Indeed. I think this just made me decide to buy the IE8s.
I recently purchased the Triple.Fi 10, and I do like it, but there are certain traits that I try to look for that the TF10 isn't quite doing. The description of the IE8 leads me to believe that
is capable of the certain aspects that I like to find in sound reproduction, like realism, air, and a great sense of space. I also don't mind EQing, so any issues with bass and treble response can be fixed.
I do find it interesting how much he likes the W3, and I'd be curious him comparing the UM3X to the W3, IE8, and such if he ever owns one. It's nice to see a dynamic driver so well regarded, but it's not a major surprise I guess. Earphones like the RE0 have high praise as well for getting away with doing a lot with just a single dynamic driver. I own Yuin's OK1 bud, and that is an amazing piece that is capable of great realism, air, and separation. I was hoping for a bit of a repeat with the Triple.Fis, but they just don't quite give the right presentation. I'll agree the frequency response is pretty darn good but with this boosted low midrange/high midbass bump that stands out.
Whenever anybody says something sounds "real," I tend to take note.