just get lost in the music and forget to analyze! In this way it compares favorably to my number one set, namely the Hidizs MP145. Usually, I keep the MP145 tacked away when I am assessing a new IEM but in this case the Cadenza demanded “get the Hidizs out…I can take it! “

Starting with the bass, the kick drums do kick with a visceral punch that you can feel. Drumsticks tapped on the side of the snare are tactile and realistic. Sub bass is omnipresent in just the right amount without overpowering the Mids. Bass guitars have weight and depth and upright basses sound deep and realistic with real gravitas.

The midrange is spacious and uncongested with good tone and some warmth. Vocals are presented just right, neither to forward or recessed. Acoustic guitars sound realistic and detailed. Female vocals are rather delicious, natural and captivating. Male vocals have correct timbre and tone to my ears. My most problematic close miked vocal tracks that can sound harsh and troubling with some tunings, survived analysis nicely.

The treble has energy and clarity and is never overdone. Once again, we get back to the balanced sound of the Cadenza. Sure, it could have more sparkle, but would it dominate the mix? To me, it sounds just right.

Soundstage and technicalities now. The soundstage has good width and depth and I rate it as above average. Imaging is very good with Cadenza and placement of instruments within the soundstage is easy and accurate. Detail retrieval, while not TOTL is also adequate to my ears with plenty of small nuances and minutiae audible. Put it all together and you have a seamless symphony of sound.


To sum up.

Did Cadenza 4 surpass my Hidizs MP145 as my favorite? Close but no. I still love the planar. But the Letshuoer takes it place as one of the best balanced and musical listening IEMs I have auditioned. It gets my strong recommendation

Introduction

Kinera has supplied the Celest Phoenixcall to the Australian Audio Reviews Downunder tour group for honest assessment. We would like to thank Kinera for trusting us with their creation!

Kinera has designed the Celest Phoenixcall with a 7mm Dynamic driver for the low frequencies, a customized BA driver for the mid frequencies, another customized BA driver for the mid-high frequencies, and two Micro planar drivers (Flat panel drivers) for the ultra-high frequencies. Supplied with Celest vocal ear tips in three sizes and Celest C07 tips also in three sizes. The cable is a 3.5mm 5N silver plated item with a good feel and neck slider.

Audio equipment used.

I played back music in FLAC form from my Hiby R3 Saber 2022 DAP via the balanced output on high gain. I also used a Hidizs DAC, the S9 Pro Martha with the 4.4mm balanced output which has a warmer less neutral presentation. Tips I used areTRN T which give me a deep secure insertion with good bass and also vocal and soundstage enhancement.

The sound

Firstly, can I say that I enjoy the Phoenixcall’s sound. It has clarity, energy, good bass and a spacious sound. Having said that it’s not a traditional tuning, whether V shaped or W shaped.

Kinera have produced a musical and engaging sounding IEM that does an awful lot right. When you break down the sound you might think it’s deficient and subpar, but the sum of its parts is greater than you might expect.

The Bass

I’d describe the bass as big and bold and on the warm side. Its punchy and more mid bass focussed. It does not go deep in the sub bass area, but it provided a solid bassy floor to the music. Snares hit nice and hard, bass guitar lines are deep and solid. If I had to critique the bass sound, its that it is a little unfocused. Bass does not bleed into the midrange and there is space and room for the vocals and instruments.

The Midrange

Midrange I would describe as clean and open with good transparency but not as rich or full as I have heard on other sets. Vocals cut through the mix with plenty of space and air. Detail retrieval is up there with the best.



Treble

Phoenixcall does treble just about right to my ears. Treble details cut thru nicely without any harshness. The treble does not sound boosted but rather correct, with good tone and sparkle. It compliments the rest of the frequency range nicely and never is sibilant. “Only time makes it Human” by King Princess is a great example of the Phoenixcall’s ability to present a full soundstage with richness, punch, details and a great vocal. Backing vocals and guitar at the beginning of the track are heard clearly When the track kicks in the percussion and hand claps are sharp and clear and the mix of vocals and bass guitar and toms is full and rich, with great thump and pace.



Soundstage and Imaging

I find the soundstage above average with plenty of height and depth. Kinera have tuned this mix of drivers to create a coherent and natural soundscape. Imagining is excellent as it is easy to pinpoint instruments within the stage.



Conclusion

Kinera themselves have described the tuning concept of the Phoenixcall as thus. ““Phoenixcall” has an overall bright sound with deep and elastic bass that is more gentle and relaxed. The midrange has a solid and natural sound, while the high frequencies are clear, bright, and clean. The soundstage is spacious and natural, with round and smooth vocals and strong resolution, providing you with a comfortable music experience.”

Sometimes you don’t want to analyse the sound of an IEM, especially when it sounds as good as the Phoenixcall. Obviously, it has not got the chops of some of the heavy hitters but what it does have is a great mix of different drivers tuned to work together well and presenting a very musical and enjoyable sound. I think Kinera have come close to their tuning target and now its times to settle back in a comfy chair with your best music on and enjoy.

Introduction.

Kinera has supplied Celest Plutus Beast to the Australian Audio Reviews Downunder tour group for honest assessment. We would like to thank Kinera for trusting us with their creations!

What does the name mean you ask? Its a name taken from Chinese mythology. Plutus Beast is a distinguished character according to the myths, it is believed to be the “Heavenly creature of Fortune”, and among other things it is often regarded as a symbol of wealth.

Specifications

Plutus Beast is a tribrid IEM with a Bone Conduction Driver + 1BA + 1 SPD™ ( Square Planar Driver) It has an impedance of 8 ohm and a sensitivity of 108dB. It is supplied with a 5N copper silver-plated cable with 3.5mm / 4.4mm Balanced plugs. It comes with a set of Celest vocal ear tips and a set of balanced tips. The case is a small circular leather item with a zip closure. The IEM has 3D printed integrated moulded shells with hand painted face covers.

The sound

How do the three drivers handle the audio spectrum? Firstly the Second generation square planar driver (SPD) is full range and works with the other two drivers, The bone conduction driver provides a full warm deep bass response with good sub bass extension while the SPD provides a fast punchy bass and mid bass , seamlessly blending with the other drivers and providing a coherent pleasing bass response. Bass does not bleed into the midrange and the IEM keeps good separation and transparency in its midrange. The customized BA drivers handle the upper frequencies with good extension and present high frequencies in a pleasing gentle and non-fatiguing way. Trebleheads may wish for more energy and sizzle.

Together with the planar driver the detail and imaging are very good. I can position instruments in the sound mix easily. The sound stage is nice and wide with a great sense of space and depth. The SPD gives great clarity and the details in the music are quite planar like. There is no hint of any planar timbre. The mix of the three drivers really does create a spacious and coherent sound that I really enjoy.



Plutus Beast really shines on well recorded music. The Love over Gold album by Dire Straits is really exquisite. The bass thunders below the sparkling piano and of course Mark's distinctive guitar. If I wanted to improve the mix the vocals could be a little more forward and have a little more thickness. Overall, the music really shines with Plutus. Modern music with strong bass is the Beast's forte. Biig Pigg “Feels right” has the correct solid impact and a clean, energetic punch. This IEM excelled with EDM style music. Daft Punk's “Get Lucky Club Mix” from Random Access Memories will rock your head with the bone conduction driver!

Gentler music such as Tom Petty singing “Crawling back to you” from his Wildflowers album works really well. An ensemble of great musicians well recorded, great drums and Toms fragile voice up front sounding like he is in your head.



Conclusion

Celest Plutus Beast. Who is it for? Bassheads should apply if they also like a clean transparent mid/treble presentation to complement the thump. The BC driver does give a strong bold authoritative floor to the music, but the sound is also balanced. Vocal lovers might find its mid-range a little regressed but be pleased by the excellent details and sound-stage.

Plutus Beast works best with well recorded music, especially modern pop and dance music with a solid beat. I found the Plutus Beast response improved with a Hidizs S9 pro Matha dac that I am using. The S9 has plenty of power and adds warmth and thickness to the sound that was lacking with my Hiby R3 saber. (neutral and transparent). Give the Beast a good feed and it will reward you with a powerful yet balanced musical experience. I like this one!