ISN H30

DISCLAIMER

I would like to thank Penon for furnishing this unit. The H30 can be gotten here (no affiliate links): https://penonaudio.com/isn-audio-h30.html




SPECIFICATIONS

• Driver configuration: 1 x 9.2 mm beryllium diaphragm DD, 1 x Sonion BA, 1 x Knowles BA
• Impedance: 18 Ohms
• Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
• Sensitivity: 112 dB
• Cable: MMCX, no information on cable material
• Tested at $129 USD

ACCESSORIES

Other than the IEM, these are included:
- 3 pairs of wide-bore silicone eartips (S/M/L)
- 3 pairs of narrow-bore silicone eartips (S/M/L)
- 2 pairs of foam tips (S/L)
- Leatherette semi-rigid case
- Cleaning brush
- Shirt clip
- Cable



The accessories are outstanding for the coin, perhaps other than the omission of a modular cable, but that is nitpicking. Everything is quite serviceable out of the box.




The foam tips tame treble and provide the best isolation. Of the 2 variants of silicone tips, the narrow-bore ones boost bass and compress soundstage somewhat, whereas the wide-bore ones increase treble and soundstaging. Do tip roll to see what suits you sonically, isolation-wise and fit-wise.




While there are no marketing information on the cable materials, this MMCX cable is quite well-braided and tangle-free with minimal microphonics. There's a chin cinch for added grip. During ordering, one can opt for a 2.5 mm, 3.5 mm or 4.4 mm termination, depending on your source. This cable is quite solid haptically, no complaints on this front.

The blue leatherette semi-rigid case operates via a magnetic clasp, with the innards lined by a velvety material to cushion the contents. Pretty elegant yet functional, it can survive a drop or compressive forces. The shirt clip and cleaning brush are nice additions that complete the accessory line-up.

The rest of this review was done with the stock cable and stock narrow-bore tips. No aftermarket accessories were used, so as not to add any confounders to the sound.


BUILD/COMFORT



The housings are fashioned from 3D-printed medical grade resin. The faceplate panel utilizes
stabilized blue-violet wood, and is quite a looker. ISN's logo graces the front in gold, on a backdrop of a purple palette.

The resin shells are pretty solid too. While the shells lie on the larger side with a long nozzle, they are surprisingly light with decent comfort for my average sized ears. There's a concha protrusion to add grip.



Personally, I'm not a fan of MMCX connectors for budget gear, but the H30's MMCX seems well-implemented, and they lock satisfyingly without being too loose or too tight.

Unfortunately, I experienced a bit of driver flex during insertion of the IEM, but this can be mitigated with different ear tip choice, and is also partially dependent on ear anatomy.

Despite being vented, this IEM has good isolation, and can easily block outside noise in subways or traffic.


INTERNALS

The H30 packs some choice drivers:
- 1 x 9.2 mm beryllium diaphragm DD handles the bass frequencies
- 1 x Sonion BA settles the midrange
- 1 x Knowles BA takes care of the treble

Usually gear at the H30's selling price doesn't contain premium drivers such as Sonions, so it is nice that Penon has managed to price it as such.


DRIVABILITY

I tested the H30 with the following sources:
- Apple dongle
- Cayin RU7
- Colorfly CDA M1 DAC/AMP dongle
- Creative Sound Blaster X5
- E1DA DAC/AMP dongle
- Hiby R3 Pro Saber 2022 DAP
- Khadas Tone Board -> Schiit Asgard 3 amp
- Khadas Tone Board -> Topping L30 amp
- Questyle M15 DAC/AMP dongle
- Sony Walkman NW A-55 DAP (Walkman One WM1Z Plus v2 Mod)
- Sony Walkman NW A-55 DAP (Walkman One Neutral Mod)
- Sony Walkman NW WM1A DAP (Walkman One WM1Z Plus v2 Mod)
- Smartphone

The H30 is easily driven, and amplification is not 100% required.


SOUND & TECHNICALITIES

Graph of the ISN H30 via IEC711 coupler. 8 kHz is a coupler artefact peak

The H30 can be described tonally as having a mild U-shaped signature, approaching neutral.

The H30 has slight prominence in the mid-bass, and the bass is just a hair north of neutral. Sub-bass has a tickle of rumble on bass heavy tracks and isn't the most extended: this is not a bona fide basshead set as such. In terms of quality, the bass has good texturing and moderate speed, with minimal mid-bass bleed, so it eschews quantity but gives top-notch quality.

Without a big bass to eat into the midrange, the lower mids are relatively clean, but still of decent heft in note weight. This region isn't very depressed, in keeping with the U-shaped profile. The upper mids are extremely safe, with a 6 dB ear gain - no shoutiness or fatigue is noted here, though sometimes vocals may be slightly behind in the mix.

The H30 has a peak in the lower treble at the 5 kHz region, which adds some resolution to the mix. However, the upper treble rolls-off thereafter, and this IEM isn't sparkly or airy, and may even be borderline darkish in the upper treble. As such, the H30 is quite sibilant-free and smooth, and is a suitable IEM for our treble-sensitive brethren. Cymbals and high-hats are not splashy, though trebleheads might find it not to be their cup of tea.

Despite packing 2 BAs, the H30 has acceptable timbral accuracy for acoustic instruments. Admittedly, there is a tinge of BA timbre noted in the upper frequencies, but the H30 is surely not the worst offender in this region, with other BA-containing hybrids doing a way worse job in this department.

While talking about technicalities, the H30 is probably above average when compared against similarly priced hybrid rivals. There is dampened edges of notes, and though micro-detailing is decent, it isn't a clarity focused IEM. Soundstage is average in all 3 dimensions, with adequate imaging and layering. On a continuum between a "musical" and "analytical" signature, the H30 lies more to the "musical" side, but nevertheless keeps sufficient technical chops in its pocket.


COMPARISONS

Comparisons were made with other budget hybrids near the $100 USD mark. Planars, single DDs and pure BA types were left out of the equation as the different transducers have their pros and cons.

Simgot EM6L


Graph of the ISN H30 versus Simgot EM6L via IEC711 coupler. 8 kHz is a coupler artefact peak.

Tonally, the Simgot EM6L is a mild V-shaped set. It has more upper mids and can be a tinge shoutier than the H30, though both are quite sedate in the upper treble, and are not basshead IEMs.

The EM6L has a more expansive soundstage, but slightly weaker instrument separation. Micro-detailing and imaging are similar, though not class-leading.

The EM6L comes with disappointingly poor accessories, and a tangly thin cable, though it does not have driver flex. The EM6L is also more difficult to drive.


Tangzu Fu Du


Graph of the ISN H30 versus Tangzu Fu Du via IEC711 coupler. 8 kHz is a coupler artefact peak.

Tonally, the Fu Du and H30 are pretty similar. The Fu Du has slightly more bass quantity, but loses in bass quality - listeners hear a one-noted textureless bass, with mid-bass bleed in spades on the Fu Du.

Technically, the Fu Du is a step behind, with inferior soundstaging, micro-detailing, imaging and instrument separation.

The Fu Du has a plasticky build that is quite worrisome, with a sub-par stock cable that is thin, tangly and microphonic. Unfortunately, both IEMs have driver flex. The Fu Du is slightly harder to drive.


CONCLUSIONS

The H30 is a solid hybrid offering in the competitive $100ish market. It brings to the table robust build, splendid accessories, good isolation and easy drivability. Additionally, its balanced and smooth fatigue-free sonics should be a sight for sore eyes - or rather a balm for sore ears. Timbre is more than decent, considering this IEM packs 2 BAs in the midrange and treble.

The H30 unfortunately has driver flex, though this can be mitigated with eartip choices. The soundstage is average too, and the U-shaped tonality might not be a basshead's or treblehead's first choice (though most other consumers should find the H30's pleasant soundscape to be very welcome).

As of the time of writing, the H30 is almost a year old, but it surprisingly holds its own against some newer $100ish hybrid releases of 2023, and that is nothing to sniff at, considering the ton of weekly CHIFI sidegrade releases we encounter nowadays. In essence, the H30 is a musical IEM that contains a fair amount of technical chops, with up-to-scratch timbre and a balanced U-shaped soundscape. Definitely a hybrid to be considered in the conversation, and still competitive against some new upstarts.

This is a review of the ISN H30 which retails for $129 and you can order it from Penon Audio.



The ISN H30 is a two Balanced Armature and one Dynamic Driver Hybrid IEM with a detachable MMCX cable.The ISN H30 features a 9.2mm dynamic driver with beryllium frosted diaphragm for the low frequencies, one Sonion BA driver for the mids frequency and one Knowles BA for the high frequencies.

Appearance and build quality

The lightweight ear shells are made from a medical grade, resin compound that has a custom-like, anatomical shape to offer a better user experience.
The ISN H30 is a little bulky but the mildly extended, longer, sound tube helps a lot with the fit which is very comfortable, stress free and stable, making it suitable for extended periods of use while they have very good passive noise attenuation.
The appearance is nothing special to talk about, the ear shells have a stabilized wood, blue - violet, faceplate with the ISN logo at the front and build quality is really stellar.

Cable and accessories

The ISN H30 features a 1.2m detachable cable with MMCX connectors that can be ordered with 3.5mm, 2.5mm or 4.4mm plugs.
The 8-core braided cable is exceptionally well made, it is soft, it doesn't get tangled and it doesn't induce microphonic noise. The review sample came with a balanced 4.4mm cable.



The ISN H30 comes with two sets of different silicone ear-tips at three sizes each, two pairs of memory foam ear-tips, a cleaning brush, a shirt clip and a premium looking, high quality, hard carrying case with a magnetic lid.

Technical performance

The ISN H30 is rated at 18Ω/118dB so it is very easy to drive and you will be just fine with an entry level USB DAC dongle although I would suggest something better, like the iBasso DC04 Pro or the FiiO Q11, because they scale pretty well.
The earphone was burned for about 100 hours before listening evaluation.

Audio performance

The ISN H30 has an even, reference - critical tuning with great tonal balance and sound homogeneity where no part of the frequency range stands out as too boosted or subdued.
Well extended and linear bass response, present mid-range and a well realized treble with plenty of energy and sparkle but without sounding bright, harsh or irritating.
Sub-bass extension is more than enough for most kinds of music but it doesn't draw attention and will not appeal to people who like too much of a bass presence and impact.
The neutrally tuned bass is exceptionally fast, tight and controlled with good timing and excellent inner definition, you can hear every last note of every last instrument without a single trace of masking.
Macro - dynamic response is good and despite the relative lack of physical impact and rumble, the ISN H30 is still very capable of sounding dynamically contrasted and realistic.
The texture is rather lean, but not dry or sterile while it gets slightly leaner in the upper frequencies but not that much as to cause lack of cohesiveness.

The mid range is engaging and musical, it has a slightly warm and lush texture while it is transparent enough and the lack of bass bleeding helps a lot with definition and clarity.
It is evenly and neutrally tuned, just a bit prominent without upper-mids emphasis, so it doesn't induce listener fatigue, and with a linear transition to the treble.
Vocals are beautifully presented, breathing and articulate, there is plenty of harmonic variety on tap and a good tonal balance that adds a sense of realism and a natural instrumental timbre.

The highs greatly balance between prompt extension and smoothness, the ISN H30 is lively and energetic but not bright or harsh.
The sound is airy and resolving with good detail retrieval but is somewhat lacking in finesse and refinement while it will not appeal to people who like an analytical and brilliant sound signature.
As said earlier, the texture gets slightly leaner in the treble but not that much to make it thin and uneven.
The timbre is still quite natural, the ISN H30 doesn't have much of the infamous balanced armature timbre and it doesn't sound too artificial in the treble while the three drivers are well implemented so the sound is cohesive and homogeneous.
The ISN H30 is fast and furious, it has an energetic and speedy presentation that reminds a lot of an electrostatic headphone, with all three drivers keeping up the same pace and timing so no one sounds detached and out of phase.

The soundstage is wide but intimate, the listener is positioned quite close to the performers, the presentation is not that grand and holographic, depth proportion is limited, but it has an accurate positioning and a well centered image.
The ISN H30 feels at home with all kinds of music and ensemble sizes but it really excels with more medium forces and shines
with vocal recitals.



Conclusion

The ISN H30 has an audiophile oriented tuning, it is balanced and even with plenty of natural timbre and musicality, offering the listener a smooth and fatigue free experience.
It is also lightweight, comfortable, well made and comes with a high quality cable, a premium carrying case and plenty of eartips, easily earning my highest recommendation.

(The review sample was kindly provided free of charge in exchange for an honest review)

TONALITY: 7.8/10
TECHNICALITIES: 8.2/10
CONSTRUCTION: 8.5/10
SOUND VALUE: 8.5/10

INTRO

ISN Audio is an IEM company branch of Penon, they make IEM cables as well. Their catalog has 6 IEMs released, from entry-level single DD priced at 80$ (D02) to flagship DD+2BA+2EST tribrid priced 460$ (EST50).
Today I will review my first ISN earphones, which is a promising budget hybrid called ISN H30. Priced at only 130$, the H30 is a hybrid with one 9.2mm beryllium plated dynamic driver for bass, one Sonion balanced armature for mid-range, and one Knowles BA for treble. To say this type of high-quality driver is rare in the sub-150$ price range is an understatement I think the H30 is an exception here, which makes me wonder how low is profit margin with such pricey balanced armature.
But does it guarantee the H30 will sound phenomenal? Nope. And this is why I will share my critical review with you today which includes a comparison with 3 other hybrid IEMs in the very competitive sub-200$ IEM market.

CONSTRUCTION&PACKAGING

The construction is excellent for the price and beyond. It's made of 3D-printed resin plastic with a beautiful backplate made of stabilized wood. The look is elegant and feels very sturdy since it's not made of cheap plastic. The design has an elongated organic shape, the nozzle being longer than average it permits a deep fit for extra isolation, but you can wear it the way you want since the housing is light and doesn't tend to fall. I use wide-bore ear tips.



The included cable is of good quality too, it's a braided high-purity copper cable that feels very durable and doesn't justify urgent cable upgrades like it often happens in the sub-150$ price range.


The packaging is very impressive too, very glossy and prime looking. We feel respected as consumers and it's great. Box has this beautiful glossy blue electric color and several accessories are on the generous side. The leather magnetic carrying case is a nice addition. We have plenty of eartips too, 6 pairs of silicone (2 models) and 2 pairs of memory foams tip. We also have a cleaning tool and a practical cable clamp. And the very braided cable. For 130$, there are very good accessories!

SOUND IMPRESSIONS

I would call the tonality as being Smooth neutral to gentle L shape with slightly boosted bass with warm round punch, lean but very present mid-range, and extra treble snap and crispness. These are the kind of IEMs we struggle to consider warm or bright since they will oversimplify the macro musicality richness of the 3 drivers used. These are maturely tuned, with an organic lushness coming from the bass and lower mids warmth. Full sounding, intimate, and safely tuned, these are the kind of IEM we can call ''Jack of all trades, master of none'' but in a musical way, not in a cold or clinical pejorative way. Tonal balance feels natural and a hint creamy and favors a thicken macro resolution.

These aren't for basshead, nor for a bass lover, the H30 has an understated bass presence that doesn't hook attention. It is slightly boosted in mid-bass and offers a gentle punch, with a mellow dynamic. The kick is warm, round, and glued to the lower mids, which are thickened. Rumble is minimal and a bit rolled off, it doesn't move air and feels distant. The low end doesn't mix or veil mid-range and always stays in the background, for better and worst since it's good for instrumental and acoustic music yet will lack punch and slam for anything beat driven. A very boring bass performance we can say, and since the extension isn't very linear or very deep, it doesn't benefit acoustic bass nor sound very clean or textured. Cello and male vocals benefit from this low end that tends to make low harmonics more focused yet this do had note weight without the dynamic heft that we would need to fully enjoy musical fullness.

Then the mid-range came in and charm our ears with an impressively smooth and dense timbre that isn't typical of the balanced armature. Upper mids being damped and pina gain being safe, it results in a lush and intimate presentation with a great sense of proximity to the instrument or singer. It's a hint warm too, definition edge being softened. Both male and female vocals sound fully bodied and upfront in presence, with a hint of breathiness and extra low harmonic. Vocal is very centered in spatiality, not the widest or more open in projection. Clarity is good, but not the cleanest or crispest. It's not the type of mid-range that will permit analytical listening since their a warm haze to it due to the syrupy mix of sound layers. Yet, the tone is right for all instruments, the piano sound is full with good note weight but not sharply defined, and saxophone and woodwind instruments tend to be better layered and more open sounding.

Now, the treble is rather unique, not the fuller, most linear, or extended. If you seek for lotta sparkle, air, and brilliance, the H30 will feel underwhelming. It's a thick organic treble we have here, with a boosted sense of snap-in attack that benefits percussion timing speed and crispness. But it's a half-cooked treble with a dark section, texture and crunchiness feel tamed here, surely to avoid over-brightness issues. Sure, as expected with the balanced armature, the attack is fast and well controlled, there is no splashiness or fuzzy long sustain with this, but micro details aren't that impressive either, it's either the percussions part. The whole treble seems a bit dark apart from the boosted presence, around 8khz their surely a peak that adds a hint of brightness in definition to avoid overly warmed macro resolution. The violin sound smoother than nature, and the attack strike is soft. Clavichord sound dries but well resolve. My biggest qualm with treble is the lack of sharp definition and airiness.

Soundstage is intimate as said, without beginning stuck in your head, it feels close to you, like a cocoon. Minimal wideness, like 20cm for each side of your head, near no deepness, unless instrumental music with few instruments.

Imaging is also average, due to a lack of clean crisp clarity and space for sound layer articulation. Layering isn't bad tough and doesn't go muddy on busy tracks, it's just not fully transparent and rolled off high affect precision of definition.

Technically, they are more than competent for the price, the mix of 1 dynamic + 2 BA permits impressive attack speed, especially for mids-treble while the bass is a bit slower and more tamed in dynamic, yet weighty and punchy enough.
Resolution while good, isn't the sharpest or cleanest, we have definition blunt there and there in busy music tracks, but it's still above average for the price, just not overly boosted yet perhaps a bit too soft.


COMPARISONS


VS MEAOES Eagle (2DD+2BA-150$)

The eagles are brighter analytical V shape, with notably more energic and vivid tonality. Everything is about treble with those, so bass isn't as well-rounded and thick as H30 yet has a more excited punch to it. Mids are thinner, more recessed, and have dryer brighter timber with lighter note weight and leaner dynamic. H30 mids are notably fuller and more upfront, both male and female vocals are more present and bodied, timbre is more natural and resolution is richer, as well, vocals are less prompt to sibilance and tone is right, so both piano and violin sound less boxy. Treble is way more boosted with the Eagle and only part of the sound with energic dynamic, it's more shouty and thin still, and it seems it extracts more micro details in an unbalanced way, percussions are more in your face than H30. H30 is smoother, fuller in layering, and more cohesive in balance. The soundstage is wider and taller with H30, while mids recession (center stage) seems to give the illusion the Eagle is deeper in spatiality, but their nothing to be found while the center stage is rich in sound layers. This makes imaging and layering notably superior with H30, even if denser in sound info.

All in all, H30 is from another league both in tonal balance and technical performance, and it's to be expected since it uses a high-end balanced armature. Eagle can be put in the same league as KZ IEM, while H30 is a solid competitor in the 100-200$ price range.

VS KINERA IDUN GOLDEN 2.0 (1DD+2BA-170$)

Now, this is a real competition. Idun is a similar smooth W shape near neutral IEM, but more mid-centric and warmish that hint at brighter H30. The bass of H30 is a bit more boosted and impactful, with less presence texture but fuller-bodied roundness, both lack sub-bass rumble and extension. Lighter bass impact tends to make mid-range more focused with Idun, as well, timbre is denser and favors a bit more male vocal over female vocal compared to H30, so perhaps upper mids are softer with Idun. Treble is more detailed, open, and vivid with H30, so yes, brighter they are and this makes them more resolve too, it inflicts on the sense of airiness too and highs seem more extended, snappy, and slightly sparkly. Overall dynamic feels more immediate and lively with the H30, while thicker and slower with Idun. The soundstage is about the same width, a bit taller, and deeper than H30. Imaging is different in spatial presentation, sound layers are less thick and wide, with Idun, we ''swim'' and explore dense layering while H30 offers sharper imaging that favors presence separation, so it feels more precise and cleaner in spatiality.

All in all, this is a hard one, but I conclude technical performance is superior with H30 which is quite insane cause I praise those Idun a lot even if pricier, it seems we have less harmonic distortion euphony with the H30, yet for those that favor thicker and warmer timbre, the Idun is sure a good bet and this is were tonality preference come in...here, I'm just unable to conclude anything, yet, I'm certain to prefer a mid-range of the Idun.


VS SEEAUDIO YUME2 (1DD+2BA-200$)

Yume2 is brighter and easier and has more W shape sound than the H30 which feels warmer and more mid-centric as well as more neutral and less treble-focused. Sub bass is notably more boosted with the Yume2 and both punch and slam are louder and more impactful, bass is more textured too. Mid-range is thinner, less lush and natural, more brighten in the presence and upper mids have more bite so the attack feels edgier too with the Yume, adding a sense of immediacy H30 is a bit lacking. While dynamic is more vivid with the Yume 2, mid-range has less note weight. Treble of Yume2 is digging more micro details, attack snap feels less blunted-tamed, and highs are more vividly extracted adding a sense of air that the H30 is lacking. This inflicts on the soundstage which seems wider, taller, and deeper with the Yume2, with a more recessed center stage where the mid-range instrument will feel more distant. Due to more open spatiality, instrument separation is wider and easier to pinpoint in positioning, while H30 has more compressed layering that makes it harder to precisely spot instrument position.

All in all, unless your treble sensitive or favor timbre and vocal, the Yume2 offers a more resolved and lively musicality, with slightly superior technical performance. Tonality-wise, I feel the treble is a bit too much and not as well balanced as the H30.

CONCLUSION

Their no doubt that the ISN H30 is very good for the price, even if the niche mature tonality might not please everyone, especially basshead and people searching for an energic musicality.
These are aimed at audiophiles that enjoy smooth balance with gently neutral tonality.
The effortless musicality that the H30 delivers is addictive in the long run and offers fatigue-free immersive.
If you seek a hybrid IEM without the flaw of balanced armature timbre that can often sound artificial or metallic, the H30 delivers a very natural mid-range that presents vocals lushly and appealingly.

These are a well-tuned hybrid that stands apart in the sub-150$ price range, thanks to the high-quality drivers used as well as the hint of warmth that adds an organic cohesion to the macro presentation, the H30 is one of this rare '' jack of all trades'' that find the sweet spot between technical and musical sound rendering.

ISN Audio is a refreshing chifi company that is worth to be followed. Recommended!


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PS: I want to thank Penon Audio for sending me this review sample. I'm not affiliated with nor compensated financially to write this review. As always, these are my 100% honest subjective audio impressions and opinion.

You can buy the H30 for 130$ here (non-affiliated link):
https://penonaudio.com/isn-audio-h30.html

What is this iconic blue box? What’s inside for us? Why it’s the newest creation from ISN. This is their 6th IEM invention since ISN’s inception a few years ago. While they started as only a cable manufacture, they have proven their know-how by releasing a slew of innovative IEMs. Each IEM with a cable add only a cable maker who happens to also be an IEM maker could produce. Won't you join me in another REDCARMOOSE LABs excursion, an investigation into the unknown world of the recent ISN H30 Hybrid IEM creation!

Really there is no confusion to where ISN is going with this release. They...........ISN and their related company Penon Audio, are on a car ride to neutral-vile. Yep, both companies recently came-up with neutral tunes more than they ever have. Penon with the Fan 2, Serial and the Vortex, and ISN with the H30. What it does is give them a path towards creativity, a useful creativity, and it strengthens their line up too. The line-up strength comes from offering a new FR, a new IEM experience, as well as filling out the existing production-line. Meaning it makes older tunes like the H40, D10, EST50 and H50 more valuable. They are more valuable due to offering a past magic, which fulfills present-day consumer needs. Each IEM is special representing another take on what that (subjectively) ideal frequency response would be. Yet this new H30 also gives ISN a chance to spread their wings and not make anything even close to resembling what they have made in the past. Often companies will repackage and reintroduce a product just for the sake of marketing it as new. Not ISN, they have more dignity than that, plus it’s fun to come-up with new ideas as to what a popular IEM might sound like. With every new introduction there is a small element of risk involved, yet if you don’t take chances, you don’t know where you can go! Remember Penon and ISN are in the car together here, and just like you and I, they are discovering what new possibilities could take place!

So far I have reviewed the H40, the D10 and EST50 and the H50. Each was a chapter in an imaginary book….this travelogue so to speak. And because I’m a jaded old reviewer, every IEM that crosses my desk gets first judged with suspicion and a crooked attitude. Yes, I have almost never joyously embraced an IEM on first sight………..as they have to prove their worth, or inadequacy. Enough talk about me, let’s go through a quick history of ISN, shall we.


https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/isn-d10.24286/reviews#review-29043
https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/isn-h50.25550/reviews#review-28946
https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/isn-h40.24083/reviews#review-28747
https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/isn-est50.25254/reviews#review-28717
https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/isn-h30.26130/reviews#review-29450

The only ISN I haven’t heard is the D02
https://penonaudio.com/isn-audio-d02.html

So even-though they make 6 different (highly individual) sounding IEMs, they really got their start as a cable company.

The ISN Company:
ISN current cable offerings:
Silver-Plated IEM Cables: S4, S8, AG8, S16 and one Type-C Silver Plated USB Cable
Copper IEM Cables: C4, CU4, C16
Mixed Cables IEM Cables: Solar, G4, GS4, SC4, H8, H16
Gold-Plated IEM Cables: GC4, GD4
Pure-Silver IEM Cables: AG8

ISN Ear-buds:
Rambo
Rambo 2

ISN IEMs:
H50 10mm Composite DD (bass) 2 BA (mids) 2 BA (highs) $295.00
H40 9.2 DD (bass) 1 custom BA (mids) 1 composite 2BA (highs) $195.00
D02 10mm DD $79.00
D10 9mm DD $169.00
EST50 1 Knowles BA (highs), 1 Sonion BA (mids), 10mm DD (bass), 2 Sonion ESTs (ultra-highs) $459.00
H30 9.2 Frosted Beryllium DD, 1 Sonion BA for middle frequency, 1 Knowles BA for high frequency $129.00





And the great part is once you've got aquatinted with an ISN sound, you can migrate to a slightly different flavor. Each IEM creation is incredibly different from one another (while still the same) almost like they had other sonic investigations to learn about, and have explored new lands with each and every introduction. Never back-tracking, always moving forward and each example, another piece of the sonic puzzle. Even though I don’t know about the D02, I can guess they are almost offering somewhat complementary IEMs. Meaning I’m always asked which I like best, and I have serious trouble choosing my favorite example. Maybe the reason for this is there isn't a perfect IEM, only perfect moments listening to them? The H50 as an example is their 2nd newest invention prior to the H30. The H50 became my favorite for months…due to its FR and technicalities being profoundly special. It is both authoritative and fast, still optimizing the potentials of all 5 drivers. Then I put the D10 on a shelf, I didn’t have any respect for the D10 ideas, or sound profile. At $169.00 the D10 seemed to maybe be a fill-in product. Yet my ideas soon changed with experience. After two weeks of ownership I gained an understanding of the D10’s talents. In hindsight the issues were with me, not the D10. It turns out the D10 was special in two specific areas of replay……its specialty is deep dramatic bass…..some of the best bass I have ever heard, and a surprising midrange with imaging and pizzazz! There is way more to talk about with the D10 and H50……but this is the H30 review! The very first ISN IEMs I was lucky enough to experience was the H40 and EST50. The H40 was the very first ISN IEM made. It was and is successful based on simple merits of sound size per dollar spent. The four drivers a side started the ISN fire. In fact that success put ISN on the map as a quality producer of IEMs. Not only was their first IEM a success, its many a persons favorite IEM ever, regardless of price. The H40 is a full-featured competent performer, still a big seller today!

Can you imagine the predicament ISN was in. They then wanted to introduce a TOTL Flagship performer, and introduce something new, yet they wanted to stick to the sound they were famous for. That’s right the EST50 was a H40 on steroids. They took the basic sound of the H40 and expanded it out in all directions. But because the H40 has a forward demeanor, not in FR, but in image placement, they had to then set the soundstage and imaging slightly back, so this new detail could be introduced as a spacial representation of replay. That’s right they took the H40s compressed imaging, kept the FR the same, but added and entire 3D world. Such imaging/movement and placement is direct result of 5 drivers, two of which are EST (high) treble makers. And to this day it has not been topped. I use it with a multitude of ISN cables to learn more about the innate possibilities of its tone. But more than that, the actual placement of instruments and volume expression of those instruments………….resulting in character. The texture of the instruments as well as a slight tone change can be found each with a different amplifier or cable change, in regards to the EST50 experience. That said, the EST is not one thing, not exactly one tone, but more of an IEM canvas in which you are able to control and change.

What does all the above have to do with the H30? Well for starters all the ISN IEMs are somewhat related. Meaning there is a house sound, yet in many ways the H30 is a new departure for ISN. Still the construction and look is 100% ISN. All the IEMs have a way about them...........that you just know they were designed and build by the same company. Also in case this is your first ISN rodeo, there is always a knowing that in the background there are more IEM choices. And again….none of them are simply right or wrong, but are different ways to reintroduce yourself to your music library. Depending on the musical genre, it’s arguable if one ISN product is better than another? Maybe they are, maybe not. So you can see how and why I don’t necessarily have a favorite ISN IEM. They are all my favorites……………..

The H30 is a new chapter for ISN, and being so its sonically different from anything they have ever made. The H30 exhibits the most neutral response to date. Does that mean we have a neutral IEM, no not at all. ISN would probably never make a neutral IEM. It’s just that when you scale-off the super high frequency treble, cut the sub-bass then embellish the midrange, this is what’s left over. Heck it’s almost like a Penon IEM being it’s so midrange active, where ISN has normally concentrated on putting all their eggs in the bass basket. The other question is how does this newborn fair against its older siblings, does it bring honor to the family name? And being the odd-ball-out, does being innately different have an effect on the H30's perception? Remember this is the farthest (I feel) ISN has gone from their H40 house sound. Yet they left that house sound really, starting with the H50. In fact the H50 is hands down many an IEM listeners favorite IEM in the whole world! But it’s $295.00 in comparison to the ISN H30 at $129.00. So the H50 is remarkably well-rounded, and it sounds great from even a phone. But to try and explain how good I think the H50 is, when it arrived it didn’t need burn-in and almost blew the $459.00 EST50 out of the water! It did this through pace primarily. It has an unmistakable bounce that is the effect of the DD driver. Yet the H30 isn’t quite as well rounded, nor is fully endowed in the bass department. Don’t get me wrong, in no way does it sound anemic, but the bass has been carefully designated as reserved to a point.


Build:
Such form factor here is not by a chance. Still.......how many IEMs are released that make you wonder about the design? What were they thinking.............to make these random extreme examples you're suppose to join into your ears? Some IEMs are exactly random it seems in design. I get that they are trying to make the look stick-out from the pack! I realize they have to produce something memorable.......that's fine. But to make some of the shapes that they attempt are full-on strange. Don't you agree? These round or square shapes are actually pollution in peoples ears, yet they continue to put-up with the shape regardless of comfort due to wanting the sound. Yet most of us know, that better comfort creates lasting listening enjoyment and prolonged use. Not only that, but a better fitting IEM actually sounds better. This is created by noise occlusion and fitting deeper inside your ear, blocking outside noise from getting in. Also better fit creates a style of air-tight seal which actually expands the soundstage and deepens the bass, while adding the perception of resolution. This isn't a joke to be taken lightly or something to experiment with. It has to do with the relationship with a personal product which almost transcends consumerism. These sound making devices are becoming in essence a part of us. They are entering out ear canal and joining up to our neurological system through form and function. ISN has thought about the above and does't challenge the norm, making an IEM build which replicates the IEMs that have been successful in the past.....classic. The only thing they did to grasp notoriety is change the color of the faceplate. Though the next thing they subtly did was change the nozzle to a chrome creation. Such a change is small but takes the shape of something that actually enhances fit and placement. Not to mention holds ear-tips on with vicarious force, which in turn increases ergonomics in daily use. The ISN H30 is 3D printed with medical grade resin and finished by hand. You can experience the individual builders talent simply holding them in your hand. Such a form as the H30 offers a smooth feel, due to the crafmanship in creation. The faceplates are truly a work of art, in that they only top-off the outside end with a splash of color, except upon further investigation become endlessly detailed to the point of microscopic. There are actually many variations of MMCX connectors, with some fragile, and some robust. As it turns out a few made MMCX versions look well made, but in use give the methodology a bad name. These are truly substantial feeling and almost don't turn with the perfect amount of play formed upon joining.

Upon closer inspection the medical grade resin is almost offering complete opacity. Yet upon examination with a high power investigative light, in resin is like an almost black car window! You can actually view the 2 balanced armatures and single dynamic driver inside. The IEM side reveals a single vent, actually fairly robust in size, acting as an air-intake-out-take mechanism. Upon turning the IEM over the single indenifier "H30" is found. No other markings are offered except the name brand moniker emblazoned across the faceplate...........seemingly floating, encapsulated in time.

The nozzle developments really deserve focus here being actuality in two tone. There is a special goldish tone to the screen, and a specific detail to how it's placed, far outweighing the asking price. This inset screen offers a multitude of small circles which are specifically designed to focus the sound in relation to FR.



While some may see the profile shape of the H30 as being revolutionary, it's not, ISN would never boast such practice. If you study the ISN D10 shape carefully, the two IEMs share a common theme. Though to be fully transparent here, the H30 has a small nozzle lip longer than the extension previously found on the length of the D10. This results in a 1/4 centimeter of extra distance traveled into your ear canal. Of course ear-tip choice takes that distance and goes one step further, making it longer or way longer depending on your choice of ear-tip. The great news is the simple functionality of the nozzles, being truly another small example of how ISN cares.

and.........

Finally the cable:
As seen in the picture, an aluminum plug is only the start of the increase in quality found. While the basic 8 core OCC copper cable seems generic, it is in-fact specifically chosen for both the bass enhancement and a top-end correction. Remember ISN is first and foremost a cable builder. ISN only makes 6 different IEMs, but they offer 17 different cables.............what do you think that means? That's right, they make more cables that most IEM builders.........and more cables than some cable builders.

Some ISN cables are truly amazing, as amazing as their IEMs.........or more so!




Complete real metal hardware, including cable splitter, chin-slider and plug holders.

Such a cable simply adds to the whole experience, being well managed and offering an easy going sound. Even the MMCX connectors are well built from aluminum extrusions offering R and L markings of color. All three plugs offer a style of clear cable strain-relief, which will come in handy in that rare chance of an unexpected tug-a-lug!

Back at ISN Laboratories, they did the footwork already dialing in the specific IEM/cable tone. This H30/cable marriage seems to be the right tone? Such specifics are found to be already taken into account........already seemingly finding cable synergy, so you don't have to. Premium copper was chosen for a treble, midrange attenuation also an increase of bass character warmth! Often members are "playing" with Hybrid cables to try and milk-out an added level of resolution and contrast seemingly buried in the response. Though not here, as the H30 is optimized for a specific tonal response, with-out the energy of silver ever needed. Seasoned members will already understand how ISN has found the Goldilocks cable add. Any extra effort in experiments could possibly end with increased resolution, though probably at the expense of ISN H30 well-roundedness.



Bass:
What I do to check bass authority is get out the Dongle/Samsung phone, the Shanling UA3 and some narrow bore long length tips. I then refer to my 96 kHz - 24 bit copy of Hans Zimmer’s OST for the Batman vs Superman movie.

Song in particular is “New Rules”!

So what is occurring is a style of truth. I can be sure that the bass isn’t lacking in the song or the amplifier/DAC chip. So we are face to face with the IEM. Such a senario was profound in learning about the Penon VORTEX, a few reviews back. In a way the Vortex is the H30 done with a DD, and the H30 a Hybrid. Now they aren’t exactly the same due to driver methodology. But the VORTEX is also Penon’s new IEM that just so happens to be Penon’s most neutral creation along with the Penon Serial. The point is the H30 has its attributes and deficits. Bass being reserved, makes the H30 slightly more genre specific than the other ISN IEMs I’ve heard. Is that a bad thing? Well it depends on your genres of choice. One feature of the H30 are the nozzle length. Such excursions are to implement the actual IEM end-nozzle at a very specific place inside your ear canal. This blocks out side noise better but also pretty much guarantees you a firm bass air-tight-fit.

What this does at the end of the day is milks the most bass possible from the H30 set-up. The bass in-turn is a fast (slightly back-set) event which is sufficient but not bass focused. I will repeat....this is not bass focused. Though bass noticeability occurs when face-to-face with bass focused music. Yet as a well-rounder the H30 kinda is, it is and it isn’t, as we will soon learn it does a few music genres spectacularly and better than most $129 IEMs, day in and day out. It’s just if your musical preference is The TRON Legacy OST by Daft Punk, there may be a more complete replay out there. It’s just that replay wouldn’t have all the other values the H30 also brings to the table.



But Adagio for TRON is amazing none the less. The timbre, the stage, the transient response, killer. First off the violin starts this up, and is found the epitome of natural, floating in the stage, boosted by the cello and then accompanied by the synth keys at around 1 minute 11 seconds. The woody back reverb at 1 minute 35 seconds and ambiance is emotional, and really I can listen to this all day.

Midrange:
I will quickly level with you here. The H30 is all about the midrange, too me. That in and of itself doesn't take away from the treble or bass. But if you were at a Head-Fi meet-up and going through IEMs in a fast paced listening session, peoples faces would light-up and they would take the H30 out of their ears to expound on the mids! It's just that the mids..................that's where the glory is, where the H30 bird takes flight and soars. This does not mean you have to be a midrange-head to fall in love with the H30. It's just some IEMs have their "soul" located in the lower thrusters, and the H30 makes music by coercing the mids out to play...........and play they do. As there is a bounce in rock songs that is fully connected to this midrange magic. Truly I can't put my finger on what it is, but that doesn't matter. It doesn't matter what causes it, as long as it's there. I only report findings, not always the cause of findings. The single Sonion does the work, and this (name branded) sound offers a surprising realism, opposed to those off-brand-gimmicks. The resulting mid-emphasis ends perfectly placed to enhance the details found with-in. Seemingly bringing vocals both male and female into the light, separated from the background energies. While the stage in medium-big, I can't help but think the imaging is responsible for this illusion? That's the 1,2 whammy of technicalities and midrange add that floats this boat....and that's where your money is going when you buy it.

Treble:
While I hear the midrange to be pushing this signature forward, there is still the overall dominance of the trebles. Yet such tone and timbre are the responsibility of the single Knowles BA. Again this specific choice, how it's implemented, arrives and cures many a treble woe, regarding correctness of tone. The main treble focus is at the 8 to 9Khz region, which can event in an issue for those sensitive. There is no denying this signature gets its energy from such places. Still for me it's smooth sailing and not near the issue I have had in the past with too energetic of a treble. In fact to sum up the character of both the treble and midrange, the best feature comes from an overall warmth that still permeates such areas, allowing a slight forgiveness despite the over-all tone focus.


Conclusion:
Above all let’s get one thing straight…OK? ISN as a cable builder and IEM builder, know what they are doing. After all my ISNs I have gained the ultimate respect for the brand. I don’t know if they offer a sound response that I just simply have connection with, or they are just good at what they do? Probably the later? This is by far the least colored IEM yet developed by ISN Design Laboratories. Yet does the lack of color make it boring or have less personality? No! What’s taking place is you’re matching up your personal IEM dollar expenditure budget to the IEM’s particular response curve and technicalities. Simple really. Though what’s complicated is discovering an IEM’s exact fit and form, with-out trying it. What IS complicated is knowing the exact sound response characteristics which match your hearing, as well as favorite music genres. Then the next level is knowing how any little eccentricities in playback will affect your over-all happiness. Guess what………I can help you with with understanding fit with-out trying them. I can explain the sound characteristics and genres of music the H30 is best with. Also those eccentricities? Well they often are individualistic to the listener, still I can cover them too. But most of all I can share my experience with the H30. This has been a small story and a few days of my life. This is simply a diary of my time with the H30, and a documentary of my success and failures. This is only one persons perspective as to the true nature of the H30’s reality. With that said there may be a range of options in the end, but you don’t know your options until the H30 is in your ears and reproducing your favorite or second favorite genre of music. This we know as fact. Yet with all that, this purchase is still an easy one. Why? Because the ground-work has already been done. 1) ISN doesn’t make mistakes, at least so far they don’t. What I’m saying is often I get IEMs which are simply attempts at IEMs. They are these seemingly finished products which the other-guys designed and built and threw on the market. They were hoping to hit the target with a blind, un-thought-out build. This goes on everyday in the IEM world……….an IEM comes out and you wonder what they were thinking. Such travesties of chance some companies are about, but not ISN. They aren’t that big to garner such freedoms of wildness. No…….this is a small company which one-by-one offers simple and correct examples of the IEM art. The shells are not stamped out of CNC metal, nor the design a subtle reproduction of the product before it. Each product ISN makes is a carefully thought out example as an art piece. Can’t you tell by just looking at them? There are often IEMs which I turn down and never talk about, no one knows they even exist in my collection. Then there are the ‘OK” examples. Those are the few that have both good and bad aspects. And finally there are the special ones. These ones have soul and character, you know getting to know them that they were carefully thought out and correctly built/orchestrated. They have to be! This is not a game of chance, but a mixture of science and art. A specific target in FR response with a commencement into a reality. Such actions are the very foundation to ISNs success.

Brand: ISN Audio
$129.00

Available Options
Cable Version
3.5mm Audio, 2.5mm Balanced or 4.4mm Balanced

Shipping Method
Registered AirmailExpress Service (+$15.00)

https://penonaudio.com/isn-audio-h30.html (You can purchase here!)

ISN Audio H30 2 Balanced Armature +1 Dynamic Driver Hybrid MMCX HiFi Audiophile In-Ear Monitor IEMs
Description
Brand: ISN Audio
Model: H30
Stabilized wood blue-violet panel
3D printing resin, medical grade resin cavity, light and beautiful, comfortable to wear
2 Balanced Armature + 1 Dynamic driver hybrid
1 9.2mm beryllium frosted diaphragm dynamic driver for low frequency
1 Sonion BA for middle frequency
1 Knowles BA for high frequency
Impedance: 18ohm
Sensitivity: 112dB
Frequency response: 20-20kHz
Connector: MMCX
Plug: Gold-plated
Cable length: 1.2M
Package
ISN H30 earphone

Disclaimer:
I want to thank Penon Audio for the love and for the ISN H30 review sample.

Disclaimer:
These are one persons ideas and concepts, your results may vary.

Equipment Used:
Sony WM1Z Walkman DAP MrWalkman Firmware 4.4mm
Sony WM1A Walkman DAP MrWalkman Firmware 4.4mm
Sony TA-ZH1ES DAC/AMP Firmware 1.03
Electra Glide Audio Reference Glide-Reference Standard "Fatboy" Power Cord
Sony Walkman Cradle BCR-NWH10
AudioQuest Carbon USB
UA3 Dongle DAC/Amplifier 4.4mm

ISN H30.

ISN is a sub brand for Penon Audio. A lot of the tuning philosophies for ISN stems from years of know-how and design from the group that keeps on making premium IEMs. They only create a handful of earphones a year and with each new IEM comes a lot of questions. Never a question of quality and workmanship but mostly. How does this compare to that or. How do they rank among existing ISN IEMs? The price point is a good indicator of where the H30 rank among their hybrid line up. This being said. The H30 has a sound unto its own that does not necessarily mean it is a lesser earphone vs the rest of the ISN crew. The H30 is a new hybrid incorporating two well established BAs and one 9.2mm Beryllium frosted dynamic for bass.

Inside the smaller side of medium shells houses 3 drivers taxed with the specific parts of the sound tuning. The unique aspect of the H30 shells is that it has an uncommon longer stem for universal resin designs. This probably was a design aspect that forces the user to have a deeper insertion for the IEM giving better, passive isolation and with straighter closer shot to your eardrums, possibly eliminating some possible resonances. Whatever the reason is. They are quite comfortable for my medium sized ears but they do require a deeper insertion so your comfort may vary depending on ear shape and insertion depth. The ISN H30 uses One Knowles BA for trebles, one Sonion BA for its mids presentation and finally the 9.2mm Beryllium frosted dynamic for bass. From my initial thoughts about the H30 to now it turns out that the tuning and balancing here is actually the smaller brother of the H50 and oddly enough the most recent Penon Fan 2 hybrid. More so than the H40 and or the EST50.

The H30 comes with a standard 8 core OCC copper cable in any termination you choose when checking out. The cable is actually a very nice pure copper cable that was chosen for the ISN H30 which actually matches well to enhance its tonal qualities. Pure copper cables will enhance the H30s mids with added body, bass emphasis and helps with a smoother treble response. For the bucks you can’t expect world class cable but in this case it does match up well, especially in balanced form. ISN H30 comes with 2 sets of silicones, 2 pairs of foams, missing from my review sample. A cleaning tool, a clip and a standard ISN clamshell case. Overall the accessories for the price is standard fare with no real need to upgrade the cable. But as all things are good you can get even better with your aftermarket cables and tips.

The H30 was provided for an evaluation by Penon audio for the purpose of a review. You can get yourself a set for you here. They have been burned in for a weeks period and are now ready for evaluation using my sources. Ibasso DX300Max, Fiio M15, BTR7, UTWS5, Shanling M6pro, IFI signature, IFI Gryphon, Fiio K2 2021. ( Due to the more neutral tendencies of the H30 your warmer full bodied sounding sources synergizes better with the H30. Shanling and IBasso DAPs)

Sound profile and technicals.
The balanced tuning of the H30 leans more neutral in its tuning vs their prior IEMs such as the H40 or the EST50. As mentioned earlier I feel these are more closer to the H50 in how it is tuned vs the others. Actually is the most neutrally balanced IEM for ISN. This comes as a surprise to me as it seems higher end IEMs are normally more neutral in tuning but not so much for ISN. The EST50 arguably has the most coloration for its tuning while the new H30 turns out to be the least colored out of the bunch. Its got a moderate yet spacious stage for ISN IEMs. Its technicalities are better than what the price would indicate. Details and imaging in space are both standouts for the H30. The surprising factor is that these being more moderate in balancing and its emphasis for the 3 regions of sound. Its moderate bass infusion brings a clean clear treble to mid range presentation on the H30.

Trebles.
This is the area that some will find a bit of an issue as its main focus is in the sensitive 8-9Khz region. Overall the trebles has moderate emphasis and does not have any real spikes but its main focus for trebles is right at the 8-9khz region. Which if you're sensitive to a bit of splashiness in the treble region this might affect you. Next to the 6-7Khz region this is one of the most sensitive areas as far as treble tunings goes and while emphasized does not overstep the rest of the tuning, it does give credence to overall clarity, imaging and how you hear the details on the H30. The treble's brilliance region is where the main focus of the trebles is boosted a touch. Its trebles provide good clarity and overall nicely done definition with that main focus for mid trebles and while some are more sensitive for this region of the trebles. I don’t feel it was overly emphasized to the point of fatigue. The area provides plenty of sparkle and for the most part is a clean type of treble. Its attack and decay seems about right but in the same token comes a bit rigid, slightly metallic sounding due to the BA timbre of the Knowles BA.

I know there are some debates among the purists when it comes to BA timbre but the way I see it. If your used to hearing speakers with tweeters. BA timbre or not the treble BA does a better job at reproducing treble with clearly defined treble notes better than most types of drivers. This is the reason why some of the highest end IEMs use dedicated treble BAs. The treble tuning here has a seamless cohesion with the Sonion BA that takes over the presence region to the lower mids of the ISN H30. And yes that is yet another strong suit of the ISN H30. Its cohesion is done really well. The presentation of your music will be fluid from trebles to bass and that is a good sign that these guys clearly know what they are doing here.

A bit of a tip on the trebles,
I know there is some debate about burn in for BA type drivers. From my own experience as I do burn in for every single IEM. I do recommend a solid burn in cycle for the H30. It seems to smooth out the treble a touch. Out of the box seems to clearly let you know about the treble being emphasized at the 8khz region. After a week, not as much. So something had to change with the balancing. So burn in is important on everything you get. If not just to squeeze out 100% of what you're hearing. Why not? You got nothing to lose.

Treble tunings can make or break an IEM and I feel is more important than any other part of an IEM. Contrary to how others might view it but it is the treble that you will notice first before the bass and even the mids. So treble has to make a statement but at the same not fatigue. The main emphasis of the treble tuning on the H30 is its mid trebles with a gradual roll off into the higher upper trebles frequencies.. This treble tuning works but treble seems just slightly forced and not as extended as I would like. It has plenty of sparkle and that is the area that the H30 is really good at in its treble emphasis. Just at the edge of sparkle and splashy. Tips do an awesome job to smooth that treble to your liking. Trebles overall are clean but with a touch of brightness. Not so much to irritate or fatigue. But then it will come down to just how sensitive a person is when listening to music and trebles.

Mids
It is the mids of the H30 that wins the H30 to be a true ISN IEM. The mids are done by a single full range Sonion BA. Mids of the H30 are not overly forward but nowhere recessed either. Its got a perfect amount of upper mids gain, roughly 7dbs which in my opinion is the goldilocks for upper mids to be proper. A bit lesser than that and mids sound more smoother than it has to be. A bit more than it can start to sound brighter and sometimes uneven sounding. ISN did a masterful job at balancing the mids here. A bit more upper mid pinna gain in conjunction with that treble tuning and it will become a touch shoutty and maybe a bit more brighter than how the H30 sounds.

Tonality for the H30 mids presentation is clean, neutral in tonality with a hint of richness in how it is presented. Mids have a neutral amount of emphasis and are fairly linear in how it projects your music. The mids are portrayed through a moderate stage, for ISN IEMs the H30s have a nicely spacious, well imaged sound but is clearly not the top of the technical side of ISN IEMs. Its overall technicalities for the mid bands is actually about as good as it gets for the price range using one of the better BAs for its mids. Timbre, sound separation, imaging, tonality all are done well including the spacious stage it has but everything on the H30 is in moderation.

Its timbre is decidedly BA in nature but Sonion BAs produce a richer tonality vs the Knowles counterparts lessening the rigid tendencies of BA presentations. You're definitely not getting a dry mids rigid non emotive mids presentation here. H30 while being the most neutrality tuned ISN IEM is not an analytical neutral type of sound either. It balances a fine line of musical and neutral and that is a good thing. There is a reason why some of the highest end IEMs in the market use the Sonion BAs for their mids presentations and the H30 clearly benefits from its use of the Sonion BA..

The H30 can pick off details surprisingly well and has good spatial layering to its sound with a moderate amount of body. Its definition is a standout for the mid bands with vocals and instruments that are well rounded in its foundation. The H30 is not as colored sounding as some of its older brothers. The benefit of a neutral balanced tuning is that it does give a more honest rendition of your recordings.

The bass
Of the H30 is handled by a 9.2mm Beryllium frosted dynamic. Which I don't know if that stands for a different type of Beryllium coated dynamic but seems to be the same type. Bass end is focused more for its mid bass than sub bass and true to being more neutrally tuned is moderate in emphasis. I would say roughly about 7dbs of mid bass with a mild roll off for sub bass.

These are nothing like the older H40 or even the H50 with a sub bass lift for bass emphasis. And certainly far from the speaker like bass of the EST50. Its definition for bass is about what you would expect. It's certainly the tight and speedy type of dynamic bass. Has a moderate rumble with good texture. At the same time these will not impress anyone that is a bass first fanatic. I would point you to the EST50 if you require bass to be of the utmost importance in the balancing of all things. The H30 is again more neutral in how it is tuned and as such you can’t expect dominant bass. The bass end here compliments the tuning and overall balancing for the H30 extremely well.

Bass comes clean and defined. It's just not as emphasized as some of its older brothers. Bass sounds natural in the process. Acoustical tracks with natural bass lines sound every bit cohesive with the right amount of impact, attack and sustain. Drums sets sound amazingly accurate as a result. I do wish there was a good 2-3dbs more sub bass emphasis for my own personal likes in a bass tuning but otherwise not much to complain about here. Just know these are not the bassiest ISN IEM they have made. But on the other hand, does not sound anemic either. Has good definition for bass and is just enough to really balance the presentation nicely.

Overall
ISN does not make a lot of IEMs and when they do. They are carefully planned out. Where does the ISN H30 sit in the scheme of their line up? It is the intro hybrid for ISN and as such these are very nicely done in the price bracket. Sure they could use a touch more extension on both ends but its nicely done technicalities make up for any shortcomings for the H30. These fit very comfortably among the ISN hybrid line up with surprising neutrality. For some this might be a good thing or bad, depending on how you see it but they certainly do not have anything in its sound makeup that makes them step out of bounds. Its balanced neutral tuning makes for great versatility. Its tonal balance is energetic, clean and makes for a great daily listen. ISN has brought out yet another compelling hybrid to the market and this time it is a neutral offering that I am sure will please fans of the ISN sound. It is actually a good thing these guys mix things up with their tunings and does not stick to just one type of sound signature. They put their own spin on these types of tunings but with each ISN release having its own unique sound presentation.

How they compare.
H30, neutral balanced, good technicalities cohesion and imaging. Moderate bass with a slightly forward treble.

ISN H30, ISN H40, ISN H50, ISN EST50

H40, musical analoguish mildly warm tonality, V tuning with a larger stage vs the H30. It is debatable which IEM has the better detail retrieval. The H30 actually might win in that department but one thing for certain the H40 clearly has more bass presence and has one of the widest stages for ISN IEMs.

H50. musical, w shaped tuning with a holographic wide stage presentation. These are higher end than the H30 with superb sub bass extension, greater body, layering deeper and wider stage and a more refined extended trebles. The higher end H30 is actually the H50. It is clearly the level up from the H30 but the H30 being almost a 1/3rd the cost is not 1/3rd the sound performance of the H50. If you are a fan of the H30 and these are the first ISN IEMs and want the next level. That would be the H50…… And the Penon Fan2. Will put the reason why on the Fan 2 review coming up.

EST50. This tribrid is more of an L shaped tuning with the brawniest bass and authority over the ISN H30. These are actually the upgrade to the H40 sound signature more so than the H50 which is tuned completely differently. The EST50 uses premium higher end drivers giving them even richer tonal character and much more authority in all regions of sound. EST50 are the beefiest sounding ISN IEMS and as such while these are the flagship ISN IEMs the H30s are a great compliment for folks that own the EST50 believe it or not. How about something a bit more neutral with your L shaped full bodied musical IEMs. The EST50s have the smoothest extended trebles and a deep reaching mids presentation with a big brawny bass end that is sheer authority when called upon. There is a reason why these are ISNs flagships.