phiemon
Headphoneus Supremus
Then that's my mistake, please excuse me. I expressed myself incorrectly. I meant in comparison to Mentor or generally with the other IEMs that I compared. So my statement was relative and not a perception per se.
Forte Ears Macbeth: Preview, Impressions & Measurements
- Thread starter warrenpchi
- Start date
NJoyzAudio
Lurkerus Supremus
PhiemonMacbeth actually arrived yesterday morning. I've been listening to it all afternoon and this morning and also comparing it with, among others, Anni 23 and Mentor. I compared Anni 23 first because I thought they were similar. But actually Mentor is much more similar because of the natural timbre. As DAP I used the N30 and DX320MaxTi, streaming via Qobuz. I tried the following tips: Velvet, AET07, SednaEarfit Short, UM's blue stock. All work well, but due to my preference for bassier and warmer sounds, I find the Velvet quite good. The fit is perfect, and yes: Macbeth is all the way in. The fit is deeper than expected, but I wouldn't say deep fit. I can say that the soundleakage (at around 80-82db) is very noticeable, which was really surprising. The shells and actually the sound (particularly the mids and trebles area) reminded me very, very much of CP622B. I would be very excited to hear CP again and compare it directly with MB.
As for the music tested: basically electronic and derivatives, otherwise I generally listened to tracks that I like musically and technically and only listen to for testing purposes. In particular, there are passages that I focus on when I want to find out something special. Among others, I listened tracks of these artists randomly named: Röyksopp, WhoMadeWho, Rüfüs Du Sol, Florence & The Machine, Hooverphonic, Zola Blood, Still Corners, Goldfrapp, Beacon, TENDER, Eelke Klejin, London Grammar, Hans Zimmer, Archive, Vök, HAELOS, HVOB, UNKLE, Massive Attack.
How Macbeth sounds and especially how it compares to Mentor and Anni 23 can be found at Alex / twister6, I absolutely agree with him: https://twister6.com/2024/11/06/forte-ears-macbeth/2/.
Now, I don't want to bore with repetitions of aspects that others have already mentioned and that I agree with. Instead, I would like to mention other aspects that have struck me personally and are merely my personal interpretation of what I feel about Macbeth based on my expectations and preferences. Please note that this repeated emphasis on the personal is intentional; others can and most certainly will think otherwise and that is fine and I respect that.
Some unstructured thoughts on these aspects that spontaneously come to my mind while listening to Macbeth (for words reference, credits to @AxLvR: https://www.head-fi.org/threads/the...n-first-page-all-welcome.957426/post-18311252). I have not thoroughly revised the text, so errors or shortcomings cannot be ruled out:
- the “note definition” is certainly at TOTL level. I would also like to mention that the bass is very resolved, the mids are noticeably textured and the trebles are defined, crisp and extend far.
- In this respect, there is "clarity", as well as energy. Personally, I would not define MB as smooth, even if the signature per se is not bright and analytical, it's more warmish. It's the clarity of the mids and trebles that makes MB energetic. What contributes to this are airy mids that I perceive as rather separate from the bass fundament. This implies that the low-mids are not as full, the voices don't come across as full-bodied, but they have a lot of air, they breathe, and they stand out more than the bass in the overall musical picture. The focus in the frequency range tends to be directed upwards. I would like to point out that this is not my preference. The reasons are three: firstly, there is immediately more energy, which I don't always want when I listen to music; secondly, I basically like it with substance in the lowmids; thirdly, the focus must not be perceived so strongly on one particular aspect of the frequency range.
- Surely someone has noticed this: “warmish signature” and yet “clear mids and trebles”. Somehow it doesn't fit for me personally: it comes across as too neutral in the sense that warm and clear in a certain sense neutralise each other. But again that's a personal preference: I'm in favour of extremes, so "either / or". I don't like things that are in between.
- "Details" definitely stand out and that is due to the nature of the qualities of Macbeth itself, no question. However, this is where it starts to get a little problematic for me personally. These details only affect aspects of songs or generally songs that are comparatively less bassy and more energetic, i.e. (JP) pop and female voices, cymbals and similars. I perceive that the dynamics have a greater emphasis on this aspect; everything that concerns the lowmids downwards it's more in the background and I actually have to look for it to hear it. To put it in another way: I hear a (for me personally too strong) disconnection between bass-lowmids on the one hand and uppermids-trebles on the other, there is no fluidity between the two areas, it is not a mutual flow.
- The idea of "dynamics" is, however, quite relative. I hear pronounced dynamics in the aforementioned aspects (from the uppermids upwards) and everything below that as comparatively plain instead. I notice this in relation to the ratio. This is another reason why I think that also the idea of details is relative: details stand out more in one area and less in the other.
- Stage/Holography/Imaging. This is one of the most important features that an IEM must have to appeal to me. If it's lacking, I can't feel transported in the music and that's what I'm usually looking for when I listen to music. And guys, I'm sorry to write it like this, but Macbeth is insufficient for me here. I'm using a comparison with Mentor in this case, as I've compared the two the most. Mentor has a much larger stage (X, Y, Z), a clearly balanced musical image that “creates a space in which everything naturally has its own place, which is inviting and wants to be heard.” The choice of words here is not accidental, but carefully chosen. In Macbeth, the stage is smaller, the note narrower, the dynamics, as already mentioned, from the upper-middle range upwards are more pronounced than the others from the low-middle range downwards; as a result, the corresponding second aspect must be found first in the listening experience. Here there is simply no comparison between both IEMs: Mentor is superior. What I find somehow striking is that Anni also has a better holography and imaging than Macbeth, even though the stage is smaller and even less natural. In Anni the size of the note is bigger, Anni is also more coherent and balanced in the overall musical picture since there is less emphasis in the frequency range, but the biggest strength is the expansion of the musical note upwards-sideways (like an inverted cone “V”), which makes for incredible immersion. I would also go so far as to say that Anni gives me more immersion than Mentor, it has a better imaging than the latter, but a worse holography. A small anecdote. Yesterday I gave a friend the DX320MaxTi with Macbeth and he was really impressed. He doesn't use audiophile stuff and only listens to music from the Apple AirPods Pro 2. Immediately afterwards I gave him Anni 23 and he said he felt “even more IN the music” and like Anni 23 more than Macbeth. I hadn't even told him what my opinion was beforehand, I had only told him how much I liked Macbeth, I hadn't even heard Anni yet.
All in all, I think Macbeth is a very successful IEM at TOTL level. Its strengths are note definition, clarity and certain aspects of detail and dynamics. Macbeth undoubtedly has a lot to offer here, more than other TOTLs. I see it more as a specialist for a specific type of music and a specific type of emotion that it is meant to evoke. (By comparison, a true generalist for me would be the Rn6, which does everything really well.) On the other hand, it is in the nature of such specialisation to be short on other specific aspects. These aspects relate in particular to staging, holography and imaging, I would also like to have more coherence when it comes to the connection between the areas bass-lowmids on the one hand and uppermids-trebles on the other. If these aspects were not on the priority list, Macbeth would certainly do everything right and you would be extremely satisfied with it.
Finally, I would like to thank everyone involved for this opportunity (@Riccardoyeh, @warrenpchi, @armstrj2). You are simply great
Happy new year to everyone!
Thanks for a great and detailed review
Let me start by saying that this is the BEST thing about Personal Audio, it is "Personal" as we ALL hear and listen differently (and I've said this in every forum I participate in), else it would be boring with EVERYTHING being the same accross the board.
Having said that and I don't disagree this is how you hear and that you are disappointed with Macbeth vs. Anni and Mentor,
But.... I'd have to say I've had the exact opposite reactions especially with the 2 mentioned IEM's.
I agree all 3 are great IEM's but for me, both the Mentor and Anni were NOT to my taste, but as this is NOT my review, I'll just say the Macbeth was, and the Mentor and Anni were not.
I think we are all in active disagreement as I edit this (wrote it shortly after you posted, but this pesky thing called work kept me from finishing) I see another Head-Fier has also voiced their opinion that they also hear it opposite of you, and this is ALL OK, as I said this is personal audio.
For me the Mentor was just "meh" and the Anni had some artifacts in the sound I just could not get past.
Macbeth to me has been a real breath of fresh air, doing things I've not been impressed by in a LONG time.
But again I chalk it up to we hear differently and we like different sound signatures, and REALLY appreciate that despite Macbeth being not for you, you did not trash them as I see some do in other forums....Kudo's to you and your thought process! (and in many places in your review agree whole heartidly with what you wrote)
With that said, again great, open and wonderful review of Macbeth, and glad you had a chance to listen, voice your opinion and still encourage others to form their own opinion about Macbeth.
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phiemon
Headphoneus Supremus
Thank you for your words. I really appreciate the respectful way you phrased them
I also think that the different perceptions we have are related to significant factors that influence the overall assessment. I am referring at least to the fact that we hear differently due to subjective circumstances such as library, listening preferences and focus; of course objective circumstances such as equipment are also very important. In fact, I always have a certain focus when I listen to music. Or rather: before I do so, I ask myself what musical experience I want to have at that moment. In doing so, I decide on a particular IEM and a particular DAP (I own several of each). It also happens to me that one day I hear the wrong IEM and I don't like it at all, but the next I love it.
Macbeth has many positive qualities, which I also mentioned in my impressions (e.g. note definition, clarity and dynamics in the top end range). None of my IEMs - all known totls - have these characteristics. But these are aspects that are not really at the top of my priority list. For this reason, I tend to favor other contendents. Conversely, Macbeth would certainly have been the best iem for me among my iems, had my preferences been in line with it - without question! For example, one fact is that Mentor sounds laidback in a strongly pronounced naturalism. The tuning, which does not have such a high level of clarity, certainly contributes to this characteristic. Compared to Macbeth, Mentor can be particularly laidback. But the reverse is also true: compared to Mentor, Macbeth can be particularly energetic. As far as I'm concerned, I'm (only at the moment?) not in the mood to listen energetically. Conversely, what many people criticise about Mentor is, for me, one of its strengths. That's also why I like Anni with its smooth and at the same time extremely airy sound.
In a foreword, when I had not yet received Macbeth, I had also mentioned that I am a “relativist”; as such, I basically believe, at least now wrote in general terms, that every totl per se is the very best, however relative to certain conditions (such as those mentioned earlier, i.e. preferences, focus, equipment, etc.). To put it in another way: different totls only represent sidegrades. This discourse also concerns Macbeth and I am not surprised why many here hold it in such high regard. So I very much respect what has been done here (@Riccardoyeh), and what others think of it. I know that my discourse and my stance is perhaps too semplicistic, but I really stand behind it. I have not mentioned that I am actually a philosopher. By nature, I tend to analyze things according to my vision, and this also applies to the musical experience.
I admit that in my impressions I should have focused even more on what I also like about Macbeth. I apologize if any misunderstandings have arisen. But I really didn't mean to be so thorough and I thought it was clear where I stood.
What I find exciting, by the way, is that for me Macbeth has a lot in common with CP622B and APX Se. I didn't like those other two as much for the same reasons. A detailed comparison between the three would certainly be very interesting.
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NJoyzAudio
Lurkerus Supremus
PhiemonThank you for your words. I really appreciate the respectful way you phrased them
I also think that the different perceptions we have are related to significant factors that influence the overall assessment. I am referring at least to the fact that we hear differently due to subjective circumstances such as library, listening preferences and focus; of course objective circumstances such as equipment are also very important. In fact, I always have a certain focus when I listen to music. Or rather: before I do so, I ask myself what musical experience I want to have at that moment. In doing so, I decide on a particular IEM and a particular DAP (I own several of each). It also happens to me that one day I hear the wrong IEM and I don't like it at all, but the next I love it.
Macbeth has many positive qualities, which I also mentioned in my impressions (e.g. note definition, clarity and dynamics in the top end range). None of my IEMs - all known totls - have these characteristics. But these are aspects that are not really at the top of my priority list. For this reason, I tend to favor other contendents. Conversely, Macbeth would certainly have been the best iem for me among my iems, had my preferences been in line with it - without question! For example, one fact is that Mentor sounds laidback in a strongly pronounced naturalism. The tuning, which does not have such a high level of clarity, certainly contributes to this characteristic. Compared to Macbeth, Mentor can be particularly laidback. But the reverse is also true: compared to Mentor, Macbeth can be particularly energetic. As far as I'm concerned, I'm (only at the moment?) not in the mood to listen energetically. Conversely, what many people criticise about Mentor is, for me, one of its strengths. That's also why I like Anni with its smooth and at the same time extremely airy sound.
In a foreword, when I had not yet received Macbeth, I had also mentioned that I am a “relativist”; as such, I basically believe, at least now wrote in general terms, that every totl per se is the very best, however relative to certain conditions (such as those mentioned earlier, i.e. preferences, focus, equipment, etc.). To put it in another way: different totls only represent sidegrades. This discourse also concerns Macbeth and I am not surprised why many here hold it in such high regard. So I very much respect what has been done here (@Riccardoyeh), and what others think of it. I know that my discourse and my stance is perhaps too semplicistic, but I really stand behind it. I have not mentioned that I am actually a philosopher. By nature, I tend to analyze things according to my vision, and this also applies to the musical experience.
Your most welcome, and AGREE we ALL hear differently so again I respect your opinion as it is your opinion based on what you like in the form of what you hear.
How can I argue against that?
And thank you for NOT trying to convince me I' hearing wrong or to convert me to the sound you like or challenge me because we differ in opinion!
Respect to you also, as from what you write I believe our approaches are similar (to an extent, even here we differ on some points) but it is a process unique to each of us here.
When it comes to IEMs that approach or are TOTL, we are usually talking VERY VERY small changes between each, and I would dare say most would be happy with any of the IEM's we have discussed. Those here contributing on this forum are blessed to be able to think about and afford all of these IEM's mentioned. I do NOT take that lightly.
I own several IEM's and this past year added to that quiver from Entry level (had to purchase the Crinacle Kiwi Ears, Hell it was only $50 but for some that would be their max spend limit) to another TOTL IEMs and I evaluated all of these IEMs for what they are and in the case of the Entry Level IEMs did NOT expect them to be a Macbeth for $50. Just highlight this is all very subjective no matter the price point but even more so as you approach the TOTL
But I've been big on Macbeth as to me it does stand apart from others and as I've heard it evolve from Romeo V1 to the final Macbeth, each time it just blew me away at how it was doing something different in a field of so many "me too" IEM's. To me as I mentioned the difference was "Eye Opening",
And even though I've already been lucky enough to be part of a next gen Forte Ears IEM as well as a few others manufacturer IEMs coming in 2025, I keep coming back to Macbeth's sound as something that stands out....
But I digress.
Thanks again for your clarifications, and as I said before,
May you find the sound signature you are chasing! (god knows I am still chasing...)
Riccardoyeh
Sponsor: Forte Ears
I'm so excited to see that Macbeth’s European tour has already sparked such a detailed and thoughtful review! It’s amazing to see so many different aspects of it being discussed, and I think this kind of exchange is exactly what makes the tour so meaningful. I’m also super grateful to have a community like Head-Fi where everyone can share their insights and experiences.
When it came to tuning Macbeth, I’ll admit my personal music taste had a big influence—especially since I don’t listen to much electronic music. Because of that, I didn’t use many electronic tracks as references. Instead, I focused on genres like opera, classical in all its forms, folk, jazz vocals, acoustic performances, pop, and even some ‘90s dance tracks. These are the kinds of music I wanted to bring out the best in. So rather than saying Macbeth is designed for specific genres, I’d say it was more about carefully avoiding certain (heavier) ones during the tuning process.
As for the low-mids, if we’re on the same page about the 160Hz–500Hz range, I believe Macbeth delivers beautifully here. Many listeners have praised its vocals for being lush, full, and naturally blending into the bass. That’s a sign that this range is well-balanced! It’s such a delicate area to tune—going too heavy can make the whole mid range thick but dull, losing clarity in vocals and the intricate details of classical music.
I also get that Macbeth might not be the go-to for those chasing more extreme sound signatures. For our debut product, I wanted something versatile and balanced rather than a gamble on extremes. But can Forte Ears create something bolder and more extreme? Absolutely! Keep an eye out for what’s coming next—our next release might just be your perfect match!
Finally, I want to thank everyone for sharing their thoughts so passionately. It’s inspiring to see these lively discussions, and it gives us the drive to keep improving our products. I can’t wait to see even more conversations unfold!
When it came to tuning Macbeth, I’ll admit my personal music taste had a big influence—especially since I don’t listen to much electronic music. Because of that, I didn’t use many electronic tracks as references. Instead, I focused on genres like opera, classical in all its forms, folk, jazz vocals, acoustic performances, pop, and even some ‘90s dance tracks. These are the kinds of music I wanted to bring out the best in. So rather than saying Macbeth is designed for specific genres, I’d say it was more about carefully avoiding certain (heavier) ones during the tuning process.
As for the low-mids, if we’re on the same page about the 160Hz–500Hz range, I believe Macbeth delivers beautifully here. Many listeners have praised its vocals for being lush, full, and naturally blending into the bass. That’s a sign that this range is well-balanced! It’s such a delicate area to tune—going too heavy can make the whole mid range thick but dull, losing clarity in vocals and the intricate details of classical music.
I also get that Macbeth might not be the go-to for those chasing more extreme sound signatures. For our debut product, I wanted something versatile and balanced rather than a gamble on extremes. But can Forte Ears create something bolder and more extreme? Absolutely! Keep an eye out for what’s coming next—our next release might just be your perfect match!
Finally, I want to thank everyone for sharing their thoughts so passionately. It’s inspiring to see these lively discussions, and it gives us the drive to keep improving our products. I can’t wait to see even more conversations unfold!
And therefore it’s outstanding. For my preferred music, which is mainly the type of music mentioned from you, it’s the best IEM and my Nr 1
Just a note to confirm what many others have said...the Spinfit W1 tip works quite well on Macbeth when firmly fitted. Maybe better than my long love Divinus Velvets wide bore.
I actually prefer the W1s as the grip allows for a deeper, more secure fit for me and I enjoy the enhanced bass presence they provide. Of course YMMV.
I tried the Macbeth in a showroom, it was the best sounding IEM I have tried among those IEMs of asking prices of USD 2200 to 4200 on the same day. 
However, I have spent too much recently and couldn't pull the trigger.
However, I have spent too much recently and couldn't pull the trigger.
ppbb
Head-Fier
I just wanted to say that while I think the MacBeth stinks I am at a loss as to why I have just ordered my 4th pair from Musicteck. I’ll probably give these away to some needy person. I made the mistake of having Peter from Double Helix make a custom cable for the MacBeth. Not very good…only slightly more open and detailed than the Eletech Ambition.
Before giving away my last pair I did plug the Macbeth into an old Chord Dave/Mscaler I had sitting around. It was a bad experience. Had an uncontrollable orgasm and had to be rushed to the hospital.
I also decided to plug them into a Ray Samuel’s Intruder portable amp fed by a Mojo 2 hard wired to my phone. It too was an awful experience. I’d describe it as only slightly better than sex.
Before giving away my last pair I did plug the Macbeth into an old Chord Dave/Mscaler I had sitting around. It was a bad experience. Had an uncontrollable orgasm and had to be rushed to the hospital.
I also decided to plug them into a Ray Samuel’s Intruder portable amp fed by a Mojo 2 hard wired to my phone. It too was an awful experience. I’d describe it as only slightly better than sex.
Forté Ears Macbeth-Review
“All hail, Macbeth; that shalt be king hereafter!”
Intro
Hey guys,
I had the chance to try Macbeth (MB) over the holidays. It was like a Christmas gift, but one for naughty boys and girls: You can’t keep it! “Nevertheless”, I want to thank Forté Ears and armstrj2 for this great opportunity.
Ok, so I connected this red showy jewel to the iBasso DX260, and after the first 3 notes I realized that MB is an extremely good IEM. And after 10-20 sec. I understood that MB is CLEARLY a totl IEM. And here is my spoiler: MB is overall the best IEM, I had the chance to listen to!
But where do I come from? Unfortunately, my experience with ultra-high-end IEMs is limited. Around the 3k mark I tried Anni 21, 23, Kinera Loki, CP622B (great mids/vocals), EE Odin, Alter Ego (awesome!), U12T, U18T/S, Volür and additionally the whole Campfire (not my thing) and Ultimate Ears line up. Accordingly, you have to take my impressions with a grain of salt. Generally, I like most in IEMs naturalness, clarity, soundstage/immersion/holography, room for the instruments and a bit of warmth or ”bassiness”. Harmanish tuning and the new meta are great for me. My absolute favorite IEMs from my collection are Monarch MK3, Simgot EM10, Dunu DaVinci and Kiwi Ears KE4.
In the following I will focus on my sound experience with MB and discuss different gear and comparisons.
Gear used
I listened to MB mostly with iBasso DX260 and Hiby RS6 using the stock cable and Tangzu Tang Sancai normal bore tips. For testing and comparisons I used on the one hand DX260 as the source for dongles/DAC-Amps and on the other hand my desktop system (Wiim Pro/Volumio Rivo/NuPrime Stream 9, Holo Audio Spring 3 KTE, Ferrum OOR/Hypsos).
I used exclusively streaming over Tidal and Qobuz (sounds better).
My playlist for MB:
Sound impressions Macbeth
Many IEMs sound good at first try, but MB sounds exquisite, and I knew that directly without comparison. For me(!) the overall sound is extremely clear, detailed, (mostly) balanced, holographic and lifelike. MB is on its own not exactly smooth or analog sounding but also not aggressive or unnatural. It is not the very most engaging but unquestionably exciting and not laid back.
The bass is, despite clarity, the balanced sound and being a BA bass, authoritative but absolutely not overwhelming. It has dynamic power, reaches deep, is very textured and controlled. It is relatively fast but not to dry or unnatural. There is no bass bleed or boominess at all, and it gives the sound a little bit of warmth.
The mids are on the “natural” side, I would say, and there is absolutely no unpleasant BA timbre. I really like them, although they aren’t liquid or smooth. Instruments and voices sound very real and lifelike with extreme texture, resolution and nuances. Acoustic instruments, electric guitars, snare drums, male and female voices sound great. They are not in your face and also not to far away or to recessed. But: On some songs or in high-volume MB can get a bit shouty (mostly with female vocals). Maybe it’s the case because of the 2,5k peak.
The highs give MB another or the main WOW factor. They are extremely clear, textured and extended with a lot of air. I hear no unnatural zing. The upper treble is exceptional for me. Natural, airy and tingling my ears. Lower and mid treble could be most likely the main problem for most listeners and for not being a high-volume set. The peaks around 4,5k and 8k are no joke but are probably the main reason, why I experience MB as realistic and lifelike.
Because of these points and the bone conductors I perceive a very large soundstage in width, depth and height. More precisely, the biggest in all IEMs I could listen to. The whole presentation sounds simply BIG. But not only that, MB is extremely holographic too. You are IN the music and it surrounds you. You can hear and “feel” the room. I love it!
The imaging is pin point. Every instrument, singer and sound have its precise place and room for it. The layering is also top notch. Width and depth are really width and depth, if you understand what I mean. Things are three dimensional in space. The details and resolution on MB are truly endgame in an IEM (for what I’ve experienced so far). The former one is mainly because of the tuning, I would say, and the latter thanks to the exceptional drivers. Anyway, you can hear micro and macro details with ease. And that also is the main point: with ease. MB’s presentation in highest resolution is not aggressive or upfront, but effortless and simply THERE to perceive. That’s the reason why I said that it’s not the very most engaging. And this is a good thing, because you can listen to MB anytime. Further you can hear, feel and “see” the strings or drumheads per se (great micro and macro dynamics). You can hear sound reflections in the room, nuances in voices or the distortion in a distorted signal itself in electric guitars. A very vivid presentation, without being surgical. MB digs a lot of “new” things out of your songs, and it is really fair with the reproduction of the available sound/recording quality.
It’s absolutely next level and clearly at least one tier above the 2-3k IEMs that I know.
Tip rolling
For the best results I tried different tips and concentrated on these, which tamed a little bit the 2,5/4,5/8k regions in problematic songs (like “Familiar” by Agnes Obel). The best tips for that were:
Foam tips (I’m not the biggest fan of them, they also sound pillowy)
Zeos Render tips
Final Audio Type E (soundstage is a bit smaller, but there is a good amount of air)
Tanchjim T300 normal bore
Kiwi Ears Flex
Divinus Velvet
Ostry OS100/200/300
Moondrop Spring tips (good results because of MBs relatively long nozzle and the deep insertion)
Hidizs “Sea Anemone” tips (these are generally great, I like them a lot)
Also good but weaker results regarding the problematic frequencies:
SednaEarfit Xelastec II
Tangzu Tang Sancai normal bore (my most of the time go to)
KZ Stock tips (I like them, please don’t lynch me)
Cable rolling
First off: The stock cable from Eletech is excellent and fits MB sound wise very good. It looks beautiful, not over the top, is light, ergonomic and has no microphonics. But maegnificent is right: A recessed 2-pin connector would fit it better.
Eletech stock cabel
Resolution is very good with the Eletech cable. Additionally, it offers clarity and good controlled bass. This is no “typical” pure copper cable sound.
The following comparisons are in regard to the stock cable.
Linsoul Loops
Overall, a smooth cable, but the sub bass is rolled of (less bass extension), and it has a bit lesser macro dynamic power or slam.
Kinera Loki Customized Cable (black cotton mesh)
This cable is very similar to the Loops but has a bit more resolution.
Effect Audio Cadmus 8W
Cadmus offers mainly more mid bass and fuller mids.
Kinera Orlog 8W
Orlog is a neutral cable without emphasizing specific frequencies. It has very good resolution and clarity but smooth highs. Bass slam is a bit lighter.
Effect Audio Eros S 1st Anniversary Edition
In my opinion this cable is great and special. It offers very good resolution, macro and micro dynamics, more bass control and clear, crispy highs. There is a lot of air and a bit longer decay, which widens the soundstage.
Effect Audio Code 24c
24c has more bass, but it’s not very controlled. There is overall less clarity and highs are smoothed. It sounds like what you would expect from a typical pure copper cable.
Effect Audio Code 23
Besides the ergonomics from hell (which are surely for a lot of people a no go) Code 23 is an exceptional cable. Resolution is top notch and there is clarity. It has clear highs with a lot of air. It is very dynamic and the bass is full but controlled. The soundstage is very wide, deep and holographic.
GU. Craftsman Galacticos
Galacticos sounds like its name: powerful. It has a lot of full bass but controlled and textured. Resolution is very high and the upper treble is a bit smoothed.
Rhapsodio Golden MK4 8W
The Golden one is a smooth, more mid-centric cable. It has a bit less slam, smooth highs and very beautiful mids.
My favorites for MB were: 1. Code23, 2. Galacticos/Eros S, 3. Eletech Stock.
Sources
The comparison between DAPs, DACs and amps was very exciting, because MB offers the opportunity to listen to your gear. It is really sensitive to different cables, sources and amps (but sounded nevertheless always good).
Onix Alpha XI1
This dongle is very warm, lush, smooth, full and analog sounding. But it is a bit soft and highs are rolled off.
Hiby FC6
It sounds very similar to Onix but has that special R2R timbre. It is less soft and has not that much rolled off highs. FC6 has a narrower soundstage.
EPZ TP50
This one is extremely good for the price. It is more technical, clear and has more resolution but is nevertheless refined, smooth and balanced. Great dongle!
Cayin RU6
The RU6 is an awesome dongle. It has that R2R special sauce, sounds analog and smooth but is on the other hand balanced, dynamic, clear and separated. A great pairing with MB. The sound is very “sweat”.
Fiio Q15
This big fellow offers warmth and smoothness, without being soft. It is very dynamic, big and full. The highs are rolled off.
iBasso DC Elite
The elite dongle shines with very high resolution and a very wide soundstage. Additionally, it is clean (but not smooth), dynamic, holographic and full sounding. This combo is engaging.
ifi Go bar Kensei
The sword master is refined, warm and powerful. It is incredible, how holographic and dynamic a/this dongle can be. This and Elite are the pinnacle of dongles. The latter is a bit cleaner, the former has a deeper soundstage. Kensei has the advantage of the K2HD filter, which makes it very analog and tuby sounding. MB liked that a lot.
Chord Mojo 2
Mojo 2 is an exceptional device. It is clean and has top resolution but is at the same time very smooth a bit warm. It sounds full and dynamic, but all instruments etc. are well separated. Despite being very holographic, the soundstage is more deep than wide. MB helps here with its big presentation. Like with FC6 you have to use another cable.
Hiby RS6
This DAP is very smooth, holographic and dynamic. Music and particularly vocals sound every time damn beautiful. I can imagine, why armstr2 likes MB with RS8 the most. But: RS6 has not the highest resolution or widest soundstage (for the price).
iBasso DX260
The DX260 has more the character of a refence player. It is very clean, balanced, dynamic, holographic and wide. Layering, separation and above all resolution are top. The bass is strong and gives MB a little bit more warmth. The highs are very clear and extended, but it also can sound peaky at times.
Aroma Audio A100TB + PS100 Pro
I connected the Aroma amp only to the DX260. It makes the whole presentation with MB way fuller, more dynamic and powerful. There is a clear focus on the bass and low mid region. The soundstage is a bit bigger, resolution and holography remain more or less the same.
iBasso PB5 Osprey
Same here: The only connection was to DX260. PB5 is surprisingly clean, clear and balanced sounding for being a tube amp. MBs sound is warmish, the bass is bigger and slams harder, instruments have a bigger room to breathe, the mids are beautiful and fluid, the highs extended but smooth. This is a great pairing.
So, what is now the conclusion of the source section? On the one hand MB is capable of showing transparently what for a source you’re using and what it’s capable of. On the other it scales clearly with your gear, and you can tweak MBs sound effectively as you wish. Yes, it sounds always good, but more expensive (or better) gear also sounds like more expensive gear. This is not with every IEM the case.
I preferred the most the presentation with (in no particular order): RU6, DC Elite, Kensei, RS6, DX260+PB5.
My desktop system, which I used for the remaining comparisons, is technically in all concerns better: resolution, soundstage and dynamics are over the top. Despite being R2R and analogish, it is very neutral and clean. MB reflects these points perfectly, and while sounding very precise and good, it is not the most “musical” performance. But I think that MB loves exactly that. I tried it with my class A integrated amp and Denafrips Terminator II DAC…and YES, this was such an eye-opening “wow” moment for me. This combo, may it be overkill, was MUSICAL.
IEM comparisons
The most important section for me is mostly the comparison to other IEMs, to know, how to position them. It is nice reading that MB is great etc., but what does it mean exactly?
First off: MB is in all technical aspects better or at least on par with the contenders.
Thieaudio Monarch MK3
For me the Monarch reigns supreme in my collection. It is surprisingly the best IEM overall. The soundstage is big and holographic, it has really good resolution, strong good bass, air and clarity. It is also an exciting IEM. The (for many) hot frequencies aren’t problematic for me. The mids are recessed compared to MK2, but with Cadmus 8W this drawback is gone. It scales extremely good with better gear too and I’m not sure, if it’s my unit, but it should really not be that good for the price (especially in comparison to 2-3k models). I perceive Monarch’s sound signature as very similar to MB. Not that lifelike but instead a bit “safer” tuned in the treble region and therefore more bassy. Technically MB is better, so the Crown remains to the red colored monarch.
Thieaudio Prestige LTD
The Prestige LTD is very similar to Monarch MK3 but smoother and more mid forward. It should have more resolution and a bigger soundstage than its sibling, but with good gear I notice these points surprisingly on Monarch. LTD’s soundstage is maybe a bit deeper and more holographic. Overall, it moves from MB’s signature away.
ZiiGaatxHBB Jupiter
Jupiter is a warm and smooth IEM with focus on bass. It also has more forward mids, but the highs are significantly recessed. With most DAC-Amps it is dark sounding, so you can listen at high volume, which also helps to widen the relatively narrow soundstage and enhance holography. Altogether, it sounds very analog and like vintage speakers. This is way more different to MB, which in turn is way more revealing and realistic.
Elysian Diva 2023 bass switch (blue)
The smooth Diva has very good resolution, a big natural soundstage and very nice mids. For many it’s the vocal endgame. For me not necessarily but nonetheless, it’s great with vocals. This IEM is interesting, because it has 3 similarities with MB:
1. It is often lifelike. I think, that is because of the 2,5k and 4,5k peaks.
2. It has very good BA bass, which does not sound like BA. MB’s bass is in that regard even better.
3. Despite being vented, it doesn’t feel that way. The wide nozzles worsen this problem, so that I’m only able to listen to the Diva with Sancai tips. It is not that much ear pressure than feeling closed in and hearing my jaw, blood flow and pulse. MB has the same problem but weaker. Maybe because of the narrower nozzles. I also got easier used to it with MB.
Elysian Annihilator 2023
Unfortunately, I’m not the biggest fan of Anni 23, which sounds different to MB. It is a good fun IEM and I like listening with it, but maybe my unit is a bit different. I hope, I don’t offend anyone…
It sounds big, full and engaging, but the bass is a bit bloated, not very textured and bleeds into the mids. Layering and imaging suffer because of that. Additionally, it does not sound very natural for me, and the resolution may be very good but absolutely not outstanding. Similar are the highs for me. So many people praise them, but I find them a bit unnatural and MB’s are way better in my opinion. Nevertheless: Anni is absolutely not a bad IEM (I criticize mainly because of the price), and it can win in different songs against other IEMs, including MB, in the “fun department”.
The venting problem exists here as well but more like MB. Although the nozzle is wide like Diva’s, the venting seems to work better for me (eventually because of the dynamic drivers).
Kinera Imperial Loki Emerald
The green Loki is a very engaging IEM and gets often aggressive (8k peak eg.). Therefore, it is not a high-volume set, more so than MB. Loki has extremely high resolution, detail retrieval and clarity, more than Anni, but MB tops it. Thanks to the bone conduction it is very holographic and the bass is strong (but controlled and textured). This is very similar to MB. The mids are at times too forward (but not that much, you would expect seeing the FR graph), which can result more often in shoutiness than with MB. Being similar in a lot of points, ultimately the main difference is that Loki does not sound very natural. It needs a lot of tweaks (for me) like the right tips, a smooth cable (Rhapsodio), a R2R-DAC and a warm amp. And even then, it cannot best MB in timbre.
I observed two interesting things. The first one concerns the lifelike presentation. Before MB there was only one IEM that sounded “real” to me, and it surprises me every time again. It’s the Mangird Xenns Top, which also has 2,5k and 4,5k peaks (plus scoops between and after). But it is smoother than MB and has no 8k peak. Maybe this could be (like the Monarch MK3, which sounds and graphs very similar) an alternative for MB timbre lovers, who cannot afford it or want to know, in which direction the tuning goes.
The second thing is that MB’s sound reminded me of Hifiman Susvara. At least the mids and highs. It has similar audible peaks, exceptional resolution, a big holographic soundstage, is very lifelike, natural and is no high-volume set. I have to admit: Except in bass quantity and macro dynamics Susvara offers even better technicalities. Acoustic instruments for example sound creepy realistic. But it also is more fatiguing for me. Anyway, Riccardo Yeh seems to be a former “Hifiman” (in the presence of Susvara). So, it is not really a coincidence, I would say.
Summary
I hope, I could give a good overview as well as positioning, and it doesn’t look like MB is better than every IEM in everything. 1) In particular sound wise it won’t be for you, if you want something laid back, bass heavy, extremely analytical, very bright or very smooth. 2) The fit should not be a problem for most, but maybe is the venting. They seal very good, what is great for many. 3) Despite the good sealing they behave like open back IEMs/headphones. Already at mid-volume others near you will “celebrate” your Black Metal with you. This could be a big no go. 4) In my opinion it is rarely a high-volume set, except you tweak your audio chain appropriately. 5) If you’re very sensitive to the 2,5/4,5/8k peaks, MB will most likely be a pass. I think, without EQ it won’t be suitable for you.
If that points don’t bother you, MB will be love at first sight. In songs with very compressed recording or with few instruments or in clean pop and EDM songs there will be less frequently a massive difference in technicalities of the IEMs. But especially in complex songs with a lot of things going on (like many different instruments, orchestras, Metal, live recordings, big rooms etc.) MB puts undoubtedly all contenders in their place!
Thank you once again for having the chance to experience Macbeth.
“All hail, Macbeth; that shalt be king hereafter!”
Intro
Hey guys,
I had the chance to try Macbeth (MB) over the holidays. It was like a Christmas gift, but one for naughty boys and girls: You can’t keep it! “Nevertheless”, I want to thank Forté Ears and armstrj2 for this great opportunity.
Ok, so I connected this red showy jewel to the iBasso DX260, and after the first 3 notes I realized that MB is an extremely good IEM. And after 10-20 sec. I understood that MB is CLEARLY a totl IEM. And here is my spoiler: MB is overall the best IEM, I had the chance to listen to!
But where do I come from? Unfortunately, my experience with ultra-high-end IEMs is limited. Around the 3k mark I tried Anni 21, 23, Kinera Loki, CP622B (great mids/vocals), EE Odin, Alter Ego (awesome!), U12T, U18T/S, Volür and additionally the whole Campfire (not my thing) and Ultimate Ears line up. Accordingly, you have to take my impressions with a grain of salt. Generally, I like most in IEMs naturalness, clarity, soundstage/immersion/holography, room for the instruments and a bit of warmth or ”bassiness”. Harmanish tuning and the new meta are great for me. My absolute favorite IEMs from my collection are Monarch MK3, Simgot EM10, Dunu DaVinci and Kiwi Ears KE4.
In the following I will focus on my sound experience with MB and discuss different gear and comparisons.
Gear used
I listened to MB mostly with iBasso DX260 and Hiby RS6 using the stock cable and Tangzu Tang Sancai normal bore tips. For testing and comparisons I used on the one hand DX260 as the source for dongles/DAC-Amps and on the other hand my desktop system (Wiim Pro/Volumio Rivo/NuPrime Stream 9, Holo Audio Spring 3 KTE, Ferrum OOR/Hypsos).
I used exclusively streaming over Tidal and Qobuz (sounds better).
My playlist for MB:
Sound impressions Macbeth
Many IEMs sound good at first try, but MB sounds exquisite, and I knew that directly without comparison. For me(!) the overall sound is extremely clear, detailed, (mostly) balanced, holographic and lifelike. MB is on its own not exactly smooth or analog sounding but also not aggressive or unnatural. It is not the very most engaging but unquestionably exciting and not laid back.
The bass is, despite clarity, the balanced sound and being a BA bass, authoritative but absolutely not overwhelming. It has dynamic power, reaches deep, is very textured and controlled. It is relatively fast but not to dry or unnatural. There is no bass bleed or boominess at all, and it gives the sound a little bit of warmth.
The mids are on the “natural” side, I would say, and there is absolutely no unpleasant BA timbre. I really like them, although they aren’t liquid or smooth. Instruments and voices sound very real and lifelike with extreme texture, resolution and nuances. Acoustic instruments, electric guitars, snare drums, male and female voices sound great. They are not in your face and also not to far away or to recessed. But: On some songs or in high-volume MB can get a bit shouty (mostly with female vocals). Maybe it’s the case because of the 2,5k peak.
The highs give MB another or the main WOW factor. They are extremely clear, textured and extended with a lot of air. I hear no unnatural zing. The upper treble is exceptional for me. Natural, airy and tingling my ears. Lower and mid treble could be most likely the main problem for most listeners and for not being a high-volume set. The peaks around 4,5k and 8k are no joke but are probably the main reason, why I experience MB as realistic and lifelike.
Because of these points and the bone conductors I perceive a very large soundstage in width, depth and height. More precisely, the biggest in all IEMs I could listen to. The whole presentation sounds simply BIG. But not only that, MB is extremely holographic too. You are IN the music and it surrounds you. You can hear and “feel” the room. I love it!
The imaging is pin point. Every instrument, singer and sound have its precise place and room for it. The layering is also top notch. Width and depth are really width and depth, if you understand what I mean. Things are three dimensional in space. The details and resolution on MB are truly endgame in an IEM (for what I’ve experienced so far). The former one is mainly because of the tuning, I would say, and the latter thanks to the exceptional drivers. Anyway, you can hear micro and macro details with ease. And that also is the main point: with ease. MB’s presentation in highest resolution is not aggressive or upfront, but effortless and simply THERE to perceive. That’s the reason why I said that it’s not the very most engaging. And this is a good thing, because you can listen to MB anytime. Further you can hear, feel and “see” the strings or drumheads per se (great micro and macro dynamics). You can hear sound reflections in the room, nuances in voices or the distortion in a distorted signal itself in electric guitars. A very vivid presentation, without being surgical. MB digs a lot of “new” things out of your songs, and it is really fair with the reproduction of the available sound/recording quality.
It’s absolutely next level and clearly at least one tier above the 2-3k IEMs that I know.
Tip rolling
For the best results I tried different tips and concentrated on these, which tamed a little bit the 2,5/4,5/8k regions in problematic songs (like “Familiar” by Agnes Obel). The best tips for that were:
Foam tips (I’m not the biggest fan of them, they also sound pillowy)
Zeos Render tips
Final Audio Type E (soundstage is a bit smaller, but there is a good amount of air)
Tanchjim T300 normal bore
Kiwi Ears Flex
Divinus Velvet
Ostry OS100/200/300
Moondrop Spring tips (good results because of MBs relatively long nozzle and the deep insertion)
Hidizs “Sea Anemone” tips (these are generally great, I like them a lot)
Also good but weaker results regarding the problematic frequencies:
SednaEarfit Xelastec II
Tangzu Tang Sancai normal bore (my most of the time go to)
KZ Stock tips (I like them, please don’t lynch me)
Cable rolling
First off: The stock cable from Eletech is excellent and fits MB sound wise very good. It looks beautiful, not over the top, is light, ergonomic and has no microphonics. But maegnificent is right: A recessed 2-pin connector would fit it better.
Eletech stock cabel
Resolution is very good with the Eletech cable. Additionally, it offers clarity and good controlled bass. This is no “typical” pure copper cable sound.
The following comparisons are in regard to the stock cable.
Linsoul Loops
Overall, a smooth cable, but the sub bass is rolled of (less bass extension), and it has a bit lesser macro dynamic power or slam.
Kinera Loki Customized Cable (black cotton mesh)
This cable is very similar to the Loops but has a bit more resolution.
Effect Audio Cadmus 8W
Cadmus offers mainly more mid bass and fuller mids.
Kinera Orlog 8W
Orlog is a neutral cable without emphasizing specific frequencies. It has very good resolution and clarity but smooth highs. Bass slam is a bit lighter.
Effect Audio Eros S 1st Anniversary Edition
In my opinion this cable is great and special. It offers very good resolution, macro and micro dynamics, more bass control and clear, crispy highs. There is a lot of air and a bit longer decay, which widens the soundstage.
Effect Audio Code 24c
24c has more bass, but it’s not very controlled. There is overall less clarity and highs are smoothed. It sounds like what you would expect from a typical pure copper cable.
Effect Audio Code 23
Besides the ergonomics from hell (which are surely for a lot of people a no go) Code 23 is an exceptional cable. Resolution is top notch and there is clarity. It has clear highs with a lot of air. It is very dynamic and the bass is full but controlled. The soundstage is very wide, deep and holographic.
GU. Craftsman Galacticos
Galacticos sounds like its name: powerful. It has a lot of full bass but controlled and textured. Resolution is very high and the upper treble is a bit smoothed.
Rhapsodio Golden MK4 8W
The Golden one is a smooth, more mid-centric cable. It has a bit less slam, smooth highs and very beautiful mids.
My favorites for MB were: 1. Code23, 2. Galacticos/Eros S, 3. Eletech Stock.
Sources
The comparison between DAPs, DACs and amps was very exciting, because MB offers the opportunity to listen to your gear. It is really sensitive to different cables, sources and amps (but sounded nevertheless always good).
Onix Alpha XI1
This dongle is very warm, lush, smooth, full and analog sounding. But it is a bit soft and highs are rolled off.
Hiby FC6
It sounds very similar to Onix but has that special R2R timbre. It is less soft and has not that much rolled off highs. FC6 has a narrower soundstage.
EPZ TP50
This one is extremely good for the price. It is more technical, clear and has more resolution but is nevertheless refined, smooth and balanced. Great dongle!
Cayin RU6
The RU6 is an awesome dongle. It has that R2R special sauce, sounds analog and smooth but is on the other hand balanced, dynamic, clear and separated. A great pairing with MB. The sound is very “sweat”.
Fiio Q15
This big fellow offers warmth and smoothness, without being soft. It is very dynamic, big and full. The highs are rolled off.
iBasso DC Elite
The elite dongle shines with very high resolution and a very wide soundstage. Additionally, it is clean (but not smooth), dynamic, holographic and full sounding. This combo is engaging.
ifi Go bar Kensei
The sword master is refined, warm and powerful. It is incredible, how holographic and dynamic a/this dongle can be. This and Elite are the pinnacle of dongles. The latter is a bit cleaner, the former has a deeper soundstage. Kensei has the advantage of the K2HD filter, which makes it very analog and tuby sounding. MB liked that a lot.
Chord Mojo 2
Mojo 2 is an exceptional device. It is clean and has top resolution but is at the same time very smooth a bit warm. It sounds full and dynamic, but all instruments etc. are well separated. Despite being very holographic, the soundstage is more deep than wide. MB helps here with its big presentation. Like with FC6 you have to use another cable.
Hiby RS6
This DAP is very smooth, holographic and dynamic. Music and particularly vocals sound every time damn beautiful. I can imagine, why armstr2 likes MB with RS8 the most. But: RS6 has not the highest resolution or widest soundstage (for the price).
iBasso DX260
The DX260 has more the character of a refence player. It is very clean, balanced, dynamic, holographic and wide. Layering, separation and above all resolution are top. The bass is strong and gives MB a little bit more warmth. The highs are very clear and extended, but it also can sound peaky at times.
Aroma Audio A100TB + PS100 Pro
I connected the Aroma amp only to the DX260. It makes the whole presentation with MB way fuller, more dynamic and powerful. There is a clear focus on the bass and low mid region. The soundstage is a bit bigger, resolution and holography remain more or less the same.
iBasso PB5 Osprey
Same here: The only connection was to DX260. PB5 is surprisingly clean, clear and balanced sounding for being a tube amp. MBs sound is warmish, the bass is bigger and slams harder, instruments have a bigger room to breathe, the mids are beautiful and fluid, the highs extended but smooth. This is a great pairing.
So, what is now the conclusion of the source section? On the one hand MB is capable of showing transparently what for a source you’re using and what it’s capable of. On the other it scales clearly with your gear, and you can tweak MBs sound effectively as you wish. Yes, it sounds always good, but more expensive (or better) gear also sounds like more expensive gear. This is not with every IEM the case.
I preferred the most the presentation with (in no particular order): RU6, DC Elite, Kensei, RS6, DX260+PB5.
My desktop system, which I used for the remaining comparisons, is technically in all concerns better: resolution, soundstage and dynamics are over the top. Despite being R2R and analogish, it is very neutral and clean. MB reflects these points perfectly, and while sounding very precise and good, it is not the most “musical” performance. But I think that MB loves exactly that. I tried it with my class A integrated amp and Denafrips Terminator II DAC…and YES, this was such an eye-opening “wow” moment for me. This combo, may it be overkill, was MUSICAL.
IEM comparisons
The most important section for me is mostly the comparison to other IEMs, to know, how to position them. It is nice reading that MB is great etc., but what does it mean exactly?
First off: MB is in all technical aspects better or at least on par with the contenders.
Thieaudio Monarch MK3
For me the Monarch reigns supreme in my collection. It is surprisingly the best IEM overall. The soundstage is big and holographic, it has really good resolution, strong good bass, air and clarity. It is also an exciting IEM. The (for many) hot frequencies aren’t problematic for me. The mids are recessed compared to MK2, but with Cadmus 8W this drawback is gone. It scales extremely good with better gear too and I’m not sure, if it’s my unit, but it should really not be that good for the price (especially in comparison to 2-3k models). I perceive Monarch’s sound signature as very similar to MB. Not that lifelike but instead a bit “safer” tuned in the treble region and therefore more bassy. Technically MB is better, so the Crown remains to the red colored monarch.
Thieaudio Prestige LTD
The Prestige LTD is very similar to Monarch MK3 but smoother and more mid forward. It should have more resolution and a bigger soundstage than its sibling, but with good gear I notice these points surprisingly on Monarch. LTD’s soundstage is maybe a bit deeper and more holographic. Overall, it moves from MB’s signature away.
ZiiGaatxHBB Jupiter
Jupiter is a warm and smooth IEM with focus on bass. It also has more forward mids, but the highs are significantly recessed. With most DAC-Amps it is dark sounding, so you can listen at high volume, which also helps to widen the relatively narrow soundstage and enhance holography. Altogether, it sounds very analog and like vintage speakers. This is way more different to MB, which in turn is way more revealing and realistic.
Elysian Diva 2023 bass switch (blue)
The smooth Diva has very good resolution, a big natural soundstage and very nice mids. For many it’s the vocal endgame. For me not necessarily but nonetheless, it’s great with vocals. This IEM is interesting, because it has 3 similarities with MB:
1. It is often lifelike. I think, that is because of the 2,5k and 4,5k peaks.
2. It has very good BA bass, which does not sound like BA. MB’s bass is in that regard even better.
3. Despite being vented, it doesn’t feel that way. The wide nozzles worsen this problem, so that I’m only able to listen to the Diva with Sancai tips. It is not that much ear pressure than feeling closed in and hearing my jaw, blood flow and pulse. MB has the same problem but weaker. Maybe because of the narrower nozzles. I also got easier used to it with MB.
Elysian Annihilator 2023
Unfortunately, I’m not the biggest fan of Anni 23, which sounds different to MB. It is a good fun IEM and I like listening with it, but maybe my unit is a bit different. I hope, I don’t offend anyone…
It sounds big, full and engaging, but the bass is a bit bloated, not very textured and bleeds into the mids. Layering and imaging suffer because of that. Additionally, it does not sound very natural for me, and the resolution may be very good but absolutely not outstanding. Similar are the highs for me. So many people praise them, but I find them a bit unnatural and MB’s are way better in my opinion. Nevertheless: Anni is absolutely not a bad IEM (I criticize mainly because of the price), and it can win in different songs against other IEMs, including MB, in the “fun department”.
The venting problem exists here as well but more like MB. Although the nozzle is wide like Diva’s, the venting seems to work better for me (eventually because of the dynamic drivers).
Kinera Imperial Loki Emerald
The green Loki is a very engaging IEM and gets often aggressive (8k peak eg.). Therefore, it is not a high-volume set, more so than MB. Loki has extremely high resolution, detail retrieval and clarity, more than Anni, but MB tops it. Thanks to the bone conduction it is very holographic and the bass is strong (but controlled and textured). This is very similar to MB. The mids are at times too forward (but not that much, you would expect seeing the FR graph), which can result more often in shoutiness than with MB. Being similar in a lot of points, ultimately the main difference is that Loki does not sound very natural. It needs a lot of tweaks (for me) like the right tips, a smooth cable (Rhapsodio), a R2R-DAC and a warm amp. And even then, it cannot best MB in timbre.
I observed two interesting things. The first one concerns the lifelike presentation. Before MB there was only one IEM that sounded “real” to me, and it surprises me every time again. It’s the Mangird Xenns Top, which also has 2,5k and 4,5k peaks (plus scoops between and after). But it is smoother than MB and has no 8k peak. Maybe this could be (like the Monarch MK3, which sounds and graphs very similar) an alternative for MB timbre lovers, who cannot afford it or want to know, in which direction the tuning goes.
The second thing is that MB’s sound reminded me of Hifiman Susvara. At least the mids and highs. It has similar audible peaks, exceptional resolution, a big holographic soundstage, is very lifelike, natural and is no high-volume set. I have to admit: Except in bass quantity and macro dynamics Susvara offers even better technicalities. Acoustic instruments for example sound creepy realistic. But it also is more fatiguing for me. Anyway, Riccardo Yeh seems to be a former “Hifiman” (in the presence of Susvara). So, it is not really a coincidence, I would say.
Summary
I hope, I could give a good overview as well as positioning, and it doesn’t look like MB is better than every IEM in everything. 1) In particular sound wise it won’t be for you, if you want something laid back, bass heavy, extremely analytical, very bright or very smooth. 2) The fit should not be a problem for most, but maybe is the venting. They seal very good, what is great for many. 3) Despite the good sealing they behave like open back IEMs/headphones. Already at mid-volume others near you will “celebrate” your Black Metal with you. This could be a big no go. 4) In my opinion it is rarely a high-volume set, except you tweak your audio chain appropriately. 5) If you’re very sensitive to the 2,5/4,5/8k peaks, MB will most likely be a pass. I think, without EQ it won’t be suitable for you.
If that points don’t bother you, MB will be love at first sight. In songs with very compressed recording or with few instruments or in clean pop and EDM songs there will be less frequently a massive difference in technicalities of the IEMs. But especially in complex songs with a lot of things going on (like many different instruments, orchestras, Metal, live recordings, big rooms etc.) MB puts undoubtedly all contenders in their place!
Thank you once again for having the chance to experience Macbeth.
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I'm glad you enjoyed your time with Macbeth. Many thanks for sharing your extensive impressionsForté Ears Macbeth-Review
“All hail, Macbeth; that shalt be king hereafter!”
Intro
Hey guys,
I had the chance to try Macbeth (MB) over the holidays. It was like a Christmas gift, but one for naughty boys and girls: You can’t keep it! “Nevertheless”, I want to thank Forté Ears and armstrj2 for this great opportunity.
Ok, so I connected this red showy jewel to the iBasso DX260, and after the first 3 notes I realized that MB is an extremely good IEM. And after 10-20 sec. I understood that MB is CLEARLY a totl IEM. And here is my spoiler: MB is overall the best IEM, I had the chance to listen to!
But where do I come from? Unfortunately, my experience with ultra-high-end IEMs is limited. Around the 3k mark I tried Anni 21, 23, Kinera Loki, CP622B (great mids/vocals), EE Odin, Alter Ego (awesome!), U12T, U18T/S, Volür and additionally the whole Campfire (not my thing) and Ultimate Ears line up. Accordingly, you have to take my impressions with a grain of salt. Generally, I like most in IEMs naturalness, clarity, soundstage/immersion/holography, room for the instruments and a bit of warmth or ”bassiness”. Harmanish tuning and the new meta are great for me. My absolute favorite IEMs from my collection are Monarch MK3, Simgot EM10, Dunu DaVinci and Kiwi Ears KE4.
In the following I will focus on my sound experience with MB and discuss different gear and comparisons.
Gear used
I listened to MB mostly with iBasso DX260 and Hiby RS6 using the stock cable and Tangzu Tang Sancai normal bore tips. For testing and comparisons I used on the one hand DX260 as the source for dongles/DAC-Amps and on the other hand my desktop system (Wiim Pro/Volumio Rivo/NuPrime Stream 9, Holo Audio Spring 3 KTE, Ferrum OOR/Hypsos).
I used exclusively streaming over Tidal and Qobuz (sounds better).
My playlist for MB:
Sound impressions Macbeth
Many IEMs sound good at first try, but MB sounds exquisite, and I knew that directly without comparison. For me(!) the overall sound is extremely clear, detailed, (mostly) balanced, holographic and lifelike. MB is on its own not exactly smooth or analog sounding but also not aggressive or unnatural. It is not the very most engaging but unquestionably exciting and not laid back.
The bass is, despite clarity, the balanced sound and being a BA bass, authoritative but absolutely not overwhelming. It has dynamic power, reaches deep, is very textured and controlled. It is relatively fast but not to dry or unnatural. There is no bass bleed or boominess at all, and it gives the sound a little bit of warmth.
The mids are on the “natural” side, I would say, and there is absolutely no unpleasant BA timbre. I really like them, although they aren’t liquid or smooth. Instruments and voices sound very real and lifelike with extreme texture, resolution and nuances. Acoustic instruments, electric guitars, snare drums, male and female voices sound great. They are not in your face and also not to far away or to recessed. But: On some songs or in high-volume MB can get a bit shouty (mostly with female vocals). Maybe it’s the case because of the 2,5k peak.
The highs give MB another or the main WOW factor. They are extremely clear, textured and extended with a lot of air. I hear no unnatural zing. The upper treble is exceptional for me. Natural, airy and tingling my ears. Lower and mid treble could be most likely the main problem for most listeners and for not being a high-volume set. The peaks around 4,5k and 8k are no joke but are probably the main reason, why I experience MB as realistic and lifelike.
Because of these points and the bone conductors I perceive a very large soundstage in width, depth and height. More precisely, the biggest in all IEMs I could listen to. The whole presentation sounds simply BIG. But not only that, MB is extremely holographic too. You are IN the music and it surrounds you. You can hear and “feel” the room. I love it!
The imaging is pin point. Every instrument, singer and sound have its precise place and room for it. The layering is also top notch. Width and depth are really width and depth, if you understand what I mean. Things are three dimensional in space. The details and resolution on MB are truly endgame in an IEM (for what I’ve experienced so far). The former one is mainly because of the tuning, I would say, and the latter thanks to the exceptional drivers. Anyway, you can hear micro and macro details with ease. And that also is the main point: with ease. MB’s presentation in highest resolution is not aggressive or upfront, but effortless and simply THERE to perceive. That’s the reason why I said that it’s not the very most engaging. And this is a good thing, because you can listen to MB anytime. Further you can hear, feel and “see” the strings or drumheads per se (great micro and macro dynamics). You can hear sound reflections in the room, nuances in voices or the distortion in a distorted signal itself in electric guitars. A very vivid presentation, without being surgical. MB digs a lot of “new” things out of your songs, and it is really fair with the reproduction of the available sound/recording quality.
It’s absolutely next level and clearly at least one tier above the 2-3k IEMs that I know.
Tip rolling
For the best results I tried different tips and concentrated on these, which tamed a little bit the 2,5/4,5/8k regions in problematic songs (like “Familiar” by Agnes Obel). The best tips for that were:
Foam tips (I’m not the biggest fan of them, they also sound pillowy)
Zeos Render tips
Final Audio Type E (soundstage is a bit smaller, but there is a good amount of air)
Tanchjim T300 normal bore
Kiwi Ears Flex
Divinus Velvet
Ostry OS100/200/300
Moondrop Spring tips (good results because of MBs relatively long nozzle and the deep insertion)
Hidizs “Sea Anemone” tips (these are generally great, I like them a lot)
Also good but weaker results regarding the problematic frequencies:
SednaEarfit Xelastec II
Tangzu Tang Sancai normal bore (my most of the time go to)
KZ Stock tips (I like them, please don’t lynch me)
Cable rolling
First off: The stock cable from Eletech is excellent and fits MB sound wise very good. It looks beautiful, not over the top, is light, ergonomic and has no microphonics. But maegnificent is right: A recessed 2-pin connector would fit it better.
Eletech stock cabel
Resolution is very good with the Eletech cable. Additionally, it offers clarity and good controlled bass. This is no “typical” pure copper cable sound.
The following comparisons are in regard to the stock cable.
Linsoul Loops
Overall, a smooth cable, but the sub bass is rolled of (less bass extension), and it has a bit lesser macro dynamic power or slam.
Kinera Loki Customized Cable (black cotton mesh)
This cable is very similar to the Loops but has a bit more resolution.
Effect Audio Cadmus 8W
Cadmus offers mainly more mid bass and fuller mids.
Kinera Orlog 8W
Orlog is a neutral cable without emphasizing specific frequencies. It has very good resolution and clarity but smooth highs. Bass slam is a bit lighter.
Effect Audio Eros S 1st Anniversary Edition
In my opinion this cable is great and special. It offers very good resolution, macro and micro dynamics, more bass control and clear, crispy highs. There is a lot of air and a bit longer decay, which widens the soundstage.
Effect Audio Code 24c
24c has more bass, but it’s not very controlled. There is overall less clarity and highs are smoothed. It sounds like what you would expect from a typical pure copper cable.
Effect Audio Code 23
Besides the ergonomics from hell (which are surely for a lot of people a no go) Code 23 is an exceptional cable. Resolution is top notch and there is clarity. It has clear highs with a lot of air. It is very dynamic and the bass is full but controlled. The soundstage is very wide, deep and holographic.
GU. Craftsman Galacticos
Galacticos sounds like its name: powerful. It has a lot of full bass but controlled and textured. Resolution is very high and the upper treble is a bit smoothed.
Rhapsodio Golden MK4 8W
The Golden one is a smooth, more mid-centric cable. It has a bit less slam, smooth highs and very beautiful mids.
My favorites for MB were: 1. Code23, 2. Galacticos/Eros S, 3. Eletech Stock.
Sources
The comparison between DAPs, DACs and amps was very exciting, because MB offers the opportunity to listen to your gear. It is really sensitive to different cables, sources and amps (but sounded nevertheless always good).
Onix Alpha XI1
This dongle is very warm, lush, smooth, full and analog sounding. But it is a bit soft and highs are rolled off.
Hiby FC6
It sounds very similar to Onix but has that special R2R timbre. It is less soft and has not that much rolled off highs. FC6 has a narrower soundstage.
EPZ TP50
This one is extremely good for the price. It is more technical, clear and has more resolution but is nevertheless refined, smooth and balanced. Great dongle!
Cayin RU6
The RU6 is an awesome dongle. It has that R2R special sauce, sounds analog and smooth but is on the other hand balanced, dynamic, clear and separated. A great pairing with MB. The sound is very “sweat”.
Fiio Q15
This big fellow offers warmth and smoothness, without being soft. It is very dynamic, big and full. The highs are rolled off.
iBasso DC Elite
The elite dongle shines with very high resolution and a very wide soundstage. Additionally, it is clean (but not smooth), dynamic, holographic and full sounding. This combo is engaging.
ifi Go bar Kensei
The sword master is refined, warm and powerful. It is incredible, how holographic and dynamic a/this dongle can be. This and Elite are the pinnacle of dongles. The latter is a bit cleaner, the former has a deeper soundstage. Kensei has the advantage of the K2HD filter, which makes it very analog and tuby sounding. MB liked that a lot.
Chord Mojo 2
Mojo 2 is an exceptional device. It is clean and has top resolution but is at the same time very smooth a bit warm. It sounds full and dynamic, but all instruments etc. are well separated. Despite being very holographic, the soundstage is more deep than wide. MB helps here with its big presentation. Like with FC6 you have to use another cable.
Hiby RS6
This DAP is very smooth, holographic and dynamic. Music and particularly vocals sound every time damn beautiful. I can imagine, why armstr2 likes MB with RS8 the most. But: RS6 has not the highest resolution or widest soundstage (for the price).
iBasso DX260
The DX260 has more the character of a refence player. It is very clean, balanced, dynamic, holographic and wide. Layering, separation and above all resolution are top. The bass is strong and gives MB a little bit more warmth. The highs are very clear and extended, but it also can sound peaky at times.
Aroma Audio A100TB + PS100 Pro
I connected the Aroma amp only to the DX260. It makes the whole presentation with MB way fuller, more dynamic and powerful. There is a clear focus on the bass and low mid region. The soundstage is a bit bigger, resolution and holography remain more or less the same.
iBasso PB5 Osprey
Same here: The only connection was to DX260. PB5 is surprisingly clean, clear and balanced sounding for being a tube amp. MBs sound is warmish, the bass is bigger and slams harder, instruments have a bigger room to breathe, the mids are beautiful and fluid, the highs extended but smooth. This is a great pairing.
So, what is now the conclusion of the source section? On the one hand MB is capable of showing transparently what for a source you’re using and what it’s capable of. On the other it scales clearly with your gear, and you can tweak MBs sound effectively as you wish. Yes, it sounds always good, but more expensive (or better) gear also sounds like more expensive gear. This is not with every IEM the case.
I preferred the most the presentation with (in no particular order): RU6, DC Elite, Kensei, RS6, DX260+PB5.
My desktop system, which I used for the remaining comparisons, is technically in all concerns better: resolution, soundstage and dynamics are over the top. Despite being R2R and analogish, it is very neutral and clean. MB reflects these points perfectly, and while sounding very precise and good, it is not the most “musical” performance. But I think that MB loves exactly that. I tried it with my class A integrated amp and Denafrips Terminator II DAC…and YES, this was such an eye-opening “wow” moment for me. This combo, may it be overkill, was MUSICAL.
IEM comparisons
The most important section for me is mostly the comparison to other IEMs, to know, how to position them. It is nice reading that MB is great etc., but what does it mean exactly?
First off: MB is in all technical aspects better or at least on par with the contenders.
Thieaudio Monarch MK3
For me the Monarch reigns supreme in my collection. It is surprisingly the best IEM overall. The soundstage is big and holographic, it has really good resolution, strong good bass, air and clarity. It is also an exciting IEM. The (for many) hot frequencies aren’t problematic for me. The mids are recessed compared to MK2, but with Cadmus 8W this drawback is gone. It scales extremely good with better gear too and I’m not sure, if it’s my unit, but it should really not be that good for the price (especially in comparison to 2-3k models). I perceive Monarch’s sound signature as very similar to MB. Not that lifelike but instead a bit “safer” tuned in the treble region and therefore more bassy. Technically MB is better, so the Crown remains to the red colored monarch.
Thieaudio Prestige LTD
The Prestige LTD is very similar to Monarch MK3 but smoother and more mid forward. It should have more resolution and a bigger soundstage than its sibling, but with good gear I notice these points surprisingly on Monarch. LTD’s soundstage is maybe a bit deeper and more holographic. Overall, it moves from MB’s signature away.
ZiiGaatxHBB Jupiter
Jupiter is a warm and smooth IEM with focus on bass. It also has more forward mids, but the highs are significantly recessed. With most DAC-Amps it is dark sounding, so you can listen at high volume, which also helps to widen the relatively narrow soundstage and enhance holography. Altogether, it sounds very analog and like vintage speakers. This is way more different to MB, which in turn is way more revealing and realistic.
Elysian Diva 2023 bass switch (blue)
The smooth Diva has very good resolution, a big natural soundstage and very nice mids. For many it’s the vocal endgame. For me not necessarily but nonetheless, it’s great with vocals. This IEM is interesting, because it has 3 similarities with MB:
1. It is often lifelike. I think, that is because of the 2,5k and 4,5k peaks.
2. It has very good BA bass, which does not sound like BA. MB’s bass is in that regard even better.
3. Despite being vented, it doesn’t feel that way. The wide nozzles worsen this problem, so that I’m only able to listen to the Diva with Sancai tips. It is not that much ear pressure than feeling closed in and hearing my jaw, blood flow and pulse. MB has the same problem but weaker. Maybe because of the narrower nozzles. I also got easier used to it with MB.
Elysian Annihilator 2023
Unfortunately, I’m not the biggest fan of Anni 23, which sounds different to MB. It is a good fun IEM and I like listening with it, but maybe my unit is a bit different. I hope, I don’t offend anyone…
It sounds big, full and engaging, but the bass is a bit bloated, not very textured and bleeds into the mids. Layering and imaging suffer because of that. Additionally, it does not sound very natural for me, and the resolution may be very good but absolutely not outstanding. Similar are the highs for me. So many people praise them, but I find them a bit unnatural and MB’s are way better in my opinion. Nevertheless: Anni is absolutely not a bad IEM (I criticize mainly because of the price), and it can win in different songs against other IEMs, including MB, in the “fun department”.
The venting problem exists here as well but more like MB. Although the nozzle is wide like Diva’s, the venting seems to work better for me (eventually because of the dynamic drivers).
Kinera Imperial Loki Emerald
The green Loki is a very engaging IEM and gets often aggressive (8k peak eg.). Therefore, it is not a high-volume set, more so than MB. Loki has extremely high resolution, detail retrieval and clarity, more than Anni, but MB tops it. Thanks to the bone conduction it is very holographic and the bass is strong (but controlled and textured). This is very similar to MB. The mids are at times too forward (but not that much, you would expect seeing the FR graph), which can result more often in shoutiness than with MB. Being similar in a lot of points, ultimately the main difference is that Loki does not sound very natural. It needs a lot of tweaks (for me) like the right tips, a smooth cable (Rhapsodio), a R2R-DAC and a warm amp. And even then, it cannot best MB in timbre.
I observed two interesting things. The first one concerns the lifelike presentation. Before MB there was only one IEM that sounded “real” to me, and it surprises me every time again. It’s the Mangird Xenns Top, which also has 2,5k and 4,5k peaks (plus scoops between and after). But it is smoother than MB and has no 8k peak. Maybe this could be (like the Monarch MK3, which sounds and graphs very similar) an alternative for MB timbre lovers, who cannot afford it or want to know, in which direction the tuning goes.
The second thing is that MB’s sound reminded me of Hifiman Susvara. At least the mids and highs. It has similar audible peaks, exceptional resolution, a big holographic soundstage, is very lifelike, natural and is no high-volume set. I have to admit: Except in bass quantity and macro dynamics Susvara offers even better technicalities. Acoustic instruments for example sound creepy realistic. But it also is more fatiguing for me. Anyway, Riccardo Yeh seems to be a former “Hifiman” (in the presence of Susvara). So, it is not really a coincidence, I would say.
Summary
I hope, I could give a good overview as well as positioning, and it doesn’t look like MB is better than every IEM in everything. 1) In particular sound wise it won’t be for you, if you want something laid back, bass heavy, extremely analytical, very bright or very smooth. 2) The fit should not be a problem for most, but maybe is the venting. They seal very good, what is great for many. 3) Despite the good sealing they behave like open back IEMs/headphones. Already at mid-volume others near you will “celebrate” your Black Metal with you. This could be a big no go. 4) In my opinion it is rarely a high-volume set, except you tweak your audio chain appropriately. 5) If you’re very sensitive to the 2,5/4,5/8k peaks, MB will most likely be a pass. I think, without EQ it won’t be suitable for you.
If that points don’t bother you, MB will be love at first sight. In songs with very compressed recording or with few instruments or in clean pop and EDM songs there will be less frequently a massive difference in technicalities of the IEMs. But especially in complex songs with a lot of things going on (like many different instruments, orchestras, Metal, live recordings, big rooms etc.) MB puts undoubtedly all contenders in their place!
Thank you once again for having the chance to experience Macbeth.
Wow.....what a detailed review!Forté Ears Macbeth-Review
“All hail, Macbeth; that shalt be king hereafter!”
Intro
Hey guys,
I had the chance to try Macbeth (MB) over the holidays. It was like a Christmas gift, but one for naughty boys and girls: You can’t keep it! “Nevertheless”, I want to thank Forté Ears and armstrj2 for this great opportunity.
Ok, so I connected this red showy jewel to the iBasso DX260, and after the first 3 notes I realized that MB is an extremely good IEM. And after 10-20 sec. I understood that MB is CLEARLY a totl IEM. And here is my spoiler: MB is overall the best IEM, I had the chance to listen to!
But where do I come from? Unfortunately, my experience with ultra-high-end IEMs is limited. Around the 3k mark I tried Anni 21, 23, Kinera Loki, CP622B (great mids/vocals), EE Odin, Alter Ego (awesome!), U12T, U18T/S, Volür and additionally the whole Campfire (not my thing) and Ultimate Ears line up. Accordingly, you have to take my impressions with a grain of salt. Generally, I like most in IEMs naturalness, clarity, soundstage/immersion/holography, room for the instruments and a bit of warmth or ”bassiness”. Harmanish tuning and the new meta are great for me. My absolute favorite IEMs from my collection are Monarch MK3, Simgot EM10, Dunu DaVinci and Kiwi Ears KE4.
In the following I will focus on my sound experience with MB and discuss different gear and comparisons.
Gear used
I listened to MB mostly with iBasso DX260 and Hiby RS6 using the stock cable and Tangzu Tang Sancai normal bore tips. For testing and comparisons I used on the one hand DX260 as the source for dongles/DAC-Amps and on the other hand my desktop system (Wiim Pro/Volumio Rivo/NuPrime Stream 9, Holo Audio Spring 3 KTE, Ferrum OOR/Hypsos).
I used exclusively streaming over Tidal and Qobuz (sounds better).
My playlist for MB:
Sound impressions Macbeth
Many IEMs sound good at first try, but MB sounds exquisite, and I knew that directly without comparison. For me(!) the overall sound is extremely clear, detailed, (mostly) balanced, holographic and lifelike. MB is on its own not exactly smooth or analog sounding but also not aggressive or unnatural. It is not the very most engaging but unquestionably exciting and not laid back.
The bass is, despite clarity, the balanced sound and being a BA bass, authoritative but absolutely not overwhelming. It has dynamic power, reaches deep, is very textured and controlled. It is relatively fast but not to dry or unnatural. There is no bass bleed or boominess at all, and it gives the sound a little bit of warmth.
The mids are on the “natural” side, I would say, and there is absolutely no unpleasant BA timbre. I really like them, although they aren’t liquid or smooth. Instruments and voices sound very real and lifelike with extreme texture, resolution and nuances. Acoustic instruments, electric guitars, snare drums, male and female voices sound great. They are not in your face and also not to far away or to recessed. But: On some songs or in high-volume MB can get a bit shouty (mostly with female vocals). Maybe it’s the case because of the 2,5k peak.
The highs give MB another or the main WOW factor. They are extremely clear, textured and extended with a lot of air. I hear no unnatural zing. The upper treble is exceptional for me. Natural, airy and tingling my ears. Lower and mid treble could be most likely the main problem for most listeners and for not being a high-volume set. The peaks around 4,5k and 8k are no joke but are probably the main reason, why I experience MB as realistic and lifelike.
Because of these points and the bone conductors I perceive a very large soundstage in width, depth and height. More precisely, the biggest in all IEMs I could listen to. The whole presentation sounds simply BIG. But not only that, MB is extremely holographic too. You are IN the music and it surrounds you. You can hear and “feel” the room. I love it!
The imaging is pin point. Every instrument, singer and sound have its precise place and room for it. The layering is also top notch. Width and depth are really width and depth, if you understand what I mean. Things are three dimensional in space. The details and resolution on MB are truly endgame in an IEM (for what I’ve experienced so far). The former one is mainly because of the tuning, I would say, and the latter thanks to the exceptional drivers. Anyway, you can hear micro and macro details with ease. And that also is the main point: with ease. MB’s presentation in highest resolution is not aggressive or upfront, but effortless and simply THERE to perceive. That’s the reason why I said that it’s not the very most engaging. And this is a good thing, because you can listen to MB anytime. Further you can hear, feel and “see” the strings or drumheads per se (great micro and macro dynamics). You can hear sound reflections in the room, nuances in voices or the distortion in a distorted signal itself in electric guitars. A very vivid presentation, without being surgical. MB digs a lot of “new” things out of your songs, and it is really fair with the reproduction of the available sound/recording quality.
It’s absolutely next level and clearly at least one tier above the 2-3k IEMs that I know.
Tip rolling
For the best results I tried different tips and concentrated on these, which tamed a little bit the 2,5/4,5/8k regions in problematic songs (like “Familiar” by Agnes Obel). The best tips for that were:
Foam tips (I’m not the biggest fan of them, they also sound pillowy)
Zeos Render tips
Final Audio Type E (soundstage is a bit smaller, but there is a good amount of air)
Tanchjim T300 normal bore
Kiwi Ears Flex
Divinus Velvet
Ostry OS100/200/300
Moondrop Spring tips (good results because of MBs relatively long nozzle and the deep insertion)
Hidizs “Sea Anemone” tips (these are generally great, I like them a lot)
Also good but weaker results regarding the problematic frequencies:
SednaEarfit Xelastec II
Tangzu Tang Sancai normal bore (my most of the time go to)
KZ Stock tips (I like them, please don’t lynch me)
Cable rolling
First off: The stock cable from Eletech is excellent and fits MB sound wise very good. It looks beautiful, not over the top, is light, ergonomic and has no microphonics. But maegnificent is right: A recessed 2-pin connector would fit it better.
Eletech stock cabel
Resolution is very good with the Eletech cable. Additionally, it offers clarity and good controlled bass. This is no “typical” pure copper cable sound.
The following comparisons are in regard to the stock cable.
Linsoul Loops
Overall, a smooth cable, but the sub bass is rolled of (less bass extension), and it has a bit lesser macro dynamic power or slam.
Kinera Loki Customized Cable (black cotton mesh)
This cable is very similar to the Loops but has a bit more resolution.
Effect Audio Cadmus 8W
Cadmus offers mainly more mid bass and fuller mids.
Kinera Orlog 8W
Orlog is a neutral cable without emphasizing specific frequencies. It has very good resolution and clarity but smooth highs. Bass slam is a bit lighter.
Effect Audio Eros S 1st Anniversary Edition
In my opinion this cable is great and special. It offers very good resolution, macro and micro dynamics, more bass control and clear, crispy highs. There is a lot of air and a bit longer decay, which widens the soundstage.
Effect Audio Code 24c
24c has more bass, but it’s not very controlled. There is overall less clarity and highs are smoothed. It sounds like what you would expect from a typical pure copper cable.
Effect Audio Code 23
Besides the ergonomics from hell (which are surely for a lot of people a no go) Code 23 is an exceptional cable. Resolution is top notch and there is clarity. It has clear highs with a lot of air. It is very dynamic and the bass is full but controlled. The soundstage is very wide, deep and holographic.
GU. Craftsman Galacticos
Galacticos sounds like its name: powerful. It has a lot of full bass but controlled and textured. Resolution is very high and the upper treble is a bit smoothed.
Rhapsodio Golden MK4 8W
The Golden one is a smooth, more mid-centric cable. It has a bit less slam, smooth highs and very beautiful mids.
My favorites for MB were: 1. Code23, 2. Galacticos/Eros S, 3. Eletech Stock.
Sources
The comparison between DAPs, DACs and amps was very exciting, because MB offers the opportunity to listen to your gear. It is really sensitive to different cables, sources and amps (but sounded nevertheless always good).
Onix Alpha XI1
This dongle is very warm, lush, smooth, full and analog sounding. But it is a bit soft and highs are rolled off.
Hiby FC6
It sounds very similar to Onix but has that special R2R timbre. It is less soft and has not that much rolled off highs. FC6 has a narrower soundstage.
EPZ TP50
This one is extremely good for the price. It is more technical, clear and has more resolution but is nevertheless refined, smooth and balanced. Great dongle!
Cayin RU6
The RU6 is an awesome dongle. It has that R2R special sauce, sounds analog and smooth but is on the other hand balanced, dynamic, clear and separated. A great pairing with MB. The sound is very “sweat”.
Fiio Q15
This big fellow offers warmth and smoothness, without being soft. It is very dynamic, big and full. The highs are rolled off.
iBasso DC Elite
The elite dongle shines with very high resolution and a very wide soundstage. Additionally, it is clean (but not smooth), dynamic, holographic and full sounding. This combo is engaging.
ifi Go bar Kensei
The sword master is refined, warm and powerful. It is incredible, how holographic and dynamic a/this dongle can be. This and Elite are the pinnacle of dongles. The latter is a bit cleaner, the former has a deeper soundstage. Kensei has the advantage of the K2HD filter, which makes it very analog and tuby sounding. MB liked that a lot.
Chord Mojo 2
Mojo 2 is an exceptional device. It is clean and has top resolution but is at the same time very smooth a bit warm. It sounds full and dynamic, but all instruments etc. are well separated. Despite being very holographic, the soundstage is more deep than wide. MB helps here with its big presentation. Like with FC6 you have to use another cable.
Hiby RS6
This DAP is very smooth, holographic and dynamic. Music and particularly vocals sound every time damn beautiful. I can imagine, why armstr2 likes MB with RS8 the most. But: RS6 has not the highest resolution or widest soundstage (for the price).
iBasso DX260
The DX260 has more the character of a refence player. It is very clean, balanced, dynamic, holographic and wide. Layering, separation and above all resolution are top. The bass is strong and gives MB a little bit more warmth. The highs are very clear and extended, but it also can sound peaky at times.
Aroma Audio A100TB + PS100 Pro
I connected the Aroma amp only to the DX260. It makes the whole presentation with MB way fuller, more dynamic and powerful. There is a clear focus on the bass and low mid region. The soundstage is a bit bigger, resolution and holography remain more or less the same.
iBasso PB5 Osprey
Same here: The only connection was to DX260. PB5 is surprisingly clean, clear and balanced sounding for being a tube amp. MBs sound is warmish, the bass is bigger and slams harder, instruments have a bigger room to breathe, the mids are beautiful and fluid, the highs extended but smooth. This is a great pairing.
So, what is now the conclusion of the source section? On the one hand MB is capable of showing transparently what for a source you’re using and what it’s capable of. On the other it scales clearly with your gear, and you can tweak MBs sound effectively as you wish. Yes, it sounds always good, but more expensive (or better) gear also sounds like more expensive gear. This is not with every IEM the case.
I preferred the most the presentation with (in no particular order): RU6, DC Elite, Kensei, RS6, DX260+PB5.
My desktop system, which I used for the remaining comparisons, is technically in all concerns better: resolution, soundstage and dynamics are over the top. Despite being R2R and analogish, it is very neutral and clean. MB reflects these points perfectly, and while sounding very precise and good, it is not the most “musical” performance. But I think that MB loves exactly that. I tried it with my class A integrated amp and Denafrips Terminator II DAC…and YES, this was such an eye-opening “wow” moment for me. This combo, may it be overkill, was MUSICAL.
IEM comparisons
The most important section for me is mostly the comparison to other IEMs, to know, how to position them. It is nice reading that MB is great etc., but what does it mean exactly?
First off: MB is in all technical aspects better or at least on par with the contenders.
Thieaudio Monarch MK3
For me the Monarch reigns supreme in my collection. It is surprisingly the best IEM overall. The soundstage is big and holographic, it has really good resolution, strong good bass, air and clarity. It is also an exciting IEM. The (for many) hot frequencies aren’t problematic for me. The mids are recessed compared to MK2, but with Cadmus 8W this drawback is gone. It scales extremely good with better gear too and I’m not sure, if it’s my unit, but it should really not be that good for the price (especially in comparison to 2-3k models). I perceive Monarch’s sound signature as very similar to MB. Not that lifelike but instead a bit “safer” tuned in the treble region and therefore more bassy. Technically MB is better, so the Crown remains to the red colored monarch.
Thieaudio Prestige LTD
The Prestige LTD is very similar to Monarch MK3 but smoother and more mid forward. It should have more resolution and a bigger soundstage than its sibling, but with good gear I notice these points surprisingly on Monarch. LTD’s soundstage is maybe a bit deeper and more holographic. Overall, it moves from MB’s signature away.
ZiiGaatxHBB Jupiter
Jupiter is a warm and smooth IEM with focus on bass. It also has more forward mids, but the highs are significantly recessed. With most DAC-Amps it is dark sounding, so you can listen at high volume, which also helps to widen the relatively narrow soundstage and enhance holography. Altogether, it sounds very analog and like vintage speakers. This is way more different to MB, which in turn is way more revealing and realistic.
Elysian Diva 2023 bass switch (blue)
The smooth Diva has very good resolution, a big natural soundstage and very nice mids. For many it’s the vocal endgame. For me not necessarily but nonetheless, it’s great with vocals. This IEM is interesting, because it has 3 similarities with MB:
1. It is often lifelike. I think, that is because of the 2,5k and 4,5k peaks.
2. It has very good BA bass, which does not sound like BA. MB’s bass is in that regard even better.
3. Despite being vented, it doesn’t feel that way. The wide nozzles worsen this problem, so that I’m only able to listen to the Diva with Sancai tips. It is not that much ear pressure than feeling closed in and hearing my jaw, blood flow and pulse. MB has the same problem but weaker. Maybe because of the narrower nozzles. I also got easier used to it with MB.
Elysian Annihilator 2023
Unfortunately, I’m not the biggest fan of Anni 23, which sounds different to MB. It is a good fun IEM and I like listening with it, but maybe my unit is a bit different. I hope, I don’t offend anyone…
It sounds big, full and engaging, but the bass is a bit bloated, not very textured and bleeds into the mids. Layering and imaging suffer because of that. Additionally, it does not sound very natural for me, and the resolution may be very good but absolutely not outstanding. Similar are the highs for me. So many people praise them, but I find them a bit unnatural and MB’s are way better in my opinion. Nevertheless: Anni is absolutely not a bad IEM (I criticize mainly because of the price), and it can win in different songs against other IEMs, including MB, in the “fun department”.
The venting problem exists here as well but more like MB. Although the nozzle is wide like Diva’s, the venting seems to work better for me (eventually because of the dynamic drivers).
Kinera Imperial Loki Emerald
The green Loki is a very engaging IEM and gets often aggressive (8k peak eg.). Therefore, it is not a high-volume set, more so than MB. Loki has extremely high resolution, detail retrieval and clarity, more than Anni, but MB tops it. Thanks to the bone conduction it is very holographic and the bass is strong (but controlled and textured). This is very similar to MB. The mids are at times too forward (but not that much, you would expect seeing the FR graph), which can result more often in shoutiness than with MB. Being similar in a lot of points, ultimately the main difference is that Loki does not sound very natural. It needs a lot of tweaks (for me) like the right tips, a smooth cable (Rhapsodio), a R2R-DAC and a warm amp. And even then, it cannot best MB in timbre.
I observed two interesting things. The first one concerns the lifelike presentation. Before MB there was only one IEM that sounded “real” to me, and it surprises me every time again. It’s the Mangird Xenns Top, which also has 2,5k and 4,5k peaks (plus scoops between and after). But it is smoother than MB and has no 8k peak. Maybe this could be (like the Monarch MK3, which sounds and graphs very similar) an alternative for MB timbre lovers, who cannot afford it or want to know, in which direction the tuning goes.
The second thing is that MB’s sound reminded me of Hifiman Susvara. At least the mids and highs. It has similar audible peaks, exceptional resolution, a big holographic soundstage, is very lifelike, natural and is no high-volume set. I have to admit: Except in bass quantity and macro dynamics Susvara offers even better technicalities. Acoustic instruments for example sound creepy realistic. But it also is more fatiguing for me. Anyway, Riccardo Yeh seems to be a former “Hifiman” (in the presence of Susvara). So, it is not really a coincidence, I would say.
Summary
I hope, I could give a good overview as well as positioning, and it doesn’t look like MB is better than every IEM in everything. 1) In particular sound wise it won’t be for you, if you want something laid back, bass heavy, extremely analytical, very bright or very smooth. 2) The fit should not be a problem for most, but maybe is the venting. They seal very good, what is great for many. 3) Despite the good sealing they behave like open back IEMs/headphones. Already at mid-volume others near you will “celebrate” your Black Metal with you. This could be a big no go. 4) In my opinion it is rarely a high-volume set, except you tweak your audio chain appropriately. 5) If you’re very sensitive to the 2,5/4,5/8k peaks, MB will most likely be a pass. I think, without EQ it won’t be suitable for you.
If that points don’t bother you, MB will be love at first sight. In songs with very compressed recording or with few instruments or in clean pop and EDM songs there will be less frequently a massive difference in technicalities of the IEMs. But especially in complex songs with a lot of things going on (like many different instruments, orchestras, Metal, live recordings, big rooms etc.) MB puts undoubtedly all contenders in their place!
Thank you once again for having the chance to experience Macbeth.
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