MYER-AUDIO SLIIVO SLA3

General Information

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Configuration:​


Impedance: 40Ω

Sensitivity: 107dB

Nozzle: 6.2MM

Single-side headphone driver: 10MM custom DD * 1 + KNOWLES custom BA * 2 + custom BA * 1

Headphones: 1DD+3BA hi-fi headphones 1 pair

Cable: monocrystalline copper high-purity silver-plated wire detachable upgrade cable 4 strands diameter of about 5MM

Cable length: 1.25M with tolerance

Plug: support double pin 0.78MM can be converted plug 3.5MM +4.4MM

Plug material: 3u gold-plated plugs

Ear cushion set: silicone ear cushions 6 pairs (group A / B) + memory foam ear cushions 1 pair

Leather earphone bag: 1pc

Instruction manual: 1 book

Guarantee: 12 months (non-human cause)

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005008444237410.html

Latest reviews

Syrius

New Head-Fier
Myer Audio SLIIVO SLA3 Review
Pros: Punchy, well-controlled bass.
Natural and clear mids.
Safe, non-fatiguing treble
Comfortable fit
Premium build quality.
High-quality modular cable.
Good value for the price.
Cons: Treble lacks some air and extension.
The upper mids could use some slight EQ adjustments.
The stock case is a bit too small for my liking.

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Disclaimer​


Hello everyone! I want to start by letting you know that Myer Audio sent me the SLIIVO SLA3 to review. I’m not getting paid for this, and they haven’t asked me to write anything specific, check my review before I post it, or told me when to publish it.

Everything I share here is based on my own experience with the SLA3. I always try to be as fair as possible, but at the end of the day, this is just my opinion. Everyone hears things differently, and that’s what makes this hobby so much fun!

A big thanks to Myer Audio for giving me the chance to test out the SLA3, and of course, a huge thank you to all of you for reading and for your trust in what I say. Your support really means a lot to me!

The full review can also be found on https://mobileaudiophile.com/, via this link


Introduction


Myer Audio has been making some waves lately with their IEM releases, like the D41 and the SL41 MKII, which got a lot of love, and today, I’m checking out one of their new sets, the SLIIVO SLA3. This is their more entry level hybrid IEM in the SLIIVO lineup, sitting right below the SL41. It’s priced at $104, making it a more affordable option compared to their more expensive models while still packing some serious tech.

The SLA3 features a 1DD + 3BA driver setup in a three way crossover; you get a 10mm bio-diaphragm dynamic driver for the low end (the same driver as in the SL41 and CK2V), two Knowles BA drivers for mids, and a custom BA driver handling the highs. On top of that, it’s got a really nice looking design inspired by the Aurora Borealis, with a faceplate that reflects light beautifully and changes color at different angles. It’s clear that Myer Audio put a lot of effort into making this one both beautiful and great sounding. So, let's dive into the review.

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Unboxing the SLIIVO SLA3


Opening up the SLIIVO SLA3, I was met with a packaging design that felt a bit different from what I expected. The box is black with blue and gold splashes, which honestly looks nice, but it doesn’t really match the color of the IEMs inside, which is a bit of a strange choice. Like always, Myer Audio includes the frequency response graph on the side of the box, which is a nice little touch.

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Sliding off the sleeve, the inside has the same usual layout from Myer Audio’s previous releases. The SLA3 IEMs sit nicely in foam cutouts, and right under them is the leather carrying case. It’s the same size as the one that came with the D41, SL41, and CK2V, and while it’s well made with nice stitching and a soft interior, I still wish it was a little bigger because it’s tough to fit a dongle DAC alongside the IEMs.

Inside the case, I found the included eartips, which are exactly the same as those that came with the D62 and the CK2V:

  • Silicone tips with a narrow bore in black.
  • Silicone tips with a white and turquoise design that reminds me of SpinFits, which has a tilting tip.
  • Memory foam tips for better noise isolation.

Now, let’s talk about the cable. This is one area where the SLA3 stands out from the CK2V. While the CK2V had a grey cable with a very cool internal pattern, the SLA3’s cable is thicker and brown. It’s very high quality and feels super durable and premium, plus it comes with a screw down modular system like the CK2V, making it easy to swap between the 3.5mm and 4.4mm connectors. This is a great upgrade over the old friction fit system, which the D62 has, and it's harder to detach.

And then, of course, there are the IEMs themselves. The SLA3’s design is inspired by the Aurora Borealis, and the faceplates reflect light in a really nice way and change color at different angles. It has the same metal nozzle and rim around the faceplate like the CK2V, but this time in silver color, and a resin body that feels premium. The shells are shaped exactly like the CK2V, and they are very small and comfortable.

Overall, the unboxing experience feels good yet simple. The cable is a standout upgrade, and the IEMs themselves look and feel great. My only small complaint is still the case size, and maybe the strange color of the box, but other than that, it’s a well thought out package.

Accessories Included:

  • 1x SLIIVO SLA3 IEM
  • 1x Screw-down modular high-purity mono-crystalline copper silver-plated cable made of 4 strands diameter of about 5MM
  • 1x 3.5mm plug
  • 1x 4.4mm plug
  • 3x Pairs of silicone tips with narrow bore
  • 3x Pairs of silicone tips with tilting tips
  • 1x Pair of memory foam tips
  • 1x Leather storage case
  • 1x User manual

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Technical Specifications


Specs​


  • Impedance: 40Ω
  • Sensitivity: 107dB
  • Nozzle: 6.2MM
  • Driver Configuration: 1DD + 3BA (10mm DD + 2 Knowles BA + 1 Custom BA)
  • Crossover: Three-way
  • Cable: Silver-plated copper (thick, brown, screw-down modular system), 1.25m length
  • Connector: 0.78mm 2-pin, swappable 3.5mm & 4.4mm plugs
  • Plug material: 3u gold-plated plugs

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Driver Configuration & Crossover​


The SLIIVO SLA3 is a hybrid IEM with a 1DD + 3BA driver setup in a three way crossover system, which really surprised me with how smooth everything sounds:

  • Bass: 10mm bio-diaphragm dynamic driver.
  • Mids: Two Knowles BA drivers.
  • Highs: One custom BA driver.


Sound Performance


Bass​


The SLA3 delivers that deep, punchy bass that I expected since it uses the same 10mm bio-diaphragm dynamic driver as the CK2V and SL41 MKII. The low end is fast, controlled, and detailed, with a good amount of impact but never getting bloated and never entering the mids. It reaches deep and brings nice textures, making bass lines sound clean and well-layered, and almost like a real separated subwoofer. For example, in the track "ENTROPYYY" by Lorn, OH BOI, it shakes my brain inside!

I really like this rumbly and controlled sensation, and it’s got the same level of bass detail as the CK2V, which is great for an IEM in this price range.

Mids​


The mids are well-separated from the bass, keeping vocals and instruments clear and natural. Everything has its own space without getting interrupted by the low end. Vocals come through nicely, whether they’re male or female, and instruments have a very good amount of detail.

Like I mentioned in my CK2V review, there’s a noticeable dip in the 4kHz region, so I had to boost it a bit to bring vocals more forward. But at the same time, the 5kHz region gets a little too much boost for my liking, making it sound a bit peaky, so I lowered it a bit. Once I tamed the 5kHz slightly, it sounded wonderful, smooth, and still very detailed.

Treble​


The highs are well-tuned and are exactly what I can call safe-tuned; they have detail, but they are not too boosted or aggressive. This means no fatigue or sharpness, and it makes the SLA3 a great set for long listening sessions. However, because of this safer tuning, the treble doesn’t have the same airiness and extension as the CK2V. The CK2V’s micro planar driver pushes more ultra highs, giving it extra sparkle and space, which the SLA3 doesn’t quite have, but I still did enjoy it a lot.

The treble really could have used a bit more air so high-pitched instruments or vocals would have a longer-lasting decay; it could have given the treble more detail and more space to breathe. But hey, it's an IEM at 104$, of course, it can't do everything perfectly, and you have to keep this in mind; it's just me being too picky.
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Technicalities


The soundstage is quite spacious, with good width and depth. Instruments and vocals have a solid sense of separation thanks to the tuning and well-made crossover, and nothing sounds congested. Imaging is accurate, which makes it easy to pinpoint different sounds, whether in music or gaming.

Layering is also very well done, keeping everything distinct and easy to follow without getting smudged together. It doesn’t reach the ultra-detailed level of the CK2V, but it still performs really well for its price, making it, in my opinion, a great entry point into the IEM world and a great taste of what Myer Audio are capable of, even on a lower budget.

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Conclusion


After spending a good time with the SLA3, I have to say that this is a really great IEM, especially for the price. It takes a safe, balanced approach to tuning that makes it easy to enjoy for long sessions without fatigue. The bass is tight and punchy, goes very deep, and at the same time is well-controlled; the mids are clean and natural, and the treble is smooth and quite detailed without ever being sharp. It really focuses on smooth sound, great comfort, and a high-quality build and accessories.

Speaking of the accessories. I was really impressed seeing such high quality from an IEM at this price; the cable is gorgeous looking, thick, soft, and modular, and it really gives me a very premium feeling.

Compared to its bigger sibling, the CK2V, the biggest difference is in the treble extension. The CK2V has more air and sparkle due to its dedicated micro planar driver, while the SLA3 keeps things a bit more relaxed and forgiving. If you are looking for a more neutral, natural presentation and want something more budget-friendly yet, at the same time, a big step into the IEM world, the SLA3 might actually be a good pick.

At $104, I think Myer Audio did a great job here. The SLA3 feels like a great entry point into the hybrid IEM world, offering good technical performance, an enjoyable tuning, and a really premium-feeling build. It’s a well-rounded package that should appeal to a wide range of listeners, whether you are new to IEMs or just want something reliable and easy to listen to.


Where to buy: (Non-affiliated! None of my reviews use affiliated links!)

Myer Audio Official AliExpress Store

Ali Hasan Hamim

100+ Head-Fier
Myer Audio SLIIVO SLA3 - BANGER!
Pros: Excellent Bass performance (especially sub-bass)
Well textured and articulate vocals
Vibrant well controlled treble
Excellent technical performance
Great for gaming
Premium stock accessories
Cons: None for me!
Maybe another face-plate design/color option like its predecessor? (personal preference)
Disclaimer

First, I would like to thank Myer Audio for giving me a generous discount for this unit. Yes, this unit was purchased by me. I got a discount for my review and the courtesy goes to Sonic Mantra team. This review only includes my honest impressions on the gear. I didn’t get influenced by anyone to say anything biased about this product. Enjoy reading. Cheers!

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Introduction

The SLIIVO SLA3 is the latest addition to the Myer Audio SLIIVO lineup and is the cheapest release from them yet. It comes at around $104. It boasts a configuration of 1DD and 3BA. Considering all the previous releases by this company, this one should be another banger, or not? Let’s find out.

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Package Contents:
  • The earpieces
  • Hand braided monocrystalline 4 core SPC modular cable
  • Leather storage box
  • 2 sets of ear tips and a pair of foam tips
  • Paperworks
Maybe they have listened to my feedback about the package design? This time the outer sleeve has a nice design and they also included a modular cable. aside from that, the unboxing experience is the exact same as other Myer Audio IEMs.

Build, Design & Comfort

The SLA3 shell has a medium sized shell but it is a bit bulky. The shell is smaller than the previous SL41 Mk2. Although the dimensions shrinked, other aesthetics are pretty much the same. Same dome style air vent, same recessed 2 pin connector. Fit and isolation ever so slightly varies. The shell is made of good quality resin but the nozzle is made of metal. Nozzle diameter is normal, smaller than SL41. It fits very comfortably and the nozzle length is just right, not too short or too deep. Isolation is pretty good as well.

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The faceplate design is unique for each unit. The faceplate design resembles the northern lights/aurora. The faceplate design is growing on me with time. It shifts color from different angles in outdoor lighting.

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The cable is a 4 core high purity SPC cable and it has modular termination with 3.5mm and 4.4mm options. The modular termination style is like DUNU ones. The cable has a dark copper color. The cores are rubber coated that feels robust yet soft enough to handle easily. It behaves pretty well and isn’t prone to showing memory. It is light enough to use on a daily basis without any comfort issue.

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The storage case is the same Myer Audio signature leather case. SLIIVO lineup comes with the blue one.



Sound Evaluation

I tested the IEM with its stock cable and both types of stock ear tips. This section will be based on the setup mentioned.

Bass:
The bass is powerful here with more of a sub-bass focus over mid-bass. The sub-bass presence is dominant. Subbass goes deep with good rumble. The subtleness of thumps is quite detailed and textured. Decay shows good control while leaving a satisfying after effect. In “Land Slide – Oh Wonder” the subtle yet thumpy sub-bass hits are just perfect with good depth. In the track “Paradise Circus – Massive Attack” the sub-bass thump normally feels very subtle, here with SLA3 it has the perfect amount of presence and body that sits between the subtleness and a thumpy hit. In “LOVE – Micheal Buble” sub-bass texture, detail and layering is excellent. As for deep rumbly sub-bass like in “Angle – Massive Attack” the sub-bass goes very deep with great rumble. The impressive part for me is the detail, texture and layering of the bass.


While the sub-bass is dominant, mid-bass doesn’t fall short either. The mid-bass is also powerful and is close to the level of sub-bass that it doesn’t get overshadowed. Here the mid-bass attacks are quick and precise. The tactile feedback of bass slams is powerful and full bodied. But due to not having much of a coloration, the neutral tonality of the mid-bass makes it sound crisp and occasionally the bodied weight is at a single place (namely at lower frequencies) instead of the whole mid-bass area, that’s particularly true for drums. As for bass guitar, it sounds well extended and detailed with a good amount of texture. Bass guitars and pianos are truly melodic here. Overall, the mid-bass shows a clean, controlled performance.

Mid-range:
The mid-range doesn’t fall short either. From vocals to instruments everything has a good sense of clarity. Male vocals are close to neutral with good amount of note weight. They sound very articulate with excellent texture and detail. The way this set handles the air in the male vocals is notable. There isn’t any bass bleed in the mid-range. In the track “I put a spell on you – Seal” the vocals sound wonderfully textured, airy and portrays the emotional touch in the vocals quite good as well. Higher pitched male vocals sound even more emotional and engaging. Listening to artists like 'Micheal Buble' on this set is a bliss!

Female vocals are smooth and engaging here with a touch of warmth. The balance between energy and smoothness is just perfect. The lively vocals have great clarity and articulation. There is no sibilance at all. The upper mid-range sits at a nice place that never gets over the top. The vocals go with the flow smoothly with the ascending and descending of pitch. The lushness of the female vocals is very sweet due to the added warmth/coloration. The control over the air is excellent. There isn’t any unnecessary airiness in the vocals, it stays for just the perfect amount of time and this character sounds true to life.

Instruments also sound fantastic here. The level of detail, texture and subtle layering is amazing. Tonally they are not neutral, they do show coloration to some extent. But that makes the listening experience even more immersive. Pianos, guitars, violins and cellos have excellent detail and layering with great control over texture. The micro details and nuances are effortlessly noticeable. Overall, the mid-range delivers a very fun and engaging listening experience with the slight forwardness.


Treble:
The treble performance is commendable as well. It has a detailed, extended and crispy presentation. The Lower treble is very detailed and shows great control. Tonally it isn’t quite neutral, it lean towards brightness and sounds vibrant. There is no harshness or peaks in treble. The upper treble has excellent airiness and sparkle. The cymbals sound shimmering. Hi-hats and sticks sound crispy in a natural way. There isn’t any harshness or sharpness found in the treble even on poorly mastered tracks unlike its predecessor, the SL41. While there isn’t much brightness shown here, the upfront treble presentation may be too much for some treble sensitive listeners. The excellent detail retrieval, clarity on guitar strokes and picks and other subtle nuances along with the great imaging and separation makes for a clean and fun presentation.

Technicalities:
This set excels in this area. The soundstage is big and open with excellent holographic effect. The width and height of the sound stage is decent, and depth is even better. The layering is exceptional, same goes for imaging. Its precision is on 3D plain where each note can be heard from accurate directions. This is better understandable while gaming. Its gaming performance is phenomenal. Dynamic range and transient response are also really good. Instrument separation is its another strength. While the instrument separation on each note is great, regional separation on the frequency range is better on its predecessor. Detail retrieval on this set is also amazing. It picks up micro and macro details and other nuances with a good sense of clarity and control.

Source pairing:
The SLIIVO SLA3 pairs really good with warmish dacs like Onix Alpha XI1. Bright yet musical dacs like ddhifi TC44 pro E2 also sounds good except there are some sharpness in the upper treble occasionally. Neutral or warm leaning source is recommended for this one. As for analytical sound lovers, bright leaning sources are a viable option.

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As for ear tips, the stock ones are great. The black tip has a balanced warmish sound with better bass performance. There isn’t any sharpness at all. Vocals stay in a nice position too. Sub-bass is leveled with mid-bass here. The black tips has a slightly shorter stem which makes the fit slightly shallower or doesn’t provide deep fit.

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On the white tip, bass sounds leaner and treble is slightly pushed forward. Male vocals occasionally sound recessed than female vocals. Female vocals are livelier here and stage is bigger as well. For 3rd party option, DUNU S&S is the best one for me. It has better balance between musicality and technicality. Bass is powerful with this tip and tonally it has a nice coloration over the whole sound spectrum. Sound stage is more open here with better surfaced subtle treble details.

Comparison against SLIIVO SL41

Up against its predecessor, the SLA3 holds out quite well. The SL41 has more mid-bass focus and that mid-bass is more colored and hard hitting than SLA3. Mids are also more colored there. Transient handling and speed are a level up on SL41. Treble is tad brighter as well with more sparkle. It shows sibilance on vocals on poorly mastered tracks.

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Now on to the SLA3, the shell is smaller, sub-bass is more prominent and has better layering. Mid-bass is less colored and close to natural. Attack speed may not rival SL41 but it still has really good speed. Male vocals are more articulate and airy and it shows great texture from lows to mids. It has slightly more holographic and 3D stage. Treble is also not as bright. Not to mention the excellent modular cable it comes with, which isn’t available on SL41. The differences I talked about isn’t that far from each other, rather they are pretty similar in sound. You can only differentiate them when giving a critical listen.


Hit or Miss?

Those who like powerful bass with excellent sub-bass, airy detailed and engaging vocals, vibrant instruments and superior technical performance, not to mention top notch stock accessories, this set is absolutely recommended.

Those who don’t like authoritative sub-bass, are sensitive to treble, want more smooth, laid back kind of experience can look elsewhere.


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Final Thoughts:
Myer Audio once again released a wonderful set of IEMs. This is their cheapest offering for now and it sure does pack a punch. With an amazing modular copper cable and premium accessories and excellent sound quality, this is a total banger! In the current $100 market scene, this set, in my opinion, is a market disruptor. The value it provides cannot be matched at this price. If you are on the lookout for a $100 set and the sound characteristics match your requirements, absolutely go for it.

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Last edited:

avishifi

100+ Head-Fier
Myer Audio Sliivo SLA3 Review – THE BOSS HAST LOST IT?
Pros: Rich accessories package, one of the best you can get for under 100$ IMHO.
Thick and modular brown (coffee like) cable with 3.5mm and 4.4mm termination.
High quality Spin Fit like ear tips included.
Beautiful and comfortable shell, it responds to light and has a nice reflecting effect.
Deep and rumbling sub bass, bass heads are going to love this set.
Forward midrange presentation, make it very fun to listen to.
Imaging, soundstage and detail retrieval are very good for its price.
Insane value for money both in packaging and sound quality.
Cons: The upper-treble might be lacking in terms of amount.
Unless any of the pros are a con for you, I don't have anything else for this price range.
Hello everyone! Thank you for coming back to my review. Today I am going to review the new Myer Audio Sliivo SLA3, a 1DD 3BA Hybrid IEM. Is it the Sliivo SL41, but cheaper? Let's find out!

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Disclaimer

I received the Sliivo SLA3 from Myer Audio in exchange for my honest review, but still – my opinions about the IEMs are personal and written based on my own experience with them, and I was not paid for this review.

That's out of the way, let's dive in!


What's in the box?




In the box you will find:
  • Leather like blue carrying case.
  • Spin Fit like ear tips clone.
  • Regular ear tips & pair of foam ear tips.
  • Modular cable in brown/coffee color.
  • User Manual.
  • The IEMs themselves.
The ear tips you will find here are pretty much everything you really need to start off. You get here regular ear tips, which are fine… But there are also Spin Fit clones, and these are pretty good, and you get 3 sized of them, which is… awesome! And yeah, you can also find here foam ear tips, but only one pair. Personally, I'm not a fan of foam ear tips, but it is there.

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The carrying case that provided with the SLA3 is decent, it is round, in blue color with gold touches, it feels premium.
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The cable that provided here is top notch, I mean, who will give you this high-quality cable, and modular, with 3.5mm and 4.4mm termination, for under 100$? I mean, I am just amazed that Myer Audio were able to provide this cable with this IEM that priced under 100$. It has left and right marking, good working chin slider, it has labels on it with the IEM name. It doesn't tangle, doesn't have memory, it just does everything right. Overall, a benchmark cable for under 100$ IEM for me.

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Build Quality & Fit and Comfort

The IEM shell is made of resin, it doesn't have any particular human-like ear shape, but still was very comfortable to wear, for me at least. The shell is not large, which makes it easier on the ear. The nozzle on the other hand is 6.2mm, for me it was comfortable, and I didn't notice it, but it is something that's need to be mentioned. You must take look at this beautiful shell, I really can't get over it, it is gorgeous, jewelry like. Why can't I look at it and listen to it at the same time?

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Let's move on to the interesting part: The sound! And answering the question, is it the Sliivo SL41, but cheaper?

In Terms of Sound

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You can find the graph here.
As you can see from the graph, the tuning of this IEM is a modification of the Harman Target, with well boosted bass and lower midrange, and twisted treble. You can also call it a U shape sound signature if you want to.

Sub-Bass

The sub-bass, which covers the lowest frequencies and often delivers the rumbling sensation rather than distinct sounds.

Oh boy… The sub bass rumble here is just awesome. It goes deep. Reaaaaaaly deep. It has a nice texture and timbre, that is unique for Myer Audio IMO. If you are bass head, you will fall in love with it, it provides everything you need. It has just the right amount, for me. It is well separated from the other frequencies, it doesn't bleed into the midrange, the presentation is well made. For the price, I think this is one of the best deep sub bass you could get for the money, which has both quality and quantity.

Mid-Bass

The mid-bass, where the bass becomes more distinct and perceptible, is equally well-executed. In this range, you hear kick drums and some male bass vocals more clearly.

The mid bass on this IEM is also well made, yeah, it is not the star of the show here, and compared to the sub bass it might feel kind of recessed. But it has just the right amount of mid bass to give a body for instruments and male/low vocals, which is awesome. You get the best from both worlds: good female/high vocals, and good male/low vocals, which is good. It is not the fastest bass you could find for this price range though, so double bass might get missed sometimes, or won't be highlighted enough. But despite that, good bass presentation that works great with this tuning.

Mids

The mids are the home to most instruments and vocals.

The midrange presentation in this IEM is slightly forward, you hear everything, instruments, vocals, just everything, along with the strong bass response, in harmonic. This is awesome. I really don't have anything to neat pick here, I don't think that there is anyone who wouldn't like it. Both male and female vocals sound good and slightly forward, both has body. Same goes for the instruments, they sound full of body.

Treble

The treble, which captures high-pitched sounds like cymbals, violins, and higher synthetic tones, adds brightness, sharpness, and sparkle to the music. However, excessive treble can lead to harshness or fatigue.

The treble here is good, but not what I have expected. Yeah, it is good, but it is not the smoothest treble response that I have heard in this price range. You get good lower treble response with spikes, which makes it interesting, but you know, is not the smoothest. That said, it is not bad, it just means that some high details might get missed or sound recessed. The higher treble however roll off just like the Harman curve suggests, which is nice, but I would like to get better treble extension. But for this price, I think this is a compromise that Myer Audio had to make. That said, if you are sensitive to treble, this probably could be good for you.


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Technical Performance

The technical performance of this IEM is good: you get good imaging, which is good for its price but does not exactly stand out. The soundstage is also not the widest but has enough room for instruments and vocals to breath and spread, but again nothing that stands out for me for this price range (which is not a bad thing, it just means it is good but not special). The layering on the other hand is very good, and does stand out, it separates the bass, instruments and vocals very well, it presents it beautifully, anything in its own place in the mix. Overall, this IEM does everything correctly for its price range.


NOW TO THE MOST INTRESTING QUESTION: IS IT THE SL41, BUT CHEAPER?
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And the answer is…🥁🥁🥁🥁🥁🥁🥁🥁🥁

SORT OF.

HAHA! Got you. Let's dive into it:

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The SL41 is the bigger brother of the SLA3, they share a LOT in common, just look at the graph… the only difference between them is that the SL41 has better treble extension. To my ears, this difference is big enough to make them sound different. I would call SLA3 the darker version of the SL41. If the SL41 was EDM Heaven for me, the SLA3 is... not. The little difference in the upper treble is significant enough for me to notice and call them 2 different IEMs. Do I miss it? Yes, I do miss the upper treble. It was the small little thing that balanced out the SL41 and gave good contrast to this giant sub bass response. But on the other hand, you have a less rich packaging than the SLA3. See, with the SL41 there is no modular cable, the spin fit like ear tips feels less premium, the shell is larger and less comfortable than the SLA3. So, in terms of pure value, I think that the SLA3 is clearly better. You can find the SLA3 for around 70$ on sale, and the SL41 for around 120$. 50$ price margin between them, and except for the upper treble on the SL41, everything is the same or better in the SLA3. If you are sensitive to treble, or found the SL41 too bright for you, this SLA3 is just right for you, and the decision is easier. But to anyone else… I think that Myer Audio needs to fix the pricing to consider the SL41 over the SLA3. It is hard, I know, and I don't know what I would do. For me, the SL41 is still an EDM king IEM, the SLA3 is not quite it when it comes to it. I hope that Myer Audio will fix the pricing or release a new model accordingly to address that issue, because as for right now, I don't see a reason not to get the SLA3.

In summary: In terms of packaging – the SLA3 wins with its better cable, ear tips, and more comfortable shape. In terms of sound quality - I give the edge to SL41. Is it worth the 50-80$ jump? I will let you decide. Personally, I like the SL41 more because of the better treble response.

You can find the full review of the SL41 here.


I also would like to make a little comparison with the Kiwi Ears Airoso:


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For me, the Kiwi Ears Airoso is on another level in terms of resolution. It is more detailed, with smoother treble presentation (but with same roll off that makes it sound a little dark), it is focusing on mid bass rather than the sub bass. I do still think that Myer Audio bass has really good timbre in the bass, which is enjoyable. That said, the bass of the Kiwi Ears Airoso responds fast, and lets double bass to shine, and a lot of low details as well. The sound stage is on the same level, but I think that the Imaging of the Kiwi Ears Airoso is some levels above the SLA3. So, if you are looking for warmer, and detailed IEM with good imaging, your go to might be the Kiwi Ears Airoso. If you prefer clean mids, fun and engaging sub bass response, then the SLA3 will be your perfect choice. Also, if you prefer better packaging in terms of accessories, I must give the win for the SLA3, for its modular and high-quality cable, and the spin-fit like ear tips.

And last comparison: Leteciel SHARK (FULL REVIEW HERE)
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The Leteciel SHARK is more mid bass focusing than the SLA3, its mids are not as clear as the SLA3, but it has nice warmth to it, its imaging performance are also very good. Staging for me is on the same level. I would say, if you prefer warmer IEMs, this is an option that you might want to consider. That said, I still think the packaging of the SLA3 is hard to beat. But the packaging of the Leteciel SHARK has more anime accesories, if you are into it. The Leteciel SHARK gives me an accoustic vibe to the music, while the SLA3 gives me that subwoofer like oomph, but less mid bass. Do you prefer darker tuning with better mid bass? the Leteciel SHARK is for you. do you prefer better sub bass response, with clean mids and brighter treble extension? The SLA3 is right for you. Personally I give slight edge to the SLA3 because of my listening preferences.

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To Sum Up


Myer Audio has cooked us this SLA3, after releasing hit by hit. This is the budget version of the SL41, but it doesn’t feel like it. You get much better packaging, with modular cable and spin-fit like ear tips, high quality carrying case, more comfortable shell, what else do you need? You just need to plug them in and play. If you are into rumbling sub bass, you cannot go wrong here: you get an amazing sub bass response, with fun and engaging timbre to it that will addict you to play it every time. It can go deep and low… Moving on to the beautiful shell, I mean, it looks so good! I can get lost by staring at it. And my favorite part of this IEM: its price, just 70$ on sale. Its biggest competitor in this price range is currently the Kiwi Ears Airoso IMHO. You can't go wrong with it; it just does everything correct for its price.

Good job Myer Audio for providing us with good sound for good price. Keep it up!

You can find the Sliivo SLA3 in Myer Audio's store on AliExpress in this following link (unaffiliated), and if you are lucky enough you can get this on the current sale for around 70$ with coins and coupons; You may ask Myer Audio for a coupon before purchasing, tell them that I sent you 😉.

Thank you for reading, and see in my next review! 💖
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