HIFIMAN TWS800

Disclaimer:​

Hifiman provided me with a review sample of the HIFIMAN TWS 800, for which I am grateful!

I’m going to be as objective as possible, and being a common audio enthusiast, I will use simple words in this review.

I will highlight what I liked and what I didn’t, without any fear.

This is another extremely expensive TWS, and for anyone interested in purchasing it, I hope my review will help them with their choice.


So I’m not going to use super-technical words to review it, but I will do my best to describe it.


My review won’t be the most technical you will find online, but I hope you like it.

Tech Specs:​

• Driver: Topology diaphragm
• Case Battery: 31.5hrs
• TWS Battery: 4.5hrs
• Bluetooth Version : Bluetooth 5.0
• Frequency Response : 20Hz-20kHz
• Music Playback Time : 4.5 Hours + 27 Hours
• Earphones charging time : 1 Hour
• Charging Case charging time : 2 Hours
• Weight of charging case : 74.4g
• Weight of one earphone : 6.9g
• Standby time : 140
• Waterproof: IPX4
• Transmission Distance: up to 15m (barrier-free transmission)

Packaging:​

I will be very honest! For a similar product, I would have expected a more luxurious (and useless) box. We find the charging case and the HIFIMAN TWS 800; under them are the tips and the charging cable. I have to admit that the cable is not premium but standard, and the tips, unfortunately, apart from the quantity, aren’t that good. One of them is defective, as you can see from the photos. I don’t want to be too rigid in my evaluation, but considering the price, I’m expecting good tips to be included in the packaging. However, I found the ones that I like and that fit like a glove.


Accessories included:

• 7 pairs of tips
• Charging cable
• Carrying bag
• Manual + warranty online

Design/Build Quality:​

As we have already seen on the Svanar Wireless HIFIMAN adopts extreme designs The HIFIMAN TWS 800 charging case is quite minimal; the exterior is made of metal (it’s cold to the touch) with a matte or satin finish. The choice is stylish but I have seen in use that it is easily damaged if it takes small knocks. Behind us we find the type C for charging and below the specifications. Inside the case, we can see the charge indicator with 4 orange LEDs.


Opening the charging case, we again see two unidentified objects: alien shapes, difficult to describe but intriguing. The faceplate is boomerang-shaped, while the TWS extends almost like a deep-insertion IEM. The Svanar Wireless, in comparison, is an IEM, while the TWS 800 is a hybrid, like a fusion of two concepts. The faceplate is not made of metal, as it would seem at first glance but is made of plastic. Underneath, we find the chip with the DAC and the status LEDs. The other part with a metallic finish, however, seems to be really metal, as does the nozzle.


I can’t tell you how they managed to develop such a shell design but I’ll tell you about comfort later.

Built-in Technology:​

DAC

There is a driver with a topology diagram and 150 ohm impedance! I don’t know if it’s the quality of the DD or the different tuning but it doesn’t sound like the Svanar Wireless. Obviously, to move the driver with such high impedance, there are two DACs but nothing else is specified. It has Bluetooth 5.0 but does not have the highest-performing codecs and is limited to AAC and SBC.

Fit & Comfort:​

But, if we’re honest, the shape of the shell isn’t that intuitive. The first time I picked them up, I didn’t know exactly what to do. I was totally confused by the shape. Fortunately, among the many tips, I found the right ones. With a little training, I understood that you need to screw them into your ear until you reach the correct position. Despite their shape, they are comfortable and stable too! Incredible!


The length of the nozzle this time does not create problems with the choice of tips, but you still need to choose something that is halfway between a deep insertion and a light one.

Tips Rolling:​

This time, I didn’t have to search for the perfect tips But as for the HIFIMAN Svanar Wireless, the most suitable here too is the Divinus Velvet. However, they are not strictly necessary here, as there is an almost similar model included.

Functionality & Features:​

The HIFIMAN TWS800 has few features compared to the price. On the market, we find $30 TWS with apps, ANC, and more, while here we have none of this. Furthermore, the best codecs are missing.


Fortunately, the faceplates are touch-sensitive and allow you to perform all tasks easily.


The integrated microphone is absolutely not at the level of the AirPods but it is very sensitive to external noises and especially to the wind.

Gestures for Calls & Music:​

• Answer call: press once, either earbud twice
• End call: While in a call, press once the left or right earbud
• Reject call: Press and hold either earbud for 2 seconds
• Voice assistant: Long press the right earbud (R) for 3 seconds
• To Play/Pause: Touch the right or left earbud to pause the track, and touch it again to continue playing.
• Increase volume: double press the right earbud
• Reduce Volume: Double press the left earbud
• To rewind to the previous track With earbuds in operation, triple-click the right earbud
• To Skip to the Next Track With earbuds in operation, triple-click the left earbud.

Audio Codecs:​

The HIFIMAN TWS 800 is equipped with Bluetooth 5.0, but they do not have many codecs available; in fact, we have just AAC and SBC available. Unfortunately, there is no APTX or LDAC support. The range is remarkable; if there are no obstacles, there is great stability.


I think it is appropriate to say that for the asking price you would at least want to have APTX support.


Equipment used for testing above


Device:

• Poco M4 Pro

Software:

• Amazon music UHD 24bit 96kHz

Sound impressions:​

I start by saying that they are quite natural and balanced. The low frequencies have a very good extension without being intrusive. The mids sound a little bit too warm for my personal taste, but the treble extension is smoothed up.


According to some other reviewers, the tuning is better than that of the TWS 600. I would define it as typical Hifiman, very balanced and natural, with a touch of warmth along the entire spectrum. Regarding the perceived resolution, in my opinion, it is not up to the asking price. But I think the reason is to keep the trebles very relaxed


We only have one mode instead of several, as on the Svanar. The performance is amazing and the volume is moderately high without being overpowering, considering that 150 ohms is not exactly a walk in the park.

Treble​

They sound natural but the high frequencies remain very safe. They are never sibilant or harsh, even at high volumes. I would have liked something more to help the mids and the whole image quality perception. The final result, although different from expectations, is still pleasant.

Mids​

The mids, in my opinion, are decidedly warm compared to neutrality. At times, I notice a certain nasality in the tone. They are pleasant and not forwarded but they lack a touch of extra sparkle that would make the voices and musical instruments more alive. However, they stand out in the foreground compared to the rest and the warm timbre helps some instruments have greater depth. I like them but maybe it’s missing a bit of upper-mids.

Bass​

The bass has more impact or perhaps it is better to say that the mid-bass does the bulk of the work. I think when it comes to the sub-bass, there is a defined roll-off. . For TWS, they’re not bad at all but pretty natural.

Soundstage & Imaging:​

The soundstage is quite wide and deep! It’s not unnatural, but it’s truly remarkable! While the image is very defined, everything is in its place, but the very safe sound timbre makes them less resolute than expected.

Fast Comparison:​

I do not have many TWS, and the ones I do have are not up to par with these, so comparing them to the Hifiman Svanar Wireless is pointless.


Vs HIFIMAN Svanar Wireless




Despite the problems that you can read in my full review, the Svanar Wireless has a different tuning, much brighter but not annoying and the resolution seems to be of a completely different level. It goes without saying that I prefer them but we are talking about really high prices for many people’s pockets.


But currently, there are new variants of the Svanar that cost the same as these and if they used the same driver and maintained the same tuning as their older sister, then they could be an excellent alternative.


The soundstage is very similar but everything sounds more vivid and resolute. There is also more energy and the perception of high resolution is tangible. You struggle to imagine having a wireless device in your ears.

Conclusion:​

I’ll start by telling you that I haven’t become a big TWS fan yet. I usually listen to music at home so I don’t really need wireless devices. I usually stay on the sofa, at the PC, or in bed. Let’s say that I find Bluetooth DACs like the Muse M4 HiFi more sensible as they allow me more versatility. The Hifiman TWS 800 is a very expensive TWS. Speaking of wired IEMs, we find for example, the Hidizs MP145 planar ones, which are truly amazing. After all, the TWS 800 is now an outdated model with an improved successor already. They have a shape that is not necessarily liked or comfortable for everyone. The autonomy of a single charge is not very high and considering the possible battery deterioration, it could be reduced quickly. If you are well aware of what you have just read, then you know that it has a warm natural timbre, a wide soundstage, an extremely precise separation, but a below-average definition due to the choice to keep the treble area very relaxing.

Where to buy:​

Hifiman Official Site

Firslty I would like to thank HiFiMAN for sending me the new TWS800 for review.

*disclaimer: This sample was provided for the purpose of writing a review, no incentive was given to write a favourable review. All opinions expressed are my own subjective findings

Gear Used:
Pixel 3a > TWS800 (Silicone Tips)



Tech Specs:
https://store.hifiman.com/index.php/tws800.html

Packaging, Build Quality and Accessories:

The TWS800 come in a fairly basic box with the model pictured on the front and information about the IEM’s on the back. Open the box and you’ll find the metal charging case in a foam insert, with the earphones above them. Underneath this foam you will find the included accessories, the box isn’t big or flashy but does the right job at looking attractive whilst minimising waste.

The charging case feels really good, it’s metal which means it will scratch but it’s deep enough to house the earphones with most tips attached which is a bonus. The earphones themselves have a metal faceplate and nozzle, whilst the main body is plastic. They feel very well put together and I don’t see any build quality issues.

Accessory wise you get a soft carry pouch to prevent the metal case from getting scratched, a USB-C charging cable and quite an impressive assortment of tips (8 pairs, including single flange, bi-flange and triple flange tips). I really like how many tips are included as it ensures most users will easily find a tip style and size that fits them.

Comfort and Features:

The TWS800 are big, the housings are exactly discreet and due to my narrow canals they stick out and look a bit silly in use. Not a problem for those gifted with normal size ears, but for us small eared folk I don’t find the design do work very well in terms of looks. Fit wise though they are secure and feel comfortable once inserted.

The TWS800 give roughly 4.5hrs of music playback, this is not very impressive against the competition but then again these house a driver with an impedance of 150Ohms. This means HiFiMAN are also using a separate amp circuit after the bluetooth receiver to improve sound quality, at the cost of battery life. They use Bluetooth 5.0, but only support SBC and AAC, lacking Aptx and LDAC which is a real shame when these are designed for high quality audio playback. The touch controls work well once you get used to them, they are IPX4 rated against water/dust and the case provides another 6 complete charges.



Sound:

Bass: Smooth, soft and controlled is how I would describe the bass of the TWS800, it doesn’t hit hard or in huge quantities but it has a very effortless low end that brings a sense of warmth to the overall sound. There is great extension down in to the sub-bass and good articulation in the mid-bass (well recorded bass guitars sound great), but it is always controlled and never becomes too much. One thing I do think is that they do sound a bit flat down low, whilst there is good body, there’s not a lot of energy and kicks can come across a bit muted at times. These definitely handle calmer/softer genres better than fast rock or more upbeat pop. It’s not that they don’t sound good with those genres, but they just sound a bit boring.

Midrange: The midrange on the other hand has quite a nice balance to it, well separate from the bass but with a hint of sweetness to them. Layering is a strong point for the midrange, different vocal tracks can be easily distinguished, and guitars occupy a very different space within the soundstage which is great. There’s also a good amount of detail on show, and the midrange doesn’t seem to favour upper or lower mids, being fairly linear across the board. There isn’t any added energy in the upper midrange, which leads to a fatigue free sound without sibilance. Bluesy acoustic kind of tracks sound wonderful on the TWS800, with great depth and detail with a natural tonality to them too.

Treble: The TWS800 is very smooth up top, devoid of any nasty treble peaks there is good presence and extension but all in a moderate quantity which means you don’t always notice it’s there. They almost sound dark at times with a lack of upper frequencies, but then you just realise that due to the wide soundstage they are placed differently to most earphones and have a far less aggressive delivery. It’s really hard to fault the delivery, I normally prefer a more upfront delivery in the treble region but with the right music the TWS800 really do nail it, snares are snappy, and the extension really is impressive with a very slight and smooth roll off.

Soundstaging is excellent, it’s open and airy and each instrument occupies it’s own little space in it. Layering is also great, you can easily pick apart recordings yet they are delivered in a coherent way.



Conclusion:
HiFiMAN stepped into the TWS world with the TWS600 which had it’s pro’s and con’s, but the TWS800 is a huge improvement overall. They are a very refined and natural sounding earphone, and paired with the right music are an absolute pleasure to listen to. They are not boosted in any frequency range, and lack a certain wow factor. They are also not the most engaging listen due to this, but calmer acoustic / blues / jazz and the likes just sounds effortless. However the lack of aggression in the sound signature does mean they can sound a little flat with more energetic genres (Metal etc…).

This kind of sound quality from something true wireless is very impressive, it does come at a cost though ($299) and lower battery life compared to the competition. Don’t let this put you off though, as these sound as good as many wired counterparts, and if you want a smooth and refined sound signature these definitely deliver it.

Sound Perfection Rating: 8/10 (ergonomics could be better)

The TWS800 sample was kindly provided by HiFiMan and is still under their ownership.
This is my honest and subjective evaluation of it.

Introduction.

True Wireless earphones are becoming more and more popular so it is not of a surprise that traditional brands like HiFiMan design such products putting a lot of effort towards a more audiophile sound quality.





Technical parameters.

The TWS800 is a True Wireless Bluetooth 5.0 earphone with the codec support limited to AAC and SBC.
The retail price is $299.
https://store.hifiman.com/index.php/tws800.html?SID=05q6ajtetbpedqk1sdgdht2de6

The TWS800 is an upgraded version of the previous TWS600 model featuring the same unique topology diaphragm dynamic driver.

But this time HiFiMan opted for a more sophisticated and audiophile structure inside including a 150Ω high impedance driver and a discrete amplifier in order to drive it properly.
The "Topology diaphragm" refers to a diaphragm featuring a special nanoparticle coating applied to the surface.
The result is a more natural and detailed sound than that is typically achieved with True Wireless earphones.
The different shape of the nano size coating on the diaphragm has a positive effect on the tuning.

Most True Wireless earphones in order to maintain large battery life rely on the bluetooth chipset embedded amplifier that is suitable only for sensitive drivers that usually lack on bass department.
HiFiMan in order to address the problem and offer better bass response opted for the high impedance driver and a discrete amplifier section.
Such amplifiers need high current flow in order to power the driver so a larger power supply was needed and unfortunately the shell size had to be increased in order to accommodate the whole circuit.



Build quality.

The shells are made from a combination of shiny metal and plastic with very good build quality and a nice finish to them.
They are quite elegant looking and they resemble custom in ear monitors.
One small status LED is found under the faceplate and it will flash between red and blue according to the operation.

The newly designed charging case is made of plastic with aluminium reinforcements to the outside that add a classy appearance to it.
The lid stays in place thanks to a hidden magnet as for the earpieces they are magnetically attached.
The depth inside is improved and can accommodate the earpieces even with the long triple flange ear tips.
A small four LED indicator inside the case will show the remaining battery life so the only way to check it is to open the case.



The earphones are IPX4 certified and they weigh 6.9gr each as for the case is small and discreet and fits easily inside a pocket.
Dimensions are about 7.5x4.5x3cm and the weight is 57.7gr without the earpieces.

Battery performance

Inside the case is housed a large capacity 800mAh battery that can give about 5 extra charges which translates to an extra 20-25 hours of playback more or less.
Every charge can provide the earphones with 4-5 hours of music playback.
Earpieces fully charge in one hour and the case needs about two hours.

Accessories.

Inside the box we are going to find a velour pouch , a USB A-C cable and a large selection of ear tips including double and triple flange at a total of eight pairs.



Comfort and fit.

The shells are quite bulky but they are lightweight and cleverly designed with a custom like anatomical shape and an extra long nozzle.
As that and thanks to the wide selection of ear tips the fit is very comfortable and stress free.
They are fitted with a twisting action and then they stay at place without causing discomfort even after prolonged use time.
Passive noise attenuation is very good and we have nothing to complain about.



Operation.

The touch control operation is quite simple and cannot be customized due to the absence of a supporting application.
Both earpieces feature a touch control pad that we only need to touch and click in order to activate the various operations as various gestures are not supported.



Bluetooth.

Bluetooth connection is stable without any drop outs or cut offs with good working distance as long as we are not between wide walls.

Re-connection with a known device is fast and will take place a few seconds after we pull out the ear piece from the case.
We can choose between either to answer calls or both to listen to music.

Unfortunately auto or manual power off is not available so in order to preserve battery we have to place them inside the case.
Call quality for the answerer is good but not quite so for the caller as the single microphone is nothing special to talk about.



Sound impressions.

The overall tuning is very balanced with good clarity and sufficient enough resolution or at least as much as the entry level codecs would allow.

Bass is extended and full but you want call it very visceral as it is rather on the lean side but still hard hitting.
It is super fast and tight with great layering to handle busy passages aimed by the ample detail.
There is no bloat at all and the transition to the mids is accomplished with great linearity.

You can certainly tell that there is something special going on regarding the driver and the discrete amplifier because the TWS800 sails ahead of the competition regarding macro dynamics , slam and overall sense of reality.
There is also a well implemented soundscape with precise positioning and good space allocation.

Mids are natural sounding with good articulation and full bodied.
Timbre is done right and the presentation is only a little forward just to make things more alive and exciting never being dull and boring.

Reaching higher the clarity and timbre are more or less retained but extension and fidelity are restrained by the absence of aptX or other high-resolution codecs.

In order to be honest we must confess that the TWS800 seems to be painstakingly tuned in order to address this problem because it never sounds harsh or fatiguing.

It is good as it is but it is a pity because it could be a lot better.
The TWS800 is designed around cleverly thought and implemented hardware but with a performance held back by the software.



At the end

To be honest we are a little upset with HiFiMan and the TWS800 but not because it is a bad performer.
On the contrary it is one of the best TWS earphones we have heard with a truly great performance and an audiophile tuning.
But it is only great while it could be truly exceptional just by adding a higher resolution codec in order to achieve greater extension and fidelity.
So while the HiFiMan TWS800 is one of the very few audiophile oriented TWS in existence there is still room for improvement and we are sure that HiFiMan is already back to the drawing board designing the next generation.
Till then the TWS800 is an excellent TWS strongly focused around music pleasure and it is highly recommended.

The test playlist - http://open.qobuz.com/playlist/5669033

Copyright - Laskis Petros 2021.