NF Audio NA2+

NFACOUS NA2+

I am brazilian and I speak portuguese, so forgive my english, I’ll use translation tools to help.

Introduction:
NFACOUS went through a rebranding in 2024, previously known as NFAUDIO. The brand, founded in 2014, started with custom in-ear monitors for stage use.
Now, it aims to expand its international presence with new in-ear headphones and custom models developed in collaboration with exclusive artists.



I’ll be reviewing the NA2+, an in-ear monitor designed for audiophiles and musicians. I consider myself an audiophile and have heard many comments in Brazil about this being the best earphone for Rock and Metal fans.

I've been an audio hobbyist for many years, always searching for the perfect in-ear monitor for Rock and Metal, which is quite challenging due to the diversity of styles. Finding a single earphone to satisfy so many sonic differences is difficult. In 2024, I finally got the NA2+, and we’ll find out if it lives up to the hype.

Unboxing:
The unboxing experience of the NA2+ is incredibly well-thought-out by the brand. The box is beautiful and resembles a CD, which I found very stylish and interesting.


Shell: Made from aviation-grade aluminum in black, the finish is flawless. It’s a small earphone, so ergonomic issues are unlikely. Its shape allows for a deeper fit in the ear, and with the right eartips, it stays secure and provides better isolation.



Cable: Though thin, it doesn’t tangle, produces no noise, and has a professional-use feel. No complaints here—the cable is lightweight and does its job well.



Eartips: The box includes two sets of eartips (Balanced and Atmosphere) in sizes S, M, and L. I tested both and preferred the Atmosphere model.



Case: A small round case is included, which fits the earphones and a few eartips. It’s practical for carrying in a backpack, though slightly larger would have been ideal.



Sound:
The NA2+ has a neutral-forward sound signature with a slight brightness. Its focus is on bass and mid-bass, with raw mids and highly detailed, airy treble. It offers a unique approach compared to most earphones on the market, which often follow the Harman curve or its variations.

Bass: Focused on bass and mid-bass, delivering high quality, texture, and extension. The bass is well-rounded, and the kick drum has impactful presence, with less emphasis on sub-bass.

Mids: Slightly recessed, offering a forward presentation that highlights guitars, making them raw and lively. Despite this recess, vocals are not overshadowed. Male vocals, especially raspy and dark ones, sound excellent, while female vocals are vivid but can sometimes have a slight sibilance.

Treble: The treble is highlighted with airiness, resolution, and impressive detail. While the soundstage isn’t very wide, the instrument separation is exemplary, allowing you to distinguish backing vocals from the lead.

Observations:
The NA2+ is easy to drive. It performs well directly from a smartphone or a simple dongle without background noise. However, a quality source can enhance its performance, and there are great wired or Bluetooth dongles available at reasonable prices. No driver flex was noticed when inserting the earphones.

Bands with guitars, bass, and drums sound excellent, with guitars being particularly prominent. It’s ideal for those who enjoy classic Rock from the '70s, '80s, and '90s. However, modern genres like EDM and Hip-Hop are not its strong suit.

Classic Rock: Listening to older recordings, like Led Zeppelin albums, guitars stand out without overshadowing vocals. The level of detail in other instruments and the excellent separation enhance the listening experience. Live recordings, such as UFO's *Strangers in the Night*, feel vivid, as if you’re at a live show.

Metal: Bands like Slayer, Exodus, Metallica, and Megadeth sound incredible, with a crunch in the guitars that lets you clearly hear each one playing its bases or solos. For tracks like *Ratamahatta* by Sepultura, with cadenced guitars, heavy vocals, and percussion, the NA2+ delivers superb separation and vivacity.

Acoustic: For acoustic music with lots of guitar, artists like John McLaughlin, Johnny Cash, and Yamandu Costa sound detailed, with every pluck and strum highlighted and realistic timbres.

Conclusion:
I was looking for an earphone with vivid presentation and prominent guitars tailored for Rock and Metal, and I found it in the NA2+. Over a week of testing, I listened to Led Zeppelin's entire discography, and it was incredible.

In my opinion, the NA2+ is perfect for anyone seeking an earphone specialized for Rock, Metal, and related genres. While not an all-rounder, it excels at its intended purpose.

Brand: NFACOUS
Model: NA2+
Price: $151.99 (Price at the time of review)
Color: Black
Driver: 1 Dynamic Driver MC2L-10M
Cable: 5N OFC silver-plated Litz structure, no microphone, includes a 6.35mm adapter
Eartips: Balanced (S, M, L) and Atmosphere (S, M, L)
Case: Storage case included
Frequency Response: 9-40 kHz
Connector: 3.5mm
Sensitivity: 107 dB/mW
Impedance: 32Ω
Isolation: -25 dB
Distortion: <1%
Link: https://nfacous.com/products/na2-1
Link²: https://audiofiliabrasil.home.blog/2024/11/20/nfacous-na2-review-pt/

The NA2+, a new model from NF Audio, has a single dynamic driver setup. At $169, this IEM is part of their Music Series and is intended for reference listening and accurate sound reproduction.
This unit was sent to my friends over at Sonicmantra.org by NF Audio themselves in exchange for reviews. Big thanks to both NF Audio and Sonic mantra team for letting me have my take on it and I’m in no way influenced to say anything good or bad about this product, these are solely my honest opinions.

Testing Gear’s
• Questyle M15
• Cayin Ru7
• DDhifi TC44 Pro
• Ifi Go Blu
• Fiio Btr7

Technical Specification’s
• Frequency Response: 9hz- 40kz
• Sensitivity: 107dB/mW
• Impedance: 32 Ohm

What’s in the box
• IEM Themselves
• Cable
• Carrying pouch
• Ear tips
• User Guide
• 6.35 to 3.5 adapter

Unboxing experience
The NA2+ is came in a compact but dense box , sliding the lid reveals the actual fold type box they have implemented here which hold everything, on the right side the iems are placed on the left the user guide and under them remains all the accessories such as cable, carrying pouch , ear tips and quarter inch jack adapter/
this type of packaging and unboxing experience is rare at this price point and are usually found on higher priced iems.

Build and Design
The build on these iem are just solid no buts! the shells feel like it would withstand a tank going over them , they are made of 6063 aluminum and cnc engraved. All in all, build is fantastic on them. Coming on the design aspect , as its a subjectional matter I wouldn't dig deep into bit but I'd say the NF audio design signature continues here as well and I personally don't really like it.

Fit and Comfort
Fit on them are really good thanks for to their safe design choices, even people with smaller ears shouldn't have any issue regarding fitment. And even though the shells feel really solid they are still very lightweight making it really comfortable to use in longer listening sessions.

Cable
The included cable is a 4 core Litz 5N OFC silver cable, the cable is rather very thin and lightweight but looks and feels really cheap for the price, one can easily gripe why these sort of cable are being provided in a 170$ earphone.

Sound
Coming on the main aspect of this Iem, its sound. And it sounds different than what's out there in this budget and even above up to some extend. this isn't made for casual music listening , this is rather made for monitoring or reference listening, that's why I've mentioned this isn't everyone's cup of tea.

Sub-bass
The sub bass section is flat and a bit rolled off, so obviously the sub bass isn't prominent here and the rumble is barely there , even in very sub bass heavy tracks such as the "Bad guy" by Billie Eilish. But with enough power enough this shine with its rumble, becomes a lot more prominent and has good extension too.

Mid-bass
The mid-bass section, on the other hand, is more in focus. Punches and slams hit hard, making its presence very well known. It has a fast attack with great body. On tracks like "Stop the World I Wanna Get Off with You" by Arctic Monkeys, these IEMs surely shine with their mid-bass performance!

Male vocals
Male vocals are a bit warm, rich, and clean with just the right amount of note weight. Tracks like "Stairway to Heaven" by Led Zeppelin sound great on these IEMs, revealing all the little details of the vocalist's performance while presenting the vocals in an upfront manner.

Female Vocals
Female vocals: smooth and pleasing, rich, yet clean. The liveliness in it got really well captured with this IEM and was presented upfront even more than male vocals. For tracks like 'The City Holds My Heart' from Ghostly Kisses, it did convey the feelings of the artist effectively.

Instruments
Instruments on the NA2+ sound really impressive; they’re clean and upfront in the mix, just as they should be. They have the right note weight and never come across as overshadowed or vague. I have no complaints about how the instruments sound!

Treble
The treble on the NA2+ is airy, crisp, and sparkly. It’s well-extended, but sibilance issues can be noticeable in some tracks. These IEMs do a great job of revealing flaws in poorly mastered recordings—maybe a bit of a double-edged sword!

Technicalities

Soundstage
The soundstage on these is average. While they perform well in terms of height and width, I feel they lack depth. For the price, they’re just okay.

Imaging
Imaging is another average aspect of this IEM. You can easily pinpoint each nuance, but it could’ve been better.

Detail retrieval
Detail retrieval on these IEMs is really good. They easily pick up all the nuances and subtle sounds of instruments and vocals.

Dynamics and transient response
These are another area where they perform well—dynamics are good, and the transient response is impressive. They don’t feel slow at all; they keep up with everything you throw at them

NF Audio NA2+ - "plus or minus?"


DISCLAIMER:

These were kindly sent by NF AUDIO. My opinions are my own and this review is not in any way influenced by the said company.


I do have a video about the product that you can see here:





I didn't score these in my video because I thought they sounded okay- ish. But there is something about the NA2+ that makes be grab them. And so I am writing another review to give justice to how they sound


WHAT’S IN THE BOX?

NF audio sure knows how to pack their stuff. The NA2+ is enclosed in a box that is reminiscent of opening CDs. It's one of the unique unboxings ever and it shows how the company is focused on MUSIC.


Inside you get:

1. Standard case

2. Two kinds of eartips

3. Standard cable and IEM

4. 3.5mm to 6.35mm adapter



BUILD and COMFORT


It's built like the usual shape. It fits fine. That’s all. I don’t know how to sugar coat this part of review, sorry haha.



SETUP:

-Shanling M3X using UAPP, Hiby and stock player


What is neutral?


It is a question that remains unanswered for many decades now. What we currently have is the objective data in measuring transducers, and if they measure flat, it is defined as neutal, at least for speakers.


It is a different story in iems mainly because of the equipment used. You usually see a gain around 2-5k. people call it pinna gain, but I only call it gain because there is no actual pinna involved when measuring IEMS.


How does this relate to the NA+2? Well there you have it. It measures like one and It sounds kind of neutral. Neutral with elevated upper mids to be exact. When I say neutral, I do not hear that the bass is interfering with the mids. The bass does not make the treble dark. But then again, the elevated upper mids affect timbre on vocals, and some instruments. So yeah, "kinda" neutral.


Elevate


As I talked about the elevated upper mids, luckily I am not that sensitive in that area. But I am almost certain that some people are. It can be perceived as vocal shout, glaring, or sharp. The good thing is that the NA2+ does not have any significant peaks in the upper treble, because it could have been worse.

The elevated upper mids does tend to show some nuance and micro details, that I personally think you do not need, unless you are after the last vibration of the harmonic from the 12 fret


What surprised me


The graph does not look good at all in todays standards, at least when looking at targets. I don’t think this follows any reviewer targets for that matter. Recently, since people know how to read graphs now, I assume, they are taking everything at face value. I cannot blame them, after seeing the graph of the NA2+, I was not expecting these to sound great at all, and sounding decent would probably make me a shill, I thought.


But boy I was wrong. These gave me a different presentation of stage. They are not particulary wide, mainly because of the lack of subbass and treble extension, but they are deep that allows separation of instruments to shine. They are intimate sounding but the space between vocals is insanely believable. I was listening to Olivia Rodrigo's "drivers license" and that intro when the car starts freaked the hell out of me because I thought someone had stolen mine lol.

When she started singing, the space between her voice and that b flat from the piano is incredibly separated.


The drawback


Ofcourse, looking at the tuning, I expected drawbacks. The main issues I have would probably timbral accuracy. It doesn’t have the edginess, so it makes some higher notes dull sounding. I was listening to the track "Ego death" feat. Steve Vai by Polyphia, and some of the pinch harmonics were not portrayed well. The china cymbals sounded like, well, made from china I guess? No pun intended.


Flat bass?


No. that is my short answer. Looking at the graph, one may assume that these have anemic bass, or no bass at all. But yeah, these have really tight bass and in line with my preferences actually. This may be partly due to the lack of upper treble spikes, I mean past 10k. These are not the “airy” kind, and I believe it makes the bass “pop” more. The bass does not have any coloration and I can clearly hear fundamentals from bass guitars. Your usage may vary ofcourse, because my target has a low bass shelf to begin with.


Reminded me of..


These reminded me of how Acoustune tunes their IEMS. And the stage these portray is really similar. When I bought my Acoustune RS ONE in Japan, I was torn between that and and one NF audio set I can't remember. But they were close. I'm not sure how related they are, but Nf audio recently changed their name to Nf Acous. Acoustune was originally a hongkong brand, but acquired by Nippon Dics/pentaccon from Japan. So there's that .


PROS

great stage depth and separation

tight and fast bass


CONS

upper mids glare/shout

no subbass extension

treble sounds dull, no extension



SCORING

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


TUNING - 2

BASS - 2.5

MIDS - 2.5

TREBLE - 2.5

TECHS - 2.5


P.P SCORE = 12 ( A-)

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




Check my scoring here :


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



GRAB SCORE:

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


- I will never touch this again


- I grab if I remember


- Can be part of my rotation


- I break my rotation and grab this one today


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


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



GRAB SCORE: 3




COMPARISONS


It is hard to make comparisons with these in the price range because the tonality on both graphs and on listening is very unique


HZ sound heart mirror

The fist IEM I can think of would probably be the heart mirror because of the flat bass. I think this is an upgrade in terms of stage depth and overall separation. I also think the bass is better in quality. It's faster, tighter and more textured. But yeah, does the price increase justify the upgrade? Depends how willing you are


Supermix 4

It’s weird because even thought the SM4s have more elevated subbass based on graphs, I actually like the bass presentation of the NA2+ more. I am not really a subbass guy to begin with. I feel like subbass can sometimes alter bass texture and nuance. The SM4 does sound smoother in tonality, but the timbral accuracy in the treble might not be for everyone. The stage proportion on the NA2+ is also better for me.


Aful magic one

Both share a similar curve but with a different emphasis. the magic one has emphasis on lower treble, and the NA2+ has upper mids glare. The magic one might sound thinner in note weight compared the NA2+, but he magic one is also easier to listen to. The NA2+ is really a hit or miss, its either you are sensitive to that upper mids spike or not, and that is the main reason why it makes me hard to recommend these unless you have audiotioned these personally


FINAL THOUGHTS


Priced at $169. The tonality of the NA2+ can be described as neutral with emphasis on the upper mids. Do not be fooled by how the bass looks on graphs because these have very tight bass, clean and fast. The mids are forward sounding, well probably too forward for some because of the said elevation, but it creates this space in your head that is believable.


The treble is tricky, I say that the treble is on the tamer side, but I think some people might mistake the upper mids elevation as treble. The cymbals do not sound extended and this is my evidence that the treble is tamer. You also see that it gradually declines after the last peak around 10k.


The best thing about the NA2+ is probably how it handles stage.


Everything is well separated including vocals and instruments. NF Audio does not consider themselves as part of Chifi, and I think the tuners are musicians and they specifically market these as stage monitors, which makes sense. Musicians are less picky regarding tuning, but are very particular with how an IEM isolates a certain instrument.


Musicians don’t really think about timbral accuracy, they know how their instruments sound. They don’t really care if an IEM graphs neutral, harman or meta, but they sure know what sounds right.


So, are these a plus or a minus?



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

WHERE TO BUY: non affiliate links


https://hifigo.com/products/nf-audi...7_QdRW-ZpnCiGk9G_KuVzRiqaQn7bLUhIGLlSF5v51c6c


https://shenzhenaudio.com/products/...gSAwLwiph4XYAvITvnTvmFHd3zAQKMio3fkUdb3dWGazI


https://penonaudio.com/nf-audio-na2-plus.html


MY LIBRARY:

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

The artists I regularly listen to are:


Rock-Alternative-Metal

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


OPM(Original Pinoy Music):

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


POP:

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


OTHERS:

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


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


Thanks for reaching here. Hope you enjoyed reading.

NF Audio is yet another China based earphones manufacturer, a brand of Shenzhen Ningfan Acoustics that was founded back in 2014. They have been producing and supplying high-quality universal and CIEMs in the market with unique driver configurations featuring dynamic drivers, BA drivers, and more. They have expertise in designing premium quality in-ear monitors available for the masses at affordable prices. Sounds familiar? Let's see what they have to offer.



NF Audio NA2+

The NF Audio NA2+ is an affordable single dynamic driver earphone that costs $169. It features a newly developed MC2L-10M dual-cavity dynamic driver unit with a wide frequency response range of 9Hz-40khz promising a vibrant and enjoyable sound profile. The NF NA2+ is an updated version of a previous model, the NF NA2.



Non Audio stuff

The ear-shells of the NA2+ are made using a high-precision CNC machining process with aeronautical-grade aluminum alloy material. They have a beautiful matte black finish with a nice looking NF logo engraved at the faceplate. Build quality and finish are of high quality, the ear-shells are well made and look more premium than someone would expect for the price.

The ear-shells are compact and lightweight enough, featuring a semi-custom anatomical design that is not very bulky. The wearing experience is very satisfying, the fit is comfortable and stable with good passive noise isolation. Due to the shallow shape of the ear-shells some people may need to use larger ear-tips than the ones supplied in order to achieve better grip.



The Cable

The NA2+ is equipped with a cable made from 5N oxygen free, silver-plated copper in a 4-strand Litz construction. It is a 2-pin detachable cable with reversed connectors for better durability. The cable is soft, lightweight and thin, making it ideal for portable use, it also has low microphonic noise but it gets easily tangled. It is a single ended cable equipped with a high quality aluminum plug but you don't have the option to order it with a balanced one. Another thing to note is that the pre-shaped ear-hooks are a little stiff and don't bend easily.



Accessories

The NA2+ comes bundled with a rounded carrying case that is too compact without much free space to accommodate the earphones together with a portable USB DAC. The bundle also includes balanced ear-tips in three sizes, atmosphere ear-tips in four sizes and a 3.5mm to 6.35mm adapter. The accessories together with the earphones are well packed in a very attractive box.



Audio stuff

The NF Audio NA2+ has a 32Ω impedance with 107dB/mW of sensitivity so it is not difficult to drive from decent portable sources like the FiiO KA17 or the iBasso DC07PRO.

At last! An earphone with a balanced, reference kind of tuning that is distinguished by a neutral bass response, present mids and sparkling treble that offers decent tonal accuracy throughout the whole frequency range. Most earphones of the same category tend to follow V-shaped or Harman target tunings that might be crowd pleasers but are not that suitable for critical listening. Thankfully, the NF NA2+ is tuned with tonal precision in mind and is going to satisfy the purists who like neutral-bright sound profiles.

The low-end is linear enough without the overly emphasized mid-bass of other target curves. The NA2+ successfully produces the sub-bass frequencies but without adding any additional boosting. The low-end is tonally accurate and precise with excellent definition and layering for the category, making the NA2+ ideal for listening to classical music and other genres with acoustic bass instruments. The driver is fast and controlled, the bass is punchy and impactful enough to sound realistic with all kinds of music but not “enough” for a bass-head experience. The textures are not that full bodied or visceral but I wouldn't call them lean or dry either. The NA2+ focuses on the definition and layering of the bass line rather than producing a meaty and warm bass.

The mid-range is crystal clear and transparent without any noticeable bass bleed that could hamper the overall definition. The presentation is musical and engaging with a rather balanced tuning that leads into a natural and realistic timbre. The sound is harmonious and colorful with plenty of texture weight and good tonal precision. Voices and instruments blend together in a cohesive and holistic way getting equal shares of importance in the mix. The upper mid-range is a bit forward but not that pronounced to become fatiguing or harsh and transits seamlessly to the treble.

The treble is quite forward with a bright sound profile, plenty of energy on tap and excellent clarity. However, the general notion is that it is not too sharp or fatiguing, it has good transparency and definition, it is controlled and tonally correct but it also has the tendency to sound a bit metallic and artificial. Resolution and detail retrieval are up to the task while the textures are leaner and drier than in lower frequencies, compromising a little bit the overall sound coherency.

The soundstage is naturally proportioned with good width but rather limited depth. The general feeling is that of an open sounding earphone that never gets congested and plays the music with satisfying imaging and positioning along the horizontal plane.



Comparison

The competition is fierce as there are a lot of high quality, single dynamic driver earphones at this price point. The $149 FiiO FD15 springs to mind that despite being $20 less expensive it comes bundled with a high quality modular cable, interchangeable sound tubes and a greater variety of ear-tips. The ear-shells of the FD15 are not as lightweight as that of the NA2+ which is a little more comfortable to wear.

Both earphones share the same neutral-balanced approach in the low-end tuning but the FD15 has better sub-bass extension and its driver is a bit more technically accomplished. The mid-range is more emphasized on the FD15 and the treble less forward so it sounds mid-centric and not as extended and energetic as the NA2+.



Conclusion

The NF Audio NA2+ is an earphone that doesn't follow the beaten track as it features a neutral-bright tuning with excellent low-end balance. In a heavily populated market full of earphones with the same kind of tuning it is always nice to have extra options with a different sound profile because some people like their coffee black. The NA2+ is a very well made, lightweight and comfortable earphone that is highly recommended for critical and attentive listening or anyone else who doesn't sympathize with the consumer friendly oriented tunings that have flooded the market.

The review sample was kindly provided free of charge in exchange for an honest review. The price of the NF Audio NA2+ is $169 and you can order it from the official NF Audio AliExpress shop or HiFiGo .

Audio Geek Türkiye Group; We will have some words about Nf Audio Na2+, which was sent to me as part of the Türkiye Tour. I would like to thank them very much.
And I will try to convey what they offer in my own language.

Nf Audio is a professional IEM manufacturer and the products it produces really stand out with their design, material and musicality.
Let's move on to the details of Na2+, which is on our radar.



What's Offered in the Nf Audio Na2+ Box
The items themselves are made of aluminum alloy.
Black spiral 0.78 2-pin 3.5 mm 32 Ohm cable
A carrying case with a fabric-covered hard structure
3 pairs white 3 pairs black silicone tips
6.35mm jack adapter
warranty documents






Resources Used
Btr 7 Hiby R4 fiio k3



Black and white on the outer box and a very energetic orange background says hello to us when the box is opened.
The part where the headphones are stored avoids being protected with classic sponge and presents it to the user in a retro CD atmosphere.
It is truly innovative and makes you say wow. It is possible to see the inspiration taken from CD everywhere. Even the strap where the earphone tips are kept and the bag have a round CD design.


Comfort: Made primarily of aluminum alloy, these bullets feel very solid. The surface structure is perfectly smooth. Handwritten NF logo and It stands out on the edge of those energetic orange headphones in the box, and it looks very striking against those dark gray almost black headphones.
It felt a little small in terms of structure, but it fit my ear perfectly. It easily screened the air coming from the outside with the different tips inside. The only thing to criticize here is that this cable seems a little far from premium. The brand name is engraved on this end, which is thin and prone to tangling.
Again, it turns the minus into a plus very easily.




Bass: Even though I classify myself as a bass music lover, I knew at first that Na2+
would not offer me a very textured and extended bass.
Yes, there is a bass that hits, but it wasn't coming at a sufficient level in volume,
to the point where I like the appropriate music with the appropriate ear tips.
It was so balanced that it made me feel that emphasis that I cannot get in electronic music, especially in rock music.
His fast reactions and frequency are very well adjusted. Yes, for me, he is very good at rock music.


Mid: Na2+ It has a very natural vocal structure. The vocals are clean and the instrument separation is successful.
I found it very successful from a technical standpoint. When listening with Na2+, the clarity of 'Floor Jansen she is my sin' is at a high level.
The engineers who designed it obviously put their signature on the mids and trebles. I felt the clean details in every piece I listened to.
I also saw that clarity and naturalness were not compromised in the symphonic rock metal orchestra.
Each instrument has a certain area and you hear them all clearly and they do not interfere with each other.


Treble: This was the challenging point for me, I generally find high trebles annoying.
A bright and sharp treble spoils the whole structure for me. However, I realized that I can also like the treble in these headphones.
In fact, after reaching the required saturation, I tried to play in high trebles just to continue this taste. It is very lively, fast, energetic and detailed.
I found it incredibly successful even in symphonic rock metal and yes, I asked myself if I could like treble too Greetings to the cymbals







Conclusion: NF Audio Na2+ won my admiration with its live structure, detailed sound stage, energetic structure and technique, closeness and clarity.
While I usually stick to the bass and mids and stay away from the treble, Na2+ made me realize that the treble is extremely delicious.
My respect for NF increased, as it brought me back to styles of music that I thought I did not enjoy listening to.
Retro box: A powerful player with its sturdy material and rich box content.

this iem looks really nice, strong and bold with good quality gunmetal colored metal body and flexible cable


depends on how you perceive things, this iem can be categorized as V shaped or simply bright iem

bass is quick, very tight with good punch, only lacks depth and rumble for certain tracks

midrange to treble area is quite thin and could be aggressive on some songs, yet the detail, resolution and note definition is no joke… very resolving 1dd, everything sounds clear and well defined with sharp attack

so yes even though this iem can be quite aggressive but i can still see some will definitely love em due to its clarity and resolution, definitely recommended to try if you’re okay with quite a bit of spice

Disclaimer:

• I don’t read FR graphs. I only use my ears, as earphones should be used.
• NF Audio sent this unit to me in an exchange for an honest, transparent review. Rest assured that this review will do its best to devoid from any bias/es as much as possible.
• The following remarks and observations shall be made and owned only by me.
• No monetary compensation is/was involved before, during, and after the period of creation of this review.
• Your mileage may (and always, will) vary.

Burn-in time: 4-8 hours per day, 5 days.

Source/s used:

• - Non-HiFi smartphone (Infinix Note 12 G96), PC.
• - Tanchjim Space DAC
• - Hidizs S9 Pro DAC
• - Aiwa XP-V710C CD Player (12 sec. EASS)
• - Sony Xperia X Compact
• - Local Files via Foobar, YouTube Music, Deezer, and Qobuz with UAPP.

IEM/Earbud/Setup configuration: Stock large NF Audio “balanced” and “atmosphere” medium eartips, any form of EQ or MSEB off, 40-60% volume.

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Sound signature:

• The NF Audio NA2+ exhibits a well-balanced, W-shaped sound signature that has a bit of warmth on its lower mids. On certain setups and ears, it may be perceived as a mild-v sounding set. Despite being the more “musical” set compared to its sibling, the NM2+, I can confidently say that this can still suit as a studio monitoring IEM due to its impressive neatness and precise technical performance to its sound.

Lows:

• Tight, punchy, and clean were the first terms that came to me while using the NA2+ for bass. It is highly textured and rapid in attack and decay, to the point where I assumed it was a midbass dominating set until I heard the subbass rumble. The sub bass also extends quite deep in rumble and has the same quantity as its midbass, giving that "balanced" feel, and it only appears when the music calls for it. This also implies that, despite the fact that the amounts are enough, this is not a basshead set, which can be a good or a bad thing, depending on your preference.

Mids:

• As for the mids, it is quite “balanced” in terms of position or elevation, and has a tinge of warmth on lower mids, making male vocals and instruments that are present in that region a bit thicker than usual, without compromising any loss of detail and clarity. Upper mids are ever-so-slightly elevated compared to the lower mids, showing an impressive amount of detail, clarity, sparkle, and air. While this region is nowhere near sibilant or harsh on this set and on my ears, I do see (or hear) that the upper mids may come across as “spicy” or “more than usual” to some, particularly to those ears that are very sensitive in this region. But for most ears, this region is a very detailed and airy experience. Overall, I like how NF audio tuned this region, just like how they tune their other sets in general. Its mids never sounded abnormally recessed or drowned even on the busiest tracks I played it with.

Treble:

• Moving on to the treble, it is well-extended, airy, and rather smooth to my ears since the cymbals aren't as “splashy” when compared to the fun-sounding sets I have in my possession. Detail retrieval is excellent for its price as it renders microdetails with ease. Overall, the NF Audio NA2+ shows that a dynamic driver can have a very resolving and well-extended treble response, if implemented and tuned correctly.

Soundstage, Imaging and Separation:

• This part is probably my favorite and the strongest suit of the NA2+: its impressive technical performance. It is very technically competent that despite it being the more “musical” sounding set compared to the NM2+, it can still be used confidently as a studio monitor. Its soundstage is spacious and very immersive, with a very good amount of height and depth. Separation and layering are very clean and handle busy tracks and heavy passages with ease. Imaging is very precise and renders vocal and instrument placement clearly.

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Other IEM Comparisons!

Etymotic ER3SE

• The Etymotic ER3SE is a flatter, uncolored, transparent sounding set when compared to the NF Audio NA2+ due to its primary purpose to be used as a professional studio monitoring IEM. However, this also means that this does not have the same level of versatility that the NF Audio NA2+ has. Both have different characteristics in terms of rendering bass response, but both share the same agile attack and decay, in terms of speed. The mids are mildly warmer on the NA2+ but do not sound lean in return. Technical performance between the two sets are nearly the same, but the NA2+ exhibits a more immersive soundstage, due to its expansive height and impressive depth.

Tanchjim 4U (Monitoring mode)

• The Tanchjim 4U on monitoring mode is literally a flat sounding set, up to the point that some ears will find it having a huge subbass roll-off. This also means that the NF Audio NA2+ has the most versatile bass between the two sets. Both sets have a quick bass attack and decay as well. Mids are definitely flatter and leaner on the 4U, while the NA2+ keeps things balanced in both quality and quantity. The treble is noticeably smoother on the NA2+ while keeping the details rendered well. As for the soundstage, the Tanchjim 4U lacks the immersiveness the NF Audio NA2+ has. Separation and imaging are more precise on the NA2+. Both sets are does their job well when used as a studio monitor, but definitely the NF Audio NA2+ is the better set overall.

NF Audio NM2

• The NF Audio NM2 is the cheaper monitoring IEM from NF Audio NM2 when compared to the NA2+. It does translate in each other’s respective build quality as well, as the NM2 has a plastic yet solid feel to it. As for the sound, The NF Audio NM2 exhibits brighter, more vivid upper frequencies when compared to the NA2+, in a nutshell. Technical performance is also better on the NA2+, but it isn’t a night-and-day difference, to be honest. Both sets exhibit a very good level of genre and use-case versatility, but the NF Audio NA2+ takes it two steps further due to its smoother treble response without compromising detail retrieval.

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Pros:

• Clean, all rounder, well-resolving sound!
• Excels both in technical and tonal performance under 200USD!
• “Balanced” sound signature!
• Exhibits studio monitoring capabilities despite being tuned to be a “musical” set!
• Clean, quick, detailed bass response.
• Vivid, bleed-free, clear mids!
• Smooth yet detailed, well-extended upper frequencies.
• Nearly immersive, incisive technical performance!
• Excellent, fit, comfort, and isolation!
• Excellent overall build quality!
• Very cohesive, visually-pleasing packaging and accessories!
• Easy to drive (but also benefits from additional power)

Cons:

• Due to its neatness and fast decaying transients, the bass may be perceived as “dry” by some.
• While this is nowhere sibilant, the upper mids may come across as a bit “too much” or “spicy” to some ears.
• A normal 2-Pin connection would’ve “perfected the look” (personal nitpick, highly subjective)

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NF Audio really shows their level of proficiency in their products, and it presents itself really well here in the NA2+. Despite being their “music-focused” set, The NA2+ is tonally and technically capable enough for me to recommend it as a studio monitoring IEM. Its genre-versatile sound profile while offering an uncompromised technical performance is something that you don’t see everyday. The NF Audio is one of the “best” IEMs I have experienced and I can recommend it to everyone if they are looking for a versatile, technically competent IEM under 300 USD. And all of these still amazes me due this IEM only having a 1DD driver configuration. Well done, NF Audio!

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• Source: The NF Audio NA2+ is very, very easy to drive. Plugging it straight to your phone or laptop will be more than enough most of the time. However, the level of overall refinement gets better when paired to a proper DAC like Tanchjim Space, or Simgot DEW4X as an example.
• Eartips: The eartips included are more than enough, but you may still use your preferred eartips.
• Cable: The cable is durable and good enough most of the time. You may still use your preferred cable.

Thank you for reading!


Non-affiliated link here: https://bit.ly/3QAFfv9

Additional Photos here:

NF Audio NA2+
1DD
$169

Before I even begin this review, let me thank NF Audio for providing me the unit for review.
Rest assured, my review is 100% my own personal opinion.

Unboxing
Build Quality

The shell is fully made from metal, It’s made from aluminum alloy.
It is lightweight but feels solid at the same time.

The cable is fine, not the best cable that I’ve ever held but it's usable, though I do wish the cable is 4.4mm or modular.

Comfort

The NA2+ size is not that big but not exactly small either. It fits on my ears without any problem with the provided Large Eartips.
There are also no hot spots whatsoever and I can comfortably wear this IEM for long listening sessions.

Sound

Tested using FIIO K11 R2R, FIIO KB3, Stock Cable, Stock Eartips
Music is mostly from Apple Music (J-POP, J-Rock, Anisong, EDM, Rap, Metal, Jazz)

Tonality in general : Neutral - Bright - Airy

Bass : Punchy, speedy and well controlled.
The bass has a slight boost from dead neutral.
The NA2+ bass presentation is not overpowering any frequency, but it’s not boring either.
When the song demands some bass, the NA2+ can clearly show its capability.

The bass speed has no problem keeping up with double pedal songs like metal genre but it does feel a bit lacking for EDM genre.

Also the tuning of NA2+ is definitely not for bassheads, so if you love big bass,you probably better off looking on other set than the NA2+

Midrange : Neutral and lean.
The midrange is pretty neutral but presented in a more leaner way.
It’s probably because of the small dip around the lower mid area.
The good thing about that dip in the frequency response is that you can feel the midrange is not really pushed forward so it creates an illusion like it has a wider soundstage presentation.
As for the upper midrange, it has a slight boost that makes the overall presentation have more clarity and tilted towards bright sounding.
The midrange is free from shout and sibilance, which is a good thing.

Treble : Extend and airy
NA2+ treble also has a slight boost around the low - mid - air area, which makes the NA2+ feel airy and extended at the same time.

One thing I should mention, the NA2+ does not smooth out any of its treble presentation, so if you’re sensitive to treble there are probably more suitable options for you than the NA2+.
Don’t get me wrong, NA2+ treble presentation is not harsh and piercing either.

Technicalities
Good For $169USD

Stage : is quite large for an IEM and for its price, thanks to the slight dip on the lower midrange area.
Stage layering is also present, it has a symmetrical shape both in width and depth.

Imaging : Good
Not exactly holographic but it has very good object layering, it does not sound 2D at all, but it's not quite holographic either, though one thing I must say about the imaging part, the result is always depending on your source.

Detail Retrieval : Good
The NA2+ has good resolving capabilities on all of its frequencies, which is a pleasure to hear from a $169USD IEM.
Though if I’m going to nitpick, the rumble or humming of the bass frequency could be better.

Positioning and Separation : Very Good.
It has sharp positioning and separation and is very enjoyable to use for gaming (Valorant)
In fact, I always use the NA2+ for my Valorant gaming session because the positioning is so good.

Comparison

Moondrop KATO
Same single DD configuration, more or less same price.
Build wise, I prefer the NA2+ because it has no glossy metal that can easily scratch overtimes.
Though look wise, the KATO does look more appealing at least for my taste.

Tonality wise, KATO has a more rounded and smooth sound profile. KATO is also slightly warmer than the NA2+ in its overall sound presentation.

Technicality wise, both are very close and definitely on the same level and both are good for $169USD.

Which one is better for you?
Well, if you prefer a more relaxed, rounded and smooth presentation, KATO is the one to get, if you want a more honest, slightly airier presentation NA2+ will not disappoint.


Conclusion

The NA2+ is definitely a good offering from NF Audio on the sub $200USD IEM market.
I can recommend the NF Audio NA2+ for individuals who appreciate neutrality and good clarity on their music, and for gamers who need sharp positioning for competitive advantage.

Thanks for reaching this far !

Just in case you're Indonesian or understand Bahasa Indonesia, you can watch the review here


-littlenezt

NF Audio is know as professional audio brand, thier stands for its commitment to developing high-quality, innovative products. This NA2+ in-ear monitors are specifically designed for music lovers, offering a listening experience distinct from their NM2+ counterparts, which cater more to a monitor-focused sound signature.. features a proprietary driver design, the MC2L-10M, that sets them apart from competitors who often rely on generic, off-the-shelf components.


NF Audio keeps it pretty consistent with their packaging across models, It's that classic cube-shaped box that opens like a CD case, The colors go from dark grey to off-white, with a cool photo of the iems on top and their logo in orange at the corner. The back's got the model name in big letters under the "Music Series", Once you crack it open (it's all sealed in clear plastic), you find the iems snug in one half and all the extras like silicone tips and cables in the other. There's also a neat zippered case with their logo in black on strong grey fabric.




The build quality of NA2+ is looking sturdy, the shell made of Aeronautical-grade Aluminum alloy cavity with very well craftsmanship that prioritizes comfort.. They sit snugly in your ears, and with the right eartips (think NFaudio MS42 for a more intimate experience), you can wear them for hours on end. It uses 2pin 0.78 some might confuse this with 0.75 qdc because the pin connector design, including me.




>Newly developed Self Driver.
NF Audio NA2+ features a newly developed NF Audio MC2L-10M dual-cavity dynamic driver unit that provides a highly responsive and musical sound signature with natural timbre and tonality. It has a wide frequency response range of 9Hz-40khz providing a vibrant, enjoyable sound profile complementing different genres well.
>High-precision 5-axis CNC machined ear cavities.
>Aeronautical-grade Aluminum alloy cavity material.
>Natural Timbre, Tonality, Stage Monitoring Sound profile.
>Ergonomic Design for a comfy fit.
>Impedance: 32 ohms.
>Sensitivity: 107dB/mW.
>Distortion: <1%.
>Connector Type: 0.78mm 2-pin.
>3.5mm Termination plug.

Let's Moving to the sound, Starting With The Low–Bass in this iems is well controled, textured. You get that satisfying low-end and its fast !!. the cons it feels lack impact and depth. The texture is very good allows you to distinguish between instruments, from the pluck of the bass guitar feels loud too the blow of the saxophone. also kick bass feels pretty puncy in my opinion, also Instruments are well-separated, so you can appreciate complex arrangements without everything turning into mush.

Moving To Midrange. The Vocals in this set are rich and natural, bringing them to life. Fans of Rock will love how the NA2+ captures the raw energy of singers like Taylor Momsen (The Pretty Reckless), and its suitable for every color voices for both male and female it's equally good. upper slighty boosted but it doesn't distressed, still fine on my ears, it adds fun to the sound without being to harsh nor sharp even sibilance.

Treble strikes a nice balance between clarity and avoiding harshness.. There's good amount sparkle to keep things lively without causing listener fatigue, It extends well enough to ensure high-hats and cymbals have a fulfilling presence and decay.. and what i like the most is the sound of electric guitar on this set, Man...–it's HOWL !!. the string is very satisfying to hear... this iems definitely very suitable for audiophile even stage monitoring for how each instrument play.

I'm quite impressed with the technical capabilities of this iems. It achieves a level of technical prowess close to that of some pricier iems. The soundstage is notably wide with good depth, addressing one of the few shortcomings in similar products' staging. Coupled with excellent imaging, the presentation approaches 3D-holographic levels, which is remarkable for a its price. Resolution is commendably high, especially considering it utilizes only a single driver. Instrument layering and separation are also well-executed too, competing effortlessly with higher-end models. Despite being a single DD, it competes admirably with the best iems with many driver configuration in it's price range and beyond. The timbre has characteristic of a single DD very natural..



Pros: +Sturdy Build Quality
+Excellent Tuning, Neutral Bright-ish
+Well Controled, And Fast Bass
+Forward Midrange Without Being Shouty and Sibilance
+Crisp and well Extended Treble
+Wide Soundstage And Precise Imaging

Cons: -The Sound Quality Of The Cable Is Pretty Good, Lightweight But Pretty Thin Compare To Other And Its Tangled Easly, And The Lack OF 4.4mm Option, Can Be Bummer For Some.
-Upper Can Be Too Much For Some, But Not For Me

This NA2+ potential goes beyond its price tag imo. design wise may not appealing for some {matter of taste}, but the sound its sure will impress. Na2+ offers a compelling sound signature that's well balanced, rich, detailed sound profile. They excel with it's controled bass, rich vocals, and also righteous treble sound making them great for a wide range of genres, especially for rock.. The ability to customize the sound and scale up with better sources makes them a versatile option for any audiophile.. Pairing them with a neutral or warm DAC/DAP can elevate their performance even further !. unlocking better dynamics and detail retrieval tho..

Whether you're a genre loyalist, musician or just music enthusiast looking for great sound earphones for every genre, the NA2+ will likely to impress.

NF AUDIO NA2+ Review: Relic or Legend?​

PRICE: $169 (PHP. 8,000.00)​

PROS:​

• Unique bright neutral sound signature
• Superb detail retreival
• Great build quality
• Good unboxing experience
• Clean, neutral but well-extended and well-defined bass
• Open and clean sounding midrange
• Very energetic, detailed and well-extended treble
• Clean separation

CONS:​

• Not for shout sensitive people
• Cable is thin and tangle prone
• Bass lacks impact and depth
• Lacking note weight
• Needs a bit of power to sound its best
• Not the best fit

WHO THIS SET IS FOR:​

• People who want a proper neutral bright set
• People who want a lot of upper midrange and treble energy
• People who like to dissect the music that they’re listening to
• People who want a clean but well-defined bass
• People who want an older style of tuning

WHO THIS SET ISN’T FOR:​

• People who are sensitive to shout
• People who want a more musical listening experience
• People who want something non-fatiguing
• People who want an engaging listening experience
• People who want the most refined sounding set

RECOMMENDED GENRES:​

• Jazz
• Folk
• Classical
• Instrumentals
• Vocal Pop

SHORT REVIEW:​

In the grand scheme of things, the NA2+ is a set that aged well in terms of technical ability and a surprisingly mature bright neutral sound signature that you can’t find anymore in the market today. The energy of this set is unlike anything I’ve heard, which also means that this is not for those sensitive to such energy. It’s backed up with superb technical detailings with a relatively neutral low end that makes this a set for the brave and the bright. RECOMMENDED WITH CAVEATS

FULL REVIEW​

One of the most important thing for a pair of headphones to achieve is to be able to maintain a timeless kind of sound that people would be able to enjoy from years to come. This isn’t necessarily “future-proofing”, moreso the saying “good audio stays good”

Obviously this can’t be guaranteed as preferences change and some trends exist for the better. So what makes a pair of headphones, or in this case, in-ear monitor “timeless”? Let’s talk about one such IEM that, depending on your tastes, is still one of the most compelling, engaging and crisp sounding single DD sets you can get under $200.

DISCLAIMER:
The NM2+ was sent in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not paid or compensated in any way to say anything about the product.

BLAST TO THE PAST PT.1​

If you’re new to the audio hobby, NF Audio may seem like a relic of the past with their (in)famous NM2 and NA2 series of in-ears. But they’re more than just those sets as they’ve been in the professional HiFi Portable Audio game since 2014.

On top of their budget options like the NA/NM and RA series of IEMs, they’ve also dipped their toes in the high end audio market with the NE and NF series of IEMs. Today, we’re talking about the NA2+, priced at $149 and is the “music” series of in-ears that compliments the NM2 series that is the monitoring series.

How does the NA2+ stack up in today’s very competitive but also formulaic market of somewhat predictable tuning? Let’s find out starting with the unboxing!

UNBOXING​

One of the things I love about NF Audio in general is how good their branding is. From the external packaging that perfectly showcases what you might expect from the product all the way to how the accessories and inclusions are presented in the package, NF Audio does it really well.

Here’s a full list of the accessories:

• NA92+ IEMs
• 6 pair of eartips
• Carrying pouch
• 2 Pin cable
• Paperwork

For $150, the inclusions of the NA2+ is adequate. For a set released a couple years ago, this would’ve been a really good level of accessories. Today, there are much better (and worse) accessory inclusions for the price.



The eartips are varied with a narrow and wide bored and the case is very compact. Neither of the eartips worked for me and I ended up using aftermarket eartips which I’ll talk more about in the fit section. The case itself is a little too small, but it’s big enough to fit the IEMs and extra eartips and is quite pocketable.

Build & Fit​

One of the best things about the NA2+ is the build quality. A full aluminum CNC shell that feels premium but very lightweight paired with a high quality 0.78 2-pin connector. While it may look like a QDC connector with it’s sleeved and protruding design, I was told that the NA2+ uses a 0.78 2-pin connector. C-Pin (or QDC cables) are compatible with the NA2+.



It’s also very aesthetically pleasing with a distinct yet very clean motif that exudes “NF Audio” at first glance.

What I don’t like about the NA2+ as much is the fit. Despite looking ergonomic with its generous wings and overall shape, I found myself struggling to find the right tips to get the best seal and comfort. None of the stock tips fit my ear and even my tried and tested Clarion’s weren’t the most snug. I tried other eartips like Divinus Velvet and Dunu Candy but I found it to still be a little unstable and does not seal very well.



Long term listening sessions did not induce any fatigue and I did not experience any air pressure build up or driver flex which is always a plus for me.



Unfortunately, the cable is not big of a plus as I found it to be a little bit too thin and cheap feeling. This isn’t the worst stock cable I’ve ever seen, but I’m really not a fan of how thin it cheap it feels. The best aspect about it is, in terms of comfort pairing, the cable compliments the weight and shape of the NA2+. The interface doesn’t feel cheap and the chin cinch stays really well.

SOUND​

Sound Signature​

The NA2+ features a somewhat traditional bright neutral sound signature with a very flat and linear bass to midrange and a forward, energetic and sparkly treble presentation. For a bright neutral set, the timbre is still maintained to sound coherent without any weird changes in tonal balance. This could be due to the single DD nature, but that also goes to show the quality of the driver they used.

Drivability​

One of the most interest things about the NA2+ is how difficult it is to drive. This is more interesting when you realize that the NM2+, its monitor cousin, has a very similar frequency graph while also being considerably easier to drive. The NA2+ wants a cleaner, more neutral and more powerful source to sound its best and a warmer source will give it the much needed low end tactility that some people might find lacking

Volume​

Due to its bright neutral nature, the NA2+ prefers a lower to medium listening level as cranking the volume too high will induce harshness in the upper mids to treble. High listening volumes bring out the punchiness of the sound at the cost of fatigue.

Bass​

The bass of NA2+ is by nature very clean, tight and high quality. It’s linear which means bass details and notes are very well-defined and clean while maintaining a good level of punchiness. Rumble only exists in the bassiest of tracks and is more generous in terms of midbass emphasis. It doesn’t bleed into the midrange at all but offers a decent level of warmth. An issue some people might have with the NA2+ bass is the lack of bodied impact. It’s a little too clean on some tracks and make some songs sound stale in comparisons.

The best case scenario for the NA2+ is tracks with a lot of midbass to boot. Think Hey Barbara by IV of Spades or Wake Up by SOS. Both tracks are very thick and punchy and matches the bass tuning of the NA2+ really well. Where it doesn’t shine as well is in R&B tracks with a low of low end thickness. The opposite is true however with a track like Blue by Amateurish. The lack of low end impact makes the track sound a little thin, especially when it comes to the guitars having more bite than impact.

Mids​

This is the part where some people might feel torn about the NA2+. One one hand, the NA2+ has such clean, crisp and detailed midrange that bring out the nuances in the midrange really well. This brings out female vocals and upper frequency instruments in a very energetic and lively way. However, it might also be too much energy for some people as the contrast from the upper mids to the upper mids is quite drastic. 15db of eargain at 4khz to be specific. Some people like this very aggressive and bright sound, but this is definitely for those with brave ears that can handle this much energy. Thankfully, I never found it to sound too shouty and was just aptly bright, but I also know I have a lot of upper midrange tolerance and that it extends into the lower to mid treble. There’s a bias towards upper frequency notes but the lower mids doesn’t sound as lean or thin sounding as I was expecting it to be.

Playback of contralto female vocals like Laufey and Samara Joy is some of the best I’ve heard under $200. The balance of note weight and vocal forwardness and clarity is honestly insanely good when listening to vocal jazz. Jazz in general is perfect as the bass to midrange tuning compliments the often chill but very nuanced instrumentation of jazzy tracks. However, male vocals on tracks like That’s What I Like by Bruno Mars is not only severely lacking but due to the poor mixing of the track also induces harshness in the overall mix.

Treble​

Keeping from the energy established in the upper mids, the treble presentation of the NA2+ is very energetic and very sparkly. There’s a solid level of details and the extension, while not the airiest sounding that I’ve heard, extends in a very satisfying way without sounding dull or rolled off. There’s still a level of harshness and peakiness on poorly mixed tracks, but it’s generally well-contained and very refined sounding for something that came out a couple of years ago. It might not be the cleanest sounding treble in the market, but it’s a very sparkly listening experience that you almost never get to hear in today’s tamer market.

Going back to Samara Joy, the track Can’t Get Out Of This Mood, the treble sounds very crisp and energetic without any hints of sibilance or sharpness in both the instruments and the vocals. The same cannot be said however with the track Swallow by CASIOPEA which combines the much older and much brighter late 70s mixing and the distinctively energetic treble of the entire self titled album.

Technicalities​

Technically speaking, the NA2+ is an odd balance of average techs for $150 and a superb level of detail and resolving ability. First, the stage of the NA2+ is somehow quite narrow for something that is meant to bring out the most immersive listening experience. Imaging is much better in return and presents instruments in a surprisingly holographic way despite the narrow stage. Instrument positioning is genuinely impressive and is one of the best in the price I’ve heard. Another thing I found to be impressive for the price is the detail retrieval and resolving ability which is top class for a single DD at this price point.

COMPARISONS​

vs HZSound Heart Mirror​

While an odd comparison due to the price difference, I want to highlight the similarities these two sets have and why I think that the NA2+ might be a good upgrade for 2 IEMs that I will be comparing it to. Both sets feature a neutral bright sound signature with the Heart Mirror being the “flatter” sounding set and the NA2+ being the more energetic set. The increased bass in the measurements is counteracted by the increase in the upper midrange of the NA2+. Technically speaking, the NA2+ is superior but I found the Heart Mirror to be the more tonally balanced set overall. It’s a great upgrade for those looking for more energy and improved technicalities from the Heart Mirror.

vs Moondrop SSR​

If the NA2+ is a good upgrade from the Heart Mirror, the SSR is an even more perfect upgrade path into the NA2+. Both sets are known to be “shouty” with really good detail and separation and the NA2+ takes everything good about the SSR and improves upon every aspect. Better separation, better details, better resolving ability and a cleaner sounding midrange. The only thing that the SSR does better is the fitting as the SSR’s tiny 6mm driver perfectly fits in my ear compared to the NA2+

vs Simgot EA1000​

The EA1000 marks the evolution of bright in-ears after the popularity of frequency response graphs and following existing targets. However, that does not mean it’s predictable or too safe as the EA1000 is a more technical, more detailed and more dynamic sounding set compared to the NA2+. Tonality is also better on the EA1000 by a lot due to the tamer upper midrange and boosted bass. However, the NA2+ excels at providing a more energetic vocal presentation that the EA1000 presents in a more balanced and neutral way. This definitely ends up being a preference diff as you might prefer the extra energy of the NA2+ over the more neutral EA1000.

vs Simgot EA500LM​

Telling a similar story to the EA1000, the EA500LM also follows the recent trends of IEMs but to a more aggressive degree that is somewhat similar to what the NA2+ offers. It’s not as aggressive of course, but it’s energetic enough to be compared. On first listen, you can immediately tell the growth of in-ear driver technology as for nearly half the price, the EA500LM can output a similar level of technicalities to the NA2+ while also having better tonality. However, the NA2+ still sounds cleaner and more energetic than the NA2+ due to the more elevated upper midrange.

vs NF Audio NM2+​

While it may not look like much difference from the initial graphs, the NM2+ is the more “consumer friendly” set as it’s easier to drive and doesn’t require a beefy source to be driven properly. This also works against it as the NA2+ sounds more refined and scales better than the NM2+ which improves its technical ability by a small margin. The NA2+ also has a tamer upper midrange compared to the NM2+ which makes the NA2+ the more “musical” set while the NM2+ is the more analytical sounding set.

CONCLUSION​

In the grand scheme of things, the NA2+ is a set that aged well for those who enjoy a nice and bright listening experience. The neutral bass tuning paired with the upper midrange energy and topped off with a generous amount of treble makes this set truly one for the trebleheads. The vocal energy of this is unlike anything I’ve listened to and it’s a treat to listen to jazz and vocal pop songs. Pair that with a driver that aged pretty well and you got yourself an awesome bright neutral set for under $200.

However, I cannot in good heart say that this is the safest recommendation out there. The energy is more than what most people could handle and if you’re looking for raw technical ability, the NA2+ isn’t the set for you.

But in today’s market filled with safely tuned and consumer oriented in-ears, it’s nice to know that a set from a couple of years ago known for having an aggressively energetic sound is still one of the most unique listening experiences you can get!

Thank you for reading my full review on the NF Audio NA2+. If you would like to buy one, consider using the non-affiliated link below: https://hifigo.com/products/nf-audio-na2-iem

Intro

NF Audio is an audio brand who makes audio gears used for professional music production NA2+ is the example of this. This is the first time I've reviewing their product and it already wowed me in the first time listen. A neutral bright tuned gear good for music production which I really impressed how clean it present the sound. Let see how it performs.


Disclaimer

I would like to thank NF Audio for arranging a unit for me. My opinions are unbiased, and I haven't been influenced or instructed to praise these IEMs. Every detail in this review is actual experience made by listening for hours everyday.





Specifications

Driver Type : Dual-cavity dynamic driver
Frequency Response : 9-40kHz
Sensitivity : 107dB/mW
Impedance : 32 Ω
Max SPL : 125dB
Distortion Ratio : <1% Distortion
Acoustic Isolation : 25dB
Jack Connector : 3.5mm SE
Capsule Connection Type : 0.78mm
Cable : 5N silver plated OFC cable.

Packaging

Pair of NA2+
Litz 5N silver-plated, oxygen-free copper cable with 3.5mm Audio plug.
3.5mm to 6.35mm adapter
Three pairs of black S/M/L Balanced silicone tips.
Three pairs of white silicone tips S/M/L Atmosphere.
Leathered case





Build and Comfort

The build is made from sturdy CNC aluminium alloy ear shells ensures a solid build with this one good job NF Audio. Despite of the build quality of the earpiece, it is somewhat light in weight, the fit is excellent to my ears without discomfort. The deeply insertion of NA2+ it is not looking bulky in your ears which a huge plus and I found them making them comfortable for extended use.


Drivability

The NA2+ is easily to drive with weak sources gear which still benefits from having a better source.

Pairing with Fosi SK02

The improvement in resolution and intrument separation is noticeable with this pairing.

Pairing with DC04 Pro

The soundstage become wider. The imaging and resolution improved a bit. The technical capabilities of the DC04 Pro synergized well with NA2+.

Pairing with KiwiEars Allegro

The resolution improved a bit. The cleanliness of the background of Allegro which allows the NA2+ to improved imaging.





Sound Aspects


Source used :


Realme 9 Pro

KiwiEars Allegro

Ibasso DC04 pro

Fosi Audio SK02


This iems spend 40-50 hours of burn in using pink noise before taking details of this review


The NA2+ is a neutral bright tuning gear shows clean bass response, transparent mids, and smooth and clean treble. You will notice how clean it present the sound the pitch black background of NA2+ it helps able to extract the details and nuances of the presentation. I really enjoying this set without a doubt this is the most technical competent Ive heard under sub 200$.


Bass

The bass inherits clean, punchy and well controlled quality without a hint of bleeds. I noticed the subbass is more prominent than midbass showing clean and satisfying rumble but this didnt give the satisfaction of a basshead with deep slam. I wonder how NA2+ doing this despite of a single DD IEM the separation of subbass and midbass is excellent. When I'm listening to my fav EDM music the bass department is well separated with each other.


Mids

The midrange shows smooth and transparent presentation. It is clear and clean, it have decent note weight and timbre, vocals is well placed perfectly in the stage. The mids is well separated on other frequencies. The uppermids gives the vocals vibrant and engaging vibe to satisfy one's ears. Both male and female have equal quality of vocals without predominant each other. The midrange instruments has the analogue-ish touch of presentation which I really impressed.


Treble

The treble is finely tuned, offering a natural and detailed presentation. It is fluent and well-controlled, avoiding harshness or sibilance. The cymbal hits and shimmers as they sounded right and alluring. It is somewhat bright but they are definitely not fatiguing. It also has great treble extension. The nuances are rendered with great accuracy, it is have a right amount of sparkle and air overall allowing you to enjoy the presentation.


Technicalities

This is where it excels the NA2+. The soundstage is wide and spacious without the feel the narrowness of the presentation. Imaging performance is exceptional with its price point I just want to point out I think this NA2+ is best using listening to live recordings and performance. As for separation it is also exceptional too. You can easily distinguish the placements of instruments within the mix. If you paired this with a better source the improvement in technicalities is very noticeable such as imaging and resolution.


Comparison

TRI I3 MK3

I3 MK3 has better bass quality with deeper slam and extension but not quantity and cleanliness of the bass of NA2+
Mids of NA2+ is better with natural vocals and instruments the pitch black background of NA2+ helps with the imaging I'm not saying MK3 does not have natural sounding mids just a slight better.
Treble is superior with I3 MK3 provides natural treble and great note weight but NA2+ has smoother treble overall.





Conclusion

In general, the NA2+ is highly admires for its combination of premium build, accessories, and excellent sound profile. Speaking of technicalities this is the best I've heard under 200$ iems. Whether you're an audiophile in a professional studio music production or a casual listener enjoying music, the NA2+ delivers an impressive performance and top-notch comfort contributes for long listening sessions.


Non-affiliated link below :
http://www.nfaudio.cn/product/435.html

NF Audio NA2+ review.

First, I would like to thank NF Audio for sending the NA2+ (169 USD) in-ear monitor (IEM) earphones for a review.

NF Audio is a brand that is focused on the professional market, mostly on the music creation side. I find it so delightful that they are making IEMs aimed at the consumer market, bringing their expertise and experience to consumers.

The NA2+ belongs in the music series of their product line-up; it is aimed more towards musical enjoyment than sound monitoring work. Let's find out if they are really musical sounding.

The NA2+ utilizes NF Audio's own driver, which they call the MC2L-10M. I mentioned this because most brands use generic, unknown, or new and untested drivers on their IEMs, but this won't matter if it doesn't sound good; we'll find this out soon.

The shell of the IEM is medium in size and is carved out of a solid piece of aluminum. It feels very high quality, and the machining is perfect (see photos). The finish is anodized rather than painted or powder coated, that could chip at any time. The shape of the shell towards the nozzle is narrow, making it very comfortable to wear while sitting tightly flushed in my ears. I feel the shape is well optimized.







Cable:

The plug is supplied in 3.5mm with a 6.35mm adapter. The earpiece connectors are QDC style; luckily, the polarity is the same as 2-pin style connectors, so I can replace the cable with a 2-pin style cable without affecting the polarity; I tested it myself. Nice!

Eartips:

It includes two types of eartips: black-colored tips, which they call balanced eartips, and white tips, which they call atmosphere eartips.

For almost a week since opening the box, I was using the black balanced tips. The sound was good, with neutral bass and a hint of brightness in the treble, but overall neutral sounding, which I think could be capable of monitoring use in a professional environment. After a week with the black eartips, I changed to the white atmosphere tips; the change in sound quality was big, and for the better, I will touch on this again later in this review.

The white atmosphere tips are the ones I used for the review.

Sources, synergy, and other gear used in this review:

I used my Fiio M15s DAP and Letshuoer DT03 Dongle DAC for this review. I tried it on my other sources and found out that this isn't a choosy IEM, but you would easily hear the improvement in sound quality with better-sounding sources, which the M15s and DT03 are. I used my Letshuoer modular cable because I like thicker cables, and the stock cable only has a 3.5mm plug, not 4.4mm. For sound quality referencing, I used my Xenns Mangird Top and DUNU Falcon Ultra Ti IEMs.



Power handling:

No issues here; your hearing will be the limiting factor before the NA2+ sounds distorted.

Sound signature and tonality:

Neutral and tonally balanced with a slight brilliance, you hear everything evenly. The timbre is natural and normal. But if I have to nitpick, it slightly lacks warmth on male vocals, but as it is, it sounds totally fine. The overall sound tuning is not for bass heads and warm-sounding people.

Technicalities: soundstaging, imaging, and instrument separation.

Having the NF Audio NA2+ with the atmosphere eartips in your pocket is like carrying around a school gymnasium worth of space; perhaps I exaggerated, but the soundstage is refreshingly big and spacious. The shape is slightly wider than it is deeper, with good height, forming a near-spherical shape that feels very natural.

The imaging is very good with good 3D holography; each instrument and vocal have their own space; this is way above average under the 200 dollar price range; heck, I even heard above 200 dollars or even 2000 dollar IEM that don't image as well as the NA2+.

It has good details, but never so much that it distracts you when you are lost deep in the music. The micro details are a little laid back and never call attention to themselves, which makes getting lost in the music easier because you are not distracted by having too many micro details.

The NA2+ has very good technicalities overall.



Bass:

Neutral, it sounds tight, clean, dynamic, and fast. But when the music demands it, the NA2+ never hesitated in providing me with the subbass thud, growl, and rumble effortlessly. This is a good indication that the drivers used are of high quality.

Midrange:
Clean, clear, coloration- and distortion-free. It is neither recessed nor forward, but tends to slightly favor the female vocals due to the slight elevation in the upper midrange. Upper-midrange sensitive people, please take note.

For me, this is one of the best, midrange sounds I've heard under 200 dollars. I will touch on this again in the comparison section to explain why I think so.

Treble:

Slightly elevated and forward, but it has an analog type of sound that is non-fatiguing. The upper treble is appropriately extended, neither rolled-off nor overly extended.

On the graph (see photo), the peak at 8 kHz is not a real peak; it is a resonance of the measurement tool that I use with the silicon eartips. If I use foam tips, it is reduced or totally gone, but I have to use silicon tips for consistency; that peak could move from 7 kHz to 9 kHz depending on the depth of insertion into the measuring tool. In actual listening, I don't hear any peak or harshness in the treble; it is smooth..
Overall, the treble is clean and detailed.



Compared to Dunu Falcon Ultra Ti (219 USD):

The NA2+ is less expensive, but the reasons why I compare the two are that the Falcon Ultra Ti with the ePro EP00 medium eartips is my reference single DD IEM, my measuring stick with which I compare other single DDs, to give me grounding. And because NA2+ performs close to the Falcon Ultra Ti, with differences here and there.

They have similar tonality, but I feel the Falcon Ultra Ti has slightly thicker instrument notes and vocals. The NA2+ has a bigger soundstage, while the Falcon Ultra Ti has better imaging.

Because of how well the NA2+ measures against the Falcon Ultra Ti, it is now my reference IEM in the under $200 price range.



Compared to BQEYZ Cloud (169 USD):

They cost the same, so this should be a very even comparison. But it's not....

The Cloud has a more relaxed timbre with more upper treble extension, which I like, but the NA2+ more than compensates for the lack of relaxation in the sound by having much better imaging, holography, and soundstage size. Plus, the NA2+ has clearer midrange and treble, while the cloud sounds a little veiled in those areas. I need the sound of the Cloud from time to time, but the sound of the NA2+ is more my cup of tea.

This is not a side-by-side comparison, BTW, because the cloud is not with me anymore as it was part of a review tour, and I handed it over to the next reviewer. But I remembered the sound of it very well because it has a very similar acoustic structure; both are using passive radiators to tune the sound, and sound signature to my Simgot EA1000, which is in our next comparison.



Compared to Simgot EA1000 (220 USD):

The Simgot EA1000 sounds very similar to the BQEYZ cloud, but a little better with more refinement. When compared to the NA2+, and upon careful listening, the EA1000, like the cloud, has a slight veiling in the midrange and treble, probably caused by the passive radiator that they use.

The EA1000 has a more vibrant-sounding midbass, while the NA2+ sounds tighter and dryer. In the upper treble, the EA1000 is more extended and has the best upper treble among all the IEMs in these comparisons.



Pros:

- great soundstage
- superb imaging
- clean and clear sound
- detailed yet non fatiguing
- build quality
- packaging
- very good value for money


Cons:

- the stock cable is nice but it is not available with a 4.4mm plug



The NF Audio NA2+ totally surprised me. I was expecting it to sound more like a monitoring IEM, but it's not. I find the big soundstage and the very competent imaging performance make the NA2+ one of the most musical-sounding IEMs I've heard under $200. It is very enjoyable to listen to for a neutral-sounding person like me. It sounds so good for the price that it earned a place as my reference single DD IEM under 200 dollar price range, thus also earning my high recommendation.

And that wraps up my review of the great-sounding NF Audio NA2+ in-ear monitors.

Happy listening! Cheers!

http://www.nfaudio.cn/en/index.html...sfzCEHI7RiU46GrzAg_aem_2-82nbhICykA7j41mDq56A


http://www.nfaudio.cn/en/product/43...sfzCEHI7RiU46GrzAg_aem_2-82nbhICykA7j41mDq56A


https://www.facebook.com/nfaudioofficial

The NF Audio NA2+ are really interesting in-ear monitors that have very high level of detail and balanced sound profile. While they excel in many areas, there are some specific aspects to consider, particularly regarding the treble.

Sound Quality
The NA2+ delivers remarkable detail, allowing listeners to pick up even the most subtle nuances in their music. This level of detail is complemented by a great bass response, which is tight and well-controlled, providing a solid foundation without overwhelming the mids and highs. The soundstage is impressively large for in-ear monitors, offering a spacious and immersive listening experience.

The midrange has just the right presence, making vocals and instruments sound natural and engaging. This makes the NA2+ particularly well-suited for genres where midrange clarity is crucial.

However, the treble can sound metallic due to a peak in the 5-7 kHz frequency range. This can introduce some harshness and sibilance, which some listeners might find fatiguing over long periods. Fortunately, this is the NA2+’s only significant weakness and is easily remedied with a slight equalization adjustment. Reducing the 5-7 kHz frequency range by about 4 or 5 dB effectively smooths out the treble, making these monitors an excellent all-around choice.

Comfort and Fit
Comfort is a key aspect of the NA2+. They have a smaller than average size and are lightweight: these two characteristics contribute to provide a secure and comfortable fit for extended listening sessions. NF Audio includes a variety of eartips to help users achieve the best seal, which is essential for both comfort and optimal sound quality. This is one of the most comfortable In-Ear monitors I have tried.

Connectivity
The NA2+ uses a traditional 3.5mm jack for connectivity. While this is standard, the lack of native USB Type-C connectivity could be seen as a drawback for users of newer devices that lack a headphone jack. However, this is easily addressed with the use of an adapter or a Bluetooth external amp/dac, ensuring compatibility with modern smartphones and tablets.

Build Quality and Cable
The build quality of the NA2+ is robust, ensuring durability despite their small size. One of the standout features is the removable cable, which is both durable and flexible. This design choice not only enhances the longevity of the in-ear monitors but also allows for easy replacement or upgrading of the cable. Additionally, the cable is designed to be free of microphonics, meaning that it does not transmit unwanted noise when moved or jostled, which is a significant benefit during active use.

Conclusion
In summary, the NF Audio NA2+ in-ear monitors offer exceptional detail, great bass, a huge soundstage, and a perfectly balanced midrange. The treble, while slightly metallic due to a peak at 5-7 kHz, can be easily adjusted with a simple equalization tweak, making this the NA2+’s only notable weakness and easy to get rid of. Comfort is excellent, and the monitors come with a variety of eartips to ensure a perfect fit. The lack of native USB Type-C connectivity can be managed with an adapter, and the fantastic removable cable, free of microphonics, adds to the overall quality and versatility of these in-ear monitors. Overall, the NA2+ is a very interesting IEM that could fit a wide range of audio preferences.

The unboxing offered a premium experience, complete with nicely arranged packaging, although it is exactly the same as everything in the NM / NA series.

Inside, the all-aluminum IEM shone beautifully, accompanied by a quality cable, two sets of ear tips in various sizes for Balanced and Bass types, an adapter, and a case that was aesthetically pleasing, albeit slightly small. The cable was well made and looks similar to the NM cable I have. In my opinion the best cable is from the NM2+

The comfort level was satisfactory, with decent isolation, although this might vary due to the short nozzles. The build quality significantly surpasses its price point.

Sound impressions:

Bass: It offers a balanced profile with a more pronounced Sub-Bass than Mids. The bass sounds natural, is of high quality, clean, and provides a respectable punch characterized by clarity and fine details. The bass is controlled and well-textured.

Mids: They are clear and well-defined, with an emphasis on the upper Mids and almost neutral lower Mids. The details are impressive, offering transparency that I found refreshing and enjoyable on most recordings, despite a few hot spots that did not significantly diminish my enjoyment. Both male and female vocals sounded natural, possessing a robust body and vibrant energy.

Treble: The treble is open and detailed, the sound is devoid of sibilance, featuring well-managed highs and a moderate level of sparkle. There is a nice natural tone to the treble and less heat than the NM2+ in the lower treble.

Soundstage: The soundstage is wide and natural, tapering off into the distance appropriately, with a slight, almost 3D effect. Excellent imaging and separation contribute to an outstanding overall presentation.

Conclusion: This IEM is exceptionally well-crafted and fits comfortably. It is highly detailed and surprisingly enjoyable, even if the mids can be a bit intense at times. Designed for monitoring, it is likely one of the most affordable options in its category. It should appeal to those engaged in professional and critical listening rather than those seeking a casual listening experience with pop music. Hit or miss? I appreciate it for its qualities and find it refreshingly pleasant.

Introduction

There is little or nothing left for me to say about NF Audio that I haven't said in my many previous reviews of their products. So I will now introduce the new model, the subject of the current review. These are the NF Audio NA2+, siblings of the NM2+ and cousins of the NA2. Or the other way around. In my opinion they are more similar to the NM2+, both in sound profile and construction. This new model uses a dynamic driver called the MC2L-1OM, which uses a dual magnetic circuit design. Two high-performance neodymium-iron-boron magnets provide a magnetic flux of more than 1 Tesla. It also uses a higher precision integrated tuning printed circuit board, which is more stable and reliable and has a better tone. The dynamic unit has two cavities, to control air pressure more precisely, resulting in smoother diaphragm movement and greater detail. And speaking of the diaphragm, it is made of 5μ polymer, lightweight, medium rigidity and high molecular content. As usual, the NA2+ comes standard with a silver-plated, oxygen-free copper wire in Litz structure, with up to 280 cores. If the NM2+ had a blue top, the NA2+ comes with an orange top, giving an idea about a warmer profile than its sibling. Do they achieve this, are there differences between the two, what do these new NA2+ look like? In the following review I will try to answer all these questions and many others.



Disclaimer

Penon Audio Store, offered me this model, in exchange for writing an honest review. I want to make it clear that all my opinions written in this review have not been conditioned by this fact, nor will I ever write anything that I do not really think or feel here. I will only write about my personal opinion in relation to the revised product.



Specifications

• Driver Type: Dual-cavity dynamic driver
• Frequency Response: 9-40kHz
• Sensitivity: 107dB/mW
• Impedance: 32 Ω
• Max SPL: 125dB
• Distortion Ratio: <1% Distortion Ratio: <1% Distortion Ratio: <1
• Acoustic Isolation: 25dB
• Jack Connector: 3.5
• Capsule Connection Type: 0.78mm
• 5N silver plated OFC cable.
• Box Dimensions: 145x128x83mm
• Net Weight: 300g

Packaging

Admittedly, NF Audio's packaging is not very varied. Except for the colours, you could say that it is pretty much the same as for the NM2+, NM2 and NA2. Once again, it is the classic cube-shaped box that opens in two halves and the interior is clearly inspired by a Compact Disc. Its dimensions are 145x128x83mm and its weight is 300g. The external colours vary from the darker grey of the case to the off-white of the top and the lettering. On the top there is a real photo of the capsules, with their cable, on the front side. The orange dot with the NF Audio logo is in the lower right corner. On the back, at the top, is the model name, in large print, which belongs to the "Music Series". Below, on an orange background, are the specifications, in Chinese and English. The box is completely sealed in clear plastic. Once the cardboard is removed, the inside opens in two halves. On the right side is the CD, the mould containing the capsules. Underneath, there is the round blister containing the silicone tips and, finally, the cable. On the left side, there is the manual and underneath, the zippered carrying case, to which NF Audio has become accustomed, made of a strong, dark grey fabric, with the logo screen-printed in black in the centre of the upper side. In summary, the complete contents are as follows:

• The two capsules of the NA2+.
• The Litz 5N silver-plated, oxygen-free copper cable with 3.5mm Audio plug.
• Three pairs of black SxMxL Balanced silicone tips.
• Three pairs of white silicone tips SxMxL Atmosphere.
• Zippered carrying case.
• Adapter for 6.35mm jack.

There are some slight differences between the NM2+ packaging: the inside has changed sides and what was on the right is now on the left and upside down. The lettering is still large, the external design has different colours and the Bass tips have disappeared to make way for the Atmosphere tips. Otherwise, the rest of the accessories are the same. I should comment that there is little variation in this respect in the NF Audio packaging.



Construction and Design

Again, both the design and construction of the NA2+ are very similar to its NM2+ sibling. Its external colour is darker grey and the top with the brand's logo is orange.
The NA2+ is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminium, painted in a dark, but glossy, grey. For their machining, a 5-axis CNC has been used, giving the capsules a more precise, stronger and lighter construction, thanks to the quality of the aluminium used and its alloy.
The nozzles have a height of 3.5mm, a smaller diameter of 4.75mm at the base and a larger diameter of 5.35mm at the outer rim. Both are covered by a perforated metal grid.
The surface of the capsules is micro-textured and the separation of the two faces can be seen, without implying any degree of weakness. The outer face has two levels, the outer part protruding, while the central part is slightly depressed. The NF logo is inscribed in the centre. At the top of the edge of the capsules is the 0.78mm two-pin connection. This is a rigid, transparent, shallow, oval-shaped plastic plate. This means that it is desirable that the cable pins have a female sleeve, which is compatible with this shape. Very close to the connector there is a hole and following downwards, along the same edge, you will come to the orange dot, a small inscribed circle, inside which is also the NF logo, surrounded by that orange ink. On the other side of the connector, also following the edge, the letters indicating the channel (L and R) are inscribed. Finally, on the lower edge, the words "NA2+ MUSIC" are inscribed. Finally, there is another small hole on the inside, at the foot of the nozzle column.
Internally and on this occasion, the dual-circuit magnetic driver used is called MC2L-1OM. It uses two high-performance neodymium-iron-boron magnets to provide a magnetic flux of more than 1 Tesla. The diaphragm, made of 5u polymer, is light, of medium stiffness and has a good elasticity which improves its performance. The dynamic unit has two cavities, to control the air pressure more precisely, resulting in smoother diaphragm movement and more detail. The cable is the same as that used for the NM2+: a silver-plated oxygen-free copper cable with a Litz structure, with up to 280 cores. It consists of 4 tightly wound strands, resulting in a smooth, black cable, with a very adequate thickness and very manageable, yet not very windable. The sleeve of the plug is unchanged from the other models, being cylindrical and grey, except for the flat part where the brand name is inscribed. The dividing piece is a black plastic medal, with the logo on both sides. The pin is metal, with two holes inside. The two-pin connector is covered by a rigid, transparent plastic sleeve. The sleeve is angled and has the classic vertical axis spacing. The cables coming out of these connectors are protected by a semi-rigid and transparent sheath, which gives them an over-ear shape.
Very little variation on its brother NM2+, only the darker grey colour of the capsule, the orange taupe and the black cable. Successful model, not to be changed.



Adjustment and Ergonomics

Same shape, same ergonomics. This will be a cut and paste from the NM2+ review. The fit is very good, with insertion ranging from shallow to medium. Ample possibility of "Tip Rolling". Durable fit, remarkable hold and no discomfort. Hardly any rubbing against the ear parts. The slightly deeper insertion, depending on the tips, increases the level of isolation (according to the manufacturer, up to 25dB). The comfort and fit are as good as those of the NM2+.
Regarding the cable, the connectors have the same shapes and the detail that separates them from the head. Although the cable is a different colour, it is still very manageable.
Excellent comfort.



Sound

Profile

The profile follows that neutral/bright trend, with a clear enhancement in the upper mids and first highs. The bass is quite linear, with a slight accent in its centre. The audible top end is very well represented, with a large extension. The sound is not as analytical as that of its NM2+ sibling, but neither could it be described as warm. But it is actually a bit more musical and not as cold as the NM2+. Nevertheless, it still retains a high degree of precision and resolution. It also remains clear, transparent, with more air, even, fast and with a remarkable texture.



Bass

The low end of the NF Audio is almost canonical. In the + series its emphasis is more controlled, presenting a rather lower sub-bass, with the band being more linear and slightly accentuated in its centre. In the overall sound, the incidence of the lower range is slightly higher than neutral, but its quality and performance cannot be overlooked. The speed and rapidity of the decay are the sections that make the range canonical, at the level of control and execution. The level of precision, together with a very realistic and musical sonority, make the bass qualitatively excellent. And even with such high levels of technicality and soft dominance, the texture is still perceptible, as is its descriptiveness and expressiveness.
In no case do the basses take precedence over other musical strips, but this does not imply that their presence is residual. The only pity is that their predominance is not superior, because it limits their enjoyment and when you want to enhance them, it is necessary to resort to volume, but with care, as the rest of the ranges are more protagonists.
The bass is not so cold, it has a more neutral tendency in its colour and timbre, without any colouring whatsoever. Pure notes sound realistic, although the sub-bass below 40Hz is lighter. The punch is dry, restrained and tight, very controlled, with a medium but obvious depth. There is no aftertaste or contamination towards the midrange. So this is a reference low end, with a certain level of musicality, a lot of technical quality, totally audiophile grade.



Mids

Continuing with the characteristics of the + series, the midrange continues to stand out, although this time its performance is not as analytical. A slight hint of musicality has been added, but it still displays a high degree of transparency and clarity, the result of those enhanced high mids. In my opinion, the splendour of the mid-range is somewhat more restrained and not as explicit in detail, nor in analytical ability, but the representation is softer compared to the other NM2+ model. This makes the mid-range an enjoyable and less demanding range for our ears, giving them a break by not providing as much explicit information. In this aspect, the micro-detail is not as evident, but comes across as more natural, playing to create a less strict ambience. The elements are still concise, but less penetrating. In this way, vocals feel with a point of sweetness, within their specific light and spice. The sense of ultra-definition is not as apparent, and despite the concise drawing, there is a final relaxation in all elements. The edges are not so straight, nor the spaces so defined. There is no blending but the silence is not so absolute. The prominence of the notes persists and they are absolutely perceived, but they are faintly threaded together. Their placement still stands out but they don't remain as focused, but possess a little more life and movement, a hint more soul and passion.
The body of the instruments and voices is a little thicker, but never dense. Their space in the sound spectrum is still thin, but with more flesh. The descriptive effort still allows for a very democratic and equal level, when it comes to showing instruments, voices, details and nuances. In this way the elements are shown on fairly close, but not mixed or overlapping, levels of planes. All of them enjoy their real protagonism and their space is that which corresponds to them, but they are neither omitted, nor hidden, nor delayed or overexposed. Once again, the virtue of the NA2+ is still the maximum representation of all the elements, without losing coherence or overwhelming, occupying as much space as possible, so that they can be distinguished individually, but with a touch more musicality.



Treble

The high end is the pinnacle of the NA2+'s technicality. Their timbre is bright, though not out of realism as their speed tones down their echo. They feel shimmering and crisp, but not very persistent, which also helps to create a cleaner, less saturated space in the high notes. They don't feel as penetrating and the added musicality makes them less cutting. They are not as dry, but still retain prominence and virtuosity, which performs a dual function: expressing the purely high notes with great definition, resolution and naturalness, as well as helping to provide a much richer, more nuanced and harmonic ride on the other elements.
The upper zone is extended, airy and protagonist. Its presence is undeniable and may be excessive for delicate ears. But it's a very high quality range, excited and present, which expresses itself with vehemence, but without losing an iota of technique.



Soundstage, Separation

The level of separation is large, with a clean background. The placement of the elements is precise and well spaced from each other. The sound is very clear and transparent, with a defined reconstruction. The music feels present and close, there are few distant elements and there is no high depth. The musical distribution is eminently frontal and with good height. The sense of laterality is prominent and the stereo recreation also stands out. The sound is not very enveloping or ethereal, though, despite the noticeable sense of air and surrounding separation.



Comparisons

NF Audio NM2+

Externally, they are very similar, with a different colour, clear grey for the NM2+, blue top and white cable. Internally, the driver used for the NM2+ is the MC2L-10II, while for the NA2+, it is the MC2L-10M. The specifications change from 18Ω, 108dB/mW for the NM2+, to 32Ω, 107dB/mW for the NA2+. You can see that the NM2+ is more sensitive and actually quite noticeable when connected to a source, less power is needed to move them.
On paper, the NA2+ are a more musical version of the NM2+. And in reality, they are. The NM2+ have a more analytical and cooler profile, within a very similar profile and frequency response.
The low end of both is very similar, but I find that there is a point of greater texture and roughness in the NM2+, something that adds extra appeal. On the other hand, the bass timbre of the NA2+ is slightly warmer and deeper, with less colour, darker and also a bit wider.
In the mid-range, it becomes more noticeable which way each is going. While the NM2+ excels in its coolness and analytical ability, as well as its great separation, detail and level of resolution, the NA2+ replaces some of that technicality with a delicate, thin blanket that envelops the music, bringing a hint of softness and musical continuity. While even silence is more descriptive on the NM2+, that background is untextured and not as clearly perceived on the NA2+. One of the great virtues of the NM2+ is the power to shred a great deal of detail on the surface of instruments and voices, something that is not true of the NA2+. In that sense, the NM2+ are more critical of recordings as they are able to strip any composition bare, extracting all the detail and nuance, being sharper and more thorough than the NA2+, which are slightly more permissive and melodious. The cooler, more excited timbre in the treble is also more clear in the NM2+. The notes also reach higher, being thinner, sharper and crisper, with a sparkle superior to the NA2+. The timbre is also warmer on the NA2+, as is generally the case, and its flare is more muted and dry. The treble shines brighter on the NM2+, especially in the first half.
I find more separation in the NM2+ as the notes are thinner and thinner, giving more space to the silence and the gap between them. Its higher level of dissection gives it this advantage, although the sense of air seems more evident, everything has an influence. The subtly more nuanced sound of the NA2+ is less expansive and seems to take up less space and spread out to a lesser degree. The technical evidence of the NM2+ seems to give it a superior and somewhat more enveloping sense of scene, flooding the listener with more detail and nuance, vaporising more of the soundstage. It also feels more precise and concrete when it comes to placing elements three-dimensionally and it is easier to guess where they are coming from in the scene.



Conclusion

Individually, the NF Audio NA2+ are very good IMS. But their great enemy is in the family itself. Coming from a technical powerhouse like the NM2+, whose capabilities are above and beyond its tuning, the NA2+ brings little change in this regard and adds a hint of smoothness to the sound. If NF Audio is not going to offer superior technicalities to the NM2+, it could have enriched the NA2+ with a different tuning, adding, for example, a little more meat in the low end and upper mids. But it hasn't and has created a very similar curve, but with a slightly warmer timbre and a smoother, more musical presentation. Those looking for a bit of smoothness to the NM2+'s crystalline, analytical presentation are in for a treat. While those who were looking for a little more juice, some real musical difference, will be a little more disappointed with the end result. And it's all the "fault" of its NM2+ sibling, because it's not easy to make IEMS with the technical and musical qualities of the NA2+. But...



Sources Used During the Analysis

• HiBy R3 PRO.
• Tempotec Sonata E35.
• Earmen Sparrow.
• Earmen TR-Amp.
• Hidizs DH80S.
• Hidizs S9 Pro.
• E1DA #9038D.
• Qudelix-5K.
• Burson Audio Playmate.
• S.M.S.L Sanskrit 10th MKII + iFi ZEN CAN.

Ratings

• Construction and Design: 87
• Adjustment/Ergonomics: 92
• Accessories: 83
• Bass: 88
• Mids: 89
• Treble: 88
• Separation: 89
• Soundstage: 89
• Quality/Price: 87

Purchase Link

https://penonaudio.com/nf-audio-na2-plus.html



You can read the full review in Spanish here:

https://hiendportable.com/2021/12/05/nf-audio-na2-review-2/

Na2

Scales with power and source
Sounds good on phone but gets much better with power 200-500mw
Overall tonality is excellent
Best technicalities in price range
Realistic timbre
Clear and vivid
Clean punchy realistic low end
3D imaging and soundstage
Great Soundstage
Excellent Build, extreme quality
High Quality bass
Great Fit , Very comfortable
Good vocals, slight warmth to mids
Needs deep insertion for inner vent to be blocked for low end
Balanced tuning but comes across neutral bright
Upper treble has air
Brings new details in music to life
Upper mids and lower treble has al ot of energy ( boosted )
Excellent detail and texture
Bass is tight fast and linear
Heart mirror type of sound but better
Can be a bit bright at times ( dont pair with cold bright amp )
Cable is ok but sq wise is good
Great tip selection
Cool box and presentation
Not harsh or sibilant but can be bright
Slight dryness in upper treble at times

Price $169 ( easily worth it if this is your sound signature )

• Driver: dual cavity dynamic driver
• Frequency response: 9Hz-40kHz
• Sensitivity: 107dB/mW
• Max SPL: 125dB
• Impedance: 32Ω
• Sound insulation: 25dB
• Distortion: <1%
• Connector: 3.5mm
• Cable: 2pin 0.78mm 5N silver-plated OFC

NF audio NA2+

NF audio need no introduction as I feel most know about these folks by now and the outstanding earphones they make. I have seen a steady progression of their dynamic designs ever since reviewing the NA1. These guys are masters of the technical sound and all their earphones shows this particular aspect in sound design as a strength to their tunings for all of their dynamic earphones.

I am now seeing what has become consistent with how NF audio likes to tune their earphones. Their designs do not stray too far from a neutral angle for sound tunings so you can say most of their earphones have an analytical edge to the sound. These folks are used to tuning stage monitors so precision seems to be of the utmost importance for their house sound.

The NA2+ is an ongoing continuation of their dynamic series which all incorporate some highly refined sound tuning utilizing a very resolving, code named MC2L- 10mm dynamic driver to conform to the level of sound tuning they are looking for. A Tesla rated dual magnetic circuit with a dual cavity housing design helps the NA2+ and its siblings with some of the most cleanly defined sound for your music listening. The NA2+ here is touted to be made for music listening vs being a more monitor focused counterpart tuning of the NM2+.
What is interesting about NF audio sound is it seems all these dynamics are slight tweaks of their original NA1 design/sound signature and does not depart too much from that original tuning philosophy. So the consistency of how these earphones sound are all there. You will never mistake one of their dynamic earphones in sound to another in the price range.

Standarly disclaimers. I would like to thank Penon audio and NF audio for the review sample. The NA2+ was provided for the purpose of a review. If you want to get yourself a set you can check them out here. I have burned in the NA2+ for a week and for sound analysis I am using my sources. Fiio M15, Shanling M6pro, M5s, M3s, Ibasso DX160, ZX300, Pioneer XDP-30r, Ibasso PB3 and IFI Black Label for amping.

What comes in the box is their standard silver plated OFC cables in single ended. Which I think was a good choice as it is NF audio saying you need to upgrade this cable. It is in the good enough category of cables to check out your earphones but by no means does it optimize the sound of the NA2+. 2 sets of silicones a fairly small clam shell round case barely big enough to fit the earphones, and a stereo adapter. Nothing fancy in other words.

What makes the NA2+ more music infused vs the more monitor/ analytical NM2+? For fans of the NM2+ precision. This aspect is very similar for how the NA2+ is tuned. The sound tweak comes in the form of lesser upper mids and a smoother treble performance and in doing so also emphasizes a slight uptick for the bass end as well. This minor tweak in the sound tuning enables the NA2+ to sound a touch less rigid and a bit smoother sounding vs the NM2+ adding a balancing tweak more so than anything.

The NA2+ sound roots are still very highly technical in approach and for enthusiasts that have never heard an NF audio tuned earphone. The NA2+ seem to be a fine tuning of many aspects of their previous earphones all in one. To put it simple your really not gonna find too many earphones that has the technical edge of an NF audio dynamic earphone and there is no mistaking that crystalline like sound quality from the NA2+

Treble has a fine line of precision, with a slight touch of edgy involved. Not so much as to ruin your music but I can understand how some folks that might be a bit treble sensitive might not take a liking to NF audio earphones. NA2+ has a high level of detail in all parts of the sound, nicely executed clarity and air which make the sound overall have a certain intense precision of imaging that is crucial for more complex music that requires it. While not as analytical as their NM2+ I can see why the tuners of NF audio decided to tone down the lower trebles by a few dbs here but does not lose any detail or transparency from the treble end. It is just better balanced. In accordance the upper mid range is not as pronounced as it is on the NM2+ but still has a healthy amount roughly 12dbs of pinna gain in the upper mids.

Clarity has always been another house sound trait for NF audio and as such has an overall glass like clarity working together with it’s imaging for how the sound is portrayed. This type of transparency and clarity you can associate with much higher end reference like tunings in the headphone industry and certainly something you don’t get on a sub $200 level earphone.

That transparent sound signature of the NA2+ has mids that sees a slight uptick in texture with some added depth. Upper mids are more pronounced but has good balancing overall for the mid band. Note weight is not thin and it certainly is not thick which helps maintain a very precise imaging of your music added a stage that has excellent proportions wider than deep or in its height of sound. Imaging for the most part is actually done better with BAs but the NA2+ shows an amazing ability to chop socky your tunes every little layered portions with an imaging that is really second to none for single dynamics especially at the price range.

Its resolving ability is a clear stand out, It now seems to be a house tuning aspect for NF audio. I do believe their NM2+ was their most successful earphone and their follow up in the NA2+ is actually closer to the NM2+ sound design than I would have liked and on careful thought why change too much of what was a success for you right?

If they were going for a musical touch on the NA2+ I would have liked to have seen a touch less upper mids still and more sub bass authority vs being a slight tweak on the NM2+ sound signature.

Mids tuning on NF audio earphones all have a clarity and are more neutral in performance than overly colored or saturated in any way. Mids this time around is less neutral in tone and adds a slight smoother sound quality which is welcomed while still maintaining that high level of technical sound tuning that serves as a basis for their tunings. When I did my previous review of the NM2+ I posted there that I didn’t feel their specialized cable was a real benefit to the sound tuning of the NM2+ and so they went with their standard silver plated OFC cable here. Again they should have included a good copper cable instead but the stock cable is good enough to hear what these are about but I do recommend a good resolving copper cables to really bring out the best in the NA2+. They went for clarity for the mids but in doing so is not as musical as I would have liked. I would still categorize the tuning to be more analytical in approach than musical what they are supposed to be.

Bass is good here but nothing that is award winning. Bass perception is better than their previous NM2+ but only very marginal and it is due mostly from the upper tuning reduction more so than being more emphasized in the region. It has good presence, tightness, speed and digs deep for subs but still sounds more monitor like in presentation than what I consider musical. As they sound the bass end plays more of a supportive role than being featured in the presentation. This aspect is helped out the most with the mids with a good copper cable which was a 100% necessity on their previous earphone NM2+. My point is the tuning has not really changed so much where the base tonality is fairly similar in execution. Hence the need for a better copper cable for better tonality on the NA2+ as well.

NA2+ does sound to my ears better tuned than the NM2+ but again it is such a minor rework of their previous NM2+ I can’t help but think they are trying to piggyback on the success of the NM2+. I think for a first time buyer of NF audio phones these are the ones to get over their previous offerings but for fans of NF audio line of dynamics that own their previous offerings. The NA2+ should have been a bit more.

If you're a fan of the technical approach to sound, these earphones are amazing in what they do, as you will be getting a highly resolving earphone with great detail, separation, stage and imaging but for previous owners, I can’t say these are an actual upgrade to what you already own. It is more like a side dish with a slight different flavor. Taken for what they are, there is absolutely no mistaking that precise sound signature from the NA2+. But this time around I feel they could have done just a bit more to really bring a musical full bodied sound signature that would have given a greater reason for the NF audio fan to shell out their hard earned cash to get a greater music focused earphone that is more different than being a slight balance tweak.

The design is solid as usual in an all metal build and the accessories are adequate but the tuning, while better for music listening as it claims. I feel it is a bit of a lost opportunity for NF audio to bring out something that sounds even more musical than what they are. To be fair These are clearly worth their asking price to get a set and I do believe these are actually tuned better than the NM2+ for music versatility, especially if you have never heard a NF audio earphone. I would recommend the NA2+ without reservation.

NA2+ has a neutral tone with a highly detailed resolving nature to its sound foundation, its timbre performance is clean, its stage very nicely imaged with a wider sideways oval shaped imaging. It is a clean sounding earphone but somehow NF audio's prior monitor design roots shows to be more similar than not and I hope on their next offering they try something a bit different. Something a bit bolder with greater note weight fullness and better dynamics. Maybe my expectation of what set the NF audio made earphones was now at such a high level it was difficult to reach after the NM2+. There is no question the NA2+ adds the sound tweaks necessary for music listening its just that it is not exactly all that different from the NM2+ I appreciate you taking the time to read my thoughts. As always happy listening.

Introduction: In an industry characterized by ever-increasing driver counts — not to mention novel driver types such as piezoelectrics and ESTs — the past several years has nevertheless seen a welcome renaissance of single-DD IEMs. Last fall NF Audio made one of the more widely-praised contributions to this renaissance with the NM2+, a bright-neutral monitor with astonishing technicalities for a sub-$200 IEM. Now they are back with the NA2+ — this time in their “Audio” series rather than the “Monitor” series of the NM2+, denoting a focus on musical enjoyment rather than analytical prowess. Though apparently the NA2+ has been selling well in Asian markets, it has garnered significantly less attention elsewhere than its older brother. How does it compare to the NM2+? Read on to find out.



I would like to thank Penon Audio for supplying a review unit of the NA2+ in exchange for my honest opinion. The NF Audio NA2+ can be purchased here.

The MSRP remains at the same $169 as the NM2+. Specifications are as follows:

• Driver: dual cavity dynamic driver
• Frequency response: 9Hz-40kHz
• Sensitivity: 107dB/mW
• Max SPL: 125dB
• Impedance: 32Ω
• Sound insulation: 25dB
• Distortion: <1%
• Connector: 3.5mm
• Cable: 2pin 0.78mm 5N silver-plated OFC

Packaging & Accessories: NF Audio continues their compact disc-inspired packaging theme, but this time in a smart black/orange color scheme that denotes the “fun” presentation to which the NA-series aspires (in contrast to the silver/black scheme of the NM2+’s packaging). After removing the slip cover from the relatively large box, it opens book-style to reveal the IEMs in round CD-shaped foam on the right side, while the left side presents us with an informational booklet. Underneath the booklet is a round hard shell carry case, while underneath the CD-style foam are accessories including a wheel of tips and the stock cable.



Altogether the included accessories are as follows:

• 2-pin 0.78mm (QDC) to 3.5mm cable
• 3.5mm to 6.35mm adapter
• 4 pairs white “atmosphere” silicone tips (SS/S/M/L)
• 3 pairs black “balanced” silicone tips (S/M/L)
• Hardshell carry case

NF Audio continues to impress with its attention to detail in both packaging as well as accessories. Everything one needs is included in the box, and the quality of everything is quite satisfactory (aside from the somewhat tangly nature of the cable). I conducted my review using the stock cable and black “balanced” tips, although I did try various third-party cables and tips as well before settling back on the aforementioned stock options as providing optimal sound quality and comfort.


Build & Comfort: One of the major improvements from the NM2 to NM2+ was the transition from resin shells to aluminum housing, and the same upgrade has been made in the case of the NA2+. The build quality of the IEMs is superb, I have absolutely no complaints here and expect them to hold up without issue for a long time to come. Comfort is likewise excellent despite the medium-long nozzles, even over very long listening sessions. There is no driver flex at all, however the isolation of double-vented shells is merely average.



One caveat however is that, like the NM2+ before it, the NA2+ is very sensitive to insertion depth and angle. While I often use straight 2-pin cables even with QDC-style IEMs for reasons of comfort, in the case of the NA2+ this resulted in a lot of glare in the upper mids which went away entirely when I switched back to the stock cable, with its QDC connectors and rather tight ear guides ensuring that the IEMs retained optimal insertion. While individual ear anatomy is of course highly variable, I strongly recommend experimenting thoroughly with fitment for this IEM.



Initial Impressions: Although unfortunately the NM2+ was sold on earlier this year in order to fund another purchase, it was my daily driver for the better part of a year and so of course is the main reference for my impressions of its younger brother. And all in all, the two have far more similarities than differences, most notably sharing some of the best technicalities in the sub-$200 price bracket — even holding their own against very competent $300 hybrids like the LZ A7. While both are tuned quite closely, there are a few slight differences: the NA2+ has a slightly more linear bass response, just a touch more warmth and body in the lower mids, and slightly tamed upper mids. In addition it has noticeably more soundstage depth, leading to a more 3D-holographic presentation and an accompanying reduction in congestion as compared to the NM2+.



Signature: The NA2+ can be somewhat chameleon-like when it comes to identifying a sound signature, and I think this will greatly depend on each individual’s frame of reference for neutrality. I could see it being categorized as anything from “U-shaped” to “mildly V-shaped” to “bright neutral” to “neutral with bass boost”. Personally I would probably call it U-shaped, with a modest amount of linear bass boost along with a moderate elevation in the upper mids descending into slightly accented lower treble. The graph indicates a pinna gain nearly as massive as that of the NM2+, but (given proper fitment as noted above) I never heard the glare on the NA2+ that I sometimes did on its older brother — though the upper mids remain unquestionably energetic.


Bass: I recall the biggest surprise of the NM2+ for me personally being its astoundingly high-quality bass, and thankfully this is retained in the NA2+. This is definitely a case of quality over quantity, since the NA2+ hews far closer to neutral in the lower registers than do nearly all other IEMs. The bass is exceedingly tight and fast for a dynamic driver, and is quite well-extended. I would even say that it is more textured than its older brother, and indeed is perhaps the best-textured bass I have heard, period. The linearity of the bass response means that is is not quite as prominent in the overall presentation as the NM2+ was with its mid bass bias, despite sharing a similarly light overall quantity. I would personally have preferred a bit slower decay in order to attain greater musicality, but for those seeking an analytical presentation the low end of the NA2+ is just about as good as it gets.


Mids: The lower mids are similar to the bass in that they are quite close to neutral but with a hint of warmth and added body, a bit more so than on the NM2+ leading to a slightly more intimate presentation than on the latter IEM. Texture and detail are once again superb, and the midrange overall is still quite open despite the bit of added warmth. The upper mids are (as previously mentioned) definitely elevated, although again not quite to the same degree as the NM2+. And to reiterate, after achieving proper fit and insertion I never found the upper mids troublesome in any way, although the NA2+ will never fall into the category of “laid back and relaxing.” Female vocals remarkably are not significantly emphasized over male vocals, and despite the copious pinna gain there was no sibilance whatsoever due to a rather massive scoop around 7k. This scoop does mean that certain harmonics seem to be lacking at times, leading to the occasionally flat voicing of an instrument here or there which is somewhat out of place given the overall energy in the region. Yet I do not know if there was any other way to avoid the fatigue that the upper mids would otherwise have induced.


Treble: The treble continues with the energetic theme set by the upper mids, but in a decidedly even and non-peaky manner which retains plenty of detail and sparkle without becoming harsh. Extension is quite good, especially for a single-DD, and there is a lot of air in the presentation. However, the extremely rapid decay leads to an overly dry presentation which at times prevents the treble from maintaining the kind of naturality that I like to hear in the best dynamic drivers — cymbals, for example, often take on a brittle air, being robbed of proper reverb.


Soundstage & Technicalities: I have not heard any dynamic driver in the price range achieve anything close to the level of technical prowess of the NA2+, and in fact I think it plays on the same technical level as the $660 Oriolus Isabellae. The soundstage depth has increased relative to the NM2+, ameliorating the only real deficiency in the latter’s staging. Combined with excellent imaging, the presentation is now nearing 3D-holographic levels, an astounding feat for a budget-to-mid-tier single dynamic driver. Resolution is quite high, again especially given that it is working with only a single driver. Layering and instrument separation are likewise quite well done, standing up effortlessly to anything I threw at it. As a technical IEM the NA2+ continues on the path blazed by its forebear the NM2+, and despite its being a single DD it nevertheless plays with the best of the hybrids at its price bracket and beyond.


Conclusion: I think it is fairly clear that every change made from the NM2+ to the NA2+ is indisputably an improvement. Yet herein lies the rub: in the grand scheme of things they are all fairly minor changes, and in my opinion this IEM is much more an “NM2++” than it is an “NA2+”, especially as the overall presentation is still far more analytical than musical — despite the changed moniker. I think this is a fairly significant missed opportunity for NF Audio, and even if they had simply retained the tuning of the original NA2 while incorporating the significant upgrades in technicalities and build quality of the “Plus” series I think they would have had a real hit on their hands.

As it is, I would recommend the NA2+ over the NM2+ in basically every instance. Those looking for a superbly technical single DD at an astonishingly reasonable price need look no further than the NF Audio NA2+.

Introduction
NF Audio is the Chinese company founded in 2014, they are specialized in the CIEM and recently they were focus on the UIEM products that is more affordable price. In this review, I am taking a look at the NA2+, which is the successor of the NA2, and it is currently the flagship of their single DD IEMs lineup along with the NM2. The retail price is $169USD, and the driver configuration is single DD.




Disclaimer
I would like to thanks Yihua Chen form Aoshida Hifi for given this opportunity, and the review will be based on my honest opinion through the music I listen to.


Package & Accessories
The NA2+ come with the moderate sizes box, there are the brand name, model name and IEMs illustration located at the front cover, whereas the specifications at the button. There is the black box with the brand logo in the located at the middle removed the cover. After the box is opened, one side of it has the IEMs sited in the foam, with the ear tips contained underneath. Moving on the other side, the user manual with the carry pouch underneath, which contains the cable and other accessories.










Accessories list:
1 pair x NF Audio NA2+ In-Ear Monitor
1 pcs x Detachable Cable with 0.78mm 2-Pin Connector
4 pairs x Silicone Atmosphere Ear Tips
3 pairs x Silicone Balanced Ear Tips
1 pcs x Carry pouch
1 pcs x 3.5mm to 6.3mm Headphone Adaptor



The accessories come with the NA2+ is pretty good for its price. The hard shell carry pouch it come with is well build and feel solid, there is the brand logo located at the front.





The NA2+ come with two different types of ear tips, which are balanced-black ear tips; amto-white ear tips respectively to provide the best sound and fit. There are also the nicely made 3.5mm to 6.3mm headphone adaptor included.





The NA2+ come with the 4 core twisted cable, it has 3.5 mm straight connector in matted metal finished with branded logo. It features the 0.78mm 2 pin connector with L&R to indicated left and right. The Y-splitter are in silver metal shell in matted finish, where the 2 pin connector are finished with plastic housing. There are cable slider in transparency plastic shell finished. It is overall solid and flexible cable.




Design & Build & Comfort
The NA2+ has semi-custom shells design. The shell and faceplate are in the gray color which is fuller made with metal. There are NF audio branded logo engraving on the faceplate, while the word “NA2+ Music” are located at the bottom of the IEMs. There are left and right indicators sported at the rear side of the shells. The vent are located on the top of the shell, along with the orange dots that have the NF audio branded logo next to it.





The build quality on the NA2+ is outstanding. The IEMs are made with two pieces of metal, the faceplate and the shell. There are all made with Aeronautical-grade Aluminum alloy cavity material and processed by High-precision 5-axis CNC machine. There are no shape edges or glue around the gap of the shell. The filter on nozzle are made with metal to prevent from the ear dust. The 2 Pin female connectors are tight, and the connector do not have sign of wear and tear after I swapped few times of cable.





The fits on the NA2+ is outstanding, thanks to its semi-custom shell design. The nozzle has moderate length, so it can fit pretty stable in your ears. The isolation is above average, and thanks to the vents there are no pressure build up after a long listening.





Technical specifications:
Frequeney response range: 9-40kHz
Maximum SPL: 125dB
Sensitivity: 107dB/mW Distortion:<1%
Impedance: 32Ω
Sound isolation: 25dB


Sound

Paring
I pair up with the stock cable and atmosphere ear tips, as the balance ear tips sound a little bit harsh in the upper midrange, and run through my music library on the Fiio M11 and Topping E30.




Overall tonality
The NA2+ has a mildly U shape tonality, it is presented in vividly yet clear, and smooth manner.

Bass
The bass is slightly warmer than neutral and it is well controlled. It has good levels of sub bass extension with moderate decay speed, which is more pronounced than mid bass. The bass has above average impact and punch with moderate amount of rumble. On the other hand, the bass has good level of speed and control, while the detail retrieval and clarity are really well. It is overall clear yet well textured bass.

Mids
The midrange has a slightly warmer than neutral tonality. There is an clear yet vividly presentation. The lower midrange has moderate amount of bodies presented in clear yet clean manner. The upper midrange has great emphasis and slightly more pronounced than lower midrange. The upper midrange sound vividly with good levels of transparency and without sounding harsh (but a bit edgy).The detail retrieval and clarity are both great.

Treble
The treble is towards the bright side, it sound generally smooth, but it still can cause fatiguing for long listening sessions. The lower treble has good amount of energy and brightness, there is also good levels of control. The upper treble is well extend, there are good amount of airiness and sparkle on the top end. The detail retrieval and clarity are really good.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is pretty wide with good levels of depth.
The imaging is 3D holographic.



Comparison
Audiosense AQ3 ($169USD)

Bass
There are more sub bass and slightly more mid bass on the AQ3. The bass has warmer and fuller tone in AQ3, where the NA2+ has clearer and relatively cleaner tone. There are clear sense of punchy and slam on the NA2+, while the AQ3 sound life less in comparison. The NA2+ provide better sense of control and has tighter presentation, where the AQ3 has heavier weight and sound thicker. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on NA2+

Mids
The midrange on both has fairly neutral tone, but the NA2+ has brighter tonality. The lower midrange sound fuller and warmer on the AQ3, where the NA2+ sound leaner and clearer. The upper midrange sound smooth and relatively more laid back on AQ3, where the NA2+ sound more vividly and lively. The detail retrieval and is better on NA2+.

Treble
The treble has brighter tonality with better sense of extension on the NA2+. The lower treble has more energy and sound brighter but edgier on NA2+, while the AQ3 sound smoother and laid back-ier. The upper treble has more airiness and sparkle on the NA2+, where the AQ3 is rolling off and sound bit life less. The detail retrieval and clarity is better on NA2+.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider and deeper on he NA2+.
The imaging is better on NA2+.


IKKO OH10 ($189USD)

Bass
There are more sub bass and mid bass quantity on the OH10, which has fuller rumble in presentation and extra sense of extension. The bass on the OH10 has thicker tone and provide extra sense of slam and punch, where the NA2+ has clearer tone and provide better sense of tightness and control. The bass has more weight on the OH10, where the NA2+ has less impact. The detail retrieval and clarity is tad better on NA2+.

Mids
The midrange on both has fairly similar V shape tonality, both sound clear and vividly with great upper midrange emphasis. The lower has slightly more texture on the NA2+, where as the OH10 has less lushness and has extra sense of clarity. The upper midrange both sound vividly and lively, the OH10 is tad more spacious in comparison, on the other hand, the NA2+ sound tad more intimate and slight fuller. The detail retrieval and clarity are both great.

Treble
The treble on both has again fairly similar tonality, both are well extend and sound vividly and spacious. The lower treble has extra sense of energy on the NA2+, which make it sound brighter but edgier compare to smoother OH10. The upper treble both have good levels airiness and sparkle, but the OH10 feel more spacious on the top end. The detail retrieval and clarity is tad better on OH10.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider on the OH10, but deeper on the NA2+.
The imaging is tad better on the NA2+


NF audio NM2+ ($169USD) Just a brief comparison, as I sold it already.

They both sharing extreme identical tonality, which are well tuned V shape with a tad warmer than neutral tone, also have a same characteristics on the upper midrange area. The bass has slightly more weight with tad more texture on the NA2+, where the NM2+ sound clearer with extra sense of tightness. The midrange has fairly similar tonality, the NM2+ sound relatively brighter and more open, where the NA2+ sound relatively less vividly and feel more intimate. The treble area has not different between both of them in term of extension and airiness. The NM2+ has slightly more emphasis on the lower treble region, which has edgier sound compare to relatively smoother NA2+. The detail retrieval and clarity is tad better on NM2+, which take more emphasis on upper midrange. The soundstage is wider on NM2+, but tad deeper on NA2+. The imaging are on par.




Conclusion
The NF audio NA2+ has a class leading build quality, and the design of it is pretty cool as well. The sound of it inherit their house sound signature with fairly vividly upper midrange and boosted lower treble in the presentation. The technical performance is outstanding on the NA2+, especially the soundstage and imaging, I am truly impressed by how well it done in this price. But, the sound of NA2+ just not for everyone. Thank you for reading. Happy listening as always!!

NF audio official website: http://www.nfaudio.cn/en/index.html
NF audio NA2+ product page: https://www.aoshida-audio.com/products/nf-audio-na2-1