I know coupons have been posted here, so I don't see an issue.
The discovery thread!
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Almost half of his posts contain aliexpress affiliate links, useful or not. I thought affliate links with no disclaimer are usually frowned upon
At the very least, drive-by posters who just dump reviews, links, or promotions get an immediate ignore from me. I generally let the mods do the policing themselves.
FreeWheelinAudioLuv2
Headphoneus Supremus
The Clarinet is especially potent with planars. Now it doesn't always work with every IEM. There are a few that it just doesn't jive with, but when it does lock in, IT LOCKS IN and give you a TOTL listen.
Excellent list. As a reviewer, you are armed, and as a music connoisseur, you are armed for battle! A couple surprises (well, it shouldn't be). One, the R3 II ranking so high (I absolutely adore mine), and the Heartfield R1 do low. Why did it go so low? Any particular quirks?
Not only a clown I like a lot, but a clown who speaks the truth clearly, succinctly, and sagely. The ISN H60 is in fact THAT GOOD, and the most underrated mi-fi IEM of all!ISN H60: Feel the Music & Rhythm flow through you
Review In Short:
Plug the H60 and switch the music on => “It will not take long before your feet start to move and your hands start to tap along with the rhythm of the music.”
ISN H60 pumps energy into all parts of the music, making it fun without lacking details. (infact, you get plenty).
Pros:
- Brilliant rhythm rendition
- Energetic and fun
- Excellent resolution and details
- Great fit & weight balance for me (even though it is chunky)
Cons:
- Nozzle is large, puts Zero: Reds to shame (never a problem for me, not sure for all)
- No switches/tuning filters (and -- you do not need one, it is brilliant as it is)
Disclaimer:
Not a seasoned audiophile, so take my impressions with a grain of salt (maybe multiple grains of salt).
Thanks, Audio Geek community for gracefully helping me audition the ISN H60 and the Penon Pyramid Cable
** More about me, my music preferences & songs used for testing are added at last, so you need not scroll through things that are not necessarily interesting for you. **
Looks, fit & comfort:
Looks: Royal blue shells, with ISH logo. Full resin build, translucent -- can see the drivers inside.
Fit & comfort: Slightly chunky in size; but not heavy. Fits smoothly and was comfy in my ears.
Side-sleep test: Pass -- happily. Easy to wear for all use cases, ears were happy to host them for a long time.
Stock Cable:
- Well-behaved, no memory
- Slim, no microphonics with no pre-built ear hooks
Penon Pyramid Cable:
Take a moment (and take a bow Penon); this cable is awe-strikingly beautiful to look at. It portrays excellent craftsmanship, from the brass finished connectors to the intricate pharaoh and Egyptian sculpture engravings on the 4.4 connector.
This was so good to feel, that I never touched the stock cable -- all my impressions are with the Penon Pyramid Cable.
- Well-behaved, no memory (unless you wind it too tight)
- Nice and thick cable, no microphonics with no pre-built ear hooks
- Feels super plush and upmarket, definitely worth collecting it.
- Owing to the robust build it is heavier than other cables (but did you read about how beautiful they are)
Source chain:
Source device:
- Samsung S23
- Apple Mackbook Pro
- Asus 6z
Music streaming:
- Apple Music
- Hiby music (local FLAC files)
DAC & Amps:
- Fiio K11 R2R
- Moondrop Dawn pro
- VE Devastator
Sound Impressions:
Bass: Incredible bass delivery, energetic and fun. Never overpowering, but lands the thumps when the music needs it. Delivers percussions and beats with accurate rhythm and timing that ensures the music flows through your body making your feet move and hands tap.
Vocals: Clean and crystal clear vocals, not the star of the show -- at the same time not lacking. Voncals are renditioned to carry the song and the content in the right way, clear and precise.
Treble, Details & Resolution: Things will pop, move around, and catch your attention in a surprisingly pleasing way. The layering of instruments is very good.
Live music sounds great -- many a time you will hear even a small gasp/breath taken by the vocalist.
About me: [Feel free to skip]
**Not a seasoned audiophile**
More of a music lover, than an audiophile. Most of the time, I am lost in the song before I notice any technical details.
Music preferences:
- Severely localized (Tamil 75%, Hindi 20%, International 5%)
- Heavy on vocals; bass and instruments more supportive in nature
- Bass and beats on ~35% of songs
- Favorite artists:
- Composers: AR Rahman, Ilayaraja, Deva, MS Vishwanathan
- Male Vocals: SP Balasubramanian, Hariharan, KJ Yesudas, P Unnikrishnan
- Female Vocals: P Susheela, KS Chitra, Harini, Shreya Ghoshal
Glad, that you are here, thanks for reading.
Verdict: (and quick comparison)
ISN H60 is a bomb of an IEM, highly energetic. Checks all the boxes and leaves no stone unturned.
Listen to a few motivational/blood-pumping songs, and hours of energy will flow throughout your day.
vs FAN 3:
ISN H60 wins the bass, energy, fun, details, and resolution battles, with Fan 3 slightly behind by fractions. Fan 3 wins the vocals battle.
Personally, even though I enjoyed ISH H60 a lot, if I have to pinch my purse, I would pinch it for the Penon Fan 3 -- the fan 3 is slightly warmer, more relaxed, delivers a lot more goosebumps, and is more tuned to my song collection. And, of course, the BCD has a transcending effect.
After spending nearly 10 hours with the Simgot EW300 coupled with the Clarinet, the iFi GLM, and Sony A55, I'm actually leaning forwards the EW300 being my favorite Simgot. It's a close tussle, but after a little bit of back and forth, and just spending so much time with the the EW300, and though I prefer the stage of the EM6L a little more, I think the bass resolution and treble wispiness and texture of the EW300 is just slightly better, and I prefer it as a whole, but it's razor thin.
It's always nice to have someone with this kind of positive outlook in the mad mad world.Im just a happy shiny person who appreciates the skills of the manufacturers of these wonderful tiny hifi marvels that bring so much joy in a dark and trying time.
Edit check out my review of the BASN Bmaster5 i didn't like that
But let's be honest, has anyone ever liked a BASN product? They are the Amazon's built in KZ. They might as well be Amazon's budget label? I bought ONE a few years ago, and never again. NEVER AGAIN.
So this was an interesting comparo. The SP01 is much more efficient, and hence louder at lower volumes. I have the balanced nozzle. Both IEMs are sporting identical AZLA Crystal OG tips. The treble stands out on the SP01 as more natural, better extension, with excellent air and dynamism between the upper midrange and lower treble. It's FREE and it LIKES IT! Lower midrange is much cleaner and clearer, with a level of transparency that's a step above the H20, but the bass falls short of being as dynamic, impactful, snappy, and rumbly as the H20. It sounds almost linear in comparison (though in reality, it is not). The SP01 has a "free wheelin" technical, forward midrange, but with controlled treble, and punchy but clean bass presentation. This is a sunny daybreak tuning, while the H20 is a musical, lush, bassy warm (punch and rumble, but not a brutey bass, but a classy, controlled, resolving bass), but effortless elegance summer dusk tuning. If I were to use a basketball analogy, the SR SP01 is Karl Malone or Lebron James, and the H20 is Michael Jordan or Kobe Bryant. So completely different and contrasty signatures, and complimentary styles, so having both would not be a redundancy in the least. So elegant musical controlled, bassy, safe but still incisive treble FUN, that's the H20. More freely forward, clean technical, and controlled and airy treble FUN, that's the SP01.
Well, if you keep in mind that this is a audio thread, in an audio website, you can look at this as church. There are bishops and parishioners. Reverends and brethren. For the most part, yes, we are preaching to the choir, but there's also noobs who log in and are seeking advice. I was once that noob, looking for advice on replacing my Sennheiser CX300 II. So though there's certainly that type of echo chamber dynamic, there's also the hope that someone with less experience will stumble across your review or your impressions, and be guided in the right direction, and those who are seasoned, getting a bit of insight into what might be a prudent purchase?
The chamber doesn't have many outlets either. I started out as a reviewer on Amazon, then a Vine Reviewer for Amazon, and I did that for several years, then segued to Head-fi. I would post my impressions, and then had a couple companies reach out and ask if I'd like to review their product. But there aren't many outlets out there to spread the gospel, especially outside of your friends circle on other social media platforms.
As for aspiring, many "aspire" to get free gear. Even had a couple folks ask right on this thread "how can I get free gear? How can I become a reviewer?" In my case, it happened organically, Someone here, who is very kind, actually reached out to channels without my knowledge, and then asked me if I wanted to expand my impressions into reviews, and he could put me in touch with the proper folks. That's how it happened. I didn't seek out to do reviews again for free gear. Neither do I suspect did many to most of the well regarded reviewers here. Many, and some admittedly, see the "free gear" disclaimers, and the lightbulb goes off, not realizing that's not how it works.
Sound Rhyme SP01 is a righteous listen, with sound tailoring thanks to the nozzles having distinct sonic differences. It's also LOUD. You know what my feelings are about the ISN H60. The BE. ALL. END. ALL. of mid-fi IEMs.Only set that I use foams on. Beautifully crafted midrange that allows for hours of listening. Topped off with this shell that could pass as a multi-hundred-buck set.
I'm still eager to grab the SP01 with all the praise it's been getting ever since its launch - talk about staying relevant, WOW. Also looking forward to finally getting my ears on the ISN H60 which is currently touring Europe.
And I swear the tips are cleaner than they look on this pic, for some reason my phone loves to highlight debris and dust
That's Sonic Memory. Why did they do this Soncie Meory thing? I thought it was a chi-fi typo on Alix. some moves are so bewildering.
I have a desktop rig, but never use it. Now, that could change by tomorrow afternoon, when my XD05T arrives. This is going on my desktop along with the ZEN Air CAN, and so the desktop rig will be used more often, while I have some really high performance dongle dacs and amps that are truly mobile, so I'm not chained to a desk to get optimized sonics out of my gear.Don't let the treble of the BrainDance scare you. It's super CLEAN. I can be treble sensitive if certain peaks hit me in the wrong spot -- the AFUL P5+2 was a perfect example. But nothing about the BD's treble hit me wrong. Very clean and extended. Probably the best treble I've heard in a set, rivaled only by the Fan 2. I also have heard the Project M, and it has nice treble, too, but it can get a bit hot on some tracks.
Asking out loud: How many of you cats use portable DAPs and dongle-amps primarily at the desktop? Might it be a better idea to just run your IEMs through a desktop amp if the vast majority of your listening time is located at one spot? That's what I do with my JDS Labs Atom+. In fact, the only dongle or DAP I own is an Apple dongle.
Eager for your impressions!
Still am! The P5+2 is the only AFUL I've heard that I didn't like and only because the small treble peak hit me just in the wrong spot. Own the MagicOne and Explorer and still use them regularly. Never heard the P5, P8 or Cantor.
On another note, I'm still stoked at the performance of the Hype 2 I bought for $150 - 50 percent off - a few weeks back at Amazon.
They're EXCELLENT for all forms of rock, my primary genre. Just the right kind of V for this genre. Plus, the treble detail and extension are terrific. Cymbals sound better on these than any IEM I've heard other than the BrainDance.
I want a deal on the OG Oxygen. The Origin was the less glorified of the two, with the safe treble tuning. I would love a killer deal on the Oxygen in the same fashion as the Hype 2 deal. Origin tuning isn't got me.
With Paul, he and I listen to a lot of the same kind of music, with of course the natural variants that don't cross over, but there's enough that if I dig a set that I feel plays well with rock or acid jazz or classic rock, then usually it will translate between the two of us. Our languages will speak fluently. Now we do get those occasional French language translations (P7, Project M, Nuo), but compared to hits, the misses are few and far in between. I'm just glad we hit on the Hype 2, because even at half price, $150.00 ain't cheap on a flier.
One last thing....The ISN H20!!!
The price to performance STEAL of 2025!! I can't think of a close rival (maybe the Shell?! Decet?!). The effortless and elegant musicality is off the charts.
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The new Letshuoer DX1 landed last day and I got to try it today, a new single DD from them that's been in development for two years. Very much to my liking with a refined and sweet tonality, remind me a lot of their flagship Cadenza 12 in tonality. Price is not official yet so i will keep it for myself, but I do belive this can be a really solid recommendation that many will like.
Also check the design, sort of industrial and minimalistic. Also built really solid and has some weight to them. I like it, what do you guys think?
Also check the design, sort of industrial and minimalistic. Also built really solid and has some weight to them. I like it, what do you guys think?
Always interested in single-DDs that stand apart from the crowd. But I'm not a fan of shiny metal IEMs, and that last picture reminds me why. Can't tell if those are scratches from a prior reviewer or just dirt.The new Letshuoer DX1 landed last day and I got to try it today, a new single DD from them that's been in development for two years. Very much to my liking with a refined and sweet tonality, remind me a lot of their flagship Cadenza 12 in tonality. Price is not official yet so i will keep it for myself, but I do belive this can be a really solid recommendation that many will like.
Also check the design, sort of industrial and minimalistic. Also built really solid and has some weight to them. I like it, what do you guys think?
The brushed edge?
Indeed. To take your analogy further, rather than "preaching to the choir," it's as if most of us in the IEM hobby (not just reviewers) speak to each other using the same exact Bible quotations. They're meaningful statements to the initiated, but laymen are going to be left scratching their heads. It's a very insular (and awesome!) community. I'm just noticing more and more how much influence reviewers have had on determining the terms, phrases, and ideas we all traffic in. Reviewers writing for other reviewers.
Only if that "brush" was made out of rebar and granite! But, no, those don't look like brushed edges in the photos. Looks like someone scraped the tops of them over asphalt while they were driving down the road at 60mph. Maybe an optical effect and not real?
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Yeah, the ring around is brushed on the front. Its a completely new set, so its made like this. Can show one more photo of it:
But yeah @Hypops, metal IEMs are always prone to get scratches.
Eeek. My jeweler friend would have plenty of choice words about the uneven brush job. At that angle, they look like $0.05 brushed hex nuts. Not a fan.Yeah, the ring around is brushed on the front. Its a completely new set, so its made like this. Can show one more photo of it:
But yeah @Hypops, metal IEMs are always prone to get scratches.
But as you all know well, I'm stupidly picky about aesthetics. Probably not anything anyone else would ever notice or care about.
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Cadenza 12, a tour review unit from Audio Geek Europe
This is a Detail monster, analytical, layers all in elite level. Cadenza 12 has a great depth and feels tight, fast and snug, no big rumble or decay, just clean and lean. This is flat tuned, that let your recordings playback " as intended" so with lots of power and as linear source you get the most of it, for me it was my Topping D50 iii, A50 iii medium gain and play it as loud as my ears could take that made me enjoy this set at it most, separation is crazy so recommend busy tracks. The build and cable felt very high quality and i used the IEM with Azla serdina orgin short.
This is a Detail monster, analytical, layers all in elite level. Cadenza 12 has a great depth and feels tight, fast and snug, no big rumble or decay, just clean and lean. This is flat tuned, that let your recordings playback " as intended" so with lots of power and as linear source you get the most of it, for me it was my Topping D50 iii, A50 iii medium gain and play it as loud as my ears could take that made me enjoy this set at it most, separation is crazy so recommend busy tracks. The build and cable felt very high quality and i used the IEM with Azla serdina orgin short.
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pk4425
Headphoneus Supremus
As A.J. Foyt still likes to say, "This is quite true." Your ears and mine are pretty similar, Charlie. If you like a model for rock, chances are I will dig, too. You nailed the bull's-eye with the Hype 2. Have savored every second of listening to a bunch of rock with it today.
Single DD, eh?The new Letshuoer DX1 landed last day and I got to try it today, a new single DD from them that's been in development for two years. Very much to my liking with a refined and sweet tonality, remind me a lot of their flagship Cadenza 12 in tonality. Price is not official yet so i will keep it for myself, but I do belive this can be a really solid recommendation that many will like.
Also check the design, sort of industrial and minimalistic. Also built really solid and has some weight to them. I like it, what do you guys think?
Man, I would have thought those were planar from first glance. The horizontal bars on the outside of the shell look just like Fazor magnets in an Audeze over-ear planar can!
Redcarmoose
Headphoneus Supremus
Well just remember the list is subjective and only relevant to the moment that it was written, meaning tomorrow it could be in a slightly different order. Though the real strange one is the Schiit Asgard being so high up. Only because I’m doing a full-size headphone review and pulled it out. Though while $249.00 back in 2011, it is the product that started Schiit. And while running hot, it is still very neutral and spacious in output. Where the TA is really the better amp being it is more filled in and complete in response, plus it has a DAC where the Asgard is only an amp. This should be expected at almost 10X the cost. But the TA/Asgard test was done by using the DAC from the TA, so the actual personality of the amp section of the TA and Asgard amplifier personality could be found. But having both of those desktops is fun to hear how the differences are. The Schiit like a teenager flighty and under detailed, the TA like the older professional, though the TA is darker and smoother, plus more cohesive/detailed.
Quirks?
Gosh yes. In a way every source I have has its own personality. Where really I identify with the 1A and 1Z and TA personally the most, yet even between those three they are same,same and different,differences! But the Sony stages are the widest!
Though having the R3 II is good for the TypeC USB output. The HeartField R1 is the one that has the most quirks in that it is totally different from the different TypeC USB power protocols. But also being my only ladder DAC it also sounds different. Plus it has at times sounds that play when the volume is all the way down, or echos to one side when the song stops due to the TypeC power levels.
But at times I simply love a few due to moments I had with them. Like the little 3.5mm FiiO E17K Alpen......again nothing sounds like that one, same as the Shanling UA30......so lovable and special, having a sound all its own!
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ListlessHeart
Head-Fier
Last day of Spring sale with 9 hours remaining. I have almost wrapped up my purchases with the Intuaura Plume from Linsoul yesterday, and a random $30 IEM on AliExpress just now. All that remains is to decide whether or not to PTT on the new CVJ x R2E3 Mermaid 2. Tbh I have never done a fully blind buy before so this seems a bit risky, usually I would at least read or watch reviews before buying, but this is too new so no review is out yet. Oh well $70 is cheap enough to blind buy I suppose.
On a side note the new Ziigaat Lush is only $179, in a few months with AliExpress sales it might be down to $140-150 so I am a bit interested, gonna wait for reviews though. Hopefully Tangzu and Aful will be at CanJam SoCal in September, I really want to try some of their IEMs.
The random $30 that I bought.
On a side note the new Ziigaat Lush is only $179, in a few months with AliExpress sales it might be down to $140-150 so I am a bit interested, gonna wait for reviews though. Hopefully Tangzu and Aful will be at CanJam SoCal in September, I really want to try some of their IEMs.
The random $30 that I bought.
iscorpio71
500+ Head-Fier
Forward Words:
First, I thank Audio Geek’s founder and community for letting me audition for the Qudelix T71 (Product Link)—link for specification and pricing.
Disclosure:
I want to clarify that I’m not a professional reviewer; I’ve been an active participant in the audio community and was fortunate to be invited to join Audio Geek. In other words, you’re receiving impressions based on my experience with the Qudelix T71 and my humble sonic knowledge gained from decades of music listening and extensive time with in-ear monitors and various audio equipment.
Physicality:
The Qudelix T71 features a monolithic, slab-like design constructed from aluminum. The build quality is solid, but the rough edges might not taste everyone. It has four illuminated buttons, which provide a tactile and responsive interface. The device is noticeably larger than typical dongles, making it slightly less portable but still manageable.
Notable highlights include its 1000mAh battery, which provides 4 to 10 hours of usage, depending on the load and settings. The 240x135 color LCD screen is a welcome addition, offering real-time audio information, such as channel formats (e.g., 5.1 or 7.1 surround). Another key feature is the highly customizable 20-band equalizer, which can be adjusted via a dedicated Chrome app or Android software.
Hardware:
I used the original USB-C connection and a MacBook Pro for my testing. Listening was conducted mainly through the 4.4mm balanced termination, connected to a KAEI TAP1 amp in Tube mode at high gain. I briefly tested the T71’s USB-C in-ear monitors, but most of my listening impressions are based on the 4.4mm output.
One of the most significant trade-offs of the T71 compared to its predecessor, the 5K, is the absence of Bluetooth connectivity. This omission is disappointing, given the growing demand for wireless convenience. Additionally, while the software interface is powerful, it poses a steep learning curve that may require some patience to navigate effectively.
Sound:
Sonically, the Qudelix T71 delivers a predominantly neutral tonality with a slight bass boost. The low-end presence is controlled yet impactful without overwhelming the midrange. Its standout sonic attributes are its staging and separation, which provide an open and immersive listening experience. Instrument layering is well-defined, making pinpointing individual elements within a mix easy.
Customization is a strong suit of the T71, with extensive EQ options allowing for fine-tuned sonic adjustments. Whether you prefer a reference-style sound signature or a more colored response, the device provides ample flexibility to cater to individual preferences.
Final Thoughts:
The Qudelix T71 is an impressive DAC/amp with a robust feature set and excellent audio performance. While the lack of Bluetooth and the learning curve of its app may deter some users, those seeking a highly customizable and detailed listening experience will find a lot to appreciate. Its build quality, real-time audio monitoring, and extensive EQ options make it a compelling choice for audiophiles who prioritizing sound quality and control.
For those willing to invest time into understanding its software and adjusting its settings, the T71 can be a rewarding tool in an audiophile’s arsenal.
First, I thank Audio Geek’s founder and community for letting me audition for the Qudelix T71 (Product Link)—link for specification and pricing.
Disclosure:
I want to clarify that I’m not a professional reviewer; I’ve been an active participant in the audio community and was fortunate to be invited to join Audio Geek. In other words, you’re receiving impressions based on my experience with the Qudelix T71 and my humble sonic knowledge gained from decades of music listening and extensive time with in-ear monitors and various audio equipment.
Physicality:
The Qudelix T71 features a monolithic, slab-like design constructed from aluminum. The build quality is solid, but the rough edges might not taste everyone. It has four illuminated buttons, which provide a tactile and responsive interface. The device is noticeably larger than typical dongles, making it slightly less portable but still manageable.
Notable highlights include its 1000mAh battery, which provides 4 to 10 hours of usage, depending on the load and settings. The 240x135 color LCD screen is a welcome addition, offering real-time audio information, such as channel formats (e.g., 5.1 or 7.1 surround). Another key feature is the highly customizable 20-band equalizer, which can be adjusted via a dedicated Chrome app or Android software.
Hardware:
I used the original USB-C connection and a MacBook Pro for my testing. Listening was conducted mainly through the 4.4mm balanced termination, connected to a KAEI TAP1 amp in Tube mode at high gain. I briefly tested the T71’s USB-C in-ear monitors, but most of my listening impressions are based on the 4.4mm output.
One of the most significant trade-offs of the T71 compared to its predecessor, the 5K, is the absence of Bluetooth connectivity. This omission is disappointing, given the growing demand for wireless convenience. Additionally, while the software interface is powerful, it poses a steep learning curve that may require some patience to navigate effectively.
Sound:
Sonically, the Qudelix T71 delivers a predominantly neutral tonality with a slight bass boost. The low-end presence is controlled yet impactful without overwhelming the midrange. Its standout sonic attributes are its staging and separation, which provide an open and immersive listening experience. Instrument layering is well-defined, making pinpointing individual elements within a mix easy.
Customization is a strong suit of the T71, with extensive EQ options allowing for fine-tuned sonic adjustments. Whether you prefer a reference-style sound signature or a more colored response, the device provides ample flexibility to cater to individual preferences.
Final Thoughts:
The Qudelix T71 is an impressive DAC/amp with a robust feature set and excellent audio performance. While the lack of Bluetooth and the learning curve of its app may deter some users, those seeking a highly customizable and detailed listening experience will find a lot to appreciate. Its build quality, real-time audio monitoring, and extensive EQ options make it a compelling choice for audiophiles who prioritizing sound quality and control.
For those willing to invest time into understanding its software and adjusting its settings, the T71 can be a rewarding tool in an audiophile’s arsenal.
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