[squid_shank]

I've had atrio m5's for about 1.5 years now, and while the powerful and deep bass is amazing for all the hip-hop I listen to, the flatness of the mids and highs has made itself apparent to me recently. I was looking to make a move up to a higher end IEM, and I was wondering what I could potentially look at that has that similar powerful bass element I love, while not sacrificing on the rest of the sonic range. I have an absolute budget of $500, but would prefer not to spend it all. Also, I would prefer IEMs that would be ok without an external amp driving them. I have been looking at 535s, sm3s, w3, ie8s, um3x. Currently I'm leaning towards a triple driver IEM, most likely the sm3, but I'm open to any suggestions to look at something else. Thanks
 

 

[squid_shank]

also a side question: are the w3s on ebay widely known to be authentic? because they seem to be about $70 cheaper

 

[tacomn]

well I havent heard them yet but got the radius ddm for in hopes of the the same reason you have. The radius is considered top tier and is said to have great bass while not trumping on other parts of sound. Also these are pretty incredibly priced, just got a oem version for 110 shipped. I would say its worth a look into to the read reviews/ comments on it, at least.

 

[squid_shank]

for the record, i got w3s and am extremely happy with them. they sounded ok with the comply tips, but exceptional with the shure olives