(2C59) Nuforce NE-700X / NE-700M (2013 version)
Reviewed October 2013
Details: Dynamic-driver in-ear from California-based Nuforce
Current Price:
$65 from amazon.com (MSRP: $65); $75 for NE-700X version w/mic and 1-button remote
Specs: Driver:
Dynamic | Imp:
16Ω | Sens:
105 dB | Freq:
20-20k Hz | Cable:
4.5’ L-plug
Nozzle Size:
4.5mm | Preferred tips:
Stock single-flanges
Wear Style:
Straight down or over-the-ear
Accessories
(3/5) – Single-flange silicone tips (6 pairs in 3 sizes), shirt clip, and soft carrying pouch
Build Quality
(4/5) – The metal housings are nice and solid and feature strain reliefs that grip the circumference of the shell. A small red ring around the right strain relief takes the place of L/R indicators. The cable is rubbery and equipped with beefy y-split and 3.5mm L-plug
Isolation
(3/5) – The somewhat bulky housings prevent deep insertion, resulting in average isolation
Microphonics
(4/5) – Decent when worn cable-down; very good with over-the-ear fitment
Comfort
(3.5/5) – The shells are on the large side and may not work for those with small ears due to their barrel-like shape but the light weight keeps them comfortable once fitted
Sound
(7.6/10) – The 2013 version of the Nuforce NE-700X stays true to its predecessor, delivering a rich, full-bodied sound underpinned by tactile, powerful bass. The low end extends well and provides enough impact to satisfy all listeners, even serious bass fanatics. The low end is a bit slow but bloat is kept to a minimum, which is impressive considering the quantity of bass present. However, the earphone does have a tendency to add bass to the recording. In comparison, the bass of the Sony MH1C is almost as impactful as that of the NE-700X but sounds less intrusive.
The enhanced low end gives the NE-700X some warmth and coloration. Clarity is good for a bass-heavy earphone and the midrange doesn’t sound recessed, as one might expect, reminding me of the Sony MH1C. The treble, likewise, is smooth and pleasant, and the sound is free of harshness and sibilance. It is less energetic up top but also smoother than the HiSoundAudio Crystal and dynamic-driver VSonic sets. Overall, the tone of the NE-700X is a bit dark due to the slightly laid-back treble, but the earphone remains non-fatiguing even at higher volumes, which is a definitely plus.
The soundstage of the NE-700X is average in size, but tends to be well-rounded and makes for an involving listening experience. It doesn’t have the sheer width of the VSonic VSD1 but still sounds natural, boasting good separation and layering despite the heavy bass. Worth noting also is the NE-700’s consistency across sources and good efficiency, which make it a nice set to use with a smartphone or tablet.
Value
(8.5/10) – The Nuforce NE-700X is a great earphone for those who like their sound smooth and impactful. It delivers bass in spades while sacrificing little in the way of all-around sound quality, with a nice construction and all-around usability to match. The 2013 version isn’t a total overhaul, but it does help the NE-700X stay competitive in an increasingly crowded market and makes it one of the best options out there for the type of sound it pursues.
Pros: Well-built; deep, plentiful bass with good overall audio quality
Cons: May be uncomfortable for those with smaller ears; bass can be intrusive
And they are much cheaper than the models you're contemplating
