TRN Medusa
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TRN Medusa
1DD DLC
50USD
Before I start this review, let me thank Linsoul for providing me with the IEM for review.
Rest assured, my review is 100% my own personal opinion.
Check it here : https://www.linsoul.com/products/trn-medusa
Unboxing
What you get inside the box :
Build Quality
The Medusa is a really unique looking IEM, it looks like an eye which can be a bit eerie to look at.
The shell itself is made from plastic, which is a bit of a bummer. At first I thought the Medusa is made from filled resin, but sadly no.
As for the cable itself, it's pretty nice, it works, comfortable to wear, and is a modular cable.
It uses your standard 0.78mm 2 pin connector.
Comfort
The TRN Medusa is quite comfortable to wear, thanks to its super light weight plastic being used, there are also not a single hot spots during usage for long listening session.
Sound
Tested using FIIO KB3, Stock Cable, Stock Eartips
Music is mostly from Apple Music (J-POP, EDM, Jazz, Metal, Rap)
The TRN Medusa tonality is quite engaging, it sounds like a modified Harman target tuning with extra mid bass, extra upper midrange and extra mid treble.
Bass : The bass of this IEM is actually quite good, I like how it presents the mid bass, the punch is quite solid, it moves air and has that sense of physicality to it.
The Medusa also has decent sub bass rumble, though the bass itself is mainly focused on mid bass area.
The bass quantity itself is just like your typical Harman target but with extra mid bass coloration.
The bass speed itself is quite responsive, No issues at all with double pedal - metal genre.
Midrange : Medusa presents a forward midrange, which affects the vocal presentation to be on the borderline of almost being shouty, thankfully it never sounds shouty and free of sibilant, it just intense and engaging
Treble : Airy, Extended
Medusa has a focus on the mid treble area, which gives you some sparkle on its sound presentation and the treble is quite natural sounding. The treble itself is not harsh, but you can definitely feel the energy there.
Technicalities
Good for $50
Stage : Above Average
Medium sized, decent stage layering presentation, Oval shaped, I found the Medusa to have more depth compared to width.
Imaging : Good
It sounds 2.5D sounding with the KB3, but just “OK” if plugged directly to the smartphone.
Separation & Positioning : Average
The Medusa has average separation and positioning, it’s definitely not the sharpest and most pinpoint for the price. I do find whenever I use Medusa for gaming, I need to put extra effort on locating sound positions.
Detail Retrieval : Good
I found the bass presentation of Medusa to be the most resolving compared to the other frequencies.
If I have to describe the detail retrieval of Medusa, it has a very good bass detail, average midrange detail and good treble detail.
Conclusion
Do I recommend the TRN Medusa?
Is it any good?
The answer is “Maybe Yes”
The Medusa for $50USD offers an engaging tonality, good technicalities, good accessories but just “OK” build quality.
Also the looks of this IEM is quite “unique” to be frank it reminds me of an eyeball instead of sea creatures.
If you’re planning on getting this IEM, just be sure not to throw it around and use the included case after use to avoid the plastic cracks / scratched.
Just in case you're Indonesian or understand Bahasa Indonesia, you can watch this review here
Thanks for reaching this far !
-littlenezt.
1DD DLC
50USD
Before I start this review, let me thank Linsoul for providing me with the IEM for review.
Rest assured, my review is 100% my own personal opinion.
Check it here : https://www.linsoul.com/products/trn-medusa
Unboxing
- IEM
- Modular Cable
- Storage Case
- Eartips
- Documents
Build Quality
The Medusa is a really unique looking IEM, it looks like an eye which can be a bit eerie to look at.
The shell itself is made from plastic, which is a bit of a bummer. At first I thought the Medusa is made from filled resin, but sadly no.
As for the cable itself, it's pretty nice, it works, comfortable to wear, and is a modular cable.
It uses your standard 0.78mm 2 pin connector.
Comfort
Sound
Tested using FIIO KB3, Stock Cable, Stock Eartips
Music is mostly from Apple Music (J-POP, EDM, Jazz, Metal, Rap)
The TRN Medusa tonality is quite engaging, it sounds like a modified Harman target tuning with extra mid bass, extra upper midrange and extra mid treble.
Bass : The bass of this IEM is actually quite good, I like how it presents the mid bass, the punch is quite solid, it moves air and has that sense of physicality to it.
The Medusa also has decent sub bass rumble, though the bass itself is mainly focused on mid bass area.
The bass quantity itself is just like your typical Harman target but with extra mid bass coloration.
The bass speed itself is quite responsive, No issues at all with double pedal - metal genre.
Midrange : Medusa presents a forward midrange, which affects the vocal presentation to be on the borderline of almost being shouty, thankfully it never sounds shouty and free of sibilant, it just intense and engaging
Treble : Airy, Extended
Medusa has a focus on the mid treble area, which gives you some sparkle on its sound presentation and the treble is quite natural sounding. The treble itself is not harsh, but you can definitely feel the energy there.
Technicalities
Good for $50
Stage : Above Average
Medium sized, decent stage layering presentation, Oval shaped, I found the Medusa to have more depth compared to width.
Imaging : Good
It sounds 2.5D sounding with the KB3, but just “OK” if plugged directly to the smartphone.
Separation & Positioning : Average
The Medusa has average separation and positioning, it’s definitely not the sharpest and most pinpoint for the price. I do find whenever I use Medusa for gaming, I need to put extra effort on locating sound positions.
Detail Retrieval : Good
I found the bass presentation of Medusa to be the most resolving compared to the other frequencies.
If I have to describe the detail retrieval of Medusa, it has a very good bass detail, average midrange detail and good treble detail.
Conclusion
Do I recommend the TRN Medusa?
Is it any good?
The answer is “Maybe Yes”
The Medusa for $50USD offers an engaging tonality, good technicalities, good accessories but just “OK” build quality.
Also the looks of this IEM is quite “unique” to be frank it reminds me of an eyeball instead of sea creatures.
If you’re planning on getting this IEM, just be sure not to throw it around and use the included case after use to avoid the plastic cracks / scratched.
Just in case you're Indonesian or understand Bahasa Indonesia, you can watch this review here
Thanks for reaching this far !
-littlenezt.
Attachments
The TRN Medusa, the newest addition to TRN's ocean series, takes center stage with its unique design and impressive sound for the price point. Let's delve deeper into its features, sound signature, and overall value proposition.
Design and Build:
While the official inspiration is a jellyfish, the Medusa's clear plastic shell with its intricately painted 12mm dynamic driver undeniably resembles a captivating eyeball. Despite initial online impressions, the Medusa boasts a sleek and cool aesthetic in person. The lightweight build (5.1g per earphone) ensures comfortable wearability during extended listening sessions.
Accessories:
TRN carries over the generous accessory package from the well-received Conch model. This includes:
• Modular Cable: You get all a 2.5mm, 3.5mm, or 4.4mm termination option, offering flexibility for various audio sources. The included Sea Serpent cable (replacing the RedChain of the Conch) features a stylish grey graphene design and is known for its sonic quality, making it a valuable addition on its own.
• Ear Tips: TRN provides a comprehensive selection of tips to ensure a perfect fit and optimal sound isolation. This includes three sets of TRN T-tips, three sets of standard TRN tips, and a pair of memory foam tips, catering to different ear shapes and preferences.
• Carrying Case: A sleek aluminum case protects your Medusa from scratches and dings during transport.
Sound Signature:
The Medusa's true strength lies in its well-tuned 12mm second-generation Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) dynamic driver. Here's a detailed breakdown of its sonic characteristics:
• Bass: Tight, fast, and punchy, with a focus on midbass presence. The sub-bass delivers satisfying rumble when needed, yet remains controlled and clean, avoiding muddiness in the overall sound.
• Midrange: This is where the Medusa truly shines. The midrange is natural and neutral, with vocals – both male and female – sounding accurate and detailed. The airy and well-extended upper mids ensure clarity without any roll-off, making instruments and vocals stand out.
• Treble: The treble is smooth and neutral, erring on the safe side. It's not overly bright, making it suitable for extended listening without harshness. While not particularly emphasizing sparkle, it handles high volumes well.
Technical Performance:
The TRN Medusa delivers above-average technicalities. It boasts good linear or stereo imaging, with a focus on precise left-right instrument placement. While lacking a fully holographic soundstage, it excels in separation, allowing you to clearly distinguish individual instruments and vocals within the mix.
Overall Impression:
The TRN Medusa offers exceptional value for its price range. Considering the high-quality accessories included and its well-balanced sound signature, it's a fantastic option for audiophiles on a budget or those just starting their foray into the world of high-fidelity audio. The Medusa's versatility allows it to handle a wide range of musical genres with confidence, making it a compelling choice for everyday listening.
https://www.linsoul.com/products/trn-medusa-1?_pos=1&_psq=trn+medusa&_ss=e&_v=1.0
Who should consider the TRN Medusa?
• Budget-conscious audiophiles seeking a well-rounded IEM
• Newcomers to the audiophile world looking for a good introduction to high-fidelity sound
• Listeners who enjoy a balanced sound signature with a focus on natural vocal reproduction
• Users who value comfort and portability with the lightweight design
Design and Build:
While the official inspiration is a jellyfish, the Medusa's clear plastic shell with its intricately painted 12mm dynamic driver undeniably resembles a captivating eyeball. Despite initial online impressions, the Medusa boasts a sleek and cool aesthetic in person. The lightweight build (5.1g per earphone) ensures comfortable wearability during extended listening sessions.
Accessories:
TRN carries over the generous accessory package from the well-received Conch model. This includes:
• Modular Cable: You get all a 2.5mm, 3.5mm, or 4.4mm termination option, offering flexibility for various audio sources. The included Sea Serpent cable (replacing the RedChain of the Conch) features a stylish grey graphene design and is known for its sonic quality, making it a valuable addition on its own.
• Ear Tips: TRN provides a comprehensive selection of tips to ensure a perfect fit and optimal sound isolation. This includes three sets of TRN T-tips, three sets of standard TRN tips, and a pair of memory foam tips, catering to different ear shapes and preferences.
• Carrying Case: A sleek aluminum case protects your Medusa from scratches and dings during transport.
Sound Signature:
The Medusa's true strength lies in its well-tuned 12mm second-generation Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) dynamic driver. Here's a detailed breakdown of its sonic characteristics:
• Bass: Tight, fast, and punchy, with a focus on midbass presence. The sub-bass delivers satisfying rumble when needed, yet remains controlled and clean, avoiding muddiness in the overall sound.
• Midrange: This is where the Medusa truly shines. The midrange is natural and neutral, with vocals – both male and female – sounding accurate and detailed. The airy and well-extended upper mids ensure clarity without any roll-off, making instruments and vocals stand out.
• Treble: The treble is smooth and neutral, erring on the safe side. It's not overly bright, making it suitable for extended listening without harshness. While not particularly emphasizing sparkle, it handles high volumes well.
Technical Performance:
The TRN Medusa delivers above-average technicalities. It boasts good linear or stereo imaging, with a focus on precise left-right instrument placement. While lacking a fully holographic soundstage, it excels in separation, allowing you to clearly distinguish individual instruments and vocals within the mix.
Overall Impression:
The TRN Medusa offers exceptional value for its price range. Considering the high-quality accessories included and its well-balanced sound signature, it's a fantastic option for audiophiles on a budget or those just starting their foray into the world of high-fidelity audio. The Medusa's versatility allows it to handle a wide range of musical genres with confidence, making it a compelling choice for everyday listening.
https://www.linsoul.com/products/trn-medusa-1?_pos=1&_psq=trn+medusa&_ss=e&_v=1.0
Who should consider the TRN Medusa?
• Budget-conscious audiophiles seeking a well-rounded IEM
• Newcomers to the audiophile world looking for a good introduction to high-fidelity sound
• Listeners who enjoy a balanced sound signature with a focus on natural vocal reproduction
• Users who value comfort and portability with the lightweight design
