LETSHUOER Mystic 8

Letshuoer Mystic 8 Review​

Full Review can also be found HERE

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Letshuoer Mystic 8 Review ​

Intro ​

Hello, this review and feature covers the latest flagship iem from the audio brand Letshuoer named the Letshuoer Mystic 8 ($989), nicknamed the “Phantom Cat”. For review purposes I will refer to this set as the Mystic 8. Anyways, the Mystic 8 is the first iem to come to market as part of Letshuoer’s “Myst” series. I think the Mystic 8 is the perfect set to usher in this series as well. Everything about it is tailored to the intention of the series. Now, the Mystic 8 is an eight balanced armature driver earphone and certainly falls into flagship territory for Letshuoer. Granted, Letshuoer has another truly flagship level iem in the Letshuoer Cadenza. Whatever you want to call it, the Mystic 8 certainly has all the earmarks of a truly great all-BA iem, now I just have to actually hear it. Tracking says it’ll be at my home today and so I had to get writing, this intro isn’t going to write itself. Friends, I am actually quite jazzed to have the opportunity to check this set out and relay my thoughts to you all. Thank you Letshuoer and Letshuoer Sherry.

Letshuoer ​

I’m a fan of the business of personal audio. Or rather, I enjoy watching growth, and I enjoy seeing what a brand is trying to accomplish through their releases. One thing is for sure, Letshuoer isn’t the type of brand who sits on their hands. This company gets after it. Every quarter it seems they will have a new release or two and they always seem to be relevant releases as well as very unique releases. I have personally reviewed many of Letshuoer’s products over the years as well as my partners at Mobileaudiophile.com and I gotta say, there haven’t been very many reviews which weren’t very positive. Of course, Letshuoer is world renowned for their effort in producing some of the best planar magnetic earphones on the market. In fact, I view the Letshuoer S12 2024 Edition (S12 2024 Edition Review) as one of the best planar earphones at any price, across the market. However, it doesn’t just stop at planars as their Letshuoer Cadenza 4 (Cadenza 4 Review) is widely regarded as one of the best hybrid sets under $300. I could keep going folks, but this review would be much longer, I’m trying to get away from that. The point is, Letshuoer continues to push some boundaries within the hobby, and I am always happy to report on such things.

Let’s get it…​

Well folks, I received the Mystic 8 just this morning and I can tell this is going to be a fun process. Just for posterity I am going to let the Mystic 8 burn-in for a couple days (yes, I know moving iron drivers don’t really need it) and then I will begin the wonderful process of writing down my thoughts, making tons of notes, and having a lot of fun in the process. With all that intro stuff out of the way I think I’m ready for this review, Let’s get it. Man, I love this hobby. Now, without further ado, the Letshuoer Mystic 8… (insert crowd noise)

Non-Affiliated Purchasing Links:​

–Letshuoer

–Linsoul

–The Hificat

Gear used for testing​

–Ifi Go Blu

–EPZ TP50

–EPZ TP35

–Kiwi Ears Allegro Pro

–Aful SnowyNight

–Shanling H0

–Fiio JM21

–Fiio Q15

–iBasso DX240 with Amp8 MK2

–Shanling M6 Ultra

Packaging / Accessories ​

Unboxing ​

The unboxing of the Letshuoer Mystic 8 is truly a nice experience. The box which arrived at my home is a large almost square box. Covering this box is a sleeve which features black wavy stripes covering a silver underbody. At the bottom of the box is an artistic rendering of a black cat. It’s a totally slick design and in fact probably one of the coolest box arts that I’ve seen of late. So, take the sleeve off and you have a very sturdy and well-made black box that opens from the center. You’ll see a magnet with the Letshuoer logo which clamps the box shut. Very nice looking. Open the box and you’ll see a long foam piece with the Mystic 8 sitting at the top in cut-outs while the carrying case is below them also sitting in cut-out foam. Next to those on the right side is another long box. Take that box out, open it up and you’ll see a silver necklace and a ring for your finger. An odd accessory, but cool, nonetheless. Take that box out and under it you’ll see all the eartips sitting in foam cut-outs. Truly a fitting unboxing for the cost. At least I would think. Nice work Letshuoer.

Eartips​

I have to salute Letshuoer for their eartip choices. They provide nine pairs of eartips in total over three different styles of tips. All of them are of good quality as well. For the most part anyways. They are certainly all very much usable and can make some nice extra tips for a collection. The first set of three (S, M, L) eartips are gray in color and they’re a slightly longer ear tip, narrow bore, firm flange, and a rigid stem. Not bad at all but I want something with a wider bore. The next set of three (S, M, L) are white in color, shallow fit, wide bore, flimsier flange and a less rigid stem. I did not like these at all as I simply couldn’t ever get a seal, just too flimsy. Lastly Letshuoer provided three pairs (S, M, L) of white flanged and black stem semi-wide bore eartips. These tips have a firm flange, very rigid stem and they are my favorite of the included tips. This set is actually almost identical to the KBear 07 tips, but they are simply different colors. I used this set for much of my review but halfway through decided to check all of my tips again. As I went through all of my eartips I actually landed on the Dunu S&S tips which are wonderful for the Mystic 8. I do like the included tips quite a lot, but the S&S tips simply outperformed them. Honestly, Letshuoer did a nice job of providing three completely different styles of tips which do alter the sound to a degree. Very nice.

Carrying Case ​

Letshuoer also added into the package a very nice carrying case. This case is a very cool looking hockey puck shaped case made entirely of aluminum. Seriously one of the cooler cases. The top of the case is actually a piece of thick rubber formed to seal around the case itself. There is quite a lot of suction as you put the case lid on which shows off its ability to seal and protect. your earphones inside. As far as the size, I’d say the case is large enough for your Mystic 8 earphones, the cable, some extra tips, and maybe a very small dongle dac. Really a nice addition folks. I don’t really sue cases but I’m sure that many people will enjoy this one.

Chain and Ring?​

Oddly enough & unique enough is the inclusion of a ring and necklace within the packaging. The ring is supposed to symbolize the Phantom Cat, and the necklace is silver in color and made out of a metal alloy. Every now and again these brands will add in something unique within their packaging, but Letshuoer took this to another level here. I don’t know what the ring and necklace have to do with earphones, or the theme of these earphones, but it’s still a cool thing to see. It just makes for an interesting unboxing experience.

Cable​

The cable provided with the Letshuoer Mystic 8 was at first a head scratcher. I suppose I’m simply so conditioned to want to see a fat, luxurious, and robust cable with my higher end iems. Now, many folks will likely have issues with this cable because it is very thin and doesn’t exude the feeling of a high-end cable. However, I want to push back on that a little bit. What Letshuoer did was add in a very well-made cable with good materials which serves a more functional purpose rather than cosmetic and aesthetically pleasing purposes. Granted, you can have both, but I took care of that myself. More on that in a minute. So, the cable provided is a very thin and very light cable with a soft rubber insulation. It actually feels very cool, it’s got that grippy feel. The cable is a 2-pin, 8-core, 20 strand monocrystalline copper cable with silver plating terminating in a 4.4 balanced connection. So, not bad at all. What I “learned” to enjoy about the included cable wasn’t it’s looks, but how it feels when using it. It just never gets in the way folks. It’s so lean, so pliable. Probably the most pliable cable I’ve ever used. No spring to it at all. Rolls up perfectly and holds the roll. It’s functional, very light, and doesn’t pull on your ears. Almost as light as those Estron Superbax cables that you get with the Westone Mach series. So, I get it. Not a bad cable at all but I could see why others may not enjoy it.

What cable did I use? ​

So, I couldn’t help myself. I just had to try other cables. This set is too nice to not have an equally nice cable on it. I went through so many folks. The three cables which sounded best to my ears were the Dunu Hulk Pro, the FSIjiangyi pure copper, and the Effect Audio Eros S ii cable (Eros S ii Review). I feel like a broken record, but the Eros S ii once again won out with me and is definitely the cable which best paired with the Mystic 8. The pairing is simply too nice. Now, the color may be a hair off, but I think it looks nice enough when attached. There’s just something about the Eros S ii which draws out the dynamics in a set.

Build / Design / Internals / Fit ​

Build Quality ​

The Letshuoer Mystic 8 has a very nice build, a very Intricate build, and a build which I feel could only be accomplished through a machining process. The intricacy is quite awesome. I’m not just referring to the faceplate design, though the faceplate is strikingly awesome and difficult to manage. What I’m more referring to is the body of this iem, or the shell. It’s a very complicated up and down wavy build that human hands simply aren’t making. Unless you’re a robot, at which case… I didn’t mean to offend.

Titanium!​

As far as the Mystic 8 is concerned, it is made entirely of titanium. Yes, the entire piece is CNC honed (carved) out of titanium. In my day job I deal quite a bit with precious metals of different kinds. I am a mechanical integrity inspector and so I know a little bit about these materials. Ya know, Letshuoer could’ve used anything. They could’ve done this far cheaper with 304 or 316 stainless steels, or aluminum. However, they wanted the best for a purpose such as this and they chose titanium. Titanium is very hard on bits, drill bits, tool wear, and it is ridiculously unforgiving to anyone who isn’t well trained. However, it is also very durable, extremely resistant to any corrosion, great to put against the skin as it will not usually cause an allergic reaction, and it has a wonderfully strong tensile strength. Basically, don’t drop your Mystic 8 on hard ground, but if you do, I can assure you the titanium will hold up perfectly. The Internals may not, but hey, the titanium will hold up. Okay, don’t do any of that and treat your Mystic 8 like a baby. Moving on. Anyways, the fact that Letshuoer chose titanium speaks mightily of their intent with this set. They provided the best, they used the best, and they intend to create the best. That’s the Mystic 8.

Build Quality cont… ​

At any rate, the Mystic 8 is built extremely well and with such a distinct character that only a programmed machine could do the work. Also, the Mystic 8 is not very large folks. It’s about medium sized (what’s medium Chris?) and not at all bulky. The nozzle is at quite an angle, but I also found that this angle makes the fitment darn near perfect for my ears. I just have to angle them while inserting the Mystic 8. You’d think an all-alloy designed shell would mean they are also very heavy. Well, remember this is titanium with a ridiculously high sheer strength per its size. The ratio is very high and so Letshuoer was able to craft this set to be very light while at the same time very strong. So, they aren’t at all heavy. Kind of like aluminum but much, much, much stronger, along with many other better properties. Aluminum can become brittle easily, not titanium. Now, the nozzles are not the ultra deep insert style, again, about medium, or average (what’s average Chris?). The nozzle opening measures right at about the standard 6mm as well. You’ll notice one small vent near the rear of the shell body and the flush female 2-pin sockets as well. Friends, this set is built amazingly well. Some of the highest build quality out their folks.

Design​

As far as the design, you’ll either love it or not. At least I don’t feel you’ll have much indifference on this. As for me, I think it’s one of the coolest designs that I’ve seen. Again, the Mystic 8 is part of their brand new “Myst series” and the Mystic 8 plays the part wonderfully. Everything about it screams mysterious, behind the veil, eery, and ominous. Very much like the figure sitting in the darkness as the light shines its silhouette against the fog of the night. Well, that’s exactly what the black cat honed out on the faceplate represents. The elusive but calm figure in the dark. The entire earphone including the cat on the faceplates are all crafted in a glossy and deep black color, so very cool. Coincidentally, the wavy lines on the faceplates (above the cat) are supposed to represent the veil. Inside of the cat’s eyes Letshuoer placed a faux diamond which I feel is a cool thing to add. Like I said, it will either be something that you really think is dope, or not. Letshuoer decided upon a very bold design language which usually will only go one of two ways for people. In my opinion, this set is one of the most artistically advantageous earphone designs that I’ve seen!

Internals ​

As far as the Internals of the Mystic 8, Letshuoer decided to craft this set with a grand total of eight balanced armature drivers per side. All of the BA’s used are either Knowles or Sonion and so you know you’re getting the best inside of the Mystic 8. Having said that, I don’t know what role any of the BA’s play, not exactly anyways. Meaning, I have zero idea what type covers the lows, the mids, or the highs. I suppose it doesn’t really matter at all, but it’s nice to know and relay that info to you. I do know that there are four Knowles and four Sonion. Beyond the drivers, Letshuoer employed a three-way electronic crossover as well as a four-tube design running from each driver to the nozzle. Included in that design is a low pass filter module which incorporates a longer tube from the bass driver with periodic “porous material” (Letshuoer’s words) inside of the tube which has a micro hole enabling the low-pass filtering. What this effectively does is attenuates some of the higher frequencies whilst boosting the low range. It’s basically a way for an all-BA set to create more weight and impact in their lows. We’ve seen all kinds of designs and theories to enhance this area of the mix and it’s good to see that Letshuoer is getting creative. Honestly, the drivers and internal components are all of very high-quality folks. One more thing, it is said that the Mystic 8 went through a two-year process of R&D and trials to get the sound they wanted without distortions. I’d say it was worth the time and pain.

Fit / Comfort ​

I’ve alluded to the comfort already earlier in the “Build Quality” section of this review and I’ll just echo that again here. I find the Mystic 8 to be very ergonomic. However, to get it this ergonomic Letshuoer had to add some odd angles. So, it may take a second of pulling on your ear to get the nozzle where it needs to go. That said, the second you feel a seal and the Mystic 8 is in place you will likely feel the comfort. Again, very light, and they don’t have some super deep nozzle. I find them very comfortable for me. Truly a great fit. I have no idea how they will fit your ears, but I assume that most people should not have an issue.

Drivability / Pairings ​

Output Power ​

Looking at the specs for the Mystic 8, Letshuoer states that they have an impedance of around 18 ohms as well as a sensitivity of around 107 db’s. What this translates to is a very sensitive iem. Without question you can run the Mystic 8 off of low powered sources and not risk losing too much dynamic range, or the dynamics in general. I used a number of low powered sources, and the Mystic 8 sounds great on most of them. Though, a little more power does help the Mystic 8 to sound a bit tighter and a bit more vibrant in those dynamics. You don’t need a million watts either. When I say more power, I mean a decent dongle dac. I used every one of my dongles on high gain and the Mystic 8 sounded just awesome. Moving up to my more powerful sources and my more talented or sonically gifted sources also made a huge difference. So, attach your Mystic 8 to your best device and enjoy.

Source pairing​

The Mystic 8 is very much a neutral sounding set and no one frequency is pushed more forward, louder, more focused, or even attenuated more than any other. It has a wonderful balance. What this means to me is that not many sources will be a problem. You aren’t going to exaggerate any one frequency. For instance, finding a slightly brighter source isn’t going to all of a sudden give you screaming highs or a warmer source isn’t going to make this set muddy or veiled. Really the sky’s the limit folks. I liked the Mystic 8 with every source I used. Yes, it took on some of the source tonality to a degree, but that’s what’s supposed to happen. It’s dead neutral friends. Now, no doubt my two favorite sources that I used (mainly used for critical listening) were the Fiio Q15 and the Shanling M6 Ultra. Both offer a slightly different take on the sound, and both seemed to bring out the best in the Mystic 8. The wonderful thing is that the Mystic 8 already has a wonderful sound which is hard to screw up with your source device.

What do you need?​

Like I said, get a decent Dongle Dac and have fun. This is not a complicated endeavor with the Mystic 8. It truly works well with most anything. For me personally, a hair of warmth is nice, hence the M6 Ultra and Q15. But there are many devices which can be used. I assume anyone willing to pay the $989 to own this set already has a good source on hand. So yeah, don’t worry about the source, just attach, hit play and get lost in your music.

Sound Impressions ​

*Note: before I dive into the sound portion of this review I first want to speak on a few things. First, whether it needed it or not (probably not) I did burn-in the Mystic 8 for a total of about three days. I couldn’t wait any longer folks and also, moving iron drivers are thought to never need burn-in. I don’t know how true that is but I did so anyway. Next, I listen almost exclusively to flac or better files stored on my devices. I rarely stream, unless there’s a track, I need to hear that I don’t have. Also, I mainly use the Effect Audio Eros S ii cable for critical listening, and I used the Dunu S&S eartips. The Android music player of my choice is UAPP (USB Audio Player Pro) as well as Hiby Music Player from time to time.

How does it sound? ​

The Letshuoer Mystic 8 is undoubtedly rendered almost totally neutral. There really isn’t a whole lot of tonal coloration in any area of the spectrum. No area steals focus over any other area in an impactful manner. Also, the balance across the spectrum is truly wonderful. Having said that, the assumption is that the balanced and neutral sound of the Mystic 8 may be a bit boring. To which I’d reply, “This set isn’t boring at all”. Truly a wonderful sounding iem with a very pristine take on my music. I have done many reviews of late where I professed that those sets are mostly balance across the spectrum. I wish I could have those words back because if ever there was a tonal balance the Mystic 8 should be the poster child for it.

Palate Cleanser​

Friends, I have certain sets which I and others call “palate cleansers”. Great sets to calibrate your listening ears and bring the brain-burn you’ve gotten used to back into alignment. Without question the Mystic 8 is one of the best palate cleansers that I’ve heard. It is dead neutral folks. Not warm/neutral, not bright neutral, it’s neutral. With that neutrality you have a set that offers a unique balance of the frequency which doesn’t allow any one area of the mix to steal focus. Basically, the Mystic 8 is going to replay exactly what a track is asking of it. Truly an exceptional iem for monitoring or for those who only have audiophile tastes. A truly mature sound which is just awesome. I don’t know how else to say it. However, it isn’t beefed up in the bass region, it isn’t a treble-head’s dream, it doesn’t offer that syrup, thick, and rich note weight, and the Mystic 8’s highs are not going to be the life of the party. That doesn’t mean it isn’t exceptional.

Timbre / balance master… ​

As I said there’s a balance and this balance isn’t just a tonal balance. No sir. This set also has a great balance of musicality and technical ability (another thing I’ve said a lot recently). The Mystic 8 has what I’d call a semi-rich or lean-lush note body with crystal clear note definition and very tight transients. You don’t have a ton of lingering harmonics or resonances. Furthermore, one thing I absolutely adore is the perfectly organic timbre. I’m telling you folks the Mystic 8 has a very organic sound. The only thing which holds it back from “perfect” is the tight transient behavior. Truly, any timbre-heads are going to love this set. I don’t know how you couldn’t. Every instrument and voice are flavored stark authentic. Piano, strings, percussion (besides some weight for kick drums), woodwinds, and the list goes on. Just wonderfully realistic and a joy to have in my ears. I’ve tried, reviewed, owned enough kilo-buck iems to know that the Mystic 8 certainly has its own style, is high caliber, and it does a good job of mastering what it is. Some may say that the Mystic 8 doesn’t stand out in any one area. Well, on the surface that may be true. Frequency-to-frequency that may be true. But I’d argue that the Mystic 8 has mastered neutrality and timbre in a balanced armature form and the sound as a whole stands out very well.

Not for everyone​

Now, this wonderful display of my music is great for me, because I can really appreciate it. However, this doesn’t mean it’ll be great for you. No doubt on any set whenever you go full stop in anything it’ll come across as polarizing. For instance, basshead sets will be great for bass-bois, but not so great for many others. Same with brighter treble-head sets, same for those hard mid-focused sets. They’re polarizing. They serve who they serve. Of course, I also feel that a dead neutral set has the ability to appeal to a wide range of audio enthusiasts too, especially if it’s a well-done neutral set. Coincidentally, the Letshuoer Mystic 8 is most certainly (in my opinion) a very well-done set across the board, with some easy to identify caveats for some hobbyists. Principally, there isn’t a set on planet earth without “downsides”, and I intend to find those on the Mystic 8 and report as best I can.

Smooth? ​

However, beyond the caveats, when I listen, I am enthralled by the quality of the sound. I love the smooth demeanor of each note accompanied by just enough crispness at the edges of each note as well. Just enough knife-edged and pointed dynamics. This smooth sound also comes across as “relatively” musical. Certainly not “musical” in the traditional sense, but musical in its tunefulness and the clean expression that it carries with such measured dynamic contrast in its sound. To be honest “musicality” means something different for everyone and is wholly subjective. There is no template for musicality other than tunefulness. There’s no prerequisite tonality that a set should have. I my opinion a “musical” sound should accompany some level of smooth delivery, emotionally gratifying, and not a whole lot of dry analytical sounding timbre. I most certainly think there’s a level of refined smoothness with the Mystic 8, along with a moister portrayal of my music. I suppose you could go either way with it depending on your personal idea of what musicality is. For me, it just needs to sound melodic without sounding clinical. Sound coloration doesn’t have a whole lot to do with it in my opinion.

Technical stuff condensed… ​

To add to that smoothness there’s also a wonderful balance with the Mystic 8’s technical abilities. Meaning, the Mystic 8’s technical ability is something to be admired as well. I find detail retrieval to be wonderful on this set. When you don’t have any area serving as a focus and each area is in balance then that naturally frees up space within the sound field. No masking, no mud, no veil of any kind, and no blurred lines. Really just a crystal-clear representation of my music. What I found over what seems like hundreds of hours listening to the Mystic 8 is that it has very good micro-dynamics leading to very nice micro-detail retrieval and as I pan-out I hear very solid instrument separation from its glass-lined note outlines, the black background, tight transients, and very clean sound field. Imaging is spot-on and I hear a nice layering of the field of sound as well. Furthermore, the stage has good width, nice height, and pretty good depth too. Is it a technical monster? I wouldn’t say it is. There are sets which are tuned to be even more on-point. However, I feel that the Mystic 8 has absolutely nothing to be ashamed of with its technical skills. Let’s check out each 3rd of the mix shall we…

Bass Region ​

The low-end of the Letshuoer Mystic 8 has a very nicely defined approach that never seeks to muddy up the mix. It is a mostly neutral leaning bass to my ears without any real color added to the sound. Perhaps a titch of warmth but it is hardly recognizable. What you have here is a very precise bass. You don’t have any lingering resonances or bulbous bass lines with this set. You have exactly what the track asks of it, no more or no less. In my opinion the low-end isn’t very moist and isn’t the most guttural of bass regions. Yes, it can replay with some attitude, but the track has to display such a thing. You won’t have any extra weight or warmth cascading across the mix influencing anything. It’s a very well-defined bass with very distinct note outlines as each and every note attack comes with a very acute snap with typical balanced armature decay. You couldn’t find anything one-noted if you wanted to. There doesn’t seem to be a bass track fast enough to trip up the Mystic 8 either. There are some memorizing examples of this that I’ll try to outline later. What it comes down to is this; the low-end is not some meaty and full-bodied bass that carries a fun or guilty pleasure style listening experience. It’s not that. The low-end is fast, tight, detailed, and has just enough sub-level meat to entertain in a realistic way. Truly one of the more quality bass presentations I’ve heard. Of course, “quality” can mean a lot of things to different people.

Sub-Bass ​

One thing is clear, both in listening and when I look at the frequency graph that the Mystic 8 is surely skewed towards the sub-levels of the bass region. I do find that on tracks which feature a heavy sub bass that the Mystic 8 will provide some haptic feedback. Again, you don’t have that reverberant and lingering deep drone that some sets can give you. Also, I’d definitely enjoy a hair more weight and fullness here, but I also can’t deny how clean the sub-bass is. In essence, the lowest of the lows are a BA style bass and with a BA style you get the good qualities and the not so favorable qualities. It all depends on what you desire with your music. For me, I easily found myself wrapped up in the style that the Mystic presents. I love the bass guitar in “Le Risque” by King Gizzard & the Wizard Lizard. I hear that defined yet guttural and gravely bass guitar carry the foundation of this track while the rest of the fast-moving melody plays perfectly crystal clear along with it. Or “The Hardest Part” by Washed Out is another example of the Mystic 8 rising to the occasion and actually sounding very deep, very full, and even fun without even trying to obscure the rest of the mix. I just love it! I’m telling you, it’s deep, it hits hard, pointed, direct, but also there’s some body to each note which also carries some vibratory feel to the bass. Really, the quality of this sub-bass is pretty wonderful. Yes, I’d like even more, but for what it is the Mystic 8 performs admirably.

Mid-Bass​

Now, the mid-bass isn’t as elevated and really is about as flat as it can be without losing actual body. It still can slam but it is clearly a very nuanced and clean sounding mid-bass first. Never does the mid-bass even think about bleeding into the midrange. Not even a hint of it. It is simply a crystal-clear depiction of a mid-bass without any of the hanging, lingering, and mudding fat. Bassheads are running for the hills folks. However, the mid-bass is so highly capable and able to render even the finest bass details or intricacies with such nice demeanor and contrasted distinctness. Each and every note carries a clean and surgical attack. The crest of each note is more direct, unsullied, and porcelain in surface texture. Sure, it’s softer in body, less emphasized, and the bass is a bit dry in nature, but it is carried out with exact intentions, the bass has some very nice texture and there’s a certain density to its less emphasized note delivery. Yet always the mid-bass on the Mystic 8 is very precise. But it won’t be for everyone.

Mid-Bass cont… ​

Masked Wolf has a track called “Tightrope” which features a hard bass drop and continuing bass line. The Mystic 8 doesn’t really have the gusto to sound really satisfying on a track like this. Yes, it has some beef to it but not enough for lovers of this type of music to smile from cheek to cheek. The Mystic 8’s mid-bass shines in intricate and complicated tracks, or in tracks which feature a deep and booming sound where the sub-bass gets the tap on the shoulder to bolster the mid-bass. So, no it isn’t the most booming, but also those who would fall in love with the Mystic 8 won’t want “booming”. They want precision and they want a bass which will not compress and congest the rest of the mix. No doubt about it that with the Mystic 8 you get a highly detailed and non-veiling bass which values mature agility and swiftness over emphasis and weight.

Downsides to the Bass Region ​

The biggest and most obvious drawback of the Mystic 8’s tuning is unquestionably the lack of mid-bass emphasis. And perhaps less sub-level authority than many would like as well. Those hip-hop heads, EDM lovers, etc. or just big bass lovers in general will definitely not enjoy the output on the Mystic 8. It’s simply not as gratifying in its fullness. Again, where this set shines are with its flat-out ability to render each note with precision. To be perfectly honest, weight is the Mystic 8’s only downfall in this region. I should note that the Mystic 8 has plenty for me. I love good bass too, like a meaty bass drop, or an earthy and voluminous kick drum. Man, I love that. However, with all of the other benefits of this set, not hearing those few things as emphasized as I’d like is a small thing to give up for me.

Equal part to a balanced whole​

With that said, the Mystic 8 doesn’t have a dynamic driver covering this region which means that it simply doesn’t have that real palpable sense to it. Balanced armature bass is simply not as fully haptic and sonorous as a dynamic driver. There have been a few BA sets which manage to pull off a very DD style bass but by-and-large the low-end will always be the achilles heel of an all-BA set. Despite that very true statement, I love a good balanced armature low-end. Now that I’ve said that, explain to me why I really enjoy the low-end on the Mystic 8. Actually, maybe I should relay that info to you. Because the bass is extremely well textured, there’s also very nice and highlighted definition of each note, and the low-end can keep up with every track I throw at it too. However, the main reason is because it works in concert, so very well with the midrange and treble. It is an equal part to balanced whole.

Midrange​

Now we get to my absolute favorite quality of this set. That is, it’s ability to replay a melodic and perfectly balanced midrange with both technical prowess and with a very nice mellifluous or symphonious quality. The midrange as a whole is not necessarily more energetic, or more forward, or more dynamic than any other area of the mix. It plays ball on an equal playing field. However, the fact that nothing else is drawn forward helps the vivacity of the midrange begin to show through. It isn’t that it’s forward, it’s that the Mystic 8 is so well measured across the frequency. At least that is how I have explained it to myself. Even with the less bass bolstered sound the Mystic 8 has musicality and some euphony to its midrange replay. There’s a sweet-toned and dulcet type of eloquence which partners very well with a balanced sound. Vocalists sound very harmonious a very nice to my ears. To be perfectly honest, in my opinion the midrange is the shining star of this set.

Timbre & Weight​

Now, I am very happy with the timbre of this midrange as it really does have some of the more organic tone color, cadence, and cohesiveness that I’ve heard in an all-BA iem. Granted, there’s much less expensive sets like the Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite (Orchestra Lite Review) which also come across as ridiculously organic for an all-BA set. However, there’s much more to the story. I’d say that note weight is natural, or semi-rich, it sounds like life sounds. Perhaps a hair less dense but definitely skews in the direction of natural. Certainly not thick and rich sounding. You could say notes are too thin or less warmed for some hobbyists, but I happen to enjoy the delivery. You see, the Mystic 8 doesn’t need the authoritative weight and mass of a bass warmed midrange to come across as bodied. It instead relies on its clarity, the black background, and the overall presence due to the clarity of this region to make it stand out and feel embossed against the rest of the mix. Note weight is a funny thing, a made-up term, and we’ve overblown the understanding of it. I’d much rather have something that sounds as though each note has depth to it, roundness, and contour. Sometimes I get this from warmer and richer sets too. It certainly isn’t exclusive. But this is definitely what the Mystic 8 has which separates it from the rest. It has an etched and sculpted imagery to most notes along with very fine definition, and a sense of air even without an overexaggerated treble region. Basically, it achieves richness via a different route, and I’m all for it folks. Again, that’s how I explain it to myself.

Nicely technical​

I should also quickly cover the awesome detail retrieval of the Mystic 8’s midrange because I find hearing those details is an effortless act on my part with the Mystic 8 doing all the work. Again, transient attack through sustain keeps a very tight edge. The sound is very refined friends. The spacing of this region within the sound field is also very much effortless. I hear great separation of all elements within the stage. Of course, some tracks will not come across as easily, some are simply too complicated which forces my mind’s eye all over the place rather than simply enjoying at times. However, on simpler tracks there’s so much space and so much controlled depth that the Mystic 8’s layering capabilities shine forth with relative ease. The Mystic 8 has a very nice equilibrium when it comes to its musicality and its technical skills. However, I want to clarify that the Mystic 8 is not “musical” in the usual sense that I’d use that word. It isn’t “fun/musical” it’s “mature/musical” … there’s a difference folks. It’s clean and it’s a less smoothly weighted musicality. Somehow the Mystic 8 still has a fluid and liquid midrange even with the slightly thinner approach. It’s just a nice sounding midrange.

Lower-Midrange ​

The lower area of the midrange is usually the place where the low-end would most make its influence known. Usually, I’d want a hair more low-end infused warmth to shore-up and brace this region with perceived weight. However, like I tried to explain the lower mids (and the rest of the mids for that matter) do have a very etched definition to each note. I’d say they are a hair more elated sounding and less dark in tone, but they sound authoritative due to the lucidness and transparency of the region. I suppose you could say the lower mids are the least energetic region on this set and I’d almost agree with you. I just don’t really see them like that. They don’t need that sprightly energy and levity added from an overemphasized treble region and then trickling down bringing a sense of zest, and they don’t need the meatiness of the bass to make them feel and sound more robust. However, you want to say it… males sound great. Like in the track “Heaven Without You” by Alex Warren. His voice is so very clean-lined and stark with a wonderful timbre. Every inflection stays in control. No loose or fuzzy note outlines. It’s all clean. Or Chris Stapleton in “Tennessee Whiskey” which shows off his voice on this set. His raspy and almost gravelly southern articulation feels softened, very tuneful, very golden and pleasing to the ear. I really could do this in almost all male lead tracks. They simply sound nice.

Upper-Midrange ​

As far as the upper mids are concerned, I do hear a bit more energy and a touch more forwardness, but the difference is not earth shattering. Females truly sound a touch closer to me. Just a hair more forward. Not enough to sound too out front, but enough to really bring out every soft or sonorous intonation in their voices. Also, what I enjoy about the upper mids is the lack of pinna glare and so those females which would otherwise begin to cross that shout line never sound this way with the Mystic 8. Females such as Lady Gaga in the track “Hold My Hand” from the Top Gun Soundtrack always sounds even and never too lustery or fatiguing. Even when she begins to belt the lyrics her voice always remains composed. Or Norah Jones in the track “Don’t Know Why”. My word folks she sounds so beautiful with the Mystic 8. Oh my, I’m literally listening to it as I type this, and she sounds ridiculously seductive and romantic. How could an un-warmed and less weighted set sound so emotionally gratifying and moistened? Her voice is so emblazoned, perfectly centered, and so precise that Norah truly comes across remarkably honeyed, songful, and soothing to the ear. I won’t take this section into the 2,000-word territory, you get it, I like the mids. It simply a nice retreat and the timbre, cleanliness and overall note transparency really do make every note more distinct and richer.

Downsides to the Midrange ​

The biggest gripe that I feel others will have would be casual listeners who simply want something warm and engaging. I get it too. The Mystic 8 certainly is not for everyone. Not everyone is going to read my words above and think “I have to hear this set”. Some are dead set on wanting warm, rich, velvet smooth, gracile, lithesome and a wavier and more flowing midrange. The Mystic 8 is more contoured than that. It’s more explicit in its note definition. I suppose that those who yearn for an even more clinically transparent and even more analytical sound will also desire something a bit different. It’s hard to say really. Trying to come up with issues or downsides isn’t easy with a set like this. Of course, note weight is not what I’d ever call full-bodied and there is some lacking weight in the lower midrange area. I’m sure there will be folks who don’t enjoy that aspect of the Mystic 8. Still, to me the midrange is simply immersive in every sense of the word, and I truly enjoy it. I’m very glad I have the opportunity to hear this set.

Treble Region ​

This brings us to the treble region. I would characterize the highs in the Mystic 8 as sparkly, unblurred, subtly brilliant, smooth in body but defined at the edges, never fatiguing or offensive. It’s simply pleasing to the ear. The treble region has all the chime and tinsel of a shimmery treble without the overarching and over-saturated shrillness of a sharp treble. There’s nothing sharp about it. I always use the word “glass-lined” to describe clean notes or notes that seem without graininess or sibilance. They are clean, resolute, with a texture like glass, or as I used earlier, like porcelain. You see, there’s a certain smoothness which is almost difficult to define in a satisfying way for me. I hear nothing which is soft and smooth like velvet. It isn’t the type of smooth which relies on a rolled-off treble and a warmed body. Or a less crisp treble. I say that because the Mystic 8 has plenty of crispness and bite to its treble notes. It’s more about the authenticity with which the Mystic 8 carries itself. The sound is authentic. It’s realistic, it’s organic to life. Maybe not perfectly in tone, but it is in structure. I always have to add that not every recording will perfectly present what I’m saying. That’s a no brainer but it must be said. Carrying on. Really, the Mystic 8 has a very revealing treble with great precision yet without all the hangups that come with a usually precise sounding treble. Really, it’s quite nice.

Speedy / Precise​

The treble is very speedy with very nice micro-detail retrieval and a keen ability to keep its cadence and rhythm even in complicated tracks. Rarely do I hear hazy or indistinct notes or blurred lines between notes. Again, some more congested recordings will make a liar out of me but for the most part the explicitness of each and every note is fairly transparent to my ears. No doubt there are other sets which are boosted a bit more and will come across even more distinctly. However, those sets usually will not sound anywhere near as timbre friendly as the Mystic 8 is. However, tracks like “Evil Twin” by Lindsey Stirling is one where the Mystic 8 misses absolutely nothing and catches every up and down volume shift, every last intonation sounds form-fitted and cleanly displayed. Also, the Mystic 8 keeps up with this track without losing its note control. The timing is wonderful. The Mystic 8 also holds onto a sense of dynamism even though it isn’t boosted to the stars. I found this to be true in the track “Magnetic Fields, Pt. 1” by Jean Michel Jarre. This track is so infused with treble coming at you from all angles and the Mystic 8 takes each and every note and picks its teeth with them. It’s too easy. Just a very fine sounding treble without coming across bright, per say.

High end​

Now, it is most apparent to me the high level of definition that comes with a set of this quality. That definition extends through all layers of the sound field within this region, whether it’s dead center or out at the edges. I suppose this is what you get when you have very good drivers, very good tuners, and a balanced sound which takes two long years to create. No doubt about it, the work did pay off. Let’s put it this way, the Mystic 8 actually sounds airy and extended without coming across too brilliant and lifted in emphasis. Or even though I hear complicated passages of treble displayed and many moving parts, the Mystic 8 is well able to distinctly separate each note and present those notes collectively yet clinically define each one with air and space separating. For the most part. I guess that’s what people are paying for. To the casual listener it may not seem like an upgrade but to those who listen, it’s a big difference. Of you are in this game for the fun of an energetic or bass heavy sound then that’s great. There’s plenty of much less expensive sets which will work wonders for you. I love those sets too. However, if you consider fun as marveling over the sheer skill of an iem for the reasons I pinned out above, then you may need to go with a high-end set.

Just a nice treble​

At any rate, the treble does have some sparkle, has a balanced level of brilliance and has good extension into the upper treble. I hear no sharpness from that region too. The secondary harmonics of a cymbal strike never sound sheened out in treble tizz and never sound splashy to me. I don’t hear any undue sibilance from this set either. Actually, the treble region has a nice treble punch to it, it has some good edge and crispness without sounding coarse or aggressive. This region is a hair dry at times but that’s not always the case. It comes and goes depending on the track in my opinion. Once again, details are fairly easy to distinguish and there is a high level of very well contoured and clean resolution to my ears. It’s just a nice treble.

Downsides to the Treble Region ​

Ugh, I really don’t like coming up with downsides when I hear something which moves me in this way. Let’s put it this way, there’s no “low-hanging-fruit” to jump on other than for those who actually like a really bright treble region, or for those who much more desire a dark and rolled-off treble region. Again, this set is balanced through-and-through. Nothing over-charged, over-saturated, or underwhelming. I suppose some folks would possibly call the Mystic 8’s treble a bit dull, or boring. Maybe. Or those who really hate any sort of luminance at all. Those people who truly love the warmth and veil of a rolled-off sound. I’d say those folks would likely not entirely enjoy the Mystic 8. I’m reaching though guys and gals. Grasping for straws to complete my downsides portion of my treble section. Really, it’s an awesome treble and I feel very fortunate to be able to speak on it.

Technicalities ​

Soundstage ​

I won’t go long in these next three sections because I’ve already spoken at length about each one within the review thus far. Still, I will stay on course. So, the soundstage is actually quite wide with a very vivid stereoscopic view of the sound field. The solid extension up top certainly adds to the perception of width. The same goes for height as the sound field is stretched upward nicely. To add to the height and width I can tell you that the depth is very well pronounced, or easy to discern. I wouldn’t call it cavernous in depth, but it’s noticeable for sure. Enough to distinguish different layers of sound and enough to provide depth to individual notes in front of me. Again, it’s well layered which can also be translated to holographic. I know that is a way overused word and we reviewers abuse the hell out of it. I suppose you have to give us a break and try to remember that each work is relative to the price point with which we are reviewing. Basically folks… there’s definitely levels to this game. This is all the more real when you hear an actual high end set that is passionately tuned by truly wonderful minds in the audio field. So yeah, the Mystic 8 has a wonderful stage size. The stage makes sense. Everything is in its place. Seemingly all meticulously placed within the sound field before me with psycho-acoustically rendered accuracy. Nice work Letshuoer!

Separation / Imaging ​

I’ve said it a lot that instrument separation comes across very discernable to my ears. What you have is a very clean sound, a very direct and distinct sound with almost inscribed notes and wonderful placement. Folks, to put it simply; elements of the stage are very well separated, and the sound field has great imaging. Like I said, transients are quick, tight, and they don’t allow lingering harmonics to muck up the sound. Though there’s also a certain kind of density to the note outlines which embosses each note or etches each note. Then you add in the black background and the perfect tonal balance and what you’re left with is exactly what I’ve been professing throughout this entire review. You guessed it, great separation and pin-point imaging.

Detail Retrieval ​

Once again, detail retrieval is very good. I could add that there are some stipulations to that. Those being ridiculously bass heavy jams. I say that because with the Mystic 8 you’d have to have ridiculously heavy and all-consuming bass jams to mask other frequencies. Or possibly really badly recorded or poor-quality tracks. However, let’s stop doing the stipulation stuff. Friends, the Mystic 8 does a wonderful job at illuminating the finer details within my music. I’d call it a “detail-beast” but I don’t want the negative connotation to come with that. After all, most “detail monsters” are clinical, ultra dry, analytical, and at times even overly brightened. Well, the Mystic 8 isn’t really any of that. Letshuoer really did a nice job with this set folks. Details emerge in a natural way, nothing forced. It’s a nicely detailed set.

Comparisons ​

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Softears Studio ($449)​

The Softears Studio 4 is without a doubt one of my favorite all balanced armature sets that money can buy at its cost. Somehow, I never reviewed them even though I’ve owned this set for quite some time. Truly a wonderful iem that is tuned very well and very similarly to the Mystic 8. Really, it’s almost like a baby Mystic 8. Anyways, the Studio 4 has four less balanced armatures per side, and I don’t know exactly what brand made the BA’s. The Studio 4 is just like the Mystic 8 in that it is perfect for monitoring work as well as wonderful for casual listening.

Differences ​

To begin, the Studio 4 is a hair larger than the Mystic 8, but neither set is what I’d call “big”. Now, the Mystic 8 has a much better build quality. I mean, titanium versus all-resin, nuff said. I also find the Mystic 8 a bit more comfortable as well. When talking about the design I suppose it would be different from person to person but to me the Mystic 8 is simply dope and way more artistic and intricate than one of the most plain-Jane sets on the market in the all-black Studio 4. That’s not to say the Studio 4 is ugly or anything either, but the Mystic 8 is clearly the better-looking set in my opinion. I’d also say that it’s no contest with the unboxing experience as the Mystic 8 is just way better. I mean, much-much better.

Sound Differences ​

This brings us to the real comparison looking at the sound difference between the two. So, the Studio 4 and the Mystic 8 may look very close in their graphs, but the Studio 4 definitely has a bit more boom and slam down low. It’s just more robust and authoritative with a hair more weight in the mid-bass. Probably what I wish the Mystic 8 had. However, the Mystic 8 has the better defined low-end, much more resolute, tighter, more agile and snappy. Most certainly the Studio 4 trades a bit more muscle for a hair less refinement. Still very nice though and certainly not slow, laggy, or ill-defined. The midrange of the Mystic 8 has a more balanced approach with better technical abilities and a more vocalist friendly sound to my ears. Man, I love both sets in this region but there is a difference by a slight degree. The Mystic 8 simply has better clarity which defines notes better while the Studio 4 is smoother, less crisp. The treble region of the Mystic 8 wins out. Across the board up top. The Mystic 8 has a more brilliant presentation, more energy, better extension, better note bite and better detail retrieval. Technically the Mystic 8 also wins out across the board but both sets do a very fine job in almost all categories.

Final thoughts on this comparison ​

I really hate to compare sets with such a price discrepancy ($449 against $989) but the Studio 4 is very similar tonally to the Mystic 8. I’d say if you didn’t have the funds for the Mystic 8 then the Studio 4 is a very high caliber iem which is very close in almost all regards and even has a deeper and more robust bass region. However, it’s clear the Mystic 8 is a better iem. Friends, I have loved the Studio 4 for years and I still call it one of the most terrific iems under $500, but I can now say the same for the Mystic 8 under $1k.

Aful Cantor ($799)​

The Aful Cantor is a set which I am going to review soon but it made complete sense for me to compare here today. Anyways, the Cantor has an astounding 14 balanced armature drivers, and a lot of techs housed within the Cantor shells. I won’t go over all of that now, but it is an Aful set so you can guarantee that it has some cutting-edge tech involved. Truly a wonderful iem that I have enjoyed to the fullest. Truly an awesome iem folks.

Differences​

The Aful Cantor is clearly the larger iem but the girth isn’t a problem for me. However, the Mystic 8 is more comfortable and easier to find a nice fit. As far as the build, the Mystic 8 is once again a better built iem. Truly a wonderfully built iem. Of course, the Cantor is also very nice in its all-resin. Now, the design could go either way as both iems is straight up gorgeous. I feel that the Cantor and the Mystic 8 have awesome unboxing experiences as well. Both are great for their cost and both a ton of fun to slowly reveal the contents. Though the cost is much different as the Cantor cost $799 to the Mystic 8 at $989.

Sound Differences​

To begin, the Cantor is more V-shaped then the almost perfectly balanced Mystic 8. I find the Cantor to have a much deeper bass experience with cleaner slam and more bulbous in body. Though neither would make bassheads happy. However, the Mystic 8 is clearly the better-defined set down low, quicker, tighter, more articulate and nuanced. The midrange of the Cantor is a hair more recessed to the more balanced Mystic 8. I definitely like the more natural timbre and smoother demeanor of the Mystic 8 better. I like them better for all vocals. However, the Cantor has very nice crispness and is great in its own right. The treble of the Cantor can sometimes lead to some sharpness while the Mystic 8 keeps better control. These are slight differences folks so do keep that in mind. I simply find the Mystic 8 is much more timbre friendly. You see, the Cantor does display some BA timbre from time to time while the Mystic 8 never does. It’s simply more organic and natural. The Cantor is the more exciting offering with more vibrant energy. So, pick your preferences. As far as the technical stuff, the Mystic 8 and the Cantor do a fine job of revealing details, both are great at separating elements of the stage and both image the stage well. However, the difference for me comes in the stage. The Mystic 8 has a slightly deeper stage, with better layering of the sound field. Just more holographic to my ears. Again, both are flat out awesome and at times I do prefer the Cantor. I guess it depends on my mood, but for the most part the Mystic 8 has been almost glued to me folks.

Final thoughts on this comparison ​

I really hate comparing sometimes. It supposes that one set is “better” than the other when really these two sets are just tuned differently. It all comes down to preferences folks. I refuse to say the Cantor is a worse iem because it is truly a special set. But man, that Mystic 8 has its own flavor which is just engaging in a different way. At any rate, if $989 is too much the Cantor is really great but if you have the cash for the Mystic 8 you won’t regret it.

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Is it worth the asking price? ​

Ihave a hard time answering this for a set which is basically a kilo-buck offering. However, I have to remember that anyone checking out this set can actually afford a set at this price, so I suppose it’s a non-issue. I’ve reviewed much more expensive iems and the same feelings float around my mind in those. At any rate, the Letshuoer Mystic 8 will run you $989. My answer is this, anyone who has the money to pick this set up will likely not find many better sets for its particular tuning style. So yes, it’s worth the cost. Having said that, there are definitely all-BA sets which cost less that can give you a similar tuning style with just less refinement. Sets like the Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite (Orchestra Lite Review), or either of the sets I compared in this review, the Softears Studio 4, or the Aful Cantor. I could say that for any set though. Every set that costs more is always “usually” incrementally better. The Mystic 8 however is unlike most any set I’ve ever reviewed. It is a certain type of special.

The Why… ​

Because the unboxing experience is absolutely fitting of a kilo-buck iem. It is such a cool and fun time folks. What a presentation! Also, the build is absolutely mind bending how cool it is. Made entirely out of titanium and one of the most intricate and beautiful designs that I’ve seen. Friends, look at those faceplates! The creativity and artistic flair which goes into designing such an iem to follow a fairly difficult theme (Myst series). I applaud Letshuoer in the efforts.

Always about the sound… ​

However, it’s the sound which really separates the Mystic 8 from the competition with its unique blend of technical capabilities and naturally refined musicality. I gotta tell you folks, the timbre is truly wonderful with an almost perfectly neutral tonal coloration and an almost perfectly balanced tuning. The bass is not the most deep, penetrative, or aggressive, but it is very well tuned against the rest of the mix. Doesn’t get in the way at all or influence the sound in a bad way either. It’s tight across the low-end with one of the more detailed and agile bass replays that I’ve heard. The midrange is very clean with an almost perfectly transparent sound, awesome detail retrieval, separation, Imaging, layering too, and it has an almost holographic stage. Vocals are truly wonderful on this set. One of the best I’ve heard, hands-down! The treble region is so well controlled, never offensive, it has perfectly natural timbre with a very clean-lined and effortless sound. Great technically, nice treble bite and crispness, along with very nice extension into the upper treble as well. I’ve repeated myself numerous times in this review folks, but it is the same exact story in every region. The balance is just so well done. The Mystic 8 will certainly be an awesome tool for monitoring, and it’ll be a wonderful companion for any casual listening as well. There’s no way I could report such a sound from such a complete package and say it’s not worth the cost of ownership. Yes folks, yes, it’s worth the asking price.

Final thoughts before I conclude ​

We’ve made it to the end my friends. When I think about the Letshuoer Mystic 8 I think about a very particular tuning which I definitely think is somewhat, if not completely polarizing. Meaning, you really have to enjoy this type of sound to spend this type of money on it. Yet if the Mystic 8 aligns with you then you will be head-over-heels in love. It’s polarizing. For me personally, I’ve been nothing but impressed with what Letshuoer was able to do with the Mystic 8 and it’s been a definite labor of love writing this review. No doubt the Mystic 8 has its share of subjective issues and not everyone will jive perfectly with the Mystic 8. But I cannot get over how nice the sound is, for what it is. I feel that Letshuoer really outdid themselves with the Mystic 8 and proved that beyond the shadow of a doubt that they indeed belong in the flagship territory. I cannot wait to see where they go from here with the Myst series and I cannot wait to feature those future sets. The Mystic 8 is fantastic for any monitoring uses and also makes for a great set for simply enjoying your music and getting lost in your tunes.

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Conclusion ​

To conclude my full review and feature of the Letshuoer Mystic 8 I first have to thank the awesome folks over at Letshuoer. In particular I want to thank Letshuoer Sherry for her help over the course of this review. I truly appreciate it and so does mobileaudiophile.com. I also always have to thank you, the reader, for clicking the link and checking out this review. Or any review for that matter. Every single click means a lot to us folks. It’s because of you that our doors are still open, and we really do hope that you have a positive take away from visiting our website.

Other Perspectives ​

So, you’ve read my feature of the Mystic 8, now please go and read, or watch a few more reviews. I think it’s very important that you check out as many differing thoughts as you can to try to establish a firm idea about what the Mystic 8 could be for you. We want you to get your purchase right folks. Also, we reviewers are all so very different. This is the most subjective of hobbies and every person has the capacity to differ from the person next to them. Shoot, I know reviewers who are seemingly polar opposite to me in almost every regard and I completely respect these people. One of the most important things to understand is that everyone has different ideas about what good sound is. We all have different likes and dislikes, hearing abilities, music libraries, and a whole host of differences which makes us unique. So, I do hope you’ll follow through and learn a bit more. With that said I am definitely done friends. So please take good care, stay as safe as possible and always… God Bless!

Introduction

LetShuoer continues to celebrate its eighth anniversary with 8 as its symbol and lucky number. Now it's the turn of what could be called a variation of the Cadenza 12, but with 8 BA drivers. This is the LetShuoer Mystic 8 high-end IEMS, the first model of a new series called ‘Myst’, based on the ‘Phantom Cat’ design, the silhouette being drawn on the outer face of the IEMS, while the silver pattern symbolises the misty veil. It includes Sonion and Knowles BA drivers, a low-pass filter module, a three-way electronic crossover, a four-way acoustic tube, a precision CNC titanium alloy housing, an 8-wire × 20 single-conductor silver-plated monocrystalline copper cable and a 2Pin 0.78 mm connection interface. The low-pass filter module, integrated into the acoustic tube, uses a combination of porous material and a micro-hole module to perform the low-pass filtering function. This approach allows selective transmission of low-frequency signals and attenuates high-frequency signals, significantly enhancing low-frequency energy and resulting in a more impactful and immersive bass experience. The Mystic 8 employs a sophisticated three-way crossover circuit and a four-way acoustic tube configuration to ensure precision, smoothness and consistency of sonic performance. This system effectively balances the sound pressure levels in the balanced armature drivers, minimising phase distortion and ensuring a seamless listening experience. Unsurprisingly, the Mystic 8s come with a luxurious set of accessories and packaging to match their price tag, as well as a few surprises in the form of free gifts among those accessories. We'll see below if the near $1000 price tag is justified on all four sides of this new product.



Specifications

• Driver Type: 4 BA Sonion drivers + 4 BA knowles drivers.
• Frequency Response: 20Hz-40kHz.
• Sensitivity: 107dB.
• Impedance: 18Ω.
• Capsule material: Titanium alloy housing black vapour.
• Cable: 1.25mm 8 x 20 cores x 0.05mm silver-plated monocrystalline copper.
• Jack Connector: 4.4mm BAL.
• Capsule Connection Type: 2Pin 0.78mm.
• Starting Price: $989.

Packaging

The case is relatively large, measuring 223x195x56mm. It alternates black background colour with silver, following the design of the outer face of the capsules. In the upper left corner is the name of the brand. In the centre, the logo. In the lower left corner is the ‘Phantom Cat’. On the back side are the specifications in black on silver and in three languages (Chinese and English, among others). There are also the brand's branding, the logos of the certifications the product complies with and the original product warranty stickers, as well as a curious ‘Demo’ sticker exclusively for reviewers (I understand). This silver packaging opens through a flap and extends fully. The first thing you see when you open it is a slogan: ‘Experience the charm of music with LetShuoer’, while on the inside it serves as an instruction manual in several languages. The brand logo is the seal that holds together two flaps of the black box, the background of which is the silhouette of the logo itself, but in considerable dimensions. Opening the flaps like a two-door cupboard, the left-hand column contains the black foam moulds containing the capsules at the top, while the bottom column contains the round box. In the right column is an elongated box with a gift accessory. Underneath is a foam mould containing three sets of silicone tips. Inside the round box are the cable and a brush. In summary, the complete contents are as follows:

• The two Mystic 8 capsules.
• The cable with 4.4mm BAL connector and 2Pin 0.78mm interface.
• One set of white translucent tips size SxMxL.
• One set of black tips size SxMxL.
• One set of translucent white tips with black core sizes SxMxL.
• One round storage box.
• One user manual.
• One warranty card.
• One ‘Phantom Cat’ ring.
• One silver necklace.
• One cleaning brush.

The round case with its black silicone lid and the bottom ring, also in silicone to avoid scratching surfaces and prevent slipping, is surprising. The case is metallic, shiny and has a micro-sandblasted texture. The lid is very flexible and the inside is also lined with black rubber to protect the IEMS. The lid has the brand logo and a flap for easy opening. Also interesting are the accessories, such as the ring and necklace, which are made of shiny silver metal. It is curious, but I find it somewhat avoidable; I would have liked other types of accessories, such as a set of exclusive silicone-crystal tips, for example, or a set of interchangeable mouthpieces, or a ‘visibly superior’ cable with interchangeable plugs. And I use the term ‘visibly superior’ in relation to the cable because its strands are thin and fine, and the matt black coating does not enhance the beauty of the IEMS. The materials of the cable may be very good, but to the eye it is not very eye-catching, although it is very flexible. Even the 2-pin 0.78 mm interface looks extremely generic, with a black plastic connection sleeve and little else. It doesn't feel like a cable from a product costing almost $1000.



Construction and Design

The capsules are made of titanium alloy by high-precision CNC machining. They have a medium-sized semi-custom shape. They are black, except on the inner plate of the outer face, where a misty veil-like pattern alternates. On the rim is the silhouette of the ‘Phantom Cat’ with a diamond-shaped eye. On the border you can read the model name, the large lettering defining the channel and the word ‘DEMO’ in this case. On the other side is an oval, translucent hard plastic, fully recessed oval plate with 2-pin 0.78mm connection. There is a hole on the side. The inner side has that valley shape with a bulge near the edge. The nozzles grow vertically and cylindrically rapidly, tapering into a step to secure the silicone tips. The diameter at the base is 5.9mm, while the crown is 6.2mm and the approximate height is 4mm. The nozzles are protected by a bushy metal nozzle. The acoustic tubes are visible through the mouthpieces.
The cable consists of an 8-wire silver-plated monocrystalline copper conductor with 20 single strands. The 4.4mm gold-plated plug sleeve is a silver-plated micro-sanded cylinder with a depression near the cable outlet. The marking is written longitudinally in white letters. The cable outlet is protected by a black rubber sleeve. The splitter piece is a cylinder of the same material as the connector sleeve, with bevels at the cable exits. The pin is a semi-translucent plastic ring. The sleeve of the 2-pin 0.78mm gold-plated connectors is the typical rectangular black plastic piece with a coloured dot on the side indicating the channel. It has semi-rigid black guides. The cable sheath is matt black. The conductor is shielded with a dielectric material to reduce distortion. According to the description, this is a cable with a premium conductor, but the feeling is that the strands are thin and the 2-pin connector finishes are too generic. On the other hand, the fact that a brand like LetShuoer, which produces so many interchangeable connectors, has opted for only a 4.4mm balanced connector limits the use of this model to a single output. Finally, the diameter of the cable seems a little tight; it gives the feeling that the plug slips easily into the balanced audio outputs, which gives the impression that the connection is not very secure or strong. However, the cable is very flexible and the microphony is practically nil.
On the other hand, the design of the capsules is fine, though perhaps a little intricate. However, I like the size, shape and weight, as it is not too heavy for a titanium alloy. The best thing is the glossy black finish.



Adjustment and Ergonomics

Despite the above comments on the cable, this classic model favours ergonomics and its fine strands and proven over-the-ear design are still valid. The cable is thin and flexible, which also improves overall comfort. As for the capsules, the shape is comfortable, but the protrusions on the rim are always a bit annoying for my morphology. It's true that the capsules fit very well and don't rotate, but the pressure and contact of this part bothers me in the long run. On the other hand, although the mouthpieces seem long, they are half way, as is the thickness of the mouthpieces. Believe it or not, slightly thicker nipples improve the surface fit. But in this case, there is a somewhat critical adjustment when it comes to getting the perfect seal so that the bass doesn't escape. And this upper setting may depend on the tips used and I can't always find the exact point, it may even vary depending on the day and the situation. This indicates that there is something critical and sensitive about finding the best fit. On the other hand, the level of insulation is high, but as is often the case when I use my homemade and handcrafted foam-filled large tips.



Sound

Profile

The sound of the LetShuoer Mystic 8 is quite balanced, homogeneous, even neutral. Their frequency response moves between 8dB and almost 15kHz, which means a fairly flat response. There is a sub-bass boost that drops rapidly down to 100Hz, from this point up to 1kHz it is totally flat, while the pinna gain is around 9dB between 3kHz and 4kHz. The transition to the treble is smoothed out and extends in a decreasing fashion only to become more accentuated in the air region. Without a doubt, this is a very balanced profile, with sufficient body in the lower bass and very representative in the mid-range.



Bass

Representing bass by using BA drivers has a clear disadvantage: the very low-frequency pure tone test uncovers the clear vibratory and thus coloured character of the sub-bass. Up to 40 Hz, the bass seems more wave-like and oscillating than real, deep, sensory or physical. Up to this point, the volumetric and physical component is very low and the sound is more audible, but displaced. Beyond that frequency, the timbre is corrected and becomes a more tonally accurate sound. How does this classic BA driver sonority interfere with the sound? If it is bass with bass kicks and non-continuous bass lines, there is no problem. For this negative character to manifest itself, the bases have to be very long and extremely sub-bass. But not even in the other test with very dirty, complex and unfiltered bass did the Mystic 8 demonstrate this negative character. In conclusion, such an extreme test with these considerations does not negatively affect the performance with 99 % of real music. In this very difficult bass test, the Mystic 8s respond with great speed, dynamics and precision. The resolution rate is very high, resulting in very sharp notes without any aftertaste or decay. The bass disappears as if by magic; there is no elastic sensation, but a completely dry, defined and fine bass. The punch of the bass drums is extremely concise, with a physicality present, but slightly soft as far as the energy level is concerned. The beats are free of violence and the level of force is almost optimal and fully measured. Despite this, there is a good level of darkness, depth, texture and a certain roughness that presents it in a more realistic and natural way. It is clear that the level of technique it possesses is simply superior, premium level. Of course, there is no bass intrusion in the midrange and the warmth is neutral.
Overall and in my opinion, this is a low end that is a little beyond neutral, because I don't usually enjoy neutral basses and the Mystic 8s do give me a feeling of fullness in the lower range, even if their power is limited, even behind the female vocals, whose prominence is at a maximum. Hard-core bass heads will be disappointed with this set, but bass lovers will enjoy it thanks to its sub-bass tilt and its great technicality, as well as its layering and bass line separation, even its almost no decay. Very professional.



Mids

All that has been said about precision, timbre and tonal quality in the previous range is very evident in the central range. The sensation of cleanliness, of enormous transparency and clarity, of neat sound, of extremely technical, concise and almost perfectly shaped notes, is evident in this range. I am confronted with a very refined, elevated, transparent, clearly separated and distinguished sound, which is far removed from any hint of density, despite the fact that it is very full in terms of the space used. The level of separation requires filling a higher space, and this is how the mids are presented: very wide, high and full. And that is the level of fullness I am referring to: the occupation of generous space and volume, due to the amplitude and separation between each note. Although it should also be noted that the notes are relatively lean and thin. Their representation is slim, very tight and outlined. The result is a detailed, meticulous, very rigorous and even exact midrange. This is how a richness of sound is achieved, without the sound becoming overloaded or too ornamental. And this is where the space used comes in again, alleviating any negative aspects due to the richness of the sound.
If we talk about vocals or instrumentation, the level of equality of all the elements in the centre section is surprising. Only the female voices feel more protagonist. They are close, in the foreground, and stand out from the base to the nuances. There is no difference in thickness between the male and female voices, and both their base and harmonics are very balanced throughout. The male voices have a hint of warmth that gives them the right physical component to generate more volume, body and punch. This is also noticeable in the more strongly based instruments, which achieve an obvious level of corpulence that brings a fullness to the music. In the stringed and higher-pitched instruments, the sparkle and sense of transparency exemplify the perceived premium quality of the mids.
On the other hand, one might think that so much technical perception implies a hard, cold and unmusical sound. It is clearly not soft, but neither is it a penetrating or unpleasant sound. The richness, neatness, transparency, sparkle, precision and rigour of the sound are not at odds with an unrealistic perception of it. The midrange is fully informative, superlative in this respect. But they can also be pleasing, as well as tremendously attractive in the long run. I would conclude that the mid-range of the Mystic 8 is superlative compared to the lower-range IEMS. And that's the quality you have to pay to get to this level.



Treble

The upper zone is tuned to provide initial liveliness and lighter extension. And this is how it expresses itself. The initial phase is sparkling, crisp, fine, delicate and bright. That makes the notes feel full of energy, even sharp. I can't speak of smoothness in this sense, but it doesn't have a penetrating or unpleasant character. The smoothness is in the technical execution and in the resemblance to reality. Treble-Heads will undoubtedly enjoy an eminently precise, technical, luxurious in detail, neat, pure, energetic and sharp upper range. Such fine notes make the treble feel multiplied, much richer, more explicit and differentiated. Their quality allows the details of the upper range to be much more numerous, to be counted as the sum of a multitude of notes spread throughout the range, rather than as a single note that manifests itself together. The individuality of the treble is what separates the Mystic 8 from the IEMS range I am used to. It is here that the expressive, extended and chromatic level of the high end of a premium IEMS is demonstrated. And this is also thanks to the high level of separation despite the large number of contiguous notes, as well as the great sense of air that this ensemble possesses. The result testifies to the ornamental richness of the upper zone, as well as the high number of overtones in the upper strips.
Finally, it is worth noting that this subtly metallic, sharp and ultra-defined BA character is also most apparent in the upper zone. But the key is to control that all this impression of sparkling energy is contained within a very expressive and informative musicality.



Soundstage, Separation

As I said, the level of separation of the Mystic 8 is very high. This implies that, for the space that the notes and the spacing demonstrate, the scene is necessarily wide. Another remarkable quality is the height, which easily reaches above the head. Overall, though, it is not a spherical sound. I consider it more semi-spherical, with a high volumetric component thanks to its height level, not so surrounding in the back and with a measured sense of depth. The level of laterality is pronounced, with an impressive stereo perception and a good level of layering. The impression of volatility is controlled, with a sufficiently gaseous feel, but, due to its precision and control, nothing is scattered without meaning. This is confirmed by the level of technical precision and resolution of the set, which demonstrates very accurate, even precise and thorough imaging and positioning.
It is certainly one of the most technical IEMS I have ever tested. Still, I wouldn't call it a detail monster. The macro detail is rendered in an impressionistic way, but the more limited level of depth prevents the micro detail of the background from being revealed in a very explicit way. It is another example of macro detail overlaying some more micro level detail. On the other hand, the level of resolution is evident, as is the great impression of clarity and transparency, as well as the feeling of a very dark and sharp background, thanks to the very fine, concise and separate notes.



Conclusion

Surely, proposing a premium IEMS model made only with BA drivers in a world where there are already many drivers specialised in each specific frequency range can be a bold, daring move. And for that reason alone, the brand behind the launch must be very sure of what it is doing, because it knows the weaknesses of BA bass drivers. But it also knows the goodness of these drivers for the mid frequencies onwards. And, starting with the bass, the LetShuoer Mystic 8s have one of the fastest, most thorough, dry and technical low frequencies I've ever heard in an IEMS, despite the neutrality or limitation in presence, volume, power and energy. The model with which LetShuoer inaugurates its Myst series and celebrates its eighth anniversary by calling 8 (and inside which 8 BA drivers from Sonion and Knowles are mounted) is a premium set with a price tag approaching $1000. Constructed of titanium alloy, the housings are lightweight and medium-sized, with a ‘Phantom Cat’ profile on the outer face and an old-school 8-strand silver-plated monocrystalline copper wire. Inside, they feature low-pass filter modules, a sophisticated three-way crossover circuit and a four-way acoustic tube configuration, all of which deliver the most accurate and precise sound I've ever experienced. From the outset it is clear that the sound of the Mystic 8 is not for everyone. It won't appeal to bass heads because, despite the great sub-bass tuning, its bass is far from flooding the ears with energy and physical power. But it will be a delight for bass lovers, those looking for the low end to be drawn and profiled as rigorously, quickly and precisely as possible. Moving out of the lows, only those looking for a thick, warm and musical midrange will have to look elsewhere. However, those who crave a neutral, well-balanced sound, present in both vocals and instrumentation, highly luxurious in detail, transparency, separation and informativeness, will find the Mystic 8 their joy. Finally, people who prefer smooth, honeyed, conjunctive and rounded treble will run for the hills when they hear treble with the most precise, separate, distinctive and individual notes I have ever heard. No, as the saying goes, and readers will forgive me, daisies are not made for pigs' snouts. The LetShuoer Mystic 8 are not made for all ears and many will be able to justify their real weaknesses. But those who know what they are looking for and have informed themselves well about the great virtues of this model will find that all this is true and that the luxury of its sound is priced accordingly.



Sources Used During the Analysis

• iFi GO bar Kensei.
• Aune M1p.
• EarMen Angel.
• Burson Audio Playmate 2.
• Aune X8 XVIII Magic DAC + EarMen ST-Amp.

Purchase Link



You can read the full review in Spanish here

Hello everybody,

today i want to share with you my impressions of Letshuoer´s latest release the Mystic 8.

First of all thank you very much @Jon_let and of course Letshuoer for making this happen and lending a demo unit for our small group of audio enthusiasts here in Germany!

As per usual I start my review with the disclaimer that I am not a professional reviewer (don´t get tricked by the pictures )

I am an audio enthusiast like most of us here and do this just for fun and kind of because "i have to" in exchange for being able to listen to such an expensive set :-D

Sharing impressions is something that i like a lot but writing essay like reviews not so much so I will keep it simple.





Non Sound:
- Great unboxing experience, i like the stylish presentation
- Included metal puck is the best I have seen so far, without the annoying screwing noise of the regular ones. This is probably the first I´d actually use
- Good selection of eartips ranging from wide over medium to narrow bore.
- They included a gift in form of a necklace and a ring which is an interesting decission. The necklace looks kind of like a thin braided IEM cable and is pretty nice actually. The ring is in the theme of the phantom cat and also does not look too cheap or bad...i still would not wear it though.
- I do like the stock cable, it is something different and you don´t notice it at all when wearing

The Design of the IEM itself is very unique and interesting, first i was not the biggest fan but in person i like it a lot.
Build quality is top notch and the IEM feels very sturdy and like a very premium product.
It is heavy enough to feel substantial but light enough to not being bothersome at all.

The shape of the shell is similar to the ones of Cadenza 12 and therefore one of the best I have seen in the hobby so far.
Fit and comfort is fantastic, I could wear this IEM all day long and it sits so snug that it does not move at all.





Sound:

I started my first listening session with one of my favourites if not my favourite band, Lake Street Dive, and was instantly amazed at how good M8 was sounding

My mental notes were:

- wow, amazing clarity i love how instruments are presented
- very open sounding, everything has room to breathe, nothing sounds congested.
- very dynamic and lively, even at very low volume which is great if you don´t want to blast your ears or it´s late in the night allready. Some IEMs tend to sound dull on low volume but not M8.
- female voices are an absolute standout
- treble is nicely extended but never annoying or fatiguing. I think this is not easy to achieve and I very much enjoy this treble presentation, maybe even more than my Cadenza 12. This i probably one of my favourite upper mids and treble presentation of all IEMs i have heard so far. Pfff...who needs ESTs anyway
- Layering is pretty much on par with Cadenza 12 i can not really hear a difference here.
- Imaging might be even better on M8. Everything sounds a little extra crisp, especially in the upper mids and presence region where C12 is smoother.
Depending on what i am listening to I also prefer this over C12. Lake Street Dive sounds so crisp and snappy with M8....If i had the money I´d buy M8 only for listening to my favourite bands,the tuning works really well here.

After the first eargasm i changed to other genres and could detect some downsides of such a specialized clarity focused tuning.

- midbass is scooped out quite a bit, bass guitars don´t sound full (but not bad either). I ended up using Final Audio Type E tips which helped a bit compared to TRI Clarion which I have used before
- Jon from Letshuoer recommended to use M8 on a tube amp but unfortunately I did not have anything tubey around but I can imagine it to be a fantastic match
- obviously there is no earthshaking rumble. The BA bass is very quick in the attack and as quick as it comes it´s gone again.
- It should be clear that this is not a basshead set, i would not pick it for bass heavy music....still it does not sound bad or anemic and I really like the presentation and texture and speedyness of the bass.
This only works because the midrange and treble are tuned so ecxceptionally well.
In some tunings you NEED a lot of bass to counter the annoying upper mids and treble, with M8 this is not the case and I can still enjoy other genres even with less bass than I am used to.
- On some recordings M8 can sound thin but it is definitely not a thin sounding IEM in general, actually it does have very nice noteweight.
- male vocals don´t sound bad by any means but also not fully complete. When only listening to the stock tuning this is not so apparant but when you start to play around with EQ and fill out that lower mids you can hear the difference and that some male voices are not presented in their full range. (example Fairfield Four - These bones)

This brings me to EQ:

I saw Mark Ryan´s review and he suggested +3d @80hz Q value 0.6 which gave me a starting point to try out but only going by ear i further played around with my Q5K and landed at the following settings
+4db @100Hz Q 0.4 which looks a little something like this:



When i compared this tuning to Cadenza12 i had to laugh as it´s almost a 100% match in the lower region. I guess I just like that bass shelf



With this EQ applied bass guitars sound more substantial and male vocals fuller.
The clarity is still on a very high level but M8 also looses a bit of its magic but that´s a good trade off if you also want to use it as an allrounder.

Conclusion:

I very much enjoyed my time with M8 and think it is a fantastic IEM if you know what you are buying it for.
Obviously this is not a basshead set.
It is a specialized tuning for maximum clarity and midrange eargasms and can potentially make your favourite music sound the best you have ever heard it.

Such a tuning has downsides for some genres but if you use EQ this is such an easy fix and then you have your Allrounder IEM which competes with Cadenza 12 for half the price.
Of course this is not a budget set and I wished it would be cheaper but you get what you are paying for, this is one of the best sounding IEMs i have heard and the build quality is on the highest level.

Shoutout to LETSHUOER for this release!
Their tuner once again proved to me that he is one of the best in the business.
Can´t wait to meet some of the guys at High-End in munich this year and hope that I will be able to demo Serenade

Mystic or Mystique is a person who seeks and believes in spiritual awareness of truth that is beyond the understanding of logical and rational sense. They advocate the certain aspects of religion, philosophy and spiritual path towards divinity or with oneness of a deity on how they define themselves a way of life.



LETSHUOER, formerly known as SHUOER, is one of my favourite audio brands of all time. I did some reviews of their previous models and almost all of them are excellent products that they became one of my reference models in terms of tonality and technical performance. This audio company is also quite transparent when it comes to features and implementation of components and they actually used some of the most premium parts that were sourced from reputable audio solutions. So we can really attest to the overall quality of their products whether it's entry-levels or TOTL-flagship models.



What I have here is their latest high midrange model and it is also their first all-balanced armature driver configuration IEM, the LETSHUOER Mystic 8. The Mystic 8 as it was indicated has eight (8) balanced armature drivers that were packed in each part of the earpiece that are really an impressive metalwork of art.



Balanced armature drivers are a type of transducers that are known for their compact size that can be placed in a smaller shell structure in either a single or multiple set-up. It has elongated rectangular shape with a reed/armature that was runs through the magnetic voice coil and it was attached to a miniscule rod to a diaphragm in which interact with a voltage in which both the magnetic coil and reed tongue will react via vibration that the whole diaphragm will also respond accordingly.



When it comes to driver configuration, each of the balanced armature drivers will handle a specific section in a frequency range. It seems that the low frequency part was handled by a vented dual woofer BA (most likely, a Sonion one) that offers a deep and tactile bass quality with a rich and fast transient response, while the midrange and high frequencies were mostly handled by either midrange, full range or tweeter BAs that are all of a dual set-up to deliver a clear, full and accurate sounding vocals and instruments on the midrange, and then a better clarity and detailed treble with a finesse quality. And again as I mentioned, all of these drivers are sourced from reputable audio solutions, Knowles and Sonion.



Along with an array of drivers, LETSHUOER is also implementing some features that will enhance the audio quality performance of this set like acoustic tubes, active electronic crossover and low pass filter module. There are 4-way acoustic tubes that each of them were connected to a BA driver responsible for certain part of the frequency range that serves as a passive crossover in which also works in tandem with the active electronic crossover, it will guarantee a smooth, accurate and reliable audio performance without concerning on phase distortion issues as it also balanced out to deliver a consistent sound pressure levels. The low pass filter module system that was implemented here is an absorbent material with a tiny hole on a piece that was placed inside of an acoustic tube which was connected to a woofer BA drivers for a more potent and rounded bass response due to a strengthen and well-segregated low frequency as it decreases some high frequency energy.




The balanced armature drivers along with the other components were encased in a solid yet compact metal shell chassis that were polished and then, it underwent via PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition)-coating process with achieve that vapour black finish that provides better resistant from scratching, temperature and oxidation. The overall structure of the shell were CNC-milled and the metal element of this one is a titanium alloy of unknown grade. This substance is known for its good ductility, resistance to corrosion, excellent biocompatibility and high strength-to-weight ratio properties that makes it an ideal material for an IEM shell aside from resin. The faceplate has a stylised shape of a resting cat outer layer with an inlay silver-coloured panel that serve as its background that makes the overall presentation quite artistic to show this audio company’s creativity take on its design. The nozzle of this one is on a lean profile with good length on it for better insertion. As expected, like all LETSHUOER sets, it still utilises a 0.78mm bi-pin connector as its interlocking mechanism for its detachable cable.



When it comes to fitting and comfort, because of its titanium alloy build, it is quite lightweight and it offers a cosy fitting into my lugholes without any discomfort that causes ear fatigue. And depending on the choices of ear tips that you will choose from its stock inclusions, it will provide the best passive noise isolation that it seals well as it blocks some external noises from the outside.



As for its stock cable, this is what makes it interesting on why LETSHUOER did choose this type of cable. The stock cable that garners my interest as it has a lean 8-core structured silver-plated monocrystalline copper with insulator sheath made of elastomer material which are known to have rubbery-like texture and a good dielectric properties. Dielectric materials are known for their capability to polarise with electrostatic fields by dissipating a minimal amount of thermal energy which greatly reduces distortion while having a smoother and better delivery of audio signal transmission. The cable itself is quite supple and flexible to hold and there’s not a hint of microphonic effects that I've encountered so far but regarding its termination plug, it only offers 4.4mm balanced and it doesn't have modular termination plug feature at all which is a necessity for a modern midrange set.



The product packaging of this one is quite a grandeur befitting for a high midrange model on how LETSHUOER presents its luxurious aspect on its packaging box. The inclusions inside are well-organised as they have their own compartment. The outer sleeve of the packaging is where the user’s manual, warranty clauses, QR codes for authenticity and the company address were printed back in different languages.



These are the following contents that were included inside of its packaging box:

• Pair of LETSHUOER Mystic 8 IEM transducers.
• Stock cable
• A circular carrying case with a rubbery-like hatch.
• Three (3) pairs of black-coloured narrow bore silicone ear tips in different standard sizes.
• Three (3) pairs of white-coloured wide bore silicone ear tips in different standard sizes.
• Three (3) pairs of white-coloured black stem balanced bore silicone ear tips in different standard sizes.
• Paperwork like Q.C. stub and warranty card.
• Bonus: a necklace and a ring in a stylised cat design.

When it comes to amplification and scaling, it appears that the Mystic 8 is quite sensitive when it comes to sources; it seems some of its sound characteristics will somehow affect how it will present some parts of its frequency range. This set also seems to be intentionally paired to dielectric cable with a balanced plug input that needs a better source to sound more dynamic and fuller.



List of devices were used as sources:

Questyle M15 - neutral and linear with some minimal emphasis on the midrange and high frequencies.

Questyle M15i - neutral with a subtle warmth.

DDHifi TC44 - neutral with a hint of warmth.

Letshuoer DT03 - neutral with a bit of significance on the mid-high frequencies.

iFi GO link Max - neutralish-warm as it adds a bit of dynamics on lows and midrange.

HiBy R6 Pro II - clean and neutral, as if there’s almost no subtle emphasis nor attenuation on its overall sound

HiBy R8 II - almost the same with iFi Go Link Max.



As for its overall tonality, the LETSHUOER Mystic 8 has a balanced-neutral sound profile with just a bit stressing on the high frequencies. This makes this set one of the neutral sounding sets in this year that can be pleasingly musical and at the same time, analytical due to its technical performance in which I will expound later on in the technicalities section.


(Frequency graph was provided @koyawmohabal , credits to him)


LOWS/BASS:

The bass quality of this one on the balanced side as it has a clear sub bass presence and a suitable mid bass composition. Given that it uses a woofer BA driver, it delivers a satisfying bass response as it sounds relatively punchy, precise and rumbly. Yeah, you read it right, having a rumbly characteristic is not even a defining trait of a typical BA driver. We can usually encounter this one on a good quality dynamic driver only but this one really delivers it. Another thing that I’m really impressed by the bass quality of this one is how agile, clean and well-segregated the bass feedback that this set has.

The sub bass quality of this one as I mentioned has a good depth and reverberates well that were produced by instruments with likes of synthesisers, drum machines and low tuned string instruments like bass guitars, double-basses and octabasses. Regarding its mid bass quality, while it still can't match that tactility and vigour of a dynamic driver, this one has an adequate texture enough to deliver a fairly dense notation on bass-clef instruments and vocal with snappiness on it. Bass guitars have a resonant and sustaining sound while double-basses have a bit broader and raspiness sound on them, bass kick drums have thud and rumbling sound on every stroke on its drumhead and bass trumpets have that full sound but it has less darker timbre. On male vocals with low octave registers like basses and bass-baritones, both vocal types have a deep resonating voices but apparently due to a more balanced texture, it doesn't give that dark timbre and richness that these vocal types are known for but rather more mellow and with just enough woolly sound.


MIDRANGE:

This is indeed the star of the show, possibly the strongest asset that this set has. The midrange presentation of this one has a neutral, immaculate, well-balanced and quite transparent style which just has a hint of little warmth enough for note weight on male vocals and some instruments like percussives and brasses. It also has an energetic sound to give more clarity, lucidity and more open-sounding on female vocals, strings and woodwinds.

On how this set will conform with male vocals, baritones have smooth, velvety with a mildly warmness on them which are more ideal for lyric and light baritones, tenors have these clear, dazzling and brassiness on their voice quality, and countertenors have emotive, tender and a tad fervent sound from their distinctive falsetto vocals. As for female vocals, on contraltos, while it doesn't have that depth and strength from their chesty voices to give a fuller and husky sound, it still has a rich and smoky sound from them, while the mezzo-sopranos have a fiery and coppery with expressive sound on their vocals, and then the sopranos have a crystalline, shimmering and silvery sound which will be an all-rounder for this type of vocal type from dramatic up to coloratura sopranos that makes them sound insouciant and captivating.

Regarding on instruments on how they sound on this one, when it comes to string instruments, guitars have bright and crisp sounds with some overtones presence on every pluck and strumming on its note strings, cellos have a mellow, clear and lively sound on them and then the violins have a vibrant, sweet and sensuous sound on every motion on its bowstrings. The woodwind instruments with the likes of piccolos, concert flutes, clarinets and saxophones; a brilliant and clear sound on piccolos, a graceful, poetic and silvery sound from concert flutes, a lustrous and melodic sounds of clarinets and the rich and brilliance sounds from saxophones. On the brasses, trumpets have these brilliant and vivid sounds while trombones sound dramatic and penetrating, and the horns have a resounding and intense brightness on them. And for percussives, snares have hard and bright sound, tom-toms have a rich and resonant sound, field drums have precise, hard and sonorous sound and the kettledrums have these deep and resonant sound albeit a tad dry tone. The pianos have a rich, clean and vibrant sound on its overall tone.


HIGHS/TREBLE:

The treble response of this one is more lustrous, silky with a good amount of air on it although sometimes I find it a bit lean and that will affect some tonal qualities on some instruments and female vocals. The mild accentuated between upper-mids and some part of presence of the treble section will highlight the clarity and definition to the attack on the instruments and a fine articulation on female vocals without being too harsh nor sibilant. But I noticed that if you crank up the volume level with this set from a usual medium-level listening, it produces a bit tinny and shrill sounds that treble-sensitive folk should take caution on suddenly adjusting the volume level of their devices.

The brilliance section of this one has an excellent treble air extension with an intense sparkle on them with a good amount of harmonics. On the treble-clef instruments, cymbals have resonant and lustrous sound while hi-hats have a shortened dry and metallic chick-y sound on its overall tone, glockenspiels have a brilliant and bell-like sound on either mallet-type and keyboard format, and celestas have a shimmering and sweet sound on them to give that “heavenly” or “aristocratic ball court” vibe.


SOUNDSTAGE, IMAGING AND OTHER TECHNICALITIES:

This is another of Mystic 8’s strongest assets and this one is probably one of the most technical sets that I've tested this year. The perceived head stage of this one projects a spacious sound field as it has a wide lateral span, an excellent height reach and reasonably good stage depth for an all-BA set.

The stereo imaging of this one projects an almost holographic stereo presentation with an impressive well-layered soundscape and with good separation on tonal dynamics of vocals and instruments that I can pinpoint accurately their exact placements on a spatial sonic canvas. It has an excellent resolution capabilities on both macro-dynamics and micro-dynamics as the former has a more solid and contrasting presentation on highlighting the varying degree of loudness between chorale lines and instrumental passages, while the latter has a sharp definition on delineating nuances, gains and subtleties that were retrieved from the background of an audio track like notational attacks on instruments, vocal ends and reverb tails.

The cohesive performance of its all BA-driver set-up delivers a harmonious presentation as its woofer BA delivers a fast transient bass response along with, an accurate, clear and detailed sound from other types of BA drivers without any distortion nor phasing issues.


PEER COMPARISONS:

NOBLE AUDIO KATANA (DEMO)

• Noble Audio’s old flagship IEM and it is twice more expensive than the Mystic 8 itself.
• Like the Mystic 8, it has an all-balanced armature driver configuration that were packed in a metal shell chassis.
• It has 9 balanced armature drivers inside of a bit large aluminium alloy shell chassis with brushed sweeping lines with rounded outlines on it.
• The cable quality of this one is rather average for a TOTL-set which is also on a leaner side just like the Mystic 8.
• It also has a balanced-neutral sound profile with a more sub bass-focused bass response which is more tighter, a neutral and bit lean midrange with some transparency and energetic sound, and a shimmering and airy treble response.
• As for its overall technicalities, this set is capable of projecting an above-average sound/speaker stage with concave-like stereo imaging presentation along with a well-layered soundscape on it.

SOFTEARS RSV (DEMO)

• SOFTEARS’ high midrange IEM model with similar driver configuration with Mystic 8 albeit it uses a high quality resin shell chassis.
• This model is quite less expensive when it was released 3 or 4 years ago, it was priced over US$700/£550.
• It sports a 5 BA driver with a 3-way crossover inside (taken from SOFTEARS’ site) and it was encapsulated in a medical-grade resin shell chassis.
• It has better stock cable as it is a bit thicker as far as I remember clearly although it doesn't have modular termination plug feature.
• Another set which also has a balanced-neutral sound but SOFTEARS did some distinctive tonal flavour on this one as it has a more rumbly and less punchy bass response, a neutral yet well-textured with more warmth than the Mystic 8 for better depth and a more plush sounding male vocals and a richer contralto vocals on females, and bit smoother yet airy treble response.
• Regarding its technicalities, RSV’s soundstage’s sizing is rather above average as it doesn't have that wide lateral span as it has more focus on depth and height with a concave-like stereo imaging presentation with some excellent layering and separation on it.

7th ACOUSTIC SUPERNOVA

• Probably a major contender of the MYSTIC 8 as it also has an all-BA driver set-up but it has different type of shell chassis.
• This one is also a bit cheaper and like the Mystic 8, it is also well-packed with quality accessories.
• It has 6 balanced armature drivers that were also sourced from reputable audio solutions, Knowles and Sonion that were encased in a UIEM-type hypoallergenic resin shell chassis.
• It has a better stock cable but it doesn't have a modular terminator plug feature.
• This one has U-shaped sound profile with a warmish-balanced tonality as has more mid bass-focused bass response as it has a punchy and impactful sound, a recessed yet warm and rich to give a more organic sound on vocals and instruments with a hint of energy on it, and a smooth treble response with just a modest amount of air on it.
• Regarding its technical performance, it has an above-average sound/speaker stage width and height but it has a good depth on it and its layering and separation on its atmospheric-like stereo imaging presentation is pretty acceptable for its performance, not impressive but also not too shabby.

DUNU SA6 MK.II

• DUNU’s offering in the midrange segment, and like the Mystic 8, it has an all-balanced armature driver set-up.
• This one is also a bit less pricey, and like all DUNU sets, this one is pretty well-accessorised with quality inclusions inside.
• Like the Mystic 8, its 6 balanced armature drivers are also provided by well-regarded audio solutions, Knowles and Sonion that were encased in a resin shell chassis with faceplate made of wood laminated with resin.
• It has a tuning switch for bass response on its shell chassis and its stock cable is also better with a modular termination plug feature.
• Due to its tuning switch, it offers two tonal profiles, a balanced-neutral sound and a mild U-shaped sound, that makes this set more versatile but on its overall tuning, the Mystic 8 is a bit more refined sounding one even if I compared it to SA6 Mk.II’s balanced-neutral mode.
• Technicality-wise, this set is quite competent in all aspects just like Mystic 8 but its sound/speaker stage is a bit narrower if it is compared to the latter one.

It seems that once again, LETSHUOER shows its prowess as a dedicated and capable audio company and this set is the result of their research and development on how to fully-utilised the balanced armature driver with some of the latest breakthrough audio technologies that will even enhance its overall performance.

The Mystic 8 is indeed a specialised set as it rendered the vocal qualities to almost all vocal types in a beautiful and sophisticated manner with a clear, accurate, detailed and impressive articulation from a singing voice that makes them pleasant and insouciant.

It is noted that it's not all perfect for this set as there are some nitpicking that I want to point out some features like its stock cable and a tuning which is a bit on a leaner side that audio enthusiasts like a warmer tonality will look somewhere else. But if you are a neutral head who is also looking for a vocal specialist set with excellent technical prowess with a budget to spend at this price, this is probably the set you are looking for.

LETSHUOER MYSTIC 8 will be available in LETSHUOER’s official store, you can check out the link that I have provided at the bottom, guaranteed a non-affiliated one.

LINK:

https://letshuoer.net/products/letshuoer-mystic-8-wired-iem-hifi-earphones-8-ba-drivers-in-ear-monitor


For more LETSHUOER product reviews, check out the following links below.

■ LETSHUOER EJ07

■ LETSHUOER EJ07M

■ LETSHUOER EJ09

■ LETSHUOER S15

■ LETSHUOER CADENZA 12

■ LETSHUOER S12 PRO

■ LETSHUOER D13

■ LETSHUOER DZ4

■ LETSHUOER CADENZA 4

■ LETSHUOER DT03

■ LETSHUOER S08

■ LETSHUOER S12 2024





SPECIFICATION:

MODEL: LETSHUOER MYSTIC 8
IMPEDANCE: 18Ω
SENSITIVITY: 107dB
FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 20Hz – 40KHz
CABLE LENGTH: 1.2m
PIN TYPE: 0.78 2-PIN CONNECTOR
PLUG TYPE: 4.4mm
DRIVER UNIT(S): (8) BALANCED ARMATURE DRIVER(S)


TRACKS TESTED: ( * = 16-bit FLAC, ** = 24-bit FLAC, *'* = MQA, '*' = DSD, *'= .WAV)

Alison Krauss -When You Say Nothing At All *
Jade Wiedlin - Blue Kiss**
Led Zeppelin - When The Levee Breaks **
Mountain - Mississippi Queen *
Queen - Killer Queen **
Guns N' Roses - Patience *'*
Eric Clapton - Tears in Heaven '*'
Sergio Mendes- Never Gonna Let You Go '*'
Pearl Jam - Daughter **
Roselia - Hidamari Rhodonite *
Assassin - Fight (To Stop The Tyranny)*
Celtic Frost- Visual Aggression *
New Order - Blue Monday *
The Corrs- What Can I do (unplugged version) *
Jimi Hendrix Experience - Voodoo Child *
The Madness- Buggy Trousers *
Metallica - Motorbreath **
Mariah Carey- Always Be My Baby *
Destiny's Child - Say My Name *
Malice Mizer- Au Revoir *
Mozart - Lacrimosa *
New York Philharmonic Orchestra - Dvorak- Symphony 9 " From the New World." *
Eva Cassidy - Fields of Gold (Sting cover)*
Michael Jackson - Give In To Me *
Exciter - Violence and Force *
Diana Krall - Stop This World **
Debbie Gibson - Foolish Beat *'*
The Sisters of Mercy – Lucretia My Reflection**
Suzanne Vega – Luka **
Lauren Christy – Steep *
Ottoman Mehter - Hucum Marsi *
Diana Damrau - Mozart: Die Zauberflöte*
Type O Negative - Black No.1 *
Felix Ayo - Vivaldi: Presto **
Three Tenors - Nessum Dorma *
Mercyful Fate - Witches' Dance *


P.S.

I am not affiliated to LETSHUOER nor receive monetary incentives and financial gains as they provide me a review unit for an exchange of factual and sincere feedback from yours truly.

Once again, I would like to send my gratitude to TEAM @LetShuoer Audio for providing this review unit. I truly appreciate their generosity and trust towards me and other reviewers.

TONALITY: 8.2/10
TECHNICALITIES: 8.8/10
TIMBRE: 8.5/10
SOUNDSTAGE: 8/10
IMAGING: 8.5/10
CLARITY: 8.2/10
MUSICALITY (subjective): 7.8/10 (really depend music style)
CONSTRUCTION: 8.5/10
ACCESSORIES: 8.5/10
SOUND VALUE: 7.8/10

INTRO

Letshuoer is an IEM company from China that was founded in 2016. They are very experienced and offer a wide range of IEM from budget to high end.

This is a serious company that learn from experience and invest lot of time and research in tuning and acoustic engineering, which pay off with IEM like their tribrid EJ07, their famous planar S12 or lately their even more polished and mature musicality like the Cadenza4, and the S12 2024, a favorite of mine with EJ07M.

Today I will review their latest high end model, the Mystic 8. Priced 989$, it’s a 8 balanced armature using 4 knowles BA and 4 sonions BA.

Letshuoer describe the Mystic 8 as follow:
‘’LETSHUOER presents the innovative Mystic 8 In Ear Monitors featuring a unique Myst series design that includes a phantom Cat pattern on the face covers. The black lines symbolize the cat, silver patterns evoke mist, and the white faux diamond inlay reflects 'starlight through the mist.' Entirely made up of high-quality Titanium Alloy material, the Mystic 8 IEMs bring together 8 Balanced Armature Drivers on each side—four high-performance units from Knowles and four from Sonion—the Mystic 8 has undergone an intensive two-year development process focused on achieving unparalleled sound precision. To achieve the desired sound signature without distortion, the Mystic 8 employs a three-way crossover circuit in conjunction with four acoustic tubes. It ensures accurate frequency distribution and minimal phase distortion, resulting in a seamless listening experience. Additionally, the integration of a low-pass filter module with the acoustic tubes enhances bass depth and dynamics, promising a deep, impactful lower-end response. This approach effectively isolates the bass frequencies from the rest of the audio spectrum, ensuring clarity and preventing unwanted overlap. Letshuoer Mystic 8 IEMs deliver a mesmerising listening experience with ultimate design and professional tuning!! Explore your favorite music in an all-new level of performance with the LETSHUOER Mystic 8!!’’

Let's see in this review if the Letshuoer Mystic 8 achieves its goal to deliver a clear and precise musicality free of harshness, and well, if it will mesmerize my subjective ears too.

CONSTRUCTION-ACCESSORIES

The construction of Mystic 8 is very exotic, it’s all made of a CNC alloy shell that doesn’t feel easy to scratch and has a smooth finish. There's an intricate back plate that will be hit or miss depending on your aesthetic taste. Personally I love cats so it's up my alley, but the inner metal plate seems a bit prompt to finger print and hard to properly clean.
The 2 pin connectors are straight and not recessed, yet they are very very tight and I barely break the cable pin at the first connection attempt so be cautious.
Ergonomic wise, they fit like a glove, they have an organic shape with an angled nozzle that is average in length. I don’t think these are thinked of as a deep fit. Isolation is above average too, due to metal shells as well as not having a back venting hole or grill.



The included cable seems of great quality, but 2 pin connectors are too high so I tend to use other cable. It’s quite thin and has a light braided cable. It’s a silver plated monocrystal copper cable that tends to offer clean and crisp transmission.



Then the unboxing experience feels like a jewellery box and we literally have jewels included: a nice chain and ring. 100% 26 carat gold! (joking, i have no idea of the material, most likely stainless steel).
Presentation is very nice and makes the consumer feel he indeed buys a luxurious product.
We have a nice metal carrying case, generous amount of eartips (i suggest short wide bore) and the cable.

All in all, construction feels high quality as well as accessories, and for those sensitive to box presentation, this is another plus to add.

SOUND IMPRESSIONS



The Mystic 8 is a neutral sounding IEM, but not a plain cold one and not an analytical spiky beast. It’s smooth in balance with a focus on midrange and treble, as well as slight sub bass boost which doesn’t rumble a lot, nor dig deep, this bass tends to feed substance of instruments and vocal more so than adding big punch or long sub bass resonance.

We are into a refined ‘’jack of all trade, master of none’’ territory, which will please mature listeners as well as those seeking a set that can be as good for monitoring music than enjoying it.

It’s a technical IEM taking full advantage of its 8 balanced armature without playing the easy wow effect game, which can impress at first but become tiresome if upper mids or upper treble is too boosted and ultimately, unbalanced.

It’s evident the Mystic 8 was meticulously tuned to deliver a clean and clear sound without abusing spiciness of treble, mid range is focused but nothing stole the show of other frequencies. It’s not an edgy sounding IEM, the definition is in fact softened and macro dynamic fully rounded. Don’t expect crisp super sparkly and airy musicality, even if the soundstage is impressive in width, you don't have plenty of air around the instrument, presentation is intimate in that regard.

The bass is speedy and lean with a light punch. Sub to mid bass has minimal warmth in sustain release that adds a hint of weight but there is no big slam nor long rumble sustain.
Bass lines are well extracted but a bit compressed and don’t release deep, it’s one of main con with these, bass lines feel one tone, you’ll not read them properly. Double bass is muffled in extension, electric bass feels distant too. Yet the attack bite and texture is there, more so than for kick drums which get an envelope of warmth around its definition.
The kick drum is more tactile and weighty than detailed and sharply defined, attack release is short and diffuse, which don’t highlight clarity of it’s definition.
Even if double bass is cut short in extension, the Mystic8 do well with a lot of genres like jazz, rock, pop and classical. It’s not really enjoyable for electronic and big beats, both basshead and bass lover will be underwhelmed by the dynamic energy and overall performance of bass quality. This is lukewarm territory, with minimal mid to sub bass boost to offer a potent slam, that sometimes feel a bit out of place in terms of dynamic heft since both mids and treble are more lively as well as more agile. At least, this isn’t a ‘’no bass’’ IEM, it’s a politely boomy one. My guess is that it uses only one BA woofer. Only multi BA I enjoyed the bass was using 2 Knowles or Sonion BA woofers. While the low end of Mystic isn't anemic and offer potent vibrant slam when (very) needed, it aint an headbanger nor very enjoyable, it's there to add minimum ''oomph'' so this do good for pop, rap (not trap rap), R&B, indie and soul.
Just don't buy these if your obsession is bass, for this, i would suggest their EJ07M, S12 2024 or even S08.

Then the star of the show is the mid range, and this isn’t just about upper mids and presence brightness and clarity boost here, it's both open and full sounding and I do think it’s the ‘’mystical’’ part of Letshuoer musical target goal. Both male and female vocals are wide in presence with a notch of lushness to it that doesn't make it too buttery to the point of affecting transparency and layering of center stage instruments. Nor it’s too upfront and sharp to the point of being shouty or sibilant, it’s lively without going fatiguing or dominating treble and bass. Main vocal and instrument have enough air around them, even if the definition isn’t crispest nor have wide space between 3D spatiality. The texture is barely uncolored, we have minimum air vibrancy that densify and enrich timbre without losing intelligibility of tone, words or harmonics. In chamber classical, I don't struggle to follow each violins line, but it would need active listening since it’s not an analytical sounding IEM, more like a ‘’romantic monitor’’. Female vocals are beautiful whatever their range, Charlotte Day Wilson have enough lower mids to embody it’s lush vibrant voice, Arianna Savall has all it’s soprano range well covered without the shouty piercing peak that can occur with overly boosted upper mids-lower treble. In fact, the upper mids are dry here, so this permits us to have enough energy without being overly rounded and smoothed.
The Mystic8 is a piano specialist too, another proof it excels in mid range. Lower note sound full and vibrant with fast decay, natural resonance is perceivable too, we have weight of attack without too much warmth, then if we go at other side of upper range, it don’t sound unbalanced and too loud like with most IEM boosting upper mids above 10db, piano is not spiky sounding, it’s natural and agile. Those 7 BAs for mids and treble really help to layer effortlessly all piano notes whatever their speed, same goes for violin, saxo, guitar.
Listening to choral is real joy too, again due to this macro layering fluidity and wide presence that envelope the listener. If, like me, you tend to dislike concert hall-like musical experiences that make everything sound distant, the Mystic 8 will offer a different flavor of holographic musicality that might charm you.
But don’t expect pinnacle of excitement either, it’s an overall laid back and mature mid range that focuses more on tone correctness than dynamic fun. This is why I enjoy those IEM mostly with bass-less music. From folk, to classical, to jazz, to country, to world music, to solo instruments of all types, this IEM shines with acoustic music.

When it comes to treble, it’s smooth without being dull and we barely-i underline barely-get some balanced armature sparkle! Which alas is impossible even with priciest multi-BA IEMs i tested like 64 audio U18T. Only ESTs and excellent DDs can deliver this. And I'm dead serious about this since I'm a sparkle and brilliance lover owning 300 IEMs including 10 tribrid with (sonion) ESTs.
This means the highs are fast and snappy with a notch of brilliance that benefit acoustic guitar and percussions naturalness. It’s a textured treble too, as well as richly layered. You don’t struggle to follow the percussion line, they have their own space to unleash their pace freely. Those percussions are clear and rich in texture, a bit more so than both bass and mids, their definition is more sharpened but never go fatiguing nor plain distracting.
Listening to singer playing acoustic guitar is pure bliss with Mystic 8, i can’t get enough of Gillian Welch with those, vocal and guitar is so well define and layered, when i do so with numerous other IEM their were always a trade off and sparkle can be a con in this case if it’s all we get from thin guitar line…this isn’t the case with Mystic8, guitar is full sounding, have bite, isn’t too greasy with lower mids and has sharp attack with as said minimal sparkle release and brilliance, it’s bright and crunchy in most refined manner you can think off. natural resonance does occur like with piano, a sign of good treble extension: non spiky way.
This soft treble response mean instrument like violin will lack a bit of attack lead energy, i can say the same for clavichord though here it sound full and realist, and mostly lack it’s natural sparkle release, even if we go hint of crisp brilliance like it does for upper range ringing cymbals. Without this minimal upper treble energy, Mystic will lack air and sense of openness and treble would be too sleek for proper macro dynamic rendering, which thankfully it’s not the case. One thing for sure, these aren’t for treble head seeking crazy among of shiny micro details, better bet on tribrid with EST like Letshuoer EJ09 for this task.
What the Mystic treble excell at is pulling out full layers of sound info, from synth pads to well rounded and textured percussions, this permit a multi-layered spatiality with a lot of sound info that live their own transient dynamic, all well balanced within a musical neutrality.

The imaging is quite good and as noted offer an excellent macro layering of fully bodied instruments and sounds, it’s not pristine analytical monitoring imaging, the definition edge isn’t sharp enough for this, nor the space between instruments large enough. Instrument layers tend to slip on each other with enough transparency so we can discern each of them, but you don’t get a ‘’night vision’’ readability of sound info, positioning seems nearer to each instrument than it would be in a real studio or concert hall.

This explains the unique soundstage we get too, it’s wider than taller and deeper, there is a sense of holographic positioning that surrounds you as if you were very near the band. Mid range isn’t recessed but gently forwarded, your part of the music laid back, not like your jamming and headbanging with other musicians. The ear tips greatly inflict on how intimate the soundstage will be, short wide bore tend to widen more the spatiality and is the most appealing musical engagement i find.


COMPARISONS

VS ORIVETI OV800 (8BAs-1000$)

The OV800 is warmer and more V shaped, the bass has more weight and punch and more vibrant sub bass too, it’s more realistic and coherent with overall tuning too. But warmer, boomier and more euphonic too.
The Mystic is more neutral to mid centric, with lighter dynamic and notably thinner and less bodied bass.
OV800 mids are warmer and darker, less clean and open, less wide and transparent in presence. Oddly, they are more prompt to sibilance too. Overall clarity is notably inferior as well as attack control is more diffuse and euphonic (even with 0.1ohm of impedance source).
When you go to Mystic, it’s like pulling off a fog blanket, you can perceive each instrument more clearly, and pianos are less muddy in attack-release. Saxo and vocalists have more air around them as well as wider presence. Instruments are richer in texture too and upper mids are softer.
The OV800 treble is darker and splashier. Mystic is so superior in this department, we have more air, more micro details, faster and snappier attack…just from another league.
Imaging is logically way superior, we have blacker background, more spacious positioning, better instrument definition and clarity.
Soundstage is wider and deeper with Mystic, while a bit taller with OV800.

Their zero doubt the Mystic8 is way superior in technical performance, from imaging to soundstage to level of clarity to attack control, it all feels like another league. As for musicality, Mystic is more neutral and a notch colder, it’s not as dynamic nor as punchy.

VS LETSHOUER EJ 09 (1DD+4 BAs+4EST-1200$)

The EJ09 is notably brighter, more W shaped in balance and analytical in resolution. It’s more vivid in dynamic, punchier and more textured in bass, thinner and less natural in mids and way crisper, sparklier and generous in micro details in treble.

Bass has more mid bass focus and punch, it’s less warm in rendering and sub bass digs deeper, leaner, cleaner. Mystic 8 offers a lighter yet dense sub bass boom and slam, with darker and leaner mid bass punch.

Mids are crisper and more open with EJ09, but they are harsher, more prompt to sibilance and edginess, tone is less bodied and natural and instrument presence is more compressed. Upper mids are more boosted as well as loudness of presence. Let's say if I would gladly suggest Mystic for vocal lovers, I wouldn't with EJ09 which is more artificial sounding, less coherent in the mix of tone and timbre of different drivers used.

Then the treble is way sharper and revealing with EJ09, sense of speed and immediacy is more highlighted, micro details are crisper and more upfront, percussions can feel overly forwards unlike smoother balance of Mystic. It’s thinner highs too, and we have more metallic shine, but brilliance and sparkle lover as well as treble head will have more to bite in with EJ09, which overall technicalities is better though not as good in balance.

Imaging is crisper and more precise with EJ09, we don’t have BAs blooming around instrument presence and we have more air around the instrument.

Soundstage is taller and deeper with EJ09, while wider with Mystic.

All in all, EJ09 is a technical beast and both bass and treble performance is notably superior-better define and resolve, cleaner and speedier. Yet musicality wise the Mystic 8 wins in terms of even balance and multi drivers coherency, mid range is superior in fullness and number of sound layers that release their presence dynamism, timbre is more natural and note weight is heavier.

VS KIWI EARS ORCHESTRA LITE (8BA-260$)

The Lite is slightly similar to the OV800, oddly, i would say it’s an upgrade at 740$ less too. So, it’s more V shape and punchier, with a lusher and more energetic mid range, which make the Mystic sound notably leaner and more U shape too.

I’m surprised to confirm the bass performance is both superior in quantity and quality, which underline the benefit of using 2 BA woofer. The lite has rounded weightier punch and more vibrant sub bass which is faster and better layered too, you don’t feel it’s detached like it can happen with Mystic. This is quite incredible to get this BA bass performance at such a low price.

Then the mids are thicker and louder, but BA timbre is more evident and texture has unwanted noise artefact. It’s not as clean and organic sounding as the Mystic, nor as transparent and crisp. Sound layers are more opaque which affect perception of multiple layers in center stage. Nonetheless I love the vocal and overall instrument of Lite, even if it is warmer and a bit more compressed in the middle of stage.

Then the treble is where superiority of Mystic is evident, attack is more splashy with Lite, micro details aren’t as sharply defined and mix up in macro dynamics. Their way less sparkle and brilliance too as well as air on top.

Imaging is clearer, more transparent and more defined in separation with Mystic.

Soundstage is wider and taller but less deep with the Lite.

All in all, no doubt sound value winner is the Lite here, though the limitation of cheaper balanced armature (apart from bass which use 2x knowles 22955 woofer) is evident in terms of timbre naturalness and attack control. The Mystic is smoother in balance, better resolved, cleaner and more natural in mid range and notably more articulated and snappy in treble response, which underline you have to pay a lot to get slight extra sound benefit return, mostly found in musical refinement, fine detailing and technical performance upgrade.


CONCLUSION

While the musicality doesn't fully appeal to my personal taste in terms of macro dynamic energy and engagement, there is no doubt the Mystic 8 is very well tuned IEM and offers a high fidelity sound performance.

Even with the slight sub bass boost, I consider those neutral sounding, and would never suggest them to bass lovers nor to treble heads. This might not be a very fun sounding set, but it’s not dead boring at all to, as noted, bass offer light but vibrant slam when needed.

The real highlight of Mystic is it’s open and natural mid range, vocal lover will be well served since it covers all range of vocalist, as well, female vocals don’t go shouty but blossom widely in the stage.

This makes the Mystic very appropriate for acoustic music lovers too, from piano to sax to violin and even acoustic guitar, its effortless macro layering permits all types of instruments to cohabit together without mixing their colorful identity. The tone is right, the presence is dense enough too, the dynamic avoids being overly lean as well, offering a musicality that you are part of but can contemplate passively too.

Letshuoer carved their musicality to achieve a refined neutrality where the mid range fully embrace the listener and open like a wide tapestry you can get lost in for hour without hearing fatigue. It achieve this without going plain cold or dull musicality, the dynamic is polite but still lively enough and those 8 balanced armature aren't there for gimmick, this kind of holographic center stage where all sound layers flow effortlessly wouldn't be possible with single dynamic driver nor a 3 or 4 BAs IEM.

As a long time fan of this company, it's fascinating to see how well they evolve in term of balance fluidity, far are the day of overly spicy tuning. The Mystic 8 is a logical evolution from Cadenza 4, in the sens it don't seek to force wow effect with easy treble or bass boost trick, it aim their own elegancy of high fidelity audio and a diversify catologue of sound signature that can please everyone.

-----------------------------------


PS: I want to thanks Letshuoer for this review sample. I want to thanks them for letting me 100% independant too. This is more rare than we think. Like all my IEMs, i would be happy to loan these to kind hearthed canadians.

You can give a check to their website here, the Mystic 8 should be available to buy sooner than later:
https://letshuoer.net/products/lets...em-hifi-earphones-8-ba-drivers-in-ear-monitor

thaslaya's star rating system:
☆☆☆☆☆ - Fantastic!
☆☆☆☆ - Recommended
☆☆☆ - There are buyers but not for me
☆☆ - Can't see the appeal
☆ - Product is a failure

Disclaimer:
This product was provided to me by Letshuoer in exchange for my impartial and honest review. I recieve no compensation and all thoughts and opinions are my own. A special thanks to Sherry for coordinating this set for review.

Non-affiliate link for those interested:
https://letshuoer.net/products/lets...em-hifi-earphones-8-ba-drivers-in-ear-monitor

Gear used:
●Samsung Galaxy s22 Ultra
●Softears S01
●Hiby FC4
●Kiwi Ears Allegro
●Letshuoer DT03
●Dunu DTC480
●BLON V1
●iFi xDSD Gryphon
●Snowsky Retro Nano
●iFi GO link Max

Source:
●Listening was done through Amazon Music HD or Ultra HD.

Introduction:
Letshuoer produces many well-received IEMs in various price brackets. Within the last year, I have reviewed the S08, S12 (2024), and most recently, their flagship, the Cadenza 12; all three received high scores from me. The Mystic 8 is Letshuoer's latest release and the first in their new "Myst" series. It features an eight-balanced armature driver configuration (four Sonion and four Knowles) and has a price tag of $989. Let's break down this new Letshuoer IEM and see if it can do enough to set itself apart in an increasingly crowded market.

Build, fit, ergonomics:
Letshuoer IEMs typically have a nice unboxing experience, and the Mystic 8 is no exception. The packaging is well-designed and premium-looking, in line with a product costing around $1,000. The shells are made of CNC titanium alloy with a shiny black finish. Each faceplate features a three-dimensional design with a cat in the foreground and some white/silver swirls behind it. According to Letshuoer, "the black lines on the shell represent the cat, while the silver patterns symbolize the misty veil. The white faux diamond inlay carries the meaning of the starlight beyond the dispersed mist." I think that the packaging and shell design effectively communicate the theme, and it showcases Letshuoer's creativity. The shell is on the small side, fits comfortably, and features a flat, 2-pin connection. It is durable and has a nice weight to it, but it does not feel heavy in the ear. I'd say the insertion depth is average, but I would welcome a slightly deeper insertion. The nozzle measures 6.2 mm at its widest point, where there is a slight lip for the tips. I am unsure if there are any vents, perhaps through the faceplate somewhere, but I did not experience any pressure buildup. The package includes an 8-core silver-plated monocrystalline copper cable. It is thin, much thinner than my usual preference, but to its credit, it is soft, lightweight, pliable, and nicely braided. I have to admit that I am disappointed it is not modular, especially from Letshuoer, which often includes them with some of their much lower-priced IEMs. I used the stock cable for testing, as it offers excellent ergonomics and effectively disappears when in-ear. Nine pairs of silicone tips are included in three different varieties. I opted for the clear tips with black cores, preferring them to others I own, which is pretty rare. The case is an interesting take on the puck style; it has a metal bottom portion with a rubber top. It does feel a bit like Tupperware, but I appreciate Letshuoer trying something different, and in this case, I think it works. They also included a ring and necklace, which is unique but not very practical for me. I do not wear much jewelry, and I would rather the expense went into a modular cable, although I understand the "collectible" nature of this inclusion. A cleaning cloth and cleaning tool round out the accessory package.

Sound impressions:
I would describe the overall tuning of the Mystic 8 as neutral. Like really neutral. In fact, it is probably the most neutral-sounding IEM I have heard to date; yet, the tuning is so well done that it does not sound boring or unengaging. The note weight is about average, perhaps leaning slightly toward the thicker side, which I definitely prefer. It is not a very hard set to drive and can reach very high volume from a simple dongle. The detail retrieval is strong, yet it does a great job of striking a fine balance between clinical and musical. The soundstage is decent, but not expansive. It makes good use of the entire stage, but lacks some depth and fullness; however, it makes up for this with the amount of space it entails. The timbre is very natural and organic. The imaging is superb and impressive, and it is a big strong suit of this set. The dynamics are not particularly strong, and it performs okay at lower-volume listening, but the bass, which was already tame, falls off pretty hard. The separation and layering are another standout feature, especially with instruments.

The Mystic 8 is one of the most source-sensitive sets I have heard. It is very much like a chameleon at times and takes on slightly different characteristics from each new source. When paired with the Hiby FC4, it adds a bit of depth to the soundstage and made the bass more impactful and robust. The Dunu DTC480 brings the midrange more forward and adds a certain smoothness. However, I think the best pairing among those I tested is the iFi GO link Max. It adds just a touch of warmth and bass impact and enhances some of the inherent musicality without skewing the overall neutrality of the tuning.

●Lows - The bass is a bit more sub- than mid-bass focused. It is very resolving and capable but does have somewhat of a typical BA bass response. The texture is a bit dry, and the impact and slam are more on the polite side. The extension does not reach super low, but it is still capable of exhibiting a decent sub-bass response, especially for an all-BA set. However, it lacks some rumble and reverberation and the decay is a bit short which can sound somewhat unnatural at times. The speed is quite quick and double bass kicks are easily discerned. There's also no bleed into the midrange to my ear. Overall, the Mystic 8 definitely has one of the more capable BA bass implementations I have heard, but I would welcome more quantity, a deeper extension, and a bit longer decay for my usual preferences.

●Mids - This is where the Mystic 8 gets magical, and it's without a doubt my favorite aspect of the tuning. The mids are simultaneously forward but remain balanced with the other frequencies, keeping that neutral flavor. Vocals are not shouty or too in your face, but neither do they sound recessed. Both male and female vocals are equally well-represented. They could even come forward a bit more for my usual preferences, but that would betray the neutrality of the tuning. Instrument reproduction is sublime, especially on jazz, but the lower midrange does lack a little body on things like cello in orchestral arrangements. The entire midrange is just fantastic; it sounds clear and natural without any coloration and is very enjoyable.

●Highs - One of my main concerns with any neutral set is that they often sound too bright due to the lower bass shelf. I consider myself fairly treble-sensitive, and while the treble is outside my usual preference, I would still consider the Mystic 8 to lean more toward neutral than neutral/bright. The extension and air are more than adequate for me, but I am not sure it is enough for true treble enthusiasts. I wouldn't say the highs are super energetic, but they don't present as boring either. Unfortunately, it can come across a bit thin and wispy at times. While I didn't experience any true sibilance, there can be a little harshness on "s" and "sh" sounds, depending on the track. Cymbals, hi-hats, snares, and claps also have a certain edge and crispness that treble-sensitive listeners like myself may find a bit troublesome, but again, it is mostly track-dependent. Overall, I am pretty satisfied with the treble response, although I would be lying if I said I wouldn't appreciate it being a bit darker.

Comparisons: Credit to Super Reviews for the graphs.

●Dita Mecha ($900) - Here we have a single full-range DD versus an 8 BA configuration. Both sets have decent unboxing experiences and accessories. I'd give Dita's modular Churro cable the nod over the Mystic 8's cable, but the latter has a better tip selection and a sturdier case. Both have metal shells, but their designs are starkly different. The Mecha does feel a bit more durable, and the brushed matte finish seems better poised to withstand normal wear and tear. The Mystic 8's aesthetic is quite unique, and I personally think it is the better-looking of the two. The Mecha's shell is a little bigger, and the nozzle is a bit shorter. The Mystic 8 offers a better fit for me due to the shell shape and angle of the nozzle. Like their overall designs, the sound signatures of these two are also quite different. The Mecha is U-shaped with bold bass and an emphasis on the upper mids/lower treble. In comparison, the Mystic 8 lacks a certain amount of energy and engagement, as it pretty strictly adheres to a neutral tuning. The bass is probably where these two deviate most. Not only is the quantity higher on the Mecha, it also offers better sub-bass extension, more mid-bass warmth, and superior rumble and reverberation. The Mystic 8, though, does have slightly better resolution and speed, and a faster decay. The midrange is probably the strongest aspect of the Mystic 8's tuning. It has strong instrument timbre, and both male and female vocals are well-represented, with just enough emphasis to stand out. Personally, I like my vocals to be a bit more forward and prominent, with a touch of warmth and a certain soulfulness and musicality that the Mecha provides well. The midrange is a bit flatter on the Mystic 8 and lacks the same depth as the Mecha, although it does have a cleaner bass-to-midrange transition and a bit more lower-midrange emphasis. In the treble, the Mystic 8 continues that sense of neutrality and balance, while the Mecha has a bit more energy and emphasis in the lower and mid-treble, but also less air and extension. However, the more boisterous bass response of the Mecha serves as a great counterbalance to the added treble energy, and it actually comes across as less bright than the Mystic 8. Things like cymbals, hi-hats, and snares are a bit thinner and slightly harsh at high volumes on the Mystic 8 compared to the Mecha. As for the technicalities, the Mystic 8 has slightly better timbre, imaging, separation, and detail retrieval, whereas the Mecha offers superior dynamics, soundstage depth, and note weight. This matchup really comes down to tuning preference. The Mystic 8 adheres well to a neutral tuning, and the entire frequency response is very well-balanced, coherent, and enjoyable. But the Mecha hits many points of my preferred tuning. The bass is quite bold, with great rumble and reverberation; the vocals are more accentuated and forward, and the treble is rolled off with just a hint of sparkle and energy to keep it interesting. Add in a deeper and more immersive soundstage, and the Mecha is simply too good to ignore.
My pick: Mecha

●BGVP Phantom ($900) - These two have the same number of drivers but share only one driver type (2DD, 2BA, 2EST, and 2BCD versus 8BA). The Mystic 8's unboxing and packaging are better, but the overall accessories are about even, although the Phantom has a modular cable. Both sets have similarly sized shells, but I personally prefer the Mystic 8's more solid build quality and overall design. It also has a lip on the nozzle, and the fit is more comfortable for me. The sound signatures of these two are quite different. The Phantom is V-shaped and exciting, whereas the Mystic 8 is neutral, almost to a fault. The Phantom's bass is much more prominent and full-sounding, with deeper extension and rumble thanks to the combination of the DD and BCD. The Mystic 8 has a bit more mid-bass impact and is slightly more resolving, but it could definitely benefit from a bass boost to suit my preferences. The Mystic 8's midrange offers superior balance, with vocals positioned more forward and instruments retaining good presence without being overshadowed. However, the Phantom's portrayal of midrange instruments in orchestral and classical arrangements is unparalleled. While neither set's treble perfectly matches my preferences, the Mystic 8 is definitely better for me. It is not thin and ethereal like the Phantom, but it still has a certain zing and energy to keep it exciting and fun. It also offers superior treble extension and more air. Technically, the Phantom's bass and lower midrange have superior note weight; however, its upper frequencies become very thin, so I prefer the Mystic 8's more even note weight. The soundstage goes to the Phantom, as it offers superior depth and fullness. Detail retrieval, timbre, imaging, and separation are all slightly better on the Mystic 8, but the margin is small. This matchup comes down to a few factors for me. The Phantom's bass is great, and the BCD adds a nice depth and fullness. The BA bass of the Mystic 8 does not reach as low or rumble the same way; however, the Phantom's upper mids and treble do not sound right to me. There is a lot of brightness and thinness that is hard for me to overlook. Unless I were to use the Phantom for instrumental music only, the Mystic 8 is a better choice for me.
My pick: Mystic 8

●Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite ($249) - This is the comparison I was most looking forward to when I first demoed the Mystic 8 at CanJam last year. These two have the same eight BA driver configuration, and I was immediately reminded of the Orchestra Lite when I tried the Mystic 8 for the first time. The unboxing and accessories favor the Mystic 8. It has more premium packaging, a better stock cable, and a sturdier and more unique case, but both offer decent tip selection. The build quality and aesthetics of these two are quite different. The Mystic 8 has a titanium alloy shell whereas the Orchestra Lite is solid resin. The former is smaller and feels a little heavier, more solid, and more premium in hand. The Mystic 8 has a slightly longer nozzle that is better angled to provide a comfortable fit and seal. It is also vented to alleviate pressure build-up, which is one of my big complaints about the Orchestra Lite. As for overall tuning, the Mystic 8 is quite neutral, whereas the Orchestra Lite has a somewhat warmer, neutral tuning. The Orchestra Lite's bass has more quantity and more mid-bass slam and punch, but less sub-bass extension and can sound a little pillowy and soft at times. The Mystic 8 comes across as much more balanced between sub- and mid-bass with better resolution, a cleaner texture, and a superior transition from bass to mids. In the midrange, the Orchestra Lite's vocals are more to my liking. They are a bit more accentuated and are also warmer-leaning and more colored. However, the Mystic 8's vocals have superior balance, a more natural and mature presentation, and are clearly a level above in clarity and detail. The same applies to instruments as well, but the Orchestra Lite does have more body and weight in the lower midrange for things like cello that I find more enjoyable. While I wouldn't consider either to be bright, the Mystic 8 clearly has more treble emphasis and energy, and better extension and air. It's also more balanced across the entire tuning, although there is a hint of thinness on some tracks. The Orchestra Lite is a little rolled off and can sound somewhat muted, but there is no hint of sibilance or harshness, even in breathy vocals. On the technical front, the Mystic 8 surpasses the Orchestra Lite in almost every category. It offers better detail retrieval, timbre, layering and separation, and a wider and deeper soundstage. However, the Orchestra Lite does have slightly thicker note weight and a sense of musicality that I like. In conclusion, my initial thought that the Mystic 8 was very similar to the Orchestra Lite was flawed. While they do share a somewhat similar tuning philosophy, they are quite different in A/B comparison. One is warm and colored, while the other is the epitome of neutrality. The biggest difference for me is the mid-bass heft and warmth and the slight vocal emphasis offered by the Orchestra Lite. It's so much easier for me to enjoy, and that is one of the big reasons I hold it in high regard. To the credit of the Mystic 8, it does offer better clarity, resolution, and balance, as well as superior technicalities across the board. I know not everyone prefers a warmer tuning, and I appreciate both for what they offer; however, the Orchestra Lite wins out for me, if only by a small margin.
My pick: Orchestra Lite

●Softears Studio 4 ($450) - This might seem like an unfair comparison based on price, but both sets have an all-BA configuration, and they graph remarkably similarly. It's no surprise that the Mystic 8 offers a better unboxing experience and better overall accessories, although some may prefer the Pelican-style case of the Studio 4. As for build quality, the Mystic 8's metal shell is a bit heavier and more sturdy, while the Studio 4 is made of a lighter-weight resin. Both are very similar in shape and size, but the Studio 4 has a longer nozzle which also lacks a lip for tips. Their designs are quite different, although the Studio 4's normal black colorway would be closer to the Mystic 8. I personally prefer the Mystic 8's very unique aesthetic, but the Studio 4 is likely less polarizing. Both have very neutral tunings, but the Mystic 8 offers better extension on both ends and a certain engagement factor lacking in the Studio 4. From a purely quantitative point of view, both sets have a similar amount of bass, but the Mystic 8 is more balanced and even-kiltered with better resolution and texture. The low end of the Studio 4 cannot quite dig as low in the sub-bass, and it also has a bit more mid-bass presence with a slightly softer impact. In the midrange, the Mystic 8 presents a cleaner, more natural, and more organic quality to vocals and instruments. The vocals on the Studio 4 do not quite have the same natural timbre and maturity and are also a bit more accentuated, moving them away from truly neutral tuning. In the treble, the Mystic 8 continues its effortless neutrality and balance, while the Studio 4 sounds a bit rolled off and incomplete in comparison. The Mystic 8 sweeps the board in technicalities, but its biggest margin of victory is in the soundstage and the sense of depth and space around notes. The Studio 4 can sound almost claustrophobic during A/B comparisons. Overall, I find the Mystic 8 to be simultaneously more neutral yet more engaging and musical than the Studio 4. It performs better in almost every notable category and has a sense of depth, naturalness, and maturity that the Studio 4 simply cannot match.
My pick: Mystic 8

In conclusion:
There are those in this hobby that talk about hearing music "as the artist intended." While it may not be entirely possible, since everything is so subjective, I feel the Mystic 8 is about as close as one can get. It is bassy when needed, tonally uncolored, energetic and exciting when appropriate, revealing but not overly clinical—truly neutral in every sense of the word, as far as I am concerned. Now, the argument can be made that this style of tuning is not very "fun." Again, that is a subjective take, but one I somewhat agree with. I personally prefer a warmer, bassier tuning with a rolled-off treble response, but the Mystic 8 has impressed me during my testing, and I can still appreciate it for what it does well. The BA bass response is very good. Sure, there is not a ton of quantity here (we are talking about a neutral tuning, after all), but the quality is standout among other all-BA sets I have heard in the past. The midrange is where the Mystic 8 is strongest. It could use a little more emphasis on the lower mids, but the presentation of vocals and instruments is fantastic. There are some strong technicalities, including imaging, layering and separation, detail retrieval, and timbre. It does struggle a bit with dynamics, though. When paired with the right genres, which is pretty much anything not requiring a lot of bass emphasis, the tuning really shines. It is great for acoustic, jazz, instrumental, and OSTs. I would also recommend it for neutralheads, and it might be a good option to consider for mixing and gaming. One of the upsides to a neutral tuning done this well is the opportunity to EQ and tailor the tuning to your specifications. While I personally don't use EQ very often, I can confirm the drivers in the Mystic 8 are up to the task and take to it very well. Another draw of the Mystic 8 is its source sensitivity. Having an IEM in your arsenal with the ability to hear subtle differences in sources can make finding a certain synergy easier and more rewarding. While a neutral tuning wouldn't be my first choice, the Mystic 8 has a flair for making it enjoyable. Part of me wishes Letshuoer had made this the Mystic 9 instead (which would match the cat theme, too). Adding a single dynamic driver for the low end and increasing the bass would put this one more in line with my usual preference. As it stands, the Mystic 8 remains a unique and strong release but also one that could be more competitively priced. I think any lover of neutrality would be very happy to own it, and I'm excited to see what's in store for the future of Letshuoer's Myst series.

DISCLAIMER:

This set was provided by Letshuoer in exhange for my honest thoughts and opinions. I am reviewing this set based on my personal preferences so your mileage may vary.


You may want to watch my video here:




Otherwise, you can go ahead in reading my review.



WHAT’S IN THE BOX?


The unboxing is quite, yes, mystic. There is a mystic gift included, which looks to be a ring and a chain from a necklace. Both are silver finish, but I don’t think they are actual silver metal.


The new carrying case is also included. The new carrying case has an easy to open lid and seems to have an airtight seal. Underneath the mystery gift, you have three sets of eartips to suit your preference.


The cable is a silver plated monocrystalline copper. It feels like thin industrial rubber that is braided to perfection. This may not be your thing, but I dig the rubber feel on them.





BUILD and COMFORT



The comfort is amazing. The contours are snug and fit really well, at least for me. I do think that these would fit most ears since letshuoer is really good at making comfortable sets, except for a few.


The shell is made up of black alloy titanium shell, which makes them really clacky like marbles. It has a unique design that is hard to put into words, so go ahead and see my photos.




SETUP:

-Shanling M3X using UAPP, Hiby and stock player, Fiio Jm21, snowsky retro nano Dac Amp.

-stock cable

-stock eartips




SOUND PROFILE


A new beginning

It feels good to write again especially while listening to this beautiful set. A new beginning for me, and a new beginning for letshouer. I think this is their first all BA IEM using branded BAs from Knowles and Sonion. It has 8 BAs per side, and what a surprise. A three way corssover and frour way acoustic tubes for the tuning.The shells are made of titanium alloy. This thing is built to impress I tell you, not just on paper, but on the hand and on ears.


Voice

As a vocal lover, the Mystic 8 has to be one of the best sets to render female vocals with great realism and intimacy. The overall tonality does not come across warm because the tuck starts at around 100hz. This may not be for people who likes midbass or an overall punchy bass. However, because of the lack of midbass, it makes the mids very open sounding and makes the upper mids shine more. The result? Heavenly vocals with good nuance and space around it.


The lack

This seems to be a bold move from letshuoer in a way that, the trend in the recent tuning is moving in the direction of warm and bassy sets. Most collabs and releases sell more if they are warm and bassy. The new Meta tuning is even warm for my ears.


Going back to the Mystic 8, it does not have a lot of bass. The market audience is going to be smaller, just like the amount of midbass it has. I really wish it had a bit more, like even a Db or two. But I also think that if they do that, this is just going to be another “all rounder” set.


But does really sound lacking in the bass? I honestly dont think so. Well for midbass yes, but I think they did a great job in polishing the subbass hit. They sound quick and snappy. There is bass, but may not be enough for your preference.


Specialize

The more expensive the sets are, the more they specialize in something. That is one thing I noticed when I was in Japan trying out TOTL stuff. The Mystic 8 has a similar approach, although not quite TOTL in pricing. This is targeted for a specific audience, a niche, a specialty. The Mystic 8 specializes in vocals, both male and female. One of my favorite sets for vocals is the OG EJ07, I feel like the quality of the EJ07 carries through the Mystic 8. Well, it’s not a mystery, but my point is, I think they improved the EJ07 but with a different appoach. The Ej07 may sound a tad warmer because of the less forward treble. The Mystic 8 on the other hand does treble in a brighter way.


Open up


Less treble is resolving for me. I find sets that has less upper treble energy to have better or if not, have the best timbre especially on cymbal hits. This is what the Msystic 8 is doing, well kind of. It does not boost a lot of upper treble, and it makes the overall signature open sounding, paired with a lesser midbass, this thing opens up and gives you that airy stage. Perceveid 3d stage is there, but it gives more of that sense of width. Although the treble can come across forward, I honeslty do not feel they are piercing or sibilant. They are very well extended for my ears . I would have liked for it to have the EST treble finish at the tail end, but hey, I think they did a great job in tuning the treble in general.


Dazzled

It was honeslty hard for me writing this review, mainly because the mystic 8 keeps dazzling me with its sound quality. Every time i move on typing the next sentence, the Mystic 8 does not fail to get my attention with its nuanced and realistic vocal rendition. I pause, I listen, and I just don’t care what to do next at all. The mystic 8 has this quality to it that it gives you solace and comfort, that works for the sound and fit by the way.




PROS

- Clean Open Midrange

- well extended treble

- almost realistic female vocal reproduction

- wide and airy stage


CONS

-not a lot of stage depth

-lacking midbass punch

-techs could be better for the price



SCORING

-Please be reminded that my scoring is always based on its price range.


TUNING - 2.5

BASS - 2

MIDS - 3

TREBLE - 3

TECHS - 3


SCORE = 13.5

generally better than other sets. Very good for the price but the tonality might not match your preferences




Check my scoring here :


https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/15WhgCgiMzWfF3ccgB8SK5-Cg7m87kpIShtxsyg2u-AI/edit?usp=sharing



GRAB SCORE:

This is easy, I just rate the set whether I would grab them for listening. Very subjective.


- I will never touch this again


- I grab if I remember


- Can be part of my rotation


- I break my rotation and grab this one today


- *** rotation, I’ll listen to these for the whole week


- Im selling everything, I will only listen to these haha.



GRAB SCORE: 3

Yes, they dazzle me a lot, enough to break my rotation.




COMPARISONS


7th acoustics supernova

The Supernova comes with a warmer bass response, not at bass head levels, but relatively balanced. The mystic 8 is tuned neutral with very clean mids and vocals. Both have good mids. Get the supernova if you want a balanced tuning with good mids. Get the mystic 8 if you want a neutralish tuning with good mids



DUNU brain dance

The mystic 8 is going to be more expensive but I am comparing both because of the tuning. Both feature a Meta ear gain, wherein they peak around 3khz. Although the brain dance might look like bassier on graphs, they are more similar than different on listening. Both feature clean sounding mids, but the mystic 8 has a more natural timbre and presentation. The Brain Dance is brighter and emphasized treble more, whereas the Mystic 8 is smoother and has a more correct timbre.

OG EJ07

This is a set that I did not get a chance to review, but had a chance to audition. I thought vocals sound really good with the EJ07. I tried the EJ07m and kinda lava versions and I think they are nowhere close. Anyhow, if you want a cheaper alternative and a less forward treble, then maybe the EJ07. If you want a brighter and leaner bass, then the Mystic 8


Elysian Diva

I thought the Diva is one of those sets that handle female vocals like a Queen. However, the mystic 8 is almost twice as cheaper and is as good as the Diva in terms of cleanliness and finesse. Well, I would suggest you audition both. The Diva has a more natural approach and the Mystic 8 has a brighter tinge to its tonality.




FINAL THOUGHTS



The Mystic 8 is tuned neutral with a little bit of shine to the treble. It presents a subbass over midbass profile, very clean sounding mids, a smooth yet forward sounding treble. Technicalities are relatively great for the price, considering these don’t have ESTs. A very good set for vocal lovers.


The Mystic 8 is a specialty set that quenches your thirst for the best female vocal rendition in any IEM. It is well thought from the packaging, design, build and comfort, and the additional jewelry for your partner.


It puts me into some kind of trance when I listen to them. They may not be the best sounding, nor the most natural sounding set in its price range, but they surely are exquisite in its tonal delivery.


Thanks for reading/watching my review. Peace up.




==========================

WHERE TO BUY: non-affiliate:
https://letshuoer.net/products/lets...6uFMt0vzaDppMRzC28w9KR44KLe7g7f-QwkI6whYTTs_a



MY LIBRARY:

I grew up listening to 90’s music. Alternative, punk-rock, screamo, rap, Philippine OPM, Anime songs, JPOP, KPOP, metal, reggae and a lot more.

The artists I regularly listen to are:


Rock-Alternative-Metal

Incubus, 311, BMTH, Matchbox 20, The Goo Goo Dolls, Paramore, Polyphia, The Calling,, Babymetal, Metallica, Slipknot, Bon Jovi, Coheed and Cambria, Deftones, Red Hot, Green day,


OPM(Original Pinoy Music):

E-heads, Slapshock, Parokya, Urbanddub, Up Dharma Down, Bamboo, IV of spade, Kamikazee, Rivermaya


POP:

IU, Yoasobi, Yorushika, Milet, Reona, Maroon 5, Coldplay, Bruno Mars, Ed Sheeran, Taylor, Dua Lipa, Oliva Rodrigo, Billie Eilish


OTHERS:

Carpenters, Micheal Learns to Rock, Celine Dion, Bob Marley, Sitti, Daft Punk, Pink Floyed, Earth wind and fire, Amber rubarth, Sia, Yosi Horikawa


I listen to more, but I can’t just list them all here.haha. Just giving you an idea on what I listen.


Thanks for reaching here. Hope you enjoyed reading.

LETSHUOER Mystic 8 - Sound of Clarity

Disclaimer

I got Mystic 8 for free in return for a review, I am free to say whatever I want.

All impressions are my own subjective thoughts after having used them for a good time. These are my thoughts at this moment, and as time moves I might change my opinion.
This is also a very subjective hobby where everything from experience, anatomy or age will affect what we hear. Also keep in mind that it is easy to use bold words when talking about differences, while it may be perceived as a small change for you.
While I can perceive something as natural sounding, I do believe we can never get a perfect performance similar to what is achieved live.

Ranking System:
1 Very bad or unlistenable
2 Listenable but not good
3 Average
4 Very good
5 Exceptional or having a special sauce

My rating system highly values what is musical for me, so my rating will always be a subjective opinion.







So what is LETSHUOER Mystic 8

This is the newest IEM from LETSHUOER, this is a high end model priced at $989. The Mystic is part of a new series from the Myst Series.

The Mystic 8 has driver configuration of 8 Balanced Armatures, all of them are branded drivers from Knowles (4) and Sonion (4). The Mystic 8 have been under development for two years, with carefully tuning to make it perfect for their vision.
The Mystic 8 has a total of 4 acoustic tubes together with a 3 way crossover circuit, this to get tuning how they want without distortion of the sound.
The model uses a low-pass filter module with acoustic tubes to make the bass deeper and more dynamic, this is also done to make the bass being well separated from the rest of the sound.

Instead of me mentioning about all the specs is better to copy some from the product page:

• Myst Series Design — Phantom cat
• 8 Balanced Armature Drivers
• Sonion + Knowles BA drivers
• Low-Pass Filtering Module
• Three-Way Electronic Crossover
• Four-Way Acoustic Tube
• Precision CNC Titanium Alloy Shell
• 8-Strand × 20-Core Single Silver-Plated Monocrystalline Copper Cable
• 0.78mm dual pin connector

https://LETSHUOER.net/products/LETSHUOER-mystic-8-wired-iem-hifi-earphones-8-ba-drivers-in-ear-monitor?srsltid=AfmBOoqpzYs5ZGKYyN3IBzH1t2jFQiuHQl1KxraZRRi_ERdMQjMlrhh2



The packaging and accessories are as great as always from LETSHUOER, this time they have included a new type of accessories that I really like. The box is also a nice unboxing experience without going over the top making the IEM more expensive.



The face plate has a 3D effect since the chrome plate lay deeper in the shell with the cat design above and around, the plate also reflects a lot so depending on angle or light the design is not that visible.

The black titanium alloy shell is a nice touch, at first glance it looks similar to resin shells. But immediately you can feel the solid material when picking them up, making it feel way more premium in the hand.

The design is very subjective, and for some this might look too much. Personally I love when brands think outside the box to make something special and unique, so the mythical cat creature is artistic and I appreciate it.

The design has some meaning with the black representing the Phantom Cat, and the silver part being the misty veil with the diamond being the star that lights up the mist.



The shell has ergonomic grooves and is not large, this is close to the exact same as the flagship Cadenza 12 or the cheaper model Cadenza 4. There is some subtle branding on the side, mine says DEMO as I have a review unit while customers will probably get a serial number.

The nozzle is thin with good length, I cannot see anyone getting problems with the fit of this set. But there will always be exceptions to this, as some have very different ears than others.



The accessories are really nice here, I love the new cable and storage puck. They match the design perfectly of Mystic 8, and are of good quality.

The storage puck is this time metal with a silicon lid, this seems to be air tight and make storing it very secure. Just beware if you live in a humid environment, then you should have a silica gel or something equivalent to remove moisture. The inside and underside of the box also have silicon material, so the IEM is very secure in the puck.

Then the cable, wow I love this thing. It is very sleek and minimalistic, the cable has perfect weight and size making it ergonomic. Only downside is that it can tangle more easily when rolled together, so you should use something like the rodeo wrap. But when rolled out it has no memory, has little extra length than many stock cables and non modular jack in 4.4mm. This is personal opinion but I prefer cables not being modular, as this is less prone to get damaged and should provide the best sound.
The cable also sounds really good, I see no reason to change this cable unless you have very high end cables.

Cable information from LETSHUOER:
Premium Silver-Plated Monocrystalline Copper Cable
Lossless Transmission
The Mystic 8 features a high-quality 8-core silver-plated monocrystalline copper
cable with 20 strands, each measuring 0.05mm thick. This premium cable, shielded by a dielectric material, effectively reduces distortion and improves signal transmission, ensuring a pure acoustic experience and smooth transition across the frequency bands. The cable's interior incorporates 200D Kevlar fiber strands, providing exceptional
tensile strength and flexibility. The 2-pin female connector design offers immaculate compatibility, allowing for customization and upgrades down the line.



There are also some accessories included for yourself, one ring and necklace. I am not one to wear jewelry and do not see the need for this being included, but some can probably love this as we like different things.

Does make it quite special as I cannot remember seeing jewelry being included with an IEM before, the Phantom Cat dark design is already made special so the included ring and necklace can complete it.



Sound impression

The sound of the Mystic 8 is what I consider neutral and resolving, with a focused and beautiful midrange presentation. There is also some smoothness to the sound that matches well with the tuning.

Going to use the ranges here in review:





Details and soundstage

Detail in IEMs is down mostly to quality driver and how it amplitudes the frequencies, also when the driver is faster it increases the resolution you hear.

The Mystic 8 is definitely among the sets that have more clarity and microdetails, it also manages it without being overly bright. I guess some of the reason is the drivers and the combination of tuning not being overly warm, but also since it has extended top end and no excessive recessed areas.

Soundstage is very personal, I find Mystic 8 to be above average in how separated and holographic the stage is. Even the stage width is really good for an IEM, makes spatial cues be very easy to pinpoint and paints a holographic sound picture.



Bass

Downside of BA sets is the bass, it always lacks some elasticity of a dynamic driver and can therefore sound a little lifeless and dry. The best BA sets can still convince with very good quality bass, what they excel at is fast, clean and punchy low end.

The Mystic 8 has excellent sub bass reach, it can produce good rumble and is well suited for both music and movies. The bass is very agile and has good definition, it can even deliver some good punch with fast rebound in the decay.
It has more of a sub bass focus than mid bass, so for me it excels more at electronica or jazz than rock or metal. Metal still sounds very good and Mystic 8 handles fast kick drums with ease, it's just that I prefer more thump for it.

It just lacks that extra elastic quality only dynamic drivers can achieve, but even so it does a very good job and one is one of the better BA implementations for bass I have heard.

Mids

The midrange is beautiful on Mystic 8, it is clear and nuanced without being aggressive. It has no amount of bloom from the bass, this makes the midrange sound very open.

I would say it excels more at higher pitched instruments and vocals more than lower pitched ones, the main reason for this is since I like more husk on stuff like tenor voices or guitars and more.
It is still very natural and is more of a preference thing, so when listening to music with a grand piano that uses octaves from low to high it just sounds very natural and realistic. Some would see this presentation of the low midrange as perfect, as its minimal coloration if any.

Had to look at measurement of the Mystic 8 to understand how it managed to be so midrange focused without ever being too intense for me, I usually do not do much graph sniffing as I think this can skew my impressions.
It seems like the combination of clean low midrange and how the pina/upper mids is executed, upper mid range peak is with 6-7 dB of gain around 2 KHz. It is very good that it's fully raised early enough to get good resolution, and the use of lower pina works great since the bass isn't overbearing. I am sensitive to too much elevation, but often it is needed for clarity and Mystic has done well to go around this problem.



Treble

The high frequencies are plenty extended and airy, music is open and can shimmer when called for. For balanced armature the quality is excellent, being airy without any intense unnatural quality in the highs. I believed that I needed EST for the upper treble, as some sets from 64audio and Symphonium had what I call uncanny and tiresome treble. I found out with Cadenza 12 that good premium treble can be done with BA alone, being both well present without any uncanniness. And the same is true for Mystic 8, even more so that Cadenza 12 as its more present on Mystic 8.



Synergies

Since this has the same ergonomic shell as the Cadenza 12 almost all types of silicon tips work for me, with that my favorite have been the Divinus Wide variant as it keeps the sound full with being open and wide sounding. I also tried to use some tips to enhance the low end, variants like JVC Spiral Dot could sound similar as the one above but with less open sound. From the stock tips the transparent variants work best for me, the wide bore is actually pretty decent and close to the Divinus Wide.



Then for the cable, the stock cable is already an excellent choice and from my testing seems like a good quality cable that you need to spend a lot to get something better. If I change over to the PlussoundSilver Silver + Gold Tri-Layer Coaxial Type 6 Litz I get a slightly more silky top end that's more pleasing on the ear. The difference is not day and night but it's a nice little tweak. My favorite cable is actually the Dual-Copper from Plussound, as this does sound richer than the stock.



Sources is where the fun starts, this is where I find the most change on Mythic 8. I use my desktop stack for lots of my review time, this is magical on the Mystic 8. The combo is DENAFRIPS Ares 12th-1 and AUNE S17 Pro EVO, so an analog and rich R2R DAC together with an overly powerful Class A amp with JFET transistors for even more lushness. This combo adds both more body and make the sound more rich and natural than using a typical dongle or dap like iBasso DC Elite or HIBY R6 Pro 2. Other than the more rich and natural texture, the combo makes the treble more pleasant where I can play the volume much louder without getting fatigued. It is not advised to play music loud for long periods, as this can quickly damage your hearing.

I have also taken this another step by using the DAC together with Cayin HA-2A to get some tube magic, the sound gets a little softer up top then with little extra body. Biggest change is that it really improves the soundstage width and height making it more 3D holographic.

I do not expect folks to go and buy large expensive desktop gear to enjoy Mystic 8, and in fact a HIBY FC6 dongle sounds close and very similar to my desktop tube combo. Or my SONY WM1AM DAP has a similar sound as the AUNE/R2R combo, just with a little less dynamic sound and bass slam.

And even with the iBasso DX180 the Mystic 8 sounds great, this is a more clean and crisp presentation that some would prefer than the combos above.



Comparisons

When evaluating the sets I use each of them over longer periods and also some shorter sessions swapping back and forth, it takes a long time and is not done in one sitting. The most critical comparison is done on my desktop setup that is highly resolving, with volume matching to take away loudness variance.

The spider chart is slightly exaggerated on some points to show differences, this is a subjective evaluation and reflects what I prefer.



LETSHUOER Cadenza 12

The LETSHUOER Cadenza 12 represents the company's flagship IEM, featuring a hybrid configuration of one dynamic driver and eleven balanced armatures.
Both models have titanium shells, though the Mystic 8 uses a titanium alloy variant. The Cadenza 12 with a polished finish, while the Mystic 8's being black with more design esthetics on the faceplate. Both IEMs share the same ergonomic design, making them comfortable for long listening sessions.

The technical performance is impressive on both, with each having different strengths. The Mystic 8 presents a wider soundstage, while the Cadenza 12 excels in creating a more holographic presentation. The Mystic 8’s tuning allows it to outperform Cadenza 12 in resolution for everything outside bass texture, this is more due to tuning than the drivers. Since the Mystic 8 has more up top, and also a cleaner low midrange.

While both IEMs being musical and natural, for me the Cadenza 12 leans more into the musical description with its warmer tuning. The Mystic 8 excels with more clarity and open sound, with more brightness than Cadenza 12. None of them have an intense upper midrange, this is just about warmth and upper clarity.
Cadenza 12 having some sweet bloom of the bass with more mid bass weight that is instead more clean on Mystic 8, the DD of Cadenza 12 gives it more elasticity and realistic bass performance. Cadenza 12 can sound a little slow after having listened to Mystic 8, and this is due to both the tuning and use of a dynamic driver for the lows.



Campfire Audio Fathom

The Fathom is Campfire Audio's latest balanced armature IEM, standing as the spiritual successor to their legendary Andromeda. Priced at $1,049.00 in a similar price range as Mystic 8, it houses six custom balanced armature drivers in a more compact shell design. While lacking the ergonomic grooves found in LETSHUOER models, Fathom has a sleeker and more minimalist design that may appeal to those who find the cat-themed design of Mystic 8 too much.

Both are technical and midrange focused, just different how they sound.
Fathom has crisper, drier transients while Mystic 8 sounds more realistic with some softness to transients making timbre timbre more organic. Fathom emphasizes mid-bass punch, while Mystic 8 excels in sub-bass with an overall more realistic bass texture and slam. Fathom's midrange is fuller in the lower regions, benefiting guitars and drums. While Mystic 8 handles higher frequencies better with more air and detail, so for female vocal lovers this has more clarity and nuance.

Also need to mention sensitivity, Fathom is similar to Andromeda and is super sensitive. So Fathom needs way less juice and can even pick up noise/hiss from any sources, this never happens on Mystic 8. For example single ended low gain on my desktop amp is 3/60 with Fathom, while Mystic 8 can use then 22/60.



Music

Click here for Audio with Leo playlist

When comparing IEM to other sets I have used the tracks listed here and more, I will also provide a few albums I have enjoyed with Mystic 8 with some short notes.



Sabrina Carpenter has cliche lyrics but catchy music, she has a sweet voice and Mystic 8 excel at making her voice be full and emotional. There is just enough warmth making it sound engaging without being thin, and in return the balance delivers high clarity.



During the review I have been revisiting some of the music I listened to in the early 2000s, with that Evanescence appeared. The vocal driven goth metal sound good on Mystic 8, while it lacks some body to the sound it has excellent speed and clarity. And as expected it has great control and clarity without being tiresome on Amy Lee voice, not the case on many other sets out there.



John Tejada is one of my favorite electronic artists, often music that's more minimalistic and clean. I need deep sub bass for his music, and Mystic 8 is well extended and has surprisingly good rumble for BA. It lacks some sustain and decay, but the texture and impact is really nice.
The tuning and fast sound excel at letting it be very open and resolving, and even more so if you listen to even more busy and advanced techno than this.



I love fusion, and Allan Holdswarth has some really good records blending rock and jazz.
His guitar is nuanced and very resolving, and the drums sound clean and open with both the cymbals and toms. However it does have a little less weight than what I want, so adding a bass shelf that starts at 300 hz gives Mystic 8 a tonality more preferable for this.



This is very special music from Norway, Terje is originally a drummer and creates music with ice.
The ethereal and experimental music is of ambient sort, and sound best on sets with open clear sound like Mystic 8. There are both airy elements taking use of the highs and deep echoing low notes, just sound extremely good on Mythic 8.



Technical electronica with a vast soundscape, Mystic 8 is capable of the deep and vibrant bass that this music needs. And the resolving and open sound let the music breathe and be super open, its electronica like this that Mystic 8 excels at.



One of my favorite albums from 2023, it is minimalistic and beautiful jazz. So many instruments here like harp, percussion and sax and more, and it all sounds nuanced and clear with the Mystic 8. The sound is also very separated and layered in a realistic soundstage, I could see Mystic 8 as one of my top choices for contemporary jazz and neo classical.



Summary

The LETSHUOER Mystic 8 is a great IEM for folks who are looking for a resolving and neutral set, with a focus on deep sub bass, elegant midrange and extended controlled treble.
While I often reach for more warm sets the Mystic 8 has been very enjoyable, it excels at accuracy and letting the music breath. So for this reason some music like technical electronica, jazz or classical is where it shines, this is also perfect for vocal lovers who want pristine sound without sibilance or congestion.

While the Mystic 8 sounds beautiful, it also has BA bass and that comes with both pros and cons. It manages deep and vibrant sub bass and impactful punch, but loses some elastic quality that only dynamic drivers can achieve. And is much more focused into the sub region than mid bass, so it lacks some body. But I need to mention that the quality of the bass is excellent for BA, and it's mostly DD fanatics like me who will look at it as a fault.

The design is special and some will love it and others probably not, for me it's an unique and elegant design that sets it apart. What most will appreciate is the quality of the titanium alloy shell and the well thought out ergonomics, a set that can be worn for hours.

The price is around other well regarded BA sets, and I see the price as justified. I would even pick this over some other BA sets costing even more, this is also the perfect alternative to the flagship Cadenza 12 if you want an even more clean and technical sound with less warmth and bloom.

Personal score is 84/100 and a 4.5 star on Head-Fi.