CVJ CSA IEM
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CVJ CSA - Budget level 1DD+1BA Hybrid In Ear Monitors
The Mystery box of the IEM sector.
Here's my subjective review on CVJ CSA which was sent to me by CVJ along with CSN for my honest opinion on their products. To clear things up, I'm not affiliated nor being paid by any IEM companies out there that might influence my judgement on a certain product.
CVJ CSA was first released back in 2020 and immediately got the respect it deserved for having a quite blanced tuning with a natural timbre, however due to certain circumstances CSA apparently had to release 2 other variations wherein you could have a hard time determining which variant you're getting until you hear it. I learned that the 2nd variant had a quite an unusual tuning and it recieved less attention while the 3rd variant was somehow similar to the first 1, hence I named it The Mystery Box.
CVJ was generous enough to let me test 2 of their best selling IEMs CSA and CSN. I tried the CSN 1st and man it's totally a great IEM, which left my psychoacoustics craving for the same level of quality. Right off the bat CSA showed great detail on acoustic tracks and some 90's tracks but as my test tracks get busier CSA's flaws began to surface. Let me tell you more about it.
The packaging of my CSA is similar to my CSN's, covered up in a printed card board jacket and inside is a cardboard box unlike the 1st gen that's made of wood. It holds the IEM, 3 pairs of white tips, stock cable, brown carrying pouch, warranty, instructions and an authenticity card. No unecessesary stuff included. Very good on that.
The CSA I have seemed to want to achieve a balanced tonality in general although it prevails to be warm on most test tracks I have.
The Bass seem to lack both quantity and quality by being boomy and lacks speed. The bass drums on Leprous seemed far and showed weakness compared to other instruments. It also showed muddyness on most progressive and world music. But don't fret, as it performed pretty well on Hiphop and RnB like Maraiah Carey.
Mids on the other hand is quite well. Warm bodied and shows airiness on most tracks although there are some tracks from Rush that had mid bass bleeds. This section is fairly controlled and doesn't get shouty although in some busy tracks like the Mars Volta(progressive) it causes the mids to get congested with other instruments. But nevertheless both male and female vocals are very pleasing on easy tracks, infact they sound better than some similar hybrid iems out now.
Trebles often show meekness in terms of shimmer or being crisp. While on the other hand the upper mids and lower trebles perform quite well though for presenting a generous amount of space in some instruments. Violins and pianos show great detail. Wind instruments are also noticeably excellent. Rarely sibilant.
Imaging is quite accurate in most test tracks I have and has a fast transistion of sounds from left to right. And with its generous amount of space in between intruments it has a slighly above average soundstage. Great job on this part CVJ.
PROS:
Very affordable for having 1DD + 1BA set up
Stylish face plate
Cable that stands out among other stock cables
No flexing
Easy to drive
Good upper mids and lower treble performance
Great imaging for its price
Good color schemes
CONS:
Shells are made of plastic
May require EQ, tips and cable rolling
Not for busy tracks
Bass
★★
Mids★★
Trebles★★
Imaging★
Layering★★
Microdetails★★
Soundstage★
Spatial Panning★
Timbre★★
Tonality★★
Affordability★★
Overall rating★★
Comparisons
1DD+1BA)
TA1 -csa had better leaner male and female vocals, more affordable
DN2 -csa had larger staging, more than twice cheaper
LARK -csa had more controlled trebles, more affordable, better mids
ZSN PRO -csa had better dynamics and more controlled trebles, better mids
Tested on LG V30 Quad Dac
Final say:
I really wish the production of CSA was more consistent to which reviews would remain similar somehow in respect to being objective.
My CSA may not be for everybody who likes Bass heavy music, Metal, progressive, and world music but is certainly EXCELLENT for some EDM, hiphop, RnB, acoustic, Jazz, Classical, 90s alternative, 80s disco and powerhouse vocal performances. Still at its price range CSA is still a better choice than some overly hyped budget IEMs.
Thank you very much CVJ and Janet Hu for entrusting me 2 of your valued IEMs. Rock on!
The Mystery box of the IEM sector.
Here's my subjective review on CVJ CSA which was sent to me by CVJ along with CSN for my honest opinion on their products. To clear things up, I'm not affiliated nor being paid by any IEM companies out there that might influence my judgement on a certain product.
CVJ CSA was first released back in 2020 and immediately got the respect it deserved for having a quite blanced tuning with a natural timbre, however due to certain circumstances CSA apparently had to release 2 other variations wherein you could have a hard time determining which variant you're getting until you hear it. I learned that the 2nd variant had a quite an unusual tuning and it recieved less attention while the 3rd variant was somehow similar to the first 1, hence I named it The Mystery Box.
CVJ was generous enough to let me test 2 of their best selling IEMs CSA and CSN. I tried the CSN 1st and man it's totally a great IEM, which left my psychoacoustics craving for the same level of quality. Right off the bat CSA showed great detail on acoustic tracks and some 90's tracks but as my test tracks get busier CSA's flaws began to surface. Let me tell you more about it.
The packaging of my CSA is similar to my CSN's, covered up in a printed card board jacket and inside is a cardboard box unlike the 1st gen that's made of wood. It holds the IEM, 3 pairs of white tips, stock cable, brown carrying pouch, warranty, instructions and an authenticity card. No unecessesary stuff included. Very good on that.
The CSA I have seemed to want to achieve a balanced tonality in general although it prevails to be warm on most test tracks I have.
The Bass seem to lack both quantity and quality by being boomy and lacks speed. The bass drums on Leprous seemed far and showed weakness compared to other instruments. It also showed muddyness on most progressive and world music. But don't fret, as it performed pretty well on Hiphop and RnB like Maraiah Carey.
Mids on the other hand is quite well. Warm bodied and shows airiness on most tracks although there are some tracks from Rush that had mid bass bleeds. This section is fairly controlled and doesn't get shouty although in some busy tracks like the Mars Volta(progressive) it causes the mids to get congested with other instruments. But nevertheless both male and female vocals are very pleasing on easy tracks, infact they sound better than some similar hybrid iems out now.
Trebles often show meekness in terms of shimmer or being crisp. While on the other hand the upper mids and lower trebles perform quite well though for presenting a generous amount of space in some instruments. Violins and pianos show great detail. Wind instruments are also noticeably excellent. Rarely sibilant.
Imaging is quite accurate in most test tracks I have and has a fast transistion of sounds from left to right. And with its generous amount of space in between intruments it has a slighly above average soundstage. Great job on this part CVJ.
PROS:
Very affordable for having 1DD + 1BA set up
Stylish face plate
Cable that stands out among other stock cables
No flexing
Easy to drive
Good upper mids and lower treble performance
Great imaging for its price
Good color schemes
CONS:
Shells are made of plastic
May require EQ, tips and cable rolling
Not for busy tracks
Bass
★★Mids
★★Trebles
★★Imaging
★Layering
★★Microdetails
★★Soundstage
★Spatial Panning
★Timbre
★★Tonality
★★Affordability
★★Overall rating
★★Comparisons
1DD+1BA)TA1 -csa had better leaner male and female vocals, more affordable
DN2 -csa had larger staging, more than twice cheaper
LARK -csa had more controlled trebles, more affordable, better mids
ZSN PRO -csa had better dynamics and more controlled trebles, better mids
Tested on LG V30 Quad Dac
Final say:
I really wish the production of CSA was more consistent to which reviews would remain similar somehow in respect to being objective.
My CSA may not be for everybody who likes Bass heavy music, Metal, progressive, and world music but is certainly EXCELLENT for some EDM, hiphop, RnB, acoustic, Jazz, Classical, 90s alternative, 80s disco and powerhouse vocal performances. Still at its price range CSA is still a better choice than some overly hyped budget IEMs.
Thank you very much CVJ and Janet Hu for entrusting me 2 of your valued IEMs. Rock on!
INTRODUCTION, DISCLAIMER, AND PRODUCT LINK:
The CVJ CSA is a hybrid in-ear monitor (IEM) using one dual magnetic dynamic driver and one balanced armature on each side. CSA is a recent entrant to the Chi-Fi scene, and the CSA joins a crowded price bracket of 1+1 hybrids currently dominated by the KBEAR KB04. The CSA retails for $26.99 on Amazon at the time of this review. I purchased the CSA on Amazon and was reimbursed for my purchase by CSA prior to the arrival of the review unit, at a net cost to me of $.52.
The CVJ CSA can be purchased at the link below:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B087BML76Q/
PACKAGING AND ACCESSORIES:
The CVJ CSA comes in a small rectangular wooden box. The lid of the box is inscribed with the CVJ logo and tagline in silver text. The rear of the box is inscribed with CVJ’s contact information. There is also a sticker listing technical specifications specific to the CSA. This is a novel presentation for such an inexpensive IEM. The package includes a detachable .75mm 2-pin cable with a 3.5mm termination, three pairs of white silicone eartips (S, M, L), and a small brown drawstring pouch marked with the CVJ logo. A velcro zip-tie is affixed to the cable. Also included are a quality control pass chit, a user manual, and a warranty card.
BUILD QUALITY / DESIGN:
The CVJ CSA uses a two-part plastic shell. The inner body of the shell is clear, revealing the internal components. The faceplate is painted with a shiny white carbon fiber pattern. The CVJ logo is printed in black on the faceplate. There is a small circular vent on the inner face of the housing above the dynamic driver. The top of the inner shell is marked with white “L” and “R” indicators. The nozzles have soup strainer-like metal nozzle grills and substantial lips for securing eartips. The use of plastic as the primary shell material is acceptable given the low price point but there are many IEMs around or below the CSA in cost that utilize all-metal construction or at least metal faceplates.
The included cable is simple, with four black rubber sheathed strands. It strongly resembles the cables found on entry-level TRN headphones. The cable does tend to tangle when shoved into the included fabric pouch. The Y-split and jack hardware are anodized black metal. The CVJ logo is printed in white on the 3.5mm jack hardware. There is strain relief above the 3.5mm jack and below the Y-split but there is no chin-adjustment slider. The cable has pre-formed heat-shrink ear guides. “L” and “R” indicators are embossed on the 2–pin connectors.
COMFORT / FIT / ISOLATION:
The CVJ CSA is intended to be worn cable-up only. The earpieces have a moderate insertion depth and were comfortable for me. The housings are low profile and sit mostly below the outer surface of the ear. Secureness of fit is average. The angle of the housings in the ear tends to shift throughout wear and requires occasional readjustment, though the CSA sits more securely than the KBEAR KB04. Isolation is slightly above average for an IEM with vented dynamic drivers. I did experience driver flex with the CSA with most of the silicone eartips I tried.
MEASUREMENTS:
My measurements were conducted with a Dayton iMM-6 microphone using a vinyl tubing coupler and a calibrated USB sound interface. The headphones are driven using my Element, which has an output impedance of no more than 1 ohm. The measurements use a compensation file derived from relating my raw measurements to published measurements from Crinacle and Antdroid. The indicated SPL readings are not accurate. The measurements are presented with 1/24th smoothing. There is a resonant peak at 8k. Measurements above 10k are not reliable.
SOUND:
The CVJ CSA is a bright-sounding IEM with a neutral bass presentation. It sounds best at low-to-moderate volumes. The CVJ CSA is easy to drive with a variety of source devices.
The measured channel imbalance in the bass is not perceptible. Sub-bass extension is fair. The sub-bass draws the listener’s attention more than the mid-bass. The bass response has good speed and articulation but is lacking in texture. Bass resolution is good overall.
The midrange has a cool tonality with plenty of presence. There is not enough mid-bass to bleed into or color the midrange. The lower midrange is thin-sounding and recessed compared to the upper midrange. Male vocal intelligibility is average and there is little body to male vocals. Female vocals have better intelligibility. There is quite a bit of sibilance, especially with female vocals. Female vocals sound fuller and more colorful than male vocals. Female vocals are forward of midrange instrumentation, while male vocals must compete with electric guitars and other instruments for the listener’s attention.
The treble response is uniformly elevated in line with the prominent upper midrange. The treble sparkly, detailed, and airy. Transient delivery is slightly diffuse and splashy-sounding. Soundstage width and depth are in line with my expectations for a budget hybrid IEM. Instrument separation and imaging are both excellent.
COMPARISONS:
CVJ CSA vs KBEAR KB04
https://medium.com/bedrock-reviews/kbear-kb04-review-b1edb0419081
The KBEAR KB04 is another 1+1 hybrid IEM. The KB04, with its all-metal construction, sports superior build quality to the CVJ CSA’s plastic shell. The KB04 comes with a wider variety of eartips but does not include a carry pouch. The KB04’s included cable is less tangle-prone. The KB04 has a more conventional V-shaped tuning, with significantly more bass. The KB04’s bass is faster, more resolving, and textured, though it is arguably distractingly elevated. The KB04 has a more even upper midrange and its treble transients are slightly more realistic sounding.
CLOSING WORDS:
While CVJ should be applauded for offering an alternative to the dominant tuning in this price range, the CSA needs further refinement, particularly in its upper midrange presentation.
If you enjoyed this review, please consider checking out my blog: https://medium.com/bedrock-reviews
The CVJ CSA is a hybrid in-ear monitor (IEM) using one dual magnetic dynamic driver and one balanced armature on each side. CSA is a recent entrant to the Chi-Fi scene, and the CSA joins a crowded price bracket of 1+1 hybrids currently dominated by the KBEAR KB04. The CSA retails for $26.99 on Amazon at the time of this review. I purchased the CSA on Amazon and was reimbursed for my purchase by CSA prior to the arrival of the review unit, at a net cost to me of $.52.
The CVJ CSA can be purchased at the link below:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B087BML76Q/
PACKAGING AND ACCESSORIES:
The CVJ CSA comes in a small rectangular wooden box. The lid of the box is inscribed with the CVJ logo and tagline in silver text. The rear of the box is inscribed with CVJ’s contact information. There is also a sticker listing technical specifications specific to the CSA. This is a novel presentation for such an inexpensive IEM. The package includes a detachable .75mm 2-pin cable with a 3.5mm termination, three pairs of white silicone eartips (S, M, L), and a small brown drawstring pouch marked with the CVJ logo. A velcro zip-tie is affixed to the cable. Also included are a quality control pass chit, a user manual, and a warranty card.
BUILD QUALITY / DESIGN:
The CVJ CSA uses a two-part plastic shell. The inner body of the shell is clear, revealing the internal components. The faceplate is painted with a shiny white carbon fiber pattern. The CVJ logo is printed in black on the faceplate. There is a small circular vent on the inner face of the housing above the dynamic driver. The top of the inner shell is marked with white “L” and “R” indicators. The nozzles have soup strainer-like metal nozzle grills and substantial lips for securing eartips. The use of plastic as the primary shell material is acceptable given the low price point but there are many IEMs around or below the CSA in cost that utilize all-metal construction or at least metal faceplates.
The included cable is simple, with four black rubber sheathed strands. It strongly resembles the cables found on entry-level TRN headphones. The cable does tend to tangle when shoved into the included fabric pouch. The Y-split and jack hardware are anodized black metal. The CVJ logo is printed in white on the 3.5mm jack hardware. There is strain relief above the 3.5mm jack and below the Y-split but there is no chin-adjustment slider. The cable has pre-formed heat-shrink ear guides. “L” and “R” indicators are embossed on the 2–pin connectors.
COMFORT / FIT / ISOLATION:
The CVJ CSA is intended to be worn cable-up only. The earpieces have a moderate insertion depth and were comfortable for me. The housings are low profile and sit mostly below the outer surface of the ear. Secureness of fit is average. The angle of the housings in the ear tends to shift throughout wear and requires occasional readjustment, though the CSA sits more securely than the KBEAR KB04. Isolation is slightly above average for an IEM with vented dynamic drivers. I did experience driver flex with the CSA with most of the silicone eartips I tried.
MEASUREMENTS:
My measurements were conducted with a Dayton iMM-6 microphone using a vinyl tubing coupler and a calibrated USB sound interface. The headphones are driven using my Element, which has an output impedance of no more than 1 ohm. The measurements use a compensation file derived from relating my raw measurements to published measurements from Crinacle and Antdroid. The indicated SPL readings are not accurate. The measurements are presented with 1/24th smoothing. There is a resonant peak at 8k. Measurements above 10k are not reliable.
SOUND:
The CVJ CSA is a bright-sounding IEM with a neutral bass presentation. It sounds best at low-to-moderate volumes. The CVJ CSA is easy to drive with a variety of source devices.
The measured channel imbalance in the bass is not perceptible. Sub-bass extension is fair. The sub-bass draws the listener’s attention more than the mid-bass. The bass response has good speed and articulation but is lacking in texture. Bass resolution is good overall.
The midrange has a cool tonality with plenty of presence. There is not enough mid-bass to bleed into or color the midrange. The lower midrange is thin-sounding and recessed compared to the upper midrange. Male vocal intelligibility is average and there is little body to male vocals. Female vocals have better intelligibility. There is quite a bit of sibilance, especially with female vocals. Female vocals sound fuller and more colorful than male vocals. Female vocals are forward of midrange instrumentation, while male vocals must compete with electric guitars and other instruments for the listener’s attention.
The treble response is uniformly elevated in line with the prominent upper midrange. The treble sparkly, detailed, and airy. Transient delivery is slightly diffuse and splashy-sounding. Soundstage width and depth are in line with my expectations for a budget hybrid IEM. Instrument separation and imaging are both excellent.
COMPARISONS:
CVJ CSA vs KBEAR KB04
https://medium.com/bedrock-reviews/kbear-kb04-review-b1edb0419081
The KBEAR KB04 is another 1+1 hybrid IEM. The KB04, with its all-metal construction, sports superior build quality to the CVJ CSA’s plastic shell. The KB04 comes with a wider variety of eartips but does not include a carry pouch. The KB04’s included cable is less tangle-prone. The KB04 has a more conventional V-shaped tuning, with significantly more bass. The KB04’s bass is faster, more resolving, and textured, though it is arguably distractingly elevated. The KB04 has a more even upper midrange and its treble transients are slightly more realistic sounding.
CLOSING WORDS:
While CVJ should be applauded for offering an alternative to the dominant tuning in this price range, the CSA needs further refinement, particularly in its upper midrange presentation.
If you enjoyed this review, please consider checking out my blog: https://medium.com/bedrock-reviews
CSA | Overall Score: 6.2/10
More Reviews at: https://www.perrivanaudio.com/
Driver Setup: 1 Dynamic Driver + 1 Balanced Armature
Price: $27
Intro
Disclaimer: This review is done of my own accord and this set is purchased at full price from Aliexpress.
The CSA is the younger brother of CSN (5BA+ 1DD) and it also follows a hybrid set up consisting of 1 dynamic driver and 1 balanced armature. We will take a closer look at the CSA in this review and lay out its pros and cons for you.
Accessories (Score: 7.5/10)
It comes in a wooden “treasure-chest” like box which opens to reveal the IEMs and the silicone tips. Presentation is impressive at this price point. Removing the top layer of sponge reveals a cable tie and a felt pouch, which is a really thoughtful inclusion.
Build Quality and Fit: (Score: 7.0/10)
The CSA fits my ear well and its ergonomic-ish design isolates well enough so kudos to them. Despite the all plastic construction, it feels light on the ears and no discomfort was experienced during long listening sessions. The cable is as good as you will get in this price range and feels sturdy and durable enough.
Sound: (Score: 5.8/10)
The CSA is a bright sounding IEM with relatively flat bass and lower mids combined with emphasised highs. This double whammy does the CSA a huge disservice and is where the CSA comes up short in its tuning. (Look at that 7-10K death)
Frequency Response of the CVJ CSA
Sources used
Music and albums listened to
Bass (Score: 6.0/10)
Bass here is kind of a supporting role as they are not distinct in the overall presentation, but is just enough such that you do not feel that the track sounds off. There is extension into sub bass regions, overall it just feels lacking. (Basically, it’s Bass without the B). The bass response is not the worst and manages to achieve a nice flat deep extension. However, in terms of quantity it provides the bare minimum and penalises the CSA in its tonality and overall sound signature.
Mids (Score: 6.5/10)
Mids on the CSA are more forward as compared to bass regions especially its upper mid range which feels really glaring at times. Lower mids are fine but as soon as female vocals enter the picture, it just feels that they are overpowering male vocals which makes the overall presentation skewed. In general, lower mids are in line with its lows but there is just that upper mid range peak that tilts the balance of the entire presentation, making many tracks hard to enjoy.
Treble (Score: 4.5/10)
The treble on the CVJ CSA is just painful and distasteful. I do not know why they are tuning it like this, there is so much sibilance hitting my ears up down left and right. Even on tracks that don’t usually sound sibilant, they still exhibit slight hints of sharpness which I am really sensitive to. This is a huge deal breaker personally. Most of the time, the treble simply sounds splashy and grainy, cymbals and high hats are so emphasised, and it gets really tiring to listen to for longer sessions and I would worry of getting Tinnitus.
Overall
I do not think that this unit possesses good tonality or timbre (to those who prioritises these), sound stage sounds artificially wide as a result of its treble tuning, and imaging is not really that great as many will say it to be. To sum up on how it sounds, a bright sounding set with unimpressive bass, skewed mid range and a dangerous treble tuning that may not be suitable for everyone.
Comparison
CVJ CSA vs KBEAR KS2
The KBEAR KS2 comes to mind as a good point for comparison as they cost about the same and have similar driver configurations. In terms of aesthetics and accessories, I would think the CSAs have a slight edge of looking slightly more polished.
The 2 IEMs have drastically different tuning, with the KS2 going for a sharper V-shape sound signature. I foresee the KS2s being the crowd favourite in this match up due to its more mainstream tuning and safer signature. It's also much easier to enjoy the KS2s on long sessions on the train or moving about, without having to worry about eardrum fatigue. However, detail retrieval is much better on the CSA and the mids to lows sound more natural and less coloured on the CSA.
Both IEMs have their limitations given their price point but I personally would pick the KS2 over the CSA for casual listening any day. (which is what IEMs in this price range are good for basically).
Conclusion
I do respect the value that the CSA puts out in the budget category, bringing in that bright-neutral signature into this largely V-shaped populated segment. It manages to do some things right, such as achieving pretty decent detail retrieval and clarity. However, it is not suitable for everyone and I must caution those that are sensitive to treble even in the slightest. Although the CSA does perform decently as compared to its competitors, it carries that “deal breaker” trait in its tuning which I foresee to be highly divisive, making it hard for us to recommend this IEM.
More Reviews at: https://www.perrivanaudio.com/
Driver Setup: 1 Dynamic Driver + 1 Balanced Armature
Price: $27
Intro
Disclaimer: This review is done of my own accord and this set is purchased at full price from Aliexpress.
The CSA is the younger brother of CSN (5BA+ 1DD) and it also follows a hybrid set up consisting of 1 dynamic driver and 1 balanced armature. We will take a closer look at the CSA in this review and lay out its pros and cons for you.
Accessories (Score: 7.5/10)
It comes in a wooden “treasure-chest” like box which opens to reveal the IEMs and the silicone tips. Presentation is impressive at this price point. Removing the top layer of sponge reveals a cable tie and a felt pouch, which is a really thoughtful inclusion.
Build Quality and Fit: (Score: 7.0/10)
The CSA fits my ear well and its ergonomic-ish design isolates well enough so kudos to them. Despite the all plastic construction, it feels light on the ears and no discomfort was experienced during long listening sessions. The cable is as good as you will get in this price range and feels sturdy and durable enough.
Sound: (Score: 5.8/10)
The CSA is a bright sounding IEM with relatively flat bass and lower mids combined with emphasised highs. This double whammy does the CSA a huge disservice and is where the CSA comes up short in its tuning. (Look at that 7-10K death)
Frequency Response of the CVJ CSA
Sources used
- Ibasso DX120
- IPhone XR
- Atom DAC and AMP
Music and albums listened to
- Alan Walker – Alone/Faded/Darkside
- Billie Eilish – When we all fall asleep, where do we go?
- Tchaikovsky 1812 Overture
- Chainsmokers – Sickboy
- Cigarettes After Sex – Cry
- The White Stripes – Seven Nation Army
- One Republic – Human
- Keane – Fears and Hopes
- Nino Rota – The Godfather OST
- Osaka Shion Wind Orchestra – 2016 all Japan Band competition
- Fedde Le Grand – Cinematic
- ARTY – Rebound
- ACDC – Highway to hell
Bass (Score: 6.0/10)
Bass here is kind of a supporting role as they are not distinct in the overall presentation, but is just enough such that you do not feel that the track sounds off. There is extension into sub bass regions, overall it just feels lacking. (Basically, it’s Bass without the B). The bass response is not the worst and manages to achieve a nice flat deep extension. However, in terms of quantity it provides the bare minimum and penalises the CSA in its tonality and overall sound signature.
Mids (Score: 6.5/10)
Mids on the CSA are more forward as compared to bass regions especially its upper mid range which feels really glaring at times. Lower mids are fine but as soon as female vocals enter the picture, it just feels that they are overpowering male vocals which makes the overall presentation skewed. In general, lower mids are in line with its lows but there is just that upper mid range peak that tilts the balance of the entire presentation, making many tracks hard to enjoy.
Treble (Score: 4.5/10)
The treble on the CVJ CSA is just painful and distasteful. I do not know why they are tuning it like this, there is so much sibilance hitting my ears up down left and right. Even on tracks that don’t usually sound sibilant, they still exhibit slight hints of sharpness which I am really sensitive to. This is a huge deal breaker personally. Most of the time, the treble simply sounds splashy and grainy, cymbals and high hats are so emphasised, and it gets really tiring to listen to for longer sessions and I would worry of getting Tinnitus.
Overall
I do not think that this unit possesses good tonality or timbre (to those who prioritises these), sound stage sounds artificially wide as a result of its treble tuning, and imaging is not really that great as many will say it to be. To sum up on how it sounds, a bright sounding set with unimpressive bass, skewed mid range and a dangerous treble tuning that may not be suitable for everyone.
Comparison
CVJ CSA vs KBEAR KS2
The KBEAR KS2 comes to mind as a good point for comparison as they cost about the same and have similar driver configurations. In terms of aesthetics and accessories, I would think the CSAs have a slight edge of looking slightly more polished.
The 2 IEMs have drastically different tuning, with the KS2 going for a sharper V-shape sound signature. I foresee the KS2s being the crowd favourite in this match up due to its more mainstream tuning and safer signature. It's also much easier to enjoy the KS2s on long sessions on the train or moving about, without having to worry about eardrum fatigue. However, detail retrieval is much better on the CSA and the mids to lows sound more natural and less coloured on the CSA.
Both IEMs have their limitations given their price point but I personally would pick the KS2 over the CSA for casual listening any day. (which is what IEMs in this price range are good for basically).
Conclusion
I do respect the value that the CSA puts out in the budget category, bringing in that bright-neutral signature into this largely V-shaped populated segment. It manages to do some things right, such as achieving pretty decent detail retrieval and clarity. However, it is not suitable for everyone and I must caution those that are sensitive to treble even in the slightest. Although the CSA does perform decently as compared to its competitors, it carries that “deal breaker” trait in its tuning which I foresee to be highly divisive, making it hard for us to recommend this IEM.
chinerino
Hurts my ears really bad
DallaPo
Batch 3 is much better. I have both at home, yours and the new one.
Rating: 7.8
Sound: 7.7
Intro
CVJ is a new and fresh brand that wants to conquer the budget market with three IEMs immediately. We are talking about the CSA, CS8 and CSN. All of them are hybrids and quite promising, because CVJ brings a fresh breeze into the budget CHI-FI world with their tuning. The CSA makes the beginning with a dynamic and a BA driver.
I must reprimand CVJ however somewhat. It is quite clear to me that the young company does not have the experiences yet and is on the way of the self-discovery, but please not at expense of the buyer.
It's not about bringing IEMs to market as fast as possible and abusing the buyer as guinea pigs, but to get feedback in advance and to adapt the product if possible, so that a final product can be released and not 3 different batches with completely different signatures, as happened with the CSA.
Since all batches are/have been available from different vendors, this confuses the buyer and makes the reviewer's work more difficult.
Forget about it, because all beginnings are hard, but I hope that this was a unique slip-up, because the company has potential. This review is about the 3rd and according to the company the final product.
Handling
The CSA is very similar in its design to the KZ ZST and is therefore just as comfortable to wear.
Plain and simple, without much frills. Thus not only the CSA presents itself, but also its accessories. The cable (2-pin) is on BQEYZ level, which concerns their budget models and fulfils its purpose. In addition, there are a total of 3 sizes of silicone tips and a small fabric pouch.
The fold-out packaging is made of wood, which is not necessarily to be expected in this price segment, but we are of course not talking about mahogany either.
The isolation is average and there is not much more to mention here. All in all, it is quite good for the price.
Sound
The CSA has a warm, soft and quite linear signature with a bass emphasis, which, for my taste, has a quite positive effect on the sound. Since the bass only drops very slightly to the mids and even still has a decent level around 200 kHz, we get a warmer and more voluminous sound, but it doesn't drift off into the unnatural. The bass is well balanced and has enough output even in the lower frequencies. It could be a bit more pithy, but has a solid punch and moderate speed. Even though it is still quite present in the upper bass, it only sounds a bit bloated in rare cases.
Even though I usually like it a bit crisper, clearer and more vocally focused in the mids, I like the relaxed, warm and musical mids of the CSA very much. They invite you to listen to music for a long time and offer a lot of details, but without bothering you artificially. Balanced, round and yet lively. Here the comparison to the TRI i3 comes to my mind, which has similar characteristics, but sounds a little more transparent. Voices neither come too much to the fore nor do they fall back. They are quite intimate and sound full-bodied with a natural timbre, despite the somewhat warmer tuning. I would like to have a bit more presence in the upper frequencies, but I feel the midrange of the CSA as its strength, even if in the upper range sometimes something slightly metallic resonates.
The highs don't have the greatest extension and are certainly not the most detailed, but contribute to relaxed listening and provide enough information. Nothing special, but they don't dip down and open up the stage in a quite natural way, whereas the KBEAR KS2, for example, artificially expands them. Peaks and sibilants are in short supply, virtually absent.
The stage offers a good 3D image, but the separation could be even clearer and the spreading over different layers is quite average.
Outro
I have made a budget recommendation for 2020 (under 20 €) for the KBEAR KS2 and I can do the same with a clear conscience for the CVJ CSA. It is certainly not as exciting as the KS2 with its strong but fun V-signature, but more homogeneous, more mature, more relaxed and round. Here I can listen to music for hours, without signs of fatigue, and still have a solid variety of information, a natural voice reproduction and a balanced musicality.
However, I must point out that you could still catch an old batch when ordering. So please ask the seller which one it is. But I think that the old "attempts" will be pulled out of the market.
___________________________________________________________
More reviews: CHI-FIEAR
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CHIFIEAR/
Sound: 7.7
Intro
CVJ is a new and fresh brand that wants to conquer the budget market with three IEMs immediately. We are talking about the CSA, CS8 and CSN. All of them are hybrids and quite promising, because CVJ brings a fresh breeze into the budget CHI-FI world with their tuning. The CSA makes the beginning with a dynamic and a BA driver.
I must reprimand CVJ however somewhat. It is quite clear to me that the young company does not have the experiences yet and is on the way of the self-discovery, but please not at expense of the buyer.
It's not about bringing IEMs to market as fast as possible and abusing the buyer as guinea pigs, but to get feedback in advance and to adapt the product if possible, so that a final product can be released and not 3 different batches with completely different signatures, as happened with the CSA.
Since all batches are/have been available from different vendors, this confuses the buyer and makes the reviewer's work more difficult.
Forget about it, because all beginnings are hard, but I hope that this was a unique slip-up, because the company has potential. This review is about the 3rd and according to the company the final product.
Handling
The CSA is very similar in its design to the KZ ZST and is therefore just as comfortable to wear.
Plain and simple, without much frills. Thus not only the CSA presents itself, but also its accessories. The cable (2-pin) is on BQEYZ level, which concerns their budget models and fulfils its purpose. In addition, there are a total of 3 sizes of silicone tips and a small fabric pouch.
The fold-out packaging is made of wood, which is not necessarily to be expected in this price segment, but we are of course not talking about mahogany either.
The isolation is average and there is not much more to mention here. All in all, it is quite good for the price.
Sound
The CSA has a warm, soft and quite linear signature with a bass emphasis, which, for my taste, has a quite positive effect on the sound. Since the bass only drops very slightly to the mids and even still has a decent level around 200 kHz, we get a warmer and more voluminous sound, but it doesn't drift off into the unnatural. The bass is well balanced and has enough output even in the lower frequencies. It could be a bit more pithy, but has a solid punch and moderate speed. Even though it is still quite present in the upper bass, it only sounds a bit bloated in rare cases.
Even though I usually like it a bit crisper, clearer and more vocally focused in the mids, I like the relaxed, warm and musical mids of the CSA very much. They invite you to listen to music for a long time and offer a lot of details, but without bothering you artificially. Balanced, round and yet lively. Here the comparison to the TRI i3 comes to my mind, which has similar characteristics, but sounds a little more transparent. Voices neither come too much to the fore nor do they fall back. They are quite intimate and sound full-bodied with a natural timbre, despite the somewhat warmer tuning. I would like to have a bit more presence in the upper frequencies, but I feel the midrange of the CSA as its strength, even if in the upper range sometimes something slightly metallic resonates.
The highs don't have the greatest extension and are certainly not the most detailed, but contribute to relaxed listening and provide enough information. Nothing special, but they don't dip down and open up the stage in a quite natural way, whereas the KBEAR KS2, for example, artificially expands them. Peaks and sibilants are in short supply, virtually absent.
The stage offers a good 3D image, but the separation could be even clearer and the spreading over different layers is quite average.
Outro
I have made a budget recommendation for 2020 (under 20 €) for the KBEAR KS2 and I can do the same with a clear conscience for the CVJ CSA. It is certainly not as exciting as the KS2 with its strong but fun V-signature, but more homogeneous, more mature, more relaxed and round. Here I can listen to music for hours, without signs of fatigue, and still have a solid variety of information, a natural voice reproduction and a balanced musicality.
However, I must point out that you could still catch an old batch when ordering. So please ask the seller which one it is. But I think that the old "attempts" will be pulled out of the market.
___________________________________________________________
More reviews: CHI-FIEAR
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CHIFIEAR/
Packaging was surprisingly nice for a ultra budget IEM including even a pouch a decent cable and cable tie.
Build: Its all resin/ plastic build looks and feels average in its class nothing to radical here. I do however the the carbon fiber look. the nozzle is also plastic, reminiscent of my ZST I first loved but these are far superior IMO.
Sound:
Bass: is very detailed and balanced, defiantly present but far from emphasized more leaning toward neutral.
Mids: are also neutral and pushed forward a little more so with vocals making these superb for hearing details in vocal recordings. The Mids are clear and front and center.
Treble: Is full of details and very elevated but never too sharp IMO, this is IEM is on the brighter side but tastefully so, the sparkle was not overpowering but treble heads might love this none the less because of the great details in the highs.
Soundstage: Is excellent very spacious and a great amount of depth, imaging is far better than anything at this price, I was so surprised by the width for a closed IEM.
Conclusion: This CSA is a great budget entry in a crowded market with a truly Unique tuning so neutral and detailed it has a place by itself in the market filled with V shaped and very similar earphones. CVJ was know as a OEM but this proves they are ready to make a name for themselves. Well done!
Build: Its all resin/ plastic build looks and feels average in its class nothing to radical here. I do however the the carbon fiber look. the nozzle is also plastic, reminiscent of my ZST I first loved but these are far superior IMO.
Sound:
Bass: is very detailed and balanced, defiantly present but far from emphasized more leaning toward neutral.
Mids: are also neutral and pushed forward a little more so with vocals making these superb for hearing details in vocal recordings. The Mids are clear and front and center.
Treble: Is full of details and very elevated but never too sharp IMO, this is IEM is on the brighter side but tastefully so, the sparkle was not overpowering but treble heads might love this none the less because of the great details in the highs.
Soundstage: Is excellent very spacious and a great amount of depth, imaging is far better than anything at this price, I was so surprised by the width for a closed IEM.
Conclusion: This CSA is a great budget entry in a crowded market with a truly Unique tuning so neutral and detailed it has a place by itself in the market filled with V shaped and very similar earphones. CVJ was know as a OEM but this proves they are ready to make a name for themselves. Well done!
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