Hey guys, Lark Studios have generously loaned me a universal demo of their 10-driver LSX IEM. I've given it a listen and here are my first impressions.
Lark Studios LSX - First Impressions
Lark Studios’ LSX possesses a warm, full-bodied, organic sound. Driven by a meaty mid-bass, instruments carry a rich, euphonic tinge to them, complemented by the shimmer of the top-end. Unlike most modern flagships, the LSX is more of a throwback to the HD650s, or the LCD-2s, or the Noble K10s of old. At the heart of its presentation is smooth, easy listening, rather than ultra-clarity. Electric guitars are a highlight instrument, especially on slow rock or ballads. This is perhaps the most emotional and resonant I’ve heard John Mayer’s
Edge of Desire. The haunting, moving emotionality of The Staves’
Don’t Let Me Down is showcased at its fullest on the LSX as well. In a strange way, its harmonic response is particularly good at conveying melancholy. Hopefully that translates to at least some of you as more than just a random observation.
As mentioned, the bass really is the LSX’s heartbeat. Kick drums are rendered with roundedness, body and warmth. But at the same time, their hits are clean as well. The same goes for the LSX’s verve-y, funky bass lines. The mid-bass emphasis - and the accompanying wet, warm timbre - may not be to the liking of all
bassheads. But, if you’re the sort of
basshead to cherish a low-end’s weight, quality and timbre, the LSX will surely please. This transitions smoothly to the midrange in an almost downward slope. The LSX positions its upper-mids (and therefore, its vocal presence) neutrally on the stage in the form of compact notes. But because of its technical prowess, that distance does not translate to detachment. Despite its inherently pillow-y, syrup-y signature, the LSX possesses impressive resolution. Instruments come through without a muffle or a veil. Although they’re darker in tone, the blackness of the background creates enough of a contrast, such that you can still easily distinguish them.
Now, micro-detail retrieval is obviously not its strong suit. The LSX is capable of rendering them, but they’re details you have to dig for, rather than ones that are brought to you. But at the end of the day, a surgical tool is never what the LSX was anyway. It’s a piece that - through warmth, smoothness and coherence - infuses a comfortable ease to the listening experience; almost like a cozy sweater or a soft, silky blanket. But at the same time, it offers modern technical refinement, admirable resolution and vast imaging to the table too, which truly sets it apart from its peers. This is most true of the top-end. The treble rides the line brilliantly between articulate and inoffensive. It’s shimmery, clear, bodied and naturally-paced too. There’s a relaxing, un-showy,
come-and-go feel to the treble that ever so lightly strokes the ear before making its exit. Transience is sufficient to ensure nothing sounds dulled, flat or muffled. And, sufficient upper-treble presence is maintained to support the LSX’s stable, well-organised and roomy stage.
This concludes my first impressions of the Lark Studios LSX. Look out for the full review in a month or so.