REVIEW: Brainwavz S3
Specifications: (from Brainwavz site)
Driver: 8mm Dynamic
Rated Impedance: 16 Ω
Frequency Range: 16Hz - 22kHz
Sensitivity: 96 dB @ 1 mW
Cable: 1.3m, Y-Cord, Flat, Copper
Plug: 3.5mm Gold Plated
MSRP: $79.50
Warranty: 2 years
Official product page: LINK
Packing & Accessories:
The S3 arrives in the same box as the previous S1 and S5 and, as usual, Brainwavz are very generous with their accessories pack:
3 pairs of silicone single wide bore eartips (S/M/L)
3 pairs of silicone single narrow bore eartips (S/M/L)
1 pair of silicone bi-flange eartips
1 pair of silicone tri-Flange eartips
1 pair of Comply Foam tips T-400 in M size
1 Shirt Clip
Case
Velcro Cable Tie
Build & Design:
Like the previous S-series models, the S3 carries a very good (outer) build quality. The cable remains pretty much the same, flat and well relieved on both ends; still, too thick, rubbery and quite springy. Like the S5, the S3's cable also ends in a straight plug. The earpieces are obviously made of metal, but designed for a regular cable-down fit, although less ergonomic and would stick out much more. It has no memory effect but is strong in microphonics, mainly with the cable down fit.
On a short note regarding the phone use, I only got to try it with a Samsung Galaxy model and there wasn't a 100% controls' compatibility.
Fit, Comfort, Isolation:
Unfortunately, the S3 fall behind the S5 and even the S1 here. While the S5 were quite good and noticeable better than the S1, I find the S3 to be a bit tricky/finicky to fit correctly. While not really uncomfortable, it's not easy to achieve a proper fit and a lasting seal, regardless the tips in use. The housings have some sharp edges too that might be tiring after some use. The cable is a bit annoying and a shirt clip is recommended. Isolation is decent for a dynamic based earphone and the Comply Foam tips might help a bit more.
Sound:
The last S3 is probably the more balanced model of the Brainwavz S series I tried, with an arguably more natural presentation. The S1 offered a very heavy bass in a quite V-shaped signature, and the S5, while undoubtedly much improved, still carried a lively signature as well. The S3 tends to present things in a more accurate and less colored way. It's not to say that the S3 could classify as a 'reference' sounding IEM, but in comparison to the older S5 it shows a less artificial tonality, more intelligent positioning and smoother, though not exactly coherent, presentation. Another advantage is that the S3 it don't emphasize a specific frequency over above the others giving a more complete and better rounded overall sound.
The low end on the S3 is tight and punchy, and even though much less in terms of quantity than the most of enhanced bass in-ear which boost a stronger impact, it's still north of neutral. Bass depth is just decent and rolls-off a bit early at the bottom, but manages to keep a good amount of detail and texture, and it's safe from any serious mid-bass bloat and bleed that the previous S models had. It's similar to the Fidue A65 and Soundmagic E50 in bass balance, but those two can offer a more realistic and convincing, and a touch deeper lower end. The closest IEM in bass dept. should be the FA Mini Consonance, even though it sounds less spacious than the S3.
The midrange presence is very good. While sometimes it could feel as being pushed more forward, it would be more accurate to refer to it as 'not recessed' or 'balanced'. Actually, it is less warm and thick compared to real mid-centered sets. There's some reminiscence to certain BA based in-ears, such as the old HSA BA100 with its slightly thin and cool tonality, but the S3 doesn't lack the traditional dynamic driver sense of warmth. Vocals are just a tad more prominent with some dry tonality. There's no hint of sibilance on upper vocals, but the S3 is not exactly free of certain graininess. Detail and overall midrange clarity are quite decent, just nothing outstanding and do lack some refinement and texture. The S3 is not a Fidue A63's competitor in terms of sweetness, and won't match the E80 with its excellent transparency. Even an Ostry KC06A could make a better option for a more natural midrange presentation.
The high-end is well rounded and pretty much neutral quantity-wise, not too bright and not smooth either; something in the middle ground. The amount of sparkle and crispiness is well suited for most genres without any notable peak (unlike the S1 or S5), although the highest freq. are rolled-off a bit, lacking in some extension. The main complaint would be the treble unnatural timbre which could be rather annoying and sometimes manages to ruin the whole listening experience. Imaging is about slightly below average at best. Overall detail is not missing but stage dimensions are dynamics could be still better for the asking price.
Conclusion & Value:
While this last iteration of the S-series offers a quite different and more pleasant and accurate sound from the previous ones, overall it is still not the best that Brainwavz can offer. As always, the package and build quality is nice, but the design and fit could be considered as a downgrade for some. In terms of SQ alone it is just decent for the retail ~$80 price, and even taken as whole package, including the 2-yrs warranty, there's still room for improvement considering the many other options nowadays.
Thanks to Brainwavz for the S3 review unit.
Specifications: (from Brainwavz site)
Driver: 8mm Dynamic
Rated Impedance: 16 Ω
Frequency Range: 16Hz - 22kHz
Sensitivity: 96 dB @ 1 mW
Cable: 1.3m, Y-Cord, Flat, Copper
Plug: 3.5mm Gold Plated
MSRP: $79.50
Warranty: 2 years
Official product page: LINK
Packing & Accessories:
The S3 arrives in the same box as the previous S1 and S5 and, as usual, Brainwavz are very generous with their accessories pack:
3 pairs of silicone single wide bore eartips (S/M/L)
3 pairs of silicone single narrow bore eartips (S/M/L)
1 pair of silicone bi-flange eartips
1 pair of silicone tri-Flange eartips
1 pair of Comply Foam tips T-400 in M size
1 Shirt Clip
Case
Velcro Cable Tie
Build & Design:
Like the previous S-series models, the S3 carries a very good (outer) build quality. The cable remains pretty much the same, flat and well relieved on both ends; still, too thick, rubbery and quite springy. Like the S5, the S3's cable also ends in a straight plug. The earpieces are obviously made of metal, but designed for a regular cable-down fit, although less ergonomic and would stick out much more. It has no memory effect but is strong in microphonics, mainly with the cable down fit.
On a short note regarding the phone use, I only got to try it with a Samsung Galaxy model and there wasn't a 100% controls' compatibility.
Fit, Comfort, Isolation:
Unfortunately, the S3 fall behind the S5 and even the S1 here. While the S5 were quite good and noticeable better than the S1, I find the S3 to be a bit tricky/finicky to fit correctly. While not really uncomfortable, it's not easy to achieve a proper fit and a lasting seal, regardless the tips in use. The housings have some sharp edges too that might be tiring after some use. The cable is a bit annoying and a shirt clip is recommended. Isolation is decent for a dynamic based earphone and the Comply Foam tips might help a bit more.
Sound:
The last S3 is probably the more balanced model of the Brainwavz S series I tried, with an arguably more natural presentation. The S1 offered a very heavy bass in a quite V-shaped signature, and the S5, while undoubtedly much improved, still carried a lively signature as well. The S3 tends to present things in a more accurate and less colored way. It's not to say that the S3 could classify as a 'reference' sounding IEM, but in comparison to the older S5 it shows a less artificial tonality, more intelligent positioning and smoother, though not exactly coherent, presentation. Another advantage is that the S3 it don't emphasize a specific frequency over above the others giving a more complete and better rounded overall sound.
The low end on the S3 is tight and punchy, and even though much less in terms of quantity than the most of enhanced bass in-ear which boost a stronger impact, it's still north of neutral. Bass depth is just decent and rolls-off a bit early at the bottom, but manages to keep a good amount of detail and texture, and it's safe from any serious mid-bass bloat and bleed that the previous S models had. It's similar to the Fidue A65 and Soundmagic E50 in bass balance, but those two can offer a more realistic and convincing, and a touch deeper lower end. The closest IEM in bass dept. should be the FA Mini Consonance, even though it sounds less spacious than the S3.
The midrange presence is very good. While sometimes it could feel as being pushed more forward, it would be more accurate to refer to it as 'not recessed' or 'balanced'. Actually, it is less warm and thick compared to real mid-centered sets. There's some reminiscence to certain BA based in-ears, such as the old HSA BA100 with its slightly thin and cool tonality, but the S3 doesn't lack the traditional dynamic driver sense of warmth. Vocals are just a tad more prominent with some dry tonality. There's no hint of sibilance on upper vocals, but the S3 is not exactly free of certain graininess. Detail and overall midrange clarity are quite decent, just nothing outstanding and do lack some refinement and texture. The S3 is not a Fidue A63's competitor in terms of sweetness, and won't match the E80 with its excellent transparency. Even an Ostry KC06A could make a better option for a more natural midrange presentation.
The high-end is well rounded and pretty much neutral quantity-wise, not too bright and not smooth either; something in the middle ground. The amount of sparkle and crispiness is well suited for most genres without any notable peak (unlike the S1 or S5), although the highest freq. are rolled-off a bit, lacking in some extension. The main complaint would be the treble unnatural timbre which could be rather annoying and sometimes manages to ruin the whole listening experience. Imaging is about slightly below average at best. Overall detail is not missing but stage dimensions are dynamics could be still better for the asking price.
Conclusion & Value:
While this last iteration of the S-series offers a quite different and more pleasant and accurate sound from the previous ones, overall it is still not the best that Brainwavz can offer. As always, the package and build quality is nice, but the design and fit could be considered as a downgrade for some. In terms of SQ alone it is just decent for the retail ~$80 price, and even taken as whole package, including the 2-yrs warranty, there's still room for improvement considering the many other options nowadays.
Thanks to Brainwavz for the S3 review unit.