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"Simgot EN700 Pro - Excellence At A Stellar Price"
Pros - Value, Build Quality, Sound Quality, Clarity, Balance, Comfort, Fit
Cons – Slightly mid-forward (I don't see this as a con, but some might)
Rating - 5 star
Picture are default 1200 x 800 resolution - click to view larger images.
INTRODUCTION
I've stuck to a couple of rules since I first started reviewing and getting samples sent to me. The first was not to openly solicit review samples (it helps keep me at a distance from the manufacturer, so I'm less likely to show overly positive bias). The second rule works similarly – treat any sample as borrowed (unless I buy it – and I do buy the things I want to keep). Both rules have served me well so far.
What has been really nice is when a new company contacts me out of the blue, and asks if I'd like to review something. That was the case with Simgot Audio. I was contacted by Sabrina, and she asked if I'd be willing to take one of their new IEMs for a spin. It was the EN700 Pro, and I have to admit I was curious about the models I'd seen others reviewing – were they really as good as everyone was saying? I remember seeing the quite funky design and thinking to myself – could they actually be that comfortable? I'll try and answer some of these questions in the following review. Welcome to the Simgot Audio EN700 Pro – now lets take it for a spin.
ABOUT SIMGOT AUDIO
Simgot Audio is a Chinese earphone company first formed in 2015. Sabrina tells me that the company specialises in the design and manufacture of audio devices, and at present that seems to mainly encompass their EN700 series – standard, bass and pro versions.
In their own words : “Simgot is committed to provide music lovers with the most cost-effective and prestigious Hi-Fi headset products. Adhering to the best innovation, Simgot shows full respect for intellectual property and design, taking art designs, refined technology, superior listening comfort, impeccable service and product innovation as requirements and standards.”
They can be found at Facebook HERE, or their product range viewed at their website HERE. My time so far with Sabrina has been excellent - and they have been more than willing to answer my questions regarding their technology.
DISCLAIMER
The Simgot EN700 Pro that I’m reviewing today was provided to me gratis as a review sample. I have made it clear to Simgot that I still regard any product they send me as their sole property and available for return any time at their request. But I thank them for the ability to continue use of the EN700 Pro for follow up comparisons. I do not make any financial gain from this review – it is has been written simply as my way of providing feedback both to the Head-Fi community and also Simgot themselves.
I have now had the EN700 Pro a little over 5 weeks. The retail price at time of review is USD 149.99, and will soon be available via Amazon, or purchased direct from their website.
PREAMBLE - 'ABOUT ME'. (or a base-line for interpreting my thoughts and bias)
For the purposes of this review - I used the Simgot EN700 Pro straight from the headphone-out socket of most of my portables. I did not generally further amp them (I did test them with my E17K, A5 and IMS HVA), as IMO they do not benefit greatly from additional amplification (YMMV and it may depend on your source). In the time I have spent with the EN700 Pro, I have noticed no change to the overall sonic presentation (break-in), although I know that Simgot recommends it. Time spent now with the EN700 Pro would be easily 30+ hours.
This is a purely subjective review - my gear, my ears, and my experience. Please take it all with a grain of salt - especially if it does not match your own experience.
THE REVIEW
PACKAGING AND ACCESSORIES
The EN700 Pro in a rectangular retail box consisting of a printed outer sleeve over a box and lid. The retail sleeve is approx 130 x 200 x 47mm, charcoal grey, and has a graphic (in black) of the Simgot EN700 Pro on the front cover (along with Sony Hi-Res logo), and specifications + exploded diagram of the EN700 Pro on the rear.
The inner box has a textured black outer surface, and simply the words “Suzaku” and a graphic of the Suzaku or Vermilion bird on the top cover. Opening this reveals the EN700 Pro nestled safely in a foam holder, and also the included carry case. Underneath the top tray are further cut-outs, and this houses the included tip selection and manual.
The accessories include:
The storage case is 75 x 85 x 30mm (so reasonably big but still pocket-able). It is semi-rigid and consists of leather outer over a fabric lined inner. It is a rounded rectangular shape with a lift up flap, secured via a magnetic internal plate. It is engraved on the rear with the words “salute to art and science”. It gives reasonable protection for everyday use. The entire package is reasonable for this price point, although personally I'd also like to see at least some foam tips included
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
(From Simgot's packaging / website)
FREQUENCY GRAPH
The graph below is generated using the Vibro Veritas coupler and ARTA software. Ken Ball (ALO/Campfire) graciously provided me with measurement data which I have used to recalibrate my Veritas so that it mimics an IEC 711 measurement standard (Ken uses two separate BK ear simulators, we measured the same set of IEMs, and I built my calibration curve from shared data). I do not claim that this data is 100% accurate, but it is very consistent, and is as close as I can get to the IEC 711 standard on my budget.
I do not claim that the measurements are in any way more accurate than anyone else's, but they have been proven to be consistent and I think they should be enough to give a reasonable idea of response - especially if you've followed any of my other reviews. When measuring I always use crystal foam tips (so medium bore opening) - and the reason I use them is for very consistent seal and placement depth in the coupler. I use the same amp (E11K) for all my measurements - and output is under 1 ohm.
Any graphs are provided merely as a point of discussion, and later in the review I've included comparisons to other IEMs for similar reference.
My sonic impressions of the Simgot EN700 Pro – written well before I measured:
BUILD
The first time I saw the Simgot shape I can remember thinking to myself that it just kind of looked weird. Its not until you get them in your hand that you realise how good the design is. The EN700 Pro has an eliptical body which has a flat patterned external face and very smooth and rounded internal face. The body measures approx 22mm across and 16mm in height, with a depth of approx 12-13mm. According to Sabrina, the body is a mix of aluminium alloy and stainless steel. It is two piece, but the join is so well managed, it is practically seamless.
The external face is flat with an attractive vertical ridged pattern and the word Simgot on each side (vertically on the cable exit). The internal face is beautifully finished with no sharp edges and is extremely comfortable. There is a single port adjacent to the nozzle and L/R markings (very clear) on each side.
The nozzle protrudes on a slight angle up from the main body (so it is forward when worn properly). It is 6-7mm in length, has a diameter of 5mm, is mesh covered for protection, and has a generous lip.
At the top of each IEM is a 2 pin 0.78mm socket which sits flush with the EN700 Pro's body. The cable fits snugly and the connection is very sturdy. The cable is made up of 8 strands of 6N single-crystal copper with silver plating, and then coated with a flexible polymer coating. From the IEM to the Y-split, there are two twisted pairs, and below the Y split is a twisted quad. From the two pin male connector, there is a preformed wire loop which is flexible and quite comfortable, and also sits nicely (similar to FiiO's new F9). Because of the sturdiness and design, there is no need for strain relief. Simgot have also tested the cable (which is Kevlar fibre reinforced) to 400D on the Du Pont strain scale.
The y-split is a solid clear hardened rubber, and there is a well designed cinch above it. The Jack is 3.5mm, gold plated, straight, and features enough length to allow fitting to my iPhone SE with case intact. This would be one of the nicer cables I've come across aesthetically. Its lightweight, quite flexible, and only mildly microphonic (this disappears when using the cinch and some basic cable management). The cable is 1.3m in length although some of this is taken up by the preformed ear loops.
One minor point to note is that the cable wire (in my photos) is showing signs of greening (oxidation). It's just aesthetic – and Simgot have already recognised it as a fault, and corrected it for the retail releases. I will try to update the photos when the new cable arrives.
Internally the EN700 Pro utilises a 10mm polymer composite titanium plated diaphragm. This is coupled with an N50 ultra strong neodymium magnetic coil for precision. The EN700 Pro is certified high resolution (a frequency range from 15-40 kHz)
Probably the only thing I haven't mentioned yet (which I find quite endearing) is the red/blue shells. Normally the red would the right ear-piece (red = right) and blue would be left. With the EN700 Pro this is reversed.
As far as my impression of overall build and design goes – I can't really fault anything they have done.
FIT / COMFORT / ISOLATION
I'll start with the easy one (isolation), and we can then look at fit and comfort. Isolation is dependent on tip selection, and if you get a good seal, it is actually pretty good (about average for a vented dynamic IMO), but will not ultimately reach the high isolation of sealed BA IEMs. It would still be reasonably good for a busy street, or some forms of public transport though – although wouldn't be my personal choice for long haul flights.
Now we get to fit and comfort – and these thoughts are more subjective. As I said above, the EN700 Pro has an ergonomic body shape, with a good length of slightly angled nozzle, and for me personally they are extremely easy to fit – but the nozzle does give a relatively shallow in-ear fitting. They are designed for over-ear use. Anyone used to ergonomic over-ear designs should have no issues. They are extremely comfortable for everyday use.
With the nice lip on the nozzle, I had no problem at all fitting practically any tip, and I have to also give Simgot kudos for the included tips. Normally I can't wear default single flange silicone tips – my wonky ear canals won't maintain a seal with a shallow fitting IEM. Simgot includes two types of tips – a thinner “mid/high” single flange and a more rigid “bass enhanced” tip. The “mid/high” tips wouldn't seal, so practically all the bass was gone. The “bass enhanced” tips sealed really well though.
I tried and had varying success with my usual go-tos, including large Comply, stretched Shure Olives, Spiral-dots, Sony Isolation, Ostry tuning tips and Spinfits. The beauty of the design is that practically everything worked, In the end though I actually stuck with the default tips giving the best mix of seal, clarity, and comfort.
The Simgot EN700 Pro sits nicely flush with my outer ear, and are comfortable to lie down with. I've slept with them often, and have no discomfort on waking. So the overall build and comfort is brilliant – how do they sound?
SOUND QUALITY
The following is what I hear from the Simgot EN700 Pro. YMMV – and probably will – as my tastes are likely different to yours (read the preamble I gave earlier for a baseline). Most of the testing at this point (unless otherwise stated) was done with my FiiO X7ii (single ended), no EQ, and default “bass” tips. I used the X7ii simply because it gives me a very transparent window to the music with low impedance, and more than enough power. There was no DSP engaged.
For the record – on most tracks, the volume level on the X7ii (AM3A amplifier module) was around 40-45/120 (on low gain) which was giving me an average SPL around 65-75 dB. Tracks used were across a variety of genres – and can be viewed in this list http://www.head-fi.org/a/brookos-test-tracks.
Relativities
Resolution / Detail / Clarity
The Simgot EN700 Pro doesn’t need amplification for overall volume – and because its impedance isn't spectacularly low, any source with an output impedance of less than 2 ohms should pair OK. All of my sources are pretty low OI and I had no issues with tonality changes. I don't tend to notice hiss (older ears) – so no real issues for me with the EN700 Pro. However, I sweet talked my wife (she has practically perfect hearing still and can hear our cat walking on carpet), to test the X7ii and EN700 pro from the SE output. Even at close to max output there was no noticeable hiss – (no music playing of course!)
With my iPhone SE around 30% volume is more than enough with most tracks, and the new FiiOs are generally at around 45-50/120. I have tried the EN700 Pro with the E17K and also with my A5, but none of them seemed to be adding anything to my listening set-up other than some extra bulk.
RESPONSE TO EQ?
Why would you want to? I suppose that isn't a valid answer, so I played around with the X7ii's EQ dropping the 2-4 kHz sliders by 3 and 4 dB respectively. The change was actually pretty good, so I spent 10 minutes nulling, then later increasing, the bass. Each time the EN70 Pro reacted beautifully – further growing my respect for this IEM.
COMPARISON WITH OTHER IEMS
These comparisons were all done with the X7ii, (no EQ or DSP) – and volume matched using a calibrated SPL meter and fixed 1kHz test tone first. Choosing the comparisons, I wanted to firstly compare the EN700 Pro to a couple of the best performers in the sub $200 bracket (the MEE P1 and LZ-A4) and then look at other comparisons in higher brackets and see how it fared. So I ended up also comparing with the $250 Alclair Curve, and Rhapsodio's older ~$550 RTi1 single dynamic. Hopefully this gives enough insight to anyone interested in this IEM. Here are my very subjective personal thoughts:
Simgot EN700 Pro (~USD 150) vs MEE P1 (~USD 200)
Starting as usual with build quality – both IEMs are extremely well made with permanent materials, smoothed edges, and good quality replaceable cables. Both are extremely comfortable to wear. The P1 does come with the extra cable, but it also requires amplification from weaker sources, as it is quite difficult to drive for an IEM. Isolation on both is very similar.
Sonically, these are two similar sounding IEMs, with slightly different flavours. The EN700 does sound cleaner and clearer (the slightly lower bass and bump at 6-7 kHz), and also a little thinner. The P1 sounds fuller, but also more distant (vocals), and has a bit of very top end splashiness which the EN700 Pro avoids quite nicely.
For the last 12 months, the P1 has been firmly on my list as one of the benchmarks in the sub $200 bracket. Its definitely found its match with the EN700 Pro. For my preferences the 700 Pro has better overall tonality, clarity, and is cheaper to boot.
Simgot EN700 Pro (~USD 150) vs LZ-A4 (~USD 200)
Overall build quality is once again excellent on both, and neither skimp on materials. Where the EN700 Pro has the LZ-A4 beat though is in ergonomics – it is simply very, very comfortable. With the right tips the LZ-A4 can be comfortable in its own right – but its not quite in the same ball park. Both have removable cables, but the Simgot cable is aesthetically a little nicer. The big advantage the LZ-A4 has or course is the tunable filters, and this can't be underestimated , as they really are implemented well.
Sonically the two (I used black/grey on the LZ-A4) are again very similar – probably more so than the P1. Both have an excellent and natural bass response, both are also extremely clear and clean (vivid is a word that springs to mind). The EN700 Pro is a little more forward in the upper mid-range, and overall is the brighter of the two earphones – but not excessively so. I love both earphones, and here the real choice is between the tuning capability of theLZ-A4 and the greater comfort, and default tonality of the EN700Pro at a considerably lower price. For my preference (if I had to choose) it would be the Simgot, but I would be happy with either. Both are brilliant.
Simgot EN700 Pro (~USD 150) vs Alclair Curve (~USD 250)
The Curve has been my one constant over the last two years. Its the IEM I will never sell, and for me is an unsung hero somewhat on the Head-Fi wilderness. It is a dual BA IEM with an extremely close to reference tuning.
Build quality is fantastic on both IEMs, and despite the EN700 Pro having a metal shell vs the polycarbonate compound on the Curve, both are great examples of how well an IEM can be made. Comfort and fit are also great on both, but in this case, the Curve slips slightly ahead with its slightly more ergonomic shape.
Sonically these two have similarities, but where the Curve is quite flat, the EN700 Pro is more v shaped with far more prominent mid-range and lower treble. Because of this, the EN700 Pro is a lot more vivid, and vibrant, with bass that has more impact, and a far greater sense of euphony with female vocals. But it is also undoubtedly more coloured, and this one again comes down to preference.
The EN700 Pro would never replace the Curve – it is simply a different earphone, but it makes a nice compliment at a very affordable price. It's also not embarrassed at all in this comparison.
Simgot EN700 Pro (~USD 150) vs Rhapsodio RT1i (~USD 550)
I chose this comparison simply because it pitted two very good single dynamic driver earphones against each other, regardless of price.
Build material choice is good on both, although for overall finish I thing the EN700 Pro actually looks a little better. The cable on the RTi1 is definitely a little more premium. Fit and comfort is extremely good on both.
Sonically I am reminded again for the P1 comparison. The RT1i is a more V shaped monitor with a definite upper-mid/lower treble peak centered at 5-6 kHz. The RT1i delivers a fun sound which I still very much enjoy, but there is some heat which comes with some definite sizzle (personally I prefer it EQ'd down a little), and vocals have a little more distance. The added bass make the RTi1 a little fuller, but also thicker and not as clean and clear. The EN700 Pro has less bass emphasis, but it seems more in line with the vocal presence, and the lack of the big peak makes a more coherent signature overall. For me – this is an easy one. The EN700P Pro gives a more vivid but also more balanced tonality for almost a quarter of the price.
VALUE
This is the big one for the Simgot EN700 Pro – it just represents incredible value. If I was auditioning this earphone without knowing the price, I'd honestly be expecting cost to be something in the $250-$300 range. When I first looked around and found it at $200, I told Sabrina then that it represented incredible value for what it delivered in tonality, build and overall package. When she told me it was intended for the RRP to be just $150 I was floored. If I had a wall of fame – this would easily go onto it.
SIMGOT EN700 PRO – SUMMARY
I've had an incredible amount of fun with these monitors, and would have had the review out a couple of weeks ago – but waited until the cable issues had been addressed. The good news is that it's given me the chance to put further time on them, and if anything my impression of them has strengthened (if that's possible).
The EN700 Pro combines excellent overall design with a good choice of permanent materials to deliver an IEM which not only looks aesthetically pleasing, but should also stand the test of time. Combine that with a good quality cable, extremely good fit and overall comfort, and you have half of a winning formula.
The second half of the formula is of course the tonality and sonic performance, and here once more the EN700 Pro continues to shine. What you get is a nice balance between bass, mids and highs, with a subtle bump in the upper-mids for a nicely coloured and euphonic monitor. Bass has good impact and extension, and this is equally matched at the other end with a detailed but non-fatiguing upper end.
The RRP at USD 150 belies the overall performance and I can thoroughly recommend these – especially for female vocal lovers. Are they 100% perfect – no. But they are pretty darn close, and at $150 I can't really give them anything but a perfect score.
I just want to close with thanking Sabrina for arranging the review sample. Simgot – I look forward to seeing what you come up with next!
Pros - Value, Build Quality, Sound Quality, Clarity, Balance, Comfort, Fit
Cons – Slightly mid-forward (I don't see this as a con, but some might)
Rating - 5 star
Picture are default 1200 x 800 resolution - click to view larger images.
INTRODUCTION
I've stuck to a couple of rules since I first started reviewing and getting samples sent to me. The first was not to openly solicit review samples (it helps keep me at a distance from the manufacturer, so I'm less likely to show overly positive bias). The second rule works similarly – treat any sample as borrowed (unless I buy it – and I do buy the things I want to keep). Both rules have served me well so far.
What has been really nice is when a new company contacts me out of the blue, and asks if I'd like to review something. That was the case with Simgot Audio. I was contacted by Sabrina, and she asked if I'd be willing to take one of their new IEMs for a spin. It was the EN700 Pro, and I have to admit I was curious about the models I'd seen others reviewing – were they really as good as everyone was saying? I remember seeing the quite funky design and thinking to myself – could they actually be that comfortable? I'll try and answer some of these questions in the following review. Welcome to the Simgot Audio EN700 Pro – now lets take it for a spin.
ABOUT SIMGOT AUDIO
Simgot Audio is a Chinese earphone company first formed in 2015. Sabrina tells me that the company specialises in the design and manufacture of audio devices, and at present that seems to mainly encompass their EN700 series – standard, bass and pro versions.
In their own words : “Simgot is committed to provide music lovers with the most cost-effective and prestigious Hi-Fi headset products. Adhering to the best innovation, Simgot shows full respect for intellectual property and design, taking art designs, refined technology, superior listening comfort, impeccable service and product innovation as requirements and standards.”
They can be found at Facebook HERE, or their product range viewed at their website HERE. My time so far with Sabrina has been excellent - and they have been more than willing to answer my questions regarding their technology.
DISCLAIMER
The Simgot EN700 Pro that I’m reviewing today was provided to me gratis as a review sample. I have made it clear to Simgot that I still regard any product they send me as their sole property and available for return any time at their request. But I thank them for the ability to continue use of the EN700 Pro for follow up comparisons. I do not make any financial gain from this review – it is has been written simply as my way of providing feedback both to the Head-Fi community and also Simgot themselves.
I have now had the EN700 Pro a little over 5 weeks. The retail price at time of review is USD 149.99, and will soon be available via Amazon, or purchased direct from their website.
PREAMBLE - 'ABOUT ME'. (or a base-line for interpreting my thoughts and bias)
I'm a 50 year old music lover. I don't say audiophile – I just love my music. Over the last couple of years, I have slowly changed from cheaper listening set-ups to my current set-up. I vary my listening from portables (mostly now from the FiiO X5iii, X7ii and iPhone SE) to my desk-top's set-up (PC > USB > iFi iDSD). My main full sized headphones at the time of writing are the Sennheiser HD800S, Sennheiser HD600 & HD630VB, MS Pro and AKG K553. Most of my portable listening is done with IEMs, and lately it has mainly been with the Jays q-Jays, Alclair Curve2, 64 Audio U10 and LZ Big Dipper. A full list of the gear I have owned (past and present – although needs updating) is listed in my Head-Fi profile.
I have very eclectic music tastes listening to a variety from classical/opera and jazz, to grunge and general rock. I listen to a lot of blues, jazz, folk music, classic rock, indie and alternative rock. I am particularly fond of female vocals. I generally tend toward cans that are relatively neutral/balanced, but I do have a fondness for clarity, and suspect I might have slight ‘treble-head’ preferences. I am not treble sensitive (at all), and in the past have really enjoyed headphones like the K701, SR325i, and of course the T1 and DT880. I have a specific sensitivity to the 2-3 kHz frequency area (most humans do) but my sensitivity is particularly strong, and I tend to like a relatively flat mid-range with slight elevation in the upper-mids around this area.
I have extensively tested myself (ABX) and I find aac256 or higher to be completely transparent. I do use exclusively red-book 16/44.1 if space is not an issue. All of my music is legally purchased (mostly CD – the rest FLAC purchased on-line). I tend to be sceptical about audiophile ‘claims’, don’t generally believe in burn-in, have never heard a difference with different cables (unless impedance related etc), and would rather test myself blind on perceived differences. I am not a ‘golden eared listener’. I suffer from mild tinnitus, and at 50, my hearing is less than perfect (it only extends to around 14 kHz nowadays). My usual listening level is around 65-75 dB.
I have very eclectic music tastes listening to a variety from classical/opera and jazz, to grunge and general rock. I listen to a lot of blues, jazz, folk music, classic rock, indie and alternative rock. I am particularly fond of female vocals. I generally tend toward cans that are relatively neutral/balanced, but I do have a fondness for clarity, and suspect I might have slight ‘treble-head’ preferences. I am not treble sensitive (at all), and in the past have really enjoyed headphones like the K701, SR325i, and of course the T1 and DT880. I have a specific sensitivity to the 2-3 kHz frequency area (most humans do) but my sensitivity is particularly strong, and I tend to like a relatively flat mid-range with slight elevation in the upper-mids around this area.
I have extensively tested myself (ABX) and I find aac256 or higher to be completely transparent. I do use exclusively red-book 16/44.1 if space is not an issue. All of my music is legally purchased (mostly CD – the rest FLAC purchased on-line). I tend to be sceptical about audiophile ‘claims’, don’t generally believe in burn-in, have never heard a difference with different cables (unless impedance related etc), and would rather test myself blind on perceived differences. I am not a ‘golden eared listener’. I suffer from mild tinnitus, and at 50, my hearing is less than perfect (it only extends to around 14 kHz nowadays). My usual listening level is around 65-75 dB.
For the purposes of this review - I used the Simgot EN700 Pro straight from the headphone-out socket of most of my portables. I did not generally further amp them (I did test them with my E17K, A5 and IMS HVA), as IMO they do not benefit greatly from additional amplification (YMMV and it may depend on your source). In the time I have spent with the EN700 Pro, I have noticed no change to the overall sonic presentation (break-in), although I know that Simgot recommends it. Time spent now with the EN700 Pro would be easily 30+ hours.
This is a purely subjective review - my gear, my ears, and my experience. Please take it all with a grain of salt - especially if it does not match your own experience.
THE REVIEW
PACKAGING AND ACCESSORIES
The EN700 Pro in a rectangular retail box consisting of a printed outer sleeve over a box and lid. The retail sleeve is approx 130 x 200 x 47mm, charcoal grey, and has a graphic (in black) of the Simgot EN700 Pro on the front cover (along with Sony Hi-Res logo), and specifications + exploded diagram of the EN700 Pro on the rear.
| 
|
| Outer box | Inner box |
The accessories include:
- 3 pairs of silicone tips (S/M/L) – bass enhanced
- 3 pairs of silicone tips (S/M/L) – mid/high enhanced
- Leather storage case (large)
- Cleaning tool (mine has been misplaced)
- Maintenance and warranty manual.
- 1 x 3.5 mm single ended two pin earphone cable
- Simgot EN700 Pro IEMs
| 
|
| Full package contents | Tuning tips |
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
(From Simgot's packaging / website)
| Model | Simgot EN700 Pro |
| Approx price | $199 USD (Penon Audio) |
| Type | Single Dynamic Driver IEM |
| Driver - Dynamic | 10mm polymer composite titanium plated diaphragm |
| Freq Range | 15Hz – 40 kHz |
| Impedance | 16Ω |
| Sensitivity | 101 dB (at 1 kHz) |
| Cable | 1.35, replaceable 2 pin (0.78) |
| Jack | 3.5mm gold plated straight |
| Weight | 33g with default cable and tips |
| Casing material | Aluminium alloy and stainless steel |
FREQUENCY GRAPH
The graph below is generated using the Vibro Veritas coupler and ARTA software. Ken Ball (ALO/Campfire) graciously provided me with measurement data which I have used to recalibrate my Veritas so that it mimics an IEC 711 measurement standard (Ken uses two separate BK ear simulators, we measured the same set of IEMs, and I built my calibration curve from shared data). I do not claim that this data is 100% accurate, but it is very consistent, and is as close as I can get to the IEC 711 standard on my budget.
I do not claim that the measurements are in any way more accurate than anyone else's, but they have been proven to be consistent and I think they should be enough to give a reasonable idea of response - especially if you've followed any of my other reviews. When measuring I always use crystal foam tips (so medium bore opening) - and the reason I use them is for very consistent seal and placement depth in the coupler. I use the same amp (E11K) for all my measurements - and output is under 1 ohm.
Any graphs are provided merely as a point of discussion, and later in the review I've included comparisons to other IEMs for similar reference.
My sonic impressions of the Simgot EN700 Pro – written well before I measured:
- Bass performs well (sub and mid-bass), reaches low but is not over-emphasised. There is audible sub-bass rumble, so bass extension appears to be pretty good.
- Lower mid-range does not sound recessed at all, and male vocals are well represented.
- Upper mid-range is emphasised, and it is a definite colouration, but one I appreciate. Female vocals have a wonderful sense of euphony, and the bump gives very good clarity without losing overall tonality
- Lower treble extension is good – but there appears to be some roll-off above about 7 kHz. Cymbal fundamentals are pretty good – but the decay is ever so slightly truncated (hardly noticeable in most tracks). It does contribute to a clean and clear sound though, and one that is thoroughly enjoyable.
- Overall a well balanced earphone with an upper mid-emphasis
- Channel matching is excellent
BUILD
| 
|
| External side of the shell | Internal side of the shell |
| 
|
| From the front | From the rear |
The nozzle protrudes on a slight angle up from the main body (so it is forward when worn properly). It is 6-7mm in length, has a diameter of 5mm, is mesh covered for protection, and has a generous lip.
| 
|
| Y-split and cinch | 3.5mm jack |
The y-split is a solid clear hardened rubber, and there is a well designed cinch above it. The Jack is 3.5mm, gold plated, straight, and features enough length to allow fitting to my iPhone SE with case intact. This would be one of the nicer cables I've come across aesthetically. Its lightweight, quite flexible, and only mildly microphonic (this disappears when using the cinch and some basic cable management). The cable is 1.3m in length although some of this is taken up by the preformed ear loops.
One minor point to note is that the cable wire (in my photos) is showing signs of greening (oxidation). It's just aesthetic – and Simgot have already recognised it as a fault, and corrected it for the retail releases. I will try to update the photos when the new cable arrives.
| 
|
| 2 pin 0.78mm connectors | nicely braided cable |
Probably the only thing I haven't mentioned yet (which I find quite endearing) is the red/blue shells. Normally the red would the right ear-piece (red = right) and blue would be left. With the EN700 Pro this is reversed.
As far as my impression of overall build and design goes – I can't really fault anything they have done.
FIT / COMFORT / ISOLATION
I'll start with the easy one (isolation), and we can then look at fit and comfort. Isolation is dependent on tip selection, and if you get a good seal, it is actually pretty good (about average for a vented dynamic IMO), but will not ultimately reach the high isolation of sealed BA IEMs. It would still be reasonably good for a busy street, or some forms of public transport though – although wouldn't be my personal choice for long haul flights.
Now we get to fit and comfort – and these thoughts are more subjective. As I said above, the EN700 Pro has an ergonomic body shape, with a good length of slightly angled nozzle, and for me personally they are extremely easy to fit – but the nozzle does give a relatively shallow in-ear fitting. They are designed for over-ear use. Anyone used to ergonomic over-ear designs should have no issues. They are extremely comfortable for everyday use.
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| Brilliant lip design means most tips fit easily | And the comfort is superrb |
I tried and had varying success with my usual go-tos, including large Comply, stretched Shure Olives, Spiral-dots, Sony Isolation, Ostry tuning tips and Spinfits. The beauty of the design is that practically everything worked, In the end though I actually stuck with the default tips giving the best mix of seal, clarity, and comfort.
The Simgot EN700 Pro sits nicely flush with my outer ear, and are comfortable to lie down with. I've slept with them often, and have no discomfort on waking. So the overall build and comfort is brilliant – how do they sound?
SOUND QUALITY
The following is what I hear from the Simgot EN700 Pro. YMMV – and probably will – as my tastes are likely different to yours (read the preamble I gave earlier for a baseline). Most of the testing at this point (unless otherwise stated) was done with my FiiO X7ii (single ended), no EQ, and default “bass” tips. I used the X7ii simply because it gives me a very transparent window to the music with low impedance, and more than enough power. There was no DSP engaged.
For the record – on most tracks, the volume level on the X7ii (AM3A amplifier module) was around 40-45/120 (on low gain) which was giving me an average SPL around 65-75 dB. Tracks used were across a variety of genres – and can be viewed in this list http://www.head-fi.org/a/brookos-test-tracks.
Relativities
- Sub-bass – has really good extension and even at my low listening levels is audible, but there is no overly boosted emphasis and it sits extremely well within the overall frequency mix. There is some really good rumble to give presence which stops short of overshadowing vocals. I'm detecting no bleed into lower mid-range (masking of frequencies).
- Mid-bass – pretty linear compared to sub-bass and slightly elevated (small mid-bass hump) compared to lower mid-range. It sounds quite natural but with good impact.
- Lower mid-range – slightly recessed compared to bass and upper mid-range, but does not sound overly distant, and male vocal fundamentals have good strength.
- Upper mid-range – elevated compared to lower mid-range, and there is a rise from 1 kHz to the main peak at 3 kHz. The result is a clean and clear vocal range, with extremely good overall cohesion and some real euphony for female vocals to sound sweet and elevated. This is probably the most coloured part of the entire frequency range – but especially for female vocal lovers, it is a colouration I really like.
- Lower treble is sustained through to 7 kHz and then rolls off a little before picking up again in the upper treble. There is very good overall detail and clarity – but without too much etch or grain which some other IEMs overdo by trying too hard. Overall this area does not over-emphasise simply because the bass is so nicely balanced.
Resolution / Detail / Clarity
- Really excellent overall clarity, and this was apparent on every track I tested. The dynamic driver Simgot is using is a really good one – and detail is brilliantly present without being too peaky or over-done.
- Cymbal hits have very good clarity and overall presence, and really nice decay which doesn't seem to truncate at all, and its actually really nice to have such realism in a $150 IEM.
- Overall I feel as though I'm hearing everything in the recording – and this is especially nice at my lower listening levels.
- Directional queues are extremely good – very precise, and presentation of stage with the binaural track “Tundra” is definitely beyond the periphery of my head space – so really good sense of width and depth.
- I've been using Netrebko and Garanca's rendition Lakme's “Flower Duet” to test staging depth lately. Its a live performance, and I've seen the video (it was after seeing it a few years ago that I immediately bought the album “the Opera Gala”). Toward the end of the track they retire to the rear of the stage and continue singing. The EN700 Pro captures it beautifully with a nicely spherically presented sound-stage – no issues with L/R dominance with this track. When the applause started at the end it was all around me too – enough to give me goose bumps. Brilliant!
- Amanda Marshall's “Let it Rain” was my next track and it was again brilliant (very 3D like experience - the way the track was miked). There was the slightest hint of sibilance with Amanda's vocal – but again, its the way it is recorded – so not unexpected. What was good was that the sibilance wasn't enhanced, but the detail still shone through clearly.
- Overall tonal balance and clarity – while retaining a very smooth sonic presentation
- very good sense of stage and imaging
- Detailed at low listening levels
- Reference sound with slight colouration or forwardness in upper mid-range area. Transition between lower and upper mid-range is extremely good.
- I'm really struggling to find one. This signature really does tick all my boxes. If anything – maybe a few dB off the first upper mid-range peak at 3 kHz, but that is really nitpicking.
The Simgot EN700 Pro doesn’t need amplification for overall volume – and because its impedance isn't spectacularly low, any source with an output impedance of less than 2 ohms should pair OK. All of my sources are pretty low OI and I had no issues with tonality changes. I don't tend to notice hiss (older ears) – so no real issues for me with the EN700 Pro. However, I sweet talked my wife (she has practically perfect hearing still and can hear our cat walking on carpet), to test the X7ii and EN700 pro from the SE output. Even at close to max output there was no noticeable hiss – (no music playing of course!)
With my iPhone SE around 30% volume is more than enough with most tracks, and the new FiiOs are generally at around 45-50/120. I have tried the EN700 Pro with the E17K and also with my A5, but none of them seemed to be adding anything to my listening set-up other than some extra bulk.
RESPONSE TO EQ?
Why would you want to? I suppose that isn't a valid answer, so I played around with the X7ii's EQ dropping the 2-4 kHz sliders by 3 and 4 dB respectively. The change was actually pretty good, so I spent 10 minutes nulling, then later increasing, the bass. Each time the EN70 Pro reacted beautifully – further growing my respect for this IEM.
COMPARISON WITH OTHER IEMS
These comparisons were all done with the X7ii, (no EQ or DSP) – and volume matched using a calibrated SPL meter and fixed 1kHz test tone first. Choosing the comparisons, I wanted to firstly compare the EN700 Pro to a couple of the best performers in the sub $200 bracket (the MEE P1 and LZ-A4) and then look at other comparisons in higher brackets and see how it fared. So I ended up also comparing with the $250 Alclair Curve, and Rhapsodio's older ~$550 RTi1 single dynamic. Hopefully this gives enough insight to anyone interested in this IEM. Here are my very subjective personal thoughts:
Simgot EN700 Pro (~USD 150) vs MEE P1 (~USD 200)
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| Simgot EN700 and MEE P1 | Frequency comparisons |
Sonically, these are two similar sounding IEMs, with slightly different flavours. The EN700 does sound cleaner and clearer (the slightly lower bass and bump at 6-7 kHz), and also a little thinner. The P1 sounds fuller, but also more distant (vocals), and has a bit of very top end splashiness which the EN700 Pro avoids quite nicely.
For the last 12 months, the P1 has been firmly on my list as one of the benchmarks in the sub $200 bracket. Its definitely found its match with the EN700 Pro. For my preferences the 700 Pro has better overall tonality, clarity, and is cheaper to boot.
Simgot EN700 Pro (~USD 150) vs LZ-A4 (~USD 200)
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| Simgot EN700 and LZ-A4 | Frequency comparisons |
Sonically the two (I used black/grey on the LZ-A4) are again very similar – probably more so than the P1. Both have an excellent and natural bass response, both are also extremely clear and clean (vivid is a word that springs to mind). The EN700 Pro is a little more forward in the upper mid-range, and overall is the brighter of the two earphones – but not excessively so. I love both earphones, and here the real choice is between the tuning capability of theLZ-A4 and the greater comfort, and default tonality of the EN700Pro at a considerably lower price. For my preference (if I had to choose) it would be the Simgot, but I would be happy with either. Both are brilliant.
Simgot EN700 Pro (~USD 150) vs Alclair Curve (~USD 250)
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| Simgot EN700 and Alclair Curve | Frequency comparisons |
Build quality is fantastic on both IEMs, and despite the EN700 Pro having a metal shell vs the polycarbonate compound on the Curve, both are great examples of how well an IEM can be made. Comfort and fit are also great on both, but in this case, the Curve slips slightly ahead with its slightly more ergonomic shape.
Sonically these two have similarities, but where the Curve is quite flat, the EN700 Pro is more v shaped with far more prominent mid-range and lower treble. Because of this, the EN700 Pro is a lot more vivid, and vibrant, with bass that has more impact, and a far greater sense of euphony with female vocals. But it is also undoubtedly more coloured, and this one again comes down to preference.
The EN700 Pro would never replace the Curve – it is simply a different earphone, but it makes a nice compliment at a very affordable price. It's also not embarrassed at all in this comparison.
Simgot EN700 Pro (~USD 150) vs Rhapsodio RT1i (~USD 550)
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| Simgot EN700 and Rhapsodio RT1i | Frequency comparisons |
Build material choice is good on both, although for overall finish I thing the EN700 Pro actually looks a little better. The cable on the RTi1 is definitely a little more premium. Fit and comfort is extremely good on both.
Sonically I am reminded again for the P1 comparison. The RT1i is a more V shaped monitor with a definite upper-mid/lower treble peak centered at 5-6 kHz. The RT1i delivers a fun sound which I still very much enjoy, but there is some heat which comes with some definite sizzle (personally I prefer it EQ'd down a little), and vocals have a little more distance. The added bass make the RTi1 a little fuller, but also thicker and not as clean and clear. The EN700 Pro has less bass emphasis, but it seems more in line with the vocal presence, and the lack of the big peak makes a more coherent signature overall. For me – this is an easy one. The EN700P Pro gives a more vivid but also more balanced tonality for almost a quarter of the price.
VALUE
This is the big one for the Simgot EN700 Pro – it just represents incredible value. If I was auditioning this earphone without knowing the price, I'd honestly be expecting cost to be something in the $250-$300 range. When I first looked around and found it at $200, I told Sabrina then that it represented incredible value for what it delivered in tonality, build and overall package. When she told me it was intended for the RRP to be just $150 I was floored. If I had a wall of fame – this would easily go onto it.
SIMGOT EN700 PRO – SUMMARY
I've had an incredible amount of fun with these monitors, and would have had the review out a couple of weeks ago – but waited until the cable issues had been addressed. The good news is that it's given me the chance to put further time on them, and if anything my impression of them has strengthened (if that's possible).
The EN700 Pro combines excellent overall design with a good choice of permanent materials to deliver an IEM which not only looks aesthetically pleasing, but should also stand the test of time. Combine that with a good quality cable, extremely good fit and overall comfort, and you have half of a winning formula.
The second half of the formula is of course the tonality and sonic performance, and here once more the EN700 Pro continues to shine. What you get is a nice balance between bass, mids and highs, with a subtle bump in the upper-mids for a nicely coloured and euphonic monitor. Bass has good impact and extension, and this is equally matched at the other end with a detailed but non-fatiguing upper end.
The RRP at USD 150 belies the overall performance and I can thoroughly recommend these – especially for female vocal lovers. Are they 100% perfect – no. But they are pretty darn close, and at $150 I can't really give them anything but a perfect score.
I just want to close with thanking Sabrina for arranging the review sample. Simgot – I look forward to seeing what you come up with next!
