Tanchjim Cora

430633

500+ Head-Fier
Great for price, but... nozzle filters are prone to clog over time, severely impacting sound
Pros: Harman-like tuning, responds well to ear tips like the jvc spiral dot, light and comfortable, decent seal, solid build quality, affordable, looks? (subjective), audibly distorts only at hazardous volume levels (around the 1:30 position of the volume knob on my Motu M2)
Cons: Non-detachable cable, treble seems to be slightly lacking in certain regions (mild concern, changes with tip swapping), soundstage and imaging slightly congested with stock tips despite pleasant frequency response through them, filters over nozzles clog over time
The other online reviews and even sound demos on youtube are more than enough to cover the sonic front, so I won't dwell on it any longer as I am in the middle of procrastinating on a uni assignment :p

My main point is to highlight that the filter over the nozzle opening clogs over time and severely affects sound. It is not a visible phenomenon, as I found out too late to my regret. I've been detecting a major imbalance recently between the left and right channels, with the left channel being significantly louder. Tried changing and readjusting tips and stuff (even tried tugging on the cable to see if it's a loose internal connection) to no avail. In the middle of dismantling the right iem the filter fell out, and the sound suddenly cleared up (was playing music very loudly through it as a test- confirmed the results listening to it in my ears at safer levels after that). I could still glue the backplate back at this stage, but the prospect of obtaining new filters for it and the trouble of the process and my curiosity regarding its interior got the better of me. In the end, I fully disassembled it to the point of isolating its driver unit. Felt it would be a waste to leave my findings unshared, so here it is!

Things I learnt through this dissecting process were:
1. Filters should be considered
2. This iem has surprisingly meticulous interior design (simple, but little important details at all places where they are needed)
3. Construction quality is more than enough to last years under normal conditions without a fault
4. Materials used were rugged enough to present as daunting during the dissection process despite my equipment (small swiss knife with scissors, tweezers and all)

The backplate was glued extremely securely to the plastic housing- it was a nightmarish process trying to separate them without separating my fingers from my hand using the knife. The plastic material here isn't very hard but is ridiculously strong. Just within the housing itself, there is a thin but sturdy U-shaped metal cable guard/lock which almost destroyed my pair of scissors before I noticed it (my scissors escaped with a little dent in their blades; this metal piece remained unscathed). The driver unit was very snugly fitted to the acoustic chamber within the housing, and it was hard to remove it from that position due to their tight fit and silicone sealing. I tried using the metal tweezers from the nozzle side to push it out at first, but it didn't budge. The brass? driver front plate was surprisingly resilient and did not sustain any indents during this process. In the end, I had to resort to the knife again by force-wedging it between the driver unit and the enclosure and using it as a mini crowbar to wrench the driver unit out. The brass? driver housing only received light scratches and a minor indent from the knife during the brutal process.

While nestled to the acoustic chamber, the driver directly faces a tiny port/vent. There is another such opening, on the front of the plastic iem housing like the first, but with this one located behind the driver instead. Both of them are covered by a circular white dampening sticker of sorts. The rear of the driver enclosure also has a tuning port/acoustic vent with damping material stuck over it. There is a similar undamped hole in the middle later of the unit, right behind the diaphragm, while the front plate consists of 12 undamped small holes arranged in a ring around a much bigger central one. The cable terminations are soldered to a ring-shaped circuit board on the back of the driver enclosure, and the magnet, along with the wire coils, seem to be inside the solid capsule. Nice attention has clearly been given to the tuning of this iem, and with the quality of materials and construction, it should under no circumstance fail under normal usage conditions and span of years. It's a pity about the undetachable cable and especially the nozzle filters, which are its main weakness- though I'm sure replacements can be found, it is unsure how third party replacements will affect the sound. It would be a tiresome process, and that's if people are aware that sonic deficiencies are a result of the filters clogging in the first place- otherwise, they would probably toss the otherwise perfectly fine iems out (instead of dissecting it like I did, but the end result is the same- we all lose a fine set of iems that's built to last T.T)

My set has been used for 2 years with minimal care given, and other than the clogged right filter still works perfectly fine. The cable suffers from slight discolouration though, which is most prominent around the region where they loop around the ears
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Headphones and Coffee

Previously known as Wretched Stare
Pros: A solid yet lightweight construction, wonderfully L shaped signature I found refreshing and comfortable for all types of usage.
Cons: Cable is not upgradable or removable. Otherwise it would have received 5 Stars easy.
Great presentation opening the box the accessories are inside in another smaller box and include six pairs of tips and a velvet pouch.

Build quality is very good even though this is plastic and lightweight it does not feel cheap the seams are perfectly flawless. Cable is thin but has a solid feel.

The sound coming from the single carbon diaphragm DD is surprisingly balanced with lower emphasis and excellent mid-range the treble is natural and reaches a perfect point to fall off.

Soundstage is accurate but not overly wide or intimate it's just right in my opinion.
Vocals are fantastic and not hindered by the bass in any way. This is a fun pair and exceeded my expectations by a mile.
My thanks to Oardio Sound for the review sample.
IMG_20191011_194844_238.jpg https://www.oardio.com/
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guicnovaes

100+ Head-Fier
Pros: Amazing natural, organic, and realistic sound
- Very good build quality and ergonimics
- Incredible Price/Performance ratio
Cons: - Fixed Cable (non-detachable)
First of All: Sorry for the bad english... :ksc75smile:

I am going to talk about this IEM, which, to me, is one more very convincing proof that quality isn't always associated with price.

It is an IEM with 1 dynamic driver on each side, small size, very good build quality, and great ergonomics and comfort. And the main thing: an absurdly natural and correct sound.

ACESSORIES

The earphone comes in a small box, very well finished. Inside the box, there are some papers and cards from Tanchjim, a small pouch and two packages with Eartips on S, M and L. In one pack there are eartips of Rubber and in the other you will find the ones of silicone. The Eartips that already comes docked on the earphones are the silicone ones, on M size, and were the ones that fit better in my ears.

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Another highlight goes to the quality of the pouch; it is velvety and soft, but very thick and sturdy.

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BUILD QUALITY AND ERGONOMICS


Overall, the build quality of Tanchjim Cora is very good. The IEM is quite small and the faceplates are made of painted aluminum with the brand symbols. The rest of the structure is made with a good quality semi-translucent plastic. Is possible to see the dynamic drivers (which are quite large in comparation with the IEM size) that are each covered by a metal plate (brass), which is "electrophoretic", to reduce resonances, according to the manufacturer. I didn't notice imperfections on the structure. Good Job by Tanchjim.

IMG_20190531_175543405.jpg

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The cable is the same "High purity silver-plated OFC" that comes with the Tanchjim Oxygen. The only difference is that in the case of Cora it is fixed. For me, this is the only negative point regarding the cable. Despite this, I have only praise for the quality of the cable, even more for the price of the IEM. It looks very sturdy, is very well fixed to the earphones and presents very low, or no perceptible microphonics, depending of the type of use. When it comes to flexibility, it is not exceptional, but it has sufficient flexibility for good use and is difficult to tangle. An interesting point is that it doesn't come with the typical Ear Hooks to fit behind the ear. It is the cable itself, which is partly moldable, that fits in on the back of the ear. Overall, it turns out to be a very practical cable.
IMG_20190531_175814332.jpg

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Regarding ergonomics, again, i have only praise. Although not as good as the semi-custom HiFi Boy OS V3, for example, it took me a little time to find a good position to fit the parts with a good seal. The small size of the earphones also helps a lot on it.

IMG_20190601_012121029.jpg


EFFICIENCY


The Tanchjim Cora has 16 ohm impedance and 103 dB/mW sensitivity. It is therefore quite efficient, enough to play very weel on the majority of the smartphones out there. No difference was noted in the sound quality between it connected directly on the Samsung Galaxy S8 or using an amp (Fiio A5). Differences only in terms of volume.


SOUND


As some measurements show, the Tanchjim Cora follows Harman Target. Its sound signature is L-shaped: there is a slight emphasis on the bass, with the midrange and treble are perceptible on the same level of intensity (quantity).

The best word that could be used to describe the sonority of this IEM is "Natural." The level of naturalness and realism of sound are amazing. All the instruments, voices and various others different sounds, are portrayed very correctly, as they really should be. All the frequency ranges are very well placed, with great balance, cohesion and without any kind of exaggeration or artificiality. It's the kind of sound very pure, simple and honest, as you can find in a Headphone like the Sennheiser HD650 or the HD600.

PS: You can find detailed measurements (By HeavyMetal Hallelujah's Blog) of the Tanchjim Cora in this link (use tradutor COREAN-ENGLISH):

https://blog.naver.com/PostView.nhn...wDate=&isShowPopularPosts=false&from=postView


Bass


The lows of the Tanchjim Cora are a little accented. It isn't neutral in quantity, but is very well controlled. It is the type of bass that will never interfere in the other frequencies nor will be overly present when not needed.

The sub-bass has great presence, extension and and definition. There is no looseness on the Sub-bass; you can accurately perceive and easily distinguish it from mid-bass.

Regarding to mid-bass, it have a very well defined punch and, again, a lot of control. As I said in the Hifi Boy OS V3 review, they are of the type of bass that will give enough quantity for the listener to enjoy any musical genre without any exaggeration or deficiency. The transition from bass to midrange is flawless, I didn't notice any interference in the mids.

Mids


For me, this is the best aspect of the sound of this IEM. The midrange of Tanchjim Cora is simply butterly, Pure and Beautiful. There is a lot of presence and linearity (neutrality) in this frequency region, but with a lot of control, without any exaggeration. What is most impressive is the extreme naturalness, fluidity and realism of this frequency range, both in terms of timbre and tonal balance. There is no shouty mids, no spikes, nor hashness, no fatiguing. On the other hand, there isn't hollowness or dips on the this frequency range. Everything sound very, very correctly.

Imagine a snare drum or an acoustic guitar being played in front of you. If you put the Tanchjim Cora in your ears and listen to the recordings (good recordings) of these instruments, the result will be very similar sounds and timbres. The same can be said for voices.

All the details are exposed very clearly, but only those that are actually brought by the recording. Do not expect the kind of sound with emphasis on the region (upper mids, mainly) to give the impression of extra/fake details. Again, It's all about natural and organic sound.

Treble


The treble region of the Tanchjim Cora is also very correct. I terms of quantity, the treble is in line with the mids, also very neutral. There is no boost on the highs. On the other hand, in overall, I didn't hear a roll off on this frequency region. The extension is also very good.

PS: About Extension, I have seen some people confusing Extension with Quantity; almost always they state that an IEM with a lower amount of treble has less extension in the region. Extension and quantity are two different things. Extended treble means having a wider range towards higher frequencies, which does not mean that the treble to be accentuated.

The details of higher-pitched instruments, such as snare drums, guitars, pianos, synths, are all heard with great clarity, naturalness and fidelity. However, as explained about the midrange, the detailing heard will be the extent provided by the recording. if there is any detail in the recording, the tanchjim cora will deliver, but without exaggeration, without fake detailing, all with a lot of control.


SOUND STAGE AND IMAGING


I found the Sound Stage of the Tanchjim Cora very "natural", since it delivers the spatiality provided by the recording. Do not expect that artificial sensation of great spatiality, like and Open Back Headphone, for an example. On the Other Hand, there isn't a feeling of claustrophobic sound. The Soundstage, in overall, is quite satisfactory.

The imaging is very good. There is a lot of precision and timing between the sounds delivered by the left handset and the right handset. In addition, the location of the instruments is also quite accurate.


COMPARISONS:

Sony MH1C


NOTE: Before doing this comparison, I have to make it clear that the Sony MH1C quality control is not good. I suspect mine is a bit treble and bass quantity than normal (which I realize from the various frequency graphs).
The Tanchjim and Sony sounds very similar, but with a few minor differences.

The MH1C Sub-bass region is a little more emphasized and loose than the Cora's. In addition, it desn't have the same level of precision, definition and control, although they are also very good.
The Mid-bass region is very similar, both in quantity and definition. Despite this, I feel a bit more punch on the Tanchjim Cora.

All the characteristics I referred to with regard to Tanchjim Cora's Midrange can also be attributed to the Midrange of the MH1C. The difference is that I feel a little more presence and refinement on the mids of the Cora. The MH1C's mids, although a little less present, are also a little more raw and aggressive, compared to the one of the Tanchjim. Despite this, I have to make it clear that MH1C isn't aggressive, overall. These (very small) differences are perceived only in a direct comparison between these two IEMs.

Regarding the Treble, once again, they are quite similar in terms of timbre, definition and control. However, there is a bit more quantity on the Sony MH1C than the Tanchjim Cora.
In terms of Sound Stage and Imagin, both are very similar.

HiFi Boy OS V3


Both OS V3 and Cora have natural, relaxed and musical sonority. However, the OS V3 has a "darker" sound, while Cora is more correct, with no coloring.
The low-frequency region of these two earphones is very similar, both in terms of definition and extension. The difference here is that I feel a little more Sub-bass on the OS V3.

As for the Midrange, the OS V3 has slightly more "fat and dark" mids than the Cora. the HiFi Boy has a small increase on the low-mids, which give a little more weight to the region. In addition, it has a dip in the upper-mids region, which gives it a darker and more relaxed character to the midrange. The Tanchjim Cora, in comparison, has neutral, linear, mids without any peak, rise or dip on the region, which makes them more alive in comparison, but with the same refinement.

The treble of the two headphones are very similar, both have terms of extension, as well as timbre and quantity.
In terms of Sound Stage and Imaging, both are very similar.

Westone UM PRO 50.


NOTE: I do not have this IEM in hand, however, I listened to it exhaustively late last year for 3 days compared to the HiFi Boy OS V3 and I have a very clear memory of its sonority. The impression are based on this remembrance.

The sound of the UM PRO 50 is quite natural and relaxed, but darker (a little more than that of OS V3).

The Sub-bass of the PRO PRO 50 is lesser in quantity than the one of Cora, however, there is a similar definition in the region. On the mid-bass, the (very high) quality is also similar. However, I feel a little more punch on Cora's, even for the fact that it uses a Dynamic Driver to produce bass, instead of BAs, like the UM PRO 50.

The midrange of the PRO PRO 50 has a small increase in the region of Low-mids, as well as the OS V3, which gives more weight to this frequency range. There is a dip in the upper-mids of the UM PRO 50, which makes the overall midrange darker, in comparison to the Cora's one.
The Tanchjim, by having neutral mids, ends up having more life, realism and naturalness in this frequency region.

The treble is very similar in quality; but UM PRO 50 are a bit recessed in this region, while the treble of the Cora are more neutral in quantity.
In terms of Sound Stage and Imaging, they are also very similar, but with a bit advantage in spatially (sound stage) for the UM PRO 50.

CONCLUSION

It is impressive the sound that this IEM delivers for only 50 USD. Despite this, it is not news to me that price is not always synonymous with performance and that Marketing generates so much unconscious influence on people that it even changes their perception of sound. Not even expensive IEMs like the famous CA Andromeda impressed me as much as this IEM.

In my opinion, this is truly Hi-Fi sound (fidelity to the original recording), rather than what some "audiophiles" call Hi-Fi, which are sound signatures with boost on the high frequencies to artificially emphasize details.
Given the sound characteristics of the Tanchjim Cora: naturalness, realism, musicality, cohesion and its sound signature, overall, regardless of the price, THIS IS THE BEST IEM I EVER PUT IN MY EAR, until now.

I have a lot of curiosity and a certain expectation other IEMs that follow Harman Target, like Tanchjim Oxygen and Moondrop Kanas Pro, but, due to Cora's already high quality, I don't expect something much better (in terms of sound), maybe some small differences, despite the price.


SPECS:


Brand:TANCHJIM
Model: Cora
Driver: carbon diaphragm
Impedance:16Ω
Sensitivity:103dB/mW
Frequency response:10-40kHz
THD:<0.2%
Plug:3.5mmgold-plated straight plug
Package
TANCHJIM Cora
6 pais of silicone eartips
Pouch

Price: 49.90 USD

Link were I bought (Penon Audio): https://penonaudio.com/tanchjim-cora.html
guicnovaes
guicnovaes
@NeonHD thanks for your trust!

@Blazer39 I cannot say that the Tanchjim Cora has a forgiving sound, because it will let you know, clearly and instantly, when it's a bad recording. But, as it doesn't have boosted highs, you will not have your ears raped with bad recordings.
guicnovaes
guicnovaes
@Blazer39 Sorry, I forgot to answer the other part of your question.

About music with multiple instruments, again, the Tanchjim Cora performs very, very good too. As it has high precision in the overall sound and in the imaging, you can differentiate well the instrument At the same time, it has a very euphonic and musical sound.
I hear a lot of instrumental and metal music. There was no musical genre that this IEM played bad, it was great with everything.
Blazer39
Blazer39
thanks @guicnovaes , i guess with that description and price...Cora seems like a no-brainer.

cqtek

1000+ Head-Fier
Pros: Similar response to Harman Target.
- Comfort, ergonomics and lightness
- Low and medium-emphasized, treble-safe.
- Clarity and depth.
Cons: The cable is fixed and rigid.
- Low sensitivity, they require power to show their potential.
Introduction

Tanchjim is a brand from China, established in 2015, according to its logo. The Cora model is the lowest priced IEM that the brand has in the market. Other models of the same brand are Darkside and Oxygen. The Cora wants to be a model with a fun philosophy, young and casual, proof of it is its packaging, its design and the multiple colors to choose.

Tanchjim Cora 01.jpg

Although it seems very simple, there is much more research and development behind it than can be seen at first glance: both the materials used, the design of the capsules, its interior, drivers and cables, have been carefully designed to provide the best sound.

Specifications

  • Driver: Dynamic driver with 9.9mm carbon diaphragm
  • Frequency response:10 Hz – 40 kHz
  • Impedance: 16 Ω
  • THD: <0.2%
  • Plug: straight 3.5mm
  • Cable size: 1.2m
Tanchjim Cora 02.jpg

Packaging

The Cora come in a striking red box, decorated with multiple simple drawings and musical styles. On the cover of the box you can see a photo of the IEMs, the brand name and the model. The specifications are written on the back in several languages. On the sides you can read various musical styles and various schematic drawings that allude to the interior content.

After opening the box you can see:

  • The capsules are encased in a foam mould.
  • A box at the bottom containing the accessories.
  • Manual of use.
  • Warranty Certificate.
  • Business card.
  • 3 pairs of red silicone tips sizes SxMxL with narrow inner channel.
  • 3 pairs of red silicone tips sizes SxMxL with wide inner channel.
  • A transport bag.
Tanchjim Cora 03.jpg

The packaging is very striking for its casual design, as well as for the vivid color in intense it has. The box is compact, of good quality and thickness. Its interior is simple but remarkable in its desire to be very attractive.

Its content is according to the price level, two sets of silicone tips with different inner diameter, to modify the sound and a bag for storage. I miss foam tips and a hard carrying case.

Construction and design

The Cora are small, very ergonomic and ultra light IEMs, designed to be used over the ear. The cable is fixed and despite the quality of the conductor, the rubber coating is quite rigid, with a very high memory effect. It is easily bundled and takes the form of permanent storage. Without a doubt, the cable is the worst thing you can find in this model; moreover, it is fixed. The best of it are the Jack, the divider and the fitting piece for the lace under the chin.

Tanchjim Cora 04.jpg

The cable is connected in the capsules directly, protected by a translucent plastic cone. On the left cone there is a dot to indicate the side.

The capsules consist of a thin machined aluminium outer plate and a transparent plastic body. Its shape is very rounded and very well designed to fit inside the ears. The nozzles are wide and short. They have a very fine and microperforated filter, almost transparent.

The name of the model is written on the left external plate and the logo of the brand is drawn on the right, both in white.

In my opinion, the design attracts attention in itself, but does not give a sensation of robustness to the naked eye, due to its minimal weight. Then, once carefully observed, there is no sign of imperfection or weakness in its construction. The assembly of both pieces is concise and they form a very compact and effective set.

Tanchjim Cora 05.jpg

Adjustment and ergonomics


The fit is excellent, even though the nozzles are short and wide. With narrow outer diameter olives, like the ones that come as standard, a good superficial fit is achieved. Although the cable does not have an ear guide, it does not prevent it from being easily installed. Moreover, with the help of the metal part of the cable, its positioning will be even safer. The combination of these elements provides an almost perfect fit: barely noticeable, barely heavy, barely rubbed, do not move, do not disturb. It can be said that the design in this case is very ergonomically correct.

Tanchjim Cora 06.jpg

Once adjusted, the capsules hardly move or allow rotation. The sound variation due to movement is almost non-existent. Once the right tips are found, the placement process to find the best sound is very fast.

Isolation is medium, because the insertion is superficial.

The negative points are: the sporadic appearance of the Flex Driver effect and the most visible absence of the indication of each channel (right-left).

Tanchjim Cora 07.jpg

Sound

Profile

The profile is very close to the Harman IEM Target 2017, with a little more presence in the lower zone, but also more trimmed in lower highs. Despite this, the essential sonorous characteristics of the Cora are the clarity, the depth of the bass, the cleanliness of the sound and a flagrant fall in the treble.

Tanchjim Cora.png
Harman_IE-2017.png

Bass

The lower zone is remarkable, very clean and deep, with good punch and control. It extends more than what the Harman Target indicates, in my opinion is a success because the bass feels complete and without loss of energy throughout the range. And although it undeniably has a profile with an emphasis on this area, its presence is never overwhelming or feels above the mids.

Tanchjim Cora 08.jpg

The sub-bass is quite fast, with an enormously contained explosive, with excellent recovery. And I say explosive because it feels like a small cannon shot that hardly echoes. This aspect is undoubtedly an exceptional feature of these small IEMs. The other characteristic of the sound in general is its cleanliness, in my opinion I don't observe darkness in any range, neither in the bass.

The texture of the area is quite natural and despite the cleanliness and lack of blurring, the lower area offers a medium level of detail and separation.

Mids

If the punch of the sub bass is remarkable, the presence of the voices are also remarkable. I have previously commented that the Cora don't have a great separation, because they don't generate that feeling of hollow, of silence, between the musical notes. But they do achieve a good differentiation between the low levels and the voices. In pieces where the lows stand out and there are voices, these never appear far away, but quite the contrary, they are shown frontals and easily distinguishable in their own planes. It is clear that basses do not interfere with the mids, but live together in perfect harmony. The different sound layers are easily visible. In this sense, the vocal and instrumental positioning is quite good and their individual follow up is simple and enjoyable.

Tanchjim Cora 10.jpg

The hissing is absolute zero. The perceptible cut in the treble helps in this sense.

The look of the mids is quite balanced, they feel natural, neither warm, nor cold, with no trace of darkness, but neither of brilliance. The best words to define the profile are still clean and clear.

It is not only the voices that should be emphasized, because the rest of the range is at the same level of quality and perception.

Treble

It is the area with the least accent and clearly trimmed of the Cora. Starting at 4kHz, the gain descent begins. Only a small rebound between 7kHz and 8kHz. As you can deduce, the extension is not very large. This characteristic is perceived in the rest of the ranges, especially in the detail, but not in the dark.

Tanchjim Cora 11.jpg

The trebles of the Cora, are fair, their quantity and presence border the limit: they contribute the precise detail, the just vividness, the soft nuance, the natural brightness and an abundant clarity.

Soundstage, separation

The scene has more depth and separation between planes, than width. The Cora offer a more frontal than open focus, where it is easier to distinguish the distance between the different sound planes. Thus, the separation is appreciated more in this frontal distance than in the width.

Still, definition and sharpness are quite good for their price range.

But the most remarkable aspect is still the overall clarity of the sound and its cleanliness in the recreation. The resolution level is good, but without reaching the level that some well-tuned BA drivers can offer.

Tanchjim Cora 12.jpg

Comparisons

BQEYZ KB100

I'll start with the most obvious things: The first big difference between the two is the volume, the KB100 are much easier to move than the Cora. The second difference is in the lower zone. According to the frequency response curve, both IEMs start from the same sub-bass gain. From there the KB100 rise, while the Cora fall. The third obviousness is a certain similarity in both curves, starting at 1000 Hz.

Tanchjim Cora vs BQEYZ KB100.png

If the volume is increased so that the lower zone is equalized in both IEMs, the sub-bass is quite similar, both in punch and in presence. What clearly changes is its relationship with the other frequencies. This is where the Cora stand out, offering a depth of bass and a clearly greater power.

Voices have a similar predominance, but the profile of each IEM is noticeable. The Cora have an emphasized low zone, this provides more body and minimal warmth. KB100s offer more brightness and definition, due to their greater presence in the upper mids than the rest of the frequencies.

Specifically, male voices, due to the slight hump of the KB100 around 200Hz, are closer, but also have a certain muddy spot in some recordings.

The rest of the middle zone is equally influenced by the profile of each IEM, as well as the drivers used. The Cora present this range from a softer and more natural point of view, while the KB100 are influenced by their BA driver, which provides more definition, detail and a colder and more analytical staging.

In the high part, although in both the cut is noticed, the KB100 offer greater presence of low trebles than in the Cora, conditioning their sound globally.

As for the scene, the KB100 have a wider scene, while the Cora offer greater depth. Three-dimensionality, stereophonic recreation, separation and definition are also greater in the KB100.

Tanchjim Cora 13.jpg

Ostry KC06A

Again the big initial difference is the sensitivity. As can be seen in the graph, there is a 10 dB difference between one and the other, with Ostry being much more sensitive.

The graphs show a similar curve, where the differences are in the upper mids and the lower highs. These differences have a great impact on the final sound. The KC06A are perceived darker, warmer and less detailed than the Cora, much cleaner and clearer.

Ostry KC06A vs Tanchjim Cora.png

The lower zone of the Ostry is more diffuse, less defined, thicker, more overwhelming. The Cora offer more information, better texture, a lower zone more analytical and defined, with better recovery.

Similarly, the differences in the mids are repeated between the two IEMs. Although the voices show a similar presence, the darkness is evident in the Ostry in the direct comparison. In addition, the lack of clarity of the KC06A affects the separation: the sound is more forceful, without fissures, but without distance, too homogeneous and dense. The Cora offer greater depth and better instrumental recreation.

The upper zone, in its highest part, is similar. But the low highs differ. The cymbals sound somewhat more complete in the Cora, while in the Ostry they sound more isolated and thinner, very focused on those 6kHz. That peak is not enough to provide some extension in the low highs, it only serves to highlight that band, sometimes sounding unreal.

The scene in the KC06A is quite focused and centered, due to the homogeneity of the sound. The Cora provide more width and sound depth.

Tanchjim Cora 15.jpg

Conclusion

The Tanchjim Cora are IEMs with a profile based on the Harman Target, but with a slight cut in the low highs and a little more emphasis in the lower zone. Its sonorous presentation is clear, clean and deep, with good low and medium ranges, free of sibilances and unwanted peaks. They are very comfortable and ultralight, with a packaging and a young design, fun, attractive, with the possibility of choosing between 5 different colors.

Contrary to the current tendency, the cable is fixed and rigid, with enough memory effect. Another negative point is its low efficiency.

Tanchjim Cora 16.jpg


Sources used during the analysis

  • Burson Audio Playmate (OpAmps V6 Vivid Dual + V6 Classic Dual).
  • Sabaj Da3.

Purchase link

https://penonaudio.com/tanchjim-cora.html

You can read this review in spanish here:

https://hiendportable.com/2019/03/07/tanchjim-cora-review/
12audio
12audio
How milimeters is the nozzle size?
cqtek
cqtek
Outer ring diameter: 6.1mm
Lower nozzle area diameter: 5.1mm
Nozzle length (recessed inner part + outer crown): 3.5mm
12audio
12audio
Thank you so much.
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IryxBRO

500+ Head-Fier
Pros: good bass extension and texturing, thick sound, warm timbre
Cons: only for small ears, simplified treble
One model that I haven’t reviewed yet from Tanchjim brand lineup of IEMs — Cora Macaron. Traditionally for Tanchjim, this inexpensive model is also based on single dynamic driver and features stilized design. All 3 models of IEMs of this brand look quite different and interesting while the ones that were already reviewed also resembled certain sound signature in its name and design. Looking at Tanchjim Cora it is apparent that this model was designed as universal IEMs for teenagers with subsequent vivid sound tuning and signature. Let’s go over it step by step.

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Just a reminder about Tanchjim brand: quite popular brand with the most of attention originating from Asian market. There are tons of positive feedback about DarkSide and Oxygen IEMs from Japan. Seems that this country has some special preference towards Tanchjim brand. Personally, I prefer Tanchjim Oxygen over any other IEMs, despite the price, as the best pair for my HiBY R6Pro DAP.

Tanchjim Cora technical specifications:
  • Type: single dynamic driver IEMs
  • Driver: 9.9mm, carbon diaphragm, dual cavity
  • Impedance:16Ω
  • Sensitivity:103dB/mW
  • Frequency response:10-40kHz
  • THD:<0.2%
  • Plug: 3.5mm, gold-plated, straight plug
  • Cable: OFC, silver-plated copper, non-detachable
  • Color options: green, blue, black, red, pink
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Packaging, design and build quality:

Cora IEMs come in small stylish box that addresses teenager hobbies and clearly states its versality — music, movies and gaming. Box design is neat and at the same time very informative. Apart from brand logos and product picture, prints also contain full technical specifications and maker information.

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Inner box compartment is divided into two parts: Cora IEMs resting in dedicated cutouts in a foamy podium with audio cable packed underneath and another compartment below with box for additional accessories.

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Box contents:
  • Tanchjim Cora IEMs
  • audio cable
  • 6 pairs of silicone eartips
  • soft pouch
  • waranty card with counterfeit protection sticker
  • user manual
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Tanсhjim Cora shells are made of two parts: painted plastic top cover (Tanchjim logo is printed on the right channel and model name on the left one) and semitransparent plastic base.

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Parts alignement is perfect, no gap between the elements. High quality plastic is used, feels durable and looks very nice. Top covers have 5 color options to choose from.

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Semitransparent plastic bases allow to see the insides — golden dynamic driver unit and tiny silver cables.

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There are two compensational openings per channel and casted output nozzles (form one piece with the bases) with nylon protective filters.

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Unfortunately, audio cable is not detachable. Good thing is that it is high quality cable with good silicone banding protection on both sides — IEMs and audio jack.

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Stock cable is 1.2 meters, 4N, silver-plated copper with aluminum Y-splitter, limiter and audio jack housing. Another effort by Tanchjim in terms of design — aluminum elements would also change color when you select another color option.

Fit:

Cora IEMs are small and lightweight. Fit is far from being perfect because the output nozzles are short. The only option for me was to find double flanged eartips and use it instead of the stock ones. So, mind that Cora is for small and young ears :) Perhaps, girls should also be happy with those.

Sound:

Tested with HiBY R6Pro DAP (3.5mm output, reference mode)

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Lows and midbass:

Everything about the deep bass in Cora IEMs would highly depend of eartips option and how deep the nozzles would sit inside your ears. The best position produces very good and deep bass reach, moderate amount of textures and enough bass presence. It is not fast, slightly flows out of control but the entire presentation stays pretty good. Lows have good layering, sound quite controured and don’t interfere with other ranges. But again, if the fit is not perfect and deep Cora IEMs would suffer from lack of bass and produce very bright picture with no frequencies to balance the treble.

Midbass is also highly dependent of IEM position. If everything is ok — it does sound natural, powerful and tight. The dynamics and speed are sufficient to deliver some juicy drive on drums. Treble does have more influence here and midbass section would sound a bit thin in comparison to IEMs with larger shell cavities but the influence is not critical.

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Mids and vocals:

Mids are slightly recessed and scewed towards upper mids portion. This results in more distant male vocals and upfront string instruments or female voices. Though, not prone to shouting or lisping due to warm timbre in overall and only a slight accent. Everything sounds pretty thick and natural, thanks to the developed lowed end. Resolution is moderate, thick treble doesn’t help much to build the perception of substantial micro detalization. Space between the instruments in mids feels quite narrow — instruments tend to mix at higher volume levels. In overall, sound is smooth and slightly warm, with good transitions but compact stage.

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Treble:

Treble range is the most accented in Cora IEMs. This doesn’t produce any piercing effect due to the thickness of sound and moderate extension. It is pretty straight-forward and feels a bit simplified in comparison to BA rivals or some class rivals like BQYEZ KB100. Such treble behavior is compensated by significant elevation of this range to build balanced sound picture in overall. And it works — treble is enough for the sound to feel reach and balanced but it is not producing too much of influence on mids and doesn’t make it sound crisp.

Stage:

Stage width and depth feel moderate due to tight space between instruments in mids and simplified treble. The most of the depth is defined by very good bass layering and separation from other ranges.

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Sound in overall:

Tanchjim Cora sound could be described as not heavily V-shaped, with good bass reproduction and texturing, good midbass capabilities, warm timber on mids, more exposed female vocals and accented, thick but simplified treble. Overall sound signature is warm, sound is appealing and smooth.

Compared to BQEYZ KB100:

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BQEYZ KB100 are based on 2 BA and 1 dynamic drivers that significantly expands the capabilities, especially on treble. Treble is more airy, crisp and extended. Overall resolution is better as well. Instruments are not that tightly situated. Cora, on its turn, is handling deep bass and texturing of lows better, sound warmer and also adds more body to mids. I would say that Cora might compete with KB100 if you like warmer sound but ONLY in case of very good fit.

Compared to Kinera Seed:

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Kinera Seed are hybrid IEMs based on single BA + single dynamic drivers. It lacks the presence and reach of deep bass compared to Cora IEMs. Seed main virtues are better treble extension, more resolution on mids and better instrument separation. Cora does a better job on lows and midbass and creates more engaging sound in overall.

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Conclusion:

Tanchjim Cora are good IEMs with excellent design addressing teenagers, great build quality and appealing sound. It combines modern and emotional V-shaped tuning with smooth presenation and warm timbre that allows long lasting, fatigue-free listening. The only concern is the problems with fit that should be solved by a user to get the best sound balance and quality. Other than that, Tanchjim Cora IEMs are able to share the podium with the most capable models in the corresponding price segment.

Buy Tanchjim Cora at PenonAudio store
12audio
12audio
Can you measure how milimeters is the nozzle size?
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