Reviews by jeromeoflaherty

A versatile Gaming focused IEM with lots of tricks​

The EPZ G20 is a versatile in-ear monitor that successfully bridges the gap between gaming audio and audiophile listening. Designed primarily as a gaming IEM, it offers a detailed sound signature focused on accurate imaging—a crucial feature for competitive gaming where positional audio cues can make all the difference. However, for me what makes this a special IEM ifs capabilities of the 2nd cable provided a DSP enabled usb-c cable.

So I having been listening to the G20 for a few weeks, for me, what truly elevates the G20 to a higher level of versatility is usb-c cable both for gaming (as it’s easy to load gaming-specific PEQ profiles on it) but also for normal audio as the excellent channel matching and decent ‘stock’ sound profile can be easily tailored using the PEQ to personal tastes.

So, this review, like many of my recent reviews, is more focusing on the PEQ capabilities of these devices. The G20 is an excellent example, where a cable that is compatible with the Walkplay PEQ application and my new “DevicePEQ” tool can easily be pushed to new levels.

So, while I am impressed with the EPZ G20, there are a few things that I will highlight in this review that might be useful information before you buy one. However, before I get into those details, let’s see what you get in the box.

Unboxing and Build Quality​

The EPZ G20 comes in a nice box with a typical Waifu girl on the cover, with some ‘hints’ at its gaming-focused design while audiophile appeal:

Removing the sleeve reveals the inside box:


Opening this box reveals the manual:


The manual also hides a waifu card:


Inside, you’ll find the G20 IEMs nestled securely in their packaging:


Underneath the G20 is a separate ‘storage box’ where the EQ cable is stored:

So, ultimately removing everything you can see, you do get a lot of value with the G20:

The contents include:

• EPZ G20 IEMs
• Standard 3.5mm analog cable
• USB-C cable with both inline microphone and a separate boom-mic
• USB Adapter
• Multiple sizes of ear tips
• Documentation

The G20 features a solid build quality with a comfortable form factor.

The shells are well-constructed with a nice weight that feels significant without being too heavy.

The design of the shell is functional rather than flashy, there is fine at this price point but nothing too special.

But the G20’s standout feature is its dual-cable system, offering different connectivity options for various use cases:

Standard Analog Cable​

The standard 3.5mm analog cable provides a direct connection to traditional audio sources. This cable delivers the G20’s default sound signature, which is already well-tuned with a focus on accurate imaging and detail retrieval, this was mainly the cable I used for my initial listening tests.

The microphone worked well on this cable, allowing me to take a few work calls while using this cable.

Ultimately, I did switch to the usb-c cable, and by default both cables provide the same sound signature, but of course with the usb-c cable you can change the sound signature.

USB-C Cable with Microphone​

The USB-C cable is where the G20 shows its versatility, and while technically I loved this cable, I did have a few subjective issues with it.

This cable features:

• Digital connection for cleaner audio signal
• Built-in microphone for gaming communication

Note: As you can see in the picture above it does tangle quiet easily.

This boom-mic functionality is a unique feature for an IEM, clearly targeting the gaming market. While the microphone performs well for voice chat during gaming sessions and calls, I found that the weight of the microphone module could occasionally cause fit issues during active movement, slightly dislodging the IEM and breaking the ear seal. This was primarily noticeable when walking around, making it less ideal for mobile use with the microphone cable.

But I did start using it with a foam eartip (as in the picture below) which did help keep it secure. You can also remove the boom-mic attachment.

Unfortunately, there are a few other little things that annoyed me with this cable. Firstly, the other microphone on this cable seemed to be disabled even when I detached the ‘boom-mic’ from the cable. The cable is also too long for normal use at 1.8m, while I understand that gaming IEM cables need to longer than typical IEM cables, I thought it was worth pointing this out. Finally, partially due to its length and especially if you have the boom-mic attached, this cable tangles very easily.

But these are all minor quibbles rather than anything major.

Fit and Comfort​

The EPZ G20 offers good comfort for an IEM in this price range, with a design that sits well in the ear. The shells have a nice weight that provides a sense of quality without causing fatigue during extended listening sessions. With the standard cable, the fit is secure and comfortable for long periods.

The shell is slightly “opinionated” in that it has a slight ’lip’ so hopefully you can get a good feel for the shape with these comparisons with some other shells.

Note: it is not as large as the Truthear Zero Red but slightly larger than the other IEM’s have in this shell comparison.


The included ear tips are fine and help the G50 achieve a good seal, but it can benefit a little bit from some tip rolling, especially if you don’t want to use EQ but want to tweak the treble a little. I did enjoy it with the Foam eartips I had in the pictures earlier.

Sound Impressions​

The EPZ G20 delivers a well-balanced sound signature that works excellently for both gaming and music listening and is delivered by both cables.

Bass​

The bass response is controlled and accurate rather than overly emphasized. There’s enough low-end presence to give games and music proper weight and impact, but it never overwhelms the midrange. The bass extends well and provides good texture, allowing you to feel the rumble of explosions in games while maintaining clarity.
For music, the bass is tight and detailed, offering good punch for genres like rock and electronic music without bleeding into the mids. The controlled nature of the bass helps maintain clarity in busy gaming soundscapes where more bass-heavy IEMs will overload the midrange clarity.

Midrange​

The midrange presentation is slightly forward, with excellent clarity that helps dialogue in games and vocals in music stand out. This tuning choice makes sense for a gaming IEM, as it ensures important audio cues and team communications remain clear and intelligible.
Instrument separation in the midrange is impressive, allowing for easy distinction between different sound sources. This quality translates well to music listening, where complex arrangements remain coherent and detailed. Later on when i did the measurement I spotted the reason for the excellent imaging as care was taken to make sure both the left and right have excellent channel matching, especially at this price point.

Treble​

The treble is well-extended with good detail and air, providing the sparkle needed to accurately render high-frequency audio cues in games. There’s enough energy in the upper frequencies to highlight details like footsteps and weapon reloads without becoming fatiguing during long gaming sessions.
For music, the treble presentation adds a nice sense of space and detail to recordings, though it might be slightly bright for those sensitive to high frequencies. The good news is that with the USB-C cable and Walkplay Application, you can easily adjust the treble response to your preference using parametric EQ.

Soundstage & Imaging​

Where the G20 truly excels is in its imaging capabilities - a critical feature for gaming IEMs. The spatial presentation is precise, allowing for accurate positioning of sound sources in three-dimensional space. This quality makes it easy to locate enemies in competitive games based on audio cues alone.
The soundstage is reasonably wide for an IEM, providing good separation between different elements in the audio mix. While it doesn’t match the expansiveness of open headphones, it offers an immersive experience that works well for both gaming and music.

PEQ Capabilities​

One of the G20’s most valuable features is its compatibility with the Walkplay Application when using the USB-C cable. This functionality allows users to apply parametric EQ to fine-tune the sound signature to their preferences.

For example, here is the G20 within the Walkplay webapp which can be accessed here:



Walkplay also provides an Android only mobile Application which has similar capabilities.

The PEQ capability transforms the G20 from a good gaming IEM into a versatile audio tool that can be customized for different genres of music or gaming scenarios. Because I really like PEQ versatility, I decided to develop a new tool which supports most usb-c IEM cables and dongles that support including many other EPZ devices (like the recently reviewed TP13) and including most Moondrop and FiiO usb-c devices.

Device PEQ​

So device PEQ has been designed to work directly within typical squig website based online web measurement databases. You can see it in the bottom left of this image:

With the G20 connected you can simply autoEQ your PEQ filter preferences to the target you want, either another IEM or a target like JM-1 in this case. Then you can push the changes, and that is it no entering any numbers or exporting and import files, it has been designed to keep it simple.

When you connect the G30 to your computer and load, for example, “Pragmatic Audio” IEM database: here then switch to the ‘Equalizer’ tab, you can click the “Connect” button, and this popup will allow you to select the G20 (called in this case a very generic name ‘USB Audio’):

The EPZ G20 supports up to 8 PEQ filters more than many of its competitors like the Tanchjim One or Bunny DSP (that only support 5) and more than the FiiO / Jade Audio JA11 which also only supports 5 filters.

Note: You might expect PEQ to allow you to change the G20 to sound exactly like a different IEM, it isn’t quiet as simple as that, while you can get the tonality very close, the treble area especially will more than likely, still be significantly different due to, both the inaccuracies of measurements in that area and also the significant differences in peoples ear canals causing the treble ‘peaks’ and ‘dips’ to almost always be different in everyone’s ears, so don’t expect to make the G20 sound like the “Subtonic Storm” but you can for example us PEQ to make the G20 sound like “JM-1” or get the tonality close to your current favourite IEM.

Specifications and Measurements​

Measurements​

The measurements were taken using my 711 clone coupler, and you can find the full measurement data here.

Frequency Response​

The frequency response graph clearly shows the slightly enhanced mid-forward tuning of the G20:

In the graph I have highlighted a controlled bass response (1), slightly prominent midrange especially in the vocal ‘presense’ region (2), and the well nice treble extension that provides detail without being too siliance (3).

Comparing the default DSP tuning with the analog table shows that the default DSP cable tuning is indeed neutral which makes applying EQ for specific games and for some audiophile tuning very easy.

Overall, I would describe the G20 from both cables as having ‘mid-forward yet comfortable tuning’ a great start to then further enhance with some EQ.

Comparisons​

When compared to some of my other favourite midrange IEM (KiwiEar Orchestra Lite and FiiO FD15) and also with the Truthear Zero Blue 2 (with Foam eartips), the G20’s unique tuning becomes even more visible:


I highlighted 5 areas from the graph above:

1. Bass, So the G50 is not quiet Harman level but it has more bass than those typical ‘midrange’ focused IEM like the Orchestra Lite or the FiiO FD15
2. The Truthear Zero Blue 2 is the only one of these IEM with that typical mid-bass Harman ’tuck’
3. That slightly elevated midrange “presence” tuning is evident here - just a little more than the other IEMs
4. Though it has less presence in this region that the more Harman 2019 tuned Truthear Zero Blue 2
5. Finally, the G20 treble is nicely balanced, so not as emphasized as the Truthear Zero Blue

Distortion​

The G20 shows impressively low distortion from both cables across the frequency spectrum:

When viewed as a percentage, the distortion remains well controlled:

Finally, I measured the distortion with the stock cable and the usb cable (sometimes usb DSP cables can have more distortion), but these were very similar:

These measurements confirm the clean, detailed sound presentation experienced during subjective listening.

Rating Explanation​

The EPZ G20 earns a 4-star Pragmatic Rating due to its excellent combination of gaming-focused features and audiophile sound quality, with only minor issues with the usb-c cable preventing a perfect score.
Here’s the breakdown:

• Build Quality: (Solid construction with good materials)
• Comfort: (Comfortable for long sessions, slight issues with microphone cable weight)
• Sound: (Excellent imaging and detail, good balance across frequencies)
• Features: (Dual cable system and PEQ capabilities offer exceptional versatility)
• Value: (Good value considering the dual functionality for gaming and music)

The G20 is ideal for:

• Gamers who want accurate positional audio without sacrificing music quality
• Audiophiles looking for a versatile IEM with PEQ capabilities
• Users who need both gaming communication features and high-quality audio in one package

Conclusion​

The EPZ G20 successfully delivers on its promise as a gaming IEM while offering sound quality that extends well beyond gaming applications. Its accurate imaging and detailed sound signature make it excellent for competitive gaming, while its overall tonal balance and PEQ capabilities through the Walkplay Application make it equally suitable for music enjoyment.

The dual-cable system provides excellent versatility, though the microphone attachment on the USB-C cable can cause minor fit issues during active movement. Despite this small drawback, the G20 represents a strong value proposition for those looking for a dual-purpose IEM that excels in both gaming and music scenarios.

For gamers who care about audio quality or audiophiles who enjoy gaming, the EPZ G20 offers a compelling package that bridges these two worlds effectively, earning it a strong recommendation at its price point.

Compact USB-C Dongle with Powerful PEQ Capabilities​

The EPZ TP13 is a small but mighty USB-C dongle that punches well above its weight / price and has the best build quality I have seen on this type of dongle. This unassuming little device serves as a portable DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) with a standout feature: the ability to apply parametric EQ filters both through the Walkplay application and with my new “Device PEQ” capability.

At roughly $15 (available on AliExpress), it represents an excellent value proposition for anyone looking to improve their audio experience on the go without breaking the bank.

What makes the TP13 particularly interesting is how it competes directly with similar offerings like the FIIO JA11, offering comparable features and power output at a competitive price point. The combination of solid build quality, good audio performance, and PEQ functionality makes this tiny dongle a compelling option for budget-conscious audiophiles and casual listeners alike.
But before I get into its PEQ capabilities, let’s have a quick look at what you get out of the box:

Unboxing and Build Quality​

The EPZ TP13 comes in a compact, no-frills package that reflects its budget-friendly positioning:

The back of the box lists some of the specifications:

Opening the box reveals the dongle nestled securely inside:


The package includes:

• EPZ TP13 USB-C dongle
• 3.5mm adapter
• Documentation

Despite its affordable price point, the TP13 features surprisingly good build quality.

The metal housing gives it a premium feel and provides durability for daily use. The cable appears to be well-reinforced at stress points, suggesting it should hold up well to regular use. The USB-C connector fits snugly into devices without feeling loose or wobbly.

The included 3.5mm adapter allows for compatibility with a wide range of headphones and IEMs, adding to the versatility of this little device. The adapter connection is secure and doesn’t introduce any noticeable degradation in audio quality.

Features and Specifications​

The EPZ TP13 packs impressive technical specifications into its compact form factor:


With 31.25mW of output power, the TP13 provides sufficient volume for most consumer headphones and IEMs. While it won’t drive power-hungry planar magnetic headphones to their full potential, it offers more than enough juice for typical portable listening scenarios.

The implementation of the CS1300AU DAC chip provides good audio quality for the price point, with clean conversion and minimal noise. The 94kHz/24Bit decoding capability ensures compatibility with high-resolution audio files, though most users will likely be streaming standard resolution content most of the time.

Feel free to skip this next section if you are just interested in how good it sounds with PEQ.

PEQ configuration​

This feature allows users to:

1. Apply custom EQ profiles to compensate for headphone characteristics
2. Create genre-specific sound signatures for different listening scenarios
3. Switch between multiple profiles for different headphones or preferences

So in summary this functionality allows users to fine-tune their audio experience according to personal preferences or to compensate for the characteristics of their headphones or IEMs. But let me quickly show some screenshots of using these applications:

Walkplay Android APK and Web Application​

The Walkplay ecosystem offers two main ways to interact with and customize the TP13’s sound signature: the mobile application and the web interface. Both provide intuitive access to powerful parametric EQ tools.

This is the Main Android interface when you connect your device and when editing the PEQ filters, though you do have to register before you can edit the filters:


The Walkplay Android app also provides lots of other capabilities, including updating the firmware:


For those who prefer a larger screen for more precise adjustments, the Walkplay website offers an expanded interface with additional visualization options.


This makes it easier to see the exact frequency response curve you’re creating and fine-tune specific frequency bands with greater precision. The website complements the mobile app, allowing users to switch between platforms while maintaining their custom profiles.

DevicePEQ Extension Integration​

As most Walkplay compatible devices the TP13 is also compatibility with the devicePEQ extension on Pragmatic Audio, which integrates with measurement databases to provide easy “pushing” of EQ profiles to devices. This functionality is currently available on Pragmatic Audio and will be coming soon to other squig.link websites, expanding the ecosystem even further.

The devicePEQ extension allows users to:

• Access a database of pre-measured headphone and IEM frequency responses
• Apply compensation curves based on established targets
• Create and share custom EQ profiles with the community
• Export settings directly to the TP13 via the Walkplay ecosystem

This integration bridges the gap between subjective listening preferences and objective measurements, giving users the tools to make informed decisions about how they want their audio to sound.

The implementation is user-friendly while offering enough depth for those who want to dive into detailed sound customization. The ability to apply PEQ filters directly through the dongle means that the equalization works system-wide, regardless of the audio source being used.

This functionality elevates the TP13 from being just another budget dongle to a versatile audio tool that can significantly improve your listening experience across different headphones and IEMs.

Sound Impressions​

The EPZ TP13 delivers a clean, neutral sound signature that serves as a good foundation for the PEQ capabilities.

Bass​

The bass response is controlled and accurate, without artificial boosting that often plagues budget audio devices. Low frequencies are reproduced with good definition, though the ultimate depth and impact will depend largely on the headphones or IEMs being used. The TP13 doesn’t add coloration to the low end, instead providing a transparent window to the recording.

Midrange​

Vocals and instruments in the midrange come through with good clarity and natural timbre. There’s no noticeable recession or emphasis in this crucial frequency range, allowing for an engaging listening experience across various genres. The midrange presentation is slightly forward, making vocals easy to follow without becoming shouty or aggressive.

Treble​

The high-frequency reproduction is detailed without becoming harsh or fatiguing. There’s enough sparkle to bring out the shimmer in cymbals and the air around instruments, but the TP13 avoids the common pitfall of budget DACs that often over-emphasize treble to create an artificial sense of detail. The result is a pleasant listening experience that remains comfortable during extended sessions.

Soundstage & Imaging​

For a budget dongle DAC, the TP13 presents a reasonably spacious soundstage with good separation between instruments. While it won’t match the expansive presentation of higher-end desktop equipment, it provides an immersive listening experience that extends beyond the confines of your head. Imaging is precise, allowing for accurate placement of sounds within the stereo field.

Comparisons​

EPZ TP13 vs. FIIO JA11​

The FIIO JA11 is a natural comparison point, as both devices target the budget-friendly USB-C dongle market. In terms of build quality, the TP13 actually exceeds the JA11 with a more premium feel and better cable reinforcement at stress points. Both devices offer similar power output specifications. Here is a comparison photo with the JA11 and the Apple usb-c dongle, which doesn’t offer any PEQ capabilities:


Where the TP13 truly distinguishes itself is in its PEQ capabilities. While the JA11 offers a solid out-of-the-box sound signature with 5 PEQ filters, the TP13’s also supports up to 8 filters, and crucially, these filters are applied in real-time without you having to disconnect the device.

This feature alone makes the TP13 the more future-proof option, as it can be adapted to work optimally with any IEM or easy to drive headphone you might acquire in the future.

Rating​

The EPZ TP13 earns a 5-star Pragmatic Rating due to its exceptional value proposition, solid build quality, and standout PEQ functionality that exceeds expectations at this price point.

Here’s the breakdown:

• Build Quality: (Solid metal construction with excellent attention to detail)
• Sound Quality: (Clean, neutral presentation with good detail retrieval)
• Features: (PEQ capabilities through both Walkplay and devicePEQ are outstanding at this price)
• Value: (Exceptional value at $15, outperforming more expensive alternatives)

The TP13 is ideal for:

• Budget-conscious audiophiles looking to improve portable audio quality
• Users who want to apply PEQ to compensate for headphone characteristics
• Anyone seeking a compact, versatile audio solution for mobile devices
• Those who appreciate the ability to fine-tune their listening experience

Conclusion​

The EPZ TP13 represents exceptional value in the budget dongle DAC market. Its combination of solid build quality, good sound performance, and powerful PEQ capabilities through both the Walkplay application and devicePEQ extension makes it a standout option at its $15 price point. While it won’t replace high-end desktop audio equipment, it offers a significant upgrade over built-in smartphone or laptop audio.

What truly sets the TP13 apart is how it democratizes features like parametric EQ that were once the domain of much more expensive equipment. This little dongle empowers users to customize their audio experience regardless of budget constraints, making it a compelling choice for anyone looking to improve their portable listening setup without significant investment.

The integration with both Walkplay and devicePEQ provides unprecedented flexibility for tailoring the sound of whatever IEM or headphone you connect. This level of customization was previously available only in much more expensive equipment, making the TP13 a revolutionary product in terms of value and capabilities.

For the price of a few coffees, the EPZ TP13 delivers an audio upgrade that punches well above its weight class, earning it a strong recommendation for budget-conscious audio enthusiasts and anyone looking to get the most out of their existing headphones through the power of parametric equalization.

Comfortable Excellence with a controlled Bass and Treble​

The SoncieMeory SW500H delivers a refreshing mid-forward tuning that places vocals front and center in your music. This hybrid IEM, featuring a single dynamic driver and four balanced armatures (1DD+4BA), creates a sound signature where vocals truly pop out of the mix, making it an excellent choice for vocal enthusiasts and perfect for pop or rock music.]

Priced at $72.99 ($78.99 with mic), the SW500H comes in 3 colours and offers a distinctive tuning option that stands out in a market often dominated by V-shaped or Harman-tuned IEMs. For those who prioritize vocal clarity and presence, this IEM provides a compelling listening experience with well-controlled bass and treble that support rather than overshadow the midrange.

Overall, I have been listening to the SW500H for a few weeks, and as someone who likes to mix sound signatures with different IEMs (as life would be boring if every IEM sounded like a Harman, V-shaped, or JM1), I really enjoyed the SW500H. The unusual ‘wooden’ nozzle is probably the most distinctive aspect of the design, and the sound signature, while not for everyone, is very enjoyable for particular genres of music.

Read on to find out more but lets first get into the unboxing:

Unboxing and Accessories​

The SoncieMeory SW500H comes in a clean, professional package:


The back of the box:


Opening the box reveals the IEMs nestled securely inside:

A closer look at the IEMs in their packaging:

The package actually includes lots of extras with replacement nozzle filters, a good range of eartips, and even a little usb-c adapter:

• SoncieMeory SW500H IEMs themselves
• Detachable cable with 2-pin connectors
• 2 sets of ear tips
• 6 replacement filters
• a brush and a pick tool for the filters,
• pouch
• USB-C DAC
• Some documentation

The included cable is of good quality for the price range with no tangling or micro-phonics issues:

With secure 2-pin connectors:

There are 2 sets of nice ear tip selection provides:

USB adapter and nozzle filters, though my USB adapter did not work as a DAC:

Overall, the accessory package is good at this price point, offering everything needed for a quality listening experience right out of the box and enough replacement filters to keep you sorted for many years.

Design and Comfort​

The SW500H features a very well-designed shell with a comfortable mid-sized form factor, the wooden nozzle is pretty unique, and while nobody will see it in your ear, it definitely stands out when you are swapping eartips:

The shell shape is ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in the ear. It is not ‘opinionated’ about your ear shape, which should mean it should work with the majority of people. Though this also means that it might not be as secure as other designs:

One of the standout aspects of the SW500H for me was its comfort. The mid-sized shell strikes an excellent balance - large enough to house the hybrid driver configuration while remaining comfortable for extended listening sessions. I am not sure if the ‘wood’ softens it in your ear, but I found it very comfortable and for me created a stable fit that doesn’t cause fatigue even after hours of use.

Some comparisons of the SW500H with other IEMs - hopefully the wooden nozzle makes the SW500H stand out compared to these others:

Sound Quality​

The SoncieMeory SW500H offers a distinctive sound signature that prioritizes the midrange, particularly female vocal clarity, while maintaining a controlled bass and treble response.

Bass​

The bass response is well-controlled and precise, providing a solid foundation without overwhelming the midrange. While not bass-heavy so not for bass heads, the low-end extends well and offers good texture and detail. The dynamic driver delivers clean bass notes with minimal bloat, allowing for clear articulation of bass instruments.

Midrange​

The midrange is where the SW500H truly shines. Vocals are presented with exceptional clarity and presence, positioned slightly forward in the mix to create an intimate and engaging listening experience. Both male and female vocals benefit from this tuning, though for me the female tracks in my collection sounded exceptional with lots of subtle detail retrieval.

While this forward midrange doesn’t feel shouty or aggressive, it creates a sense of immediacy and connection to vocal performances. Instruments that occupy the midrange, such as guitars and pianos, also benefit from this tuning, displaying good body and natural resonance.

For vocal enthusiasts, this midrange presentation will be the SW500H’s most appealing characteristic, offering a refreshing alternative to more recessed midrange tunings.

Treble​

The treble is well-controlled with a notably recessed 6kHz region that effectively eliminates sibilance issues. This makes the SW500H a fatigue-free listening experience, even during extended sessions. While some might find the treble a bit too safe or lacking in sparkle, this tuning choice complements the vocal-forward presentation by ensuring that high frequencies never become harsh or distracting.

Detail retrieval in the treble region is good, though not class-leading. The balanced armature drivers handling the high frequencies provide clean reproduction without artificial brightness.

Soundstage & Imaging​

The soundstage is moderately sized with good height and width for an IEM in this price range. The vocal-forward tuning naturally creates a more intimate presentation, but there’s still enough space for instruments to breathe. Imaging is precise, allowing for accurate placement of elements within the soundstage.

Separation between instruments is good, though complex passages can occasionally feel slightly congested due to the forward midrange presentation.

Measurements​

The measurements were taken using my 711 clone coupler, and you can find the full measurement data here.

Frequency Response​

The frequency response graph clearly shows the mid-forward tuning of the SW500H:

In the graph I have highlighted the controlled bass response, prominent midrange (especially in the vocal ‘presense’ region), and the well nice treble extension that provides detail without being too siiliance.

Overall, the SW500H might be described as having ‘mid forward yet comfortable tuning’

Comparisons​

When compared to other popular IEMs, the SW500H’s unique tuning becomes even more visible:

This comparison shows how the SW500H offers a tuning similar to the Truthear Gate but with more relaxed treble, creating a more comfortable listening experience for those sensitive to higher frequencies.

Another comparison with different IEMs:

This graph shows how the SW500H compares to 2 of my favourite ‘mid-forward’ IEM’s, the FiiO FD15 and Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite. The SW500H has a even more vocal forward tuning, but then this is paired with a more relaxed 2–4kHz region providing a nice contrast to those other IEMs.

Distortion​

The SW500H shows impressively low distortion levels across the frequency spectrum:

When viewed as a percentage, the distortion remains well controlled:

These measurements confirm the clean, detailed sound presentation experienced during subjective listening.

Rating​

I’ve given the SoncieMeory SW500H a 4-star pragmatic rating for several reasons:

• Sound Quality: The mid-forward tuning is executed well, creating an engaging listening experience for vocal enthusiasts
• Build Quality: Solid construction with good accessories for the price point
• Comfort: Excellent ergonomics with a stable, fatigue-free fit

At $72.99 ($78.99 with mic), the SoncieMeory SW500H offers good value for its build quality, accessories, comfort, and distinctive sound signature. However, the bundle option with the SA500 dongle at $125.99 deserves special mention.

The SW500H doesn’t quite reach 5 stars due to its somewhat specialized tuning that may not appeal to all listeners and treble that some might find too safe. However, for those who appreciate a vocal-forward presentation, it’s an excellent choice.

Conclusion​

The SoncieMeory SW500H offers a refreshing alternative in the crowded IEM market with its mid-forward tuning that places vocals at the forefront of the listening experience. With well-controlled bass and treble that support rather than compete with the midrange, it creates a cohesive sound signature that vocal enthusiasts will particularly appreciate.

The comfortable fit, good build quality, and accessory package add to the appeal, making this a solid option at its price point. The recessed 6kHz region effectively eliminates sibilance issues, creating a safe fatigue-free listening experience even during extended sessions.

A powerful and compact USB DAC/Amp with excellent performance ​

The Soncie Meory SA500 is a compact USB DAC/Amp that delivers impressive power and performance in a tiny, lightweight package. Weighing just 16 grams, this diminutive device packs enough power to drive demanding headphones like the Hifiman Sundara while maintaining excellent sound quality and a clean, detailed presentation.

Priced at $72.99, the SA500 competes directly with popular portable DAC/Amps like the Fosi Audio DS2 and iBasso Macaron, offering similar performance characteristics but with some unique advantages. With both 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced outputs, high-resolution audio support, and broad compatibility across operating systems, the SA500 represents excellent value for those seeking a portable audio upgrade.

Shenzhenaudio also offers the SA500 bundled with the excellent SW500H IEM (which I’ve reviewed separately) for $125.99, representing outstanding value for a complete portable audio solution.

Unboxing and Accessories​

The Soncie Meory SA500 comes in a clean, professional package that reflects its positioning as a premium portable audio device:

The back of the box provides additional information about the product:

Opening the box reveals the DAC/Amp nestled securely inside:

Everything is nicely secured in a small portable box:


Opening this box reveals the complete package actually includes 2 separate usb-c cables:

• Soncie Meory SA500 DAC/Amp
• USB-C to USB-A adapter
• 2 short USB-C to USB-C cables
• User manual
• Warranty card

The accessory package is minimal but includes everything needed to get started with the device across various connection scenarios.

Design and Build Quality​

The SA500 features an elegant, minimalist design with a premium metal housing that feels substantial despite its tiny size:

At just 16 grams, it’s remarkably lightweight yet doesn’t feel flimsy. The build quality is excellent, with a solid, seamless construction that inspires confidence in its durability.

The device features a USB-C input on one end:

And both 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced outputs on the other:

The SA500 includes a simple LED indicator that shows the sampling rate of the audio being played, with different colors representing different rates. The device also features physical buttons for volume control and other functions:

Overall, the design is practical and functional, prioritizing performance and usability in a compact form factor.

Features and Performance​

The Soncie Meory SA500 offers an impressive feature set for its size and price point:

Connectivity​

The device features USB-C input and dual outputs (3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced), providing flexibility for different headphone terminations. The balanced output delivers significantly more power, making it ideal for more demanding headphones.

Compatibility​

The SA500 works seamlessly across multiple platforms:

• Windows
• macOS
• iOS
• Android

This broad compatibility makes it a versatile companion for various devices.

For some details, here is SA500 connected to my Macbook showing its impressive high-res credentials:

Audio Support​

The SA500 supports high-resolution audio formats:

• PCM up to 32bit/384kHz
• DSD64/128/256

This comprehensive format support ensures compatibility with virtually any digital audio source you might have in your library.

Power Output​

One of the most impressive aspects of the SA500 is its power output relative to its size:

• Single-ended output: 128mW at 32Ω
• Balanced output: 510mW at 32Ω

This is sufficient to drive a wide range of headphones, including more demanding models like the Hifiman Sundara, which I tested extensively with this device.

Headphone Compatibility and “Practical” Measurements​

Rather than compare DAC Amp SINAD charts, I thought for this review it might be more fun to see how well does this DAC Amp (and a few other portable DAC amps) perform when driving a real headphone to loud ‘90+ dbSPL’ volumes and then measure the output from that the headphone to see if it is still transparent.

This is to remove most of that typical uncertainty that I read when people just read DAC or Amplifier measurements (i.e. ‘but how will it perform with my XXXX headphone’).

So over at AudioScienceReview Amir has been putting together an interesting graph of how hard it is to drive any headphone that he has measured. It is becoming a very extensive and interesting list covering most of the ’normal’ headphones (and many very expensive ‘high end’ headphones).

Here is the recent version of that chart:

For those interested, here is the source of this version of the list from his DCA Noise X review: DCA Noire X review

So I thought I should use a headphone from the bottom end of this chart as a good ’test’ of these DACs, so I picked the Hifiman Sundara. So here is that section of the list zoomed:

As you can hopefully that, I thought the Hifiman Sundara was a good ‘challenging’ part of this chart and a good match for the SA500.

So let’s see how the SA500 does? The following was the Sundara Frequency response, which was as transparent as the other amplifiers I measured the Sundara with:

And here is where I measured other dongles showing that these dongles are all transparent:

Yes, this was only 58% of the volume, so plenty of headroom for even more demanding headphones. For comparison the Apple USB-C dongle was at 98% to get to a similar SPL.

The Fosi Audio DS2 and the iBasso Macaron did result in a similar result, so ultimately all these dongles have surprising powerful output for their price points.

Sound Quality​

The Soncie Meory SA500 delivers clean, detailed sound with excellent technical performance across the frequency spectrum.

Bass​

The bass response is tight and controlled, with good extension and minimal distortion. There’s no artificial boost here - the SA500 presents bass as it exists in the recording, with good texture and detail. The device maintains its composure even with bass-heavy tracks, showing no signs of compression or distortion at reasonable volume levels.

Midrange​

The midrange presentation is neutral and transparent, allowing vocals and instruments to shine through with natural timbre. There’s excellent clarity and detail retrieval in this crucial frequency range, making for an engaging listening experience across various genres.

Treble​

The treble is extended and detailed without becoming harsh or fatiguing. The SA500 strikes a good balance here, providing enough sparkle and air to create a sense of space and dimension without crossing into sibilance territory.

Soundstage & Imaging​

For a portable DAC/Amp, the SA500 creates a surprisingly spacious soundstage with good width and depth. Imaging is precise, allowing for accurate placement of instruments and vocals within the sonic landscape. The black background (low noise floor) contributes to this sense of space and separation between elements in complex recordings.

Specifications and Internal Architecture​

The internal architecture of the device reveals thoughtful design choices that contribute to its performance:

Key technical specifications include:

• Signal-to-noise ratio: ≥130dB (32Ω/A-weighted/single-ended)
• Output noise: <3.1uV (balanced/A-weighted)
• THD+N: 0.0002% (32Ω/single-ended/balanced)
• Dynamic range: 113dB
• Frequency response: 20Hz-20kHz

These specifications translate to real-world performance that exceeds expectations for a device in this price range.

Comparisons​

Here is the SA500 with a few other similar dongle DAC that I have reviewed recently, the Fosi Audio DS2 and the FiiO KA15:

The most similar is the Fosi Audio DS2, that dongle is also having excellent performance, but the Soncie Meory SA500, if bought in a bundle, offers better value for money. The FiiO is more expensive but does offer a screen and PEQ capabilities.

Here are some more dongles I compared the SA500 with, including the FiiO Retro Nano and KA17 as well as the iBasso Macaron and the venerable Qudelix 5K:

Specifications​

Here’s a comprehensive list of the SA500’s specifications:

• Rated single-ended output power: 128mW/32Ω
• Rated balanced output power: 510mW/32Ω
• Signal-to-noise ratio: ≥130dB (32Ω/A-weighted/single-ended)
• Output noise: <3.1uV (balanced/A-weighted)
• THD+N: 0.0002% (32Ω/single-ended/balanced)
• Dynamic range: 113dB
• Frequency response: 20Hz-20kHz
• Impedance range: 16Ω-300Ω
• DSD: 64/128/256
• PCM: 32bit/384kHz
• Weight: approximately 16g
• Input interface: USB2.0 Type-C
• Output interface: 3.5mm/4.4mm
• Compatibility: MacOS/Windows/iOS/Android

Rating Explanation​

I’ve given the Soncie Meory SA500 a 5-star pragmatic rating for several reasons:

• Sound Quality: The SA500 delivers clean, detailed sound with excellent technical performance across the frequency spectrum
• Power Output: Impressive power delivery for its size, especially through the balanced output
• Build Quality: Excellent construction with premium materials
• Value: At $72.99, it offers great performance for the price (even better when bundled)

The device earns a 5-star price rating due to its exceptional value proposition, offering performance that competes with more expensive alternatives.

Conclusion​

The Soncie Meory SA500 is an impressive portable DAC/Amp that delivers excellent performance in a tiny, lightweight package. With enough power to drive demanding headphones, support for high-resolution audio formats, and broad compatibility across operating systems, it represents outstanding value at its $72.99 price point.

The bundle option with the SW500H IEM at $125.99 deserves special mention, offering a complete portable audio solution at a very competitive price. For those looking to upgrade their portable audio experience without breaking the bank, the SA500 is easy to recommend.

Whether you’re a casual listener seeking better sound quality on the go or an audiophile looking for a compact, powerful DAC/Amp for travel, the Soncie Meory SA500 delivers performance that belies its diminutive size and modest price.

An expertly tuned Portable Bluetooth Speaker for all occasions​

The Earfun UBoom X is a large (and heavy) Bluetooth speaker that probably looks fairly “generic” in photos, but it has 2 (maybe 3) things which I think set it apart from other bluetooth speakers in this price range.
Earfun really wanted to make this speaker have “proper” sound and after using it for a few weeks I do believe they made some smart choices and those choices are the only reason I decided to write up a review of the speaker.

But before I get into the details I thought I would provide some context as to why I am even looking at bluetooth speakers.

An ongoing journey to get decent audio in the garden​

So I have had a love/hate relationship with bluetooth speakers. Mostly they are a convenient way to have audio in a garden or park once the weather starts to get better and each year, for the past few years, I have bought a bluetooth speaker thinking this one “is the one” but up to now, every one of those speakers has been a let-down as far as sound quality.

Last year I thought the much hyped Soundcore M600 (which even had some “audiophile” friendly reviews) was going to be the one, but sadly it was not. I still have it, and it is a very nice looking speaker with its metal case but I ended up deciding I would not review as it didn’t really offer anything sound wise, other than a gimmick of “surround sound” that didn’t really work that well. I even tried to use some of Soundcore EQ capabilities to see could I get something reasonable from that speaker but the lack of any bass at any decent volume meant it was not much better than the tiny “pocket-able” bluetooth speakers you see on Amazon all the time.

So I was somewhat cautiously optimistic a few months ago when I spotted some reviews about the Earfun Uboom X. But I waited a few months to see if there was any negative sentiments and in general I think it has gone well with most people (there will always be ‘fanboys’ and ‘haters’ on the internet). So since there is no point in buying a mainly ‘outside’ speaker in the middle of the winter, I waited until a few weeks ago before deciding that this speaker would be this year’s attempt at decent outdoor audio.

Note: I have had a generally a great experience with Earfun products, while often their marketing can still be very much in the Amazon consumer “boomy” audio market (competing directly with Soundcore and JBL), I believe, there is a part of that company that believes in audio science, good tonality and providing an accurate reproduction of sound.


So lets get into what you get with the UBoom X.

Unboxing and Build Quality​

The EarFun UBoom X arrives in a sturdy box that protects the substantial speaker inside:

Here is the back of the box:


Opening the box reveals the speaker itself:


And finally here are all the contents of the box:

In the box, you’ll find:

• The UBoom X speaker
• USB-C charging cable
• A strong carrying strap
• User manual
• Warranty information

The UBoom X has a substantial, quality feel to it and this weight is why it comes with that carrying strap. I do think this heft contributes significantly to its acoustic performance, particularly in the bass department.

If you have any decent bookshelf speaker around your house, you will always notice the difference in weight the designers have done to reduce vibrations, against cheaper lightweight bookshelf speakers which typically have no internal padding. There are 2 x 30W woofers on each end of the UBoom X:

The design is relatively understated but functional, with a convenient carry handle that makes transportation easier despite its weight:

The control buttons are located on top of the speaker, providing easy access to all functions:

Note: One minor drawback is the lack of backlighting on these buttons, which might make operation in low-light conditions more challenging but was not a problem for me.

The UBoom X features multicolor LED lighting that can be customized through their app. And compared to some large “fun” bluetooth speakers I think these lights are nicely understated, but if you want a full lightshow, I think you might want another speaker:

There is a “rhythm” option in the App where the lights flash based on the bass response and that is a fun option for a while, but I mainly turned off the lights.

With an IP67 rating, the UBoom X is fully waterproof and dustproof, making it suitable for outdoor use in various conditions, there is an excellent flap on the connectors on the back of the UBoomX:

Features and Connectivity​

The UBoom X comes packed with features that enhance its usability across different scenarios:

EarFun Audio App and Oluv’s Tuned Presets​

Perhaps the most significant feature is what the integration with the EarFun Audio App provides:


So you get the now typical features like firmware updates, modify latency ( via ‘Video mode’) and adjust the lighting settings via the App

Here is that lighting effects configuration screen:


And there is the now typical 10 band EQ available for some personalised customisation of the sound:


But the real benefits here are the very detailed and tasteful presets that Oluv Sone have specifed. These presets go way beyond the 10 band EQ customisations using various DSP ’tricks’ where appropriate to really emphasis aspects of the sound in different real-life scenario’s:

Oluv’s Tuned Presets in Practice​

The real magic happens when you start exploring Oluv’s custom presets and other than the excellent bass performance and this is really my second reason for writing this review.

The app offers exceptional customization options, but the highlight is undoubtedly the Oluv's tuned presets that include:

• Indoor (neutral, studio-monitor-like response)
• Indoor+ (enhanced stereo width with subtle bass and treble boost)
• Outdoor (optimized for outdoor listening with controlled upper bass)
• Outdoor+ (maximum stereo enhancement with strong bass)
• Boom xXX (for those who prefer pronounced bass)
• Ground O (optimized for placing the speaker on the ground)
• Studio (neutral presentation without enhancements)

As Oluv explains in his notes about the tuning process:

“Unlike mentioned everywhere these ‘EQs’ are complete DSP programs, consisting of several sections not only EQ, but the entire compressor/limiter, dynamic EQ, psychoacoustic effects for stereo enhancing and bass, volume curve etc.”

Click to expand...

This level of attention to detail in the presets represents something truly unique in the portable speaker market.
Each preset creates a noticeably different listening experience optimized for specific scenarios and I thought it would be worth including Oluv’s own explanation for each of these presets:

Indoor vs. Outdoor​

Switching between the Indoor and Outdoor presets reveals thoughtful adjustments designed for these different environments. The Outdoor preset reduces certain bass frequencies that become boomy outdoors while enhancing others to maintain presence, and boosts treble to ensure clarity at a distance.
As Oluv explains:

“The outdoor modes have a completely different approach to compression than the indoor modes, which are rather conservative and should retain most bass up to maximum with overall volume not being pushed that much. I also tried to get the most kick out of the outdoor modes up to maximum volume and you should notice that the UBoom X has more attack with more basskick than most other similar speakers.”

Click to expand...

Ground O Preset​

The “Ground O” preset is particularly clever, compensating for the boundary effect that occurs when placing a speaker on the ground:

“Ground O which stands for ground omnidirectional should offer you the most bass possible when placed at the ground due to the boundary effect without the boominess you would get with Boom xXX, at the same time treble is boosted a lot to allow for omnidirectional listening when the speaker is aimed upwards.”

Click to expand...

Advanced Bluetooth 5.3​

The UBoom X utilizes Bluetooth 5.3, providing stable connections with minimal latency. During testing, I experienced no dropouts or connection issues, even when moving around with my phone at a reasonable distance from the speaker.

Party Connect Mode​

The UBoom X supports pairing with up to 50 additional UBoom X speakers for enhanced stereo output and greater volume. While I obviously didn’t test this feature with multiple units, it’s sounds like a crazy appealing option for larger gatherings, I am surprised Earfun haven’t sponsored some ‘world record’ outdoor audio experience.

Power Bank Functionality​

This particularly feature is very useful I think. I have gone on a few picnics where after a few hours I need to charge up my mobile so having the ability to use the UBoom X as a power bank to charge other devices via USB-C, making it a dual-purpose companion for extended outings.

Battery Life​

EarFun claims up to 30 hours of playback, which seemed fairly accurate at moderate volume levels during my testing if you play louder this will be much less, though I never found it lacking on any trip I have brought it on the battery has been down at 60% after 7 or so hour’s playback, so I would guess 15/20 hours easily at louder volumes.

Sound Quality​

The sound quality of the UBoom X is where this speaker truly excels, especially when utilizing Oluv’s custom presets.
Given the customisation options available I thought I would just provide an overview of the “default” profile here which is one preset by Earfun themselves.

Default Sound Signature​

The UBoom X delivers an impressive audio performance with its 80W (2 x 40W) four-driver design and JumboBass technology. The bass response is particularly noteworthy those large “heavy” drivers really do provide a deep resonant bass response that you can ‘feel’ across the room. I would not bother with the JumboBass unless you are a “Bass Head”.

The mid-range is well-balanced, allowing vocals and instruments to come through clearly without being overshadowed by the bass.

The treble is detailed without becoming harsh, even at higher volumes.

Overall the default sound signature might be described as neutral with a bass emphasis.

Bass​

The bass performance is exceptional for a speaker of this size. Testing with bass-heavy tracks like Massive Attack’s " Angel" reveals deep, controlled low-frequency response that you can feel as well as hear. Unlike many competitors, the UBoom X produces actual sub-bass rather than just a mid-bass hump, creating a more authentic listening experience.

Mids​

Vocal clarity is excellent, with both male and female voices reproduced with natural timbre. In tracks like Adele’s " Someone Like You," the subtleties of the vocal performance come through with impressive detail.

Treble​

High frequencies are crisp and detailed without becoming harsh or fatiguing. Cymbal crashes and high-hat details in jazz recordings maintain their sparkle and presence without overwhelming the mix.

Specifications and Measurements​

Note: One thing I didn’t mention earlier was the codec support which is limited to SBC and AAC so does lack LDAC or AptX codecs, so while not ideal I didn’t find it affected the sound quality though I was mainly streaming from an iPhone using the AAC codec.

As I mentioned earlier the Boom X is a heavy speaker - here is what I got on my weighing scales with the carrying strap also attached:

Measurements​

Measuring a bluetooth speaker is difficult for a number of reasons - there isn’t just one driver to measure as a typical bluetooth has many drivers in different locations around the speaker. Bluetooth speakers are also typically moved and placed in various locations, so it doesn’t really make sense to worry about specific placement or distance from a back wall. So what I tried to measure capture “typical” indoor placement (on a coffee table) and outdoor measurements (on a table and on the ground) and showing the relative difference of the various presets.
Also, it is mostly impossible to measure distortion outside so I will just show one of the indoor distortion measurements to give you an impression of how the speakers handle being pushed.
Note: I have talked allot about presets but if you never switch presets, the default Earfun sound signature will be “good enough” but in my opinion it won’t give you the real differential that this bluetooth speaker provides.

Frequency Response​

Note: because Oluv’s presets are more than just DSP frequency response tweaks, these measurements only really give a feeling of the tonality changes but there will be other DSP changes (like a compressor) that you won’t see in these measurements.
So lets start with the default UBoom X profile compared to the Jazz profile:

Note: I mainly focused on Oluv’s presets in these measurements but for example the Jazz profile does a subtle increase in midrange and treble (i.e. a decrease in bass).
So here is some Indoor measurements comparing the Jazz preset with Oluv Indoor and Indoor+:

While these do show a ‘bright’ treble I thought it was interesting to compare the ‘brightness’ of the outdoors and outdoors+ when measured indoors and outdoors - you can see an almost inverse treble, so I think whether you get ‘bright’ treble or dark is very dependent on position:

The outdoors and outdoor+ presets do very well outdoors in my measurements:

I thought this was interesting also - slightly different position for the outdoor measurements:

And this measurement maybe makes it clearer than ourdoors+ is more V-shaped:

I tried the ground preset on a few different surfaces and depending on the surface you can get more or less of a bass boost:

I thought this presented the different presets you might use outdoors with a nice contrast:

Finally, this is Oluv’s Indoor preset showing mostly a well controlled FR with very little distortion for a bluetooth speaker:

Rating​

The EarFun UBoom X earns a 5-star pragmatic rating for several compelling reasons:

1. Exceptional sound quality that genuinely impresses, especially in the bass department
2. Oluv expertly tuned presets that adapt to different environments and preferences
3. Excellent value for the features and performance offered
4. Robust build quality with full waterproofing
5. Long battery life with fast charging and power bank functionality

There are some drawbacks (weight, lack of backlit buttons, lack of high def codecs) but these are outweighed by the speaker’s strengths, especially considering its price point.

Conclusion​

The EarFun UBoom X is an exceptional “portable” Bluetooth speaker, it is heavy, but can deliver audiophile-grade sound quality if you use the right preset in the right scenario. For me, it has worked well so far and I hope the Irish Spring weather continues, so I can enjoy this speaker in the garden and out on a few picnics.
For anyone looking to enhance their outdoor gatherings this season with quality audio, the UBoom X represents one of the most compelling options available outside a dedicated outdoor sound system. The collaboration with Oluv has resulted in a speaker that doesn’t just sound good “for a Bluetooth speaker” – it simply sounds good, period.

Small Speaker, Big Features​

The FiiO SA1 Desktop Speaker is a feature-packed, budget-friendly solution for desktop audio. Available in two colors, I personally went for the white but the classic wood look with the brown is also very nice.

It delivers an unexpected level of connectivity and for its size it delivers excellent performance. Its compact size makes it a perfect desktop companion, and when paired with a subwoofer, tuned some of the configurable onboard PEQ, it transforms into an excellent sounding system for a home working space or even a bedroom.

After a few weeks of intensive use, I think I can describe what is great about the SA1 and where it has some limitations. So hopefully this review will be able to give you some insights.


So first, let’s see what you get in the box.

Unboxing and Build Quality​

The unboxing experience with the FiiO SA1 is straightforward but does come in a big box:


And the back of the box:



Opening the box you see some cables, the remote and the power supply:

Removing this top layer reveals the speakers underneath in their protective covers:



I specifically went for the white as I felt it would work better in a minimalist workspace setup and as you will see later I think it worked out nicely, but I did try it in a few different places around my house, I think my wife thought I was a bit crazy.

Upon opening, you find:

• Main Speaker
• Secondary Speaker
• Custom Infrared Remote Control (requires 2 AAA batteries)
• Power Adapter
• RCA to 3.5mm Audio Cable
• Main and Secondary Unit Connection Cable
• Quick Start Guide

The compact yet sturdy design looks well with a high-density MDF cabinet with a 9mm imitation solid wood veneer, which gives the speaker a more premium look than a simple “box speaker”, it is very small, here is it with an already tiny Micca MB42:



If you set your expectations relative to its size, I think you will be ultimately be impressed, but there is only so much you can drive a tiny speaker without a little help but thankful FiiO does provide a few ways that you can decent sound from this speaker.

The Speaker itself​

Driver setup:

• Woofer: A 3.5-inch wood fiber construction.
• Tweeter: A ¾ inch aluminum-magnesium alloy dome tweeter.

I do think it is a pity you cannot remove the grills easily- but I see those screws around each driver so will be possible to open this speaker up easily:

The right Speaker has the Volume which you can push to switch inputs, a bass boost dial and a power button:

Bass boost dial​

This bass boost dial is really just a simple way to boost the overall bass frequency, ultimately when pairing this with a subwoofer, I actually lowered this to the lowest possible value as I wanted to avoid pushing that tiny woofer too much and if you plan on playing this speaker even slightly loud without a subwoofer I would also lower this value as the bass does distort easily.

But if you listen a lower volumes (especially in a small desktop setup) it will be ok to use dial to give the speaker a little bass boost and I do appreciate that this is a super simple way to give the sound a little bass boost without resorting to having to use the FiiO Control app to switch PEQ profiles.

The back and sides​

The back of the Left side has nothing other than the cable connection from the right hand side:


The other sides mostly just have the very nice wooden finish:

You have extensive connections on the back:


So you get an incredible extensive set of connections:

• Usb-c from a computer
• Optical input
• Coaxial input
• Phono or RCA (including a ground terminal) and a Photo/RCA switch
• Subwoofer output
• Aux input

Here are the main ones I used for this review:

DAC Input​

When using it as a USB-c DAC options on my Macbook when using the SA1 you get a reasonable support with up to 24bit/96Khz:
Specifically the supports up to 192Khz over coaxial:

• USB (Type-C, supporting up to 96kHz/32bit)
• Coaxial (supporting up to 192kHz/24bit)
• Optical / Toslink (supporting up to 96kHz/24bit)

Bluetooth support​

You also get Bluetooth input you get LDAC from Android and AAC from IOS as well as the standard SBC protocol using Bluetooth 5.4. You can also control the SA1 over bluetooth from your mobile with the FiiO Control application, more on this application in a bit.

Some setups​

I thought it might be interesting to setup the SA1 in a couple of different ways:

Small Working from Home - Desktop setup
This was why I picked the white colour as I felt it would go well in this room and I think it does and crucially both the SA1 and the JDS Element IV that was feeding it RCA output take very little space away from the desk:

It sounds great in this space, even without the subwoofer (which is hidden under the table) but especially with the subwoofer and some room correction PEQ configuration.

With some turntables
I thought I would test both the Phono and RCA inputs with 2 different turntables my old Audio Technica which is now in my converted garage space and the new FiiO TT13:

It sounded great with both, the built-in phono preamp was as good as the one built into the Audio Technica so its a nice option if you have a turntable with only phono outputs.

With the TT13 in this much larger space, I definitely needed that subwoofer next to the table, but I did quiet a few measurements which I will present later in this setup.

Features​

I thought it might be worthwhile to just pick up some of the many features of the SA1 that I think are important so lets start with the amplifier used:

Internal Amplifier​

The speaker is powered by two Texas Instruments TPA3118 class D digital amplifiers, delivering 20W2 for the woofer and 5W2 for the tweeter. I have seen this class D used in many class D amplifiers from companies like Fosi Audio and Aiyima, and it is reasonable good class D chip (though not as good or powerful as the TPA3255) but given you get 2, one in each speaker it is easily adequate for driving the SA1.

FiiO Control and PEQ Capabilities​

One amazing feature for a speaker at this price it comes with both a built-in DSP and a companion application. FiiO have nicely integrated the same application with many of their devices including the recent K17 and the SA1:


You get reasonable useful remote control of the SA1 from your mobile (over Bluetooth):


Including switching inputs:


But the best feature for me (and one that is very rare in a powered speaker at this price) is the ability to configure a 31-band high-precision PEQ using this the FIIO Control app. So you get some built-in sound presets (pop, jazz, classical, R&B, dance, and a monitoring-style curve):


And then ability to save three custom PEQ setups which I think is fantastic feature especially if you understand a little about room correction and have access to a measurement microphone like a Umik-1:

Note: As you can see above as a test I lower a bit of “room mode” bass and the midrange need a bit of adjustment to get a more neutral response, I will show the effect later on in the measurement section.

Remote​

I also like that the speakers come with a useful remote to change the inputs and the volume:


Note: As someone with lots of similar remotes I really appreciate FiiO have started to put the device name on the remote, it is a nice simple touch.

Standby support​

I also like that there is automatic standby and wake-up time is pretty fast.

Subwoofer support​

The inclusion of an RCA subwoofer output I think is crucial. And ultimately how I rated this speaker. Without it, I feel it will the SA1 will be limited the places where it is only used near field, where do not need to push the woofer too much.

But with the inclusion of a subwoofer you can now use these tiny speaker in many more setups, while it doesn’t suddenly transform the SA1 into a “home theatre” killer, it does allow you, when paired even with a cheap subwoofer to get decent “full range” sound in smaller rooms and even worked well for me in my medium size converted garage space.

Sound Impressions​

For its size the FiiO SA1 delivers a well-balanced and dynamic sound, though due to its size the bass does roll off significant and if boosted too much it will distort, but ultimately pair it with a subwoofer, do a little room correction using the PEQ filters, and then it became a different speaker, one that can compete with much more expensive setups.
Here’s how it performs across the key audio elements:

Bass​

While its compact design naturally limits deep bass output, the 3.5-inch woofer produces a rich and warm low end. When paired with a subwoofer, the bass extension down well below 65Hz and really comes to life, making for a satisfying low-frequency performance during movie nights or bass-heavy tracks.

Mids​

The midrange is clear and detailed, ensuring vocals and instruments are rendered with natural warmth and precision. The customizable DSP and PEQ settings allow you to fine-tune the mids to suit any genre, from classical arrangements to modern pop.

Treble​

The SA1’s ¾ inch tweeter provides crisp and articulate highs without sounding overly bright or harsh. The result is a smooth treble that adds sparkle and clarity, bringing out the finer details in your music. I did find you can tune the treble a little by either toeing it in towards you ( a bit brighter) or toeing out ( a bit darker ).

Soundstage and Imaging​

Despite its small footprint, the SA1 manages to produce a surprisingly spacious soundstage. Its imaging allows you to pinpoint individual elements within a mix, making for an immersive listening experience even on a desktop.

Specifications and Measurements​

Measurements​

So, I used my Minidsp UMIK-1 setup on a tripod to measure (as best I could) the performance of the SA1, setup on a desktop (as per the pictures earlier).

Frequency Response in Room:​

So first I thought it was interesting to see the difference of the bass boost button and when the bass boost and a subwoofer is blended (yellow) into the sound:

So, obviously you get a much lower bass response with the subwoofer, but the crucial difference is the level of distortion between these 3 measurements, as you can see below - the (yellow) measurement has the least distortion and especially with the bass boosted the SA1 is generating a lot of distortion:

I then looked at applying some PEQ and measuring the overall frequency response I got at roughly 80dbSPL:

Note: I only used 2 PEQ adjustments for this I could easily use some of the other 29 PEQ filters to get a much smoother FR, but I thought this REQ equaliser recommendation showed how well it can measure (and sound) with a little EQ and a subwoofer blended.

Next, I thought I would just compare the default sound without PEQ or the subwoofer with those simple changes and you can see below the sub-bass extension goes way down and this subwoofer isn’t anything special it just happended to be one that I was not using, it is a Yamaha SW050:

Distortion with and without the Subwoofer​

Specifically focusing on the distortion as speakers this small (really woofers in speakers in small) will struggle when pushed and the difference when I removed the bass from SA1 by lowering the Bass boost and tuning the bass with the PEQ. So the orange distortion measurement here shows how well you can lower the distortion by offloading all bass to the subwoofer:


And again as I mentioned above the least distortion and the most balanced sound:

So in summary, on its own the SA1 will struggle playing even at 80dbSPL but lower the bass and add a subwoofer and you get a pretty good sounding yet tiny desktop speaker setup for very little money.

Rating​

I feel the FiiO SA1 without its extra features would be a fairly average tiny desktop speaker, but it has
some outstanding features and some of those features, like the subwoofer and the 31 band PEQ can make a real difference to the sound you get. Other features like the remote and the ability to use a companion mobile app really set this speaker apart from the competition at this price.

So, I am giving the FiiO SA1 a very pragmatic rating of 5 due to these features. I feel this speaker makes a very nice desktop or small bedroom speaker and when paired with a subwoofer and some PEQ configuration applied to remove some “bassy” room modes, you can get some outstanding quality at a very reasonable price.

I also think this would make an excellent first speaker for someone to tinker with and start to understand audio, maybe paired with their first turntable and with all its input and the various controls available in the FiiO Control app this could really be a “gateway” speaker into the whole home audio hobbie.

Conclusion​

In conclusion, the FiiO SA1 Desktop Speaker is a shining example of smart design and value in the budget audio market. Its rich feature set—including multiple input options, advanced digital processing, and intuitive control—ensures that it stands out among similarly priced competitors. While its compact size makes it best suited for desktop use, pairing it with a subwoofer unlocks an expansive, immersive sound experience.

If you’re looking for a desktop speaker or small bedroom setup that doesn’t compromise on connectivity or performance, the SA1 is certainly worth considering.

FiiO RR11: Retro Revival in Your Pocket​

The FiiO RR11 Portable FM Radio brings a refreshing blend of old-school charm and modern functionality. It is built for those who not only love radio but also appreciate the tactile nostalgia of analog design. The aluminum alloy knob create an experience that feels both retro and contemporary.

After spending a few weeks with the RR11, I feel I have a good sense of what you get with the RR11. Basically, you get a very high quality retro design with very nice feel in the hand and especially those the analog tuning dial, take you back to those older portable radios. And in typical FiiO fashion that retro feel is subtly mixed with some modern features.

While it’s easily the cheapest of FiiO range of retro products (also including the CP13, TT13 and DM13 ), it may not appeal to audiophile in the same way as those other products, as I will explain later.

But let’s get into the details of what you get in the box

Unboxing and Build Quality​

The RR11 comes in a now typical FiiO design:


Nothing too exciting on the back:


Opening it up you see a quick start manual first:


Removing the manual reveals the RR11 and in a nice surprise you get some retro earbuds to use the RR11 immediately:

The earbuds:


I felt including these earbuds was a nice touch making the RR11 an excellent present for someone. My wife almost immediately when she spotted it started using the RR11 with its earbuds while spring-cleaning in the back garden.

But in general the audio quality of earbuds like is poor compared to IEM’s, thankfully while the earbuds do provide added “aerial” for the internal FM tuner, you any IEM’s with the RR11, and it will also act as an external aerial.

Removing the top layer reveals the usb-c cables and some eartips for the earbud:


One of those usb-c cables is special though, so don’t lose it as its provides usb-c dac feature I will describe later.

Taking everything out of the box:

• RR11 Unit
• JF11 Retro-style Earbuds
• Warranty Card
• Type-C to Type-C Digital-to-Analog Cable
• Quick Start Guide
• Earbud Sponge Covers

The ultra-thin, robust aluminum alloy construction does match previous retro inspired products from FiiO.

FiiO have a few matching colours for their retro products, the silver of the RR11 blends well with my TT13:

Let’s have a quick tour of the RR11:

The RR11 looks well with the supplied earbuds:

Features and Performance​

The RR11 is more than just a radio but at its heart it has an analog PVR tuner:

Analog Tuning​

The tactile feedback of this analog-inspired dials are really the core retro experience FiiO are providing with the RR1:
But while this is great to have that older radio experience, it is also the weak point in the RR11 and one that might be addressed if FiiO decide to release an RR13 or RR15 model:

Two Weak points of the RR11:​

Unlike the retro feel of touching physical media like a tape, a CD or even some vinyl, a radio was never physical and radio never “went away” to be “rediscovered” as we are still surrounded by generally good radio experiences, especially in our cars. Those radios have “digital” PLL tuners which effectively lock onto and stabilise weaker FM radio signals.

So, in my experience, with the RR11 it was fine with more powerful local FM stations but would lose the connection very quickly with weaker stations especially when out walking around the neighbourhood.

The other modern convenience that we are all well-used to with our radios is having a set of preset “favourites”, typically that requires some “digital” display of the RDS name of the station and maybe a separate switch where the “analog” dial is merely jumping between saved favourites rather than “tuning in” a different station.

But I guess these type of features will make good enhancements for a RR13 or RR15 should FiiO decide to enhance this retro radio line of products and given the price FiiO are selling the RR11 at it is probably unfair to expect to much in the most basic model.

DAC Amp​

Included with the RR11 is a DAC cable. When paired with an analog headphone amplifier adapter cable, the RR11 transforms into a dongle-style headphone amp system.

Take special care with this cable with the arrows, I initially didn’t notice the arrows on the cable and I had it connected the “wrong way” between my smartphone and the RR11.

When connected to my Macbook you get a good set of options:


Note: I have some measurements later, but in summary it is not the best DAC and something like FiiO’s KA11 is a far better DAC to pair with your smartphone, but it is a nice feature to have in your pocket.

Clear Indicators and Immersive Sound Effects​

The thoughtfully designed orange-yellow retro lighting clearly indicates stereo status, tuning mode, and battery level, ensuring your always informed at a glance.

Ultra-Wide FM Band Coverage​

As you can see in the photo above there are 3 separate FM ranges.

I believe some of those ranges are more applicable to countries like Japan, but in some countries use some of those extra frequencies can pick up specialized college or campus frequencies or even taxi or police broadcasts. Though I didn’t pick up anything in Ireland outside the normal FM1 band.

Bass Boost feature​

And as another extra feature, the RR11 features custom Bass Boost with option sound effects options:

So MAGIC BASS 1 (bass boost) or MAGIC BASS 2 (bass boost + 3D surround) certainly change the sound, for me this bass boost was too much and I measured it, and you will see those measurements later on. But it’s a nice option if you are a “bass head” and you get that bass boost when using the RR11 as an usb DAC.

Specifications and Measurements​

So while 40mw into 32 Ohms is fine as a basic DAC and similar to an Apple Dongle, the FiiO KA11 in comparison can get
up to 200mw into 32 Ohms.

Measurements​

So, as basic measurements, I first measured a FiiO FD15 with an Apple Dongle and then using the RR11 as a comparison:

As you can see there is a little sub-bass roll off which is typical of cheaper USB dongle dacs.
Comparing the distortion shows it has a little bit more distortion than the Apple dongle:

Note: This distortion % is the combined FD15 + dongle distortion so will be different than "rated" figures.

I decided to see the DAC aspect of the RR11 and see what the Bass Boost modes do to the sound:

The bass boost mode do make a nice boost to the bass and I think for those who enjoy a little more bass this is a nice simple “EQ” they can apply.

Finally, I measured the frequency response from the FF11 earbuds with different placements in my KB501X pinna:

As you can see the frequency response varies greatly when you place the earbuds in different positions. This is one of those subjective things you will notice with earbuds, you need to “fiddle” with the seating to get a satisfying sound and even then the bass is never good (either too boomy) or with a large roll-off.

Rating​

I have given the RR11 a pragmatic score of 4 out of 5. It looks and feels fantastic and for the price is jam packed with extras like the earbuds, the DAC and the bass boost features, but if you want it just for the radio experience I feel the lack of a PLL tuner that “locks” onto a signal might disappoint those in “weaker” FM signal areas.

Conclusion​

The FiiO RR11 Portable FM Radio stands out as a beautiful fusion of retro aesthetics and some modern functionality. Its ultra-thin, aluminum alloy design, tactile tuning experience, and retro radio reception would make it a nice present for audio enthusiasts who love radio and value both style and substance. Whether you’re reminiscing about the golden age of FM radio or seeking a versatile device for on-the-go listening, the RR11 delivers that retro radio experience.
FiiO’s dedication to blending the best of retro audio “history” with contemporary tech takes another step forward with the RR11.

Verum 2 : Forged in a War zone​

The Verum 2 builds upon five years of community feedback and engineering advancements. Designed to transcend its price category and compete with flagship models, the Verum 2 aims to deliver an uncompromising planar magnetic experience.

​

So does it deliver on this promise? Let’s find out.



I have been listening to the Verum2 for more than a month now and comparing it with various headphones in my collection, I will say upfront its styling and tuning won’t suit everyone but for me and those who like a collection of unique headphones, especially at this price, it should be one to add to your collection.

The Elephant in the Listening Room​

Before diving into the sound, build, and technology of the Verum 2, it is necessary to address the context surrounding its creation. The Verum 2 is the work of Garuspik, a controversial figure in the headphone community, whose past behavior has sparked justified criticism. While his previous model, the Verum 1, was widely regarded as an exceptional performer, it was overshadowed by troubling comments and actions that alienated many.

I have worked with many Ukranians and Russians over the past few years, and they can be very abrasive especially when under pressure and I cannot imagine a more stressful environment to try to build a headphone company than within a warzone, but that should not excuse his past behavior.

However, this review will focus on the product itself rather than the creator. I believe that this headphone deserves to be judged on its own merit, while also acknowledging the hope that past missteps have led to growth and lessons learned.

With that addressed, let’s get into the details of the Verum 2, starting with probably the weakest part of the experience for me the unboxing.

Unboxing​

So, I heard previously of issues with the delivery of the original Verum 1, but my heart sank when I opened the door and was handed this box with the Verum 2:

I quickly open it up and thankfully there was enough wrapping around the Verum 2 that it was not damaged in the shipping.

The cable that mine came with is fine but nothing special, I didn’t use this cable:


While I love that every penny was saved for the headphone itself, I feel maybe adding $50 to the overall price and using a higher quality box and possible UPS or FedEx shipping would remove any danger of the headphone being damaged in shipping. As you will see the headphone itself deserves a better box.
Note: There was a “Kit offering” which I now regret not opting for via the kickstarter campaign, which included alternative cables, a second set of earpads (hybrid ones) and a carry box.
But with this aspect out of the way lets get into the good stuff:

Build, Design and Comfort​

The Verum 2 is a striking headphone, available in five distinct colors: Pearl, Yellow, Red, Kickstarter Green, and Black.

My unit, in Pearl, exhibits a sleek, slightly retro steam punk aesthetic that combines industrial durability with a refined finish:

When the kickstarter launched I was watching the Arcane TV show and I fell that the overall look of Verum 2 would work perfectly in that show.

I thought it would make a nice unusual headphone for my collection, and I was not disappointed this headphone looks better in person than these photos show:

But I would imagine this look will not be for everyone:


The hardened steel headband, powder-coated metal components, and shockproof ABS cups already suggest much more longevity to this headphone over the Verum 1:

I love the mechanical design of the headband adjustment mechanism combined with the extension allowing great flexibility both supporting various head sizes and supporting angled earpads without uneven pressure around your ears:


There is a foam material behind the metal frame that I imagine protects driver from the outside, but I feel might deteriorate over time so that might be a problem and possible a weak point in this design:



Nice detail in and around the connector:



The overall weight is 450 grams which considering the amount of metal in the design is reasonable:


Overall, once you adjust the headphone it does feel very comfortable wearing for long periods:

Technology & Engineering​

At the core of the Verum 2 is a very large 105mm planar magnetic driver, which incorporates several advancements over the Verum 1, this information is derived from the Kickstarter page:

• Ultrathin diaphragm: At just 2.5µm, the new membrane is ten times thinner than its predecessor, significantly reducing mass and improving transient response.
• 
• Silver conductive traces: Unlike the aluminum traces of the Verum 1, the Verum 2 employs silver, offering better conductivity and reliability.
• Enhanced magnet structure: Featuring 44 rare-earth neodymium magnets (up from 28 in the Verum 1), the Verum 2 generates a more powerful and uniform magnetic field, improving efficiency and dynamic control.
• Bass-reflex port system: A unique addition, these ports within the earpads enhance sub-bass response below 70Hz while also improving ventilation, addressing one of the common limitations of planar magnetic headphones.
• 

As you will see in the measurements section this bass performance also works exceptionally well if you wear glasses providing a slightly boosted bass.

• Magnetic Earpads Another unique solution I loved with the Verum 2 is how simple and ingenious the metal ring used for the Earpads:

This metal ring makes super easy to attach to the earpads that are roughly 100mm in size and makes swap earpads very easy, but I found the stock angled earpads were very comfortable.

Ultimately, while I did swap earpads many times and even found some sonic benefits using alternative earpads, I continued to use the stock angled ones with a little bit of EQ to my personal tastes:

But I would love Verum Audio to sell the metal rings separately as I am someone who does like to swap pads regularly, and it would be nice to quickly A/B test different earpads.

I actually found my perforated angled sheepskin earpads were a good alternative though they lack the bass port so provide a more neutral sound but you loose that sub-bass boost:

Sound Performance​

The Verum 2 is designed to challenge the notion that price dictates quality, and in practice, it succeeds though it does provide a more midrange vocal forward tuning which might not suit everyone. I know some people can hear this type of tuning as “shouty” and possible ’nasally’ but I mostly found it worked well for most of my reference indie rock and folk playlist and a nice addition to some of the other planars that I have been listening to recently.

Though this is a very competitive market with some exceptional planars like Hifiman Sundara and the FiiO FT1 Pro been the most obvious competitors to the Verum 2.

Bass​

Unlike many planar headphones that rely on EQ to achieve deep bass, the Verum 2 delivers sub-bass naturally, thanks to its innovative bass-reflex system. While the tuning leans slightly cool in its tonality—lacking a bit of warmth in the mid-bass region—it never feels thin or anaemic. Instead, it offers definition and texture that allow basslines to sing without muddying the rest of the spectrum.

Track 1: “Royals” by Lorde — The sub-bass presence is clean, controlled, and atmospheric, emphasizing the track’s minimal yet deep rhythm section.

Track 2: “Redemption Song” by Bob Marley (Live) — The low-end textures of the live guitar and subtle bass lines carry a delicate clarity that underlines the headphone’s ability to portray natural timbre with extension.

​

Mids​

This is where the Verum 2 steps confidently into the spotlight. The midrange is forward and engaging, offering remarkable vocal presence and acoustic clarity. It reminded me in some ways of high-end Focal headphones, where detail and intimacy walk hand-in-hand. Instruments are vivid, lifelike, and never veiled, although some may find this forwardness bordering on analytical in the wrong chain.

Track 1: “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton (Unplugged) — Clapton’s vocal and acoustic work sound tactile and haunting, with every string pluck rendered in detail.

Treble​

Treble is detailed, resolving, and airy—but also slightly hot for my personal taste. Out of the box, I found the upper frequencies a bit too elevated, especially on long listening sessions. I ended up lowering the treble slightly using EQ to bring it closer to my preferred darker tuning. That said, treble lovers and those seeking microdetail will likely be thrilled.

Track 1: “Take Five” by Dave Brubeck Quartet — The cymbals shimmer with precision and energy, but on louder volumes, can verge on sharp without adjustment.

Soundstage & Imaging​

The soundstage is good but not as wide as my more “soundstage” focused headphones like the Edition XS. But I think this tuning can help with imaging provided a very nice layered experience especially with rock and pop music as it increase a sense of depth rather than width.

Track 1: “Hotel California (Live Acoustic)” by Eagles — You can trace the positioning of guitars relative to vocals with perceived accuracy.

Track 2: “Redemption” by Dermot Kennedy — The intimate production and vocal layering take full advantage of the Verum 2’s imaging strengths within its moderately wide, but highly controlled stage.

Comparisons & Value​

At approximately €400 (€300 if you managed to get one like I did via the Kickstarter), the Verum 2 occupies an aggressive price point in the planar magnetic market. Competing models, such as the Hifiman Sundara, Audeze MM-100 and since the Kickstarter was launched the Verum 2 also has a new competitor with the FiiO FT1 Pro.

Here is the Verum 2 with some of my other recent ‘artisanal’ headphones that I have reviewed though these are much more expensive with the Mirph1 being double the price and the Modhouse tungsten 4 times is 4 times the price.

Build quality compares well with both the Modhouse Tungsten and the Mirph1, the metal work especially on the Verum2 makes it stand out which is pretty incredible given its €300 price tag:



The earpads on all three of these headphones make nice contrasts. I personally like larger “round” internal shape to earcups as I feel this allows me to move the headphone on my head without affecting but the deep angled shape of the Verum 2 is still very nice and comfortable headphone:

The earpads have a similar size to the Tungstens, but I would probably take the Modhouse Tungsten more neutral midrange tuning over the Verum 2 with EQ:

With a little EQ, I think the Verum 2 compares very well much more expensive headphones.

Specifications and Measurements​

Measurements​

Note: The following measurements were taken with my KB501X soft ear Pinna and a 711 clone coupler. They are available on my measurement database here.

Frequency Response​

So in the FR you can see that midrange forward nature of the Verum 2:



For comparison here are my measurements adjusted for my and compared with my HD600:



I spotted that @ludoo over on SBAF measured his Verum2 on his flat measurement rig and compared it to his HD600:

Obviously different rigs will generate different results, but I hope the 2 graphs above shows the relative differences between the Verum 2 and a HD600, mainly the sub-bass extension and that forward midrange area.
Here is a comparison using the alternative “perforated” earpads which I used for several days on the Verum 2:

I highlight a few areas - mostly to show that earpads can make a huge difference in the sound profile you get:

1. The sub-bass is much better with the “Bass port” on the stock pads
2. The midrange is much closer to harman with the perforated pads
3. The treble can get boosted with these earpads

So while these earpads provided a more neutral sound signature I felt the sub-bass boost was more preferable, and it was easier and more consistent to EQ with the stock pads.
So comparing both with my Sundara's:

I also measurement different “positions” of the stock pads on my measurement rig and when using glasses:

Mostly the different is with the bass, but I was very impressed that the wearing glasses doesn’t makes much of a difference with this headphone.
I went a bit crazy one day measuring about 7 or 8 different earpads and as you can see you can get very different results:

One of the best overall was a cheaper “velvet” earpads, but they were less comfortable for me, so I didn’t spend much time using these actually listening to music:

Overall, the selection of earpads can make a huge difference with this headphone, but I mostly like the stock earpads with some EQ the best.

Distortion​

As is typical of planars the harmonic distortion is low:



And as a percentage:

EQ recommendation​

This was the EQ profile I have mainly been listening to the Verum 2 with, especially after the first week:

Mainly this is just about lowering that midrange and then I also applied some tweaks that I personally felt where necessary in the treble, but will be different on everyone’s head so I am not providing them below.

Filter 1: ON PK Fc 1100 Hz Gain -3.7 dB Q 1.600

It should also be said that this area is probably the most consistent area to apply EQ too, but give this headphone a go without EQ and if you feel its a bit "shouty" I feel this EQ will fix that tonality.

Rating​

I debated whether I would give this a 4 star or a 5 star pragmatic rating, in the end I felt, for me and for the price, it deserved a 5-star rating. I personally would EQ any headphone and I do EQ the midrange here.

I do know its looks won’t be for everyone, but I feel it has a very clever design, is very comfortable from the stock angled earpad and that bass port provides a lovely sub-bass boost and overall it delvers a unique sound profile that itself is easy to EQ should you feel it necessary.

While the controversy surrounding its creator cannot be ignored, the Verum 2 offers a redemption of sorts and by itself deserves recognition for what it is as a unique and compelling planar magnetic headphones that competes very well in the sub $1000 price range.

Conclusion​

The Verum 2 is an exceptional planar magnetic headphone that defies its price point, delivering almost exceptional build and sound for a fraction of the cost.

For those willing to separate the art from the artist, the Verum 2 is an audiophile gem, for those building a pragmatically priced collection of headphones I feel the Verum 2 is an excellent addition to that collection offering a few things that none of its competitors offer.

Minimalism Meets Perfection​

The JDS Element IV is a minimalist desktop headphone amplifier and DAC, designed for audiophiles who seek powerful, pure sound without the clutter. The Element IV promises clean aesthetics, high power output, and intuitive, versatile EQ capabilities and in this review I won’t keep you in suspense, it delivers on its promises.

So after a month of extensive use, the JDS Element IV has become an indispensable place as my main working from home desktop amplifier setup. It effortlessly powers all headphones I own and any ones I have borrowed for review purposes, it simplifies connectivity to both my desktop speakers and my Macbook Pro, and provides stellar EQ functionality, all wrapped in a beautifully minimalistic design that takes up very little space on my Desk.

Now, let’s dive into what makes this ‘minimalist’ amplifier special.

Unboxing and Build Quality​

Unboxing the Element IV is a straightforward as it comes in environmentally friendly packaging:


Inside, you’ll find the amplifier itself, a robust power adapter, USB Type-C cable, and some documentation. Although minimal, the contents reflect the clean design philosophy.

The Amplifier itself​

The Element IV’s design is exquisitely simple, with an understated aluminum chassis and a mesmerizingly smooth, oversized volume control. It shouldn’t be possible to fall in love with a volume control, but the Element IV’s control feels uniquely satisfying with its buttery-smooth rotation and precise feedback.

Build quality is impeccable; it feels substantial without taking up unnecessary space, perfectly suited to a tidy desktop setup.
The 2 key visual aspects of the design are the massive volume control that just begs to be touched:

Headphone or RCA toggle​

Clicking on the volume button toggles between the Headphone and RCA Preamp outputs, the Element IV cleverly remembers the volume and EQ between the headphone and the preamp outputs allows you to have for example some Room correction EQ on the RCA outputs while at the same time having dedicated EQ for your headphone.

This together with the Auto Gain feature (which I will explain a little bit more later) are ingenious solutions to keep the Element IV clean, minimalistic and most importantly ‘button free’.

Screen​

And the small screen which discretely shows relevant information for a few seconds then will turn black again:

Note: This glass is actually tinted and is made from Gorilla glass so should width day to day usage for a long time.

Typically, it displays the Input Mode (usb, optical), Format, Bitrate, current Volume, Output mode and current Gain:

But also can be used to change configuration options:

Options menu:​

Clicking and holding the volume button for 3 seconds shows the “options” menu on the display with a huge amount of configuration options:

But as you will see you can also configure these settings via the Web UI, but for example here is the DAC submenu:

On the back:​

On the back you get both an usb-c DAC input and an optical/SPDIF input as well as RCA outputs.

Even when “fully” loaded the back of the Element IV does not feel cluttered:


You can configure the ‘mode’ button to have a different behaviour but the simplest (and default) is to toggle between the usb-c and optical inputs.

Desktop setup​

I have been using the Element IV daily for the best part of a month now while working from home, and I think it is actually the perfect desktop headphone amplifier, it is small but easy to reach:

It also has more than enough power to effortlessly drive any headphone including very power hungry ones like the Modhouse Tungsten and the Sennheiser HD800s both of which I used for hours daily with the Element IV:

Features​

Let’s get into some of the important ‘internal’ features of the Element IV:

Powerful Output:​

Delivers up to 3.2 watts per channel into 32-ohm loads, effectively driving a wide range of headphones, from sensitive in-ear monitors to demanding planar magnetics. 

Parametric Equalization (EQ):​

Features a 10-band parametric EQ accessible via the JDS Core™ web app, allowing precise sound customization to match user preferences and headphone characteristics.
To use this you simply need to browser to https://core.jdslabs.com on Chrome or similar browser (but not Safari or Firefox) then you select to the JDS Element IV from the dialog that pops up to allow access to the “usb serial port”:



Once you connect you can tweak the EQ:

JDS have done a lovely job with the UI here allowing you to drag the EQ to your liking without needed to enter any vales should you want it. You can decide if you want the EQ immediately applied or not. So for example, a bass boost can be a good thing to visually adjust the bass while listening to get your preferred level.
You can also import an exported PEQ from various popular measurements databases including Squig.link, graph.hangouts. com and of course Pragmatic Audio IEM and Pragmatic Audio Headphone databases.
I really like that you can have a list of presets for both the headphone output but also for the RCA pre-amp output.
Finally, once you have imported a EQ profile it is available as a “My Presets” on the right-hand side:

You can have many presets in this area and quickly switch between profiles.
Because I liked how well this works, I am planning adding a new feature to Pragmatic Audio where you can push PEQ directly to Element IV presents menu.
Overall, the core JDS website is a pleasure to use to edit and configuration PEQ filters, I feel it does everything you should expect and more from a PEQ tool.

Other Configuration options​

As well as the PEQ configuration you have access to change all the DAC configuration options via various core website:

And you can configure even change the behaviour of the buttons on the via these configuration screens:

Auto Gain Functionality:​

This is a super clever feature and one I hope lots of manufacturers adopt but the Element IV supports automatically adjustments to the gain settings based on volume levels, ensuring optimal performance without manual intervention. Basically, as you approach 0 dbSPL it will switch from low gain to high gain in a gradual fashion seemlessly support a huge range of gain.

RCA Auto Gain​

You can also configure the RCA pre-gain to be manual if you want:

Perfect Channel Balance:​

Maintains precise channel balance down to -127.5 dBFS, enhancing soundstage accuracy and overall listening experience.

Robust Build Quality:​

Constructed with a sleek, all-metal chassis and a tactile volume control, combining durability with aesthetic appeal, I had been using the FiiO K11 in this space (as it is a similar size):

But the added power and especially the EQ capabilities of the Element IV meant it was an easy upgrade in every way, and though the K11 build quality is excellent for its price range, the Element IV is easily worth the upgrade. I have added a more detailed comparison with the new FiiO K17 later in this review.

Sound Impressions​

The Element IV shines through its powerful, clean, and very neutral presentation, allowing headphones to reach their full potential. The power provided on the headphone jack is outstanding meaning I never felt that something was missing from even my most demanding headphones and the auto gain feature is super handy if you are switching between demanding headphones to IEMs.

Bass​

The bass reproduction is impressively clean, fast, and authoritative even with the most demanding headphones.
Testing with tracks like Daft Punk’s “Instant Crush” showcases deep, controlled lows that never muddy the sound.

Mids​

Vocals and instruments sound incredibly natural and detailed. Listening to Norah Jones’ “Come Away With Me,” the midrange clarity and richness are captivatingly lifelike.

Treble​

The treble response is smooth yet detailed, offering exceptional clarity without harshness. “Hotel California” by the Eagles beautifully illustrates the Element IV’s ability to deliver sparkling treble detail without fatigue.

Soundstage and Imaging​

The soundstage is spacious and impressively precise, offering excellent separation and imaging accuracy—perfectly demonstrated by Pink Floyd’s “Money.”

Specifications and Measurements​

The DAC supports up to 32/384khz though if you enable the DSP this is then limited to 32/192Khz as you can see from my Mac:

Measurements​

For precise measurement references, I suggest diving into both Amir’s detailed analysis at AudioScienceReview and Cameron’s comprehensive measurements at Headphones.com as both highlight the Element IV’s exceptional performance, with negligible distortion and flat frequency response.
But I thought I would highlight some of the key aspects of both these technical reviews so first both the Audio Precision Dashboard get effectively the same result:


And I thought this was excellent as both got the same result of 3.1w into 32 Ohms:


Often when you see specifications like 3.2w Ohms into 32 Ohms from manufacturer who have to be a bit skeptical but in this case you can see both Amir and Cameron got very close e.g. 3.14W in 32Ohms. While I would encourage everyone to check out both reviews this was mostly all I needed to know, we have clean and powerful output from the Element IV verifed separately by 2 independent websites.

Comparison with the FiiO K17​

This is probably an unfair comparison, comparing the Element IV with a more expensive “desktop” amplifier but since I have been using both for the past few weeks I thought it might be useful.

The JDS Labs Element IV and the FiiO K17 are both high-performance DAC and headphone amplifier offering eq capabilities, but beyond that each company have gone in very different but interesting directions, the FiiO is following their trend of Retro inspired designs with lots of ‘buttons’ and pretty extensive connections on the back while JDS have gone for a minimalist design, both will have their fans but for a desktop setup I liked the Element IV much better (and I said this in my recent K17 review).

Here’s a comparative overview:

Power Output:

• Element IV: Delivers up to 3.2 watts per channel into 32-ohm loads, effectively driving a wide range of headphones, including demanding planar magnetics.
• K17: Offers a substantial 4.0 watts per channel in balanced mode, providing ample power for high-impedance and power-hungry headphones.

So similar, while technically the K17 has more power if you have mainly single ended headphone connections the 3.2 Watts offered by the Element IV will be louder.

Digital-to-Analog Conversion (DAC):

• Element IV: Utilizes an ESS Sabre DAC renowned for its low noise and high-fidelity audio reproduction. 
• K17: Features a dual-DAC setup with AKM AK4191 and dual AK4499EX chips, aiming for a rich and detailed sound signature. 

At the high end of the market I think it will be impossible to tell the difference between 2 high end DACs but it is nice to have either top quality DAC.

Equalization and DSP:

• Element IV: Equipped with a 10-band parametric equalizer (PEQ), allowing precise sound customization via the Core™ web app.
• K17: Potentially offers a 31-band high-precision lossless PEQ, managed through its integrated DSP, enabling detailed frequency adjustments. 

Currently, the K17 has various software bugs limiting access to key features like customising the Equaliser so this would be a clear win for the Element IV.

User Interface and Controls:

• Element IV: Features a minimalist design with a prominent horizontal volume knob and a small OLED display for clear status information.
• K17: Boasts a 3.93-inch LCD touchscreen, providing an intuitive interface for navigation and settings adjustments. 

This depends on if you appreciate simplicity over ‘options’, for a working desktop environment I actually appreciate simplicity but if I am testing some specific feature it can be great to have more options and configuration offered by the K17 screen.

Connectivity:

• Element IV: Includes USB Type-C and optical (TOSLINK) inputs, along with RCA preamp outputs for integration with various audio systems. 
• K17: Offers extensive connectivity options, including dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4Ghz/5Ghz), Ethernet port, Bluetooth, and RCA inputs, catering to both digital and analog sources. 

The K17 offers more connections including crucially balanced inputs and outputs as well as various headphones outputs but then again this is a question as do you want all the options or just the ones you actually need.

Design and Build:

• Element IV: Presents a sleek, compact form factor with a focus on functionality and ease of use.
• K17: Features a retro-inspired aesthetic with tactile controls, combining modern technology with classic design elements. 

Another comparison that is probably personal, I personally like the minimilist design of the Element IV for a “no messing about as I need to focus” desktop setup but the K17 is also a beautiful device that probably goes better with other “retro styled” products like the FiiO TT13 turntable or some retro styled tube amplifier.

Price Point:

• Element IV: Priced competitively around $549 USD, offering a balance of performance and affordability.
• K17: Positioned in the higher-end segment at approximately $899 USD (though I think the Tariff changes might cause this price to increase), reflecting its advanced features and robust build quality. 

In summary, the JDS Labs Element IV is ideal for users seeking a straightforward, powerful DAC/amp with essential features and a focus on high-quality audio performance. In contrast, the FiiO K17 caters to audiophiles desiring a feature-rich device with extensive connectivity, advanced features like Roon, and a distinctive Retro design. Your choice would depend on your specific requirements, preferences, and budget considerations. 

Rating​

I am giving the Element IV a 5-star pragmatic rating because it does what it sets out to do perfectly, as is the perfect desktop companion. With lots of power, phenomenal EQ functionality, and gorgeous minimalist aesthetics, it is genuinely an endgame desktop amplifier under $600.

Conclusion​

The JDS Element IV redefines minimalism and precision, offering fantastic sound quality, impressive power, and intuitive configuration and EQ features. It truly stands alone in its category as the ideal desktop amplifier especially if you like a clean look.
So, If you are looking for a minimalist headphone amplifier with power, precision and all the flagship level features you might need the JDS Element IV is an easy recommendation.

Stunningly beautiful headphone that embodies the emotional side of audio​

Meze Audio has long been known for its stunning industrial designs and premium craftsmanship, and the Meze 109 Pro is no exception.

As the company’s first open-back dynamic headphone, it combines a 50mm dynamic driver with high-quality materials such as black walnut wood, copper-zinc alloy, and manganese steel. The result is an elegant, lightweight, and beautifully crafted headphone that exudes luxury while delivering an exceptionally engaging sound.

After spending a few weeks with the 109 Pro, I can confidently say that it is a perfect blend of design, comfort, and sound. It is one of the rare headphones under $1000 that can impress in all three areas and this is the reason I am calling the 109 Pro a perfect coffee table headphone:

With every headphone I review, I do a little test of friends and family and how they react when they see something I might have left on the coffee table, often they completely ignore it or my kids might even tell me something is ‘stupid’ or ‘ugly’, but the 109 Pro literally “turned peoples heads” and generated a few “wows” on first sight.

A headphone that “turns heads”​

I think the 109 Pro is the first headphone that got a “3-wows” in my little subjective test, after the initial “wow” that is a gorgeous headphone, I would ask if they want to try it on and would generally get a 2nd “wow” and finally I played some music for them and got that 3rd “wow”.

I do think this is what distinguishes high-quality high-end audio products from other products, everyone can appreciate the looks, the build quality, the comfort and ultimately this is what helps bring people into the audio hobby.

I think together these are the “emotional aspects” of the audio experience deserve credit and credit to Meze they produce some gorgeous, comfortable headphones that have a unique rich / warm sound signature.

Basically, in summary I think the 109 Pro is a complete package for $800. I had been listening to and recently also reviewed to the Meze 104 AER and in lots of way it is a very similar headphone but for 1/2 the price as Meze cleverly gave that headphone a little bit of the magic of the 109 Pro, but the 109 Pro looks more premium and its sound is just a little richer than the 104 AER. I even recommended some EQ for the 104 AEE to get it closer to the 109 Pro. So, if you are chasing that Meze ‘rich’ sound the 109 Pro delivers without EQ.

Meze have always tuned their headphones with a balanced yet unique sound signature, positioning their various headphones cleverly where you get a little bit better build quality and some tweaks to the sound as you move up the headphone range.

What led up to the 109 Pro?​

The 109 Pro was built on a rich heritage of Meze building quality headphones:

But before we get into the 109 Pro’s sound quality, let’s start by looking at what you get in the box:

Unboxing and Build Quality​

The Meze 109 Pro arrives in a stylish square box featuring a cool geometric design on top:



Everything about the unboxing exudes elegance with subtlety touches like the impression of the headphone on the back:

Inside, you’ll find a well-designed hard-shell carrying case:


The carrying case is very nicely built:


Removing the carry case you can see some documentation underneath:


Finally opening up the case we get to see the 109 Pro:


And overall this is very consistent with Meze’s luxurious packaging aesthetic:


Along with a leather pouch containing two detachable 3.5mm cables—one long and one short.

The Headphone Itself​

Meze never fails to impress when it comes to design and build quality, and the 109 Pro continues this tradition:

Inspired by the original 99 Classics, this model elevates the aesthetic further with an intricate spider-design earcup, real walnut wood, and copper-zinc alloy details.

I love the level of detail you get in every aspect of this headphone, for example, the copper mesh over the driver itself is quiet beautiful:

The entire structure is flexible yet robust, ensuring longevity and sustainability every part is easily replaceable, which is a hallmark of Meze’s commitment to long-term usability.
Meze even have a publicity photo showing all the individual components that make up the 109 Pro:

You can see the screws in these photos:

The 3.5mm connectors provide a secure fit and allow for easy aftermarket cable swapping, making it versatile for those who enjoy customizing their setup, but Meze themselves have an excellent boom mic cable which fit perfectly:

While similar in design to the newer 105 AER, the 109 Pro is clearly the more premium headphone:

Comfort and Fit​

Despite its relatively compact earcups, the 109 Prooffers excellent comfort.


Replacing / upgrading these earpads is relatively easy as there is a plastic ring around the back of the earpads offering some rigidity and a small lip to secure the earpads:

It has a self-adjusting headband, ensuring a perfect fit without requiring manual adjustments:

The clamping force is just right—snug enough for stability but never too tight.


The velour earpads strike a balance between firmness and plushness, preventing your ears from touching the driver while maintaining comfort over extended listening sessions. And thanks to its lightweight design (375g), you can wear it for hours without fatigue.


I do think both the 104 AER and the 109 Pro offer the right compromise for most peoples heads between super large ear cups and tiny earpads. For example here is the size compared to my Hifiman Edition XS:

Internal Driver Architecture​

At the core of its design is a dual-composite diaphragm, composed of three carefully selected materials: a Beryllium-coated polymer for the dome, a cellulose-carbon fiber composite for the driver membrane, and a copper-zinc alloy stabilizer at the center.

This combination optimizes rigidity, damping, and weight, ensuring fast transient response, low distortion, and excellent frequency reproduction.

You can see this driver clearly if you remove the earpads:

The Beryllium coating enhances stiffness while maintaining low mass, allowing for precise treble extension without harshness. The cellulose-carbon fiber blend reduces resonances and contributes to a natural midrange with excellent instrument separation, while the copper-zinc stabilizer minimizes unwanted vibrations, improving clarity and dynamic impact.

Sound Impressions​

The Meze 109 Pro is a rich, immersive, and dynamically engaging headphone. Meze are known for having a rich ‘house sound’ but the 109 Pro is probably the most neutral and balanced headphone in their collection. It has a full-bodied midbass and a matching slightly emphasised treble which work harmoniously to create a highly musical and enjoyable yet balanced sound. It can be a sound to fall in love and has helped Meze gather a huge world-wide following.

Bass​

The midbass is rich and textured, adding warmth and depth to the presentation. While it doesn’t extend into the * deepest sub-bass* as some planar models do, it provides a satisfying and organic bass response that complements many genres well.
Test Track: “Angel” - Massive Attack

• The bass hits with depth and control, never overpowering the mix but always present.
• Layering and texture are excellent, adding realism to each bass note.

Mids​

The midrange is lush, warm, and smooth, characteristic of Meze’s tuning philosophy. Vocals and instruments have a * rich timbre*, making this headphone particularly engaging for vocal-centric music.
Test Track: “Hotel California” - Eagles (Live)

• Vocals sound natural and full-bodied, with excellent texture.
• Acoustic guitars have a realistic bite, maintaining clarity without harshness.

Treble​

While some treble enhancement is present, it never gets harsh or sibilant. The upper frequencies add a sense of air and detail, making for a lively yet non-fatiguing presentation.
Test Track: “Bubbles” - Yosi Horikawa

• Percussion and high frequencies sound crisp yet smooth.
• There’s no excessive brightness, but enough presence to keep details engaging.

Soundstage & Imaging​

The soundstage is wider than most dynamic driver headphones, providing an open and spacious presentation. Imaging is excellent, allowing instruments to be placed with precision across the stereo field.

Specifications and Measurements​

The important specifications here are the impedance and sensitivity which show this is a super easy to drive headphone. While I have been listening to it with some price equivalent amplifiers like the JDS Element IV and the new FiiO K17, it does work exceptionally well with everything from my Macbook Pro and even the Apple USB-C dongle.

Frequency Response​

Note: The following measurements were taken with my KB501X soft ear Pinna and a 711 clone coupler. They are available on my measurement database here.

I added a few areas to highlight what sound you can expect from the 109 Pro:

1. Great bass extension
2. Rich sounding mid-bass
3. Recessed 1K-2K region typical of headphones aiming to provide a decent soundstage
4. Great treble which extends deep (balancing that rich mid-bass)

I also measured the headphone with Glasses to see what change people who typical wear glasses might expect:

And, here is a comparison with the Meze 105 AER:


On this graph, I added two areas to note, the 109 Pro has a richer mid-bass (1) and has a fuller more extended treble (2)
And finally with the Frequency Response, here is a comparison with the Hifiman Edition XS and the Modhouse Tungsten:

All 3 are excellent headphones in completely different price ranges with the Meze 109 Pro in the middle but also probably the best built and arguable the most comfortable.

Distortion​

I thought it would be useful to check the distortion, specifically for those who want to drive it hard and also maybe use EQ.
As you can see there is minimal distortion even playing over 100dB:

And as a percentage it looks pretty good with around 2% in sub-bass:

Rating​

The Meze 109 Pro earns a 5-star Pragmatic Rating due to its exceptional combination of build quality, comfort, and sound performance.

Here is a breakdown:

• Build Quality: (Outstanding)
• Comfort: (Effortless to wear for long periods)
• Sound: (Rich, Engaging, musical, and dynamic)
• Value: (Great at its price point, but you could look at the 105 AER something almost as good)

Conclusion​

The Meze 109 Pro is one of the most complete headphone packages under $1000. It stuns with its beauty, impresses with its comfort, and delivers a rich emotionally engaging sound.
If you’re in the market for a stunningly crafted and emotionally engaging headphone, one that will impress your family and make your friends jealous, the Meze 109 Pro should be at the top of your list.

FiiO’s Retro revolution continues with the outstanding and updated K17​

FiiO has been at the forefront of the modern “retro” audio movement, releasing nostalgia-inspired products such as the CP13 cassette player and TT13 turntable. With the K17, FiiO integrates this classic aesthetic with the latest in high-end DAC and amplifier technology, creating a product that is both visually appealing and sonically exceptional.

The K17 is not only an evolution of the highly regarded K9 Pro, but also a step into new territory, offering an unparalleled blend of retro cool, power, audio precision, and features.

Beyond its stunning retro-inspired design, the K17 is an exceptional feature packed DAC/Amp that can drive even the most demanding headphones with ease. I have been using it with some fairly challenging headphones in recent weeks using it when evaluating the Modhouse Tungsten, various demanding Sennheiser's and also with the Hifiman HE6S2 V2 all of which scaled implacable well with the 4W in the K17:

I really appreciate how the K17 feels like the culmination of several design and feature trends we’ve seen in FiiO products in recent years. It brings together high-quality internal components, a wealth of advanced features including robust PEQ support and a screen that greatly enhances navigation and configuration. It also confidently embraces a retro-inspired aesthetic that sets it apart.

Review Updated:​

When I originally wrote this review, I felt the K17 still had a few too many bugs and was still missing some key features, but I have noticed many firmware updates in the last few weeks, especially the latest firmware that it received over the weekend:

These updates combined with some updates to the FiiO control mobile app has finally sorted out most of the issues that was holding the K17 back, and therefore I felt I should update this review for more clarity. I highlight some of the section with a “Update:” prefix below to show which sections where updated.

But let’s start with the unboxing experience.

Unboxing and First Impressions​

The FiiO K17 arrives now in the typical impressive premium package that immediately sets the tone for a high-end experience:

Back of the box:

Opening it up you get a warning about the power supply:


There is actually a switch for 120V or 220V on the underneath so important that it is setup correctly for your voltage requirements.

Removing the warning you see the K17 wrapped in a protective cover:


Taking everything out of the box, you’ll find:

• The K17 unit
• Power adapter and cable ( I got 2 with a UK and a EU plug )
• USB cables (Type-C and Type-A)
• Optical and coaxial cables
• Infrared remote control
• 6.35mm to 3.5mm headphone adapter
• XLR protective cap
• User manual and warranty card

The remote is a nice feature for those you want to set up the K17 in a Rack or even just outside of arms reach, I like some of the button choices on the remote including the ability to switch EQ profiles:



There is plenty of cooling grills on the K17 though it never felt hot to me:

Build quality​

The build quality is exceptional. With an aluminum alloy chassis, tactile physical switches, and a gorgeous color LCD screen, the K17 exudes both a premium, vintage HiFi feeland it feels modern.



The back is equally impressive with plenty of connections:



A VU meter animation adds a touch of nostalgia:



Both the black version (which I have been using) and the silver version are showstoppers, evoking memories of classic 1970s and 1980s stereo components with the various dials, yet it still has the modern touches you need in 2025, like the touchscreen and displaying Album Art and metadata when streaming or local playback.

The dials are well-thought-out with the volume and a quick menu selector on the right hand side:

Here is a brief animation of the menu navigation using the menu dial:

The device is relatively compact for its capabilities, featuring an intuitive 3.93-inch LCD touchscreen that makes navigation effortless. I really like the usb-c connection on the front, this makes it easy to connect a laptop or a mobile when setup in your high rack or possible when using the K17 as a DAC in a desktop setup like this one:

Though to be honest I think it is a little big for a working from home desktop setup (at least in my little setup), especially if you want desktop speakers on the same desk, so I mainly used it in my main hifi setup.

For comparison, the JDS Element IV is much practical device for a smaller desktop:

And of course FiiO own K11 is a much smaller device for these smaller setups:

Wired Inputs​

As you can see in the photos above there are a lot of wired connections:

• USB x 3 (2 on the back, one larger USB ideal for an external USB device)
• A RS232 “usb” interface (for firmware updates)
• A 12V Trigger input
• Optical
• Coaxial
• RCA Line-In
• Ethernet (it also has Wifi and Bluetooth)
• A 4.4mm balanced input ( an unusual option, but I guess they didn’t have room for a XLR balanced input)

Wired Outputs​

• RCA Line-Out
• XLR Balanced Out
• Coaxial
• Optical Digital Outputs

Features​

The K17 is so packed with features that I couldn’t include all of them, so I picked a few key things I think everyone should know about the K17.

First some details about the internals which you can peak at through the grills:



FiiO provides lots of technical information on their website here, but I liked this diagram showing the physically separate boards used in the design:

Flagship AKM DAC Implementation​

• AK4191 + Dual AK4499EX DAC Chips for reference-level sound quality
• Advanced power supply design with physically separated circuit boards for reduced noise
• Fully balanced design for minimal crosstalk and enhanced clarity

High-Powered Amplification​

• 4000mW per channel (balanced output)
• Discrete Class AB transistor current amplifier for powerful, clean output
• Can drive everything from sensitive IEMs to high-impedance headphones with ease

Firmware updates​

My unit received a software update within a few days of being setup. This update was split into 2 parts one worked via the local usb disk method to update it:

But the second part of the update required using a computer and mine got stuck when using my Macbook to apply the MCU update but when I switched to my Windows Laptop the update was quickly applied:

This initial update was pretty extensive, I would hope future updates are easier and happen automatically:



Update: I am currently on v193 and most of the issues I had with the K17 are now solved and the update process is now OTA so a much simpler process.

Streaming Support​

FiiO talk about 8 different modes of playback and as well as RCA Input, Balanced Input, Optical and Coaxial there are a few “Streaming” modes.

Roon​

One of the standout features of the K17—particularly if you’re a Roon subscriber—is its native Roon support, which makes it feel like a truly complete device. Simply link your Tidal account within Roon, and you’re presented with a visually elegant and highly functional streaming solution housed in a beautifully designed unit. From there, all you need are your headphones (and perhaps a pair of powered speakers) to enjoy a fully integrated, high-end audio setup:

Bluetooth and Airplay​

These options work as you might expect - though you need to be using the right input for the K17 to be seen when “cast” via bluetooth or Airplay.

With bluetooth you clearly see the codec being used:



Note: One of the annoying bugs still in the current firmware is my K17 freezes (hangs and I have to switch it off and on again via the hardware on/off on the back) after I use the bluetooth interface for a while.

But when using an Apple device you can use Airplay 2, but as ever with Airplay 2 you can see the iPhone has converted the bitrate down to 16Bit/44Khz:

USB DAC​

But for those who want lossless audio the USB DAC works great presenting lots of high def audio output options:

Local playback and the FiiO Music Application​

Another option for lossless playback is using your own local files. Simply load up a USB drive with lots of own FLAC / MP3 files, and you can update the built-in local music with metadata including album art and use the remote or navigate the music using the onscreen browser:

You can actually use the FiiO Link support with the FiiO Android and IOS apps to remotely control and navigate your local music library while not quiet as convenient as an App like Roon or WiiM’s mobile app for their Streamers, it is a perfectly good solution for remote controlling playback of music from your Smartphone.
Note: On my iPhone, I had to enter the IP Address of the K17:

But once I did I could remotely control the playback - though the album art was not shown in the App but was on the K17 screen:

On Android, it was slightly easier to find the K17 and launch the FiiO Link support:


Though it does “hang” when I try and remotely configure the K17:


But you can still control the music remotely which is nice:

Update: Analog and Digital inputs​

I forgot to mention in my original review the quality of the digital inputs, but I have been using my DM13 cd player both as a “cd transport” into the coaxial input of the K17 and as a test into the balanced input. It sounds excellent using either path:

Screen and UI Navigation​

The on-screen menu system is very intuitive with a Home and a Back on each screen:

Update: 31-Band Parametric EQ (PEQ)​

You can switch on EQ and switch between the different presets both physically on the device as well as using the remote as seen in this little video:

And you can finally edit the EQ using the FiiO Control application both on IOS and Android:

But we are still missing the ability to use the FiiO “Control” Website https://fiiocontrol.fiio.com to edit those filters but hopefully this feature will be added to the FiiO Control website soon and its lack doesn’t really hold the K17 back in any meaningful way.
I can now finally assign one EQ profile specifically for my external speakers via the Line Out, while reserving other customizable PEQ profiles for various headphones and IEMs in my collection. This level of flexibility significantly enhances the K17’s appeal for users with diverse listening setups.

Sound Impressions​

The FiiO K17 delivers an incredible powerful transparent sound signature. Unless you want a “warm” Tube sound from your Amplifier, this is the sound you should strive for. A true end-game level of power and quality.

Bass​

The bass is tight, textured, and authoritative, never overpowering but deep and controlled. The K17 delivers * clean sub-bass extension* without bloat, making it an excellent choice for bass-heavy genres and orchestral music alike.

Mids​

The midrange is lush and natural, with superb vocal clarity. Whether it’s jazz, acoustic, or rock, vocals sound intimate yet spacious. Instruments have a lifelike presence, making the listening experience truly immersive.

Treble​

Treble is smooth yet well-extended, free of harshness or excessive brightness. Cymbals have natural decay, and details are presented effortlessly without fatigue.

Specifications and Measurements​

Audio parameters:

6.35mm Single-Ended Headphone Output​

4.4mm/XLR4 Balanced Headphone Output​

Line Output​

Measurements​

Note: These are some measurement FiiO provided - I have them copied here for completeness:

32 Ohm Single Ended output to the headphone jack on ultra-high gain - gets a very respectable SINAD value of 105/106:

32 Ohm Balanced Output to the headphone jack on ultra-high gain also get a very similar SINAD score:

And finally Balanced LO and RCA where similar (this is the Balanced):

Note: This isn’t SOTA but is respectable and above any level where you might hear noise.

The frequency response curves were flat to > 40K, so I didn’t bother to include them - but you can check them out here

Distortion​

Distortion is excellent:

Update: Rating​

I have now given the FiiO K17 a 5-star Pragmatic Rating. From a hardware perspective, it was always an outstanding end game device offering a striking retro design, robust build quality, and ample power for virtually any use case. And finally with the latest updates, it feels like a finished product.

The K17 now performs exceptionally well across multiple use cases whether as a standalone DAC, a high-power headphone amplifier, or a Roon-ready streaming endpoint. It really is a Jack of all trades and a master of most of them device. With the latest fixes I feel now the K17 is a category-leading audiophile product in the sub $1000 range.

Conclusion​

The FiiO K17 feels like an end game device, one that FiiO have been leading up to for a few years with the 3 pronged approach to audio products, embracing retro designs, incorporating high quality audio components, providing massive amounts of power and adding key audio features like PEQ filters.

Operating the K17 is a joyful, tactile experience, thanks to its physical switches and intuitive touchscreen interface. The VU meter animation, though slightly laggy, adds to the vintage charm. If you’re looking for a high-end DAC/Amp with no compromises, especially if you are a Roon user the K17 is an easy recommendation.

A refinement on the Original but is it too "technical"?​

Truthear’s collaborations with Crinacle have consistently aimed to deliver Harman-tuned excellence at budget-friendly prices. The Zero Blue 2 is the latest iteration of their dual dynamic driver (DD) IEM tries to outdo the previous Truthear Zero models, the original Zero and the Zero Red but did it “fly too close to the sun” with its treble tuning?
It has been hard to ignore the hype both positive and negative surrounding this IEM and with Crinacle's new brand CrinEar also announcing 3 other IEMs it seems like this IEM has been under extra scrutiny, this is especially true with the main suggestion to only use Foam eartips.

However, after using the Zero Blue for a few weeks now (both the pre-production unit and production unit) I can confirm that tip selection can be crucial but not for everyone needs to worry and there are some other alternatives to using foam ear tips which i will present later in the review.
While Foam tips deliver an excellent Harman tuning even for those sensitive to upper treble by helping to dampen down the treble, I think the inclusion of the 5 Ohm adapter to boost the bass beyond Harman and even Crinacle own preferences indicate to me that a Harman++ shaped tuning with extra sub-bass balanced with extra upper treble was one of the goals of this IEM, but these options make the Zero Blue 2, a versatile high quality IEM to add to your collection.

I would like to thank Shenzhenaudio for providing the Zero Blue 2 for the purposes of this review.​

If you are interested in finding more information about this product, you can check it out here.​

But before we get into the sound, let’s dive into the unboxing experience.

Unboxing and Build Quality​

Truthear keeps things minimalist but functional. The Zero Blue 2 arrives in a compact box:

I do like it when an IEM has a frequency response on the back which shows both the normal FR and the bass boosted one you get with the 5Ohm adapter:

Sliding the box out of its sleeve you get an internal box:


Opening up you get a brief manual:


Removing it you finally get to see the Blue 2 and the carry case:


Taking everything out of the box this is what you get:


Inside, you’ll find:

• The IEMs
• A soft carrying pouch
• A very decent detachable cable - this cable is similar but better than the one in the Truthear Gate:

• A good selection of ear tips (foam and silicone)

• A 5Ω adapter

The IEM Itself​

The Zero Blue 2retains the sleek, transparent shell aesthetic:


The build quality is solid, feeling durable without being too heavy.

Comfort and Fit​

The smaller nozzle makes a massive differencein comfort.


While the original Zero Blue had nozzle fit issues for many, the Zero Blue 2 resolves this and should accommodate more ear shapes without discomfort:

They have also changed the angle of the nozzle compared to the original:

Here are some size comparisons with the Truthear Zero:

And you can see the difference in angle here:


This for me is even more crucial for nozzle size as I do find the original and the Zero Red move slightly in my ear when I used them out walking but after a few days with the Zero Blue 2 I find it stays very secure with an excellent fit.

Technical Advancements over the original​

Like its predecessors, the Zero Blue 2 features dual dynamic drivers, but with significant internal modifications. The 7.8mm driver, responsible for mids and highs, now utilizes a larger magnet (25% increase) and an expanded dome area (50% increase). These changes enhance conversion efficiency, treble extension, and overall resolution.
The driver structure incorporates:

• LCP (Liquid Crystal Polymer) dome diaphragm for improved rigidity and transient response.
• Flexible polyurethane suspension to enhance smoothness in frequency transitions.
• Refined high-frequency conductive structure, leading to clearer, more transparent upper frequencies.

I am a sucker for diagrams of the internals of audio products:


These advancements were designed to make the Zero Blue 2’s treble significantly more refined while retaining the Harman tuning balance in the lower frequencies, but does it go too far?
This is why I cheekily mentioned it might have “too much ’technicalities’” but let’s get onto my subjective opinions and these might surprise you a little.

Sound Impressions​

The Truthear Zero Blue 2 continues to nail the Harman IE 2019 tuning, offering a balanced sound signature that should appeal to a wide audience while this time adding that extra technical prowess in the treble but also with the optional 5Ω adapter for bass heads. So there are quite a lot of options for those who like to tweak sound without using EQ.
I only briefly used the adapter as normally for me, a Harman tuned IEM has a little too much bass but in this case, that added treble mostly balanced out nicely with very nice Harman “tuned” bass provided. I did play around with using both the silicon tips, foam tips and many other third party ear tips. It it wrong to say “silicon bad - foam good”, I would suggest find the ear tips that work for you as this IEM will respond differently to different eartips (as you will see in the measurements).

Overall impressions​

Overall, I think the bass is exceptional better than the 2 previous Zero’s, the midrange is superb. And while I am more of a fan of a JM-1 like tuning, the specific treble peaks, that show up on the measurements, did not subjectively bother me at least. Treble is the area of massive subjective differences between how people hear things and I think this IEM with silicon tips might exaggerate this differences, it certainly does on the measurements rigs. As we get older that 15K / 16K upper treble can actually do with a boost in these regions as we move into our 40’s:


So for me, the Blue 2 sounded like it has we used to call “good technicalities”, that extra little “shimmer” on high-hats and a very detailed sound that many will appreciate. So, I would suggest giving the Zero Blue 2 a go, you might be surprised, especially if you are a fan of Harman tuning.
If there was one area of the treble that I personally would change, it is the 4-5K region, as I have come to appreciate a JM-1 tuning more over the past year but given even the most recent research shows
Harman and a JM-1 target are both perfectly acceptable ‘scientifically proven’ popular targets.
Here are some more details:

Bass​

The dual DD configuration ensures a well-extended, clean bass response. Out of the box, bass is tight, punchy, and well-controlled, but those who prefer more warmth can use the included 5Ω adapter to increase low-end presence slightly.
Test Track: “Billie Eilish - bad guy”

• Impactful and clean bass, no muddiness
• Great sub-bass extension without overpowering the mids

Mids​

The midrange is neutral and clear, benefiting from the Harman tuning. Vocals are well-placed and transparent, never too recessed or too forward.
Test Track: “Fleetwood Mac - Dreams”

• Vocals are natural and textured
• Acoustic instruments sound organic and lifelike

Treble​

Treble is where the Zero Blue 2 differs the most from its predecessor. High frequencies are **more detailed and airy **, giving the IEMs a sense of greater technical precision. However, as I mentioned earlier if you are suspectable to treble sibilance the silicone tips might make treble overly sharp for you. While foam tips dampen things perfectly..
Test Track: “Daft Punk - Giorgio by Moroder”

• Cymbals and high hats are crisp and resolving
• With Silicone tips it was excessibe brightness

Soundstage & Imaging​

The Zero Blue 2 has a spacious soundstage for an IEM in this price range. Imaging is precise, allowing instruments to be well-placed across the stereo field, this is one area where extra treble can help allowing the upper harmonics of certain instruments stand out given them depth.

Specifications and Measurements​

Model	ZERO:BLUE2
Driver	10mm + 7.8mm Dynamic Drivers
Diaphragm	LCP Liquid Crystal & Polyurethane Suspension
Impedance	5.8Ω ±15% @1kHz
Sensitivity	119.5dB/Vrms @1kHz
THD	<0.3% @1kHz @94dB
Frequency Range	9-41kHz (IEC61094, Free Field)
Effective FR Range	20-20kHz (IEC60318-4, -3dB)

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Specification​

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Details​

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Frequency Response​

Note: The following measurements were taken with my KB501X soft ear Pinna and a 711 clone coupler. They are available on my measurement database here.
Let’s start with the FR and the channel matching using the Silicon tips:


I highlighted 2 areas on this initial FR, the extra bass ’tuck’ (1) and that 15K peak (2).
Now the difference with the Foam tips and the Silicon ones:

You can see the Foam tips mostly low the extreme peak but also change other areas of the treble. Whether this will work better for you will be very subjective, my suggestion is to give it a go you might not hear that peak as a peak and the foam might introduce a peak that you can hear in a different area.
I noticed that smaller foam has less of a seal and therefore lowered a bass a little:


And I tried slightly longer third party ‘red’ foam tips also:

For a bit of fun I also tried a triple flange (which typically works better for those with long ear canals)

This again changed the treble considerable but didn’t have the same peak as the silicon eartips.
I had received a pre-production pair so it was also interesting to compare the differences between these and what was “changed” for the production version:

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Silicon​

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Foam​

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So, the changes were basically in the 4K to 8K region (I may actually prefer the pre-production unit).
Finally, I measured the 5 Ohm and the 10 Ohm (from the Zero Red) to see the difference in Bass:

Comparisons​

First lets compare with the KE4 and the Truthear Zero Red:

The Zero Red has less bass (1) (at least without the 10 Ohm Adapter), but the 5 Ohm adapter from the Blue 2 on the Zero Red might actually be a nice option, and you can see that lack of a mid-bass ’tuck’ with JM-1 tuned IEMs like the Kiwiears KE4 and finally i highlight that the even with the Foam tips there might be a little bit too much pinna gain (3).
Adding the Aful Explorer and the silicon tips :

I highlight the different in mid-bass tuning (1) and especially the different in the pinna / presence region (2) and that 15K treble peak (3).
Finally comparing with some recent Harman tuned IEMs that I like:

Distortion Measurements​

The Zero Blue 2 (like the Red) show incredible low distortion ( and much improved over the original Blue ):

Showing these distortion as a percentage you can again see the treble distortion but its is less than 0.5% so nothing to worry about:

An alternative ‘pairing’ option​

So, one extra thing I thought might be useful is I did play with some EQ for the Zero Blue 2, and specifically I tried it out walking with FiiO UTWS5 (2025 edition) and I liked how this combination worked for
comfort and for those who want to keep using the silicon tips and tweak the sound using EQ:

Of course, there are many ways to EQ, but I liked how the Zero Blue 2 fit easily into the case and I believe because of the subtle changes in the angle of the Nozzle it worked really well in my ear unlike other IEMs with the UTWS5 as it is less flexible than a table when you need to get an accurate fit.

Rating​

I have given the Truthear Zero Blue 2 a 4-star Pragmatic Rating. It offers a lot of improvements over the previous generation of Truthear Zero’s at effectively the same price (given inflation and tariff increases):

• Much better internal design, improving both the bass and treble especially
• A much smaller nozzle, improving fit over the oversized original
• A significantly upgraded cable
• An optional microphone cable
• A 5Ω adapter, which slightly increases bass presence for those who prefer a warmer tuning

While there might be some uncertainty for those who only like silicon tips and especially whether an “enhanced” Harman tuning is still the best or has that been replaced by JM-1 / “new-meta”. So, if you do not like foam tips, are affected by treble sibilance and in your 20’s, I would go for a different IEM.
Here is a breakdown of my opinions:

• Build Quality: (Durable and a great cable so good improvements over the original)
• Comfort: ☆ (Smaller nozzle improves fit, but tip selection may be critical)
• Sound: (Balanced Harman tuning with great detail )
• Value: ($65 is an outstanding price for this performance)

Conclusion​

The Truthear Zero Blue 2 takes an already excellent budget IEM and makes meaningful improvements. The better cable, smaller nozzle, and added tuning flexibility make it a clear upgrade over the original Truthear, but you if you are fan of Harman tuned IEMS you might still prefer the Truthear Red tuning slightly over than the Truthear Blue 2, it is all in the “technicalities”.
But for just $65 (or $70 with a mic), this is a no-brainer recommendation for those seeking top-tier tuning at an affordable priceand a great option to add to your collection.