Final Audio E2000

EDIT 2020-10-20: From 4/5 to 3.5/5. Just mesh mod the Blon BL-03 and you get something better in basically everyway, the E2000 is too average and too close in price to the E3000.

EDIT 2021-07-11: demoted the rating from 3.5/5 to 2.5/5 due to the GS Audio GD3A.

Disclaimer: Bought at my own expense at Amazon japan.

Price: 33 usd at amazon japan (Have no idea why the price at amazon.com is 38 usd and the price at hifiheadphones.uk is 47 usd)

Specifications:

Housing: Aluminum alumite
Driver: Dynamic 6.4mm
Impedance: 16Ω
Sensitivity: 102 dB/mW
Cable: 1.2m oxygen-free copper cable
Weight: 13g


Accessories:

Type E tips SS/S/M/L/LL

Silicon ear hook “adapters”

Pouch



Cable: Let’s get the worst thing about the E2000 out first, the cable is thinner than a noodle. Doesn’t feel like it will last long due to thickness and everything on it is made out of plastic. It has a working chin slider and very little microphonics so that is the saving grace for it. Non-replaceable though so you have to be careful with the cable.


Build: Made out of aluminum and has a matt silver finish so it looks nice without being shiny. It is very light weight and small. The nozzle is plastic but has a lip for the tips. Vent at the back of it.

Fit: Fits like a normal bullet-style iem so nothing special here. It stays in place once you put it in but not secure enough to use while training or anything like that.

Comfort: Being a bullet-style iem and small it is comfortable because it doesn’t generate much heat (since it doesn’t come into contact with your ears that much). Although in the winter it might be very cold at first since it is made out of metal. Since it is very light-weight you might even forget you have them in your ears.

Isolation: Below average, being a bullet-style iem and with its vent hole on the back.

Setup: Fiio M11, Stock Type E tips LL, Stock cable (what else, can’t change it anyway)

Lows: mid-bass focused over sub-bass (not that much rumble either). It has average tightness and speed (for a DD-driver). Not muddy nor clean the bass in general is very average.

Mid-bass: quite a bit more mid-bass than Sub-bass, makes it a bit more fun and not neutral because of that. Although because of the more quantity here versus the sub-bass it is a bit less clean.

Sub-bass: Tighter and therefore cleaner bass than the mid-bass but it doesn’t extend that low and because of that the rumble is a bit lacking.

Mids: Balancing between male/female vocals is very good and hard to tell if one is actually more forward than the other. But since the mid-bass quantity is pretty high it does make the sound have more body for the male vocals, so the male vocals are better than the female vocals. (female vocals don’t have that much clarity either, due to the warm tuning.)

Female-vocals: As mentioned above female vocals doesn’t have that much clarity to it, this does make It a very relaxed set since they aren’t as forward as most others are. The only exception to this is that some songs like Evanescence -bring me to life have a bit sharp female vocal (although this song is sharp on almost all the iems I tried it with…).

Male-vocals: Male vocals however is a bit better than female vocals since the mid-bass adds some body to the sound in general and that helps the male vocals too.

Highs: Treble quantity is a tiny bit above neutral for me. It isn’t a bright iem but leaning more towards warmth, so you can listen to it for long sessions due to that. Clarity is average here but on songs with a lot of things going on it gets a bit muddy (that’s due to the mid-bass and the instrument separation which I get into later).

Soundstage: average soundstage here, not much depth at all but pretty good width.

Tonality: It is a bass-boosted neutral iem that leans towards warmth due to the bass-boost. Not analytical sounding but more fun and timbre is excellent here (not top-tier timbre though).

Details: Average details across the range.

Instrument Separation: Below average separation and is most felt at songs with a lot of things going on. On those songs the separation is so bad it makes sound very muddy and the high mid-bass quantity doesn’t help with that at all.

Songs that highlight the IEM: , , , ,

Good genres: Very versatile

Bad genres: Songs with a lot of things going on such as orchestral music and maybe classical (I don’t listen to classical so this one is a guess) since it has a lot of bass.



Comparisons:

Final Audio E1000: Bass quantity is much lower and quality isn’t on the same level (cleaner bass because of the lower quantity though). Mids are kind of similar but not really since the male vocals on the E1000 doesn’t have as much body as the E2000 so the female vocals are perceived as more forward here.

Female vocals on the E1000 has better quality as it has more clarity and detail (probably due to the bass) while the E2000 has better male vocals.

Treble has quite a bit more clarity and details but here again it is probably due to the bass being much lower in quantity.

Soundstage is similar, while details, timbre and instrument separation (doesn’t have the same weakness as the E2000 has) are better on the E1000.

The E1000 is a neutral iem so if you want a neutral iem it is better (also if you want better technicalities). The E2000 does have a bit better Sound quality in general but the high mid-bass quantity and bad instrument separation is very bad and fatal for some. E2000 is better If you want a bass-boosted set that has neutral mids and treble.

Final Audio E3000: Treble quantity is similar but because of the bass quantity of the E3000 being higher than the E2000, you might perceive the treble quantity to be lower than the E2000 (at least on bass heavy songs). It extends a bit more, is more natural and it doesn’t have the tiny peak that is present on some songs on the E2000 (it also has a similar organic sound as the E5000 has).

Mids are similar but as mentioned with the treble, you perceive the female vocals to be just a bit more forward on the E2000 due to the bass quantity. Quality on the E3000 sounds more refined and better, being both more natural and more detailed (especially male vocals, being clean and the bass doesn’t bleed into it, not that the E2000 bleeds either but cleaner nonetheless).

Bass quantity on the E2000 is lower than the E3000, the E3000 extends lower and has more rumble at the low end. Quality wise the E3000 is tighter and faster especially at the mid-bass, so the bass overall is cleaner which is surprising since the quantity is higher.

Soundstage is a bit bigger than the E2000, more details (not that much, most likely due to the cleaner bass) and much better instrument separation on the E3000 (doesn’t have the big weakness that the E2000 has).

Overall, the E3000 sounds more refined and of higher quality, but they are still different in tuning so personal preference is the one that decides which one is better for you. E2000 for a more Balanced and brighter tuning (bass boosted neutral) and E3000 for a Warmer L-shaped sound. (I prefer the E3000 over the E2000.)



Final Audio E4000: Bass on the E4000 has more quantity and quality is just a bit better (tightness and speed) Mids are a bit more recessed on the E4000 since the bass and treble quantity is higher, but quality wise it is very comparable.

Treble quantity is a bit higher but also much better quality here on the E4000 since it has better clarity and also removes the tiny peak that can be sharp sometimes on the E2000 (Evanescence – bring me to life isn’t sharp on the E4000…well the singer herself has quite the sharp voice though).

Soundstage and timbre Are comparable while details and instrument separation are better on the E4000.

The E4000 isn’t really an upgrade to the E2000 as the tuning is different, with the E4000 being more of a V-shaped iem (light V-shape) than the Bass-boosted neutral E2000. While the general sound quality is definitely on a higher level on the E4000, I cannot recommend it at all due to its much worse Value (price/performance).

Final Audio E5000: Bass has massively more quantity on the E5000, The E2000 has a tighter, faster bass and is cleaner. The E5000 extends much deeper than the E2000 and can rumble on a high level.

Mids quality on the E5000 is better especially the female vocals. The male vocals have some bleed from the massive bass on the E5000 so because of that it is comparable to the E2000. Quantity is similar.

Treble is more relaxed on the E5000 and better quality with higher extension (no sharpness, that can be found sometimes on the E2000). Quantity on the lower treble is a bit more but pretty similar otherwise, although on bass heavy songs that difference is pretty much gone.

Soundstage, details, timbre and instrument separation is much better on the E5000.

The E5000 suits people that want a warm, relaxed and bass heavy iem. The biggest downside of the E5000 is that with the massive bass (and not very clean bass) it isn’t a very versatile iem so it depends on what songs you are listening to and that it is power hungry so if you are going to use it with a phone then you probably shouldn’t have the E5000 in your list of candidates. The E2000 is a much easier recommendation because of that (also much cheaper) but sadly the non-removable cable on it can be a deal-breaker for many.

KZ ED9 (Balanced filter): much more bass quantity and quality is lower since it isn’t as tight as the E2000 (it also has quite the muddy bass too). Mids are recessed but quality is similar.

Treble is sharp on the ED9 and on Evanescence – bring me to life it is sibilant and unlistenable for me. Quality is not on the same level on the ED9.

Timbre is much better on the E2000, soundstage is similar, details and instrument separation are better on the E2000.

While the lower priced ED9 is a very good value for that price, I do not believe that it can match the E2000 in Sound quality. ED9 is therefore suited for you if you want a very low cost and bass heavy iem (it is less versatile in what it can play due to the bass quantity though). The ED9 is easier to drive though.

Blon Bl-03 (mesh mod): The 03 has a much tighter, textured and cleaner bass while also having more bass quantity. Mids are more female vocals focused than male, but quality is much higher here on the 03 (also much more natural).

Treble quantity is higher so if you are very treble sensitive the 03 (mesh mod, the stock 03 doesn’t have as much treble quantity) might not suit you. But quality is also much higher here.

Soundstage, details, instrument separation and timbre on the 03 is above the E2000.

The 03 in general has a much higher sound quality and it can compete against much higher priced iems, while the E2000 is also a very good valued iem it can’t really match the 03 in quality so it is more up to preference if you like the brighter, more powerful (also cleaner) bass in the 03 or the more relaxed but still fun E2000.

Conclusion: The E2000 is a good iem with a good value to it, but it doesn’t really have anything that makes you go “WOW” at it. It would have been a great beater set though if it only had a replaceable cable and/or thicker stock cable as with the cable right now it would only be a suicide mission for it to be taken to the gym/training/physical activity. Not a bad iem but nothing great (still a much better value and also recommendation over the E4000). Thanks for reading.

Introduction –

I’ve always had a somewhat bittersweet relationship with Final Audio’s earphones. I love their unique and quirky designs like the Piano Forte in addition to their more conventional models like the FI-BA-SS. Furthermore, their tuning methodology is totally unique. Many companies levy that their earphones sound “unlike anything else”, but for Final Audio that was always genuinely true; they are a company that is unafraid to take daring moves in both tuning and form factor.

However, this challenging ethos was always juxtaposed by very premium price tags and eccentric in-ear housings that came off more as luxuries and proof of concept designs rather than consumer products. As innovative as Final Audio’s products were, they simply didn’t make accessible products. But that all changes with the new E2000 and E3000. Instantly, these models are very reasonably priced at $45 and $65 respectively, they also feature some very unique feats of design and a sound that promises to be balanced with a touch of Final’s magical house sound sprinkled in. This is the second of my two affordable Final Audio reviews and, despite pricing and naming structure, I suspect Final’s more affordable offering may actually find more fans, read on to see why.



Disclaimer –

I would like to thank Mark from KS Distribution (UK distributor for Final) very much for his quick communication and for providing me with the E2000 and E3000 for the purpose of review. All words are my own and there is no monetary incentive for a positive review. Despite receiving the earphones free of cost, I will attempt to be as objective as possible in my evaluation.


Accessories –



The E2000 has a conservative unboxing with a nice accessory suite. The earphones come packaged with a soft faux leather pouch and 4 pairs of ear tips in addition to the set installed on the in-ears themselves. Final also include two ear guides should you want to wear them inverted over the ear. The tips are actually quite interesting in design, they’re similar to Sony hybrids in shape but are a bit firmer overall. They have a ridged sound tube designed to conform to the bends of the ear canal similar to Spinfits. However, they do so without obstructing the sound tube, improving transparency. While I did find a more comfortable fit with other ear tips, the stock tips provided the most ideal sound signature to my ears.


Design –

Both of Final’s new E-series earphones carry a super simple bullet shaped housing similar to earphones like the Flares Pros and Aurisonics Rockets. They are designed to be worn cable-down but lend themselves well to over-ear wear due to their simple shaping.



The housings themselves are anodized aluminium with a matte black finish that resists smudges. Basic model number and orientation letters are laser etched into the housings and their semi-open nature is clearly denoted by their exposed rear vents. The nozzles are plastic and quite short but some ridging prevents tips from slipping off unintentionally. In addition, the housings are also vented at the front which explains their tip sensitivity. Overall, the E2000’s fit and finish, like the E3000, is superb given their asking price, comparing well to class leaders like the Fiio EX1 2nd Gen and Meze 11 Neo.



Comfort is also great on account of their minute dimensions, they are easily one of the smallest in-ears I’ve handled. As such, they disappear in the ear with minimal weight and no hotspot formation during extended listening. Due to their open nature, isolation is below average though they are similar to the vented Fiio’s and Meze’s. Home listeners will enjoy the added spatial awareness but they do tend to lean out on public transport.



My main issue with the Final earphones, when compared to competing models, is their cable. I can forgive the use of a fixed cable but the unit Final opted for it very thin and poorly relieved at all terminations. In return, the cable is super supple and very compliant with no memory or springiness, it also has a nice matte finish and minimal microphonic noise given the earphone’s cable down fit.



Luckily, the gold-plated right-angle jack looks to be pretty sturdy with more extended strain relief though the y-split and housing reinforcements are more dubious. The cable is a far cry from the excellent unit used on the Fiio and the much hardier cable utilized by the Meze’s though I still prefer it to the Shozy Zero’s ergonomic nightmare of a cable.



Sound –

Tonality –



The E2000 has a very tasteful v-shaped sound with a mid and to a lesser extent, sub-bass emphasis combined with some additional middle treble crispness. Mids aren’t upfront, but integrate well into the sound. And compared to similarly priced offerings, the E2000 is more on the balanced side, especially when compared to the more bass orientated E3000. Most notably, the E2000 has a clearer midrange and more prominent high-end that does a better job balancing out their boosted bass response. As such, the E2000 finds nice genre versatility with some added engagement keeping things interesting.


Bass –

The E2000 has an excellent low-end response that finds a nice balance between power, fullness and control. Sub-bass extension is almost as good as the E3000 and better than the vast majority of competing models, though they are less emphasized and tighter in their presentation. Rumble is well-defined even if sub-bass still isn’t quite as tight as the Fiio EX1 2nd Gen and they have nice slam when called for. Mid-bass holds the most emphasis in the sound which is quite typical, granting lows with a full tone. However, the E2000 is still one of the most controlled, linear earphones around this price, allowing it to avoid the bloat and muddiness of the E3000 though again, the more sub-bass orientated Fiio is slightly cleaner yet at the cost of linearity. And during extended listening, this more linear tone grants the E2000 with such an addictive lushness without the irking bloat of the Zero and E3000 or the perhaps overly cool tone of the Fiio.

Otherwise, texturing is good and bass separation is much better than most competing models like the Shozy Zero and Meze 11 Neo. And though bass isn’t profoundly detailed, their tasteful tone combined with their separation enables intricacies to be more easily discerned. The E2000 thus excels with many genres, they have plenty of sub-bass slam to service rock and pop while remaining clean and separated enough to service acoustic and jazz. Their added mid-bass fullness is also very tasteful, more so than Final’s higher-end offering, producing an articulate low-end response that impresses both in terms of tone and quality.


Mids –

Though the E2000 may diverge from the E3000 in its tonality, both are cut from the same cloth with regards to overall character. The E2000 retains the fuller tone of the E3000 but forgoes its thickness and warmth in favour of more clarity and balance. As such, the E2000 is immediately more transparent and versatile, it isn’t as easy going as the E3000 but manages greater transparency through more accurate lower mids and upper midrange prominence. It is still on the slightly darker side, but female vocals are very clear and delicate while maintaining the extension of the E3000 which greatly benefits Asian music and instruments such as piano and guitar. Male vocals remain slightly full-bodied but lack any excessive thickness and female vocals are clear but also slightly thin though no more so than the EX1 2nd Gen. Extension is nice and there are no major dips or spikes within the midrange, retaining that smoother character of the E3000.

The E2000 is also surprisingly technical given its price and though the E3000 has a slight edge in outright resolution. That said, resolution is high on the E2000 and its more linear tuning, spacious stage and clarity all enhance the presence of smaller nuances. Detail retrieval is very good, they don’t quite possess the body and layering of the E3000 but their clearer tuning is more detail forward. This creates a generally more aggressive presentation though the E2000’s possess very impressive refinement considering their price. Furthermore, voicing is spot on, the earphones sound pretty darn natural even when compared to a lot of the best performers around $100 like the Kinera H3. So while they aren’t the most outright lucid, revealing earphone out there, the E2000 handily bests a lot of in-ears around the same price and does well to keep up with some costing quite a bit more.


Treble –

Treble is detailed and clear with slight prominence over the midrange imbuing the E2000 with some extra clarity. They are immediately more vibrant than E3000 and Meze in-ears though not to the extent of the Fiio EX1 2nd Gen. And like the Fiio, the E2000 has more of a middle-treble emphasis combined with a slightly thinner note presentation which can make instruments like cymbals sound slightly splashy. However, the Final has more accurate instrument timbre overall and, like its midrange, it is not neutral but quite linear when compared to competing models. Extension is also good, they retain the roll-off of the E3000 so aren’t quite as resolving as the EX1 2nd Gen at the very top, but they do achieve a similar level of extension to earphones from Shozy and Meze. And since treble is more vibrant below, the earphones possess a nice amount of air more, in fact, than the E3000, and are generally more revealing within the higher frequencies.

And as far as technicality is concerned, treble, while slightly thin, is still very well detailed and crisp. They lack the treble spike that a lot of chifi earphones around $100 employ and this more refined, mature tuning keeps sibilance in check while benefitting texturing. They are actually more detailed than the E3000 and more aggressive in their presentation with more attack and bite to each note. Strings are well portrayed and the treble response successfully engages without fatiguing the listener. While some grain is apparent, especially noticeable with guitars and strings that lack the smoothness of the E3000 and Meze 11 Neo, never do the earphones come across as strident, harsh or coarse. They are crisp but naturally voiced with great, almost outstanding technical ability.


Soundstage, Imaging and Separation –

The E2000 has a very spacious soundstage though, due to its more forward sound, it doesn’t quite match the space of the E3000. That said, width is excellent, not out of the head but on the periphery, and depth, though more intimate, projects well, providing a lot of immersion to vocals and instruments. In addition, due to the E2000’s more balanced sound, imaging is noticeably better than the E3000 though still not pinpoint precise. Centre image is slightly diffuse but solid in the grand scheme of things and separation is very good for the price, in between the excellent EX1 2nd Gen and the E3000 which are among the best performers around this price. They also lack the bass congestion of the E3000 and highs are noticeably airier due to their revised tuning. Listening to Arcade Fire’s “The Suburbs” and the E2000 provided excellent tonal weighting, vocals were enveloping and stereo image wide, instruments were all-encompassing without coming off as distant and directional cues were well placed.



Drivability –

The E2000’s are more transparent than the E3000 and better reflect the qualities of the source device as a result. They remain easy to drive with a 12ohm impedance and 102dB sensitivity making smartphone use a breeze. However, the E2000 actually scales pretty well with a dedicated source, especially bass that tightens up quite a bit with some amplification. However, users with more powerful smartphones like the LG V20/30 and HTC 10 may not feel the need for a dedicated amplifier or DAC/AMP and the earphones still lack the outright resolution to take full advantage of something like the Chord Mojo or Shozy Alien+. The E2000’s don’t require a dedicated source but will scale nicely when attached to one, they actually sound better from a slightly fuller sources which helps smooth out their thinner upper midrange and treble response.



Comparisons –



Final E3000 ($55): The two earphones are identical in design but differ in finish and materials. The E2000 has a matte black aluminium enclosure while the E3000 employs a chromed stainless steel housing. This is another instance where price and model number do not denote quality because E2000 rather represents a different style of tuning rather than a downgrade in technical performance. The E3000 is more L-shaped with greater mid-bass emphasis and bloat, the E2000 is tighter and more defined but retains nice low-end kick and fullness. The E3000 has a thicker midrange throughout, lacking the clarity of the E2000 but also that slight raspiness to female vocals. The E3000 has slightly more midrange resolution and space but the E2000 is universally clearer and more detailed. The E3000 is smooth and laid-back within the higher frequencies while the E2000 is crisp and slightly lifted in emphasis. The E3000 has a larger soundstage but lacks the separation of the E2000 due to its thick tuning.

Shozy Hibiki ($45): The Hibiki has a nice build with authentic carbon fibre faceplates and a very solid 2-pin removable cable that contrast to the more delicate E2000. Sonically, the Hibiki places greater emphasis on the higher frequencies while the E2000 is more low-frequency focussed. The Hibiki has more sub-bass weighting with a slightly cleaner response though both are similarly defined and textured. The Hibiki has a brighter, more forward midrange that contrasts to the slightly darker Final though the E2000 has a touch more resolving power and notably greater separation that enables greater definition of nuances. The Hibiki has a forward treble response but details lack the “bite” of the Final due to a dip in the lower treble. In return, the Hibiki extends further and middle treble elements are resolved with greater clarity however, I feel that the Hibiki is slightly too bright and source dependent. Chiefly, its high-end can dominate lower notes while the E2000’s more balanced sound tastefully heightens engagement with lesser sacrifice though this will ultimately come down to individual preference. Finally, the E2000 has a larger stage in all directions combined with greater separation though the Hibiki does image very well considering its asking price.

Kinera H3 ($100): The H3 is plastic but its design is more stable and isolates far better. It also has a removable cable that feels much sturdier than the unit on the E2000. The H3 is more obviously v-shaped than the E3000 with a somewhat scooped lower midrange and brighter overall tonal balance. Bass is similarly tuned and emphasized though the Kinera has a more impactful, extended sub-bass response and is cleaner and markedly more defined throughout. Mids are brighter on the H3 primarily due to their recessed lower midrange and thinner character up top. The H3 also has greater clarity and slightly more resolution while the E2000 has more separation and space which acts almost to the same effect while maintaining a more natural presentation. Treble is noticeably more detailed and extended on the H3 though its spiked lower treble will not suit every listener. The E2000 isn’t quite as nuanced but is still admirably detailed and its more linear tuning picks up certain details that the more uneven Kinera can muddy. The E2000 has a larger soundstage in addition to greater separation while the H3 images slightly better.



Verdict –



I can’t commend the E2000 more for their price/performance ratio, as far as sound is concerned, the E2000 makes for a very easy recommendation. They are V-shaped but very tastefully so, clear and natural in their presentation and their soundstage is separated and spacious to top it off. While they aren’t explicitly neutral, the E2000 is very engaging without overstepping any boundaries with their bass or treble emphasis. Unfortunately, I can’t freely recommend them as a daily beater on account of their thin cable and meagre strain relief, both of which fail to inspire confidence in their longevity. This is compounded upon by their mediocre isolation due to their semi-open nature. However, if you’re looking for a natural, clear yet vibrant in-ear for listening in quieter environments, the E2000 is sonically competitive with a lot of the better $100 in-ears out there. This is one of those rare instances where an earphone truly outperforms its price class rather than simply placing well within it.

Verdict – 9/10, The E2000 manages to best competing models in terms of balance, detail and refinement while simultaneously sitting near the bottom in pricing. If you’re not too hard on your earphones and don’t mind the lack of isolation, the E2000’s are a comfortable and resolving earphone that sonically outperform their asking price.

Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed my review, please see my blog for more just like it:
https://everydaylisteningblog.wordpress.com/2017/09/26/final-e2000-review-budget-delicacy/

Final Audio E2000 and E3000 - Impressively Inexpensive

Final Audio are a large company known for their Sonorus and Heaven series, along with their really exquisite FI-BA-SS series. Today we're going to be looking at their absolute entry-level IEMs, E2000 and E3000.




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Purchase link (E2000/hifiheadphones.co.uk) : http://www.hifiheadphones.co.uk/final-e2000-in-ear-isolating-earphones-black-aluminium.html

Purchase link (E3000/hifiheadphones.co.uk) : http://www.hifiheadphones.co.uk/final-e3000-in-ear-isolating-earphones-stainless-steel.html

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Introduction

Final Audio is a beloved and respected company when it comes to IEMs (In-Ear Monitors), and they also designed some mighty over-the-ear headphones in the past, but today we're looking at absolutely their most inexpensive offerings. If you're on a budget, and on a very limited budget, this is going to be fairly interesting for you. For mentioning a few words about the company, Final Audio is a very friendly company with a very strong after-sales service and support, and they are very helpful with advice and in guiding their customers to the right product. Their products are also sold in some shops around the world, and although they're very improbable to break, it is nice knowing that you can get them fixed easily, if the need may be.

It should be noted that I have absolutely no affiliation with Final Audio, I am not receiving any incentive for this review or to sweeten things out. This review is not sponsored nor has been paid for by Final Audio or anyone else. I'd like to thank Final Audio for providing the sample for this review. The sample was provided along with Final Audio's request for an honest and unbiased review. This review will be as objective as it is humanly possible, and it reflects my personal experience with Final Audio E2000 and E3000 models. Every opinion expressed is mine and I stand by it, the purpose of this review is to help those interested in either E2000 or E3000 find their next music companion.



About me

https://audiophile-heaven.blogspot.ro/p/about.html



Packaging

First things first, let's get the packaging out of the way:





















Both those IEMs come packaged in a very similar package of similar shape and similar size. They are so similar, that without looking in the box, you might have a hard time telling which is which.

Both come packaged in small cardboard boxes with the IEMs being shelled in a plastic cut out, while the rest of the accessories and the ables are tucked underneath.

What is actually lovely to see is that Final Audio doesn't take even their most inexpensive IEMs lightly and they actually provide a large set of accessories with them. Besides a lovely carrying pouch made of leather, you'll get a wide selection of tips, all of which are quite comfortable and well made. We are impressed with the quality of them, and we feel like Final Audio does a great job in making a small yet effective package.

There are ear hooks included in the package with both E2000 and E3000 IEMs, for those who want to wear them over the ear, but we are using them without the hooks, we always considered them to reduce comfort and won't consider them a plus for actual usage of the IEMs, the cables being better at taking the natural shape of the ear.

For two IEMs without detachable cables, there's not much to talk about, and for a good reason, they don't go overboard with including stuff that very few would use, and they don't dedicate much of the price of those IEMs to accessories that many might never use.



What to look in when purchasing a high-end In-Ear Monitor

https://audiophile-heaven.blogspot.ro/p/what-to-lookl.html



Technical Specifications



E2000





E3000





Build Quality/Aesthetics/Fit/Comfort

The build quality is really similar between the two, and besides the color being different, we feel like most users won't really notice a difference.





Both IEMs are round in shape, just like a bullet, and both have non-detachable cables. Both look like they are going to be very comfortable, both have metal bodies that look really durable, and both have a vent / opening in the back that allows for a better sonic reproduction and venting for the IEMs.

The aesthetics are really pleasing, and while E2000 is a matte kind of black, the highly reflective, shiny surface of E3000 is going to look really classy and high-quality. Both have similar cables, and to our knowledge, there are versions with remotes and microphones on their cables as well.

The comfort of both is excellent, the IEM body is very small and it works well with the tips, the IEM fits both while being worn straight-down and over-the-ear, and both have just an excellent overall comfort. There is no driver flex (this is a pretty serious issue until one reaches the midrange sector), and there simply isn't any issue with the comfort that we can mention. In fact, thing which is really amazing, both E2000 and E3000 reach our golden standards of comfort, both feel good while being worn, work well over the ear, with no microphonics, with good tips from the box, and with everything else working simply really well.

You can wear either for hours in a row without an issue, and both make excellent companions for your music-listening adventure.



Sound Quality

The sound Quality is a little different between the two models, but both have some things in common. The short version is that both are amazing, having a really natural tone, along a clear and open midrange, with a good extension both ways, and both have an excellent soundstage and don't sound congested, neither coming off as too dispersed. Neither isn't boomy and doesn't have any glaring issue, making them an instant favorite at their price range (which is really really low, 50 USD for E2000 and 80USD for E3000).





For this price, simply, we can't complain in any way. The detail levels are clearly in line with what other IEMs at those price point usually offer, really you're getting better sound quality than the price is able to warrant for them.

The bass of both units is deep and reaches very low, and has good punchiness, although the sub-bass is good for this price range only. The E3000 is warm and the upper midrange and the lower mids are very satisfying, while E2000 is thinner and has a more neutral approach to things, although it keeps a fairly interestingly slower decay bass that might feel natural or rather "at home" especially for users looking for a IEM at this price range.

The midrange is quite a little different, with E3000 being more satisfying and thicker in the long run, while E2000 is more neutral, also bringing more emotion to the female vocals and to the upper midrange instruments like violins. E3000 feels more like a chill-and-relax IEM, while E2000 feels more like the emotional performer that would bring the emotional part of the music closer to the listener. While we're talking about the midrange, we would love to note that there are no peaks, no dips, the midrange is strangely balanced and really well done, we're talking about a midrange that not only has a natural tone for this price range, but which has a suspectly good midrange tonal balance for up to 300 USD price point.





The treble is also quite different, with E3000 having the more treble of the two, and E2000 being the smoother one. There is some slight roll-off, for those who love to hear less treble and to focus more on the midrange and the bass, and there is a fairly good amount of detail in the treble as well. We're impressed that both IEMs made it this far, and to be honest, E3000 is the more impressing of the two, for having the more balanced overall sonic signature, although with its overall presentation, E2000 is not far behind.



Soundstage

Here's the actual surprise. We love soundstage. We actually can't get along quite that well with congested soundstage because we feel it kills part of the presentation, and although metal music usually is very forward, it needs to be wide to sound clean and well presented. Bands like Incubus also require depth for their music to achieve the full impact intended in the original mix, while bands like Dope require more of a wider presentation to come off as fun and playful.



Both E3000 and E2000 achieve excellent results on the soundstage, both have excellent sound stages for the price, and while E3000 has the larger one, E2000 doesn't fall behind either. The instrument separation is also impressive, and although we're using something like big words here, please keep in mind that at this price point we didn't have much expectations. We literally expected them to be much less impressive, and the shock of hearing them sound so good makes us use big words to describe them. The soundstage size is what Final Audio really delivers on, and we're happy to note that there is a good amount of air between instruments, and one can describe layers of instruments with ease.



ADSR / PRaT

The ADSR/PRaT/Texturization is fair. There's nothing to complain heavily about them, but there's not much to say about them either. The textures are generally natural to slow with a fair amount of detail retrieved from textures. Textures of instruments are not overblown, but they are not the most fine either, still fairly good for the price.



Portable Usage

Small IEMs with non-detachable cables, but with a thin and supple cable, ready to come with you on a second's notice. This probably describes both E2000 and E3000 really well. They pair really well with almost anything, be it smartphone or professional-grade DAP, they sound nice with almost anything, and they don't really win that much from better sources, not being revealing enough to make the source matter more.



The isolation is fair to pretty low, because the back part of the IEM seems to be open (it seems to be a grille), so they won't isolate well from the outside noise. For the gain they have in soundstage and instrument separation, along with how the music is generally presented, we feel that the fact they are open isn't a large drawback, but if you require something to isolate you from the outside noise, it is worth noting that neither E2000 nor E3000 can't do that.

The fit and comfort is excellent, even great for running, they fit both straight down and over the ear, the tips are uber-comfortable, the IEM shape and bore size will work with almost any ear, and they are projected to be lightweight and to simply work. They don't feel uncomfortable after a while, and they stay in ears, even after being there for hours, so they really are an excellent IEM in this aspect.

The overall portability factor for both is good, excellent comfort, great cable and good overall portability.



Comparisons

Final Audio E2000/E3000 vs FiiO F5 - We have very few inexpensive IEMs currently, and FiiO F5 is one of them. In a few words, F5 is larger in size, has a smoother, thicker, bassier, and similarly open sound. It has a metal construction, just like E2000 and E3000, but it has detachable cables. Most folks won't buy extra cables for a 50USD IEM, so they tie up in that aspect. If you prefer a really thick and warm sound with a satisfying overall tone, F5 is a good choice, if you prefer a more balanced presentation, either E2000 or E3000 is a good choice.

Final Audio E2000/E3000 vs Shozy Hibiki - Roughly at the same price point, Shozy Hibiki is a nice-looking IEM, with a really interesting design. It has more going on for it with the detachable cables, but again, we don't feel like anyone purchasing a IEM below 100USD will invest in aftermarket cables. The sound is more mid-centric on Shozy Hibiki, with a much more forward midrange, good instrument separation, and good soundstage. To be fair, if you prefer a more mid-forward signature, Hibiki delivers that, while if you prefer a more balanced signature, E2000/E3000 both are more balanced with a more balanced overall tone.

Final Audio E2000/E3000 vs Kinera Seed - How do they fare against the mighty little Kinera? Well, they fare well. Kinera Seed is a reminder of Kinera H3, which was aggressively V-shaped, but this time being less aggressively V-shaped, but still pretty V-shaped. Kinera Seed also has good instrument separation, and good soundstage, but the tonal balance is much more in favor of bass and treble, with the midrange being placed in the background. This means that music sounds more punchy and impressive, but it sounds more balanced on E2000/E3000. Like in the other two comparisons, E2000 and E3000 both feel like they are really balanced. If you prefer a more colored sound to warm, to mid-centric, or to V-shaped, any of the IEMs in the comparison list can provide that, but if you're looking after the most balanced one, E2000 and E3000 are that. Kinera seed is just as impressive, but tuned for another kind of taste.



Recommended Pairings

Due to their less revealing nature, and balanced tonality, E2000 and E3000 both can pair well with almost any source. They usually are influenced by the source, but given their rather good starting point, they are still enjoyable with analytical, with warm and even with bright sources.



Final Audio E2000/E3000 + Shanling M2s - A little DAP to match the size and portability of those two, M2s is more than capable of powering either of the Final Audio IEMs to great overall results, it adds a bit of weight to each musical note, adds a bit of sparkle to the lower treble, and it provides a pretty good amount of detail for their level.

Final Audio E2000/E3000 + Samsung T580 Tablet - This is an interesting synergy case as we found out, Samsung T580 pairs extremely well with those two IEMs and it leads to a very dynamic and energetic sound, something that many will enjoy. It isn't the best textured sound, and it doesn't have the best depth at all times, but the raw energy and lively presentation surely are worth to consider this pairing. The soundstage is considerably wider than most lower priced sources, and the instrument separation is quite excellent as well. While we haven't tested many Samsung devices, T580 surely impressed us thus far.

Final Audio E2000/E3000 + HIDIZS AP200 - AP200 is another less expensive device that leads to good results with E2000 and E3000. Similar to Shanling M2s, it is also thicker sounding, with a less expanded soundstage size, but with a bit of a sparkle in the lower treble, along with a thicker sound.



Value and Conclusion

We should keep in mind that we're reviewing two IEMs that are priced around 50 USD and 80 USD, so they are well in the entry-level area. For this price, you're getting a really solid package, with a good selection of high quality tips, you're getting a fairly interesting carrying package, although the leather pouch probably won't protect them that much from an impact, and you're getting some great sounding IEMs.



The build quality of both E2000 and E3000 is top notch, with metal bodies, and a fairly sturdy, and supple cable. The cables are not detachable, but at this price point most users probably won't get aftermarket cables either. The bodies are vented and they don't present any kind of driver flex, nor have any kind of microphonics, already being pretty good for a IEM in the entry-level area.

Both IEMs are aesthetically pleasing, with a modern and sleek deisgn, and both IEMs are very comfortable when worn, regardless whether you favor the straight-down or the over-the-ear wearing styles. The tips included in the package don't get slippery after usage, and the IEMs themselves are lightweight and sit well in the ears, without having any hard edges or large body sizes that would otherwise be uncomfortable.

When it comes to their sonic performance, they are simply astounding. The tonal balance of those two little IEMs was never seen before on such well-priced IEMs, they sound open, they sound clean, and they sound clear. The amount of details that they do reveal, they reveal well and place in good light, and both of them are great at presenting the listener with a good level of dynamics in the music.



If you're into a smoother IEM with a more laid-back presentation, then E2000 might be the better choice, and if you're looking for a little more treble sparkle, along with the more emotional presentation, then E3000 might be the better choice for you. At any rate, both those IEMs have good strengths that can make you want them, and if you're really constrained by your budget, then you can get a great performance for just a few USD with either of those two lovely IEMs!

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Purchase link (E2000/hifiheadphones.co.uk) : http://www.hifiheadphones.co.uk/final-e2000-in-ear-isolating-earphones-black-aluminium.html

Purchase link (E3000/hifiheadphones.co.uk) : http://www.hifiheadphones.co.uk/final-e3000-in-ear-isolating-earphones-stainless-steel.html

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I hope my review is helpful to you!

Stay safe and remember to always have fun while listening to music!



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About the company


S’NEXT is a company that sells high-end audio earphones and headphones under its own brand final as well as conducting component technology development, product planning, design, planning, manufacturing and sales of other companies’ brands. The company was established in 2007. It began as a subsidiary of the major American connector manufacturer Molex; in 2014, it went independent through an MBO by the current management team. Now is what you would call its second formation. Since beginning sales of our own final brand earphones in 2009, our way of thinking regarding good sound quality and designs that differ to those of other major electronics manufacturers has garnered attention, and we have built our own unique place both in Japan and abroad.

Prelude

I would like to thank Final Audio for sending us the E1000, E2000, E3000 for review. Rest assured that this review is written as honestly and objectively as possible. Our review of the E1000 can be found here.

Sources

Chord Hugo

Burson Swing with V6 Vivid + JDS Labs O2

Samsung Galaxy S9

Recording

Nobuo Uematsu – Final Fantasy: Distant Worlds

Dave Matthews Band – Under the Table and Dreaming (Expanded Version)

The Beatles – Love

Maroon 5 – 1.22.03 Acoustic

Reese Lansangan – Arigato Internet

Hale – This is Hale

Apartel – Full Flood

Packaging

The Final Audio E2000 and E3000 is neatly packed in a minimalist, no-frills packaging. Included is a soft faux leather bag, manuals, and tips with various sizes, that’s it.. I’d like to note that Final tips are actually well-regarded for its comfort and pleasing tonal effect. I used it with my other IEMs and it worked well.

Specification

E2000

Housing: Aluminum black alumite finish(MATT BLACK) / Aluminum silver alumite finish(MATT SILVER)

Driver: 6.4mmΦ dynamic driver

Cable: OFC Cable

Impedance: 102 dB/mW

Sensitivity: 16Ω

Weight: 12g

Cord Length: 1.2m

E3000

Housing: Stainless steel mirror-finished

Driver: 6.4mmΦ dynamic driver

Cable: OFC Cable

Impedance: 100 dB/mW

Sensitivity: 16Ω

Weight: 15g

Cord Length: 1.2m

Build Quality and Design



One word to describe this aspect is “essentialist”. It doesn’t offer the flashiest and the catchiest design out there. But the philosophy here I believe, is to give consumer what “works”. The E2000 and E3000 are housed in an aluminum and stainless steel body, respectively. Design is very identical apart from the housing.



The bullet shell is light but still inspires durability. Both of the cables are non-removable, with very minimal microphonics, and it resists tangling unless you purposely try to. Though the cables are quite thin. But I think what Final is aiming for is a light and comfortable design. Hence the tradeoff, and a fair one at that. It certainly isn’t “built like a tank”, but it does not feel fragile and should last long when properly cared for.

Comfort and Isolation

These are easily one the most comfortable that I’ve tried. I can wear it for extended periods of time without any pain or discomfort, and this is where the design makes sense. The bullet shell is delightfully light. In fact, you can almost forget that you are wearing it. Tips are soft and supple, plus fitting is a breeze; it sits securely in my ears with the appropriate tips, and it never slipped off while I’m walking. A caveat is that passive noise isolation is not its strongest point, ambient noise can still be heard, particularly when out and about on the street. But it can be an advantage for those who want more awareness of what’s going around.

Sound

The character of the E2000 and the E3000 share the same philosophy: starting from the design, up to the sound. The signature is polite and inoffensive. I can see that it will be pleasing for most listeners.

Both of the IEMs has a smooth and laidback tonality, the E2000 is going for neutrality while there is an added warmth on the E3000. The E2000 and E3000 are one the smoothest and most refined sound signature that I’ve heard in it’s price range. Now let’s get into detail on how these two sounds.

Bass

The bass on the E2000 has a soft, organic decay. It is well textured and mid bass has ample body. It is neutral and complimentary in manner. Albeit sub bass doesn’t extend deep but it’s not really that bothering. What is, however, is that the bass can get a touch loose and it could use a little more tightness. The E3000 addresses this, offering fuller and tighter bass.

Mids

The vocals on the E2000 is a touch forward with added shine in the upper midrange, in comparison with the E3000, which is warmer, laidback, and smoother. Both exhibit a natural timbre but I prefer the E2000’s forwardness and luster. It renders vocals and instruments with a sweet and natural tone. The E3000 is a bit of a double-edged sword, the warmer tonality helps with male vocals, presenting it with very suave smoothness. But female vocals and instruments could sound too laid back for my taste. The E2000 just has more energy than the relaxed E3000.

Treble

Treble is smooth, mellow, and inoffensive. There is slightly more shine on the E2000 but it is still polite overall. In contrast, the E3000 is even smoother. Both IEMs doesn’t sound fatiguing and even with the mellowed treble, it doesn’t feel like I’m missing much. It’s simply enjoyable and it works well, it sounds complimentary with the whole signature. The treble sounds organic and it is radically different compared to the competition – which are often tuned brightly and excessively, so this is a breath of fresh air.

Soundstage and Imaging


Now, this is what I found to be exceptional for these IEMs. The wideness of the soundstage is mind-boggling for the price. These two are the one of the best that I’ve heard on this price category and it would be tough to beat in this aspect. The E3000 has more depth, is more diffused and it is a touch wider than the E2000, which is still amazingly wide. The imaging is presented well and every instrument is well-defined with a lot of room to it. The height however, doesn’t extend much, though it’s not bothering considering that the width has greatly compensated for it.

Comparison

KZ AS10

Right off the bat, the treble is brighter compared to the two Final IEMs. Treble has a tendency to be edgy and sibilant. Soundstage is also noticeably smaller. The bass of the AS10 extends deeper, but the mids has less body and texture. Overall, the sound is less balanced and refined compared to the E2000 and E3000.

KZ BA10

The bass is tight and the mids has slightly less body, but a touch cleaner. It is brighter but more controlled over the AS10. Soundstage is also less wider than the two Final IEMs, thought it takes the edge for soundstage height. Imaging is also slightly better, albeit it is not as smooth as the Final IEMs. Though, the BA10 has equally good merits so I’ll leave this as a matter of preference.

TFZ Galaxy T2

The midrange is scooped compared to E2000/3000. Treble is brighter and less smoother. Soundstage width is condensed, but there is slightly more height. Bass is tighter and deeper, but the Final IEMs has a more coherent signature overall.

Final Audio E1000

The little sibling of the family. The bass and the mids sounds thin compared to the more refined e2000/e3000. But it’s no slouch in quality. Mids are a slightly forward and it’s very clean. It still has the wide soundstage of the higher priced model, and I find it to have a touch more air than the other two, although timbre is a bit thin. It is also lighter probably because of the plastic build.

Comfort (Greatest to least)

Final Audio E1000/E2000/E3000

TFZ Galaxy T2

KS AS10

KZ BA10

Conclusion

Final Audio has hit a home run with the E2000 and E3000, featuring a signature that is hard not to like. Despite the entry market being saturated by “chi-fi”, the Japanese company has set itself apart by offering products that are radically different: it places sound and comfort above all else, there are no gimmicks, it simply gets the job done in a graceful manner. Don’t let the understated looks deceive you, these IEMs are rockers in the most straightforward way.

FINAL AUDIO E2000 (extra long) REVIEW :



SOUND: 9/10
CONSTRUCTION: 8.5/10
DESIGN: 9/10
VALUE: 10/10


FASCINATION process :


At first, my ear wasn’t prepare at they're best for the type of balanced tuning approach from Final Audio engineer, wich in some sens, is about having an equal respect for all frequencies range hidden in music. Tough the E2000 model is the more easily accessible one, I already see some people thinking it lack bass when in fact it dig deeper than must of the competitors in this pricerange.
Ironically, sometime we think Hi-fi sound is a promise that more expensive audio gear will solve for us audio mastering, but this isn’t the case because must of time soundsignature reflect Highs, Mids or Lows Infidelity. By this I mean, it color the sound to make more spectacular certain audio range effect that is very dependant to music style you listen too, electronic, rap or pop music will enjoy V shape but will still be problematic for massive audio enthusiast that like round bass punch in a mid centric rendering that will make shine their favorite signer voice.
For classical lover, it all depend again as all frequencies range is important, but lover of symphonies will not need same frequencies response than harpsichord lover where highs brillance and decay will give a more exciting lively presentation.
All this too say, Final Audio do one compromise in there sound approach wich is to tame upper highs so microdetails will not sound too fowards and distracting, wich in some sens is a diamond polishing giving in the end more details in all range above 12khz. As well, they approach a linear and near neutral frequencies curve, to solve bad soundwave mixing problem and give a more natural and better stereo layering presentation, all this with an elegant smoothness to the overall sound.



Having mustly try ‘’chi-fi’’ iem in the last years, more than 50 different pairs including lot of multi-drivers universal custom, I begin getting annoyed by the standard house sound much of them use, wich is some kind of mutant harman curve with extra push in sub bass, upper mids and highs. Well, must of them are either V or U shape and when mids was more present, it feel forced and artificial. As well, in the budget multi-BA’S universe, phase and delay issue occur very often. Biggest problem for me was still the treble peaks, ranginf from 2khz to 15khz. As anybody, i’m extremly sensitve to vocal range (mids) as our human ears are program to hear it better, so when I read this Final Audio design statement about their E serie iem, I was extremely interest to give it a try. I copy-paste it here so you can give a read too :

''The E series was developed with the concept of achieving all of the following: high sound quality, simple design, ease of use and affordable price. With this, we aimed for a product series where the products chosen would undoubtedly be referred to as standards for years to come.

It is because we’d like these to be used as devices for the mature listener, the kind they won’t want to part with the more they use them, and because they are products we’d like those recognizing the pleasure of earphones for the first time to also use that we’ve integrated the results of the latest in acoustic engineering and psychological research into our acoustic design.

When using the general method of sound creation where certain high notes are emphasized, you’re given to feel vivid sound when you first listen, but because of this, other ranges are masked and hard to hear. With the E series, making the arc of the frequency response smooth overall ensured that no bands were masked, and we achieved high resolution and clear sound quality. With these products, we’ve aimed at natural sound quality for a “standard” whose value you feel the more you use them over time rather than just in their appeal when you first listen to them.

<Features of the E series>

- Sound creation based on acoustic engineering and psychology
- Unique swing-fitting earpiece mechanism; sound is transmitted directly to the eardrum to achieve clear sound
- The 6.4mm diameter dynamic driver unit boasts an extraordinarily high level of precision for this price range
- Fitting of a device for the mature listener, this is a design that has a simple shape and a high-quality texture matched with what could be termed classic sound quality
- Comes with ear hooks to alleviate cable touch noise
- Employs an original cable that bends flexibly when using ear hooks''



So, for once it will be a smooth but real high fidelity sounding iem? Is it possible to achieve such a pleasant musicality for long time listen as well as having a real reference all arounder iem and that, at an extremely affordable price? It can't be manufacture in Japan, can it? All the answer are big YES.
Nymphonomaniac just can’t stop listen to the E2000….and perhaps even subectively prefer them to the E3000 or E4000! He can’t tell for the moment, perhaps he just get use too the one he listen the more right now because of its reviewing. One thing sure, none of them make him wanna change for a more analytical, mid centric or bassy iem when a certain music style appear in its very long playlist that include baroque classical, modern jazz, jazz signer, blues signers, complex electronic, simple hip hop, indie rock, power rock, folk, solo violin or harpsichord etc. Yes, it can exist and no it do not try to make it over coloured to entertain you in High Infidelity universe. For once, I really feel like an audiophile listening to an IEM and man, it prove it have nothing to do with price!


SPECIFICATIONS :

Product code :FI-E2DAL(MATT BLACK) / FI-E2DALS(MATT SILVER)

Housing : Aluminum black alumite finish(MATT BLACK) / Aluminum silver alumite finish(MATT SILVER)

Driver : 6.4mmΦ dynamic driver

Cable : OFC cable

Sensitivity : 102 dB/mW

Impedance :16Ω

Weight : 12g

Cord length : 1.2m

CONSTRUCTION, DESIGN & ACCESSORIES :



Final Audio unboxing experience make me travel in japan, this is meticulous and humble packaging. As an origami lover, I appreciate the little details of enveloping the iem housing in transparent plastic paper. Thats japanese elegance to me, wich is even take to next level with the E4000. The eartips that are included are silicone of high quality, we can tell by the thick silicone tube it have. Its the E model. As well, it include a pair of cable ear hook of good quality and a basic traveling pouch.



Construction is nice and minimalist, I can’t say about durability for now but the housing look enough sturdy due to its very small size. Housing is thick black alumite (alluminium) with a plastic nozzle and have a open back design with a metal grill fitting it without any weakness to it. If there only one details that perhaps would worry me its how the cable is attached to housing, or more exactly, isn’t attached to it with a strain relieve rubber extension, so I will not pull the cable to test if any reinforcment is hide inside housing. Its not a big deal as the iem is really light and small and if you pull cable it will fall from your ears.



Design is sobre and minimalist but mustly well thinked. In fact, if you search bed buddies iem, the E2000 are perfect. They are minuscule, wich even puzzle my mind about being able to hide a tiny 6.2mm driver in it. To have an idea about how tiny they are, the E2000 is less long that my well cuted thum finger nail...a quarter look gigantic compared to these lilliputian earphones. The fact they are so small can be perhaps confusing for big handed giant, but he will get use to it fast. The only drawback about design is perhaps due to the rather basic cable in fact, wich can sometime cause microphonic sound, but again, the ear hook is there to solve this issue...wich I do not use and just wear it over ears my way. About this, there lot of iem that cause more microphonic, I just need to tell every observation with my big mouth.



So, all in all, the very tiny minuscule midget lilliputian design make the E2000 extremely comfortable and will fit any ears even the one of a shrewmouse (I guess).




SOUND IMPRESSIONS :




OVERALL sound tend towards near perfect neutrality, with balanced low and mids and lightly smoothed highs, especialy above 12khz. This do not mean it lack details at all, its a natural sounding iem with good punch as well as an attack that have fine grip but do not bite. I feel treble is emphased a little on mid bass without any decay on the mids. It have more punch than rumble, but extension is really nice and transparent. Vocal aren’t recessed at all, they feel on same stage of all instrument, neither in the back or 5 feet appart from the band. This give an overall intimate and contemplative presentation that we wanna stay in for long listen. E2000 have a natural, transparent, wide sounding balanced sound that will be supreme joy for critical listener and sincere music lover.


SOUNDSTAGE is wider than deeper, but excellently layered due to excellent transparency and resolution.


AMPING is not mandatory, but I feel it help giving the right sound pressure for me, wich listen to quite high volume even if E2000 tech me to enjoy lower intensity. So, to get the best, you need more than what I phone cna give you as well as very small DAP like Benjie S5. But Xduoo X2, D3 and above, well, any serious DAP will have enough power to amp them perfectly.


SUB BASS is flat, textured and well define, it is easy to ear the lower bass line under kick or other low frequencies instruments like synth, and that, without any alteration of its relax definition. It’s not a rumbly type of sub that move lof of air, more the type we will find in studio monitor. This type of presentation show its talent in complex beat or rock as well as when there bass solo or emphasis in a track. Perhaps some will like extra texture, but it isn’t need for the spot on resolution we get. I find this extremely impressive for all type of music that isn’t thinked to be heard with extra humph or boom, yes, rap will be listenable, and you will enjoy extra clarity of overall frequencies range as well as the rapper sound suddenly less agressive, but I think basshead do search more coloured low, as we can sometime hear a miles away from there boomy cars.


MID BASS is really delicious and well rendered, it have good resolution and attack without being fatiguing or too fowards-bright, its bodied and tigh and well layered for sub as well as lower mids wich is impressive for an intimate sounding iem as one would think it will mix up or sound congested, in fact, when listening to post rock like ‘’Grails’’ that have lot of feedback guitar and ambient sound, it never feel over saturated because of an incredible transparency. Fast complex power rock that lot of multi-Ba iem struggle to render without congesting still sound flat and well define. The punch was never drown whatever its presence in track. Slightly thick but transparent mid bass, more weighty than sub, but never interfering with any other audio range make this bass presentation agile and versatile but even more impressive for jazz, rock or well mastered pop that isn’t meant to be boomy (cause yeah, some will sound better the boomy way).


MIDS are my favorite part of the E2000 even if they aren’t intensely tweaked for extra presence, they feel full bodied, wide and transparent, very well placed in soundstage. For example, a jazz track from Jacob Bro where I hear one wide saxophone with must of my iem finally became….two well separated saxophone playing toghether different melody line. For a moment I think the E2000 was defect! I feel dumb, but wasn’t my actual other badly tuned iem that was dumb? So the instrument separation is phenomenal with E2000, whatever the price range, and in 2khz-8khz where must colouration happen to affect dynamic and presence pitch, its where it show its true agility.

One of my favorite signer, Arianna Savall, have less agressive extension on higher pitch and so move less air in the final, but even if decay can sometime give extra goosebumps if well pushed, this was driving me to suddenly lower volume when she go full soprano, as well, it feel less transparent and hide lute, harp or other isntrument her or other musician was playing,

I feel that E2000 rendering is faithfull to original mastering as well as the sweet mellow voice of Arianna that should never be violent, why an angel will beat your eardrum off anyway? Violin too is very detailed but never harsh, you will heard the bow hitting and even the texture of the cords rubbing, a natural thickness give extra presence when it’s meant to be, like in solo or duo.


HIGHS are fully informative until about 14khz drop and you will surely finds details in your music you never heard off, little subtle one that finally can be find if you want too. As said, you can crave infinitely in Final Audio well resolve sound, but nothingis trowninyour face. Every instrument wahatever the audio range a great transparent body and natural texture. The percussions are particularly well represented, with thigh and fast attack, and great realistic placement, piano range sound the best in 2-8khz range and became less agressive in upper high note, wich are rare, butwill benifit extra decay and brilliance from perhaps brighter soundsignature. Anyway, this is if you want to heard the piano as if you have your head into its body, wich yes, sometime I like! But when piano have to mix with other instrument including human voice of a soprano, it can cause messy decays mixing in upper range, nto with the E2000 sound maestro tough. Anyway, I think there some extra treble texture tweak in upper range that permit microdetails to smoothly appear and this is another ‘’tour de force’’ from Final audio engineer. We have a musicaly enjoyable treble presentation that follow a natural hearing curve without ever sound artificial or forced, if you search for cold ultra analytical sounding earphones, the E2000 aren’t for you, but if you want great smooth but lively and sometime even revealing musicality, this is the reference budgt iem gem to think about.



IN FEWS WORDS :



-BASS is well define, neither exaggerated, artificial or boomy and have a lively realist punch with good control.

-MIDS have extra presence without harshness, are well centered, intimate and transparent.

-HIGH are extra smooth, well layered and easily hearable until 12khz peak.



COMPARAISONS :


VS ALPHA & DELTA D6 (100$) :


The D6 earphone are a favorite of mine, and before hearingthe Final Audio E serie I was considering themquite neutral, well, now, I would say they are more mid centric but still very well balanced and excellent sounding.

Compared to E2000 they feel sure brighter, and the bass is less bodied as well as having less sub extension. Its less punchy and lively with the exception of fowarded mid range, wich feel more wide and immersive but as well more prompt to sibilance in upper mids. The E2000 is more balanced and vocal are just lightly abot rest of spectrum with great transparency but intimate presentation, D6 is more spectacular and textured, wider and airier sounding but less transparent wich interfer with overall resolution. This L soundsignature of D6 vs a rounded up W one with highs treble roll off give an overall wider soundstage, near hall like, but overaly satureted by treble sometime. It make the E2000 more versatile and mature fatigue free sound, while D6 more exciting for some very specific music tracks where you want extra mids and highs presence.


Construction of D6 is from another level, the 8 cores SPC plated cable is incredible and the housing look invicible. I’m not afraid of durability with the D6, not sure for the 40$ E2000 that well, look like a 40$ earphones….but is far from sounding like one. Both create some slight cable microphonic, and about comfort, E2000 win due to light and extremely small housing wich permit you to sleep with them and make beautifull baroque dreams.



VS TIN AUDIO T2 (50$):


Another favorite of mine and one of the chifi best achievment in term of tuning and construction under 100$, the T2 earn a justifyadmiration from lot of budget audiophile.

Compared to the E2000, they have a more airy sound with slightly brigher tone in mids and highs, but again, feel less linear and well balanced with sometime shooty upper mids or out of phase

The WOW effect is more immediate with T2, wich give very wide and airy soundstage, but after the brain adjustment, some unpleasant about tuning appear and can make you lay with volume control while with the E2000 its the opposite, more and more you listen to them and more and more you are fascinated by what you hear. T2 have more sub bass that isn’t well separated from the mid bass lacking resolution and punch, wich make overall presentation slower than E2000 and can even decay until lower mids region. The vocal are more fowards and full bodied, they have great presence that really is a joy to listen too with smooth signing as well as male vocal, but as I listen mustly to female signer upper mids can be problematic, as well, whole presentation in they end is less realist and linear than E2000 with the more intimate well resolve and transparent mids. We can dig more details in 6khz-10khz region wich give better natural layering to the E2000, while the T2 spot light in a energic whay some micro details, again, percussion will sound more natural and less splashy with more balanced E2000 tuning but less airy too. All in all, for treble sensitive E2000 is sure the way too go, as well as for a more refined musicality, but if you search mid centric wow effect and very wide airy sound and only listen limited music style, T2 isn’t a bad bet at all.


Construction of Tin Audio T2 is incredible and I would say that even if they were sell for 100$, it have detachable SPC cable too, but mine go green after 2 weeks (suppose to be solve with new batch). Anyway, comfort was a big issue for me, so I finaly just wear them over hear. So, better construction and accesories, but less comfortable that E2000.




VS ZS10 (55$):

Compared to E2000, ZS10 sound like a giant Pollock painting while E2000 sound like a Rembrandt.

Even if the sound canvas is bigger, thanks to its Dynamic driver and 4 ba’s, it strangely sound more mudded because of double sub bass bleed into mid bass and mid bass punch decay into lower mids, This can pass with modern jazz trio, but still, it will feel unbalanced and bassy and shouty, wich make me either lower or increase the volume depending of music I play….sigh. Yeah, i’m distract by lot of clumsy colouring with the ZS10, bass lack the transparency of E2000 as well as its tighness, and well, as said, the natural balance. For mids, its very fowards and upper mids create sibilance. Treble is perhaps more sparkly, but again, its a drawback as when I put solo harpsichord it decay and attack sound out of phase and feel like there more than one instrument in there. With the E2000, one would think it sound warmer , well, only compared to brightish artificial treble of ZS10, because I can find more details and natural texture in violin, while the harpsichord have fuller pitch and sound actually like a single instrument in the middle of a room. So, yeah, ZS10 is for people that wanna go check last transformer movie with there ears while E2000 are for the one that want to listen a lively natural music concert well mastered or in acoustic room.

About comfort, let’s pass and just look the picture and well, understand we are in complete opposite world from sound to construction design (okay, I must admit I laugh alot doing this comparaison, but it was needed).



VS (twin brother?) FINAL AUDIO DESIGN E3000 :

These two little brothers have the same size, but one look more luxurious due to is polish stainless steel finish that caught they eyes. As well, little brother E2000 have a slightly higher sound pressure being 102db vs 100db of E3000.

E serie is all about sublte soundsignature change or improvment. Here, using different housing construction, we already have surely some sound change but that’s not all

E3000 is even smoother in attack than E2000, with a hint more low end extension, wich give a fuller warmer soundsignature. Soundstage feel a little less airy than its brother and mids have more thickness to it wich give them more weight. Treble is even more smooth and could well became the best 50$ iem for treble sensitive audiophile, as it give buttery vocal that never hiss or shout. There a little extra texture in 3khz region to help separation from mid bass and lower mids as well as give extra clarity to snare, that with the well rendered natural percussion add extra energy to a very smooth musicality. The E2000 sound more W shape with a more lively presentation but both sound very similar in they end.





CONCLUSION :

In term of sound, the E2000 are an incredible tuning achievment that will please as much serious audiophile as music lover searching for a versatile natural sounding earphones. To me, in term of reference musicality, they are among the best serious iem under 100$ I ever try. This is how real audiophile iem should sound for long listening session, and the fact they are so small make them a 24h on 24 joy. Pair them with a great audio source and they will be a smooth but revealing wonder.

Introduction

I am following Final Audio Design a few years now. In its current form, it is a relatively young company; Final’s first headphone and earphone products appeared just about 10 years ago, and what impressed me is that in a short amount of time the Company made huge steps.

A few years ago, Final presented its E series earphones. This comprises of 5 models, from E1000 to E5000, ranging in price from $27.00 for E1000 to $279.00 for E5000, so one can find a model for every budget and, Ι have to say, for every taste. E1000 is an entry level set, E2000 and E3000 are inexpensive (in the range of $50.00 to $60.00) but high quality earphones, while E4000 and, particularly, E5000 are upper level sets.

Lately, more and more smartphone users are increasingly paying attention to the quality of their earphones. So I thought to check out some Final Audio earphones, and E2000C/E3000C seemed like the ideal candidates.


General description

E2000C and E3000C have specific similarities and distinct differences. Both sets have the same size housing; however, in E2000C the housing is crafted from aluminum black alumite, while in E3000C it is made from mirror-finished stainless steel. In both sets, the quality is very high, however, the E3000C stainless steel housing looks “classier”.



Both sets have the same oxygen-free coppercable, which seems to be quite sturdy and of very good quality.



Inside the aluminumor stainless steel housing, both E2000C and E3000C share the same 6.4mm dynamic driver; however, the tuning of the driver is different, and so is the sound signature, of the two sets.


Sound quality

Let me start by saying that the sound quality of both sets, although distinctly different, is impressive for earphones costing really little money.

The main characteristic of E2000C and E3000Cis tonal balance. This is more profound in the former, which has a higher resolution and a more detailed presentation. Everything in E2000C goes around the mid frequency area, and in that sense it is ideal for voices, although its treble is excellent as well without being too bright. What is rather interesting is that the set’s bass is more than sufficient, at least for my ears; it is if course sub-bass and, although not really punchy, it is well-controlled and enough for making its presence felt.

E3000C is a different story. Here the bass has been enhanced, but in a very delicate way. The tonal balance has been retained, with clear mids and detailed highs. However, the presentation is warmer (this is effect of bass after all), and if I wanted to compare it to the presentation of E2000C, I would say that E3000C is “meatier”. Most people think that this is good; I say that “meatier” presentation is no better or worse than a kind of “flat” presentation, it is just different (just like eating more or less meat than normal). It is obvious that Final Audio did that deliberately. When E2000 appeared in the market people liked it, but some (or more than some, maybe even many) wanted more bass, and this gap was filled by E3000.



If you ask which of the two sets is more tonally balanced, which for some listeners is a critical question, I would say that E2000C has a head. It also sounds very detailed but, at the same time, somewhat “lean”. E3000C, on the other hand, is warmer, overall more expressive and sufficiently detailed, but its resolution is not at the level of E2000C.

Take as an example “O Vazio” of Jim Brock & Doug Hawthorne, by the Jim Brock Ensemble, from the album Tropic Affair, RR-31, which is a very complex piece, varying from some kind of “test” tones at various frequencies to some very powerful parts with a lot of alterations; it is perfect for testing an earphone set, and I frequently use it. Both sets handle this piece impressively; E2000C can reproduce details that other earphone sets would surpass, while E3000C’s presentation is very engaging particularly in the heavy drum passages. On the other hand, listening to “Nothing but the best” by Frank Sinatra, from the album with the same title, Reprise Records, the warmer signature of E3000C would probably be a preferred choice by many listeners over the more detailed presentation of E2000C, as it lets Frank Sinatra’s voice to stand out without any destructions that certain high passages might cause.

Both sets have excellent separation and very good soundstage. It is also interesting that E2000C appears slightly more dynamic than E3000C, given that both sets have the same very low impedance of 16 Ω, while E2000C has slightly higher sensitivity 102 dB/mW over 100 dB/mW of E3000C.

Let me close by saying that the sound quality of both E2000C and E3000C improves with time, so some “burning in” period (of about 50 hours in my case) is necessary in order to break themin and let them give you their best potential.


Selected comparisons

I compared E2000C to RHA S500i. A few years ago, S500i was considered a great choice for an inexpensive set that is tonally balanced. It is a set of very high quality, with its housing made of aluminum, and it comes with an excellent woven cable that is anti-tangling. Its impedance is 16 Ω and sensitivity 100 dB/mW, so we are talking pretty much about the same specifications. S500i is quite analytical due to its excessive treble, which at times, as in “Nothing but the best” by Frank Sinatra, is harsh and annoying, while in others, as in “O Vazio” of Jim Brock & Doug Hawthorne, is very lean compared to the full bodied performance of E2000C.

I also compared E3000C to SoundMAGIC E11C. The latter has an impedance of 42 Ω and a sensitivity of 112 dB/mW,so it is a bit heavier load but a more sensitive set than E3000C. E11C is great for commuting and everydays use, but E3000C has higher resolution, and overall a more detailed and articulate presentation, so it is at a higher level than the already very good E11C. Now, keep in mind that when we are talking about earphones costing around $50-$60, improving the quality is not a small feat. E11C, on the other hand, is slightly more dynamic, due to its bigger driver of 10mm compared to the 6.4mm driver of E3000C.


Accessories and fit

Both samples of E2000C and E3000C came in a simple, yet aesthetically nice, packaging, in which one would find:

• Five eartip sets of various sizes.
• Two earhooks.
• A soft carrying case.
• An owner’s guide and warranty card.

So pretty much what a listener would need.

Both sets are made for use with a smartphone, so they are equipped with a controller. This has a single button, which can play, stop, rewind, fast forward and take incoming calls. Also, the accompanying microphone makes hands free communication possible.

Finding a proper eartip is easy, and once you do, fitting E2000C and E3000C in your ear canals is simple and very comfortable; both sets are light-weight and equipped with a swing-fitting earpiece mechanism which helps to almost custom-fit the eartips. The provided earhooks are also helpful in order to alleviate cable touch noise, known as microphonics. Now, assuming that the listener has found the right size eartip, the level of sealing achieved is excellent noise isolation.

As already mentioned, the cable is oxygen-free copper, 1.2m long, there seems to be of very good quality, and with the help of the supplied earhooks is not so much susceptible to microphonics.


E2000C vs E3000C

I know that the obvious question is which set one should choose. First of all, let me say that the differences between the two sets are not huge. Nonetheless, Final Audio designed them having in mind different groups of people.

E2000C is for those who consider that tonal balance is the most important characteristic of an earphone set, and, because of that, they are prepared to accept a “leaner” presentation.

E3000C is for those, quite a few I should admit, who appreciate tonal balance, but they want a more expressive presentation, even if this adds some warmth.

Personally, I had a hard time to choose: I love tonally balanced earphones, so I was more inclined towards the E2000C, which bass wise was more than sufficient for me. On the other hand, at times, the little extra warmth of E3000C helped to make certain recordings, with excessive treble, to sound more pleasant. And, the cherry on the torte, the stainless steel housing of E3000C looks so nice!


In conclusion

I have been overly impressed by E2000C and E3000C. It is truly amazing what one gets for $53.00 and $63.00, respectively: A sleek and extremely well made design, with a sound signature so well-balanced and articulate, which makes hard to believe that it comes from sets costing so little. I scratch my head in order to find how Final Audio did that. Based on the two sets quality of both construction and sound, one would easily pay twice as much.

And if you have a hard time to choose between the two sets, their small price allows you to buy both, which after all might be a clever idea!


Specifications and price

E2000C
Housing: Aluminum black alumite
Driver: Dynamic 6.4mm
Impedance: 16Ω
Sensitivity: 102 dB/mW
Cable: 1.2m oxygen-free copper cable
Weight: 13g
Price: $53.00

E3000C
Housing: Stainless steel mirror-finished
Driver: Dynamic 6.4mm
Impedance: 16Ω
Sensitivity: 100 dB/mW
Cable: 1.2m oxygen-free copper cable
Weight: 15g
Price: $63.00

https://snext-final.com