I purchased this IEM with my own funds and have not received any compensation or incentives to write about its strengths or weaknesses. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own, based on my personal experience.
For those interested in purchasing this IEM internationally, I recommend
HiFiGo. If you're looking to buy within Bangladesh,
Geek Mart is a reliable option.
@TANCHJIM
WHAT IN BOX?
- Earphones 1 pair
- Cable 1
- Conduits 3 pairs
- Pneumatic balance earplugs 6 pairs
- Operation instructions 1
- PVC storage box 1
Technical Details
Impedance: 16Ω±5%.
Sensitivity: 126dB/Vrms.
THD+N: <0.056%.
Frequency Response Range: 2-48kHz.
Connector Type: 0.78mm 2-pin.
Termination Plug: 3.5mm Single-Ended Termination.
The Tanchjim Origin is known for its meticulous design and robust build quality. The IEM features a sleek metal construction that feels solid and durable. However, the mirror finish, while aesthetically pleasing, is prone to fingerprints and scratches, which can be quite annoying. The carved 3D logo on the back of the IEM adds a nice touch, but the matte finish around the logo tends to wear off after some use.
Comfort and Fit
Despite its metal build, which can feel a bit heavy in the hand, the Tanchjim Origin is surprisingly comfortable to wear. The weight is not noticeable once the IEMs are in your ears, and they do not cause ear fatigue even after long listening sessions. The design allows for a secure and comfortable fit, though the interchangeable nozzles can be a bit thick and long. This might cause some trouble with the fit of aftermarket eartips, potentially affecting the seal and, consequently, the sound quality.
Practical Usage
In everyday use, the durability of the metal construction stands out, but the tendency to attract fingerprints and scratches means you'll need to clean them regularly to maintain their appearance. The design ensures they sit well in the ears without causing discomfort, which is a significant advantage for prolonged use.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Tanchjim Origin impresses with its attention to detail and robust build quality. While there are minor drawbacks, such as the susceptibility to fingerprints and potential issues with aftermarket eartip fit, these are outweighed by the durability and comfort of the IEMs. For those who prioritize build quality and design in their audio equipment, the Tanchjim Origin is a commendable choice.
Cable
The Tanchjim Origin comes with a sturdy 2-pin 0.78mm cable terminated in 3.5mm, designed for durability and reliability. While it feels robust, the cable's appearance may not match its price tag, lacking the premium aesthetic of higher-end alternatives. One notable omission is the lack of a 4.4mm balanced version, which could limit options for users seeking balanced audio configurations. Compared to similarly priced competitors like the Dunu Falcon Ultra and SimGOT EA1000, the Tanchjim Origin's cable functionality is solid but could benefit from a more sophisticated design to complement its overall quality in the over $200 USD range.
Tips
The stock tips provided with the Tanchjim Origin deliver a balanced sound profile with no major issues, ensuring a satisfactory listening experience out of the box. However, for audiophiles looking to fine-tune their sound and comfort levels, aftermarket options like the Azla SednaEarfit Max offer noticeable improvements. These silicone tips enhance bass depth and impact while providing a snug fit that enhances isolation and comfort during extended listening sessions. While alternatives like the Dunu Candy tips can enhance sound quality, they may not fit as securely, potentially requiring readjustments during use.
In summary, while the Tanchjim Origin provides a reliable cable and satisfactory stock tips, those seeking to optimize their audio experience can achieve significant improvements by investing in high-quality aftermarket tips like the Azla SednaEarfit Max. These upgrades promise enhanced sound clarity, deeper bass response, and improved comfort, unlocking the IEM's full potential across various listening environments.
Testing Source
Dap:
•Cowon Plenue R2
•Astell & kern sp1000m
•Hiby R3 ii
•Hiny R5 saver
Dongle:
•Questyle M15
•Cayin ru7
•Ddhifi tc44c
•Moondrop dawn pro
•Hidizs s9 pro plus
•Nicehck TC3
•Apple dongle type c
BT DAC:
•IFI Go Blue
•Fiio btr7 and btr5 2021
•Shanling up4 and up5
Dextop:
•Shanling h5
•IFI Zen dac V2
•IFI Hip DAC V2
•Xduoo xd05 basic
Mobile phone:
•Lg v60
•Asus zenfone 10
The Tanchjim Origin proves to be remarkably efficient across a wide array of sources in my testing experience. It consistently delivers excellent sound performance, adapting well to different devices and configurations. One standout observation is its exceptional synergy when paired with the Asus ZenFone 10, where it provided rich sound quality with ample volume and clarity. Even at 70-80% volume, the output remained impressive, delivering full sound with perfect impact.
In terms of pairing, I found that it didn't pair as well with the Questyle M15, occasionally producing slightly energetic sound signatures. However, it performed excellently with devices like the Fiio BTR7, Cayin RU7, and Shanling H5, demonstrating its adaptability across neutral, neutral-warm, and warm source types.
Overall, the Tanchjim Origin's versatility and ability to deliver high-quality sound across diverse equipment make it a standout choice for audiophiles looking for consistent performance and compatibility with various audio setups.
Tuning Nozzles
When I first received the Tanchjim Origin, I was intrigued by the inclusion of three tuning nozzles, typically a feature aimed at offering diverse sound profiles to cater to different listener preferences or music genres. This level of customization is often seen as a significant advantage in the competitive world of IEMs
Initial Impressions and Testing
Spending several hours testing each of the three nozzles, I eagerly anticipated distinct sonic variations that would enhance my listening experience. However, to my surprise and disappointment, all three nozzles—Light, Dynamic, and Standard—delivered virtually identical sound signatures. Whether I switched between them, I couldn't discern notable differences in bass response, midrange clarity, or treble extension. This consistency across all three nozzles was unexpected, especially considering the potential for nuanced adjustments in sound that tuning nozzles typically offer.
Comparison with Other IEMs
In contrast, I have experience with other IEMs in a similar price range that effectively utilize tuning nozzles to provide meaningful variations in sound. For example, another model offered distinct nozzles for enhanced bass or balanced sound profiles, each significantly altering the listening experience to suit different genres or personal preferences. This flexibility not only broadened the IEMs' appeal but also demonstrated their capability to adapt to various musical contexts.
Conclusion and Thoughts
While the Tanchjim Origin excels in other aspects such as overall sound quality, build design, and comfort, its implementation of tuning nozzles falls short of expectations. The lack of discernible differences among the three provided nozzles limits the IEMs' versatility and customization potential compared to competitors. Despite its commendable sound performance, the Tanchjim Origin misses an opportunity to offer users meaningful tuning options that could further enhance their listening enjoyment.
For audiophiles and music enthusiasts seeking IEMs with versatile sound customization through tuning nozzles, the Tanchjim Origin may not fulfill those expectations. However, its strengths in sound quality and build make it a solid choice for those prioritizing other aspects of IEM performance.
The sound performance
Tonality
The Tanchjim Origin exhibits a balanced and versatile tonality that caters to a wide range of musical preferences. Here's a breakdown of its tonal characteristics across different frequency ranges:
Bass
The bass response of the Tanchjim Origin is balanced and controlled, with a focus on sub-bass. It delivers punchy and clear lows that do not overpower the mids, making it suitable for genres that benefit from precise bass presence without excessive boominess. However, if you're a bass head looking for powerful, booming bass, you might find the Tanchjim Origin lacking in output.
Sub-bass
The sub-bass on the Tanchjim Origin has good rumble and is well-controlled. It doesn’t bleed into the mids or mid-bass, maintaining clarity and separation throughout. The sub-bass is excellent in quality and detail, though its neutral presentation can sometimes make it sound less prominent. This can be a plus if you prefer a more balanced and accurate bass response.
Lose Yourself to Dance by Daft Punk:This track features a prominent sub-bass line, and the Tanchjim Origin handles it perfectly. The sub-bass rumble is present and detailed, providing a solid foundation without overpowering the rest of the mix. However, the neutral tuning means that the bass doesn’t have the exaggerated thump some listeners might expect. If you appreciate a clean, detailed bass that doesn’t overshadow the mids and highs, you’ll find this presentation appealing.
Mid-bass
The mid-bass is punchy and controlled, though it lacks a bit of body. It is fast and has great speed, making it suitable for complex tracks that require precise bass articulation.
-The Count of Tuscany by Dream Theater:This track has a complex bassline that the Tanchjim Origin handles with detail and dynamics. The mid-bass punches through without overwhelming the other frequencies, providing good separation and a detailed sound. However, the lack of a fuller mid-bass presence might leave some wanting more warmth and impact. This track showcases the IEMs' ability to keep up with fast, intricate bass parts, maintaining clarity even in busy passages.
Personal Experience and Additional Details
Using the Tanchjim Origin for various tracks, I've noticed that its bass performance shines in genres that rely on precision rather than sheer power. For example, electronic tracks with deep sub-bass lines, like Daft Punk's, are rendered with impressive clarity and control. The sub-bass is present and detailed, but never overwhelming.
On the other hand, rock and metal tracks like those from Dream Theater benefit from the fast, articulate mid-bass. The Tanchjim Origin's ability to handle complex basslines without muddling the sound makes it a good choice for these genres. However, the slightly lean mid-bass might not satisfy listeners looking for a richer, more impactful bass experience.
Conclusion
The Tanchjim Origin IEMs offer a balanced and detailed bass performance that will appeal to listeners who appreciate accuracy and control over sheer power. While the sub-bass is detailed and well-handled, the neutral tuning might not satisfy those looking for a more pronounced bass experience. The mid-bass is punchy and fast, making it suitable for complex music, though it could benefit from a bit more body. Overall, the Tanchjim Origin provides a clean and precise bass response, making it a solid choice for those who enjoy a balanced sound signature.
Mid-Range
The midrange on the Tanchjim Origin is forward and detailed, with a slight warmth that adds richness and body to both vocals and instruments. This tuning results in a smooth and engaging listening experience, ideal for vocal-centric and acoustic music. However, the forward nature of the midrange might not appeal to everyone, particularly those who prefer a more laid-back sound signature.
Male Vocals
Male vocals on the Tanchjim Origin are presented cleanly and naturally. The slight warmth in the midrange adds a sense of weight and texture, making male voices sound full and realistic. This quality is particularly beneficial for genres like jazz and acoustic music, where the authenticity and presence of the vocals are crucial.
Just The Two Of Us by Grover Washington, Jr.:The male vocals in this track come through with a natural warmth and clarity. The Origin’s ability to provide texture and weight to the vocals enhances the overall feel of the performance, making the listener feel as though they are experiencing the song live. However, some might find the forwardness a bit overpowering depending on their preference.
Female Vocals
Female vocals benefit from the Tanchjim Origin’s good extension and lively presentation. The smooth energy ensures that female vocals are delivered with clarity and without any harshness or sibilance, making the IEMs suitable for long listening sessions without causing ear fatigue.
Hold On by Amber Rubarth: Amber Rubarth’s voice is rendered with a smooth energy that captures the emotional nuances of her performance. The clarity and extension in the midrange allow the listener to fully appreciate the richness of her vocals. The Tanchjim Origin’s ability to handle female vocals with such detail and smoothness is impressive, though it may be too lively for some listeners who prefer a more neutral presentation.
Instrument Clarity
The Tanchjim Origin excels in delivering clear and distinct instruments, ensuring that each instrument can be heard separately and with great detail. This contributes to a rich and dynamic sound, though it may highlight the deficiencies in lower-quality recordings.
Just Take My Heart by Mr. Big:The electric guitars in this track have a dynamic presence, with each strum and note coming through clearly. The piano and trumpets are also well-defined, making the song’s instrumental sections as engaging as the vocal parts. The separation of instruments ensures that complex arrangements do not become muddled, allowing for a more immersive listening experience. However, the detail can sometimes reveal imperfections in the recording that might go unnoticed with less resolving earphones.
Additional Notes on Instruments
Guitars: Guitar presentations are particularly strong, with each note and strum articulated clearly. The slight warmth in the midrange adds richness, enhancing acoustic guitar performances and making them sound more lifelike. This can be a double-edged sword, as the detailed representation can be unforgiving to poorly mixed tracks.
Piano:The piano sounds full and resonant, with a natural timbre that stands out in mixes. The clarity ensures that each keystroke is distinct and well-defined, adding depth to piano pieces.
Trumpet:Trumpet sounds are lively and energetic, with a smooth top end that avoids harshness. The midrange warmth adds body to the trumpet, making it sound realistic and engaging, though the forwardness might not be to everyone's taste.
Conclusion
The midrange performance of the Tanchjim Origin IEMs is impressive, offering a rich, detailed, and engaging sound that excels with both male and female vocals and a variety of instruments. While the forward and detailed presentation might not be for everyone, it provides a compelling option for listeners who appreciate clarity and detail in their music. Whether you’re enjoying jazz, acoustic, or rock, the Tanchjim Origin delivers a well-rounded and immersive listening experience.
The Treble
The treble performance of these IEMs demonstrates a commendable balance of smoothness, clarity, and detail, making them suitable for discerning listeners across various musical genres.
The smooth extension of the treble ensures that high-frequency details, such as those found in intricate compositions like "Dance of Eternity" by Dream Theater, are accurately reproduced. This track challenges the listener with its rapid changes in tempo and complex melodies, and the IEMs handle these dynamic shifts adeptly, maintaining clarity and separation of instruments without any harshness.
Similarly, in "A Change of Seasons," known for its emotional depth and musical diversity, the IEMs excel in revealing the subtleties of acoustic guitars, vocal harmonies, and dynamic shifts. The treble remains clear and well-defined, contributing to a balanced presentation that enhances the listener's engagement with the music.
Clarity is a standout feature of the treble range, allowing for precise rendering of instruments like hi-hats and strings. This clarity adds realism to the soundstage, enabling listeners to discern intricate nuances and textures within the music.
Moreover, the treble contributes to an open and airy soundstage, enriching the overall listening experience with its dynamic and engaging presentation. This quality enhances the immersion in complex musical arrangements, such as those found in progressive rock, where intricate layers of instrumentation unfold.
In summary, the treble performance of these IEMs is characterized by its smoothness, clarity, and ability to handle complex musical passages without fatigue. Whether exploring the technical intricacies of progressive rock or the emotional landscapes of acoustic performances, these IEMs deliver a detailed and enjoyable listening experience that caters to audiophiles and music enthusiasts alike.
Technical Performance
Soundstage and Imaging
The Tanchjim Origin offers a soundstage that feels wide and open for IEMs, giving a more immersive listening experience. This helps in creating a sense of space and depth in the music, making it easier to distinguish between different instruments and vocal placements.
Imaging: The imaging is precise, allowing for accurate placement of sounds within the soundstage. For example, in "Dance of Eternity" by Dream Theater, each instrument is distinctly placed, making it easy to follow individual parts even during complex sections.
Detail Retrieval and Resolution
One of the standout features of the Tanchjim Origin is its ability to retrieve fine details across the frequency spectrum. This ensures that even subtle nuances in the music are clearly audible.
Resolution: The high resolution allows for a clear and articulate sound. In dense mixes, the IEMs maintain clarity and separation, so nothing feels lost or muddy. For instance, in "The Count of Tuscany" by Dream Theater, every layer of the song is distinct, highlighting the IEM's capacity to handle complex arrangements.
Dynamics and Speed
The Tanchjim Origin excels in dynamics, providing a good range between the quietest and loudest parts of a track. This dynamic range adds emotional depth to the music.
Speed:The IEMs handle rapid changes and fast-paced music with ease. The driver’s quick transient response ensures that fast beats and intricate passages are reproduced accurately. For example, in "Lose Yourself to Dance" by Daft Punk, the quick rhythms are handled cleanly, maintaining the song's energy and rhythm.
Tonal Balance and Coherence
The tonal balance is neutral and natural, making the Tanchjim Origin suitable for a variety of music genres. The integration between bass, midrange, and treble is seamless, ensuring a coherent and balanced sound.
Coherence:The frequencies blend smoothly without any harsh peaks or dips. This ensures a consistent and well-rounded sound, making the music sound natural and true to the original recording.
Personal Impressions and Additional Notes
Using the Tanchjim Origin across different tracks, I found that it excels in delivering a balanced and detailed sound. The bass is controlled and precise, the midrange is warm and engaging, and the treble is extended without being harsh. This makes it suitable for long listening sessions, as it avoids the fatigue often associated with overly bright IEMs.
Conclusion
The Tanchjim Origin IEMs offer an impressive technical performance, making them an excellent choice for audiophiles who appreciate detail, clarity, and a balanced sound signature. Their sophisticated driver design ensures high resolution and low distortion, while the precise imaging and strong dynamics enhance the overall listening experience. Whether you enjoy complex arrangements or fast-paced music, the Tanchjim Origin handles it all with finesse.
My Experience with Tanchjim Origin's EQ Capabilities
When it comes to fine-tuning my audio experience, the Tanchjim Origin has been a revelation, especially with its impressive EQ capabilities. Using the Wavelet app, I've been able to tailor its sound profile to suit my musical preferences with remarkable precision.
Tailoring the Sound Profile
1. Bass Enhancement:
- Adjusting the sub-bass has allowed me to deepen the rumble for tracks that thrive on a powerful low-end, like EDM and hip-hop. It's amazing how a subtle boost can transform the listening experience without overwhelming the overall balance.
- For genres needing punchier mid-bass, tweaking this region has added warmth and impact, making rock and pop tracks more engaging and dynamic.
2. Midrange Clarity:
- Vocals are where the Tanchjim Origin truly shines after EQ adjustments. Bringing vocals forward in the mix has brought out details and emotions in acoustic and vocal-centric music that I hadn't noticed before.
- Adjusting the midrange has also enhanced instrument separation, making complex arrangements sound more spacious and allowing each instrument to shine through with clarity.
3. Treble Refinement:
- To smooth out the treble without losing detail, I've fine-tuned the upper frequencies to reduce any harshness. This refinement ensures a more comfortable listening experience, especially during extended sessions with detailed acoustic recordings or fast-paced tracks.
Results and Enjoyment
In practice, these EQ tweaks have significantly enhanced my enjoyment of the Tanchjim Origin across a wide range of music genres. Whether I'm immersing myself in bass-heavy beats, savoring intimate vocal performances, or appreciating the intricate details of classical compositions, the IEM adapts seamlessly to deliver a tailored sound experience that feels both personalized and faithful to its natural sound signature.
Final Thoughts
The Tanchjim Origin's EQ capabilities have not only allowed me to customize its sound to my liking but have also deepened my appreciation for its versatility and technical prowess. It's reassuring to know that even with adjustments, the IEM maintains its core strengths in clarity, balance, and detail retrieval, making it a standout choice for anyone who values both quality sound and customization options.
Who should buy the Tanchjim Origin
1. Fans of Neutral Sound: If you prefer IEMs that provide a balanced and accurate sound without favoring any specific frequency range, the Tanchjim Origin offers a natural and transparent audio experience.
2. Quality Bass Lovers: For those who appreciate well-defined and controlled bass that integrates smoothly with the music, rather than overpowering it, the Tanchjim Origin delivers clear and precise low-end frequencies.
3. Detail-Oriented Listeners: If you enjoy discovering subtle details and nuances in your music, the Tanchjim Origin excels in revealing intricate elements across different genres, enhancing your overall listening enjoyment.
4. Vocal Enthusiasts: With its forward and detailed midrange, the Tanchjim Origin reproduces vocals with clarity and realism, making it particularly suitable for genres where vocal performance is crucial, such as jazz or acoustic music.
5. Versatility Seekers: Whether you listen to a variety of music genres or use different audio sources, the Tanchjim Origin adapts well and consistently delivers high-quality sound performance across different setups.
6. Critical Listeners: If you prioritize audio quality and appreciate IEMs that offer clear imaging, a wide soundstage, and high-resolution sound reproduction, the technical prowess of the Tanchjim Origin will meet your expectations.
7. Comfortable Long Listening Sessions: Designed with comfort in mind, the ergonomic fit and balanced sound signature of the Tanchjim Origin ensure it is suitable for extended listening sessions without causing listener fatigue.
Who should not buy the Tanchjim Origin:
1. Bass Enthusiasts: If you prefer IEMs with a pronounced and powerful bass presence that dominates the sound signature, the more controlled and balanced bass response of the Tanchjim Origin may not meet your preferences.
2. Warm Sound Seekers: For listeners who prefer a warmer sound signature characterized by richer, fuller mids and bass, along with a smoother treble, the neutral tuning of the Tanchjim Origin might appear too clinical or lacking in warmth.
In summary, while the Tanchjim Origin excels in providing balanced soun
d, detailed audio reproduction, and comfort, it may not be ideal for those specifically seeking a strong emphasis on bass or a warmer sound signature.