TRUTHEAR Hola

DISCLAIMER

I would like to thank Shenzhen Audio for furnishing this unit.
The Truthear Hola can be gotten here (no affiliate links): https://shenzhenaudio.com/products/...gh-performance-dynamic-driver-in-ear-monitors



“Hola” (ho·la), Spanish for “hello,” is an interjection used to attract attention or to shout encouragement or exultation. The term 赫, the Japanese name for these IEMs found on the packaging, has connotations of “brightening, illumination, or sparkling.”


SPECIFICATIONS

• Driver configuration: 1 x 11 mm polyurethane suspension + LCP (liquid crystal polymer) dome composite diaphragm dynamic driver
• Impedance: 28 Ohms
• Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
• Sensitivity: 120 dB/Vrms
• Cable: 0.78 mm, 2-pin, 3.5 mm, oxygen-free copper cable
• Tested at $19.99 USD

ACCESSORIES

Other than the IEM, these are included:
- 3 pairs of narrow-bore silicone ear tips (S, M, L)
- 4 pairs of wide-bore silicone ear tips (S, M, L)
- Leatherette soft carry case
- Anime waifu card

Considering the HOLA retails below USD$20, the accessories are quite decent. There’s even an anime waifu mascot - her name is "Shiroi," which means "White" in Japanese. The waifu card has other in-depth and salacious details on it!




Two types of silicone tips are provided. Unfortunately, there are no foamies included, but I can close one eye considering the HOLA retails for such little coin. The narrow-bore silicone tips boost bass quantity but compress the soundstage, whereas the wide-bore ones increase the upper frequencies and open up the soundstage.



The tips come in a nice little tray, and personally, I prefer the wide-bore tips to add some spice and openness to the treble and help offset this IEM's unadventurous tuning.




A stock oxygen-free copper cable is included, which is quite serviceable. It has a moderate thickness and is tangle-free, though microphonics are present. There’s a chin cinch for added stability during usage. I am happy it is a 2-pin connector, as I faced longevity issues with MMCX cables especially with frequent cable swaps.




There are many budget challengers that do not include a case in the accessory line-up, so it is a nice touch from Truthear to have one included. The leatherette case has a nifty magnetic clasp instead of a traditional button. It is quite elegant but might not withstand a crushing force. It may focus more on looks over functionality, as the storage space isn’t too large either.

The following review was completed with the stock wide-bore silicone ear tips and stock cable. Aftermarket accessories were not used so as not to add confounders to the sound.


BUILD/COMFORT

The housings feature a half-moon shape, with a hexagonal/star-like motif gracing the face plate. CNC (computer numerical control) anodized sand-blasted aluminum alloy is used to manufacture the shells. The HOLA’s acoustic cavity is DLP (digital light processing) 3D printed from HeyGears. This is pressure-casted, hand-grinded, and then spray-painted externally. After that, it is glued onto the face plate.




The HOLA is very light, and ergonomics are top-notch. A small concha protrusion adds some grip during usage. The inner aspect of the shells are smooth without any awkward protrusions. I did not experience any discomfort during longer listening sessions.

Despite being vented, isolation is above average. I did not encounter any driver flex, but YMMV, this may be dependent on ear anatomy and the type of ear tips used.


INTERNALS

The HOLA utilizes an 11mm polyurethane suspension composite liquid crystal dome diaphragm dynamic driver, with dual-cavity magnetic circuit N52 magnets.


DRIVABILITY

I tested the Hola with the following sources:
- Apple dongle
- Cayin RU7
- Colorfly CDA M1 DAC/AMP dongle
- Creative Sound Blaster X5
- E1DA DAC/AMP dongle
- Hiby R3 Pro Saber 2022 DAP
- Khadas Tone Board -> Schiit Asgard 3 amp
- Khadas Tone Board -> Topping L30 amp
- Questyle M15 DAC/AMP dongle
- Sony Walkman NW A-55 DAP (Walkman One WM1Z Plus v2 Mod)
- Sony Walkman NW A-55 DAP (Walkman One Neutral Mod)
- Sony Walkman NW WM1A DAP (Walkman One WM1Z Plus v2 Mod)
- Smartphone

The HOLA is moderately easy to drive, though it will scale with amplification in terms of dynamics, soundstage, and bass tightness.


SOUND & TECHNICALITIES


Graph of the Truthear Hola via IEC711 coupler. 8 kHz is a coupler peak.

Tonally, the HOLA has an L-shaped signature, with the bass having a boost compared to the higher frequencies.

Timbre is pretty natural, with vocals and acoustic instruments sounding unadulterated. Aerophones have a nice vibration at the tail-end, and percussion instruments incorporate membranous rumble. Note weight is on the thicker side.

When compared against other ultra-budget single DD rivals, the HOLA is mediocre in technicalities. Soundstage has good depth, though it does not have great height or width. Imaging is decent enough, but instrument separation, clarity, and micro-details are weak. Edge definition and transients are blunted. The HOLA embraces an analogue and pleasant signature over an outright analytical soundscape.



The HOLA is sub-bass focused, and the quantity is north of neutral but not at bonafide basshead levels. Sub-bass extends moderately, with some rumble. The mid-bass isn’t the most emphasized, so the HOLA does not fair that well with mid-bass focused genres such as EDM and hip-hop.

In terms of quality, bass texturing is below average, and can sound one-noted and undefined. Bass speed is moderate, with minimal mid-bass bleed.

The lower midrange is a tinge recessed. Thankfully, this region is relatively transparent due to no marked mid-bass bleed impinging on it. With a 6 dB pinna gain, the upper mids are not zealous, to say the least. In the mix, vocals lie in the background, so vocal lovers may want to consider an alternative set unless EQ is up your alley.

The HOLA is diametrically opposite from their Japanese name of 赫 (meaning bright or sparkling) and the upper treble borders on dark. The lower treble continues on from the small upper midrange mound, but the upper treble drops off after that. The HOLA is smooth as silk, and sibilance is absent. Our treble-sensitive brethren will like the tuning on offer, but treble-heads will likely grumble at the lack of pizazz and flair.


COMPARISONS

Comparisons were made against other ultra-budget single DDs. Pure BAs, planars, multi-driver types, and hybrids are left out, as the different transducers have their own pros and cons.




Kiwi Ears Cadenza

The Cadenza features a warm Harman tuning. The Cadenza has more upper mids and lower treble, and vocals sound more forward.

These two adversaries are well accessorized and comfortable, with natural timbre. Both are not technical tour de forces but the Cadenza takes the lead in imaging, micro-details, and instrument separation, albeit the HOLA has a more expansive soundstage.

I consider them sidegrades, as the Cadenza weighs in at almost double the retail price, and the HOLA has arguably a better price-to-performance ratio.



7Hz Salnotes Zero

The Salnotes Zero is tuned neutral bright. It is more sterile and analytical, with a thinner note weight. The Zero has a more extended treble and is brighter in tone.

The Zero is harsher, more sibilant, and not as smooth as the HOLA. The Zero has less bass quantity, but the bass is tighter and faster.

Edge definition, layering, imaging, micro-detailing, and transients are superior on the Zero, though the HOLA has a deeper soundstage.

Timbre is less organic on the Zero, and the Zero is less comfortable due to perpendicular edges in the shells. In contrast, the HOLA is a cut above in timbral accuracy and fit.



Tangzu Wan’er

The Wan’er is a warm neutral set. It has marginally less bass and slightly more upper mids and treble than the HOLA.

Both IEMs have natural timbre, in keeping with their single DD roots, though the Wan’er is a hair better in technicalities.

They are both well accessorized and have good comfort, and I consider them sidegrades.



CONCLUSIONS



The HOLA is relatively well-accessorized, with a quality build and above-average isolation. The conservative tuning, coupled with a snug fit, renders the HOLA suitable for long listening sessions, with nary an ounce of fatigue. Ironically, the HOLA’s namesake is a misnomer - it is not bright nor sparkly. In fact, this IEM veers towards the boring side of the spectrum, and treble-heads or micro-detail seekers best be seeking something else to ignite sparks of excitement.

Indeed, there may even be a cri de coeur for the HOLA lacking the technical panache to punch above its weight. Although the soundstage is quite expansive compared to other ultra-budget entrants, the HOLA has middling technicalities and fails to usurp higher-tier single DD contenders.

The HOLA is more suited for beginners new to the ChiFI circuit. It falls in the category of being a decent sub-USD$20 daily beater but is no market disruptor. In essence, it is a jack(rabbit) of all trades but master of none.

For recalcitrant ChiFI consumers who have been around the block and back, I would advise you to keep your powder dry and save the twenty bucks for a more substantial upgrade down the line.

The Truthear Hola is a budget model that competes at the entry level with a price tag of $19. (You have to pay $1 extra if you want to get a mic). For the price segment, they offer you sufficient accessories and it is a product that can be worthwhile if it is a signature you are looking for. First of all let's remember that this affordable price range is very tight with models such as 7hz Salnotes Zero, Tangzu Waner, Simgot EW100, Moondrop Chu and Chu 2 among many others. Every time I blink, the IEM market is already launching a new product. What does Truthear propose with Hola? Let's see!

To begin with, let's take a look at the package and what it includes:




Okay, the unboxing gives you a very good feeling. Superior to any popular earphone for this price in my country, at least. Plus the box art is gorgeous :3
As shown in the picture, the box includes:

• The Hola IEMs (obviously) lol
• 7 pairs of eartips.
• 2 pin cable.
• Faux leather bag (basic but welcome)
• Manual
• Warranty card
• Card with waifu

If we talk about the build, the shells are not surprising but I have seen similar products with a worse plastic. It feels like a regular plastic although not as good as the Salnotes Zero. Still, they won't give you the feeling that they will break. It is simply a black design, very discreet and with a print that looks like a star (or something like that). I like that serious design, but you have to consider that the material is a magnet for fingerprints and oil.
The pin connector is slightly recessed but I found no problems using other universal cables I have. The included cable is the best I've seen for this range of price. It's a step above the Salnotes in my opinion. It is not a cable that tangles easily.



Both the product and the presentation are in my opinion very attractive. Of course, always considering what you are paying for.

Fit and Comfort:
As for comfort, I have no complaints, it is excellent. The shell fits in my ear quite well and I can wear them for hours.
It's so convenient that I can even lie down with them.


Now let's talk about what really matters: sound. For this review, I used three dongles as a source: the BGVP T01s, the iBasso DC03 Pro and the Truthear Shio. I share the graph as a reference (only as a reference, the review will be according to what my ears tell me).



Technical side:
Personally I find that nothing in this price range is particularly outrageous.
The product delivers a correct image. On the other hand, separation is decent but that's about it. Timbre is natural. The resolution is good considering the tuning they have.
The product is easy to amplify, even without a dongle. Of course, it is always advisable to use one to make them shine a little bit, otherwise they remain as a fairly regular product.

Sound:
The Hola's have a very warm, smooth and easy-listening signature. It's a very relaxed sound that I personally like.

Bass: They have a rather nice enhancement although some might find them a bit exaggerated. This will depend quite a bit on your taste. These frequencies have a very good extension, smooth and with a clear emphasis. Perhaps it lacks just a bit of texture and is some may find that it is not the cleanest or fastest bass but personally, I like what the Truthear team has done with these frequencies. The bass gives a good rumble when needed and you don't get that thin feeling that some people prefer to avoid in some rhythmic music. Transitions from low to higher frequencies are very smooth.

Mids: Very good, they are not heard to be recessed despite having an increase in the previous frequencies. Female and male voices are pleasant to listen to. The instruments are well represented at these frequencies, I have nothing to mention at this point. The mids are crystal clear.

Highs: Well, I previously reviewed the Salnotes Zero. Their highs were bright. In this case, we have a fairly safe tuning. It is important if you are sensitive to treble. I consider that you are in a safe shelter here. The extension is enough.

For me, it is a good product to consider. It has good accessories, a very secure sound signature, decent technicalities. As of today, it is a few months since these IEMs were released but it is still a safe buy. There are those who buy this kind of products not to be an expert audiophile but they are looking to get into this niche of products to get a decent sound. (Or at least in my country it is really a niche and these products are getting more popular).
Currently, I still find Truthear Hola as a very easy product to recommend. It even works as a cool gift for our friends or loved ones we want to give a decent product they can enjoy uwu

TRUTHEAR HOLA
1DD
$20

Hi there, before I begin this review, please do forgive my weird English and grammatical mistakes.
The HOLA is bought with my own spending and this review is 100% my own opinion.

lets start with the UNBOXING


BUILD QUALITY



The HOLA body is made from 3D printing resin material with metal faceplate, to be honest the build quality is just meh.
It doesn't scream quality and the resin part is very oil magnet, if you have oily face / skin type, be prepare to see your HOLA shine (literally).
The weight of the IEM is very light but it does have detachable standard 0.78 pin connector, so if somehow you broke the cable / want to change to a balanced cable, its very easy to do so.

as for the stock cable, its decent, thats all.


FITTING
Fitting of the HOLA on my big ears is very good.
It has slim but wide body and because it's very light, I can wear the HOLA on a super long session without any discomfort.

lets talk about the SOUND

Sound is tested plugged directly to my Redmi Note 9 Pro potato phone and FiiO BTR7.
Stock cable and stock wide bore eartips is used.
Music is mostly from Apple Music Lossless (J-POP, J-Rock, Rap, Metal, Jazz, EDM)

Overall tonality of the HOLA is pretty much like Aria OG (Harman target with slight midbass boost and a hint of warm)

BASS : Subbass is quite deep, also has great rumble, but HOLA's bass is more focused on the punch rather than rumbly type.
If I have to compare it to the Aria, HOLA's subbass is deeper, the texture of the bass is very similar, its super close, decay of the bass is normal, not too long nor too short.
track such as Yonkers by Tyler the Creator is very enjoyable to listen on HOLA.
Bass speed is also nimble enough to be used for metal track the likes of Trivium.

MIDS : Midrange position is parallel with bass. The overall presentation of the mids is decently weighted, but sadly there also this slight edgy sound to it exactly like the Aria OG has from its treble presentation. It affects the overall edge of vocal and instruments, but if I had to compare it to Aria, Aria has more edgier mids compared to the HOLA, in other words, HOLA is more natural and smoother compared to Aria, also mids on Aria is a tad more forward.

Treble : Sparkly, a bit splashy, pretty much the same presentation like the Aria OG, there's that edginess on the treble but it somehow make things sounds more lively and exciting in cost of being sounding a bit metallic. If compared directly to Aria OG, the Aria OG has more metallic treble.

Timbre : HOLA Timbre sounds OK but again, it has that edginess to the overall sounds like the Aria OG.

Technicalities :

Pretty close to the OG Aria, same like Aria, it needs decent source to get the most of the technicalities. The scalability of the source on this set is very good, if connected to better source, of course the technicalities will get improved as well.

Detail Retrieval : for the price is mindblowingly good, some people said it has less detail compared to OG Aria, but IMO, its because the HOLA has more natural treble with less edginess to it, so it somehow sounds like its being smoothed out.

Stage : is wide but without exact wall placement, the shape is symmetrical in width and depth.

Imaging : for the price is class leading, it pretty much punch to the Aria price bracket.

Positioning and Separation : Decent, not great, just decent, its probably due to the tuning with that midbass punch masked a bit of the mids, though for the price its still class leading.

For Pairing to be honest its up to you, if you want warmer sound, then get warmer source, if you want analytical one, then get an analytical source, though I must mention once again, the scalability of HOLA is pretty good, you definitely will notice technical improvements if you use better source.

Comparation

Moondrop ARIA OG : A LOT of people compare the HOLA with the Aria OG (at least in Indonesia), and said HOLA is baby Aria / "Low-Res Aria".

Probably the Aria OG feels a bit more "Hi-Res" because of the edginess on the treble region that Aria has, it feels like the edge of overall sound has more definition to it but with the cost of creating more metallic sound compared to the HOLA, while HOLA have more smoother edge to it and sounds more natural, If I don't have both IEM in hand, I'd easily just pick HOLA because it literally is pretty close to the Aria OG with the bonus being more natural sounding compared to the Aria OG.

Conclusion
IMO, just get the Truthear HOLA and be happy, you can use it as your backup IEM / daily beater / whatever you want with it. It only cost $20 and pretty much on par with the Aria OG, it has that super blind buy safe tonality, also the technicalities is pretty much beating a lot of IEM of its price bracket.

If you're still contemplating to save your $20, here, let me help you further.

Truthear HOLA is recommended IF :

• You're on a tight budget
• You want IEM with good technicalities
• You want an Allrounder type Tonality
• You just start your audio journey and will purchase DAC / DAP / Dongle upgrades in future, because the scalability of HOLA is pretty good

Truthear HOLA is NOT recommended IF :

• You're allergic to HYPE items, just save your $20
• You need a flat / monitoring type tonality, because HOLA is definitely on the fun side

Just in case you're Indonesian / understand Bahasa Indonesia, here is my review video in Bahasa Indonesia


that's all from me for now,
I probably will edit this later to correct my weird English.



-littlenezt