Reviews by RemedyMusic

INTRODUCTION:
Kefine, has consistently impressed with their innovative audio solutions. Having personally experienced their products, from the esteemed Klanar onward, I eagerly anticipate diving into the sonic depths of their latest offering, the Klean. Now, Kefine has extended its reach to a more budget-conscious audience. Priced at an affordable $49, the question arises: Can such a modest price tag deliver a truly satisfying audio experience? Let us embark on this auditory journey to uncover the answer.

INCLUSIONS:
CABLE:
The included cable, while functional, is rather generic and lacks any notable frills. For those who believe in the significance of cable quality, the Klean offers the flexibility to accommodate third-party cables. The stock cable, though lightweight and discreet, is presented in a simple white color. Termination is only available on 3.5mm.

EARTIPS:
The Klean comes with a single eartip option, a necessary cost-cutting measure at this price point. While these tips are functional, audiophiles may wish to experiment with different eartip configurations to further refine the sound signature.

CASE:
Kefine's inclusion of a carrying case at this price point is a commendable gesture. While a pouch might have been a more cost-effective solution, the brand's decision to provide a full-fledged case is certainly appreciated.

TUNING NOZZLES:
The Klean offers a customizable listening experience with two interchangeable tuning nozzles. The silver nozzle provides a warmer, more relaxed sound signature, while the black nozzle delivers a brighter, more forward-leaning sound with a focus on midrange and treble. As a fan of a brighter sound profile and enhanced technical detail, I opted for the black nozzle.

COMFORT AND WEAR:
The Klean offers a comfortable and secure fit, easily forming a tight seal. While lightweight, it remains substantial enough to provide adequate grip and isolation. Extended wear, including during naps, proved to be entirely comfortable, making it suitable for both casual listening and professional applications such as recording and stage performances.

SOUND IMPRESSIONS:
SOURCES:
1. Ovidius B1
2. Centrance Dacport HD
3. Hiby FC6
4. Fiio M11 Plus Ltd
5. VE Odo
6. VE Abigail
7. Apple music subscription
8. Qobuz Studio subscription
9. EPZ TP50
10. EPZ TP35

TECHNICAL SIDE:
The Klean boasts an above-average soundstage, with a respectable width but less pronounced height and depth. This is expected for an IEM at this price point.

The Klean's sound signature leans towards a smoother, less analytical presentation. Bass guitar and percussive instruments are rendered with a reduced level of grit, resulting in a more relaxed listening experience.

The dynamic driver employed in the Klean offers adequate speed, capable of handling fast-paced tracks with aplomb. It may struggle slightly with highly complex musical passages, with a rather soft attack compared to some sets I have around the $200 bracket.

One of the Klean's standout features is its imaging capabilities. At this price point, it excels in instrument placement and vocal separation, creating a sense of 3D sound that belies its relatively modest stage depth.

The Klean's accurate timbre further enhances the listening experience. Instruments and vocals sound natural, organic, and realistic, adding to the overall authenticity of the sound.

SOUND PROFILE:
The Klean's bass performance is characterized by its emphasis on punch and mid-bass, rather than sub-bass rumble. While it can deliver some low-end impact, the decay is relatively quick, resulting in a balanced and cleaner overall sound. The bass quantity is sufficient to induce head-nodding, but it lacks the chest-thumping intensity of more bass-oriented IEMs. Additionally, the smooth presentation of the bass contributes to the Klean's less analytical character.

The midrange is undoubtedly the Klean's forte. A forward and present midrange allows for a clear and detailed presentation of instruments and vocals. This characteristic is particularly appealing to midrange enthusiasts, as it prioritizes the core elements of the music. Jazz and vocal tracks benefit significantly from this tuning, as the relevant instruments and vocal performances take center stage. The midrange is not thin or anemic, possessing a satisfying weight and thickness.

The Klean strikes a balance between energy and smoothness, avoiding excessive brightness or sibilance. The treble offers a suitable amount of shimmer and detail without becoming fatiguing. While treble-heads may yearn for a slightly more aggressive presentation, the Klean's treble tuning is likely to appeal to a wider audience, especially those sensitive to high frequencies.

VERDICT:
Kefine deserves commendation for delivering a high-quality audio experience at a more accessible price point. The Klean punches well above its weight, rivaling its more expensive Delci siblings in terms of musicality, timbre, and technical prowess. Kefine has once again demonstrated their mastery of sonic balance, ticking all the right boxes for discerning audiophiles. Looking ahead, I'm eager to see Kefine explore more complex driver configurations, perhaps incorporating balanced armatures. They have earned my recommendation as a brand to watch, and I anti
cipate their continued rise to prominence in 2025.

INTRODUCTION:
BQEYZ, a name synonymous with audiophile excellence, requires no introduction from me. As a dedicated follower, I’ve consistently lauded their products. While my admiration might skew my perspective, I'll strive for objectivity in my evaluation.

BQEYZ has just concluded their acclaimed Season series with the Winter, and they're now embarking on a fresh journey with the Wind entering the Weather series. Let's dive in without further ado.

INCLUSIONS:
If you're acquainted with BQEYZ, the generous eartip selection will come as no surprise. While they haven’t partnered with third-party tip manufacturers, the included options are remarkably commendable. I often incorporate them into my tip-rolling arsenal.

The cable is another standout feature. BQEYZ has struck the ideal balance between thickness and weight. It’s robust enough to inspire confidence without feeling cumbersome, ensuring a comfortable listening experience.

The protective case, while a standard offering, is more than adequate to shield your IEMs from harm.

INTERNALS:
The Wind marks BQEYZ's second foray into bone conduction technology, following the Winter. Unlike its predecessor, which primarily focused on higher frequencies, the Wind utilizes bone conduction drivers to deliver a more robust low-frequency performance.
Complementing this, a 10mm dynamic driver.

While BQEYZ has opted to develop their drivers in-house rather than partnering with industry giants like Sonion or Knowles, their implementation is commendable. That said, I'd be intrigued to see what they could achieve with the expertise of established driver manufacturers.

COMFORT AND WEAR:
BQEYZ has historically favored a shallower fit, which has been a point of contention for those who prefer a deeper insertion. However, beginning with the Winter, they've made strides in improving the fit, gradually allowing for deeper penetration.

Comfort is a strong suit, with no discernible physical fatigue and shells that accommodate both small and large ears.

Isolation, on the other hand, is compromised by the semi-open back design. While this isn't entirely a negative, it does result in some sound leakage. You may be able to hear ambient noise, and others might hear your music in quieter settings.

DRIVABILITY AND SYNERGY:
The Wind thrives on ample power. To unlock its full potential, consider pairing it with a dedicated audio source. A mobile phone might fall short in providing the necessary juice.

The Wind is versatile, harmonizing well with various sources. Whether you lean towards a more analog or technical sound, it adapts to your preferences. It also responds positively to different pairings, showcasing its adaptability.

SOUND IMPRESSIONS:

SOURCES:
1. Ovidius B1
2. Centrance Dacport HD
3. Hiby FC6
4. Fiio M11 Plus Ltd
5. VE Odo
6. VE Abigail
7. Apple music subscription
8. Qobuz Studio subscription
9. EPZ TP50

TECHNICAL SIDE:
The Wind boasts a captivating soundstage, thanks to its semi-open back design. It offers a spacious and expansive acoustic environment, making orchestral works by composers like Vivaldi and Hans Zimmer an absolute delight.

Imaging is commendable, with good accuracy, though it may not reach the surgical precision of some other IEMs.

Timbre is spot on, devoid of any artificial character. The sound is transparent, with a subtle note weight that lends a natural and analog quality.

The dynamic driver's speed is commendable, allowing it to effortlessly handle complex and fast-paced tracks. However, the inherent limitations of dynamic drivers mean it won't match the speed of balanced armature or planar drivers.

Separation and layering might not be as pronounced for those seeking an analytical approach. The Wind presents a cohesive and integrated sound, rather than a dissected masterpiece. Nonetheless, separation is still well-executed.

Overall, the Wind offers technical capabilities that surpass the norm.

SOUND PROFILE:
The Wind offers a moderately elevated bass response that keeps things lively and engaging without becoming overwhelming. The well-implemented bone conduction driver imparts a sense of air and depth, reminiscent of a subwoofer. When a track demands deep frequencies, the Wind delivers. While electronic music isn't my primary genre, it performs admirably in this regard, showcasing agile and quick bass with no muddiness or sluggishness. Bass guitars exhibit excellent texture and detail.

BQEYZ has always excelled in tuning mids, and the Wind is no exception. Their midrange tuning, which goes against Harman-target, is something that has stick with me and became one of my constant preference. Vocals are balanced, rendering both male and female voices with equal clarity and a slight forward presentation. The mids are transparent, and the upper mids never become harsh, even with instruments like trumpets or bagpipes.

The treble offers just the right amount of sparkle and grit, with excellent detail and reach. However, treble enthusiasts might crave a bit more openness. Some reviewers have characterized the treble as dark, but I find it to be in the sweet spot between dark and bright. Sibilance has never been an issue, ensuring comfortable listening sessions.

COMPARISONS:
Unfortunately, there aren't many direct comparisons to draw here as I only have the Unique Melody MEST MK3. With its vastly different price point and driver configuration, it isn't a fair comparison. However, given that they both incorporate bone conduction drivers, it's worth noting that while the MEST MK3 excels in most areas, the Wind isn't far behind.

One area where the Wind shines is the midrange. I appreciate its slightly forward presentation and added note weight, which give it a unique character compared to the MEST MK3.

VERDICT:
The Wind has quickly become my go-to choice among the BQEYZ lineup. It's a well-balanced, enjoyable, and engaging IEM that offers excellent control across the frequency spectrum and technicalities. While there's always room for improvement, my only minor criticisms lie in separation and layering.

The Wind checks all the boxes for me, with a well-implemented bone conduction driver, subwoofer-like bass, lush mids, and a well-executed treble free of sibilance. I've enjoyed the Wind so much that I could almost contemplate retiring from the audiophile hobby. It stands just behind my MEST MK3, despite their significant price difference and categorization. The fact that the Wind performs so admirably speaks volumes about its quality.

I extend my sincere gratitude to Elle Zhou for providing the Wind at a discounted price in exchange for this review.

INTRODUCTION:
Venture Electronics is a maverick in the audio periphery market, specializing in a diverse range of products from diminutive dongles to intricate in-ear monitors. Their Abigail Pro, Megatron, and Monk series earbuds have garnered widespread acclaim within the audiophile community. Today, I delve into their offering, the Sie in-ear monitor, a product that has undeniably surprised me. While Venture Electronics may not be a household name in the fiercely competitive Chi-Fi landscape, the Sie is a compelling testament to their capabilities. Read on.

INCLUSIONS:
Venture Electronics adopts a minimalist approach to packaging, prioritizing sonic performance over aesthetic presentation. The unboxing experience is devoid of frills, with the package containing only the earphones, a sturdy case, silicone eartips, the cable, and essential paperwork. The included eartips offer a standard baseline, prompting experimentation with aftermarket options. I found the Divinus Velvet Balanced tips to synergize exceptionally well with the Sie.

The accompanying cable is remarkable, featuring an MMCX connector—a connection type known for its susceptibility to wear and tear. The omission of ear hooks is an unconventional choice, though I encountered no significant discomfort during use. The included case is a utilitarian design, effectively safeguarding the IEMs while lacking in flair.

BUILD AND APPEARANCE:
The Sie's gold hue is undeniably striking, although its boldness might not appeal to all. The earphone's shell exhibits a refined elegance reminiscent of BQEYZ's aesthetic. Despite its substantial weight, which some users might find cumbersome, I personally found it tolerable. The Sie's opulent appearance blurs the lines between audio equipment and personal adornment, potentially passing as earrings or jewelry.

SOUND IMPRESSIONS:

SOURCES:
1. Ovidius B1
2. Centrance Dacport HD
3. Hiby FC6
4. Fiio M11 Plus Ltd
5. VE Odo
6. VE Abigail
7. Apple music subscription
8. Qobuz Studio subscription
9. EPZ TP50

TECHNICAL SIDE:
The Sie presents a soundstage with ample headroom, exhibiting a commendable balance of width, depth, and height. While not the most expansive soundscape I've encountered, it provides a satisfactory listening experience.

Imaging is commendable, offering accurate placement of musical elements, though not with surgical precision.

The dynamic driver's speed is impressive, particularly considering the IEM's emphasis on timbre. It handles most tracks adeptly, but may exhibit slight limitations in exceptionally complex passages.

Instrument separation is average, leaning towards a cohesive presentation rather than distinct layering.

Where the Sie truly excels is in its timbre. Its analog, organic, and natural tonality is a hallmark of its sonic character. Timbre enthusiasts will undoubtedly find the Sie compelling. The IEM possesses an addictive quality, fostering a deep emotional connection with the music.

While the Sie can benefit from additional power from a dedicated source, it performs admirably even when driven directly from a portable audio player. However, smartphone outputs may prove inadequate.

SOUND PROFILE:
The Sie presents a W-shaped tonal balance. Its bass response is robust, deep, and impactful. While the Divinus Velvet Balance eartips mitigated some of the low-end emphasis, the bass remains a prominent feature. The quality is smooth rather than highly detailed, drawing comparisons to the TSMR X. Employing bass-enhancing tips can push the Sie into basshead territory.

The midrange is another focal point, exhibiting a forward presentation that will appeal to midrange enthusiasts. Male vocals are slightly favored over female vocals, and the overall texture remains smooth, contributing to a relaxed listening experience.

The treble is gently warmed, avoiding a dark character. Cymbals, bells, and hi-hats retain clarity and sparkle. The Sie's treble balance promotes extended listening sessions without fatigue, while still delivering energy and excitement.

COMPARISONS:
Kefine Delci OG
The Sie and Delci share a familial sonic resemblance. The Sie boasts a more generous bass quantity compared to the Delci's slightly tighter and more defined low-end. The Sie's midrange is more forward, lending it a greater vocal emphasis. Both earphones exhibit a safe treble presentation without sacrificing brilliance or sparkle. While the Delci demonstrates superior technical performance, the Sie offers a marginally more natural timbre, appealing to those who prioritize tonal authenticity.

Simgot EA500
The Sie and EA500 represent distinct sonic philosophies. The EA500 adopts a bright, technically proficient approach, prioritizing detail retrieval and precision. In contrast, the Sie offers a smoother, more laid-back presentation with a strong emphasis on tonal accuracy. While the EA500 excels in technical performance, the Sie prioritizes a natural and engaging listening experience.

VERDICT:
The Sie has an undeniable allure that exceeded my expectations at this price point. Venture Electronics has crafted a truly exceptional product. Its greatest strength lies in its tonal accuracy. While not the most analytically precise IEM, the Sie compensates with an addictive sonic character. The bass is ample yet defined, the midrange is engaging and forward, and the treble is both sparkling and smooth. This harmonious blend makes the Sie an easy recommendation for musicians and audiophiles alike. If you seek an earphone that delivers a smooth, involving, and tonally correct listening experience with commendable technical performance, the Sie is a compelling choice.

To my surprise, I find myself reaching out for the Sie more than I expected every time I want to listen and deeply connect with my music.

I extend my sincere gratitude to Venture Electronics for providing the Sie for review. Cheers!

PS: sorry for the scratches on the Sie. Told ya, I use them almost daily. I love them that much!!

INTRODUCTION:
Tanchjim has been a brand on my periphery for some time, garnering considerable praise from esteemed audiophile influencers such as Gizaudio. Thanks to a fortuitous collaboration with Hifigo, I've finally had the opportunity to immerse myself in their sonic landscape with the 4u.

Navigating the fiercely competitive sub-$100 IEM market, the 4u presents itself as a potential standout, offering customizable tuning through a versatile switch system. Let's delve deeper into my auditory journey with this intriguing pair.

BUILD:

The 4u is a minimalist masterpiece crafted from metal alloy. Its diminutive yet substantial form factor ensures a comfortable fit, even for those with smaller ears. While its elegant simplicity is undeniably appealing, the glossy finish demands careful handling to prevent unsightly scratches.

TUNING DIALS:

The inclusion of adjustable tuning profiles has become increasingly commonplace in the IEM market throughout 2024, and the Tanchjim 4u is no exception. I initially harbored skepticism towards this trend, but I've grown to appreciate the versatility it offers. As the saying goes, "if you can't beat them, join them!"

The 4u boasts four distinct sonic personalities: Atmosphere, Pop, Natural, and Monitoring. Throughout the course of this review, I primarily gravitated towards the Atmosphere profile, with Natural as a close runner-up. The Monitoring mode, as its designation suggests, prioritizes a neutral, reference-grade presentation, resulting in a somewhat subdued bass response. Conversely, the Pop setting strikes a balance between the various sonic elements.

The implementation of these tuning adjustments is commendable, delivering readily apparent distinctions in the bass character. Baskingshark, a friend of mine, has generously provided the following graph to illustrate the variations.

INCLUSIONS:

Tanchjim has shown remarkable generosity in the eartip department, providing high-quality options that contribute significantly to the listening experience. The included cable, though lightweight and slender, fulfills its purpose adequately. The protective pouch offers basic safeguarding against scratches but lacks the rigidity to withstand substantial impacts. To ensure optimal protection for this elegant IEM, consider investing in a more robust case.

For the duration of this review, I opted for the wide-bore white eartips to complement the 4u's sonic character.

SOUND IMPRESSIONS:

Sources:
1. Ovidius B1
2. Centrance Dacport HD
3. Hiby FC6
4. Fiio M11 Plus Ltd
5. VE Odo
6. VE Abigail
7. Apple music subscription
8. Qobuz Studio subscription
9. EPZ TP50

TECHNICAL SIDE:
The 4u immediately impresses with a generously proportioned soundstage that offers ample space for musical expression.

Instruments are positioned with commendable depth and precision, creating a convincing three-dimensional soundscape.

The transient response leans towards a smooth, laid-back character, fostering a musical and engaging presentation rather than a clinical, analytical one.

Timbral accuracy is a hallmark of the 4u, delivering natural, authentic tones devoid of artificial coloration.

While separation is not the IEM's strongest suit, it remains a competent performer in this regard.

Overall, the 4u surpasses expectations in terms of technical proficiency, considering its affordable price point. However, unlocking its full potential requires a capable amplifier. Initial listening sessions may reveal a somewhat underwhelming performance, but pairing the 4u with a more powerful source yields a noticeable improvement in authority and clarity. My FC6 and Fiio M11 proved to be somewhat inadequate driving these demanding IEMs.

SOUND PROFILE:
The 4u's bass presentation, even in the Atmosphere tuning, leans towards the light side of the spectrum. Consequently, the Monitoring mode offers a decidedly neutral, bass-lite experience. While bass enthusiasts might find themselves seeking a more substantial low-end, those who prioritize a balanced sound signature will appreciate the 4u's clean and controlled bass quality. The low frequencies lack the visceral impact of a head-shaking punch but deliver sufficient depth and texture to complement the overall musicality.

The 4u truly shines in its midrange performance. Vocals are presented with intimacy, engagement, and a forward placement that will captivate listeners with a penchant for vocal-driven tracks. Instruments like pianos, Rhodes, and organs are rendered with clarity and realism, occupying their rightful place in the musical landscape. The midrange is characterized by a smooth, effortless delivery, prioritizing musicality over analytical precision.

The treble response is another strength of the 4u. Despite employing wide-bore eartips, the treble remains smooth and inoffensive, making it a suitable choice for sensitive listeners. While detail retrieval is present, it takes a back seat to a more relaxed, easy-going presentation. Treble enthusiasts might yearn for greater sparkle and extension, but the 4u avoids harshness or excessive brightness, striking a commendable balance between detail and listenability.

COMPARISONS:
Kefine Delci OG
The Delci offers a more exuberant listening experience with a noticeably punchier and weightier bass response compared to the 4u. Both IEMs share a gentle treble presentation, but the Delci exhibits a slight edge in technical proficiency. While the 4u boasts a smoother attack, both models lean towards a relaxed sonic character. The 4u establishes a more neutral sonic foundation, whereas the Delci delivers a slightly warmer, more engaging sound. The 4u, however, reigns supreme in vocal reproduction.

VERDICT:
The Tanchjim 4u defies expectations within its price range by offering a unique sonic approach. The implementation of four distinct tunings, primarily affecting the bass, is a refreshing departure from gimmicky attempts at customization. Even with the most bass-oriented profile, Atmosphere, the overall sound signature maintains a neutral character. Coupled with a smooth, laid-back attack, the 4u carves a distinctive niche in the market, diverging from the typical pairing of neutral sound with fast, aggressive transients. This unconventional combination, combined with the IEM's engaging vocal performance, makes it a compelling choice for audiophiles seeking a relaxed yet detailed listening experience.

I extend my gratitude to Hifigo for the opportunity to participate in this review. As my introduction to the Tanchjim bran
d, the 4u has left a highly positive impression.

INTRODUCTION:
The year 2024 has seen a surge in multi-driver IEM configurations, with hybrids, tribrids, and even quadbrids flooding the market. As an audiophile who appreciates the technical prowess of these designs, I'm excited to see what they bring to the listening experience.

This leads us to the Simgot Supermix 4, a quadbrid IEM that promises high-fidelity audio at an accessible price point. Let's delve into its capabilities and see if it lives up to the hype.

INCLUSIONS:
The included accessories with the Supermix 4 are underwhelming for the price. While cost-cutting is expected at this price range, skimping on ear tips is a missed opportunity. A wider selection of ear tips would have allowed for a better fit and personalized sound experience.

SOUND IMPRESSIONS:

SOURCES:

• FIIO M11 Plus Ltd.
• VE Odo
• VE Abigail
• EPZ TP50
• Hiby FC6
• Centrance Dacport HD
• Apple music subscription
• Qobuz Studio subscription

TECHNICAL SIDE:
The Simgot Supermix 4 boasts an impressive soundstage for its price. While not the widest, it offers excellent headroom, allowing instruments to breathe freely.

Imaging is a particular strength, with precise left/right panning that enhances the overall spatial presentation.

Timbre falls into the "natural" category, with a realistic portrayal of instruments that avoids excessive coloration. Even for a quadbrid at this price point, the timbre remains organic and pleasing.

Notably, the drivers exhibit excellent transient response, keeping pace with complex passages without sacrificing detail.

Overall, the technical execution of the Supermix 4 is commendable, delivering a clear and nuanced listening experience.

SOUND PROFILE:
The Simgot Supermix 4 presents a well-controlled bass response. Despite a bass-heavy lean on graphs, the actual delivery is surprisingly balanced. The midbass boasts excellent texture, particularly evident in the resolution of bass guitars and drum kicks. The low-end remains engaging without overwhelming the soundscape.

The midrange adopts a slightly lean profile, lacking the weighty presence some audiophiles might crave. However, it avoids the sterile thinness of the EM6L I previously reviewed. Vocals emerge clear and well-defined, with a subtle emphasis on female vocals. The overall character leans towards transparency rather than richness.

Notably, the treble deviates from Simgot's usual bright signature, offering a safe and forgiving presentation. This will please listeners sensitive to sibilance. Despite the relaxed treble tuning, details remain perceptible, ensuring you won't miss those subtle nuances.

COMPARISONS:
I can only think of one fair comparison against the SM4 and that is the Kiwiears Quintet that features a quadbrid setup. Sadly, i have not auditioned the Quintet hence i cannot claim anything here.

VERDICT:
Simgot continues to push boundaries in the IEM market, and the Supermix 4 is a testament to their innovative spirit. This quadbrid design delivers a compelling sound signature that follow the Harman target curve, appealing to audiophiles who prefer a more natural and transparent presentation.

The well-textured bass with excellent transient response provides a solid foundation for musical enjoyment. The clean and resolving midrange enhances clarity, while the smooth yet detailed treble ensures a fatigue-free listening experience. The Supermix 4's technical capabilities are evident in its ability to effectively utilize its multiple drivers, resulting in a well-defined and cohesive soundscape. At its price point, the Supermix 4 offers exceptional value for audiophiles seeking a versatile and technically proficient IEM.

A sincere thanks to Fia of Simgot for providing the opportunity to review the Sup
ermix 4.
Catch you on the next one!

INTRODUCTION:
Mabuhay from the Philippines! RemedyMusic here, returning with another sonic evaluation.

This time, we set our sights on the Supernova, a compelling entry from 7th Acoustics from Indonesia. While ChiFi has undoubtedly earned its accolades, the Supernova has garnered a loyal following among audiophile circles, particularly for its exquisite vocal presentation. However, some listeners find its overall performance a bit underwhelming. So, which side of the fence do I fall on? Let's crank up the volume and find out!

INCLUSIONS:

One noteworthy aspect of the Supernova's package is the inclusion of Final Audio's revered Type E eartips. As a fellow audiophile, I'm a huge fan of these narrow-bore tips for their ability to significantly impact the listening experience. It's refreshing to see a manufacturer prioritize the importance of eartips by collaborating with a respected brand like Final Audio. For this review, I opted to use the Final Type E tips exclusively, as they're a personal favorite for their ability to elevate the audio fidelity. This ensures a consistent and optimal foundation for evaluating the Supernova's sonic capabilities.

SOUND IMPRESSIONS:

SOURCES:

• HIBY FC6
• Centrance Dacport HD
• EPZ TP50
• Fiio M11 plus Ltd
• VE Odo
• Ovidius B1
• Offline flacs
• Nord Electro 6
• Apple music
• Qobuz Studio

TECHNICAL SIDE:
The Supernova's transient response, which refers to how quickly the sound rises and falls, is particularly noteworthy. These all-balanced armature (BA) drivers deliver attacks that are smooth and natural, avoiding excessive aggression. This translates to a relaxed and laid-back presentation, ideal for extended listening sessions.

The soundstage—the perceived width and depth of the sonic image—is impressive, offering ample space for each instrument to breathe. While separation and layering might not be the most mind-blowing, the expansive soundstage effectively compensates.

Timbre, the tonal character of the music, is another strong suit. The Supernova steers clear of the typical BA timbre, instead achieving a remarkably organic and natural presentation. To my ears, it's one of the most faithful recreations of sonic textures I've experienced from a BA-based IEM.

SOUND PROFILE:
The Supernova's bass response is undeniably generous, deviating from a neutral reference. While the quantity is ample and engaging, it avoids becoming overwhelming. The bass maintains enough agility to handle intricate passages without sacrificing the overall smoothness. It extends pleasingly into the sub-bass region, while the mid-bass is well-defined and clean.

Moving to the mids, they are lush and rich, with a noticeable fullness to each note. Vocals take center stage, delivering a truly captivating performance. I wholeheartedly concur with those who praise the Supernova's vocal presentation, particularly its affinity for female vocals. The overall tonality here remains refreshingly natural and organic.

The treble section is the Supernova's Achilles' heel, at least for listeners who crave a brighter sound signature. The cymbals lack the bite and crispness I typically prefer. This warmth extends slightly into the mids, affecting the snap of snare drums. Upon initial listening, I found the overall presentation to be excessively warm. For those seeking to eliminate this warmth, a wider-bore eartip might be a solution. Conversely, treble-sensitive listeners will find the Supernova's forgiving nature a welcome respite, while treble aficionados might need to look elsewhere.

COMPARISONS:
EPZ 530
The Supernova presents a sonic landscape in stark contrast to my beloved EPZ 530, a fellow all-BA IEM. While I find the Supernova's warmth occasionally excessive, the 530 leans towards excessive brightness at times. The 530 reigns supreme in technical prowess, resolving intricate details with remarkable precision. However, the Supernova takes the crown for timbre, delivering a more natural and organic presentation. The 530's sound signature might be perceived as thin, especially by those accustomed to warmer profiles.

However, it redeems itself with its exceptionally detailed and nuanced treble response. In contrast, the Supernova prioritizes a smooth and laid-back presentation, while the 530 offers a more aggressive soundscape with superior technicalities. Ultimately, choosing between these two IEMs boils down to personal preference, akin to comparing apples and oranges.

DUNU SA6 Mkii
The Dunu SA6 Mkii shares some similarities with the Supernova's sonic profile, but the Supernova emerges victorious in terms of vocal reproduction. Timbrally, they're quite close. However, the SA6 Mkii boasts a bass boost switch, making it a more versatile option. This switch allows it to cater to neutral sound preferences with a subdued low-end response. In terms of technical prowess, the Mkii holds a slight edge over the Supernova to my ears.

VERDICT:
The Supernova offers a breath of fresh air, especially for those accustomed to ChiFi's dominance. It strikes a remarkable balance between technical proficiency and natural timbre. The presentation evokes an analog character, particularly enjoyable for classic recordings by Miles Davis, Dave Brubeck, and Bill Evans. While it may not be the most technically analytical IEM on the market, its expansive soundstage is a significant strength. The Supernova seems to target listeners who prioritize relaxed listening, sonic smoothness, and a natural tonal balance over ultra-revealing technical performance. For me, the Supernova's captivating tonality makes it a strong contender for a permanent spot in my collection.

A heartfelt thanks to Neil Nino Clark and Eiji Romero for allowing
me to experience this impressive IEM.

INTRODUCTION:
Fellow audiophiles, let's take a listen to the new Venture Electronics Odo dongle. While the name's origin remains a mystery, the Odo's sound is anything but puzzling.

Equipped with a lesser-known KT02H20 DAC chip, the Odo might raise eyebrows at first glance. But fear not, for this little dongle packs a sonic punch. We'll avoid technical jargon and focus on the listening experience.

SOUND:

TECHNICALITIES:

Technically, the Odo is quite capable. The soundstage strikes a nice balance – spacious enough to avoid feeling congested, but not so vast that instruments lose their intimacy. Imaging is precise, allowing you to easily pinpoint the location of instruments within the soundscape.

Timbre falls somewhere between the analytical and the musical. It avoids the harshness that can sometimes plague digital sources, while maintaining a clear and defined presentation.

One of the Odo's biggest strengths is its driving power. Even at moderate volume levels (around 40-45% for a loud listener like myself), the Odo delivers ample power to drive demanding IEMs, revealing their full potential.

SOUND SIGNATURE:

The Venture Electronics Odo offers a fun and engaging sound signature. It boasts a mild bass boost for excitement, while a moderate treble elevation adds brilliance and reveals rich detail. The midrange strikes a balance between neutrality and warmth, keeping vocals clear and instruments crisp. This bright-ish neutral sound with a hint of fun makes the Odo enjoyable for extended listening sessions.

COMPARISONS:
For this part, I would like to borrow the video review of our Dongle madness guru, OspreyAndy. Click the link below.



VERDICT:
The Venture Electronics Odo is a game-changer for budget-conscious audiophiles. At a price that barely registers on the wallet, it delivers a combination of features that rival options costing significantly more.

Firstly, the Odo's power output is no joke. Even at moderate volume levels, it can drive demanding IEMs to their full potential, ensuring you get the most out of your music regardless of your listening preferences. This abundant power makes it a reliable companion on the go, where powerful sources can sometimes be scarce.

Secondly, the sound signature is surprisingly well-tuned. It leans towards a fun and engaging presentation, with a subtle bass boost that adds excitement without sacrificing clarity. The mids are transparent and detailed, keeping vocals and instruments distinct within the mix. A touch of brilliance in the treble adds a layer of detail and airiness, revealing the nuances of your music. This overall bright-ish neutral sound signature with a hint of warmth is perfect for extended listening sessions, ensuring fatigue-free enjoyment of your favorite tunes.

Finally, the Odo's compact and portable design makes it an ideal travel companion. Its small form factor ensures it won't weigh down your pocket or snag on your bag, while the inclusion of a 4.4mm balanced option caters to those seeking a balanced sound experience.

Overall, the Venture Electronics Odo punches well above its weight class. It's a no-brainer recommendation for anyone seeking a powerful, portable, and fun-sounding source without breaking the bank. Its combination of features and price performance makes it a giant killer in the budget dongle market.

Gratitude to Venture Electronics for sending the Odo my way in excha
nge for this review. Cheers!

INTRODUCTION:
A big thanks to Sandeep Agarwal of Audio Geek for lending me the stunning Kinera Verdandi. Having admired Kinera's exquisite designs since their Idun two years ago, I was eager to see if the Verdandi's sound lives up to its breathtaking looks.

FOREWORD:

• The gear on hand has undergone at least 10-15 hours of use before it was assessed.
• No EQ is ever applied in my reviews.
• For the sake of convenience, I try my best to use a stock setup. Not everyone has access to personal ear tips or cables. If personal ear tips, cables, or accessories are used, you will be notified.
• As I try to be objective, my claims inevitably will be subjective and biased to my personal preference. I cannot stress more that you should take this with a grain of salt for we have different perceptions to sound and what we hear.

SPECIFICATIONS:
Maker: Kinera Imperial
Model: Verdandi
Drivers:
1* 6mm DD driver for the lows
2* Knowles BA for mids and highs
2* Sonion EST for highs and ultra highs
1* BC driver to assist the low frequencies
Impedance: 14 ohms
Sensitivity: 105db

PACKAGING & DETAILS:
Since this was a personal unit loaned by Sandeep Agarwal of Audio Geek, it arrived without the official retail packaging. However, the review included all the essential elements: the Verdandi IEMs themselves, the stock cable, and a pair of Azla Max eartips. It's important to remember that ear tips play a crucial role in shaping the sound signature of any IEM. Their size, material, and seal can significantly influence the listening experience. By providing my impressions with the included Azla Max eartips, I aim to establish a foundation for your own exploration with different tip options to achieve your desired sound.

APPEARANCE:
Kinera lives up to its reputation as the "jeweler of IEMs" with the Verdandi's mesmerizing design. The IEMs resemble a luxurious marble floor, adorned with a captivating interplay of blue hues and gold flakes. The design evokes images of opulent Italian museums, making a bold statement.

While the shells are slightly larger than some IEMs, they fit comfortably on my average-sized Asian ears. However, those with very small ears might find them cumbersome.

COMFORT:
Despite their larger size, the Verdandi's ergonomic design ensures a surprisingly comfortable and secure fit. The ample surface area of the shells provides a good grip, eliminating any worries about them slipping out during use.

SOUND IMPRESSIONS:

SOURCES:

• Fiio M11 plus Ltd
• Centrance Dacport HD
• Ovidius B1
• VE Odo
• VE Abigail
• EPZ TP50
• Hiby FC6

TECHNICALITIES:
The Verdandi's soundstage truly impresses. It's expansive and wide, creating a listening experience that evokes the feeling of being right there at a live performance. Instruments and vocals are meticulously arranged within this spacious environment, ensuring they remain clear and distinct. This presentation is particularly well-suited for orchestral tracks by composers like Hans Zimmer, faithfully conveying the full depth and breadth of the music.

Imaging is also a strong suit of the Verdandi. It delivers pinpoint accuracy, revealing subtle details and the precise placement of instruments even in tracks you know by heart. You might even discover new sonic nuances in familiar songs. Separation of instruments is commendable, striking a perfect balance between clarity and natural cohesion. This results in a realistic presentation that avoids sounding overly analytical or sterile.

Timbre is another area where the Verdandi excels. It leans towards a very organic and musical sound. The overall texture is smooth and relaxed, creating a comfortable listening experience that prioritizes enjoyment over analytical sharpness.

Finally, the coherence between drivers is outstanding. Everything works seamlessly in unison, ensuring a cohesive and fatigue-free listening experience.

BASS:
The Verdandi's bass performance deserves special recognition. It leverages the Bone Conduction (BC) driver exceptionally well, resulting in bass that's not just heard, but physically felt, especially on bass-heavy tracks. The immersion factor is undeniable, delivering top-notch quality. While the quantity steers clear of extreme bass-head territory, it remains present and impactful, keeping the music dynamic and engaging. The 6mm dynamic drivers complement the BC driver beautifully, ensuring the bass is both punchy and agile, avoiding any sluggishness.

MIDRANGE:
The Verdandi's midrange strikes a balance between transparency and subtle warmth. It avoids overly lush or colored presentations, but maintains a pleasant fullness that prevents it from sounding thin or sterile. This neutral character complements the impactful bass nicely. Vocals and instruments occupy a central position in the mix, neither forward nor recessed, ensuring clarity and focus. However, a hint of brightness emerges in the upper mids, particularly noticeable with trumpets at higher volumes. Despite this, discerning listeners who appreciate a neutral sound signature will find much to praise in the Verdandi's midrange presentation.

TREBLE:
The Verdandi's treble performance leans towards controlled and refined. While a touch of warmth is present, the EST drivers take center stage, delivering an airy and spacious presentation that extends effortlessly into the ultra-high frequencies. This combination might seem unusual, as EST drivers are often associated with brightness. However, in the Verdandi, the warmth seems to temper any potential harshness, resulting in a non-fatiguing and sibilance-free treble. This is a boon for listeners sensitive to treble peaks. That said, the airy nature doesn't preclude further customization. Experimenting with different ear tips can help unlock even more brilliance if you desire a brighter or more aggressive treble response.

VERDICT:
The Verdandi serves as a testament to Kinera's ability to deliver not just stunning aesthetics but also exceptional sound quality. It achieves a remarkable balance between tonal beauty and technical prowess, resulting in a truly immersive listening experience. The price tag reflects its high-end caliber, making it a compelling option for audiophiles seeking an IEM in the kilobuck range. But the Verdandi's appeal extends beyond its price. Its elegant, sophisticated design exudes luxury, and thankfully, the sound lives up to the visuals. It's a feast for the eyes and ears, both beautiful and technically accomplished.

A sincere thanks once again to Sandeep Agarwal of Audio Geek for allowing me to be the first in the Philippines to experience the Verdandi. I have no doubt that thos
e who follow in my footsteps will be equally mesmerized.

INTRODUCTION:
EPZ burst onto the scene last year with a wave of budget-friendly IEMs that quickly captured the hearts of headphone enthusiasts. I myself reviewed their Q1 Pro, a solid performer for the price tag (think fifty bucks and a smile). Then there's the Q5, which has been getting rave reviews from the headphone community for months now, and their TP series of portable DAC/Amps – the TP50 in particular got a big thumbs-up from OspreyAndy, our resident dongle aficionado (another one on my to-review list).

Well, folks, buckle up! It turns out EPZ isn't just about entry-level gear. They've dipped their toes into the mid-fi pool as well, and today we're taking a deep dive into the EPZ 530, a cult favorite that seems to be flying under the radar for most. By the end of this review, will I be joining the Head-Fi faithful who swear by these things, or will the 530 end up not being my cup of tea? Let's find out!

FOREWORD:

• The gear on hand has undergone at least 10-15 hours of use before it was assessed.
• No EQ is ever applied in my reviews.
• For the sake of convenience, I try my best to use a stock setup. Not everyone has access to personal ear tips or cables. If personal ear tips, cables, or accessories are used, you will be notified.
• As I try to be objective, my claims inevitably will be subjective and biased to my personal preference. I cannot stress more that you should take this with a grain of salt for we have different perceptions to sound and what we hear.

SPECIFICATIONS:
Maker: EPZ
Model: 530
Drivers:
Bass frequency: 2x Sonion 38AM007
Midrange frequency: 1x Sonion 2389
Treble frequency: 1x Shengyang ED05, 1x E50DT
Impedance: 32ohms
Sensitivity: 110db

PACKAGING & DETAILS:

Unboxing the EPZ 530 is a treat for eco-conscious audiophiles. The earphones arrive in a striking wooden box, a departure from the usual cardboard fare. This not only makes a great first impression but also provides a reusable storage solution for your IEMs or other audio accessories – a big plus for those who hate seeing packaging go to waste.

While the included items might seem a bit spartan compared to some competitors, the quality is definitely there. Let's delve deeper into what's included.

CASE:
EPZ doesn't disappoint when it comes to providing users with choices for protecting their investment.

You get a sleek leather pouch perfect for slipping into a pocket or a small bag for easy portability. For those who prefer maximum protection, a sturdy, gray magnetic-snap carrying case similar to the one included with the Yanyin Canon II provides serious peace of mind. This is a thoughtful touch that caters to different user preferences.

EAR TIPS:
The stock eartips with the EPZ 530 are serviceable. While the inclusion of multiple tip options is appreciated, some audiophiles might have wished for branded eartips at this price point. As many in the industry know, collaborations between IEM makers and eartip specialists can yield fantastic results.

In my experience, the wide-bore tips were overly soft and accentuated the treble a bit too much, which is a point I'll elaborate on later in the review. Since these IEMs lean towards the bright side of the sound signature, opting for the narrower bore and stiffer yellow eartips (designed for bass enhancement) yielded a more balanced soundscape.

CABLE:
The EPZ 530 boasts a cable that's both eye-catching and functional. The striking gold colorway is sure to turn heads, but it's the quality that truly impresses. The cable is sturdy, tangle-resistant, and boasts a memory-free design.

EPZ has even gone the extra mile, utilizing a hybrid material mix of copper, silver, and gold palladium. They claim the cable itself is worth around $80 – a testament to the quality you're getting. In my tests, using this cable with other IEMs confirmed its impressive sonic capabilities.

Adding icing to the cake, the cable offers modular options providing 2.5, 3.5, and 4.4mm for versatility on your sources.

APPEARANCE:
The EPZ 530 takes aesthetics seriously.

The shells are crafted from wood milled using a sophisticated 5-axis CNC carving process, resulting in a look that's both elegant and sophisticated. Available in two stunning finishes – jade green and lava orange – these IEMs are sure to turn heads. The smooth, curvaceous design is not only pleasing to the eye but also provides a comfortable fit. In terms of looks, the 530 punches well above its weight class, making it a strong contender for one of the best-looking IEMs in this price range.

COMFORT:
The EPZ 530's design prioritizes isolation, opting for a sealed construction without vents. This translates to superb noise attenuation, making them ideal for use on stage, in the studio, or even for blocking out the hustle and bustle of your commute.

The downside? You'll experience some pressure buildup due to the lack of venting. However, it's worth noting that I never experienced any soreness or physical discomfort during my listening sessions. Just be aware of your surroundings when using these IEMs, as the effective noise isolation can make it easy to miss important ambient cues.

SOUND IMPRESSIONS:

TECHNICALITIES:
While the soundstage of the EPZ 530 won't leave you feeling like you're in the front row at a concert hall, it does offer a surprising sense of spaciousness. Instruments and vocals have ample room to breathe and maneuver within the mix, creating a clear and uncluttered listening experience.

One of the areas where the 530 truly shines is its imaging precision. Audiophiles will appreciate the pinpoint accuracy with which instruments are placed within the soundstage. This makes the 530 a fantastic choice for critical listening or for dissecting complex musical arrangements.

The use of balanced armature (BA) drivers in the 530 results in lightning-fast transient response. This means that complex passages with rapid attacks and decays are reproduced with exceptional clarity and detail. No matter how intricate the music gets, the 530 keeps up effortlessly.

The 530's dynamic range is another cause for celebration. Soft passages are rendered with delicate nuance, while powerful crescendos deliver a satisfying punch. This wide dynamic range ensures that the music retains all its emotional impact, from the quietest moments to the most bombastic.

The 530 truly excels in its separation and layering capabilities. This is perhaps one of the best aspects of its sound signature. Each instrument is presented with its own distinct space in the mix, allowing even the most complex musical passages to remain clear and well-defined. For musicians and producers, this level of separation provides a reference-grade listening experience, making the 530 a valuable tool for critical evaluation. It's important to note that this focus on separation can result in a less cohesive overall presentation, which some listeners might prefer.

However, for those who prioritize detail and clarity, the 530's separation is a revelation.

BASS:
The EPZ 530's bass response leans towards the lighter side, especially upon initial listening. However, after extended use, the bass settles in, revealing a more present low-end without sacrificing the characteristic tightness of balanced armature (BA) drivers.

Midbass takes precedence here, providing a solid foundation for the music without overwhelming the listener. This focus on midbass detail might leave bass-heads wanting more low-frequency rumble, as the BA drivers deliver a fast decay that avoids muddiness but can also come across as lighter in impact compared to dynamic drivers (DD).

Despite the leaner low-end presentation, the 530's bass still packs a punch when called upon. It delivers a satisfying thump that adds power to the music without bleeding into other frequencies.

In essence, the EPZ 530's bass caters to listeners who prioritize accuracy and control over pure low-end power. While there's enough bass here to provide a satisfying listening experience, those seeking a more visceral, bass-heavy sound signature might be better served looking elsewhere.

MIDRANGE:
The midrange of the EPZ 530 prioritizes clarity and transparency above all else. Vocals take center stage, delivered with a touch of forwardness, particularly in the female vocal range. This presentation is ideal for those who value a revealing listen, where every nuance and inflection shines through. However, listeners seeking a richer, more lush midrange experience might find the presentation a touch lean.

The texture of both instruments and vocals is rendered with meticulous detail, providing a listening experience that leans towards neutrality. Micro and macro details are readily apparent, allowing listeners to dissect the music with ease. Timbre remains natural-sounding for the most part, but a hint of the characteristic BA timbre is present for some listeners.

TREBLE:
The treble is where the EPZ 530 truly shines. It delivers a crisp, energetic, and detail-rich presentation that will leave treble lovers in awe. The sheer amount of detail retrieved is impressive, highlighting every nuance in the upper frequencies. However, this brightness can occasionally border on fatiguing for listeners with treble sensitivity. To maximize listening enjoyment, it's recommended to experiment with different ear tips and keep the volume at moderate levels. For those who crave a sparkling, detail-oriented soundscape, the 530's treble is a revelation. But for those who prefer a more relaxed listen, a bit of EQ adjustment or opting for different ear tips might be necessary.

ADDITIONAL NOTES:
It's important to note that due to the bright treble response of the EPZ 530, some listeners might find extended listening sessions fatiguing. However, fear not! A little experimentation with ear tips can go a long way in tailoring the sound signature to your preferences. Consider trying the narrow bore tips included with the IEMs for a slightly bassier and smoother treble response. Alternatively, deep insertion can achieve a similar result.

The EPZ 530 pairs particularly well with warmer, smoother sources. If you have a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) or dongle equipped with R2R, you're in for a treat. These warmer sources can help temper the brightness of the treble, resulting in a more relaxed and enjoyable listening experience.

COMPARISONS:

VS Dunu Sa6 mkii
The SA6 MKII delivers a warmer, more natural-sounding timbre, while the 530 leans towards a brighter, more analytical presentation. The 530 takes the crown when it comes to technical prowess, offering superior detail retrieval and resolution. The SA6 MKII boasts a warm and inviting sound signature, while the 530 favors a brighter, more revealing approach. The SA6 MKII's bass switch adds a touch of versatility, allowing you to tailor the low-end to your preference. From a musician's perspective, the 530's neutral and reference-oriented sound signature makes it a more suitable choice for critical listening and monitoring applications.

Ultimately, the choice between these two IEMs boils down to your sonic preferences. If you prioritize a warmer, more natural timbre and versatility, the SA6 MKII might be a better fit. However, if technical precision, detail retrieval, and a neutral sound for monitoring are your top priorities, the EPZ 530 shines.

VS Softears Studio 4
The Studio 4 takes the warmth even further, offering a noticeably darker and richer sound signature compared to the 530's brighter neutrality. This warmth translates to a fatigue-resistant listening experience ideal for extended stage use. The 530 maintains its lead in technical aspects, delivering superior detail retrieval and resolution. If you crave a fuller sound with more body and weight, the Studio 4 takes the cake. However, some listeners might find the Studio 4's warmth a touch excessive. Both IEMs excel in a musician's environment. The 530's transparency makes it ideal for critical listening and reference purposes, while the Studio 4's fatigue-resistant warmth caters to long onstage sessions.

The choice here hinges on your sonic preference. If a warm, lush soundscape that prioritizes comfort over extreme detail is your game, the Studio 4 might be your match. However, if you value precise detail retrieval, a neutral reference sound, and technical prowess, the EPZ 530 remains a compelling option. Ultimately, these two IEMs offer distinct sonic flavors, just like pears and apples.

Vs Aful Performer 8
Both IEMs showcase impressive technical capabilities, with the EPZ 530 edging out the Performer 8 in separation and layering. Both share a BA timbre signature that remains natural-sounding. However, I found the Performer 8 to lack a certain vibrancy, presenting as slightly lifeless compared to the 530. While neither IEM boasts a particularly rich or weighty sound, the EPZ 530 redeems itself with superior dynamic range. It delivers soft passages with nuance and crescendos with a smoothness and lushness that the Performer 8 struggles to match.

If technical prowess, particularly in separation and layering, is your top priority, the EPZ 530 might be the better choice. Additionally, its superior dynamic range adds a touch of excitement and engagement to the listening experience. However, if you find the Performer 8 a touch sterile, the EPZ 530's more dynamic and nuanced presentation might be a welcome upgrade.

TEST TRACKS:
Here are some tracks I usually listen to when reviewing:

That’s the way of the World by EWF
Africa by TOTO
The Girl in the Other Room by Diana Kral
Balmorhea album All is wild, All is Silent
Sila by Sud
Smooth Escape by D’Sound
Never too Much by Luther Vandross
P.Y.T by Michael Jackson
Ain’t no Sunshine by Eva Cassidy
Shoot to Thrill by AC/DC
Another one bites the Dust by Queen
Good times bad times by Edie Brickell
Alice in Wonderland by Bill Evans
Ain’t it Fun by Paramore
Redefine by Incubus
Far Away by Nickelback
Lovesong by Adele
Lingus by Snarky Puppy
Harvest for the World by Vanessa Williams
Love Bites by Def Leppard
No Such Thing by John Mayer
As by Stevie Wonder
Whip Appeal by Babyface
Ain’t Nobody by Chaka Khan
Futures by Prep
Landslide by Fleetwood Mac
Every Summertime by NIKI
SADE tracks
AC/DC tracks
Queen tracks


And many more… I always listen to High resolution format, being the least quality 16bit/44khz FLACS be it offline or online.

VERDICT:
The EPZ 530 has solidified its place among my top IEMs, and for good reason. Its technical prowess shines through in its exceptional separation, layering, and imaging capabilities. This level of detail retrieval rivals even some high-end models, making the 530 a compelling option for critical listening and analytical tasks.

However, it's important to acknowledge that the bright sound signature might not be for everyone. Listeners with treble sensitivity might find extended listening sessions fatiguing. Experimenting with different ear tips and warmer sources can help tame the brightness and tailor the sound to your preferences.

While some might wish for a touch more lushness and overall body in the sound, the 530's technical strengths cannot be denied. If you prioritize pinpoint accuracy, detail retrieval, and a neutral reference sound, the EPZ 530 delivers in spades. For musicians, sound engineers, and audiophiles who value technical precision above all else, the 530 is a serious contender in this price range.

Overall, the EPZ 530 demonstrates that the company is a force to be reckoned with in the mid-fi IEM market. It offers exceptional technical performance at a competitive price, making it a worthy investment for discerning listeners and mus
ic professionals.

The review unit was provided by EPZ at a discounted price in exchange for this review.

UPDATE:
To folks in India, EPZ products can be bought here. Prices are in the local currency for your convenience.

conceptkart.com

INTRODUCTION:
Hailing from 2014, TSMR (Tansio Mirai) takes its name from the Tang and Song dynasties, a period synonymous with the zenith of ancient Chinese culture. This is my first foray into the brand, despite having stumbled upon the TSMR abbreviation while lurking in online audiophile circles. Let's just say it hadn't quite piqued my interest – until now! With the company celebrating a decade of sonic exploration, it's natural to wonder if their latest offering, the X, will be a special edition worthy of the milestone. Will it live up to the hype and carve its own niche in the crowded IEM market? Buckle up, as we delve into the X and see if it strikes a harmonious chord.

FOREWORD:

• The gear on hand has undergone at least 10-15 hours of use before it was assessed.
• No EQ is ever applied in my reviews.
• For the sake of convenience, I try my best to use a stock setup. Not everyone has access to personal ear tips or cables. If personal ear tips, cables, or accessories are used, you will be notified.
• As I try to be objective, my claims inevitably will be subjective and biased to my personal preference. I cannot stress more that you should take this with a grain of salt for we have different perceptions to sound and what we hear.

SPECIFICATIONS:
Maker: TSMR (Tansio Mirai)
Model: X
Drivers:
Low frequency: 2 x 8mm strong magnet dynamic, hollow coaxial structure, Carbon mixed diaphragm

Mid frequency: 2 x Knowles balanced armature

High frequency: 2 x Sonion balanced armature

Full frequency effect: 1 x custom film retarding driver (this driver is detachable design, frequent disassembly is not recommended)

Impedance: 10 ohms
Sensitivity: 103db

PACKAGING & DETAILS:

The X arrives in a modestly sized box, its color mirroring the IEMs themselves. While the price tag might have you hoping for a more extravagant presentation, it gets the job done without unnecessary frills. Let's delve deeper and see what sonic treasures lie within.

CASE:

The included carrying case, while undeniably adorable in its compact size, does necessitate a bit more mindful cable management for the X. However, the clean white aesthetic and convenient zipper closure make it a practical choice for portability. While it won't accommodate extensive accessories, its slim profile ensures it'll slip easily into a pocket or small bag.

EAR TIPS:

The X comes equipped with two ear tip options, distinguished by their color – a clean white and a classic gray. The white tips, ever so slightly softer than their gray counterparts, take the cake when it comes to comfort. While the stock tips deliver a decent sonic experience, I highly recommend exploring the world of "tip rolling." This audiophile practice allows you to experiment with different ear tips, shaping and enhancing the sound signature to perfectly suit your listening preferences.

CABLE:

The X's cable is a real looker, boasting a glamorous white finish accentuated with gold accents. It exudes a sense of luxury that's undeniable. However, a minor hitch arises in the lower half's stiffness. It tends to retain the coil you give it, which can be a slight inconvenience. On the upside, the cable has a satisfying weight that reinforces its premium feel. And to cater to your specific needs, the X offers terminations in both 3.5mm and 4.4mm flavors.

APPEARANCE:

The X's visual appeal is undeniable. Crafted from a luxurious resin, it boasts a captivating teal hue that shimmers with a life of its own. A subtle vent strategically placed near the dynamic drivers hints at the sonic prowess that lies within. The faceplate itself features a circular vented design, adding a touch of intrigue. But the true star of the show is the translucent shell. This ingenious design choice allows you, like a fellow connoisseur of transparent marvels, to peek into the X's intricate inner workings. It's a visual feast that complements the sonic journey to come.

COMFORT:
While the X undeniably boasts a head-turning design, a slight ergonomic hurdle presents itself. The nozzle diameter is larger than your average IEM, which is precisely why I needed to downsize from medium to small ear tips for a secure fit. Opting for softer tips would have likely addressed this issue as well. Despite this initial hurdle, I managed to achieve a comfortable seal after some experimentation. However, it's worth noting that the larger nozzle size may necessitate a different tip size than you're accustomed to. Just a heads-up for fellow audiophiles out there – a little trial and error might be required to find your perfect comfort zone with the X.

TUNING SWITCHES:
TSMR has a well-earned reputation for incorporating tuning switches into their products, and the X is no exception. Now, full disclosure – I've always been a bit wary of these sonic dials. They felt like a gimmick, a way to mask underlying flaws rather than true sonic mastery. However, the X's implementation forced me to re-evaluate my stance.

The switches are refreshingly simple. Switch 1 unleashes the bass beast, Switch 2 strikes a harmonious balance, and Switch 3 caters to detail-oriented listeners who crave a prominent midrange and treble presence. The sonic shifts between each setting are undeniable – a testament to the effectiveness of these switches. Switch 2 became my default choice.

Now, a caveat from my fellow X explorers – you can't activate these switches simultaneously. It's a pick-one scenario. But therein lies the beauty – the X offers a level of adaptability that caters to your ever-evolving listening moods. While I may have initially approached the tuning switches with skepticism, their undeniable impact has me singing a different tune (pun intended!).

Note: so what happens if you switch on 2 or more switches? I'll leave that to others to discover. I'm a “set it, leave it” kind of guy. I like to keep things simple and not over-complicate things.

SOUND IMPRESSIONS:

TECHNICALITIES:
The X's technical prowess is nothing short of a revelation. The soundstage boasts impressive width and spaciousness, offering ample room for every sonic element to breathe and shine. This expansive presentation can likely be attributed to the cleverly implemented vented driver. Depth, height, and width are all distinctly rendered, creating an immersive sonic environment that pulls you into the heart of the music.

Imaging precision is another feather in the X's cap. The placement of instruments and vocals is remarkably accurate, allowing you to effortlessly pinpoint their location within the expansive soundstage. But the true star of the show might be the X's timbre. Here, we encounter a remarkable level of realism, devoid of artificiality or unwanted coloration. Instruments and vocals resonate with a lifelike authenticity that's simply captivating.

Coherence is another area where the X excels. The drivers work in perfect harmony, delivering a seamless and unified listening experience. There's no muddiness or dissonance to be found, just a beautifully balanced sonic tapestry.

Moving on to separation, the X strikes a masterful balance. Instruments are distinct and discernible within the mix, but the overall presentation prioritizes musicality over extreme isolation. The separation is there to be appreciated, but it doesn't overshadow the song's natural flow.

In essence, the X's technical capabilities are truly exceptional. It delivers an impressive level of detail and precision, but it never loses sight of the emotional core of the music. This isn't a sterile, analytical IEM; it's a technical powerhouse that prioritizes musicality and sonic enjoyment.

BASS:
The X's bass performance is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Words like "visceral," "captivating," and "full-bodied" barely scratch the surface. It's a clean, realistic, and surprisingly nimble low-end that leaves you wanting more. And the beauty lies in its flexibility. Thanks to the ingenious tuning switches, you can tailor the bass response to your heart's content. Whether you crave the bone-rattling power of Switch 1 or the more balanced approach of Switch 2, the X delivers. But even with the bass cranked up (courtesy of Switch 1), the X never loses sight of the midrange and treble. It's a masterclass in low-end control, where every bass guitar note and drum kick resonates with impressive resolution and texture. The bass presence is undeniably prominent, a detail that will leave bass heads grinning from ear to ear. But here's the shocker – even for a self-proclaimed "neutral head" like myself, the X's bass presentation is undeniably seductive. It's a sonic indulgence that's hard to resist. This powerful low-end makes the X a perfect companion for both music and movies, immersing you in the action with every sonic boom. Dare I say, it's the most captivating bass performance I've ever encountered in an IEM.

MIDRANGE:
The X's midrange is a revelation. Vocals and instruments residing in this crucial frequency range are rendered with remarkable transparency, boasting a satisfying density that keeps them firmly anchored in the mix. The presentation leans ever so slightly forward, a touch that I found particularly delightful. It adds a hint of intimacy to the music, drawing you closer to the emotional core of every performance. Once again, the X's exceptional resolution and textural prowess shine through. Timbre is impeccably lifelike, with instruments and vocals sounding natural and uncolored.

Here's where things get interesting – the X's midrange deviates slightly from strict neutrality, adding a touch of flavorful magic. It avoids the sterile, flat presentation that plagues some IEMs. The X isn't afraid to infuse its sound with a touch of personality, and it succeeds admirably in doing so. Orchestral pieces and jazz arrangements come alive with this touch of vibrancy, making them an absolute joy to listen to. However, it's worth noting that the X's midrange might not be the ultimate choice for purists seeking absolute neutrality. It prioritizes musicality over pinpoint precision, a characteristic often associated with balanced armature drivers.

TREBLE:
The X's approach to treble is undoubtedly smooth and refined. It avoids the fatiguing shrillness and sibilance that can plague some IEMs, opting instead for a relaxed, gentle presentation. This doesn't translate to a lack of detail, however. The X manages to present a surprising amount of treble information, ensuring that every nuance shines through. However, for die-hard audiophiles who crave the aggressive bite of piercing cymbals and raspy hi-hats, the X might feel a touch too polite. Conversely, those with sensitive ears will find solace in this smooth, non-offensive treble response. Ultimately, the X treads a careful line, ultimately leaning towards the warmer side of the spectrum. This might not be for everyone, but it delivers a fatigue-free listening experience that prioritizes sonic comfort.

TEST TRACKS:
Here are some tracks I usually listen to when reviewing:

That’s the way of the World by EWF
Africa by TOTO
The Girl in the Other Room by Diana Kral
Balmorhea album All is wild, All is Silent
Sila by Sud
Smooth Escape by D’Sound
Never too Much by Luther Vandross
P.Y.T by Michael Jackson
Ain’t no Sunshine by Eva Cassidy
Shoot to Thrill by AC/DC
Another one bites the Dust by Queen
Good times bad times by Edie Brickell
Alice in Wonderland by Bill Evans
Ain’t it Fun by Paramore
Redefine by Incubus
Far Away by Nickelback
Lovesong by Adele
Lingus by Snarky Puppy
Harvest for the World by Vanessa Williams
Love Bites by Def Leppard
No Such Thing by John Mayer
As by Stevie Wonder
Whip Appeal by Babyface
Ain’t Nobody by Chaka Khan
Futures by Prep
Landslide by Fleetwood Mac
Every Summertime by NIKI
SADE tracks
AC/DC tracks
Queen tracks


And many more… I always listen to High resolution format, being the least quality 16bit/44khz FLACS be it offline or online.

VERDICT:
The X marks my inaugural foray into the world of TSMR, and what a delightful journey it's been. This IEM strikes a perfect balance between unadulterated musicality and a hint of analytical prowess. The implementation of the tuning switches is a masterclass in simplicity and effectiveness – a testament to TSMR's understanding of this sometimes-controversial feature. While I may not have initially embraced the concept, the X's straightforward switch design won me over.

The X's bass performance deserves a special mention. It's a revelation, a sonic experience that redefined my expectations for in-ear monitors. This is, without a doubt, the most captivating and well-controlled bass I've encountered in an IEM. Even for a self-proclaimed "bass-light" listener like myself, the X's low-end magic was undeniable. It adds a layer of depth and satisfaction to the overall sound signature, making every listening session a joy.

Considering its price point and exceptional performance, the X rightfully earns a crown as a champion of the mid-fi IEM segment. It's a fitting tribute to TSMR's decade of sonic exploration, a testament to their dedication to crafting audiophile-grade experiences.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the Audio Geek group and its leader, Sandeep Agarwal, for providing the opportunity to experience this sonic marvel. The X has left a lasting impression, and I have no dou
bt it will leave fellow audiophiles equally enthralled.

PS: special thanks to @Dsnuts for walking me through the tuning switches.

INTRODUCTION:
EPZ may be a new name on my radar, but according to the online chatter, they've been around since 2019. My initial encounter with the brand was their Q5, which, while catching some flak for its design resemblance to a certain popular IEM, managed to garner positive reviews for its sonic performance. They maintain a well-stocked AliExpress store and boast a respectable collection of offerings. Their 530 has recently piqued my interest as a compelling mid-fi option, and you can expect me to delve into some of their portable DACs in the future.

Today, however, we set our sights on a more budget-minded contender: the EPZ Q1 Pro. While I typically steer clear of the sub-$30 realm, will EPZ defy expectations and produce a diamond in the rough? Let's embark on this listening journey together and see if the Q1 Pro can rewrite my preconceptions.

FOREWORD:

The gear on hand has undergone at least 10-15 hours of use before it was assessed.
No EQ is ever applied in my reviews.
For the sake of convenience, I try my best to use a stock setup. Not everyone has access to personal ear tips or cables. If personal ear tips, cables, or accessories are used, you will be notified.
As I try to be objective, my claims inevitably will be subjective and biased to my personal preference. I cannot stress more that you should take this with a grain of salt for we have different perceptions to sound and what we hear.

SPECIFICATIONS:
Maker: EPZ
Model: Q1 pro
Drivers: 1x 10mm LCP+PU dynamic driver
Impedance: 32 ohms
Sensitivity: 100db

PACKAGING & DETAILS:

The Q1 Pro's presentation adheres to a minimalist aesthetic. Clad in black with contrasting blue fonts, the packaging prioritizes functionality over flamboyance. While the legibility of the blue text could be improved,

the essential details are clearly displayed on the back. Unsurprisingly, the included accessories are kept to a bare minimum, which is perfectly reasonable considering the budget-friendly price tag. Let's now dissect the contents of this unpretentious package.

CASE:

The included pouch prioritizes portability over ultimate protection. While it easily slips into a pocket, it wouldn't fare well against significant pressure or a nasty fall. However, its presence at this price point is a welcome addition, offering a convenient way to store and transport the Q1 Pro.

EAR TIPS:

The Q1 Pro arrives with three pairs of silicone eartips. While a wider selection would have been ideal, it's difficult to find fault at this price. The provided tips are fairly generic, but for seasoned audiophiles who practice the art of "tip rolling," feel free to experiment with premium eartips to further personalize the listening experience.

APPEARANCE:

Eschewing the typical utilitarian aesthetic of budget IEMs, the Q1 Pro surprised me with its eye-catching design. Crafted through a 3D resin printing process, the smooth, translucent blue housings (though color preference is subjective, of course) boast a sleek and contemporary look. A strategically placed vent hole ensures proper pressure relief for a comfortable listening experience.

CABLE:

The Q1 Pro adheres to a no-frills philosophy when it comes to the cable. While lacking in extravagant aesthetics, it doesn't disappoint in terms of build quality. The cable exhibits a reassuring sturdiness, suggesting longevity with proper care.

Thankfully, it also minimizes cable tangles and microphonics, ensuring an unhindered listening experience.

COMFORT:
The Q1 Pro excels in the realm of comfort, offering a secure and snug fit that remained fatigue-free even during extended listening sessions. The lightweight shells contribute to this luxurious experience, practically disappearing into your ears and eliminating any fear of accidental dislodgement. While isolation falls within the average range, allowing a subtle presence of ambient noise at comfortable listening volumes, it proved perfectly adequate for my home recording sessions. Even during a marathon 3-hour listening stint, the Q1 Pro remained a paragon of comfort.

SOUND IMPRESSIONS:

The Q1 pro was paired with the following sources:

• Cayin RU6
• EPZ TP50
• Fiio M11 LTD plus
• Centrance Dacport HD
• Ovidius b1
• Hiby FC6
• Fiio K9

TECHNICALITIES:
Sure, the Q1 Pro's technical specs might not blow the roof off the audiophile convention. But dig a little deeper, and you'll find some hidden gems that make these IEMs sing.

The soundstage isn't a cramped shoebox, but it won't leave you feeling like you're lost in a concert hall either. It's got decent depth, instruments layered front to back believably, but the width stays firmly in "standard IEM" territory.

Imaging is average. Instruments sits where they belong in the mix, but don't expect any surprise discoveries hiding on your favorite tracks. These guys aren't gonna reveal secret notes you never noticed before.

Now, here's where the Q1 Pro truly shines – timbre! These IEMs are like sonic chameleons, capturing the natural essence of every instrument. It's what you'd expect from a good single dynamic driver – pure, unadulterated realism.

Separation might not be the star of the show, instruments preferring a more cohesive presentation than a completely isolated one. But hey, that just means the music flows smoothly instead of sounding like a disjointed orchestra.

Look, at this price point, the Q1 Pro's technical performance punches well above its weight. It's hard to find fault with these guys. They might not be the ultimate beast technically, but they're a damn fine listen.

BASS:
The bass walks a tightrope between keeping things fun and funky, without ever venturing into the boomy abyss. You get a satisfying punch and thump, delivered with a pleasingly round character. Transients, the little kicks of the bass, might not be lightning-fast, but they stay grounded in realism.

The sub-bass takes center stage compared to its mid-bass brethren. Think of it as a deep, subterranean growl that emerges when the music demands it, clean and controlled. There's a hint of bleed into the mids, an unavoidable consequence of this emphasis, but it never becomes overbearing.

MIDRANGE:
Let's talk about the mids, the heart and soul of the music. The Q1 Pro thankfully avoids the dreaded recession, where vocals get lost in the mix. Instead, they take their rightful place, front and center. Both male and female singers are rendered beautifully, with a natural, transparent quality. There's no artificial sweetness or added richness here, just pure, unadulterated clarity. These IEMs deliver a smooth, detailed midrange that lets the music shine through.

TREBLE:
The Q1 Pro treads carefully in the treble region. It doesn't reach for the stratospheric highs of some IEMs, opting for a safe and controlled approach. This translates to a fatigue-free listening experience – even for those with sensitive ears. Cymbals and hi-hats shimmer with a pleasant crispness, but avoid any harshness or sibilance that can make them sound like a swarm of angry bees. Imagine a gentle summer breeze rustling through leaves, rather than a screeching fire alarm.

COMPARISONS:
Simgot EW200
Here's the thing – while both lean towards a Harman-style tuning, the Q1 Pro does it with a finesse the EW200 can't quite match.

Visually, the Q1 Pro wins hands down. Its build quality feels more premium. But sound is subjective, so let's delve into the sonic landscape. The Q1 Pro takes a more measured approach to the mids, avoiding the overly emphasized Harman signature that might fatigue some listeners with the EW200. The Q1 Pro's vocals have more body and weight, making them a joy to listen to.

Technical prowess might not be the top priority for these IEMs, but even here, the Q1 Pro holds its own. It delivers a more well-rounded performance compared to the EW200. Remember, your experience may vary, but for me, the Q1 Pro is the clear winner in the sub-$50 arena.

TEST TRACKS:
Here are some tracks I usually listen to when reviewing:

That’s the way of the World by EWF
Africa by TOTO
The Girl in the Other Room by Diana Kral
Balmorhea album All is wild, All is Silent
Sila by Sud
Smooth Escape by D’Sound
Never too Much by Luther Vandross
P.Y.T by Michael Jackson
Ain’t no Sunshine by Eva Cassidy
Shoot to Thrill by AC/DC
Another one bites the Dust by Queen
Good times bad times by Edie Brickell
Alice in Wonderland by Bill Evans
Ain’t it Fun by Paramore
Redefine by Incubus
Far Away by Nickelback
Lovesong by Adele
Lingus by Snarky Puppy
Harvest for the World by Vanessa Williams
Love Bites by Def Leppard
No Such Thing by John Mayer
As by Stevie Wonder
Whip Appeal by Babyface
Ain’t Nobody by Chaka Khan
Futures by Prep
Landslide by Fleetwood Mac
Every Summertime by NIKI
SADE tracks
AC/DC tracks
Queen tracks


And many more… I always listen to High resolution format, being the least quality 16bit/44khz FLACS be it offline or online.

VERDICT:
The Q1 Pro isn't your typical harman-flavored IEM. It avoids the pitfalls of overly saturated ChiFi sound, however technical prowess isn't its calling card. Think of it as a sonic entertainer rather than a cold, analytical machine.

For listeners who crave pure technical fireworks, there are other options out there. But if you prioritize pure musical enjoyment, the Q1 Pro is a hidden gem. Its smooth, natural timbre is the star of the show, making music a genuinely delightful experience, even if it cuts a few corners on the technical side.

Here's the bottom line: if you're looking for a fantastically musical IEM under $50, the Q1 Pro is a no-brainer. It's perfect for music lovers, movie buffs, or anyone dipping their toes into the world of hi
gh-fidelity sound.

Thanks to EPZ for sending the Q1 Pro my way – until next time, ciao!

INTRODUCTION:
Buckle up, fellow audiophiles, because we're about to dive headfirst into the latest offering from Kefine! Remember the Klanar? That planar wonder that dropped jaws with its killer sound and budget-friendly price tag? Well, Kefine's back for another round, this time throwing their hat into the crowded sub-$100 IEM ring with the Delci. Did they make the smart move venturing into this hotly contested territory? Will the Delci manage to carve out its own niche in this cutthroat price bracket? Let's separate the wheat from the chaff and see if the Delci has the chops to impress! So, clear your ears and prepare to be transported to sonic bliss!

FOREWORD:

The gear on hand has undergone at least 10-15 hours of use before it was assessed.
No EQ is ever applied in my reviews.
For the sake of convenience, I try my best to use a stock setup. Not everyone has access to personal ear tips or cables. If personal ear tips, cables, or accessories are used, you will be notified.
As I try to be objective, my claims inevitably will be subjective and biased to my personal preference. I cannot stress more that you should take this with a grain of salt for we have different perceptions to sound and what we hear.



SPECIFICATIONS:
Maker: Kefine
Model: Delci
Drivers: 10mm DLC+PU dynamic driver
Impedance: 28 ohms
Sensitivity: 108db

PACKAGING & DETAILS:

Ah, the Delci's packaging - no bells and whistles, just a down-to-earth black box. It's clear Kefine's prioritizing the sound over the spectacle, which I can respect. Let's be honest, in this price range, fancy boxes are like icing on a stale cake. Sure, unboxing can be a fun little ritual, but for a sub-$100 IEM, I'd rather Kefine focus on what truly matters: the sonic experience. After all, as the saying goes, you can't polish a turd, and sometimes, all that glitters isn't gold. Let's hope the Delci's sound is more like a hidden gem than a dime-a-dozen dud.

CASE:

The Delci's carrying case isn't exactly winning any beauty contests. It's your standard, no-frills affair. But hey, at this price point, I'd be singing a different tune if there wasn't one included at all. Let's face it, a halfway decent case is the cherry on top for a sub-$100 IEM. Sure, it might not be the most glamorous, but it gets the job done – keeps those precious Delcis safe from getting tossed around in your bag like yesterday's news. In this case, beggars can't be choosers, and I'm happy Kefine at least threw us a bone.

EAR TIPS:

Kefine seems to be following the "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" philosophy with the Delci's ear tips. Just like the Klanar, they've included a generous spread of different sizes. Now, differentiating between the regulars and wide bores can be a bit of a treasure hunt – they all look pretty similar. Here's a pro tip: feel is your friend! The wide bores tend to be a tad softer, so give them a little squish to tell them apart. As for quality, the stock tips are decent enough to get you started. But hey, if you're a seasoned audiophile who's mastered the art of "tip rolling," feel free to throw on your favorite premium pair and see where the sonic journey takes you!

BUILD:

Let's be honest, I'm no watchmaker, but Kefine seems to have pulled off some serious engineering magic with the Delci's housing. They're using CNC machining, which basically means computer-controlled precision cutting, to craft these beauties. No wonder they're bragging about the quality at such a wallet-friendly price! Picking them up, they feel surprisingly premium – solid and smooth, like something way out of their sub-$100 league. Kefine even throws some shade (without naming names, of course) about how these are built to last, unlike certain other IEMs that turn into chipped paint nightmares after a single tumble. Looks like Kefine put their money where their mouth is, and that's music to my ears!

APPEARANCE:

The Delci might be the Klanar's doppelganger at first glance, but a closer inspection reveals some subtle distinctions. The Delci's sculpted form is noticeably more petite than its predecessor, making it even more comfortable for extended listening sessions. The color scheme takes a turn too, with the Delci sporting a sophisticated dark brown chrome that exudes a touch more elegance than the Klanar's classic black. While the overall layout might share some similarities, the Delci's refined design edges out the Klanar in the looks department, at least in my humble opinion. While a part of me yearns for a complete design overhaul, the Delci's understated improvements undeniably elevate its visual appeal.

COMFORT:
The Delci aces the comfort test! These little guys are light as a feather, nestling snugly in your ears without any pressure or fatigue. The fit is secure, creating a good seal that blocks out unwanted noise. They're so comfortable, I even managed to snag a snooze with them in – that's the ultimate comfort test, folks! Let's just say, if you're looking for an IEM that disappears into your ears and lets the music take center stage, the Delci definitely delivers.

CABLE:

The Delci's stock cable is a bit of a mixed bag. It's on the lighter side, which some might find appealing. Kefine gets points for the color choice though – it complements the IEMs nicely.

SOUND IMPRESSIONS:
For this review, I hooked up the Delci to a variety of sources to see how they performed. This included some heavy hitters like the Ovidius B1 and Cayin RU6, as well as some more portable options like the Fiio M11 Plus LTD and Oppo A94. To keep things interesting, I used a mix of streaming services (Qobuz and Apple Music) and my own FLAC collection. Basically, I threw everything but the kitchen sink at these IEMs!

TECHNICALITIES:
The Delci boasts an impressive soundstage for its price point. It offers a surprisingly spacious presentation, exceeding expectations for a sub-$100 IEM. This translates to a well-defined separation of instruments and vocals, creating a clear and layered listening experience. The spaciousness enhances the overall presentation, fostering a sense of immersion that rivals more expensive models.

The Delci's imaging is a revelation in the sub-$100 realm. Usually, with budget IEMs, you get what you pay for, and that often means a homogenous sonic mush. But the Delci throws a curveball. I found myself constantly surprised, discovering previously unheard details and instrument placements in tracks I thought I knew by heart. It's like rediscovering your favorite record store – you never know what hidden gem you might unearth! This precise and nuanced imaging is a true strength of the Delci, making it stand out from the crowd in its price bracket.

The Delci's Achilles heel, for some listeners, might be its texture. It leans towards a smoother presentation, which can leave certain instruments, particularly bass and guitars, lacking a touch of that raw, textured "bite" some audiophiles crave. Think of it like a beautifully restored vintage car – sleek and elegant, but maybe missing the subtle imperfections that tell the story of its journey. However, it's important to remember that this smoothness falls well within the realm of satisfying resolution and detail. Ultimately, it boils down to personal preference. If you prioritize a ruthlessly analytical sound signature, the Delci might not be your end-all, be-all. But for those who appreciate a smooth and refined presentation, the Delci delivers in spades.

The Delci truly shines when it comes to timbre. As expected from a single dynamic driver design, it delivers a refreshingly natural and organic presentation. Vocals and instruments possess a lifelike quality, free from artificial coloration. This translates to an incredibly engaging and soulful listening experience. While some might argue the Delci leans slightly towards genres like jazz and classical, where its natural timbre can truly flourish, it handles a wide variety of musical styles with remarkable ease. No matter your musical preference, the Delci's smooth and accurate timbre will ensure your music remains rich, detailed, and utterly captivating.

BASS:
The Delci prioritizes subbass, delivering deep, impactful rumbles. While the midbass is less prominent, it remains well-controlled and doesn't overpower the sound. Overall, the bass is agile and responsive, handling intricate basslines with ease. This emphasis on bass might not suit listeners who prefer a neutral sound signature, but bass enthusiasts are likely to enjoy the Delci's powerful bass presentation.

MIDRANGE:
The Delci's sound signature definitely isn't neutral – the mids are lush, rich, and full-bodied, with a warm presentation that keeps the details and transients clear. Instruments sound great, but the vocals are a bit recessed, making the overall soundstage wider. I would've liked them to be a bit more forward, but it wasn't enough to bother me – overall, the mids are still good.

TREBLE:
Kefine impressed me with the treble on the Delci. Initially, I worried the safe tuning might mean a lack of energy in the highs. But to my surprise, the treble delivers a surprising amount of detail, shimmer, and sparkle when the music calls for it. It's still on the safe side, which is great for people who are sensitive to harsh sounds (sibilance). Crashes, cymbals, bells, and hi-hats all come through with a nice balance of liveliness and control.

COMPARISONS:
Simgot EA500
The EA500 undoubtedly boasts a brighter soundscape. It excels in note definition, offering crisp, well-defined edges. However, this brilliance comes at the cost of a narrower soundstage. In comparison, the Delci presents a more natural timbre, faithfully reproducing the intended sonic character of instruments. While the EA500's modular tuning nozzles provide greater flexibility for sculpting the sound to your preference, the Delci takes the cake for pure listening enjoyment. It's undeniably addictive, offering a highly engaging experience that the EA500, despite being a long-standing benchmark for the $100 price point, can't quite match. The EA500 might leave you fatigued after extended listening sessions, whereas the Delci strikes a perfect balance between sonic pleasure and technical prowess. While the EA500 might have the edge in pure resolution, the Delci wins hearts with its ability to keep you glued to your music for hours on end.

Dunu Titan S
The Titan S is the epitome of neutrality – balanced across the frequency spectrum, almost to a fault. While this meticulous approach unveils hidden details with impressive clarity, it can sometimes leave you wanting more. You might crave a touch more bass punch, a hint of midrange warmth, or a dash of treble sparkle. This neutrality, however, makes the Titan S a technical marvel, a pristine window into the recording itself.

The Delci, on the other hand, injects a shot of vibrancy into your music. It prioritizes fun and engagement, adding a touch of color to the sonic canvas. While the Titan S boasts superior technical prowess, the Delci's ability to keep you captivated and wanting more is undeniable. It sacrifices some technical perfection for a more emotionally involving listening experience. The choice boils down to your preference: surgical precision or infectious musicality.


Stay tuned, audiophile friends! I'll be diving into comparisons between the Delci and other contenders in the near future. We'll have showdowns with the EPZ Q1 Pro and the Orivetti OD100, dissecting their sonic personalities to help you, the discerning listener, pick your perfect match.

TEST TRACKS:
Here are some tracks I usually listen to when reviewing:

That’s the way of the World by EWF
Africa by TOTO
The Girl in the Other Room by Diana Kral
Balmorhea album All is wild, All is Silent
Sila by Sud
Smooth Escape by D’Sound
Never too Much by Luther Vandross
P.Y.T by Michael Jackson
Ain’t no Sunshine by Eva Cassidy
Shoot to Thrill by AC/DC
Another one bites the Dust by Queen
Good times bad times by Edie Brickell
Alice in Wonderland by Bill Evans
Ain’t it Fun by Paramore
Redefine by Incubus
Far Away by Nickelback
Lovesong by Adele
Lingus by Snarky Puppy
Harvest for the World by Vanessa Williams
Love Bites by Def Leppard
No Such Thing by John Mayer
As by Stevie Wonder
Whip Appeal by Babyface
Ain’t Nobody by Chaka Khan
Futures by Prep
Landslide by Fleetwood Mac
Every Summertime by NIKI
SADE tracks
AC/DC tracks
Queen tracks


And many more… I always listen to High resolution format, being the least quality 16bit/44khz FLACS be it offline or online.

VERDICT:
The Delci undeniably checks most of the boxes for a stellar IEM. While a touch more resolution, textural detail, and a slightly forward vocal presence would be the icing on the cake, these are minor quibbles when considering the big picture. Kefine masterfully prioritized the right elements, crafting an IEM that prioritizes enjoyment without sacrificing technical merit. At a wallet-friendly $60 price tag, the Delci is a clear winner. It delivers a fantastic balance of accurate timbre and technical prowess, even if it doesn't excel in every single aspect. But that's the beauty of it – Kefine made the right choices, prioritizing what truly matters for a truly engaging listening experience.

A huge thank you to
Collin Yang of Kefine for their continued generosity in providing the Delci for this review.

INTRODUCTION:​

Kefine, driven by their commitment to offer sophisticated audio equipment at a reasonable and pragmatic price point, coined their name from a fusion of the founder's name and the concept of refinement, resulting in the term "Kefine." On the other hand, the term "Klanar" cleverly integrates "planar" with the letter "K." The company places a premium on quality, treating their products with a level of care akin to parenting. They allocate every cent judiciously, striving to maximize quality while keeping costs in check. Their philosophy asserts that top-notch audio shouldn't come with an exorbitant price tag.

While many companies express similar aspirations in their corporate profiles, the pivotal question lingers: Can Kefine truly deliver superior sound quality with the $119 Klanar? Join me on this journey as we delve into the answer.

FOREWORD:​

• The gear on hand has undergone at least 10-15 hours of use before it was assessed.
• No EQ is ever applied in my reviews.
• For the sake of convenience, I try my best to use a stock setup. Not everyone has access to personal ear tips or cables. If personal ear tips, cables, or accessories are used, you will be notified.
• As I try to be objective, my claims inevitably will be subjective and biased to my personal preference. I cannot stress more that you should take this with a grain of salt for we have different perceptions to sound and what we hear.

SPECIFICATIONS:​

Maker: Kefine
Model: Klanar
Drivers: 14.5mm planar driver
Impedance: 16ohms
Sensitivity: 105db

PACKAGING & DETAILS:​

The packaging of Klanar leans towards simplicity, aligning with their reported environmental consciousness. Housed in a moderately sized box, the front showcases a straightforward image of Klanar, complemented by clean and generic fonts. On the rear, you'll find the customary information about the IEM and the company. Now, let's delve into the contents included in the package.

CASE:​

The case comes in a pleasant gray hue with a textured exterior, providing a tactile and visually appealing quality. Internally, the compartment is sleek and compact, requiring a careful arrangement of the cable and Klanar to ensure a snug fit. While a bit more room would have been preferable, the overall functionality remains commendable. Despite the snug fit, the case effectively fulfills its primary purpose of safeguarding the Klanar.

CABLE:​

The cable quality stands out remarkably, especially considering the price point. While it might be slightly on the lighter side for my personal preference, its sturdiness and substantial thickness provide reassurance against potential breakage or snapping in the event of an inadvertent pull during on-the-go use.

EAR TIPS:​

The inclusion of ear tips is notably generous, especially considering the price range. There are two varieties available. The regular bore contributes to a bass boost but slightly narrows the soundstage, while the wide bore enhances details and treble, expanding the stage.

Identifying them at first glance can be a tad challenging as both are uniformly black, necessitating a closer inspection to differentiate based on bore size. The quality falls on the generic spectrum but remains functional. In the course of this review, I opted for the wide bore stock tips.

APPEARANCE:​

Klanar embodies a striking minimalistic design. Crafted from lightweight aluminum alloy, it ensures a comfortable and easy-to-wear experience. The ergonomic design is accommodating to the ears, enhancing overall comfort. Sporting a matte black color, the aesthetic is clean and understated, catering to those who appreciate a minimalist approach. If you're inclined towards simplicity and a sleek appearance, the look and feel of Klanar will likely resonate with you.

INTERNALS:​

Klanar features a 14.5mm planar driver, known for its efficiency and notably easy driveability. Amid the initial skepticism surrounding the planar wars, Klanar stands out as a testament to the industry's evolving understanding of effectively implementing these micro planar drivers. After a year of observation, it's evident that companies have gained valuable insights into optimizing the performance of these drivers. Klanar, in particular, emerges as a legitimate player in the planar realm, and we'll delve deeper into its performance shortly.

COMFORT:​

Wearing the Klanar is a delightful experience, offering a snug fit that proves particularly suitable for on-stage performances. Extended usage doesn't result in soreness or discomfort, thanks to its ergonomic design. The insertion process is commendable, providing a decent depth for a secure feel. Being vented, the Klanar manages above-average isolation. Notably, even after prolonged use exceeding an hour, there is no discernible pressure build-up, enhancing the overall comfort during extended sessions.

SOUND IMPRESSIONS:​

SOURCES:​

• FIIO M11 PLUS LTD
• Centrance Dacport HD
• Ovidius B1
• Cayin RU6
• Apple music subscription
• Qobuz studio
• Offline FLACs

Measurement courtesy of our good friend Baskingshark​

TECHNICALITIES:​

The Klanar offers a stage that, while not the widest among IEMs, avoids a claustrophobic feel and doesn't sound overly in-your-face. Staging gives a sense of more than the conventional 2d presentation. As we speak, I’m listening to a track from Tingvall Trio and I can hear the piano with good depth, plus width and a bit of height all in all.

Imaging is above average, with instruments easily distinguishable and well-placed.

In terms of speed, as expected from a planar, the Klanar delivers a precise and defined attack without overdoing it, providing a sense of realism to the sound.

Where the Klanar truly shines is in its timbre, excelling in delivering one of the most natural-sounding performances for a planar configuration, a realm where planars often face challenges.

The texture leans towards the smoother side, potentially lacking for those seeking an analytical sound. While texture and details are present, they aren't prominently highlighted. In essence, the Klanar isn't a clinical-sounding IEM; instead, it prioritizes musicality.

Equipped with a 4.4mm balanced termination, the Klanar deserves credit for its easy driveability. Despite its on-paper sensitivity of 105dB, I found it manageable even with the old reliable Abigail dongle by Venture Electronics. While highly efficient, the Klanar still benefits from proper amping to truly bring out its best sound.

BASS:​

For enthusiasts of deep bass, the Klanar is tailor-made for you. It boasts a V-shaped tuning, delivering a substantial amount of bass with impressive quality. The bass performance is characterized by its speed, snappiness, punchiness, and precision. Planars are renowned for their exceptional bass responses, and the Klanar lives up to this reputation. While there's a slight bleed into the mids due to the quantity of bass, it remains very tolerable.

Klanar's emphasis on sub-bass adds a layer of fun and engagement, keeping the listening experience entertaining. Given the quantity of bass in its tuning, there's a risk of muddiness in sound, but Kefine has done a commendable job in maintaining the cleanliness of the bass, ensuring a satisfying and well-defined low-end.

MIDRANGE:​

As someone who appreciates the midrange, I can understand how this tuning might give you pause. True to expectations, the midrange on the Klanar takes on a recessed sound and nature. While this tuning prevents an overwhelming abundance of details, it does come at the cost of the presence of vocals and instruments. However, the redeeming quality lies in the note weight and body.

Kefine successfully maintains an engaging midrange by ensuring a robust note weight and embodiment. Despite its recessed nature, the midrange didn’t disappoint mid-centric listeners like myself. Vocals retain good presence, and instruments manage to step into the spotlight when called upon, contributing to an overall engaging midrange experience.

TREBLE:​

Planar headphones often have a reputation for being shouty, splashy, and potentially fatiguing to listen to. However, Kefine breaks this mold with the Klanar, offering a highly controlled treble that is devoid of sibilance. This makes it easy to listen to for prolonged periods. While it may not cater to extreme treble enthusiasts, the Klanar still delivers an exciting and sufficient treble experience.

The upper frequencies maintain a non-piercing quality, bringing joy to those with sensitivity to sharp sounds. The treble, though not excessively bright or veiled, offers a balanced and enjoyable listening experience. If you're someone who desires more sparkle, experimenting with different cables and rolling the top end is an option, but personally, I find the treble on the Klanar to be satisfying with a good balance of bite and grit.

COMPARISONS:​

Tangzu Heyday​

Heyday tends toward a more mature, neutral tuning, showcasing well-placed and forward vocals and instruments. However, there are instances where the bass can be perceived as lacking, potentially leading to a less engaging experience for some listeners. The rendering of female vocals is a notable strength for Heyday. In terms of separation and layering, Heyday demonstrates a slight edge.

Some individuals might find the upper midrange of Heyday to be thin and slightly harsh, whereas Klanar exhibits better control over the treble, providing a more balanced listening experience. Heyday offers modular cables, providing users with options for 2.5mm, 3.5mm, and 4.4mm terminations, adding versatility to the listening setup.

Both Klanar and Heyday maintain proper timbre, producing natural and authentic sounds. While each has its strengths and characteristics, the choice between them would ultimately depend on individual preferences and priorities in tuning and features.

Letshuoer S12 OG​

It seems that the S12 and Klanar share similar bass quantity, delivering a comparable level of fun. However, when it comes to separation and layering, the S12 holds a slight edge. In terms of timbre accuracy, Klanar takes the lead, providing a more correct representation of sound. The S12, on the other hand, exhibits some harshness and heat in the upper midrange, making Klanar a safer and more comfortable listening experience.

In summary, the Klanar appears to be akin to the S12 but without the hotness in the upper midrange that could potentially introduce a sense of brittleness. This suggests that, in my personal opinion, the Klanar might be how the S12 should have sounded, offering a more balanced and enjoyable listening experience.

TEST TRACKS:​

Here are some tracks I usually listen to when reviewing:

That’s the way of the World by EWF
Africa by TOTO
The Girl in the Other Room by Diana Kral
Balmorhea album All is wild, All is Silent
Sila by Sud
Smooth Escape by D’Sound
Never too Much by Luther Vandross
P.Y.T by Michael Jackson
Ain’t no Sunshine by Eva Cassidy
Shoot to Thrill by AC/DC
Another one bites the Dust by Queen
Good times bad times by Edie Brickell
Alice in Wonderland by Bill Evans
Ain’t it Fun by Paramore
Redefine by Incubus
Far Away by Nickelback
Lovesong by Adele
Lingus by Snarky Puppy
Harvest for the World by Vanessa Williams
Love Bites by Def Leppard
No Such Thing by John Mayer
As by Stevie Wonder
Whip Appeal by Babyface
Ain’t Nobody by Chaka Khan
Futures by Prep
Landslide by Fleetwood Mac
Every Summertime by NIKI
SADE tracks
AC/DC tracks
Queen tracks


And many more… I always listen to High resolution format, being the least quality 16bit/44khz FLACS be it offline or online.

VERDICT:​

When the Klanar was en route to me, skepticism lingered in my mind. Despite engaging in thoughtful exchanges with the Kefine representative, doubts crept in, especially considering the V-shaped tuning indicated on the graph—a profile not typically to my liking. The prospect of a recessed midrange added another layer of uncertainty. Against these initial reservations, the Klanar managed to not only satisfy but also connect with me in a genuinely joyous way.

Taking a step back for a more objective view, this V-shaped tuning is executed remarkably well. For those who appreciate this tuning, the Klanar is a treat. It brings forth an excellent bass response, a well-weighted midrange, and a precisely controlled treble, accompanied by technicalities that surpass the average performance. It's essentially a recipe for a well-rounded listening experience. While Kefine might not have ventured into something groundbreaking or unique, they've executed the mainstream with finesse—a product that resonates with a broad audience.

I foresee a strong potential for this company, eagerly anticipating their future releases. I've imparted a piece of advice, urging them not to succumb to the temptation of flooding the market with numerous products. Instead, focusing on quality over quantity could solidify their position. Despite the tuning not aligning perfectly with my preferences, the Klanar adds a unique sound to my collection, earning its place in my rotation.

My heartfelt thanks extend to Collin Yang of Kefine for his graciousness and providing the Klanar for my review. I'd also like to acknowledge Joshua Treinen for facilitating the connection with Kefine. That wraps up this review, and I look forward to catching you on the next one.

INTRODUCTION:​

Simgot requires no formal introduction from my end, having already reviewed several of their products that have left a lasting impression in 2023. Presenting a formidable hybrid IEM with a robust U-shaped sound profile, priced at $109, the EM6L enters the scene as a strong contender. Interestingly, it aligns with my top pick, the EA500, which sets the standard in the $100 price range. The question looms: Can the EM6L live up to the benchmark set by the EA500? Without further ado, let's dive into the evaluation.

FOREWORD:​

• The gear on hand has undergone at least 10-15 hours of use before it was assessed.
• No EQ is ever applied in my reviews.
• For the sake of convenience, I try my best to use a stock setup. Not everyone has access to personal ear tips or cables. If personal ear tips, cables, or accessories are used, you will be notified.
• As I try to be objective, my claims inevitably will be subjective and biased to my personal preference. I cannot stress more that you should take this with a grain of salt for we have different perceptions to sound and what we hear.

SPECIFICATIONS:​

Maker: Simgot
Model: EM6-L
Drivers: 1DD + 4BA
Impedance: 26ohms
Sensitivity: 119db
FR Response: 20hz-20khz

PACKAGING & DETAILS:​

CASE:​

The scenario here mirrors what accompanied the EA500 – precisely identical. I appreciate the spacious compartment that avoids squeezing your IEMs and the sturdy build capable of withstanding considerable pressure. While the tactile sensation might come off as generic, the case excels in fulfilling its primary purpose: safeguarding your valuable gear.

EAR TIPS:​

Eartips, a critical element that can either elevate or diminish the sound profile, warrant meticulous consideration. Drawing from multiple reviews and hands-on experience with their offerings, Simgot consistently bundles their IEMs with these firm, moderately wide-bore, yet not excessively wide, balanced eartips. I find them satisfactory, but I do have a preference for some personal favorites. It seems Simgot assumes that at this price point, the discerning buyer is well-versed in the art of tip rolling, as they consistently provide just one type of eartip. Perhaps in future releases, Simgot could explore collaborations with eartip manufacturers to diversify this aspect. Nonetheless, for the entirety of this review, I stuck with the stock tips.

APPEARANCE:​

The EM6L is not just an auditory delight but a visual stunner that boasts undeniable appeal. Personally drawn to all things black, the EM6L's aesthetic exudes a certain allure that captivates my eyes. Crafted with high precision through 3D printing in resin, its construction is both sleek and sexy. The faceplate, seemingly metallic, adds an extra touch of sophistication. On the right side, an emblem reminiscent of the phoenix catches attention, while on the left proudly sits the distinctive Simgot logo.

INTERNALS:​

Internally, the EM6L adopts a hybrid configuration. In line with recent trends in the audio community, many hybrids have surfaced in the $100 price range. The EM6L, too, embraces this ethos, featuring a combination of 1 dynamic driver and 4 balanced armature drivers, a configuration that holds promise for a nuanced and dynamic sonic experience.

COMFORT:​

Comfort deserves commendation with the EM6L. Despite a fit that doesn't delve exceptionally deep, attributed to its relatively larger nozzles compared to the norm, the stability of the grip is noteworthy. It maintains a secure hold without inducing any discomfort or soreness to the ears. Achieving a good seal is easy, effectively blocking out external noise. Worth noting is the absence of a vent hole, which might lead to a bit of pressure build-up during extended usage for some users.

SOUND IMPRESSIONS:​

SOURCES:​

• Fiio M11 plus LTD
• Ovidius B1
• Centrance Dacport HD
• Cayin RU6
• Apple Music
• Offline FLACs

TECHINICALITIES:​

The realm of soundstage often requires a discerning ear to notice significant differences. Yet, with the EM6L, I can confidently say it's "spacious." This IEM provides that extra headroom that's not only felt but distinctly heard, elevating the listening experience.

Moving on to imaging, it falls into the realm of the usual – good and decent, but not particularly extraordinary.

Now, let's dive into the timbre. Upon initial listen, it seemed acceptable. However, the true litmus test came when I connected the EM6L to my Nord keyboard, renowned for housing one of the best-sampled pianos in the musical world. The result? The emergence of that unmistakable BA timbre. Hovering around the upper mids, a subtle sense of unnaturalness comes into play. It's not a deal-breaker, but the BA timbre makes its presence known.

Driving the EM6L demands a bit of amplification, and the 28-ohm impedance plays its part. A dedicated DAP or a reliable dongle is highly recommended for optimal performance.

When it comes to pairing, I'd advise opting for a more analog source. In my experience, the Cayin RU6 proved to be a savior in synergy. Interestingly, my beloved Ovidius B1, although cherished, rendered a sound that felt too thin in the mids when paired with the EM6L. It appears the EM6L is quite source-dependent. Thus, a bit of experimentation with different tips, cables, and sources is strongly suggested to uncover the ideal synergy.

BASS:​

The bass on the EM6L carries a substantial weight, particularly emphasizing the sub-bass frequencies. Anticipate a satisfying rumble that adds excitement to genres like Hip hop, R&B, and even orchestral compositions, such as those by Hans Zimmer. This characteristic lends a dynamic and engaging quality to the overall sound. While the mid-bass remains commendable, it doesn't take a prominent role.

The texture, while average, retains the subtle nuances of bass guitars without overly highlighting them. In terms of quantity, it might fall short of satisfying a basshead's preference and could be a tad much for those leaning towards a neutral sound signature. Notably, the bass exhibits excellent control, avoiding any hint of being overly pronounced. The agility and tactility are very adept and sufficient for an immersive listening experience.

MIDRANGE:​

The midrange might not be the EM6L's strongest suit, and as a mid-centric enthusiast, I did find this aspect a bit underwhelming. In my favorite instrumental tracks, the midrange exhibits a slight recession — a personal preference would lean towards a more forward presentation. Surprisingly, in the realm of vocals, there's a noteworthy emphasis on female voices over their male counterparts. While the texture is present, it does feel somewhat lacking. Given this tuning, a certain amount of thinness is evident. The recessed nature is tolerable, pushed back but not excessively so. It is a hit and miss depending on the track. At times the midrange is ok, at times it is lacking in weight and body.

TREBLE:​

The treble on the EM6L is remarkably energetic, offering a generous dose of sparkle and air without veering into sibilance, a refreshing departure from the norm. While Simgot has a penchant for bright tuning, the EM6L stands out by maintaining tight control over its treble presentation. In contrast to the EA500, where I needed some adjustment to the treble, the EM6L instantly resonated with my preferences. If I may extend this to the upper mids, they sound a tad thin. While snare drums exhibit liveliness, I found myself wishing for a bit more body and weight. Notably, the treble is highly accommodating and caters well to treble enthusiasts and even those with sensitivity concerns. It strikes a delicate balance and I must commend Simgot for their tuning in this particular spectrum.

COMPARISONS:​

Tangzu Fu Du​

Fu Du steps onto the stage with a more balanced tuning, offering up lush mids that align perfectly with my personal preferences. While it may be a tad soft on note definition, the trade-off is a natural timbre that resonates well. Fu Du doesn't skimp on generosity, especially evident in the wealth of eartip inclusions. When it comes to layering, it takes the lead, showcasing an impressive depth.

In the realm of treble, Fu Du opts for a safer presentation, steering clear of any sharp edges. There's a subtle warmth that envelops the overall sound profile, adding a touch of coziness to the listening experience.

Hidizs MS3​

The MS3 steps into the arena with a more energetic overall sound profile. Its bass packs a punch, and the treble dances with liveliness, although a word of caution—there's a susceptibility to sibilance. In the realm of soundstage, it leans toward the narrower side. Both the MS3 and EM6L adhere to the Harman tuning. When it comes to note definition and attack, the MS3 takes the spotlight, delivering precision.

A noteworthy feature is the versatility offered by tuning nozzles, allowing users to tailor their experience. Both portray a touch of BA timbre, albeit less pronounced in the MS3.

Binary Acoustics Chopin x Gizaudio​

The Chopin gracefully follows the Harman tuning, standing out with a more prominent bass presence and less recessed mids. The treble presentation aligns closely with the EM6L. In terms of soundstage, both share a narrower profile. However, when it comes to technical prowess, the Chopin takes a step ahead.

Similar to the EM6L, the Chopin hints at BA timbre, though less pronounced. Overall, the sound profile remains almost similar, with the standout feature being the less recessed mids in the Chopin. Adding to its appeal, the Chopin proves to be more amiable in the power department, requiring no external amplification from DACs or amps.

TEST TRACKS:​

Here are some tracks I usually listen to when reviewing:

That’s the way of the World by EWF
Africa by TOTO
The Girl in the Other Room by Diana Kral
Balmorhea album All is wild, All is Silent
Sila by Sud
Smooth Escape by D’Sound
Never too Much by Luther Vandross
P.Y.T by Michael Jackson
Ain’t no Sunshine by Eva Cassidy
Shoot to Thrill by AC/DC
Another one bites the Dust by Queen
Good times bad times by Edie Brickell
Alice in Wonderland by Bill Evans
Ain’t it Fun by Paramore
Redefine by Incubus
Far Away by Nickelback
Lovesong by Adele
Lingus by Snarky Puppy
Harvest for the World by Vanessa Williams
Love Bites by Def Leppard
No Such Thing by John Mayer
As by Stevie Wonder
Whip Appeal by Babyface
Ain’t Nobody by Chaka Khan
Futures by Prep
Landslide by Fleetwood Mac
Every Summertime by NIKI
SADE tracks
AC/DC tracks
Queen tracks


And many more… I always listen to High resolution format, being the least quality 16bit/44khz FLACS be it offline or online.

VERDICT:​

Stepping out of my personal preference for Harman-tuned IEMs, I'll offer a more objective perspective as we conclude this review. The EM6L stands as a capable IEM, boasting commendable technicalities, a visually appealing minimalist design, and catering to a market well-versed in tip rolling and amping. If you're a fan of Harman tuning and the recessed mids aren't a deal-breaker, the EM6L warrants consideration in this price range.

It's crucial to note that personal preferences play a significant role, and for someone with a mid-centric inclination like myself, the tuning may not resonate as strongly. It's a subjective experience—hit or miss. For monitoring purposes, the EM6L didn't quite make the cut in my evaluation.

However, I'd recommend it to those who engage in casual listening, appreciate a robust bass presentation, desire good treble extension, and seek that extra headroom in the soundstage. While BA timbre is still present, it's within tolerable limits. Ultimately, whether the EM6L aligns with your preferences is a matter of personal taste and listening habits.

My heartfelt gratitude to Simgot for providing this unit, allowing me to thoroughly test, review, and scrutinize its capabilities. Their generosity is genuinely appreciated. It's worth noting that, as I pen down this review, the EA1000 has been released, catching my eye as an IEM that might align more closely with my preferences than the EM6L. Cheers, and I look forward to catching you on the next review!

INTRODUCTION:​

Aful, a company frequently teased for its name's resemblance to "awful," stands as a relatively recent entrant in the audio realm. Their initial offering, the P5, garnered mixed reviews from both critics and users. Enter the P8, a fortuitous addition to my collection. This intricately detailed and technically proficient IEM has become my go-to for various musical needs—whether on stage, in the studio for recording, or during the critical phases of referencing and mixing.

In my third evaluation of Aful's products, a discernible pattern in their house sound signature is emerging. While undeniably impressive in technical aspects, the P5 and P8 lean toward a less musical and organic sound, leaving me desiring a heightened sense of engagement. Despite their prowess, I find myself reserving these IEMs exclusively for professional purposes, aligning with my role as a musician, rather than indulging in them for leisurely listening.

Now, onto the latest release, the MagicOne. This newcomer has swiftly become a focal point in the audio community, drawing both praise and criticism. Some reviewers laud it, while others face backlash for what's perceived as undue hype. Frankly, I couldn't care less about the ongoing debate. Today, I'll share my unfiltered impressions of the MagicOne and offer insights into how it stacks up against some of my preferred IEMs. Ready to dive in?

FOREWORD:​

• The gear on hand has undergone at least 10-15 hours of use before it was assessed.
• No EQ is ever applied in my reviews.
• For the sake of convenience, I try my best to use a stock setup. Not everyone has access to personal ear tips or cables. If personal ear tips, cables, or accessories are used, you will be notified.
• As I try to be objective, my claims inevitably will be subjective and biased to my personal preference. I cannot stress more that you should take this with a grain of salt for we have different perceptions to sound and what we hear.

SPECIFICATIONS:​

Maker: Aful
Model: MagicOne
Drivers: 1 x BA
Impedance: 38 ohms
Sensitivity: 103db
Frequency response: 5hz to 35khz

PACKAGING & DETAILS:​

For a $140 item, the packaging is straightforward, albeit a tad underwhelming when juxtaposed with the likes of my cherished Kinera Idun. Housed in a relatively diminutive box, roughly the size of a palm, the MagicOne's packaging features a front-facing photo of the IEM and standard details on the back. Sliding off the box sleeve reveals the inner box.

Now, let's delve into the inclusions, addressing each element briefly.

CASE:​

The case is a familiar sight, having come across similar iterations in several review units that have crossed my path. It sports a metallic, round, pop-up design, albeit on the slimmer side. While lacking in extravagance, it efficiently fulfills its primary function of safeguarding your IEMs.

EAR TIPS:​

Eartips, a pivotal aspect of any purchase, pleasantly surprised me with two variants included, a departure from the offerings with the P5 and P8.

The familiar ones, hued in blue and red, boast a regular bore and a notably rigid composition. A newcomer to the ensemble is the white, semi-transparent counterpart, also featuring a regular bore but exhibiting a softer texture. Opting for a change, I stuck with the new tips throughout this review, steering clear of the older, stiffer ones that Aful traditionally provides.

CABLE:​

The cable proves to be quite commendable given the price point. Gleaming in a silvery sheen, it boasts a substantial thickness that imparts a sense of durability and solid construction.

Notably, there were no issues with microphonics during my usage, contributing to an overall positive impression. The inclusion of the 3.5mm plug, coupled with the conventional 0.78 2-pin connection, aligns with standard expectations. So far, I'm quite pleased with it.

DOCUMENTATIONS:​

Included in the package is a straightforward instruction manual along with a diamond-shaped cardboard serving as a certificate of eligibility—standard fare. I won't delve into the specifics here.

APPEARANCE:​

The aesthetic appeal of the MagicOne is quite distinctive, particularly for someone with a fondness for transparent designs like myself. The IEM's visual allure resonates with me, and I appreciate the transparency, almost as if Aful is declaring, "we've got nothing to hide." In the audio community, there's a subset of individuals who enjoy tearing down IEMs, exposing any gimmicks or inconsistencies. Aful's transparent design appears to be a bold statement, asserting their commitment to authenticity.

But let's move on from the verbosity; I believe a few photos can convey this sentiment more effectively than a lengthy paragraph.

INTERNALS:​

The MagicOne boasts a configuration that stands out as a rarity in the realm of IEMs—utilizing a single Balanced Armature (BA). This marks my initial encounter with such a setup. Ordinarily, IEMs feature at least two BAs, each handling specific portions of the frequency spectrum, while Dynamic Drivers (DD) often tackle the entire spectrum solo. However, Aful takes a distinctive approach here, entrusting a single BA to manage the entire field.

The company emphasizes that their in-house developed BA ensures a broad frequency response. Incorporating their Acoustic Maze of Nautilus structure and a SEM acoustic structure, the technical details delve into territories beyond my expertise. Admittedly, I'm a musician, not an engineer. For those seeking more technical insights, I'd recommend checking out reviews from fellow enthusiasts who delve into the geekier aspects.

COMFORT:​

The wearability and comfort of the MagicOne bring to mind the experience with KZ IEMs, known for their comfort prowess. While not snug per se, the grip is commendable, ensuring a secure fit without any risk of slipping from the ears. The IEMs sit comfortably without inducing pain or soreness, and their lightweight nature almost makes them disappear once worn. Though I've encountered better fits with some other IEMs, the MagicOne holds its own in the comfort department, with no notable complaints.

SOUND IMPRESSIONS:​

The MagicOne took center stage alongside my trusted dongles – the Centrance Dacport HD, Ovidius B1, and the Cayin RU6, with the Fiio M11 plus LTD orchestrating the ensemble. Offline FLACs and tunes from my Apple Music subscription set the rhythm.

Upon plugging in the MagicOne, the initial revelation is its demanding nature when it comes to power. For the casual listener eyeing a direct phone connection, the full sonic potential remains elusive. Even with the formidable Fiio M11 plus LTD DAP, I found myself cranking up the volume by an additional 10 steps. To truly unlock the intended symphony of the MagicOne, I had to turn to my trusty dongles. It's clear – this IEM calls for a robust DAP or, better yet, a high-powered dongle for the ultimate auditory voyage. This quirk, however, somewhat narrows the audience to seasoned audiophiles armed with an arsenal of dac/amps, be it in the desktop or mobile domain.

The soundstage of the MagicOne earns commendation, providing additional headroom compared to the standard IEM offering. While it doesn't blow the mind, it sits comfortably in the realm of the average. When I'm craving that special spatiality and a grand stage, I find myself reaching for other IEMs in my collection, leaving the MagicOne in the realm of the everyday.

The MagicOne flaunts an impressive prowess in layering and separation. It's so remarkable that each instrument in my music exists in its own pristine space, rarely overlapping. This particular attribute is a critical factor for me as a musician, significantly easing my professional life. Even in the face of complex tracks, the MagicOne handles them with apparent ease, showcasing a level of clarity and distinction that resonates well with my musical needs.

The timbre of the MagicOne, boasting a single BA, approaches the realm of disbelief. Acoustic instruments resonate with an uncanny realism. Granted, a BA will always be a BA, and in the timbre arena, a DD driver tends to take the spotlight. However, the MagicOne managed to forge a connection with me in an emotionally profound way—a feat that even the P8 (Performer 8) couldn't replicate. The enigma behind this allure leaves me in awe, compelling me to consider acquiring my own unit simply for the unique emotional resonance that the MagicOne elicits.

Likewise, the MagicOne mirrors its excellence in imaging, achieving pinpoint accuracy within the soundstage. While it doesn't quite reach the level of mind-blowing, it consistently retains an impressive quality. The meticulous precision in the placement of auditory elements adds to the overall allure of the MagicOne's sonic experience.

BASS:​

The bass of the MagicOne takes a subtle approach, leaning towards neutrality. While maintaining a presence of punch, thump, and slam, it refrains from an excessive emphasis that, personally, I find more natural. The bass responds adeptly, making its entrance when summoned. This versatility is particularly notable when traversing through diverse tracks, from the electronic beats of Daft Punk, where the bass shines with enjoyment, to the lighter bass tones of Stevie Wonder, where it seamlessly edges towards a near-neutral quality. In this regard, the MagicOne reveals itself as a highly versatile and almost all-around player in the bass spectrum.

MIDRANGE:​

The midrange of the MagicOne is remarkably transparent and clear, carrying a slight lightness in weight. It strikes a delicate balance, avoiding an overly thin profile that could be deemed lifeless or dull. While texture might be on the smoother side, the true essence lies in the timbre—natural and realistic. Vocals, on the other hand, emerge unexpectedly as a standout feature. They take a prominent and forward position, catching me off guard with their engaging presence. This quality positions the MagicOne as an excellent player for vocal-centric tracks, offering a delightful treat for those with a library primarily dominated by vocals.

TREBLE:​

The treble, at my initial encounter, struck me as somewhat conservative, and that perception holds steady. It's undoubtedly not tailored for the treble enthusiasts seeking bite and grit. However, from my perspective, everything in this domain unfolds in a deliciously smooth manner. Similar to the midrange, the texture may not be top-notch, but it possesses just enough sparkle to prevent any veiling of the sound. This particular attribute is a boon for musicians like myself, relying on IEMs for on-stage performances. The warmer signature and safe treble ensure a safeguard against potential hearing damage, recognizing the distinct demands of live monitoring on stage compared to the nuances of listening to a meticulously mastered track.

COMPARISONS:​

Aful Performer 8​

While it may appear somewhat unfair to draw comparisons, especially given the P8's higher price and premium tier status, let's delve into some key points for the sake of analysis.

• The P8 exhibits a more neutral, dry, and cold sound profile, which, for many, might make it less appealing for the sheer enjoyment of music.
• The P8, while less engaging, benefits from pairing with an analog source or R2R to achieve a more natural sound. Surprisingly, there are instances where I find myself opting for the MagicOne over the P8.
• Although the P8 is easier to drive, it still strongly benefits from additional amping to extract its full potential.
• The P8 exhibits less note weight, making it somewhat challenging to fully appreciate. Despite both leaning toward a neutral sound, the P8 falls short in conveying emotion compared to the MagicOne. However, the P8 emerges victorious in the realm of technicalities.

Simgot EA500​

• The EA500 leans towards brightness and is susceptible to sibilance. While this imparts an abundance of details to the listener, it does come at the expense of being somewhat fatiguing to listen to over extended periods.
• The EA500 boasts punchier and more impactful bass, delivering a superior thump and punch. While the agility is comparable between the two, the EA500 takes the lead if you're seeking a more pronounced and forceful low-end experience.
• The EA500 excels in attack and note definition, maintaining a more natural timbre. However, it's worth noting that the treble might introduce a hint of sheen, and there's a presence of grit and bite on the top end, a quality that can occasionally be lacking in the MagicOne.
• One might assume that the MagicOne, running on a BA, would triumph in technical aspects. While it does hold its ground admirably, the EA500, with its overall speed, keeps pace closely, and the difference between the two is not considerable.
• In the grand scheme, the EA500 comes across as more aggressive, whereas the MagicOne exhibits a somewhat tamer demeanor.

Kinera Idun​

• The Idun ventures much closer to a neutral sound profile, almost approaching a dead-flat response. This characteristic, while occasionally bordering on dryness and boredom for casual listening, positions the Idun as an unrivaled choice for monitoring purposes. Its sound signature serves as a pure reference for stage monitoring, setting it apart in the realm of professional audio.
• The MagicOne steps into the scene with more pronounced and smoother bass, while the Idun, on the other hand, might leave you wondering, "where the heck is the bass?" It's a distinct contrast in the low-end presentation between the two.
• Both the Idun and MagicOne excel in rendering vocals with a forward presentation, but the MagicOne takes it a step further by providing a more engaging and captivating tonal quality.
• In the grand picture, the Idun stands as the go-to choice for monitoring and referencing, meeting the demands of sound producers in search of a flat sound. Meanwhile, the MagicOne, while equally capable for monitoring, introduces a touch of color to the sound compared to the Idun. In terms of technicalities, the two are closely matched. The Idun can occasionally come across as flatter and sterile, while the MagicOne injects a bit of magic, soul, and emotion into the listening experience.

TEST TRACKS:​

Here are some tracks I usually listen to when reviewing:

That’s the way of the World by EWF
Africa by TOTO
The Girl in the Other Room by Diana Kral
Balmorhea album All is wild, All is Silent
Sila by Sud
Smooth Escape by D’Sound
Never too Much by Luther Vandross
P.Y.T by Michael Jackson
Ain’t no Sunshine by Eva Cassidy
Shoot to Thrill by AC/DC
Another one bites the Dust by Queen
Good times bad times by Edie Brickell
Alice in Wonderland by Bill Evans
Ain’t it Fun by Paramore
Redefine by Incubus
Far Away by Nickelback
Lovesong by Adele
Lingus by Snarky Puppy
Harvest for the World by Vanessa Williams
Love Bites by Def Leppard
No Such Thing by John Mayer
As by Stevie Wonder
Whip Appeal by Babyface
Ain’t Nobody by Chaka Khan
Futures by Prep
Landslide by Fleetwood Mac
Every Summertime by NIKI
SADE tracks
AC/DC tracks
Queen tracks


And many more… I always listen to High resolution format, being the least quality 16bit/44khz FLACS be it offline or online.

VERDICT:​

The MagicOne undeniably lives up to its name by conjuring a unique magic that has left the community in a state of bewilderment. Some prominent YouTubers have labeled it as a "normal" sounding IEM, a sentiment I cannot somewhat agree with. For those accustomed to a more energetic sound profile, the MagicOne might indeed come off as too normal or safe. However, from my perspective, I can appreciate its capabilities and conceptual design.

The standout traits that have etched themselves into my audio experience include the forward and engaging vocals, a commendable neutrality, the visually stunning design of the shells, the impressive technical prowess, a natural timbre, and all of this at a price point of $140. Aful is making a bold statement with the MagicOne, and in my opinion, they are on the right path. The sound signature might not be everyone's cup of tea, but for those seeking a mature-tuned IEM with a balanced frequency spectrum or musicians in pursuit of a highly capable monitoring gear for stage performances, the MagicOne emerges as a compelling choice. While it's not without its nuances, it managed to tickle my fancy, earning my high recommendation.

I extend my sincere gratitude once again to my friend and co-reviewer, Eiji Romero, for graciously lending me his unit, allowing me to delve into the intricacies of this IEM. A heartfelt thanks also goes out to Aful and Hifigo for making this review tour possible. Their generosity is genuinely appreciated, and it's through collaborative efforts like these that the audio community continues to thrive.

INTRODUCTION:​

Binary Acoustics is a recent discovery for me, a hidden gem that's just made its debut on my radar. In contrast, Gizaudio shines as a prominent YouTube figure, renowned for in-depth reviews on audio equipment and even venturing into the fragrant world of perfumes. I had the privilege of evaluating his inaugural collaboration with Letshuoer, the Galileo. Now, with this being his second joint effort, it's no surprise that he sings its praises. However, Timmy (Gizaudio) and I don't always see ear to ear when it comes to audio gear. Will the Chopin bridge the gap in our perspectives this time? Let's dive into the review and find out.

FOREWORD:​

• The gear on hand has undergone at least 10-15 hours of use before it was assessed.
• No EQ is ever applied in my reviews.
• For the sake of convenience, I try my best to use a stock setup. Not everyone has access to personal ear tips or cables. If personal ear tips, cables, or accessories are used, you will be notified.
• As I try to be objective, my claims inevitably will be subjective and biased to my personal preference. I cannot stress more that you should take this with a grain of salt for we have different perceptions to sound and what we hear.

SPECIFICATIONS:​

Maker: Binary Acoustics
Model: Chopin
Drivers: 8mm ceramic diaphragm DD + 3 BA drivers
Impedance: 12 ohms
Sensitivity: 122db

PACKAGING & DETAILS:​

The packaging arrives in an elegant shade of gray, presenting a front design that tastefully showcases the name 'Chopin' amidst a graphical representation reminiscent of a frequency spectrum. On the flip side, customary specifications and an auditory treat, a frequency graph, greet those who find pleasure in hearing with their eyes.

With this tour set, I acquired the 4.4mm cable, a choice that sets the stage for this audio journey. But what truly captures the essence of uniqueness is the packaging's innovative approach to unveiling its contents. Instead of the conventional left or right sliding box, the Chopin packaging introduces a refreshing upward slide, adding a dash of novelty to the unboxing experience.

In the sections below, I'll delve into the inclusions, offering brief impressions of each.

CASE:​

The case provided with the Chopin brings a smile to my face. This particular pelican-style case suits the needs of a gigging musician like myself perfectly, as the nature of my work sometimes exposes my gear to a bit of rough handling. An added bonus is the handy IEM pouch included.

In case the case proves too bulky for your smaller bags, opting to carry the IEMs with the pouch alone is a lightweight solution. This pouch serves as a shield against scratches, especially if you need to share pocket space with keys, coins, and other potential culprits for those unwanted marks.

EAR TIPS:​

There's a noticeable scarcity of ear tips in the package, which might raise concerns for some. Ear tips play a crucial role in shaping the sound of IEMs, and the absence of options could potentially lead a consumer to consider returning the purchase. It might just be a matter of experimenting with different tips to unlock the full potential of the IEMs.

Given the $200 price point, this limitation is a drawback. Many competitors in the market offer a more generous selection of tips. The included tips feature a regular bore and exhibit a firmness that suggests a preference for enhancing bass. Personally, I lean towards wide-bore tips, and the limited choices might confine those who aren't well-versed in the art of tip rolling. However, it's worth noting that the provided tips maintain decent quality.

DOCUMENTATIONS:​

Inside the package, you'll find a straightforward documentation that covers essential details regarding the package contents, wearing instructions, storage guidelines, and well-crafted safety advice. The other half of the document is provided in Chinese.

APPEARANCE:​

Crafted using dermatologically-friendly 3D-printed resin, complemented by a stainless steel faceplate, the Chopin embraces an intriguing teardrop-shaped aesthetic. The faceplate seamlessly mirrors the frequency spectrum design found on the packaging. On the left earpiece, you'll find the 'Binary Acoustics' label, while the right proudly displays 'Chopin.'

INTERNALS:​

Within the Chopin, you'll discover a 4-driver hybrid configuration:

- An 8 mm ceramic diaphragm dynamic driver takes charge of the bass.
- A custom-tailored balanced armature (BA) driver orchestrates the midrange.
- Meanwhile, a pair of customized BA drivers harmonize the treble frequencies.

These components are artfully woven together via a dedicated three-frequency RC filter band.

COMFORT:​

Thankfully, the Chopin's comfort during wear is truly praiseworthy, offering an average level of isolation. It fits snugly in the ear and maintains its lightweight feel even during extended sessions. What's truly astonishing is how this unconventional design manages to provide a sense of familiarity. As a musician who spends hours in recording sessions or completes typical 45-minute sets on stage, comfort is paramount. I'm delighted to report that these IEMs didn't cause any discomfort or ear soreness during use.

SOUND IMPRESSIONS:​

For this review, I chose my preferred DAP, the Fiio M11 Plus LTD, as the primary source. I also used the Cayin RU6 as a secondary reference. To maintain consistency, I relied on the stock tips and cable provided with the Chopin. My music sources encompass a combination of my own offline FLAC collection and tunes from my Apple Music subscription.

In terms of technicalities, the Chopin impresses, especially given its sub-$200 USD price range. Accurate imaging, highlighted by excellent instrument separation and layering, stands out. Complemented by an above-average soundstage, the music avoids congestion, and the resolution is commendable.

BASS:​

The Chopin primarily places its focus on the sub-bass realm, delivering a visceral, earth-shaking experience on bass-heavy tracks. However, it's important to note a mid-bass dip, and this can be a polarizing aspect. Undoubtedly, this design choice contributes to excellent bass quality, featuring swift and clean basslines, textured nuances, and a total absence of bleed.

MIDRANGE:​

The midrange of the Chopin offers a pristine quality with a subtle touch of warmth, striking a balanced middle ground. When it comes to male vocals, they exhibit an average presentation, not leaning excessively toward lushness and forwardness, yet maintaining a neutral demeanor without sounding thin or overly distant. On the other hand, female vocals possess a pleasing forwardness, adding an engaging element without venturing into excessive shoutiness or intrusiveness.

Instruments and timbre sound exceptionally natural, which is quite remarkable for a hybrid IEM. There's hardly any discernible influence of BA timbre, and at most, there might be a very faint trace at times, but it's unlikely to significantly impact the overall listening experience. Note weight and density reside on the neutral side, striking a balance that neither feels overly thin nor excessively thick; it's just right.

TREBLE:​

The treble aspect of the Chopin carries a generally smooth character, delivering ample sparkle and liveliness to the music without venturing into harsh or sharp territory, ensuring a fatigue-free listening experience. In the upper treble, there's a touch of airiness, judiciously balanced to create a slightly airy and open ambiance while maintaining a natural tonality.

Details in the treble are readily accessible without excessive emphasis, striking a harmonious balance that doesn't require excessive effort to discern intricate nuances.

COMPARISONS:​

TANGZU FU DU VERSE 1​

In Tangzu Fu Du Verse 1, both IEMs share a treble character that's generally safe, albeit somewhat short on air and sparkle. This makes them a comfortable choice for those sensitive to treble, but less exciting for treble enthusiasts. Fu Du shines with its impressive ear tip options.

Regarding bass, both IEMs offer a comparable amount, but Fu Du distinguishes itself with a mellower transient response and attack. The midrange, on the other hand, exhibits more body and weight. Technical chops are more defined with Chopin.

HIDIZS MS3​

When comparing the MS3 to the IEM under review, there are notable differences. The MS3 boasts a brighter treble with increased air and sparkle, although it may carry a slight potential for sibilance. It's worth highlighting the MS3's tuning nozzles, which enhance its versatility. The bass on the MS3 leans more towards neutrality. Meanwhile, the midrange appears slightly thinner with the MS3. In terms of technical capabilities, both IEMs are closely matched, with the MS3 holding a slight edge. Additionally, the MS3 comes with more extensive inclusions.

TEST TRACKS:​

Here are some tracks I usually listen to when reviewing:

That’s the way of the World by EWF
Africa by TOTO
The Girl in the Other Room by Diana Kral
Balmorhea album All is wild, All is Silent
Sila by Sud
Smooth Escape by D’Sound
Never too Much by Luther Vandross
P.Y.T by Michael Jackson
Ain’t no Sunshine by Eva Cassidy
Shoot to Thrill by AC/DC
Another one bites the Dust by Queen
Good times bad times by Edie Brickell
Alice in Wonderland by Bill Evans
Ain’t it Fun by Paramore
Redefine by Incubus
Far Away by Nickelback
Lovesong by Adele
Lingus by Snarky Puppy
Harvest for the World by Vanessa Williams
Love Bites by Def Leppard
No Such Thing by John Mayer
As by Stevie Wonder
Whip Appeal by Babyface
Ain’t Nobody by Chaka Khan
Futures by Prep
Landslide by Fleetwood Mac
Every Summertime by NIKI
SADE tracks
AC/DC tracks
Queen tracks


And many more… I always listen to High resolution format, being the least quality 16bit/44khz FLACS be it offline or online.

VERDICT:​

The Chopin earns commendation, and I struggle to identify significant flaws given its price point. Yet, I can't shake the feeling that its sonic performance lacks a distinctive edge. While nothing disappointed me, there was also nothing particularly remarkable. The one exception was the bass, which, in my opinion, leaned a bit too heavily for my taste. The Galileo left a lasting mark, but regrettably, the Chopin didn't resonate with me in the same way. Let me clarify, though - the Chopin is a capable offering, but it didn't quite match my sonic preferences. It does come at a reasonable price, and those seeking an engaging IEM with solid technical attributes should definitely consider it. However, if you're in pursuit of something truly unique, the Chopin might not be your answer.

I extend my gratitude to my friend and co-reviewer, Eiji Romero, for lending his unit, and I also appreciate Hifigo for sending us a tour unit of the Chopin. Stay tuned for the next review.

INTRODUCTION:​

In 2023, Simgot had a promising beginning, setting the stage with the acclaimed EA500, which garnered accolades from the audiophile community, myself included. It remains my yardstick for excellence within the $100 price range. Today, I have the pleasure of delving into the EA2000 "Boson," a curious name aside, we'll focus on what truly counts. Simgot has also ventured into the realm of budget-friendly offerings, exemplified by the EW100p, which, I must confess, didn't quite strike a chord with me. Our network of reviewers is currently evaluating various Simgot models, and I'll be exploring more of this brand in forthcoming reviews. Let's embark on this journey, aiming for brevity without sacrificing depth.

FOREWORD:​

• The gear on hand has undergone at least 10-15 hours of use before it was assessed.
• No EQ is ever applied in my reviews.
• For the sake of convenience, I try my best to use a stock setup. Not everyone has access to personal ear tips or cables. If personal ear tips, cables, or accessories are used, you will be notified.
• As I try to be objective, my claims inevitably will be subjective and biased to my personal preference. I cannot stress more that you should take this with a grain of salt for we have different perceptions to sound and what we hear.

SPECIFICATIONS:​

Maker: Simgot
Model: EA2000 “Boson”
Configuration: 1 x Dynamic driver. 1 x Passive radiator
Pin system: MMCX
Termination plug: interchangeable 3.5mm, 4.4mm
FR Response: 10hz - 50khz
Sensitivity: 114db
Impedance: 23 ohms

PACKAGING:​

The EA2000, which we'll affectionately refer to as Boson throughout this review, arrives in a moderately sized black box, as is customary, with substantial dimensions. The box's front proudly showcases a captivating image of Boson, while the sides bear informative labels detailing some of its key features. On the back, you'll find two frequency response graphs illustrating the impact of the tuning plugs on sound, accompanied by a brief explanation of these plugs' various applications.

Slide the inner box to the right, and you're greeted with the phrase, "Salute to the great pioneers of constructing quantum theory." Frankly, the relevance of this phrase eludes me, so let's swiftly move forward. Within the inner box, a division becomes apparent. To the left, we encounter essential documentation: a warranty card and a special message from the CEO. Ah, now the pieces fall into place. After perusing the CEO's message, the reason behind the name "Boson" becomes clear—it's intricately linked to quantum theory and its implications for the dynamic's acoustic quality. While I may not possess the expertise of a scientist, at least I can provide a glimpse into the name's background.

Beneath the documentation lies the protective case, housing the indispensable cable. Now, let's shift our focus to the eastern wing. Boson securely presents itself, with user manuals and accessories tucked below. This compartment holds a treasure trove of ear tips and tuning plugs. It's time to delve deeper into these inclusions and share my impressions of them.

CASE:​

The silvery gray carrying case exudes an undeniable allure. Its petite and charming size, although not ideal for petite bags, strikes a balance that should snugly fit into most standard bags. At the case's base, you'll find the inscription, "Salute to art and science," while the top proudly bears the Simgot logo and name.

What truly captivates is the interior of this case. It ingeniously houses garters tailored to snugly secure the three tuning plugs. The case itself offers a spacious embrace, ensuring that your Boson rests comfortably without a sense of compression. Additionally, an inner net pouch is thoughtfully included, serving as a versatile space for auxiliary items or accessories.

CABLE:​

The cable possesses an air of premium quality, bearing a striking resemblance to the stock cables typically associated with "Bqeyz" products. However, what truly distinguishes this cable is its robust and reliable modular design. The connectors exude a sense of unwavering security thanks to their screw-type mechanism. In terms of aesthetics, the cable adopts a white silvery hue, which imparts a distinct premium vibe. Although a darker color scheme might have been my personal preference, it harmonizes quite fittingly with the Boson's overall presentation.

EARTIPS:​

okay, eartips inclusions is something that Simgot should give more attention. We have two kinds, or is it? Well, with careful examination, and without clear indication what kind of eartips are these, I find the eartips is only of one kind. They look and feel a lot like balanced eartips, medium bore. I like these tips actually, and I’ve encountered them on Tangzu Heyday and some other sets. But yeah, only one kind here. Just like with my qualms with Simgot’s EA500.

TUNING PLUGS:​

Simgot has consistently been a proponent of tuning flexibility. While I may not personally favor excessive tuning options, it's reassuring to see that Simgot provides tuning choices but keeps it to a manageable one or two alternatives. The tuning plugs, in this case, aren't just mere gimmicks; they genuinely impact the sound profile.

In this instance, the difference in sound primarily influences the upper mids to trebles. The blue-indicated plug, positioned at the bottom, imparts a smoother sonic signature. Conversely, the black plug is more inclined towards reproducing intricate details but does introduce a hint of sibilance. Notably, the blue plug boasts a 3.5mm termination, while the black plug offers both 3.5mm and 4.4mm options. Throughout the entirety of this review, I found myself gravitating towards the blue plug for its sonorous qualities.

APPEARANCE:​

Boson's faceplate flaunts an elegant pearly white color scheme adorned with the distinctive Simgot logo. Crafted entirely from metal, the IEM maintains a weight that never becomes cumbersome to wear. Notably, the base section features a ventilation port, likely linked to its passive radiator design. In terms of aesthetics and tactile experience, there's a noticeable resemblance to the EA500, which, of course, shares a common trait—being a magnet for scratches and fingerprints. Preserving this exquisitely crafted IEM demands an extra measure of care.

INTERNALS:​

Boson takes pride in its unique hybrid configuration, featuring a single 12mm dynamic driver that's notably larger than most. As the saying goes, in the world of audio gear, "bigger is better," and this principle often holds true. However, what truly distinguishes Boson is the inclusion of a passive radiator. Unlike traditional drivers, a passive radiator doesn't produce sound on its own; instead, it complements and supports the primary dynamic driver, which in this case is the 12mm DD driver.

The pivotal question here is whether Simgot has effectively and accurately implemented this configuration. We'll delve deeper into this aspect when we discuss the sound characteristics of Boson a bit later in the review.

COMFORT:​

The wearing experience of the Boson IEMs is undeniably praiseworthy. However, it's worth noting that your comfort journey takes a detour, hinging significantly on the eartips you employ. The stock tips, though, strike a chord of stiffness that could leave your ears somewhat fatigued during extended listening sessions. A noteworthy quirk here is the larger-than-usual nozzle, which suggests a softer eartip might be the sage choice.

It's important to acknowledge the uniqueness of ear anatomy, as what suits one may not fit another like a glove. The shell's size, on the other hand, hits the sweet spot, keeping it lightweight for an overall comfortable experience. In sum, comfort is within reach, but do exercise prudence in your choice of eartips to ensure a harmonious listening journey.

SOUND IMPRESSIONS:​

Boson had the pleasure of partnering with my cherished DAP of choice, the Fiio M11 Plus LTD, and the Cayin RU6. This dynamic duo, along with stock tips and cables, set the stage for our audio journey. Throughout this review, the trusty blue-indicated plug was my steadfast companion. As for the musical source, I drew upon my collection of offline FLACs and tapped into the wealth of Apple Music's subscription library.

The sound stage presented by Boson leans towards the intimate end of the spectrum, bringing the vocals almost "in your face," so to speak. However, there's a silver lining here. Boson exhibits an impressive ability to render reverb faithfully, delivering a sense of head space that adds a layer of depth to the listening experience. But, let's not kid ourselves; Boson doesn't quite venture into the realm of a three-dimensional presentation. I'll spare you the overused and somewhat clichéd term "holographic." We audiophiles often find ourselves bombarded with such buzzwords, don't we?

Instrument placement and imaging stand as the crown jewels of Boson's technical prowess. They transport you to new sonic landscapes, unveiling previously unheard nuances in your favorite tracks. In this realm, Boson proudly strides alongside the upper echelons of audio gear, displaying a level of precision that's truly remarkable. Pinpointing individual elements in the music becomes an immensely enjoyable pursuit, elevating the listening experience to a realm of auditory delight.

The timbre that Boson offers is accurate and well-aligned, but it leans towards the thinner side due to its bright sound profile. If we were dealing with a balanced armature (BA) configured IEM, I'd likely label this as "BA timbre." However, we'll delve deeper into this aspect shortly. When it comes to the mids and bass, they exude a remarkable sense of naturalness. However, it's the treble that doesn't quite march in harmony with the rest. I would consider it a minor drawback in an otherwise stellar soundscape. Nevertheless, treble enthusiasts will find ample reason to rejoice with Boson's performance in this domain.

The speed exhibited by Boson's drivers is a notable feat, worth a moment of bragging rights. It approaches the nimbleness often associated with balanced armature (BA) drivers, and I must say, it's among the swiftest dynamic drivers I've had the pleasure of encountering. This exceptional speed becomes a true asset when tackling intricate and bustling tracks, as they are effortlessly executed. The attack and note definition are swift, leaving no room for ambiguity, and delivering a level of precision that's truly commendable.

Boson proves to be an incredibly easy load to drive, making the addition of amplification an optional rather than a mandatory step. Even when connected to a less potent source, you won't find yourself struggling to crank up the volume to achieve a comfortable and satisfying listening experience. It readily adapts to a variety of setups, ensuring that the music flows effortlessly without requiring excessive power.

BASS:​

Boson delivers the fastest and snappiest bass execution, leaving a distinct impression of punchiness and a satisfying slam. With its near-neutral tuning, this clean bass presentation remains precisely contained without any undesirable spillover into the mids. The result is a remarkably clean bass representation that ensures the lines between the bass and mids remain resolutely unblurred. Drum kicks and bass guitars come to life with a tactile and agile presence that's truly remarkable.

If your heart sings for precision and note definition, then Boson is poised to deliver the utmost pleasure. It excels in providing a listening experience where every nuance and detail is meticulously presented, catering to the discerning audiophile's appetite for clarity and precision.

While the bass performance is undeniably commendable, I must admit that, according to my personal preference, the bass presentation leans a tad too much on the side of speed, at times shying away from sounding completely natural. This characteristic could potentially deter those who prioritize a more lifelike and realistic bass reproduction.

MIDRANGE:​

The midrange, which serves as a home for an array of musical elements such as pianos, guitars, drum snares and toms, flutes, woodwinds, and the string section, has a tendency to lean towards a less lush presentation. Personally, I hold a preference for a midrange that's richly textured, and in this regard, Boson certainly excels. However, there's a touch of nostalgia for the lushness, with a desire for more weight and body. In this domain, precision and clarity are Boson's forte, though it does come with a slight compromise on the weightiness of individual notes.

Vocals, following a similar genetic code, exhibit a noteworthy character. Female vocals, in particular, find a special sweet spot in comparison to their male counterparts. There's no trace of recessed qualities here; in fact, they occasionally step a bit forward, which should certainly pique the interest of midrange enthusiasts. However, for those who lean towards a thicker midrange, it might be worth exploring alternative options, as Boson tends to embrace a more vivid and forward vocal presentation.

TREBLE:​

By this point, it becomes evident that Boson leans toward the brighter side of the IEM spectrum. While this is what sets Boson apart and gives it its distinct character, it also comes with a caveat. Irrespective of the tuning plugs in use, the treble can occasionally veer into sibilance territory. Consequently, it's advisable to keep the listening volume on the lower side.

The black tuning plug, while offering a wealth of intricate details, opens the door to a Pandora's box of sibilance issues. I dare say that Boson could prove to be a fatiguing companion for extended listening sessions; it indeed runs a bit hot in terms of treble presentation. The Cayin RU6, with its prowess, manages to tame the treble, making an R2R setup a wise choice for those with more sensitive ears or those who indulge in marathon listening sessions.

Boson, in essence, doesn't cater to the sensitive folks. Instead, it caters primarily to the treble enthusiasts. It's almost as if it were designed with this particular audience in mind.

COMPARISONS:​

Versus Aful Performer 8:​

With both priced at around the $300 mark, the Aful P8 seemed to be a fitting contender for a comparison. Many aspects of the Aful P8 share similarities with Boson. Let's dive into this showdown and see how these two stack up against each other.

• Aful establishes itself as a more neutral contender when it comes to the overall sound profile. This makes it well-suited for monitoring purposes and appeals to those who prefer a flat and balanced signature.
• In contrast, Boson veers towards a brighter and more energetic sound profile, and it does exhibit sibilance tendencies. Its sonic character is characterized by a livelier and more prominent treble presence.
• Surprisingly, the P8's midrange carries more weight and body, creating a contrast with Boson's midrange, which tends to sound thinner in comparison. This difference in midrange presentation could be a notable factor for those with specific preferences.
• In terms of technical prowess, both Boson and the P8 are evenly matched, showcasing similar capabilities. However, Boson takes the lead in the realm of imaging, demonstrating more accurate instrument placement and providing a heightened sense of precision in this aspect.
• Boson, with its more pronounced bass, delivers a punchier and more impactful slam. On the other hand, the P8 treads a similar path but in a slightly milder manner, with a subtle reduction in the intensity of the attack. The difference is discernible but not drastically significant.

TEST TRACKS:​

Here are some tracks I usually listen to when reviewing:

That’s the way of the World by EWF
Africa by TOTO
The Girl in the Other Room by Diana Kral
Balmorhea album All is wild, All is Silent
Sila by Sud
Smooth Escape by D’Sound
Never too Much by Luther Vandross
P.Y.T by Michael Jackson
Ain’t no Sunshine by Eva Cassidy
Shoot to Thrill by AC/DC
Another one bites the Dust by Queen
Good times bad times by Edie Brickell
Alice in Wonderland by Bill Evans
Ain’t it Fun by Paramore
Redefine by Incubus
Far Away by Nickelback
Lovesong by Adele
Lingus by Snarky Puppy
Harvest for the World by Vanessa Williams
Love Bites by Def Leppard
No Such Thing by John Mayer
As by Stevie Wonder
Whip Appeal by Babyface
Ain’t Nobody by Chaka Khan
Futures by Prep
Landslide by Fleetwood Mac
Every Summertime by NIKI
SADE tracks
AC/DC tracks
Queen tracks


And many more… I always listen to High resolution format, being the least quality 16bit/44khz FLACS be it offline or online.

VERDICT:​

As I embark on my third product review from Simgot, a pattern is starting to emerge. It appears that Simgot has a penchant for crafting bright, technically adept sets. In the context of the $300 price bracket, the primary drawback I've encountered with Boson is its tendency towards borderline sibilance. While this characteristic should certainly cater to treble enthusiasts, it may not be the best choice for those with more sensitive ears.

Boson excels in the realm of imaging, providing an impeccable experience, with precision and clarity being at the core of its sonic identity. The passive radiator's influence is palpable in bass-heavy tracks, but it leaves me pondering if it's more of a gimmick, especially given Boson's very near-neutral tuning.

Regardless of whether you opt for the blue or black tuning plugs, the inherent brightness can become fatiguing during extended listening sessions. This bright nature of Boson comes at the cost of sacrificing some timbre in the treble region. While transients are undoubtedly a point of pride, they lean towards the side of being slightly too fast to sound truly realistic.

Boson comes highly recommended for individuals who value technical prowess, favor a neutral tuning, and have a penchant for energetic and clear trebles. It's a set that clearly caters to those with a penchant for a certain type of sonic signature and should satisfy the needs of treble enthusiasts.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Simgot and my co-reviewer, Obed Boaz Sanchez, who displayed an exceptional level of patience during the creation of this review, which was admittedly long overdue. I appreciate the opportunity they provided me to explore and experience this adventurous IEM.

INTRODUCTION:​

Greetings, fellow audiophiles! Here we find ourselves once again, delving into the realm of my most cherished hobby, exploring the world of audio gears. Today's spotlight is on a territory that resonates deeply with my passion, and I'm thrilled to present to you the Yanyin Canon II in-ear monitors!

This marks my inaugural encounter with a product from the Yanyin brand, and my anticipation was palpable, as I've been eagerly awaiting the opportunity to audition their IEMs. Yanyin, as a company, is a relative newcomer when juxtaposed with industry stalwarts that have been entrenched in this sonic game for an extended period. Their approach, however, is one that I deeply admire – quality over quantity. In an era where new products flood the market with alarming frequency, Yanyin's dedication to crafting exceptional audio experiences without breaking the bank sets them apart. It's a familiar refrain in the audio world, but let's delve deeper to see if Yanyin truly lives up to this lofty ideal.

Now, let's delve into the nomenclature behind the name "Canon." I took the liberty of inquiring with a representative to decipher the significance of this model name. Interestingly, "Canon" isn't a reference to artillery but rather a nod to the world of canonical music techniques and compositions. Reflecting on my own musical journey, which began with piano lessons at a tender age of 7 to 10, classical music and its intricacies often eluded my understanding. Yet, as I matured in my craft, I came to appreciate the distinct character of canon movements – the art of repetition and the principle of imitation. Now, let's explore how these musical concepts align with the IEM we hold in our hands.

Before I proceed, I'd like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Yanyin and the generous Joseph Yeung, also known as Joebloggs, for facilitating and loaning the Yanyin Canon II tour unit for us audiophiles here in the Philippines to put under scrutiny. Their trust in our community is profoundly appreciated, and I look forward to unearthing the auditory treasures that the Canon II has in store for us.

FOREWORD:​

• The gear on hand has undergone at least 10-15 hours of use before it was assessed.
• No EQ is ever applied in my reviews.
• For the sake of convenience, I try my best to use a stock setup. Not everyone has access to personal ear tips or cables. If personal ear tips, cables, or accessories are used, you will be notified.
• As I try to be objective, my claims inevitably will be subjective and biased to my personal preference. I cannot stress more that you should take this with a grain of salt for we have different perceptions to sound and what we hear.

SPECIFICATIONS:​

Maker: Yanyin
Model: Canon II
Drivers: 1 x biological diaphragm DD, 4 x BA drivers
Impedance: 27-40 ohms depending on tuning switch
Sensitivity: 112db

PACKAGING & DETAILS:​

Getting straight to the point, the packaging of the Canon II leaves much to be desired. Given its $379 price tag, I had higher expectations. I'm a firm believer that unboxing should be a part of the overall experience, and unfortunately, this aspect fell short. It's worth noting that apart from Yanyin's address and office location, all the text is in Chinese, leading me to speculate that this product might not have been intended for international release. However, this remains my own conjecture.

The design of the unassuming black box is punctuated by a neon green accent, which does resonate with the Canon II's overall aesthetic. Let's delve into the contents and my impressions of each component briefly.

CASE:​

The case, I must say, is a sight to behold, exuding an air of opulence with its leather-like texture and appearance. Adorning the top, the Yanyin logo is elegantly engraved, further enhancing its aesthetic charm. Its rectangular shape ensures ample space for the Canon II without subjecting it to undue compression. Inside, a plush padding graces every nook and cranny, and the light brown color scheme harmonizes seamlessly with your collection of watches, wallets, and compact bags.

A clever addition is the net on the inner lid of the case, providing a cozy abode for small accessories. However, it's worth noting a minor drawback: the case doesn't fully open due to the presence of an internal belt, which somewhat hinders the unveiling of its treasures. But, to be clear, this is a mere nitpick. Overall, the case exudes a sense of premium craftsmanship and sturdiness, assuring that your Canon II is enveloped in protection worthy of its stature.

EAR TIPS:​

Let's discuss the ear tips now. It's worth noting that there's only one type of ear tip included in the package. From my research, these appear to be Yanyin's proprietary ear tips, reputed for their performance. However, I'll be candid; I found these tips to be somewhat on the stiff side, which doesn't entirely align with my personal preference for a softer feel.

Nevertheless, I must acknowledge that from a sonic perspective, these tips seem to deliver benefits that align nicely with my auditory preferences. For the sake of this review, I've opted to stick with the stock ear tips, despite my inclination toward a softer alternative.

DOCUMENTATIONS:​

Now, let's address the paperwork that accompanies the Canon II. A bundle of documentation appears to be sealed in an envelope, and regrettably, the seal is so tight, and as this is a tour unit, I did not want to rip it open. I was told by our good friend from Yanyin that they are indeed documents that were bilingual.

Additionally, there's another set of instructions with some images of the switches and notes about it. This cardboard paper is labeled "Product Characteristics". For the sake of convenience, I have the translation for you directly from Yanyin. Good for us eh?

"The new generation Canon II employs an all new, more universally comfortable earmold. The driver complement comprises a bio-cellulose 10mm dual-chamber DD and 4 individual BAs (not any twin BAs) in 1DD+2BA+2BA 3-way configuration both in terms of crossover electronics and acoustic tubing. The crossover has been optimized compared to the Canon I for improved bandwidth and greater performance e.g. listening to complex orchestral performances and OST soundtracks, exhibiting the instruments’ attack and decay more realistically, portraying the works’ spatiality better. The crossover has been optimized to enhance bass impact while cleaning up the mids. As the tuning for the mids and treble has matured on this model while bass level remains the main point of contention among audiophiles, the switches have been streamlined to 2, both in charge of bass gain. The bass gain may be adjusted via the switches to provide different tonality for different listening / music needs, with both switches conveniently functioning equally in terms of the shape and level of bass boost when flicked up compared to down, for quick easy adjustment on the fly."

Click to expand...

APPEARANCE:​

The Canon II's visual appeal is undeniable, boasting craftsmanship that's both robust and artistically conceived. Its design exudes a lively color palette with vibrant neons, where green, teal, and purple playfully dance in striking horizontal stripes.

On the right unit, the Yanyin logo makes its presence felt,

while the left unit proudly bears the label "Canon."

The placement of the tuning switches, positioned near the base and clearly marked "ON" alongside another symbol whose meaning eludes me, adds a touch of intrigue.

At the base of each earpiece, you'll find serial number indicators and carefully placed vent holes, a thoughtful addition for extended listening sessions. These vent holes are distinguished by the colors red and blue, intuitively indicating whether it's the left or right earpiece. In sum, the Canon II's aesthetics have exceeded my expectations, surpassing even my TOTL entry, the Unique Melody MK3, which leans towards a more minimalistic design. Notably, the use of resin materials has resulted in a comfortable wearing experience, devoid of any discomfort or irritation.

CABLE:​

While it may not boast the bespoke craftsmanship of boutique cable makers, it certainly gets the job done. The cable's quality aligns with its price point, offering a serviceable but unremarkable experience. It does bear a resemblance to the cables often paired with BQEYZ IEMs, if you're familiar with those.

There are no significant gripes to be had, nor are there any standout features. The cable strikes a balance in terms of weight and thickness, providing an overall average experience. To get into the technicalities, it features a 2-pin, 0.78mm termination and is constructed from graphene single crystal copper with silver plating – quite a mouthful, I must say.

On a personal note, I can't help but wish for a modular cable option at this price range, but I understand that such preferences can vary widely among users. A little rant now and then is only natural!

COMFORT:​

The Canon II's fit and comfort level are truly exceptional, ranking among the best I've experienced. I can attest to the fact that I've enjoyed marathon listening sessions with these IEMs, and they've never caused a hint of discomfort or soreness. Despite falling into the medium-size category, which may raise concerns for some, as an Asian user, I found the size to be perfectly accommodating and not at all bothersome.

One notable feature is the exceptional isolation achieved with the stock ear tips. They create a snug fit that leaves no room for concern about them slipping off my ears during use. This level of secure fitment further enhances the overall listening experience.

TUNING SWITCHES:​

I must admit, I'm not typically a fan of tuning switches, but I'm willing to make an exception for the Canon II. Much like the Dunu SA6 MK2, I find myself appreciating fewer options more. When faced with an array of endless choices upfront, it tends to overwhelm me. The good news is that the Canon II keeps it simple, offering a mere four tuning options, or perhaps, just three. To clarify, the first switch is labeled "ON," while the second features a mysterious symbol that I can't quite decipher. So, when I refer to "up/down," it means adjusting the "ON" switch up and the symbol switch down. Let's keep it as straightforward as possible.

- **For More Bass (Up/Up):** This setting caters to those with an appetite for amplified bass. We'll delve into the quality of this bass later, but it's safe to say that it can satisfy the cravings of mild to moderate bass enthusiasts.

- **For Detail Enthusiasts (Down/Down):** If you're seeking a more neutral presentation that accentuates midrange and treble details by taming the bass, this configuration is the way to go.

- **Balanced (Up/Down or Down/Up):** This happens to be my personal favorite, as it maintains thumpy, punchy, and engaging lows while preserving details.

Now, originally, there seemed to be four tuning options, but as I and other co-reviewers discovered, there's no noticeable difference between "up/down" and "down/up." So, for all practical purposes, you have three tuning options to explore. Additionally, it's important to note that these tuning options primarily affect the low frequencies. Here’s a measurement from our friend Baskingshark to shed more light on the Canon II's sonic profile.

SOUND IMPRESSIONS:​

The Canon II was carefully matched with my trusted audio sources, including the Fiio M11 Plus Ltd, Cayin RU6, Centrance Dacport HD, and Fiio K9. All connections were made using single-ended terminations. This ensemble was thoughtfully coupled with my extensive collection of offline FLACs, along with subscriptions to Apple Music and Qobuz.

TECHNICALITIES:​

The Canon II envelops us in a soundstage that, while not quite reaching the realm of holographic presentation, offers a commendable sense of depth, height, and width. In this facet, the Canon II's performance surpasses the ordinary and aligns with the expectations of discerning audiophiles.

When it comes to imaging, this IEM shines as its most distinguished characteristic. It breathes life into every element of your music, affording them the luxury of space while portraying them with unparalleled clarity, precision, and pinpoint accuracy. The ability to delicately layer elements and unravel intricate chordal harmonies is one of its standout features. This attribute proves to be a boon for both vocalists and instrumentalists, allowing them to revel in the intricacies of their craft.

Timbre, often a challenging aspect for hybrid-configured IEMs, emerges as a triumph for the Canon II. It strikes the rare balance of tonal correctness, avoiding any semblance of artificiality in its rendering of instruments and vocals. Everything resonates with a natural and faithful rendition, a testament to the Canon II's exceptional sonic integrity.

Now, let's delve into coherence. During my initial listening sessions with the Canon II, I encountered sporadic moments where certain elements in the music felt slightly out of place or, to put it more precisely, out of sync. However, these occurrences were exceptionally rare. Upon revisiting those particular segments of tracks, the issue seemed to vanish, though not entirely. It's worth noting that this facet could benefit from some refinement. Encouragingly, after a week of usage, this anomaly significantly diminished, hinting at the potential for further improvement. It's a facet I felt compelled to highlight, not as criticism, but as constructive feedback for Yanyin's consideration.

Lastly, in terms of driver speed, the Canon II displays remarkable agility and responsiveness. It effortlessly tackles even the most complex and intricate musical compositions, confidently maintaining pace with the intricate demands of audiophile-grade tracks.

BASS:​

Now, we come to the star of the show – a revelation for those who revel in a bass-forward sonic profile. The Canon II isn't for the purists seeking true flat or neutral sound signatures; instead, it embraces and accentuates the low end. When configured with the up/up switch setting, it caters to the cravings of bassheads, delivering a bass response that's nothing short of remarkable.

This bass is substantial, substantial to the point of being downright chunky and meaty, packing a weighty punch that immerses you deeply in your music. It's nearly impossible not to be swept away by its presence, adding an engaging layer to every note and rhythm. What truly sets it apart, however, is the level of cleanliness and precision it brings to bass reproduction. To be candid, I found myself yearning for this caliber of bass presentation when comparing it to my Mest MK3 – it's simply that exceptional.

And here's the icing on the cake – you're not confined to a bass-dominated soundscape. By simply switching to the down/down configuration, you unlock a realm where midrange and treble details shine with newfound clarity. Whether you're delving into rock, pop, reggae, funk, disco, trance, house, soul, jazz, or orchestrations, the Canon II's bass is unequivocally addictive. It adds an intoxicating layer to your music that's hard to resist.

MIDRANGE:​

Close on the heels of the exceptional bass performance, we find the midrange claiming a well-deserved second spot. It proudly wears the badge of tonal correctness and propriety, showcasing a richness that avoids any hint of thinness. Among hybrid IEMs, the Canon II boasts one of the finest midrange presentations in terms of timbre. It breathes life into vocals, creating an engaging, pristine connection that tugs at the heartstrings. Now, as an instrumentalist, my heart leans more toward instruments than vocals, so let's delve into that realm.

Pianos, in their lush, rich, and weighty glory, take center stage. Guitars, on the other hand, are a tapestry of textures and details, unraveling their sonic stories with finesse. Organs carry that desirable raspiness, while rock guitars wield a gritty, biting edge. Be it male or female vocals, neither takes precedence over the other, ensuring an equitable treatment for both. For those who revel in the mid-centric realm, the Canon II offers a delectable treat.

Although I've had the pleasure of testing some IEMs that excel in the midrange department, the Canon II has managed to impress me in this facet. The only IEM that currently outpaces the Canon II in terms of midrange prowess is none other than the illustrious Dunu SA6 MK2, a comparison we'll delve into later.

TREBLE:​

Describing the Canon II's treble, I'd use words like smooth, buttery, and inoffensive. It manages to strike a balance that avoids the pitfalls of sounding veiled or overly warm. While maintaining a pleasant tonal balance, it still manages to convey details with an airy quality, although I find myself yearning for a bit more in this department.

Cymbals retain their gratifying presence with a moderate bite, though some micro details at the highest frequencies are slightly less pronounced. When it comes to brass sections and boisterous trumpets, the Canon II continues to offer a satisfying rendition. Even the most demanding sax altissimo notes, those soaring above the norm, are portrayed with impressive detail without ever veering into sibilance.

In the high registers where pianos often dance, the Canon II delivers exceptional details without overly accentuating them in a manner that might leave treble enthusiasts craving more. It walks the fine line admirably, assuring those with sensitive ears that it will cater to their delicate auditory faculties with finesse.

COMPARISONS:​

Aful Performer 8​

The P8 certainly brings a more neutral disposition to the table, characterized by its more defined attack and faster transients. It can boast a technical advantage, albeit by a modest 10%. However, the P8 does have a downside – it leans towards a slightly dry sound signature, which may not resonate with those seeking engagement and an emotional connection in their music.

This is where the Canon II shines, infusing music with a lifelike quality, soul, and an emotional depth that draws listeners in. While, for my critical musical pursuits, the P8 might take the lead, when it comes to forging a genuine connection with one's music, which should be the essence of the musical experience, the Canon II unquestionably takes the crown. It's a choice I'd make any day for that authentic and emotionally resonant musical journey.

Softears Studio 4​

If the Canon II offers a touch of warmth in its treble, the Studio 4 takes warmth to the next level. It's warm to the point where the sparkle and openness you might expect from the treble are somewhat compromised. The Studio 4 was meticulously designed for on-stage performances, where a myriad of sonic variables comes into play. A great deal hinges on the sound engineer's ability to sculpt the overall sound of the band. Softears, with the Studio 4, has taken measures to safeguard us, the musicians, from the unexpected and often loud impulses of our bandmates. This protective measure gives rise to the warm signature.

Both the Canon II and Studio 4 exude a sense of organic musicality. However, the Studio 4 holds the upper hand in certain technical aspects like separation and layering. Nevertheless, it's worth noting that both IEMs are on equal footing and share the same boat, each possessing its unique set of strengths and characteristics.

Dunu SA6 Mk2​

The SA6 mk2 still retains its throne when it comes to orchestral tracks and delivering an organic musical experience. While the SA6 MK2 edges slightly towards warmth, it offers a minute difference that sets it apart. Additionally, the SA6 MK2 and Canon II provides a bass boost feature for enhanced engagement. However, when it comes to bass presentation, the SA6 mk2 maintains a more neutral stance.

In terms of technical prowess, the Canon II takes the lead, boasting superior imaging, clarity, precision, and accuracy. This is where it shines, eclipsing the SA6 MK2 in these aspects. Given the price difference, with the SA6 MK2 being the more expensive option, I find myself once again leaning towards the Canon II. The discrepancy in their musicality and timbral accuracy is so minor that I'm more than willing to make that sacrifice for the Canon II's compelling performance.

TEST TRACKS:​

Here are some tracks I usually listen to when reviewing:

That’s the way of the World by EWF
Africa by TOTO
The Girl in the Other Room by Diana Kral
Balmorhea album All is wild, All is Silent
Sila by Sud
Smooth Escape by D’Sound
Never too Much by Luther Vandross
P.Y.T by Michael Jackson
Ain’t no Sunshine by Eva Cassidy
Shoot to Thrill by AC/DC
Another one bites the Dust by Queen
Good times bad times by Edie Brickell
Alice in Wonderland by Bill Evans
Ain’t it Fun by Paramore
Redefine by Incubus
Far Away by Nickelback
Lovesong by Adele
Lingus by Snarky Puppy
Harvest for the World by Vanessa Williams
Love Bites by Def Leppard
No Such Thing by John Mayer
As by Stevie Wonder
Whip Appeal by Babyface
Ain’t Nobody by Chaka Khan
Futures by Prep
Landslide by Fleetwood Mac
Every Summertime by NIKI
SADE tracks
AC/DC tracks
Queen tracks


And many more… I always listen to High resolution format, being the least quality 16bit/44khz FLACS be it offline or online.

VERDICT:​

A bass presentation that aligns seamlessly with my penchant for pure music enjoyment, a midrange that oozes with lushness, and a treble that, while inoffensive, manages to shine and convey intricate details – this trifecta is an irresistible combination that I simply can't get enough of. Yanyin has admirably achieved and executed their vision with the Canon II. It stands as a testament to top-tier audio quality wrapped in a refreshingly practical price tag.

For me, the litmus test of any gear is its ability to take me on a musical journey. Even as we converse, I find myself lost in the Canon II's spell, often stopping in my tracks to savor the music it unfolds. This IEM is an all-rounder, effortlessly adapting to any genre it encounters. While I did encounter a minor hiccup in coherence initially, rest assured, that anomaly dissipated with prolonged exposure to the Canon II.

This set strikes a near-perfect balance between engagement and technical prowess, a rarity in the audio world. If you have $379 to spare, I wholeheartedly recommend the Canon II; it's a must-have for audiophiles and musicians who take their craft seriously. It confidently punches above its weight, rivaling IEMs that bear price tags upwards of $500. As an added bonus, the tuning switches provide a genuine avenue for tailoring the Canon II to your precise preferences – a feature that proves far from gimmicky.

My heartfelt gratitude once again to Yanyin and Joseph Yeung for granting me the opportunity to experience this tour unit. I will undoubtedly miss this IEM, and if circumstances allowed, I'd eagerly add it to my collection without a moment's hesitation.

PRICE: $379​

INTRODUCTION:​

Hello fellow audiophiles, I'm thrilled to kick off this review with a little heads-up. Life, as we all know, has a way of keeping us on our toes. Balancing the demands of a pregnant wife in need of constant care, nurturing a new talent in my band, meeting tight recording deadlines with the pressure to churn out two tracks per week, all while juggling my beloved hobby – it's a symphony of chaos. As a result, I've decided to switch gears from my usual lengthy reviews to concise, no-nonsense mini-reviews. I'm serving up only the juiciest bits, leaving out anything that doesn't hit the audiophile sweet spot.

Today, I'm diving into the sonic realm of the Hidizs MS3, and I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to my friend and fellow reviewer, Eiji Romero, for hooking me up with this unit through Hidizs. The MS3 has been making waves in the audio community, and my take on it aligns with the chorus of praise it has received. So, let's cut to the chase and stick to that brief prelude I just gave you.

FOREWORD:​

• The gear on hand has undergone at least 10-15 hours of use before it was assessed.
• No EQ is ever applied in my reviews.
• For the sake of convenience, I try my best to use a stock setup. Not everyone has access to personal ear tips or cables. If personal ear tips, cables, or accessories are used, you will be notified.
• As I try to be objective, my claims inevitably will be subjective and biased to my personal preference. I cannot stress more that you should take this with a grain of salt for we have different perceptions to sound and what we hear.

SPECIFICATIONS:​

Hidizs Mermaid Series IEMs
Model: MS3
Configuration: 1DD(10.2mm dual magnetic circuit, dual cavity) + 2BA drivers (Knowles SWFK-31736)
Material: CNC formed all aluminum alloy cavity
FR Response: 20hz-40khz
Sensitivity: 112db
Impedance: 18 ohms

PACKAGING:​

The Hidizs MS3 arrives in an understated matte black packaging, sized somewhere between compact and moderately proportioned, boasting a substantial thickness. The design exudes a sense of minimalistic elegance. On the rear, you'll find essential information that suffices even for those embarking on a blind purchase. However, one notable omission is the absence of a frequency graph, which would have been music to the ears of those who revel in deciphering sonic signatures from visual representations.

Cable:​

The cable accompanying the Hidizs MS3 is a testament to quality, crafted from high-purity oxygen-free copper, featuring a 4-strand mixed braiding, and boasting a generous length of 1.2 meters.

As a devoted audiophile with a penchant for warmer sound signatures, I must say, I have a soft spot for copper materials. This cable carries a weight that resonates with my sonic sensibilities, all while ensuring a comfortable listening experience. Its robust construction left an indelible mark on me, providing the reassurance that even during a hectic commute, this cable won't falter or snap under pressure.

The termination plug, in my case, is a 3.5mm connector, and the connection utilizes the industry-standard 0.78mm 2-pin configuration. Adding to its allure, the cable sports a lustrous dark brown chrome finish, exuding an elegant charm that perfectly aligns with my personal audio aesthetics.

Pouch:​

I fully acknowledge that when a product like the Hidizs MS3 comes with an asking price of approximately $120, cost-cutting measures are inevitable. In this case, it's evident that they've made concessions in the accessories department. Instead of an elaborate case, you receive a practical pouch. It's a trade-off that enhances portability; this pouch effortlessly slips into a pocket or a small bag, albeit at the cost of comprehensive protection.

The materials chosen for this pouch are commendable, featuring quality synthetic leather and a snappy metal mechanism that securely cradles your cherished MS3. However, I'd like to emphasize a crucial consideration – be cautious about where you stow it within your bag. Despite the pouch's merits, the softness of its material means that your precious IEMs could still be susceptible to damage if exposed to excessive pressure.

Ear Tips:​

Hats off to Hidizs for their generous offerings in the ear tips department – a triple whammy of variety! Now, that's what I call flexibility. They've truly outdone themselves in this regard. The ear tip ensemble, available in S, M, and L sizes, covers the vocal, bass, and balanced preferences. What's even more commendable is that these tips are not exclusive to the pricier MS5; they grace the MS3 as well. It's a testament to Hidizs' commitment to delivering a consistent experience across their lineup, irrespective of the price gap.

Despite the generosity of these stock tips, I found myself gravitating towards my personal favorites, the Final Audio type E ear tips. While the stock tips are undoubtedly of good quality, they have a somewhat generic character that didn't quite align with my discerning taste.

Tuning filters:​

I must confess; I'm not one to dabble in the myriad of tuning options. Give me one choice, and I'll stick with it. However, I appreciate that for many audiophiles, these options aren't just gimmicks; they can genuinely impact the listening experience. In the course of this review, I remained steadfastly loyal to the gold (balance) filters.

Graph courtesy of @baskingshark Thanks mate!

But for those of you who relish the notion of tweaking and enhancing your sound, Hidizs has you covered with the red filter for a bass boost and the silver filter for an elevation in treble. These filters open up a world of sonic possibilities, allowing you to tailor your MS3 to your exact preferences.

Appearance:​

The Hidizs MS3 offers a visual experience that's both elegant and sophisticated. Its matte finish prompts my imagination to conjure images of mermaid scales, a shimmering and mythical aesthetic that seems as if I've glimpsed it in reality. To complement this mesmerizing design, a rose gold border encircles the faceplate, a choice of color that transcends gender boundaries and can make a striking fashion statement for both men and women. On the flip side, the base plate maintains an understated matte finish, devoid of intricate designs, yet exuding an aura of sheer elegance.

COMFORT:​

Wearing the Hidizs MS3 is a seamless experience in terms of both comfort and ease. Achieving a secure seal is a breeze, thanks to their lightweight construction that feels practically weightless once they grace your ears. The ear hooks on the cable embrace my ears with a gentle touch, ensuring they stay in place without causing any discomfort. Moreover, the cable's weight never raised any concerns during my listening sessions, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the music even with extended listening hours.

INTERNALS:​

The inner workings of the Hidizs MS3 truly earn my commendation, especially the inclusion of Knowles drivers. For those well-versed in the world of balanced armature (BA) drivers, Knowles has secured a prestigious position. But it's not just BA drivers that steal the spotlight here; the dynamic driver (DD) deserves a mention too. With a mere 0.2mm extension, it gains a tad more room to vibrate, and I firmly believe this minor tweak significantly influences the sonic character. For those craving a more in-depth dive into the specifics of these drivers, you can always revisit the 'specification' segment for a more detailed breakdown.

SOUND IMPRESSIONS:​

Here we stand at the heart of this review, where we delve into the auditory landscape of the Hidizs MS3.

In my pursuit of auditory excellence, I partnered the MS3 with my tried-and-true sources, including the Fiio M11 plus LTD, Cayin RU6, Centrance Dacport HD, and Fiio K9, all linked via the stock 3.5mm cable, adorned with my trusty Final Audio Type E tips.

Starting with the soundstage, it doesn't evoke a sense of claustrophobia, yet it doesn't venture into the realm of extraordinary spatiality either. The MS3 gracefully offers a 2D presentation rather than the immersive 3D experience some audiophiles crave.

When it comes to imaging, the MS3 hits the mark; every sonic element finds its rightful place within the soundscape, making it easy to trace their movements across the stage. While it's undoubtedly a desirable quality given its price point, it doesn't ascend to the ranks of top-tier or even midrange killers.

Timbre remains predominantly faithful to realism, with very few flaws to pinpoint, considering the MS3's hybrid configuration. If I were to nitpick, a mere 5% deduction could be attributed to an occasional hint of unnatural thinness.

Speed and transients display remarkable agility, never succumbing to sluggishness, even when confronted with complex and intricate compositions. They navigate busy tracks with ease.

Separation deserves recognition, providing instruments with the breathing room they need. Once again, it doesn't reach the stratospheric levels of top-tier gear but can undoubtedly be an enlightening experience for the casual listener.

Detail retrieval stands at a commendable medium-high level. While there are no glaring flaws, it doesn't quite venture into the realm of extraordinary detail retrieval. Perhaps this is merely a reflection of my exposure to higher-tiered audio equipment.

So, does the MS3 outperform its asking price? Perhaps it does, but let's continue onward, for the true magic lies in its tuning.

BASS:​

The bass response of the Hidizs MS3 is nothing short of impressive, delivering a punchy, tight, and snappy performance that commands attention with unwavering authority. It undeniably adds a touch of color to the sonic palette, making it an enticing option for those who lean towards the mild end of the basshead spectrum. However, for those seeking a more neutral audio journey, you might want to explore alternative options.

When I immersed myself in tracks from the likes of Stevie Wonder, Bobby Caldwell, and the Alan Parsons Project, I couldn't help but notice the MS3's knack for injecting an extra dose of vitality into the music. It shines brightly in its ability to amplify the engagement factor, enticing listeners to groove and sway to the rhythm. Even within my primary genre, jazz, the MS3 managed to captivate me. While it may not deliver an utterly faithful representation of what a jazz track should sound like, it imparts a flavor that's incredibly easy to embrace and desire.

The MS3 also works its magic with orchestral compositions, bestowing them with a fuller, more luxurious richness. The rumbling depths of contrabasses, cellos, and low-frequency rumbles offer a truly satisfying listening experience. As for rock enthusiasts, tracks from the likes of RATM, Linkin Park, and Red Hot Chili Peppers receive an added punch that's practically an invitation to start headbanging.

MIDRANGE:​

The upper mids of the Hidizs MS3 offer a rich, full, dense, and utterly non-offensive listening experience. It's a welcomed departure from the challenges I encountered with the MS5, which, at a higher price point (around $400), struggled in this sonic territory. Fortunately, the MS3 has been cured of that particular affliction. My jazz and orchestral tracks truly came to life with the MS3 in the equation. Pianos exhibited newfound fullness, string sections bathed in a luscious sonic landscape, Rhodes keys delivered creamy textures, and guitars, especially acoustic ones, carried an added weight that enriched their timbre.

Listening to the various guitars in the iconic 'Hotel California' by the Eagles became an absolute delight. In comparison to more neutral sets, which can sometimes introduce a dry presentation, the MS3 bestows its midrange in a 'wet' manner. This approach is both inoffensive and maintains a delightful touch of smoothness while never compromising on the finer details and nuances that discerning audiophiles crave.

TREBLE:​

The treble performance of the Hidizs MS3 is a study in being inoffensive, steering clear of sibilance, and boasting a commendable reach without ever teetering on the precipice of piercing and discomfort. The MS3 confidently maintains its energy in the upper registers, never veering into the territory of thinness. While cymbal strikes could benefit from a touch more bite, grit, and raspiness, the MS3 strikes an admirable balance, catering to both treble enthusiasts and those with more sensitive ears. It's worth noting that a friend of mine found these a tad spicy during his trial with the MS3, so I'd recommend that individuals with heightened sensitivity audition them first to ensure they can embrace this flavor of spiciness.

When it comes to rock genres and tracks with bright mixes, the MS3 truly shines, thanks to its extended treble reach. My Earth, Wind & Fire tracks, particularly 'Boogie Wonderland' and 'September,' burst forth with an abundance of energy, offering a satisfyingly entertaining listening experience.

COMPARISONS:​

versus Tangzu Fudu​

This matchup is indeed a thrilling encounter, as these two IEMs share the same driver configuration and fall within a very similar price range.

When it comes to tuning, the Fudu takes a path that exudes warmth and gentleness, catering especially to those with sensitive ears. What pleasantly surprised me was that despite this warmer signature, the Fudu manages to excel in separation and imaging, qualities often traded off by such signatures. On the other hand, the MS3 ventures into spicier territory in the upper frequencies, embracing an energetic sound signature with snappier transients. If precision and lively dynamics are your calling, then the MS3 stands as the prime choice. However, if you seek a more laid-back, relaxed listening experience, the Fudu beckons as the preferred option.

In the realm of accessories, it's a tale of reliability versus premium touches. The MS3 boasts a more dependable cable, while the Fudu shines in its inclusion of high-quality ear tips. I attribute this to Tangzu's introduction of the new Sancai ear tips and Fudu's collaboration with Divinus.

versus Seeaudio Rinko (to be updated)​

TEST TRACKS:​

Here are some tracks I usually listen to when reviewing:

That’s the way of the World by EWF
Africa by TOTO
The Girl in the Other Room by Diana Kral
Balmorhea album All is wild, All is Silent
Sila by Sud
Smooth Escape by D’Sound
Never too Much by Luther Vandross
P.Y.T by Michael Jackson
Ain’t no Sunshine by Eva Cassidy
Shoot to Thrill by AC/DC
Another one bites the Dust by Queen
Good times bad times by Edie Brickell
Alice in Wonderland by Bill Evans
Ain’t it Fun by Paramore
Redefine by Incubus
Far Away by Nickelback
Lovesong by Adele
Lingus by Snarky Puppy
Harvest for the World by Vanessa Williams
Love Bites by Def Leppard
No Such Thing by John Mayer
As by Stevie Wonder
Whip Appeal by Babyface
Ain’t Nobody by Chaka Khan
Futures by Prep
Landslide by Fleetwood Mac
Every Summertime by NIKI
SADE tracks
AC/DC tracks
Queen tracks


And many more… I always listen to High resolution format, being the least quality 16bit/44khz FLACS be it offline or online.

VERDICT:​

When Hidizs unveiled the MS5 a month or two ago, it felt like a leap of faith. Truth be told, the only aspect that truly resonated with me regarding the MS5 was its technical prowess.

Personally, I view the MS3 as a redemption story. This should have been the MS5's tuning from the beginning. Even in terms of aesthetics and build quality, my preference leans toward the MS3. It's truly astonishing to discover hybrids in this price range delivering performance that can rival IEMs twice their price.

The MS3 is by no means a challenger to the top-tier IEMs nor does it claim to topple midrange champions. As I concluded this review, I switched to my midrange benchmark, the Aful P8, and immediately noticed a discernible difference in performance. However, within their respective price range, the MS3 stands as a commendable contender worthy of both praise and recommendation. Its engaging and punchy lows, mids exhibiting minimal BA timbre, impressive top-end energy (although treble-sensitive individuals should exercise caution), and quick-footed transients are among its standout facets. These characteristics had my toes tapping and delivered an enjoyable listening experience.

I have one Hidizs product in my collection, the AP80 Pro, my first DAP, which was highly regarded as one of the best portable DAPs in its price bracket. When I initially reviewed the MS5, I couldn't help but wonder if Hidizs should have stuck to their DAPs. However, the MS3 has proven me wrong in the most delightful way. I must commend Hidizs for their responsiveness and ability to embrace feedback constructively, resulting in the birth of a wonderful, commendable, and affordably priced product that I can confidently recommend to fellow musicians and audiophiles alike.

I want to extend my sincerest gratitude to Eiji Romero for orchestrating this tour and to Hidizs for their generous support. I hope you find this review helpful, and as always, remember to take it with a grain of salt. Until next time, cheers!

INTRODUCTION:​

Alright, my fellow audio adventurers, buckle up and prepare for another riveting review journey! Here we are again, diving into the world of Tangzu goodies. But hold onto your headphones, because this time I'm skipping the company backstory - trust me, we've had our share of Tangzu tales. Instead, let's plunge headfirst into the main act, none other than the star of today's show: the FU DU Verse 1! Yep, that's right, a delightful collaboration with the mysterious Divinus.

Now, picture this: I've just laid hands on the Fudu, practically a few heartbeats ago. And let me tell you, the auditory enchantment that's currently serenading my ears is on a whole new level of WOW. So what's a music aficionado to do? Well, naturally, I had to put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) pronto to capture all the warm fuzzies the Fudu's giving me.

Hold onto your ear tips, because here comes the tech stuff: the Fudu is riding the hybrid train, sporting 1 dynamic driver and 2 balanced armatures. Oh, the nostalgia! My audio journey began with a hybrid beauty, the Bqeyz KC2. It's like my heart knew from the start that hybrids were my jam, a preference that's still grooving strong even after more than 24 months of sonic exploration.

A quick pause for a special note: As much as I relish weaving intricate tapestries of words and explanations in my reviews, I'm taking a pit stop here to serve up a dose of brevity. Why, you ask? Well, life's tossing a whole symphony of responsibilities my way: a bun in the oven (yep, you heard that right, a little audiophile in training), a weekly serenade commitment with my band, juggling house recording sessions, and, of course, a never-ending battle with household chores. With my listening window being tighter than a drum, I'm not exactly setting speed records for consecutive reviews.

Alright, let's raise the curtain on the main event, shall we? Grab your sonic snacks, folks, because we're about to set this show in motion!

FOREWORD:​

• The gear on hand has undergone at least 10-15 hours of use before it was assessed.
• No EQ is ever applied in my reviews.
• For the sake of convenience, I try my best to use a stock setup. Not everyone has access to personal ear tips or cables. If personal ear tips, cables, or accessories are used, you will be notified.
• As I try to be objective, my claims inevitably will be subjective and biased to my personal preference. I cannot stress more that you should take this with a grain of salt for we have different perceptions to sound and what we hear.

SPECIFICATIONS:​

Brand: Tangzu
Model: Fu Du verse 1
Drivers: 1 x 10mm DD, 2 x Balance armatures
Sensitivity: 106db
Impedance: 16 ohms
FR range: 20hz - 20khz
Plug type: 4.4mm
Termination plug: 0.78mm 2-pin

PACKAGING:​

Picture a sleek, matte black rectangular box resting in landscape mode. It's the epitome of simplicity, exuding a sense of mystery and professional charm. As you turn to the back, you'll find the specs lined up like eager notes on sheet music.


But that's not where the excitement ends! Slide open the inner box, and there it is – another layer of minimalistic elegance awaiting your attention.

Right at the center, the words "Tangzu x Divinus" stand proud, making their statement without any flashy magnetic gimmicks. A gentle shake is all it takes for the lower part of the box to gracefully join the party.

Now, let's venture deeper into this packaging treasure trove.

Imagine a trio of goodies, each with its role to play. On the left, the ear tips sit patiently, ready to make their musical debut. In the center, the stars of our show, the Fu Du, stand ready to deliver their sonic performance. And on the right, completing the ensemble, we have the case and cable, ensuring we're equipped for our sonic explorations.

EAR TIPS:​

Let's dive into the world of ear tips, where Tangzu has laid out a generous feast for our sonic senses. And guess what? They've gone above and beyond by skipping the generic fare and serving up two distinct flavors. It's like a buffet for our ears.

First up on this menu of musical delights, we've got the Tang Sancai ear tips. Oh, how I adore these gems! It's like they've struck a balance between being a solid backbone and delivering a punch of energy to the lows. And that's not all – they bring a dash of sonic landscape improvement to the party. Talk about a tip that knows how to groove!

But wait, there's more. Brace yourselves for the all-black wonders – the enigmatic Divinus tips. These babies sport a wide bore and a tube pathway that's as stiff as a rockstar's posture on stage. Now, usually, wide-bore tips are all about being as soft as a lullaby, but not these bad boys. They're here to make a statement and, if I'm reading the sonic tea leaves right, they're aiming to amp up the bass game.

CARRYING POUCH:​

Personally, I'm all about the convenience factor. Slip this pouch into your tiny bag or even your pocket, and voila – you've got an instant shield against scratches and minor mishaps. But hey, let's be real, it's not going to perform miracles against a Hulk-level impact. It's like trading off full armor for the agility of a ninja.

Now, let's talk dimensions. This pouch is the Goldilocks of storage – not too big, not too small, but just right. It's like a cozy home for a single pair of IEMs. And here's the kicker: the Fu Du's cables can stretch their metaphorical...cables. Not legs, mind you – we're talking about music, not aerobics!

Oh, and the pouch even plays host to a smaller sleeve inside, perfect for all those bonus accessories you've got up your sleeve. And the star of the show, the Fu Du, gets its own designated pocket. All dressed in black, embracing that oh-so-chic minimalist vibe that's just right up my alley. And let's not forget the pièce de résistance – the trusty zipper that keeps everything snug and secure.

CABLE:​

Now, fair warning, folks – the cable that comes bundled might be on the thinner side. But hold the disappointment for just a moment! Remember, we're hanging out in the $100 neighborhood, so a leaner cable isn't exactly a plot twist.

Now, let's talk aesthetics. The colorway? Oh, it's a classic choice – all dressed in sleek black with a rubbery texture. Now, I've got to be honest, it's a touch generic for my personal taste. But hey, for all you cable aficionados out there, go ahead and roll those cables to your heart's content.

Now, here's where things get a bit technical – the cable is silver plated. Brace yourself for a mini lesson: silver tends to bring a pinch of brightness to the sonic table compared to the warmth of copper. But wait, don't get your audio swords ready for battle! I'm not here to ignite a cable debate. These are just my personal findings, the musical breadcrumbs I've picked up along the way. And if you're keen on keeping the Fu Du's sonic signature in check, you might want to hunt down a cable that shares the same material.

So, to sum it up, the cable might not win the award for most unique, but it's as easy to carry as a tune in your heart. And just so you know, this cable struts its stuff with a 4.4mm plug type.

FU DU’s APPEARANCE:​

This beauty is the epitome of sleekness and minimalistic allure. But hold your horses – before you get caught up in the photographic reverie, there's a little surprise waiting. You see, at first glance, you might expect a grand entrance from metal, but alas, the reality is a bit more...plastic. And no, I'm not throwing shade at its appearance – it's got that good looks game on lock. But the kicker? It doesn't quite have that premium feel. It's like a movie set with an A-list cast but B-list set design.

The faceplate? Oh, it's a work of art, curved to perfection, embracing every ear's unique contours. And don't forget, this piece is lighter than a feather's sigh. Look to the right, you've got the suave "Tangzu" logo making its appearance, and to the left, it's "Divinus" stepping into the limelight. And what about that base, you ask? It's like a smoky mystery, revealing the dynamic driver at the heart of things. Now, here's a twist – despite all the lighting tricks, those balanced armature drivers are playing hide and seek. But hey, let's give Tangzu the benefit of the doubt, shall we?

Moving down the lineup, the base rocks a matte finish, a canvas for our oily ears to leave their mark like eager fans at a concert. And the faceplate, oh so minimalist, is like an artwork waiting to happen – just remember, it's not exactly scratch-resistant. So, a word of advice: give these beauties a bit of extra TLC to keep them looking as fresh as a melody.

All in all, the Fu Du has got that "sick" and "dope" factor in the looks department. It's an artistic triumph, a visual symphony that plays the minimalist card like a pro. But, here's the scoop – when it comes to tactile impressions, the premium essence might be a tad elusive.

COMFORT:​

When it comes to comfort, the Fu Du is the equivalent of sinking into a cloud-soft pillow. No caveats, no complaints – it's a win on all fronts.

Slipping these gems on is like sliding into your favorite pair of jeans – effortless and snug. Now, I know the curves and contours might not be giving your ears a bear hug, but the magic lies in their weightlessness. It's like they've mastered the art of invisibility once they're in place. You might as well forget you're wearing them – it's that kind of comfort.

And here's a bonus – the seal and fit game is a walk in the park. No acrobatics needed, no need to wrestle with ear tips like they're your arch-nemesis. Just pop 'em in and let the music take the lead. I've lost count of the hours I've spent wearing these bad boys – they're that easy on the ears. In fact, if comfort had a medal, these would be wearing it.

SOUND IMPRESSIONS:​

Kudos for making it this far! We're now diving into the heart and soul of this review – the sound itself.

The Fu Du finds itself paired with my trusty Fiio M11 plus LTD dap, complemented by Divinus tips and the stock cable. Keep in mind, I'll be sure to keep you in the loop if I stumble upon more revelations with different pairings across my array of sources. But for the time being, my steadfast companion remains the Fiio M11 plus LTD, offering up its 4.4mm balanced output.

Let's talk sound stage. It's not the widest I've encountered, nor the narrowest. The Fu Du serves up a sound stage that's in line with the expectations of an IEM – no surprises here, just a straightforward 2D affair. Think of it as a reliable canvas for the musical masterpiece. However, the plot thickens with certain well-mastered tracks, where a faint sense of depth creeps in, lending that subtle touch of holography to the presentation.

As for imaging, it's a strong suit, boasting precise instrument placement. Though I must confess, there's no radical shift in where my favorite instruments appear on the canvas.

Now, let's talk timbre – and oh boy, it's a shining star. The Fu Du presents an organic, true-to-life quality that's nothing short of impressive. No artificial notes sneak into the mix, just the authentic sound of instruments in their natural habitat.

Speed? The Fu Du's got it in spades. It's nimble, it's agile, and it tackles complex tracks with a grace that rivals a ballet dancer. Whether it's the swift attack or the rapid decay, this set delivers a level of note definition that's the envy of the town.

But let's pause and give credit where it's due – the real MVPs here are the layering and separation. This is where the Fu Du flexes its technical muscles, impressing with its ability to dissect the sonic landscape. Without any hint of exaggeration, I'm convinced that these little marvels can hold their ground even against sets twice their price. Each instrument gets its own spotlight, and you can practically see every musician's role in the track. It's like the ultimate front row seat to a musical extravaganza.

BASS:​

This pair slightly tilts towards the bassier side, nudging away from the realm of perfect balance. And when the sub bass takes the stage, it doesn't hold back – there's a delicious extension that can summon a satisfying rumble from the depths.

Now, let's talk about the fun factor – the bass is like a tightly coiled spring, ready to unleash its punchy prowess at a moment's notice. A prime example? Let's take a groove-filled jaunt with "Last Summer Whisper" by... well, I can assure you, it's a city pop Japanese track that's got all the right vibes. The bass guitar and drum kicks? They're the true stars, showcased in a presentation that's tighter than a well-practiced drumroll. The texture and details are nothing short of impressive, and the bass's attack? It's stepping into the limelight, but never veering into a struggle for dominance.

Now, let's tackle quantity – it's a little south of neutral, making it clear that this pair has a sweet spot for bass enthusiasts. For those who aren't on a bass-centric quest, the quantity might feel like a bit much. But fear not, the quality is where the magic happens. Even though I'm more of a neutral aficionado myself, I found myself in sync with the bass elevation. It's presented with utmost cleanliness and precision, leaving no room for muddiness or ambiguity.

In a nutshell, the Fu Du's bass realm is an exploration of tightness, punchiness, and a dash of rumble. It's like a bass-driven symphony that stays crisp, precise, and remarkably well-executed.

MIDRANGE:​

Before diving into the graph, something caught my ear – a certain forwardness in the midrange that seemed to give life to instruments like guitars, pianos, and brass. And guess what? The graph tells a story that echoes this observation, with a climb that stretches from 1kHz to 2kHz. It's like the blueprint behind the curtain, explaining the captivating drama unfolding on the midrange stage.

Graph courtesy of Paul Wasabii

I have a soft spot for forward mids. And thanks to this climb, my midrange fascination was sent into overdrive. For those who bow down to the temple of midrange, the Fu Du deserves a prime spot in your audio arsenal. Speaking of vocals, they've got their time to shine within this range, and there's no trace of that pesky recessed nature. What's in the spotlight here? Clarity, my friends. It's the keyword that defines this sonic act, unveiling details that might have remained in the shadows, lost amidst the rhythm section.

Now, let's tip our hats to Tangzu's tuning prowess. Despite the elevation, they've managed to dance on that fine line between enhancement and ear fatigue. As someone who's no stranger to wielding a musical instrument or two, I couldn't help but fall head over heels for the midrange's spotlight performance. It's like a spotlight that captures every intricate detail, casting a warm glow on every note and every timbre.

TREBLE:​

Similar to the bass, there's a commendable reach towards the upper frequencies. It's like the set's stretching its wings to embrace the heights, and depending on the musical journey you're on, it can treat you to a dose of vibrant treble. Think sparkly notes, an airy ambiance, and a shimmering presence that never wears a veil.

But hold on, what about those with ears that are slightly more sensitive to the higher frequencies? Well, I'd say a cautious audition might be in order before you take the full plunge. However, in my own experience, I found the treble to be more about revealing intricate details than piercing through. The Fu Du strikes a balance that avoids the extremes – it's not a warm embrace, nor is the treble holding back. And the best part? It doesn't veer into the realm of overly bright either.

This is where the Fu Du showcases its prowess – it's walking a tightrope between presentation and restraint, and it's doing so with finesse. It's a testament to the set's control that the treble never feels like it's running wild. Interestingly, that substantial bass elevation we discussed earlier plays a part here too. It's like a musical seesaw, with the bass and treble taking turns to keep the equilibrium just right.

COMPARISONS:​

Hold onto your ear cushions, because we're about to dive into the ultimate IEM showdown! Picture this: I've got a dynamic duo in my collection that I consider the gold standard in the $100 realm. Get ready to witness the clash of the titans as we pit the Fu Du against the Simgot EA500 and the Dunu Titan S. Now, before you cry foul about the single dynamic driver setup of my opponents, let's toss fairness out the window and dive into the sonic brawl anyway.

versus Simgot EA500​

Straight out of the gate, let's talk EA500 – and boy, does it come in blazing like a firecracker. This set leans towards the brighter side of the spectrum, a territory that comes with its own caveat: the potential for listening fatigue. Now, prepare for a plot twist, because once the Fu Du steps into the arena, it's like slipping into a cozy sweater. I've got Al Green's crooning classic, "Let's Stay Together," queued up for this showdown.

The bass on the EA500 brings its A-game – it's got more heft and density, like it's flexing its musical muscles. As for the midrange, it's got that fiery punch that's hard to ignore, and the treble? Well, let's just say it's bringing some serious heat to the party. Now, cue the Fu Du, our sonic knight in shining armor. It waltzes in with a sense of control that extends across the entire frequency range, making it a prime pick for those with ears that demand sensitivity.

When it comes to technical prowess, the two contenders square off on level ground. And would you believe it? The EA500, with its single dynamic driver setup, manages to hold its own and then some. It's like the underdog that's packing a punch that even hybrid setups might envy. Treble enthusiasts, this one's for you – the EA500 is still waving its flag high, beckoning you to take the plunge into its treble-rich realm.

The technical finesse of the EA500, despite its single dynamic driver, continues to baffle my audiophile sensibilities. It's like finding a hidden treasure trove of sonic wizardry in an unexpected package.

versus Dunu Titan S​

Let's set the stage with a mesmerizing city pop track titled "Bay/Sky Provincetown 1977." As the music envelopes my senses, it's time to unravel the sonic tale of the Titan S.

Brace yourselves, because the Titan S isn't just warm – it's warming things up to a whole new level. It's like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening, the warmest of the trio, perhaps even donning the crown as the darkest of them all. But let's talk technical flair, where the Fu Du strides forward like a maestro at a grand symphony, meticulously etching each note and transient with remarkable precision.

As for the Titan S's sonic symphony, the bass takes on a gentle demeanor, while the midrange wraps you in a blanket of warmth. The treble, on the other hand, maintains a sense of restraint, like a seasoned orator pausing for emphasis. Now, if your ears are ultra-sensitive, the Titan S might just be the one to sweep you off your feet. But here's the kicker – the Titan S flaunts its secret weapon in the form of an expansive sound stage. Picture a spacious hall where the music unfurls, and every instrument finds its own distinct voice. The sense of direction is palpable, like a musical GPS guiding you through the sonic landscape.

The Titan S, with its solo dynamic driver prowess, touts a natural timbre that's hard to ignore, with a mere 5% edge. Now, don't let that overshadow the Fu Du's own natural and organic allure, despite its hybrid DNA. It's like a harmonious dance of sound, with the Titan S showcasing a different spin on natural timbre, while the Fu Du follows closely, holding its own with a touch of hybrid magic.

TEST TRACKS:​

Here are some tracks I usually listen to when reviewing:

That’s the way of the World by EWF
Africa by TOTO
The Girl in the Other Room by Diana Kral
Balmorhea album All is wild, All is Silent
Sila by Sud
Smooth Escape by D’Sound
Never too Much by Luther Vandross
P.Y.T by Michael Jackson
Ain’t no Sunshine by Eva Cassidy
Shoot to Thrill by AC/DC
Another one bites the Dust by Queen
Good times bad times by Edie Brickell
Alice in Wonderland by Bill Evans
Ain’t it Fun by Paramore
Redefine by Incubus
Far Away by Nickelback
Lovesong by Adele
Lingus by Snarky Puppy
Harvest for the World by Vanessa Williams
Love Bites by Def Leppard
No Such Thing by John Mayer
As by Stevie Wonder
Whip Appeal by Babyface
Ain’t Nobody by Chaka Khan
Futures by Prep
Landslide by Fleetwood Mac
Every Summertime by NIKI
SADE tracks
AC/DC tracks
Queen tracks


And many more… I always listen to High resolution format, being the least quality 16bit/44khz FLACS be it offline or online.

VERDICT:​

In the ever-evolving landscape of audio technology, hybrid IEMs with affordable price tags are emerging as the latest contenders in the arena. And let me tell you, the Fu Du has turned the spotlight onto itself in a manner that I couldn't resist – it's as if it tapped me on the shoulder, rousing me from my auditory slumber and compelling me to put words to paper. As anticipated, the Fu Du delivers an impressive showcase of technical prowess, staying true to the expectations set by hybrid IEMs.

But let's talk about what really sets the Fu Du apart – that spotlight on the midrange, a realm of sound that tugs at my heartstrings. With a modest price tag in consideration, pinpointing flaws in the Fu Du becomes a task akin to finding a needle in a haystack. This isn't just an IEM; it's a sonic canvas that warmly welcomes audio enthusiasts into the fold, offering a taste of what the hybrid world has to offer.

From the moment it graces your ears, the Fu Du leaves no stone unturned – from the feather-light comfort it offers during extended listening sessions to the bass that packs a punch, a midrange that shines like a gem, and a treble that's held in perfect equilibrium. It's like a musical equation that's been carefully balanced. So here's the scoop – the Fu Du is more than just an IEM; it's a harbinger of what's possible in the hybrid domain. If you're just stepping into the enchanting realm of audio, consider the Fu Du your golden ticket to the world of hybrids.

And mark my words, this might just be the benchmark that future contenders aspire to meet in the $100 hybrid category. As for the future, the name "verse 1" hints at sequels, and I, for one, am eagerly anticipating the musical journeys they hold.

My heartfelt appreciation extends to Tangzu for granting me the opportunity to experience this auditory marvel, and my fellow co-reviewers, whose generosity has left an indelible mark on my audio exploration. Their support is cherished beyond words.