Leteciel Shark

avishifi

100+ Head-Fier
Leteciel SHARK Review - Be aware, a SHARK is coming!!
Pros: Good bass response, especially mid bass, gives body and shape for male vocals and instruments.
Beautiful midrange presentation, instruments and vocals sounds very good.
Imaging is very good, easy to pitpoint where everything is located in the stage.
Wide and open soundstage, there is a room for every instrument and vocal to breathe.
Slightly warm tuning, make very fun to listen for vocals and instruments, and easy on the ears; I would even call it very musical.
Comfortable shell, designed to the shape of the human ear, which make it comfortable for long use, along with a comfortable nozzle size for my ears.
Very beautiful, sparkly and shiney faceplate in blue color, that will win a beauity contest with no doubt.
High quality carrying case, with jeans texture, along with a good and comfortable cable.
Rich accesories and packaging, will make you smile while you unbox it, which is a very fun and engaging experience.
Cons: Only one pair of eartips (might fit for you, it is a personal thing).
might not satisfy treble-heads, as the main focus here is on the bass and midrange.
Hello everyone! I'm happy to see you here again with another review. I’ve spent the last two weeks with the new IEMs from Leteciel, the Leteciel SHARK – IEMs with three dynamic drivers in each (3DD), priced at around $110. I got this opportunity courtesy of Penon Audio, and I’m very grateful to them for that!

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Disclaimer​


As mentioned at the beginning, I received the IEMs from Penon Audio in exchange for my honest review, but still – my opinions about the IEMs are personal and written based on my own experience with them, and I was not paid for this review. Additionally, this review was translated from Hebrew using translations tools, if you wish to read the review in it's native language, you may do that at this following link.

What's in the box?


Thanks for asking! Well, I’ve received a few requests mentioning the lack of an unboxing video for these IEMs. So, I listened to the requests, and here’s the pilot:


Did you like it? I'd love to hear your thoughts!

The unboxing experience is truly exceptional compared to what’s usually offered, especially in this price range. Even before opening the box, there’s a cute welcome surprise – an anime band that you can assemble and create a cute little band that can be placed on your desk or anywhere else you like. It’s a fun and quirky addition, especially for anime lovers (like me~).

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Inside the box, you'll find a picture of the anime band featured on the packaging, a high-quality denim-style case, an anime pin, one type of silicone ear tips, and the IEMs themselves with the cable already attached—just take them out, plug them in, and enjoy. Personally, I would’ve liked to receive more types of silicone ear tips, but aside from that, the unboxing experience is very rich and unexpected for this price range, overall.

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The cable of the IEMs very good. It is colored in black, the width of it is not particularly thick, and it is relatively flexible, but it does have a tiny bit of memory, though nothing that interferes with usage. Overall, I would say it’s quite comfortable. The ring around the cable split works great; it stays in place and is very easy to adjust, which is an area where many cables fall short, so I’m happy to see they did this right. The shape that curves around the ear is one of the most comfortable I’ve worn. The cable bends smoothly behind the ear without needing to adjust or pull it.

Honestly, it’s a great welcome, especially when the cable comes pre-attached to the IEM, so you don’t need to mess with it. And with an unboxing experience that leaves a smile on your face, great job.

Oh, and yes, there’s a right and left mark on the cable, but it’s not a big deal since the cable is already pre-attached to the IEM.

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The carrying case that comes with the IEMs is very high quality. It's a bluish color with a denim texture. It’s rectangular, opens and closes with magnets, and is quite convenient for carrying, fitting into a pocket.

It reminds me of the case that comes with the ISN Audio NEO 3, which are IEMs that cost twice as much, so that’s a nice touch.
Quality, comfortable, compact. I would say, though, that at first, it’s a bit challenging to get used to its shape, since the IEMs are relatively large, so it takes a bit of practice. But once you get used to it, it’s comfortable.

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When it comes to the silicone tips, I think this is where the package falls a bit short. There’s only one type of silicone tip included, and at first, when I started listening, I felt like something wasn’t quite right for my ear.
Yes, they were comfortable, but the sound didn’t feel like it was the best these IEMs could produce. After trying out some different silicone tips, I decided to stick with my beloved SpinFit CP100+ tips, and the sound improved dramatically.
However, everyone has different ears, and this might be a specific issue for me; but still, I would have liked to see a bit more variety in the silicone tips.
I would say, if you decide to buy these IEMs, get yourself some additional silicone tips so you can have the option to choose and see what works best for you (aka - tip rolling). It really makes a difference in both the sound and the overall experience, and significantly so! Don’t skip this part. Very important!!

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Build Quality & Fit and Comfort


The build of the IEMs is ergonomic, with a shape that fits relatively well to the human ear, making them very comfortable. The IEMs themselves are very beautiful, shiny, and glossy. They respond to light, so every time you move, they shine in a blue hue, which is quite cute and unique. Overall, I found them very comfortable to use, and combined with the comfortable cable they come with, the listening experience and comfort were excellent.

In Terms Of Sound​

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Frequency response graph of the Leteciel SHARK from Squig (courtesy of Hu-Fi).

Apart from this review, I'm happy to announce that I have a measurement device for IEMs on the way, so soon I’ll be able to add my own measurements to my reviews and won’t have to rely on graphs from others. Thought that might be interesting 😊. The tuning of the IEMs feels somewhat bass-focused, with enough sub and mid-bass to give body to the vocals, which are not so upfront but still very present, and at the same time, they’re not the warmest IEMs I’ve heard; maybe more "warmish".

Sub-Bass​

The sub-bass, which covers the lowest frequencies and often delivers the rumbling sensation rather than distinct sounds.

The sub-bass in these headphones is well felt. It can go deep, but in a way that isn't excessive. It feels quite high-quality, sitting in the background, ready to do its job. It's not the deepest sub-bass I've ever heard, but there's a nice balance with the other frequencies, which allows it to blend well into the overall sound. To be more specific, it's well felt and delivers a very good performance, but it doesn't steal the show from the other frequencies. Instead, it adds flavor and color to the music without taking over. When needed, it's very present, but as mentioned, it doesn't hinder the other frequencies from shining.

Mid-Bass​

The mid-bass, where the bass becomes more distinct and perceptible, is equally well-executed. In this range, you hear kick drums and some male bass vocals more clearly.

The mid-bass receives more emphasis and presence compared to the sub-bass. It feels full, with instruments like drums getting body, piano key presses feeling lively and deep, and guitars sounding more "acoustic," especially bass guitars. It's a very enjoyable experience. Male voices also get body and presence, feeling full. Despite the focus on the mid-bass, I wouldn't call these headphones particularly "warm," probably due to the good contrast from the higher frequencies. Overall, I think the bass in these headphones is excellent. It's rich, high-quality, and well-crafted. In metal tracks with lots of bass, as well as rock, the headphones managed to play the bass fast enough to satisfy. I don't think they can disappoint anyone, and I say this as someone who loves a lot of bass.

I think the headphones' character is somewhat "band-like," and you definitely get that vibe, both in the unboxing and the tuning. The drums, especially, feel alive in these headphones, with the nuances being very noticeable and a great performance from them.

I'd also like to mention the guitars. I noted they sound "acoustic," and this is really felt. The guitars have body, texture, and every strum gets a warm, pleasant touch. It's a very enjoyable experience, and these IEMs know how to deliver this very well. I was quite impressed!

Mids​

The mids are the home to most instruments and vocals.

In terms of midrange frequencies, the IEMs also manage to perform well. Guitars sound excellent, violins sound full, and both male and female voices sound great equally. They are relatively forward, but not excessively so. I feel like each instrument receives a nice level of attention, and the combination of low frequencies and midrange brings a lot of life to the mix, making it a very enjoyable experience. The IEMs excelled in pop songs, the way they played male and female vocals was wonderful, combined with instruments that sound full.

Listening to concerts was also a very enjoyable experience; for example, listening to the tracklist of Wicked was very immersive. Every vocal received good attention, and their positioning was precise, with great bass support.

Additionally, the album Tales Weaver Exceed by Vanilla Mood, which is composed entirely of instrumental music (highly recommended!), sounded really beautiful, and gave me the feeling of being in the concert itself. The instruments were well-positioned, felt full, and each one received individual attention. Overall, I think the midrange frequencies were done well and tastefully. I thoroughly enjoyed the amazing combination of bass and midrange. Great job, Leteciel!!



Treble​

The treble, which captures high-pitched sounds like cymbals, violins, and higher synthetic tones, adds brightness, sharpness, and sparkle to the music. However, excessive treble can lead to harshness or fatigue.

The treble in the IEMs provides enough contrast to the bass, but anyone looking for a lot of treble might not find it here. This is what gives these IEMs a more "intimate" feel, with a focus on vocals and other frequencies. The treble is there to balance, but it doesn’t get as much attention as the bass and midrange. I find this fitting for the tuning that Leteciel chose to go with, and it blends very well. Nuances like guitar plucks, cymbals, and so on sound excellent; they integrate nicely with the instruments.

Overall, I think Leteciel did a good job with the treble in the IEMs. It’s present, not the most prominent, provides excellent contrast to the bass, and still doesn’t tire or become harsh on the ears. I’d say the main focus in these IEMs is the bass, at least based on my experience. Again, it’s not that there’s no treble, there’s enough of it, and it’s enough to make me happy. But for electronic music, I don’t think this would be my first choice. These IEMs are more suited for songs with vocals and instruments, but less so for electronic. That said, I did enjoy listening to electronic music with them, and they delivered a good performance, but they wouldn’t be my first pick for the genre.

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Technical Capabilities


The technical capabilities of these IEMs are nothing short of impressive. The soundstage feels quite wide, with instruments having room to breathe and shine. Separation capabilities are pretty good for the price range. But the imaging... wow! That was the first thing I noticed about these IEMs. The combination of a fairly wide soundstage and great imaging makes these IEMs stand out in the technical department, especially for the price range they compete in, in my opinion. Detail retrieval is also quite good, with nuances in the midrange and low frequencies receiving great attention. Overall, excellent technical performance, especially considering the price that Leteciel is asking for. I really enjoyed them.

Comparisons


Letshuoer S12 (Full review here)

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The Letshuoer S12 are in-ear monitors with a single planar magnetic driver. I’d say the comparison between them is quite interesting; the S12 offers a brighter tuning, with less emphasis on bass, and more focus on mids and treble. Meanwhile, the Leteciel SHARK feel a bit warmer, less treble-focused, and give more attention to the mids and nuances in the lower frequencies. In terms of technical abilities, I’d say they are on the same level, which is amazing in my opinion. The imaging on both is very good, and the soundstage feels wide. When choosing between the two, I would lean more towards the type of music I listen to, as each has its strengths and weaknesses. For electronic music, I’d prefer the S12, but for pop music or music that primarily features instruments, I’d prefer the Leteciel SHARK. In terms of build quality, the S12 are made of metal and are relatively small, so they don’t fully cover the ear, requiring a good seal to block out external noise. The Leteciel SHARK, on the other hand, provide better passive isolation and have a shape that fits the human ear more comfortably. To sum up: the Leteciel SHARK focuses more on the lower frequencies and midrange, while the S12 are brighter, with more emphasis on the high frequencies.

Sliivo SL41 mk2 (Full review here)​

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The Sliivo SL41 mk2 are hybrid IEMs combining a dynamic driver (DD) with 4 balanced armature drivers (BA). Honestly, just like the S12 were an interesting comparison, this one is also relatively interesting. I would describe the Sliivo (allow me to shorten it and use this name, please 😅) as more neutral IEMs with boosted bass, and a bit more brightness (although there's great sub-bass enhancement), while the Leteciel SHARK are warmer IEMs with a focus on the nuances in the lower frequencies. I would say the comparison is relatively similar to that of the S12, except for the technical performance. From my feeling, the soundstage of the Leteciel SHARK feels wider, and the imaging is better compared to the Sliivo. In terms of comfort, I found the Leteciel SHARK more comfortable to wear than the Sliivo, because of their more ergonomic shape, while the Sliivo has a relatively flat shape. To sum up: the Leteciel SHARK are IEMs with a wider soundstage and better imaging, focusing on the nuances in the lower frequencies, while the Sliivo are neutral IEMs with a bass boost and are a bit more treble-heavy than the Leteciel SHARK.

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Bottom Line​

The Leteciel SHARK are serious contenders in their price range. They offer a very satisfying package of accessories that left a smile on my face and gave a nice vibe, as if the box is inviting me to listen to the tracks. The IEMs themselves are very beautiful, with a shiny and glamorous structure, looking almost like a luxury, sparkling piece of jewelry, the kind that draws attention and invites you to listen. There’s no way you'd want to leave them just lying on a table or not admire their beauty.
Beyond that, the listening experience is relatively intimate and calm, with satisfying bass, a lovely focus on the low-end nuances of musical instruments. The packaging really reflects the vibe of the IEMs, with great emphasis on drums, guitars, cello, pianos, and violins. The bass plays a great role here, giving substance, foundation, depth, and shape to each instrument. For pop music, concerts, and solo instrumental pieces, they’re definitely my first choice.
And at their price? Good luck competing with that. Their technical abilities left me speechless, the soundstage is wide, and the imaging capabilities are nothing short of excellent.
The only downside for me was that the silicon tips that came with them didn’t fit my ears, so I switched to SpinFit CP100+. So, if you feel the same way I did and think something's missing, I’d recommend first trying to swap out the tips and see if it improves the sound. For me, after changing the silicon tips, the sound improved dramatically. But that’s a personal issue, and everyone has different preferences. In general, with any IEM, it’s always worth trying many types of tips to find the one that provides the best seal and comfort. It’s worth buying several types and styles and giving each IEM the tip that suits it best.
Overall, I think Leteciel has thrown a tough competitor into the ring in this price range. If they keep it up, I see a bright future for them in the market. These IEMs definitely earn my recommendation!

The Leteciel SHARK are available for purchase from Penon Audio's store via the following link (no affiliate marketing) for around 109.90$.

Thank you for reading, hope to see you in my next reviews~!
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Redcarmoose

Headphoneus Supremus
Pros: Evenness
Completeness
Correctness
Beautiful hand-painted shells
Correct fitting medium size designed by using the universal custom data base form factor
Correct nozzle length
1X 10mm Beryllium DD
1X coaxial midrange DD
1X coaxial treble DD
Musical to the 10th degree
A special superpower with Rock music
Cons: Maybe questioned by some detail lunatics as not having the most detail, and maybe questioned by normal people also?
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Leteciel Shark 3 Dynamic Driver Universal IEM
Redcarmoose Labs December 18th, 2024

$109.90
https://penonaudio.com/Leteciel-Shark

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Specification
Brand: Leteciel
Model: Shark
Driver: 1 custom 10mm high performance Beryllium-plated dynamic driver + 2 custom coaxial dynamic driver
Sensitivity: 104dB SPL/mW
Impedance: 16ohm @1kHz
Frequency response: 20Hz-20KHz
Cable: 6N high-purity oxygen free copper cable
Connector: 2pin 0.78mm
Plug: 3.5mm
Cable length: 1.25m
Package
Leteciel Shark
Carry case
SHARK themed badges
3 pairs of silicone Ear-tips

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The SHARK!
What can I say, the SHARK became way more musical after a week of burn-in. I’m placing this sentence at the very start of the review, just in case you get the SHARK and are simply OK with it at the start, more is to come! So often I’m surprised by this change, then I remember “OH” 3DDs……not 1 or 2. And the fact that those DDs are in-charge of everything. So my suggestion is just do it no matter what……….just do it!

This musicality is (now) in every nook and cranny of playback. Meaning there was an effortlessness that prevailed above and beyond everything. A set of decays that are real and decaying. An extra thickness that was added to all three……..the treble, midrange and bass frequencies. An added density and added realness that was unarguable. Why am I posting this as the opening paragraph of the SHARK review? The question really should be, how could I not include this change, as that is why we are here………to experience music playback that is of an advanced quality in comparison to even two years ago. Yep, the SHARK is that and more. OK, ok lets start with what’s in the box and a little history, then I will get to the side-by-sides. Side-by-sides? So soon………..we I’m curious as to how the SHARK compares against its other family members.

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The box:
The opening experience seems to be on-par with IEMs in this price-range. But, what is cool is just how the SHARK looks in person. Yep, just holding it in your hands, I know it is superficial yet this look is exciting and fun………It simply looks like more than $109.90? Then you get the additional gear……like a blue-jean case, a great set of ear-tips and the strange figurines?

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These girls are representing a three piece all girl band. They are also representing the frequency range of the three drivers. Now you would think that three drivers would arrange the music into a separated fashion, like the members of a band each with their own portion of the overall sound? Yet in reality the sound is totally blended, and I don’t know how this is done, except that it happens, to where you would guess you could tell where one driver ends in response, then another takes over………but probably due to each driver being a DD, you can’t tell, it sounds like one placement of playback? Now really it makes you wonder (if you're like me) why they feel they would (feel the need) to include all this extra stand-up plastic with the SHARK?

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And that’s the thing. Before burn-in and when you first get the box, you guess they are providing all this stuff to somehow make-up for a lack in sound ability? That they have to buy your love, so to speak. I mean I’m not into the extras, but also I realize I’m older than the intended SHARK buyer. And I accept that there could be fans out there that hold value in these extras……..like the refraction pin, and the plastic girls as entertaining. That this sound is so good………….that all these extras are just that………extras in the end.

Ear-tips:
These special ear-tips are included not only with the single full-rage $54.90 Leteciel MIRA, but also come with the $159.00 Leteciel Magiris Hybrid IEM. As such the ear-tips are known as “Ether” ear-tips. And yes, if you are guessing they are the throw away style that come with many of the major brand IEMs, you would guess wrong, these are fully usable and great fitting plus relatively thick, and stout. The set included 3 pairs of small, medium and large.

The case:
One of the nicest cases I have gotten all year. Why? Well it is real blue jean material, that darker blue style that comes with white stitching. The liner is all velvet, black velvet. The case has a metal chrome name plate and magnetic closure. The case is not too small or too large and really seems to work, while the jean material seems to add to the ability to hold on to it?

The cable:
I’m not a big fan of this cable, but only due to (it not accessing) the 4.4mm amplifier output from my players. In fact the actual cable is super nice if you leave that one point out of the metrics.

Meaning the 6N 2Pin 0.78mm cable is extremely ergonomic and soft to use. The whole set-up is all aluminum, the plug (which is branded) then the ball of the chin-cinch is aluminum, the splitter is aluminum and the 2Pins are aluminum barrels with both R and L markers and color coded clear and red. Now the cable is not quite the level of the crazy flexibility of the $159.00 Leteciel Magiris, but I have never seen a more flexible cable than the Magiris has? So each IEM of the Leteciel line has a different type of cable, more on the Magiris cable to follow in the Magiris review.

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Comparisons:
Look, I was curious OK……….meaning sure these three IEMs are made by the same company, and share a (from memory) tuning of sorts, separated (maybe) by build methodology. Meaning I’m guessing before the tests that each IEM is responding differently due to the Mira being a single full-range DD, the Magiris being a two driver Knowles BA and DD, and SHARK as a 3X DD. So just by build nature we are gifted with an exploration into the various driver character subjects due to make and design. Like having a few different breeds of dog, each will showcase their nature and personality profile.

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Left to right:
Leteciel SHARK, Leteciel Mira and Leteciel Magiris

The Mira:
While my first introduction to the line, I found the overall tone to offer balance, the slightly compromised bass ability added to the 2.5kHz to 5kHz peak Pinna Gain, resulted in a more floaty midrange. This floating was the perfect idea of personality too as it added fast transients and well positioned vocals! Sure there are a number of ways to build a 10mm full-range DD, and this is one. As such the Mira is exactly like her name, feminine and poised, female in nature and special, almost cute? Did I just call an IEM cute? Well I almost did. And now we are going-up against the SHARK, maybe the name of an all girl group? Yes, SHARK the perfect name for an all girl group, or an all DD X 3 IEM. I’m actually surprised this name has not been taken yet?

All tests with the Penon Pyramid VI and the new Penon PAC LStips................included is the WM1A Walkman with MrWalkman’s firmware and zero EQ.

I’m having so much fun here. And before this test I did an hour of cable tests. What this does is show me the character and limits of that specific character in regards to the ramifications of different cable material. The only reason I’m talking about it here is I’m not going to include cable rolls in this review. Why? The character of the SHARK is well rounded and the most well rounded than any on test here today. The SHARK remained itself, while still allowing for a window of character to be met-up-with…………..still that character was ultimately the SHARK itself, and that could be looked at as both good and bad. Good because that means the SHARK is pretty much itself from a number of sources and cables, remaining in character with no fires to put out, or changes to be asked for.

HAHA,
How often do I introduce a paragraph with “HAHA”. That is because I’m surprised, I’m surprised by how much brighter this is in the end. Yep, the Mira is actually more on the bright side, way way brighter than from my memory. And there is nothing wrong with memory being off. You see the SHARK was not in possession when I did the MIRA review. So that is how memory is…….it is faulty. Less bass, more midrange and a thinner treble. This MIRA is almost as if all the thick wind was taken out of the SHARK’s sails. To where my description of the Mira at the top of these comparisons is correct, but take every word and add 2X in-front! In defense of the MIRA I will say that this phenomenon is also the contrasts of being, meaning if you listened to the Mira for a day and only her for a day, she would start to become a little more balanced. But still, it is what it is………and everything I said about the floaty-ness held inside the Mira personality is there…….vividly there, and for some this will be the preferred way to go, only it IS different. The difference allows for sheets of treble additives to flow outwards into the stage, proclaiming their thinner nature, and holding charm, but of less real consequence. I mean all this has to be taken into cost too, as for the money the MIRA is grand, it is just that the $54.90 MIRA only walks so far into realism, to where today and right now, I am surprised at just how much better the SHARK is for basically 2X the jack.

:smiling_imp: OK, fun and games are over……….now we go up against the $159.00 Leteciel Magiris: :smiling_imp:

So I haven’t done the Magiris review yet. Right off we are greeted by this authoritative stage and personality of the Magiris. Way, way more authority than only two drivers would have you guess. And that’s my mental hang-up at times. I come from a time when less drivers normally meant less sound, but I would have anyone, just anyone into the hobby to hear the Magiris and tell me how many drivers it is, without knowing beforehand. :)

There is a giant-ness, a full-ness and a completeness that will make writing the Magiris review so much fun. The only reason I didn’t write the Magiris review already is because there already is a Magiris review posted, yet no SHARK reviews posted as yet.

Yet here all-of-a-sudden is a challenge to the SHARKS stage size? And a full on destruction of what was thought about the MIRA stage…….jeez. Yep, it is all here, all of it………..a classic big breakfast for the eating. But to get down to it, to try and itemize the style the Magiris brings to the breakfast table……………………Where the SHARK held finite, actually infinite decays, we are now witnessing faster decays and of a slight, very slight different timbre. I mean this is Knowles in action, and Leteciel paid more money for this driver. And you are paying for this timbre if you buy the Magiris. To where the overall signature is vibrant, more vibrant than the SHARK ever could grab onto. And those reaches of imaging are held into place of a slight bit thinner nature, but faster and clearer, living out and about into their own life, apart from what the SHARK is capable of. Still this is also the airiness of the MIRA, but on a way better side of airy, and today I would call this airy perfect, where I didn’t hear the Mira as perfect, if that makes any sense? Still here is a clean house, a sparkling floor free of clutter or debris. Sparkling and emotional, while still not perfect, but as big and grand as you can probably find in IEM land for the money?

Wait what:
I’m surprised they keep sending me gear, I’m totally unreliable. Putting the SHARK into my ears again, I am bewildered by the size of it all. I mean this is supposed to be a factual review. Yet now the size of the SHARK stage is somehow even bigger. I’m not going to erase what I wrote because that was my impression. But now coming back to the SHARK I have to give it more credit for stage size? Wild? And while it is more filled in in nature. Where the Magiris was the thin pole vaulter, this SHARK is the high school wrestler. Thicker and holding a demeanor of size and weight at hand. Slightly darker, but only darker in a good way, you know, that way you want. Basically all the thicker pluses and none of the thicker minuses. And while I can hear how they are from the same company, that there is a basic tuning idea here, still the three are so very different that having the Magiris and the SHARK would be complementary in nature. Why, well the SHARK has a filled-in way about how it generates a giant stage holding huge images, of midrange and treble, that while the bass takes a little back seat area, it is still fully accounted for and the SHARK still goes fine with EDM and Hop-hip. :)

What we are given is size with the SHARK. Crazy unarguable size of stage, and while I know this……..already, it was the Magiris that in contrast made the extra benefits of adding forward and back, top to bottom size image differences apparent? It is just that the Magiris is doing a more steely and faster imaging outwards to the right and left. To where the SHARK is adding bigger size into the midrange holding a midrange authority that is not only of different timbre than the Magiris, but of a thicker sculpturing. This sculpture holds detail, and more detail that you would guess reading this, it is just that images are overlapped and of a closer distance forward and back, and not as delineated and the Magiris could get to. Still when the vocals come here……………..OH Gawd.

OH Gawd:
Yep, there is a profound idea here with vocals. And if I was to give a basket of flowers to the Leteciel company, the basket would have a card……………….and the card would say simply……….Thank-you for the vocals………Redcarmoose. Yep that is all it would say. And not that the other items of replay are lacking. It is just these vocals make my day!

Vocals:
Big, harmonically rich, textured and itemized into the stage!

Treble:
Interestingly the treble is blended, and I’m not hearing an extra DD driver. What this does is puts the MIRA to shame a little, as the size is bigger and the stage is wider, to create this treble experience that is simply more involving, but more than that, I hate to say it, but there is still a slight floaty quality to the images, though they are grounded in the best of ways………fully outdoing whatever the MIRA was doing. Yep, the SHARK is basking in a more complete and less thin area especially in how the treble is presented. When you add the bass experience to it, this balance is profound. Meaning there is the perfect balance of bass to treble……………..I don’t know how else to say it. But what that balance does is make way for the mids………………..

Mids:
To where the mids are what Leteciel is all about. Not only in size but in careful clarity. You get the impression that there is nothing left out here. The best part is how they dialed in the vocals…………….to where the vocals are represented like a vocal IEM, only we are also given the rest of the supporting tones. Where sure this is not the BA vocals of the Magiris, but in many ways and for maybe some people this way of doing the mids would be unquestionably preferred. Simply warmer, with better decays and possibly better timbre? It is just their placement into the stage is grand, and smooth and realistic………..I’m out of words.

Bass:
This bass is arguable. That while maybe some could want more bass, I have to say it is close to perfect for me. Why? It has definition, but is not the very most clear bass, only for this style of money it is damn good. The decays are cool, that whatever it is lacking in texture the bass goes forward to get the involvement to your ears with decays. But the second more important thing is the blend. Yep, the bass is more blended here than you may get with traditional Hybrids? Yet when you turn-on EDM I ask you………do you even want more? That’s how the bass is! Firm clear and present…….hello. Hello!

And that fact maybe goes without saying, that this style of tune is (while holding a great stage) still more filled-in than BA/DD Hybrids can do. That when the treble comes about it is generated as a golden example of the tone, not needing or even trying to get that full-on sparkle. That all this is happening more with the midrange, and generally acceptable in that we are gifted with a glorious midrange after all is said and done. A thicker darker yet luscious midrange you want to tell people about.

Decays:
Come-on it is the decay that is this IEMs speciality. Putting to shame any BA Hybrids out there. These decays are everywhere you look, as this is a decay party!

Texture:
To where sure other IEMs can and will showcase more texture, found inside of how they generate tones of images. To where the SHARK is a more blended example while still holding better timbre, the texture could be called downplayed? Now what that means is the textures are still there, but slightly hidden beneath the mirk and mire of the composite display. More of a dense table of goods to try and take apart to examine. Yet inside of that matrix we are rewarded with this smooth realization of actual images (holding texture) coming forth and gaining noticeability.

Transients:
Sure, you don’t have that squeaky clean floor to arrange the transient ability. They are taking place, yet in a different time domain. Slower, more blended.......and yet more analog.

Tone:
Really the standout feature here is the tone, to where timbre and close to perfect tonality is the reason you buy these. The separation takes a hit due to a blending of how each instrument and vocals find their place in the mix, but that naturalness is why we came to visit. So as far as siding to the technicalities, BAs do a faster and more delineated, separated imaging attack, to where there is a faster creation and faster decay, that is not without its drawbacks. Here the physical structure of the DD membrane is of a slower reactionary incident in comparison to the microscopic movements of the BA reed of steel. Yet what comes out the other side is a more well rounded structure, containing the ability to go with any source and cable.

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Build:
Notice the 3D form factor utilizing the ear-shape database for universal custom creation. This means the SHARK blends with your ears, into creating both a snug fitment, but also great noise occlusion. Listening to the fan sound I would call this noise occlusion medium, that while I have heard better, I have also heard worse. The single small vent seems smaller than most, though it does its job. The benefit here is the metal nozzle ends which hold ear-tips on without issue. Also the hand painted faceplates go the extra mile to add pizzazz to your daily life. The SHARK is just fun to look at, how else can I describe it?

Music:
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Intro into the music section.

Some may question why I didn’t choose a wide range of music. Well to defend myself here, the SHARK plays it all. Once that is discovered then you try and trip it up a little. Meaning let’s investigate just how it attempts to replay such examples of well recorded music.

OH, and yes the lesser examples (of lesser files) you have been avoiding in your library……………gets lovely replay here too!

Just take my word on that, I don’t need to prove it. And if I was defensive I could list a whole list of lesser examples of tunes to show how the SHARK simply gets down to business with sub-par recordings. But that will slow down the review and add unneeded focus. What we are going to try and do is trip the SHARK up with even well-recorded music…………..and explain where we are at.


Note timestamps only pertain to the digital file, not the video.

Hans Zimmer
Wonder Woman 1984 (sketches)
No Hero Is Born From Lies
44.1kHz - 24bit

This is an important song in that this particular song is what BA-Hybrids do well. This taking of itemized sonics and separating them into fully isolated form………free into their own life of existence for you to relish. No, we don't have that exactly. :)

The first thing, that is the first thing you notice is how much bass there is. Listen this has been questioned here, and I will be the very first to defend that this is enough bass. And not enough bass but the perfect amount of bass. No it is not as low or even as itemized as some sets, and there are points deducted for clarity of separation. There are other lesser priced sets that do this bass in the opening better, just clearer and more separated. Still I don’t want that to detract from the extra added bass notes found in a romantic and pleasurable way found in the very place as those other IEM more itemized form, it is just this here is still coming up with detail, only it is more poetic in nature and is just as complete, in many ways it is just we have a more blended experience, and if you were looking for bass details added extra, other sets can do it, even for less money. Yet what this is about is a more cohesive and (maybe) overly coherent idea as to playback. The chime at 00:01 comes-up in attached to the rest, then the violins at 00:01 also showcase a more closer to the other instrument character. As such detail fanatics look elsewhere, this is about organic fun taking place. Everything is slightly furry around the edges and even touching. But at the same time there is an uncanny closeness that is golden allowing for this oneness of it all allowing for a blending and a more relaxed idea of playback. At 00:18 the timpani (kettle drum) is coming in from behind the strings…….almost as if a part of the whole, and not containing that edge, that strict edge of attack. That edge may be there, only it is clouded by its surroundings! :)

I mean this may sound silly, especially to audiophiles, but there is more to playback than the cutting edge of timpani attacks. What do you get in trade here? A romantic illustration of occurrences, it may sound like things are buried at first. Except when the higher toned strings start to make themselves known…………at 00:14 you start to get a clue to which part of town we are entering. Then, then right after that the kettle drums take on an effortlessness that is unquestionable and fun. You can taste the effortlessness….it is the thing of value here. At 00:28 the stage starts to enlarge, and the SHARK is taking us with it! At 00:32 the timpani is larger and we are aware of that fact. Again it is small nuances of volume due to the effortlessness that are taking us away emotionally. At 00:39 is the first major climax and yet the tones are not too bright, nor too dull. Around 00:49 we hear the chimes, and while not totally metallic sounding they are represented well. And that is the review in a nut-shell that while the chimes are there and not over-the-top metallic sounding, they are still fully heard for their own style of tone………..and it is correct. And right after this section somehow each and every element of the song comes into play, to where each tone is fully separated into the stage……….better than expectations and that is the thrill. At 01:12 there is another addition of extra violins. At 01:48 there are more chimes, yet they are closer to the rest of replay and not projected outward into their own existence like with BA sets. Still this slightly more cohesive replay is different and just as satisfying to hear, yet of darker and smoother tones. But fuller and more meaty than the Leteciel Mira ever thought of being. At 02:02 we now hear the pitter patts of stick-hits, and yet they are out on their own into the stage. All this could read like it borders on boring, and that is the question. But to me it is the best part about how Leteciel has walked that line. This line offers a fully complete and correct way to view your files, it is just there will always be more detail presented by BA driver IEMs that are tuned to offer a more bright idea of playback. The downside is those BAs can’t reach the full amount of decays, they just can’t get close. These decays are a flowing stream that waver inside of giant washes and like a slow moving river that comes-up to touch your feet, as an example of delight. This effortlessness is everywhere, in every instrument introduced, you can’t escape it. At 03:00 there is a change-up to where the song takes a quiet moment to add emphasis later. And even though there are decays into how the chimes are heard romantically introduced………just because and only because I have heard this other ways I’m fully aware it is not complete, yet I don’t care. Like at a restaurant getting a nice chunk of steak and forgetting that it does not include vegetables.


Note timestamps only pertain to the digital file, not the video.


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Hans Zimmer & Junkie XL
Batman v Superman OST
New Rules
96kHz - 24bit

I have used this song for years and years to understand playback. And if I can say one important thing right off, timbre is correct. And (lol) the giant timpani came aboard. I mean if you really want to know the size of the timpani make this song at the start and subsequently make the use of the SHARK to be found not only respectful, but more importantly fun! The giant decays found inside them, and their slight lumbering pace, there is absolutely no way we could handle more low-end and keep this clear. There is a synth sound effect at just 00:48 that is like a flying bee, only darker and thicker. It is these ideas that make the SHARK precious and loved, that this tone somehow has great transients and crosses the stage from actually starting at 00:44! Then making itself known, ending at about 00:54. The synth that is a warm layer introduced as a wash of deep bass takes the cake here, being both warm and deep sounding fully itemized into the stage…….almost floating on its own. And that again is the value here, that it is rare for an IEM at this price point to deliver the goods, offered up in such a fine way! At 01:38 my test tone is upon us. This is a drop that I always use to get an understanding of both bass tone, and bass technicalities. That while maybe not as totally detailed as a BA bass could do, we are gifted with way enough tone to the bass and a great separation found into the stage!

KMFDM
Oh My Goth
Paradise
44.1Khz - 24bit

Here is a choice to show the range of female vocals. Yet more than that, this is a song I have used for years too. Hearing it…....the song reminds me of a very important feature that I may have left out of today's ideas. So besides vocals which I will get to, this song deals with pace. Pace and bounce are the most important things if you listen to rock. Yep, the SHARK has a groove. Now that maybe why there is not a picture of a set of gals playing orchestral music on the box? We are shown a girl rock band, and that is exactly what we have in our ears…….a rocking set! To start out with that means that there is a connection between the bass and the drums………a connection way more important than individual details………..why it is the most important aspect here?

A bounce and a play of rhythm that at times we don’t even know how it is provided, except we know when it is missing. This swagger is what enables us to move, and to dance, and to engage in the message that is beyond lyrics into the soul of the music. It is the message in rock music, heck at times people don’t even know the lyrics. Why, because lyrics are secondary to where the music takes us with a beat. This beat is arrived at by a number of devices, the bass must be enough, but not so much that it drowns out pace. There must be enough detail to where subtle differences in groove can be discerned. And with this usually comes a playful bounce that is taken by the guitar, the drums and the bass interacting.

Each instrument must allow for each other to be heard and felt. On top of that can be the focus of vocals. This vocal presence must be into how the Pinna Gain is perceived, because if not enough………..the vocals will not hold enough contrast to be focused upon, and sound almost like an afterthought, when we don’t ever want that. Here while maybe the SHARK could be a vocal IEM when Vocal music is used, in this case the Vocals need to pitch themselves out into position to be well heard inside this mix, and it is provided for.

The end results are at times difficult to describe, as really you want to hear everything, but at the same time ignore the very reasons for this success, and that is what we have. A simple yet complete groove to where the bass, drums guitar and vocals are heard intermingling.


Note timestamps only pertain to the digital file, not the video.


Adrift shipwrecked a siren hard to catch
Once caught, no turning back
My heart's a tomb painted black
Agony to endure hurts so good
You want more a blessing or a curse
I'm your devil doll for better or worse
Sing me sing your tragic love song
Don't be afraid come right in
I've been dying to meet you in the skin
Sing me sing your tragic love song
Let's make a pact play pretend
Eternally your invisible friend
Turn turn turn around when you see me coming
I'm the queen of Hell and I burn for you
Burn burn burn
The riddle goes on and on like a juke box
Repeating songs ambushed by the living dead
A nightmare with no end
Sing me sing your tragic love song
Don't be afraid come right in
I've been dying to meet you in the skin
Sing me sing your tragic love song
Let's make a pact play pretend
Eternally your invisible friend
Turn turn turn around when you see me coming
I'm the queen of Hell and I burn for you
Burn burn burn
Sing me sing your tragic love song
Don't be afraid come right in
I've been dying to meet you in the skin
I'm the queen of Hell and I burn for you
I'm the queen of Hell and I burn for you
Let's make a pact play pretend
Eternally your invisible friend
Turn turn turn around when you see me coming
I'm the queen of Hell and I burn for you
Burn burn, aah
I'm the queen of Hell and I burn for you
I'm the queen of Hell and I burn for you
I'm the queen of Hell and I burn for you

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Conclusion:
The planets aligned with this one. To where the 3X DD drivers add extra stage and tonal ability only wished for by single full-range drivers. And that is what you think to yourself when the SHARK has burn-in and is placed into your ears. There is a lot of entertainment to be found at very little $ expenditure here. To where Leteciel went the extra mile to include qualities that beat-out more expensive Hybrid examples!

While maybe transients take a back seat to tonality………….imaging is still relatively exciting, and why we came in the first place. What I mean by that is that imaging is directly connected to transients.Yet the SHARK seems to go forward and substantiate imaging still, like moving against the tried and true ideas………..to create a big wonderful stage anyway? Yep, it is big and natural sound formations created inside of what the SHARK does 24/7………with every set-up you have.

And you get the plastic girl band to place wherever you want! :)

All and all………..to be serious here, Leteciel went the extra mile to provide a nice case, a nice cable and a nice set of ear-tips. Yet more important a nice sound that is going to be way way better than you possibly can guess for $109.90? Yep, it is the sound quality for money spent that will make your day when the Shark arrives and has burn-in at your home. The tone walks that line that designates enough detail, enough pace and enough stage to make your music come alive. The SHARK is so well rounded it plays every genre possible. It also walks that line to where extra detailed quality files sound great, and the SHARK can make the best of lesser old favorites you may have avoided...........to put on.


And as you know making bad files sound good is no easy feat to do, but the SHARK does it.

I said it before, but I need to say it again…………….the SHARK put-out a lot of sound for the asking price. It is just forward and big, and to the left and to the right. The SHARK is way bigger sounding than you would guess for the price, and inside that sound you may find yourself involved with your music while the natural tones add to that phenomenon.

$109.90
https://penonaudio.com/Leteciel-Shark

Disclaimer:

The Leteciel SHARK IEM has had a week of burn-in.

Disclaimer:
I want to thank Penon Audio for the love and for the Leteciel SHARK Universal IEM review sample.

Disclaimer:
These are one person's ideas and concepts, your results may vary.

Equipment Used:
Sony WM1Z Walkman DAP MrWalkman’s Firmware 3.5mm
Sony WM1A Walkman DAP MrWalkman’s Firmware 3.5mm
Sony TA-ZH1ES DAC/AMP Firmware 1.03 3.5mm
Electra Glide Audio Reference Glide-Reference Standard "Fatboy" Power Cord
Sony Walkman Cradle BCR-NWH10
AudioQuest Carbon USB

New Penon PAC LStips:
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baneand
baneand
I wonder how it compares to IvipQ Shanhai (also 3 DD config). I like that one, balanced and natural sounding and can be got with many discounts on aliexpress
L
LikeHolborn
I don get it, is it intimate vocals/small soundtsage with a prominent midrange and bass and treble serve only to compliment it? Emotional vs clinical? Thick vs thin sound?
Redcarmoose
Redcarmoose
@LikeHolborn,
Fairly decent stage that offers a surprisingly filled-in and upfront midrange, with added vocals that are well done. And yes, good bass but bass is not the Shark’s forte nor is the treble. Treble is more layers like you would expect from a DD treble maker. All the Leteciel IEMs are mainly midrange focused. Yet the MIRA thinest, the MAGIRIS is middle (a BA and DD Hybrid) and the warmest and thickest is the SHARK. Cheers!

Thick sound not thin. More emotional than clinical, fairy big stage in that it is forward, side to side and front to back, but the MAGIRIS stage is wider.
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