Syun ME-1

bhazard

Headphoneus Supremus
Pros: Excellent clarity, wide soundstage, analytical
Cons: a bit thin and cold without a bass boost, few accessories
SYUN ME-1
 
SYUN is a relatively new brand out of China with an apparently well known (in China) acoustic tuning staff behind it. The ME-1 is the current flagship, and it is an impressive debut.
 
Specifications: 
  1. Driver unit: 9.8 mm dynamic driver 
  2. Rated Impedance: 30 Ohm 
  3. Sensitivity: 120 dB/mW 
  4. Frequency response: 15Hz- 22KHz 
  5. Plug: 3.5mm gold plated plug
  6. Cable: 1.20 mm TPU cable
 
Build Quality: 
  1. Attractive, flashy design 
  2. Sturdy, light
 
With its shiny gold metallic coated housing, a quick visual of the ME-1 is striking. A large grilled vent in the back allows a semi-open sound with good isolation. The housing is small and should fit in most ears without any issues. The cable has little to no microphonics, but it is more of a standard wire look and subdued compared to the housing.
 
Accessories:
  1. 3 pairs of silicon tips (S,M,L)
  2. Velvet Bag
 
For a $100 IEM, this is a bit disappointing. The silicone tips are standard issue and not much better than what you would get from cheaper IEMS. The Hifiman RE-400 came with an abundance of tips at this price in comparison. The lack of accessories makes it seem like less of a value, but then again most enthusiasts have their own special sets of tips they enjoy. I’m all for cutting back fluff in order to lower the buying price, so I hope that’s what SYUN went for here.
 
Sound Quality:
  1. Mostly analytical, flat sound
  2. Can be a bit thin for bass lovers
  3. Vocals shine
  4. Big soundstage
  5. Benefits greatly from an amp
 
The ME-1 can be best described as a dynamic earphone that sounds like a single balanced armature one. The sound kept reminding me of the MeElectronics A161P BA, but at a more refined level.
 
The sound is very analytical, which is unusual from a single dynamic driver. Those who like a thick, deep, driving bass will not find it here, as the sound signature remains relatively flat throughout. It does take EQ well, so a good 30% bass boost is possible (and pleasing).
 
The tuning is centered on excellent vocal performance. Clarity and soundstage are above average and validate the ~$100 price point. The wide soundstage is very reminiscent of the Havi B3 Pro 1’s, although not quite at its level.
 
The flat sound is both a pro and a con. Highs can seem to be a bit much at times, which is the same problem I had with the A161P. Unlike the A161P, a bass boost can be applied to smooth things out without ruining the sound. EDM and bass oriented music can sound a bit thin as well without that boost. If you loved the A161P, you’ll love the ME-1 as well.
 
The ME-1 is also a bit hard to drive. Out of a smartphone they are just barely passable. With a small or solid amp, the extra power allows the ME-1 to be driven properly to its full capability.
 
Thoughts:
 
I love transparent, analytical sound with the ability to add bass boost as needed without distortion. The ME-1 does this, and does it well. If you like this kind of sound, the SYUN is worth a buy. Recommended.
 
The SYUN ME-1 can be found at lendmeurears.com
http://www.lendmeurears.com/syun-me-1/
 
I'd like to thank Lendmeurears for providing me the sample for review.
schom
schom
dear sir,
i own the astrotec ax7 and i need a similar one.
i cannot decide between the 1more triple driver and this earphone.
i only listen to classic music and my question is do i go for the 1more or this earphone?
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