Effect Audio X HiFiGo Griffin

Thanks to Hifigo and Pulkit for organising the review tour of the Effect Audio x Hifigo Griffin cables.
The impressions shared below are mine and there is no compensation whatsoever in exchange of the review.
Effect Audio and the Hifigo collab brings a beautiful cable with some real cool features - Replacable terminations on both end! Read on and find out!

Effect Audio has a set of very nice looking cables that have been popular on the market. The Griffin retails at $199 on Hifigo (https://hifigo.com/products/effect-audio-x-hifigo-griffin)

Package

The Griffin comes in a nice box and a unique looking carry case, in a nice cardboard box. It also carries a pamplet of other Effect Audio cables.

Build
The cables are a nice silver colored 8core Silver plated Copper cable. There is sufficient heft in the cables and looks like a long lasting one. There is a bright red carbon fibre like material in the strain relief that looks like a jewel.

Connectors
The cable comes with 2 features - replaceable connectors and ConX connectors on the earphone end. What this means is that the cables can be used with a lot of iems (mmcx/2Pin) and sources (2.5, 3.5, 4.4mm)!

Sound impressions
The cables perform fairly well, with a balanced sound. In comparison with other SPC cables, these dont seem to boost the bass all that much (keeps it nice and tight) and enhances the treble a touch more.

Do note that this is in comparison with other similar SPC cables and not standalone impressions.

I tried it with a Single DD iem (QDC Dmagic Solo) as I prefer to audition single driver iems when doing cable impressions.

What I also had on hand to compare is the Effect Audio Cadmus, which has a similar construction and very nearly the same pricepoint. And surprise surprise, or not, the cables performed very similarly.They are priced near identically too.

Conclusions
Overall, a well constructed cable with replaceable connectors that should be offered by most iem makers in the expensive bracket atleast.

Review Of The Hifigo X Effect Audio Griffin​

Introduction​

The Effect Audio is a prominent cable manufacturer that creates products of the highest quality. To be honest, their products actually have an impact on the sound, not by changing it but by making it better when used with an IEM. This is based on my personal experience with their entry-level cables, the Eros S, Cadmus, and Ares. After my trial use, I noticed that most IEMs felt more technically enhanced rather than tonally altered. Normally, I don't prefer to review cables because of indifference in beliefs and ideals in many audiophiles, but when it comes to Effect Audio, I'm all for it. As a result, I'll be reviewing the griffin, a new, budget-friendly cable that was created in partnership with Hifigo. But first, let me clear up a few asssumptions.

Disclaimer​

*Since this unit tour was organised by the beautiful people at HiFiGo, I am grateful to them. And as I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to this cable as “Griffin”.
*I am using different IEMs for better understanding and findings.
*Finally, I will only evaluate the Griffin based on their performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification​

The Griffin is a double-ended interchangeable plug system with four wires of high purity copper that is silver plated for IEM upgrades. The cable is constructed from carefully chosen premium UP-OCC silver-plated copper Litz and is bound with four 24AWG wires. EA ultra flexi insulation is another feature. The IEM connecting point cap and termination cap are blueish grey and have a silver appearance on the cable. A red carbon-textured plate is over the cable Y splitter's black body. The Y splitter, termination end, and IEMs connection end of the cable all bear the brand name and company logos. There is also a chin slider, though it is rarely used in a useful manner. The cable itself appears to be lightweight, but it has a poor memory shape and struggles to maintain its shape. The cable is about 120 cm long and does appear to be high-end. In addition, there is a cable case, a basic ConX set, and a TermX 4.4mm interchangeable end which is included in the package.

Sound​

I think we can all agree that the subjective nature of this hobby makes it a very difficult situation for an audiophile to handle. Usually, when discussing sources, cables, or eartips, the changes and effects are minimal to nonexistent to most people, but I am aware that there can be changes in sound when using different cables, sources, or eartips. Therefore, as I respect both your opinions and mine, I would appreciate no denigration of my integrity or disparaging remarks about them. Everyone has the right to share their experiences, and ultimately the audience will decide whether or not to believe them. I use the word "alter" in these cases because the exaggeration of my results does not significantly change the tuning or signature of the IEM. I hope everyone will give my request some thought.

The sources used are:

1. Tempotec V6
2. Sony WM1A

The IEMs the cable was used with:

Thieaudio Monarch MKII

Monarch MKII is the foundation from where I start recognising other IEMs. For me the Monarch MKII has the perfect treble, mid range and bass. I may prefer more punchy bass though, but all in all close to what I find in an IEM. The treble is extensive and exceptionally smooth for my taste. The mid range is centric and very expressive and the bass goes deep and rumbles beautifully. The bass feels lacking slam but it is there, but I love the way it is. In my opinion, these are technical monster, as the stage is expansive and realistic with great depth and acting dimensions. The imaging may have been more edgy and sharp but it is enough to sound clean and crisp. The separation is really how distant and distinctive every element should be. The attack and decay resolves at a pace I find natural and real. All in all I find it to sound perfect with superb tonality and excellent technicalities. Monarch MKII still surprises me how both technical and tonal performances blend and compliments each other. A peaceful and relaxed play.

I'll be honest and say that, in terms of revelation and approach, my Eros S does a better job of bringing the details and polishing the notes. The Griffin does sound like a more intimate experience because the vocals move forward and have a good sense of depth and imaging. But in general, I consider the Griffin to be a different pairing cable. However, I would have purchased the Griffin and paired my Monarch MKII if I had been using the stock cable with the Monarch MKII. Although it comes down to personal preference, I would also point out that the termX connection and the lighter, more versatile cable have two additional benefits over the Eros S cable. So, yes, I would choose the Griffin if I wanted my vocals to be more noticeable and a compact pairing.

Thor Mjolnir MKII

Mjolnir is a very bassy set which has a lot of sub bass emphasis. The treble and upper mid range is also very forward in the mix. The upper treble has great extension as well. The bass is very punchy and boomy while acting fast. Mjolnir is a great V-shape sounding IEM with a different approach to explosive bass that has better technicalities, especially in this price range. The stage is great with nice surround stage and depth where the separation of each element sounding distant enough them to procure space to breathe and distinct themselves. The attack and decay of the driver capability is really quick and performs great. The vocals may feel lean and sparkly, the warmth or the fuller experience is something that these lack.

The Mjolnir MKII is an all-in-one DD IEM that can handle anything. I don't like how the IEM sometimes sounds too aggressive and offensive when I connect it to my Eros S cable. However, the Griffin strikes a better balance because the stage is wider and the details aren't as sharp, which would otherwise make the audience tired. The treble and upper mid range had the same feeling of energy, but the clarity and sibilance were improved. Better texture made the bass feel more tactile and even stronger. I believe the cable is contributing to the Mjolnir MKII's appeal to a wider audience outside of the basshead scene.

Thieaudio Hype2

Hype2 is also a bassy set that focuses on the sub bass region, but after testing it out and listening to several tracks, I discovered that it is more well-balanced, with some of the best vocals available that are as natural-sounding and clear as they can be over each note, as well as excellent instrumentation. During my testing, I have never encountered such a capable IEM in this price range or above that competes with high-end IEMs and outperforms them in terms of imaging stereo separation and holographic staging. I firmly believe that this IEM will eventually supersede all others. The mid range sounds organic and well-rounded, the bass sounds substantial and organic even when the emphasis is on the sub bass, and the treble is noticeably better with great extension and a smooth and expressive nature.

The thought that crossed my mind as I was listening to Hype2 on the griffin was that this IEM needs this cable. The Hype2 is not particularly intricate or detailed, but that is also the very core of the IEM's tuning, which makes it sound more natural and smooth. The treble was more expressive with smooth texturing in the notes, but I discovered that the notes were more defied with more sharper expression when I paired it with the Hype2. Without sacrificing anything, the upper mid range felt more revealing in the mix. The bass had good attack frequency and felt a little controlled. The details and resolution, in terms of technical performance, could be better. I believe that the Hype2 is a more useful IEM as a result of the pairing.

SeeAudio Neko

Sincerely speaking, the bright neutral sound of Neko is not what I typically prefer, but I can listen to them for hours on end without getting tired of them. I recently received Neko for review purposes. I adore the seamless transition of energy between higher frequencies and the transparent, unambiguous approach that neither introduces offensive sounds nor a hazy BA timbre. Particularly when the sound leans toward a bright signature, the balance between the tonality and technicalities is better than the rest of the IEMs I have heard. The bass is controlled and produces a soft reproduction to make up for the transparency in response to higher frequencies. The treble is extremely clear and detailed, the midrange is airy and expressive, and the bass is controlled.

Now, the sound immediately felt better in terms of resolution and details when I paired the Neko with the Griffin, especially with the upper mid range. The treble had a smoother, slightly crisper feel. I really don't feel the need to buy a new cable, even though the Cadmus came with the Neko as its stock cable. The only aspect of the Neko that was improved was the stereo separation. It already had a very strong signature. As a result, I consider the Griffin to be an alternative cable to the Neko but not an upgrade.

Tracks Used​

Luna Haruna - Overfly
Rokudenashi - The Flame of Love
LMYK - 0 (zero)
ORESKABAND - Jitensya
Marina Horiuchi - Mizukagami no Sekai
RADWIMPS - Suzume
Indila - Love Story
Indila - Tourner dans le vide
Earth, Wind & Fire - September
Tom Petty - Free Fallin'
Fleetwood Mac - Everywhere
Nirvana - Smells Like Teen Spirit
Blue Oyester Cult - (Don't Fear) The Reaper
Guns 'N' Roses - Sweet Child O' Mine
The Police - Every Breath You Take
Gojira - Amazonia
TV on the radio - Wolf Like Me
Bring Me To The Horizon - Can You Feel My Heart
Bring Me To The Horizon - sTraNgeRs
Avril Lavigne - Dare To Love Me
Travis - Love Will Come Through
Gotye - Somebody That I Used To Know
DJ Shadows - Six Days (Remix) [feat. Mos Def]
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Lil Wayne - Lollipop
Flo Rida - Low
Sebastian Lopez & Flug - Electronic Measures
Federico Mecozzi - Blue (Da Ba Dee)
Wayve - Not Enough
Kai Wachi & TeZATalks - Ghost
NGHTMRE, Zeds Dead & Tori Levett - Shady Intentions
Zeds Dead, DNMO & GG Magree - Save My Grave
Skrillex, Noisia, josh pan & Dylan Brady - Supersonic
Skrillex & Nai Barghouti - Xena
Skrillex, Missy Elliott & Mr. Oizo - RATATA
Kaifi Khalil, Eva B & Wahab Bugti - Kana Yaari
A.R. Rahman, Javed Ali & Mohit Chauhan - Kun Faya Kun

Conclusion​

This review will come to a conclusion by saying that the Griffin is a very capable cable with the ability to change the sound without endangering the integrity of the IEM while revealing subtle nuances that were not audible when using the stock cables. The griffin describes what Effect Audio's expensive line can do at a small fraction of the price, so I would definitely recommend it, especially given the price. Other, more affordable Effect Audio cables don't quite perform as well as the griffin.

Effect Audio and HiFiGo are two prominent brands in their own way. We know Effect Audio as one of the premium brands that deal in premium-quality hand-crafted IEM upgrade cables while HiFiGo is a famous online store where we can get sweet deals on plenty of high-end audio gear from top brands in the industry. Why am I telling you about both of these brands together? well, I have something that both of these brands have developed together, introducing the Effect Audio x HiFiGo Griffin, a high-quality IEM upgrade cable specially designed to elevate the performance of our IEMs. Griffin was recently launched, it’s a very nicely priced product available for just 199.99$ at the time of this writeup and comes equipped with some highly useful features which we will definitely discuss further in this review.

I got the Griffin a few days back, approximately 2 weeks back, and today I am going to share my review on the same. As a basic introduction, Effect Audio x HiFiGo Griffin is a high-quality upgrade cable crafted using high-quality premium UP-OCC Silver-Plated Copper material. The cable is very nicely built with a 24AWG 4-wire configuration featuring the brand’s advanced ConX and TermX technologies that allow for easy replacement of the connectors and termination plugs respectively. Effect Audio x HiFiGo Griffin is quite a versatile cable that can be used with a variety of IEMs and sources. I have spent a good amount of time with the cable before getting into a deep examination of the same. Today, I am going to share my in-depth review, where I check the cable with a variety of IEMs involved, so let’s not waste any more time and get our reading glasses on and my typing glasses so that the laptop’s screen doesn’t hurt my eyes lol.

Short Disclaimer before I begin:-

Effect Audio x HiFiGo Griffing was sent to me as a part of a review tour organised in my country by HiFiGo. At the time of this review, the cable retails for 199.99$, you guys can grab yours from HiFiGo from the links below. These are non-affiliated links and I would like to thank the amazing people at HiFiGo for organising this tour.

https://hifigo.com/products/effect-audio-x-hifigo-griffin

Unboxing:-

I have previously used Effect Audio’s famous Signature series cable including the Cadmus and the Eros S. There is also Ares S in the Signature series but i never got enough time to access it. Eros S and Cadmus are my favourite cables at their respective price points, why i am discussing all this here? because the Griffin falls in the same category and Effect Audio has treated it the same way in terms of packaging. We get a simple matte-finished, richly textured black coloured cardboard box that has a beautiful image of Griffin’s character right on the front. For all those who don’t know, Griffin is a mythological creature widely known for its fierce build structure and raw nature. Effect Audio has featured an image of Griffin’s character, it’s like a flying lion with huge wings, so you can guess the energy associated with the name here. We have an image of Griffin right on the front of our package, Inside we have the cable placed firmly wrapped in a velvet-finished layer. The package includes everything we need to get going. By default, we have a ConX connectoer setup and TermX swappable termination plug setup as well. We get 2-pin by default and MMCX connectors are included with the cable, other connector options such as Pentaconn, etc. can be bought separately. My cable comes with 4.4mm termination while other termination can be purchased separately as well. Other contents include a cable info catalogue, a small case, a Cable organiser, and a user guide.

Package Contents:-
>Cable itself with 2-pin connectors.
>MMCX ConX Connectors.
>4.4mm Termination plug.
>Carry Case.
>User Guide.

Design & Build Quality:-

At a fair glance, the Effect Audio x HiFiGo Griffin cable resembles that of the EA Cadmus cable but the Cadmus is a little thicker and has a matte finish. It has a silver-plated core structure with EA’s effective PVC outer coating. The only difference in terms of build quality that I noticed in front of the Cadmus cable is that the Cadmus has a rich, matte finish with thicker wire cores, while the Griffin has a more raw, brighter, more vivid feel ot it. It is more shiny with its bright wire cores and still retains a solid build structure. I find the cable to be quite neutral in terms of hand feel. I mean, it doesn’t feel very hard or very stiff, and it isn’t very soft either. It has a medium stiffness, which is quite good in the long run. I would say the Griffin is very similar to Cadmus in terms of in-hand feel and stiffness. like two siblings.

What makes the Griffin stand apart from the Cadmus is its vivid Y-Slitter. The Cadmus had a minimalistic grey-coloured Y-Splitter while the new Griffin has a more vivid red-black coloured Y-Splitter. We also got the termX feature(Swappable termination plug system) which was not available with the stock Cadmus cable. The Y-Splir, the termination plugs, and even the connectors have a solid build structure with metallic coverings around them. Overall, a solid build for a solid character such as the Griffin. I am kind of impressed in this regard,

Sound Impressions:-

Effect Audio x HiFiGo is very identical to Cadmus in terms of its sound characteristics. It has the rich, dense character of Cadmus while showcasing a smooth, speedy presentation. We get a clean and rich tone with the connected earphones, especially in their midrange. Vocals showcase a lush tone and an added sense of richness which is pleasing to listen to. I am telling you after auditioning the cable with a range of IEMs including Falcon Ultra from DUNU, Solaris OG from Campfire Audio, Neko from See Audioo, and Fire Phoenix from D’s Audio. I personally feel that Cadmus introduces a warm character while Griffin maintains a more raw, more neutral presentation in that regard. Details are slightly rounded in the treble region, especially with single dynamic driver IEMs such as Falcno Ultra and Fire Phoenix. The bass is smoother and has added, a slight addition to the sub-bass region. Griffin also introduces better depth perception with the connected IEMs. I paired the cable with some of my favorite IEMs some showed good responses with noticeable differences while some had minor changes. I am a firm believer in cable changes, have tried a variety of cables to date, and I personally perceive their changes in most cases. Let’s explore what I noticed with different IEMs.

Effect Audio x HiFiGo Griffin with DUNU Falcon Ultra:-

Falcon Ultra is a beautiful IEM that sounds amazing even in its raw form. The Griffin cable enhances its performance with a cleaner, refined lower-end response with a slightly emphasised sub-bass response. The ConX connectors are very easy to replace and it helps in pairing the cable with different IEMs. Falcon Ultra definitely showcases better clarity, and better sub-bass with the Griffin by her side.

Effect Audio x HiFiGo Griffin With See Audio Neko:-

Neko comes stock with Cadmus cable from Effect Audio which is a direct contender to the Griffin here. I would say the difference with Neko is very less, mainly because it already comes with Cadmus which is very identical in terms of sound presentation. I would say the difference is there, although very negligible, Cadmus sounds warmer with a tad bit more mid-bass, while the Griffin presents more sub-bass and has a slightly cleaner presentation. Treble is also a bite crispier on the Cadmus, while the Griffin has more rounded notes, this makes Neko with its stock cable sound more punchy in bass and more crispy in treble, while the Griffin treats her with refined lower-end with a more rumbling presentation, cleaner mids, and slightly smoother treble. Overall, slight changes, but a slightly different signature than the stock cable of the Neko.

Effect Audio x HiFIGo Griffin With AFUL Performer 8:-

Putting two of my favourite products together here, We have the Griffin and the Performer 8 stuck together for this exploration. Performer8 for me has a very clean, smooth sound with an amazing midrange and smooth, inoffensive treble. The Griffin brings more energy into the lower end with more dynamics and more punchy, the sub-bass boost on the Performer 8 also enhances the midrange with an added richness and added lushness to both instruments and vocals. Overall, a lovely set!!

Effect Audio x HiFIGo Griffin With CA Solaris OG:-

Solaris OG is one of my favourite IEMs ever. I grabbed the Solaris in the B-stock unit and it has served me well, probably one of my favourite IEMs ever. It pairs well with the Griffin, while the OG cable had a neutral to brighter signature, the Griffin grants it a smoother and more natural signature. The bass is a little refined with added rumble and strength to the lower end. The midrange has an added sense of lushness and richness for both vocals and instruments. The treble is not as bright as on the stock cable but rather has a smooth presentation and also has smoother notes.

Effect Audio x HiFiGo Griffin WIth D’s Audio FIre Phoenix:-

Fire Phoenix is my current flagship IEM, it responds nicely with the Griffin. I notice the bass is a little more controlled and has added punch in the sub-bass. The mid-bass is a little controlled, not as punchy, but rather has a more balanced presentation. The midrange has no change here, and Treble has rounded notes for instruments. Overall, a little change with the Fire Phoenix, a little more towards a balanced side I would say.

Effect Audio x HiFiGo Griffin Vs Effect Audio Cadmus:-

I also happened to have the Cadmus with me at the time of this write-up. This is the stock cable of Neko, so will be sharing the main sound characteristics that I noticed.

>Griffin has a more neutral-ish sound while the Cadmus has a little warmer tone.

>Griffin has more rounded notes for the treble, Cadmus is more rounded in that regard.

>We have more punch in mid-bass on Cadmus, while more sub-bass rumble on the Griffin.

>Cadmus sounds more punchy while Griffin has more smoothness to its tone.

Both the Cadmus and the Griffin are fantastic cables, I found both of them to be quite extensive, one brings more punch with added mid-bass while the other has a more refined signature with more sub-bass rumble. You can choose the one that suits your IEMs and preferences.

Final Words:-

After spending a good amount of time with the Effect Audio x HiFiGo Griffin, all I can say is that the cable has fantastic sound characteristics. It sounds quite smooth and responsive. I noticed the bass of Griffin is a little refined, the midrange a bit lusher, and the treble a bit rounded. It pairs amazingly well with neutral to bright IEMs such as the Solaris OG. In fact sounds wonderful with that one. It is quite identical to Cadmus in terms of performance but has its own character as well. I hope you enjoyed reading this review of mine, feel free to ask me any related questions in the comments section below.

OVERVIEW
Being in the camp of those who refer to cable upgrades as secondary-priority after other elements in the audio chain, it does excite me having the chance to experience a product such as this via preorder. Given that I rarely change cables unless the stock ones are crappy, this gives me a chance to compare side-by-side especially with those sets that already came with good stock ones (such as the SA6 mk2's Hulk Pro Mini). Of course, I'm no stranger to Singapore's locally renowned Effect Audio name in the cable industry though given, I don't have the intention of frequently replacing cables. ConX and TermX just changed that and gave me an incentive to own one and boy was I not disappointed. To add to that, was not expecting the noticeable sound difference with some of my already good stock cables.



Packaging
The Griffin comes in a black matte cardboard box with golden outline design of the mythical creature in the front, somewhat reminiscent of the luxury box of the Gaea (which is their IEM collab with Elysian). Inside you're presented with some quality documentation as well as the cable itself secured by a button leather strap and a cable mesh case. 2-pin is the stock attachment then chose the 4.4mm balanced configuration, with other terminations available as an add-on option. The ConX MMCX screw-in plugs and tool are encased in its somewhat plastic jewel case.



Here are my notes and highlights:
• The Griffin looks 'mythical' for its price, looking best with clear shell IEMs like my custom INM 4 stage set as per below




•In comparison below, here's the DUNU SA6 mk2 with its stock Hulk Pro Mini cable. Interswitching, the Griffin gives a noticeable increase in microdetail and decay + extension compared to a fuller, bodied sound of the Hulk Pro mini which gives the Griffin a good pairing to warm, mid-centric sets.





• Using the tool, unscrewed the 2-pin TermX plug switching to the MMCX was a cinch. The terminations really feel premium and durable, not loose. With the Shure SE846 it fits really snug and tight though not flush while it fits the Xelento nicely.



• Effect Audio's ConX MMCX works really great with the Sennheiser IE 600. Not totally flush but fits tight and snappy. No spinning, looseness nor slip ups.




Overall, the Griffin is really a good value and worth the purchase especially with the premium quality it provides, that's coming from someone who does not frequently change cables with my sets. It may not be as supple or free-flowing soft as some options in the market nor it doesn't totally relieve wire memory but the subtle design combined with its silver look (it is OOC silver-plated copper litz) really gives it some classy attention especially with clear IEM designs. If only it comes with a SE and BAL TermX package then it would be perfect but as it is the cost maintenance is understood. The ConX and TermX terminals felt really durable, even stress-tested it with my clumsy tightening and it never seem it'll crack. If you're someone who just needed that next upgrade cable option or would just buy a single dedicated spare replacement cable then this will definitely make you feel your money's worth and you won't regret it.

The Griffin will be made publicly available on the 21st of August with a SRP of $199.99 here:
https://hifigo.com/products/effect-audio-x-hifigo-griffin