The discovery thread!

[Ferdinando1968]

ESTRELLA is a fantastic hiss tester for dongles and DACs.

So far I have only tested the dongles I use in 4.4 balanced (except FC6):

DC-ELITE
No hiss, EVER

TP-50
No hiss

ONIX X1
Slight hiss

GOLD-BAR
Strong hiss, which is significantly reduced with IE-MATCH,
but does not disappear completely
(This dongle sounds great to me, but works better with insensitive IEMs or headphones)

RU7 (DSD 128)
Slight hiss

RU6
Slight hiss
Stunning sound reproduction

HIBY FC6
Very sligh hiss
Stunning sound reproduction
(I will never give up this beautiful, small, sophisticated and unique machine, even if it does not work well with
my iPhone)

MUSE M4
Very sligh hiss

QUDELIX 5K
No hiss

QUDELIX T71
No hiss

QUESTYLE CMA18
Slight+ hiss
(frankly much less than I expected)
Splendid sound reproduction, complementary and
as good as that of the DC-ELITE.
Probably the current-mode amplification of this DAC marries very well with the low impedance of these IEMs.

L&P W4-EX
No hiss
This dongle has a high output impedance, and the sound reproduction of Estrella is affected by it.
I feel that the sound is ‘softened’, the resolution decreases (for example the sparkle of the drum cymbals is attenuated).
Well, can I say ?
It is a very very pleasant listening, which frankly
I did not expect.
(it remains a fantastic dongle)

SHANLING UA5
Slight hiss

I will test the DACs as soon as possible.

 

[Ferdinando1968]

Thanks for updates and detailed comparisons.
I will be able to compare them with Monarch MkII when my set is arrived, haven't dispatch yet.




Is that the rumoured Hugh Man Jack 4.4mm?



And this one must be literally out of this world cable

I've often read that MK2's bass sounds a bit meh. Estrella has great bass, at least for me.
At least in that it shouldn't pale.

Not sure if it have been shared here yet:

Oriveti Supremacy their flagship tribrid is about to be launched, Audioessence has priced it at CHF 1999 that is around USD 2300.
Have paid and arranged for a review unit to come my way, quite high end model but knowing how good their OH700VB was I'm excited for this one.

Spoiler: Description

Design concept​

The design of the Grand Oriveti Supremacy is guided by a single vision: to achieve the ultimate in audio reproduction. We have selected only the finest materials and cutting-edge technologies to ensure that every note is reproduced with the highest fidelity. The tribrid configuration has been carefully engineered to provide the perfect blend of precision, dynamics and musicality, making the Supremacy the crown jewel of our range.

From concept to reality - overcoming challenges

The development of the Grand Oriveti Supremacy was a journey that began with the ambition to surpass all previous Oriveti models. We knew we had to wait for the right technological advances to achieve such a leap in performance. The breakthrough came with the introduction of the Sonion Electrostatic Driver (EST), which offered new possibilities in high frequency reproduction.

However, integrating the EST driver into a coherent sound profile was no easy task. Many products on the market failed to fully exploit the potential of this technology, resulting in suboptimal performance. We conducted extensive R&D, experimenting with different driver configurations, crossover designs, and acoustic chambers to perfect the integration of the EST drivers with our balanced armatures and dynamic drivers. After countless iterations and rigorous testing, we have managed to achieve a seamless fusion of the three driver types, resulting in a natural and incredibly detailed sound.

The choice of stabilized wood - a perfect harmony of form and function

One of the standout features of the Grand Oriveti Supremacy is the use of stabilized wood for the housing of the headphone. In the field of acoustics, the material of a speaker or headphone housing plays a crucial role in shaping the sound. For large speakers, MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) is often the material of choice due to its excellent acoustic properties. However, for in-ear monitors, MDF is impractical due to its weight and lack of durability.

Stabilized wood, on the other hand, offers the perfect balance. By infusing natural wood with resin, we've created a material that not only retains the acoustic warmth and resonance of wood, but also has the durability required for high-end earphones. This material not only contributes to the Supremacy's superior sound quality, but also gives each device a unique aesthetic that makes it as much a work of art as an audio device.

Redesigned acoustic filters - Higher sound quality

In our relentless pursuit of sonic perfection, we have also given the acoustic filters used in the Supremacy a major overhaul. These filters play a crucial role in shaping the sound by controlling the airflow and resonance within the headphones. Our new design improves the clarity and precision of the audio output, so that the Supremacy delivers an even finer and more precise sound signature. The improved filters ensure that all frequencies are reproduced in a balanced manner, with tighter bass, clearer mids and crystal clear highs - for a listening experience that truly immerses you in your music.

Luxurious tote bags - style meets functionality

The Grand Oriveti Supremacy comes with two carefully designed leather cases, both in a classy shade of brown that complements the elegance of the earphones.

• Small Round Carrying Case: Designed specifically for the Supremacy headphones, this compact case provides a safe and stylish way to transport them. It is made from genuine leather and offers a soft interior to protect the earbuds from scratches while on the go.
• Large Carrying Case: For those who want to carry more than just their earbuds, the larger carrying case is an essential accessory. It is designed with four compartments so that you can keep your player, digital audio player (DAP), IEMs and other accessories neatly in one place. This case not only keeps your devices safe, but also reflects the premium quality of the Grand Oriveti series.

Grand Affinity Cable - Superior connection for superior sound

To further enhance the performance of the Supremacy, we are introducing the Grand Affinity cable. This new cable combines OCC (Ohno Continuous Cast) copper with silver-plated OCC, a compound that offers exceptional conductivity and signal purity. The result is an audio transfer that preserves the richness and detail of your music and ensures that the Supremacy performs at its best. The Grand Affinity cable is not just an accessory, but an integral part of the sound experience, taking sound quality to a new level.

Increased comfort and individual adjustment - premium earplugs

We know that the best sound can only be achieved through a perfect fit, which is why the Supremacy comes with a range of ear tips to suit every listener's preference:

• AZLA SednaEarfit Foamax Tips: Known for their excellent noise isolation and comfort, these foam ear tips provide a snug fit that improves bass response and overall sound clarity, making them ideal for longer listening sessions.
• AZLA Xelastec Tips: Offering a unique combination of flexibility and durability, these innovative plugs conform to the shape of your ear canal to ensure a customized fit. The result is improved sound isolation and a secure fit that remains comfortable even during extended listening sessions.

Experience the Supremacy​

The Grand Oriveti Supremacy is more than just a headphone; it is a testament to our commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in personal audio. With its Tribrid technology, stabilized wood housing, luxurious carrying cases, Grand Affinity cable and premium ear tips, the Supremacy offers an unparalleled listening experience that will satisfy even the most demanding audiophiles. This is the best sound we can offer and we invite you to experience it for yourself.

They are stunning beauty.
But why do beautiful things always have to cost a kidney?

 

[pk4425]

You know, to think about it, the best reviewers are the ones who are absolutely not allowed to write reviews, like the Hifigo boss lady (Yumu Song?), Penon's boss, Linsoul's team in charge of choosing IEMs to stock, and IEM engineers at various manufacturers. They have sampled a wide range, if not all IEMs available on the market, and they have great taste in IEMs.

Disagree. Sure, these people may have heard a ton of IEMs and have great taste. They also draw a paycheck from manufacturers in the industry, so they're biased. I trust fully independent reviewers, not obvious shills or "industry people."

I was wondering… do you generally prefer narrow bore, medium bore, or wide bore eartips? Or do you choose the eartips type based on the IEM you’re currently using? Personally, I lean towards the latter in theory, but most of the time I end up using medium bore eartips when included - I find they strike the perfect middle ground

Narrow bore when I want to enhance the bass. Wide bore when I want more treble or soundstage. Medium bore when I want no change in sonic signature but better fit.

Anytime you feel the need to EQ or do a tape mod in my opinion, its a fail for my useage , I am constantly switching sources so EQ is out , DSP Cable is out as well for me. Plug in and play K.I.S.S that's my rule.

Yes and no. I don't mind stuff like tape mods and EQs as an option. But when the community almost universally acknowledges the need for a mod to fix a model's sound, then I'm out (and I know that's not the case with the Estrella, so keep the pitchforks in the shed). It's the reason why I sold my Audeze LCD-X 2021 and Focal Elegia. Excellent headphones, but almost anyone who has owned either pair knows parametric EQ is damn near required to fix the wonky mids on both. Peace EQ doesn't work with Wasapi Exclusive output and Qobuz from the desktop, so I had to subscribe to Roon so I could use parametric EQ and convolution filters with Wasapi Exclusive and Qobuz. That was another $16 per month just for parametric EQ, and it wasn't worth it.

You should switch to cannabis. I find that it tends to improve the sound stage.

I'll take the Fifth Amendment, counselor. (But you're right ... )

Hi all, I have reviewed the $69 Simgot EW300. Very nice if you want a warm and dynamic sound.

https://www.headphoneer.com/simgot-ew300-review-lush-and-punchy/

If you have heard the AFUL Explorer, how does it compare to the EW300? The Explorer also is warm and dynamic.

Here's another find, Vangelis and Michael Hoppe, "The Parting"

And a collab with Julian Lloyd Webber:

Man, this thread is full of metalheads, female vocalites and orchestral/OST dudes. I can't relate. Doesn't anyone just listen to straight-up guitar rock and alt rock anymore? Any bluegrass, Americana or alt-country fans in here?

 

[theintention]

Man, this thread is full of metalheads, female vocalites and orchestral/OST dudes. I can't relate. Doesn't anyone just listen to straight-up guitar rock and alt rock anymore? Any bluegrass, Americana or alt-country fans in here?

 

[cobrabucket]

Disagree. Sure, these people may have heard a ton of IEMs and have great taste. They also draw a paycheck from manufacturers in the industry, so they're biased. I trust fully independent reviewers, not obvious shills or "industry people."

Narrow bore when I want to enhance the bass. Wide bore when I want more treble or soundstage. Medium bore when I want no change in sonic signature but better fit.

Yes and no. I don't mind stuff like tape mods and EQs as an option. But when the community almost universally acknowledges the need for a mod to fix a model's sound, then I'm out (and I know that's not the case with the Estrella, so keep the pitchforks in the shed). It's the reason why I sold my Audeze LCD-X 2021 and Focal Elegia. Excellent headphones, but almost anyone who has owned either pair knows parametric EQ is damn near required to fix the wonky mids on both. Peace EQ doesn't work with Wasapi Exclusive output and Qobuz from the desktop, so I had to subscribe to Roon so I could use parametric EQ and convolution filters with Wasapi Exclusive and Qobuz. That was another $16 per month just for parametric EQ, and it wasn't worth it.

I'll take the Fifth Amendment, counselor. (But you're right ... )

If you have heard the AFUL Explorer, how does it compare to the EW300? The Explorer also is warm and dynamic.

Man, this thread is full of metalheads, female vocalites and orchestral/OST dudes. I can't relate. Doesn't anyone just listen to straight-up guitar rock and alt rock anymore? Any bluegrass, Americana or alt-country fans in here?

I like most all (good) music, basically.
Been diggin' on Billy Strings lately.
That dude's bad af...


Also enjoy stuff like Gov't Mule, Widespread Panic, Grateful Dead, Umphrey's McGee, Wilco, etc

 

[Leonarfd]

Man, this is a thread full of metalheads and orchestral/OST dudes. I can't relate. Doesn't anyone just listen to straight-up guitar rock and alt rock anymore? Any bluegrass, Americana or alt-country fans in here?

Not all, Okay I admit im sort of a metal head But I enjoy a lot of genres, some gems I been going trough while testing S12 2024 that is not metal:

 

[BS5711]

ESTRELLA is a fantastic hiss tester for dongles and DACs.

So far I have only tested the dongles I use in 4.4 balanced (except FC6):

DC-ELITE
No hiss, EVER

TP-50
No hiss

ONIX X1
Slight hiss

GOLD-BAR
Strong hiss, which is significantly reduced with IE-MATCH,
but does not disappear completely
(This dongle sounds great to me, but works better with insensitive IEMs or headphones)

RU7 (DSD 128)
Slight hiss

RU6
Slight hiss
Stunning sound reproduction

HIBY FC6
Very sligh hiss
Stunning sound reproduction
(I will never give up this beautiful, small, sophisticated and unique machine, even if it does not work well with
my iPhone)

MUSE M4
Very sligh hiss

QUDELIX 5K
No hiss

QUDELIX T71
No hiss

QUESTYLE CMA18
Slight+ hiss
(frankly much less than I expected)
Splendid sound reproduction, complementary and
as good as that of the DC-ELITE.
Probably the current-mode amplification of this DAC marries very well with the low impedance of these IEMs.

L&P W4-EX
No hiss
This dongle has a high output impedance, and the sound reproduction of Estrella is affected by it.
I feel that the sound is ‘softened’, the resolution decreases (for example the sparkle of the drum cymbals is attenuated).
Well, can I say ?
It is a very very pleasant listening, which frankly
I did not expect.
(it remains a fantastic dongle)

SHANLING UA5
Slight hiss

I will test the DACs as soon as possible.

I wonder if something else isn’t going on with the Estrella to cause hiss problems.

I have a set of AuR Audio Neon Pro which are even lower impedance and higher sensitivity than the Estrella. They are 5 ohm and 111db/mw versus 7 ohm and 108 db/mw.

They hiss with my Go Bar and very faintly with the Gryphon but in both cases the IEMatch makes the hiss disappear. They don’t hiss on anything else I have used.

The worst IEM I have owned for hiss were Campfire Solaris but they had a sensitivity of 115 db/mw and I am told don’t use crossovers.

I wonder if the overall sensitivity is misleading. That is it gives an overall volume level but doesn’t reflect the IEM tendency to pick up noise floor hiss. That is perhaps the BA are able to pick up very low level sound that doesn’t activate the other drivers due to the crossover set up or something.

That doesn’t alter the way they behave obviously but it might explain why they behave that way. Based on my experience the resistance and sensitivity should not make them so susceptible to hiss.

 

[Ferdinando1968]

Man, this thread is full of metalheads, female vocalites and orchestral/OST dudes. I can't relate. Doesn't anyone just listen to straight-up guitar rock and alt rock anymore? Any bluegrass, Americana or alt-country fans in here?

I'm listening to a playlist like this.
Does this have anything to do with what you call ?

 

[Hypops]

ESTRELLA is a fantastic hiss tester for dongles and DACs.

So far I have only tested the dongles I use in 4.4 balanced (except FC6):

DC-ELITE
No hiss, EVER

TP-50
No hiss

ONIX X1
Slight hiss

GOLD-BAR
Strong hiss, which is significantly reduced with IE-MATCH,
but does not disappear completely
(This dongle sounds great to me, but works better with insensitive IEMs or headphones)

RU7 (DSD 128)
Slight hiss

RU6
Slight hiss
Stunning sound reproduction

HIBY FC6
Very sligh hiss
Stunning sound reproduction
(I will never give up this beautiful, small, sophisticated and unique machine, even if it does not work well with
my iPhone)

MUSE M4
Very sligh hiss

QUDELIX 5K
No hiss

QUDELIX T71
No hiss

QUESTYLE CMA18
Slight+ hiss
(frankly much less than I expected)
Splendid sound reproduction, complementary and
as good as that of the DC-ELITE.
Probably the current-mode amplification of this DAC marries very well with the low impedance of these IEMs.

L&P W4-EX
No hiss
This dongle has a high output impedance, and the sound reproduction of Estrella is affected by it.
I feel that the sound is ‘softened’, the resolution decreases (for example the sparkle of the drum cymbals is attenuated).
Well, can I say ?
It is a very very pleasant listening, which frankly
I did not expect.
(it remains a fantastic dongle)

SHANLING UA5
Slight hiss

I will test the DACs as soon as possible.

Hiss from low impedance, high sensitivity IEMs/headphones is the reason impedance adapters were invented.

Yes and no. I don't mind stuff like tape mods and EQs as an option. But when the community almost universally acknowledges the need for a mod to fix a model's sound, then I'm out (and I know that's not the case with the Estrella, so keep the pitchforks in the shed). It's the reason why I sold my Audeze LCD-X 2021 and Focal Elegia. Excellent headphones, but almost anyone who has owned either pair knows parametric EQ is damn near required to fix the wonky mids on both. Peace EQ doesn't work with Wasapi Exclusive output and Qobuz from the desktop, so I had to subscribe to Roon so I could use parametric EQ and convolution filters with Wasapi Exclusive and Qobuz. That was another $16 per month just for parametric EQ, and it wasn't worth it.

Totally. But thankfully I never listen to full-size headphones without Roon and its PEQ tools, so my Elegia sounds great!

Man, this thread is full of metalheads, female vocalites and orchestral/OST dudes. I can't relate. Doesn't anyone just listen to straight-up guitar rock and alt rock anymore? Any bluegrass, Americana or alt-country fans in here?

I've gotten used to my music tastes putting me on the outside here on HF (which, as you say, usually revolve around metal, prog, classical, and classic rock). But, heck, even my partner doesn't like most of my music, so I'm used to it. These days I'm mostly listening to alt pop, R&B, mainstream pop, experimental, soul, hip hop, and noise. But my life is a collection of my varied musical journeys--including time spent playing guitar in metal bands and later in bluegrass and alt-country groups--so I've got genuinely eclectic musical tastes.

 

[Ryokan]

I'm listening to a playlist like this.
Does this have anything to do with what you call ?

No Dark Quarterer?

 

[pk4425]

I like most all (good) music, basically.
Been diggin' on Billy Strings lately.
That dude's bad af...


Also enjoy stuff like Gov't Mule, Widespread Panic, Grateful Dead, Umphrey's McGee, Wilco, etc

Go see Billy live the first chance you get. I've seen him three times in the last three years. I've been going to concerts for more than 40 years, and that dude and his band MELT MY MIND. I struggle to think of a better acoustic player.

I saw Wilco for the first time two summers ago after being a fan since its first album in the mid-90s, after Uncle Tupelo broke up. Fantastic show.

I'm listening to a playlist like this.
Does this have anything to do with what you call ?

Sure. Mumfords and Avetts are quality alt-rock/alt-country folk.

I've gotten used to my music tastes putting me on the outside here on HF (which, as you say, usually revolve around metal, prog, classical, and classic rock). But, heck, even my partner doesn't like most of my music, so I'm used to it. These days I'm mostly listening to alt pop, R&B, mainstream pop, experimental, soul, hip hop, and noise. But my life is a collection of my varied musical journeys--including time spent playing guitar in metal bands and later in bluegrass and alt-country groups--so I've got genuinely eclectic musical tastes.

My tastes are pretty eclectic, too. Pretty much everything except the staples around here -- classical, metal, soundtracks and ethereal female vocals. Oh, and bro country and hick-hop -- NOBODY should subject their ears to the SCHLOCK that Nashville is force-feeding America through hit country radio. It's so bad it should be illegal.

 

[theintention]

My tastes are pretty eclectic, too. Pretty much everything except the staples around here -- classical, metal, soundtracks and ethereal female vocals. Oh, and bro country and hick-hop -- NOBODY should subject their ears to the SCHLOCK that Nashville is force-feeding America through hit country radio. It's so bad it should be illegal.

i like things that sound good, and unfortunately for modern country it does not lol

i will listen to pretty much anything with an open mind, bonus points for creativity, i think back on my younger self and wish i could kick him in the head for being such a hipster but hey at least i got there eventually haha!

 

[o0genesis0o]

Disagree. Sure, these people may have heard a ton of IEMs and have great taste. They also draw a paycheck from manufacturers in the industry, so they're biased. I trust fully independent reviewers, not obvious shills or "industry people."

Of course they are biased, that’s why they are not allowed to write reviews.

But think of it this way. If you know them personally and ask for their unfiltered opinion about IEMs, that would be fascinating. My most interesting conversations are usually with IEM engineers. I like how they gush about the complex engineering behind some other IEMs (and how they trash some other expensive IEMs for scamming BS )

 

[Ferdinando1968]

I wonder if something else isn’t going on with the Estrella to cause hiss problems.

I have a set of AuR Audio Neon Pro which are even lower impedance and higher sensitivity than the Estrella. They are 5 ohm and 111db/mw versus 7 ohm and 108 db/mw.

They hiss with my Go Bar and very faintly with the Gryphon but in both cases the IEMatch makes the hiss disappear. They don’t hiss on anything else I have used.

The worst IEM I have owned for hiss were Campfire Solaris but they had a sensitivity of 115 db/mw and I am told don’t use crossovers.

I wonder if the overall sensitivity is misleading. That is it gives an overall volume level but doesn’t reflect the IEM tendency to pick up noise floor hiss. That is perhaps the BA are able to pick up very low level sound that doesn’t activate the other drivers due to the crossover set up or something.

That doesn’t alter the way they behave obviously but it might explain why they behave that way. Based on my experience the resistance and sensitivity should not make them so susceptible to hiss.

I think I understand your point, and it seems like a fair consideration.
But I don't know how to answer, because (even though I'm a technician) I still haven't fully understood the deep reasons that produce hiss in amplifiers and IEMs.
What I can tell you is that as soon as I connect the IEM jack to the DAC output, the hiss is immediate, no matter what volume is set on the output.

No Dark Quarterer?

Brother, I am hungry for music more than hardware (and I have a lot of hardware ).
And I discover every day, thanks to you too.
Since I started this adventure on HF, my library has increased a hundredfold.
Thanks for the tip. I'll go listen.

Sure. Mumfords and Avetts are quality alt-rock/alt-country folk.

I LOVE this music, even though I understand almost nothing of what is being said.
This is the magic of music, that no one has yet understood, but it exists.
I listen to music by US, Italian, regional Italian, French, Spanish singer-songwriters.

 

[fidgeraldo]

https://www.hifisound.de/de/Hifi-Ko...halboffener-Baendchen-Kopfhoerer-schwarz.html

Hmm...these are not the 50th anniversary.

Do they sound the same? If they do, then YES, too.
I rushed immediately I saw 50th Ann. but no regrets....I like them a lot.
I would pay again 270.

Cheers!

P.S. What import taxes???