MYER-AUDIO CKLVX CK2V
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MYER AUDIO CKLVX CK2V: An Immersive Musical Experience
DISCLAIMER: MYER AUDIO CKLVX CK2V was sent to us free of charge by the MYER AUDIO team for review. We at Aural Cafe are super excited about this being our first collaboration with MYER AUDIO. We would like to take this opportunity to humbly thank the MYER AUDIO team for their support to Aural Cafe.
Introduction: -
Today at Aural Cafe, we are reviewing MYER AUDIO CKLVX CK2V, a unique hybrid IEM featuring a single 10mm Custom Dynamic Driver along with 4 Balanced Armature and 2 Micro Planar drivers. With a hybrid setup, CKLVX CK2V is the first IEM from the house of MYER AUDIO featuring micro planar drivers.
MYER AUDIO is a Shenzhen, China-based hi-fi Audio brand under the parenthood of Shenzhen Meier Technology Co. Ltd. With over two decades of industry experience and strong connections with top hi-fi brands, MYER AUDIO is a premium hi-fi audio brand dedicated to innovation and craftsmanship. Founded in 2021, MYER Audio has been successful in creating a unique space for itself by presenting hi-fi, precisely tuned to IEMs, at a competitive price range. We at Aural Cafe first came to know about MYER AUDIO while we were checking out Crinacle's review of Myer Audio SLIIVO SL-41 Mk2, an IEM with a unique tuning that deviates slightly from the popular ‘meta’ sound signature. While we may not always share Crinacle's perspective, we deeply respect his expertise in the world of in-ear monitors. When someone with his level of insight speaks so highly of MYER AUDIO, it’s a clear signal that this isn’t just another Chinese audio brand, but a standout player with a genuinely unique approach. Currently, MYER Audio focuses primarily on hybrid IEMs, with two distinct lineups – CKLVX and SLIIVO. The brand began its journey with the SL-41 MK1 under the SLIIVO series and, interestingly, also introduced a pure BA model, SLT6, within this lineup. More recently, MYER Audio has expanded its portfolio with new models under the CKLVX lineup. As it stands, the SLIIVO series includes the SL-41 MK2, SLT6, and the newly launched SLA3, while the CKLVX lineup features D6V2, D41, and the recently released CK2V, which we are reviewing at Aural Cafe. While the brand name ‘MYER’ is simple and seems to be inspired by “MY EAR”, the model names such as D6V2, SL-41 MK2, and SLT6 are equally difficult to remember and understand. We at Aural Cafe can decode that the numbers in the model’s name suggest the number of drivers, while the K in the CKLVX series stands for Knowles.
The MYER AUDIO CKLVX CK2V is the latest addition to MYER's CKLVX lineup, boasting a solid seven-driver hybrid setup on each side. It features a very capable 10mm bio-composite diaphragm dynamic driver, four high-performance balanced armature drivers, including two from Knowles and two custom-developed units and a composite dual micro-planar driver unit. What sets the CK2V apart is that it’s the first IEM from the house of MYER AUDIO to incorporate micro planar drivers, thereby adding a unique twist to their lineup. Priced at $189, it is available exclusively with a greenish faceplate and comes with a solid hand-braided modular cable. As per the MYER Audio team, each driver inside the professionally designed 3d-printed chamber of CKLVX CK2V is carefully chosen and precisely placed to achieve a truly high-fidelity sound experience.
As a multi-driver hybrid IEM, we at Aural Cafe understand the critical role of crossover design. We're pleased to inform our readers and fellow audiophiles that the MYER Audio team has incorporated a high-quality, four-way frequency crossover design in the MYER AUDIO CKLVX CK2V. This advanced crossover system ensures each driver within the precisely 3d-printed acoustic chamber of the CKLVX CK2V delivers its full potential. The professionally designed four-way frequency crossover in the CKLVX CK2V utilises four independent acoustic tubes, creating a precise separation of frequencies. At the heart of this setup is a newly developed 10mm composite bio-diaphragm dynamic driver, tuned for powerful, deep-diving bass. Complementing this are dual Knowles balanced armature (BA) drivers and two custom BA drivers, carefully tuned for accurate midrange response and an extended high-frequency range. Additionally, the custom composite dual micro-planar driver setup handles the treble, intending to deliver clear and detailed highs.
According to the MYER Audio team, this combination of three distinct driver technologies is further acoustically adjusted and precisely tuned to achieve a unique smooth sound profile, featuring a fun, impactful bass boost in the lows, balanced mids, and crisp highs, making it a versatile choice which will work effortlessly with different genres of music.
Specifications: -
As you can see from our unboxing video (), the MYER AUDIO CKLVX CK2V arrived in a medium-sized black colour cardboard box covered with a white colour paper sleeve. In line with MYER AUDIO's minimalistic design philosophy, the front bottom half of the box showcases greenish hues, along with a golden splash offering a sneak peek into the stunning faceplate of the CKLVX CK2V. The model name "CK2V" is elegantly printed in olive colour at the centre top of the sleeve, while the line-up name CKLVX is printed at the top right corner of the sleeve. The back side of the sleeve is surprisingly blank with just a small sticker sticked at the right bottom corner of the sleeve containing the name of the MYER parent company “Shenzhen Meier Technology Co. Ltd.” The right side of the paper sleeve pleasantly surprises with a clean frequency response graph of the CKLVX CK2V IEM. At Aural Cafe, we genuinely appreciate this thoughtful touch, as it provides an immediate insight into the IEM sound profile. On opening the sleeve, we are welcomed with a jet-black cardboard box. On opening the box, we are welcomed by the usual instruction manuals, quality check stickers and white transparent butter paper, on removing which we finally come across the beautiful CKLVX CK2V IEM being placed at the centre top half of the box along with the stock modular cable with the help of the sponge cutout. The bottom half of the box is filled with a round shape, denim blue-collar leather carry case. On opening, we are greeted by the stock ear tips and the 4.4 mm plug for the modular cable of the CKLVX CK2V. Overall, the unboxing experience is refreshingly minimalistic yet highly functional. We at Aural Cafe especially loved the greenish and golden artistic hues being printed at the top half of the sleeve, which gives us a pleasant preview of the CKLVX CK2V stunning artistic faceplate and the idea of sticking the frequency response graph of CKLVX CK2V on the right side of the sleeve. We at Aural Cafe believe this simple yet effective approach sets a great example for other hi-fi brands to follow, offering a valuable, first-hand preview of the IEM's sound tonality.
When it comes to design language, let's first apprise our readers and fellow audiophiles with the design language of CKLVX CK2V IEM. Staying true to the simple yet functional aesthetic of the overall package, the CKLVX CK2V features black colour shells crafted from medical-grade resin, which is complemented by the usual metallic nozzles. The MYER AUDIO team has used high precision 3d printing technology to design comfortable ear shells for CKLVX CK2V. The unique round shape vents can be seen on the sides of the IEM shells, optimising the air pressure inside the IEM. When it comes to the faceplate, the faceplate design of CKLVX CK2V is truly stunning. The CKLVX CK2V IEM boasts a striking greenish faceplate with golden hues, inspired by the enchanting glow of the first rays of sunlight filtering through a forest. This artistic design is further accentuated by an auxiliary metallic frame, adding a distinctive texture that elevates the overall aesthetics of the CKLVX CK2V to a whole new level. The faceplate of CK2V also features the lineup name, which was CKLVX, in elegant golden colour shining elegantly.
The CKLVX CK2V comes with a premium hand-braided modular cable, a feature rarely seen in IEMs at this price range. The hand-braided stock SPC cable is made using four strands of 12 0.08mm high-purity copper silver-plated cores featuring durable 2-pin 0.78mm connectors and replaceable 3.5 mm+4.4 mm termination plugs. The stock cable features a brownish translucent PVC cover that beautifully merges with the greenish faceplate of the CKLVX CK2V IEM. When it comes to the ergonomics of the cable, we are happy to inform our audiophile friends that the cable has just the right flexibility and weight, which would help while listening to music on the go. We would also like to add here that we didn’t come across any kind of microphonics during our testing and review of CKLVX CK2V IEM. All in all, we at Aural Cafe are decently satisfied with the stock modular cable of the CKLVX CK2V IEM, considering the price. When it comes to ear tips, the CKLVX CK2V comes with three pairs of silicone white colour narrow bore ear tips and three pairs of silicone black colour narrow bore ear tips in standard S, M, L sizes. Additionally, it includes a pair of medium-sized, wide-bore foam ear tips, demonstrating MYER Audio's commitment to accommodating a wide range of audiophile preferences. When it comes to the difference between the white and black colour silicone ear tips, the white colour has a thicker stem in comparison to the stem of the black colour narrow bore silicone ear tips.
When it comes to fit, we are decently impressed with CKLVX CK2V's ergonomic, optimally sized shells, which should provide a comfortable fit for most audiophiles around the world. In terms of sound isolation, the design offers a decent level of passive isolation, effectively minimising external noise for a more immersive listening experience.
Overall, we at Aural Cafe are thoroughly impressed by MYER AUDIO's thoughtful approach. They've prioritised delivering a high-quality IEM with a stunning faceplate, premium modular cable, high-grade leather carry case, and a generous selection of durable silicone ear tips – a rare combination at this price point. We at Aural Cafe are also happy to see that, rather than investing in flashy packaging, the MYER AUDIO team has focused on maximising the value of the MYER AUDIO CKLVX CK2V, striking a solid balance between quality and affordability.
Sound Analysis: -
The sound impression of MYER AUDIO CKLVX CK2V is drawn after pairing it with the stock cable and narrow bore white silicone ear tips, in the company of a solid, neutral DAP. We decided to go with the stock narrow bore white silicone ear tips out of the stock silicone and foam ear tips, as we felt that it sounded correct and it's best with narrow bore white silicone ear tips. These impressions were formed after the recommended 50-hour burn-in period, as advised by the MYER AUDIO team. For insight into the impact of alternative ear tips, cables, and sources on sound quality, please refer to the 'Synergy’ section.
Credits: @atechreviews
Conclusion: -
The MYER CKLVX CK2V stands out as a well-rounded hybrid IEM that effectively blends cutting-edge driver technologies, including a dynamic driver, balanced armatures, and dual micro planar drivers, delivering a versatile and engaging sound signature. With its carefully tuned low end, textured mids, and refined highs, it strikes a satisfying balance between musicality and technical accuracy. After reviewing CKLVX CK2V, we at Aural Cafe feel that the MYER Audio has carefully tuned every spectrum of the sound frequency to present an IEM that can be used for monitoring as well as for listening to music for fun while on the go. The MYER Audio team seems to have tuned each spectrum of the sound frequency in a ‘Right’ Manner rather than overpowering a specific part of the sound frequency. Although MYER Audio CKLVX CK2V scales impressively with quality sources, revealing its full potential in terms of soundstage depth and tonal richness, we at Aural Cafe would definitely love it if MYER Audio CKLVX CK2V could showcase a better mid-bass punch and a more refined upper mids. But all said, priced at a competitive $189, MYER Audio CKLVX CK2V does offer exceptional value with premium build quality, a striking faceplate design, and a thoughtfully assembled accessory package. For audiophiles seeking a versatile, detail-rich IEM that doesn't break the bank, the MYER CKLVX CK2V is a compelling choice worth serious consideration.
Non-Affiliated Links:-
https://hifigo.com/products/myer-audio-cklvx-ck2v?variant=46248251719919
DISCLAIMER: MYER AUDIO CKLVX CK2V was sent to us free of charge by the MYER AUDIO team for review. We at Aural Cafe are super excited about this being our first collaboration with MYER AUDIO. We would like to take this opportunity to humbly thank the MYER AUDIO team for their support to Aural Cafe.
Introduction: -
Today at Aural Cafe, we are reviewing MYER AUDIO CKLVX CK2V, a unique hybrid IEM featuring a single 10mm Custom Dynamic Driver along with 4 Balanced Armature and 2 Micro Planar drivers. With a hybrid setup, CKLVX CK2V is the first IEM from the house of MYER AUDIO featuring micro planar drivers.
MYER AUDIO is a Shenzhen, China-based hi-fi Audio brand under the parenthood of Shenzhen Meier Technology Co. Ltd. With over two decades of industry experience and strong connections with top hi-fi brands, MYER AUDIO is a premium hi-fi audio brand dedicated to innovation and craftsmanship. Founded in 2021, MYER Audio has been successful in creating a unique space for itself by presenting hi-fi, precisely tuned to IEMs, at a competitive price range. We at Aural Cafe first came to know about MYER AUDIO while we were checking out Crinacle's review of Myer Audio SLIIVO SL-41 Mk2, an IEM with a unique tuning that deviates slightly from the popular ‘meta’ sound signature. While we may not always share Crinacle's perspective, we deeply respect his expertise in the world of in-ear monitors. When someone with his level of insight speaks so highly of MYER AUDIO, it’s a clear signal that this isn’t just another Chinese audio brand, but a standout player with a genuinely unique approach. Currently, MYER Audio focuses primarily on hybrid IEMs, with two distinct lineups – CKLVX and SLIIVO. The brand began its journey with the SL-41 MK1 under the SLIIVO series and, interestingly, also introduced a pure BA model, SLT6, within this lineup. More recently, MYER Audio has expanded its portfolio with new models under the CKLVX lineup. As it stands, the SLIIVO series includes the SL-41 MK2, SLT6, and the newly launched SLA3, while the CKLVX lineup features D6V2, D41, and the recently released CK2V, which we are reviewing at Aural Cafe. While the brand name ‘MYER’ is simple and seems to be inspired by “MY EAR”, the model names such as D6V2, SL-41 MK2, and SLT6 are equally difficult to remember and understand. We at Aural Cafe can decode that the numbers in the model’s name suggest the number of drivers, while the K in the CKLVX series stands for Knowles.
The MYER AUDIO CKLVX CK2V is the latest addition to MYER's CKLVX lineup, boasting a solid seven-driver hybrid setup on each side. It features a very capable 10mm bio-composite diaphragm dynamic driver, four high-performance balanced armature drivers, including two from Knowles and two custom-developed units and a composite dual micro-planar driver unit. What sets the CK2V apart is that it’s the first IEM from the house of MYER AUDIO to incorporate micro planar drivers, thereby adding a unique twist to their lineup. Priced at $189, it is available exclusively with a greenish faceplate and comes with a solid hand-braided modular cable. As per the MYER Audio team, each driver inside the professionally designed 3d-printed chamber of CKLVX CK2V is carefully chosen and precisely placed to achieve a truly high-fidelity sound experience.
As a multi-driver hybrid IEM, we at Aural Cafe understand the critical role of crossover design. We're pleased to inform our readers and fellow audiophiles that the MYER Audio team has incorporated a high-quality, four-way frequency crossover design in the MYER AUDIO CKLVX CK2V. This advanced crossover system ensures each driver within the precisely 3d-printed acoustic chamber of the CKLVX CK2V delivers its full potential. The professionally designed four-way frequency crossover in the CKLVX CK2V utilises four independent acoustic tubes, creating a precise separation of frequencies. At the heart of this setup is a newly developed 10mm composite bio-diaphragm dynamic driver, tuned for powerful, deep-diving bass. Complementing this are dual Knowles balanced armature (BA) drivers and two custom BA drivers, carefully tuned for accurate midrange response and an extended high-frequency range. Additionally, the custom composite dual micro-planar driver setup handles the treble, intending to deliver clear and detailed highs.
According to the MYER Audio team, this combination of three distinct driver technologies is further acoustically adjusted and precisely tuned to achieve a unique smooth sound profile, featuring a fun, impactful bass boost in the lows, balanced mids, and crisp highs, making it a versatile choice which will work effortlessly with different genres of music.
Specifications: -
- Driver Configuration: 10mm Custom Dynamic Driver+Four Balanced Armature Drivers+ Custom Composite Dual Micro Planar Drivers
- Impedance: 40Ω ± 5%
- Freq Response: 5Hz-40Khz
- Connector Type: 0.78mm 2-Pin
- Sensitivity: 108 dB/mW @1kHz
- Cable: Silver-plated Copper Cable with Gold-Plated 3.5mm + 4.4mm plugs
As you can see from our unboxing video (), the MYER AUDIO CKLVX CK2V arrived in a medium-sized black colour cardboard box covered with a white colour paper sleeve. In line with MYER AUDIO's minimalistic design philosophy, the front bottom half of the box showcases greenish hues, along with a golden splash offering a sneak peek into the stunning faceplate of the CKLVX CK2V. The model name "CK2V" is elegantly printed in olive colour at the centre top of the sleeve, while the line-up name CKLVX is printed at the top right corner of the sleeve. The back side of the sleeve is surprisingly blank with just a small sticker sticked at the right bottom corner of the sleeve containing the name of the MYER parent company “Shenzhen Meier Technology Co. Ltd.” The right side of the paper sleeve pleasantly surprises with a clean frequency response graph of the CKLVX CK2V IEM. At Aural Cafe, we genuinely appreciate this thoughtful touch, as it provides an immediate insight into the IEM sound profile. On opening the sleeve, we are welcomed with a jet-black cardboard box. On opening the box, we are welcomed by the usual instruction manuals, quality check stickers and white transparent butter paper, on removing which we finally come across the beautiful CKLVX CK2V IEM being placed at the centre top half of the box along with the stock modular cable with the help of the sponge cutout. The bottom half of the box is filled with a round shape, denim blue-collar leather carry case. On opening, we are greeted by the stock ear tips and the 4.4 mm plug for the modular cable of the CKLVX CK2V. Overall, the unboxing experience is refreshingly minimalistic yet highly functional. We at Aural Cafe especially loved the greenish and golden artistic hues being printed at the top half of the sleeve, which gives us a pleasant preview of the CKLVX CK2V stunning artistic faceplate and the idea of sticking the frequency response graph of CKLVX CK2V on the right side of the sleeve. We at Aural Cafe believe this simple yet effective approach sets a great example for other hi-fi brands to follow, offering a valuable, first-hand preview of the IEM's sound tonality.
When it comes to design language, let's first apprise our readers and fellow audiophiles with the design language of CKLVX CK2V IEM. Staying true to the simple yet functional aesthetic of the overall package, the CKLVX CK2V features black colour shells crafted from medical-grade resin, which is complemented by the usual metallic nozzles. The MYER AUDIO team has used high precision 3d printing technology to design comfortable ear shells for CKLVX CK2V. The unique round shape vents can be seen on the sides of the IEM shells, optimising the air pressure inside the IEM. When it comes to the faceplate, the faceplate design of CKLVX CK2V is truly stunning. The CKLVX CK2V IEM boasts a striking greenish faceplate with golden hues, inspired by the enchanting glow of the first rays of sunlight filtering through a forest. This artistic design is further accentuated by an auxiliary metallic frame, adding a distinctive texture that elevates the overall aesthetics of the CKLVX CK2V to a whole new level. The faceplate of CK2V also features the lineup name, which was CKLVX, in elegant golden colour shining elegantly.
The CKLVX CK2V comes with a premium hand-braided modular cable, a feature rarely seen in IEMs at this price range. The hand-braided stock SPC cable is made using four strands of 12 0.08mm high-purity copper silver-plated cores featuring durable 2-pin 0.78mm connectors and replaceable 3.5 mm+4.4 mm termination plugs. The stock cable features a brownish translucent PVC cover that beautifully merges with the greenish faceplate of the CKLVX CK2V IEM. When it comes to the ergonomics of the cable, we are happy to inform our audiophile friends that the cable has just the right flexibility and weight, which would help while listening to music on the go. We would also like to add here that we didn’t come across any kind of microphonics during our testing and review of CKLVX CK2V IEM. All in all, we at Aural Cafe are decently satisfied with the stock modular cable of the CKLVX CK2V IEM, considering the price. When it comes to ear tips, the CKLVX CK2V comes with three pairs of silicone white colour narrow bore ear tips and three pairs of silicone black colour narrow bore ear tips in standard S, M, L sizes. Additionally, it includes a pair of medium-sized, wide-bore foam ear tips, demonstrating MYER Audio's commitment to accommodating a wide range of audiophile preferences. When it comes to the difference between the white and black colour silicone ear tips, the white colour has a thicker stem in comparison to the stem of the black colour narrow bore silicone ear tips.
When it comes to fit, we are decently impressed with CKLVX CK2V's ergonomic, optimally sized shells, which should provide a comfortable fit for most audiophiles around the world. In terms of sound isolation, the design offers a decent level of passive isolation, effectively minimising external noise for a more immersive listening experience.
Overall, we at Aural Cafe are thoroughly impressed by MYER AUDIO's thoughtful approach. They've prioritised delivering a high-quality IEM with a stunning faceplate, premium modular cable, high-grade leather carry case, and a generous selection of durable silicone ear tips – a rare combination at this price point. We at Aural Cafe are also happy to see that, rather than investing in flashy packaging, the MYER AUDIO team has focused on maximising the value of the MYER AUDIO CKLVX CK2V, striking a solid balance between quality and affordability.
Sound Analysis: -
The sound impression of MYER AUDIO CKLVX CK2V is drawn after pairing it with the stock cable and narrow bore white silicone ear tips, in the company of a solid, neutral DAP. We decided to go with the stock narrow bore white silicone ear tips out of the stock silicone and foam ear tips, as we felt that it sounded correct and it's best with narrow bore white silicone ear tips. These impressions were formed after the recommended 50-hour burn-in period, as advised by the MYER AUDIO team. For insight into the impact of alternative ear tips, cables, and sources on sound quality, please refer to the 'Synergy’ section.
Credits: @atechreviews
- Tonality: - After testing CKLVX CK2V with several hi-fi DAPs and dongles across different genres of music, we at Aural Cafe like to state that the tonality of the CKLVX CK2V leans towards a balanced sound signature, which is neither overly warm nor musical nor too neutral and analytical. The sound tonality of CKLVX CK2V ends up hitting a sweet middle spot, presenting a unique balanced sound signature which is immersive and versatile enough to complement a wide genre of soundtracks. The 10mm composite bio-diaphragm dynamic driver ends up boosting the low end, which in turn ends up adding a subtle warmth and soul to the overall sound tonality of the IEM. We at Aural Cafe also feel that the stock silver-plated copper cable plays a decent role in adding a subtle warmth and soul to the overall sound tonality of the CKLVX CK2V. The mids are precisely balanced and reference especially the female vocals, which are full of soul and emotion, while the highs are decently smooth and airy without any kind of shoutiness. The four-way crossover is beautifully implemented by the MYER Audio team as the cohesiveness between the different driver tech is solid and smooth, while when it comes to clarity, the CKLVX CK2V exudes top-notch overall clarity across the sound frequency. When it comes to timbre, musical instruments such as kick drum, bass guitar and snare drum, which cater mostly to lows, showcase life-like feel and texture, while the timbre of musical instruments such as saxophone and trumpet is average at best. When it comes to the detail retrieval ability of CKLVX CK2V, the micro details come out more smoothly without being on the surface. As CKLVX CK2V showcase a unique balanced sound signature, it can go with any genre of soundtrack, but when it comes to us, we at Aural Cafe enjoyed listening to popular pop and electronic music, especially ‘Faded’ by Alan Walker, with MYER CKLVX CK2V at the helm.
- Lows: - The lows of CKLVX CK2V are tastefully tuned using the 10mm bio-composite diaphragm dynamic driver, which we have previously seen being implemented in some IEMs from the house of Penon and Yanyin Audio. The lows of CKLVX CK2V are carefully boosted by the MYER Audio team to make the overall sound quality a bit fun and foot-tapping, and also to add a subtle warmth and musicality across the sound frequency. The CKLVX CK2V showcase high-quality lows that exude just the right mix of deep sub-bass rumble and tight clean mid-bass. The precisely tuned clean mid-bass doesn’t end up adding any kind of muddiness to the mid region. When it comes to Subbass, the CKLVX CK2V showcases a high-quality subbass in terms of both quantity and quality. The subbass is precisely boosted and exudes firm rumble and resonance along with immersive depth and elasticity. We at Aural Cafe also loved the agile and foot-tapping transients of CKLVX CK2V. We at Aural Cafe especially enjoyed the sub-bass rumble while listening to “The Hills” by The Weeknd. When it comes to mid-bass, the CKLVX CK2V showcases a tight and clean mid-bass with top-notch dynamics and right speed. Mid-bass is on the quicker side of things, but still retains great definition and slam for a satisfying experience. A basshead might ask for a punchier mid-bass, but we at Aural Cafe were quite satisfied by the mid-bass punch, which we thoroughly enjoyed while listening to “Bury a Friend” by Billie Eilish. When it comes to timbre of musical instruments in this part of the frequency, the instruments such as bass guitar and kick drums showcase a life-like timbre, which we thoroughly enjoyed while listening to “Secrets” by The Weeknd.
- Mids: - The Mids region of CKLVX CK2V is discerningly tuned using a combination of four balanced armature drivers, which includes two BAs from Knowles, while the remaining two BAs are custom-developed by the MYER Audio team. Thanks to its precisely tuned mid-bass, the CKLVX CK2V delivers a clean midrange with a touch of warmth. When it comes to the positioning of the mids, the CKLVX CK2V showcase a well-positioned mids neither recessed nor overly forward, maintaining a perfectly balanced presence. The balanced midrange positioning of the CKLVX CK2V accurately reflects the vocalist's placement, staying true to the original recording. This precision makes it a reliable choice for budding sound designers and producers looking for a solid, monitor-friendly IEM. When it comes to Vocals the CKLVX CK2V evince a very textured and clean vocals with lots of soul and feel both in case of male and female vocalist but we at Aural cafe feels that the female vocals takes a comfortable lead against male vocals when it comes to vocal texture which we thoroughly enjoyed while listening to “I Love You” by Billie Eilish and “White Flag” by Dido. The vocals also exude precise and accurate note weight with CKLVX CK2V at the helm. The low treble stays stable with the right body, while the upper mids of CKLVX CK2V are just average at best. The upper mids of CKLVX CK2V lack energy and excitement and thereby have room for improvement. When it comes to the timbre of the instruments in this range of sound frequency, instruments such as trumpets and saxophones deliver just average texture at best. All in all, the CKLVX CK2V delivers a clean and emotional midrange, but we at Aural Cafe would love to see a bit more exciting upper mids.
- Highs: - The Highs of CKLVX CK2V are precisely tuned using Custom Composite Dual Micro Planar Drivers. The CKLVX CK2V delivers smooth, refined and airy highs without any hint of harshness, all thanks to the thoughtful implementation of Dual Micro Planar Drivers. The in-trend micro planar drivers are well known to deliver refined, smooth highs without the need of a powerful source, and we at Aural Cafe loved the decision of the MYER Audio team to go with dual micro planar drivers to tune the Highs of CKLVX CK2V. The micro details are not on face but come in a much organic way with CKLVX CK2V at helm. The overall highs are quite resolved and refined. The highs have decent air, which adds a sufficient amount of excitement while listening to “In Your Eyes” by Weekend feat Kenny G version. The upper treble has sufficient body, thanks to the dual micro planar driver, and sounds truly reference. The highs are not overdone and tuned to complement the overall balanced tonality of the CKLVX CK2V, which we thoroughly enjoyed while listening to “Seven Nation Army” by the White Stripes.
- Soundstage & Imaging: - The CKLVX CK2V delivers an open, spacious and immersive sound stage. The sound stage is quite similar in terms of both width and depth. Since the CKLVX CK2V features dynamic and micro planar drivers, the sound stage of CKLVX CK2V reaches another level when CKLVX CK2V is driven by solid hi-fi portable and desktop sources. The layering is nothing special and is decent while considering the price. At Aural Cafe, we experienced that the burn-in period of fifty hours not only enhanced the overall sound stage but also refined the CKLVX CK2V's layering capabilities, which we thoroughly enjoyed while listening to “Numb” and “In the End” by Linkin Park. There is a lot of air all across the frequencies with excellent separation between instruments. The CKLVX CK2V easily differentiates between the bad and well-mastered soundtrack, which can help a lot with monitoring purposes. At Aural Cafe, we are impressed with how the MYER Audio team has integrated three distinct driver technologies in a way that blends their unique characteristics so seamlessly, it feels like listening to a single-driver IEM. When it comes to imaging, the imaging capability of CKLVX CK2V is just decent and nothing out of the world, but we at Aural Cafe are sufficiently satisfied by the overall technical prowess of CKLVX CK2V and relished while listening to “Zariya” composed by AR Rahman for Coke Studio India with CKLVX CK2V.
- Synergy: - Given that the CKLVX CK2V features a dynamic driver alongside a pair of micro planar drivers, we at Aural Cafe recommend at least 50 hours of burn-in to unlock its full potential. After this period, the tonality becomes noticeably more musical and soulful, with significant improvements in low elasticity and Sound stage width and depth. In terms of driveability, we're pleased to report that the MYER Audio CKLVX CK2V is relatively easy to drive, performing well even with basic dongles. However, due to its dynamic and micro planar drivers, which love clean power, CKLVX CK2V truly shines and scales impressively when paired with hi-fi portable or desktop sources, delivering a phenomenal listening experience. As we at Aural Cafe truly believe in source matching, we matched CKLVX CK2V with many DAPs cables and ear tips to get the best out of CKLVX CK2V. We tested CKLVX CK2V with several hi-fi portable daps and desktop sources such as Astell and Kern SP1000M, Dethonray Prelude, DTR 1+ LE, Listening M1, and Clarinet, as well as with Aune M1p and iFi Audio ZEN 3 DAC/Amp stack. Surprisingly, we CKLVX CK2V matched really well with clean and powerful neutral sources such as Dethonray DTR 1+ Limited edition. It also matched decently well with clean desktop sources such as AUNE S17 Pro and iFi Audio ZEN 3 DAC/Amp Stack. The subbass came out highly elastic while the mid-bass punch improved when CKLVX CK2V is driven by capable hi-fi sources such as Dethonray DTR 1+ Limited edition, Dethonray Listening M1, AUNE S17 Pro and iFi ZEN 3 DAC/Amp Stack. We would also like to communicate that the sound stage improved a lot when CKLVX CK2V is matched with above mentioned hi-fi sources When it comes to portable dongle which is so much in trend we tested CKLVX CK2V with a lines of dongles such as iFi Audio GO Link Max, Go Bar Kensei, Aune Yuki, and felt that CKLVX CK2V matched at its best with Neutral Aune Yuki and Go Bar Kensei. When it comes to cables, we would start by stating that the stock cable is just decent and goes well with the balanced sound tonality of the CKLVX CK2V. Although it doesn’t make any financial sense, we at Aural Cafe matched CKLVX CK2V with many aftermarket cables from hi-fi cable brands such as Linum, PW Audio, Rhapsodio, and Linksmith and felt that the CKLVX CK2V matches at its best with Linksmith Fire Rock Poison cable, which features copper cores. The subbass depth as well as the mid-bass punch of KLVX CK2V improved with Linksmith fire rock poison at helm, and thereby like to suggest matching CKLVX CK2V with either a Solid SPC or Copper cable. When it comes to ear tips, the stock white colour narrow bore silicone ear tips showcased a more open and spacious sound experience in comparison with the stock narrow bore silicone ear tips. But we at Aural Cafe didn’t like the stock foam ear tips, as they totally squeezed out the soul from the sound quality of the CKLVX CK2V. We also tested CKLVX CK2V with a number of aftermarket ear tips from brands such as Spinfit, Divinus, Symbio, Linksmith, Epro and felt that CKLVX CK2V sounded “Right” and at its best with Spin Fit CP145 and E-pro propeller Ear tips, which enhanced CKLVX CK2V lows, depth and soundstage width and depth without affecting the overall sound tonality of the CKLVX CK2V.
Conclusion: -
The MYER CKLVX CK2V stands out as a well-rounded hybrid IEM that effectively blends cutting-edge driver technologies, including a dynamic driver, balanced armatures, and dual micro planar drivers, delivering a versatile and engaging sound signature. With its carefully tuned low end, textured mids, and refined highs, it strikes a satisfying balance between musicality and technical accuracy. After reviewing CKLVX CK2V, we at Aural Cafe feel that the MYER Audio has carefully tuned every spectrum of the sound frequency to present an IEM that can be used for monitoring as well as for listening to music for fun while on the go. The MYER Audio team seems to have tuned each spectrum of the sound frequency in a ‘Right’ Manner rather than overpowering a specific part of the sound frequency. Although MYER Audio CKLVX CK2V scales impressively with quality sources, revealing its full potential in terms of soundstage depth and tonal richness, we at Aural Cafe would definitely love it if MYER Audio CKLVX CK2V could showcase a better mid-bass punch and a more refined upper mids. But all said, priced at a competitive $189, MYER Audio CKLVX CK2V does offer exceptional value with premium build quality, a striking faceplate design, and a thoughtfully assembled accessory package. For audiophiles seeking a versatile, detail-rich IEM that doesn't break the bank, the MYER CKLVX CK2V is a compelling choice worth serious consideration.
Non-Affiliated Links:-
https://hifigo.com/products/myer-audio-cklvx-ck2v?variant=46248251719919
jbfps116
I agree sometimes the vocals can sound just a hair recessed compared to what I’d prefer, but overall, this IEM ranked second best I own! It’s insanely smooth and professionally fun. Bass is best I’ve heard. Period. It’s like a massive stage subwoofer.
CKLVX CK2V: 93/100. S-tier.
The CK2V IEM is truly one of the most stunning sets I've encountered, ever. It's like this IEM was made for me! This is what I EXPECT out of EXPENSIVE sets.
~VALUE
I paid around $140 for the CK2V, although the current price is closer to $200 on AliExpress. I would easily pay full price in the blink of an eye if my set was lost or stolen. For the price I paid, it is a complete steal.
~Accessories (Cable, Tips, etc.) and fit
The CK2V comes with one of the best stock cables I've seen. It's modular for 4.4 or 3.3mm connections, and it's even branded with the "CKLVX" and "CK2V" names.
The stock ear tips that come pre-fitted (with additional sizes included) which seem similar to Final E tips, fit me PERFECTLY. Other than some KZ sets, the CK2V is the only IEM that fit me perfectly out of the box. Truly impressive! They also included anther complete set of very nice tips in a different style. So you get two full sets of very nice tips, and I'm talking tips that are usually purchased as UPGRADES: but the CK2V has them included in the box!
The dark blue leather case is royally outfitted with blue velvet lining, and a golden zipper. I don't usually use IEM cases, but I'm keeping this one!
The CK2V is very comfortable and the shells are on the small side of medium. They seem very compact containing 1DD, 4BA, and 2 micro-planars!
~Sound summary
The CK2V is stunning. It's professional. It's highly competent and fun. It has a fairly grand stage, although not the largest stage I've ever heard on an IEM.
~Bass
Immediately, you will notice the authoritative, punchy bass. These are about at my upper limit of bass for what I'd consider sounding correct across genres. (Occasionally, I think the bass might be a hair too punchy for some songs, but this is a real nitpick, at least for me.
The bass isn't merely elevated: it's supremely rich, DEEP, and clean! It gives a subwoofer-like quality to the sub-bass that reminds me more of huge stage subwoofer, and the overall staging of the IEM supports this grand sound. Like, you can hear the stage in the bass. (If that makes any sense.) It's quite possibly my favorite bass response out of all my IEMs. The Jomo Nautilus' bass might be even cleaner and textured, but it's not as elevated as on the CK2V, and I sure don't prefer my sub-bass rolled-off!
However, the bass doesn't bleed into the mids. It doesn't have an overly warm sound to it either. The tonality is rich but clean enough to hear the bass details. Kickdrums sound FULL and well, they KICK like they're supposed to. The bass is snappy and punchy when required, and can really jump on your eardrums at times! It also hits down into your core in the lowest notes. When I was growing up, to me, the sign of a premium audio set-up is deep, powerful bass, so I still tend to judge IEMs by that prejudice. I can say, the CK2V delivers bass like I could only dream of as a teen!
~Midrange and vocals
I wouldn't exactly call the midrange recessed, but it's not as elevated as the bass or treble, so on some occasions, some vocals might not sound as forward as some might prefer. Now, the vocals are expertly done, and sound very natural, male and female. Vocals that are prone to sibilance... are about 95% sibilant-free. It's surprising when I hear tracks that I KNOW have grating sibilance, sound quite smooth and pleasing. Now I'm not going to say there's NEVER sibilance, but it's almost entirely gone for most vocals I've been listening to.
Midrange tonality is not warm, but not too clean and clinical either. It's detailed, like everything on this IEM, and sounds just RIGHT. Not just right, but pleasing. That being said, I'd say the midrange is the weakest link in this IEM, mainly because I'd prefer the vocals to be a touch more elevated or emphasized, however, the vocals are STAGED well, and maybe ultimately, it's a better way to tune them.
~Treble
The treble is well-extended, and not rolled-off like so many current sets. Some may dislike this tuning, but I LOVE it! I don't personally find it to be fatiguing. It brings air and detail to the music, and helps balance out that deep bass!
There's not much more for me to add here: the treble is clear, detailed, airy, and pleasing to my ears, yet I'd also consider it quite musical. I've heard DRY and metallic BA treble, and this isn't that. Cymbals are clear and high above the mix. Guitars are clear and detailed.
~Soundstage
The CK2V isn't a stage miracle. Off the top of my head, the Nautilus with its BC vent is still tops for me... The Kiwi Ears Aether is also amazing with stage. But the CK2V's stage is very well-done, and fairly wide and deep. The stage-sub bass helps with the effect, as does the delicate treble air.
~Note Texture
The Nautilus is KING in this department, but the CK2V does just fine... It's not the most gritty, incisive sound, but certainly doesn't sound dull or blunt, not in any stretch of the imagination.
~Comparisons??
While I could compare the CK2V to some of my other mid-fi sets, honestly, it sounds so good that it would be a little unfair to the others. The ISN H60 is still king in midrange magic, the Nautilus is still king in [even brighter] treble perfection and mind-blowing stage, the dynamic, fun Zhewuyusheng Trinity might be a bit dethroned now, because the CK2V's tonality is just spot-on, the Penon Fan 3 can't compete in the bass, but the vocals and midrange might also be better... the Pula PA02 is dryer in treble sound, so I think the CK2V would replace it.* The ivipQ Phoenixia has been getting some buzz lately, but I can say they pale in comparison to the CK2V, at least to my ears.
~Conclusion
The CKLVX CK2V is truly the best bargain for the price that I've EVER encountered in the IEM world. I think they sound WAY more premium than most other sets I've tried.
The accessories and cable are premium as well, further cementing its place as the second-best IEM I've ever heard!
Disclaimer: I'm NOT an audio professional, and do NOT use IEMs for any professional use. My thoughts are merely my personal opinion, and I was not paid to share them.
*Testing the PA02 directly after the CK2V, I can say the vocals on the PA02 are more elevated, something I LIKE. That being said, I don't think the overall sound is quite as professionally detailed as the CK2V. Assuming the PA02 is also made by Meyer Audio, it makes sense that the CK2V is an evolution in sound quality, because I still consider the PA02 to be a VERY impressive IEM, but it's an older model.
The CK2V IEM is truly one of the most stunning sets I've encountered, ever. It's like this IEM was made for me! This is what I EXPECT out of EXPENSIVE sets.
~VALUE
I paid around $140 for the CK2V, although the current price is closer to $200 on AliExpress. I would easily pay full price in the blink of an eye if my set was lost or stolen. For the price I paid, it is a complete steal.
~Accessories (Cable, Tips, etc.) and fit
The CK2V comes with one of the best stock cables I've seen. It's modular for 4.4 or 3.3mm connections, and it's even branded with the "CKLVX" and "CK2V" names.
The stock ear tips that come pre-fitted (with additional sizes included) which seem similar to Final E tips, fit me PERFECTLY. Other than some KZ sets, the CK2V is the only IEM that fit me perfectly out of the box. Truly impressive! They also included anther complete set of very nice tips in a different style. So you get two full sets of very nice tips, and I'm talking tips that are usually purchased as UPGRADES: but the CK2V has them included in the box!
The dark blue leather case is royally outfitted with blue velvet lining, and a golden zipper. I don't usually use IEM cases, but I'm keeping this one!
The CK2V is very comfortable and the shells are on the small side of medium. They seem very compact containing 1DD, 4BA, and 2 micro-planars!
~Sound summary
The CK2V is stunning. It's professional. It's highly competent and fun. It has a fairly grand stage, although not the largest stage I've ever heard on an IEM.
~Bass
Immediately, you will notice the authoritative, punchy bass. These are about at my upper limit of bass for what I'd consider sounding correct across genres. (Occasionally, I think the bass might be a hair too punchy for some songs, but this is a real nitpick, at least for me.
The bass isn't merely elevated: it's supremely rich, DEEP, and clean! It gives a subwoofer-like quality to the sub-bass that reminds me more of huge stage subwoofer, and the overall staging of the IEM supports this grand sound. Like, you can hear the stage in the bass. (If that makes any sense.) It's quite possibly my favorite bass response out of all my IEMs. The Jomo Nautilus' bass might be even cleaner and textured, but it's not as elevated as on the CK2V, and I sure don't prefer my sub-bass rolled-off!
However, the bass doesn't bleed into the mids. It doesn't have an overly warm sound to it either. The tonality is rich but clean enough to hear the bass details. Kickdrums sound FULL and well, they KICK like they're supposed to. The bass is snappy and punchy when required, and can really jump on your eardrums at times! It also hits down into your core in the lowest notes. When I was growing up, to me, the sign of a premium audio set-up is deep, powerful bass, so I still tend to judge IEMs by that prejudice. I can say, the CK2V delivers bass like I could only dream of as a teen!
~Midrange and vocals
I wouldn't exactly call the midrange recessed, but it's not as elevated as the bass or treble, so on some occasions, some vocals might not sound as forward as some might prefer. Now, the vocals are expertly done, and sound very natural, male and female. Vocals that are prone to sibilance... are about 95% sibilant-free. It's surprising when I hear tracks that I KNOW have grating sibilance, sound quite smooth and pleasing. Now I'm not going to say there's NEVER sibilance, but it's almost entirely gone for most vocals I've been listening to.
Midrange tonality is not warm, but not too clean and clinical either. It's detailed, like everything on this IEM, and sounds just RIGHT. Not just right, but pleasing. That being said, I'd say the midrange is the weakest link in this IEM, mainly because I'd prefer the vocals to be a touch more elevated or emphasized, however, the vocals are STAGED well, and maybe ultimately, it's a better way to tune them.
~Treble
The treble is well-extended, and not rolled-off like so many current sets. Some may dislike this tuning, but I LOVE it! I don't personally find it to be fatiguing. It brings air and detail to the music, and helps balance out that deep bass!
There's not much more for me to add here: the treble is clear, detailed, airy, and pleasing to my ears, yet I'd also consider it quite musical. I've heard DRY and metallic BA treble, and this isn't that. Cymbals are clear and high above the mix. Guitars are clear and detailed.
~Soundstage
The CK2V isn't a stage miracle. Off the top of my head, the Nautilus with its BC vent is still tops for me... The Kiwi Ears Aether is also amazing with stage. But the CK2V's stage is very well-done, and fairly wide and deep. The stage-sub bass helps with the effect, as does the delicate treble air.
~Note Texture
The Nautilus is KING in this department, but the CK2V does just fine... It's not the most gritty, incisive sound, but certainly doesn't sound dull or blunt, not in any stretch of the imagination.
~Comparisons??
While I could compare the CK2V to some of my other mid-fi sets, honestly, it sounds so good that it would be a little unfair to the others. The ISN H60 is still king in midrange magic, the Nautilus is still king in [even brighter] treble perfection and mind-blowing stage, the dynamic, fun Zhewuyusheng Trinity might be a bit dethroned now, because the CK2V's tonality is just spot-on, the Penon Fan 3 can't compete in the bass, but the vocals and midrange might also be better... the Pula PA02 is dryer in treble sound, so I think the CK2V would replace it.* The ivipQ Phoenixia has been getting some buzz lately, but I can say they pale in comparison to the CK2V, at least to my ears.
~Conclusion
The CKLVX CK2V is truly the best bargain for the price that I've EVER encountered in the IEM world. I think they sound WAY more premium than most other sets I've tried.
The accessories and cable are premium as well, further cementing its place as the second-best IEM I've ever heard!
Disclaimer: I'm NOT an audio professional, and do NOT use IEMs for any professional use. My thoughts are merely my personal opinion, and I was not paid to share them.
*Testing the PA02 directly after the CK2V, I can say the vocals on the PA02 are more elevated, something I LIKE. That being said, I don't think the overall sound is quite as professionally detailed as the CK2V. Assuming the PA02 is also made by Meyer Audio, it makes sense that the CK2V is an evolution in sound quality, because I still consider the PA02 to be a VERY impressive IEM, but it's an older model.
FreeWheelinAudioLuv2
Excellent first review, and I love that you aren't scared to say you prefer it to the recent underground darling the Phoenixia. That's a nice touch.
jbfps116
Not exactly my first review, but first in quite a while haha.
jbfps116
Some may wonder why I rated them 5
️when I had some slightly negative things to say about it. Here’s my breakdown, I see five stars as 0-20, 21-40, 41-60, 61-80, and 81-100. So if an IEM gets at least an 81/100 in my ranking chart, it should be 5 stars.
️when I had some slightly negative things to say about it. Here’s my breakdown, I see five stars as 0-20, 21-40, 41-60, 61-80, and 81-100. So if an IEM gets at least an 81/100 in my ranking chart, it should be 5 stars.
Disclaimer
Hello everyone! I want to start by letting you know that Myer Audio sent me the CKLVX CK2V to review. I’m not getting paid for this, and they haven’t asked me to say anything specific, check my review before posting, or told me when to publish it.
Everything I share here today is based on my own experience with the CK2V. I always try to be as fair as possible, but we all know that at the end of the day, this is just my opinion, and everyone’s preferences are different, and that's what makes this hobby so awesome and fun!
I really want to thank Myer Audio for giving me the chance to try out the CK2V, and of course, a huge thank you to you, the readers, for taking your time to read this and for your support. It truly means a lot to me!
The full review can also be found on https://mobileaudiophile.com/, via this link
Introduction
Myer Audio has been making a name for itself with some really solid IEMs, and now they’re back with something new, the CKLVX CK2V. This is their latest release (alongside the more budget SLA3) after the CKLVX D62 and a fresh addition to their mid-tier lineup, following the success of the D41 and the SL41 MKII. Priced at $189, the CK2V brings something completely new to the table: it’s Myer Audio’s first IEM to feature micro planar drivers.
With a hybrid setup of 1DD, 4BA, and 2 micro planar drivers in a four-way crossover configuration (1DD+2BA+2BA+2MP), the CK2V promises a detailed and well-extended sound, combining the depth of their amazing dynamic driver, which is also present in the SL41 MKII, the precision of balanced armatures, and the airy and detailed treble of micro planars. That’s an ambitious tuning for this price range, and I was definitely curious to see how it all comes together. So, let’s get into it!
Unboxing the CKLVX CK2V
Opening up the CKLVX CK2V felt familiar but with some nice changes. Unlike the previous Myer Audio releases, which had plain-colored boxes, the CK2V comes in a fresh new design, white with green and gold splash artwork. It looks more eye catching, and as always, Myer Audio includes the frequency response graph on the side, which is a nice touch.
Sliding off the outer sleeve, the inside layout is just like with their previous IEMs. The IEMs are nicely placed in foam cutouts, and under them is the carrying case. The case is the same blue color as the one that came with the SL41 and D62. While it’s well made with nice stitching and a soft interior, I still wish it were bigger. It’s just a bit too small to fit a dongle DAC alongside the IEMs, which would have been great for on the go use.
Inside the case, I found the included eartips. Myer Audio provides three types:
- Silicone tips with a narrow bore in black.
- Silicone tips with a white and turquoise design that reminds me of SpinFits, which has a tilting tip.
- Memory foam tips for better noise isolation.
One of the biggest upgrades here is the cable. It’s a real standout. The dark grey color with the unique patterned design inside gives it a premium look and feel. Unlike the CKLVX D62’s friction fit modular plugs, which were quite hard to detach, Myer Audio has improved things here; the CK2V’s modular system now uses a screw down mechanism, making it much easier to swap between the included 3.5mm and 4.4mm connectors. This is a great upgrade, and one I really appreciate.
And then, of course, there are the IEMs themselves. The CK2V’s build is solid, and the design follows Myer Audio’s signature look, with a nice combination of metal tips and resin shells. The faceplates have a green, goldish design with a gold rim around it, which I really like. The shells are surprisingly small; they are much smaller than the SL41, and they are super comfortable because of it. It's actually amazing how they could fit 7 drivers inside such a small shell.
Overall, the unboxing experience feels simple but well thought out. The new box design is a nice step up, and the cable improvements are awesome. My only real wish is still a bigger carrying case, but other than that, it’s a solid package.
Accessories Included:
- 1x CKLVX CK2V IEM
- 1x Cable (modular), made of 4 strands of 12 each 0.08 high-purity copper silver-plated fibre core
- 1x 3.5mm plug
- 1x 4.4mm plug
- 3x Pairs of silicone tips with narrow bore
- 3x Pairs of silicone tips with tilting tips
- 1x Pair of memory foam tips
- 1x Leather storage case
- 1x User manual
Technical Specifications
Specs
- Driver Setup: 1DD + 4BA + 2 Micro Planar
- Impedance: 40Ω
- Sensitivity: 108dB
- Frequency Response: Not officially specified
- Nozzle Diameter: 6.2mm
- Cable Material: High-purity copper silver-plated
- Cable Length: 1.25m
- Connector: 0.78mm 2-pin
- Plugs: Interchangeable 3.5mm & 4.4mm
- Plug material: 3u gold-plated plugs
Driver Configuration & Crossover
Inside, the CK2V features a tribrid driver setup with a 4-way crossover to ensure each set of drivers operate in their ideal frequency range:
- 1 Dynamic Driver (10mm Bio-Diaphragm DD) – Handles the bass.
- 4 Balanced Armature Drivers (2 Knowles + 2 Custom BAs) – Focus on the mids and highs.
- 2 Micro Planar Drivers – Myer Audio’s first IEM to use micro planars for the ultra-highs.
Sound Performance
Bass
The CK2V delivers some seriously strong bass, and that’s no surprise, as it uses the same 10mm bio-diaphragm dynamic driver as the SL41 MKII and also the new SLA3. This means it’s not just about quantity; the bass is fast, detailed, and well-controlled. It hits hard when needed but doesn’t feel bloated or overpowering. In my opinion, this is one of the best low-end performers in this price range, as I truly feel that it gives a strong "umph" impact while keeping textures clean and nicely layered. It's just a great feeling when the bass goes so low that it shakes my brain; it makes me smile and laugh out of joy whenever the CK2V does it for me.
Mids
The midrange is detailed and clear, thanks to the quality BA drivers. Vocals come through natural and well-textured, but there is a small dip around 4kHz, which slightly reduces the forwardness of the upper mids. It’s not a dealbreaker, but when listening, I sometimes found myself playing with the EQ and trying to boost 4kHz a little to bring vocals more forward while also reducing 5kHz slightly to avoid any potential peakiness. Still, the CK2V does a great job at pushing details toward the listener, making many of my tracks feel engaging and very revealing.
Highs & Ultra-Highs
Treble on the CK2V is very interesting because it’s split into two sections. The highs are detailed, forward, and quite tastefully done, BUT, and there is a quite big "BUT". When it comes to the ultra-highs, where the micro-planar drivers take over, it's just "wow"; they push a ton of detail and air into the sound. On higher volumes, I sometimes felt like it was a bit too much, but it definitely surprised me with just how much micro-detail it could reveal.
For example, in "Deadfall" by Zamilska, around 3 min into the song, there is an open high-hat playing at the back, and without an EQ, it was quite harsh for my ears, and I had to tame down the treble a bit.
To fine-tune it, I tried taming the 15kHz peak and found that a -4dB reduction was the sweet spot for me, as beyond that, I started missing details. But this could also be due to my ear canal shape, so your experience might vary, as everyone has a different shape of ears, and it definitely can change how things sound to you.
Technicalities
This is where the CK2V really shines. The level of detail retrieval is amazing; it pushes every little nuance of the recording to the surface, making it easy to catch tiny background details in tracks that I usually don’t notice with other IEMs this easily.
The soundstage, for me, is quite large, giving everything a nice sense of space, but this one is also quite subjective and does change from person to person. What was also very good for me was the imaging, as I could pinpoint exactly where every sound was coming from without any issues. Whether it’s instruments in a live recording or enemy steps in games, everything is positioned with accuracy.
The layering is also fantastic, and I think the 4-way crossover plays a big role here. Instruments and vocals stay well-separated, and nothing ever feels muddied or overlapping. Everything has its own place on the stage, making it easy to focus on individual elements without the mix getting congested.
CK2V vs. SL41 MKII – Quick Comparison
Price & Build
The SL41 MKII comes in at $156, while the CK2V is priced at $189. That extra cost brings some clear upgrades, especially in size, comfort, and accessories. The CK2V is noticeably smaller, and for me, it’s much more comfortable to wear for long periods. The cable is another big step up. While the SL41 MKII’s cable is already quite premium, the CK2V’s cable takes it to another level in feel, look, modular plug, and overall quality. The eartips have also been improved, giving better quality.
Sound Differences
The main differences in the sound are in the bass and highs, as the mids are pretty identical between the two.
Bass: The CK2V feels like it delivers more bass volume, though I suspect this might be because of the better fit and seal I get with it. Both IEMs use the same 10mm bio-diaphragm dynamic driver, so the tuning and fit likely play a role here. Either way, the CK2V hits a bit harder and feels more impactful for me.
Ultra-Highs: This is where the biggest difference lies. The CK2V’s micro planar drivers push the ultra-highs brighter, airier, and more extended, making it more detailed up top. This brings out more fine details but also comes at a cost. On certain tracks, it can sound a bit sharp and harsh. If you are sensitive to treble, EQ can help tame it a bit.
Overall
The SL41 MKII is still a fantastic option at its price, but the CK2V offers clear upgrades in terms of comfort, accessories, and high-end detail retrieval. It’s a more refined and technical-sounding set, with, for me, stronger bass presence and ultra-highs that extend further. But it might be a bit sharp without some EQ tweaks. If you are looking for a more comfortable, premium-feeling IEM with better treble extension, the CK2V is the way to go.
Conclusion
The CK2V has been a really interesting IEM to test. It takes what Myer Audio has done before and pushes things further, especially in terms of technical performance and detail retrieval.
The bass is strong and detailed, using the same dynamic driver as the SL41 MKII, but it feels like it hits harder. Probably because of the better fit and seal. The mids are clear and well-detailed, though I personally have liked a bit more with the EQ changes that I have made to the 4kHz and 5kHz to make this region a little more forward and at the same time less peaky. The treble is where things really stand out, with the microplanar driver adding a lot of air and extra detail up top. At higher volumes, it can get a bit sharp, but a slight EQ tweak helps balance things out a bit.
Build-wise, the smaller size makes it so comfortable for me, and the cable is a big upgrade over previous models, both in looks and functionality, and in my opinion, it is one of the greatest stock cables that I have seen. The new screw-down modular plug system is a great improvement. My only real complaint is that the carrying case is still too small, and I wish Myer Audio would make it a bit bigger.
For $189, the CK2V delivers strong bass, tons of detail, and a wide, airy soundstage. It leans more towards clarity and technical performance, so if you like a more warm and relaxed sound, it might not be the best fit. But if you’re looking for something detailed, with bright treble, spacious, and well-built, this is a really solid choice.
Where to buy: (Non-affiliated! None of my reviews use affiliated links!)
Myer Audio Official AliExpress Store
Introduction and Disclaimer:
Before I proceed with this review, I want to make a disclaimer that I bought this set with my own money and directly from Myer Audio themselves on AliExpress. All thoughts and opinions are formulated based on my own listening experience with this IEM. 
And a little side note, while this is my 2nd review here it is technically my 3rd. I was originally going to write and publish my review on the KZ Castor Bass brothers but in the end I gave up, however I will be using new elements and methods from the previous review on this one.
In 2024 and 2025, we’ve seen a slew of tribrid IEMs hit the scene and at around the $150-$200+ mark. Sets such as the TRI I3 MK3, EPZ P50, NiceHCK NX8 all received praises for what they bring to the table. Now Myer Audio has also stepped into the ring with their recently launched tribrid IEM which is their first one at that, utilizing a combination of their 10mm custom DD, 2 Knowles BAs for low mids, 2 custom BAs for high mids and finally the ever-growing-in-popularity 2 Micro Planar drivers for the treble. While I am familiar with their other releases such as the D41, SL41 MK2, SLT6, D62 and SLA3, the CK2V is the first set I’ve tried from them. I do hope Myer can come up with a more consistent naming scheme for their IEMs as while I don't have issues remembering all of their names, most people probably couldn't. Originally, I was going to buy the TRI I3 MK3 (again) but decided to try something new, that and there weren’t any reviews of the CK2V in Head-Fi at the time. Thus, this is how I ended up getting it.
A quick read about my tuning preference. Generally, I prefer warm signatures. Hard V, neutral bright or IEMs that follow closely tuned to the Harman target ( specifically IE-2019 V2 ) are generally not my cup of tea. There may be exceptions, but it depends on the execution.
And a little side note, while this is my 2nd review here it is technically my 3rd. I was originally going to write and publish my review on the KZ Castor Bass brothers but in the end I gave up, however I will be using new elements and methods from the previous review on this one.
In 2024 and 2025, we’ve seen a slew of tribrid IEMs hit the scene and at around the $150-$200+ mark. Sets such as the TRI I3 MK3, EPZ P50, NiceHCK NX8 all received praises for what they bring to the table. Now Myer Audio has also stepped into the ring with their recently launched tribrid IEM which is their first one at that, utilizing a combination of their 10mm custom DD, 2 Knowles BAs for low mids, 2 custom BAs for high mids and finally the ever-growing-in-popularity 2 Micro Planar drivers for the treble. While I am familiar with their other releases such as the D41, SL41 MK2, SLT6, D62 and SLA3, the CK2V is the first set I’ve tried from them. I do hope Myer can come up with a more consistent naming scheme for their IEMs as while I don't have issues remembering all of their names, most people probably couldn't. Originally, I was going to buy the TRI I3 MK3 (again) but decided to try something new, that and there weren’t any reviews of the CK2V in Head-Fi at the time. Thus, this is how I ended up getting it.
A quick read about my tuning preference. Generally, I prefer warm signatures. Hard V, neutral bright or IEMs that follow closely tuned to the Harman target ( specifically IE-2019 V2 ) are generally not my cup of tea. There may be exceptions, but it depends on the execution.
Here’s how I rate:
It is separated to 3 categories:- Exterior, packaging, accessories, build quality.
- Comfortability, fit and comfort.
- Interior, sound.
The CK2V will be rated with a score of 1 to 5 with 0.25 intervals (only for the individual segments), with the scores combined from all these 3 aspects. You decide which aspect(s) are more important to you.
: I personally like it, even if it’s not one of the best options for the price range.
: I like it and I believe it is one of the best options for the price range.
: Worthy of a blind buy in my opinion.
Removing the beautiful cover and you’re greeted with a black box, pulling it up reveals the contents of the packaging:
Overall the accessories you get are a bit on the lighter side but they are still quality accessories nonetheless.
: I personally like it, even if it’s not one of the best options for the price range. : I like it and I believe it is one of the best options for the price range. : Worthy of a blind buy in my opinion.Exterior:
Packaging and Accessories: 4/5
The box is no doubt beautiful in its aesthetics, it is simple yet elegant. On the side you can see the frequency response measurement of the CK2V.
Removing the beautiful cover and you’re greeted with a black box, pulling it up reveals the contents of the packaging:
- CKLVX CK2V
- 4 core SPC Cable with modular termination (screw lock), default 3.5mm
- Circular leather carrying case that feels very nice
- 3 pairs of Sony EP-EX11 silicone eartips
- 3 pairs of Spinfit clones(?) silicone eartips
- 1 pair of M size foam eartips
- 4.4mm modular plug
- Manual + Warranty
- QC Pass paper
Overall the accessories you get are a bit on the lighter side but they are still quality accessories nonetheless.
Build Quality and Feel in Hand (IEM): 4.5/5The build is made out of resin, and the faceplate itself is gorgeous. It is a wonderful mix of green, gold, and black with the gold cursive text of “CKLVX” at the bottom is very pleasing to my eyes. The aesthetics are bold enough while not being overly flashy in its presentation, it’s my cup of tea for sure. It is way better than the horribly intrusive looking SLIIVO text found in IEMs under their SLIIVO line cough cough (SL41, SLT6 & SLA3). The CK2V itself is rather light, weighing in at around 5 grams per side (0.011 pounds for the imperialists). However, one minor gripe I have with the CK2V here is the recessed 2 pin ports. It is recessed just enough for standard 2 pin cables to NOT fit, but not recessed enough for recessed 2 pin cables to sit flush with the shell. It’s just my personal opinion, so feel free to disregard that part if you don’t find it mildly annoying like I do.
Build Quality and Feel in Hand (Cable): 4/5As said previously, it is a 4 core Silver Plated Copper cable with a similar or the same screw lock mechanism as you will find on Dunu x GizAudio DaVinci for example. It is a very good cable, it does not tangle, is light, and has an actually working chin slider that can stay in place after you put it at a specific spot. While there is a “CK 2V” writing on the splitter and is more of an eyesore I can look past it, this is overall a very nice cable.
Pairings:
- WM1A with Walkman One, WM1Z tuning and Normal Mode low gain.
- VE Abigail & Tangzu Yin to Samsung S23 (Poweramp) + PC (Foobar2000)
Eartips:
- Stock EP-EX11, L size
- Stock Spinfit clone(?), M size
- NiceHCK C04 Liquid Silicone, M Size
- Dunu S&S, L size (Not recommended, makes the IEM sound weirdly off)
- Zhulinniao Bamboo, L size
- Divinus OG, M size
- Divinus Wide Bore, M size
- Divinus Prism LS, M size
- Penon Orange, M size
- Penon Black, M size
- Final E, M size
Most of my testing was done on the WM1A, as I find the transients and the overall presentation of the CK2V to be somewhat “compressed” while using those 2 dongles.
Comfortability:
Fit and Comfort: 8.5/10
Thanks to the combination of medium sized shells that is also rather light fit and comfort overall is very good. I can easily wear this for hours without any fatigue. It is impressive how they managed to cram this many drivers inside a shell like this. However, due to the way it is designed I don’t advise you putting eartips with short stems in, as it could be too shallow of a fit and making you go one size up. This is an issue I found while using the stock EP-EX11 and while tip rolling (NiceHCK C04, Final E, Zhulinniao Bamboo etc). The nozzle is 6.2mm in diameter, which is around the average size nowadays for many IEMs.
Interior:
Specifications:
- Impedance: 40Ω
- Sensitivity: 108dB
They do require some power, but a decently powerful dongle should be fine. The CK2V does sound better with better sources used but YMMV (your mileage may vary).
Sound Impressions:I will describe the sound signature as more of a U-shape sound, more so on the analytical side as well. It's a fun, contrasty but dry sound no doubt, however this is not a set I will recommend if you want very forward vocals. They are more or less in the middle of the presentation, giving room for the instruments to play alongside. Best way I can describe it is that you’re sitting in a room with the vocalist in front of you and the supporting instruments surrounding you from left, right and front. I personally don’t mind it though. However, this tuning is not without its issues that I’ll get to later while describing the aspects in greater detail.
Graph by ATechReviews on SquigLink.
Bass: 4.5/5There’s a lot of it, close to basshead levels even but it does not muddy the rest of the frequencies. It’s just enough to sound fun. Sub bass goes DEEP and has more presence than mid bass, the texture, impact, and tactility is the highlight for me thanks to the 10mm bio-composite DD they used, something owners or people who have tried the Yanyin Canon will know hard it hits. Decay is on the longer side, and there is also a small glide from the midbass to the lower mids which adds some minor warmth to the sound.
Midrange: 4/5Natural enough, male vocals sound more neutral than thin or rich, with female vocals being similar but has a slightly more engaging factor to it. Both are more so in the middle of the presentation instead of being very forward as described earlier, with female vocals being slightly more forward to my ears. Instruments are clean and sounds good, nothing particularly stand out in my opinion other than I don't really like the way guitar sounds here, they're a bit bloated. The slight warmth from the low mids does make them a bit richer sounding which is a bonus to me. I personally would’ve preferred if the vocals pop out more in the mix.
Treble: 3.75/5In my opinion, the treble is this IEM’s Achilles’ Heel if you can hear greater than 15khz. It’s not bad treble per se, I’d say it’s solid even. There’s nothing wrong with lower or mid treble, it’s just that my main issue with it is that there’s a nasty peak there that (while giving a greater sense of extension, air and technical performance) does emphasize the Micro Planar thinness and zinginess (if that’s even a word) that contributes to a thinner sounding hi-hats and cymbals. I don’t like it. BUT, this is an issue you can fix through EQ by reducing the 15k region by around -2db to -4db. Alternatively, you can simply stick with the stock EP-EX11 as the treble roll off from that particular eartip counteracts the 15khz peak. If you only used that particular eartip on your CK2V, you may not even notice the presence of said peak.
Technical Performance: 4.25/5Soundstage of the CK2V is BIG, but in an unnatural way in my opinion. Here’s how I’ll describe it and give an example of comparison, in the case of the TRI I3 MK3 it does have a big soundstage as well but the projection of things make it sound natural in that regard. There is a black background that keeps things in check. Everything is placed where it should be that contributed to a “natural stage”. In contrast, for CK2V the projection of instruments forcibly takes up all of the available spaces provided by the IEM, causing them to sound more spaced out. Even so, imaging of the CK2V is average at best, not pinpoint accurate but good enough for you to discern the general location of instruments, there is an adequate amount of depth here. Micro-details and macro-details are presented pretty well in the mix though thanks to the tuning and the use of Micro Planar drivers here. Despite my gripes I do think this set works very well for EDM, Hip Hop, instrumentals, orchestra etc.
Timbre: 4/5Not the most natural, it's acceptable and your ears will get used to it quickly in my opinion. There is nothing particularly wrong sounding about it, just reduce the 15khz peak by the amount I specified, and it should sound nicer and less metallic or you can just stick with the stock EP-EX11s.
Conclusion:
Is it good? Sure, especially if you can get it during sales. It’s a solid IEM with tuning quirks that can be mitigated through EQ but not fully, the accessories are good, and I had an overall decently pleasant experience with the CK2V despite its flaws. I do think this is a solid output from Myer Audio, and I hope they can improve with their next releases. Just please be more consistent with the names and ditch the ugly SLIIVO font.
But hey, don’t just take my word for it, I’m just a silly man that stayed in this hobby for too long for my own ( wallet’s ) good. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Final Ratings:
Exterior: 12.5 / 15
Comfortability: 8.5 / 10
Interior: 20.5 / 25
Total Score: 41.5 / 50
Average: 4.15 / 5 with a
Who I recommend this IEM to:
- Bassheads
- V/U shape enjoyers
- You want a medium sized IEM
- You want to hear details
- Willing to EQ to fix the minor quirk with this IEM
- You listen to Orchestra, Instrumentals, Game OSTs etc
Who I don’t recommend this IEM to:
- Neutral and/or bright enjoyers
- Very vocal forward enjoyers
- You're sensitive to 15khz peaks and slight metallic timbre
- You want the best technical performance
- You don't like to EQ
- Your wallet is not deep enough to buy this
Thanks for reading this relatively long review, I hope you find it to be informative enough to convince you to either buy or not buy this IEM. Don't be swayed by an IEM just because not all of its drivers are branded, what matters is the execution of the overall package. If you have any questions then feel free to ask them in the comments.
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RK Turan
100+ Head-Fier
Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V: Gets better with Sources
Pros: Good accessories
Great scalability
Mid Bass
Vocals
Smooth Treble
Cons: Pairing with budget dongles
Treble could have some more sparkle
Gaming Performance
Disclaimer
I got this product as a review unit from Mayer Audio. Except from the review unit, I did not receive money or any other necessities to influence the review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion on Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V. My likes and dislikes on this IEM are based solely on my own personal experience.
Intro
This might be my first review of any Myer audio's product. But it's definitely not the first one that I've tried. Previously I've tried 2 of their CKLVX lineups, D62 followed by D41. Personally, I liked the D62 with a particular source. From their Slivo lineup, I got to try the SLA3. That is a great IEM in terms of price to performance, but it can be superior with minor adjustments.
Before starting the review, I'd like to mention one thing. It was sooo freaking difficult to remember all of their names! Took me more than a month to do so. So I'll keep mentioning their full name, just to flex. Let's get straight into the full review.
Design & Build Quality
The Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V might not the flashiest looking IEM, which meets my personal preferences. The design is on the minimal, yet it will look gorgeous on closer inspection.
The faceplate looks really artistic with the sand-like texture. It has shades of green and golden tone that shines on lights presence. I've reviewed other IEMs with similar glittery effects, except the shining on this particular set is quite minimal.
The lower part of the faceplate has the model's branding with a bright golden hue, which actually adds up to the overall aesthetics of this IEM. The outer part of the shell has a golden border, a bit muted than the text to create contrast.
The inner side of the shell look pitched black, like most other IEMs in the market. The left and right indicators are quite large on them. The nozzle is metal built. The vent for the dynamic driver is on topside of the shell, beside the 2 pin connectors.
The stock cable of CK2V is durable and has a smooth finish on the overall cable. The termination is interchangeable, both 3.5mm and 4.4mm balanced outputs are available.
The eartips are quite decent on this. The black one looks like pairs from Sony and the white/semi transparent one look like the it's from Spinfit. Except from the foam, I liked all of them.
The carrying case look premium, made with leather and painted in deep blue. The zipper is painted in golden and doesn't have sharp edges, it glides through while zipping and unzipping. Top on the box in graved to showcase banding. Inside of the carrying case is pretty spacious, as I was able to fit the IEM with few stock eartips. I really loved the case.
Comfort
The CKLVX CK2V has an average shell side. It's neither too big not too small. So most of the music lovers are going to be fine using it. It's decently comfortable even after wearing them for hours. As I was lucky enough to review and try more comfortable IEMs, despite it being a relatively comfortable IEM, I can't rank it that high with the dominators!
Packaging
- Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V drivers
- SPC Cable
- 2 terminations (3.5 and 4.4)
- 7 pairs ear tips (6 silicon and 1 foam) [3 each type]
- Leather Case
- User Manual
- Warranty
Specification
- Impedance: 40Ω
- Sensitivity: 108dB
- Nozzle: 6.2MM
- Driver: 1 DD (10mm), 4 BA (2 custom), 1 micro planner
- Cable: Silver plated copper, 4 core detachable cable
- Length: about 1.25M with tolerance
- Plug: support two-pin 0.78MM can be converted plug 3.5MM + 4.4MM
- Plug material: 3u gold-plated plugs
- Eartips: Silicone eartips 6 pairs (A group / B group) + memory foam tips 1 pair
- Leather carrying case: 1
- Instruction manual: 1 book
- Guarantee: 12 months (non-human factor)
Pairings
Sources
- Ibasso DC04 Pro
- Cayin Ru7
- Cayin Ru6
- Fosi audio DS1
- IFI Hip-Dac 2
- Cayin N3 ultra
- Hiby R4
- Hiby R1
- Hiby R5 saber
- Questyle QP2R
- KAEI Tap2
- Plenue R2
- ΚΑΕΙ Tap-2
- DUNU DTC-480
- Moondrop Dawn Pro
CLKVX CK2V might not be a power-hungry IEM, but it scales really well deepening on sources. I really like it's pairing with KAEI Tap-2 (AMP), QP2R, R5 Saber. For DACs, it paired well with DC04 Pro, DS1 and Hip-Dac 2 (DAPs were superior in terms of sound quality.
Eartips
- Stock
- DDHIFI ST35
- Final E (Black)
- Spinfit CP100+
- Tri Clarion
- KBear 07
- Dunu Candy
- Spinfit W1
- UCOFIT
The stock eartips are quite good on this, still if you want something better, try DUNU candy or UCOFIT. Just avoid the stock foam eartips if you want to stick with the stock ones.
Cable
- Stock
- KBear (Inspiration C) 4 core copper
- NiceHCK mixPP
The cable provided in the box is quite good as well. But if you really want an upgrade, try a good OCC/OFC cable.
Sound Quality
Mayer Audio CKLVX CK2V is neutral to slightly warm sounding IEM. The bass has a soothing rumble with good thumps. The mid-range is slight warm and gentle. The vocals are slightly forward, but it's quite soothing. The treble section is detailed, airy, yet doesn't make it fatiguing in any sense.
Sub-Bass
The Sub-bass of CKLVX CK2V is soft. Quantity wise it's on the perfect range, it's neither forward, nor laid-back. The Sub-bass hits deep with a really subtle texture. The separation between Sub-bass and Mid-bass is noticeable. It less about the rumble and more about the soft presence which I really like about this IEM.
Mid-Bass
Mid-bass of CKLVX CK2V is slightly more forward compared to the Sub-bass. The mid-bass is well-rounded. The mid-bass is full bodied. Despite having decent quantity of mid-bass, it doesn't bleed much into the mid-range.
The thump and slams of the mid-bass is quite adequate. The speed of the bass is in such position where it neither sound muddy, nor snappy, which makes it sound sweet and warm.
Mid-range
If I have to express the mid-range of CKLVX CK2V in few words, they would be warm, clean, rich and musical. Thanks to the controlled mid bass, you get clean mid-range with a hint of warmth. Instrument in this region sound quite soothing.
Male Vocals
Alright, so the male vocals on the Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V are pretty smooth like, it's neither too forward nor too laid-back. They’re there, clear and present, but doesn't try to steal the spotlight from the instruments.
Tone wise the male vocals are neutral and rich. Vocals are clear that to the controlled mid bass but there might be a word or two you’ll miss here and there if the track’s busy. Texture of the male vocals are smooth, but details are present.
Female Vocals
The female vocals on the Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V are smooth but with a lovely texture. They’re sweet, rich, and has a good amount of bite. These vocals pop out in the mix, lively and engaging. Energetic female vocals sound best with this set.
As for sibilance, it kinda depends on your DAC. With a neutral sounding DAC, it’s pretty much nonexistent, but if you’re using a bright DAC, you might hear a little extra “sss” here and there. But overall, they stay pretty smooth and controlled.
Treble
The treble on the Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V is definitely detailed. It’s more on the smoother side, still has enough to make songs sound lively. I didn't have to deal with any sharp, piercing highs (thankfully).
Only if I hooked it up to a bright DAC, I might face some issues with both female vocals and treble. Definitely something to keep in mind. On the other side, there’s a lot of air in the upper treble. So it defiantly sound spacious.
Instruments
Instrument separation on this is good for the price. Drum's slams are impactful, slightly lacks body. Electric guitar's stroke sounds smooth. Orchestra, piano and harmonica sound fabulous.
Technicalities
The soundstage of CK2V is quite wide, and gets even wider with source. The imaging isn't that great despite having such superior soundstage. It's not inaccurate or anything but at this price point, you get IEMs with far more accurate imaging. Has good speed, but it's not snappy territory.
Gaming
Thanks to the wide soundstage, you get a good range coverage with the CKLVX CK2V. Firing sounds aren't ear piercing, it's rather a smooth feedback. The footsteps aren't as clear as the firings. despite having decent imaging, the footsteps seems vague. In game voices are clear as daylight. (even thought I'm incapable of seeing sound frequencies with these mortal eyes)
In indie or open world games, this IEM performs really well thanks to the wide soundstage. pairing with a musical presentation, it's like a cherry on top.
Why should you consider it
- If you like warm mid-midrange
- If you like mid bass slams
- If you have a good source
- If you like vocals
- If you're sensitive to treble
Why should you look elsewhere
- If you’re a treble lover
- If you're a gamer
- If you don't like warm sound
- If you like bass heavy IEMs
Verdicts
Overall I liked these IEM for many oblivious reasons. And in my opinion, if you're planning on purchasing an IEM with musical presentation and good scalability depending on sources, this IEM is going to get you covered. Well it was my personal opinion on these IEMs, let me know your thoughts on them.
As always thank you for your attention! Let me know your thoughts on this IEM. Until then,
Keep on listening ·͜·♡
Robin Kyle Datiles
New Head-Fier
Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V
Pros: - Great detail retrieval
- Impactful and tight bass
- Clean mid range
- Great treble extension
Cons: - Upper frequencies sound too textured
- Treble can be borderline too bright
- Slight metallic timbre
DISCLAIMER
The review I'm about to share reflects my personal experience and provides an honest evaluation regarding this set. I am completely unaffiliated from the brands I review. I did not receive (or will receive) any financial or monetary incentives in exchange for writing this review, I wrote this review of my own free will and all of the opinions you'll read are my own.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Driver Configuration: 10mm Custom Dynamic Driver + 2x Knowles Balanced Armature + 2x Custom Balanced Armature + Custom Micro Planar
- Impedance: 22Ω
- Sensitivity: 108dB
- Nozzle Diameter: 6.2mm
INTRODUCTION
Myer Audio has been a good contender ever since they have entered the Chi-fi market. Their releases have always been
received positively by the community because of how good they are and how interesting they tune their sets. I have been curious for a while since I haven't tried any IEM from them, and I think the timing to review one of their products especially in the mid-fi range is just perfect, because just recently, it seems like the competition within this price bracket just became more competitive.
I included the CK2V in my daily rotation for almost a week now, and I have mixed feelings about this IEM. Here are the gears I have used in the past couple of days as I am reviewing this IEM:
DAC/Dongle: Shanling H5, and iBasso DC07 Pro
Phone/Device: Either my iPhone XR or my laptop
Music Player: Spotify, and Apple Music
PACKAGING
The Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V comes with a handful of good inclusions, which is pretty much expected at this price point. Inside the box, there's a leather carrying case for the IEMs with a great interior that seems to be made out of micro velvet cloth or faux fabric which is great to prevent any scratches. There are also two sets of eartips with different sizes, which doesn't have any difference in bore diameter but more on the material and softness. The black eartips is slightly stiffer than the white eartips and has a slightly smoother texture. Myer Audio also included a set of foam tips and an extra 4.4mm plug for the modular cable, which is also a plus for me
BUILD QUALITY, DESIGN, AND COMFORT
This IEM has a very pretty faceplate design. The different shades of green is complemented very well by the gold logo and outline. The IEM, including the cable, feels very well built and very durable. The shells are built with resin and come with metal nozzles. The cable feels smooth and not grippy, it also has a right balance of stiffness and softness. Cable is also modular so you can swap from 3.5mm to 4.4mm termination anytime.
Regarding the comfort, the IEMs don't take that much space in my ear despite its chunky look. I honestly thought that the shells are on the larger side so I was surprised how it seats on my ear. There are no aggressive fins nor overwhelming bulges. The nozzles are slightly wide but it doesn't have that deep fit because of the length of the nozzles so it still feels comfortable.
SOUND IMPRESSIONS
The CK2V's tuning is U-shaped that has a generous amount of energy on the lower frequencies and higher frequencies and it feels like they are both fighting for the spotlight and is trying to overwhelm each other. This IEM sounds very energetic and somewhat maintains its midrange clarity and overall good detail retrieval despite the bass boost. The timbre is not that great though, as it has a noticeable metallic timbre which can sound slightly artificial and thin.
Bass
The CK2V's bass is very punchy and authoritative. It attacks fast and decays faster than usual which makes it feel more tactile and punchy. It is more sub-bass forward but it is far from lacking mid-bass because again, the mid-bass punch is very pronounced with sub-bass rumble that sustains just enough to still sound tactile.
I really love how Myer Audio tuned the CK2V's bass, it is very well presented and definitely is very satisfying with every punch that feels whole and somewhat heavy. In my personal standard, the CK2V's bass can even satisfy some bassheads out there.
Mids
Mid-range sounds balanced but leans more on being clean, that is if you are trying to analyze it on itself alone excluding the bass and treble region (as the sound quality gets way busier as a whole). Though it has a slight hint of warmth on the lower-mids, it is still well balanced. One of the issues I experienced regarding the CK2V's mids is though there's a bump and forwardness in upper-mids, which makes the vocals stand out, it somehow makes it sound thinner. Vocals seems to have metallic timbre up top especially on female vocals that hits higher notes, it is forward but it doesn't sound natural.
Treble
The treble region is where I found most of this set's flaws. Treble is bright and spicy but still tolerable, at least for me. The tuning of the CK2V's treble paired with its relatively clean mids is what makes it sound very detailed. It is easy to pick up micro nuances, but the downside is, it can be too bright at times. Don't get me wrong though, it is not sibilant and peaky, I just can see how this set can be too bright for most people if I'll disregard my preference because if you would ask me? Peronally this level of brightness is still within my preference.
The major problem I have encountered when it comes to the upper frequencies is that it sounds too textured and rough, it sounds unrefined, good thing is, this set's treble extension sounds great and sounds airy.
Details, Imaging, and Soundstage
As I have said, CK2V's detail retrieval is great, it sounds very detailed but because the treble region sounds unrefined, it can really be fatiguing. Because of the brightness, the level of details that you are picking up, and the forwardness of bass, it can really be fatiguing over time because you don't know where your focus will be.
Imaging and soundstage is fairly average, not the best but also not the worst, there's nothing much to say. Soundstage has more width than height and depth which is very noticeable, but it doesn't sound cramped either. There are a lot more better options when it comes to technicalities than this IEM.
CONCLUSION
Man, this IEM really has a lot of potential, I just have some issues here and there which makes me slightly disappointed, but at the same time makes me excited for their future releases or even this IEM's future successor (assuming that they will improve the tuning)
I want to believe that Myer Audio's previous releases are better than this, after all, the CK2V was just recently released and I haven't tried anything from them prior to this IEM. The CKLVX CK2V doesn't sound horrible, but when compared to current hyped sets within the price range, this IEM sounds decent at best. But on the brighter side, reviewing the CK2V just truly made me more curious and intrigued regarding their previous releases. I want to test out if the reviews are true, so we will definitely see.
Attachments
Last edited:
avishifi
Good review man!
Robin Kyle Datiles
@avishifi thanks! I appreciate the feedback )
ahammedsojib
Nice write-up 
-
The build is made out of resin, and the faceplate itself is gorgeous. It is a wonderful mix of green, gold, and black with the gold cursive text of “CKLVX” at the bottom is very pleasing to my eyes. The aesthetics are bold enough while not being overly flashy in its presentation, it’s my cup of tea for sure. It is way better than the horribly intrusive looking SLIIVO text found in IEMs under their SLIIVO line cough cough (SL41, SLT6 & SLA3). The CK2V itself is rather light, weighing in at around 5 grams per side (0.011 pounds for the imperialists). However, one minor gripe I have with the CK2V here is the recessed 2 pin ports. It is recessed just enough for standard 2 pin cables to NOT fit, but not recessed enough for recessed 2 pin cables to sit flush with the shell. It’s just my personal opinion, so feel free to disregard that part if you don’t find it mildly annoying like I do.
Build Quality and Feel in Hand (Cable): 4/5As said previously, it is a 4 core Silver Plated Copper cable with a similar or the same screw lock mechanism as you will find on Dunu x GizAudio DaVinci for example. It is a very good cable, it does not tangle, is light, and has an actually working chin slider that can stay in place after you put it at a specific spot. While there is a “CK 2V” writing on the splitter and is more of an eyesore I can look past it, this is overall a very nice cable.
Pairings:
- WM1A with Walkman One, WM1Z tuning and Normal Mode low gain.
- VE Abigail & Tangzu Yin to Samsung S23 (Poweramp) + PC (Foobar2000)
Eartips:
- Stock EP-EX11, L size
- Stock Spinfit clone(?), M size
- NiceHCK C04 Liquid Silicone, M Size
- Dunu S&S, L size (Not recommended, makes the IEM sound weirdly off)
- Zhulinniao Bamboo, L size
- Divinus OG, M size
- Divinus Wide Bore, M size
- Divinus Prism LS, M size
- Penon Orange, M size
- Penon Black, M size
- Final E, M size
Most of my testing was done on the WM1A, as I find the transients and the overall presentation of the CK2V to be somewhat “compressed” while using those 2 dongles.
Comfortability:
Fit and Comfort: 8.5/10
Thanks to the combination of medium sized shells that is also rather light fit and comfort overall is very good. I can easily wear this for hours without any fatigue. It is impressive how they managed to cram this many drivers inside a shell like this. However, due to the way it is designed I don’t advise you putting eartips with short stems in, as it could be too shallow of a fit and making you go one size up. This is an issue I found while using the stock EP-EX11 and while tip rolling (NiceHCK C04, Final E, Zhulinniao Bamboo etc). The nozzle is 6.2mm in diameter, which is around the average size nowadays for many IEMs.
Interior:
Specifications:
- Impedance: 40Ω
- Sensitivity: 108dB
They do require some power, but a decently powerful dongle should be fine. The CK2V does sound better with better sources used but YMMV (your mileage may vary).
Sound Impressions:I will describe the sound signature as more of a U-shape sound, more so on the analytical side as well. It's a fun, contrasty but dry sound no doubt, however this is not a set I will recommend if you want very forward vocals. They are more or less in the middle of the presentation, giving room for the instruments to play alongside. Best way I can describe it is that you’re sitting in a room with the vocalist in front of you and the supporting instruments surrounding you from left, right and front. I personally don’t mind it though. However, this tuning is not without its issues that I’ll get to later while describing the aspects in greater detail.
Graph by ATechReviews on SquigLink.
Bass: 4.5/5There’s a lot of it, close to basshead levels even but it does not muddy the rest of the frequencies. It’s just enough to sound fun. Sub bass goes DEEP and has more presence than mid bass, the texture, impact, and tactility is the highlight for me thanks to the 10mm bio-composite DD they used, something owners or people who have tried the Yanyin Canon will know hard it hits. Decay is on the longer side, and there is also a small glide from the midbass to the lower mids which adds some minor warmth to the sound.
Midrange: 4/5Natural enough, male vocals sound more neutral than thin or rich, with female vocals being similar but has a slightly more engaging factor to it. Both are more so in the middle of the presentation instead of being very forward as described earlier, with female vocals being slightly more forward to my ears. Instruments are clean and sounds good, nothing particularly stand out in my opinion other than I don't really like the way guitar sounds here, they're a bit bloated. The slight warmth from the low mids does make them a bit richer sounding which is a bonus to me. I personally would’ve preferred if the vocals pop out more in the mix.
Treble: 3.75/5In my opinion, the treble is this IEM’s Achilles’ Heel if you can hear greater than 15khz. It’s not bad treble per se, I’d say it’s solid even. There’s nothing wrong with lower or mid treble, it’s just that my main issue with it is that there’s a nasty peak there that (while giving a greater sense of extension, air and technical performance) does emphasize the Micro Planar thinness and zinginess (if that’s even a word) that contributes to a thinner sounding hi-hats and cymbals. I don’t like it. BUT, this is an issue you can fix through EQ by reducing the 15k region by around -2db to -4db. Alternatively, you can simply stick with the stock EP-EX11 as the treble roll off from that particular eartip counteracts the 15khz peak. If you only used that particular eartip on your CK2V, you may not even notice the presence of said peak.
Technical Performance: 4.25/5Soundstage of the CK2V is BIG, but in an unnatural way in my opinion. Here’s how I’ll describe it and give an example of comparison, in the case of the TRI I3 MK3 it does have a big soundstage as well but the projection of things make it sound natural in that regard. There is a black background that keeps things in check. Everything is placed where it should be that contributed to a “natural stage”. In contrast, for CK2V the projection of instruments forcibly takes up all of the available spaces provided by the IEM, causing them to sound more spaced out. Even so, imaging of the CK2V is average at best, not pinpoint accurate but good enough for you to discern the general location of instruments, there is an adequate amount of depth here. Micro-details and macro-details are presented pretty well in the mix though thanks to the tuning and the use of Micro Planar drivers here. Despite my gripes I do think this set works very well for EDM, Hip Hop, instrumentals, orchestra etc.
Timbre: 4/5Not the most natural, it's acceptable and your ears will get used to it quickly in my opinion. There is nothing particularly wrong sounding about it, just reduce the 15khz peak by the amount I specified, and it should sound nicer and less metallic or you can just stick with the stock EP-EX11s.
Conclusion:
Is it good? Sure, especially if you can get it during sales. It’s a solid IEM with tuning quirks that can be mitigated through EQ but not fully, the accessories are good, and I had an overall decently pleasant experience with the CK2V despite its flaws. I do think this is a solid output from Myer Audio, and I hope they can improve with their next releases. Just please be more consistent with the names and ditch the ugly SLIIVO font.
But hey, don’t just take my word for it, I’m just a silly man that stayed in this hobby for too long for my own ( wallet’s ) good. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Final Ratings:
Exterior: 12.5 / 15
Comfortability: 8.5 / 10
Interior: 20.5 / 25
Total Score: 41.5 / 50
Average: 4.15 / 5 with a
Who I recommend this IEM to:
- Bassheads
- V/U shape enjoyers
- You want a medium sized IEM
- You want to hear details
- Willing to EQ to fix the minor quirk with this IEM
- You listen to Orchestra, Instrumentals, Game OSTs etc
Who I don’t recommend this IEM to:
- Neutral and/or bright enjoyers
- Very vocal forward enjoyers
- You're sensitive to 15khz peaks and slight metallic timbre
- You want the best technical performance
- You don't like to EQ
- Your wallet is not deep enough to buy this
Thanks for reading this relatively long review, I hope you find it to be informative enough to convince you to either buy or not buy this IEM. Don't be swayed by an IEM just because not all of its drivers are branded, what matters is the execution of the overall package. If you have any questions then feel free to ask them in the comments.
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RK Turan
100+ Head-Fier
Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V: Gets better with Sources
Pros: Good accessories
Great scalability
Mid Bass
Vocals
Smooth Treble
Cons: Pairing with budget dongles
Treble could have some more sparkle
Gaming Performance
Disclaimer
I got this product as a review unit from Mayer Audio. Except from the review unit, I did not receive money or any other necessities to influence the review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion on Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V. My likes and dislikes on this IEM are based solely on my own personal experience.
Intro
This might be my first review of any Myer audio's product. But it's definitely not the first one that I've tried. Previously I've tried 2 of their CKLVX lineups, D62 followed by D41. Personally, I liked the D62 with a particular source. From their Slivo lineup, I got to try the SLA3. That is a great IEM in terms of price to performance, but it can be superior with minor adjustments.
Before starting the review, I'd like to mention one thing. It was sooo freaking difficult to remember all of their names! Took me more than a month to do so. So I'll keep mentioning their full name, just to flex. Let's get straight into the full review.
Design & Build Quality
The Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V might not the flashiest looking IEM, which meets my personal preferences. The design is on the minimal, yet it will look gorgeous on closer inspection.
The faceplate looks really artistic with the sand-like texture. It has shades of green and golden tone that shines on lights presence. I've reviewed other IEMs with similar glittery effects, except the shining on this particular set is quite minimal.
The lower part of the faceplate has the model's branding with a bright golden hue, which actually adds up to the overall aesthetics of this IEM. The outer part of the shell has a golden border, a bit muted than the text to create contrast.
The inner side of the shell look pitched black, like most other IEMs in the market. The left and right indicators are quite large on them. The nozzle is metal built. The vent for the dynamic driver is on topside of the shell, beside the 2 pin connectors.
The stock cable of CK2V is durable and has a smooth finish on the overall cable. The termination is interchangeable, both 3.5mm and 4.4mm balanced outputs are available.
The eartips are quite decent on this. The black one looks like pairs from Sony and the white/semi transparent one look like the it's from Spinfit. Except from the foam, I liked all of them.
The carrying case look premium, made with leather and painted in deep blue. The zipper is painted in golden and doesn't have sharp edges, it glides through while zipping and unzipping. Top on the box in graved to showcase banding. Inside of the carrying case is pretty spacious, as I was able to fit the IEM with few stock eartips. I really loved the case.
Comfort
The CKLVX CK2V has an average shell side. It's neither too big not too small. So most of the music lovers are going to be fine using it. It's decently comfortable even after wearing them for hours. As I was lucky enough to review and try more comfortable IEMs, despite it being a relatively comfortable IEM, I can't rank it that high with the dominators!
Packaging
- Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V drivers
- SPC Cable
- 2 terminations (3.5 and 4.4)
- 7 pairs ear tips (6 silicon and 1 foam) [3 each type]
- Leather Case
- User Manual
- Warranty
Specification
- Impedance: 40Ω
- Sensitivity: 108dB
- Nozzle: 6.2MM
- Driver: 1 DD (10mm), 4 BA (2 custom), 1 micro planner
- Cable: Silver plated copper, 4 core detachable cable
- Length: about 1.25M with tolerance
- Plug: support two-pin 0.78MM can be converted plug 3.5MM + 4.4MM
- Plug material: 3u gold-plated plugs
- Eartips: Silicone eartips 6 pairs (A group / B group) + memory foam tips 1 pair
- Leather carrying case: 1
- Instruction manual: 1 book
- Guarantee: 12 months (non-human factor)
Pairings
Sources
- Ibasso DC04 Pro
- Cayin Ru7
- Cayin Ru6
- Fosi audio DS1
- IFI Hip-Dac 2
- Cayin N3 ultra
- Hiby R4
- Hiby R1
- Hiby R5 saber
- Questyle QP2R
- KAEI Tap2
- Plenue R2
- ΚΑΕΙ Tap-2
- DUNU DTC-480
- Moondrop Dawn Pro
CLKVX CK2V might not be a power-hungry IEM, but it scales really well deepening on sources. I really like it's pairing with KAEI Tap-2 (AMP), QP2R, R5 Saber. For DACs, it paired well with DC04 Pro, DS1 and Hip-Dac 2 (DAPs were superior in terms of sound quality.
Eartips
- Stock
- DDHIFI ST35
- Final E (Black)
- Spinfit CP100+
- Tri Clarion
- KBear 07
- Dunu Candy
- Spinfit W1
- UCOFIT
The stock eartips are quite good on this, still if you want something better, try DUNU candy or UCOFIT. Just avoid the stock foam eartips if you want to stick with the stock ones.
Cable
- Stock
- KBear (Inspiration C) 4 core copper
- NiceHCK mixPP
The cable provided in the box is quite good as well. But if you really want an upgrade, try a good OCC/OFC cable.
Sound Quality
Mayer Audio CKLVX CK2V is neutral to slightly warm sounding IEM. The bass has a soothing rumble with good thumps. The mid-range is slight warm and gentle. The vocals are slightly forward, but it's quite soothing. The treble section is detailed, airy, yet doesn't make it fatiguing in any sense.
Sub-Bass
The Sub-bass of CKLVX CK2V is soft. Quantity wise it's on the perfect range, it's neither forward, nor laid-back. The Sub-bass hits deep with a really subtle texture. The separation between Sub-bass and Mid-bass is noticeable. It less about the rumble and more about the soft presence which I really like about this IEM.
Mid-Bass
Mid-bass of CKLVX CK2V is slightly more forward compared to the Sub-bass. The mid-bass is well-rounded. The mid-bass is full bodied. Despite having decent quantity of mid-bass, it doesn't bleed much into the mid-range.
The thump and slams of the mid-bass is quite adequate. The speed of the bass is in such position where it neither sound muddy, nor snappy, which makes it sound sweet and warm.
Mid-range
If I have to express the mid-range of CKLVX CK2V in few words, they would be warm, clean, rich and musical. Thanks to the controlled mid bass, you get clean mid-range with a hint of warmth. Instrument in this region sound quite soothing.
Male Vocals
Alright, so the male vocals on the Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V are pretty smooth like, it's neither too forward nor too laid-back. They’re there, clear and present, but doesn't try to steal the spotlight from the instruments.
Tone wise the male vocals are neutral and rich. Vocals are clear that to the controlled mid bass but there might be a word or two you’ll miss here and there if the track’s busy. Texture of the male vocals are smooth, but details are present.
Female Vocals
The female vocals on the Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V are smooth but with a lovely texture. They’re sweet, rich, and has a good amount of bite. These vocals pop out in the mix, lively and engaging. Energetic female vocals sound best with this set.
As for sibilance, it kinda depends on your DAC. With a neutral sounding DAC, it’s pretty much nonexistent, but if you’re using a bright DAC, you might hear a little extra “sss” here and there. But overall, they stay pretty smooth and controlled.
Treble
The treble on the Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V is definitely detailed. It’s more on the smoother side, still has enough to make songs sound lively. I didn't have to deal with any sharp, piercing highs (thankfully).
Only if I hooked it up to a bright DAC, I might face some issues with both female vocals and treble. Definitely something to keep in mind. On the other side, there’s a lot of air in the upper treble. So it defiantly sound spacious.
Instruments
Instrument separation on this is good for the price. Drum's slams are impactful, slightly lacks body. Electric guitar's stroke sounds smooth. Orchestra, piano and harmonica sound fabulous.
Technicalities
The soundstage of CK2V is quite wide, and gets even wider with source. The imaging isn't that great despite having such superior soundstage. It's not inaccurate or anything but at this price point, you get IEMs with far more accurate imaging. Has good speed, but it's not snappy territory.
Gaming
Thanks to the wide soundstage, you get a good range coverage with the CKLVX CK2V. Firing sounds aren't ear piercing, it's rather a smooth feedback. The footsteps aren't as clear as the firings. despite having decent imaging, the footsteps seems vague. In game voices are clear as daylight. (even thought I'm incapable of seeing sound frequencies with these mortal eyes)
In indie or open world games, this IEM performs really well thanks to the wide soundstage. pairing with a musical presentation, it's like a cherry on top.
Why should you consider it
- If you like warm mid-midrange
- If you like mid bass slams
- If you have a good source
- If you like vocals
- If you're sensitive to treble
Why should you look elsewhere
- If you’re a treble lover
- If you're a gamer
- If you don't like warm sound
- If you like bass heavy IEMs
Verdicts
Overall I liked these IEM for many oblivious reasons. And in my opinion, if you're planning on purchasing an IEM with musical presentation and good scalability depending on sources, this IEM is going to get you covered. Well it was my personal opinion on these IEMs, let me know your thoughts on them.
As always thank you for your attention! Let me know your thoughts on this IEM. Until then,
Keep on listening ·͜·♡
Robin Kyle Datiles
New Head-Fier
Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V
Pros: - Great detail retrieval
- Impactful and tight bass
- Clean mid range
- Great treble extension
Cons: - Upper frequencies sound too textured
- Treble can be borderline too bright
- Slight metallic timbre
DISCLAIMER
The review I'm about to share reflects my personal experience and provides an honest evaluation regarding this set. I am completely unaffiliated from the brands I review. I did not receive (or will receive) any financial or monetary incentives in exchange for writing this review, I wrote this review of my own free will and all of the opinions you'll read are my own.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Driver Configuration: 10mm Custom Dynamic Driver + 2x Knowles Balanced Armature + 2x Custom Balanced Armature + Custom Micro Planar
- Impedance: 22Ω
- Sensitivity: 108dB
- Nozzle Diameter: 6.2mm
INTRODUCTION
Myer Audio has been a good contender ever since they have entered the Chi-fi market. Their releases have always been
received positively by the community because of how good they are and how interesting they tune their sets. I have been curious for a while since I haven't tried any IEM from them, and I think the timing to review one of their products especially in the mid-fi range is just perfect, because just recently, it seems like the competition within this price bracket just became more competitive.
I included the CK2V in my daily rotation for almost a week now, and I have mixed feelings about this IEM. Here are the gears I have used in the past couple of days as I am reviewing this IEM:
DAC/Dongle: Shanling H5, and iBasso DC07 Pro
Phone/Device: Either my iPhone XR or my laptop
Music Player: Spotify, and Apple Music
PACKAGING
The Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V comes with a handful of good inclusions, which is pretty much expected at this price point. Inside the box, there's a leather carrying case for the IEMs with a great interior that seems to be made out of micro velvet cloth or faux fabric which is great to prevent any scratches. There are also two sets of eartips with different sizes, which doesn't have any difference in bore diameter but more on the material and softness. The black eartips is slightly stiffer than the white eartips and has a slightly smoother texture. Myer Audio also included a set of foam tips and an extra 4.4mm plug for the modular cable, which is also a plus for me
BUILD QUALITY, DESIGN, AND COMFORT
This IEM has a very pretty faceplate design. The different shades of green is complemented very well by the gold logo and outline. The IEM, including the cable, feels very well built and very durable. The shells are built with resin and come with metal nozzles. The cable feels smooth and not grippy, it also has a right balance of stiffness and softness. Cable is also modular so you can swap from 3.5mm to 4.4mm termination anytime.
Regarding the comfort, the IEMs don't take that much space in my ear despite its chunky look. I honestly thought that the shells are on the larger side so I was surprised how it seats on my ear. There are no aggressive fins nor overwhelming bulges. The nozzles are slightly wide but it doesn't have that deep fit because of the length of the nozzles so it still feels comfortable.
SOUND IMPRESSIONS
The CK2V's tuning is U-shaped that has a generous amount of energy on the lower frequencies and higher frequencies and it feels like they are both fighting for the spotlight and is trying to overwhelm each other. This IEM sounds very energetic and somewhat maintains its midrange clarity and overall good detail retrieval despite the bass boost. The timbre is not that great though, as it has a noticeable metallic timbre which can sound slightly artificial and thin.
Bass
The CK2V's bass is very punchy and authoritative. It attacks fast and decays faster than usual which makes it feel more tactile and punchy. It is more sub-bass forward but it is far from lacking mid-bass because again, the mid-bass punch is very pronounced with sub-bass rumble that sustains just enough to still sound tactile.
I really love how Myer Audio tuned the CK2V's bass, it is very well presented and definitely is very satisfying with every punch that feels whole and somewhat heavy. In my personal standard, the CK2V's bass can even satisfy some bassheads out there.
Mids
Mid-range sounds balanced but leans more on being clean, that is if you are trying to analyze it on itself alone excluding the bass and treble region (as the sound quality gets way busier as a whole). Though it has a slight hint of warmth on the lower-mids, it is still well balanced. One of the issues I experienced regarding the CK2V's mids is though there's a bump and forwardness in upper-mids, which makes the vocals stand out, it somehow makes it sound thinner. Vocals seems to have metallic timbre up top especially on female vocals that hits higher notes, it is forward but it doesn't sound natural.
Treble
The treble region is where I found most of this set's flaws. Treble is bright and spicy but still tolerable, at least for me. The tuning of the CK2V's treble paired with its relatively clean mids is what makes it sound very detailed. It is easy to pick up micro nuances, but the downside is, it can be too bright at times. Don't get me wrong though, it is not sibilant and peaky, I just can see how this set can be too bright for most people if I'll disregard my preference because if you would ask me? Peronally this level of brightness is still within my preference.
The major problem I have encountered when it comes to the upper frequencies is that it sounds too textured and rough, it sounds unrefined, good thing is, this set's treble extension sounds great and sounds airy.
Details, Imaging, and Soundstage
As I have said, CK2V's detail retrieval is great, it sounds very detailed but because the treble region sounds unrefined, it can really be fatiguing. Because of the brightness, the level of details that you are picking up, and the forwardness of bass, it can really be fatiguing over time because you don't know where your focus will be.
Imaging and soundstage is fairly average, not the best but also not the worst, there's nothing much to say. Soundstage has more width than height and depth which is very noticeable, but it doesn't sound cramped either. There are a lot more better options when it comes to technicalities than this IEM.
CONCLUSION
Man, this IEM really has a lot of potential, I just have some issues here and there which makes me slightly disappointed, but at the same time makes me excited for their future releases or even this IEM's future successor (assuming that they will improve the tuning)
I want to believe that Myer Audio's previous releases are better than this, after all, the CK2V was just recently released and I haven't tried anything from them prior to this IEM. The CKLVX CK2V doesn't sound horrible, but when compared to current hyped sets within the price range, this IEM sounds decent at best. But on the brighter side, reviewing the CK2V just truly made me more curious and intrigued regarding their previous releases. I want to test out if the reviews are true, so we will definitely see.
Attachments
Last edited:
avishifi
Good review man!
Robin Kyle Datiles
@avishifi thanks! I appreciate the feedback )
ahammedsojib
Nice write-up
As said previously, it is a 4 core Silver Plated Copper cable with a similar or the same screw lock mechanism as you will find on Dunu x GizAudio DaVinci for example. It is a very good cable, it does not tangle, is light, and has an actually working chin slider that can stay in place after you put it at a specific spot. While there is a “CK 2V” writing on the splitter and is more of an eyesore I can look past it, this is overall a very nice cable.
Pairings:
- WM1A with Walkman One, WM1Z tuning and Normal Mode low gain.
- VE Abigail & Tangzu Yin to Samsung S23 (Poweramp) + PC (Foobar2000)
Eartips:
- Stock EP-EX11, L size
- Stock Spinfit clone(?), M size
- NiceHCK C04 Liquid Silicone, M Size
- Dunu S&S, L size (Not recommended, makes the IEM sound weirdly off)
- Zhulinniao Bamboo, L size
- Divinus OG, M size
- Divinus Wide Bore, M size
- Divinus Prism LS, M size
- Penon Orange, M size
- Penon Black, M size
- Final E, M size
Comfortability:
Fit and Comfort: 8.5/10
Thanks to the combination of medium sized shells that is also rather light fit and comfort overall is very good. I can easily wear this for hours without any fatigue. It is impressive how they managed to cram this many drivers inside a shell like this. However, due to the way it is designed I don’t advise you putting eartips with short stems in, as it could be too shallow of a fit and making you go one size up. This is an issue I found while using the stock EP-EX11 and while tip rolling (NiceHCK C04, Final E, Zhulinniao Bamboo etc). The nozzle is 6.2mm in diameter, which is around the average size nowadays for many IEMs.
Interior:
Specifications:
- Impedance: 40Ω
- Sensitivity: 108dB
Sound Impressions:I will describe the sound signature as more of a U-shape sound, more so on the analytical side as well. It's a fun, contrasty but dry sound no doubt, however this is not a set I will recommend if you want very forward vocals. They are more or less in the middle of the presentation, giving room for the instruments to play alongside. Best way I can describe it is that you’re sitting in a room with the vocalist in front of you and the supporting instruments surrounding you from left, right and front. I personally don’t mind it though. However, this tuning is not without its issues that I’ll get to later while describing the aspects in greater detail.
Graph by ATechReviews on SquigLink.
Bass: 4.5/5There’s a lot of it, close to basshead levels even but it does not muddy the rest of the frequencies. It’s just enough to sound fun. Sub bass goes DEEP and has more presence than mid bass, the texture, impact, and tactility is the highlight for me thanks to the 10mm bio-composite DD they used, something owners or people who have tried the Yanyin Canon will know hard it hits. Decay is on the longer side, and there is also a small glide from the midbass to the lower mids which adds some minor warmth to the sound.
Midrange: 4/5Natural enough, male vocals sound more neutral than thin or rich, with female vocals being similar but has a slightly more engaging factor to it. Both are more so in the middle of the presentation instead of being very forward as described earlier, with female vocals being slightly more forward to my ears. Instruments are clean and sounds good, nothing particularly stand out in my opinion other than I don't really like the way guitar sounds here, they're a bit bloated. The slight warmth from the low mids does make them a bit richer sounding which is a bonus to me. I personally would’ve preferred if the vocals pop out more in the mix.
Treble: 3.75/5In my opinion, the treble is this IEM’s Achilles’ Heel if you can hear greater than 15khz. It’s not bad treble per se, I’d say it’s solid even. There’s nothing wrong with lower or mid treble, it’s just that my main issue with it is that there’s a nasty peak there that (while giving a greater sense of extension, air and technical performance) does emphasize the Micro Planar thinness and zinginess (if that’s even a word) that contributes to a thinner sounding hi-hats and cymbals. I don’t like it. BUT, this is an issue you can fix through EQ by reducing the 15k region by around -2db to -4db. Alternatively, you can simply stick with the stock EP-EX11 as the treble roll off from that particular eartip counteracts the 15khz peak. If you only used that particular eartip on your CK2V, you may not even notice the presence of said peak.
Technical Performance: 4.25/5Soundstage of the CK2V is BIG, but in an unnatural way in my opinion. Here’s how I’ll describe it and give an example of comparison, in the case of the TRI I3 MK3 it does have a big soundstage as well but the projection of things make it sound natural in that regard. There is a black background that keeps things in check. Everything is placed where it should be that contributed to a “natural stage”. In contrast, for CK2V the projection of instruments forcibly takes up all of the available spaces provided by the IEM, causing them to sound more spaced out. Even so, imaging of the CK2V is average at best, not pinpoint accurate but good enough for you to discern the general location of instruments, there is an adequate amount of depth here. Micro-details and macro-details are presented pretty well in the mix though thanks to the tuning and the use of Micro Planar drivers here. Despite my gripes I do think this set works very well for EDM, Hip Hop, instrumentals, orchestra etc.
Timbre: 4/5Not the most natural, it's acceptable and your ears will get used to it quickly in my opinion. There is nothing particularly wrong sounding about it, just reduce the 15khz peak by the amount I specified, and it should sound nicer and less metallic or you can just stick with the stock EP-EX11s.
Conclusion:
Is it good? Sure, especially if you can get it during sales. It’s a solid IEM with tuning quirks that can be mitigated through EQ but not fully, the accessories are good, and I had an overall decently pleasant experience with the CK2V despite its flaws. I do think this is a solid output from Myer Audio, and I hope they can improve with their next releases. Just please be more consistent with the names and ditch the ugly SLIIVO font.
But hey, don’t just take my word for it, I’m just a silly man that stayed in this hobby for too long for my own ( wallet’s ) good. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Final Ratings:
Exterior: 12.5 / 15
Comfortability: 8.5 / 10
Interior: 20.5 / 25
Total Score: 41.5 / 50
Average: 4.15 / 5 with a
Who I recommend this IEM to:
- Bassheads
- V/U shape enjoyers
- You want a medium sized IEM
- You want to hear details
- Willing to EQ to fix the minor quirk with this IEM
- You listen to Orchestra, Instrumentals, Game OSTs etc
Who I don’t recommend this IEM to:
- Neutral and/or bright enjoyers
- Very vocal forward enjoyers
- You're sensitive to 15khz peaks and slight metallic timbre
- You want the best technical performance
- You don't like to EQ
- Your wallet is not deep enough to buy this
Thanks for reading this relatively long review, I hope you find it to be informative enough to convince you to either buy or not buy this IEM. Don't be swayed by an IEM just because not all of its drivers are branded, what matters is the execution of the overall package. If you have any questions then feel free to ask them in the comments.
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RK Turan
100+ Head-Fier
Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V: Gets better with Sources
Pros: Good accessories
Great scalability
Mid Bass
Vocals
Smooth Treble
Cons: Pairing with budget dongles
Treble could have some more sparkle
Gaming Performance
Disclaimer
I got this product as a review unit from Mayer Audio. Except from the review unit, I did not receive money or any other necessities to influence the review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion on Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V. My likes and dislikes on this IEM are based solely on my own personal experience.
Intro
This might be my first review of any Myer audio's product. But it's definitely not the first one that I've tried. Previously I've tried 2 of their CKLVX lineups, D62 followed by D41. Personally, I liked the D62 with a particular source. From their Slivo lineup, I got to try the SLA3. That is a great IEM in terms of price to performance, but it can be superior with minor adjustments.
Before starting the review, I'd like to mention one thing. It was sooo freaking difficult to remember all of their names! Took me more than a month to do so. So I'll keep mentioning their full name, just to flex. Let's get straight into the full review.
Design & Build Quality
The Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V might not the flashiest looking IEM, which meets my personal preferences. The design is on the minimal, yet it will look gorgeous on closer inspection.
The faceplate looks really artistic with the sand-like texture. It has shades of green and golden tone that shines on lights presence. I've reviewed other IEMs with similar glittery effects, except the shining on this particular set is quite minimal.
The lower part of the faceplate has the model's branding with a bright golden hue, which actually adds up to the overall aesthetics of this IEM. The outer part of the shell has a golden border, a bit muted than the text to create contrast.
The inner side of the shell look pitched black, like most other IEMs in the market. The left and right indicators are quite large on them. The nozzle is metal built. The vent for the dynamic driver is on topside of the shell, beside the 2 pin connectors.
The stock cable of CK2V is durable and has a smooth finish on the overall cable. The termination is interchangeable, both 3.5mm and 4.4mm balanced outputs are available.
The eartips are quite decent on this. The black one looks like pairs from Sony and the white/semi transparent one look like the it's from Spinfit. Except from the foam, I liked all of them.
The carrying case look premium, made with leather and painted in deep blue. The zipper is painted in golden and doesn't have sharp edges, it glides through while zipping and unzipping. Top on the box in graved to showcase banding. Inside of the carrying case is pretty spacious, as I was able to fit the IEM with few stock eartips. I really loved the case.
Comfort
The CKLVX CK2V has an average shell side. It's neither too big not too small. So most of the music lovers are going to be fine using it. It's decently comfortable even after wearing them for hours. As I was lucky enough to review and try more comfortable IEMs, despite it being a relatively comfortable IEM, I can't rank it that high with the dominators!
Packaging
- Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V drivers
- SPC Cable
- 2 terminations (3.5 and 4.4)
- 7 pairs ear tips (6 silicon and 1 foam) [3 each type]
- Leather Case
- User Manual
- Warranty
Specification
- Impedance: 40Ω
- Sensitivity: 108dB
- Nozzle: 6.2MM
- Driver: 1 DD (10mm), 4 BA (2 custom), 1 micro planner
- Cable: Silver plated copper, 4 core detachable cable
- Length: about 1.25M with tolerance
- Plug: support two-pin 0.78MM can be converted plug 3.5MM + 4.4MM
- Plug material: 3u gold-plated plugs
- Eartips: Silicone eartips 6 pairs (A group / B group) + memory foam tips 1 pair
- Leather carrying case: 1
- Instruction manual: 1 book
- Guarantee: 12 months (non-human factor)
Pairings
Sources
- Ibasso DC04 Pro
- Cayin Ru7
- Cayin Ru6
- Fosi audio DS1
- IFI Hip-Dac 2
- Cayin N3 ultra
- Hiby R4
- Hiby R1
- Hiby R5 saber
- Questyle QP2R
- KAEI Tap2
- Plenue R2
- ΚΑΕΙ Tap-2
- DUNU DTC-480
- Moondrop Dawn Pro
CLKVX CK2V might not be a power-hungry IEM, but it scales really well deepening on sources. I really like it's pairing with KAEI Tap-2 (AMP), QP2R, R5 Saber. For DACs, it paired well with DC04 Pro, DS1 and Hip-Dac 2 (DAPs were superior in terms of sound quality.
Eartips
- Stock
- DDHIFI ST35
- Final E (Black)
- Spinfit CP100+
- Tri Clarion
- KBear 07
- Dunu Candy
- Spinfit W1
- UCOFIT
The stock eartips are quite good on this, still if you want something better, try DUNU candy or UCOFIT. Just avoid the stock foam eartips if you want to stick with the stock ones.
Cable
- Stock
- KBear (Inspiration C) 4 core copper
- NiceHCK mixPP
The cable provided in the box is quite good as well. But if you really want an upgrade, try a good OCC/OFC cable.
Sound Quality
Mayer Audio CKLVX CK2V is neutral to slightly warm sounding IEM. The bass has a soothing rumble with good thumps. The mid-range is slight warm and gentle. The vocals are slightly forward, but it's quite soothing. The treble section is detailed, airy, yet doesn't make it fatiguing in any sense.
Sub-Bass
The Sub-bass of CKLVX CK2V is soft. Quantity wise it's on the perfect range, it's neither forward, nor laid-back. The Sub-bass hits deep with a really subtle texture. The separation between Sub-bass and Mid-bass is noticeable. It less about the rumble and more about the soft presence which I really like about this IEM.
Mid-Bass
Mid-bass of CKLVX CK2V is slightly more forward compared to the Sub-bass. The mid-bass is well-rounded. The mid-bass is full bodied. Despite having decent quantity of mid-bass, it doesn't bleed much into the mid-range.
The thump and slams of the mid-bass is quite adequate. The speed of the bass is in such position where it neither sound muddy, nor snappy, which makes it sound sweet and warm.
Mid-range
If I have to express the mid-range of CKLVX CK2V in few words, they would be warm, clean, rich and musical. Thanks to the controlled mid bass, you get clean mid-range with a hint of warmth. Instrument in this region sound quite soothing.
Male Vocals
Alright, so the male vocals on the Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V are pretty smooth like, it's neither too forward nor too laid-back. They’re there, clear and present, but doesn't try to steal the spotlight from the instruments.
Tone wise the male vocals are neutral and rich. Vocals are clear that to the controlled mid bass but there might be a word or two you’ll miss here and there if the track’s busy. Texture of the male vocals are smooth, but details are present.
Female Vocals
The female vocals on the Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V are smooth but with a lovely texture. They’re sweet, rich, and has a good amount of bite. These vocals pop out in the mix, lively and engaging. Energetic female vocals sound best with this set.
As for sibilance, it kinda depends on your DAC. With a neutral sounding DAC, it’s pretty much nonexistent, but if you’re using a bright DAC, you might hear a little extra “sss” here and there. But overall, they stay pretty smooth and controlled.
Treble
The treble on the Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V is definitely detailed. It’s more on the smoother side, still has enough to make songs sound lively. I didn't have to deal with any sharp, piercing highs (thankfully).
Only if I hooked it up to a bright DAC, I might face some issues with both female vocals and treble. Definitely something to keep in mind. On the other side, there’s a lot of air in the upper treble. So it defiantly sound spacious.
Instruments
Instrument separation on this is good for the price. Drum's slams are impactful, slightly lacks body. Electric guitar's stroke sounds smooth. Orchestra, piano and harmonica sound fabulous.
Technicalities
The soundstage of CK2V is quite wide, and gets even wider with source. The imaging isn't that great despite having such superior soundstage. It's not inaccurate or anything but at this price point, you get IEMs with far more accurate imaging. Has good speed, but it's not snappy territory.
Gaming
Thanks to the wide soundstage, you get a good range coverage with the CKLVX CK2V. Firing sounds aren't ear piercing, it's rather a smooth feedback. The footsteps aren't as clear as the firings. despite having decent imaging, the footsteps seems vague. In game voices are clear as daylight. (even thought I'm incapable of seeing sound frequencies with these mortal eyes)
In indie or open world games, this IEM performs really well thanks to the wide soundstage. pairing with a musical presentation, it's like a cherry on top.
Why should you consider it
- If you like warm mid-midrange
- If you like mid bass slams
- If you have a good source
- If you like vocals
- If you're sensitive to treble
Why should you look elsewhere
- If you’re a treble lover
- If you're a gamer
- If you don't like warm sound
- If you like bass heavy IEMs
Verdicts
Overall I liked these IEM for many oblivious reasons. And in my opinion, if you're planning on purchasing an IEM with musical presentation and good scalability depending on sources, this IEM is going to get you covered. Well it was my personal opinion on these IEMs, let me know your thoughts on them.
As always thank you for your attention! Let me know your thoughts on this IEM. Until then,
Keep on listening ·͜·♡
Robin Kyle Datiles
New Head-Fier
Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V
Pros: - Great detail retrieval
- Impactful and tight bass
- Clean mid range
- Great treble extension
Cons: - Upper frequencies sound too textured
- Treble can be borderline too bright
- Slight metallic timbre
DISCLAIMER
The review I'm about to share reflects my personal experience and provides an honest evaluation regarding this set. I am completely unaffiliated from the brands I review. I did not receive (or will receive) any financial or monetary incentives in exchange for writing this review, I wrote this review of my own free will and all of the opinions you'll read are my own.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Driver Configuration: 10mm Custom Dynamic Driver + 2x Knowles Balanced Armature + 2x Custom Balanced Armature + Custom Micro Planar
- Impedance: 22Ω
- Sensitivity: 108dB
- Nozzle Diameter: 6.2mm
INTRODUCTION
Myer Audio has been a good contender ever since they have entered the Chi-fi market. Their releases have always been
received positively by the community because of how good they are and how interesting they tune their sets. I have been curious for a while since I haven't tried any IEM from them, and I think the timing to review one of their products especially in the mid-fi range is just perfect, because just recently, it seems like the competition within this price bracket just became more competitive.
I included the CK2V in my daily rotation for almost a week now, and I have mixed feelings about this IEM. Here are the gears I have used in the past couple of days as I am reviewing this IEM:
DAC/Dongle: Shanling H5, and iBasso DC07 Pro
Phone/Device: Either my iPhone XR or my laptop
Music Player: Spotify, and Apple Music
PACKAGING
The Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V comes with a handful of good inclusions, which is pretty much expected at this price point. Inside the box, there's a leather carrying case for the IEMs with a great interior that seems to be made out of micro velvet cloth or faux fabric which is great to prevent any scratches. There are also two sets of eartips with different sizes, which doesn't have any difference in bore diameter but more on the material and softness. The black eartips is slightly stiffer than the white eartips and has a slightly smoother texture. Myer Audio also included a set of foam tips and an extra 4.4mm plug for the modular cable, which is also a plus for me
BUILD QUALITY, DESIGN, AND COMFORT
This IEM has a very pretty faceplate design. The different shades of green is complemented very well by the gold logo and outline. The IEM, including the cable, feels very well built and very durable. The shells are built with resin and come with metal nozzles. The cable feels smooth and not grippy, it also has a right balance of stiffness and softness. Cable is also modular so you can swap from 3.5mm to 4.4mm termination anytime.
Regarding the comfort, the IEMs don't take that much space in my ear despite its chunky look. I honestly thought that the shells are on the larger side so I was surprised how it seats on my ear. There are no aggressive fins nor overwhelming bulges. The nozzles are slightly wide but it doesn't have that deep fit because of the length of the nozzles so it still feels comfortable.
SOUND IMPRESSIONS
The CK2V's tuning is U-shaped that has a generous amount of energy on the lower frequencies and higher frequencies and it feels like they are both fighting for the spotlight and is trying to overwhelm each other. This IEM sounds very energetic and somewhat maintains its midrange clarity and overall good detail retrieval despite the bass boost. The timbre is not that great though, as it has a noticeable metallic timbre which can sound slightly artificial and thin.
Bass
The CK2V's bass is very punchy and authoritative. It attacks fast and decays faster than usual which makes it feel more tactile and punchy. It is more sub-bass forward but it is far from lacking mid-bass because again, the mid-bass punch is very pronounced with sub-bass rumble that sustains just enough to still sound tactile.
I really love how Myer Audio tuned the CK2V's bass, it is very well presented and definitely is very satisfying with every punch that feels whole and somewhat heavy. In my personal standard, the CK2V's bass can even satisfy some bassheads out there.
Mids
Mid-range sounds balanced but leans more on being clean, that is if you are trying to analyze it on itself alone excluding the bass and treble region (as the sound quality gets way busier as a whole). Though it has a slight hint of warmth on the lower-mids, it is still well balanced. One of the issues I experienced regarding the CK2V's mids is though there's a bump and forwardness in upper-mids, which makes the vocals stand out, it somehow makes it sound thinner. Vocals seems to have metallic timbre up top especially on female vocals that hits higher notes, it is forward but it doesn't sound natural.
Treble
The treble region is where I found most of this set's flaws. Treble is bright and spicy but still tolerable, at least for me. The tuning of the CK2V's treble paired with its relatively clean mids is what makes it sound very detailed. It is easy to pick up micro nuances, but the downside is, it can be too bright at times. Don't get me wrong though, it is not sibilant and peaky, I just can see how this set can be too bright for most people if I'll disregard my preference because if you would ask me? Peronally this level of brightness is still within my preference.
The major problem I have encountered when it comes to the upper frequencies is that it sounds too textured and rough, it sounds unrefined, good thing is, this set's treble extension sounds great and sounds airy.
Details, Imaging, and Soundstage
As I have said, CK2V's detail retrieval is great, it sounds very detailed but because the treble region sounds unrefined, it can really be fatiguing. Because of the brightness, the level of details that you are picking up, and the forwardness of bass, it can really be fatiguing over time because you don't know where your focus will be.
Imaging and soundstage is fairly average, not the best but also not the worst, there's nothing much to say. Soundstage has more width than height and depth which is very noticeable, but it doesn't sound cramped either. There are a lot more better options when it comes to technicalities than this IEM.
CONCLUSION
Man, this IEM really has a lot of potential, I just have some issues here and there which makes me slightly disappointed, but at the same time makes me excited for their future releases or even this IEM's future successor (assuming that they will improve the tuning)
I want to believe that Myer Audio's previous releases are better than this, after all, the CK2V was just recently released and I haven't tried anything from them prior to this IEM. The CKLVX CK2V doesn't sound horrible, but when compared to current hyped sets within the price range, this IEM sounds decent at best. But on the brighter side, reviewing the CK2V just truly made me more curious and intrigued regarding their previous releases. I want to test out if the reviews are true, so we will definitely see.
Attachments
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avishifi
Good review man!
Robin Kyle Datiles
@avishifi thanks! I appreciate the feedback )
ahammedsojib
Nice write-up
I will describe the sound signature as more of a U-shape sound, more so on the analytical side as well. It's a fun, contrasty but dry sound no doubt, however this is not a set I will recommend if you want very forward vocals. They are more or less in the middle of the presentation, giving room for the instruments to play alongside. Best way I can describe it is that you’re sitting in a room with the vocalist in front of you and the supporting instruments surrounding you from left, right and front. I personally don’t mind it though. However, this tuning is not without its issues that I’ll get to later while describing the aspects in greater detail.
Graph by ATechReviews on SquigLink.
Graph by ATechReviews on SquigLink.
Bass: 4.5/5There’s a lot of it, close to basshead levels even but it does not muddy the rest of the frequencies. It’s just enough to sound fun. Sub bass goes DEEP and has more presence than mid bass, the texture, impact, and tactility is the highlight for me thanks to the 10mm bio-composite DD they used, something owners or people who have tried the Yanyin Canon will know hard it hits. Decay is on the longer side, and there is also a small glide from the midbass to the lower mids which adds some minor warmth to the sound.
Midrange: 4/5Natural enough, male vocals sound more neutral than thin or rich, with female vocals being similar but has a slightly more engaging factor to it. Both are more so in the middle of the presentation instead of being very forward as described earlier, with female vocals being slightly more forward to my ears. Instruments are clean and sounds good, nothing particularly stand out in my opinion other than I don't really like the way guitar sounds here, they're a bit bloated. The slight warmth from the low mids does make them a bit richer sounding which is a bonus to me. I personally would’ve preferred if the vocals pop out more in the mix.
Treble: 3.75/5In my opinion, the treble is this IEM’s Achilles’ Heel if you can hear greater than 15khz. It’s not bad treble per se, I’d say it’s solid even. There’s nothing wrong with lower or mid treble, it’s just that my main issue with it is that there’s a nasty peak there that (while giving a greater sense of extension, air and technical performance) does emphasize the Micro Planar thinness and zinginess (if that’s even a word) that contributes to a thinner sounding hi-hats and cymbals. I don’t like it. BUT, this is an issue you can fix through EQ by reducing the 15k region by around -2db to -4db. Alternatively, you can simply stick with the stock EP-EX11 as the treble roll off from that particular eartip counteracts the 15khz peak. If you only used that particular eartip on your CK2V, you may not even notice the presence of said peak.
Technical Performance: 4.25/5Soundstage of the CK2V is BIG, but in an unnatural way in my opinion. Here’s how I’ll describe it and give an example of comparison, in the case of the TRI I3 MK3 it does have a big soundstage as well but the projection of things make it sound natural in that regard. There is a black background that keeps things in check. Everything is placed where it should be that contributed to a “natural stage”. In contrast, for CK2V the projection of instruments forcibly takes up all of the available spaces provided by the IEM, causing them to sound more spaced out. Even so, imaging of the CK2V is average at best, not pinpoint accurate but good enough for you to discern the general location of instruments, there is an adequate amount of depth here. Micro-details and macro-details are presented pretty well in the mix though thanks to the tuning and the use of Micro Planar drivers here. Despite my gripes I do think this set works very well for EDM, Hip Hop, instrumentals, orchestra etc.
Timbre: 4/5Not the most natural, it's acceptable and your ears will get used to it quickly in my opinion. There is nothing particularly wrong sounding about it, just reduce the 15khz peak by the amount I specified, and it should sound nicer and less metallic or you can just stick with the stock EP-EX11s.
Conclusion:
Is it good? Sure, especially if you can get it during sales. It’s a solid IEM with tuning quirks that can be mitigated through EQ but not fully, the accessories are good, and I had an overall decently pleasant experience with the CK2V despite its flaws. I do think this is a solid output from Myer Audio, and I hope they can improve with their next releases. Just please be more consistent with the names and ditch the ugly SLIIVO font.
But hey, don’t just take my word for it, I’m just a silly man that stayed in this hobby for too long for my own ( wallet’s ) good. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Final Ratings:
Exterior: 12.5 / 15
Comfortability: 8.5 / 10
Interior: 20.5 / 25
Total Score: 41.5 / 50
Average: 4.15 / 5 with a
Who I recommend this IEM to:
- Bassheads
- V/U shape enjoyers
- You want a medium sized IEM
- You want to hear details
- Willing to EQ to fix the minor quirk with this IEM
- You listen to Orchestra, Instrumentals, Game OSTs etc
Who I don’t recommend this IEM to:
- Neutral and/or bright enjoyers
- Very vocal forward enjoyers
- You're sensitive to 15khz peaks and slight metallic timbre
- You want the best technical performance
- You don't like to EQ
- Your wallet is not deep enough to buy this
Thanks for reading this relatively long review, I hope you find it to be informative enough to convince you to either buy or not buy this IEM. Don't be swayed by an IEM just because not all of its drivers are branded, what matters is the execution of the overall package. If you have any questions then feel free to ask them in the comments.
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RK Turan
100+ Head-Fier
Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V: Gets better with Sources
Pros: Good accessories
Great scalability
Mid Bass
Vocals
Smooth Treble
Cons: Pairing with budget dongles
Treble could have some more sparkle
Gaming Performance
Disclaimer
I got this product as a review unit from Mayer Audio. Except from the review unit, I did not receive money or any other necessities to influence the review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion on Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V. My likes and dislikes on this IEM are based solely on my own personal experience.
Intro
This might be my first review of any Myer audio's product. But it's definitely not the first one that I've tried. Previously I've tried 2 of their CKLVX lineups, D62 followed by D41. Personally, I liked the D62 with a particular source. From their Slivo lineup, I got to try the SLA3. That is a great IEM in terms of price to performance, but it can be superior with minor adjustments.
Before starting the review, I'd like to mention one thing. It was sooo freaking difficult to remember all of their names! Took me more than a month to do so. So I'll keep mentioning their full name, just to flex. Let's get straight into the full review.
Design & Build Quality
The Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V might not the flashiest looking IEM, which meets my personal preferences. The design is on the minimal, yet it will look gorgeous on closer inspection.
The faceplate looks really artistic with the sand-like texture. It has shades of green and golden tone that shines on lights presence. I've reviewed other IEMs with similar glittery effects, except the shining on this particular set is quite minimal.
The lower part of the faceplate has the model's branding with a bright golden hue, which actually adds up to the overall aesthetics of this IEM. The outer part of the shell has a golden border, a bit muted than the text to create contrast.
The inner side of the shell look pitched black, like most other IEMs in the market. The left and right indicators are quite large on them. The nozzle is metal built. The vent for the dynamic driver is on topside of the shell, beside the 2 pin connectors.
The stock cable of CK2V is durable and has a smooth finish on the overall cable. The termination is interchangeable, both 3.5mm and 4.4mm balanced outputs are available.
The eartips are quite decent on this. The black one looks like pairs from Sony and the white/semi transparent one look like the it's from Spinfit. Except from the foam, I liked all of them.
The carrying case look premium, made with leather and painted in deep blue. The zipper is painted in golden and doesn't have sharp edges, it glides through while zipping and unzipping. Top on the box in graved to showcase banding. Inside of the carrying case is pretty spacious, as I was able to fit the IEM with few stock eartips. I really loved the case.
Comfort
The CKLVX CK2V has an average shell side. It's neither too big not too small. So most of the music lovers are going to be fine using it. It's decently comfortable even after wearing them for hours. As I was lucky enough to review and try more comfortable IEMs, despite it being a relatively comfortable IEM, I can't rank it that high with the dominators!
Packaging
- Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V drivers
- SPC Cable
- 2 terminations (3.5 and 4.4)
- 7 pairs ear tips (6 silicon and 1 foam) [3 each type]
- Leather Case
- User Manual
- Warranty
Specification
- Impedance: 40Ω
- Sensitivity: 108dB
- Nozzle: 6.2MM
- Driver: 1 DD (10mm), 4 BA (2 custom), 1 micro planner
- Cable: Silver plated copper, 4 core detachable cable
- Length: about 1.25M with tolerance
- Plug: support two-pin 0.78MM can be converted plug 3.5MM + 4.4MM
- Plug material: 3u gold-plated plugs
- Eartips: Silicone eartips 6 pairs (A group / B group) + memory foam tips 1 pair
- Leather carrying case: 1
- Instruction manual: 1 book
- Guarantee: 12 months (non-human factor)
Pairings
Sources
- Ibasso DC04 Pro
- Cayin Ru7
- Cayin Ru6
- Fosi audio DS1
- IFI Hip-Dac 2
- Cayin N3 ultra
- Hiby R4
- Hiby R1
- Hiby R5 saber
- Questyle QP2R
- KAEI Tap2
- Plenue R2
- ΚΑΕΙ Tap-2
- DUNU DTC-480
- Moondrop Dawn Pro
CLKVX CK2V might not be a power-hungry IEM, but it scales really well deepening on sources. I really like it's pairing with KAEI Tap-2 (AMP), QP2R, R5 Saber. For DACs, it paired well with DC04 Pro, DS1 and Hip-Dac 2 (DAPs were superior in terms of sound quality.
Eartips
- Stock
- DDHIFI ST35
- Final E (Black)
- Spinfit CP100+
- Tri Clarion
- KBear 07
- Dunu Candy
- Spinfit W1
- UCOFIT
The stock eartips are quite good on this, still if you want something better, try DUNU candy or UCOFIT. Just avoid the stock foam eartips if you want to stick with the stock ones.
Cable
- Stock
- KBear (Inspiration C) 4 core copper
- NiceHCK mixPP
The cable provided in the box is quite good as well. But if you really want an upgrade, try a good OCC/OFC cable.
Sound Quality
Mayer Audio CKLVX CK2V is neutral to slightly warm sounding IEM. The bass has a soothing rumble with good thumps. The mid-range is slight warm and gentle. The vocals are slightly forward, but it's quite soothing. The treble section is detailed, airy, yet doesn't make it fatiguing in any sense.
Sub-Bass
The Sub-bass of CKLVX CK2V is soft. Quantity wise it's on the perfect range, it's neither forward, nor laid-back. The Sub-bass hits deep with a really subtle texture. The separation between Sub-bass and Mid-bass is noticeable. It less about the rumble and more about the soft presence which I really like about this IEM.
Mid-Bass
Mid-bass of CKLVX CK2V is slightly more forward compared to the Sub-bass. The mid-bass is well-rounded. The mid-bass is full bodied. Despite having decent quantity of mid-bass, it doesn't bleed much into the mid-range.
The thump and slams of the mid-bass is quite adequate. The speed of the bass is in such position where it neither sound muddy, nor snappy, which makes it sound sweet and warm.
Mid-range
If I have to express the mid-range of CKLVX CK2V in few words, they would be warm, clean, rich and musical. Thanks to the controlled mid bass, you get clean mid-range with a hint of warmth. Instrument in this region sound quite soothing.
Male Vocals
Alright, so the male vocals on the Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V are pretty smooth like, it's neither too forward nor too laid-back. They’re there, clear and present, but doesn't try to steal the spotlight from the instruments.
Tone wise the male vocals are neutral and rich. Vocals are clear that to the controlled mid bass but there might be a word or two you’ll miss here and there if the track’s busy. Texture of the male vocals are smooth, but details are present.
Female Vocals
The female vocals on the Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V are smooth but with a lovely texture. They’re sweet, rich, and has a good amount of bite. These vocals pop out in the mix, lively and engaging. Energetic female vocals sound best with this set.
As for sibilance, it kinda depends on your DAC. With a neutral sounding DAC, it’s pretty much nonexistent, but if you’re using a bright DAC, you might hear a little extra “sss” here and there. But overall, they stay pretty smooth and controlled.
Treble
The treble on the Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V is definitely detailed. It’s more on the smoother side, still has enough to make songs sound lively. I didn't have to deal with any sharp, piercing highs (thankfully).
Only if I hooked it up to a bright DAC, I might face some issues with both female vocals and treble. Definitely something to keep in mind. On the other side, there’s a lot of air in the upper treble. So it defiantly sound spacious.
Instruments
Instrument separation on this is good for the price. Drum's slams are impactful, slightly lacks body. Electric guitar's stroke sounds smooth. Orchestra, piano and harmonica sound fabulous.
Technicalities
The soundstage of CK2V is quite wide, and gets even wider with source. The imaging isn't that great despite having such superior soundstage. It's not inaccurate or anything but at this price point, you get IEMs with far more accurate imaging. Has good speed, but it's not snappy territory.
Gaming
Thanks to the wide soundstage, you get a good range coverage with the CKLVX CK2V. Firing sounds aren't ear piercing, it's rather a smooth feedback. The footsteps aren't as clear as the firings. despite having decent imaging, the footsteps seems vague. In game voices are clear as daylight. (even thought I'm incapable of seeing sound frequencies with these mortal eyes)
In indie or open world games, this IEM performs really well thanks to the wide soundstage. pairing with a musical presentation, it's like a cherry on top.
Why should you consider it
- If you like warm mid-midrange
- If you like mid bass slams
- If you have a good source
- If you like vocals
- If you're sensitive to treble
Why should you look elsewhere
- If you’re a treble lover
- If you're a gamer
- If you don't like warm sound
- If you like bass heavy IEMs
Verdicts
Overall I liked these IEM for many oblivious reasons. And in my opinion, if you're planning on purchasing an IEM with musical presentation and good scalability depending on sources, this IEM is going to get you covered. Well it was my personal opinion on these IEMs, let me know your thoughts on them.
As always thank you for your attention! Let me know your thoughts on this IEM. Until then,
Keep on listening ·͜·♡
Robin Kyle Datiles
New Head-Fier
Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V
Pros: - Great detail retrieval
- Impactful and tight bass
- Clean mid range
- Great treble extension
Cons: - Upper frequencies sound too textured
- Treble can be borderline too bright
- Slight metallic timbre
DISCLAIMER
The review I'm about to share reflects my personal experience and provides an honest evaluation regarding this set. I am completely unaffiliated from the brands I review. I did not receive (or will receive) any financial or monetary incentives in exchange for writing this review, I wrote this review of my own free will and all of the opinions you'll read are my own.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Driver Configuration: 10mm Custom Dynamic Driver + 2x Knowles Balanced Armature + 2x Custom Balanced Armature + Custom Micro Planar
- Impedance: 22Ω
- Sensitivity: 108dB
- Nozzle Diameter: 6.2mm
INTRODUCTION
Myer Audio has been a good contender ever since they have entered the Chi-fi market. Their releases have always been
received positively by the community because of how good they are and how interesting they tune their sets. I have been curious for a while since I haven't tried any IEM from them, and I think the timing to review one of their products especially in the mid-fi range is just perfect, because just recently, it seems like the competition within this price bracket just became more competitive.
I included the CK2V in my daily rotation for almost a week now, and I have mixed feelings about this IEM. Here are the gears I have used in the past couple of days as I am reviewing this IEM:
DAC/Dongle: Shanling H5, and iBasso DC07 Pro
Phone/Device: Either my iPhone XR or my laptop
Music Player: Spotify, and Apple Music
PACKAGING
The Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V comes with a handful of good inclusions, which is pretty much expected at this price point. Inside the box, there's a leather carrying case for the IEMs with a great interior that seems to be made out of micro velvet cloth or faux fabric which is great to prevent any scratches. There are also two sets of eartips with different sizes, which doesn't have any difference in bore diameter but more on the material and softness. The black eartips is slightly stiffer than the white eartips and has a slightly smoother texture. Myer Audio also included a set of foam tips and an extra 4.4mm plug for the modular cable, which is also a plus for me
BUILD QUALITY, DESIGN, AND COMFORT
This IEM has a very pretty faceplate design. The different shades of green is complemented very well by the gold logo and outline. The IEM, including the cable, feels very well built and very durable. The shells are built with resin and come with metal nozzles. The cable feels smooth and not grippy, it also has a right balance of stiffness and softness. Cable is also modular so you can swap from 3.5mm to 4.4mm termination anytime.
Regarding the comfort, the IEMs don't take that much space in my ear despite its chunky look. I honestly thought that the shells are on the larger side so I was surprised how it seats on my ear. There are no aggressive fins nor overwhelming bulges. The nozzles are slightly wide but it doesn't have that deep fit because of the length of the nozzles so it still feels comfortable.
SOUND IMPRESSIONS
The CK2V's tuning is U-shaped that has a generous amount of energy on the lower frequencies and higher frequencies and it feels like they are both fighting for the spotlight and is trying to overwhelm each other. This IEM sounds very energetic and somewhat maintains its midrange clarity and overall good detail retrieval despite the bass boost. The timbre is not that great though, as it has a noticeable metallic timbre which can sound slightly artificial and thin.
Bass
The CK2V's bass is very punchy and authoritative. It attacks fast and decays faster than usual which makes it feel more tactile and punchy. It is more sub-bass forward but it is far from lacking mid-bass because again, the mid-bass punch is very pronounced with sub-bass rumble that sustains just enough to still sound tactile.
I really love how Myer Audio tuned the CK2V's bass, it is very well presented and definitely is very satisfying with every punch that feels whole and somewhat heavy. In my personal standard, the CK2V's bass can even satisfy some bassheads out there.
Mids
Mid-range sounds balanced but leans more on being clean, that is if you are trying to analyze it on itself alone excluding the bass and treble region (as the sound quality gets way busier as a whole). Though it has a slight hint of warmth on the lower-mids, it is still well balanced. One of the issues I experienced regarding the CK2V's mids is though there's a bump and forwardness in upper-mids, which makes the vocals stand out, it somehow makes it sound thinner. Vocals seems to have metallic timbre up top especially on female vocals that hits higher notes, it is forward but it doesn't sound natural.
Treble
The treble region is where I found most of this set's flaws. Treble is bright and spicy but still tolerable, at least for me. The tuning of the CK2V's treble paired with its relatively clean mids is what makes it sound very detailed. It is easy to pick up micro nuances, but the downside is, it can be too bright at times. Don't get me wrong though, it is not sibilant and peaky, I just can see how this set can be too bright for most people if I'll disregard my preference because if you would ask me? Peronally this level of brightness is still within my preference.
The major problem I have encountered when it comes to the upper frequencies is that it sounds too textured and rough, it sounds unrefined, good thing is, this set's treble extension sounds great and sounds airy.
Details, Imaging, and Soundstage
As I have said, CK2V's detail retrieval is great, it sounds very detailed but because the treble region sounds unrefined, it can really be fatiguing. Because of the brightness, the level of details that you are picking up, and the forwardness of bass, it can really be fatiguing over time because you don't know where your focus will be.
Imaging and soundstage is fairly average, not the best but also not the worst, there's nothing much to say. Soundstage has more width than height and depth which is very noticeable, but it doesn't sound cramped either. There are a lot more better options when it comes to technicalities than this IEM.
CONCLUSION
Man, this IEM really has a lot of potential, I just have some issues here and there which makes me slightly disappointed, but at the same time makes me excited for their future releases or even this IEM's future successor (assuming that they will improve the tuning)
I want to believe that Myer Audio's previous releases are better than this, after all, the CK2V was just recently released and I haven't tried anything from them prior to this IEM. The CKLVX CK2V doesn't sound horrible, but when compared to current hyped sets within the price range, this IEM sounds decent at best. But on the brighter side, reviewing the CK2V just truly made me more curious and intrigued regarding their previous releases. I want to test out if the reviews are true, so we will definitely see.
Attachments
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avishifi
Good review man!
Robin Kyle Datiles
@avishifi thanks! I appreciate the feedback )
ahammedsojib
Nice write-up
There’s a lot of it, close to basshead levels even but it does not muddy the rest of the frequencies. It’s just enough to sound fun. Sub bass goes DEEP and has more presence than mid bass, the texture, impact, and tactility is the highlight for me thanks to the 10mm bio-composite DD they used, something owners or people who have tried the Yanyin Canon will know hard it hits. Decay is on the longer side, and there is also a small glide from the midbass to the lower mids which adds some minor warmth to the sound.
Midrange: 4/5Natural enough, male vocals sound more neutral than thin or rich, with female vocals being similar but has a slightly more engaging factor to it. Both are more so in the middle of the presentation instead of being very forward as described earlier, with female vocals being slightly more forward to my ears. Instruments are clean and sounds good, nothing particularly stand out in my opinion other than I don't really like the way guitar sounds here, they're a bit bloated. The slight warmth from the low mids does make them a bit richer sounding which is a bonus to me. I personally would’ve preferred if the vocals pop out more in the mix.
Treble: 3.75/5In my opinion, the treble is this IEM’s Achilles’ Heel if you can hear greater than 15khz. It’s not bad treble per se, I’d say it’s solid even. There’s nothing wrong with lower or mid treble, it’s just that my main issue with it is that there’s a nasty peak there that (while giving a greater sense of extension, air and technical performance) does emphasize the Micro Planar thinness and zinginess (if that’s even a word) that contributes to a thinner sounding hi-hats and cymbals. I don’t like it. BUT, this is an issue you can fix through EQ by reducing the 15k region by around -2db to -4db. Alternatively, you can simply stick with the stock EP-EX11 as the treble roll off from that particular eartip counteracts the 15khz peak. If you only used that particular eartip on your CK2V, you may not even notice the presence of said peak.
Technical Performance: 4.25/5Soundstage of the CK2V is BIG, but in an unnatural way in my opinion. Here’s how I’ll describe it and give an example of comparison, in the case of the TRI I3 MK3 it does have a big soundstage as well but the projection of things make it sound natural in that regard. There is a black background that keeps things in check. Everything is placed where it should be that contributed to a “natural stage”. In contrast, for CK2V the projection of instruments forcibly takes up all of the available spaces provided by the IEM, causing them to sound more spaced out. Even so, imaging of the CK2V is average at best, not pinpoint accurate but good enough for you to discern the general location of instruments, there is an adequate amount of depth here. Micro-details and macro-details are presented pretty well in the mix though thanks to the tuning and the use of Micro Planar drivers here. Despite my gripes I do think this set works very well for EDM, Hip Hop, instrumentals, orchestra etc.
Timbre: 4/5Not the most natural, it's acceptable and your ears will get used to it quickly in my opinion. There is nothing particularly wrong sounding about it, just reduce the 15khz peak by the amount I specified, and it should sound nicer and less metallic or you can just stick with the stock EP-EX11s.
Conclusion:
Is it good? Sure, especially if you can get it during sales. It’s a solid IEM with tuning quirks that can be mitigated through EQ but not fully, the accessories are good, and I had an overall decently pleasant experience with the CK2V despite its flaws. I do think this is a solid output from Myer Audio, and I hope they can improve with their next releases. Just please be more consistent with the names and ditch the ugly SLIIVO font.
But hey, don’t just take my word for it, I’m just a silly man that stayed in this hobby for too long for my own ( wallet’s ) good. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Final Ratings:
Exterior: 12.5 / 15
Comfortability: 8.5 / 10
Interior: 20.5 / 25
Total Score: 41.5 / 50
Average: 4.15 / 5 with a
Who I recommend this IEM to:
- Bassheads
- V/U shape enjoyers
- You want a medium sized IEM
- You want to hear details
- Willing to EQ to fix the minor quirk with this IEM
- You listen to Orchestra, Instrumentals, Game OSTs etc
Who I don’t recommend this IEM to:
- Neutral and/or bright enjoyers
- Very vocal forward enjoyers
- You're sensitive to 15khz peaks and slight metallic timbre
- You want the best technical performance
- You don't like to EQ
- Your wallet is not deep enough to buy this
Thanks for reading this relatively long review, I hope you find it to be informative enough to convince you to either buy or not buy this IEM. Don't be swayed by an IEM just because not all of its drivers are branded, what matters is the execution of the overall package. If you have any questions then feel free to ask them in the comments.
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RK Turan
100+ Head-Fier
Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V: Gets better with Sources
Pros: Good accessories
Great scalability
Mid Bass
Vocals
Smooth Treble
Cons: Pairing with budget dongles
Treble could have some more sparkle
Gaming Performance
Disclaimer
I got this product as a review unit from Mayer Audio. Except from the review unit, I did not receive money or any other necessities to influence the review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion on Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V. My likes and dislikes on this IEM are based solely on my own personal experience.
Intro
This might be my first review of any Myer audio's product. But it's definitely not the first one that I've tried. Previously I've tried 2 of their CKLVX lineups, D62 followed by D41. Personally, I liked the D62 with a particular source. From their Slivo lineup, I got to try the SLA3. That is a great IEM in terms of price to performance, but it can be superior with minor adjustments.
Before starting the review, I'd like to mention one thing. It was sooo freaking difficult to remember all of their names! Took me more than a month to do so. So I'll keep mentioning their full name, just to flex. Let's get straight into the full review.
Design & Build Quality
The Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V might not the flashiest looking IEM, which meets my personal preferences. The design is on the minimal, yet it will look gorgeous on closer inspection.
The faceplate looks really artistic with the sand-like texture. It has shades of green and golden tone that shines on lights presence. I've reviewed other IEMs with similar glittery effects, except the shining on this particular set is quite minimal.
The lower part of the faceplate has the model's branding with a bright golden hue, which actually adds up to the overall aesthetics of this IEM. The outer part of the shell has a golden border, a bit muted than the text to create contrast.
The inner side of the shell look pitched black, like most other IEMs in the market. The left and right indicators are quite large on them. The nozzle is metal built. The vent for the dynamic driver is on topside of the shell, beside the 2 pin connectors.
The stock cable of CK2V is durable and has a smooth finish on the overall cable. The termination is interchangeable, both 3.5mm and 4.4mm balanced outputs are available.
The eartips are quite decent on this. The black one looks like pairs from Sony and the white/semi transparent one look like the it's from Spinfit. Except from the foam, I liked all of them.
The carrying case look premium, made with leather and painted in deep blue. The zipper is painted in golden and doesn't have sharp edges, it glides through while zipping and unzipping. Top on the box in graved to showcase banding. Inside of the carrying case is pretty spacious, as I was able to fit the IEM with few stock eartips. I really loved the case.
Comfort
The CKLVX CK2V has an average shell side. It's neither too big not too small. So most of the music lovers are going to be fine using it. It's decently comfortable even after wearing them for hours. As I was lucky enough to review and try more comfortable IEMs, despite it being a relatively comfortable IEM, I can't rank it that high with the dominators!
Packaging
- Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V drivers
- SPC Cable
- 2 terminations (3.5 and 4.4)
- 7 pairs ear tips (6 silicon and 1 foam) [3 each type]
- Leather Case
- User Manual
- Warranty
Specification
- Impedance: 40Ω
- Sensitivity: 108dB
- Nozzle: 6.2MM
- Driver: 1 DD (10mm), 4 BA (2 custom), 1 micro planner
- Cable: Silver plated copper, 4 core detachable cable
- Length: about 1.25M with tolerance
- Plug: support two-pin 0.78MM can be converted plug 3.5MM + 4.4MM
- Plug material: 3u gold-plated plugs
- Eartips: Silicone eartips 6 pairs (A group / B group) + memory foam tips 1 pair
- Leather carrying case: 1
- Instruction manual: 1 book
- Guarantee: 12 months (non-human factor)
Pairings
Sources
- Ibasso DC04 Pro
- Cayin Ru7
- Cayin Ru6
- Fosi audio DS1
- IFI Hip-Dac 2
- Cayin N3 ultra
- Hiby R4
- Hiby R1
- Hiby R5 saber
- Questyle QP2R
- KAEI Tap2
- Plenue R2
- ΚΑΕΙ Tap-2
- DUNU DTC-480
- Moondrop Dawn Pro
CLKVX CK2V might not be a power-hungry IEM, but it scales really well deepening on sources. I really like it's pairing with KAEI Tap-2 (AMP), QP2R, R5 Saber. For DACs, it paired well with DC04 Pro, DS1 and Hip-Dac 2 (DAPs were superior in terms of sound quality.
Eartips
- Stock
- DDHIFI ST35
- Final E (Black)
- Spinfit CP100+
- Tri Clarion
- KBear 07
- Dunu Candy
- Spinfit W1
- UCOFIT
The stock eartips are quite good on this, still if you want something better, try DUNU candy or UCOFIT. Just avoid the stock foam eartips if you want to stick with the stock ones.
Cable
- Stock
- KBear (Inspiration C) 4 core copper
- NiceHCK mixPP
The cable provided in the box is quite good as well. But if you really want an upgrade, try a good OCC/OFC cable.
Sound Quality
Mayer Audio CKLVX CK2V is neutral to slightly warm sounding IEM. The bass has a soothing rumble with good thumps. The mid-range is slight warm and gentle. The vocals are slightly forward, but it's quite soothing. The treble section is detailed, airy, yet doesn't make it fatiguing in any sense.
Sub-Bass
The Sub-bass of CKLVX CK2V is soft. Quantity wise it's on the perfect range, it's neither forward, nor laid-back. The Sub-bass hits deep with a really subtle texture. The separation between Sub-bass and Mid-bass is noticeable. It less about the rumble and more about the soft presence which I really like about this IEM.
Mid-Bass
Mid-bass of CKLVX CK2V is slightly more forward compared to the Sub-bass. The mid-bass is well-rounded. The mid-bass is full bodied. Despite having decent quantity of mid-bass, it doesn't bleed much into the mid-range.
The thump and slams of the mid-bass is quite adequate. The speed of the bass is in such position where it neither sound muddy, nor snappy, which makes it sound sweet and warm.
Mid-range
If I have to express the mid-range of CKLVX CK2V in few words, they would be warm, clean, rich and musical. Thanks to the controlled mid bass, you get clean mid-range with a hint of warmth. Instrument in this region sound quite soothing.
Male Vocals
Alright, so the male vocals on the Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V are pretty smooth like, it's neither too forward nor too laid-back. They’re there, clear and present, but doesn't try to steal the spotlight from the instruments.
Tone wise the male vocals are neutral and rich. Vocals are clear that to the controlled mid bass but there might be a word or two you’ll miss here and there if the track’s busy. Texture of the male vocals are smooth, but details are present.
Female Vocals
The female vocals on the Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V are smooth but with a lovely texture. They’re sweet, rich, and has a good amount of bite. These vocals pop out in the mix, lively and engaging. Energetic female vocals sound best with this set.
As for sibilance, it kinda depends on your DAC. With a neutral sounding DAC, it’s pretty much nonexistent, but if you’re using a bright DAC, you might hear a little extra “sss” here and there. But overall, they stay pretty smooth and controlled.
Treble
The treble on the Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V is definitely detailed. It’s more on the smoother side, still has enough to make songs sound lively. I didn't have to deal with any sharp, piercing highs (thankfully).
Only if I hooked it up to a bright DAC, I might face some issues with both female vocals and treble. Definitely something to keep in mind. On the other side, there’s a lot of air in the upper treble. So it defiantly sound spacious.
Instruments
Instrument separation on this is good for the price. Drum's slams are impactful, slightly lacks body. Electric guitar's stroke sounds smooth. Orchestra, piano and harmonica sound fabulous.
Technicalities
The soundstage of CK2V is quite wide, and gets even wider with source. The imaging isn't that great despite having such superior soundstage. It's not inaccurate or anything but at this price point, you get IEMs with far more accurate imaging. Has good speed, but it's not snappy territory.
Gaming
Thanks to the wide soundstage, you get a good range coverage with the CKLVX CK2V. Firing sounds aren't ear piercing, it's rather a smooth feedback. The footsteps aren't as clear as the firings. despite having decent imaging, the footsteps seems vague. In game voices are clear as daylight. (even thought I'm incapable of seeing sound frequencies with these mortal eyes)
In indie or open world games, this IEM performs really well thanks to the wide soundstage. pairing with a musical presentation, it's like a cherry on top.
Why should you consider it
- If you like warm mid-midrange
- If you like mid bass slams
- If you have a good source
- If you like vocals
- If you're sensitive to treble
Why should you look elsewhere
- If you’re a treble lover
- If you're a gamer
- If you don't like warm sound
- If you like bass heavy IEMs
Verdicts
Overall I liked these IEM for many oblivious reasons. And in my opinion, if you're planning on purchasing an IEM with musical presentation and good scalability depending on sources, this IEM is going to get you covered. Well it was my personal opinion on these IEMs, let me know your thoughts on them.
As always thank you for your attention! Let me know your thoughts on this IEM. Until then,
Keep on listening ·͜·♡
Robin Kyle Datiles
New Head-Fier
Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V
Pros: - Great detail retrieval
- Impactful and tight bass
- Clean mid range
- Great treble extension
Cons: - Upper frequencies sound too textured
- Treble can be borderline too bright
- Slight metallic timbre
DISCLAIMER
The review I'm about to share reflects my personal experience and provides an honest evaluation regarding this set. I am completely unaffiliated from the brands I review. I did not receive (or will receive) any financial or monetary incentives in exchange for writing this review, I wrote this review of my own free will and all of the opinions you'll read are my own.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Driver Configuration: 10mm Custom Dynamic Driver + 2x Knowles Balanced Armature + 2x Custom Balanced Armature + Custom Micro Planar
- Impedance: 22Ω
- Sensitivity: 108dB
- Nozzle Diameter: 6.2mm
INTRODUCTION
Myer Audio has been a good contender ever since they have entered the Chi-fi market. Their releases have always been
received positively by the community because of how good they are and how interesting they tune their sets. I have been curious for a while since I haven't tried any IEM from them, and I think the timing to review one of their products especially in the mid-fi range is just perfect, because just recently, it seems like the competition within this price bracket just became more competitive.
I included the CK2V in my daily rotation for almost a week now, and I have mixed feelings about this IEM. Here are the gears I have used in the past couple of days as I am reviewing this IEM:
DAC/Dongle: Shanling H5, and iBasso DC07 Pro
Phone/Device: Either my iPhone XR or my laptop
Music Player: Spotify, and Apple Music
PACKAGING
The Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V comes with a handful of good inclusions, which is pretty much expected at this price point. Inside the box, there's a leather carrying case for the IEMs with a great interior that seems to be made out of micro velvet cloth or faux fabric which is great to prevent any scratches. There are also two sets of eartips with different sizes, which doesn't have any difference in bore diameter but more on the material and softness. The black eartips is slightly stiffer than the white eartips and has a slightly smoother texture. Myer Audio also included a set of foam tips and an extra 4.4mm plug for the modular cable, which is also a plus for me
BUILD QUALITY, DESIGN, AND COMFORT
This IEM has a very pretty faceplate design. The different shades of green is complemented very well by the gold logo and outline. The IEM, including the cable, feels very well built and very durable. The shells are built with resin and come with metal nozzles. The cable feels smooth and not grippy, it also has a right balance of stiffness and softness. Cable is also modular so you can swap from 3.5mm to 4.4mm termination anytime.
Regarding the comfort, the IEMs don't take that much space in my ear despite its chunky look. I honestly thought that the shells are on the larger side so I was surprised how it seats on my ear. There are no aggressive fins nor overwhelming bulges. The nozzles are slightly wide but it doesn't have that deep fit because of the length of the nozzles so it still feels comfortable.
SOUND IMPRESSIONS
The CK2V's tuning is U-shaped that has a generous amount of energy on the lower frequencies and higher frequencies and it feels like they are both fighting for the spotlight and is trying to overwhelm each other. This IEM sounds very energetic and somewhat maintains its midrange clarity and overall good detail retrieval despite the bass boost. The timbre is not that great though, as it has a noticeable metallic timbre which can sound slightly artificial and thin.
Bass
The CK2V's bass is very punchy and authoritative. It attacks fast and decays faster than usual which makes it feel more tactile and punchy. It is more sub-bass forward but it is far from lacking mid-bass because again, the mid-bass punch is very pronounced with sub-bass rumble that sustains just enough to still sound tactile.
I really love how Myer Audio tuned the CK2V's bass, it is very well presented and definitely is very satisfying with every punch that feels whole and somewhat heavy. In my personal standard, the CK2V's bass can even satisfy some bassheads out there.
Mids
Mid-range sounds balanced but leans more on being clean, that is if you are trying to analyze it on itself alone excluding the bass and treble region (as the sound quality gets way busier as a whole). Though it has a slight hint of warmth on the lower-mids, it is still well balanced. One of the issues I experienced regarding the CK2V's mids is though there's a bump and forwardness in upper-mids, which makes the vocals stand out, it somehow makes it sound thinner. Vocals seems to have metallic timbre up top especially on female vocals that hits higher notes, it is forward but it doesn't sound natural.
Treble
The treble region is where I found most of this set's flaws. Treble is bright and spicy but still tolerable, at least for me. The tuning of the CK2V's treble paired with its relatively clean mids is what makes it sound very detailed. It is easy to pick up micro nuances, but the downside is, it can be too bright at times. Don't get me wrong though, it is not sibilant and peaky, I just can see how this set can be too bright for most people if I'll disregard my preference because if you would ask me? Peronally this level of brightness is still within my preference.
The major problem I have encountered when it comes to the upper frequencies is that it sounds too textured and rough, it sounds unrefined, good thing is, this set's treble extension sounds great and sounds airy.
Details, Imaging, and Soundstage
As I have said, CK2V's detail retrieval is great, it sounds very detailed but because the treble region sounds unrefined, it can really be fatiguing. Because of the brightness, the level of details that you are picking up, and the forwardness of bass, it can really be fatiguing over time because you don't know where your focus will be.
Imaging and soundstage is fairly average, not the best but also not the worst, there's nothing much to say. Soundstage has more width than height and depth which is very noticeable, but it doesn't sound cramped either. There are a lot more better options when it comes to technicalities than this IEM.
CONCLUSION
Man, this IEM really has a lot of potential, I just have some issues here and there which makes me slightly disappointed, but at the same time makes me excited for their future releases or even this IEM's future successor (assuming that they will improve the tuning)
I want to believe that Myer Audio's previous releases are better than this, after all, the CK2V was just recently released and I haven't tried anything from them prior to this IEM. The CKLVX CK2V doesn't sound horrible, but when compared to current hyped sets within the price range, this IEM sounds decent at best. But on the brighter side, reviewing the CK2V just truly made me more curious and intrigued regarding their previous releases. I want to test out if the reviews are true, so we will definitely see.
Attachments
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avishifi
Good review man!
Robin Kyle Datiles
@avishifi thanks! I appreciate the feedback )
ahammedsojib
Nice write-up
Natural enough, male vocals sound more neutral than thin or rich, with female vocals being similar but has a slightly more engaging factor to it. Both are more so in the middle of the presentation instead of being very forward as described earlier, with female vocals being slightly more forward to my ears. Instruments are clean and sounds good, nothing particularly stand out in my opinion other than I don't really like the way guitar sounds here, they're a bit bloated. The slight warmth from the low mids does make them a bit richer sounding which is a bonus to me. I personally would’ve preferred if the vocals pop out more in the mix.
Treble: 3.75/5In my opinion, the treble is this IEM’s Achilles’ Heel if you can hear greater than 15khz. It’s not bad treble per se, I’d say it’s solid even. There’s nothing wrong with lower or mid treble, it’s just that my main issue with it is that there’s a nasty peak there that (while giving a greater sense of extension, air and technical performance) does emphasize the Micro Planar thinness and zinginess (if that’s even a word) that contributes to a thinner sounding hi-hats and cymbals. I don’t like it. BUT, this is an issue you can fix through EQ by reducing the 15k region by around -2db to -4db. Alternatively, you can simply stick with the stock EP-EX11 as the treble roll off from that particular eartip counteracts the 15khz peak. If you only used that particular eartip on your CK2V, you may not even notice the presence of said peak.
Technical Performance: 4.25/5Soundstage of the CK2V is BIG, but in an unnatural way in my opinion. Here’s how I’ll describe it and give an example of comparison, in the case of the TRI I3 MK3 it does have a big soundstage as well but the projection of things make it sound natural in that regard. There is a black background that keeps things in check. Everything is placed where it should be that contributed to a “natural stage”. In contrast, for CK2V the projection of instruments forcibly takes up all of the available spaces provided by the IEM, causing them to sound more spaced out. Even so, imaging of the CK2V is average at best, not pinpoint accurate but good enough for you to discern the general location of instruments, there is an adequate amount of depth here. Micro-details and macro-details are presented pretty well in the mix though thanks to the tuning and the use of Micro Planar drivers here. Despite my gripes I do think this set works very well for EDM, Hip Hop, instrumentals, orchestra etc.
Timbre: 4/5Not the most natural, it's acceptable and your ears will get used to it quickly in my opinion. There is nothing particularly wrong sounding about it, just reduce the 15khz peak by the amount I specified, and it should sound nicer and less metallic or you can just stick with the stock EP-EX11s.
Conclusion:
Is it good? Sure, especially if you can get it during sales. It’s a solid IEM with tuning quirks that can be mitigated through EQ but not fully, the accessories are good, and I had an overall decently pleasant experience with the CK2V despite its flaws. I do think this is a solid output from Myer Audio, and I hope they can improve with their next releases. Just please be more consistent with the names and ditch the ugly SLIIVO font.
But hey, don’t just take my word for it, I’m just a silly man that stayed in this hobby for too long for my own ( wallet’s ) good. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Final Ratings:
Exterior: 12.5 / 15
Comfortability: 8.5 / 10
Interior: 20.5 / 25
Total Score: 41.5 / 50
Average: 4.15 / 5 with a
Who I recommend this IEM to:
- Bassheads
- V/U shape enjoyers
- You want a medium sized IEM
- You want to hear details
- Willing to EQ to fix the minor quirk with this IEM
- You listen to Orchestra, Instrumentals, Game OSTs etc
Who I don’t recommend this IEM to:
- Neutral and/or bright enjoyers
- Very vocal forward enjoyers
- You're sensitive to 15khz peaks and slight metallic timbre
- You want the best technical performance
- You don't like to EQ
- Your wallet is not deep enough to buy this
Thanks for reading this relatively long review, I hope you find it to be informative enough to convince you to either buy or not buy this IEM. Don't be swayed by an IEM just because not all of its drivers are branded, what matters is the execution of the overall package. If you have any questions then feel free to ask them in the comments.
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In my opinion, the treble is this IEM’s Achilles’ Heel if you can hear greater than 15khz. It’s not bad treble per se, I’d say it’s solid even. There’s nothing wrong with lower or mid treble, it’s just that my main issue with it is that there’s a nasty peak there that (while giving a greater sense of extension, air and technical performance) does emphasize the Micro Planar thinness and zinginess (if that’s even a word) that contributes to a thinner sounding hi-hats and cymbals. I don’t like it. BUT, this is an issue you can fix through EQ by reducing the 15k region by around -2db to -4db. Alternatively, you can simply stick with the stock EP-EX11 as the treble roll off from that particular eartip counteracts the 15khz peak. If you only used that particular eartip on your CK2V, you may not even notice the presence of said peak.
Technical Performance: 4.25/5Soundstage of the CK2V is BIG, but in an unnatural way in my opinion. Here’s how I’ll describe it and give an example of comparison, in the case of the TRI I3 MK3 it does have a big soundstage as well but the projection of things make it sound natural in that regard. There is a black background that keeps things in check. Everything is placed where it should be that contributed to a “natural stage”. In contrast, for CK2V the projection of instruments forcibly takes up all of the available spaces provided by the IEM, causing them to sound more spaced out. Even so, imaging of the CK2V is average at best, not pinpoint accurate but good enough for you to discern the general location of instruments, there is an adequate amount of depth here. Micro-details and macro-details are presented pretty well in the mix though thanks to the tuning and the use of Micro Planar drivers here. Despite my gripes I do think this set works very well for EDM, Hip Hop, instrumentals, orchestra etc.
Timbre: 4/5Not the most natural, it's acceptable and your ears will get used to it quickly in my opinion. There is nothing particularly wrong sounding about it, just reduce the 15khz peak by the amount I specified, and it should sound nicer and less metallic or you can just stick with the stock EP-EX11s.
Conclusion:
Is it good? Sure, especially if you can get it during sales. It’s a solid IEM with tuning quirks that can be mitigated through EQ but not fully, the accessories are good, and I had an overall decently pleasant experience with the CK2V despite its flaws. I do think this is a solid output from Myer Audio, and I hope they can improve with their next releases. Just please be more consistent with the names and ditch the ugly SLIIVO font.
But hey, don’t just take my word for it, I’m just a silly man that stayed in this hobby for too long for my own ( wallet’s ) good. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Final Ratings:
Exterior: 12.5 / 15
Comfortability: 8.5 / 10
Interior: 20.5 / 25
Total Score: 41.5 / 50
Average: 4.15 / 5 with a
Who I recommend this IEM to:
- Bassheads
- V/U shape enjoyers
- You want a medium sized IEM
- You want to hear details
- Willing to EQ to fix the minor quirk with this IEM
- You listen to Orchestra, Instrumentals, Game OSTs etc
Who I don’t recommend this IEM to:
- Neutral and/or bright enjoyers
- Very vocal forward enjoyers
- You're sensitive to 15khz peaks and slight metallic timbre
- You want the best technical performance
- You don't like to EQ
- Your wallet is not deep enough to buy this
Thanks for reading this relatively long review, I hope you find it to be informative enough to convince you to either buy or not buy this IEM. Don't be swayed by an IEM just because not all of its drivers are branded, what matters is the execution of the overall package. If you have any questions then feel free to ask them in the comments.
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Soundstage of the CK2V is BIG, but in an unnatural way in my opinion. Here’s how I’ll describe it and give an example of comparison, in the case of the TRI I3 MK3 it does have a big soundstage as well but the projection of things make it sound natural in that regard. There is a black background that keeps things in check. Everything is placed where it should be that contributed to a “natural stage”. In contrast, for CK2V the projection of instruments forcibly takes up all of the available spaces provided by the IEM, causing them to sound more spaced out. Even so, imaging of the CK2V is average at best, not pinpoint accurate but good enough for you to discern the general location of instruments, there is an adequate amount of depth here. Micro-details and macro-details are presented pretty well in the mix though thanks to the tuning and the use of Micro Planar drivers here. Despite my gripes I do think this set works very well for EDM, Hip Hop, instrumentals, orchestra etc.
Timbre: 4/5Not the most natural, it's acceptable and your ears will get used to it quickly in my opinion. There is nothing particularly wrong sounding about it, just reduce the 15khz peak by the amount I specified, and it should sound nicer and less metallic or you can just stick with the stock EP-EX11s.
Conclusion:
Is it good? Sure, especially if you can get it during sales. It’s a solid IEM with tuning quirks that can be mitigated through EQ but not fully, the accessories are good, and I had an overall decently pleasant experience with the CK2V despite its flaws. I do think this is a solid output from Myer Audio, and I hope they can improve with their next releases. Just please be more consistent with the names and ditch the ugly SLIIVO font.
But hey, don’t just take my word for it, I’m just a silly man that stayed in this hobby for too long for my own ( wallet’s ) good. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Final Ratings:
Exterior: 12.5 / 15
Comfortability: 8.5 / 10
Interior: 20.5 / 25
Total Score: 41.5 / 50
Average: 4.15 / 5 with a
Who I recommend this IEM to:
- Bassheads
- V/U shape enjoyers
- You want a medium sized IEM
- You want to hear details
- Willing to EQ to fix the minor quirk with this IEM
- You listen to Orchestra, Instrumentals, Game OSTs etc
Who I don’t recommend this IEM to:
- Neutral and/or bright enjoyers
- Very vocal forward enjoyers
- You're sensitive to 15khz peaks and slight metallic timbre
- You want the best technical performance
- You don't like to EQ
- Your wallet is not deep enough to buy this
Thanks for reading this relatively long review, I hope you find it to be informative enough to convince you to either buy or not buy this IEM. Don't be swayed by an IEM just because not all of its drivers are branded, what matters is the execution of the overall package. If you have any questions then feel free to ask them in the comments.
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Not the most natural, it's acceptable and your ears will get used to it quickly in my opinion. There is nothing particularly wrong sounding about it, just reduce the 15khz peak by the amount I specified, and it should sound nicer and less metallic or you can just stick with the stock EP-EX11s.
But hey, don’t just take my word for it, I’m just a silly man that stayed in this hobby for too long for my own ( wallet’s ) good. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Comfortability: 8.5 / 10
Interior: 20.5 / 25
Total Score: 41.5 / 50
Average: 4.15 / 5 with a
Who I recommend this IEM to:
- Bassheads
- V/U shape enjoyers
- You want a medium sized IEM
- You want to hear details
- Willing to EQ to fix the minor quirk with this IEM
- You listen to Orchestra, Instrumentals, Game OSTs etc
Who I don’t recommend this IEM to:
- Neutral and/or bright enjoyers
- Very vocal forward enjoyers
- You're sensitive to 15khz peaks and slight metallic timbre
- You want the best technical performance
- You don't like to EQ
- Your wallet is not deep enough to buy this
Thanks for reading this relatively long review, I hope you find it to be informative enough to convince you to either buy or not buy this IEM. Don't be swayed by an IEM just because not all of its drivers are branded, what matters is the execution of the overall package. If you have any questions then feel free to ask them in the comments.
Conclusion:
Is it good? Sure, especially if you can get it during sales. It’s a solid IEM with tuning quirks that can be mitigated through EQ but not fully, the accessories are good, and I had an overall decently pleasant experience with the CK2V despite its flaws. I do think this is a solid output from Myer Audio, and I hope they can improve with their next releases. Just please be more consistent with the names and ditch the ugly SLIIVO font.But hey, don’t just take my word for it, I’m just a silly man that stayed in this hobby for too long for my own ( wallet’s ) good. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Final Ratings:
Exterior: 12.5 / 15Comfortability: 8.5 / 10
Interior: 20.5 / 25
Total Score: 41.5 / 50
Average: 4.15 / 5 with a
Who I recommend this IEM to:
- Bassheads
- V/U shape enjoyers
- You want a medium sized IEM
- You want to hear details
- Willing to EQ to fix the minor quirk with this IEM
- You listen to Orchestra, Instrumentals, Game OSTs etc
Who I don’t recommend this IEM to:
- Neutral and/or bright enjoyers
- Very vocal forward enjoyers
- You're sensitive to 15khz peaks and slight metallic timbre
- You want the best technical performance
- You don't like to EQ
- Your wallet is not deep enough to buy this
Thanks for reading this relatively long review, I hope you find it to be informative enough to convince you to either buy or not buy this IEM. Don't be swayed by an IEM just because not all of its drivers are branded, what matters is the execution of the overall package. If you have any questions then feel free to ask them in the comments.
RK Turan
100+ Head-Fier
Pros: Good accessories
Great scalability
Mid Bass
Vocals
Smooth Treble
Great scalability
Mid Bass
Vocals
Smooth Treble
Cons: Pairing with budget dongles
Treble could have some more sparkle
Gaming Performance
Treble could have some more sparkle
Gaming Performance
Disclaimer
I got this product as a review unit from Mayer Audio. Except from the review unit, I did not receive money or any other necessities to influence the review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion on Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V. My likes and dislikes on this IEM are based solely on my own personal experience.Intro
This might be my first review of any Myer audio's product. But it's definitely not the first one that I've tried. Previously I've tried 2 of their CKLVX lineups, D62 followed by D41. Personally, I liked the D62 with a particular source. From their Slivo lineup, I got to try the SLA3. That is a great IEM in terms of price to performance, but it can be superior with minor adjustments.Before starting the review, I'd like to mention one thing. It was sooo freaking difficult to remember all of their names! Took me more than a month to do so. So I'll keep mentioning their full name, just to flex. Let's get straight into the full review.
Design & Build Quality
The Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V might not the flashiest looking IEM, which meets my personal preferences. The design is on the minimal, yet it will look gorgeous on closer inspection.The faceplate looks really artistic with the sand-like texture. It has shades of green and golden tone that shines on lights presence. I've reviewed other IEMs with similar glittery effects, except the shining on this particular set is quite minimal.
The lower part of the faceplate has the model's branding with a bright golden hue, which actually adds up to the overall aesthetics of this IEM. The outer part of the shell has a golden border, a bit muted than the text to create contrast.
The inner side of the shell look pitched black, like most other IEMs in the market. The left and right indicators are quite large on them. The nozzle is metal built. The vent for the dynamic driver is on topside of the shell, beside the 2 pin connectors.
The stock cable of CK2V is durable and has a smooth finish on the overall cable. The termination is interchangeable, both 3.5mm and 4.4mm balanced outputs are available.
The eartips are quite decent on this. The black one looks like pairs from Sony and the white/semi transparent one look like the it's from Spinfit. Except from the foam, I liked all of them.
The carrying case look premium, made with leather and painted in deep blue. The zipper is painted in golden and doesn't have sharp edges, it glides through while zipping and unzipping. Top on the box in graved to showcase banding. Inside of the carrying case is pretty spacious, as I was able to fit the IEM with few stock eartips. I really loved the case.
Comfort
The CKLVX CK2V has an average shell side. It's neither too big not too small. So most of the music lovers are going to be fine using it. It's decently comfortable even after wearing them for hours. As I was lucky enough to review and try more comfortable IEMs, despite it being a relatively comfortable IEM, I can't rank it that high with the dominators!Packaging
- Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V drivers
- SPC Cable
- 2 terminations (3.5 and 4.4)
- 7 pairs ear tips (6 silicon and 1 foam) [3 each type]
- Leather Case
- User Manual
- Warranty
Specification
- Impedance: 40Ω
- Sensitivity: 108dB
- Nozzle: 6.2MM
- Driver: 1 DD (10mm), 4 BA (2 custom), 1 micro planner
- Cable: Silver plated copper, 4 core detachable cable
- Length: about 1.25M with tolerance
- Plug: support two-pin 0.78MM can be converted plug 3.5MM + 4.4MM
- Plug material: 3u gold-plated plugs
- Eartips: Silicone eartips 6 pairs (A group / B group) + memory foam tips 1 pair
- Leather carrying case: 1
- Instruction manual: 1 book
- Guarantee: 12 months (non-human factor)
Pairings
Sources
- Ibasso DC04 Pro
- Cayin Ru7
- Cayin Ru6
- Fosi audio DS1
- IFI Hip-Dac 2
- Cayin N3 ultra
- Hiby R4
- Hiby R1
- Hiby R5 saber
- Questyle QP2R
- KAEI Tap2
- Plenue R2
- ΚΑΕΙ Tap-2
- DUNU DTC-480
- Moondrop Dawn Pro
CLKVX CK2V might not be a power-hungry IEM, but it scales really well deepening on sources. I really like it's pairing with KAEI Tap-2 (AMP), QP2R, R5 Saber. For DACs, it paired well with DC04 Pro, DS1 and Hip-Dac 2 (DAPs were superior in terms of sound quality.
Eartips
- Stock
- DDHIFI ST35
- Final E (Black)
- Spinfit CP100+
- Tri Clarion
- KBear 07
- Dunu Candy
- Spinfit W1
- UCOFIT
Cable
- Stock
- KBear (Inspiration C) 4 core copper
- NiceHCK mixPP
The cable provided in the box is quite good as well. But if you really want an upgrade, try a good OCC/OFC cable.
Sound Quality
Mayer Audio CKLVX CK2V is neutral to slightly warm sounding IEM. The bass has a soothing rumble with good thumps. The mid-range is slight warm and gentle. The vocals are slightly forward, but it's quite soothing. The treble section is detailed, airy, yet doesn't make it fatiguing in any sense.
Sub-Bass
The Sub-bass of CKLVX CK2V is soft. Quantity wise it's on the perfect range, it's neither forward, nor laid-back. The Sub-bass hits deep with a really subtle texture. The separation between Sub-bass and Mid-bass is noticeable. It less about the rumble and more about the soft presence which I really like about this IEM.Mid-Bass
Mid-bass of CKLVX CK2V is slightly more forward compared to the Sub-bass. The mid-bass is well-rounded. The mid-bass is full bodied. Despite having decent quantity of mid-bass, it doesn't bleed much into the mid-range.The thump and slams of the mid-bass is quite adequate. The speed of the bass is in such position where it neither sound muddy, nor snappy, which makes it sound sweet and warm.
Mid-range
If I have to express the mid-range of CKLVX CK2V in few words, they would be warm, clean, rich and musical. Thanks to the controlled mid bass, you get clean mid-range with a hint of warmth. Instrument in this region sound quite soothing.Male Vocals
Alright, so the male vocals on the Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V are pretty smooth like, it's neither too forward nor too laid-back. They’re there, clear and present, but doesn't try to steal the spotlight from the instruments.Tone wise the male vocals are neutral and rich. Vocals are clear that to the controlled mid bass but there might be a word or two you’ll miss here and there if the track’s busy. Texture of the male vocals are smooth, but details are present.
Female Vocals
The female vocals on the Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V are smooth but with a lovely texture. They’re sweet, rich, and has a good amount of bite. These vocals pop out in the mix, lively and engaging. Energetic female vocals sound best with this set.As for sibilance, it kinda depends on your DAC. With a neutral sounding DAC, it’s pretty much nonexistent, but if you’re using a bright DAC, you might hear a little extra “sss” here and there. But overall, they stay pretty smooth and controlled.
Treble
The treble on the Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V is definitely detailed. It’s more on the smoother side, still has enough to make songs sound lively. I didn't have to deal with any sharp, piercing highs (thankfully).Only if I hooked it up to a bright DAC, I might face some issues with both female vocals and treble. Definitely something to keep in mind. On the other side, there’s a lot of air in the upper treble. So it defiantly sound spacious.
Instruments
Instrument separation on this is good for the price. Drum's slams are impactful, slightly lacks body. Electric guitar's stroke sounds smooth. Orchestra, piano and harmonica sound fabulous.Technicalities
The soundstage of CK2V is quite wide, and gets even wider with source. The imaging isn't that great despite having such superior soundstage. It's not inaccurate or anything but at this price point, you get IEMs with far more accurate imaging. Has good speed, but it's not snappy territory.Gaming
Thanks to the wide soundstage, you get a good range coverage with the CKLVX CK2V. Firing sounds aren't ear piercing, it's rather a smooth feedback. The footsteps aren't as clear as the firings. despite having decent imaging, the footsteps seems vague. In game voices are clear as daylight. (even thought I'm incapable of seeing sound frequencies with these mortal eyes)In indie or open world games, this IEM performs really well thanks to the wide soundstage. pairing with a musical presentation, it's like a cherry on top.
Why should you consider it
- If you like warm mid-midrange
- If you like mid bass slams
- If you have a good source
- If you like vocals
- If you're sensitive to treble
Why should you look elsewhere
- If you’re a treble lover
- If you're a gamer
- If you don't like warm sound
- If you like bass heavy IEMs
Verdicts
Overall I liked these IEM for many oblivious reasons. And in my opinion, if you're planning on purchasing an IEM with musical presentation and good scalability depending on sources, this IEM is going to get you covered. Well it was my personal opinion on these IEMs, let me know your thoughts on them.
As always thank you for your attention! Let me know your thoughts on this IEM.
Until then,
Keep on listening ·͜·♡
Keep on listening ·͜·♡
Robin Kyle Datiles
New Head-Fier
Pros: - Great detail retrieval
- Impactful and tight bass
- Clean mid range
- Great treble extension
- Impactful and tight bass
- Clean mid range
- Great treble extension
Cons: - Upper frequencies sound too textured
- Treble can be borderline too bright
- Slight metallic timbre
- Treble can be borderline too bright
- Slight metallic timbre
DISCLAIMER
The review I'm about to share reflects my personal experience and provides an honest evaluation regarding this set. I am completely unaffiliated from the brands I review. I did not receive (or will receive) any financial or monetary incentives in exchange for writing this review, I wrote this review of my own free will and all of the opinions you'll read are my own.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Driver Configuration: 10mm Custom Dynamic Driver + 2x Knowles Balanced Armature + 2x Custom Balanced Armature + Custom Micro Planar
- Impedance: 22Ω
- Sensitivity: 108dB
- Nozzle Diameter: 6.2mm
INTRODUCTION
Myer Audio has been a good contender ever since they have entered the Chi-fi market. Their releases have always been
received positively by the community because of how good they are and how interesting they tune their sets. I have been curious for a while since I haven't tried any IEM from them, and I think the timing to review one of their products especially in the mid-fi range is just perfect, because just recently, it seems like the competition within this price bracket just became more competitive.
I included the CK2V in my daily rotation for almost a week now, and I have mixed feelings about this IEM. Here are the gears I have used in the past couple of days as I am reviewing this IEM:
DAC/Dongle: Shanling H5, and iBasso DC07 Pro
Phone/Device: Either my iPhone XR or my laptop
Music Player: Spotify, and Apple Music
PACKAGING
The Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V comes with a handful of good inclusions, which is pretty much expected at this price point. Inside the box, there's a leather carrying case for the IEMs with a great interior that seems to be made out of micro velvet cloth or faux fabric which is great to prevent any scratches. There are also two sets of eartips with different sizes, which doesn't have any difference in bore diameter but more on the material and softness. The black eartips is slightly stiffer than the white eartips and has a slightly smoother texture. Myer Audio also included a set of foam tips and an extra 4.4mm plug for the modular cable, which is also a plus for me
BUILD QUALITY, DESIGN, AND COMFORT
This IEM has a very pretty faceplate design. The different shades of green is complemented very well by the gold logo and outline. The IEM, including the cable, feels very well built and very durable. The shells are built with resin and come with metal nozzles. The cable feels smooth and not grippy, it also has a right balance of stiffness and softness. Cable is also modular so you can swap from 3.5mm to 4.4mm termination anytime.
Regarding the comfort, the IEMs don't take that much space in my ear despite its chunky look. I honestly thought that the shells are on the larger side so I was surprised how it seats on my ear. There are no aggressive fins nor overwhelming bulges. The nozzles are slightly wide but it doesn't have that deep fit because of the length of the nozzles so it still feels comfortable.
SOUND IMPRESSIONS
The CK2V's tuning is U-shaped that has a generous amount of energy on the lower frequencies and higher frequencies and it feels like they are both fighting for the spotlight and is trying to overwhelm each other. This IEM sounds very energetic and somewhat maintains its midrange clarity and overall good detail retrieval despite the bass boost. The timbre is not that great though, as it has a noticeable metallic timbre which can sound slightly artificial and thin.
Bass
The CK2V's bass is very punchy and authoritative. It attacks fast and decays faster than usual which makes it feel more tactile and punchy. It is more sub-bass forward but it is far from lacking mid-bass because again, the mid-bass punch is very pronounced with sub-bass rumble that sustains just enough to still sound tactile.
I really love how Myer Audio tuned the CK2V's bass, it is very well presented and definitely is very satisfying with every punch that feels whole and somewhat heavy. In my personal standard, the CK2V's bass can even satisfy some bassheads out there.
Mids
Mid-range sounds balanced but leans more on being clean, that is if you are trying to analyze it on itself alone excluding the bass and treble region (as the sound quality gets way busier as a whole). Though it has a slight hint of warmth on the lower-mids, it is still well balanced. One of the issues I experienced regarding the CK2V's mids is though there's a bump and forwardness in upper-mids, which makes the vocals stand out, it somehow makes it sound thinner. Vocals seems to have metallic timbre up top especially on female vocals that hits higher notes, it is forward but it doesn't sound natural.
Treble
The treble region is where I found most of this set's flaws. Treble is bright and spicy but still tolerable, at least for me. The tuning of the CK2V's treble paired with its relatively clean mids is what makes it sound very detailed. It is easy to pick up micro nuances, but the downside is, it can be too bright at times. Don't get me wrong though, it is not sibilant and peaky, I just can see how this set can be too bright for most people if I'll disregard my preference because if you would ask me? Peronally this level of brightness is still within my preference.
The major problem I have encountered when it comes to the upper frequencies is that it sounds too textured and rough, it sounds unrefined, good thing is, this set's treble extension sounds great and sounds airy.
Details, Imaging, and Soundstage
As I have said, CK2V's detail retrieval is great, it sounds very detailed but because the treble region sounds unrefined, it can really be fatiguing. Because of the brightness, the level of details that you are picking up, and the forwardness of bass, it can really be fatiguing over time because you don't know where your focus will be.
Imaging and soundstage is fairly average, not the best but also not the worst, there's nothing much to say. Soundstage has more width than height and depth which is very noticeable, but it doesn't sound cramped either. There are a lot more better options when it comes to technicalities than this IEM.
CONCLUSION
Man, this IEM really has a lot of potential, I just have some issues here and there which makes me slightly disappointed, but at the same time makes me excited for their future releases or even this IEM's future successor (assuming that they will improve the tuning)
I want to believe that Myer Audio's previous releases are better than this, after all, the CK2V was just recently released and I haven't tried anything from them prior to this IEM. The CKLVX CK2V doesn't sound horrible, but when compared to current hyped sets within the price range, this IEM sounds decent at best. But on the brighter side, reviewing the CK2V just truly made me more curious and intrigued regarding their previous releases. I want to test out if the reviews are true, so we will definitely see.
The review I'm about to share reflects my personal experience and provides an honest evaluation regarding this set. I am completely unaffiliated from the brands I review. I did not receive (or will receive) any financial or monetary incentives in exchange for writing this review, I wrote this review of my own free will and all of the opinions you'll read are my own.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Driver Configuration: 10mm Custom Dynamic Driver + 2x Knowles Balanced Armature + 2x Custom Balanced Armature + Custom Micro Planar
- Impedance: 22Ω
- Sensitivity: 108dB
- Nozzle Diameter: 6.2mm
INTRODUCTION
Myer Audio has been a good contender ever since they have entered the Chi-fi market. Their releases have always been
received positively by the community because of how good they are and how interesting they tune their sets. I have been curious for a while since I haven't tried any IEM from them, and I think the timing to review one of their products especially in the mid-fi range is just perfect, because just recently, it seems like the competition within this price bracket just became more competitive.
I included the CK2V in my daily rotation for almost a week now, and I have mixed feelings about this IEM. Here are the gears I have used in the past couple of days as I am reviewing this IEM:
DAC/Dongle: Shanling H5, and iBasso DC07 Pro
Phone/Device: Either my iPhone XR or my laptop
Music Player: Spotify, and Apple Music
PACKAGING
The Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V comes with a handful of good inclusions, which is pretty much expected at this price point. Inside the box, there's a leather carrying case for the IEMs with a great interior that seems to be made out of micro velvet cloth or faux fabric which is great to prevent any scratches. There are also two sets of eartips with different sizes, which doesn't have any difference in bore diameter but more on the material and softness. The black eartips is slightly stiffer than the white eartips and has a slightly smoother texture. Myer Audio also included a set of foam tips and an extra 4.4mm plug for the modular cable, which is also a plus for me
BUILD QUALITY, DESIGN, AND COMFORT
This IEM has a very pretty faceplate design. The different shades of green is complemented very well by the gold logo and outline. The IEM, including the cable, feels very well built and very durable. The shells are built with resin and come with metal nozzles. The cable feels smooth and not grippy, it also has a right balance of stiffness and softness. Cable is also modular so you can swap from 3.5mm to 4.4mm termination anytime.
Regarding the comfort, the IEMs don't take that much space in my ear despite its chunky look. I honestly thought that the shells are on the larger side so I was surprised how it seats on my ear. There are no aggressive fins nor overwhelming bulges. The nozzles are slightly wide but it doesn't have that deep fit because of the length of the nozzles so it still feels comfortable.
SOUND IMPRESSIONS
The CK2V's tuning is U-shaped that has a generous amount of energy on the lower frequencies and higher frequencies and it feels like they are both fighting for the spotlight and is trying to overwhelm each other. This IEM sounds very energetic and somewhat maintains its midrange clarity and overall good detail retrieval despite the bass boost. The timbre is not that great though, as it has a noticeable metallic timbre which can sound slightly artificial and thin.
Bass
The CK2V's bass is very punchy and authoritative. It attacks fast and decays faster than usual which makes it feel more tactile and punchy. It is more sub-bass forward but it is far from lacking mid-bass because again, the mid-bass punch is very pronounced with sub-bass rumble that sustains just enough to still sound tactile.
I really love how Myer Audio tuned the CK2V's bass, it is very well presented and definitely is very satisfying with every punch that feels whole and somewhat heavy. In my personal standard, the CK2V's bass can even satisfy some bassheads out there.
Mids
Mid-range sounds balanced but leans more on being clean, that is if you are trying to analyze it on itself alone excluding the bass and treble region (as the sound quality gets way busier as a whole). Though it has a slight hint of warmth on the lower-mids, it is still well balanced. One of the issues I experienced regarding the CK2V's mids is though there's a bump and forwardness in upper-mids, which makes the vocals stand out, it somehow makes it sound thinner. Vocals seems to have metallic timbre up top especially on female vocals that hits higher notes, it is forward but it doesn't sound natural.
Treble
The treble region is where I found most of this set's flaws. Treble is bright and spicy but still tolerable, at least for me. The tuning of the CK2V's treble paired with its relatively clean mids is what makes it sound very detailed. It is easy to pick up micro nuances, but the downside is, it can be too bright at times. Don't get me wrong though, it is not sibilant and peaky, I just can see how this set can be too bright for most people if I'll disregard my preference because if you would ask me? Peronally this level of brightness is still within my preference.
The major problem I have encountered when it comes to the upper frequencies is that it sounds too textured and rough, it sounds unrefined, good thing is, this set's treble extension sounds great and sounds airy.
Details, Imaging, and Soundstage
As I have said, CK2V's detail retrieval is great, it sounds very detailed but because the treble region sounds unrefined, it can really be fatiguing. Because of the brightness, the level of details that you are picking up, and the forwardness of bass, it can really be fatiguing over time because you don't know where your focus will be.
Imaging and soundstage is fairly average, not the best but also not the worst, there's nothing much to say. Soundstage has more width than height and depth which is very noticeable, but it doesn't sound cramped either. There are a lot more better options when it comes to technicalities than this IEM.
CONCLUSION
Man, this IEM really has a lot of potential, I just have some issues here and there which makes me slightly disappointed, but at the same time makes me excited for their future releases or even this IEM's future successor (assuming that they will improve the tuning)
I want to believe that Myer Audio's previous releases are better than this, after all, the CK2V was just recently released and I haven't tried anything from them prior to this IEM. The CKLVX CK2V doesn't sound horrible, but when compared to current hyped sets within the price range, this IEM sounds decent at best. But on the brighter side, reviewing the CK2V just truly made me more curious and intrigued regarding their previous releases. I want to test out if the reviews are true, so we will definitely see.
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avishifi
Good review man!
Robin Kyle Datiles
@avishifi thanks! I appreciate the feedback )
)
ahammedsojib
Nice write-up