Penon Archangel x EA Cadmus II In Ear Monitor Headphones

Intro & Disclosure

As a long-time VIP member of PENON Audio, I was honored to receive the PENON Archangel before its official release at a discounted reviewer price. Having followed the brand’s evolution over the years—from the warm musicality of the Serial and the intimate lushness of the 10th AE, to the bolder hybrids choices like the Volts - it’s clear that the Archangel represents a different kind of milestone: a true flagship designed with scale, finesse, and detail retrieval in mind, not just musical charm.At this point i have to add that i am in no way affiliated with PENON AUDIO so i can express my free and unbiased opinion over this set ,for the moment of speaking this one retails for about 799$ and in any case you find your self interested (after reading this review) you can purchase this one directly via PENON AUDIO store so here's a link for your convenience :

Penon X Effect Audio Archangel

This is not just another Penon-tuned IEM. It’s a collaboration with Effect Audio, fitted with a Cadmus II cable, and powered by an ambitious driver array: 2 dynamic drivers (coaxial PET + CNT), 4 balanced armatures, and 2 Bone Conduction Drivers (BCDs)—all wrapped in a full resin shell with tuning switches....
Resin Elegance Meets Boutique Cable Sophistication............
that said switch No.1 enhances lows a bit and switch No.2 provides a more airy/extended & overall sophisticated presentation over the highs uplifting the treble into....sublime territory.....the second mode (treble switch up) was straight from the beggining my favorite tuning choise.. so i went right from the start with that one.....

SPECIFICATIONS

Driver: 2 DD + 4 BA + 2 BCD

Impedance: 12ohm@1kHz

Sensitivity: 105dB@1kHz

Frequency response range: 10~40kHz

Connector: 2Pin 0.78mm

Cable: 26AWG 8-wire UP-OCC smelting process, single material Litz with silver-plated copper central core, 6 multi-sized core bundles with EA UltraFlexir insulation.

Plug: 4.4mm EA Standard Rhodium Plated Brass Straight Type







Build Quality, Fit & Accessories

The PENON Archangel arrives with a presentation that feels every bit as refined and deliberate as its tuning. The full resin shell is sculpted with organic elegance — smooth to the touch, ergonomic in fit, and lightweight despite its multi-driver complexity. It settles into the ear naturally and securely, allowing for extended listening sessions without fatigue, even during longer critical reviews or late-night deep dives into immersive albums.

Visually, the faceplates are subtly artistic, reflecting Penon's understated design language — no overhyped bling, no exaggerated flare, just class and clarity, much like the sound signature itself. The tuning switches are firm, easy to toggle, and cleanly embedded without protrusion or risk of accidental changes during wear.

But what truly elevates the Archangel’s unboxing experience is its collaboration with boutique cable specialist Effect Audio. The inclusion of the Cadmus II cable is no afterthought — this is a genuine upgrade, both in build quality and sonic synergy. The cable feels luxurious and pliable, with zero microphonics and a secure, comfortable fit around the ears. It offers a perfect sonic pairing — tightens the low-end, adds clarity to the upper mids, and brings out the best of the Archangel's detailed treble.Other than that you get a carrying case with sturdy build and stylish Penon branding, Multiple sets of ear tips, a Cleaning tool,and a cable pouch......all very very stylish i must confess......

Now, with over 150 hours of burn-in complete and several listening sessions behind me, I’m ready to share my full evaluation of this fascinating and truly unique monitor.

Gear used for the purpose of this review : iBASSO DX 180/160/170 / Shanling M3X / HIBY R5 GEN II / Oriolus BA300S tube amp & KAEI TAP 1 balanced tube amp as well...and just for the record i preferred to write down any impressions having the treble switch-up and the bass switch as it was upon receiving those (down).That switch combination seemed the best to my ears............and certainly benefits the upper harmonics big time.......

(FR graph with treble switch on...a bit of treble emphasis never hurt anybody.....
.....my preferable mode on Archangel )


Frequency Response & Overall Sound Signature


The PENON Archangel’s frequency response graph tells a story that longtime Penon fans may not expect — and that’s exactly what makes it special. Rather than leaning into the warm, mid-forward, emotional curve typical of past Penon house tunings, the Archangel carves its own path with a more balanced, technically precise sound signature, while still maintaining Penon’s musical soul.

(Archangel Standard Mode Graph)


From the graph, we observe:

A well-extended and impactful sub-bass shelf, focused below 60Hz, giving the Archangel its authoritative low-end presence without creeping into midrange territory. This allows the bass to hit hard and low, while preserving upper frequency clarity — a textbook implementation of sub-bass elevation without mid-bass congestion.
A flat and uncolored midrange, with minimal dips or peaks. This is Penon’s most neutral midrange to date, and the graph reflects it clearly. There's no vocal emphasis, no excessive lower mid warmth, and no upper mid sharpness — just a smooth, clean pathway through the mids.
A gentle rise through the upper mids into a well-controlled lower treble, followed by a polished, slightly elevated upper treble extension — made even more elegant with the treble switch turned on. There's no sharp peaks, no harsh sibilance zones, and a consistent energy curve that translates into silky resolution and tonal realism.

Notably, the bone conduction drivers (BCD) contribute to the feeling of low-end vibration and mid-bass presence, but these contributions won’t always appear on a standard FR graph — which is why listening matters just as much as measuring here.

in practice, this graph translates to a sound that is:

• Powerful but controlled in the bass
• Unbiased and transparent in the mids
• Smooth yet open in the treble
• With an overall signature that is spatial, clean, immersive, and reference-grade without coldness

This is a mature, studio-friendly monitor that still manages to feel emotional and musical, thanks to its perfect blend of tuning, dynamics, and spatial realism.



BASS


Authoritative, Deep, and Sensationally Controlled
If the Archangel had only one virtue, it would still be enough — because its bass is an absolute marvel. Right from first listen, it became apparent: this is the most impactful, physically convincing low-end ever heard in a Penon set.

Thanks to its dual coaxial dynamic drivers and BCD synergy, sub-bass feels unshakably grounded, yet also highly disciplined. There’s no bloating, no midrange bleeding, and no “one-note” rumble. What you get instead is a visceral, highly nuanced low-end with real-world texture and scale. Kick drums have weight and body; low cello passages throb with air and wood; electronic basslines are felt in your bones, but still precisely positioned.

Even next to well-regarded bass champs like the ISN EBC80 or EST50, the Archangel offers greater articulation, more vertical layering, and tighter impact control. It's not just powerful — it's poetic.


MIDRANGE


Neutral, Clear, and Unusually Uncolored (for a Penon set)
This is a very different midrange from what fans of Penon might expect. Gone is the usual forward warmth and colored intimacy; instead, Archangel delivers a dead-neutral midrange, with no saturation, no veil, and no frequency bloating.

Vocals — male and female — are rendered with a calm authority, and placed accurately within the stage, not on top of it. Instruments feel uncompressed and unrestricted, with no frequency congestion. There’s a refined elegance in the note decay, particularly on acoustic pianos, saxophones, and brass — everything feels truthful, not dramatized.

Compared to the Penon 10th AE’s rich and emotional mids, the Archangel comes across as studio-grade, offering an uncolored window into the music that is more about space and fidelity than emotional tint.


TREBLE


Natural, Refined, and Extended with Grace
The upper frequencies are handled with sublime restraint and subtle power. Treble on the Archangel is effortlessly extended, thanks in part to the balanced EST-like tuning and the smooth relay from BA drivers. Yet it never turns harsh or sharp — it simply illuminates the music, offering texture, air, and harmonic sparkle without any grain.

Even with the treble switch turned on, you don’t get shout or forced brightness — just extra air and delicacy. Micro-details in hi-hats, brushed cymbals, and ambient textures are all revealed in a gentle, non-fatiguing manner. This treble is the definition of relaxed clarity: you hear everything, but nothing overwhelms.

Technical Performance


Cohesive, Holographic, and Effortless
The Archangel is a technical powerhouse wrapped in a musical soul. Layering, transients, separation, and detail retrieval are all flagship-tier — not because they scream “look at me!” but because they’re invisible and natural.

Complex orchestration? Clean and uncompressed. Fast electronic textures? Tight and resolvable. Even the smallest ambient echoes and reverb tails are presented naturally and evenly — without artificial highlighting. This is the kind of refinement that feels expensive, not exaggerated.


Soundstage & Imaging


Majestic, 3D, and Architecturally Precise
This is the real crown jewel of the Archangel.
The stage is vast, but not artificially stretched. Instead, you get a three-dimensional sphere of sound, complete with front-to-back layering, top-down height, and razor-sharp left-right imaging. The BCDs contribute a level of physical dimensionality, making instruments feel anchored in real space, not just floating somewhere in the head.

You can sense where each player is standing. Vocals hover perfectly center. Room acoustics bloom with realism. This isn’t just wide — it’s deep, layered, and holographic.


Driving & Source Pairing


Despite its technical complexity, Archangel is surprisingly easy to drive, and not a hiss magnet. It scales beautifully with better sources — showing deeper stage layering and improved dynamics — but it doesn’t demand a high-end rig to shine.

The included Effect Audio Cadmus II cable is not just a bonus — it’s a perfect synergy pairing, adding control and sparkle without harshness.

SCORING BREAKDOWN & EVALUATION BASED ON ARCHANGEL OVERALL PERFORMANCE







Recommended Test Tracks

These carefully selected tracks reveal the true soul and technical depth of the PENON Archangel. Each one tests different aspects of tuning, staging, layering, and timbre reproduction — and Archangel rises to the occasion every time.........


4T Thieves - Endless Circles





This intricate, IDM-laced soundscape from 4T Thieves is rich in digitally shaped textures, subtle percussive patterns, and leftfield synth modulation. It requires a monitor with both resolution and control, and the Archangel handles it with effortless precision.
Each glitch, click, and oscillated effect is clearly rendered in 3D space, never flattened or collapsed. You can follow individual elements — panned hi-hats, micro-synth blips, or layered pad sweeps — as they travel across the left-right and front-back spectrum. This is where the Archangel’s imaging capabilities shine brightest — delivering an immersive geometric experience, like sitting inside a sonic sculpture.
The sub-bass pulses have physical weight but remain dry and defined, avoiding the muddiness that usually plagues multi-layered electronica. The treble — particularly in the upper percussive elements — is smooth, but resolving enough to reveal microtextures, making each reverb decay or granular hit sound natural, never clinical.
This track was built for IEMs like Archangel — where stage, detail, and balance are the priority, and where artificiality is completely absent.


Sun Parker - Swan




A stunningly intimate piece built on breathy vocals, distant ambient textures, and glacial melodic phrasing — "Swan" is all about emotional stillness and atmosphere. With the PENON Archangel, this track becomes an almost spiritual experience, where the air around the notes matters just as much as the notes themselves
The Archangel’s neutral midrange presents Sun Parker’s voice with glasslike clarity, neither overly warm nor surgically dry — simply true to tone and space. You can feel the room around her, as if her voice is suspended midair in a shadow-lit studio. The low-end pulses and reverberant tones that appear beneath the mix are rendered with deep, satisfying weight, enhanced by the bone conduction’s tactile presence, but never overwhelm the softness above.
Where most monitors would either blur or brighten this track, Archangel treats it with respectful subtlety — capturing the emotional vulnerability and letting it breathe across the soundstage, with no spotlight-stealing peaks. A perfect pairing for delicate ambient vocal work.


Tonik Ensemble - Cut to scene

A perfect match for the Penon Archangel — this track unfolds as a sonic narrative, layering melancholic chords, ambient pulses, and hypnotic progressions into a cinematic electronic journey. With the Archangel, “Cut to Scene” is not just played — it’s painted in your mind’s space.
The subtle, subterranean bass that anchors this track is presented with beautiful restraint and tight control. The bone conduction driver gives each beat a physical dimension that feels rooted deep inside the chest cavity. Meanwhile, the upper midrange carries the ambient pads and synth trails with glassy smoothness, creating a rich tapestry of tones that are neither veiled nor exaggerated.
What sets this experience apart is the stage layering: notes don’t just emerge left or right — they rise, fall, float, and pass through you. Archangel handles ambience and rhythm with equal mastery, making this track feel endless, immersive, and emotionally absorbing. It’s the kind of sonic pairing that reminds you what a flagship monitor is truly capable of.

A reference-level demonstration of Archangel’s ability to fuse space, emotion, control, and atmosphere in a single cohesive expression.


The Future Sound Of London - Outer Heaven (Alt Mix)

With its slow-burn structure, deep ambient swells, and spectral sonic haze, “Outer Heaven (Alt Mix)” is not a track to be listened to — it’s a track to be submerged in. The PENON Archangel renders this piece with an almost cinematic depth, showcasing its full capability as a space-sculpting monitor.
The opening sub-bass textures don’t just rumble — they breathe and evolve, gently rolling beneath the mix with physical presence, courtesy of the Bone Conduction Drivers. Every pulsing low-end wave is felt as much as heard, creating a soundfloor rather than a bassline.
High-frequency elements — hiss textures, distant pads, background atmospherics — are rendered with gorgeous decay, never peaky or artificial. The Archangel’s treble performance shines here, offering incredible upper harmonic air while staying utterly free of glare or fatigue. This is how ambient should sound: open, organic, endless.
Most impressive is how Archangel handles the illusory stage space of the track. You don’t just hear left and right — you feel depth and altitude. Reverb tails stretch far back into an imagined cavern. Echoes rise like vapour. You’re inside the architecture of the track — not looking at it from the outside.

This is reference playback for any listener exploring ambient, dub-techno, or deep spatial music. “Outer Heaven” on Archangel is less of a track and more of a controlled lucid dream. Sublime................


Selective Comparisons.....................


vs YANYIN CANON PRO

Canon Pro is richer in the mids, warmer, and more intimate. Archangel is more resolving, spacious, and accurate.
✔ Canon for vocal lushness & emotional immediacy
✔ Archangel for space, control, and neutrality



vs APEVOIX GRIT

Grit has strong sub-bass and a fun tuning, but lacks the stage width, imaging, and tonal balance of Archangel.
✔ Grit for punchy fun
✔ Archangel for all-round flagship refinement



vs PENON 10th AE

10th AE is romantic, colored, and lush; Archangel is neutral, open, and technical.
✔ 10th AE for emotional listening
✔ Archangel for reference-style clarity



vs ROSE QT-X

QT-X is smooth and budget-friendly, but far below Archangel in every technical respect.
✔ QT-X for easy casual listening
✔ Archangel for audiophile detail and depth



vs ISN EBC80

EBC80 brings strong bass and musicality, but Archangel delivers more depth, better imaging, and vastly superior treble refinement.
✔ EBC80 for warm, fun tuning
✔ Archangel for flagship authority
(there's a deeper dive comparison over those two monsters of reproduction over a recent post of mine right here : EBC80 vs ARCHANGEL



vs ORIVETTI OH700VB

OH700VB is bass-rich and fun, but can’t compete with Archangel’s layering, treble finesse, or stage accuracy.
✔ OH700VB for dynamic punch
✔ Archangel for sculpted fidelity



vs ISN EST50

EST50 is lush and smooth, with more warmth and less clarity. Archangel wins in resolution, neutrality, and stage.
✔ EST50 for lush immersion
✔ Archangel for space, air, and reference sound


Considering all of the above mentioned comparisons & regardless of any price range :







Who Is It For?

• Critical listeners and stage-size lovers who demand layering, imaging, and a massive 3D soundstage
• Fans of clean sub-bass impact with refined slam and zero bloat
• Audiophiles who appreciate a neutral midrange free of coloration or unnatural sweetness
• Treble-sensitive listeners looking for non-fatiguing detail retrieval and airy extension without sparkle overload
• Those who love flagship-level sound with refined technicals under $600
• Anyone upgrading from EBC80, EST50, or mid-tier tribrids and ready for a more sophisticated listen
• Users seeking true scaling with high-end sources, yet still easy to drive

Who Isn't It For?

• Listeners who prefer forward, lush, and colored mids (look to Penon 10th AE or Canon Pro)
• Bassheads who want boomy mid-bass thump rather than sub-bass articulation
• Treble chasers seeking exaggerated sparkle or sharp detail focus — Archangel is detailed, but subtle
• Those wanting a high-energy V-shape or extreme fun-tuned monitor — this is more balanced and reference-oriented
• Casual users who don’t benefit from the added spatial layering — the Archangel shines most when given space to perform

Conclusion – Archangel Ascends


The PENON Archangel is more than just Penon’s latest flagship — it’s a culmination of technical know-how, tuning maturity, and collaborative design, all wrapped in one of the most complete tribrid packages available under $800.
With massive stage presence, insanely refined bass, and a uniquely neutral yet musical tuning, Archangel sets a new benchmark for Penon — and may very well be the best hybrid they've ever released.
This is not just an upgrade — it's a redefinition of Penon's tuning philosophy, and a clear signal that they’re playing in the big leagues now.
It won’t be for everyone — it doesn’t chase warmth or lush coloration. But for those seeking precision without sterility, detail without fatigue, and stage without distortion, Archangel delivers a sonic experience that’s as pure as it is powerful.
Highly recommended for listeners who value space, texture, realism, and cohesive neutrality — with enough tuning switches to tailor the experience when needed.

Bravo, Penon

Penon x Effect Audio Archangel

Throughout the years I have enjoyed the hobby of ours in the personal audio space, I have seen steady yearly advancements in the way sound is manipulated through the use of more advanced better transducers and materials that shape the sound we all hear from our IEMs. The new PxEF Archangel is a shining example of what's newer in the IEM world in the first half of the year 2025.

Penon is using their decade plus years of experience in developing and tuning some of the best value-based IEMs in our hobby. Offering what everyone who has heard their IEMs will refer to as their house sound. Penon never develops an IEM half baked and or experimental, everything is planned with these guys. Planned because I have a firm belief that every new IEM Penon produces they are actively trying to do one better. Ever increasing competition is one aspect but even more importantly better what was already established from their own development team.

The Archangel is Penons very first collaboration. What I find interesting is that Penon makes excellent IEM cables, it would have been easy for Penon to throw on their own ASOS+X and I am certain this IEM would have sounded just as good. It could have been more for marketing and having Effect Audios brand recognition is not a bad thing to have in your corner. Well that and collabs are what has become the cutting edge thing to do in the IEM world. In the end, this is more of both entities coming together to bring what both companies do best. Penon for their IEM designs and Effect Audio for their innovative cable designs. Make no mistake, you can cable roll all you want but Cadmus II matches the Archangel sound like it was made for it. This is the first IEM in a long while I can honestly say, you do not need to cable roll. Of course that will be up to you.


The Archangel is not a cheap IEM retailing for $799, on the other hand I can argue for the sheer amount of sonics delivered from the Archangel is an extremely competitive offering from Penon and Effect audio. Effect Audio is contributing their Cadmus II to the mix here which retails for $249 by itself. What you are getting for the admission price is one of Penons best sounding IEMs in what they do and adding to this a cable that clearly enhances what the Archangel is about.

Subjectively what you are getting for that money is a leap from what you got just a few years back. Both in terms of the IEM itself and the cable that goes with it. The EA Cadmus II is a 2nd generation of what was already an excellent cable in the original 8w Cadmus which I also own. No way you're going to achieve how the Archangel sounds pre bone conduction for IEMs let me put it that way. Not at the $799 price point. With that being said, I will dive into what makes the Archangel a top tier mid fi level IEM and easily one of Penons best efforts. Actually you can’t really categorize the Archangel to be “mid fi”. The way these sound there is mid nothing going on. Listening to the Archangel connected to my PB5 amp. It is just as engaging as anything I have ever heard. For my ears anyway it is simply a top level IEM.


Archangel is using a moderately large ergonomic medical grade resin shell design roughly the same size as their flagship Penon Rivals. Larger shells obviously will not be so comfortable for smaller eared folks however larger more roomier housings has an advantage for sound presentations. Larger shells generally means bigger stage/sound presentation and boy do these have a big, large stage.

Larger than the Taniso Mirai Shocks, easily rivaling some of their most spacious sounding IEMs I have heard to date. Penon Rival level is what I am talking about. Adding to the larger roomier shell design is the use of dual Sonion composite BA bone conduction drivers with vents which clearly enhances how the Archangel sounds. So far I have reviewed the effects of what these bone conduction drivers do using some of the absolute best drivers in the industry in 4 different IEMs. The Tansio Mirai Shocks, ISN EBC80, Penon Rivals and Lime Ears Maris, the Archangel is the 5th.

Using Sonion bone conduction drivers in conjunction with an IEM expertly tuned via Penon house sound and these are firing off on all cylinders as they say. Efficient and easy to drive at 12 Ohms yet not so sensitive to be a hissing monster. The Archangel plays nice with every single source I have tried them on. Which leads me to my disclaimer.

Disclaimers. The Archangel was provided by Penon Audio for the purpose of a review. I would like to thank Mr Chi Kong Hui for being patient with me as I was away for an entire month on very deserved vacation and was not able to focus on writing a review of any type. Appreciate your patience. As far as I know I have the very first finished Archangel in existence with my first impression dating back to over a month ago. This post here. While on vacation I used the Archangel exclusively to get to know its sound and to see how it performs. These are my findings.

Sources used for my review: Ibasso DX300Max, Ibasso PB5, Ibasso X180, IFI Signature, IFI Gryphon, Fiio M15, Fiio M15S, Fiio K9 pro ESS.

First thing first, the trade off for this vented Sonion BC design is that it leaks sound. They actually isolate better for the user vs leaking sound meaning you can hear music chatter through the vents. These are not going to be ideal for listening next to your partner in bed for example. A quiet office environment and libraries should be ok with lower to moderate volumes. Outdoors are not a problem. If you put your ear next to the vents connected to the BC drivers you will definitely hear music emanating outside of the shells. It is an unfortunate consequence of getting this enhanced BC effect on these drivers. Think of IEMs that have this particular vented BC design like an open can for headphones but in an IEM format. Unlike open cans personal isolation is very similar to standard all resin IEMs however.

In the looks department, the faceplate is an all-black carbon fiber look with flakes of silver sprinkled, the housing body is a clear red in color. It's certainly not a bad looking IEM but I think it would have looked a bit nicer with a darker red color to it. The resin poured design is a stable for Penon as most of their IEMs are Resin in build. I suppose you don't change what works. The housing is a universal 2 pin design which allows the user to change out the cables and in good lighting situations you can clearly see how the drivers were laid out internally within the housing.

Penon names IEMs based on either driver configuration or a name that gives the listener a clue into what they are about. Archangel a heavenly name given due to a heavenly sound. The Archangel uses a combination of dual Knowles BAs for mids+ dual Sonion BAs for highs+ PET& Carbon nanotube dynamics in a coaxial array for bass adding to the hybrid design are the latest Sonion dual composite BA BC drivers. I am not a 100% certain exactly how these BC drivers work but I do know it has a pretty substantial effect on just how spacious and dimensional the sound is on the Archangel.

The effects of using these drivers are consistent with the 4 prior IEMs I have reviewed all using them. Touted as a full range BC driver, it seems to have an amplification effect when you listen to your music. Stage, space and imaging of your music is what they enhance and in turn makes the IEM sound much more vibrant dimensional and or surround like in character. If your base IEM sound and its tuning is on point. The BC driver adds a plus to that sound. Music that floats outside of your headspace is what I am talking about. It's more of a subtle enhancing effect for music but clearly enough to make IEMs that have these BC drivers to stand out for their sound quality. IEMs that already have a wide and or big sound get that much more pronounced in space and stage using the Sonion BC drivers.

Balancing has a slight bias toward bass with a natural fluid tonality, overall cohesion and balance of sound is done extremely well. The Archangel has 2 tuning switches appropriately labeled 1 and 2. 1 switch for a mild bass increase and 2 switch for a mild treble boost. Since the Archangel already has a healthy 7-8dbs of bass emphasis, adding another 1db or 2dbs- its bass becomes authoritative when called upon. Its treble region is more moderate in emphasis but the 2 switch allows just a bit more trebles which sounds more balanced to my ears vs the switch off. Thus far my favorite configuration is 2 switch on and 1 off. With the 2 switch off the sound is more mids and bass focused which makes for easy longer term listening if one wishes.

In comparison to the Tansio Mirai shocks which have a very similar driver configuration to the Archangel. I can say I prefer the overall tuning and sound presentation on the Archangel but the one aspect I like about the Shocks more so is that it can tweak the trebles and bass to a greater degree using a very unique method of adjustment in the dial switches. Both sets are more v shaped in tuning with the Archangel coming out on top for tonality, more substantial lower mids which ends up sounding more richer and musical. Has the wider more enhanced stage presentation. The Shocks presenting with a more rounder stange. Archangel has a wider, more expansive sound. Both these IEMs are definitely pushing the boundaries of what to expect at their respective price points. If you are considering the Archangel and already own the Shocks. I feel they are different enough to own both. Shocks for that fun aspect and Archangel for a more mature substantial sound.

The musical flavoring for the Archangel has a lot to do with “Penon mids” this is a newer term that was created by fellow fans of Penon IEMs that describe Penons dedication to the most important part of your music, the mids. I have never heard a recessed mids presentation from Penon. Neutral for some of their IEMs but never a step back from its bass or the treble end. The Archangel is no different. Adding BC drivers only helps to add a sense of space to the mid bands that ends up being as holographic a sound gets in our hobby. But this time around we got some potent bass and clean sounding trebles to go with it.

Dual coaxial bass is a thing and more recent Penon made IEMs all use this configuration. I have noticed when Penon reuses a driver or a design method it is because it's the most effective to their sound goals. Coaxial bass is more physical, more defined, more punchy, more tactile, more rumbly. It's got two dedicated woofers that work in conjunction to bring the bass end. I do noticed the bass end to tighten over time. Like all things good you want to run these in a bit for their true ability.

Bass end is a strong suit and I do believe this is the first time I have seen a hybrid setup for bass dynamics. PET & Carbon nanotube dynamics. I am familiar with both drivers but the one I was excited about is the use of Carbon nanotubes. I still own the very first Carbon nanotube IEM called the JVC FX40 IEM. This budget IEM is ancient in IEM terms from circa 2013. This might be a budget set but it had the very first carbon nanotube dynamic driver which had some outstanding bass. It was my very first taste of what more advanced materials for IEMs can do, especially when it comes to bass. Fast forward to today and I am hearing similar abilities in the Archangel with even greater definition pushed by the dual array coaxial set up. Surprised to see it being used but not surprised why Penon is using this material.
Potent bass with a sub bass focus is what the Archangel is. Rumbles with authority when called upon. Mids sound lush full bodied with just enough pinna gain for good clarity and detail. Trebles are non fatiguing but has a good solid level of definition and extension. Then you add its spaced out nature and stage using the BC drivers and you got one very immersive sound experience.

Trebles are for the most part very ample for the given design but here is where some of the cost savings comes from. A lot of higher end IEMs nowadays use Sonion ESTs and by not using them with the Archangel this brings the cost savings to the consumer. Trebles has good presence and its tonal character is spot on especially with the 2 treble switch in the on position. However it is missing a bit of that dimensional and micro detailed character that EST drivers provide. Trebles aren’t the most airy or the most detailed aspect of the design but very much ample enough to not miss on the sound design. Overall the Archangel was designed for bassy balance more than being a treble first IEM. This is where I feel the Tansio Mirai Shocks did a touch better in that you can tune the trebles to be a touch more present above what the 2 switch is doing for the Archangel. However this is a case if you don't own the Shocks you will be satisfied with the treble ability and tonality of the Archangel.

So here you have it
Penons newest creation is yet another winner. It's got both style and substance with a clear emphasis in the substance department. Its dimensional full bodied musical sound is where it's at. If you have never heard a Penon made IEM this is an excellent place to start as I feel for the given driver set up and its IEM design. You will be skipping on years of awesome sounding Penon IEMs and going straight to the good stuff. You are reading about a top performer in the Penon stable. Not too many IEMs will sound like these at the price point as it is an optimized experience and one where it actually comes with an optimized cable via Effect Audio Cadmus II.

About the Cadmus II I wrote about them in my initial impression I will post on here.

What it comes down to is the actual materials they are using and the idea of using certain types of geometry to get their end goals. More premium the materials ends up being more money for the consumer, unfortunately. When you see cable descriptions on the express they are about as trustworthy as telemarketers that call you to help save on car insurance.

What separates the Effect Audio cable vs the flashy looking and so called higher end cables that don't even cost a 1/3rd of the Cadmus II for example? These folks that sell their wares on the express make up for the lack of quality by making the cable and naming them as colorful as they can. A lot of them are eye-catching even using metallic more blingy hardware to accentuate the cable's looks. When it comes down to it. You do get what you are paying for. I know first hand that a lot of the cables online are ok to even surprisingly good by today's standards. They will for the most part be an upgrade to the included cables that come with your budget IEMs so I suppose not all is at a loss there. However what these folks claim as a higher end copper cable is in reality not exactly what Effect Audio uses.

The base material that Effect Audio uses is material called UPOCC or Ultra Pure Ohno Continuous Cast. Real, I say real because a lot of the so-called UPOCC cables you see in descriptions on the express for cheaper cables are actually fake. Real UPOCC takes longer to produce through a much more rigorous process for the cable material, hence it costs more than your standard crystal copper or OCC variants. The end result is that cables that are made using this material definitely has a leg up in quality over other types of copper variants when it comes to transparency and how it translates to what you hear for your IEMs. All the prior Effect Audio Signature Series of cables are very popular due to using this material and new to the updated Signature Series of cables comes in the form of some trickle down geometry learned from making what was called the Code23 cable. I reviewed an early prototype of the Code23 and it was and still is a groundbreaking and ground standing cable due to just how spacious and dimensional the cable here helps your sound to get. Ground standing cuz it was way too stiff for it to be practical for IEM use. Yes the cable could stand by itself if flexed that way.
This material Effect Audio uses answers the old time question: are all copper cables the same?. No they are not. The Cadmus II that is used for the new Archangel is not the same material that you have used on your IEMs. Cadmus uses at its cores this UPOCC and then plates the cores with pure silver. This gives an added bonus for even more transparency, detail enhancing, imaging with a spacial stage enhancing aspects of what the cables here helps to produce for IEM.

In the End.
Could this be the beginning of the collab tree for Penon? Who knows, I personally like that they went with a well known established cable maker vs the random know it all reviewer. The Archangel was a project that both parties can easily stand behind. I was told Effect Audio was very impressed with the initial prototype of the Archangel and decided it was well worth putting their name behind. The new retail box and accessories package I don't have but looking at pics of what you get. I recognize easily that that box packaging design was Effect Audio that lended a hand in. I recognize their prior packaging for their cables using the same premium box material. Again to the benefit of Penon.

Archangel came out just fantastically musical, an approach to music listening design that is a part of the Penon house sound. Penon sound is never about being too analytical oriented. But more of a design that lets you be immersed in your music like no other IEMs can. I know for a fact that Effect Audio guys know their sound. Joining forces only means that this IEM passes the grade as one of Penons very best. In personally reviewing just about every Penon made IEM to date. You will be getting something special in the new Archangel. Don’t just take my word for it. I don't think Effect Audio would sign off on it if they felt the sound was not on point is what I am saying. It wouldn't surprise me at all if this IEM turned out to be one of the best sounding collabs in history thus far. A special shout out to all the Penon fans and Effect Audio fans. Effect Audio guys if you have never heard a Penon made IEM. What better IEM to start with. Thanks for taking the time to read. Happy listening always.

Setting the scene

• This unit was purchased by me at an “early bird” discount.
• Nobody asked for, or probably needs, this review.
• Stock cable has been used, no cable swapping (yet).
• Tips – I have landed on a set of Final Audio ear-tips.
• Sources used – N3U and DX180, generally the DX180 presents a bit more neutral in sound to me.
• Age/hearing ability – I am no longer young, in my mid-fifties (see "acknowledgments” section).
• My Approach – general sound experience against known music, rather than scientifically looking at specific frequency segments.

Acknowledgements/Notes

• I am not a professional reviewer, as will become very clear!
• I am not the best at AB’ing as my auditory memory is in the “micro-seconds” bracket.
• My hearing is not that of a younger person and by no means bat-like.
• The act of assessing a set no doubt changes the level of focus from casual listening. This may explain some “haven’t heard this before”. Additionally, to really hear into the mix it is tempting to turn up the volume - we all know how volume can bias impressions (don’t we!?).
• Apply “in my opinion” at the end of any observation or declaration.

Packaging

• No slip-cover received, jut a shrink-wrapped black box. I assume this is due to purchasing early-bird.
• Nice quality round case matching the colour scheme.
• 4.4 to 3.5 adapter which is a nice touch.
• A clip and sim-card eject tool – both essential for these IEM's.
• Tips that remain untouched as I have a large collection I choose from.

Thoughts on Appearance, Fit & Cable

• I must admit that I was wary when this set was initially advertised, but “in-person” it looks a lot nicer.
• For us Aussies, maybe we can agree an appropriate nickname is the “redback”?
• No discomfort from long listening sessions.
• Nozzle size is not overly girthy, I measure around 6.2 - 6.3.
• I do like that the branding appears on the shell sides rather than the faceplates
• When I hold the shells to sunlight, I can see a bit of red bleed-through – I treat this as a feature.
• Nice collaboration effort with Effect Audio, although it may have been interesting to hear this with a Penon ASOS or Pyramid (for example). Maybe Penon could offer packages with different cables in the future?
• Cable is of nice thickness and not overly kinky. Inspires confidence but there are more
• I picked up noise when out and about, but this can be mitigated with the chin slider.
• I also seem to be cursed with spinning barrels on the jack so tend to leave the shrink-wrap intact there.

Switch Changes


After playing with the various configurations for a while my preferences were Config 1 & 3.
Config 2 was also appropriate when craving additional mid-bass (such as when partaking of some Doooom!!)
For the rest of these impressions I retained the default position (both switches off).

General feeling on the sound

• The bass is stellar – weighty, deep, impactful, and organic. While music presents with full-bodied authority, there is still an impressive level of agility here.
• Mids - Well it’s a Penon… - beautifully presented and clear. Vocals are handled supremely well, and acoustic guitar tone in particular is perfect to me.
• Treble contains the right amount of sparkle and is clean and detailed. At time, presented with brilliance but I detected no spikes or harshness.
• Overall I hear a spacious sound underpinned by fabulous bassy body.
• These IEM’s are rich but still nicely technical with dimensional & large stage.
• The tone seems very natural and no listening fatigue has crept in at all.

Listening impressions across a few tracks

Equisa – Fallen Back

• Crystal clear female vocals.
• Surrounding supporting layers are supremely presented, maybe a touch more recessed then usual.
• Electric guitar high notes – no cringeworthy icepicks here.
• Extremely emotional and layered chorus, sustained lead vocal decay as nice as ever heard.

Roxy Music – Oh Yeah

• Synth and high guitar clear & sparkly.
• Wide stage.
• Layers clear – piano and vocal, bass, guitar.
• Second synth line I have not noticed before.
• Bass – nice note weight, not pillowy.
• Drums – tight.
• Percussion – accurate panning.
• Outro – decay nicely maintained.

Bowie – Look Back In Anger

• Layering of drums, percussion and cymbals perfect (not always achieved by other sets).
• Speed = no issue.
• Vocal – crooning tenor & emotion comes across beautifully.
• One fleeting instance of high grain.
• Rhythm guitar clear and crispy.
• Soundstage and instrument placement at highest level.

Blood Incantation – The Message Tablet III

• Death style vocals upfront and rounded nicely.
• Busy passages handled extremely well – no sense of lag.
• Guitars chugging and squeals all timbrally correct.
• No haze or shrill elements.
• Spacious, epic and full-blooded.
• Transition to flute – clear and weaves nicely with clean vocals that are layered in a sumptuous way.
• Bass – deep and thumpy.

Echoberyl – Into The Beyond

• Bass is delicious, thumpy but tight.
• Instrument & vocal separation.
• Rich and exciting sound.
• Picked up some tangerine dream vives for the first time in the sequenced line.
• First time noticing some high-pitched notes and hidden lower layers.

Dead Can Dance – Children Of The Sun

• Deep, creamy and spacious sub-bass.
• Overlaid drums nuanced and tight.
• Each element has defined space with appropriate reverb.
• Cohesive, great sense of space.
• Staging perfect.
• Brendan’s vocals rich and mellifluous, flowing nicely but separated appropriately from Lisa’s.
• Brass is punchy and harmonically rich, not abrasive.
• Lisa’s hammered dulcimer textured nicely.

Azam Ali – Hope

• Deep and thumpy bass.
• Grand sense of space.
• Synth resonates nicely.
• Vocals clear and at the foreground, inflections distinct and clear.
• First time hearing saw wave effect on some synth elements.

Emily Jane White – Show Me The War

• Mids and Vocals star of the show – absolutely aced.
• No Sibilance, appears just on the edge at times but never crossing.
• Deep impact of bass and drums nicely articulated.
• Nice sense of width with clean electric guitar.
• Pacing is fabulous.

Harold Budd – Ice Floes In Eden

• Sub-bass and decay (example 30 sec & 1:20) – permeates the lower regions perfectly without muddying the mids.
• High keys articulated cleanly without piercing or glare.
• Wide stage.
• Synth lines distinct and not merged.

Vangelis – Pinta, Nina, Santa Maria (Into Eternity)

• Lower registers are grand and weighty.
• High notes are clear and nicely rendered without any flare-ups.
• Accurately portrays space.
• Rich, cinematic and cohesive mix of all elements.
• Choral elements nuanced and emotional.

Sophie Kazandjian – Glass Slopes

• Piano notes crisp and nicely rendered.
• Space and reverb articulated in a pleasing manner.
• Wide stage.
• No mushiness.
• No shrillness or glare.

Remina – Aeon Rains

• Sub-bass meaty but in-lane, rounded.
• Heike’s vocals breathy and upfront, rounded nicely.
• Vocal layers blended but distinct personalities weaving in and out.
• Crunchy guitar has the right amount of bite.
• Emotional and epic.
• 3d space rendered.
• No excessive decay on drums.

Ulver – Høyfjeldsbilde

• Woody guitar tone nicely captured.
• Twining lead lines articulated with clarity.
• No excessive buzz or plucking artifacts.

Trees Of Eternity – Condemned To Silence

• Breathy female vocals centred with realistic space.
• Acoustic guitar clear with the right amount of resonance.
• Supporting synth lines clear and wide.
• Spatial cues rendered extremely well.

Comparison with TSMR-X

Reiterating AB’ing is not my forte, I was very interested to compare the Archangel with my TSMR-X.

One thing that surprised me immediately was the size difference. Despite the Archangel looking like a behemoth next to the TSR-X, I have encountered no fit issues at all.

It is also worth noting that I have logged more hours on the TSMR-X, but Archangel is catching up slowly but surely…

The TSMR-X presents a slightly smaller sense of width and is overall brighter to my ears, with the bass lacking the same amount of depth and impact of the Archangel.

While I only ever heard the potential risk of sibilance arriving on Archangel (walking the edge on tricky tracks only) the TSMR was more susceptible here for sure.

The TSMR sounded a bit more laid-back on a number of test tracks and I feel the Archangel was able to render busy passaged in a superior way.

Overall the Archangel is an upgrade, with more depth, width, better layering and a nice meaty low-end.
The acoustic guitar and piano lines were clearly more distinct on Bowie’s Quicksand for example.



Conclusion

While I have been tempted by several recent Penon and ISN releases, I am very happy that I held out for the Archangel (despite initial reservations over the appearance).

These beauties have not left my ears since arriving a week ago.

This is a highly recommended set, especially if you are after an engaging, rich, weighty but technical performance.

I would say this is almost an essential purchase if you favour epic soundtracks, electronic and cinematic music. However, this is not to say this could not indeed fulfil a "one and done" for those on the lookout.

If you haven't tried a Penon before, and the wallet allows, give these guys a spin. You may just become as enamoured as I.

The Archangel is definitely taking a place in my “go-to” rotation and I look forward to continuing the rediscovery of my library in the future.

Kudos to Team @EffectAudio & @Penon

Disclaimer:
This is an audio enthusiast’s impression.
This set is a retail unit. The item is mine; I purchased this set — full amount.
I am not in any capacity affiliated with Effect Audio or Penon, nor was there any incentive to promote their product.

+(15) years in Headfi.org, time to give back to the community by sharing

The Collaboration

This came as a surprise, like just weeks before its release. The post on the Penon Facebook page was a straightforward announcement about their collaboration with M/S Penon and Effect Audio, with no further details provided.

The Packaging

It serves as a clear indicator of what's inside the packaging; this rather accomplished bundle contains something special.


The Build

Archangel: Penon-badged products, as always, feature durable shells. The shells and plates are made from extra thick gauged European source resin.

My more-than-four-year-old Volts are doing great! They are part of the regular roll. There are no quality issues whatsoever.



Cadmus II: Folks more familiar than me with the Effect Audio range will definitely get a nod on this set. The Cadmus II presentation exudes a corporate, formal, and mature vibe, conveying a sense of business. And serious business is what we’ll hear. It’s full of confidence without being showy.


The Comfort and The Fit
They are small to medium in profile but wide crosswise. Fit is not an issue here.




Nozzles are 5.5 mm ⌀ x 8 mm long, including the ear canal profile. This means that even the smallest ear tips can accommodate it.

Specifications

PENON × EFFECT Audio

ARCHANGEL 8 Drivers Hybrid Audiophile IEM

Driver Configuration:

2 Dynamic Driver + 4 Balanced Armature + 2 Bone Conduction Driver

Low frequency: 2 coaxial 8mm PET + carbon nanotube diaphragm

Middle frequency: 2 Knowles composite middle frequency Balanced Armature

High frequency: 2 Sonion composite high frequency Balanced Armature

Full frequency: 2 Sonion composite bone conduction driver

Effect Audio Cadmus II Cable:

Effect Audio Cadmus II is the world's FIRST solid core 8-wire handwoven IEM cable, it’s offering a fuller body that maintains tight control and impactful depth. It excels particularly well on higher frequencies, unveiling layers of detail previously hidden, bringing clarity and brilliance to every note. Cadmus II delivers a sound that is both crisp and effortlessly refined.

Switch definition:

Switch 1: Control low frequency; turn on to enhance low frequency, turn off to normal mode

Switch 2: Control high frequency; turn on to enhance high frequency, turn off to normal mode

Specification

Impedance:2 ohm @ 1 kHz

Sensitivity:5 dB @ 1 kHz

Frequency response range: 10~40kHz

Cable: 26AWG 8-wire UP-OCC smelting process, single material Litz with silver-plated copper central core, 6 multi-sized core bundles with EA UltraFlexir insulation.

Connection: 2-pin 0.78mm

Plug: EA Standard Rhodium Plated Brass Straight Type PENON × EFFECT Audio

Cable: 26AWG 8-wire UP-OCC smelting process, single material Litz with silver-plated copper central core, 6 multi-sized core bundles with EA UltraFlexir insulation.

Connection: 2-pin 0.78mm

Plug: EA Standard Rhodium Plated Brass Straight Type


The Higher registers in the graph (Treble range) represent treble switch was on

The Sound

Let’s do a top down

Archangel

Treble

I indicated in the packaging section that there was something special inside. The presence and brilliance frequency ranges were done extremely well. Negated with sibilance, we can hear with consummate ease the quality of air, clarity, crispness, detail, extension, and natural decay. Welcome to the fatigue-free sessions, despite giving off the qualities mentioned.

Midrange

This is a Penon set, through and through. The fluid midrange, the details, the projection, the quality of separation and the layering are but the hallmarks of the Penon camp. This is tuned to be as neutral as possible without sounding thin. Human voices are treated with equality, with no gender preferences. Piano and strings are palpable

The Bass

Through the entirety of the 100-plus hours of playback, the Bass switch was off.

Sub and mid bass are of high quality in terms of decay, extension, rumble, and texture. Its shelf is admirable enough as well the equal to that of the legendary 846, establishing the virtual floor. On top of this, Archangel bass has the uncanny ability to mimic subwoofers in near-field fashion as long as the recorded track has it. Flexing much? Perhaps that's what makes this set so exceptional.


Technicalities

The sound is not strictly V-shaped, owing to the exceptional clarity it conveys in the midrange. The midrange, including voices, is pushed away from the listener, effectively creating a distinct, proper holographic imaging, yet it remains overall euphonic in nature.

Timbre has an excellent degree of realism.

Layering is good, as well as separation. 3D effects are a joy to be had.

The scale of imaging ranges from medium to large.


The Cadmus II

Let’s do this: imagine the Archangel had the stock 816 cable and compare thereafter.

With the 816, all major frequencies are present, including its technical abilities. There is a decent amount of clarity and resolution. Holographic imaging is there, but it could be better.

Replacing the 816 with the Cadmus II, we hear better clarity, better detail, and better resolution overall across the frequencies.

Better low level and macro detail retrieval, all thanks to a blacker background

There has been an improvement in the scale of imaging and an increase in headroom from all directions.


Select Comparisons

Archangel Cadmus II has some of the best tuning in this price range. It’s technically a V-shape tuning, but a shallow one. Timbre is good; it represents all instruments well, including the human voice, both female and male and without preference. Sound field real estate is among the largest from all axes, with shoulder blade width, a really tall head stage and a half-circle range from shoulder stage depth.
This will play and sing from ambient to Zz top with speed metal tracks in between.


Vs the Tenth Anniversary IEM Headphone x Bass cable

The 10th is more natural in tuning, with less bass and treble amplitude. Mids is a trading punches scene. They are both fluid, detailed, and well-projected from centre stage. The Archangel is more adept at retrieving detail.

Technicalities go to the Archangel as well, with the 10th losing out on stage height and width. The stage depth is not significantly different, with the Archangel having a slightly deeper set.

The scale of imaging is slightly larger on the Archangel.


Vs the TSMR X

With the switches on the settings 1,0,1 – Bass on the X is somewhat mid-bass emphasised. The mids on the X are a little warmer, giving it heft and sound more effectively engaging compared to the neutral Archangel. Treble is a no match. Brilliance goes to the Archangel by far and wide.

Technicalities go to the Archangel; despite the X's bass shelf putting up a decent fight, stage depth is flat out, though.


Vs the Voltage

Voltage tuning is primarily for neutral heads and vinyl lovers alike. Despite the bass and treble switches, they won't reach subterranean bass and sparkly brilliance as the Archangel's. The Voltage reenacts open, outdoor scenes.
Bass is more Impacting on the Archangel. Trebles are brighter, more amplified, too.
Mids on both are excellent the Voltage being the more natural, effortless in delivery whilst more engaging on the Archangel's.
There's the impression that the Archangel detail retrieval has more to give and less apparent on the Voltage.

Sound field rendering on shoulder width goes to the Archangel, depth goes to the Voltage and cathedral height goes to the Archangel.

All these being said Orchestra with cantata thrown in sound best on the Voltage.

Everything else, the Archangel.

Voltage is a Japanese selvedge whilst the Archangels are your Levi's 511 commuter on sale.

You'll be wanting both, but you're gonna wear more the 511s.




Final Words

Penon has once again excelled, scoring two runs. For me, there's definitely no need to upgrade the cable. They’re a capable set, and having known EA since 2017, they build some of the most reliable cables out there. The Cadmus II is a premium set and enhances the Archangel’s capabilities to the next level.

The Archangel, priced at $799, is another set from Penon that prioritises value for money. It is needless to say, but I’ll say it anyway: this set punches way above its price point for quality tuning, versatility, excellent technicalities, perceived durability and reliability.

Enjoy your music and the weekend.

Thank you for reading.

My best to everyone,

Ben