Reviews by ILuvAudio
Flip Ears Aurora
This review reflects my personal and subjective listening experience with the mentioned audio gear product. I would like to thank FlipEars and Audio Geek Brother_hood of Audiophiles for organizing this review tour in my country and allowing me to share my thoughts on the product, it doesn’t influence my review in any form and nor I am compensated.
Before I start, I would like to mention that most of my impressions of the gear is based on the source and test tracks mentioned, so YMMV.
Sources: Mojo 2 + Poly via AirPlay, Apple Lightning dongle
Cable in use : Toxic Cable Black Widow 22
Technical Specs
10 Tribrid Speaker Configuration
2 EST – 2 Ultra High
6 BA – 2 Low-Mid, 2 Mid, 2 Mid-High
2 Firewoofers – Sub-Bass.
Sensitivity: 124dB @ 1mW
Impedance: 21ohms @ 1kHz
Frequency Response: 5Hz – 70kHz
Design and Fit
The Aurora’s front and back plates feature a custom design inspired by the curtains, rays, and spirals of the Aurora Borealis. Since it was a review unit, I didn’t get the complete package, so the experience is limited to what I received. The shells are big and so are the nozzle, I was able to get good fit with Lacquer orange tips but it was a struggle to get them to fit on the nozzle.
Playlist
Bollywood 60%, Indian Classical 25% and Western Pop 15%
Before I start, I would like to mention that most of my impressions of the gear is based on the source and test tracks mentioned, so YMMV.
Listening preference
I like balanced sounding sets, particularly with good vocal and lower frequencies, I love bass
but cannot sacrifice Mids. Stage and Imaging do wow me but that’s not something I only go for in the set, comfortable listening takes priority. I love single DD iems
Driver Configuration:
The Aurora is a hybrid IEM with the following drivers:
Dual 9mm Dynamic Firewoofers: These handle sub-bass frequencies.
Six Balanced Armature Drivers: These cover various frequency ranges.
Two Electrostatic Drivers: These extend the high-frequency response up to 70kHz
Sound Stage and Imaging - Aurora sounds pleasantly spacious, with adequate reverberation at low frequencies. For example, in multiple songs like Choti si Aasha and Ishq di baajiyan, throughout the song, there is a sense of good reverb wherein the vocals are produced in a space causing number of echoes to build up and then slowly decay, soundstage has good sense of depth and width. The imaging, placement of instruments is good so is the instrument separation. Never felt out of place or overly done on any track, it is in the same ball park as other iems in this price bracket. The high frequency drivers are doing their job pretty well.
High - It provides a very resolving presentation, allowing you to hear intricate details across various genres, each instrument producing the high have great clarity at the same time the balance in the high is not leaning towards brilliance, it is making sure you hear every nuance and instrument in the track.
Mids – Here comes the tricky part of this set, for male vocals with a husky voice and weight, this set produces rich vocals, otherwise for other male vocals may sound a bit recessed and distant-sounding, giving a sense of depth, female vocals left me desired for more, again sounding distant or a bit bright, upper mids could have been better, lower mids have good body, enhancing instrumentals. With complex tracks, the bass tend to overpower mids on some occasion this would be evident if you are too familiar with the tracks.
Lows – The star of the show for me is the low end, which is tight and extends well, delivering impactful bass. The Aurora produces warm sound signature with good sense of space and details as well, the sub bass and mid bass have good hold across the sound produced. There have been no instance wherein I have missed the bass guitar strings, reference track is Ae Udi Udi, there is use of bass guitar throughout the song and Aurora pronounced it definitely. The bass texture is to die for, marvelously produced.
Overall sound - The Aurora offers a musical and warm sound signature, striking a balance between richness and clarity. This is the fun sounding set, you may want to just fall in love with it instead of overly analyzing it but at the same time this iem will produce some details which will shock you and make you want to relisten to a track, mid lovers might be left wanting for more of that vocal lushness, it colors the sound with its addictive bass response.
This review reflects my personal and subjective listening experience with the mentioned audio gear product. I would like to thank FlipEars and Audio Geek Brother_hood of Audiophiles for organizing this review tour in my country and allowing me to share my thoughts on the product, it doesn’t influence my review in any form and nor I am compensated.
Before I start, I would like to mention that most of my impressions of the gear is based on the source and test tracks mentioned, so YMMV.
Sources: Mojo 2 + Poly via AirPlay, Apple Lightning dongle
Cable in use : Toxic Cable Black Widow 22
Technical Specs
10 Tribrid Speaker Configuration
2 EST – 2 Ultra High
6 BA – 2 Low-Mid, 2 Mid, 2 Mid-High
2 Firewoofers – Sub-Bass.
Sensitivity: 124dB @ 1mW
Impedance: 21ohms @ 1kHz
Frequency Response: 5Hz – 70kHz
Design and Fit
The Aurora’s front and back plates feature a custom design inspired by the curtains, rays, and spirals of the Aurora Borealis. Since it was a review unit, I didn’t get the complete package, so the experience is limited to what I received. The shells are big and so are the nozzle, I was able to get good fit with Lacquer orange tips but it was a struggle to get them to fit on the nozzle.
Playlist
Bollywood 60%, Indian Classical 25% and Western Pop 15%
Before I start, I would like to mention that most of my impressions of the gear is based on the source and test tracks mentioned, so YMMV.
Listening preference
I like balanced sounding sets, particularly with good vocal and lower frequencies, I love bass
but cannot sacrifice Mids. Stage and Imaging do wow me but that’s not something I only go for in the set, comfortable listening takes priority. I love single DD iems Driver Configuration:
The Aurora is a hybrid IEM with the following drivers:
Dual 9mm Dynamic Firewoofers: These handle sub-bass frequencies.
Six Balanced Armature Drivers: These cover various frequency ranges.
Two Electrostatic Drivers: These extend the high-frequency response up to 70kHz
Sound Stage and Imaging - Aurora sounds pleasantly spacious, with adequate reverberation at low frequencies. For example, in multiple songs like Choti si Aasha and Ishq di baajiyan, throughout the song, there is a sense of good reverb wherein the vocals are produced in a space causing number of echoes to build up and then slowly decay, soundstage has good sense of depth and width. The imaging, placement of instruments is good so is the instrument separation. Never felt out of place or overly done on any track, it is in the same ball park as other iems in this price bracket. The high frequency drivers are doing their job pretty well.
High - It provides a very resolving presentation, allowing you to hear intricate details across various genres, each instrument producing the high have great clarity at the same time the balance in the high is not leaning towards brilliance, it is making sure you hear every nuance and instrument in the track.
Mids – Here comes the tricky part of this set, for male vocals with a husky voice and weight, this set produces rich vocals, otherwise for other male vocals may sound a bit recessed and distant-sounding, giving a sense of depth, female vocals left me desired for more, again sounding distant or a bit bright, upper mids could have been better, lower mids have good body, enhancing instrumentals. With complex tracks, the bass tend to overpower mids on some occasion this would be evident if you are too familiar with the tracks.
Lows – The star of the show for me is the low end, which is tight and extends well, delivering impactful bass. The Aurora produces warm sound signature with good sense of space and details as well, the sub bass and mid bass have good hold across the sound produced. There have been no instance wherein I have missed the bass guitar strings, reference track is Ae Udi Udi, there is use of bass guitar throughout the song and Aurora pronounced it definitely. The bass texture is to die for, marvelously produced.
Overall sound - The Aurora offers a musical and warm sound signature, striking a balance between richness and clarity. This is the fun sounding set, you may want to just fall in love with it instead of overly analyzing it but at the same time this iem will produce some details which will shock you and make you want to relisten to a track, mid lovers might be left wanting for more of that vocal lushness, it colors the sound with its addictive bass response.
Attachments
Intro
Softears is a Chinese audio brand that focuses on technology, research and development, and innovation. Although relatively young, the company has substantial experience.
The founder of Softears began working in the audio industry in 2014. The studio was officially founded in 2017 in Shenzhen, often referred to as China’s Silicon Valley. In 2019, Softears expanded by establishing an independent lab for research and development (R&D) and its own factory in Chengdu, a city known for its rich cultural heritage. Softears specializes primarily in in-ear monitors (IEMs). Their products are designed to deliver high-quality sound and comfort for extended listening sessions.
Softears Twilight is a 10mm Single DD iem
Disclaimer:
This review reflects my personal and subjective listening experience with the mentioned audio gear product. I would like to thank Conceptkart and @gadgetgod for organizing this review tour in my country and allowing me to share my thoughts on the product, it doesn’t influence my review in any form and nor I am compensated.
Before I start, I would like to mention that most of my impressions of the gear is based on the source and test tracks mentioned, so YMMV.
Sources: Mojo 2 + Poly via AirPlay, Apple Lightning dongle
Playlist
Bollywood 60%, Indian Classical 25% and Western Pop 15%
Before I start, I would like to mention that most of my impressions of the gear is based on the source and test tracks mentioned, so YMMV.
Sources: Mojo 2 + Poly via AirPlay, Apple Lightning dongle
Playlist
Bollywood 60%, Indian Classical 25% and Western Pop 15%
Listening preference
I like balanced sounding sets, particularly with good vocal and lower frequencies, I love bass but cannot sacrifice Mids. Stage and Imaging do wow me but that’s not something I keenly go for in the set, comfortable listening takes priority. I love Single DD iems
Listening preference
I like balanced sounding sets, particularly with good vocal and lower frequencies, I love bass but cannot sacrifice Mids. Stage and Imaging do wow me but that’s not something I keenly go for in the set, comfortable listening takes priority. I love Single DD iems
Specs:
Impedance:16Ω
Sensitivity: 116dB/Vrms @1kHz
Effective frequency response: 20-20kHz (IEC60318-4)
Frequency range: 15-40kHz
(1/4' freefield, -3dB)
THD:<1%@1kHz
Housing: 5-axis finely engraved anodized aluminum alloy
Driver size: 10mm
Diaphragm: PU suspension diamond-like dome
Build and package
Constructed with high-quality materials, including metal components, ensuring durability and a premium feel.
Since it was a review unit, I didn’t get the complete package, so the experience is limited to what I received.
It comes with a soft and supple 2 pin cable terminated into 4.4mm balanced, the shells are rectangular in shape which looks different than the competition for sure and the nozzle is a bit slanted for better fit, I got a very good fit with the Twilight. Tips used during my extended listening of these iems were Lacquer black tips which have become my recent favorites.
First impressions The Softears Twilight in-ear monitors provide a an extremely lush kind of audio experience with exceptional detail and precision across the frequency spectrum. This goes neck to neck with my Beyer Xelento in the production of the lower shelf. The open vents give it an open and Airy presentation, vocals are lush, and bass will satisfy your craving however wanted a bit more sparkle in the highs.
Bass
Starting with the bass, the Twilight delivers a controlled and articulate low end that strikes a balance between depth and accuracy. Bass notes are tight and well-defined, in my view, twilight would suit various genres as the frequencies don’t overshadow each other and maintains good balance. However, to note the sub bass takes a back seat here and the mid bass takes the center stage in terms of presentation. Bass has weight and good depth.
Treble/Highs
Moving to the treble, the treble is airy and detailed, adding brilliance and energy to the instruments. It maintains a smooth and non-fatiguing presentation while still capturing intricate nuances in the music. While detailed, the treble extension lacking a bit of sparkle and it is one of the aspects I desired for more in this set, the resolution in the highs could have been better.
Vocals/Midrange
Vocal presentation on the Twilight is captivating, with lush and expressive midrange reproduction. Vocals are rendered with intimacy and clarity, allowing the emotion and subtlety of vocal performances to shine through. Vocals and instruments are captured with lifelike clarity and emotion.
Male-Focused Track:
The Twilight brings out the nuances and emotions in male vocals exceptionally well. There’s no nasality or harshness in the midrange. The clarity and lifelike quality make it a joy to listen to Bollywood melodies.
Female-Focused Track:
When it comes to female vocals, the Twilight maintains its naturalness and musicality. The midrange captures the richness and transparency needed for soulful Bollywood songs.
Instrumental Track:
On tracks with strings, cymbals, and other instruments, the Twilight carries the energy with aplomb. Its articulate presentation ensures that every detail shines through.
Stage and Imaging
The soundstage of the Twilight is both expansive and immersive. It boasts impressive height and width, creating a spacious sonic environment that enhances the overall listening experience. Instruments are well-placed within the soundstage, offering a sense of depth and dimensionality that draws you into the music. During my first listen, I was quite surprised with the openness of the sound and the height of the stage, in my experience the stage is taller than wider. Especially due to ventilated shells, the presentation is airy and open.
Imaging on the Twilight is precise and accurate, allowing for precise placement of instruments and vocals within the soundstage. This level of detail and imaging accuracy adds realism and immersion to the music, making each track come alive with clarity and separation.
Conclusion
Overall, the Softears Twilight in-ear monitors deliver a refined and sophisticated sound signature with emphasis on controlled bass, expressive vocals, expansive soundstage with impressive height and width, precise imaging, and intricate details. the Softears Twilight offers a balanced and refined sound signature, making it a great choice for music enthusiasts who appreciate clarity, depth, and an immersive listening experience.
Whether you’re enjoying soulful Bollywood melodies or energetic instrumentals, the Twilight delivers. They are a superb choice for audiophiles and music enthusiasts seeking an unparalleled listening experience.
Softears is a Chinese audio brand that focuses on technology, research and development, and innovation. Although relatively young, the company has substantial experience.
The founder of Softears began working in the audio industry in 2014. The studio was officially founded in 2017 in Shenzhen, often referred to as China’s Silicon Valley. In 2019, Softears expanded by establishing an independent lab for research and development (R&D) and its own factory in Chengdu, a city known for its rich cultural heritage. Softears specializes primarily in in-ear monitors (IEMs). Their products are designed to deliver high-quality sound and comfort for extended listening sessions.
Softears Twilight is a 10mm Single DD iem
Disclaimer:
This review reflects my personal and subjective listening experience with the mentioned audio gear product. I would like to thank Conceptkart and @gadgetgod for organizing this review tour in my country and allowing me to share my thoughts on the product, it doesn’t influence my review in any form and nor I am compensated.
Before I start, I would like to mention that most of my impressions of the gear is based on the source and test tracks mentioned, so YMMV.
Sources: Mojo 2 + Poly via AirPlay, Apple Lightning dongle
Playlist
Bollywood 60%, Indian Classical 25% and Western Pop 15%
Before I start, I would like to mention that most of my impressions of the gear is based on the source and test tracks mentioned, so YMMV.
Sources: Mojo 2 + Poly via AirPlay, Apple Lightning dongle
Playlist
Bollywood 60%, Indian Classical 25% and Western Pop 15%
Listening preference
I like balanced sounding sets, particularly with good vocal and lower frequencies, I love bass
but cannot sacrifice Mids. Stage and Imaging do wow me but that’s not something I keenly go for in the set, comfortable listening takes priority. I love Single DD iems Listening preference
I like balanced sounding sets, particularly with good vocal and lower frequencies, I love bass
but cannot sacrifice Mids. Stage and Imaging do wow me but that’s not something I keenly go for in the set, comfortable listening takes priority. I love Single DD iems Specs:
Impedance:16Ω
Sensitivity: 116dB/Vrms @1kHz
Effective frequency response: 20-20kHz (IEC60318-4)
Frequency range: 15-40kHz
(1/4' freefield, -3dB)
THD:<1%@1kHz
Housing: 5-axis finely engraved anodized aluminum alloy
Driver size: 10mm
Diaphragm: PU suspension diamond-like dome
Build and package
Constructed with high-quality materials, including metal components, ensuring durability and a premium feel.
Since it was a review unit, I didn’t get the complete package, so the experience is limited to what I received.
It comes with a soft and supple 2 pin cable terminated into 4.4mm balanced, the shells are rectangular in shape which looks different than the competition for sure and the nozzle is a bit slanted for better fit, I got a very good fit with the Twilight. Tips used during my extended listening of these iems were Lacquer black tips which have become my recent favorites.
First impressions The Softears Twilight in-ear monitors provide a an extremely lush kind of audio experience with exceptional detail and precision across the frequency spectrum. This goes neck to neck with my Beyer Xelento in the production of the lower shelf. The open vents give it an open and Airy presentation, vocals are lush, and bass will satisfy your craving however wanted a bit more sparkle in the highs.
Bass
Starting with the bass, the Twilight delivers a controlled and articulate low end that strikes a balance between depth and accuracy. Bass notes are tight and well-defined, in my view, twilight would suit various genres as the frequencies don’t overshadow each other and maintains good balance. However, to note the sub bass takes a back seat here and the mid bass takes the center stage in terms of presentation. Bass has weight and good depth.
Treble/Highs
Moving to the treble, the treble is airy and detailed, adding brilliance and energy to the instruments. It maintains a smooth and non-fatiguing presentation while still capturing intricate nuances in the music. While detailed, the treble extension lacking a bit of sparkle and it is one of the aspects I desired for more in this set, the resolution in the highs could have been better.
Vocals/Midrange
Vocal presentation on the Twilight is captivating, with lush and expressive midrange reproduction. Vocals are rendered with intimacy and clarity, allowing the emotion and subtlety of vocal performances to shine through. Vocals and instruments are captured with lifelike clarity and emotion.
Male-Focused Track:
The Twilight brings out the nuances and emotions in male vocals exceptionally well. There’s no nasality or harshness in the midrange. The clarity and lifelike quality make it a joy to listen to Bollywood melodies.
Female-Focused Track:
When it comes to female vocals, the Twilight maintains its naturalness and musicality. The midrange captures the richness and transparency needed for soulful Bollywood songs.
Instrumental Track:
On tracks with strings, cymbals, and other instruments, the Twilight carries the energy with aplomb. Its articulate presentation ensures that every detail shines through.
Stage and Imaging
The soundstage of the Twilight is both expansive and immersive. It boasts impressive height and width, creating a spacious sonic environment that enhances the overall listening experience. Instruments are well-placed within the soundstage, offering a sense of depth and dimensionality that draws you into the music. During my first listen, I was quite surprised with the openness of the sound and the height of the stage, in my experience the stage is taller than wider. Especially due to ventilated shells, the presentation is airy and open.
Imaging on the Twilight is precise and accurate, allowing for precise placement of instruments and vocals within the soundstage. This level of detail and imaging accuracy adds realism and immersion to the music, making each track come alive with clarity and separation.
Conclusion
Overall, the Softears Twilight in-ear monitors deliver a refined and sophisticated sound signature with emphasis on controlled bass, expressive vocals, expansive soundstage with impressive height and width, precise imaging, and intricate details. the Softears Twilight offers a balanced and refined sound signature, making it a great choice for music enthusiasts who appreciate clarity, depth, and an immersive listening experience.
Whether you’re enjoying soulful Bollywood melodies or energetic instrumentals, the Twilight delivers. They are a superb choice for audiophiles and music enthusiasts seeking an unparalleled listening experience.
Attachments
First the disclaimer – I have been a Sennheiser fanboy during the initial days of my audiophile journey, having owned PX80 and MX170, I was somehow a Sennheiser fan in regard to their product quality, warranty coverage and most importantly sound quality.
Now, ie200 – I had been following the IE series lineup for the past year or so and read a lot about them. I was on the verge of buying the IE300 (which I bought eventually) but there came news of the new product Sennheiser was about to launch within the $200 mark, in a group I was part of a graph of the FR was shared and I was intrigued by it and pre-ordered it.
IE200 arrives in a rather simple packaging whereas its Chinese counterpart which arrived on the same day and belonged to the same price, the SeeAudio Yume 2 came in impressive packaging, good quality silicone eartips and a carry case, something for Sennheiser to take as feedback. Came along with iems were a carry pouch few pairs of eartips, some custom tips with acoustic treatment by Sennheiser and some foam (underwhelming in today’s standard of $200 iem).
Now coming to the sound, the first impressions were quite good on the first two tracks I heard (Ghoomar and Ek Dil Ek Jaan) however with time the iem started to feel spicy in the treble region to become fatiguing especially when I was side by side listening to Yume 2 which has perfect balance across frequencies except for the bass being a bit leaner in comparison.
The IE 200 features a plastic housing and is among the smallest in-ear monitors available. Despite its small form factor, it delivers powerful and detailed sound. The IE 200 proudly employs the same 7mm True Response driver found in Sennheiser’s higher-tier models. The tuning is lush and inviting, making it an excellent choice for music enthusiasts.
I was informed in advance by the forum members about tip rolling to bring out the best, I also happen to follow GizAudio about the same topic around the same time.
Tip rolling –
• Stock tips – extremely comfortable, but be ready to sacrifice the sound quality as I believe it just doesn’t do justice to these item's capability
• Foam Tips – Now, the entire concept changed, the bass became prominent also the mids feel more natural to my ears, listening to Udit Narayan playlist, I was getting the memory of me listening to those tracks on HD6XX, albeit the stage felt wider on these. Dark Horse by Katy Perry and Starboy by Weekend sounded extremely good, the opening of these tracks is good to evaluate if the bass can overpower other details and I could happily say that I didn’t face any issue with these tracks on the ie200
• Final E tips – Now comes the final E tips on the recommendation of a beloved friend, the first impression was underwhelming TBH as I thought I was getting the best with foam tips however with the final E tips I was getting LetShouer S12 vibes on ie200 because of the spicy treble and overpowering bass. Gave it a few days and these have become the new normal, I have been switching between E tips and foam for a change, final E tips are good if you want to make the sound a little more V.
Overall, I would say that I still need to spend some good time with these iems, as it is a chameleon when it comes to sound changes on tip rolling. As for the sound quality in summary I am impressed with the Sennheiser ie200. It deserves to be sold in volumes as it is launched at a very aggressive price point if we see Sennheiser’s standards. This could be the game changer as were the Senn HD6 series I believe people would get that taste in an iem form, they just need to choose the right eartips (which may not be easy). The Sennheiser IE 200 offers a balance of performance and portability, making it a great choice for music lovers on the go. Until next time
Now, ie200 – I had been following the IE series lineup for the past year or so and read a lot about them. I was on the verge of buying the IE300 (which I bought eventually) but there came news of the new product Sennheiser was about to launch within the $200 mark, in a group I was part of a graph of the FR was shared and I was intrigued by it and pre-ordered it.
IE200 arrives in a rather simple packaging whereas its Chinese counterpart which arrived on the same day and belonged to the same price, the SeeAudio Yume 2 came in impressive packaging, good quality silicone eartips and a carry case, something for Sennheiser to take as feedback. Came along with iems were a carry pouch few pairs of eartips, some custom tips with acoustic treatment by Sennheiser and some foam (underwhelming in today’s standard of $200 iem).
Now coming to the sound, the first impressions were quite good on the first two tracks I heard (Ghoomar and Ek Dil Ek Jaan) however with time the iem started to feel spicy in the treble region to become fatiguing especially when I was side by side listening to Yume 2 which has perfect balance across frequencies except for the bass being a bit leaner in comparison.
The IE 200 features a plastic housing and is among the smallest in-ear monitors available. Despite its small form factor, it delivers powerful and detailed sound. The IE 200 proudly employs the same 7mm True Response driver found in Sennheiser’s higher-tier models. The tuning is lush and inviting, making it an excellent choice for music enthusiasts.
I was informed in advance by the forum members about tip rolling to bring out the best, I also happen to follow GizAudio about the same topic around the same time.
Tip rolling –
• Stock tips – extremely comfortable, but be ready to sacrifice the sound quality as I believe it just doesn’t do justice to these item's capability
• Foam Tips – Now, the entire concept changed, the bass became prominent also the mids feel more natural to my ears, listening to Udit Narayan playlist, I was getting the memory of me listening to those tracks on HD6XX, albeit the stage felt wider on these. Dark Horse by Katy Perry and Starboy by Weekend sounded extremely good, the opening of these tracks is good to evaluate if the bass can overpower other details and I could happily say that I didn’t face any issue with these tracks on the ie200
• Final E tips – Now comes the final E tips on the recommendation of a beloved friend, the first impression was underwhelming TBH as I thought I was getting the best with foam tips however with the final E tips I was getting LetShouer S12 vibes on ie200 because of the spicy treble and overpowering bass. Gave it a few days and these have become the new normal, I have been switching between E tips and foam for a change, final E tips are good if you want to make the sound a little more V.
Overall, I would say that I still need to spend some good time with these iems, as it is a chameleon when it comes to sound changes on tip rolling. As for the sound quality in summary I am impressed with the Sennheiser ie200. It deserves to be sold in volumes as it is launched at a very aggressive price point if we see Sennheiser’s standards. This could be the game changer as were the Senn HD6 series I believe people would get that taste in an iem form, they just need to choose the right eartips (which may not be easy). The Sennheiser IE 200 offers a balance of performance and portability, making it a great choice for music lovers on the go. Until next time
