The discovery thread!

[jbfps116]

Wan Er 2 has a metallic upper treble. Its a tuning that would be better hybrid. A DD handling alone that airy region makes tizzy note edges. That region needs speed that DD lacks. ZVX Pro is much much better tuned (for a single DD). More 3k-6k and less 10k+. Its the ultimate Delci like tuned IEM right now.

Id save and get TRN Shell instead of Wan Er 2. Mellow mids with airy upper treble, but its a microplanar handling it, so its perceived soft and well rendered.

Quick reply and comparison between Wan’er OG and Wan’er 2: [from DCE on cables that I think best fit their differing sound themes.]
Wan’er 2 is more DETAILED in the treble than the OG and has (way) better STAGE.
OG is more… smooth and organic. At times, I think the OG can be a BIT too warm/smooth for certain songs. The 2 certainly sounds more HiFi. It’s a SIGNIFICANT upgrade in this area. [keep in mind I have the 2 on a pure copper cable, and the OG on a silver-plated one!!]
2’s bass is hearty but not too elevated. OG’s bass is quite similar [and good] but…the 2’s bass is a bit snappier and cleaner.

I still want to do further comparisons as this was just a BRIEF A-B session, but I think the Wan’er 2 will make the original, and likely the SE, obsolete. I did not compare the ZVX Pro at the moment, but I think that one is a tad too clinical. If any of these sets are “metallic,” I’d say the ZVX Pro is! But keep in mind, most instruments are made from… METAL! So is it more accurate to have them sound… metallic?! Anyhow, I do not sense that from the Wan’er 2. It’s a stunningly good single DD set.

Alright,

I know some of you got some interest in the new YongSe SunWukong but there's not much around about it. So I hope this shine a bit of light on some of the questions.

Yongse SunWuKong 2DD + 4BA 6-Unit Hybrid Technology Driver Wired HlFl In-ear Earphones

​

Yea… your description of the bass and treble make me want to back away slowly. I’d have to try them before committing, but with the new HS80 and Phoenixia, I think I’m set for mid-fi hybrid sets.

I received the new FAAEAL Tulip yesterday and was quite impressed with the case and accessories so I thought I'd share a few pictures real quick. All of the accessories are included inside the case, which makes unboxing very simple. The case actually has a built in tip holder, which I haven't seen before, and the IEM holder can be removed for more storage space. The stock cable is one of the nicest I've seen under $200. Overall the accessories are really impressive for the $80 price tag. I haven't spent much time listening to them yet, so I will wait to make my impressions after burn in. The Tulip has a V-shaped tuning that I like so far, but I'll run it through its paces in due time.

Beautiful! Sadly it’s not on the AE store for USA any more.

Aren't all IEMs too expensive for Americans with the tariffs? Call me crazy, but I'm not spending even $50 on an IEM or cable that used to cost $25-30. NFW.

Wondering (and caring) out loud about my American brethren who suffer from IEM FOMO and buy a lot of new models. Thankfully, I'm the antithesis of that, but I sincerely ask how you avid purchasers in America are coping?

AE is virtually unusable with humongous fees, and many, many items simply not available any more. I noticed the SunWukong IEM is on Amazon for $250, but like I said above, I’m not sure the tuning would fit me at all. Other brands like Tiandirenhe, Fengru, and XINHS… not on Amazon at all

Man what an intense non stop listening session i have with ISN EBC80....like being in IMAX cinema for 5 days straight up...never going out.

Then publishing result here:
https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/isn-audio-ebc80.27750/reviews#review-37866

Pros:
-in and out of your head holographic musicality
-warm yet not dark W shape balance
-atypical yet cohesive and highly immersive sound experience
-dense round punchy bass with wide vibrant rumble
-BC cheat the bass warmth by boosting instrument and vocal presence
-anamorphic vocal that kiss listener with great proximity
-out of this world soundstage
-muscular macro dynamic that doesn’t induce fatigue
-good note weight for drum, piano, cello, violin etc
-crisp yet delicate ultra highs that make percussions snappy and guitar sparkly
-best implementation of sonion BCD have heard yet (i tend to dislike timbre of it)
-even if tuned to be musical, technical performance is excellent
-nice accessories and modular cable

Cons:
-not the most textured and define mid bass (warmish)
-not the cleanest background and spatiality
-not the most vivid EST treble (2 est compromise)
-not most generous in micro details
-source capricious and sensitive (13ohm)
-big chunky shell might not fit small ears



I praise alot the crazy cinematic 4Dimension (yes 3D+in your head) soundstage of those cause it's very first hybrid with BC that truely wow me in that regard, even UM Mest Mk3 sound super closed and in your head compared to those ultra spacious holographic EBC80....but did it mean its just a one trick poney? Absolutely not, its 60% musical and 40% technical in sound balance imo
Macro dynamic is super articulated, wide and hefty, mids are upfront and superbly layered, treble has snappy attack and delicate energy...
I need to try lot of source and eartips to achieve full potential of EBC80. Something to note, and that i explain a lil in my review.

Anyway, their not doubt this is my no1 ISN crush for now.

Not sure which other tribrid with BC can truely compete with those soundstage + fun and versatile enough musicality wise but any suggestion welcome!
Give a read and Like. I compare EBC80 to Um Mext, BGVP Phantom and Soundrhyme DTE900.

Sounds good… but I’d have to HEAR them before purchasing them, seeing that @FreeWheelinAudioLuv2 says the H60 is still better!! [yea yea I know I got the Nautilus almost as a blind buy, but I was lucky, and I’m a bit wiser now haha. A BIT. The XINHS HS80 was also a REAL blind-buy that ended up being a tuning that I’m not sure everyone will love, but I certainly am IMPRESSED.]

 

[lushmelody]

Quick reply and comparison between Wan’er OG and Wan’er 2: [from DCE on cables that I think best fit their differing sound themes.]
Wan’er 2 is more DETAILED in the treble than the OG and has (way) better STAGE.
OG is more… smooth and organic. At times, I think the OG can be a BIT too warm/smooth for certain songs. The 2 certainly sounds more HiFi. It’s a SIGNIFICANT upgrade in this area. [keep in mind I have the 2 on a pure copper cable, and the OG on a silver-plated one!!]
2’s bass is hearty but not too elevated. OG’s bass is quite similar [and good] but…the 2’s bass is a bit snappier and cleaner.

I still want to do further comparisons as this was just a BRIEF A-B session, but I think the Wan’er 2 will make the original, and likely the SE, obsolete. I did not compare the ZVX Pro at the moment, but I think that one is a tad too clinical. If any of these sets are “metallic,” I’d say the ZVX Pro is! But keep in mind, most instruments are made from… METAL! So is it more accurate to have them sound… metallic?! Anyhow, I do not sense that from the Wan’er 2. It’s a stunningly good single DD set.

Yea… your description of the bass and treble make me want to back away slowly. I’d have to try them before committing, but with the new HS80 and Phoenixia, I think I’m set for mid-fi hybrid sets.

Beautiful! Sadly it’s not on the AE store for USA any more.

AE is virtually unusable with humongous fees, and many, many items simply not available any more. I noticed the SunWukong IEM is on Amazon for $250, but like I said above, I’m not sure the tuning would fit me at all. Other brands like Tiandirenhe, Fengru, and XINHS… not on Amazon at all

Sounds good… but I’d have to HEAR them before purchasing them, seeing that @FreeWheelinAudioLuv2 says the H60 is still better!! [yea yea I know I got the Nautilus almost as a blind buy, but I was lucky, and I’m a bit wiser now haha. A BIT. The XINHS HS80 was also a REAL blind-buy that ended up being a tuning that I’m not sure everyone will love, but I certainly am IMPRESSED.]

Indeed. If it the upper treble peaks dont bother you, its definetely a nice DD set.

For me, its just that notes edges get extra air, sounding breathy, more nasal. DD upper treble keeps sounding zzz instead of sss (best way I can describe that ressonance). Its resolute but feels forced while peaks through a microplanar, for example, sounds softer and natural. Had the same problem with SP Engine4. Only got that zzz gone when smashed down the 15k.

 

[WailingBanshee]

That cd player is big win!

 

[NymPHONOmaniac]

Quick reply and comparison between Wan’er OG and Wan’er 2: [from DCE on cables that I think best fit their differing sound themes.]
Wan’er 2 is more DETAILED in the treble than the OG and has (way) better STAGE.
OG is more… smooth and organic. At times, I think the OG can be a BIT too warm/smooth for certain songs. The 2 certainly sounds more HiFi. It’s a SIGNIFICANT upgrade in this area. [keep in mind I have the 2 on a pure copper cable, and the OG on a silver-plated one!!]
2’s bass is hearty but not too elevated. OG’s bass is quite similar [and good] but…the 2’s bass is a bit snappier and cleaner.

I still want to do further comparisons as this was just a BRIEF A-B session, but I think the Wan’er 2 will make the original, and likely the SE, obsolete. I did not compare the ZVX Pro at the moment, but I think that one is a tad too clinical. If any of these sets are “metallic,” I’d say the ZVX Pro is! But keep in mind, most instruments are made from… METAL! So is it more accurate to have them sound… metallic?! Anyhow, I do not sense that from the Wan’er 2. It’s a stunningly good single DD set.

Yea… your description of the bass and treble make me want to back away slowly. I’d have to try them before committing, but with the new HS80 and Phoenixia, I think I’m set for mid-fi hybrid sets.

Beautiful! Sadly it’s not on the AE store for USA any more.

AE is virtually unusable with humongous fees, and many, many items simply not available any more. I noticed the SunWukong IEM is on Amazon for $250, but like I said above, I’m not sure the tuning would fit me at all. Other brands like Tiandirenhe, Fengru, and XINHS… not on Amazon at all

Sounds good… but I’d have to HEAR them before purchasing them, seeing that @FreeWheelinAudioLuv2 says the H60 is still better!! [yea yea I know I got the Nautilus almost as a blind buy, but I was lucky, and I’m a bit wiser now haha. A BIT. The XINHS HS80 was also a REAL blind-buy that ended up being a tuning that I’m not sure everyone will love, but I certainly am IMPRESSED.]

yes, the best is hearing them yourself....i own H60 too....and...lol.

 

[Redcarmoose]

First Impressions:
EarAcoustic Audio Silver Angel Series Limited Edition:

My Wife came home before me and placed this package on the coffee-table, then I arrived a few hours later..................What? I have no IEMs coming? I know I have 2 full-size headphones to be delivered soon, but no IEMs. Then the surprise was the model of EarAcoustics Silver Angel Series………….The Flagship Limited Edition. When Mr Chi Kong Hui said he was sending the full-line, I never thought I would get all 12 IEMs? Now while I have reviewed 3 of the EarAcoustic Audio line, the STA series has a 10mm and 6mm DD. The EarAcoustic Audio SPA-Hi End Ultra 11.4mm Titanium DD really pulled my heartstrings. Meaning in the last few years over 200 IEMs have crossed my desk, yet they really are getting better and better. This my friends is the golden age of IEMs.

This (prior reviewed) Ultra has a subtle V response with a careful bass that seems to add staging? The emotion that I get from the Ultra is I want to retire with it……..to be alone with it on a deserted island for a few days, maybe a week. This is truly how I feel, and unexpectedly so?

Look, none of us can totally explain why we love an IEM so much. It just happens, and normally I like Hybrids better? But the Limited Edition weighs only 8 grams, a staggering low weight for a Flagship, when you consider the EarAcoustic Audio SPA-Hi End Ultra weighs 14 grams........due to being full-on Zinc Alloy construction. In hand the two are noticeably different, with the light-weight Aluminum Alloy Limited Edition being 6 grams lighter...........that's a whole (other) IEM in weight! And sure the shell is different but the faceplates and star side vent remain the same. This side-vent is literally the exact part they use for the nozzle screen.......so each set of IEMs has 4 nozzle screens in action!

At 189.90 the EarAcoustic Audio SPA-Hi End Ultra scores way higher than price would have you believe. Yet at $429.90 the TOTL Limited Edition would have you believe it is even better? Ohh the possibilities here.............................

Both use the Ultra and Limited Edition use the 11.4mm Titanium Gold Ball Top+Silicon Crystal Edge Double sided Composite Diaphragm Double Magnetic Circuit Double Chamber Dynamic Coil Units. Yet take note here…….

The Limited Edition has a sensitivity of 111dB and an impedance of 25 ohm, a frequency range of 5-40kHz.

The Ultra has a sensitivity of 110dB, and an impedance of 26 ohm and a frequency range of 5-40kHz.

Left to right: The Limited Edition, the SPA- Hi End Ultra

So between the two:
The difference of the two becomes noticeable comparing the same song and having the Limited Edition become slightly more responsive and a tad airier. This contrast between the two finds even the bass becoming tighter and cleaner, and while the difference probably doesn’t justify the added cost difference, yet it is there and $$$ valuable nonetheless. What I'm saying is there is totally a difference between the two, with in the end the Limited Edition sounding a tad more audiophile? Simply clearer and slightly more vibrant, holding an airer sound separated by tad more contrasts and detail.

Where sure both IEMs showcase the same vibe, only if the look of the Limited Edition and the lower shell weight appear to be of value, the Limited Edition is totally a sonic value sounding far better than the $429.90 would have you believe! Really if I was to go on a trip and could only take a single IEM with me, the Limited Edition would be it. I’m at the age where I really don’t care what people think about the style of IEM in my ear………….that sure the look of the Limited Edition may be over-the-top……but the sound is over-the-top too, making my week here at Redcarmoose Labs!

So to reiterate here, we have a subtle V response and a grand stage, the stage is reinforced that much more by a spectacle of high and low imaging, as well as front to back and side to side placement. Where the vocals are not forward or back, and this particular IEM is not promoting an intense Pinna Gain nor an overboard on treble. TFZ/EarAcoustic Audio is greeting the present day IEM market with just what they want to eat-up! Chomp-chomp!

Thanks for reading kids!
https://penonaudio.com/Earacoustic-SPA-Limited-Edition

 

[SushiiFi]

I just received the Letshuoer DX1, absolute banger for vocals. I was listening to a Qawwali track, which is regional music here, and the voice of the female singer just gave me goosebumps. Will share in-depth review impressions later. Here are a few beautiful pictures:-

Beautiful images

 

[GiullianSN]

Thanks. I asked because I'm looking for something even more portable than the A&K SE300 that I now use (and I love), and with a bit of different sound profile.
The RU7 is great, and has that, but because I carry it in my pocket of my pants, cables between my iPhone and the RU7 break constantly. So the A100 is worth looking into. I'm also looking into the iBasso DX260 and the A&K SP3KM. I hope anyone has somethinbg to say about that, compared to the SE300.

I think A100 fits into the general AK signature, but slightly towards a more neutral sound, but it’s well done sound. Unfortunately A100 doesn’t have Bluetooth, so you will still have the cable between the phone and the device. Some small and capable devices are Lotoo Pow Gold Touch, Cayin N3 Ultra… even AK SR35. Coming soon Hiby R3 Pro II may be something to look for cheap on the go player while your bigger one becomes your home one.

Quick reply and comparison between Wan’er OG and Wan’er 2: [from DCE on cables that I think best fit their differing sound themes.]
Wan’er 2 is more DETAILED in the treble than the OG and has (way) better STAGE.
OG is more… smooth and organic. At times, I think the OG can be a BIT too warm/smooth for certain songs. The 2 certainly sounds more HiFi. It’s a SIGNIFICANT upgrade in this area. [keep in mind I have the 2 on a pure copper cable, and the OG on a silver-plated one!!]
2’s bass is hearty but not too elevated. OG’s bass is quite similar [and good] but…the 2’s bass is a bit snappier and cleaner.

I still want to do further comparisons as this was just a BRIEF A-B session, but I think the Wan’er 2 will make the original, and likely the SE, obsolete. I did not compare the ZVX Pro at the moment, but I think that one is a tad too clinical. If any of these sets are “metallic,” I’d say the ZVX Pro is! But keep in mind, most instruments are made from… METAL! So is it more accurate to have them sound… metallic?! Anyhow, I do not sense that from the Wan’er 2. It’s a stunningly good single DD set.

Yea… your description of the bass and treble make me want to back away slowly. I’d have to try them before committing, but with the new HS80 and Phoenixia, I think I’m set for mid-fi hybrid sets.

Beautiful! Sadly it’s not on the AE store for USA any more.

AE is virtually unusable with humongous fees, and many, many items simply not available any more. I noticed the SunWukong IEM is on Amazon for $250, but like I said above, I’m not sure the tuning would fit me at all. Other brands like Tiandirenhe, Fengru, and XINHS… not on Amazon at all

Sounds good… but I’d have to HEAR them before purchasing them, seeing that @FreeWheelinAudioLuv2 says the H60 is still better!! [yea yea I know I got the Nautilus almost as a blind buy, but I was lucky, and I’m a bit wiser now haha. A BIT. The XINHS HS80 was also a REAL blind-buy that ended up being a tuning that I’m not sure everyone will love, but I certainly am IMPRESSED.]

There’s a FR graph on the first page, but my thoughts are that this is a really mainstream and safe tuning well done for the price, but still A preference thing. I think they achieved what they were looking for. As you said, give it a demo if you have a chance.

 

[MakeItWain]

Mail call:

 

[Leonarfd]

Just sharing some love for the Letshuoer DX1, I am about to finish another review(Arcanis) but taking a break as I'm addicted to DX1. @Jaytiss yeah I really dig the Arcanis also, been growing a lot on me over the past weeks.

 

[WAON303]

Aren't all IEMs too expensive for Americans with the tariffs? Call me crazy, but I'm not spending even $50 on an IEM or cable that used to cost $25-30. NFW.

Chi-fi is dead in the US barring leftover stock on US soil and the 2nd hand market which I'm sure is going to be filled to the brim with WTB posts from USA buyers in the upcoming weeks / months maybe years depending how tariffs are handled.

Even budget IEMs or accessories won't be worth importing from China, you'd feel like a moron giving the orange clown 20-30 bucks extra just to have the latest KZ IEM.

 

[FreeWheelinAudioLuv2]

I get the opportunity to finally audition this set, but right now, if you're not the type to wait, the Jomo Nautilus is on sale!!

https://shop.musicteck.com/collections/open-box/products/jomo-audio-nautilus-like-new

---

My newest acquisition (and most likely last one for a long time. Thanks old and orange!), the FiiO M21, the latest update in the M series, and the spiritual upgrade to my beloved FiiO JM21.

FiiO M21

For $299.00, FiiO is practically giving it away, with all the amazing tech packed in this thing!!! My JM21 is absolutely fabulous, and it's maybe packing half of what this is bringing to the table. Seriously, this is a no brainer purchase. I hope tonally, it's close to the JM21, but with a little more midrange warmth, but retaining the crisp treble and punchy mid bass, while adding some sub bass rumble.

 

[nikbr]

I received the new FAAEAL Tulip yesterday and was quite impressed with the case and accessories so I thought I'd share a few pictures real quick. All of the accessories are included inside the case, which makes unboxing very simple. The case actually has a built in tip holder, which I haven't seen before, and the IEM holder can be removed for more storage space. The stock cable is one of the nicest I've seen under $200. Overall the accessories are really impressive for the $80 price tag. I haven't spent much time listening to them yet, so I will wait to make my impressions after burn in. The Tulip has a V-shaped tuning that I like so far, but I'll run it through its paces in due time.

What a special looking thing. V-shaped usually isn't really my thing, though.

My single DD Goat has a new name: 634ears Loak2-TX04 (prototype)

Congrats, I'm sure it's as awesome as my TX01. I am, however, getting a sore spot in my concha if I listen for like 45min+

Mail call:

Wow, no one said anything about Aegis literally being (less than?) 1/2 the size! My intriguegauge is climbing ever higher.

 

[sgtbilko]

Request to all you serial collectors...
...and for a bit of fun.

Name your kilobuck killers (if any exist) that genuinely (in your opinion) deserve their place amongst the hallowed.

1. $100 or less iem
2. $200 or less iem
3. $300 or less iem

Rules:

• Only for iem releases since 2021 (so in the past 5 years) - that includes the kilobuck iems too.
• You can name up to 3 iems per category
• Feel free to name the kilobuck iem you think it equals or betters.
• Kilobuck is more a reference, so iems of $750 & higher will count

 

[F700]

What a special looking thing. V-shaped usually isn't really my thing, though.


Congrats, I'm sure it's as awesome as my TX01. I am, however, getting a sore spot in my concha if I listen for like 45min+


Wow, no one said anything about Aegis literally being (less than?) 1/2 the size! My intriguegauge is climbing ever higher.

No fatigue or unwelcome energy with the TX04 closed-back. Ask @Leonarfd in a few days Musashi-San can tune everything up to your preference.

 

[Leonarfd]

Request to all you serial collectors...
...and for a bit of fun.

Name your kilobuck killers (if any exist) that genuinely (in your opinion) deserve their place amongst the hallowed.

1. $100 or less iem
2. $200 or less iem
3. $300 or less iem

Rules:

• Only for iem releases since 2021 (so in the past 5 years) - that includes the kilobuck iems too.
• You can name up to 3 iems per category
• Feel free to name the kilobuck iem you think it equals or betters.
• Kilobuck is more a reference, so iems of $750 & higher will count

I cannot do this, I will become Letshuoer shillboy