Ordering the superb NX7’s from Alice at the VS Audio Store (URL link here) was very smooth as usual, resulting in their speedy receipt – the store always delivers excellent communication & service!
NX7’s driver configuration initially polarised opinion, however they truly shine with minimal modding using wider bore tips coupled with micro pore tape, whilst listening via balanced cable with a warmer source. Such improvements in signature/tonality have been experienced by those that were initially detractors - reflected by gradual changes in opinion (following numerous references to frequency response graphs.)
Fortunately, I agree with reviewers who consider NX7 to represent a landmark in budget iems. Three weeks of burn-in later I don’t regret my choice one iota. One caveat though, out of the box, the horrendous stock cable and average tips, should instantly be dismissed (- they only serve to harness this sets true potential.) In preparation, stock was replaced with Nicehck SPC balanced 2.5mm cable recommended by Dsnuts.
Personally speaking, gravitating from listening with earbuds and full-sized cans, the transition from iems always proved a fairly difficult challenge - budget sets I accrued never quite hit the mark. Progressing with my earbud collection was an easier proposition, and allowed for greater lateral scope to make tuning adjustments via DIY builds.
I was looking for a budget gateway iem, offering a fast track to a balanced sound signature. Initially cautious & reticent at the arrival of NX7- being aware of the hyperbole surrounding new releases.
Previously, I'd stopped collecting budget iem’s ages ago – as a result of being irritated and fatigued by these sets (such as KZ.) Throughout the hobby, I tried to refrain from buying expensive sets, hence reluctant to venture into the foray of iems costing: £150 - £300+.
The previous “hype train” I got embroiled in (Smabat ST10 earbuds) were a great example of excessive advertising. Whilst the trans-line speaker system is commendable, on reflection they had a limited scope & remain genre specific & analytical – however, I felt they lacked the necessary warmth and visceral experience, when rendering vocal/classical/jazz/soundtracks.
Build:
Superb construction, aluminium faceplate screwed onto the plastic-almost resin-like body, which gives the set a premium feel. I really love their small form factor & excellent build quality!
Listening preferences:
Electronica/Binaural Soundscapes, Vocal/Classical/Jazz/Soundtracks.
Sources
In order to achieve perfect synergy they are warm source dependent. Listening to FLAC files via balanced output of Sony NW-ZX300a via bluetooth receiver is optimum (& iPad Air3.)
Switching over to SE output: Cayin N3 & NX4 DSD (as DAC) combination - boosts all frequencies - increasing the quantity of bass slam and the rumble of sub-bass, ( - but sometimes results in piercing treble.)
Fit:
Amazing fit - shells are streamlined & don’t protrude, the nozzle angle attaining a perfect seal in-ear - I can’t really fault them, hence they’ll be my reference seal in future. I’m using wide bore spiral dots & intend to experiment with various tips. With the Sony DAP distortion-free clarity can be maintained at maximum volume, whereas with N3/NX4, I limit the volume level to just over halfway, in order to avoid any potential excessive peaks.
Tuning / Sound Signature:
Very bright, transparent, revealing & energetic presentation coupled with a live analogue signature. They veer towards having a warm tonality rather than feeling digital or analytical.
Modding:
Nicehck SPC balanced 2.5mm cable & also attaching wide-bore JVC spiral dot tips.
To tame peak treble transients, Micropore tape can be applied, which avoids any adverse bass-boom.
Soundstage:
I prefer a 3D holophonic stage, as wide and deep as possible. Whilst not huge, NX7’s stage isn’t overly congested or too intimate. At times a greater sense of air would be a welcome addition, to reduce any feelings of being overwhelmed by the level of micro detail retrieval.
Highs:
Definitely boosted treble in the 1-16K frequency range. However even though I am treble sensitive, I never find NX7 fatiguing. The effect of the piezo can make some percussion feel slightly splashy & artificial; but instruments in general sound entirely authentic.
Mids:
The mids are well extended and lush, again on some tracks, high treble piezo can occasionally overshadow low-end mids - but not distractingly so. Crossover could be tuned in order to resolve any treble peaks and transients, which in turn, would improve image separation and layering.
Bass:
Once a good seal is achieved there’s a substantial quantity of bass/sub-bass. There’s an option to improve bass and reduce treble by switching to more expensive SPC copper cable. On some soundtracks the rumble is stunningly huge, generating an incredibly visceral “live” experience, leaving a lasting impression you tend not to forget!!
Amp Scalability:
The set responds well to being amped by a warm source, whether via SE or balanced output, hitting the hi-fi sweet spot prior to any treble discomfort. Micro retrieval is further extended, neither too distant or intimate, whilst generating a live experience that is visceral and all encompassing.
EQ response:
They are very responsive to EQ, and particular attention is required between the 1-16KHz bandwidth range. I found that by reducing 2 & 8 KHz bands had an overall beneficial effect on helping to reduce transient peaks.
Musicality:
As opposed to being cold and analytical, their warmth coupled with energetic presentation, provides a unique level of excitement - I find the resulting signature incredibly musical. Three weeks in they still sound as magical and refreshingly wonderful - both at high and low volumes.
Comparison:
It’s been claimed that costlier NiceHCK M6 are warmer sounding, however these apparently suffer from bass-boom. I’d also considered acquiring **** - possibly having an airier stage & smoother piezo frequency response - but their timbre seems questionable and the fit is more akin to NiceHCK EP35. After A/B’ing all sets, neither the EP35/Tenhz P4 don’t compete at any level, never matching the NX7‘s transparency, energy, balanced sound or fit.
In order to appreciate the gulf between NX7's and higher-end gear, I intend to audition: Campfire Audio Solaris/Andromeda, iBasso IT04, Empire Ears, IMR R2 Aten (IMR Acoustics) & Fearless Audio (Roland.)
The impact of three way hybrid iems, incorporating three different types of driver is still in its embryonic stage. The lifespan of piezoelectric will thus be proportional to the eventual cost reduction in electrostatic drivers, e.g. the costly Fearless Audio (Roland) employ: dual electrostatic drivers (treble) + dual balanced armature (mids) + single dynamic driver (bass.)
Conclusion:
It will be interesting to see if NX7’s have potential for longevity - less likely to be side-lined with improvements in future iterations. At $65 they represent amazing value - & imo punch above their weight in comparison to sets of a similar configuration. Taking everything into consideration, for me personally, the NX7’s fulfil a niche perfectly once you’ve become accustomed to their signature and have managed to attain their sweet spot.
I never find NX7 fatiguing, as their compact form factor providing excellent fit and seal. There is an overriding sensation and presence of a “live” experience, whilst rediscovering dormant tracks in your collection, now seem to take you on a new journey. Nothing being recessed or veiled - their power and transparent energy shakes things up, which creates a buzz of excitement.
In future, however, I’d like to see treble peaks & transients reduced, an increase in the 3D holophonic soundstage, coupled with precise crossover-tuning, without compromising their unique listening experience! Their warm, revealing & energetic presentation means they are never dull, overly refined, or analytical. Experimenting with sources, cables & tips can effectively alter the tonal signature to reveal additional facets, and hence become amply rewarding.
Although there is obviously disparity between NX7’s and higher-end gear, in my book they’re a winner; & at the very least they equip you with a flavour of what to expect….Enjoy!
Rating:
NX7’s driver configuration initially polarised opinion, however they truly shine with minimal modding using wider bore tips coupled with micro pore tape, whilst listening via balanced cable with a warmer source. Such improvements in signature/tonality have been experienced by those that were initially detractors - reflected by gradual changes in opinion (following numerous references to frequency response graphs.)
Fortunately, I agree with reviewers who consider NX7 to represent a landmark in budget iems. Three weeks of burn-in later I don’t regret my choice one iota. One caveat though, out of the box, the horrendous stock cable and average tips, should instantly be dismissed (- they only serve to harness this sets true potential.) In preparation, stock was replaced with Nicehck SPC balanced 2.5mm cable recommended by Dsnuts.
Personally speaking, gravitating from listening with earbuds and full-sized cans, the transition from iems always proved a fairly difficult challenge - budget sets I accrued never quite hit the mark. Progressing with my earbud collection was an easier proposition, and allowed for greater lateral scope to make tuning adjustments via DIY builds.
I was looking for a budget gateway iem, offering a fast track to a balanced sound signature. Initially cautious & reticent at the arrival of NX7- being aware of the hyperbole surrounding new releases.
Previously, I'd stopped collecting budget iem’s ages ago – as a result of being irritated and fatigued by these sets (such as KZ.) Throughout the hobby, I tried to refrain from buying expensive sets, hence reluctant to venture into the foray of iems costing: £150 - £300+.
The previous “hype train” I got embroiled in (Smabat ST10 earbuds) were a great example of excessive advertising. Whilst the trans-line speaker system is commendable, on reflection they had a limited scope & remain genre specific & analytical – however, I felt they lacked the necessary warmth and visceral experience, when rendering vocal/classical/jazz/soundtracks.
Build:
Superb construction, aluminium faceplate screwed onto the plastic-almost resin-like body, which gives the set a premium feel. I really love their small form factor & excellent build quality!
Listening preferences:
Electronica/Binaural Soundscapes, Vocal/Classical/Jazz/Soundtracks.
Sources
In order to achieve perfect synergy they are warm source dependent. Listening to FLAC files via balanced output of Sony NW-ZX300a via bluetooth receiver is optimum (& iPad Air3.)
Switching over to SE output: Cayin N3 & NX4 DSD (as DAC) combination - boosts all frequencies - increasing the quantity of bass slam and the rumble of sub-bass, ( - but sometimes results in piercing treble.)
Fit:
Amazing fit - shells are streamlined & don’t protrude, the nozzle angle attaining a perfect seal in-ear - I can’t really fault them, hence they’ll be my reference seal in future. I’m using wide bore spiral dots & intend to experiment with various tips. With the Sony DAP distortion-free clarity can be maintained at maximum volume, whereas with N3/NX4, I limit the volume level to just over halfway, in order to avoid any potential excessive peaks.
Tuning / Sound Signature:
Very bright, transparent, revealing & energetic presentation coupled with a live analogue signature. They veer towards having a warm tonality rather than feeling digital or analytical.
Modding:
Nicehck SPC balanced 2.5mm cable & also attaching wide-bore JVC spiral dot tips.
To tame peak treble transients, Micropore tape can be applied, which avoids any adverse bass-boom.
Soundstage:
I prefer a 3D holophonic stage, as wide and deep as possible. Whilst not huge, NX7’s stage isn’t overly congested or too intimate. At times a greater sense of air would be a welcome addition, to reduce any feelings of being overwhelmed by the level of micro detail retrieval.
Highs:
Definitely boosted treble in the 1-16K frequency range. However even though I am treble sensitive, I never find NX7 fatiguing. The effect of the piezo can make some percussion feel slightly splashy & artificial; but instruments in general sound entirely authentic.
Mids:
The mids are well extended and lush, again on some tracks, high treble piezo can occasionally overshadow low-end mids - but not distractingly so. Crossover could be tuned in order to resolve any treble peaks and transients, which in turn, would improve image separation and layering.
Bass:
Once a good seal is achieved there’s a substantial quantity of bass/sub-bass. There’s an option to improve bass and reduce treble by switching to more expensive SPC copper cable. On some soundtracks the rumble is stunningly huge, generating an incredibly visceral “live” experience, leaving a lasting impression you tend not to forget!!
Amp Scalability:
The set responds well to being amped by a warm source, whether via SE or balanced output, hitting the hi-fi sweet spot prior to any treble discomfort. Micro retrieval is further extended, neither too distant or intimate, whilst generating a live experience that is visceral and all encompassing.
EQ response:
They are very responsive to EQ, and particular attention is required between the 1-16KHz bandwidth range. I found that by reducing 2 & 8 KHz bands had an overall beneficial effect on helping to reduce transient peaks.
Musicality:
As opposed to being cold and analytical, their warmth coupled with energetic presentation, provides a unique level of excitement - I find the resulting signature incredibly musical. Three weeks in they still sound as magical and refreshingly wonderful - both at high and low volumes.
Comparison:
It’s been claimed that costlier NiceHCK M6 are warmer sounding, however these apparently suffer from bass-boom. I’d also considered acquiring **** - possibly having an airier stage & smoother piezo frequency response - but their timbre seems questionable and the fit is more akin to NiceHCK EP35. After A/B’ing all sets, neither the EP35/Tenhz P4 don’t compete at any level, never matching the NX7‘s transparency, energy, balanced sound or fit.
In order to appreciate the gulf between NX7's and higher-end gear, I intend to audition: Campfire Audio Solaris/Andromeda, iBasso IT04, Empire Ears, IMR R2 Aten (IMR Acoustics) & Fearless Audio (Roland.)
The impact of three way hybrid iems, incorporating three different types of driver is still in its embryonic stage. The lifespan of piezoelectric will thus be proportional to the eventual cost reduction in electrostatic drivers, e.g. the costly Fearless Audio (Roland) employ: dual electrostatic drivers (treble) + dual balanced armature (mids) + single dynamic driver (bass.)
Conclusion:
It will be interesting to see if NX7’s have potential for longevity - less likely to be side-lined with improvements in future iterations. At $65 they represent amazing value - & imo punch above their weight in comparison to sets of a similar configuration. Taking everything into consideration, for me personally, the NX7’s fulfil a niche perfectly once you’ve become accustomed to their signature and have managed to attain their sweet spot.
I never find NX7 fatiguing, as their compact form factor providing excellent fit and seal. There is an overriding sensation and presence of a “live” experience, whilst rediscovering dormant tracks in your collection, now seem to take you on a new journey. Nothing being recessed or veiled - their power and transparent energy shakes things up, which creates a buzz of excitement.
In future, however, I’d like to see treble peaks & transients reduced, an increase in the 3D holophonic soundstage, coupled with precise crossover-tuning, without compromising their unique listening experience! Their warm, revealing & energetic presentation means they are never dull, overly refined, or analytical. Experimenting with sources, cables & tips can effectively alter the tonal signature to reveal additional facets, and hence become amply rewarding.
Although there is obviously disparity between NX7’s and higher-end gear, in my book they’re a winner; & at the very least they equip you with a flavour of what to expect….Enjoy!
Rating:
- Build: 90
- Ergonomics: 95
- Accessories: 55
- Bass: 85
- Mids: 80
- Treble: 75
- Crossover/Image layering: 80
- Sound-stage: 85
- Price: 85