Sep 14, 2024 at 7:57 AM Post #123,302 of 152,518
I think just about every IEM in my collection, sounds better than the AirPods Pro Gen 2. Just because of the wired Lossless connection. Nothing worse than listening to your favourite track , on say the SHOCK ⚡️ for example , then putting that same track on Apple Music with AirPods Pro 2 using Bluetooth AAC. Night and day better on a wired connection. I really do hear a difference. but in saying this. AirPods Pro have their benefits, that IEM’s don’t have. ANC is unreal, Multi point seemless switching from all my apple devices. Conversational awareness on phone calls. Siri integration Etc. So many features. I look at APP2 as a complimentary device rather than a replacement of my IEM’s.

Exactly how I feel about the AirPods Pro 2 🙌

It’s why they don’t get nearly as much use and some folks are surprised when they discover I even own them ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

The DC Elite is a very value device that actually a flagship class source, disguise as a dongle.
iam not basshead any means. But quite like it how punchy is dc elite with timsok ts 316. How bass is hard. There are quite some things i liked it. Like clearness, opennes, transient response etc.
It is a hard machine to beat as SQ.
I have DACs up to just under 1K USD, and it sounds better than all of them (and to think that I like ‘warm’ signatures).

That said, it is not that you can’t survive without it, or that I don’t like the rest I have anymore, on the contrary.

But the fact is that when I want to test an IEM, I use ELITE.

Round and round or always the ELITE connected.

Yup. I like some warmth too but in the DCE’s case it comes from the IEMs themselves rather than the source. The DCE just makes them pretty much the most capable versions of themselves. So for instance, the DCE is not going to boost the low end to basshead levels if it isn’t already there, but can improve its quality by a noticeable margin.
 
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Sep 14, 2024 at 8:30 AM Post #123,303 of 152,518
Symphonium Crimson

I will keep this short, its a really good set with a powerful and resolving sound. Among the more technical sets around its price, only falling short on bass resolution. But I am a DD lover, so my complaint there is not weird. But among BA sets its one of the best available in sound and technicalities.

Bass is really impactful and big for BA, Crimson just have something I dont like on bass heavy music but this is also similar most other BA sets when pushed in the lows. The bass kicks can often sound blunted and not realistic, its still super impactful and more of a texture thing.
Midrange is very clean and not thick, can be prone to some sibilance but this is also down to the recording.
Treble is really pronounced and airy, borderline sharp on some music.
I dont hear anything special about the soundstage, but its also not bad and closed in.

My impressions is after only a few days as the shells are not ergonomic for me and have boxy design and short nozzles, so I'm going to let it tour to next person now. I can work around it by using long silicon tips, and also by using O-rings to let the tips sit further out. The shell design itself is really cool and look premium, so this can be more of a personal problem. If design was better for me I would have considered the new Europa that has less upper energy, as I really enjoyed it otherwise.

This is part of Audio Geek and their tour program, thanks to Symphonium for providing the tour unit.

DSCF6455.jpg

DSCF6456.jpg

DSCF6494.jpg

DSCF6457.jpg

DSCF6461.jpg
 
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Sep 14, 2024 at 8:53 AM Post #123,304 of 152,518
To those who own/tried the Cantor, what are your thoughts on this?
From my own experience, aside from the male vocals sounding a bit lean with a shallow fit, my experience is different. But to be fair, I never listen at high volumes and I don’t recommend it. He definitely has the right to share his opinions on IEMs, which makes his perspective unique. I used to be very defensive about IEMs I liked, but I’ve matured and come to appreciate that everyone has their own taste in music and volume preferences and that’s what makes the hobby so interesting. That said, the Cantor doesn’t sound shrill to me at all. Not even close.
So now I'll be settling in with the Oracle and the Letshuoer S12 2024, and selling off a majority of my collection within the next week or so.
I'm selling a lot of my IEMs, which felt a bit sad at first, but I realized I hardly ever listen to them anymore. Still, I can't believe I'm parting with my Blessing 2!
I dunno. There may be a "correct" somewhere down the line for IEMs, but as an experienced outsider looking into this corner of the hobby, the IEM industry hasn't figured it out yet. And it's pretty effing awesome.
I agree.
Serious, good chain sounds like magic everywhere
Yes, exactly! Like you said, a good IEM should make fun music sound fun.
I guess other than some improved hardware changes, there will be some improvements:
That would be great.
give my DC Elite more power by connecting to the SMSL SH-9 (THX AAA 888 chipset) and my M17 has to surrender.
Is it really that good? I've only heard amazing things about the DC-Elite!
 
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Sep 14, 2024 at 8:55 AM Post #123,305 of 152,518
Tansio Mirai SHOCK ⚡

Bass - is deep and thunderous (think of the movie Jurassic park and the dinosaurs thunderous growl ) just insane amount of control and no bleed into mids . Sub Bass is not farty or flabby , it’s well presented and textured , rich, precise and punchy.

Mids - are clear , definitely not veiled , full of clarity. (Thing is, I feel they are located strategically around the soundstage. ) They are positioned and layered amongst the rest of the soundstage making sure every detail is presented. Vocals , piano, and guitar are really natural sounding.
Treble - lush and has sparkle and air. Cymbal and Hi-hats sound shimmering and crisp , definitely not splashy. So much clarity here. Clear and natural without any sibilance at all.
Soundstage is uniquely presented, (different to FAN 3) the way layers and elements seem to be positioned , 3 dimensionally around my head in a way that feels more natural like your actually there in the studio or room , or live concert with the artist. Shockingly ⚡️ immersive , with resolution and detail. No compromises for detail here.
Strengths - Dialling in the preferred low and high frequencies is a game changer, giving you many IEM’s in one. Immersive Soundstage is extraordinary. The BCD retains detail in the way it’s presented.
Weaknesses - I’m clutching at straws here to find something. Dials may present too much choice, but if you can’t decide on a dial setting try the stock setting. The purple toy candy look may not appeal to some.
Early days yet but after 24 hrs Burn in. I feel that these could be close to my end game. There isn’t any other way of saying this without thinking I’m shilling these. I’m just an average hobbyist that loves music. But no other IEM I’ve listened to so far, has moved me to tears before. Of course these were Joyful tears, and my thoughts and opinions may change over time.
This is really sounding like a potential end game for me too. Adjustable bass and treble like that would make for a perfect all-rounder, and the look and color are fun and don't bother me at all! It's a bit pricey, but I can save up. I was also interested in the Estrella for the looks and clear sound + bass, but the Shocks are more practical because of the dials?
a bit weekend variety






I'm not much of an opera fan either but these are exceptional and have amazing recordings. Sounded GREAT on my... KZ ZVX! I especially liked that hilarious doll opera, but sad to see that she died of cancer last year...
Mail Call



K-Bear ST19
4.4mm cable arrived separately along side the KZ AZ20.





Short Story :

Australia Post 📮 Lost this package 📦 It had been Ping Ponging from East to West Australia 3 times due to the Tracking label being stuck to the corner of the package. The address was not legible . ( This was the Reason I was Shocked to get my Shock ⚡️ on time )




Any Who it arrived today.




KZ AZ20 Bluetooth Ear Hooks with AptX .



Well I paired them with my HiBy R4 (making sure a HD Qualcomm AptX Connection was present )and placed the KZ ZS12 Pro X IEM’s with Tri Clarion Tips and Boom 🤯. Awesome. These work well together.
I have these and they're the best Bluetooth adaptors I've heard so far... I wonder if my iPhone 13 pro isn't giving out the best quality codecs that these can take... Another solid reason for me to get the R4 and transfer my music to there. I'm REALLY tempted right now lol.
Without a Doubt AirPods Pro 2nd Gen . (I have Both USB C & Lightning models ) have the BEST! Transparency Mode.
Yup! their noise cancelling is awesome. I love that in the conversation mode, if someone starts talking to you, it doesn't activate. You have to speak first, then it kicks in. Talk about the power of choosing your conversations HAHA. Of course some may find that annoying.
The question is, can you spend $400 on a DAP? Or IEM? If yes, the DC Elite should be a top contender. If no, I understand, but the DCE should be high on the wishlist should you plan to save up for a nice audio toy in the near future.
OK. I'm tempted by the pricey Shock, and the R4, and still this insane dongle. hmm. save up I guess?
It has to be said though, that good as they sound and amazing as their tech is, they’re still some ways off compared to some of the “conventional” gear we have. Don’t get me wrong, I travel with them all the time and their ANC is indispensable, especially on long flights. But on one recent trip, I somehow ended up using them pretty much exclusively for about two weeks and when I finally had a chance to reach for the tiny Penon Vortex and R3II that I also had with me, it felt like manna to the ears.
The sound is great and clear, almost a reference-type sound... I did the little "what sounds best" test and they picked vocal booster EQ which gave them a much better sound. Not sure if Balanced EQ would have better bass, but as it is, I like them. GREAT for low volume listening as it boosts the bass I think for better sound.
Dc elite is must have product it is product everybody need it and class benchmark. For years i have listen to product i have and some i was tryiing. I have aune m1s. Astell sr 25, fiio m 11 ess plus 2. Listen to ibasso dx 200, hiby r 6 pro first gen, mojo first, chord qutest and gustard a 26. Only one is better gustard a 26.
must-have... wow. But if I have an R4 do I need this? that will be quite a setup if I have to pair that huge dongle with the R4 lol. I'd be getting the R4 FOR the sound and better codecs as well as the convenience of having an Android DAP separate from my iPhone.
 
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Sep 14, 2024 at 8:58 AM Post #123,306 of 152,518
Graph comparison between ISN H60, Thieaudio Oracle III, and I/O Volare

I only heard the Volare from this 3, but graphing that way it has much more treble than bass ... looks bad to me. Sure it is not a basshead one, but ... anyhow ...


What is your primary music source file?

Lossless?
Lossy?
Streaming?
Youtube?
Vinyl?
CD collection?
Live music concert listener?
Bluetooth?





https://www.facebook.com/binylsg/po...AE5yoGjMfCVJ6p2RAXg5ZAC2GyuDoa3fwzjZTJGVEB8cl
Big LOL for the pictures, thx !

My sources ? From the beginning of time until mid 2022 it was mp3; from about 2005 320kbs ones, until then usually 128kbs (storage was different those times).
From mid 2022 I took the hifi route and switched to 16bit 44.1 / 48 kHz files. As I tested, I do not hear the difference for higher bitrates / frequency, so I convert back everything higher than CD quality with foobar2000 on PC (also my main music app); on android I use USB Player Pro; no DAP for me.
No streaming for me (as I usually listen to full albums).
I digitized my CD collection (but still have a USB CD drive).
No vinyl (yeah I had some decades ago ... some of you weren't even born).
Youtube, yes, for those I can not have any other way; I download'em for offline use.

I mostly use wired DACs but sometimes bluetooth, too. I have a KZ AZ09Pro with KZ ZSN2 Pro (not sure about the IEM name, sorry) but I use it only for walking and doing chores or cooking.
This was posted 4 days ago. I’m really looking forward to this one in November. Similar price to the BTR7. But with extra features will be a formidable upgrade. Especially since it will have Qualcomm latest flagship Bluetooth chip. I’m hoping 🤞 for Snapdragon lossless to be featured.

So the BTR17 has the chance to overthrow Qudelix5k in all aspects ? Sounds good ! It's about time.
With the Penon os133 I am rediscovering some of my older IEMs. Dug out my TRI Starsea today, threw some Spiral Dots on and listened to this, amazing. Starsea now in top rotation!

Big thx for this music ! Listening the album now. On bandcamp I always do a full listen before I buy (172 albums bought so far).

+1 to this. I regularly ask for my usual preferences - no earhooks, 2-pin connectors to fit recessed sockets - and they are always happy to oblige.

Fun story - here is the most extreme customisation I’ve asked for. XINHS had a 2-wire silver-palladium cable that I liked enough to ask them about the possibility of making an 8-wire version and they not only obliged, but apparently liked it enough to continue making and selling more.

So this is the result:



The pics in the listing are the ones they took of my cable after completing it. They must have made many more and I’m a bit surprised they didn’t redo them after the cable took off.
Thanks ! I found it, but it is 189USD for me ... I think I wait for 11.11 with this cable (mean: I have to think if I want it next to Penon ASOS and Pyramid).


My S12 2024 arrived. Serial says 240634. I never had any S12 variant (however I was close to buy Z12 but chose the Zetian Wu in 2022 November; sold that to a good old friend).

Sorry not to attach photos but my photo skills are ... not so good. I got everything others mentioned including the plus cable (which I did not try yet). Ordered directly from letshuoer.com for full price (forgot to use the 10USD coupon ... yeah, my memory is not so good, either).

Started with orange Penon liqueur tips.
I tried it with the stock cable (which looks good but not exceptional): I do not like the sound. Bass / lower mid sounded congested; treble was shouty. Switched to black penon liqueur tips from now on.
Switched to Penon OCC849: now we are talking ! This is a diferent world: sound is lovely in all aspect.
Switched to Penon ASOS: oh yes please ! Like a very good hot summer day: you feel the warmth and the icecubes in your drink at the same time; you feel good alone but there is enough place around you (and you are thinking on ordering the next drink :smile: ). You feel good, relaxed and focused at the same time.

All test was with ONIX Alpha XI1; OCC849 is 3.5mm (my 4.4mm variant is on loan with a friend); original cable and ASOS were used the 4.4mm way.
My main test is a violin concerto, but I use a lot another ones, too.

Definitely a keeper. Now I have to choose between Hidizs MP145 and NiceHCK F1 Pro which one should go; the later can not feel safe :stuck_out_tongue_winking_eye: .

Edit: typo.
 
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Sep 14, 2024 at 9:08 AM Post #123,307 of 152,518
I give my DC Elite more power by connecting to the SMSL SH-9 (THX AAA 888 chipset) and my M17 has to surrender.
And if M17 as DAC plus SH-9?
 
Sep 14, 2024 at 9:33 AM Post #123,308 of 152,518
From my own experience, aside from the male vocals sounding a bit lean with a shallow fit, my experience is different. But to be fair, I never listen at high volumes and I don’t recommend it. I think Jay is a nice guy. He definitely has the right to share his opinions on IEMs, which makes his perspective unique. His preferences in music and tonality are reflected in the well-received Estrella, showcasing his vision and tuning. I used to be very defensive about IEMs I liked, but I’ve matured and come to appreciate that everyone has their own taste in music and volume preferences and that’s what makes the hobby so interesting. That said, the Cantor doesn’t sound shrill to me at all. Not even close.
I really love to hear some kind of fair and good attitude like this.

I'm selling a lot of my IEMs, which felt a bit sad at first, but I realized I hardly ever listen to them anymore. Still, I can't believe I'm parting with my Blessing 2!

I agree.

Yes, exactly! Like you said, a good IEM should make fun music sound fun.

That would be great.

Is it really that good? I've only heard amazing things about the DC-Elite!
Yes it is.


And if M17 as DAC plus SH-9?

I still pick DC Elite + SH-9 rather than M17 + SH-9. The reason is, DC Elite has that clean dynamic and great transient attack + all layering imaging and the SH-9 just amplified all that goodness make it more spacious and tight in bass. While the M17 also very great undoubtedly, but if i have to give score to M17 it will be the treble detail but the DC Elite also on similar level. The M17 is famous for treble detail and technicalities, the imaging and the layering and soundstage. With all that greatness, the DC Elite beat it especially when amped. Even without the amplifier, DC Elite can put good fight with M17
$400 vs $1800, yes it is unbelievable.
I think the DC Elite really unrivaled under $1000 mark source.
 
Sep 14, 2024 at 10:09 AM Post #123,309 of 152,518
Well this morning it was another shocking showdown between the ZVX [non-switch model] and the Phoenixcall. The two don't sound at all alike, but the ZVX has this natural, warm-ish, old-school feel to it, while the Phoenixcall has a slightly less bassy, more airy and open sound to it. I really, really, liked the ZVX on ALL the songs, but the Phoenixcall just edged out a victory at 3/5. THe ZVX was using 3.5 jack while its opponent was on 4.4, which was a slight disadvantage, but it still nearly won this round!

Next up is a battle some people here might have strong feelings about, because the Wan'er is one of the most talked-about cheapo single DD IEMs around, but I think the ZVX will REALLY give it a good fight!
 
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Sep 14, 2024 at 10:11 AM Post #123,310 of 152,518
I only heard the Volare from this 3, but graphing that way it has much more treble than bass ... looks bad to me. Sure it is not a basshead one, but ... anyhow ...



Big LOL for the pictures, thx !

My sources ? From the beginning of time until mid 2022 it was mp3; from about 2005 320kbs ones, until then usually 128kbs (storage was different those times).
From mid 2022 I took the hifi route and switched to 16bit 44.1 / 48 kHz files. As I tested, I do not hear the difference for higher bitrates / frequency, so I convert back everything higher than CD quality with foobar2000 on PC (also my main music app); on android I use USB Player Pro; no DAP for me.
No streaming for me (as I usually listen to full albums).
I digitized my CS collection (but still have a USB CD drive).
No vinyl (yeah I had some decades ago ... some of you weren't even born).
youtube, yes, for those I can not have any other way; I download'em for offline use.

I mostly use wired DACs but sometimes bluetooth, too. I have a KZ AZ09Pro with KZ ZSN2 Pro (not sure about the IEM name, sorry) but I use it only for walking and doing chores or cooking.

So the BTR17 has the chance to overthrow Qudelix5k in all aspects ? Sounds good ! It's about time.

Big thx for this music ! Listening the album now. On bandcamp I always do a full listen before I buy (172 albums bought so far).


Thanks ! I found it, but it is 189USD for me ... I think I wait for 11.11 with this cable (mean: I have to think if I want it next to Penon ASOS and Pyramid).


My S12 2024 arrived. Serial says 240634. I never had any S12 variant (however I was close to buy Z12 but chose the Zetian Wu in 2022 November; sold that to a good old friend).

Sorry not to attach photos but my photo skills are ... not so good. I got everything others mentioned including the plus cable (which I did not try yet). Ordered directly from letshuoer.com for full price (forgot to use the 10USD coupon ... yeah, my memory is not so good, either).

Started with orange Penon liqueur tips.
I tried it with the stock cable (which looks good but not exceptional): I di not like the sound. Bass / lower mid sounded congested; treble was shouty. Switched to black penon liqueur tips from now on.
Switched to Penon OCC849: now we are talking ! This is a diferent world: sound is lovely in all aspect.
Switched to Penon ASOS: oh yes please ! Like a very good hot summer day: you feel the warmth and the icecubes in your drink at the same time; you feel good alone but there is enough place around you (and you are thinking on ordering the next drink :smile: ). You feel good, relaxed and focused at the same time.

All test was with ONIX Alpha XI1; OCC849 is 3.5mm (my 4.4mm variant is on loan with a friend); original cable and ASOS were used the 4.4mm way.
My main test is a violin concerto, but I use a lot another ones, too.

Definitely a keeper. Now I have to choose between Hidizs MP145 and NiceHCK F1 Pro which one should go; the later can not feel safe :stuck_out_tongue_winking_eye: .

Later I try to comapre S12 2024 with Hidizs MP145 (yeah, I feel the result); with TSMR X (I am not sure) and with I/O Volare (not 100% fair, I know, for 3x the price).
Glad you enjoyed the Mark Dwane piece. His music is great and the recording quality is always excellent. I have most of his albums. "Variants", "2012" and "Anomalies" are three of my favourites.
 
Sep 14, 2024 at 10:16 AM Post #123,311 of 152,518
I’m excited to read your KE4 review, Nik. You’ve got a great style, and your passion really comes through. I was reading your SIVGA Que review yesterday and really enjoyed it! :thumbsup:
Thanks, brother! Always glad to hear someone's enjoying my way of reviewing.

That made me burst out laughing. Good thing I wasn't drinking when I read that.
Ineras, You were not drinking?? Is everything alright?

Also, I just misspelt your handle as 'Inears', is your name meant as a play on this word?

What’s the effect of NOS activated on your iBasso?
Will have to spend more time figuring this out. Review of the DX180 will soon be in the works.

Anyhow, I’m also considering extending all my previous “First Impressions” and posting them as full-fledged reviews, as suggested by both @thaslaya (for the Letshuoer S08) and @nikbr (for the EW300). I’m starting to think it’s a pity for them to get lost forever in the meanders of the Discovery Thread! 😭
YES, no need to consider it, JUST DO IT. And don't feel as if you need to add much more for it to be worthy. Add a pic or two and you're golden.

Perfect start to the rainy weekend.
1000007308.jpg
Wawa wiva. Now this is what I call Progress.

QDC Empress

$3200 USD!!

4 ESTs and 10 BAs (14 driver per side)

1.PNG
2.PNG



https://shop.musicteck.com/products/qdc-emreses-c-custom-iems
Jeez, this is way outside of my budget anyways but they go through the trouble to put in ESTs and then have the treble roll off like that? Seems like a weird choice.
Keep in mind, this graph is showing the response to 40kHz, not the usual 20kHz. The extension seems pretty fine up to ~16kHz. Why they would even want to show all that uncontrolled and meaningless gibberish above 20kHz is beyond me, though.

Oof big Yikes at that Cover pic. I sure hope I capture at least some of the essence of the originals within my covers.

Late night mail call. Was on a mission for my wife on some viral Christmas Nutcrackers and only just got to unpack these...

Miroak-II Granadillo

AP1GczOHjNhgtbiHF62bL-Rpi0O7ASkfTK8Sn2lzNyMuxTa2Zy9iZc0odvod22eYdMD4-TtUSjOT6xxuwW-87cWkc-_AdCv7ZPiD5clHkvQVIw2-CWwl3RgXfaiviB7L8bI3vrj28HSfP4-Zm6OwB48u-C2g=w1008-h758-s-no-gm


AP1GczM3-3zCSUQNXfKYGJZn-W6aA2pJWajZJZfNlBK2k1v921hiJVBod13bLlvOYg3MJAev4QvREsCZXlNZuwWo2ws895UbHSJH0m00R924Esc-kdnvtpjCD6OvLH50dQWgPeV204JpRBVyEplK6euGQVNj=w1008-h758-s-no-gm


AP1GczPnPvwzgyf79SYKdekClX4y3XboWydjY-LqqJc6wKV3_E9h3k48net62NBFMd3pmF-DaL34MV9VDVKSmL5T-t4NufuxN8rmahAWd30BRn_Daiq8k_-EYMVNz2VN0A5JReoKqFqDRMckeBRS1oEVaxKn=w1008-h758-s-no-gm


AP1GczMgqqcLb-GsEtOhzFPcGoUoXu8xVeQe34IETpireMxMgwO-aSEo7Fsg2sssQVUMD0anDLp7xIUdXnWSbgo9MuFyiG-vx1UUb9vUc2OGcbv0EbqQ20YRmirIJrlcWy_9wK7ucBsw5nMDW33Podtahedy=w1008-h758-s-no-gm
Damn, congrats. Looking forward to impressions while struggling to save up for their Loak2 TX02.

Symphonium Crimson

My impressions is after only a few days as the shells are not ergonomic for me and have boxy design and short nozzles, so I'm going to let it tour to next person now. I can work around it by using long silicon tips, and also by using O-rings to let the tips sit further out. The shell design itself is really cool and look premium, so this can be more of a personal problem. If design was better for me I would have considered the new Europa that has less upper energy, as I really enjoyed it otherwise.

This is part of Audio Geek and their tour program, thanks to Symphonium for providing the tour unit.

DSCF6455.jpg
DSCF6456.jpg
DSCF6494.jpg
DSCF6457.jpg
DSCF6461.jpg
Great impressions as always.

This sort of shell design is a no-no for me too. Blessed are those with big and smooth conchas.
 
Sep 14, 2024 at 10:24 AM Post #123,312 of 152,518
Symphonium Crimson

I will keep this short, its a really good set with a powerful and resolving sound. Among the more technical sets around its price, only falling short on bass resolution. But I am a DD lover, so my complaint there is not weird. But among BA sets its one of the best available in sound and technicalities.

Bass is really impactful and big for BA, Crimson just have something I dont like on bass heavy music but this is also similar most other BA sets when pushed in the lows. The bass kicks can often sound blunted and not realistic, its still super impactful and more of a texture thing.
Midrange is very clean and not thick, can be prone to some sibilance but this is also down to the recording.
Treble is really pronounced and airy, borderline sharp on some music.
I dont hear anything special about the soundstage, but its also not bad and closed in.

My impressions is after only a few days as the shells are not ergonomic for me and have boxy design and short nozzles, so I'm going to let it tour to next person now. I can work around it by using long silicon tips, and also by using O-rings to let the tips sit further out. The shell design itself is really cool and look premium, so this can be more of a personal problem. If design was better for me I would have considered the new Europa that has less upper energy, as I really enjoyed it otherwise.

This is part of Audio Geek and their tour program, thanks to Symphonium for providing the tour unit.

DSCF6455.jpg
DSCF6456.jpg
DSCF6494.jpg
DSCF6457.jpg
DSCF6461.jpg

I liked the Europa more than a smidge more vs the Crimson. Awesome shots as usual.

From my own experience, aside from the male vocals sounding a bit lean with a shallow fit, my experience is different. But to be fair, I never listen at high volumes and I don’t recommend it. I think Jay is a nice guy. He definitely has the right to share his opinions on IEMs, which makes his perspective unique. His preferences in music and tonality are reflected in the well-received Estrella, showcasing his vision and tuning. I used to be very defensive about IEMs I liked, but I’ve matured and come to appreciate that everyone has their own taste in music and volume preferences and that’s what makes the hobby so interesting. That said, the Cantor doesn’t sound shrill to me at all. Not even close.

I'm selling a lot of my IEMs, which felt a bit sad at first, but I realized I hardly ever listen to them anymore. Still, I can't believe I'm parting with my Blessing 2!

Are you selling them specifically anywhere?

Re: Cantor - in a subjective hobby, it's always interesting to see how different ears affect sound especially if/when someone's ears completely buck against a general consensus. Maybe it was a weird source synergy?
 
Sep 14, 2024 at 10:32 AM Post #123,313 of 152,518
For now - after multiple "buy - listen to -reject" iterations the first three (each with own nuances) on evaluation are S15, KE4 and MP145 (purple filter). The three are all in my range of acceptance (and current intention is to keep them all). So you could conclude I tend to balanced, natural, neutral and, well, boring-for-most, (not too) flattened sounding.

Would you suggest the next steps?
 
Sep 14, 2024 at 10:41 AM Post #123,314 of 152,518
Perfect start to the rainy weekend.
Very nice! I have to try this one after reading all the praise. I wonder how it stacks up against the Kensei, which is the most impressive dongle I've heard to date.
Late night mail call. Was on a mission for my wife on some viral Christmas Nutcrackers and only just got to unpack these...

Miroak-II Granadillo

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Awesome! Congrats brother! Definitely need to hear some impressions soon. I know you've been eager to get these in your ears.
Now I have to choose between Hidizs MP145 and NiceHCK F1 Pro which one should go; the later can not feel safe :stuck_out_tongue_winking_eye: .
Ya my F1 Pro is not long for my collection either. I need to do a proper review when I have more time but it's likely to be the next giveaway prize 😅
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With CanJam SoCal 2 weeks away, I'm starting to think about what I'm going to prioritize on my demo list. Thanks to friends like @Jaytiss I already got to demo and review the Elysian Pilgrim (insert shameless plug here) so I can check that one off my list. I still want to try the Noir to see how it compares. I'm also interested Symphonium, Aroma, AFUL's Cantor and new 5+2, Unique Melody, Canpur, Softears, the DC Elite now, and I'm sure there are many more I left out that I'll find while walking the floor.

For those attending, and even for those that have never been to a CanJam (like myself), what is the top 3 pieces of equipment (iem, headphone, DAP, amp, etc.) that you would like to demo someday?
 
Sep 14, 2024 at 10:48 AM Post #123,315 of 152,518
Pula PA02 for 119$ or SLIIVO SL41 MK2 for $150 on Ali? just wondering lol. [I'm hankering for one of these stained-glass-reminiscent IEMs haha]
 
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