This is a review of the TinHifi T2 DLC, which Linsoul Audio has provided me to review.
DISCLAIMER: I WAS PROVIDED THE UNIT IN EXCHANGE FOR A NO-FRILLS, UNBIASED REVIEW. I AM NEITHER PAID NOR COMMISSIONED TO PROVIDE A SKEWED REVIEW.
It seems like rejuvenating/revitalizing legacy IEMs has been a trend in the Chi-Fi space today. The TinHifi T2 DLC follows that path as it improves upon the standard that its legendary predecessor, the T2, had already previously set. If it were to be compared to gaming terms, the T2 DLC feels like a remaster: cleaned the experience up, smoothened out details, and made little tweaks here and there to warrant a full release to commemorate its legacy without trampling on it. The parallels between a remaster does not stop there; the T2 DLC also falls prey to the “modernization” of its sound signature by being biased towards the Harman target signature, which in this point in time, is already getting too saturated in the market today. It is a logical move yet does not do it any favors in setting it apart from its peers and being truly something special.
Presentation
The box and its accompanying unboxing experience is almost identical to what its predecessor offered, up until the layout and size of the box. The T2 DLC is presented in the same rectangular box that heavily reminds you and brings you back to the 2017-18 era of IEMs, as the original T2 became insanely popular back then. Seeing that same box really hits that nostalgia factor. The only differing factor is that you are clearly being reminded that this is not the exact IEM that you saw back then, as its slip-on paperback case distinctly tells you the words “T2 DLC”. This is an improved version of the original and does not fail you to tell that. Other than that, there are no other significant illustrations nor text that is present in the box.
Product
Upon sliding the paperback cover open, we are greeted by the true box of the T2 DLC: a leather-ish feeling hard material box that oozes luxury. It has a flap-style opening that is secured by a magnet, properly securing the contents inside while being relatively easy to pull out. After opening said flap, we are presented with the IEMs themselves. They are oriented in the same way we first saw the T2’s back then, forming a T-shape figure when combined visually. The IEM is almost the same as its predecessor visually, with almost no changes made to its mold, color, and form. The only visual indicator you can see that differentiates it from the past model is the implementation of the 2-pin connection system instead of the previous MMCX.
Particulars
There is a little but of spice when it comes to the included particulars inside the T2 DLC. Yes, it still includes your staple cable, eartips, and paperworks, but it adds some in the form of memory foam tips. These really help in clocking out your preferred sound for the T2 DLC, which I will discuss later. Also helps in its flexibility for different ear canal sizes, with the memory foam tips being the most adaptive out of all of them. Overall, it’s still the spartan amount of inclusion with an extra to bring out at least an additional point in the price-to-value ration of the T2 DLC.
𝘽𝙪𝙞𝙡𝙙 𝙌𝙪𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙮 & 𝘾𝙤𝙢𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙩 (out of 5)
✳ Build Quality
The T2 DLC is made from a metal alloy material, which really inspires confidence in its build quality. Its of a lightweight variant though, so it kind of devolves from the heft factor that I usually like for my IEMs to have. The metal material also has two finishes: a matte one for the “front” body, and a polished chrome one for the “back”. Another outstanding change for its build quality is its change from an MMCX format to a 2-pin one, which is always welcome. I personally do not like MMCX because of its general flimsiness when in use, mostly due to its “free-rotating” feature. MMCX connections are plagued with loosening issues that really ruin general usage with its grounded sound, which happened to me several times in the MMCX IEMs that I own. A 2-pin connection is sturdier and much more durable in the long run, especially when you plan on cable rolling. Speaking of cables, the T2 DLC also comes in a fairly decent cable, which is in a braiding style that I have only seen in TinHifi’s products. It isn’t as thick as other cables out there, but comes in a benefit of being ultra-lightweight, which certainly follows the theme set by the IEM itself.
✳ Comfort
The T2 DLC fits exactly like its predecessor: awkwardly. The general shape and mold of the IEM is the same unique style as that of the past TinHifi release, that of which was pretty awkward for me to fit in my ears in the first few listening sessions. You quickly get used to it though, as the lightweight nature of the IEMs really help you find that sweet spot in the fit amidst its awkwardness. That doesn’t really take away from the fact that it really has a weird fit. To add to that, the T2 DLC also has this longer and thicker nozzle, which asks for a deeper insertion into the ears. This varies though, as you can choose a size bigger than your usual eartip size for it to sit farther away from your ear canal.
Signature
The T2 DLC strives to rejuvenate the profound success that its predecessor had with a “modernization” of its sound signature, which really means nowadays as tuning an IEM closer to the Harman target. In terms of its “improvement”, this IEM truly is a step into better territories from its predecessor: leaning back on the brighter bias that it had in favor of a relaxed listen without sacrificing detail retrieval. Despite this perceived improvement in its tonality from the one that came before it, the T2 DLC does not achieve the same “wow” factor as I had when I came across its predecessor years ago. This is mainly due to the fact that it lacks any kind of individuality from its peers, which the T2 definitely had in its time despite its state of being outdated nowadays. Overall, the T2 DLC is a good entryway for those who are starting in the hobby and want a taste of what modern IEMs sound like. Just don’t expect it to be a killer or outstanding choice in its price range. It comfortably sits in its place and doesn’t assume much.
✳ The bass is noticeably improved from its predecessor by having a better punch in the midbass region. This is definitely T2 DLC’s greatest strength in terms of its overall performance, as every bass hit is felt and appreciated. It is also to note that even in its midbass focus, it is well extended into the subbass region, resulting in satisfying rumble when a song needs for it. Not only does it benefit the rumble of the T2 DLC, but it also provides some meat to back up every midbass punch. Do not get fooled by the bass talk though, as it is not a bass heavy IEM. All that is described here is in terms of its general presentation: when put up in the grand scheme of its sound, the bass doesn’t overpower the frequencies. This is definitely one aspect of the Harman tuning that I actually like, as it respects the rest of the frequency spectrum without losing its impact and/or satisfactory nature.
✳ The midrange follows the Harman target to-a-t. It has mids that are as clear as day and renders itself to the listener in a pretty accurate way. My main problem with this (as with any Harman-targeted/VDSF IEMs), is that it lacks any richness and weight to both instruments and vocals. There is a sense of hollowness when either of each is played to your ears, which results in a feeling of artificiality and “uneasiness” to the sound. The T2 DLC suffers from the same stigma as this one, which really brings down the experience. The midrange is like a stale bottle of water that is left on the counter for an hour or two: it definitely does it job quenching your thirst and is as clean as possible, but it lacks that extra warmth or coolness (depending how you want your water in real life) to really satisfy that drinking experience. That is how I will always feel about Harman/VDSF IEMs, and the T2 DLC does that.
✳ The treble, like the midrange, is also spot on to the tendencies of the Harman target. It is focused on body rather than shimmer, which will delight those who are sensitive to certain peaks in treble. This is where I found the biggest difference from the original T2, as it had a strong brighter signature that made cymbals shine like the sun on an early afternoon. I remember being amazed by the “technicalities” that the T2 had to offer back in its time due to this brighter lean, but nowadays, companies have done better executing technicalities without their IEMs sounding like a raging supernova. The T2 DLC follows this trend, and its for the better. I could have used a tad bit more treble extension so that it’ll still have traces of the original T2 in its identity and help with its more intimate soundstage, which we will be discussing next.
Soundstage/Imaging
The Harman signature usually equals to a spacious soundstage due to its lean nature, but the T2 DLC slightly swerves off this direction by offering an intimate experience while still being lean. This results in staging that is wide in comparison with non-Harman IEMs, but has little to no height to be truly cavernous in sound. However, this does a lot for its imaging as its one of the more accurate ones from among its peers. Every instrument, although rendered near the listener, can easily be distinguished from each other without breaking a sweat.
Pros: Great tuning, balanced, pleasant, natural, slightly warm, balanced and secure.
- Bass with a restrained, but present punch. Good skills in this lower range.
- Fairly full and musical mids, very enjoyable.
- Remarkable level of construction, light and resistant.
- Quick fit, effective ergonomics.
- Great quality/sound/price ratio.
Cons: Lack of accessories, no case, no carrying bag.
- It's not very technical, nor does it possess great definition, it is more melodious than analytical.
- The treble is tight and does its job well, but it is not extensive, nor does it have a lot of air.
Introduction
After a period without reviewing any TinHiFi models, they have now fallen into my hands again. The TinHiFi T2 DLC 2022 arrived home several weeks ago. They are, as you can see, a new evolution of the T2. I had the pleasure of reviewing the T2 Plus, but not the first T2. The T2 DLC 2022 do look like the concrete update of those initial T2. They have returned to the iconic cylindrical design of that saga (the T4 was similar), but they have updated their diaphragm, using a 4th generation DLC composite and a 10mm dynamic driver. It was a nice touch to forget the MMCX connector and switch to the 2Pin 0.78mm connector. I particularly prefer this connection. The new version continues to use high-density aviation-grade aluminium as the material of construction for its capsules. But, the best is yet to be discovered, because both its tuning and sound elevate this upgrade to be one of the best in its class. Let's see why.
The TinHiFi T2 DLC 2022 comes in the classic elongated, landscape box, similar to the T2 Plus, but in black. The presentation is very sober: there is only T2 written in the top right corner and the brand logo in the bottom left corner. On the back side there is not much, just a few QR codes, the brand's logo, a slogan in Chinese in the centre and the logos of the certifications the product complies with. The package measures 144x77x44mm. Once the cardboard is removed, a box that looks like a landscape book is revealed, with a woven texture on the outer body, made of thick, black cardboard, with the logo in white in the centre. The inside is white, a box containing a thick foam mould, which holds the capsules with the particular T1 shape. Once the first layer is removed, the rest of the accessories are in transparent plastic bags. The complete contents are as follows:
The two T2 DLC 2022 capsules.
6 pairs of silicone tips, sizes SxMxL. One medium pair comes with the capsules.
Two blue foam tips, large size.
One silver-plated 8-core 5N cable with 3.5mm plug and 2Pin 0.78mm connections.
The packaging is reminiscent of previous models and does not come with a pouch or bag. There are two sets of matching tips. We applaud the inclusion of foam tips, but we can't forgive the fact that it doesn't include anything to store or protect the IEMS.
Construction and Design
There is little left to discover of an already recognised design, based on the earlier original model. It is a cylinder-shaped design, made of high-density aviation-grade aluminium. To grip it, there is a 90-degree piece that has a hole through which the capsule passes, like a washer. On the "tab" of the washer, which tapers slightly, is the 0.78mm 2Pin connection, on a flat top edge. This connection is mounted on a circular plastic plate. It is red for the right side and transparent for the left side. On top of them is a blue mole to indicate the polarity of the 2Pin. On the outer side, there is the logo of the brand. On the edge of the washer, the part that is underneath, once the IEMS are fitted in our ears, there is a hole. There is another one, but it is on the inner side, on the skirt that leads to the mouthpieces. Before reaching this part, the cylinder is subtly bevelled. The nozzles are integrated in the inner face and have two levels. The first and longer one has a diameter of 5.35mm, while the edge is much thinner and has a diameter of 6mm. There are perforated metal sheets to protect the inside of the product.
The cable is quite classic in its connections and sleeving. The plug is 3.5mm SE, gold-plated. The sleeve is a classic cylinder with texture for better grip, in two parts, one larger and one narrower. The splitter piece is a cylinder with two rings near the edges. The pin is a transparent sphere through which the cables pass. The sleeve of the 2Pin connectors are also cylindrical, with a small bevel near the cable and two rings. The same design of plastic discs is repeated, matching the connection of the capsules. The cable consists of 8 cores of 5N silver-plated strands.
This is a classic design that has been paid homage to. Nothing negative to complain about, very good construction and a design as durable as its construction.
Adjustment and Ergonomics
The T2 DLC 2022 combines ballistic ergonomics with an elongated body. The 90 degree crossover of its flange adds the possibility of having a cable away from the centre and rigid in a vertical position. The diameter is adequate and if it had been larger, the ergonomics would have suffered. Due to the inclination of the ear canal, the insertion can be perpendicular and this causes the cable connectors to be close to the pinna. Depending on the inclination of the ear canal and the insertion depth, this can be more problematic. In my case, with a shallow insertion, thanks to my homemade foam-filled tips, there is no such danger. The set is comfortable and durable. The insulation is remarkably high. The passage of the cable over the ear is not the most correct. It is possible to rotate the capsule inside the canal, so it is not a unique fit. However, it is durable and quite pleasant.
Sound
Profile
I wouldn't go so far as to say that it is a neutral profile, but it is well balanced. The bulk of its frequency response is within 10dB. It's arguably not the flattest on the market, nor is it its target, but it's a really good balance. The low end has an emphasis on the transition between sub-bass and mid-bass. The drop towards the midrange is smooth and progressive, while the rise towards the upper-mids is a little more daring. Once the peak is reached, it is maintained until the first highs, before reaching a classic control drop, which ultimately results in a descent towards the air range, which only recovers slightly at that point. It is a very pleasant tuning, with soft treble, not too extended. But it has a great transition between bass and midrange, as well as great control in the more sensitive part of the audible range. There is room for improvement in the high end of these IEMS, but I can't hide the fact that I like this tuning a lot, especially for the great balance between the presence of the bass, the mids and the transition to the first treble. On the verge of excellent for this price range.
Bass
Bass is a notch above neutral. They are not IEMS for BassHeads, but their presence and power is evident, but always in balance with the rest of the frequencies. The lower range is never above the upper frequencies, but their quantity is not testimonial. While the punch is not the deepest and subtle colouring is perceptible, due to its greater incidence in the centre of the range, the bass is executed in a compact, precise manner, with good speed and a hint of punch, if one puts into context that these are $50 IEMS. It is becoming increasingly common for bass to feel tight, especially when the driver has a DLC diaphragm, whose stiffness and physical characteristics provide the great qualities of precision, containment, recovery and speed that this model's bass possesses. It is true that it is not the most textured bass, as is usually the case with those whose performance is more technical and concise. But it has enough rumble to be enjoyable and noticeable, without losing composure, while maintaining relative control, harmony and balance. That's right, the T2 DLC 2022s are able to execute unfiltered or low-end bass without hardly suffering, clearly demonstrating the rigidity of their diaphragm. In this way, the lower range has a good ability to stratify LFOs, keep layers at a distance and draw bass lines without them blending together. Although it will be difficult to reach bass nirvana or a more complete low-frequency flood, because this model will always keep its composure and good workmanship. This is musical balance with a hint of exuberance in the bass power, enough to demonstrate presence and a certain warm flavour.
Mids
I like to think that the timbre and sonority of the mids have an analogue character. It is the result of the tuning of the bass and the smoothness of its treble. In this sense, the medium extension of the upper range favours this sensation. Again, I have to comment that there is a good balance between the ranges and there is not a lot of noticeable dip in the first half of the middle range. It is harmonious in this respect, as well as pleasant and measured. In this way, the male voices have a great balance of presence, physicality, body, density, texture and detail. There is no one of these parameters that predominates over the other. And that is the sense of restraint I find in this model. The body is not thick, the presence has a good prominence, without being redundant or too intimate. It is dense enough to be rich and full in its rendering, but not to become opaque. The detail is adequate to possess a remarkable descriptive feel, but it is not an analytical presentation. It is that ensemble that gives me that more lush, organic, analogue feel. It is the same with the rest of the instruments, the guitars, the strings, the pianos... All of them are presented with a harmonious, musical and melodious balance and equilibrium. The second half is emancipated in a measured, almost exemplary way. The exposition of the upper-mids is almost a paradigm of a good tuning in this aspect. It is in charge of projecting presence, clarity, light and a slight amount of transparency. The level of restraint flourishes again and the female voices are the great example in this respect. They possess just the right amount of vivacity, sparkle and control. There is no sibilance, no artifice, no over-exposure of detail, no over-emphasis of it. That's true, it's not a high-precision ensemble, it's more musical and focused on medium and macro detail, than on defining great resolution. However, the articulation of the notes is very good, it is dynamic, fast and agile. Again, I think that the driver has a lot to say in these aspects, when it comes to drawing specific notes, well separated and defined, but with a point of roundness that takes it away from a stricter sense. All in all, this is an almost excellent range for the price range in which it moves. Highly enjoyable, almost charming.
Treble
The upper zone is the one that has the least balance in itself. I would like to avoid the comment, but in all honesty, it is a safe and smooth tuning. The extension is not very high and the presence of the treble is based more on a supporting range, on a good initial presence, than on personal showcasing. In this sense, his task of completing the harmonics of the rest of the band is completely covered. Pleasant, well-resolved, with a measured and controlled sparkle, as well as possessing a natural shape in the crackle of his presentation. But after a well-resolved first part, set out with grace and respect, the range is too gently diluted. Actually, it is also quite "guilty" that the sound of the T2 DLC 2022 is this good. And that's already a great achievement.
Soundstage, Separation
Without being exemplary in recreating the scene, there is a noticeable side-to-side and good stereo feel. While depth and height are average. That makes the scene not very three-dimensional or expansive. It is not a flat set, but spatiality is not its virtue. However, it has a good level of transparency, separation, order and coherence. It is not diffuse, but neither is it analytical. It is well resolved. As I have said of the mids, it has remarkable articulation and definition in rounding off the notes and separating them from each other. Being terse in the recreation of layers on the depth axis, the instrumental and vocal positioning, it is capable and concrete, agile and fast enough to present a good degree of resolution and a clean background. All this implies quite acceptable technical capabilities, reaching a very good level of representation of medium and macro details, even hinting at the tiniest nuances, thanks to the cleanness of its execution and a crisp cut on all notes, avoiding any hint of obscurity or diffuse aspect.
Comparisons
Dunu Titan S
To see the real competencies of the T2 DLC 2022, I wanted to compare it against one of the big players in the sub-$100 segment. Specifically, they are worth about $80. The design of the Titan S is noteworthy, but the DLCs are clearly lighter. The Dunu wins hands down in terms of packaging and accessories. The build level of the DLCs is very good, but Dunu brings something special to the table. I prefer the dark copper cable of the Titan S, although the fact that it is specifically designed to match the shape of the capsules, I dislike when it comes to changing it, because it breaks the harmony of the design.
The fit and ergonomics are good on both, but the speed with which the DLCs are inserted into the channels gives them an edge in this respect.
The TinHiFi's are slightly more sensitive, at equal volume, they sound a little louder.
The Dunu's bass is slightly more concise, tighter and with less roughness. There is a subtle, but noticeable overemphasis on the DLCs, which gives them a louder presence and a bit more darkness. On a technical level they have similar properties, but I think the Titan S is faster and has a lower decay. The texture of the DLC is more noticeable, something that gives it added value. It also seems less coloured and has a darker and slightly rounder tendency. In this way, it feels more natural and pleasant, less dry and more enjoyable. Although technically it seems somewhat inferior and more prone to a stuffy feeling, comparatively speaking. The Dunu is cleaner, clearer, more neutral and defined.
In the mid-range, the similarities persist. But I also see more cleanliness and refinement in the Dunu, a subtle improvement in their level of resolution and definition. The tone is warmer in the TinHifi and more neutral in the Titan S. This is how the Dunu has a point of greater technical and analytical ability, it feels a little more transparent and sharper (if I may say so, always under the comparative magnifying glass between both IEMS), while the DLC is a little softer and not so neat.
Oddly enough (I say this because of my charts), I find the Dunu's more sparkling, finesse and resolution in the first treble. The DLCs are rounder and less crisp, softer and less sharp. There is more mid-treble extension in the Dunu, as well as more air. The feeling of higher transparency is justified by that fact, as well as a greater sense of separation, but also a superior technical ability to render details and micro nuances.
In terms of soundstage, while neither is superior, there is an advantage to the Dunu, as it is cleaner, clearer and more refined, with a more volatile sound, which provides an expansive point that the DLC lacks. This aspect gives it a more three-dimensional feel, while the TinHiFi's are flatter, albeit with good width. Good positioning on both, but more precise on the Dunu, with more separation, distance between notes, spacing and also more finesse in the presentation of the elements, more stylised and delicate.
One could go so far as to say that the TinHiFi T2 DLC 2022 is the softer, even punkier brother of the Dunu Titan S. Whoever is looking for a more all-rounder and less critical version, as well as cheaper and lighter, will have a great option in them.
Conclusion
Second parts are not always good, but there are always exceptions (Terminator 2 was, coincidentally called T2). And this is one of them. Even without knowing the original T2, the TinHiFi T2 DLC 2022 by itself justifies its presence in the market, thanks to a great tuning. It has all the makings of a great all-rounder, slightly warm in character, smooth on top, melodious, pleasant and balanced in many respects. My idea of IEMS for everyday use is that they have to be robust, light, easy to insert, comfortable and bearable for many hours. And the DLC meets all these requirements. And musically speaking, it is present in all the bands: it has a balanced low end with a bit of punch, a fairly full midrange and a tight, but expressive first treble. They do not have the greatest extension in the upper range, nor are they the most technical in the range. But there are few IEMS, that I have tried for this price, as complete, melodious, harmonious and enjoyable. They are a real hit and highly recommended.
Sources Used During the Analysis
Aune Flamingo.
Hidizs XO.
Earmen Angel.
TempoTec Variations V6.
Hidizs AP80 PRO-X Red Copper Limited Edition.
ACMEE MF02s.
xDuoo XD05 BAL.
Ratings
Construction and Design: 86
Adjustment/Ergonomics: 89
Accessories: 60
Bass: 86
Mids: 89
Treble: 80
Separation: 81
Soundstage: 80
Quality/Price: 95
TinHiFi offered me this model, in exchange for writing an honest review. I want to make it clear that all my opinions written in this review have not been conditioned by this fact, nor will I ever write anything that I do not really think or feel here. I will only write about my personal opinion in relation to the revised product.
Pros: + Balanced tuning with natural timbre
+ Dynamic and impactful bass
+ Lush mids and smooth treble
+ Very comfortable and lightweight
+ Good build quality
+ Plenty of ear-tips
Cons: - Bass is hollow and not that well controlled
- Mid-bass masking and lack of clarity
- Average resolution and technicalities
- Bestest by some of the competition
- No carrying pouch
- Mediocre cable
The review sample was kindly provided free of charge in exchange for an honest review.
I didn't receive monetary or any other kind of compensation and I don't use affiliate links.
The price of the T2 DLC is $59 and you can order it directly from TIN HiFi.
Sometimes you can find it discounted as low as $49 which is a better deal.
TIN HiFi
TinHiFi is the brand name of a big OEM/ODM manufacturer from China which was launched in 2017 to bring HiFi sound and quality at a more accessible price point.
The T and P series of iems from TinHiFi are well known among the community with the P1 MAX being an excellent affordable planar magnetic earphone and my most beloved from the TIN HiFi catalog.
T2 DLC or T2 2022
The T2 DLC or T2 2022 is the new, improved version of the classic TIN HiFi T2 earphone that has already seen three revisions, the latest one being the EVO that was reviewed here.
According to TIN HiFi the T2 DLC features the following improvements over the EVO version:
The T2 2022 version features a fourth generation DLC composite diaphragm and 10mm DLC flagship dynamic driver that has been enhanced and optimized over the years.
The DLC diaphragm is beneficial to frequency response and substantially decreases unnecessary vibrations.
Using PU polymer, independent hanging case the T2 2022 has incomparable dynamic performance.
Furthermore a Japanese imported CCAW ultra lightweight voice coil with high density N54 magnets and brass, dual chamber, design is used for the T2 DLC.
The T2 2022 version continues to adopt aviation-grade high density aluminum as material for the cavity, which makes the sound waves reflection more balanced.
Meanwhile, a straight out sound cavity is used for reducing the resonance caused by the reflection of the sound waves.
Build quality and fit
The T2 2022 adopts the same neat and ultra compact design as the previous models.
This is the classic rounded, bullet shaped, IEM that fits comfortably and discretely into the ear for a fatigue free user experience even after prolonged time of use.
Positioning is secure and tight, offering great passive noise attenuation.
The metallic housings are lightweight, well made and they look pretty durable.
Cable
The T2 DLC features a detachable cable with 2-pin 0.78mm connectors instead of the MMCX of the previous models.
It is the usual 2-pin straight plug and not the newly developed recessed one, so care should be taken in order not to accidentally bend the pins.
The cable has eight strands of silver-plated copper with TPU sheathing at the outside, it has an aluminum splitter and it ends in a 3.5mm aluminum plug.
The cable is of typical quality for the category, it is mildly microphonic and it gets easily tangled.
Accessories
The T2 DLC comes together with 5 pairs of silicone ear-tips in various sizes and one pair of foam ear-tips.
A carrying pouch is not included.
Listening impressions
The T2 DLC was left playing music for about 100 hours in order to settle down.
With a 16Ω impedance and 102dB/mW of sensitivity the T2 DLC is very easy to drive and you can use it straight out from your phone although an entry level USB DAC dongle is recommended for the best sound quality.
I have used the FiiO KA1, iBasso DC05 and ddHiFi TC35 Pro.
The T2 DLC follows a different sound path than the EVO, it has a more balanced tonality with a touch of added sub-bass, even mids and a natural treble without upper spikes.
The low-end is neutrally tuned with satisfying sub-bass extension and a touch of mid-bass emphasis that adds a pleasant warmth without bleeding into the mids which stay clear and well defined.
On the technical side of things, the bass is a little boomy and hollow, quite tight and clear but not that well controlled and it doesn't shine for its definition either.
A simpler bass line gets well resolved but when things start to get more complicated the overall layering and instrumental separation struggle by losing in clarity and exhibiting a certain degree of masking.
Dynamics though are quite explosive, despite the size of the driver, and the T2 DLC can sound satisfyingly impactful and contrasted.
Mid-range tuning is well done, voices, especially female, get some gain and become the star of the show but without sounding shouty or strident.
Articulation and resolution are above average while timbre is quite natural and lifelike with plenty of harmonic saturation and lush texture.
Treble tuning is on the safer side, the T2 DLC is smooth sounding, mildly subdued and not that crispy on the highs but it isn't lacking in overall liveliness, clarity and airiness.
This is not a critical listening earphone but rather made for everyday casual use so while detail retrieval and resolution don't shine they are still enough to get the job done even with more demanding material.
Soundstage is nothing special to talk about, it is decently open and spacious so as not to sound overly congested.
Listening to classical music, like baroque concertos was a quite enjoyable experience but the T2 DLC doesn't feel at home with larger symphonic works and choruses.
Compared to the TRN ST5 ($59.80)
The real problem for the T2 DLC comes from the competition which is becoming aggressively fierce at this price point.
Take as an example the TRN ST5 which has the same price but it comes with a three plugs modular cable and offers the same kind of pleasurable tuning but with considerably better technicalities in every part of the frequency range and better soundstage making it a much more competitive earphone for critical listening.
The T2 DLC is though more comfortable, lightweight and compact sized so you may end preferring it for these reasons alone.
In the end
The T2 DLC is an upgraded version of the T2 Evo with a more balanced tuning and natural timbre plus enhanced technicalities.
A step into the right direction, the T2 DLC is a musical and engaging earphone, compact sized and with a very comfortable fit, perfectly suitable for casual listening on the go.
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