Letshuoer S12 (2024 Anniversary Edition)

Preface:

I would like to thank Letshouer for sending this unit as part of the review tour.

You can purchase S12 2024 Edition at the following link (not an affiliate link):

https://letshuoer.net/products/lets...netic-driver-in-ear-monitor-earphone-hifi-iem

Also, I’m not a seasoned reviewer, so whatever I say are purely my observations and your results may vary.

I’m not the one to usually focus on specifications and numbers. I focus more on how happy I am with the equipment’s sound and that’s it.

Disclaimer: All impressions and opinions in this review are my own. I have not been paid or compensated by Letshouer or any other entity for this review. My assessment is based solely on my personal experience with the product.

Sources used:

• Dita Navigator
• D16 Taipan
• L&P W2 Ultra
• RME ADI-2 Pro FS R
• XI Audio Broadway S
• Hiby R8 II

Introduction:

Letshouer has quickly carved a niche for itself in the fiercely competitive world of IEMs, earning a reputation for pushing boundaries and delivering exceptional value. They've dared to venture where few have tread, notably with their planar magnetic driver IEMs. My first foray into their planar offerings was with the S12 Pro, and it left a lasting impression. Paired with my Cayin RU6, the S12 Pro became my daily driver, offering a captivating listening experience that seamlessly blended detail, warmth, and musicality. So, when the S12 2024 Edition was announced, I was naturally intrigued. Could Letshouer further refine their formula and deliver an even more compelling planar IEM?



Unboxing and First Impressions

The S12 2024 Edition comes in a rather elegant box. Inside, you'll find the IEMs themselves, nestled in a protective foam cutout. You also get a selection of ear tips, a cleaning tool, and a beautifully braided cable with 3x Modular Plugs (2.5mm, 3.5mm. 4.4mm), Limited Edition Keychain and a carry case. Letshouer didn't skimp on the accessories, and it shows.













Design and Build:

The IEMs themselves are a sight to behold. The titanium alloy build feels incredibly solid, and the gold finish adds a touch of luxury. However, I've noticed the faceplate is a bit of a fingerprint magnet, and I'm already seeing a few minor scratches. I'm not entirely convinced this flashy gold will age gracefully.











Sound Analysis

Tonality

Overall, the S12 2024 Edition has a balanced, slightly warm signature. It's not overly analytical or clinical, but it's not overly lush either. It strikes a nice middle ground that works well with a variety of genres. It doesn’t particularly excel at any specific frequency but has a smooth, cohesive presentation across the board. This makes it versatile and suitable for long listening sessions without fatigue.

Sub-Bass

The sub-bass is where the planar driver flexes its muscles. Listening to "Limitless" by James Blake, the rumble is deep and textured. You feel it more than you hear it, and it adds a satisfying weight to the music. It’s not the most impactful sub-bass I’ve heard, but it's well-controlled and doesn't muddy the rest of the frequencies. However, when I switched to something more demanding like "Chameleon" by Trentemøller, I felt the sub-bass lacked a bit of dynamism and impact, especially during the intense drops.

In "Why So Serious?" by Hans Zimmer, the low-frequency effects in the opening moments are rendered with impressive depth and texture.

Mid-Bass

The mid-bass is tight and punchy. On "Bad Guy" by Billie Eilish, the kick drum hits with authority, but it doesn't bleed into the mids. It’s fast and responsive, making it suitable for both electronic and acoustic music. The bass guitar in "Seven Nation Army" by The White Stripes is well-defined and has a satisfying thump to it.

Lower Midrange

The lower midrange is slightly forward, which adds warmth and body to vocals and instruments. Male vocals, in particular, sound rich and full. This warmth might not be to everyone's taste, but I find it adds a touch of intimacy to the music. The cello in "Hallelujah" by Leonard Cohen sounds particularly lush and emotive.

Upper Midrange

The upper midrange is smooth and well-controlled. There's no harshness or shoutiness, even on tracks with prominent female vocals. This is where the S12 2024 Edition really shines, as vocals sound natural and lifelike. Adele's voice in "Hello" is rendered with incredible detail and emotion.

Lower Treble

The lower treble is present and detailed, but it's not overly sharp or sibilant. It adds sparkle and air to the music without becoming fatiguing. Cymbals and hi-hats have a nice shimmer to them. The acoustic guitar in "Tears in Heaven" by Eric Clapton has a delicate sparkle that adds to the emotional impact of the song.

Upper Treble

The upper treble extends well, contributing to a sense of air and openness. It's not the airiest IEM out there, but it's more than adequate for most. It avoids any harshness or sibilance, which is a common pitfall for planar IEMs. The triangle in "Clair de Lune" by Debussy is rendered with a delicate shimmer that adds to the ethereal atmosphere of the piece.

Staging

The soundstage is wide and well-defined. On "Bohemian Rhapsody" by Queen, the instruments are spread out across a wide canvas, and there's a good sense of depth and layering. It’s not the widest soundstage I’ve experienced, but it’s certainly impressive for an IEM.

Layering and Separation

The S12 2024 excels at layering and separation. Even on complex tracks with multiple instruments, each element is clearly defined and easy to pick out. This makes it easy to follow individual instruments even in busy mixes.

Timbre

The timbre is generally natural and realistic. Instruments sound like they should, and vocals sound lifelike. There’s a slight warmth to the overall presentation, but it doesn’t color the timbre in an unnatural way. However, while listening to "Sultans of Swing" by Dire Straits, I noticed a subtle hint of that characteristic planar timbre, particularly in the electric guitar. It's not unpleasant, but it's noticeable if you're sensitive to it

Detail Retrieval

Detail retrieval is excellent. The S12 2024 Edition reveals subtle nuances in the music that you might not have noticed before. This is where the planar driver really shines, as it's capable of resolving minute details with impressive clarity

Comparisons

• S12 2024 Edition vs. S12 Pro: The S12 2024 Edition is a refinement rather than a complete overhaul. The treble is smoother, and the overall presentation is a bit more balanced. The S12 Pro was already great, and the 2024 edition builds on that foundation.
• S12 2024 Edition vs. S15: The S15 is the flagship, and it shows. It has a wider soundstage, better imaging, and a more refined treble. However, the S12 2024 Edition offers a lot of the same qualities at a lower price. It’s a great option for those who want a taste of the Letshouer planar magic without breaking the bank
• S12 2024 Edition vs. Tangzu Ze Tian Wu: The Ze Tian Wu is a more V-shaped IEM with emphasized bass and treble. It’s a fun and engaging listen, but it lacks the refinement and balance of the S12 2024 Edition. If you prefer a more neutral and balanced sound, the S12 is the better choice

Conclusion

The Letshouer S12 2024 Edition is an excellent IEM that offers a lot of value for its price. It has a balanced, slightly warm sound signature, excellent technical performance, and a comfortable fit. It's not perfect - the sub-bass could be a bit more dynamic, and there are faint traces of planar timbre - but it's a fantastic option for anyone looking for a high-quality planar magnetic IEM.

Letshuoer S12 2024 Edition - The gold of planars

Disclaimer

I got the S12 Edition 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 the Letshuoer S12 2024 Edition

The S12 2024 Edition is a limited release of the S12, it will only be made 2024 units with each one having a serial number. The S12 is most likely the most known planar IEM, it had 3 variants before with S12, S12 Pro and Z12.

What makes the S12 2024 Edition special is the refined tuning, also because of the total package with better accessories.

The IEM is equipped with a custom 14.8mm planar magnetic driver, the shell is built in a titanium alloy shell that is CNC milled.





The shell and faceplate is the S12 design, is both small and built very solid. The 2024 Edition has a golden design, and it does look more premium due to this.



The shells are small, but still have some weight due to the titanium material.



The nozzle has average width and is average in length (maybe a little on the small side), worked well for me with most tips.



The 2 pin socket is tight and not loose as some brands have, they are also not getting pushed out over time.



The included accessories are quite premium here, or they look very premium and match the new design perfect. Stock tips are good to get you going, with the balanced and vocal silicon. You also get one set of foams.

The cable is modular, it is 3.5mm single ended, and also 2.5mm and 4.4mm balanced. I am missing the 2.5mm in the photo, and forgot to include it in the photo.



There is also some extra stuff included, key chain, gold card and fidget spinner.



Sound Impression

First minutes of trying a new set of gear, what I always listen to is how natural and musical it sounds. Much of this goes down to how I perceive the Timbre.

From the first minute I heard how natural and full sounding S12 2024 is, no glare or typical sharp planar sound.

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 also increases the resolution you hear.

Planar drivers in nature are very resolving due to having fast speed and also having clean transients that are OFF/ON directly. The differences between planars are because of tuning more than the drivers, as most brands use the same driver quality.

The S12 2024 sits then among the best planars at resolution, since the tuning is clean and not over-damped (this has been flavored past year). S12 2024 also competed with more expensive IEMs than its price for technicalities.

Soundstage has some extra width and depth compared to most other planars, quite holographic with great imaging.

Bass

S12 2024 ED has great bass quality, it has some serious depth and sub bass rumble. Even if the planar in nature is fast in decay, it still sounds very promising and I don't really miss a DD for sub bass. Mid bass is similar and has excellent dynamic presentation, can show both lightning fast drum kicks and really be impactful in the slam. It's better for fast bass lines like drums than slow synth bass lines or strings, but even on that it's among the better planars.

Mids

Midrange is full and balanced, the faster transients make everything very clean and open sounding. Planars do lack that little extra that dynamic drivers have in expression for instruments and vocals, but even so S12 2024 and S15 have the best midrange presentation for planar.
If anything planars are best for string instruments with metal wires like guitar or piano, even brass instruments. Most likely as the nature of the planar is more similar to the time of instruments like this, for me I love to listen to acoustic guitar on planar and can often beat some of the best single DDs out there.

Treble

The highs are clean and transparent, not overly sharp in any way. The S12 2024 Ed has excellent extension and airyness, and the quality is great and for me better than BA for highs as it sounds more controlled and pleasing.
The quantity of treble is balanced tastefully, enough to sound clear and resolving without making music sharp and tiresome.



Synergies

The S12 2024 likes power, but it's not too demanding and 45% low gain on the iBasso DX180 is enough to sound full. But it does scale when I feed it desktop power and slam extra hard then, but still I find nothing wrong using it directly from a good dongle or DAP.

Stock cable is excellent sonically, there is no need to change it out. Tried swap cables and the change is so small on S12 2024 I did not find the need for this. Also the stock cable looks awesome together with the S12.

Stock tips are good, I prefer the Vocal tips as they have the widest stage and also the most clean sound. My go to have been Divinus tips, this as it is similar to the Vocal tips with added low end.



Comparison

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, and is my subjective take.







Letshuoer S15

This is the flagship planar from Letshuoer, it is a 14.8mm planar together with a 6mm R-Sonic Passive Filtering Module and the S15 costs $299. The shell is their new 3D printed style found in this and their Cadenza4, while not looking as premium it's the most comfortable of the planars here.

The sound is more dynamic driver like, it is also less bright and has softer transients. The softer transients I believe is because of the extra 6mm driver that is passive, but also due to a softer shell.
Bass is very similar on both with just better slam on S12 2024, the S15 instead has richer texture on both sub and mid bass.
The tonality is warmer on S15, this due to less vocal presence and in general less upper frequencies being elevated.

In theory they are equally resolving, but the softer transients and less bite does take away some of the resolution.
Soundstage is a little more holographic but smaller on S15, S12 2024 instead sounds more open and wide.



Letshuoer S08

This is the entry planar model from Letshuoer, it has a custom 13mm planar driver and costs $99. The shell is metall also, but is not as premium. The ergonomis is not very good on this model, I have to often reeling the shell for good seal and comfort.

Tonality lacks the same weight to the music, not talking about bass but how nuanced and full everything is. In share bass amount they are close to the same, where they differ is that the slam is better and more dynamic on S12 2024. The S08 is softer and is more focused on sub bass texture than midbass for me, S12 2024 is better balanced between the two.
The midrange also lacks some weight into the music, sound less nuanced and this is compared to both S15 and S12 2024. It also sounds darker up top compared to S15 and S12 2024, with overall less clarity and air.

Overall it is less resolving than its brethren, the soundstage is also nothing special and has average depth and capability.



Music

https://tidal.com/playlist/8c7e89b7-c0e9-4a8f-a126-49f5675775a5

When comparing S12 2024 Edition to other sets I have used the tracks listed here, and the tracks below are some that I found sounding nice on it.

















Conclusion

It is easy to recommend the newest planar from Letshuoer, the S12 2024 Edition is for me the best planar available at this price range. It balances musicality and technical sound, and has the planar qualities without being typical metallic or sharp.

For people who are not used to planars you can expect a full bodied sound that is fast and resolving, the bass slam can be visceral and fast. While midrange is transparent and open, the same can be said for airy and detailed treble being open and well controlled.

This is Letshuoer who has put everything they know about planars into their best planar release, this is nothing like how I remember the old S12 and I think it's even as good as their flagship S15. The total package with how premium the shell is to have well accessories are excellent, S12 2024 well deserves it price.

The S12 2024 Edition is part of their Anniversary and it's only 2024 units being made, I wouldn't sleep on this one and order. This is very high praise from me who is not really a planar person, I will probably use this for a long time forward.

On pure subjective evaluation of the sound as an IEM this is 4 star, but due to to the total package being something special it will get 4.5 star.

Letshuoer S12 2024 Edition Review​

​

Letshuoer S12 2024 Edition Review​

Intro​

Hello, this review and feature covers the Letshuoer S12 2024 Edition (S12 2024) which is the latest planar magnetic earphones from the audio brand Letshuoer. I am more than thrilled to be speaking on this set and sharing my thoughts. I also want to thank the good people at Letshuoer who sent this set to me. The S12 2024 ($199) is actually a commemorative iem made specially for Letshuoer Audio’s 8th anniversary as a brand. Due to this special time Letshuoer decided to make this set a limited edition iem with only 2,024 units available.

No accident! ​

I think it’s no accident that Letshuoer is in such a position to release a special edition iem. Letshuoer has made such an impression over the years that the entire hobbyist community collectively stops what they’re doing just so they can get a peak. It’s no accident folks. No coincidence either. No sir. This is an audio brand that first brought us the legendary Letshuoer S12. That set went straight to the moon fellas and ladies, almost in an instant. Of course, like any iem, it wasn’t for everyone and not everyone jived with it but hey… what is? The point is that they’ve been at it a long time perfecting the planar driver sound. Shortly after the S12 they brought us the Letshuoer Z12 which was a collaboration effort with Z-Reviews of YouTube fame. Next was the moment Letshuoer dropped the big one. It was the first best planar under $200 by Letshuoer. It beat the Timeless, all the Tin Hifi sets, the TangZu sets, it beat em’ all (my opinion of course). That set was the magical Letshuoer S12 Pro (S12 Pro Review). One of the best tuned planar sets and one of the most gorgeous too. But wait, they aren’t done… Lol. Letshuoer decides “Let’s up the ante” and they came out with what some consider the best planar period in the Letshuoer S15 (S15 Review). The tuning had all of the sudden changed and at that point the game changed as well. Letshuoer found a new way, a different tuning, and a new path for their planar iems. From the looks of it, the audio community is okay with that.

The new crop of planars ​

The S15 is an absolute beast of a set. I was in love at first listen. Fast, rich, milky, dense, with that warm vibrance, that lush dynamism, it was and is…delicious. It was also one of the 1st times I heard a planar that didn’t sound… like a planar. Gone are the days of almost screaming highs, the shouty mids that some argued the S12, Z12, S12 Pro had a slight bit too much of. Granted, people still love those older planar sets and after some brain-burn they sound pretty darn good. Still, gone is the slight metallic planar timbre. That electric fuzz which sits crested at the outline of notes. That’s over. Again, the game has changed and Letshuoer is the brand that made that happen first with planars. Fast forward to their 8th anniversary. Letshuoer decided they were going to commemorate the occasion with a brand new “budget oriented” planar magnetic earphone. I thought, “Okay Letshuoer, this oughtta be interesting”. I mean, that’s a big deal, “8th anniversary”! In China the number 8 represents wealth, luck, and good fortune. Anyways, I get the package, and I open the box and lo & behold the set looks nothing like a budget set, shaped like the number “8”, all alloy, and dope looking. The earphone I’m referring to is called the Letshuoer S08 (S08 Review). Folks, I’m still reeling over that set. Damn if it doesn’t sound better then sets twice its price and better than some planars almost three times its price. It is an absolute GEM! Tuning is to die for. Similar to the S15 in almost all ways sonically. Obviously, it isn’t to the level of the S15 but for the price it is an easy rec from me.

Will it be enough?​

This brings us to the set I’m reviewing today. Another commemorative 8th anniversary reboot and once again Letshuoer seeks out to knock it out of the park. The question is “Can the S12 2024 Edition hold its own against the competition”? Letshuoer is competing against all of those other great planar set. Like the Raptgo Hook-X (Hook-X Review), Raptgo X-HBB Hook X, Hidizs MP145 (MP145 Review), Tin Hifi P1 Max II, and many more. In my opinion, most folks who seek out a planar set are usually only looking for a planar set. It’s a sub-category within the Audioverse which seems to be compartmentalized in most hobbyists' minds. I don’t really know why that is, but it seems true. Lucky for any prospective buyers that the “planar wars” are still going as strong as ever and they have a plethora of planars to choose from. Now, outside of the “planar world” at $199 the S12 2024 actually finds itself in a heated battle against a huge number of great single DD sets along with a boatload of hybrids which are quite fantastic. Can the S12 2024 keep its head above water and keep the Letshuoer dominance of the planar game going strong? With only 2,024 units being available we will see. There is actually a lot to unpack here folks and I’m ready to get it going. Let’s take a look at the Letshuoer S12 2024 Edition shall we…

Non-Affiliated Purchasing Links:​

–Letshuoer.net
–Amazon US

Disclaimer:​

I received the Letshuoer S12 2024 Edition from Letshuoer as a review sample and in exchange I will conduct a full review and feature at Mobileaudiophile.com. I have not received any payment or any other form of compensation for this review. This set is a review sample iem. Letshuoer has not requested to pre-read any review and doesn’t have any control over “what” or “when” anything gets published to mobileaudiophile.com. All thoughts within this review are my own, though please take note that I will always have my own biases. This is impossible to get around. I try to be as objective as my subjective self can be, but this is an opinion piece folks. Thank you to Letshuoer and thanks for reading.

Gear used for testing ​

–Ifi Go Blu​

–EPZ TP50​

–Simgot Dew4x​

–Aful SnowyNight​

–Fiio Q15​

–iBasso DX240 with Amp8 MK2​

–Shanling M6 Ultra​

Packaging / Accessories​

Unboxing​

Friends, there are some brands who just get it. They just do. These brands understand that the vast majority of hobbyists love to get that little hit of dopamine during a nice unboxing. I don’t care who you are, I don’t think it’s something which gets old. The unboxing is the first taste that we get from the set we just purchased. It’s in the unboxing that we get to see how much the set means to the brand as well. Did they put the work in? It’s in the unboxing where we see the care, craftiness, and effort that brands put forth to create an atmosphere around the product. A good unboxing creates a standard almost as if the unboxing defines the class of the iem, and it sets the stage for our experience. Good brands know this. Or at least they should. Create an image, set the tone, make a lasting 1st impression, instill in the buyer just how much you want them to enjoy your product. Provide that initial stir within the buyer as they first open the box. Show us what we mean to you and what your product means to you with the care you put into every angle and every moment of the buyer experience. I’m telling you, it matters, and it makes a difference. There are so many examples of this and guess what, in each of those examples… everyone won. It’s like anything in life, do you go half-assed? Do you rush the end product? Show us just how special your product is by creating the initial setting which will lift the standard of the buyer’s experience. Start high, don’t start low. Like anyone on planet earth… we want to be charmed, and we want to be won over.

Unboxing cont… ​

With all of that said, I can say for sure that Letshuoer is one of those brands who does understand this. The S12 2024 is a perfect example. However, I’m getting ahead of myself. So, the S12 2024 arrived at my home in a rather large rectangular golden colored box. Roughly 8″x4” and so it is fairly large for a set of earphones. On the front cover is some embossed decorative numbering which forms “8th” along with the name “S12 2024 Edition”, the name “Letshuoer”, and “8th Anniversary”. On the back are some specs for the S12 2024. The box opens from the top which uncovers another black box with a cool design on the cover. Take off the top and there is another long box which houses the eartips, and a bunch of reading material. Take out that layer and under it is a gold-colored commemorative pendant which acts as a keychain of sorts. Really gorgeous, all metal, all gold in color with a decorative “8th” inside a spinning centerpiece. Just a very cool added token (accessory) which does add to the charm of this unboxing. Take out that layer and you’ll finally see the S12 2024 in all its glory sitting in foam cut-outs. Next to the earphones is the round carrying case and inside of the case is the beautiful cable and modular adapters. Next to that is a smaller box which has the leather Keychain band that connects to the Keychain pendant. You’ll also see a golden colored special card in honor of the 8th Anniversary. Just a great unboxing experience and this did set the tone for me. Anyone who puts this much effort into the packaging must feel good about their product.

Eartips​

The S12 2024 comes with a total of nine pairs of eartips from three different style of tips. The first style are three pairs (S, M, L) of foam slow-rise tips with a semi-wide bore. The next style is three pairs (S, M, L) of dark gray narrow bore tips which Letshuoer refers to as their “Vocal” tips. Semi-firm flange, fairly long as well. The last style is what Letshuoer calls their “Balanced” tips. Also, three pairs (S, M, L) of white semi-wide bore silicone, with a more rigid flange, stiffer stem, easier to seal for me. Personally, I like all three styles of tips. However, I don’t feel the narrow-bore tips do this set justice and and I don’t enjoy the memory foam tips either. I used the white silicone for a while but as usual I did set out to find the perfect tips for me. Those perfect tips happened to be the Divinus Velvet “wide-bore”. I really feel that the wide-bore does bring the S12 2024 to its best fidelity and for me these tips sounded the best. I also really like Tenmak Whirlwind eartips which are also wide-bore and fantastic eartips in general. Still, for me the Divinus truly helped the S12 2024 to come alive. All very good tips that are great for a collection.

Carrying case ​

Once again Letshuoer provides the same carrying case that we saw with the Letshuoer S15, Letshuoer Cadenza 4, Letshuoer DZ4, Letshuoer S08 etc. It’s the round, hockey-puck style case that screws off. Made entirely of plastic with that cool feeling soft outer coating. Very reminiscent of those “HeyGears” builds that Letshuoer uses from time to time. These cases are great folks. Now, they don’t have huge amounts of space for storing accessories or anything like that, but you can house your earphones, cable, maybe a set of tips or two. I would imagine that anyone who uses cases would like this one. It’s a dope looking case. I like the inscribed “Letshuoer” on the top and the feel of it is very satisfying for some reason. I have always been a fan of that soft smooth feeling plastic such as the type that they used on the DZ4, S15, Cadenza 4 etc. This is the same stuff used on all their threaded hockey puck style cases too. At any rate, it’s usable and a nice accessory.

Cable​

One thing that I enjoy is the included cable. It is very cool looking against the gold of the S12 2024. The cable is actually composed of 392 strands of monocrystalline copper with silver plating. Just dope looking with golden fittings, like the modular adapter, the y-split, and the 2-pin connectors. The cable itself is dark gray and twisted with fatter chords making them look really beefy and premium. This is not a soft cable as it’s quite hard yet with no microphonics that I heard. Just a beautiful cable. Looks perfect attached to the S12 2024. Folks, I appreciate this so much! Finally, a brand that tries to actually color match. It matters so much to the buyer and I’m glad they understand that. One other aspect that I love about this cable (other than the design) is that it is actually a modular cable. In the package the cable comes with a 3.5 single ended, 2.5 balanced, and 4.4 balanced modular adapters. These adapters simply push in and securely fit to the cable end. All three adapters are colored gold with gold plated jacks. Really a fine-looking cable and sounds great paired with the S12 2024 Edition as well.

Build / Design / Internals / Fit ​

Build Quality ​

The S12 2024 takes on the exact shape and mold of earlier S12 series iems. Literally, the exact shape. However, this set is actually made entirely out of CNC machined/milled titanium alloy. This I thought was a cool prospect to make the entire set out of titanium. Ya know, every material has certain sonic characteristics as in the way resonances bounce off of the acoustic chamber. I have been told that titanium alloy (different from pure titanium) actually can absorb sonic resonance quite well. In fact, titanium foam is used to absorb sound quite often from what I am told. Anyways, titanium alloy is very difficult to machine and during the process it can become contaminated easily, so it does take some measure of care in shaping these housings. The benefit is titanium alloy is very corrosion resistant. Similar to stainless Steel in that regard. Really a nice metal to use for an earphone. I see one small vent over what I assume is the driver. The nozzles are exactly 6mm wide and the nozzle length is about average. Not too short or too long but pretty standard actually. Folks, Letshuoer once again outdid themselves and made a build worthy of an 8th Anniversary commemorative set of earphones. Truly a job well done.

Design​

The look & aesthetic of the S12 2024 is every bit as premium as any set under 1k. It just is. Without question the actual appearance of this set is stunning. The gold just POPS against the dark gray of the cable. The gold colorway shines and reflects back the room I’m in while the light catches every hump and every rounded corner of the housing. Letshuoer had to figure out something that would look better than one of the best looking iems of the past five years in the S12 Pro. That blueish-purple colorway against the silver trim is truly a special design. So, instead of adding trim like the previous generation, Letshuoer decided to use the gold colorway covering the faceplates with a deep black color covering the backside of the Shells. This contrast is what makes it really stand out in my opinion. Sure enough, even the cable follows this color pattern. For me the S12 2024 is one of the best-looking sets under $500 right now. We always see limited edition golden sets like the MP145 gold limited edition, the MP143 gold limited edition and so on. However, the gold of the S12 2024 almost feels set-apart in a way. Just a very fresh look.

Internals ​

Letshuoer decided to once again stick with what made this series stand out against the competition and kept the large planar magnetic driver. In this case it has a 14.8 mm planar driver which has been used in the past. To be honest, the internal design is pretty simple as there really isn’t much more to this set. Other than the fact that those resonances are bouncing off a now titanium internal cavity which does have its own acoustic properties and probably helps in more ways than we know to sound as good as it does. Anyways, there isn’t much information out there on this exact driver other than what is in Letshuoer’s promotional so, you know as much as I do. One thing I can say for sure is that it is a darn good driver.

Fit/Comfort ​

As far as the fit goes, the S12 2024 is quite literally identical in size and shape to its predecessors. So, if the S12, S12 Pro, or Z12 fit your ears well, then the S12 2024 will fit your ears well. I’ve had all of their sets except the Z12, and I have loved the fit on all of them. Just a good universal design which isn’t too heavy and the nozzles rest in a comfortable place to not hurt my ears over time. Now, I don’t have any idea how well this set will fit you but I’m assuming most ears will not have a problem at all.

Drivability / Pairings ​

The Letshuoer S12 2024 Edition has an impedance rating of roughly around 16 ohms and is clocked with a sensitivity of right around 102 dbs. I hope to get this across that the S12 2024 is able to run off of even lesser powerful sources. However, this set most certainly scales with more power. I’m telling you that these planars yearn for power to open them up. The more the better. That said, I don’t feel that you absolutely need anything more than a good dongle dac to bring the S12 2024 out of its shell. I feel if you have a good 150 mw @16 ohms you should be good to go. Most every dongle dac in this day and age is rated for much more than that. Now, the Simgot Dew4x has a max of about 150mw @32 and it replays the S12 2024 very well. Having said that, without question the S12 2024 will keep scaling with power. Give it more and it’ll reward you further. Incrementally that is. It isn’t some grand difference but like most any planar set it may take a hair more juice to really open it up.

Tonal pairing ​

As far as tonal pairings for the S12 2024 Edition I personally enjoyed the way the S12 2024 replayed with a few different source tonalities. I suppose that most hobbyists would like something a bit cooler or closer to neutral. The S12 2024 is on the warm/neutral side, or neutral with a touch of warmth, and so I’m positive that most folks would enjoy something to offset that slight warmth. Still, I kinda like this set with both warmer and cooler source devices. I think it’s far more important that your device has some power and is more energetic as well. I like a dynamic source with this set. Using less rambunctious source devices didn’t seem to pull out the vibrance in the S12 2024 as well. Again, most people will likely want to pair with something less warm, but I don’t always follow that logic. I like to check a set out with many different sources and enjoy it for what it is. Especially a set that is closer to warm/neutral like the S12 2024. I seem to keep getting sets which land in this pocket of tonal coloration that seems to sound fine with just about any pairing.

Mobile Listening​

When out and about I used my Ifi Go Blu more than anything as it just makes for an easy pairing. Thankfully when using the 4.4 balanced port and giving those set some juice the Go Blu really did well and paired wonderfully. Again, I like dynamic sources, some punch, some good energy and dynamism and so I love the EPZ TP50 with it as a mobile option. Another one that I enjoyed was the Aful SnowyNight and Simgot Dew4x as well. However, moving on to more juice really opened up my joy of this set as I quite literally enjoyed this set with every larger source I have at my disposal. Using the iBasso DX240 with Amp8 MK2 attached on high gain, the Shanling M6 Ultra on high gain, and the Fiio Q15 on high gain all gave the S12 2024 their own flavor. That said, each of those “flavors” are very dynamic and have very high resolution which is exactly what I enjoy out of the S12 2024. They just all married very well.

What do you need? ​

Like is said, I really feel that you should try to get a good dongle. Dac with some decent power output. I’d still say that about 150mw @16ohms at the least would suffice but if you have a more powerful source… use it. I don’t feel that tonal coloration matters as much so long as your source has that decent resolution, the dynamism, and doesn’t sound flat. That’s probably most important.

Sound Impressions ​

I have enjoyed planar magnetic earphones since they first arrived on the scene. I’ve also been fortunate to have had quite a few of them in my possession. Furthermore, I’ve been able to spend time with enough of them over the years to have a pretty good handle on the progression of the driver tech. At least as it applies to iems. They’ve truly come a very long way too. There are some drawbacks though. For one, planars seem to always come with at least a little bit of planar timbre. Two, most planars don’t really offer the depth of stage as well as other driver types. Another thing that some folks don’t enjoy is that planars generally are a hair harder to drive and you also usually don’t get the most out of them without a lot of power. Of course, these issues aren’t across the board and some sets will surprise you, but by-and-large those issues are true with most. Of course, I do believe that the pluses involved with planar earphones far outweighs the cons. They can have ultra-speedy transients, loads of snap, crispness, details for days, great separation and really just great technical prowess. They also can have more low-end weight then something like a balanced armature for instance. Dig deeper, better extension, more palpable haptic muscle. It’s a very cool tech and I feel we are just now seeing brands scratching the surface to maximizing their potential.

Letshuoer planars​

Looking at the S12 2024 it seems to buck the “planar timbre” trend. Come to think of it, Letshuoer actually bucked that trend with a couple previous sets already with the S15 and S08 models. To be totally honest, I feel both of those previous planar sets sound like a cross between a dynamic driver and a balanced armature in some ways. Which brings us to this latest Letshuoer planar in the S12 2024. You know what, I’m going to go out on a limb really quick and politely declare that the S12 2024 may just be one of the best and most prized $200 planar sets in the market. In fact, Letshuoer planars in general are some of the most enticing earphones on the market. In my opinion, the S12 2024 seems to be the culmination of Letshuoer’s collective experience, and to be perfectly honest… I’m all for it! Let’s take a look at the sound…

What’s it sound like? ​

Listening to the S12 2024 has been a real treat folks and I won’t leave any suspense or hanging thoughts. Basically, I’m not going to keep you guessing because the S12 2024 is clearly one of the best planar magnetic earphones on the market. There’re some caveats to that though. Of course, you’ll have to prefer the sound signature as it’ll have to jive with you in that way. You still have another “legend” set which is also very well composed in the Hidizs MP145 and a couple others. Having said that, the S12 2024 comes across warm/neutral or neutral with a sub-bass boost and probably closer to “Bassy U-shaped” in sound signature. I hear an obviously very cohesive sound across the mix and what I’d consider as a fun sound. Another sure thing is that the S12 2024 is certainly a bit smoother tonally and altogether more refined than its predecessors (S12, S12 Pro, Z12). The S12 2024 isn’t quite as sharp/shrill as some of Letshuoer’s planars have been in the past. Similar to the S08 and S15 in that respect. Keep it smooth, easy on the ears, less intense, a little more bass presence too. However, just because it is smoother doesn’t mean the S12 2024 has lost the definition to its notes. Notes still have some bite to them, but the overall frequency is smoother with no real peaks, no razor blades in the upper-mids, or saw blades in the treble region. Just a very good sound which provides a very musical listening session with that foundational head-bobbing bass, while still maintaining some essence of maturity & refinement in the form of detail retrieval, separation, soundstage and all the intangibles which makes for a good session. I like where Letshuoer went with this one folks.

Condensed Sound Between the 20’s ​

The low-end is certainly elevated with a fairly heavy presence down low. I’d call it sub-bass focused, but still a clean and stout mid-bass. It bumps, it gets fairly deep, good texture, good definition too. The midrange comes through with very nice lean-lush note weight, yet also with dense note weight. It’s realistic enough (especially for a planar), with good timbre which doesn’t sound too colored or skewed in my opinion. I hear good energy in this region and certainly enough for a dynamic presentation. Not too recessed, good presence for vocalists (both males & females), and tight enough transients to sound technically adept yet not so fast that I’m losing out on certain harmonics. The sound is still semi-atmospheric in the mids which is nice. The treble has a bit of brilliance yet nowhere near the S12’s of old. Smoother overall, yet enough crunch and bite to give the treble some decent texture. The treble has nice extension too along with a well detailed performance. Details as a whole are very good but I wouldn’t consider this set a detail monster. Separation of instrumentation is easy to discern. There is some depth for layering of sounds too. Beyond that, I hear a nice stage. Not the largest on planet earth, but very good. Nothing is overly congested on this stage and it’s arranged and controlled enough to do a solid job with imaging. Folks, this is simply a very well rounded iem which will do well for most any genre. You could say it’s an all-rounder type set for sure and great for a planar.

Bass Region ​

The low-end most certainly has a sub-bass focus and reaches fairly deep in pitch. This is a pretty fast bass with a nice ductile agility to it. Lately we’ve seen some planars which get very close to a dynamic driver bass region and the S12 2024 is one of those sets. In fact, there’s almost nothing which separates them. This is a bass which can slam with some ground pounding levels, while staying tight, clean, and also rigid. This isn’t some weak bass here folks. In the same breath it also isn’t for bassheads either. I would much more consider this a bass for those who enjoy a good, emphasized bass region. It’s got the boom, and it has the rumbles. Bass guitar has all the fullness it needs while also having the growling edgy note outline making bass guitar tracks really fun, generally speaking. Kick drums have that cavernous resonance and tacky edge which draws us to a good kick drum with so many tracks. Honestly, there isn’t much the S12 2024 bass region is missing folks. Notes have good definition, it isn’t one noted, it isn’t muddy, and the bass doesn’t veil the mix and encroach into other regions in a bad way. Really a nice bass overall.

Sub-bass ​

The lowest of lows can run deep friends. The S12 2024 is capable of providing some guttural and meaty sub-bass rumbles and it does so rather easily. Almost effortless. This is a very well-defined sub-bass with plenty of texture and quite a lot of haptic vibration as the S12 2024 can give off an almost kinetic low drone with a very palpable feel to it. Tracks such as “California” by CMAT show off the S12 2024’s ability to reach lower levels while keeping the note outline intact and never sounding pillowy, or soft. Like I said, there’s density or solidity to every note along with a concrete style note edge which sounds more like texture than anything else. “Heavy is the Ocean” by Bush is also a track which I listen to and use for review purposes that truly grumbles and growls very deep. I love how the S12 2024 is able to hold that note edge, get deep and gnarly with loads of haptic buzz and never come across sloppy while also separating the rest of the mix beautifully. Really a nice and deep low-end that is fun, but it’s also pretty mature for the size too.

Mid-bass ​

Now, the mid-bass doesn’t have quite the emphasis that the sub-bass has, but that doesn’t mean it can’t slam very well. It certainly can but that slam feels very well controlled and held in check without mudding up the mix. Possibly in some tracks things get a bit too bassy for some. However, for the most part the mid-bass has a tight transient attack through decay and doesn’t linger past its welcome. Despite that, the mid-bass does have some atmosphere to it. Resonances come through but they don’t lag until they sound muddy, but they also don’t zip right along sounding unnaturally quick. Folks, this is a bass that is very well done. I found the mid-bass has no trouble taking on even faster tracks either, like “Higher Ground” by the Red Hot Chili Peppers. You have the quick bass guitar that comes through with good weight and fullness while the drums blare in a fast and repetitive way with great snap on this set. However, I don’t hear the bass masking over any other frequencies. All other instruments share the sound field nicely. There’s some crispness there and tons of texture and tactility as well. Beyond that, I don’t hear that ultra peppy type of planar bass that keeps it from sounding natural. Actually the bass here is very organic with a semi-atmospheric sound with both quick and dense fundamental notes. Just a very well done mid-bass that is not overcooked. Again, this mid-bass doesn’t really encroach into the midrange in a negative way. Truth be told, I do enjoy the slight bit of bleed the S12 2024 does have, giving warmth to the mid region while keeping it pristine and mostly clean.

Downsides to the Bass Region ​

The biggest drawbacks of this bass region will be for those who cannot stand a bigger bass replay. That’s about the only drawback I can truthfully say would be a huge issue. Not everyone wants an emphasized bass. Shoot, I know plenty of my friends in the hobby who will disregard this set based solely on the fact that it has any convexity to the bass shelf. Letshuoer did a fantastic job with the 10-11 dB shelf they did add. I could also say that bassheads probably won’t be too thrilled with this set either. I do feel that the S12 2024 will appease most hobbyists, and they will fall in love as I have.

Downsides cont… ​

Friends, Letshuoer took all of their understanding and experience and pulled out all the stops for this commemorative 8th Anniversary iem by giving it a bass region that in my opinion eclipses any other planar bass region that I’ve heard to date. That may seem like I’m going a bit too hard on this one, but I thought for a long time about writing those words (“eclipses any other planar to date”) and I feel good about them. Yes, there are issues for the person who wants those ultra slow DD like harmonics and resonances. Or there may even be issues for the person who only enjoys the ultra-quick planar style or balanced armature style bass we’ve grown accustomed to. However, I like what Letshuoer did. It’s big, it runs deep, it’s dense, rock solid, not pillowy, not weak, and it moves very fast while keeping the bass depth and defined note edges. Just a good bass.

Midrange​

What’s a good midrange? For me it comes with some sort of a sound field balance. Timbre should be closer to natural. There should be enough energy to not come across flat, but not so much energy that it’s giving way to glare or shoutiness. Some semblance of details, some semblance of emotion too. These are also some of the qualities found here in the S12 2024. Oddly enough I hear a very well controlled midrange with good detail retrieval and instrument separation which finds a way to still keep on the smoother side of the aisle. Smooth but tight, rounded notes, clean background. Really a very clean midrange which keeps mostly neutral in tonal coloration with only subtle hints of warmth from the low end. Truly a pristine sound which doesn’t lose out on musicality at all. In fact, I’d say the S12 2024 does a great balancing act of technical and musical. Also, I don’t hear any real recession but instead the midrange is in a great place within the sound field. Vocalists are forward enough without sounding too energetic and loud. Yet those vocalists still have enough body and density to sound authentic and somewhat real to life. Instruments all sound very close to timbre-accurate showing off every last detail effortlessly. Having said that, there are sets tuned to be even more technically inclined, but those sets don’t have the musical nature of the S12 2024 either. I think the S12 2024 has the best of both worlds for the price as it’s quite a nice listen.

Lower-midrange ​

Listening with the S12 2024 in my ears I am actually quite pleased with how nicely done the lower mids are for male vocalists. I feel the mid-bass ever-so-slightly spills over into the midrange but it’s so slight that it steals absolutely none of the transparency and resolution. Males come across with actual note body too. These aren’t some thin and anemic sounding men with this set. Tracks like “Rome” by Dermot Kennedy have such a nicely forward feel and presence while also keeping a nice crispness to his already crisp voice. It isn’t overdone but instead sounds very melodic. The instruments around his voice are well delineated, separate, and each subtle nuance is illuminated quite well in the midst of good lean-lush note weight. Another fantastic voice is Max McNown in the track “A Lot More Free”. His voice has this throaty rasp that is so unique and easy to listen to. I like that the S12 2024 almost emboldens that voice with extra forward presence and some extra density putting his vocals on a pedestal. Once again, the surrounding Melody sounds very well separated and layered within the sound field for a planar iem. Males sound great folks.

Upper-Midrange ​

Looking at the upper-mids they sound a slight bit more shimmery but not necessarily more forward. They walk that fine line of shimmer and sparkle without sounding shouty or peaky. The S12 2024 has just enough pinna rise to accommodate a more natural sound while still having the energy to keep very interesting and vibrant. Females like Adele in “Hello” have that haunting emotion on tap with the S12 2024, giving her vocals that weighted moistness to her voice. There’s absolutely nothing dry to my ears. Another vocalist is Lady Gaga in the track “Always Remember Us This Way”. Man, her voice sounds nice with the S12 2024 in my ears. I love how the S12 2024 highlights the inflections and intonations in her voice without the usual planar timbre and metallic edge which plagues so many planar sets. This set has the control to maneuver a melody like this while also showing off the subtleties like the piano gently playing along in the background, or her breath in the mic, or all the little up and down modulations of her voice. Furthermore, she sounds as natural as I would think “natural” is supposed to sound. I like these upper-mids folks. Very mellifluous, shimmery but not shouty, detailed yet emotional and smooth. Just a well-balanced upper mid replay.

Downsides to the Midrange ​

I suppose the downsides to this midrange would be for the person who really loves an analytical style. For those who desire a drier and sprightlier midrange, I’d think that the S12 2024 may not be the set for them. These are the same people who like sets that are detail kings. I said a few times that separation of instruments is very good for the tuning and I don’t back down from that, it is good (for the tuning). Still, there isn’t so much space between instruments that detail nuts will be perfectly happy. Remember this set is musical, emotionally expressive, and does carry an atmospheric vibe. The S12 2024 is great in relation to this type of tuning. For those who want a bright midrange with the highest degree of resolution, almost to the point that it’s forced, those folks may not be too excited about the S12 2024 either. Also, there are plenty of those who only enjoy a warmer, smoother, richer, and even darker display in the mids. Some people only want syrupy and thickly weighted. I suppose that there are times I desire warmer low-mids too. In fact, I usually do like just a pinch more richness for my perfect midrange. However, I’d hate to change anything on this set and disrupt what Letshuoer was able to do. It’s great the way it is. Will it be for everyone? Absolutely not! I don’t know a set that is for everyone. I do believe the S12 2024 gives us one of the better balancing acts of technically adept and musically gifted which is a really great thing to be for a $199 planar magnetic earphone.

Treble Region ​

This is one of those treble experiences that hedges on too energetic and too laid back at the same time. Actually, I love the emphasis here as there’s a slight bump on the lower treble and a nice bump in the presence region. It really walks that fine line in a very graceful and once again effortless way. I hear just enough sparkle and airiness to really accentuate treble notes. The S12 2024 has just enough emphasis to counter the low-end and ultimately balance the entirety of the frequency very well without forcing any resolution or coming across shrill. If any of you remember the highs in the S12, or S12 Pro then you know how razor sharp those sets can sound on the right tracks. Not the S12 2024. No sir. This set has all the earmarks of a refined and very clean treble that has just enough vibrance and brilliance to illuminate the details while also never spilling over into ear gouging pain. Let’s put it this way, the treble is lifted enough to bring airiness and openness to the mids along with enough to bring some snap to drums, instrument separation, some edge to strings, some slight vigor and spirit to vocals and some resounding notes to violin and piano etc. On top of that, the treble really does fit the tuning well.

Extension​

Another thing that is quite nice on the S12 2024 is the obvious extension into the upper highs. For instance, secondary harmonics of a cymbal strike never sound splashy to me while they also have that small glow to them. Harmonica in the track “Hook” by Blues Traveler doesn’t ever become too edgy or coarse. Violin in the track “Eye of the Untold Her” by Lindsey Stirling gets very vivacious and silvery while also never sounding artificial or too coarse. The extension also seems to expand the sound field as well giving dimension to the sound as well as some much-needed energy which lifts the spectrum bringing some excitement. Of course, there are sets in the price point which are tuned specifically to add effulgence and brilliance to this area of the mix, but the S12 2024 does so in a way that the treble actually adds to the rest of the spectrum and helps with the overall timbre a lot.

Nicely Done​

Beyond all of that, details in this region are very nice as the treble does have some crisp crunch and bite helping every note to have its own clean edge. Of course, this does depend on the track you are listening to a bit. However, treble notes generally are very well defined and never so smooth that they sound sanded down or too velvet leaving notes too confined and close together. I hear some air to the sound. There’s an edge, some treble punch, and fantastic clarity. However, there will be those who feel that what Letshuoer added won’t be enough. Treble heads will likely call it laid back. Still, I feel it sounds great and perfectly harmonizes with the bass and the mids. To add to that, I hear zero sibilance on this set, no planar timbre, no electric fuzz sitting at the crest of each note. Really very nicely done.

Downsides to the Treble Region ​

The biggest downside will be in the eyes and ears of actual treble heads. I can tell you right now they won’t think there is enough energetic brilliance, and they probably will want a brighter replay here. Of course, I feel there is ample bite and crispness but the S12 2024 certainly doesn’t have that EST style treble definition. Also, this set is only $199. Another group of people who may not enjoy the S12 2024 are those who are seriously affected by any brightness. I mean those types who are desperately sensitive to any treble lift. The S12 2024 is less emphasized and bright than past iterations of this S12 series, but it can still hit some bright notes from time to time. Beyond that, no doubt there are sets with better treble regions. Like I’ve said in this whole review, there are sets which will specialize in certain areas (like the treble) and they will impress more in those specific regions. However, once again, those sets will also not have the musicality and charm of the S12 2024. There’s a few that do well in this regard but very few and very far in between.

Technicalities ​

Soundstage ​

Looking at the soundstage I have to say that for a planar earphone I am impressed. I mean, there are plenty of planars with nicely wide soundstages. However, there aren’t many that have actual depth like the S12 2024. So, what I hear is an above average width, some fullness in height and some actual depth which leads to good front to back sound placement and the layering of those sounds. Of course, the S12 2024 does not have the best sound stage within its price point. Nonetheless, the S12 2024 does have the best stage I’ve heard from a planar. Including the MP145. I like that I hear some actual dimensionality and rounded notes. I can hear the separation of those layers too. Most certainly this is an above average stage folks. You have good extension both ways as the sub-bass runs deep while the upper treble is also able to air it out nicely too. Usually, a set with these attributes will almost sound like the stage is expanded and I don’t think that the S12 2024 is any exception.

Separation / Imaging ​

Like I’ve said this entire review, the S12 2024 has good instrument separation for the type of musicality it offers. The way that the S12 2024 is able to have just enough mellifluousness to not come across as analytical is great. Or vice-versa. At any rate, separation is very good on top of the layering I spoke of. Definitely not perfect and there are most certainly iems which handle this better. I could say that in ultra bass heavy tracks the separation isn’t nearly as obvious. Also, in super congested tracks I also don’t hear perfect separation either. Still, these drivers are fast guys and gals. They hit each note in stride and maneuver around any passage of music fairly quickly. For the most part, separation of instruments is very good. Imaging is the same and walks the exact same line. It’s good until it isn’t. Good until the bass masks over the rest of the mix, good until the mass confusion of a congested track muddies up the sound. Of course, there aren’t many sets that do navigate ultra congested tracks very well. For what it is and how it was tuned, the S12 2024 has absolutely nothing to be ashamed of.

Detail Retrieval ​

One thing that stands out as particularly awesome is detail retrieval. I found it easy to hear all the minutiae within my music. Still, the same caveats which plague separation and imaging are also the same that keeps the S12 2024 from being considered a “detail monster”. Is it very good in detail retrieval? Without question it is. Again, the S12 2024 has zero to be ashamed of and really does a nice job of illuminating even the tiniest of details. So long as the track isn’t full of sub-bass rumble and drone.

Comparisons ​

Note: I am going to be very quick in these comparisons and speak in very general terms so as to keep my word count down as much as possible. We could go pretty deep into these comparisons, but I don’t know how useful that is to any of you.

Letshuoer S12 Pro ($169)​

The Letshuoer S12 Pro (S12 Pro Review) has always been one of my favorite planar iems. It came along right after the storm of the 7Hz Timeless, and its older sibling, the Letshuoer S12 OG. There were a few others, but they weren’t really true competition. The S12 Pro was the first planar that didn’t have that much treble glare and upper mid shout. The S12 Pro had more of a balance sonically then some of the other planars on the market at the time. Beyond the sound, it was absolutely gorgeous and built like a tank. Anyone who purchased the S12 Pro knows how nice of a set it is, truly a special one at its price. Which by the way, you can find for even cheaper nowadays than the $169 MSRP. The S12 Pro also utilizes a 14.8 mm Planar Magnetic driver.

Differences ​

As far as build, these two sets are basically identical. They are identical shape, size, ergonomics, and both accessorized to the nines. However, without question the S12 2024 has the S12 Pro beat with a much better cable, better tips, and case as well. Just a better package altogether. Of course, the S12 2024 is also about $30 more expensive than the S12 Pro too, so do keep that in mind. Anyways, physically there isn’t much which separates these two sets. One is a gorgeous blueish/purple colorway with silver trim and the other is shiny gold colorway with black a black contrasting color. Both are equally beautiful in my mind.

Sound Differences ​

To begin, these two have quite a lot of the same DNA within them. I will keep this as simple and as short as possible for you, well, and for me. Anyways, the S12 2024 is really just a completely refined and cleaned up version of the S12 Pro. I hear less shout in the upper mids, less brightness in the treble, more control in each 3rd of the mix as well. Notes have better weight, density, contour, and each note is better defined. I hear a slightly blacker background with a less busy treble region. The bass now is tighter by a slight margin and runs deeper with a more robust forcefulness in each note and better texture. That was pretty obvious to me. The mids are less recessed but also less shouty and slightly better balanced. Listening to the treble, I found the S12 2024 has better definition, maybe a hint less detailed but also easier in the ears, smoother too. Technically, these two are both well detailed across the board but like I said, the S12 2024 simply sounds cleaner. I hate to make it that simple but that’s what it is for me. To a slight extent anyways. I find the S12 2024 has a wider and deeper stage as the S12 Pro is a little flatter (wall of sound), less layered, and just less realistic. Separation of instruments and vocals sounds good on both sets in my opinion. At the end of the day the S12 2024 has the more realistic timbre, less planar timbre, less metallic edge to each note, more organic and simply better in my eyes.

Further thoughts on this comparison ​

Honestly, the S12 2024 is a true upgrade for me. Now, there are a ton of ways to mod the S12 Pro and you can find those with some Google searches. However, the S12 2024 really is a refined version of the S12 Pro and ultimately the S12 series as a whole. It is blatantly obvious that Letshuoer has learned a thing or two during their run with planar sets. The S12 2024 is much more aligned with the S15 or the S08 even rather than the older S12 series in my eyes. Looking at the graphs you’d think the S12 2024, and the S12 Pro were almost one in the same but to the ear there really is some distinct differences. Both are fantastic iems but the latest S12 2024 is an upgrade. Of course, it’s also $30 more.

Raltgo Hook-X ($239)​

Oh, the Hook-X! This set was and still is one of the best planar sets that money can buy. The Raptgo Hook-X (Hook-X Review) is actually a dual driver hybrid utilizing a 14.2 mm planar driver and an 18-layer Piezoelectric driver (PZT) as well which handles the upper treble. The additional PZT driver does add in another element that straight planar sets don’t usually have and really helped the Hook-X to stand out. This set was one of the first kings of planar iems (yes it has a PZT, but it is still a “planar” to me) and was one of the 1st planar sets that truly reigned supreme for an extended period of time, in my opinion anyways.

Differences ​

To begin, I’ve already spoken of the driver configuration differences. The PZT really does add extra air texture and bite to the treble that it wouldn’t have if it was simply a single planar iem. Also, the Hook-X is a bit larger in size and the fit is a bit more cumbersome. It’s just big, rounded on the bottom and so it probably won’t fit everyone. Whereas the S12 2024 has a good shot of fitting almost everyone. I love the design of both sets but to me the S12 2024 is simply better. Not only is it built better, but it is much better looking. Granted, the Hook-X is pretty slick looking with its open back design and green colorway, but it can’t out duel the S12 2024 in this regard. Both sets are accessorized nicely but once again the S12 2024 has the better unboxing in my eyes. The Hook-X and the S12 2024 both have very nice modular cables but the S12 2024’s cable is much better than the green/black fabric cable of the Hook-X. The Hook-X is quite a bit more in price at $40 more and it’s been out for a couple years now. However, this is a close battle between the two planar sets.

Sound Differences ​

The bass runs deeper in the S12 2024 while the Hook-X does seem to be just as fast down low. The Hook-X is more like a typical planar bass, less physical, tight, but not atmospheric like the S12 2024, nor as weighted. I like the S12 2024 in this area personally. The midrange of the S12 2024 is more forward with better presence for vocals, even better note weight. I found the midrange notes on the S12 2024 to be cleaner and more dense, more rigid, more textured. So as good as I thought the Hook-X was, it seems like planar tech has evolved a bit. Now I would probably say that the Hook-X is a hair more detailed but also it comes through brighter in the upper mids, less realistic and organic than the S12 2024. In the treble the Hook-X has a more brilliant, snappier, crisper and more detailed treble experience. I think the PZT driver is obviously to credit for that. Not that the S12 2024 has anything to be ashamed of as I enjoy the S12 2024 more than the more detailed and crisper Hook-X’s treble. The S12 2024 simply sounds more natural and for me that matters more than technicalities. Also, it isn’t some huge chasm between the two as far as separation, details, etc. goes. Soundstage is very large in both, but the Hook-X does feel and sound airier and more open. The open back style does seem to help in this regard. However, the S12 2024 has more depth of field, better layering, and again… more organic sounding.

Final thoughts on this comparison ​

To me the S12 2024 sounds more balanced and is simply a step up in many ways. For me that is. I could easily see some folks preferring the older Hook-X and its highly detailed and transparent sound. Granted, both sets perform admirably in the technical aspects of sound. However, the S12 2024 simply has a more musical flare to it, a bit more emotional, weighted, more accurate timbre, and just as clean sounding. So let me be clear, I don’t necessarily feel the S12 2024 is the better iem as both sets will serve wonderfully for different listeners. Trust me, there are times when the Hook-X is all I want to listen to. I guess what I’m saying is that just because this comparison looked like an easy win for the S12 2024, it really is just an internal preference battle for myself. For analytical lovers they may prefer the Hook-X. Who knows. Both are great sets for sure, but for me and my money I’d buy the S12 2024.

Note: Below is the graph for only the Hook-X as I could not find a comparison graph between the S12 2024 and the Hook-X.

​

Is it worth the asking price? ​

This is the big money question, er… the $199 question. That being whether the Letshuoer S12 2024 Edition is worth the asking price? Is $199 a good deal and does the replay and all the intangibles of the S12 2024 seem worth that price tag. If any of you have read any of my reviews, then you know that I only review stuff that I enjoy or that I feel others could enjoy on a large scale. So yes, I absolutely enjoy this set as I am reviewing it. However, just because I enjoy a set doesn’t mean it’s worth the asking price. There have been plenty of times I’ve personally enjoyed something but there are better sets for cheaper etc. Having said all of that I will be straight up with you all… 101% the Letshuoer S12 2024 Edition is worth every penny. I would buy this set over and over again. I freaking love it (pardon my use of the word “freaking”)! Easily one of my new favorite sets anywhere around $200. In fact, I’d probably choose the S12 2024 over more expensive sets. Scratch that, I “do” choose the S12 2024 over more expensive sets on some days.

The Why… ​

Because the unboxing is absolutely bonkers good. Look at all the goodies you get. The Keychain, the cool gold colored medallion or whatever that thing is. I do know it’s super cool. Beyond the unboxing, look at this ridiculously robust and durable “TITANIUM” housing. Titanium alloy is a tough material to work with folks. It’s hard to mold, to bend, to form and to weld. It’s just a bear. I’m sure Letshuoer found a way to streamline the process, but it doesn’t take away from the fact that it is indeed… titanium. Also, the look is so cool. I’ve fallen for the gold. That shiny gold colorway paired with the gorgeous cable is just a great pairing. Also, the cable, it’s so very nice with modular connections making it easy to swap. Of course, we’ve seen modular cables for quite some time but not all are created equal. That’s for sure. Ya know, the real worth of any set is in many different areas. They have to fit, they can’t look stupid, they need to be built well, durable, it’s nice if they have great accessories, a great cable too so you don’t have to go and buy another cable. Still, every set usually lives or dies with the sound at any price. As it should.

That sound ​

This is where the S12 2024 makes its asking price make sense. Letshuoer has the S12 OG which is much less and the S12 Pro at roughly $30 less. However, the $99 Letshuoer S08 is the least expensive planar iem from Letshuoer and it is an amazing iem at that. Not to the quality of the S12 2024 but it is very good and one I’ve grown to adore. So, the S12 2024 must be pretty special to be worth the asking price of $199. To be blunt… Yes, it is!

The sound alone makes it worth it… ​

This set sounds very good. Such a nice balance of technically proficient but also musical through and through. Obviously, you have to enjoy this type of sound signature to fully appreciate what I am about to say. So, the bass is some of the best bass that this price point has. I know, I didn’t go that hard in the actual bass section. Well, I was trying to be a bit more professional there whereas here I can let my hair down a bit. If I had enough hair to let down of course. Anyways, it’s also very well balanced tonally with just a slight bit more low-end emphasis which makes the S12 2024 very intriguing to me. The bass is fast, deep, rounded, dense and it can take complicated tracks with ease. The midrange is very clean and resolving while also coming across very well textured with very nice note weight throughout. No sibilance, no shout, no glare, nothing grainy. It’s just nice and fantastic for vocals too. Next, the treble region has just enough emphasis, crispness, bite, and just enough treble punch. Definitely not boring or flat. The treble also has good extension with some of the best planar timbre on the market. Details come through very easily, good separation of instruments, there is good layering happening, nice depth and really just a nice stage altogether.

Limited Edition​

I find it hard to find a ton of faults here folks. Of course, I also love the sound signature and how Letshuoer tuned this set. Really a nice sounding set and most definitely (for me) the Letshuoer S12 2024 Edition is worth every last penny. Great in almost all aspects physically and sonically. But there’s one more “Why” that I haven’t touched on. That is… the S12 2024 is also a limited-edition earphone! There’s only 2,024 units available which makes this set even more enticing. I’m fairly positive those sets will be bought out rather quickly too.

Ratings (0-10)​

*Note: all ratings are based upon my subjective judgment. These ratings are garnered against either similarly priced sets or with similar driver implementations or styles with the unique parameters of my choosing. In the case of the Letshuoer S12 2024 Edition ratings below, that would be $150-$250 planar magnetic earphones. Please remember that “ratings” don’t tell the whole story. This leaves out nuance and a number of other qualities which make an iem what it is. A “5-6” is roughly average and please take into consideration the “lot” of iems these ratings are gathered against. $150-$250 US planar iems is really a smaller scope of iems, and so seeing a 9.0 shouldn’t be out of the question. There’s simply less to compete against. My ratings are never the same and each set of ratings tells a different story. Each time you read one of my ratings will be unique to that review. Basically, I create a Rating that makes sense to me.

Aesthetic ​

–Build Quality: 9.8 Built very well, all titanium.

–Look: 9.9 Beautiful golden colorway, gorgeous.

–Accessories: 9.9 Best planar unboxing under $250!

–Overall: 9.9

Sound Rating ​

–Timbre: 9.9 Top of class timbre (my opinion).

–Bass: 9.8 Hello quality… meet quantity .

–Midrange: 9.5 Clean, musical, technically proficient.

–Treble: 9.1 Non-Offensive, detailed, transparent.

–Technicalities: 9.3 Technically very nice for the tuning.

–Musicality: 9.7 Musicality over technicalities.

–Overall: 9.6

Ratings Summary:​

These ratings above may confuse some people who don’t read everything. In the note* above I state that this rating session is against any planar sets within the $150 to $250 range. That’s not a huge scope of iems but I’m thinking about the buyer here. Most of the time someone looking for a planar set is only looking for a planar set. I figured if someone could afford the $199 S12 2024, then they may also be able to stretch their budget to $250 as well. So, how well does the S12 2024 compete in this $150-$250 range? I’d say pretty favorably. Of course, this also has to mean that I’ve actually spent enough time with each of the sets in that range to know them well and understand them. Thankfully I have many of them in my possession. I wish I had the Raptgo X-HBB Hook, but I don’t and so that is the one set I wish I could’ve compared here, though I obviously have the OG Hook-X. So, keep that in mind. At any rate, the ratings above were conducted over a few hours of great enjoyment. From song to song, set to set, and many notes. I feel the S12 2024 was the obvious best of the group for me in almost all ways except “Treble” and “Technicalities”. There were a couple sets who do have what I consider “better” treble regions and “better” technical abilities. However, I feel a “9.6” overall sound score against all planar sets between $150 and $200 is warranted, but that’s only my opinion folks. Take these ratings with a grain of salt. Please.

Explain Yourself!! ​

To be honest, there really isn’t anything I feel needs real “explaining”, though there are some ratings which I could see some folks calling me nuts over. Like the bass (always the bass), I feel this set is quality and quantity gold (no pun). Truly, the quality is wonderful with a clean, tight, but also deep bass as well as a well-defined and very ductile and agile bass. However, bassheads would likely give this set closer to an “8.0” because it isn’t so profuse in bass emphasis that it would be at their standards. Then again, how many bass head planars are there? Maybe they’d score it higher. However, those who only enjoy the at snappy and less emphasized bass region. Those who want that ultra-agile and pristine bass with no extra fat at all. Those folks would definitely not give this set an enormously high “9.8” like I just did. It’s okay too and I get it. We like what we like. Truth be told, there is not as many $150 to $250 planars out there. At least less then you’d think and so the scores are naturally higher. In fact, I’ve never rated a set with a “9.6” overall before. BTW, if a planar was close to this range in price I included it too. It’s a soft $150 to $250. Really, it’s more like $119 to $290. Lol. Honestly, I feel these ratings are good. I wouldn’t change a thing; they’re locked in folks. This is a great set for the price.

Conclusion ​

To conclude my full written review of the Letshuoer S12 2024 Edition I have to first thank the awesome people of Letshuoer and especially Letshuoer Betty whom we know and love. They sent over the S12 2024 to me in exchange for a full review and feature at Mobileaudiophile.com. Thank you for always being easy to get ahold of, very present and happy to help too. Also, thank you Letshuoer for never ever trying to be too overbearing. Never once has Letshuoer asked to pre read any review, and they’ve never once asked me to speak favorably, or asked me to skew my words one way or another. Truly a class company who does believe in their product. At least enough to send their product on its way into the subjective hands of a reviewer. So, thank you. Of course, my thanks extend to the reader as well. Thank you very much for taking the time to actually click the link and stick around long enough to read these words. You are the few who are brave enough. I thank you. It means everything to the website (mobileaudiophile.com). We survive in clicks and time spent here, so thank you very much.

Other perspectives ​

Now that you’ve read this review, I hope you will click some more links and check out other reviews of the Letshuoer S12 2024 Edition. This is such a subjective and personal hobby folks. No two people are exactly alike. We all have different tastes, different likes and dislikes, different gear, different music libraries, and we all haven’t been down the same journey through audio. So, I do hope you take the time to read other thoughts. There are so many amazing reviewers who also want to help and may make it easier for you to find where you want to spend your hard-earned money. With that, I’m done! I hope each of you are doing well and good. Take care, stay as safe as possible and always… God Bless!

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 receive no compensation and all thoughts and opinions are my own. A special thank you to Letshuoer Betty for coordinating this unit for review.

Gear used:
●LG v30+
●Samsung Galaxy s22 Ultra
●Samsung dongle
●Hiby FC4
●Kiwi Ears Allegro
●Letshuoer DT03
●Dunu DTC480
●BLON V1

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



Introduction:
Letshuoer is celebrating its eighth anniversary this year. The company has a good track record of releasing a wide range of quality products, including iems, cables, and DAC/amps. They are arguably most widely known for their planar iems. The release of their S08 iem also coincided with the company’s anniversary celebration. Letshuoer is continuing the festivities with the S12 2024, an update to one of their most popular products. This is the latest iteration of the S12 line, following the original S12 and the S12 Pro. It features a 14.8mm planar driver, updated aesthetics and tuning, and is priced at $199. Let’s break down this newest model and see how Letshuoer fares the third time around.



Build, fit, ergonomics:
The unboxing of the S12 2024 is quite an experience! From the box art to the accessories, Letshuoer has pulled out all the stops. The design of the box is far above what I'm used to seeing at this price range and is more akin to that of a flagship. The outer box’s rose gold color, raised design, and prominent “8” all combine to make a quite fetching package. Upon opening the box (and the box within that one), the iems are hidden by the gold keychain and accessories box. Removing those finally reveals the very fancy-looking shells of the newest member of the S12 family. The size and shape are the same as in previous models, but with a new rose gold colorway and an updated titanium alloy chamber. The finish is very nice and has a classy look to it, though it may be a bit of a fingerprint and scratch magnet. Some might also find them to be a bit too flashy or ostentatious, but I'm a big fan of the new look. The 2024 Edition is also limited to 2,024 units globally, with each pair engraved with a unique number. The size of the shell is relatively small and shouldn't be an issue for most people. The nozzle width is 6.2 mm at the widest point of the lip, and the length is average. The insertion depth is perhaps slightly shallow, but I didn't have any issues with fit and seal, and they are comfortable to wear for extended periods. The two-pin connection is flush with the shell and ensures cable rolling is a breeze, although whether a different cable is needed is up for debate as the stock cable is quite good. It's a silver-plated monocrystalline copper modular cable featuring 2.5, 3.5, and 4.4mm terminations for seamless connection to any source. It is lightweight, tangle-free, feels good in the hand, and its aesthetic complements the gold finish of the shells. I generally prefer a chunkier, thicker cable, but the stock one is very good, and I did not see the need to swap it out for another. I do wish it had some locking mechanism for the swappable terminations. The tip selection is good, with nine pairs mounted onto a card for easy storage and organization. There are three different types: two silicone with varying bore diameters and one foam. After a fair amount of tip-rolling, I finally settled on the stock vocal tips. They have a slightly narrower bore, which helps keep the upper-end energy from being too much for me. The case is the same puck-style that's included with the S08. It's a serviceable enough case, and the rubber coating inside and out helps keep scratches to a minimum, but I personally prefer a zipper case that are a little more flexible. There is also a Letshuoer-branded leather keyring (likely for use with the golden keychain) and a commemorative eighth-anniversary card.



Sound impressions:
Planars are often associated with great detail retrieval, excellent technicalities, and a spicy, sometimes even hot treble. The original S12 and S12 Pro both recieved their fair share of acclaim but they also had their own issues. The new S12 2024 manages to take the best qualities of planar drivers and incorporates the lessons Letshuoer has learned along the way. I would characterize the tuning as slightly V-shaped or U-shaped. But it's also still well balanced, with no frequency band taking away from the others. This new S12 is very fun, with plenty of excitement and great extension on both ends. The detail retrieval is fantastic and is a testament to its planar heritage. It can effortlessly showcase all the little nuances in your favorite music, but amazingly, they manage to sound very musical and not overly analytical. The timbre of the 2024 Edition is effortless. Gone are the days of the "planar zing" or issues of old. It sounds very natural, clear, and organic without being strained in any way. The soundstage is quite impressive as well, with a fantastic three-dimensional space and plenty of width and depth. Imaging is very good too, with the positioning of instruments being precise and accurate. They also work very well for gaming too. The note weight is almost in the perfect, but it could be just a touch thicker for my preferences. The separation is good as nothing sounds too overlapped or congested, but I would like to hear just a little more space between notes. The dynamics could also use a touch more range. By this, I mean sometimes everything is mostly loud or mostly quiet with not a lot of subtlety, but honestly, this is a minor nitpick. As with most planars, this set needs a bit more power to shine. They can reach moderate volume levels with just a simple dongle, but give them some juice, and they will showcase their full potential.I found the best synergy for me when paired with the Hiby FC4, as it added just a touch of warmth and overall smoothness.



●Lows - This one reaches low! It has excellent sub-bass extension and a subwoofer-like deep rumble. It's likely the best bass I've heard at this price point. The texture is really nice as well—not too dry but also not wet or muddy. The impact and slam are adequate and sound great. However, since it focuses more on sub-bass, it's understandable that the mid-bass has a reduced presence. The attack speed is quick, and the S12 2024 navigates complex tracks with ease. This set also avoids one of the pitfalls I've heard in other planar sets. Some have an unnaturally fast decay, which results in the bass sounding artificial. The reverberation here is excellent, and the bass sounds very natural. There is no bleed into the lower mids, and the resolution and separation ensure that each bass note is clear, concise, and has great definition. Overall, I am very satisfied with the bass and have no real complaints to speak of.

●Mids - The midrange is well-balanced with the rest of the frequencies and is neither recessed nor pushed forward. Vocals are still in the forefront, thanks to the elevated pinna gain, but they are not shouty or in your face. The lower mids are free from any bass bleed, and both male and female artists are equally well represented. The fantastically organic and natural timbre is really showcased here in the midrange. Every instrument, including strings, horns, piano, and guitar, is incredibly realistic. It's quite enjoyable listening to my favorite tracks and hearing such great timbre. From classical and orchestral to rock and pop, every genre benefits from the S12 2024's tuning. These really are great all-rounders as long as you enjoy a more energetic tuning. They manage to keep the mids smooth and controlled while still sounding exciting and natural—a feat made even more impressive when done in balance with great bass and treble responses.

●Highs - Airy, sparkly, energetic—these three words basically encapsulate my impressions of the S12 2024's treble. Best of all, it is sibilance-free! It does a remarkable job of toeing the line between "fun and bright" and "harsh and irritating." I dare not ask for more than what is present here due to my affinity for warmth and aversion to overly brightly tuned sets. Finding the right tips is paramount to enjoying the highs, at least for me. Even my Penon Liqueurs failed me in this regard, as they pushed the treble just over that fine line and quickly became fatiguing. But with the narrow-bore "vocal" stock tips, I can enjoy this set at loud volumes without fear. The cymbals, claps, and high hats in my favorite tracks are super energetic and crisp. I do occasionally get just a slight harshness with some "s" and "ch" sounds, depending on the track and artist, but overall, it is quite enjoyable. For those who thought the S08 was tuned a bit too safely in the treble, this new S12 2024 will leave you grinning from ear to ear.



In conclusion:
With the release of yet another planar IEM, Letshuoer has cemented themselves as the planar kings. The new S12 2024 Edition is absolutely impressive and, in my opinion, has become THE planar to beat. If the S08 was made more for those looking for a warmer, less energetic planar sound, then the S12 2024 is the other side of that coin without going too far in the opposite direction. It's not overly bright, but its air and sparkle will definitely please treble enthusiasts. It's tuned in such a way that takes it right to the edge without going into sibilance territory. Not to be outdone, the bass is also fantastic. It extends really low and has a true subwoofer-like rumble. The quantity is a perfect balance to the accentuated treble and the quality is possibly the best I've heard in this price range. The midrange does well not to be overshadowed and exhibits some of the most natural and effortless timbre I've ever heard. I found they paired best with a slightly warm source and they sound great with any and all genres I tested. The S12 2024 will be limited to 2,024 units worldwide, and there is no doubt in my mind that these will be a hit and sell quickly. From the packaging, accessories, and build quality to the fantastic detail retrieval, expansive soundstage, natural timbre, and fun, energetic tuning, this set is truly special. For $200, the price-to-performance ratio is perhaps the best you'll find in this tier. I honestly think these could sell for double the asking price with few to no complaints. They sound better to my ears than some iems priced significantly higher. Congratulations to Letshuoer on the release of yet another amazing planar set to commemorate its eighth anniversary. I can't wait to see what's in store next, and I hope they can top this one, though that will be a very tough task indeed.