The discovery thread!

[cagix]

It is what is expectations. For myself headphones scaling up much more and in more ways. But i dont have top planars tech in iems or something like softears turii ti. Iems can be little fuller, dynamic, warmer touch on resolution, separation, detail. But headphones can sound realy big and muscular wetier realy strong like going to gym.

 

[domq422]

Hey everyone! Just recently got the TD08 Pro Odin and have been really enjoying it. This thing is like a boombox in my ears. Very fun tuning and handles EQ like a champ.

Kindlefirehditaly did a great review of it on here that sums up my experience pretty well. TD08 Pro Odin Review

Tips on it are latex H570. Very happy with this set!

Damn, these look really nice. The last thing I need is another single DD set... but any chance someone has a graph of these things?

 

[JamoBroGuy]

Quickly, the reason why, is in the upper mids and treble region, the Cadenza 4 has less jagged edges, while being able to maintain a smoother, more precise timbre. So you got the brighter P7, that's got a bit more forward treble, so you'd think the resolution would be greater, and in some ways it is, but it's less natural than the Cadenza 4, and while the midrange is much less prominent than the P7, the imaging and stage are more impressive, with superior spatial cues, with more warmth in the midrange, so providing a more natural and weighty timbre to instruments. There's also a tad bit more mid bass presence (though admittedly not by a lot), so there's a bit more fun in the bass region, vs the more "clinical" delivery of the P7. It's a close race, but the smoother, bassier, and more natural balanced approach of the Cadenza 4 just makes it a more engaging listen than the louder, more midrange forward, and airy treble with less naturality of the P7.

I'm starting to think you might even prefer the Cadenza 4 over the Cantor. Not sure about that though.

 

[FreeWheelinAudioLuv2]

I literally just cried listening to the Cantor. There are people who don’t even cry listening to the $50,000 HE-1, yet I do listening to the little $800 Cantor.
I wouldn’t trade the Cantor for any other IEM on the planet. Not the MacBeth, not the Annihilator 2023, not the Storm, not the Fugaku.
This IEM made me realise how incredibly elitist you have to be to carelessly criticise such a wonderful piece of gear.
You can probably guess what my new favourite audio company is.

It's not elitist to criticize an IEM or gear. It's simply preference. Now, I might not agree with a specific finding (like someone criticizing the mighty and humble 1+1 Dita Project M), but there's a segment that does, or the ISN H60 (there's also a segment there), but I respect their POV, despite not agreeing with them, but I don't consider that POV elitist, just contrary to my ears (though there are some who can be contrarian, just for the sake of it).

But you got me super stoked to get these in my ears by next week. Should be interesting to say the least. Been told since the say they launched the Cantor speaks my language fluently, and would be my "pause game unicorn"? since I thought that would be the ISN EBC80, and it turns out it's not, let's see how close the Cantor get?

 

[JamoBroGuy]

It's not elitist to criticize an IEM or gear. It's simply preference. Now, I might not agree with a specific finding (like someone criticizing the mighty and humble 1+1 Dita Project M), but there's a segment that does, or the ISN H60 (there's also a segment there), but I respect their POV, despite not agreeing with them, but I don't consider that POV elitist, just contrary to my ears (though there are some who can be contrarian, just for the sake of it).

But you got me super stoked to get these in my ears by next week. Should be interesting to say the least. Been told since the say they launched the Cantor speaks my language fluently, and would be my "pause game unicorn"? since I thought that would be the ISN EBC80, and it turns out it's not, let's see how close the Cantor get?

I didn't necessarily mean it's elitist every time. It's just that some people carelessly criticise stuff just for the sake of being an edgy contrarian without being constructive in the slightest (think Jay's Cantor review). Constructive criticism is good.
A pet peeve I have with some reviewers is that they criticise stuff that's clearly just based on their preference, but they don't specify that it's just for their preference. For example, "this IEM doesn't have enough bass quantity". This implies that it's objectively like that, but it's impossible for an IEM to objectively lack bass quantity. I love reviewers who say "I would personally prefer more bass quantity". This implies that it isn't objective, just their taste. (Sorry for the tangent, this isn't just something that bothers me in the audio space, just in general.)

If you end up not liking the Cantor, please don't hate me for hyping it up so much.

 

[Scubadevils]

On a break in Dingle which is a beautiful rural town in the south west of Ireland.

While I brought a few IEMs, the majority of my time has been spent with either Mecha or ARMOR.

Starting with ARMOR, I need to compare again with SHOCK, but where ARMOR of course falls down in comparison from a technical standpoint, it sure does make up for it in terms of completely captivating musicality - again, I need to compare but I possibly find even more enjoyable vs SHOCK… just covers me in a warm blanket of deep relaxation where I simply enjoy and love the music.

 

[mrsergey]

Hello guys.
I received today the EW300.
First impression is good.
I like thier energetic and fun sound (4.4 + yuki).
But the DSP cable was a big disappointment, it's noticably worse quality than the moondrop DSP cable (in the sound and build quality).
I much prefer the sound with 4.4 cable. they sounded more "open", the mids were more forward and i got more slam in the mid-bass.
I compared the ew300 side by side with aful explorer and i much prefer the EW300.
Speaking about the explorer, the yuki dongle doesn't like the explorer, i get sound distortions on high volume with the explore + yuki.

 

[jotaerre]

agreed on Trio,
its tuned differently to CRA but its a lot of fun.

CCA Trio

Yes, I love bass. So CCA Trio.

Thanks guys.

 

[FreeWheelinAudioLuv2]

WOW... I've not tried ANY product from Aful yet... My previous all-BA set was the KZ AS24... and they did have a wonderful sense of resolution and clarity, but were a tad dry and not as musical as I would have liked. I have the Jomo Nautilus in the Cantor's price range, and don't plan on buying anything else in that bracket for quite a while, but the Cantor certainly has me intrigued. But first, I might spend some money on either the DC Elite or a better DAP because while the R4 is serviceable, it has some issues with Amazon Music griping about the SD card [yes I contacted Amazon and tried all the fixes] and it does NOT work with Android Auto. ONLY Android devices that come with AA integration already set up work. [any ideas which android DAPs actually verifiably work with Android Auto??] I also am not a fan of the immensely thick build and square edges of the R4. Other than those issues, it's fantastic with sound quality, and I don't even mess around with EQ or other audio tweaks really.

Broheim, get the FiiO JM21, which has a sound signature that fits your preference, since you and I share a similar preference, and we've agreed sonically on a hell of a lot of IEMs (though I no longer share your enthusiasm for budget gear, but that's not really a question of sonic preferences, but fiscal responsibility LOL), and the JM21 hits the spot in so many ways!! The advanced Android 13 with SD 680 will most certainly accommodate your Apple Music fancy, and technically, it's a very sweet, neutral SS along with having amazing LDAC BT capabilities, and it's cheaper and smaller than the R4, with plenty of power (though admittedly not class A amp power).

 

[gadgetgod]

On a break in Dingle which is a beautiful rural town in the south west of Ireland.

While I brought a few IEMs, the majority of my time has been spent with either Mecha or ARMOR.

Starting with ARMOR, I need to compare again with SHOCK, but where ARMOR of course falls down in comparison from a technical standpoint, it sure does make up for it in terms of completely captivating musicality - again, I need to compare but I possibly find even more enjoyable vs SHOCK… just covers me in a warm blanket of deep relaxation where I simply enjoy and love the music.

Waiting for your impressions on the Mecha bro.

 

[jbfps116]

Broheim, get the FiiO JM21, which has a sound signature that fits your preference, since you and I share a similar preference, and we've agreed sonically on a hell of a lot of IEMs (though I no longer share your enthusiasm for budget gear, but that's not really a question of sonic preferences, but fiscal responsibility LOL), and the JM21 hits the spot in so many ways!! The advanced Android 13 with SD 680 will most certainly accommodate your Apple Music fancy, and technically, it's a very sweet, neutral SS along with having amazing LDAC BT capabilities, and it's cheaper and smaller than the R4, with plenty of power (though admittedly not class A amp power).

I’d need real verification though. If Android Auto doesn’t come installed from factory, downloading the app will not work. Basically the manufacturer has to “set up” the device to be able to work with AA… unlike iOS, Android Auto doesn’t work on all androids.

 

[Scubadevils]

Waiting for your impressions on the Mecha bro.

I’ll definitely drop some more extensive thoughts over the next day or so… certainly in a wonderful honeymoon phase that’s for sure - funny that I started the year with Project M, and most likely Mecha will conclude… both spectacular sets with very different tuning.

 

[Ozboyblu]

AFUL CANTOR

# TeamStarryNight

Unboxing.

The unboxing is an experience. Upon opening the box , you’re presented with AFUL tissue paper and underneath the IEM’s and a leather look AFUL blue IEM case . The case is really nice. It feels premium and is actually very roomy and soft velverty inside. ( I have been using the case , because it’s well protective )

OOTB impressions.


First off I feel violated by the deep insertion to get the right fit and sound. But trust me it’s worth it to insert as deep the ear tips will go. Kind of feels like half way up my ear canal , really close to the ear drum . But Ithat would be an overstatement .

( I also used the stock tips and cable to start to begin with)

First Listen Experience :


Listening to Cantor for the first time was like Looking through a magnifying glass at all the details . Hearing the DNA inside the music.

Bass , I wasn’t prepared for. It is unexpectedly impactful , has body, it’s rich and lush and textured. (Dual channel Acoustic Maze technology, may have something to do with this )

Mids , are just forward enough to sit in-front where vocals belong. Resolution is insane.

Treble , is well extended , airy, delicate with so much definition . It’s not harsh or shouty at all. My Goodness it’s so nice.

To my ears, “Dynamics” and “Harmonics” are a massive feature for Cantor OOTB. Textures and nuanced musical elements are beautiful, resolving with the most incredibly detailed presentation.

The soundstage has the goldilocks amount of spaciousness for me so natural. The imaging is so precise. The presentation is so layered, yet musical. Instrument separation is on point, yet so accurate . It’s just so damn detailed.

All listening was conducted with iBasso DC-Elite and Audirvāna . But I CANTOR wait to try out with Fiio K11 R2R and Muse HiFi M5 Ultra later on.

A first look at comparisons:

Look out SHOCK. ️. I think CANTOR maybe coming for your crown .

EBC80 may have a larger stage but nowhere near the depth of details and intensity of textures and nuances of the cantor.

CANTOR has the neutrality of my Focal Studio CMS 50 monitors (Speakers), but on steroids. Details on the CANTOR are more resolving, and are a Level above DUNU BrainDance to my ears.

I certainly don’t have a pitch fork ready for those who recommended the AFUL CANTOR.

I do have to say Thank You ! To everyone who’s recommended this insane set.

Wow!


Early days , less than 24hrs with these , so take everything with a grain of salt.

Time to put these on the burning station.

 

[JamoBroGuy]

AFUL CANTOR




# TeamStarryNight





Unboxing.

The unboxing is an experience. Upon opening the box , you’re presented with AFUL tissue paper and underneath the IEM’s and a leather look AFUL blue IEM case . The case is really nice. It feels premium and is actually very roomy and soft velverty inside. ( I have been using the case , because it’s well protective )




OOTB impressions.


First off I feel violated by the deep insertion to get the right fit and sound. But trust me it’s worth it to insert as deep the ear tips will go. Kind of feels like half way up my ear canal , really close to the ear drum . But Ithat would be an overstatement .

( I also used the stock tips and cable to start to begin with)



First Listen Experience :


Listening to Cantor for the first time was like Looking through a magnifying glass at all the details . Hearing the DNA inside the music.




Bass , I wasn’t prepared for. It is unexpectedly impactful , has body, it’s rich and lush and textured. (Dual channel Acoustic Maze technology, may have something to do with this )



Mids , are just forward enough to sit in-front where vocals belong. Resolution is insane.



Treble , is well extended , airy, delicate with so much definition . It’s not harsh or shouty at all. My Goodness it’s so nice.



To my ears, “Dynamics” and “Harmonics” are a massive feature for Cantor OOTB. Textures and nuanced musical elements are beautiful, resolving with the most incredibly detailed presentation.



The soundstage has the goldilocks amount of spaciousness for me so natural. The imaging is so precise. The presentation is so layered, yet musical. Instrument separation is on point, yet so accurate . It’s just so damn detailed.



All listening was conducted with iBasso DC-Elite and Audirvāna . But I CANTOR wait to try out with Fiio K11 R2R and Muse HiFi M5 Ultra later on.



A first look at comparisons:

Look out SHOCK. ️. I think CANTOR maybe coming for your crown .

EBC80 may have a larger stage but nowhere near the depth of details and intensity of textures and nuances of the cantor.

CANTOR has the neutrality of my Focal Studio CMS 50 monitors (Speakers), but on steroids. Details on the CANTOR are more resolving, and are a Level above DUNU BrainDance to my ears.

I certainly don’t have a pitch fork ready for those who recommended the AFUL CANTOR.

I do have to say Thank You ! To everyone who’s recommended this insane set.

Wow!


Early days , less than 24hrs with these , so take everything with a grain of salt.

Time to put these on the burning station.

I knew you'd love it. It's hard not to love it. You get used to the deep insertion after a while, I felt violated at first too lmao.
My impressions are pretty much identical to yours. So beautifully neutral and natural and resolving. Exceptional bass, not just for BA.
#TeamStarryNight

 

[MakeItWain]

Looks kinda tacky. Think there's chocolate in there?

I am so tempted just for the looks.

AFUL CANTOR




# TeamStarryNight





Unboxing.

The unboxing is an experience. Upon opening the box , you’re presented with AFUL tissue paper and underneath the IEM’s and a leather look AFUL blue IEM case . The case is really nice. It feels premium and is actually very roomy and soft velverty inside. ( I have been using the case , because it’s well protective )




OOTB impressions.


First off I feel violated by the deep insertion to get the right fit and sound. But trust me it’s worth it to insert as deep the ear tips will go. Kind of feels like half way up my ear canal , really close to the ear drum . But Ithat would be an overstatement .

( I also used the stock tips and cable to start to begin with)



First Listen Experience :


Listening to Cantor for the first time was like Looking through a magnifying glass at all the details . Hearing the DNA inside the music.




Bass , I wasn’t prepared for. It is unexpectedly impactful , has body, it’s rich and lush and textured. (Dual channel Acoustic Maze technology, may have something to do with this )



Mids , are just forward enough to sit in-front where vocals belong. Resolution is insane.



Treble , is well extended , airy, delicate with so much definition . It’s not harsh or shouty at all. My Goodness it’s so nice.



To my ears, “Dynamics” and “Harmonics” are a massive feature for Cantor OOTB. Textures and nuanced musical elements are beautiful, resolving with the most incredibly detailed presentation.



The soundstage has the goldilocks amount of spaciousness for me so natural. The imaging is so precise. The presentation is so layered, yet musical. Instrument separation is on point, yet so accurate . It’s just so damn detailed.



All listening was conducted with iBasso DC-Elite and Audirvāna . But I CANTOR wait to try out with Fiio K11 R2R and Muse HiFi M5 Ultra later on.



A first look at comparisons:

Look out SHOCK. ️. I think CANTOR maybe coming for your crown .

EBC80 may have a larger stage but nowhere near the depth of details and intensity of textures and nuances of the cantor.

CANTOR has the neutrality of my Focal Studio CMS 50 monitors (Speakers), but on steroids. Details on the CANTOR are more resolving, and are a Level above DUNU BrainDance to my ears.

I certainly don’t have a pitch fork ready for those who recommended the AFUL CANTOR.

I do have to say Thank You ! To everyone who’s recommended this insane set.

Wow!


Early days , less than 24hrs with these , so take everything with a grain of salt.

Time to put these on the burning station.

I knew you'd love it. It's hard not to love it. You get used to the deep insertion after a while, I felt violated at first too lmao.
My impressions are pretty much identical to yours. So beautifully neutral and natural and resolving. Exceptional bass, not just for BA.
#TeamStarryNight