Reviews by InfiniteJester
"What a relaxed sound," said the nearly deaf emperor.
To say that the Kefine Delci earphones were a surprise would be an understatement. Periodically, a new IEM bursts onto the scene, garnished with praise that often borders on hyperbolic. My past experiences, marred by disappointments, humiliations and cope, had led me to regard such acclaim with a healthy dose of skepticism.
In the past, this skepticism has isolated me, making me feel like an edgy contrarian, as I struggled to reconcile the universal adulation of certain models with my distinctly negative experiences. Was I the only one able to discern that the so-called "ultimate giant killer with perfect tuning" was, to my ears, mediocre at best? Or my ignorance was so big that I literally cannot hear competently?
Therefore, when I first encountered the enthusiastic reviews of the Kefine Delci—a modestly priced single dynamic earphone—I braced myself for another letdown, expecting to see my resentment grow. However, the reality was starkly different.
Perfect:
Upon first use, my skepticism was not just mitigated; it was obliterated. This revelation also offered a window into why my auditory preferences often diverge from the mainstream. Contrary to expectations set by previous reviews, the Kefine Delci does not indulge in a warm, relaxed sound. Rather, it is a paragon of reference tuning—crisp, meticulous, and astonishingly balanced.
The prevailing earphone tuning that seems to cater to the Harman curve of 2019, which often strikes me as overly shouty and fatiguing. The trend towards 'resolving' and 'bright' sound signatures frequently results in sibilance and discomfort. My hypothesis? The age demographic of typical reviewers, skewing towards older individuals possibly experiencing high-frequency hearing loss, might explain their preference for brighter profiles—which they erroneously perceive as 'warm and relaxed'.
I would argue that USound is the way to go for people with undamaged hearing. That is, at least, what my experience and my personal testing with friends have revealed in the past.
Far for being laid-back and unresolving, I find that the Kefine Delci excels in its class with an impressive soundstage width, engaging bass, and vocals that are both restrained and lucid. The detail retrieval and separation capabilities are exceptional, rivaling those of earphones that boast multiple drivers and command much higher prices. As a professional who has spent countless hours in various recording studios, I would probably rely on these earphones for an honest, and quick, assessment of audio mixes. They exhibit a sonic fidelity that is both uncolored and impeccably natural.
The name 'Kefine', purportedly derived from 'refine', aptly reflects the mature and professional sound profile these earphones offer—a flawless execution that stands beyond reproach.
Almost:
However, no product is without its flaws. The machining of the Kefine Delci earphones, while allegedly unique, shows signs of inconsistency. For instance, in my set, the cable connects seamlessly with the left monitor but poses a significant challenge on the right due to imprecise machining. This forced me to choose between potentially damaging the unit or returning it—a dilemma no enthusiast wants to face. Luckily, I didn’t break anything. But very easily could I have destroyed the connector.
Additionally, the included ear tips are subpar in quality; even the largest sizes are too small and too weird to secure a fit. Fortunately, as an "audiophile" with an extensive collection of tips, this was a manageable shortcoming for me, but it could be a significant deterrent for others.
Conclusion:
Despite these very minor grievances, the Kefine Delci earphones are a revelation in the realm of audio precision. They may not deliver the 'fun' factor some seek through emphasized bass or treble, but for pure, unadulterated sound, they are unparalleled at this price. With their refined tuning and spatial accuracy, they deserve nothing less than a full five-star rating. I cannot bring myself to give them any other score. The Kefine Delci set a benchmark for what an affordable single-driver earphones can achieve, redefining expectations for audiophiles and professionals alike.
InfiniteJester
I don't know. I never tried QKZ HBB.
Personal Bias:
I approach reviews with a philosophy rooted in appreciation; I choose to evaluate products that resonate with me; because, as an artist, I recognize the immense challenge inherent in creation. My focus is on constructive critique and celebrating innovation and excellence. I will only review products that I enjoy.
Disclaimer:
English is not my first language. ChatGPT helps me with the translation, but all the opinions are my own and I try my best to keep my own voice.
Timbre:
The ARTTI R1 features a triad of dynamic drivers per earpiece, engineering a sonic experience reminiscent of hybrid models, but with a purely dynamic architecture. This design choice skillfully avoids the artificiality often imparted by balanced armatures and planar drivers in hybrid configurations. For instance, Richard Dawson's "The Hermit" reveals a stark metallic timbre in many high-end models; however, the ARTTI R1 renders this track with an unblemished naturalness, showcasing its superior timbral fidelity.
Musicality:
The ARTTI R1 does not strive for neutrality. Instead, it adopts a warm, slightly lush sound profile that enhances listener engagement without sacrificing clarity. This is achieved through a thoughtful elevation in the treble, which, while enhancing the holographic quality of the sound, can be tempered by precise equalization adjustments for a more linear sound signature, benefiting vocal clarity and balance.
This adjustment significantly diminishes the holographic aspect of the sound, replacing it with a more faithful reproduction and markedly enhanced vocal clarity, achieving a more restrained presence.
Nevertheless, the custom tuning proves effective. The music seems to occupy a tangible space before you, nearly within reach. This illusion of a phantom center, typically realized with traditional speakers, is convincingly replicated here. The reasoning behind the tuners' choice becomes apparent.
Ultimately, the resulting musical presentation is both deeply gratifying and distinctively unique.
Soundstage Depth:
The ARTTI R1 impresses with its remarkably deep soundstage, which also boasts a considerable height, extending both forwards and backwards. The width, however, is somewhat restricted and perhaps just average. Nonetheless, this "capsule"-like spatial arrangement is highly effective at conjuring a phantom center. At times, the sensation of music approaching you is thrilling and highly captivating, prompting a forward lean in anticipation. While the shape and size of the soundstage can render the imaging slightly nebulous, the distinction between sounds remains crisp. Using "Miracle Car Wash, 1978" by Jack O' the Clock as a test piece for imaging and separation reveals the ARTTI R1's prowess: it manages these challenges with ease, providing a natural, fulfilling, and open auditory experience that is thoroughly enjoyable.
Bass:
The bass in the ARTTI R1 is boosted, providing a solid foundation that complements the overall warmth of the sound signature. While the bass is prominent, it is refined and textured, avoiding the excessive boominess that might appeal to bass-heads but detract from overall acoustic quality. The nuanced bass presentation supports dynamic fluctuations effectively, adding richness without overwhelming the mids.
It might leave those wanting to intensely experience tracks like "Angel" by Massive Attack, "Hunter" by Björk, "Sour Times" by Portishead, or "Can't Leave The Night" by Badbadnotgood somewhat unfulfilled. The bass presence is robust but not overwhelming. In this respect, I consider their tuning decision to be the correct one. The bass is finely calibrated, striking a balance between power and subtlety.
Unique Identity:
As one begins to amass a collection of IEMs, it becomes easy to classify them into broad categories, such as single DD Harman sets or the sibilant yet resolving BA sets. However, within my collection, the ARTTI R1 stands out for its distinctive character. Its sound is both fresh and unusual, qualities that I find particularly delightful. The joy of this hobby lies in the diversity of auditory experiences, and the ARTTI R1 embodies this principle with its unique yet measured approach. It's daring, yet it exercises enough restraint to avoid being overly bold.
Price:
Priced at €58.55, the ARTTI R1 represents remarkable value, delivering an enveloping soundstage and robust bass performance that challenges many higher-priced competitors. The burgeoning prowess of Chinese manufacturing in the audio sector is evident here, marrying innovation with affordability.
Short Nozzles:
While the short nozzles of the ARTTI R1 might not be universally problematic, they can potentially hinder comfort and affect sound delivery due to ear canal resonance. This aspect, while not overly detrimental in this model, could be improved with longer nozzles and larger shells, potentially enhancing soundstage width.
Peculiar Design:
The design of the ARTTI R1 may not appeal to everyone. Although aesthetics are secondary to sound quality, the visual appeal of audio equipment can enhance the overall enjoyment of the product. Comparatively, other models in the market, such as those from Simgot, offer more visually appealing designs that contribute to user satisfaction.
Versatility:
The warmth and the textured, holographic presentation of the ARTTI R1 excel with rock and electroacoustic genres. However, they may come across as slightly too lush for more "cerebral" musical styles. While they provide a pleasing experience across a broad spectrum of music, they shine particularly with analog-sounding classic rock and metal. In contrast, they are less adept at faithfully rendering the compositions of Bartok, Prokofiev, or Rachmaninov.
Conclusion:
The ARTTI R1 IEMs offer an impressive auditory experience. They excel in delivering a rich, immersive sound that makes them a standout choice for their price range. Despite some drawbacks in design and nozzle length, these are very minor quibbles in an otherwise exemplary product. The ARTTI R1 earns a robust 4.5 stars, making it a commendable choice for audio enthusiasts seeking quality, value and uniqueness.
Well done, ARTTI.
I approach reviews with a philosophy rooted in appreciation; I choose to evaluate products that resonate with me; because, as an artist, I recognize the immense challenge inherent in creation. My focus is on constructive critique and celebrating innovation and excellence. I will only review products that I enjoy.
Disclaimer:
English is not my first language. ChatGPT helps me with the translation, but all the opinions are my own and I try my best to keep my own voice.
Timbre:
The ARTTI R1 features a triad of dynamic drivers per earpiece, engineering a sonic experience reminiscent of hybrid models, but with a purely dynamic architecture. This design choice skillfully avoids the artificiality often imparted by balanced armatures and planar drivers in hybrid configurations. For instance, Richard Dawson's "The Hermit" reveals a stark metallic timbre in many high-end models; however, the ARTTI R1 renders this track with an unblemished naturalness, showcasing its superior timbral fidelity.
Musicality:
The ARTTI R1 does not strive for neutrality. Instead, it adopts a warm, slightly lush sound profile that enhances listener engagement without sacrificing clarity. This is achieved through a thoughtful elevation in the treble, which, while enhancing the holographic quality of the sound, can be tempered by precise equalization adjustments for a more linear sound signature, benefiting vocal clarity and balance.
This adjustment significantly diminishes the holographic aspect of the sound, replacing it with a more faithful reproduction and markedly enhanced vocal clarity, achieving a more restrained presence.
Nevertheless, the custom tuning proves effective. The music seems to occupy a tangible space before you, nearly within reach. This illusion of a phantom center, typically realized with traditional speakers, is convincingly replicated here. The reasoning behind the tuners' choice becomes apparent.
Ultimately, the resulting musical presentation is both deeply gratifying and distinctively unique.
Soundstage Depth:
The ARTTI R1 impresses with its remarkably deep soundstage, which also boasts a considerable height, extending both forwards and backwards. The width, however, is somewhat restricted and perhaps just average. Nonetheless, this "capsule"-like spatial arrangement is highly effective at conjuring a phantom center. At times, the sensation of music approaching you is thrilling and highly captivating, prompting a forward lean in anticipation. While the shape and size of the soundstage can render the imaging slightly nebulous, the distinction between sounds remains crisp. Using "Miracle Car Wash, 1978" by Jack O' the Clock as a test piece for imaging and separation reveals the ARTTI R1's prowess: it manages these challenges with ease, providing a natural, fulfilling, and open auditory experience that is thoroughly enjoyable.
Bass:
The bass in the ARTTI R1 is boosted, providing a solid foundation that complements the overall warmth of the sound signature. While the bass is prominent, it is refined and textured, avoiding the excessive boominess that might appeal to bass-heads but detract from overall acoustic quality. The nuanced bass presentation supports dynamic fluctuations effectively, adding richness without overwhelming the mids.
It might leave those wanting to intensely experience tracks like "Angel" by Massive Attack, "Hunter" by Björk, "Sour Times" by Portishead, or "Can't Leave The Night" by Badbadnotgood somewhat unfulfilled. The bass presence is robust but not overwhelming. In this respect, I consider their tuning decision to be the correct one. The bass is finely calibrated, striking a balance between power and subtlety.
Unique Identity:
As one begins to amass a collection of IEMs, it becomes easy to classify them into broad categories, such as single DD Harman sets or the sibilant yet resolving BA sets. However, within my collection, the ARTTI R1 stands out for its distinctive character. Its sound is both fresh and unusual, qualities that I find particularly delightful. The joy of this hobby lies in the diversity of auditory experiences, and the ARTTI R1 embodies this principle with its unique yet measured approach. It's daring, yet it exercises enough restraint to avoid being overly bold.
Price:
Priced at €58.55, the ARTTI R1 represents remarkable value, delivering an enveloping soundstage and robust bass performance that challenges many higher-priced competitors. The burgeoning prowess of Chinese manufacturing in the audio sector is evident here, marrying innovation with affordability.
Short Nozzles:
While the short nozzles of the ARTTI R1 might not be universally problematic, they can potentially hinder comfort and affect sound delivery due to ear canal resonance. This aspect, while not overly detrimental in this model, could be improved with longer nozzles and larger shells, potentially enhancing soundstage width.
Peculiar Design:
The design of the ARTTI R1 may not appeal to everyone. Although aesthetics are secondary to sound quality, the visual appeal of audio equipment can enhance the overall enjoyment of the product. Comparatively, other models in the market, such as those from Simgot, offer more visually appealing designs that contribute to user satisfaction.
Versatility:
The warmth and the textured, holographic presentation of the ARTTI R1 excel with rock and electroacoustic genres. However, they may come across as slightly too lush for more "cerebral" musical styles. While they provide a pleasing experience across a broad spectrum of music, they shine particularly with analog-sounding classic rock and metal. In contrast, they are less adept at faithfully rendering the compositions of Bartok, Prokofiev, or Rachmaninov.
Conclusion:
The ARTTI R1 IEMs offer an impressive auditory experience. They excel in delivering a rich, immersive sound that makes them a standout choice for their price range. Despite some drawbacks in design and nozzle length, these are very minor quibbles in an otherwise exemplary product. The ARTTI R1 earns a robust 4.5 stars, making it a commendable choice for audio enthusiasts seeking quality, value and uniqueness.
Well done, ARTTI.
InfiniteJester
The more I listen to these, the more I like them.
But it must be said that the ring that they put in the cable to adjust it under your chin is the worst, most useless piece of equipment I have ever seen in any product ever.
But it must be said that the ring that they put in the cable to adjust it under your chin is the worst, most useless piece of equipment I have ever seen in any product ever.
Introduction:
In the realm of audiophilia—a pursuit often driven by the allure of new technology, unique aesthetics, and the thrill of the novel—finding a piece of equipment that marries classic excellence with affordability can seem quixotic. As I delved into the exploration of IEMs, my criteria were stringent: uncover the finest auditory experience at the lowest conceivable price point. After testing an extensive array of budget-friendly models touted across various platforms, the EW200s have triumphantly ended my search.
Personal Bias:
I approach reviews with a philosophy rooted in appreciation; I choose to evaluate products that resonate with me; because, as an artist, I recognize the immense challenge inherent in creation. My focus is on constructive critique and celebrating innovation and excellence. I will only review products that I enjoy.
Pros:
1. Clarity and Precision: The EW200s offer an impeccable audio clarity that makes each note distinct and vibrant, ensuring an effortless listening experience. Every instrument sounds as it should; you won't hear plastic winds or bloomy pianos with this set, as you would with other cheap products.
2. Soundstage: They project a good soundstage that extends beyond the confines of one's cranial boundaries, a rare feat in this price bracket. It is not an extraordinary soundstage, and the image has a minor tendency to divide into three blobs; still, it surpases the competition with ease, although it cannot compete with more expensive models.
3. Timbre: The timbre of the EW200s is nearly flawless, capturing the true essence and color of instruments with astonishing accuracy. The sparkle is a little bit accentuated, nonetheless; without EQ, they are not completely devoid of certain tendency to sibilance with bright music.
4. Aesthetics: These IEMs are not only sonically pleasing but also visually appealing, boasting a design that is both elegant and understated. It is kind of sad that my own pic doesn't make them justice.
5. Comfort: With their ergonomic design, the EW200s provide comfort that allows for prolonged use without discomfort, making them ideal for extensive listening sessions.
6. Layering and separation: Really good for a single dynamic driver. But, in my opinion, still behind what (much more expensive) good hybrids and planars can achieve.
Cons:
1. Equalization: To unlock their full potential, the EW200s benefit from a slight equalization adjustment. This minor tweak elevates their performance from excellent to extraordinary. I prefer USoundV1V over HarmanIE2019v2, this set follows more closely the second than the first.
2. Driver Flex: Some users may experience driver flex when using certain ear tips, which, while not detrimental to the sound quality, can be a minor inconvenience.
Conclusion:
Priced at just €31.40, the EW200s stand uncontested in the budget IEM market. They shatter the conventional compromise between cost and quality, offering a high-fidelity experience without the expected sacrifices. Unlike other budget options, which often force listeners to endure a narrowed soundstage, artificial timbres, and noticeable distortion, the EW200s maintain a level of performance that challenges these norms.
In a market flooded with transient trends and ephemeral offerings, the EW200s distinguish themselves as an atemporal classic, capable of delivering a pure and expansive sonic experience that will satisfy both seasoned audiophiles and newcomers to the audio scene. Whether you seek the ideal entry point into high-quality audio or wish to expand an already robust collection, the EW200s deserve your consideration.
Post scriptum:
I would like to add my EQ profile to give something to the community. As stated, it has been designed to make the tuning of the set more in line with the USoundV1V target. I have left the upper treble mostly unaltered, given the low reliability of measurements at higher frequencies. This profile makes, in my opinion, the bass more impactful, the whole set more relaxed and the soundstage more cohesive. For my personal preference, this profile refines and elevates the EW200s enough to make them almost flawless.
With EQ, they are a 4,5 star set.
In the realm of audiophilia—a pursuit often driven by the allure of new technology, unique aesthetics, and the thrill of the novel—finding a piece of equipment that marries classic excellence with affordability can seem quixotic. As I delved into the exploration of IEMs, my criteria were stringent: uncover the finest auditory experience at the lowest conceivable price point. After testing an extensive array of budget-friendly models touted across various platforms, the EW200s have triumphantly ended my search.
Personal Bias:
I approach reviews with a philosophy rooted in appreciation; I choose to evaluate products that resonate with me; because, as an artist, I recognize the immense challenge inherent in creation. My focus is on constructive critique and celebrating innovation and excellence. I will only review products that I enjoy.
Pros:
1. Clarity and Precision: The EW200s offer an impeccable audio clarity that makes each note distinct and vibrant, ensuring an effortless listening experience. Every instrument sounds as it should; you won't hear plastic winds or bloomy pianos with this set, as you would with other cheap products.
2. Soundstage: They project a good soundstage that extends beyond the confines of one's cranial boundaries, a rare feat in this price bracket. It is not an extraordinary soundstage, and the image has a minor tendency to divide into three blobs; still, it surpases the competition with ease, although it cannot compete with more expensive models.
3. Timbre: The timbre of the EW200s is nearly flawless, capturing the true essence and color of instruments with astonishing accuracy. The sparkle is a little bit accentuated, nonetheless; without EQ, they are not completely devoid of certain tendency to sibilance with bright music.
4. Aesthetics: These IEMs are not only sonically pleasing but also visually appealing, boasting a design that is both elegant and understated. It is kind of sad that my own pic doesn't make them justice.
5. Comfort: With their ergonomic design, the EW200s provide comfort that allows for prolonged use without discomfort, making them ideal for extensive listening sessions.
6. Layering and separation: Really good for a single dynamic driver. But, in my opinion, still behind what (much more expensive) good hybrids and planars can achieve.
Cons:
1. Equalization: To unlock their full potential, the EW200s benefit from a slight equalization adjustment. This minor tweak elevates their performance from excellent to extraordinary. I prefer USoundV1V over HarmanIE2019v2, this set follows more closely the second than the first.
2. Driver Flex: Some users may experience driver flex when using certain ear tips, which, while not detrimental to the sound quality, can be a minor inconvenience.
Conclusion:
Priced at just €31.40, the EW200s stand uncontested in the budget IEM market. They shatter the conventional compromise between cost and quality, offering a high-fidelity experience without the expected sacrifices. Unlike other budget options, which often force listeners to endure a narrowed soundstage, artificial timbres, and noticeable distortion, the EW200s maintain a level of performance that challenges these norms.
In a market flooded with transient trends and ephemeral offerings, the EW200s distinguish themselves as an atemporal classic, capable of delivering a pure and expansive sonic experience that will satisfy both seasoned audiophiles and newcomers to the audio scene. Whether you seek the ideal entry point into high-quality audio or wish to expand an already robust collection, the EW200s deserve your consideration.
Post scriptum:
I would like to add my EQ profile to give something to the community. As stated, it has been designed to make the tuning of the set more in line with the USoundV1V target. I have left the upper treble mostly unaltered, given the low reliability of measurements at higher frequencies. This profile makes, in my opinion, the bass more impactful, the whole set more relaxed and the soundstage more cohesive. For my personal preference, this profile refines and elevates the EW200s enough to make them almost flawless.
With EQ, they are a 4,5 star set.
Preamp: -3.7 dB
Filter 1: ON PK Fc 20 Hz Gain 1.7 dB Q 1.000
Filter 2: ON PK Fc 86 Hz Gain 3.1 dB Q 0.500
Filter 3: ON PK Fc 700 Hz Gain 1.8 dB Q 1.000
Filter 4: ON PK Fc 1400 Hz Gain -1.5 dB Q 2.000
Filter 5: ON PK Fc 2200 Hz Gain -1.7 dB Q 1.000
Filter 6: ON PK Fc 5000 Hz Gain -3.1 dB Q 2.000
Filter 7: ON PK Fc 6600 Hz Gain 6.8 dB Q 2.000
Filter 8: ON PK Fc 8100 Hz Gain -9.5 dB Q 2.000
Filter 9: ON PK Fc 10000 Hz Gain 6.8 dB Q 2.000
Filter 1: ON PK Fc 20 Hz Gain 1.7 dB Q 1.000
Filter 2: ON PK Fc 86 Hz Gain 3.1 dB Q 0.500
Filter 3: ON PK Fc 700 Hz Gain 1.8 dB Q 1.000
Filter 4: ON PK Fc 1400 Hz Gain -1.5 dB Q 2.000
Filter 5: ON PK Fc 2200 Hz Gain -1.7 dB Q 1.000
Filter 6: ON PK Fc 5000 Hz Gain -3.1 dB Q 2.000
Filter 7: ON PK Fc 6600 Hz Gain 6.8 dB Q 2.000
Filter 8: ON PK Fc 8100 Hz Gain -9.5 dB Q 2.000
Filter 9: ON PK Fc 10000 Hz Gain 6.8 dB Q 2.000
This guy surely seems to know what he is doing.