LETSHUOER S15

It’s no secret I really liked LETSHUOER’s S12 and their C12. While I liked the initial S12 offering, it always sounded a little raw in the treble and I always figured they would find a way to improve the Planar performance and tighten the sound up over a few generations. While the new S15 is a different beast compared to the S12, it’s an attempt to refine and offer a substantial product upgrade/update over the S12. The S15 uses a updated 14.8mm Planar driver paired with their take on a pressure relief valve and in this case, it's a 6mm passive radiator unit. It comes in at $329.00.

Quick shoutout to my @LetShuoer Audio for sending a unit out to check out and review. While I always appreciate the chance to test and review products sent in from manufacturers or dealers, it never affects the rating of my reviews.

The LETSHUOER S15 can be pickup below:
https://letshuoer.net/products/letshuoer-s15-third-generation-14-8mm-planar-driver-r-sonic-passive-filtering-module-hifi-wired-in-ear-monitor

Onto the review of the LETSHUOER S15! My personal preference is a hybrid/tribrid IEM where I get good hitting bass and have a detailed treble with decent mids. When it comes to an over ear headphone I prefer a spacious sound with a deep low end, the mids to be more forward and the highs to be a little bright with some sparkle. I listen to a lot of genres but I hover in the classic rock, blues and edm music with some rap here and there.

Gear Used​

IPhone 14 Pro Max with headphone adapter, iPad Pro 11in(M4), Moondrop Moonriver 2 Ti, Moondrop Blessing 3, LETSHUOER S12, Eversolo DAC-Z7/SMSL SP400 desktop stack via Audirvana Studio.

Looks and fit​

The shell uses the same material or at least feels very close to their DZ4 shell material which is a very soft and very comfortable material when it touches your ear. I do have weird fitment issues with the S12 and this S15 shell via the shorter nozzle design. I can solve the issues with larger Spinfit tips which is fine as I prefer Spinfit tips anyways. I find the units are lightweight and due to the shell material, I find the long term comfort to be wonderful. The light blue color is a little pale and reminds me of a hearing aid but the shell design does give it a little life and looks wise to my eye. Overall a comfy and average looking IEM.

Isolation and sound leakage​

The S15 has average passive sound isolation. The shells only have a few pin hole vents on the inner side of the shells so it does well at keeping most sounds out. Good enough for most situations but if you want a strong seal and high passive isolation, this might not quite be it. The sound leakage is minimal and you can get away a little with slightly higher sound volumes in quiet places. I wouldn’t blast the volume in a quiet area however as the sound leakage gets substantially louder at higher volumes vs average-quiet volumes.

Packaging and accessories​

The S15 comes in the typical LETSHUOER packaging they use for all their newer IEMs. The packaging is downsized to a smaller rectangle box that does well with packing everything inside it. I’m a fan of smaller packaging since I store everything for a year before removing audio packaging from my Audio storage(poor closet). Which means smaller packaging doesn’t consume a bunch of space and it’s better for the environment as well so win-win. Inside the sleeved box we get the IEMs at the top, a carrying case/puck that has the tips and cable with the alternate plugs. Lastly we get the standard warranty cards and QC pass cards. I’m happy with the included accessories and the smaller packaging. I appreciate that they continue to include a few different tips with different bore sizes.

Sound(overall)​

These final impressions were done off the Eversolo DAC-Z8 connected to the SMSL SP400. This was all done using Audirvana Studio as the main audio player. These impressions are what the S15 sounded like to my ears. This was also using the Spinfit CP500 ear tips. Things like ear tip selection and DAC/amp selection will produce different results and impressions vs what my ears hear on my specific gear.

I would call the S15 a neutral-bright “all rounder” IEM. The lows have a decent sub-bass performance. As with most of the other Planar IEMs, it has a tight and fast overall bass but is still able to produce a strong bass thump on call. The mid-bass is neither too lean or too thick so it sounds nice and well controlled which has a stronger focus on the sub-bass hits. I prefer a cleaner bass like this that still produces good slam/impact performance in “all rounder” type IEMs. The mids are a little more artificial sounding but they do sound accurate but sound a little fast which gives off a sense of artificial sound. It’s not that distracting so most might not even notice it. The vocals are surprisingly natural sounding however and bring in really good vocal detail. Vocals sound a little more intimate and close to the ear but overall pretty good. The upper mids sound a little strong and certain instruments can sound a little brighter but nothing noticeably sibilant to my ears. The upper mids and treble are pretty close in strength and intensity which makes for a balanced upper frequency presentation. The treble comes through with a slightly slower speed so it sounds a little less like an intense Planar and more like a really good hybrid. The treble is detailed and in combination with the upper-mids, pulls in very good details. I like the S15 tuning and I think it makes for a very good “all rounder” type of IEM that will provide a good performance on most genres with a refined brighter flavor.

Soundstage/Imaging​

The staging is wider but lacks a little depth. It has a more intense “wall of sound” that comes in right at my ears. This can give off the sense of reverse imaging/staging at times which make the staging sound slightly different. The imaging is pretty spot on and I can pick things out easily in the wider stage. I would prefer a little more depth. Some tracks can sound like the music is slightly off compared to other IEMs with deeper staging. This of course was with my preferred ear tips and the stock tips and other tips will affect the staging. The CP500 tips are a deeper tip with a wide bore. This usually helps staging but not always.

Sensitivity/Drivability​

The S15 isn’t very hard to drive. It likes a little bit of power but any modern source device should be able to get the S15 up to a preferred volume. I had zero sensitivity issues when running balanced and most modern IEMs lack the floor noise issue these days that older IEMs had in the past.

The 6mm Passive “Module”​

This isn’t the first time they’ve used the passive module(DZ4) and if you read up on it, it’s a pretty neat idea. It activates at higher volume or “sound pressure levels” but it allows the module to vent sound to stop discomfort on the listeners ears. This should give the same listening experience in theory whether you listen at lower volumes or higher volumes. It’s hard to test this but even at my preferred listening volume which is just below my volume threshold, I don’t notice long session fatigue as quickly with other IEMs. I also don’t hear a big difference in sound tuning between a lower volume that I use at work and a higher volume at home like I do with other IEMS. I like the idea and while I can’t confirm it actually does anything, I believe it’s working as intended at least.

Stock cable​

The stock cable looks a lot like the stock cable that came with the S12 and S12 Ultra. The added feature is the swappable plug system. The cable uses the same silver and black layout but the Plug housing uses the same soft plastic material that the case and IEM’s use. I like the cable but I do find the ear guide material is kinda thick so it takes some effort to get the angle right if the stock shape causes the S15 to pop out of your ear. I would leave the cable unless you have a personal preference for other cable designs and colors.

IEM comparisons​

Moondrop Blessing 3​

The Blessing 3 has a brighter tuning and comes in around the same price as the S15. The big difference that I hear between the two is the effort put into the tuning. The B3 has a good amount of drivers and was set up for success but dropped the ball IMO when it came to tuning. Both provide a more controlled bass response and I find both IEMs have a “when called for” strong bass performance that gives good bass response when it needs it but noth lack a little fullness in the low end. The mids on both are neutral enough but the S12 does have a little bit more of a metallic sound to the mids which is gonna be a personal preference thing. The Vocals on both are good and I prefer the S12 here as it has a better natural vocal presentation. The upper mids are brighter on both with the B3 sounding substantially more sibilant. The S12 is bright too but it just doesn’t get as harsh as the B3 and stays well within my personal preferences. The treble is faster and pulls in details a little better on the B3 vs the S15. While I like the treble performance on the B3, the rest of the tuning kinda ruins the experience for me. The soundstage is good on both with the B3 sounding a hair better balance in width and depth. The Imaging is a little better on the B3. The S15 overall sounds better and more enjoyable to my ears. It has its downsides compared to the B3 but it makes up for it with a good tight tuning that the B3 lacks.

LETSHUOER S12​

The S12 was their more popular planar IEM that had a few collabs and alternate versions released. It was a more raw sounding bright tuned IEM but I really like what they managed to pull off. All the planar IEMs at the time were all over the place tuning wise and the S12 managed to sound the most balanced to my ears for what was a sea of overly brighter sounding planar IEMs. Now compared to the S15 and ever some of the alternated S12 variants, it’s quite obvious their planar designs and tuning choices have heavily evolved. The S15 easily leads the pack in both tuning competency and detail retrieval. The lows sound tighter and hit harder on the S15, the mids are detailed and sound refined. The vocals are cleaner and less metallic over the S12. The upper mids are a little better balanced on the S15 and lack sibilance issues to my ears. Finally the treble is still super sharp and fast but it sounds less “raw” and more detailed vs the S12. Staging is a little better balanced on the S15 as well. Both are good IEMs but I feel the S15 is just a great example of R&D at LETSHUOER continuing to hone their planar lineup in an attempt to make the ultimate all rounder planar.

Amping Combinations​

Moondrop MoonRiver 2 Ti​

I did most of my listening from this little dongle while at work. I actually really like the way the MR2 Ti pairs with most IEMs since it produces very good detail with a hint of added warm color to the sound. The added warmth does well to relax the overall Planar specific sound signature. This means a ever so slightly slower sound and little extra warmth specifically to the treble that makes the S15 sound more natural sounding. I like the pairing but the S15 seems to scale well to different DAC/amp sound signatures. Staging and imaging were about what I heard on my desktop setup.

Eversolo DAC-Z8/SMSL SP400​

As mentioned in my sound impressions, this is the main stack I used for my overall impressions of the S15. Like with most IEMs, I don’t think the S15 needs an extreme amount of power in order to sound great. This desktop stack did provide the best sound but I was still equally impressed with portable units like the MR2 Ti or even the slightly brighter sounding Topping G1. If you already have powerful top end gear, it will compliment the S15 nicely.

Overall thoughts​

I really like the S15. I have no real complaints about the tuning or design. Is it worth the price? I think so! Which is why the S15 gets a recommendation! I think it will please those who like a slightly brighter tuning or even a more refined “planar IEM” sound. I’m glad to see LETSHUOER is continuing to experiment a little without rocking the boat or dropping the ball on tuning when it comes to their new planar offerings. LETSHUOER leads the planar IEM group and they’re constantly improving the planar design and tuning for their planar IEMs. Great job to their team and look forward to what they come out with next! Thanks for Reading!!

DISCLAIMER:

I want to extend my gratitude to Letshuoer for providing me with their third-generation planar earphone, the Letshuoer S15, for an honest review. This remarkable unit was sent to me as part of a review tour with my audio enthusiast group. Please note that all opinions expressed here are entirely my own, and I have not received any financial compensation for this review. While I don't claim to be an audio expert, as an avid music enthusiast, I hope my experiences and insights can offer a valuable perspective. I encourage you to audition the product yourself to see how it aligns with your preferences.

INTRO:

This is my first encounter with the Letshouer brand being a neophyte in this hobby for no more than a year. Letshouer is a brand founded by fellow veteran audiophiles on 2016. They seek for the ultimate natural listening experience for audiophiles and constantly finding ways to innovate and discover sonic materials to give the end-user musical satisfaction.

SPECS:

• Third Generation14.8mm Planar Driver + 6mm R-Sonic Passive Filtering Module
• New Acoustic Structure, A Sound Quality Powerhouse
• Dual Acoustic Tubes With Filter Crossover
• Smooth Transitions Across The Spectrum And Rich Sound Layering
• High-precision 3D-printed Front Cavity
• CNC Precision Carved Aluminum Alloy Panel
• Lightweight Ergonomic Design, Fine And Delicate Touch
• 216-strands Silver-plated Monocrystalline Copper Cable
• Detachable 2.5mm, 3.5mm, 4.4mm 90-degree Angle Connectors
• 0.78mm Dual-pin receptacle
• Practical Accessories
• Every detail is implemented to contribute to the sound quality.

UNBOXING PHOTOS:







What's inside the box:

• 2 x S15 Earphone
• 1 x Cable
• 3 x Connector
• 2 x Types Ear tips (3 sizes each)
• 1 x Storage Box
• 1 x Instruction Sheet
• 1 x Warranty Card

The Letshuoer S15 is packaged in a neatly compartmentalized box like a jewelry box. All items are neatly arranged in their own slots. Their selection of color palette of powder blue and light gray, radiates calmness to the eyes. They included a high quality modular cable with L-shaped connectors, a big plus for me. You’ll also receive a rubberized plastic round container to store and protect your IEMs, cable, and ear tips. However, it is prone to fingerprints, so keep that in mind.

The Letshuoer S15 packaging may not reach the level of high-end brands, but it certainly leaves a lasting impression of quality and sophistication. Overall, Letshuoer has put considerable effort into providing a complete package that caters to audiophiles seeking both outstanding sound performance and an aesthetically pleasing experience.

BUILD AND DESIGN:

The S15 features a sleek 3D-printed resin shell with a smooth finish that exudes a subtle rubbery texture. Its thin, anodized silver aluminum faceplate adds a touch of sophistication, beautifully complementing the powdery blue shell. The faceplate design evokes imagery of a majestic whale or a sleek shark, reminiscent of the ocean’s depths. In terms of build quality, the S15 feels remarkably lightweight yet solid, very comfortable to my ears, making it an ideal choice for extended listening sessions.



The technology employed in the S15 is Letshouer’s in-house R-Sonic Dynamic Harmonic Technology. Its basic idea is that to produce excellent sound reproduction, it must be first non-fatiguing and pleasant before setting the stage of introducing more details and technicalities in sound. You can read more here https://letshuoer.net/blogs/news/letshuoer-r-sonic-dynamic-harmonics if you wish to know about the details of this technology. Together with their 14.8mm third generation dual chamber planar driver and dual acoustic tubes with filter crossover, expect a broad sound stage, excellent transient response, and accurate sound reproduction, all with sonic balance.



SOUND QUALITY:

Sound Signature: neutral with a hint of warmness in the lower midrange & mid-bass

Bass: controlled and punchy / above average speed and texture for a planar driver / decay is quick as expected

Midrange: has a rich and smooth midrange, not that detailed and transparent / vocals are forward and upfront / male & female voices sound natural and intimate / more musical than analytical

Treble: the highs lacks air and sparkle but are detailed enough to enjoy / non-fatiguing treble and no harshness or sibilance even at high volume / one can certainly listen with it the entire day

Soundstage & Imaging: wide and accurate / instrument separation is great, one can pinpoint where the instruments are playing and coming from

Detail & Clarity: detailed and smooth enough to hear nuances but not analytical sounding

Dynamics: above average dynamics and transient response / tone and timbre are delivered well

Sensitivity: with its 30 ohms impedance, you’ll unlock the S15 to its full potential at medium to high volume / most planar drivers are quite harder to drive versus the easy dynamic drivers

Resolution: not analytical in any way, emphasizes musicality more than very crisp details

Fatigue & Comfort: no pressure points in the ear / lightweight IEM you'll forget you're wearing them / can listen to music with it all-day long

Value: at $309 plus free shipping, this planar IEM positions itself at the midrange market, its price is justified with the included accessories that came with it, but wish they could have priced it a little bit lower

COMPARISON WITH HIDIZS MP145

Can only compare the Letshouer S15 with the Hidizs MP145 since that’s the only planar IEM accessible to me. It’s also one of the popular single planar IEMs among audiophiles with its sweet sounding sound. Comparing the two reveals some distinct characteristics and strengths for each IEM.



Bass:



Midrange:



Treble:



Soundstage & Imaging:



Detail and Clarity:


Fit and Comfort:


Finish and Price:



The Hidizs MP145 is ideal for analytical lovers and those who enjoy extra brightness in the treble, with its expansive soundstage and high level of detail making it great for immersive listening. In contrast, the Letshuoer S15 is suited for listeners who prefer a more balanced and natural sound signature, featuring neutral bass, a forward midrange, and smooth treble, making it versatile for various genres and detailed listening.

Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences for sound signature and the type of music you enjoy.

CONCLUSION:


I found the Letshuoer S15 to be a standout product. The S15’s build quality is sleek and sophisticated, with a powdery blue resin shell and anodized silver aluminum faceplate. In terms of sound quality, the S15 has a neutral signature with a hint of warmth in the lower midrange and mid-bass. The bass is controlled and punchy, the midrange is rich and smooth, and the treble is detailed but non-fatiguing. The soundstage is wide and accurate, with excellent instrument separation and smooth detail. If you want an IEM that you want to enjoy listening to for extended periods of time and just there to enjoy the music without overly critical, then the Letshouer S15 fits the bill.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Equipment used for evaluation:

• Topping DX3 Pro Desktop DAC/Amp
• Shanling UA4 DAC/Amp Dongle
• Hifiman HE400SE Headphone
• Tanchjim Zero IEM
• Simgot EA500LM IEM
• Hidizs MP145

Official Website: https://letshuoer.net/products/lets...ve-filtering-module-hifi-wired-in-ear-monitor

NOTES and DISCLAIMERS

• Just your regular music lover trying on different audio gears to see how music can be enjoyed more.

• Thank you for Sir Eiji Romero and Sir Jay Infante for supervising the LETSHUOER tour in Iloilo. Thank you for the opportunity.

• I did not gain any form of incentives from this review and all stated here are my opinions of the set, as this hobby is subjective and may have varying results.

SOURCES, GEARS and SOFTWARES

Hiby R8 II
Hidisz S9 PRO Plus
Fiio KA13
iPhone 15 PRO
Apple Music
Musicbee
Native Flac Files (16 bit - 24 bit)

All my listening was done with Tangzu Sancai Balanced Ear tips.

BUILD, COMFORT AND DESIGN

What’s in the box?
The IEM
Two sets of eartips (balanced and vocal eartips)
Modular cable
Carrying case



The IEM shell is made of 3D printed plastic and a metal faceplate. Comfort is really nice and the iem is lightweight, overall can be enjoyed for longer listening sessions.




SOUND IMPRESSIONS
Now here's the fun part. Here's my take on the S15 Pro.

BASS
The mid bass really shines on this set or let’s say, it emphasizes more on the mid bass, in turn of that, the sub bass kinda lacks that kick and sustain when it comes that attacks of rumbles that leaves me wanting for more (just needing a tad bit) but I say this is because of the tuning, it’s not that type of bass that’s just all fun and games but more of a non - fatiguing bass. It’s consistent all throughout bass frequencies and not giving that overwhelmed sensation. Need that thump? Slam? Rumble? It gives you that, a full sound if you will.

MIDS
Oohh so licious mids, again very consistent with the frequencies with a tint of warmth in there. Female vocals sound very natural and clean while male vocals have that tone and weight to it. Very balanced and enjoyable.

TREBLE
Hmmmmmm….. Underwhelming? As I’m one of those persons who wants some sparkle’s and I'm not getting any here, so if you’re a treblehead this ain’t for you. But with my nitpicks the Treble is really great, very well controlled (again), transparent, no harshness and a very rich and detailed.

TECHNICALITIES
Soundstage is just okay, the width and depth is there but nothing too fancy. Imaging also is there but not the sharpest.

CONCLUSION
At first listen with this set it didn’t really give me that wow factor, also this is my first experience with planar iem’s, this type of thing needs to grow on me and it did. The more I use it, the more I understand how its tuning works. A really really laid back set, not that offensive, not bright sounding, we got a really safe one here. A set that can be used for long listening sessions without feeling that fatigue. Full bass, lush mids, rich treble, this is a trifecta. A planar that’s worth keeping in a collection.

P.S I am not affiliated with any audio companies. This is my 100% honest review.