iBasso IT01X

General Information

iBasso IT01X is the latest single Dynamic Driver IEM set from the house of iBasso. It brings together years of HiFi audio research and development by professional engineers at iBasso to deliver a product with excellent sound performance and outstanding craftsmanship.

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Features:-​

>Premium Brass Horn Cavities.

>Double-Cavity Dynamic Driver Unit.

>Dual-Plated Diaphragm Material.

>3D Three-Dimensional Suspension Design.

>High-Magnetic Flux.

>HiFi MMCX Replaceable Cable.

>Ergonomic & Comfortable Fit.

>Impedance: 16Ohms.

>Sensitivity: 108dB/mW.

>Distortion: <1%.

>Frequency Response Range: 10Hz-40kHz.


Source: Hifigo


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Latest reviews

Mataudiophiles

New Head-Fier
Realy good!
Pros: - Bas
- Mids
- Sound
- size
- Quality
- Price
Cons: - little short sound stage but only little
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iBasso IT01X

Prelude:

iBasso has convinced me more than once to its philosophy by showing me music anew. This time I bet on the letter X, and the latest ibasso product, IT01X, joined my shopping list. This model is made of aircraft aluminum, and its heart is a double-sided beryllium-plated dynamic transducer with a surface area of just over 10mm. The price in Poland is PLN 520, so is it worth investing so much in this model?

Kit Contents:
This time we have a colorful box with the same tips and mousse inside as in the am05 model, even the tin is the same. So we have a very rich set of accessories consisting of four sets of tips and two pairs of foams. For this we have a great quality SPC copper cable in the 3.5 mm standard with a mmcx plug. I regret a bit that iBasso did not try to balance it, especially that IT01X like electricity very much. Nevertheless, the quality of the cable is very good and fully compensates for the lack of balance on stock. This time iBasso finally improved the nozzles, so we no longer have a problem with falling tips. Even the stock ones are starting to be very useful. This is due to the quite long nozzles in the IT01X, and the stock tips prevent their additional extension, ending practically on a par with the sleeve. The metal can with the iBasso logo is a very useful addition at this price.

Sound and ergonomics:

iBasso IT01X are very small headphones, finished in such a way that they almost completely hide in the ears, you can easily wear a hat with them or lie on your side. Such a small size will be appreciated by both women's and men's ears, because there should be no problem with the implementation of headphones. Now let's look at the sonic layer:

Bass: Definitely a strong element in the IT01X, as befits iBasso, we can rely on the lower registers. We have a very well realized range of lower frequencies with a very good amount of bass notes. The bass is complex and brilliantly depicted for this price range. I have nothing to blame him for. Definitely, the headphones need to warm up and experience a lot of power injection, otherwise the lower registers can be quite average.

Diameter: iBasso IT01X is a signature with a strongly perceptible V, which is beyond any doubt, but the vocals are clearly exposed, boldly go ahead of the line, which narrows the sense of the stage and makes it quite intimate, at the same time their structure and clarity are so beautiful that you have to be careful not to be enchanted by them because it is a really addictive drug. Our favorite singers will sing us a live concert in our home privacy. This presentation suits me very well, but it is not fully universal. It's closer to magic than to references, which in my opinion is an interesting procedure, worth attention and appreciation. Initially, the IT01X may seem like a mediocre choice, but as soon as we give them time, they will reciprocate with a powerful and interesting sound.

Treble: In my opinion, they are well developed. I really like the presentation of string instruments and the lack of sibilants. The amount of highs is good. There was no lack of energy and extension here. They are well stretched and at the same time do not cause fatigue and loss of listening pleasure.

Scene and Imaging:

The stage in IT01X is not the biggest, It is an intimate presentation with more width than depth. I really like the imaging of the plans and the amount of details. We can savor the musicality, while admiring the nuances in the sound.

Summary:

iBasso IT01X are very interesting headphones with quite original and unusual tuning. They may appeal especially to lovers of vocals and pop arrangements. If someone is looking for an intimate sound with a clear and engaging vocal presentation, they should definitely be interested in the above model. These are not universal headphones, but for me they are an indispensable element of everyday life and one of the most interesting purchases. The strength of IT01X is certainly:

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notaris

Head-Fier
Review iBasso IT01X: Perfectly In Tune
Pros: Very balanced sound, with the right amount of taut and well controlled bass, extended but not harsh highs, alive vocals and lovable tonality; very good soundstage and very nice image, great dynamics and excellent separation; overall, great quality and very competitive price.
Cons: It might sound a bit bass shy to some people.
Introduction

iBasso is a company that does not need any introduction. It is one of the Chinese leaders in the audio trade specializing in DAPs, amplifiers, IEMs and accessories. In the past few years, it has presented some very nice IEM sets, among them IT01 and IT01s; both were single dynamic driver IEMs with a very nice sound tuning that got very good reviews.

Recently, iBasso replaced IT01s with IT01X; the “X” in life always stands for the “unknown” or the “surprise” if you want to. When I saw a brief description of it, I immediately understood that it is an IEM that deserves some attention, and it has the potential to bring single dynamic driver IEM at a different level; now, add to this its very competitive price of $119.00, and you have a model that it is hard to pass by. So, I asked for a sample, and here we are!

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Description

All iBasso IEM models have a number of technicalities, but I have to admit that IT01X has (much) more than the usual (fair) amount. So, let me take things one by one:
  • As I already mentioned, IT01X is a single dynamic driver IEM belonging to the “In Tune” iBasso series.
  • IT01X uses, instead of the usual iron, a brass internal cavity. Brass has higher density than iron, and this effectively reduces internal resonance and distortion. In addition, it provides a well-controlled low frequencies without affecting the mid frequencies.
    IT01X brass internal cavity.png
  • IT01X uses a system of brass dual Helmholtz resonators, which are known to improve low-frequencies performance; that way standing waves are cancelled and more natural sound is ensured.
    IT01X dual Helmholtz resonators.png
  • After trying many different materials for the diaphragm of the driver, including Magnesium and Titanium, finally it was chosen to plate both sides of the diaphragm with Beryllium, which is known to be lightweight and extremely rigid. That way it can be driven with ease, while it ensures low distortion, i.e., minimal deformation throughout the whole frequency range, which leads to very accurate reproduction of the whole of the audio spectrum.
  • Another innovation that I have not encountered before is that IT01X uses a three-dimensional suspension. That way it can inhibit, or at least reduce to a substantial extend, the vibration of the driver, thus reducing the distortion and improving sound.
  • Like other iBasso IEMs, IT01X utilizes a high magnetic flux Neodymium-Iron-Boron (NeFeB) magnet, which can drive the thin and lightweight double-sided Beryllium plated diaphragm very efficiently, thus resulting in fast transient response and overall excellent dynamics.
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  • IT01X is accompanied by a Micro-miniature coaxial (MMCX) detachable high-purity oxygen free copper (OFC) cable that is silver plated, with a 3.5mm gold-plated plug and cable splitter made of stainless steel; this is a high quality standard for IEMs costing $200.00 or higher, but it is unusual to find in a set having the price tag of IT01X.
    IT01X cable.png
  • Furthermore, iBasso in IT01X paid attention to every little detail, even the aesthetics of it. The earpieces’ housings are made of aluminum and finished with a metallic paint like that used in luxury cars. The metallic paint adds hardness to the housings together with a beautiful, smooth luster. IT01X is offered in three colors, Black, Blue and Red.
    IT01X earpieces.png
All the above show that IT01X is loaded with technicalities, which again is very unusual for an IEM costing as low as $119.00. Are the technicalities alone the recipe for a great sounding IEM? No, but they are a very important ingredient, and together with a meticulous tuning it can do small miracles. iBasso has a history of 15 years in DAPs, amplifiers and of course IEMs. Particularly in the latter, it is well-known for single dynamic driver or hybrid (dynamic + balanced armature drivers) models. I do remember IT00, which is still in production, and IT01 and IT01s, which have been recently discontinued; all of them are great IEMs. IT01X, essentially, came as the replacement of IT01s; was it a good move? Absolutely, and let me tell you why.


The sound

With IEMs, I always do the usual burn-in of about 50 hours; it’s not that without this the IEMs do not sound right, but rather that the burn-in helps them to reach their full potential. Now, much more important than the technical burn-in, I consider the so-called phycological burn-in, which helps the listener to get acquainted with the IEM; in that sense, the phycological burn-in does not actually have a limit, and the more you listen to the better you get to know the IEM.

Based on the above, IT01X has a very balanced and natural sound, more so than the vast majority of the IEMs that I have tried; it is not V or even U shaped, it is nicely balanced and very relaxing. However, IT01X’s biggest merit, soundwise, is its beautiful tonality, and for me this is the most important characteristic of an IEM; honestly, I don’t care much about subtle differences in low, mid or high frequencies as long as they collaborate nicely for the final outcome. Among the many IEMs that I have tried, I love the Final tonality in pretty much every model of the company; it is a perfect blend of bass, mid and tremble, all in the right amount for an impeccable final result. Well, I dare to say that IT01X came damn close in matching the Final tonality. I used the latest Final model A4000, which I consider to be a reference IEM in its price category, and in some musical pieces IT01X came so close to A4000 that I had a really hard time to find the difference between the two. This made a big impression on me.

IT01X has almost perfect bass, at least for my taste; it is mainly mid-bass with some amount of sub-bass, it is very taut and always well-controlled. The mid frequencies are never forward or recessed, and female and male vocals are very nicely reproduced without being intimate or cold. The highs are very well extended and open, but not excessive; so, I never felt any kind of roll off, or some kind of harshness or hissing.

On top of the above, IT01X is overall very transparent, maybe not as much as A4000, but well above average with a very clean, clear and detailed sound. It also has a big soundstage, both in width and depth, again not as much as A4000, but certainly well above average, and great image, while its dynamics and separation are outstanding. Furthermore, IT01X is excellent in reproducing fast transients, which is consistent with the double-sided Beryllium plated diaphragm.

I tested IT01X on a variety of musical genres. I started with the classic songs “The Look of Love” by Diana Krall, from the album with the same name, Verve; “She’s Got Her Ticket” by Tracy Chapman from the album with her name, Elektra/Asylum Records; “Texas Sun” by Khruangbin and Leon Bridges from the album with the same name, Dead Oceans; “One More Second” by Matt Berninger from the album Serpentine Prison, Concord Records; as well as many different songs of Dire Straits from the album Sultans Of Swing – The Very Best of Dire Straits, Mercury Records Limited. In all of them, I could not find something that was forward or recessed; instead the performance was always accurate and relaxing. So, IT01X qualifies for a great all-rounder compared to other IEMs which are appropriate (only) for specific genres. Then I tried “Move” by Hiromi (Uehara), from the album with the same name, Telarc International. This is a very complex piece, with Hiromi on piano, Anthony Jackson on bass, and Simon Phillips on drums. It is very difficult to catch the powerful and fast playing of Hiromi and Phillips, complemented by the beautiful bass tones of Jackson, and IT01X went through the fast transients in an exemplary way. The same was the case with “Fanfare for the Volunteer” by Mark O’Connor, from the album with the same name, Sony Classical. This is a very demanding Orchestral piece composed by O’Connor, and played by him on the violin and London Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of Steven Mercurio. It has many ups-and- downs, which is very common in Orchestral music. IT01X delivered the piece in a masterful way; I was particularly impressed by the fact that during the (very) high ups I did not notice even the slightest distortion, which that alone is not a small feat.

Is IT01X unforgiving? I would say that although it is not the most unforgiving IEM among those that I have tried so far, it is nonetheless extremely accurate, and this is a real challenge for a designer.


Selected comparisons

I first chose to compare IT01X to iBasso IT00, as this is the other single dynamic driver IEM of iBasso having an MSRP of $69.00. IT00 has a 10 mm multi-layered Graphene diaphragm, a customized magnet and a dual Helmholtz resonator. So, from the technicalities point of view, IT00 is certainly behind IT01X. It also has an MMCX high purity OFC cable, although not of the same quality as the IT01X cable, while the earpieces’ housings are made of very good quality plastic. IT01X is of higher quality and aesthetics, and although the latter is a matter of preference, I personally prefer its looks over the looks of IT00. The quality of IT00 is very good, too, but IT01X is more luxurious. Soundwise IT00 is balanced on the warm side, although it is by no means “bassy”; IT01X is certainly more “neutral”, although the difference is not big. The highs are quite revealing and extended in both of them, without any impression of roll off. The vocals, both female and male, although not intimate, are not recessed or lacking liveliness, while the warmth of IT00 is reflected to a certain extend in some female vocals. Where IT01X has a clear head is that its sound is more delicate and refined, with more details; it is better defined and more clear, with higher transparency. The difference is not big, but it is there. The soundstage is about the same in both of them, and although not huge, it is very good, both in width and depth, and certainly well above the average among IEMs of this price categoty. IT01X has slightly better image, while IT00 has slightly better dynamics, while both have excellent separation. Overall, IT01X is a clear improvement of the already very good IT00, and it does worth the extra $50.00 by all means, at least for me.

I then compared IT01X to the Final A4000. Final is known for making excellent IEMs, and A4000 is one of the two (the other being A3000) recent additions to the A series, in which also belongs the legendary A8000. Both A4000 and A3000 have a newly designed driver, which is really unique as to its technical innovations as well as its difficult manufacturing; the diaphragm is from Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) and pushed to its limit, which together with a Copper-clad aluminum wire (CCAW) voice coil, a reduced gap between the magnet and the voice coil and a copper housing, has taken the performance of the new driver to a very high level. A4000’s MSRP is $159.00, so I thought I could compare it to IT01X. Undoubtedly, IT01X housing is of higher quality and looks more luxurious compared to the housing of A4000, which is made from ABS resin. Soundwise, A4000 has the beautiful Final tonality, with this slight touch of warmth that makes the sound very relaxing, yet revealing, with amazing transparency and huge, for such a small driver, soundstage. IT01X is slightly colder, but equally revealing, although the transparency and soundstage are not at the same level. However, IT01X has better dynamics, while image and separation is great in both of them. One thing I ought to mention again is that IT01X’s tonality approaches that of A4000 more than any other IEM I have tried for quite some time; so, I came to love IT01X as much as I do A4000.


Accessories and fit

The exterior box of IT01X is aesthetically very nice and inside it the user will find, besides the IEM and cable:
  • 9 different sets of silicon eartips and 2 sets of foam eartips in various sizes (S,M,L).
  • An extra set of screw on filters, in case that you need s replacement.
  • A beautiful metal case of excellent quality for carrying and storing IT01X.
  • A Quick Start Guide.
  • A warranty card.
IT01X is very lightweight, and its earpieces are quite small (much smaller than the earpieces of IT00) and of a very ergonomic design. So, assuming that you found the right shape and size of eartips (which is not difficult given the many available choices), IT01X will fit very well in your eardrum without any feeling of oppression.

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Furthermore, the eartips are nicely designed, providing a high level of sound isolation, so ambient noise with IT01X was never a problem.

Finally, as already mentioned, the cable of IT01X is a MMCX connector OFC cable of high quality and not susceptible to microphonics.


In conclusion

When I read IT01X’s description, I was really impressed, while the quality of the earpieces and cable looked great. So, the ingredients were there, but what about the performance? I have to admit that it surpassed my expectations, and I mean it! IT01X’s sound is very balanced, with the right amount of taut and well controlled bass, extended but never harsh highs, alive vocals and lovable tonality. Moreover, IT01X has a very good soundstage and very nice image, great dynamics and excellent separation.

If one would ask me for an IT01X weakness, I honestly would be hard pressed to find one. If you add to all of these a price tag of (only) $119.00, then IT01X is a clear winner. If you are in the market for an IEM set, you ought to give it a try. You would most likely find your winner!


Specifications

Housing: Aluminum metallic finish
Driver: 10 mm Dynamic driver
Frequency response: 10 Hz – 40 kHz
Sensitivity: 108 +/- 2 dB
Impedance: 16 Ω
Noise attenuation: -26 db
T.H.D.: <1% at 1 kHz / 1 mW
Plug size: Gold plated 3.5 mm
Cord length: 1.2m
Weight: 7.0 gr without cable
Price: $119.00

www.iBasso.com

Reviewer’s note: The reviewer is grateful to Paul Hu at iBasso Audio for sending him a sample of IT01X.
M
msvrthexkid
How do you do that 50Hours of Burn-In please!? how is that process and I've seen people saying burn in might do some damage to earphones too. So please let me know.
notaris
notaris
Hello,

The simple way to do it is by connecting the IEMs to a source, say a CD player or a platform, that plays continuously for a little over two full days (~50 hours).

The critical thing is to keep the volume at reasonable levels, as you do not need excessive volume levels for burning in an IEM. After all, you can, in theory, damage an IEM even after the burn in period; I am saying "in theory", because before damaging the IEM set, you probably will damage your ears, which is much more serious than even an expensive IEM set.

I hope that I have answered your question.
M
msvrthexkid
Hahahaha,

that was one of the most detailed answer on a funnier note. Thanks Brother. :)

Ichos

Reviewer at hxosplus
"In Tune" for some serious fun!
Pros: - Fun and highly enjoyable tuning
- Smooth and forgiving
- Bassy
- Good technicalities
- Very comfortable
- Nice looking
- Small size
- Good quality cable
- Great assortment of ear tips that allow for fine tuning
- Carrying case
- Price
Cons: - Nothing as long you are after such tuning
- Some kind of ear tips holder / sorting could be useful
The IT01X was kindly provided free of charge by iBasso.
They have never asked for a favorable review and this is my honest and subjective evaluation of it.
All links provided are not affiliated and I don't earn anything by clicking on them.

Introduction

The IT01X is a new budget friendly, single dynamic driver earphone by iBasso, positioned between the IT00 and the IT01S.
The price in EU is about €120 and you can buy it from here

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Technical specifications

Unlike many other IEMs with an iron internal cavity, the IT01X
uses brass for the inner dynamic driver cavity.
The higher density of brass can effectively reduce resonance and
reduce distortion.
This special internal cavity provides a
deep and powerful low frequency along with an engaging
mid frequency.
The unique brass dual Helmholtz resonators provide a deep
and powerful bass that cancel standing waves and ensures
full natural sound.

IT01X-0507_02.jpg


Each side of the driver is plated with beryllium which has a density of only 1/2 of that of titanium.
The lighter weight diaphragm allows. the IT01X to be driven with ease.
The double-sided beryllium-plated
diaphragm has outstanding rigidity, quick response with extremely low distortion, smaller internal resistance,
wider high frequency bandwidth, and better overall treble extension.
The IT01X utilizes a 3D (three-dimensional) suspension.
It can effectively inhibit the divided vibration of the driver, reduce the distortion, and further improve the sound purity.
The IT01X is rated at 16Ω with a sensitivity of 108dB making it very easy to drive directly from phones and low powered USB dongles.

Appearance and fit

The IT01X is anatomically shaped and the shell is finished with a metallic paint that adds hardness and a nice luxury appearance.
They have a modern twist with the "InTune" logo printed on them and the two tone color scheme.
They are available in black, red and blue.
The tiny shell is very compact and lightweight (7gr each without the cable) so they disappear inside the ear and feel super comfortable.
The fit is tight and secure, offering a stress free user experience and good passive noise attenuation.

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Cable

The IT01X features an MMCX detachable cable made from high purity copper.
The cable is a four braided structure ending in a quality 3.5mm plug and it certainly feels premium with good handling, low microphonic noise and securely fitting MMCX connectors.

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Accessories

The accessory pack is very inclusive and there are four different types of silicon tips with three sizes each, two pairs of memory foam ear tips, a replacement nozzle filter and a rounded high quality aluminium/plastic case to house everything inside.

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Sound impressions

The IT01X is efficient and gets pretty loud with dongles like the ddHiFi TC35B Pro that we have used along with our reference THX Onyx

This is a fun and relaxed sounding iem with the bass tastefully boosted not only in the lower region but also in the mid - bass giving the IT01X a warm and bassy sound signature.
It doesn't reach extreme bass - head levels but it can easily satisfy with all kinds of modern pop and electronic music without any noticeable roll off and with excellent body weight.
This doesn't mean that the earphone isn't suitable for classical and acoustic music, just don't expect it to sound neutral and reference balanced.
The good part is that the bass, although accentuated, is quite controlled and tight, layered and clean enough while it doesn't cloud too much the mid region, letting all instruments be heard without severe masking
Dynamics are good but it is not the most hard hitting or fastest bass presentation with the attacks being on the softer side but it never gets too slow to become sluggish.
Thus said we must note that the various tips work wonders in fine tuning the bass response.
It is possible to achieve a slightly more neutral tuning with less mid bass boost and even make it feel a little more speedy.
Not huge changes but it is certainly worthwhile to experiment and especially if you cycle between various music genres.



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Midrange feels neutral, almost following the target curve without any significant boost up to the treble.
So everything sounds balanced, natural and engaging with the right timbre, vocalists sitting just in front of the orchestra and instrumentalists blending together in a musical and highly involving presentation.
There is a great level of clarity and notes are distinctly heard, well defined and present while retaining ample body weight.

Treble is smooth and controlled but it surely doesn't lack in energy and clarity allowing for some good detail retrieval and giving sound the necessary vividness and bite.
Articulation is quite fine although a kind of metallic timbre is spotted here and there but nothing too much to spoil an otherwise excellent performance.
This is not the most extended treble but on the other side it doesn't cause listener fatigue and is very forgiving with poorly mastered or treble heavy music.

IMG_20210910_174827.jpg


Timbre and decay are natural without being rushed at all so the notes fade away in the most effortless manner.
With the IT01X all frequencies sound cohesive and well integrated retaining the same texture and weight from top to bottom.
Soundstage is quite open and spacious, not congested and with satisfying instrument separation but the listener shouldn't expect miracles regarding the overall depth and holography.

At the end

The IT01X is purposely tuned for fun and enjoyment with a spicy sound signature that is not lacking in technicalities and although it isn't exactly an all rounder it isn't afraid to reach audiophile territory if called for.
Small sized and very comfortable with a modern twist it radiates with high vibes putting a smile on the listeners face and it is highly recommended for the intended use.

Test playlist

Copyright - Petros Laskis 2021.
Last edited:
Cris73
Cris73
Great Ichos, super Revue!

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