Nice review, but I just can't get on with my pair of S5s. There's a peak in the treble that makes listening to music un-enjoyable, and that's ultimately a huge deal breaker. And yes, that's with both stock and a million other types of tips I've tried, so no dice all round.

I understand your point and I reckon you're also a bit sensitive to treble peaks. I did find the treble emphasis a bit too much with the stock silicone tips. But as soon as I switched to the Comply TS200, the result was positive. Hence the conclusion to my review. I hope you find the right tips for you.

if you have to rely on Comply, that is the sign of an IEM which does not work properly. On this belief I am unshakeable.

hmmm... personally I find foam tips primarily as an alternative to meet fit and comfort requirements then sound is secondary. The thing is... if the S5 had a more linear treble response, users who prefer foam tips won't be happy either because then foam tips will make the S5 sound too dark. So at the end of the day, it's really whether or not the whole setup works for you. In this case, the S5 is just not for you.