Tansio Mirai Armor

Tansio Mirai TSMR ARMOR 5 Driver Universal IEM
Redcarmoose Labs November 29th, 2024

https://penonaudio.com/TANSIO-MIRAI-ARMOR.html
Price 289.00

Description
5 drivers each side, total 10 drivers.
2 dynamic + 2 balanced armature + 1 electret electrostatic driver
Low frequency tuning switches
High quality 3D printed resin cavity
Manual lamination process panels

Driver configuration
2 x 8mm high magnetic dynamic driver, hollow coaxial structure, carbon mixed diaphragm responsible for low frequency.
2 Knowles balanced armature responsible for mid frequencies
1 electret electrostatic driver responsible for high frequency.

Sound Design and TSMR history:

Who is Tansio Mirai (TSMR)?
Tansio Mirai is a Chinese manufacturer who currently makes a number of specialized IEMs. TSMR or TANSIO MIRAI was registered as an IEM maker in China by the Beijing Tang Song Bouyan Technology Company in 2016.

The TSMR name is actually a play on words originating from the English language translation of “Tang Song era”. The Tang Dynasty and The Song Dynasty was an era of immense social change, scientific, agricultural and artistic progress. The Chinese invented gunpowder during that time as well as the printing press and the magnetic compass. The first paper money was invented in Song Dynasty in China during the 11th century. The name TMSR is in remembrance of such eras, ultimately bringing such values and dynamics into the future.

TANSIO MIRAI production:
TANSIO MIRAI TSMR ZODIAC - 12BA $1349.00
TANSIO MIRAI TSMR 8 SPACE - 8BA $729.00
TANSIO MIRAI TSMR 6 - 6BA $529.00
TANSIO MIRAI TSMR 5 - 5BA $419.00
TANSIO MIRAI TSMR 4 PRO - 4BA $319.00
TANSIO MIRAI TSMR 3 PRO - 3BA $219.00
TANSIO MIRAI TSMR 2 - 2BA $169.00
TANSIO MIRAI TSMR 10 - 10BA $1029.00
TANSIO MIRAI TSMR Spark - 4EST + 7BA Hybrid $1499.00
TANSIO MIRAI TSMR Land - 2EST + 3BA + 1DD Hybrid $599.00
TANSIO MIRAI TSMR Akiba - 7BA + 4EST Hybrid $1550.00
TANSIO MIRAI TSMR Sands - 1DD + 3 BA Hybrid $319.00
TANISO MIRAI TSMR FEAT - 2DD + 2BA Hybrid $239.00
TANISO MIRAI TSMR X - 2DD + 4BA + 1 Custom Film Retarding Driver Hybrid $399.00
TANISO MIRAI TSMR HALO - 8BA + 4EST Hybrid $1,999,00
TANISO MIRAI TSMR RGB EST - 9BA Hybrid $2,999.00
TANISO MIRAI TRMR SHOCK - 2DD + 4BA + 2BC Hybrid $599.00
TANISO MIRAI TRMR ARMOR - 2DD + 2BA + 1 Electret Electrostatic Driver Hybrid $289.00
I have all the green ones.

Looking at recent sound design ideas from TSMR we see a departure from the tried and true full BA emphasis style tune of the TSMR Sands and TSMR Land era. It could be said that TSMR has slowly been migrating into extra bass territory, with the last four IEM releases owning 2X DD isobaric bass. But also in general a less bright BA centered sound into a flowing warmer more organic and richer idea of audiophile IEM replay.

Let's look at the pricing of the last four releases.

TSMR SHOCK $599.00
TSMR X $399.00
TSMR ARMOR $289.00
TSMR FEAT $239.00

So to reiterate all 4 have isobaric 2X DDs, and it is safe to say the ARMOR is taking the place of the FEAT. The difference from the FEAT is a noticeable drastic bass additive, yet not blurry or confused, just big and beautiful into the stage! The extra ARMOR stage expansion shows added note-weight over what the FEAT is trying to do, and the vocals are even more realistic and inhabit a more 3D effect into instrument and vocal positioning. We will go further into the comparisons, but for now just realize the ARMOR is a full-on bigger more involved stage with more realism, bigger bass and better timbre. Done!

Sure it’s hard to realize that for only $50.00 such a sound improvement could be a reality, but it is. And…….I’m simply keeping all this review stuff as real as I can make it. Back in April of 2024 when the FEAT came out they would have made it like the ARMOR, but TSMR didn’t know how. And just to subdue the drama here, the rest of the side-by-sides will be a little less dramatic, with each showing their respective price-point and individual charms.


So what is the TSMR ARMOR?
L tuning to a V style tuning via 3 DIP-switches. A forward midrange for TSMR and still contained in a medium small IEM enclosure. This extra 1-2 punch of bass presence is noticed maybe as the very first character trait. But how this works is a composite response showing less left-out tell-tale characteristics of the regular Hybrid sound.

Yep, the ARMOR has coherency. But more than that it has note-weight and a treble displacement which is fully itemized into the stage by the Electret Electrostatic Driver, yet tonally and positionally connected to the mids. What I’m saying is this does not contain the aggressive sparkles of say the TSMR Land or past TSMR Sands. Very much so it is the ISN/Penon sound for once! Smoother and still generating way enough involvement to have you sedated and kept in place while listening, never reaching for another IEM to fix any desire or want.

Part of the magic here comes from 2 Knowles BAs, as in many ways the mids are just as much the star of the show as the bass is. The thing is you could not add such big expanded bass imaging without at least getting the mid BAs to balance it, as well as the treble Electret Electrostatic Driver. What I’m saying is they (TSMR) went and added an extra BA for the mids over what is inside of the single mid BA in the FEAT, they had to, to keep up with the bass size and authority. Then instead of a single BA for the treble in the FEAT, TSMR added this big sounding Electret Electrostatic Driver which in contrast to the FEAT adds a bigger stage and more detailed treble with close to zero off-timbre. With all this sales talk you may be forgiven to think the TSMR ARMOR is better than the TSMR X? Well it is not as detailed, and how you would value the ARMOR is it's not as clinical as the TSMR X, offering up a warmer thicker blanket to sleep under.


Top down:
Included cable, Penon ASOS+X, Penon Pyramid VI and the Penon OSG

So let's get to cable change-outs.

Included cable preface:
For the first time the included cable seemed to offer a good mixture with a TSMR IEM. What I mean is TSMR has been including this same cable since I reviewed the Sands, maybe longer, I'm too lazy to check. And while it is better than most included cables, there was a midrange peak that was not always wanted from it in use with the Sands and Land. Now though (with the ARMOR) we are somehow basking in more comfy waters. Tests done with Sony WM1A and WM1Z with MrWalkman’s firmware and Penon PAC LStips.

The included cable:
Look I get that at this price point this may be the first serious audiophile IEM someone gets. So I’m happy to report the included cable does many things right with the ARMOR combo. The thick SPC make-up does add some extra wire to reach a full-on stage..............that upper midrange peak the cable still offers is somewhat stifled by the natural thick organic tune the ARMOR does 24/7. Yet for seasoned audiophiles there may be a route to bigger stages and more complex hearing of separation, ultimately more realism in the end?

Forever known as the Liberace cable.

ASOS+X:
First off at the same volume the ASOS+X is noticeably louder, I think? Changing back to the original included cable once more with the ARMOR in stock middle DIP-switch up, the tone was almost the exact same volume, it was the size of the instruments and vocals that got you closer to the stage, closer to the realism and of a clearer image. At $319.00 the ASOS+X may be questionable as to value with a $289.00 IEM? Only the ASOS+X could be your best and only cable you ever use, and not only bringing the goods to the table with the ARMOR alone? The ASOS+X does just what it does 24/7, bringing stage girth and spacial enhancements, plus an added silver enhancement into which the midrange is imaged.



The lows are fully formed holding an extra area of space found inside the operation of separation inside the bass stage. Where all is wagging puppy-dog tails and sunshine here, only we could wonder if the VI Pyramid could add anything to our show! The reason for this thinking is the Sony WM1A is especially mid forward (with bright files) blending with the ASOS+X and added to the 2 forward ARMOR 2X Knowles BA actions. And sure enough the same set-up of the song file played with the WM1Z showed smoother ideas of playback. Yet all this was realized with a very, very mid-forward song. Switching to a more normal song showed the WM1A to ASOS+X to ARMOR combo to be heaven.

And that is how it should always be in audiophile land, seeking out an understanding of the song file as the start of the listening experience.

Because truly the WM1A can do no wrong in my eyes, sure the WM1Z has more thump, that and sparkles………..but the ARMOR in how it acts is the least of our worries, as the ARMOR is well-rounded in the end!



Penon Pyramid VI:
You know I didn’t want to leave my ASOS+X experience, I didn’t want to write anymore. But curiosity got the best of me, and I can always listen to music for the sake of musical enjoyment. But to enter overkill here, the 1A to ASOS+X and ARMOR was heaven in playback, especially with regularly mixed and recorded files, just getting you inside the music and participating from your armchair! The truth is I have 100s of cables, but only a few favorites, and the Pyramid VI is one.

Available versions:
Pyramid : 4 shares, 147 cores per share, 588 cores in total cost $349.00
Pyramid VI : 6 shares, 147 cores per share, 882 cores in total cost $419.00
Pyramid VIII : 8 shares, 147 cores per share, 1176 cores in total cost $499.00

As I listen and as I write though I am hearing how this could even be better (than the ASOS+X) with the ARMOR. Yes, it is a $419.00 cable, but here we are shown broader imaging and a blacker background. What the VI does is show off the fact that you don’t need that extra silver brightness to add the silver effect. Now the alloy held inside the VI still uses silver, only the outcome, out the other side is a smoother offering asking for the same musical involvement as the ASOS+X, but choosing to tone down the midrange, and instead the VI offers deeper bass and smoother midrange ideas as to what is correct to listen to. Just a slight edge is taken off the ASOS+X and an addition of note-weight and image thickness. I could go on, but this is an IEM review.

Penon OSG:
The Penon OSG is one of my most favorite cables ever. What it does is add the Graphene sound to whatever playback set-up you are running with. And as a change of pace I decided it needed to represent the older output of the Penon Cable Company today. The funny part about cables is they are in a way a better value than DAPs or IEMs. Reason I think this way is that as audiophile consumers there is always that latest IEM, that latest set of hand-held electronic devices that you feel are better than what has come before.

And sure let’s not fool ourselves, there are better choices today for DAPs or IEMs than ever in the history of mankind. Simply more sound for less money output. But cables buck that system because the technology is moving at a different pace than DAPs or IEMs, and while I am not certain of this, I’m guessing cables have a longer shelf life. Only because once the 2022 IEMs and DAPs are forgotten about, people are still gathering older special cables and putting them to use to invigorate their new IEM purchase or new DAP purchase.



The Penon OSG:
Wonderful full-tilt graphene personality. What that means is there is a slightly thicker and calmer idea of tonal goings on compared to only silver. This tone still has all the detail yet it has been subdued into a more digestible bit-size smoothness that takes the cake here. I don’t want to say it is better than the ASOS+X, but the OSG holds an unarguable smoothness that the ASOS+X doesn’t have, and it could be suggested the stage may be a hair smaller, but all the things I have always loved about the OSG are back once more.

Bass sculpturing:
The bass curtailment, the imaging into the stage, the clarity in calmness and blackness of background here. That in fact the older Penon Quattro succumbed to OSG magic, and the TSMR ARMOR does the same, all day long. I mean I’m using cables here to find the true idea of how an IEM sounds, and at times to change a portion of that sound and align it more to my liking, and I like this OSG cable. While not as down toned as the Penon Pyramid VI, it is just as smooth, and in many ways the opposite of the ASOS+X, as we are offered up glistening but not as airy of mids. A more even and complete and maybe correct way to go here?

At $299.00 the OSG is a lot to gather for the TSMR ARMOR sound, but I have to say, this may be one of the coolest ways it sounded today? Just holding all the information you ask for and presenting it in a digestible way all day long, 24/7.


Side-by-sides:
So I’m running with the Sony WM1A, and Penon Pyramid VI and Penon PAC LStips.

Top row: TSMR ARMOR, then TSMR X
Bottom row: TSMR SHOCK and TSMR FEAT

TSMR X:
Pretty much the same size as the ARMOR, though the ARMOR is a tad longer and the X wider, but really they are exactly the same fit wise. Here with the middle #2 DIP-switch up, and the other two sides down we are given a more detailed idea of playback, yet those details are truly more information coming out with a more stripped down of warmth holding clarity due to such personality.

X:
More separated, and a different stage, offering added midrange creations to where the overall sound is more of the Hybrid idea to sound, where even the vocal replay shows lesser density yet this extra clean window offers an idea as to where the extra $ went.

These technicalities are real and depending what style of listener you are, the X sound could in-fact leave the ARMOR in the dust. But this rocking faster pace is thrilling and different from the town the ARMOR is from. This is the city folks, and the clarity is real! To where the ARMOR is of the county-side, though not a Hoboken of sorts, offering a more relaxed and not as intense way of life. In fact trying the two back to back is totally fun in how very different they are!




TSMR SHOCK:
Here we go………….OH Gawd. This is way better than I remember it to be? Are you kidding me, really? WTH. Now I know why Dsnuts didn’t talk about the SHOCK and compare the ARMOR to the SHOCK. Sure it is a totally different buyer inside of two totally different price points. I mean if you could borrow the money from someone maybe do it?

Sacrifice:
Maybe just don’t buy anymore IEMs, like forever and ever? LOL. Yep, we are here in the presence of the SHOCK and I’m almost lost for words. Though I will say the ARMOR does vocals and midrange slightly better? Still, still, still the SHOCK does the midrange in its own way and really it is not missing anything, at least right now it is not? To get to the truth of the matter, the ARMOR is showing off its ability to offer still a dramatic big stage, with even a cleaner, more contrasty idea all most. Because I always thought of the ARMOR as the SHOCK’s little brother and I still hear them that way, only the midrange is pushed-up out of the woodwork to enjoy a slightly clearer window with less clutter. Believe it or not the way the SHOCK is so slightly lumbering holding its drama inside of those lumbers and I'm not ever saying it is bad. As if you gave me a choice and I could only take one home, it would be the SHOCK.

Still there is a flavor here with what the ARMOR does that is cleaner and more even polished to the point that it is like walking into a house, where the whole house had tile floors. The SHOCK is of course 1970s shag carpet everywhere, even the bathroom. So it is this giant imaging of the ARMOR that while it doesn’t offer the physicality of Bone Conduction, you really never feel like you are missing a thing. As this bass drum size is still fully engaging and never thin or anorexic. Then these Armor mids take place to (in-a-way) jump into accessibility to where there they are, the mids, and you can’t argue that they are there in full-on drama. And when I started this side-by-side I thought the over-all ARMOR performance would take second place, at least in emotional involvement, but no, having both would actually be recommended as they do different things..........while still the same.

The SHOCK takes one path home from school and the ARMOR takes a different path, yet they arrive home nonetheless, and it really has me almost questioning which one is truly better?

This is the review in a single sentence, by the way! It is kind-of like being in a stereo showroom. Where the SHOCK is the giant floor standers and the ARMOR is the second place feature which offers cleaner upfront imaging despite not having the total authority that the floor standers did.



TSMR FEAT:
First off I just want to say everything that I said in my FEAT review still stands, the FEAT is a blast, it is just a lot has changed inside of IEM technology to bring you a world inside of what just $50.00 more gets you. That is the facts. Now the FEAT never had the technical dexterity to pull-off the instrument pace like the X, it is in a whole different price point.

And that still holds true to with the FEAT compared to the X, that the X is the city slicker, and you all know how those types hold a smirk, that small smile out of the corner of their lips that says (they think) they know it all......plus they are dressed well. And yes, the X is smarter and quicker and images instruments and vocals into more realism.

Yet the ARMOR and FEAT are birds of a feather here. It is just this ARMOR bird has more vibrant feathers and holds a bigger interest in entertainment. I don’t mean to be so hard on the FEAT as it does nothing at all wrong, and holds that TSMR (new sound) magic, it is just the ARMOR does everything the FEAT does plus! Both the ARMOR and the FEAT are more romantic than the X, and in many ways travel to the same house as the SHOCK was born from. It is just during my tests here today, I had to double check my system as to the comedown the FEAT brought to the table. The FEAT simply doesn’t offer the realism or imaging into the stage the ARMOR walks with 24/7. I don’t need to pour any more salt into the wound.

DIP-switches:
100 (Enhanced Mode): control coefficient is 0.51
020 (Standard Mode): control coefficient is 1.0
003 (Attenuation Mode): control coefficient is 1.47

100 on:
As such this is the most bass laden tone for the ARMOR. Though it should be noted it is nothing like some bass heavy IEMs, still holding balance yet the lower midrange is somewhat baffled? Though for many they will gravitate to this understanding, and bask in the warmer bathwater never having an inclination to change a thing.

There is a feeling that has come over me….....where this new climate started to take me away, whisked away into this field of new understanding, probably understanding that the lower reaches held tacos to eat and thrills to be had. I was at home here, and respect those who chose to live in such an environment. Yep, I could go and live here, and leave the DIP switch on forever maybe? It was that good!

020 on:
Standard mode this review has been written with.

003 on:
More clinical, to where the stage opened to showcase more imaging into creation, not held back by the bass shenanigans. It is this balance that we as listeners are always deciding on, as while imaging here is all-of-a-sudden clearer, it holds a little less soul, that thing that is behind the scenes that you don’t even miss till its gone. This missing soul has you question why you would want to spend an entire a day in this (not) brighter room, but less accommodating environment? Holding the same ideas as before, only introducing them with a little less density and life?

Probably the DIP-switches depend on your set-up?
To be sure much of this depends on your whole set-up, meaning it depends on your DAP character, your hearing, your cable character and finally your ear-tips. I say this as the bass is still fully there and romantic, but just a smidge of why I came to visit the town of ARMOR is gone? Yet if your devices held an extra something to give, that I don’t have on-hand today, you may be in heaven here?

Build:
You kinda have to love the direction TSMR has been going, they are still even after 2016 perfecting their craft. Meaning we see a lot of history and know how displayed both the modern parts they use inside the ARMOR, and the position of situating those advanced parts.

The fact that they feel really good in ear, and have great noise occlusion due to a new style of solid construction. Gone are the days of the Land and Sands with hollow construction.

These nozzles look from the pictures as being on the short size, but once the ARMOR gets into your ears you will understand the theory behind this. I think it is due to the body of the IEM holding a more ergonomic shape. There is a hollow section though, and you can see red and blue air-vents. The three nozzle tube design separates the three bands until the bands enter your ear-canal after the ear-tip. The 2Pins are flush adding to easy cable rolls, and the beauty of the faceplate finishes off the great overall look!

Packaging:

Contrary to what you may guess I truly adore the TSMR ear-tips they always provide and I used them for first impressions. I actually grab them from time to time, I just don't report on it, as you can't report on everything, only 99% of everything. Lol

What separates these ear-tips from other manufactures offerings is they are top-notch! Really super comfortable and well shaped, plus they are thick walled and easy to get air-tight fitment with. If the included ear-tips were all you had you would be more than happy with the outcome.............I will take a chance on disclosing.


Conclusion:
In closing I hope my words came to good use helping you to decide if the ARMOR would be right for you. All and all the sound is very well balanced and fun, showcasing the new direction for TSMR. If you came to this tone thinking the old fashioned style of audiophile playback would be intercepted, you may be confused. As here we have all that is needed though and in that light I have to wonder how many will ever use the ARMOR with the 003 switch on!

You see there is a 020 soul here, and even 100 is the soul of the music, and that brings you so close to what the music is about. That while before the review I spent a week burning the ARMOR in, and while it changed and became more smooth offering a bigger more robust stage, there were still the attributes that made the ARMOR be itself (without confusion) even straight out of the box. It is just this silky smooth effortless action held in the midrange, the treble and especially the bass is why I love the ARMOR and burn-in added to that character. Again we are off to the county here, far from the restraints of the city, in a warmer, more friendly place. A place where music can be itself and no questions asked, a place where the soul of the music lives, and a place you never want to leave once you arrive and get situated. Yep, the ARMOR is all that. It is adding note-weight, combined with a down-tuned set of Knowles BAs that offer-up some of the best midrange timbre found anywhere. While sure there is a tiny place where the bass doesn’t hold all the pace of a more tight, I mean up-tight set of ear-phones. And the very best part of today, if you really want to know the win-win here? It was something inside the BAs or the Electret Electrostatic Driver that congealed. Yep, there was this small amount of grain that the upper midrange held out-of-the-box that was subdued into smoothness upon 7 days of burn-in. And to tell you the truth, that was the only thing I questioned upon the box opening experience. This grain free experience takes hold and enhances the fact that you are getting it all here. All for a silly low price. Because in the end, it is not how much you spend, but what choices you make, and what you decide to buy that makes the difference. Buy it! You will be happy to have the TSMR ARMOR in your life, I promise!

https://penonaudio.com/TANSIO-MIRAI-ARMOR.html
Price 289.00

Disclaimer:
The TSMR ARMOR IEM has had a week of burn-in.

Disclaimer:
I want to thank Penon Audio for the love and for the TSMR ARMOR Universal IEM review sample.

Disclaimer:
These are one person's ideas and concepts, your results may vary.

Equipment Used:
Sony WM1Z Walkman DAP MrWalkman’s Firmware 3.5mm
Sony WM1A Walkman DAP MrWalkman’s Firmware 3.5mm
Sony TA-ZH1ES DAC/AMP Firmware 1.03 3.5mm
Electra Glide Audio Reference Glide-Reference Standard "Fatboy" Power Cord
Sony Walkman Cradle BCR-NWH10
AudioQuest Carbon USB

New Penon PAC LStips:

Tansio Mirai Armor.

The Armor is the newest tribrid IEM from Tansio Mirai. So these guys are making moves in the industry. No longer are they sticking to a strict all BA diet of IEMs that was their staple, they are clearly moving toward hybrids and tribrids with the incorporation of what has become a staple bass implementation, dual coaxial dynamics for bass.

I remember not too long ago if a manufacturer tuned an IEM for bass performance you can pretty much forget about an immersive mids experience and or any type of articulate trebles to go with it but it seems Tansio Mirais new sound direction is this very idea of incorporating audiophile tunings with a stout bass end to go with it. So in turn, you get the best of both worlds. What's interesting here is that the new Armor is slotted in the scheme of things above their FEAT IEMs and below their Anniversary X IEMs. This clearly means it will be an upgrade on the FEAT but not exactly at the Anniversary- X spot in the line up. The good news there is that they have a sound and a performance of their own and in an interesting twist, is by far their warmest sounding IEM I have heard from the group. In general terms, it's not exactly an overly warm sounding experience but describing a Tansio Mirai IEM to have a warmer tonal presentation, well this makes the Armor not only unique among their line up but dare I say a first for the group.

The Armor is using a 5 driver configuration. Dual coaxial carbon based bass dynamics+ BA for mids+ BA for trebles and an electret electrostatic driver that are used for the upper highs of the sound configuration. Some trickle down aspects from its bigger brother the anniversary X in that it seems to be using a very similar set of dynamic drivers and 3 tuning switches that seems to have similar implementation from the X design. The surprising factor of the Armor is that it is a physically smaller side of medium in shell size. Which provides excellent long term use comfort and also has above average passive isolation due to the all resin design.

Included accessories are 2 sets of silicone tips, their standard SPC cable in 4.4mm balanced, a switch tool, cleaning tool and a brown rectangular zip up case. While I don’t make much about the case that manufacturers include with IEMs. I will give props to Tansio Mirai for actually including a usable case. They were guilty of using a very small square case in the past that barely fit the IEMs if at all with almost no room for the cable to go with it. Which made them kinda useless. See pic below with Tansio Mirai Akiba. These new roomy rectangular brown zip up cases are a great improvement as it will easily fit the IEMs, its cable, the tips and even enough room for an extra cable and extra tips if need be. Proper.


Traditionally the Tansio Mirai sound signature has been about technical, detailed monitor like experiences with what were usually enhanced trebles for their all BA IEMs. It seems those particular signatures are now a distant memory. For the past several years Tansio Mirai has been making hybrids and tribrids which utilize dynamics, ESTs and their outstanding Shocks got dual Sonion Bone Conduction drivers. This year has seen a shift in sound direction as they have clearly focused their sound toward the bass end of the sound spectrum. The Anniversary X, Shocks and even their FEAT all featured dual coaxial dynamics for bass and are all bass driven IEMs. I would say these newer IEMs all fit the “audiophile bass” descriptor with the very best of the lot thus far being the TSMR-Shocks, you can read about them here on my review of them. The new Armor is the latest tribrid to include their stout coaxial bass implementation.

However, the Armor here is a departure from the newer Tansio Mirai IEMs in one very distinct difference that will set the Armor apart to be more of an individual in the family line up than just a youngest of the bunch or even lower in the scheme of things. Just because an IEM costs less does not mean their sound enjoyment for the end user will be. I do believe it has to be their first ever warm Tansio Mirai IEM. I mean there were certain aspects of the prior Tansios IEMs tonal character that I would consider warm. Their bass for example but I am talking about tonal character for its mids which is more forward in the mix vs its brothers. With the Shocks that comes the closest to note weight of the Armor but the Armor has a fundamental warmth to its make up that I find quite different for Tansio Mirai. It seems there has been a new mix of sound direction as these are the first Tansio Mirai IEMs that sound like an ISN IEM. Which traditionally had bassy offerings with a slightly warmer tonal character. A more musical full bodied Tansio Mirai? That is exactly what I am talking about here.

These are like the opposite in tonal character from the Tansio Mirai Lands and Sands for example.

Sound.
Given the newer sound direction for Tanso Mirai. They have taken their version of an audiophile tuning and then added their bass element. Everything they have made in the past and present had some outstanding levels of technicalities involved but now with some stout bass. Dual dynamic bass is the rage in 2024. The Armor is the 4th IEM for Tansio Mirai to utilize coaxial carbon dual dynamics. In a way I can understand their newer sound direction and the newer eye-catching designs for their IEMs. I wager to guess that their newer coaxial bass series of IEMs are way more popular than their traditional all BA monitor series. Who doesn’t like bass? I mean even the most dedicated audiophile will have a liking for a quality low end. Well I take that back there are a few of you that like lifeless neutral bass. Can’t have a bass shadow right? Look elsewhere there is no point in getting an IEM that utilized coaxial dual dynamics. You would have loved the older Tansio Mirai. But that was then and this is now.

There are three levels of bass at play here that the Armor has on tap via switches, very similar in the way they work vs their prior TSMR-X anniversary edition. Standard tuning is bass down mids up and treble down or the 1 down, 2 up, 3 down on the switches out of the box. It is in this form that the Armor has a warm balanced L profile. The 1 bass switch up, 2 mid down, 3 trebles down this is the bassiest setting with what is roughly 15 dbs of sub bass lift. Which also has the most lower mids presence for all the tunings. All the switches down with the treble switch in the up position is actually the least L shaped tuning and is more of a V shaped tuning of the bunch, this is the mode that to my ears has enough trebles to balance out the bigger bass end of the Armors. It is also in this mode I find the Armor to have just a bit less warmth which makes sense as it has the least amount of lower mids out of the tunings. It still has a slight overall warmth but sounds more natural to my ears

Tuning switches here are effective in that it will introduce anywhere from a beefy 12dbs of sub bass to 15dbs of more beef. The trebles will only have a slight increase of roughly 3dbs of difference from its position off to on. The best form of hardware tuning was when Tansio introduced the tuning knob in their shocks. While the tuning switches here are not quite as effective on the Armor as the tuning knobs on the Shocks. It does have enough variability to give the end user some legit tuning options. Bigger bass L, balanced big bass, punchy V.

Trebles.
The Armor is utilizing a flat dish electret electrostatic driver which has its own sound channel to your ears. The non offensive trebles of the Armor are tuned with a smooth lower treble quality, its highlighted portions from the upper trebles comes from the electret driver. This is the first time I have heard this particular driver and if I am to be honest, they remind me a lot of piezo drivers in how they perform. Treble is not particularly airy nor does it have the best articulation but for what's there the trebles are ample for the given signature. A warmer Tansio Mirai means these are Tansios versions of the Bose, Sony big bass headphones. I can understand the tuning angle of what Tansio is going for as these are the least technical sounding Tansio Mirai out of the recent dual dynamic IEMs. Trebles are more grounded in how it sounds but allows for some accurate macro transitions from the trebles.

The idea of the electret driver is similar in function to the EST or Piezo drivers in that it only seems to be handling the upper registers for the treble note. It's certainly an interesting addition to the Armor make up but just in my opinion, a good treble BA could have done the exact same thing going on with this electret driver. On occasions I do notice somewhat of a thinner upper treble note which is the reason why they kind of remind me more of the piezo drivers in how they sound. Treble notes are clear and mostly clean sounding with good performance but somehow I am not all that impressed with the Electret and what it is doing. Might be due to the fact that I have heard plenty of EST drivers and what they do. It's definitely no EST driver. I will tell you that much. For me anyways, it's just ok. Nothing that will ruin the sound and your enjoyment of the Armor but nothing that will win you over, thinking you just heard the best treble performance for an IEM on the other hand. This is where I feel Tansio Mirai could have tuned the trebles just a touch better. This being said, it's just a nit pick of mine as its treble is ample for the bold forward projecting sound presentation of the Armors.

Mids
So there is some variability for the mids performance on the Armor. It has to do with how much bass you want in your overall sound. The upper mids seems to have the same roughly 10 dbs of upper mids presence found in its other siblings. It is the lower mids which seems to align with either bass switch up or down depending on your mood. Lower mids add the two distinct tonal characteristics that show on the Armor. Its overall warmth and its body of sound. The mids performance is out of a single BA and does have a richer fuller tonal character to its make up. But it's not the most dimensional or does it really compete with more balanced sets that have mids being the focus for their sound. The mids for the most part has a natural warmer tonal quality in its underlying sound presentation. Its technicalities here are not at the level of the Tansio MIrai X. The FEAT on the other hand is a bit dry in its presentation and mids are not as good as the Armors. The Armor is in the middle ground for its technical ability, its stage, imaging, sound separation, layering and overall detail is somewhat of a standard level at the price it's sold at but with a natural tonal quality that is very addictive at the same time. When you have a 15db sub bass lift, you're gonna have some lower mids coloration and that is what is happening with the Armor. Folks that are looking for ultimate clarity and higher end refinements. I would actually look into the Tansio Mirai X, to a greater extent their Shocks more so than the Armors. Here is where the Armors has a foundational warmth with a more fuller body of note in comparison to both the FEAT and the X. This is the reason why I mentioned that they kinda remind me more of an ISN IEM vs it sounding like a Tansio Mirai IEM.

With the bass switch in the down position the mids have slightly better clarity and its detail is highlighted more so. The mids have a good balance and while its more expensive siblings does a better job at fleshing out the mid bands for folks that are a bit more picky about having a more technical leaning sound. The Armor easily makes up for it with a forwardness that the other Tansio Mirai IEM are lacking at times. This forwardness in its overall sound does have somewhat of a negative affect on its stage presentation. The Anniversary X for example, the mids are not as forward but has a wider, broader stage presentation in turn. The Armor I would just put its stage as being average of the bunch. With the treble switch in the up position, the Armors timbre and tonal character sounds a bit more natural with a cleaner overtone vs the big bass modes of the bass switches.

Bass. So this might be the real reason why you are taking an interest in Armor. The bass adjustments and its impact and performance is very similar to the quality bass emphasis on the Tansio Mirai X. Bass end even at its balanced state is impactful and stays in control throughout a bassy track's performance. It is very clear to me this is the reason why Tansio Mirai is utilizing the coaxial dynamic array for their IEMs bass performance. Tight, speedy, decisive, punchy, textured and visceral. Bass is very much the focus of the Armors sound presentation. I can argue even that if bass is your main focus for an IEM performance and you can’t afford the Tansio Mirai X? Go for the Armor. Or if you like your warmth in overall tonal presentation of your IEM sound go for the Armor. You will get a very similar bass performance out of the box for much less. The warm tonal character here is mostly generated from the bass and its lower mids presence. The lower mids have an increase in emphasis with the onset of the bass switch and hence you get a more forward more frontal sound signature. Most hybrid IEMs even today utilize a single dynamic but the difference is very clear. Double the impact and its extension inside a well-organized shell and you get some outstanding bass performance especially at the price of the Armor. So much so I don't know too many IEMs that has the bass ability at both the FEAT or the Armors price points.

In the end
The Armor to me is not like any Tansio Mirai before it. Yes it utilizes similar bass tech as their more expensive brothers but what separates the Armor from them is that this one has a warm sound to it. Which in my book is actually refreshing coming from Tansio Mirai. It's not just a rehash or a trickle down product from what they have done in the past. It's got a sound unto its own. The FEAT on the other hand was ok at the price point, and you are certainly getting another dose of that dual coaxial bass performance but the rest of the tuning was a bit neutral and not as engaging as I would have liked. The Armor on the other hand has a forwardness to its sound that is bold as the bass end is and this works better in my opinion to bring a more immersive musical angle to the Tansio Mirai formula. Some notable warmer bassy tunings are something like Sonys XBA- Z5, their former flagship bass hybrid iems. JVCs FX850 woodie IEMs. So in a way this signature is reclaiming a bit of the past in how they perform. A nicely done warmer signature was a bit of a surprise to me as I would have never guessed this type of sound would come from Tansio Mirai. If you're in the market for a full blown bass IEM but one where musicality is the focus, the Armor is a set you have to take a good look at. It is because they are different in sound quality that I feel they fit into the hierarchy of Tansio Mirais recent dual dynamic series of IEMs. If you are even remotely considering the Tansio Mirai FEAT. I will tell you to spend just a bit more and get the Armor instead. It is a more bold, full bodied, much more musical, better designed set overall for just a bit more and why wouldn't you want the best for your money. Thanks for taking the time to read. Happy listening always.

The Armor was provided by Penon Audio for the purpose of a review. They have been burned in for a week and were evaluated using my sources IFI Signature, Ibasso DX300Max, Ibasso PB5 amp, Fiio M15, M15s, Ibasso DX180, IFI Gryphon. You can get yourself a set here.
BONUS
I was asked to compare a few similar signatured IEMs. Warm and bassy is the game as I mentioned in my review. I feel the new Tansio Mirai Armor is more similar in how it sounds to a a traditional ISN IEM.

Vs the ISN NEO5
The Neo5 is a bassy warm set using a dual BA for trebles+dual BA for mids+single 10mm dynamic for its bass. Compared to the Armor. The ISN NEO5 has only one tuning. The bass level is very similar to the bass setting on the Armor. Both their mids performance are similar in that they both have a slightly forward sounding mids presentation. Where the main difference between the two comes in the quality of the bass end. The Neo5s bass sounds a touch loose. Its got excellent impact and sub bass rumble but the rumble end is not exactly the quality textured bass end of the Armor. The ISN NEO5 is easier to drive so if power is a concern it will be the one to go with using something like a phone but even if you have a moderately power dongle or even a smaller dap. It should drive the Armor just fine. I also find the the trebles is a touch better defined from the Armor due to its use of electret driver for the upper trebles. It helps that you get an option to lower the bass end a touch and the option to increase the treble end a touch. This brings better treble presence to the Armor sound. For non bassy tracks actually helps with better clarity. On one hand I actually think the NEO5 slightly slower bass decay is addictive. A bit like a real sub woofer but then comparing the texture level of the Armor to the NEO5. I do think the bass end is better quality on the Armor. I also like that I can dial it down for better mids and treble clarity when called for on the fly. The SQ level of these two trade punches but I have to admit the tuning switches of the Armor makes it more versatile vs the NEO5.

Vs the EST50
These are yet another warm n bassy IEMs. The former ISN flagship utilizing 2xESTs+ BA for treble + BA for mids and a 10mm silicone dynamic.-- On a side note. I do believe the bass dynamic used for the EST50 was reinvented to be used on the newer ISN H60 and now on the EBC80. These have slightly more mid bass impact and are a bit more midbass focussed vs Sub bass. I feel the Armor is more sub bass focused but has very good mid bass impact. These I feel are on the SQ level of the Anniversary X more so than the Armor. Sounds a touch richer in tonal character, definitely has the edge on stage presentation and the EST implementation here makes a difference. A touch more refined sounding in its trebles and mids. The Armor is able to increase its treble notes a touch and also lowering the bass emphasis which both the NEO5 and the EST50 cannot do. So it does show better versatility but for sheer quality of its sound I would give the EST50 as being an upgrade from both the NEO5 and the Armor. What is interesting is that, it is the EST50 tonal character that the Armor is more similar to vs the NEO5. Its wider stage gives the nod to the EST50 as being a higher level of bass IEM. But as I mentioned before here is where the dual coaxial bass is so good, as impactful and textured the EST50 bass is. So is the Armors bass end for much less. If your more of a mid bass guy I think both the NEO5 and the EST50 set the house bass sound for ISN. The Armor while not exactly as refined sounding as the EST50 has the advantage from being able to adjust on the fly that has them being that much of a solid value for what it does.

TANSIO MIRAI ARMOR




My Background :

Audio enthusiast or hobbyist, I grew up in a musical family and had a musical background. I learned to play the trombone in school and took formal piano lessons. My school music conductor recognized my ear for pitch and allowed me to tune the woodwind and brass sections. Later I was accepted into the Conservatorium of Music in Queensland to study music composition, but my music life took a different turn. My interest in music waned. However, in 2021, with the introduction to Streaming High-resolution lossless music reignited my interest. I purchased a few headphones and a DAC/Amp, which marked the beginning of my journey. This year, in May 2024, I joined Head-fi and have been posting my first impressions of gear and reading many reviews. I never imagined I would create my own review, but here we are.

Thanks to @thaslaya for encouraging me to post “what I thought were my first impressions “ as my first review.



The Driver Configuration :

2 Dynamic Driver + 2 Balanced Armature + 1 Electrostatic Driver
5 drivers Hybrid Audiophile IEMS
3-way crossover , 3 channels
Low frequency: 2 8mm hollow coaxial dynamic carbon element hybrid diaphragm drivers
Mid-frequency: 2 Knowles Balanced Armature
High frequency: 1 Electret Electrostatic Driver
Impedance: 11 ohm
Sensitivity: 103dB
Frequency response range: 10~45kHz








The Aesthetics :

TSMR ARMOR is a striking looking lEM with a pattern resembling golden flakes. The colors in the mosaic range from light beige to darker brown tones, creating a natural, earthy aesthetic. The intricate design and luxurious aesthetic showcases detailed craftsmanship, with a textured and multi-dimensional look. The warm, rich golden amber color makes it stand out.




The Switches:

020 is the switch configuration I landed on. That’s DUD (down up down) Balanced. This is the stock configuration and I really like the Balanced sound signature the most. I did try 100 (ie: UDD) , how ever this was not as pleasing to my ears , even though I gravitate to a bass head signature normally.





The Sound :


Bass :

I would describe the ARMOR as having “elastic bass,” . What I mean by this, is that the Bass is made up of dynamic and flexible bass frequencies that stretch and respond well to any of my music, providing a rich and full sound without being too boomy. The bass adapts to the rhythm and intricacies of different tracks, offering a satisfying depth while maintaining clarity. Imagine bass that “bounces back” and stays tight, enhancing the overall listening experience and versatility. This is a very balanced “Goldilocks” bass to my ears. (Just the right amount )



Mids :

I would describe ARMOR as having “articulate mids” . This would suggest clear, detailed, and well-defined midrange frequencies. I get to hear nuances and textures in my music, like subtleties in a singer’s voice or distinct instrument tones. Articulate mids provide a balanced sound, enhancing the midrange without being overshadowed by bass or treble. This makes lyrics easy to understand and instruments feel more lifelike. In essence, “articulate mids” contribute to a more immersive and enjoyable listening experience.



Treble :

I would describe ARMOR as having an “engaging treble” . It’s very lively, detailed, and has captivating high frequencies. It’s not all about brightness though , and has sparkle in my music, making cymbals, high notes, and other upper-frequency sounds stand out. To my ears “Engaging treble “ has clarity and airiness without being harsh or fatiguing, drawing you in and enhancing the overall enjoyment of the music. In essence I’m feeling, “engaging treble” and the sound I get is vibrant and dynamic.




Technicalities :

TSMR ARMOR has a very well Balanced Sound Signature . It’s also particularly good at creating a sense of spatial awareness and separation between different instruments. To my ears, I can distinctly hear where each instrument is located within the soundstage, making the music feel more three-dimensional and immersive. I’d term this "accents of instrument positioning" where, each instrument has its own place and doesn't get muddled together with others. The listening experience, is where you can pinpoint the exact spot of the drummer, guitarist, and vocalist on the stage. The rhythmic elements of the music are front and center, with a lot of energy and detail. This quality adds to the realism and enjoyment of the music, as it allows you to appreciate the arrangement and production details more clearly. The sound is lively and engaging, making you feel the beat and rhythm intensely.

ARMOR also has "in-your-face percussion," characteristics like "shimmering cymbals," "crisp hi-hats," and "defined maracas" which I try to paint a vivid picture of a highly dynamic and engaging sound profile. I find percussion elements are prominent and impactful, giving the music a strong, driving force. cymbals have a sparkling, bright quality that stands out and adds an airy, high-frequency detail to the mix. hi-hats are clear and precise, cutting through the mix with sharp definition. I can distinctly hear the texture and rhythm of “maracas” type sounds, contributing to the overall percussion with clarity.




Do I like TSMR ARMOR ?

I think ARMOR is a complimentary addition to my collection. If I had to describe what it sounds like with the IEM’s I own. I hear features and characteristics similar to a mix of my, H60 - Mega5EST - SR9 . But the presentation is mixed to a refined individuality making the TSMR ARMOR unique. It’s both stunning and priced so competitively for what it offers. Yes this is one of the gems in my collection that I will hold on to. 4.5 ️



The Audition:

All use of TSMR ARMOR was conducted using Audirvāna with iBasso DC-Elite and using stock ear tips and stock Gold “Liberace looking” Cable.



Thank you for reading my review.