This unit was provided for review by Aimee from IZ POP via Amazon.com.
Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B08GKXT863
CVJ's earphones released so far have not followed the popular V-shaped profile, instead displaying a more neutral sound signature. The hybrids CSA (1DD + 1BA) and CSN (1DD + 5BA) both displayed a refreshingly open presentation with the CSA being well balanced and full-bodied and the CSN being neutral with a refined cool tonality.
The latest model is the CS8. This is also a hybrid design (1DD + 3BA). The dynamic driver has a 10mm diaphragm and dual magnets and covers the low frequencies. A 50060 balanced armature is used for the midrange with the upper region handled by two 30095 BA units. There are no BAs placed within the nozzle.
The CS8 comes presented similarly to the previous models in a black wooden box with a crackle finish and silver accents. There is a CVJ logo on the front and product details on the underside. Inside you will find:
* CS8 IEMs pre-fitted with tips (Size M)
* 2 pin 4-core single crystal copper cable
* Two further sets of silicone eartips (S, L)
* Faux suede storage pouch
* Velcro cable tie
* Documentation
The IEMs themselves have a smoked transparent resin body through which the components can be seen and there is a circular vent for the DD near the base of the nozzle. The faceplate is black with a silver border surrounding the grained metal effect and there is a white CVJ logo in the centre. The 2-pin sockets are recessed. The cable is black and tightly braided. There is a straight metal 3.5mm plug with a CVJ logo and a metal Y-split and no chin slider. The build is solid and nicely finished and the presentation is good at the price.
First Impressions
I found the sound of the CS8 to be source sensitive. It was tested initially with an Xduoo X20 DAP, but this sounded too bright. I also tried a Hifi Walker H2 with a similar result. A Sony NWZ - A15 produced the best balance with a bit more warmth and this was used for evaluation. A comfortable fit was obtained with the pre-fitted tips and isolation was good. Sensitivity was fine with adequate volume achieved with all sources, amplification not being required. After a lengthy burn-in and short audition I replaced the stock cable with a Hifi Hear 16 core silver plated cable.
Like its predecessors, the CSA and CSN, the CS8 displayed a largely neutral/bright profile and was reserved in the bass. It shared some of the detail and refinement of the CSN with the midrange becoming brighter as the frequency increased. This trend continued into the treble which was also brighter than neutral but well detailed. The soundstage displayed excellent width and an average depth.
Bass
The profile of the bass was generally flat with no evidence of bleed into the midrange. It was somewhat lighter than neutral with reduced sub-bass.
In Isao Tomita's electronic version of Ravel's "Pavane" the bass was slightly subdued but was clean. Recorded ambience was well portrayed with the bass drum's reverb nicely reproduced although a little more depth would have been welcome here. This tended to bring the mids and treble forward resulting in a somewhat bass-light presentation.
"Whisper from the Mirror" by Keiko Matsui features a powerful bass with keyboards and bass drum. Once more the CS8 favoured the mids and treble and although the bass was articulate and well defined, it lacked a little weight and power and this took away some of the impact. KZ's ZSX, for example, revealed more here in the low frequencies and achieved a more entertaining balance.
The powerful bass drums in the climaxes of Ravel's "Alborada del Gracioso" performed by the Minnesota Orchestra under Eiji Oue also appeared a little low in the mix and their impact was lessened, resulting in a less exciting performance. The dynamic contrasts in this piece are essential in conveying the composer's intention and the CS8 fell just a little short.
Mids
The mids were bright and forward. The tonality became brighter towards the treble boundary and detail was prominent with occasional harshness on certain material.
With a mid-focused profile, it was unsurprising to find vocals well reproduced. Rosanne Cash's performance of "This has happened before" was enjoyable. Her vocals were placed centrally with the reverb clearly audible and with perfect diction and the accompanying guitars and Dobro on each side were clear and detailed. Clarity was especially notable on this track. This was ideal material for the CS8.
The light, delicate and graceful orchestration of Mozart's "Eine Kleine Nachtmusik" also suited the CS8 very well. In the performance by the Vienna Philharmonic under Karl Bohm, the bright and clean delivery highlighted the intricate counterpoint and rhythmic interplay producing an entertaining result. However, the overall balance remained a little brighter than neutral throughout the piece with the cellos and basses lacking a bit of warmth.
The timbre of the cello in Richard Souther's "The Long Riders" was nicely portrayed with just a little more focus on the higher notes, emphasising the "rosin" effect. The complex sequenced accompaniments surrounding the solo instrument were clearly depicted and the bass foundation in this track possessed adequate depth.
Treble
The treble was bright and clean but did occasionally exhibit some sibilance with an emphasis in the lower treble. The timbre of string instruments was a bit sharper than ideal and brass sometimes sounded a little thin. The upper treble was smoother with good extension and some welcome sparkle.
"Beautiful Attractor" from "In Neptune's Wake" by Robert Carty showcases a solo synth playing a meandering melody over a backdrop of keyboard washes and electronic effects. The CS8 revealed plenty of detail here with the stereo imaging and movement being particularly effective. Layering in this piece was also very good.
The high notes in the climax of Barber's Adagio for Strings were clear and crisp with just a hint of shrillness at high volume. The separation of the different string sections was well handled and it was also easy to discern the details of the counterpoint in the beautiful recording by Leonard Bernstein and the NYPO.
Sly Dunbar's superb percussion work in "Man Free" from "Dread Beat an' Blood" by Linton Kwesi Johnson displayed plenty of attack. The timbre on the cymbals was generally good with only a slight splashy quality at times. The urgency of the rhythm section was nicely preserved.
Soundstage
The CS8's staging showed good width but depth and height were a little less expansive. Layering and separation were generally good but the perspective tended to flatten in complex pieces and at higher volumes. However, simpler productions sounded fine with good definition and a sense of space. For example, string quartets fared better than large orchestral works.
Conclusion
With a neutral mid-focused profile, the CS8 acquits itself well at the price. However it faces fierce competition from other hybrids at a similar price such as KZ ZSX, CCA C10 Pro and the new KBEAR Lark, amongst others, most of which offer perhaps a more dynamic listen. The C10 Pro is V-shaped with a bright forward sound and a fast deep bass and the ZSX is mildly V-shaped with deep bass and an expansive staging and the Lark is well balanced, dynamic and powerful.
The CS8 continues the CVJ "house sound" and represents good value if you are looking for a measured presentation and a neutral, well-balanced to bright profile. However, it will not appeal to bassheads and it does benefit from a warmer source.
CVJ must be praised for sticking to their guns and supplying a valid alternative to the swathe of V-shaped IEMs on the market.
Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B08GKXT863
CVJ's earphones released so far have not followed the popular V-shaped profile, instead displaying a more neutral sound signature. The hybrids CSA (1DD + 1BA) and CSN (1DD + 5BA) both displayed a refreshingly open presentation with the CSA being well balanced and full-bodied and the CSN being neutral with a refined cool tonality.
The latest model is the CS8. This is also a hybrid design (1DD + 3BA). The dynamic driver has a 10mm diaphragm and dual magnets and covers the low frequencies. A 50060 balanced armature is used for the midrange with the upper region handled by two 30095 BA units. There are no BAs placed within the nozzle.
The CS8 comes presented similarly to the previous models in a black wooden box with a crackle finish and silver accents. There is a CVJ logo on the front and product details on the underside. Inside you will find:
* CS8 IEMs pre-fitted with tips (Size M)
* 2 pin 4-core single crystal copper cable
* Two further sets of silicone eartips (S, L)
* Faux suede storage pouch
* Velcro cable tie
* Documentation
The IEMs themselves have a smoked transparent resin body through which the components can be seen and there is a circular vent for the DD near the base of the nozzle. The faceplate is black with a silver border surrounding the grained metal effect and there is a white CVJ logo in the centre. The 2-pin sockets are recessed. The cable is black and tightly braided. There is a straight metal 3.5mm plug with a CVJ logo and a metal Y-split and no chin slider. The build is solid and nicely finished and the presentation is good at the price.
First Impressions
I found the sound of the CS8 to be source sensitive. It was tested initially with an Xduoo X20 DAP, but this sounded too bright. I also tried a Hifi Walker H2 with a similar result. A Sony NWZ - A15 produced the best balance with a bit more warmth and this was used for evaluation. A comfortable fit was obtained with the pre-fitted tips and isolation was good. Sensitivity was fine with adequate volume achieved with all sources, amplification not being required. After a lengthy burn-in and short audition I replaced the stock cable with a Hifi Hear 16 core silver plated cable.
Like its predecessors, the CSA and CSN, the CS8 displayed a largely neutral/bright profile and was reserved in the bass. It shared some of the detail and refinement of the CSN with the midrange becoming brighter as the frequency increased. This trend continued into the treble which was also brighter than neutral but well detailed. The soundstage displayed excellent width and an average depth.
Bass
The profile of the bass was generally flat with no evidence of bleed into the midrange. It was somewhat lighter than neutral with reduced sub-bass.
In Isao Tomita's electronic version of Ravel's "Pavane" the bass was slightly subdued but was clean. Recorded ambience was well portrayed with the bass drum's reverb nicely reproduced although a little more depth would have been welcome here. This tended to bring the mids and treble forward resulting in a somewhat bass-light presentation.
"Whisper from the Mirror" by Keiko Matsui features a powerful bass with keyboards and bass drum. Once more the CS8 favoured the mids and treble and although the bass was articulate and well defined, it lacked a little weight and power and this took away some of the impact. KZ's ZSX, for example, revealed more here in the low frequencies and achieved a more entertaining balance.
The powerful bass drums in the climaxes of Ravel's "Alborada del Gracioso" performed by the Minnesota Orchestra under Eiji Oue also appeared a little low in the mix and their impact was lessened, resulting in a less exciting performance. The dynamic contrasts in this piece are essential in conveying the composer's intention and the CS8 fell just a little short.
Mids
The mids were bright and forward. The tonality became brighter towards the treble boundary and detail was prominent with occasional harshness on certain material.
With a mid-focused profile, it was unsurprising to find vocals well reproduced. Rosanne Cash's performance of "This has happened before" was enjoyable. Her vocals were placed centrally with the reverb clearly audible and with perfect diction and the accompanying guitars and Dobro on each side were clear and detailed. Clarity was especially notable on this track. This was ideal material for the CS8.
The light, delicate and graceful orchestration of Mozart's "Eine Kleine Nachtmusik" also suited the CS8 very well. In the performance by the Vienna Philharmonic under Karl Bohm, the bright and clean delivery highlighted the intricate counterpoint and rhythmic interplay producing an entertaining result. However, the overall balance remained a little brighter than neutral throughout the piece with the cellos and basses lacking a bit of warmth.
The timbre of the cello in Richard Souther's "The Long Riders" was nicely portrayed with just a little more focus on the higher notes, emphasising the "rosin" effect. The complex sequenced accompaniments surrounding the solo instrument were clearly depicted and the bass foundation in this track possessed adequate depth.
Treble
The treble was bright and clean but did occasionally exhibit some sibilance with an emphasis in the lower treble. The timbre of string instruments was a bit sharper than ideal and brass sometimes sounded a little thin. The upper treble was smoother with good extension and some welcome sparkle.
"Beautiful Attractor" from "In Neptune's Wake" by Robert Carty showcases a solo synth playing a meandering melody over a backdrop of keyboard washes and electronic effects. The CS8 revealed plenty of detail here with the stereo imaging and movement being particularly effective. Layering in this piece was also very good.
The high notes in the climax of Barber's Adagio for Strings were clear and crisp with just a hint of shrillness at high volume. The separation of the different string sections was well handled and it was also easy to discern the details of the counterpoint in the beautiful recording by Leonard Bernstein and the NYPO.
Sly Dunbar's superb percussion work in "Man Free" from "Dread Beat an' Blood" by Linton Kwesi Johnson displayed plenty of attack. The timbre on the cymbals was generally good with only a slight splashy quality at times. The urgency of the rhythm section was nicely preserved.
Soundstage
The CS8's staging showed good width but depth and height were a little less expansive. Layering and separation were generally good but the perspective tended to flatten in complex pieces and at higher volumes. However, simpler productions sounded fine with good definition and a sense of space. For example, string quartets fared better than large orchestral works.
Conclusion
With a neutral mid-focused profile, the CS8 acquits itself well at the price. However it faces fierce competition from other hybrids at a similar price such as KZ ZSX, CCA C10 Pro and the new KBEAR Lark, amongst others, most of which offer perhaps a more dynamic listen. The C10 Pro is V-shaped with a bright forward sound and a fast deep bass and the ZSX is mildly V-shaped with deep bass and an expansive staging and the Lark is well balanced, dynamic and powerful.
The CS8 continues the CVJ "house sound" and represents good value if you are looking for a measured presentation and a neutral, well-balanced to bright profile. However, it will not appeal to bassheads and it does benefit from a warmer source.
CVJ must be praised for sticking to their guns and supplying a valid alternative to the swathe of V-shaped IEMs on the market.
redguardsoldier
how do you compare this CVJ CS8 with KB EAR Lark ?
Nimweth
The Lark has better bass, is more open and airy and does not suffer from harshness. It also has better dynamics. I did refer to the Lark in my review in this context.
The CS8 come in the standard CVJ particle wood box, decent quality stock cable and tips with a pouch and cable tie. The IEM themselves is built light but seems good in construction. The shaped and size make them very comfortable.
Sound:
Bass: These are not ear pounding IEMs as most in this price range are V-shaped with a emphasis on bass and treble, No No these are a different animal all together. Bass is speedy with a tight punch but very neutral in its presentation , there is some good details here in the Mid Bass but Sub Bass is a little flat in response. This said still there is Bass and some EQ can wake the DD with the right recordings to be appreciated even if its slightly lighter than I like.
Mids: Are the star here, they can be very detailed with a great clarity and transparency. Upper Mids are elevated forward and can be shouty in some cases but its going to depend on the listening chain and user. For me personally most of the time they were very pleasant , full or details and I liked its bright yet non harsh nature.
Treble: Treble is definitely elevated and more so in the lower part but both have a decent amount of boost, this combined with the Mids give the CS8 is brightness to a otherwise neutral signature. It has some decent energy with details, airiness and sparkle , perhaps a little too much at times but treble heads will be happy at this price.
Soundstage etc: Is better than average, it has width and depth, imaging was good too I found the stock tips provided good passive isolation. Layering was above average but not a key feature here.
Conclusion: Its a comfortable , well built IEM with a Bright / Neutral tuning that separates it from most others in this price range. I found this can be Equalized to gain more lower end and with the right amount of Mods it performs more to my likening but still I can see this being liked despite some harshness at times.
DISCLAIMER
I would like to thank Janet Hu from CVJ for providing this sample, my views are my own. The CVJ CS8 can be bought on multiple shops on Aliexpress at around $30 USD.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The CVJ CS8 is a budget hybrid with good technical performance at its asking price of sub $30 USD. Its tonality lies on the analytical side and it brings a breath of fresh air in sporting a neutralish bright tuning in the vast sea of V shaped/harmanish budget CHIFI.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Driver Type: 3BA + 1DD (10 mm)
- Frequency Response: 7 Hz – 40 kHz
- Impedance: 22 ohms
- Sensitivity: 105 dB/mW
- Cable type: 2 pin
- Tested at $30 USD
ACCESSORIES
In addition to the IEM, it comes with:
1) Wooden plywood box
2) Velvet pouch
3) Silicone tips (S/M/L)
4) OFC cable (2 pin)
The cable is pretty well braided and has minimal microphonics, though it lacked a chin cinch. I liked the fact that the CVJ CS8 uses 2 pin connectors, as I had my fair share of problems with MMCX connectors. Ear tips are also good to go out of the box, no need to mess around with aftermarket tips. The plywood wooden box is quite cool actually, it is definitely different from the usual white filmsy box other budget CHIFI generally come in.
BUILD/COMFORT
The CVJ CS8 is very light, well fitting and ergonomic, with a small profile. I had no issues with comfort even with longer listening sessions. I did not detect any driver flex.
ISOLATION
Isolation is above average, but won’t beat some non vented BA type IEMs in the isolation department.
DRIVABILITY
I tested the CVJ CS8 with a Shanling Q1 DAP, Ziku HD X9 DAP, Sabre HIFI DAC (ESS ES9280C PRO), Samsung Note 5 smartphone, Tempotec Sonata HD Pro and a Khadas Tone Board -> Fiio A3 amp. The CVJ CS8 is easily drivable from lower powered sources, but the bass quantity and some technicalities improved slightly with amping.
Since the tonality of the CVJ CS8 lies on the more analytical neutralish bright side, I preferred pairing it with a warmer sources rather than something more analytical. Do note that the CVJ CS8 sounds the best when played at a low to average volume. With boosting the volume, the upper mids/treble can get hot due to the Fletcher Munson curve. So for those that love to blast their music at high volumes, this is something to be aware of, and you might need to look elsewhere.
SOUND & TECHNICALITIES
The CVJ CS8 sports a neutralish bright tuning, which is a breath of fresh air from the usual dime a dozen V shaped/harmanish type budget CHIFI we regularly see at the sub $30 USD price range. I have to confess the CVJ CS8’s tuning is not my cup of tea due to my basshead tendencies, but I still think the tuning is relatively well done for the asking price and will definitely try to review this set objectively in stating its pros and cons.
The CVJ CS8 has good details, imaging, clarity and instrument separation for the $30 asking price. Soundstage is also above average in width, depth and height.
Timbre for acoustic instruments is good for a cheap budget hybrid, I was actually quite surprised on this aspect, there isn’t the usual artificial BA timbre sometimes seen at this price range for hybrids/multi BA sets, though a well tuned single DD set will still have better timbre than the CVJ CS8 in general.
Bass:
Midbass on the CVJ CS8 is of more quantity than subbass. Bass on this set actually goes down to around 25 Hz before rolling off, but the bass quantity is neutral at best, and may be anemic for some songs, especially in songs with subbass predominance, where there is a notable lack of visceral rumble/decay.
The DD bass of the CVJ CS8 is on the slightly faster side, and due to the lack of bass quantity, there is no midbass bleed. Bass is acutally above average in texturing and amping does bring slightly better bass quantity and technical performance rather than just using the CVJ CS8 from a lower powered source.
I think those that prefer a neutral bass will like this set, but my fellow basshead breathen or those who listen to bass forward music eg EDM may need to look elsewhere for their bass kick (no pun intended).
Mids:
Mids are transparent and detailed, and upper mids are boosted on this set all the way to the treble. Guitars sound crunchy and well rendered on the CVJ CS8, but the upper mids can get occasionally hot with higher volumes as detailed above (Fletcher Munson curve).
Female vocals are more forward than male ones as such, and vocals sometimes sounded nasal and thin, though they were detailed with fine nuances like breath sounds, lip smacking etc being heard in well mastered tracks. Instrumental timbre like piano reverb and vibrato on strings could be heard very well on the CVJ CS8, though perhaps the timbre of brass/woodwind instruments was slightly more authentic than acoustic stringed instruments. This is just nitpicking though, the instrumental timbre on the CVJ CS8 is definitely better than the run of the mill KZs/TRNs out there and coupled with the analytical nature, good technicalities, and neutralish bright tuning, it is quite a capable budget set for classical music.
Treble:
The CVJ CS8 is a bright set with some sibilance (unfortunately). The lower treble is boosted in comparison to the upper treble. The CVJ CS8 has quite a lot of detail and clarity to suit trebleheads, but may be fatiguing for longer sessions at the lower treble region, especially with female vocals/horns/trumpets.
One thing I didn’t like was that cymbals and high hats sounded splashy, and even though this is quite a common offence in budget CHIFI hybrids/multi BA sets, it appeared to be more splashy than the usual fare. In certain songs with predominant cymbals/high hats, that frequency took centrestage and literally became a sharp mess of clanging metal.
COMPARISONS
Comparing some budget CHIFI hybrids at the sub $30 price segment:
CVJ CS8 has better timbre and is less fatiguing than the bright and sibilant Jade Audio EA3. Though EA3 has better treble and subbass extension and wider soundstage. Other areas of technical performance may be slightly better on the CVJ CS8.
CVJ CS8 has better technical performance and timbre than the recently released KBEAR KS2, though KBEAR KS2 has better bass quantities (though not bass quality) and a wider soundstage. Tonally, the KBEAR KS2 was off, with overly recessed lower mids and a boomy bass and hot upper mids. Timbre was also poor on the KBEAR KS2. Perhaps the KBEAR KS2 does fare better with songs with synthetic instruments or bass forward music but for most other genres, I would take the CVJ CS8 over the KBEAR KS2 any day.
CVJ CS8 has better instrumental timbre than the V shaped KZ ZS10 Pro, technicalities are about on par. CVJ CS8 is slightly harsher in the upper mids/treble than the KZ ZS10 Pro, probably cause there isn’t the larger bass quantities of the ZS10 Pro to balance out the frequency spectrum. ZS10 Pro has some midbass bleed though and bass isn’t as tight as the CVJ CS8. I think these 2 sets have complimentary signatures though, the V shaped KZ ZS10 Pro and neutralish bright CVJ CS8 bring different options to the table.
The KBEAR KB04 and CVJ CS8 are quite close in the technicalities department, maybe CVJ CS8 edges it slightly in soundstage and imaging. CVJ CS8 also has better instrumental timbre. KBEAR KB04 though has the better bass in terms of quality and quantity, and is probably more all rounded due to the mild V shaped tuning compared to the bass anemic CVJ CS8. CVJ CS8 is also more fatiguing and harsher in the treble regions than the KBEAR KB04.
CONCLUSIONS
The CVJ CS8 is indeed a breath of fresh air, bringing an atypical neutralish bright tuning to the table, in contrast to the vast sea of V shaped/harmanish CHIFI budget sets at the sub $30 USD region.
The CVJ CS8 lies on the analytical side and has good technical performance for the asking price. Bassheads and treble sensitive folks will have to look elsewhere, as the bass is light, and the upper mids and treble can get occasionally hot at higher volumes, with sibilance and splashy cymbals/high hats. Admittedly, this neutralish bright tuning is not my cup of tea personally, but I still think CVJ did well with this set (for the price) and neutralheads/trebleheads and those looking for a cheap set for critical listening will find this a budget friendly option.
From reading previous reviews of CVJ products, CVJ seems to have their own house sound and tuning philosophy that embraces a neutralish sound rather than generic V shaped/harmanish tuning. This is actually a trait that may let CVJ stand out and thrive in the highly competitive budget CHIFI market, and I applaud their effort in trying something different. I sure look foward to CVJ’s next release!
CVJ CS8 Review ❤
🗣
Budget $28 detail monster
1dd 3ba 2 pin cable
Detailed mids and highs
Tight punchy neutral low end
Dry neutral to bright treble
Unique sound signature
Responds very well to eq on low end after burn in and eq bump at 32/64hz
Has become a fav treble head iem of mine with very good almost bass head levels of sub bass
upgrade to pure copper cable improves
Sounds good with flat eq and on low power devices like iPod touch and phone
Fits well , built sturdy, comes with nice wood box and 3 pairs tips and cable.
With eq boost sounds like improved Sony 755 low end and flat mids and highs sound like cca ca16 ish sound.
Slight near sibilance from time to time but acceptable.
Recommend buy in this class range.
🗣Budget $28 detail monster
1dd 3ba 2 pin cable
Detailed mids and highs
Tight punchy neutral low end
Dry neutral to bright treble
Unique sound signature
Responds very well to eq on low end after burn in and eq bump at 32/64hz
Has become a fav treble head iem of mine with very good almost bass head levels of sub bass
upgrade to pure copper cable improves
Sounds good with flat eq and on low power devices like iPod touch and phone
Fits well , built sturdy, comes with nice wood box and 3 pairs tips and cable.
With eq boost sounds like improved Sony 755 low end and flat mids and highs sound like cca ca16 ish sound.
Slight near sibilance from time to time but acceptable.
Recommend buy in this class range.
Rating: 7.6
Sound: 7.5
Intro
The CSN was a slight disappointment for me, because although it looked quite good on the paper and on the visual side and had an interesting tuning approach in the budget area, it could not implement it properly. At least not as far as my taste is concerned. The CS8 now has the heavy burden to turn the wheel again. 4 drivers for under 30 €? Doesn't sound too bad, right? But that doesn't mean much, especially in this price range.
Handling
Same procedure as every year CVJ. Okay, the brand is not that old yet, but I have the feeling that the wooden box and its contents will accompany us through a few more IEMs.
You can't tell from the outside which of the three products you are holding in your hand, unless you turn the box over, where the name is engraved. So: 3 pairs of silicone tips, a nice fabric pouch and the usable but not special cable incl. cable velcro.
the case is a hybrid of CSA (plastic) and CSN (metal), resulting in a plastic case with a metal faceplate. We know this from the TRN V60, because the metal plate is not the "cover", but only glued on plastic (in the case of the V60, it is screwed on).
Wears well and isolates accordingly.
Sound
The CS8 does it better than the CSN, which wants to suggest an analytical sound with all its might, while ignoring naturalness. Nevertheless, it can't quite convince me.
The bass is on the same good level as the CSN, but has a better weight in the signature. The sound is more homogeneous and gives more warmth, which the mid frequencies gratefully accept. But it is never obtrusive, but always controlled. It can also be fun when it's required, but otherwise it concentrates on accurate bass reproduction, where the punch can sometimes sound a bit muted (a bit too short resonance, like from a BA driver), but otherwise very pleasant and self-confident.
Compared to the CSN, the mids are a bit more present in the lower range, which results in a better musicality and also physicality. Nevertheless they can still be a bit thin sometimes, but not as sterile as with CSN. The CSA applies here still somewhat thicker, which is however a matter of taste, since this has also nothing more to do with neutrality. I like the mids for the most part quite well, but I would like them a little bit more physical. Voices don't jump into your face (CSN), but they still stand in front of the mix to a certain extent.
The highs are similarly emphasized in comparison to the CSN, but since the lower mids don't give them any additional energy, they sound more natural than the CSN. I still think they lack some of the substance, though. It can be quite exciting when acoustically fine sounds buzz around in the head, but this sounds not quite natural and sometimes thin and a bit tinny with cymbals. Sibilants are also an issue with the CS8.
As with the CSN, the stage is quite distinctive, but the 3D image is not quite homogeneous. In the width it's really good, but this is also where most of the action takes place, without much multilayering.
Outro
The CS8 does it better than the CSN. It sounds more musical and relaxed, but still has that light metallic undertone and is also not the most physical in the mids. But it sounds more balanced and homogeneous. Still a bit too bright and with occasional sibilant accentuation. I am surprised that in this line-up of CVJ at the end I like the most inexpensive CSA most. However the way there was stony, because only in the third attempt the CSA could convince. In between (2) it was even more extreme than the CSN.
But here it is about the CS8: Detailed, somewhat artificial and bright IEM, with balanced bass and lively mids.
___________________________________________________________
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Sound: 7.5
Intro
The CSN was a slight disappointment for me, because although it looked quite good on the paper and on the visual side and had an interesting tuning approach in the budget area, it could not implement it properly. At least not as far as my taste is concerned. The CS8 now has the heavy burden to turn the wheel again. 4 drivers for under 30 €? Doesn't sound too bad, right? But that doesn't mean much, especially in this price range.
Handling
Same procedure as every year CVJ. Okay, the brand is not that old yet, but I have the feeling that the wooden box and its contents will accompany us through a few more IEMs.
You can't tell from the outside which of the three products you are holding in your hand, unless you turn the box over, where the name is engraved. So: 3 pairs of silicone tips, a nice fabric pouch and the usable but not special cable incl. cable velcro.
the case is a hybrid of CSA (plastic) and CSN (metal), resulting in a plastic case with a metal faceplate. We know this from the TRN V60, because the metal plate is not the "cover", but only glued on plastic (in the case of the V60, it is screwed on).
Wears well and isolates accordingly.
Sound
The CS8 does it better than the CSN, which wants to suggest an analytical sound with all its might, while ignoring naturalness. Nevertheless, it can't quite convince me.
The bass is on the same good level as the CSN, but has a better weight in the signature. The sound is more homogeneous and gives more warmth, which the mid frequencies gratefully accept. But it is never obtrusive, but always controlled. It can also be fun when it's required, but otherwise it concentrates on accurate bass reproduction, where the punch can sometimes sound a bit muted (a bit too short resonance, like from a BA driver), but otherwise very pleasant and self-confident.
Compared to the CSN, the mids are a bit more present in the lower range, which results in a better musicality and also physicality. Nevertheless they can still be a bit thin sometimes, but not as sterile as with CSN. The CSA applies here still somewhat thicker, which is however a matter of taste, since this has also nothing more to do with neutrality. I like the mids for the most part quite well, but I would like them a little bit more physical. Voices don't jump into your face (CSN), but they still stand in front of the mix to a certain extent.
The highs are similarly emphasized in comparison to the CSN, but since the lower mids don't give them any additional energy, they sound more natural than the CSN. I still think they lack some of the substance, though. It can be quite exciting when acoustically fine sounds buzz around in the head, but this sounds not quite natural and sometimes thin and a bit tinny with cymbals. Sibilants are also an issue with the CS8.
As with the CSN, the stage is quite distinctive, but the 3D image is not quite homogeneous. In the width it's really good, but this is also where most of the action takes place, without much multilayering.
Outro
The CS8 does it better than the CSN. It sounds more musical and relaxed, but still has that light metallic undertone and is also not the most physical in the mids. But it sounds more balanced and homogeneous. Still a bit too bright and with occasional sibilant accentuation. I am surprised that in this line-up of CVJ at the end I like the most inexpensive CSA most. However the way there was stony, because only in the third attempt the CSA could convince. In between (2) it was even more extreme than the CSN.
But here it is about the CS8: Detailed, somewhat artificial and bright IEM, with balanced bass and lively mids.
___________________________________________________________
More reviews: CHI-FIEAR
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Chifi iems are getting better and better. There are lots of options around $50 price range, but not all of them are good. Some sounds really good and some are bad. A lot of things get compromised at this price point.
This is my first time trying out a CVJ iem. A quad driver (per side) hybrid iem with voice of an angel??
Here is my review of the cvj cs8.
Packaging
Packaging is great i must say. It comes in a rectangular hard black box. it's not traditional cardboard box. it's really hard box, almost similar to wood. Top of the box, you'll see "CVJ" branding. Inside the box, you'll see iems themselves and two pair of eartips, eartips that comes with it has bright red bore. After lifting that part (with the white little tab on the right side) , there is a pouch (made of microfiber cloth) with cvj branding, some paperwork (a warranty card, certificate,a user manual) and a velcro cable tie. Inside the pouch there is a cable. For this price, this is a nice presentation.
Build quality and design
When you first pickup the CS8, you'll notice that it's light wight, build nicely and sturdy. CS8 is made out of skin friendly slightly transparent resin, with a brushed metal faceplate. There are 3 color options, (warrior black, black brown and passion blue), I've got the black brown.
On the face plate cvj branding can be seen,and on the side there is "CVJ-CS8" and "8 unit hybrid drivers" text is printed. Bores are made of metal, golden in color and there is also a lip for holding the tips in place .
For replacing the the cable there is a 2 pin connector. 2pin connector on the iem looks like qdc connector at first, but it's not, it's just a flush 2pin 0.75mm connector, connection is tight, cable won't fall off easily. It's designed to be wear over the ear and it's very light weight.
This is a unique design for an universal fit iem, farley low profile with flat faceplate.
Nozzles are not that long, this is why it doesn't go deep into your ears.
Internally it has 1 dynamic driver for lows, 1 balanced armature for mids and 2 balanced armature for highs. It is a tubeless design, so no separate sound tube for each driver.
Cable is thin, 4 core, tightly braided, not the softest one, 2pin (0.75mm) connector, metal splitter and the 3.5mm jack is gold-plated, cable length is around 1.25m. (i got the non mic version, on the mic version there is a microphone and 3 buttons). You can upgrade the cable easily, any 2 pin (0.75mm) cable will fit nicely.
No microphonic sound was noticed while walking. Cable is nice for a $30 iem.
Nothing special about the tips, bores are a bit hard and bright red color. I'll suggest you to use aftermarket eartips, or your favorite existing tips.
Technical specifications
4 driver configuration
1 dynamic driver for lows (10mm double magnetic)
1 (50060) balanced armature for mids
2 (30095) balance armature for highs
Impedance: 22 ohm
Sensitivity : 105dB
Connecter: 2 pin 0.75mm
Frequency response : 7-40000Hz
Weight: 4.8gm (each)
Using narrow bore tips will give you bit more bass.
So please do tip rolling for better fit and sound.
And changing cable with a good quality one will also increase the bass and sound quality a bit.
Comfort and fit
Due to small profile it is very comfortable to the ear. I've used it for a long session (around 3 hours), no issues so far, very lightly and comfortably sits on the ear.
Ear hook sits nicely over the ears, no pressure or pain. It doesn't go deep into your ears, so comfortable for everyone,
I've small ears, no issue for me, and it also sits flush with my ears.
You won't feel any kind of pressure on your eardrum.
Sound isolation
Sound isolation is average, nothing special. When music is not playing, you'll hear some background noise around you. But when music starts playing, it will cancel almost every noise around you, even at low volume. So l can say that when listening to music, sound isolation is very good.
Because of closed back design, there is almost zero sound leakage.
I didn't noticed any sound leakage at 70% of volume while it was in my friend's ear. You can hear your favorite music at quite places without bothering anyone.
Sound
This is a bright sounding iem. Very light on the bass, by tweaking the eq you can make it a bit bassy, it is also very responsive to eq, but i don't like using equalizer, just pure music from source. If using equalizer is your thing, these will handle it very well.
This is mid focused sound with slight highlighted on the top end. Analytical sound. If you listen it on high volume sound gets messed up a bit, not distorted, just a bit shouty.
With good recordings it sounded good. Nice presentations with acoustic instruments. I've burned cs8 for total 30 hours, so that the diaphragm will loosen up for better bass. I think it worked, not a big difference but noticeable. Fairly easy to drive, it doesn't require much power, while pairing with tempotec v1a, around 55% volume was enough. Transition was handled very well throughout the whole frequency
Bass
10mm double magnetic dynamic driver is handling the lower part of the frequency response, bass is not super fast, it's just above average dynamic driver speed, but fast attack. Bass is super tight, not very rumbling, a bit thumpy, but it goes deep. In some songs it feels like subbass wasn't present at all.
I found this has less bass than any other hybrid iems I've own in this price range, not a bad thing for me, because i prefer less bass, just enough bass to enjoy the music.
If you listen lots of edm music this can handle those electronic bass very well. Drum kicks sounded a bit loud, it's just the kick, no rumbling after the kick, clean and enough detailed, layering is aslo good. For this price, this will give you some pleasant bass experience, whichever songs you'll listen, it won't get muddy.
Of course it needs a good tight seal to enjoy the full bass of it. But his iem is not for bass heads that's for sure.
Mids
A single (50060) balanced armature is handling the mids. I found mids are somewhere at the middle compared to the highs, not too forwarded not recessed, This is where things get interesting, mids ar very textured, enough air on it, you can easily notice the transparency on the voice. Female vocal sounded really nice. For example Yao Si Ting's "speak softly love" sounded really soothing on cs8. I felt that edges are a bit sharp, not in a bad way.
Madonna's voice on "la isla bonita" also sounded really nice. And Billie Eilish's songs for example "lovely", with this iem you'll hear every single details of females voice.
Mids have there weigh on it. Male vocals are also good James Hetfield (Metallica) and Lewis Capaldi's song "someone you loved" sounded very textured and deep but aslo freddie Mercury's (Queen) high notes sounded clean. Crisp, clear, detailed and high resolution mids on cs8. I think CVJ done a great job here. So far, no complains about mids.
Treble
Two 30095 balanced armature is responsible For higher end of the spectrum. As i said, it is a bit highlighted on the treble.
Splashy, sparkly you name it. While listening to "nothing else matters" (metallica) and speak softly (yao ti sing) acoustic guitar sounded soo good, even finger sliding through string can be heard. Drum snare sounded nice you'll feel the splash.
Micro details are here a bit highlighted, lower treble is basic but upper trebles are highlighted. People with super sensitive to treble may not like it because of the highlighted upper treble. Treble sensitive people might found it shouty or sibilance on high volume.
But for the most part treble is bright, analytical, energetic and crispy. Treble also felt enough airy and lightness to it. Surprisingly it didn't sounded metallic.
But when cs8 was paired with warm source, treble was really good. No fatiguing issues on long listing periods.
Soundstage, separation and imaging
soundstage is above average,not compressed by any mean. Good depth and width on it. Layering on the music can be easily heard with this iem. Left and Right separation was also good. Good separation on instruments in songs like "midnight in norway". Imagine was also great. It doesn't have the "WOW" holographic effect that you'll find on higher priced iems.
Conclusion
CVJ done a good job with CS8. There are lots of iems in this price point, but cs8 has its unique tuning.
Bassheads may not be satisfy with its bass, and super treble sensitive people might not like it.
For $30 this is a great deal, sturdy build quality with good design, very good mids, crispy and airy treble with good micro details. If you're looking for less bass good mids, very clean detail analytical sound, I would suggest you to pull the trigger on this, you can't go wrong with this one.
Sound is noticeably better now, better dynamic, more transparent, smoother, and texture.
Bass :
Bass is much better now. I think the dynamic driver opened up more. Bass is bit stronger now. Fuller bass, you'll feel low ends has good weight on it.
Nice punchy tight bass now.
Mids:
Mids got bit smoother. Female vocals are very enjoyable.
Treble :
because of the better low end, trebles are not sharp anymore. It's clean and detailed. It's a bit balanced now.
I've owned a lot of iem in this price, I'm comparing it with iems that I liked in the past.
VS kz AS10 :
AS10 has better bass, tighter deeper, more resolution on bass, but mids are better on cs8. AS10 is a warmer sounding iem. I prefer the treble of the CS8. AS10 sounded shouty, peaky and aggressive compared to cs8. And as10 is slightly rolled off at the top end.
Soundstage is lot better on the cs8, aslo micro details and imagine. Comfort is better on cs8 as it doesn't goes deep into ear as AS10 does.
Built quality is better on CS8
I think CS8 is the better option here.
VS kz zs6:
Kz zs6 used to be my most favorite kz iem under $40. I've modded it to cut off some piercing highs. Bass is much better on zs6. Punchy, rumbling, much better sub-bass. This is it, rest of the things are much better on the CS8. Vocals are average, not as textured as on CS8. Trebles are piercing on stock zs6.
Soundstage and imagine is much better on CS8. Micro details are noticeably better on CS8. Comfort is much better on cs8 but zs6 has better built.
Tracks used :
Metallica - nothing else matters, master of puppets, enter the sandman.
Billie Eilish - lovely
Europe - the final countdown.
Guns and Roses - november rain, sweet child o' mine.
Pink Floyd - comfortably numb.
Linkin Park - lost in the eco, crawling, heavy. castle of glass.
Yao Si Ting - speak softly love
Ameline - midnight in norway
Halsey - without me
Queen - we are the champions, bohemian rhapsody, another one bites the dust, somebody to love
Scorpions - wind of change, still loving you
System of a down - chop suey, toxicity.
Eminem - recovery (full album)
Madona - papa don't preach, into the groove
Lady gaga - million reasons, marry the night, telephone
This is my first time trying out a CVJ iem. A quad driver (per side) hybrid iem with voice of an angel??
Here is my review of the cvj cs8.
Packaging
Packaging is great i must say. It comes in a rectangular hard black box. it's not traditional cardboard box. it's really hard box, almost similar to wood. Top of the box, you'll see "CVJ" branding. Inside the box, you'll see iems themselves and two pair of eartips, eartips that comes with it has bright red bore. After lifting that part (with the white little tab on the right side) , there is a pouch (made of microfiber cloth) with cvj branding, some paperwork (a warranty card, certificate,a user manual) and a velcro cable tie. Inside the pouch there is a cable. For this price, this is a nice presentation.
Box contains
Certificate, user manual and warranty card
Build quality and design
When you first pickup the CS8, you'll notice that it's light wight, build nicely and sturdy. CS8 is made out of skin friendly slightly transparent resin, with a brushed metal faceplate. There are 3 color options, (warrior black, black brown and passion blue), I've got the black brown.
On the face plate cvj branding can be seen,and on the side there is "CVJ-CS8" and "8 unit hybrid drivers" text is printed. Bores are made of metal, golden in color and there is also a lip for holding the tips in place .
For replacing the the cable there is a 2 pin connector. 2pin connector on the iem looks like qdc connector at first, but it's not, it's just a flush 2pin 0.75mm connector, connection is tight, cable won't fall off easily. It's designed to be wear over the ear and it's very light weight.
This is a unique design for an universal fit iem, farley low profile with flat faceplate.
Nozzles are not that long, this is why it doesn't go deep into your ears.
Internally it has 1 dynamic driver for lows, 1 balanced armature for mids and 2 balanced armature for highs. It is a tubeless design, so no separate sound tube for each driver.
drilled grill
medium nozzle length
2pin connector (0.75mm)
"L" and "R" marking
Cable is thin, 4 core, tightly braided, not the softest one, 2pin (0.75mm) connector, metal splitter and the 3.5mm jack is gold-plated, cable length is around 1.25m. (i got the non mic version, on the mic version there is a microphone and 3 buttons). You can upgrade the cable easily, any 2 pin (0.75mm) cable will fit nicely.
No microphonic sound was noticed while walking. Cable is nice for a $30 iem.
3.5mm gold plated jack
Nothing special about the tips, bores are a bit hard and bright red color. I'll suggest you to use aftermarket eartips, or your favorite existing tips.
brushed metal faceplate
with stock cabel
upgraded cable
Technical specifications
4 driver configuration
1 dynamic driver for lows (10mm double magnetic)
1 (50060) balanced armature for mids
2 (30095) balance armature for highs
Impedance: 22 ohm
Sensitivity : 105dB
Connecter: 2 pin 0.75mm
Frequency response : 7-40000Hz
Weight: 4.8gm (each)
Tips and tricks
If you found CS8 sibilant, to cutoff some piercing high frequency, you can put 2X2mm micropore tape on the nozzle. Using narrow bore tips will give you bit more bass.
So please do tip rolling for better fit and sound.
And changing cable with a good quality one will also increase the bass and sound quality a bit.
Comfort and fit
Due to small profile it is very comfortable to the ear. I've used it for a long session (around 3 hours), no issues so far, very lightly and comfortably sits on the ear.
Ear hook sits nicely over the ears, no pressure or pain. It doesn't go deep into your ears, so comfortable for everyone,
I've small ears, no issue for me, and it also sits flush with my ears.
You won't feel any kind of pressure on your eardrum.
Sound isolation
Sound isolation is average, nothing special. When music is not playing, you'll hear some background noise around you. But when music starts playing, it will cancel almost every noise around you, even at low volume. So l can say that when listening to music, sound isolation is very good.
paired with tempotec v1a
Sound leakageBecause of closed back design, there is almost zero sound leakage.
I didn't noticed any sound leakage at 70% of volume while it was in my friend's ear. You can hear your favorite music at quite places without bothering anyone.
Sound
This is a bright sounding iem. Very light on the bass, by tweaking the eq you can make it a bit bassy, it is also very responsive to eq, but i don't like using equalizer, just pure music from source. If using equalizer is your thing, these will handle it very well.
This is mid focused sound with slight highlighted on the top end. Analytical sound. If you listen it on high volume sound gets messed up a bit, not distorted, just a bit shouty.
With good recordings it sounded good. Nice presentations with acoustic instruments. I've burned cs8 for total 30 hours, so that the diaphragm will loosen up for better bass. I think it worked, not a big difference but noticeable. Fairly easy to drive, it doesn't require much power, while pairing with tempotec v1a, around 55% volume was enough. Transition was handled very well throughout the whole frequency
Bass
10mm double magnetic dynamic driver is handling the lower part of the frequency response, bass is not super fast, it's just above average dynamic driver speed, but fast attack. Bass is super tight, not very rumbling, a bit thumpy, but it goes deep. In some songs it feels like subbass wasn't present at all.
I found this has less bass than any other hybrid iems I've own in this price range, not a bad thing for me, because i prefer less bass, just enough bass to enjoy the music.
If you listen lots of edm music this can handle those electronic bass very well. Drum kicks sounded a bit loud, it's just the kick, no rumbling after the kick, clean and enough detailed, layering is aslo good. For this price, this will give you some pleasant bass experience, whichever songs you'll listen, it won't get muddy.
Of course it needs a good tight seal to enjoy the full bass of it. But his iem is not for bass heads that's for sure.
Mids
A single (50060) balanced armature is handling the mids. I found mids are somewhere at the middle compared to the highs, not too forwarded not recessed, This is where things get interesting, mids ar very textured, enough air on it, you can easily notice the transparency on the voice. Female vocal sounded really nice. For example Yao Si Ting's "speak softly love" sounded really soothing on cs8. I felt that edges are a bit sharp, not in a bad way.
Madonna's voice on "la isla bonita" also sounded really nice. And Billie Eilish's songs for example "lovely", with this iem you'll hear every single details of females voice.
Mids have there weigh on it. Male vocals are also good James Hetfield (Metallica) and Lewis Capaldi's song "someone you loved" sounded very textured and deep but aslo freddie Mercury's (Queen) high notes sounded clean. Crisp, clear, detailed and high resolution mids on cs8. I think CVJ done a great job here. So far, no complains about mids.
Treble
Two 30095 balanced armature is responsible For higher end of the spectrum. As i said, it is a bit highlighted on the treble.
Splashy, sparkly you name it. While listening to "nothing else matters" (metallica) and speak softly (yao ti sing) acoustic guitar sounded soo good, even finger sliding through string can be heard. Drum snare sounded nice you'll feel the splash.
Micro details are here a bit highlighted, lower treble is basic but upper trebles are highlighted. People with super sensitive to treble may not like it because of the highlighted upper treble. Treble sensitive people might found it shouty or sibilance on high volume.
But for the most part treble is bright, analytical, energetic and crispy. Treble also felt enough airy and lightness to it. Surprisingly it didn't sounded metallic.
But when cs8 was paired with warm source, treble was really good. No fatiguing issues on long listing periods.
small clean designed box
Soundstage, separation and imaging
soundstage is above average,not compressed by any mean. Good depth and width on it. Layering on the music can be easily heard with this iem. Left and Right separation was also good. Good separation on instruments in songs like "midnight in norway". Imagine was also great. It doesn't have the "WOW" holographic effect that you'll find on higher priced iems.
Conclusion
CVJ done a good job with CS8. There are lots of iems in this price point, but cs8 has its unique tuning.
Bassheads may not be satisfy with its bass, and super treble sensitive people might not like it.
For $30 this is a great deal, sturdy build quality with good design, very good mids, crispy and airy treble with good micro details. If you're looking for less bass good mids, very clean detail analytical sound, I would suggest you to pull the trigger on this, you can't go wrong with this one.
Second thought
After using it for 14 days, here is my second thought
Sound is noticeably better now, better dynamic, more transparent, smoother, and texture.
Bass :
Bass is much better now. I think the dynamic driver opened up more. Bass is bit stronger now. Fuller bass, you'll feel low ends has good weight on it.
Nice punchy tight bass now.
Mids:
Mids got bit smoother. Female vocals are very enjoyable.
Treble :
because of the better low end, trebles are not sharp anymore. It's clean and detailed. It's a bit balanced now.
I've owned a lot of iem in this price, I'm comparing it with iems that I liked in the past.
VS kz AS10 :
AS10 has better bass, tighter deeper, more resolution on bass, but mids are better on cs8. AS10 is a warmer sounding iem. I prefer the treble of the CS8. AS10 sounded shouty, peaky and aggressive compared to cs8. And as10 is slightly rolled off at the top end.
Soundstage is lot better on the cs8, aslo micro details and imagine. Comfort is better on cs8 as it doesn't goes deep into ear as AS10 does.
Built quality is better on CS8
I think CS8 is the better option here.
VS kz zs6:
Kz zs6 used to be my most favorite kz iem under $40. I've modded it to cut off some piercing highs. Bass is much better on zs6. Punchy, rumbling, much better sub-bass. This is it, rest of the things are much better on the CS8. Vocals are average, not as textured as on CS8. Trebles are piercing on stock zs6.
Soundstage and imagine is much better on CS8. Micro details are noticeably better on CS8. Comfort is much better on cs8 but zs6 has better built.
Tracks used :
Metallica - nothing else matters, master of puppets, enter the sandman.
Billie Eilish - lovely
Europe - the final countdown.
Guns and Roses - november rain, sweet child o' mine.
Pink Floyd - comfortably numb.
Linkin Park - lost in the eco, crawling, heavy. castle of glass.
Yao Si Ting - speak softly love
Ameline - midnight in norway
Halsey - without me
Queen - we are the champions, bohemian rhapsody, another one bites the dust, somebody to love
Scorpions - wind of change, still loving you
System of a down - chop suey, toxicity.
Eminem - recovery (full album)
Madona - papa don't preach, into the groove
Lady gaga - million reasons, marry the night, telephone
Good day,mates! Here's my initial impression and review of the latest offering from CVJ, The CVJ CS8.
First of all,I would like to thank Ms.Janet Hu for providing this such pretty damn good item for reviewing purpose and to share some insights to other fellow audio enthusiasts out there.
CVJ is a new audio company based on Guangdong, China that offers well-tuned products for domestic and international markets.
The unboxing experience of this product is a pleasant one as it really feels that it is premium unboxing experience.The contents inside are the IEMs, 2 pairs of extra silicon eartips (small and large sizes), a velcro wire holder, a 4-core OFC cable and a brown velvet pouch.The box itself is a solid one like a jewelry box.
The IEM is an 8 hybrid driver (3 balanced armature and 1 DD on each side).It is made of resin with metal faceplate,its construction and structural design is very sturdy and solid that it could handle wear and tear usage.The 0.75 mm recessed 2- pin connector is my preferance as I really abhorred the QDC/C-type style connectors due to its questionable and structural issue such as suddenly cracking on its sleeve.
My initial experience of this IEM is very satisfying that I could tell its sound signature and its individual audible character in every audio spectrum based on my subjective hearing perception.
The lows/bass has a soft punchy, light thumping feeling that this is what some audio enthusiasts called a neutral bass.A very clean presentation and fast decay in resolution.Bass guitars fretting is detail enough to feel its reverb,The double bass drum is satisfying enough to feel its boomy presence.
The mids is the prominent feature of this IEM as it shows its meaty, clean and transparent nature.The vocals are forward in the mix especially on females.There's a hint of a little bit of sibilance and stridency on some tracks.The instruments sounds really great and natural to me as its reveal its intricate details and clarity such as the crunchiness of electric guitars and natural and emotional reverb of a piano piece.
The Highs/treble is somewhat bright and slightly more forward in my hearing perception as it reveals its microdetails but it doesn't have this some annoying, artificial shrilly metallic sounding that you will found on most entry level hybrid( Im looking at you, KZ ZSN pro and TRN ST1.)The sounds of cymbals and triangles are accurately portray thus it is a natural sounding.
The soundstage width is above average but it compensates with its dynamic depth range.The imaging is a good enough to know the positioning of instrument placement.
As I will put my conclusion here,That this IEM has a better place in current audio market as myriads of competitors out there offers the same V-shaped tuning, strident uppermids tuning as it offers a different approach and offer a distinctive tuning to other audio enthusiasts who wants to try and explore other sound signature.If you are leaning to bassy sound sig then I cannot recommend this one.
Sources: LG V20 and LG G7(both in normal and force aux mode)
Tracks tested:
Duran Duran- The Reflex (24-bit/44.1KHz MQA.FLAC)
David Bowie- Space Oddity (24-bit/192 KHz MQA.FLAC)
Rush- A Passage To Bangkok (24-bit/192KHz MQA.FLAC)
Metallica- One (24-bit/96KHz FLAC)
Diana Ross- Do You Know Where You're Going To (16 -bit FLAC)
* Whole tracks of Eagles: Hells Freezes Over (24-bit/44.1KHz MQA.FLAC)
Queen- Bohemian Rhapsody (24-bit/96KHz)
Queen- Killer Queen (24-bit/96KHz)
Yiruma- River Flows In You (16-bit FLAC)
Michael Jackson- Billie Jean (16-bit FLAC)
* All of Riot's track in their Thundersteel album (16-bit track)
Mariah Carey - Always Be My Baby (16-bit FLAC)
Usher- You Make Me Wanna (16-bit FLAC)
The Beatles - Eleanor Rigby (24-bit/96 khz.)
Slayer- Seasons In The Abyss (24-bit/96KHz MQA.FLAC)
First of all,I would like to thank Ms.Janet Hu for providing this such pretty damn good item for reviewing purpose and to share some insights to other fellow audio enthusiasts out there.
CVJ is a new audio company based on Guangdong, China that offers well-tuned products for domestic and international markets.
The unboxing experience of this product is a pleasant one as it really feels that it is premium unboxing experience.The contents inside are the IEMs, 2 pairs of extra silicon eartips (small and large sizes), a velcro wire holder, a 4-core OFC cable and a brown velvet pouch.The box itself is a solid one like a jewelry box.
The IEM is an 8 hybrid driver (3 balanced armature and 1 DD on each side).It is made of resin with metal faceplate,its construction and structural design is very sturdy and solid that it could handle wear and tear usage.The 0.75 mm recessed 2- pin connector is my preferance as I really abhorred the QDC/C-type style connectors due to its questionable and structural issue such as suddenly cracking on its sleeve.
My initial experience of this IEM is very satisfying that I could tell its sound signature and its individual audible character in every audio spectrum based on my subjective hearing perception.
The lows/bass has a soft punchy, light thumping feeling that this is what some audio enthusiasts called a neutral bass.A very clean presentation and fast decay in resolution.Bass guitars fretting is detail enough to feel its reverb,The double bass drum is satisfying enough to feel its boomy presence.
The mids is the prominent feature of this IEM as it shows its meaty, clean and transparent nature.The vocals are forward in the mix especially on females.There's a hint of a little bit of sibilance and stridency on some tracks.The instruments sounds really great and natural to me as its reveal its intricate details and clarity such as the crunchiness of electric guitars and natural and emotional reverb of a piano piece.
The Highs/treble is somewhat bright and slightly more forward in my hearing perception as it reveals its microdetails but it doesn't have this some annoying, artificial shrilly metallic sounding that you will found on most entry level hybrid( Im looking at you, KZ ZSN pro and TRN ST1.)The sounds of cymbals and triangles are accurately portray thus it is a natural sounding.
The soundstage width is above average but it compensates with its dynamic depth range.The imaging is a good enough to know the positioning of instrument placement.
As I will put my conclusion here,That this IEM has a better place in current audio market as myriads of competitors out there offers the same V-shaped tuning, strident uppermids tuning as it offers a different approach and offer a distinctive tuning to other audio enthusiasts who wants to try and explore other sound signature.If you are leaning to bassy sound sig then I cannot recommend this one.
Sources: LG V20 and LG G7(both in normal and force aux mode)
Tracks tested:
Duran Duran- The Reflex (24-bit/44.1KHz MQA.FLAC)
David Bowie- Space Oddity (24-bit/192 KHz MQA.FLAC)
Rush- A Passage To Bangkok (24-bit/192KHz MQA.FLAC)
Metallica- One (24-bit/96KHz FLAC)
Diana Ross- Do You Know Where You're Going To (16 -bit FLAC)
* Whole tracks of Eagles: Hells Freezes Over (24-bit/44.1KHz MQA.FLAC)
Queen- Bohemian Rhapsody (24-bit/96KHz)
Queen- Killer Queen (24-bit/96KHz)
Yiruma- River Flows In You (16-bit FLAC)
Michael Jackson- Billie Jean (16-bit FLAC)
* All of Riot's track in their Thundersteel album (16-bit track)
Mariah Carey - Always Be My Baby (16-bit FLAC)
Usher- You Make Me Wanna (16-bit FLAC)
The Beatles - Eleanor Rigby (24-bit/96 khz.)
Slayer- Seasons In The Abyss (24-bit/96KHz MQA.FLAC)
