This is my first unprofessional review. In the year 2023, I have been using the XBA-A1AP for a full 5 years. It was my first high-resolution earphone, priced at just under $100 USD. However, when I first listened to it, I immediately fell in love with its sound. As an in ear headphone that doesn't loop around the ear and directly inserts into the ear, it really doesn't have much of a stethoscope effect.
Listening Preferences:
I listen to a wide variety of music genres, from classical to heavy metal. This is why it has been challenging for me to find a pair of headphones that truly suits my preferences with armature driver and dynamic driver. I seek a balance between strong bass, excellent mid-to-high tones, and detailed audio performance, this makes me hard to choose a nice in-ear headphone
Sound Characteristics:
The sound of XBA-A1AP is cool, and crisp but balanced, and clean sound. Its balance is exceptional and possesses a powerful sense of spatial feeling. The sound distribution is well-balanced without being overly concentrated in the front and also provides a uniquely enjoyable listening experience. Unlike many other earphones, I don't get the same feeling when listening to many other headphones. For example, when listening to
Japeboy - Azure (Roald Velden Remix), it makes me feel like I'm sailing on a yacht.
Detail and Performance:
What sets this earphone apart is its impressive representation of details, even very small sounds are clear. In rock music, its detailed performance surpasses many earphones in the same price range, it's so clear in the middle and high notes while keeping the drum sound. Coupled with its expansive soundstage, the overall performance leaves me thoroughly satisfied.
Comparison with Other Headphones:
I have tried great brands like Sony XBA-A3, Etymotic ER3XR, and niche models like Periodic Audio Be V3, but I keep coming back to the XBA-A1AP for its unique qualities. Despite my encounters with various headphones, there's something about the XBA-A1AP that consistently draws me in. Of course, I acknowledge that my exploration of headphones is ongoing, and I plan to explore more in-ear monitors to find the perfect sound signature.
Conclusion:
After using it for a long time, I've actually used headphones from big brands like Sony XBA-A3, Etymotic ER3XR, and even niche headphones like Periodic Audio Be V3. However, for various reasons and after many turns, I still end up reaching for these headphones. Of course, I believe this is also because I haven't tried enough headphones. I plan to purchase other headphones with both armature and dynamic driver in the future to find the sound I'm looking for.
This is how it looks now and yes it is playing music