The discovery thread!

[Skeith]

What IEM is that ?

It's from Headfonia High End Munich 2025 show.

 

[Pseudonym031]

I had the opportunity to enjoy this TOTL build quality tank thanks to AudioGeek and DITA! Thank you so much for the ride!

DITA Mecha

Pros

- Bomb-proof titanium build that feels super premium.

- Punchy, textured bass and clear, lively mids-great for both music and movies.

- Modular cable system makes it easy to swap between different devices.

Con

- The shells are heavy, so the fit might not work for everyone, especially for long listening sessions.

First Impressions

DITA Mecha stands out with its industrial titanium design and top-tier build quality. The bass is deep and satisfying, mids are rich, and the modular cable is a big plus for everyday use. If you want a durable, energetic IEM that’s fun to listen to and built to last, Mecha is a solid choice-just be aware of the weight if you have sensitive ears.

Fit & Comfort

The shells are pretty chunky and have some weight to them, but the shape is ergonomic. With the right tips, they sit well, though you’ll feel the heft after a while. Not the lightest, but definitely sturdy.

Sound

- Bass:

Mecha’s bass is the star-deep, punchy, and textured. It’s got a nice rumble but doesn’t drown out the rest of the music. Great for EDM, pop, and anything with a beat.

- Mids:

Mids are clean and detailed. Vocals (especially male) sound natural and upfront, though not super thick or warm. Instruments come through with good clarity.

- Treble:

Treble is smooth and detailed. No harsh peaks, so it’s easy to listen to for a long time. There’s enough sparkle to keep things lively, but it never gets sharp.

Summary

DITA Mecha is a fun, bassy, and technically not to bad IEM with a tough titanium shell and a great cable. It’s not the most clinical earphone, but if you want something energetic with punchy bass and solid build, it’s a great pick. Price is on the higher side, but the quality and accessories help justify it. If you like your music lively and want something that’ll last, Mecha is worth a look.

A pleasure as always, thanks AG and Dita for making it possible!

 

[Redcarmoose]

First impressions:

At $299.00 the Astral is promoted by Kiwi ears as being for Audiofools and music professionals.
Comes in two colors a "yellow" and blue.

Kiwi ears marketing script
1DD+6BA Hybrid IEM for Studio-Grade Sound:

Kiwi Ears Astral combines a 10mm bio-ceramic dynamic driver with six balanced armature drivers to deliver an impeccably balanced audio signature. It offers a controlled sub-bass that merges smoothly into a clear midrange and refined treble, ensuring every detail is faithfully reproduced.

Professional Design and Performance: The Kiwi Ears Astral is a high-end in-ear monitor developed for music professionals and astute audiophiles. It is engineered to deliver accurate audio resolution and a balanced tonal response. The design focuses on clarity and precision, ensuring that each component works together for faithful sound reproduction.

Dynamic Driver Subwoofer: The Astral features a 10mm bio-ceramic diaphragm dynamic driver designed to reproduce low sub-bass frequencies. The driver produces a firm sub-bass thump that transitions smoothly into the bass range. The tuning of the bass includes a rolling cutoff at 300Hz to allow a natural flow into the midrange.

Balanced Armature Driver System: The device incorporates six balanced armature drivers, arranged as two dual midrange drivers and a dual ultra-high frequency tweeter. The custom midrange drivers are designed to provide a neutral frequency response with a specific emphasis at 2.8kHz to match natural hearing. The tweeter has been modified to achieve a smoother ultra-frequency response that integrates seamlessly with the midrange.

Tonal Signature and Tuning: The tonal profile of the Astral features a 9dB sub-bass shelf that transitions into the low-midrange with a cutoff at 300Hz. This design maintains a flat and neutral midrange, ensuring accurate sound reproduction. The treble is defined by a peak at 2.8kHz, which gradually rolls off up to 15kHz, extending the upper frequency range while avoiding harshness.

First impressions:
Anyone who has seen the Kiwi ears factory tour knows the company is doing their magic the old fashioned way. They are working for it to happen. Big IEM output yet super high quality and attention to detail. Not to mention some of the highest technology used to design and build IEMs today in 2025. They are successful by catering to the masses with a true sound value……and whatever that brings to the table.

Astral:
Here we are shown 6BAs showcasing a little more brightness than the first impressions of the Kiwi ears Étude I just did. Then there is a 10mm bioceramic which produces a 9dB bass shelf which then cuts off at 300Hz. What this does is open a splendid window for the vocals to arrive at, never clouded over or in competition with the bass energy. In fact after a half hour I’m experiencing this bass as maybe not as dramatic as the Étude with its BCD and 10mm Beryllium driver, but a more detailed and provocative reserved affair that still totally kicks. Yep, there is an extra level of bass sophistication here, where it is a little more in the pocket and careful competing with the 6BAs. This treble peaks at 2.8kHz and takes a downward drop to 15kHz. Such a tune then reinforces a flat midrange to carefully show just what is up if being used as a professional mixing monitor, or the transparent tune wanted by audiophiles.

Size:
Size is perfect and they fit slightly better than the Étude, still both are splendid in form and fit. You get an extra set of filters for the aluminum nozzles, and strangely only 3 sets of ear-tips.

Probably they had to account for the cost of the best cable ever for Kiwi ears. Yep, they did it this time. Finally Kiwi ears are keeping up with the Joneses here. Offering a modular cable with a 3.5mm and 4.4mm termination. Not only that but the cable itself is the bomb!

Overall sound impressions:
Here we are shown a nice medium wide stage that is filled with extra details like you would expect from 6BAs. The timbre is really good here, as expected now in 2025. Probably my favorite aspect of this tune is how it is a little more vibrant than the Lush, and offers better contrasts and imaging than both the Lush and the Étude. While a little less romantic than the Étude, we are now here inside a clear yet very much all business tone. No bass lumbering, and a full-on balanced idea of how you should do midrange and treble. This is brighter than both the Lush and the Étude, brings about those details that arrive hand and hand with the extra action and energy from 6BAs!

Ziigaat Lush, Kiwi ears Étude and Kiwi ears Astral

 

[Pseudonym031]

I had the opportunity to experience something new and I loved it. So here we go!

LetShuoer Mystic 8 – The Phantom Cat

The LetShuoer Mystic 8 is a set that truly deserves more attention in the audiophile world. Having spent time with these IEMs, I can confidently say they offer a rare blend of stunning design, impeccable comfort, and a sound signature that challenges and redefines expectations-especially for someone who considers themselves a basshead.

Design & Build Quality

The Mystic 8 is a masterclass in craftsmanship. Its CNC-milled titanium shell not only looks luxurious with its glossy black finish and intricate “Phantom Cat” faceplate, but also feels robust and premium in hand. Despite the use of titanium, these IEMs are surprisingly lightweight and ergonomically shaped, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit for long listening sessions-on par with the comfort of the Cadenza 12 and 4.

A true highlight is the cable. It’s an 8-core, silver-plated monocrystalline copper cable with a soft, matte finish. The cable is nearly perfect in both function and feel: it’s supple, resists tangling, and complements the overall design beautifully. For me, this is easily one of the best stock cables I’ve ever used with an IEM.

Comfort & Fit

The fit is nothing short of excellent. Mystic 8 sits flush in the ear, almost disappearing during wear. There’s no pressure or discomfort, making them ideal for extended listening. The wide selection of included ear tips ensures you’ll find a combination that works for your ears, further enhancing comfort and isolation.

Sound – A Lesson in Balance

As a self-identified basshead, my initial reaction was that the bass was more restrained than I’m used to. Mystic 8 offers a neutral-warm tuning with bass that is fast, tight, and impeccably controlled-never bloated or overpowering. Over time, I came to appreciate that it’s not about the sheer quantity of bass, but the quality and how it integrates with the rest of the spectrum. The bass is always present when called for, but never overshadows the mix, allowing every instrument and nuance to shine through.

Where Mystic 8 truly excels is in the midrange and vocals. Vocals are second to none-pure, natural, airy, and with a lifelike presence that makes music feel intimate and immediate. I have yet to hear another IEM that delivers vocals with such clarity and realism. The overall tonal balance is natural and engaging, never clinical or dull. Treble is airy and detailed, offering plenty of sparkle without harshness or fatigue.


Summary

LetShuoer Mystic 8 is a set that deserves far more recognition. It may not be the IEM for those seeking maximal bass impact, but it will teach you the importance of balance and quality in crafting a truly engaging listening experience. The build quality, design, and especially the cable are all top-tier. The fit is among the best I’ve experienced, and the vocal performance is in a league of its own. Don’t miss out on this set-it’s one that grows on you with every listen and delivers on every front for those who value musicality, balance, and tactile satisfaction.

Pros:

- Outstanding build quality and luxurious titanium design

- Cable is near perfection in both feel and functionality

- Exceptional comfort and fit

- World-class vocals and midrange

- Balanced, natural sound signature

Cons:

- Bass may feel restrained for hardcore bassheads

- No modular cable option

LetShuoer Mystic 8 is an IEM that deserves your attention-don’t sleep on this gem!

I want to thank AudioGeek and LetShuoer for making it possible so that I could learn something new and experice a side of this hobby I would probably not have done otherwise, for that I am very thankful and happy!

 

[WAON303]

I'm from Puerto Rico and have not seen tariffs yet on ali, no idea how tariffs will be handled here?

Changing the location to USA on Ali will clear any promo discounts and free shipping is pretty much nonexistent, presumably because that's how tariffs are being added to goods right now.

I've been browsing the aliexpress subreddit for a few weeks and found this:

https://www.reddit.com/r/Aliexpress/comments/1konapg/_/

If import fees are paid in advance or are included in the price, I assume no other fees will apply.

 

[Ozboyblu]

First impressions:

At $299.00 the Astral is promoted by Kiwi ears as being for Audiofools and music professionals.
Comes in two colors a "yellow" and blue.

Kiwi ears marketing script
1DD+6BA Hybrid IEM for Studio-Grade Sound:

Kiwi Ears Astral combines a 10mm bio-ceramic dynamic driver with six balanced armature drivers to deliver an impeccably balanced audio signature. It offers a controlled sub-bass that merges smoothly into a clear midrange and refined treble, ensuring every detail is faithfully reproduced.

Professional Design and Performance: The Kiwi Ears Astral is a high-end in-ear monitor developed for music professionals and astute audiophiles. It is engineered to deliver accurate audio resolution and a balanced tonal response. The design focuses on clarity and precision, ensuring that each component works together for faithful sound reproduction.

Dynamic Driver Subwoofer: The Astral features a 10mm bio-ceramic diaphragm dynamic driver designed to reproduce low sub-bass frequencies. The driver produces a firm sub-bass thump that transitions smoothly into the bass range. The tuning of the bass includes a rolling cutoff at 300Hz to allow a natural flow into the midrange.

Balanced Armature Driver System: The device incorporates six balanced armature drivers, arranged as two dual midrange drivers and a dual ultra-high frequency tweeter. The custom midrange drivers are designed to provide a neutral frequency response with a specific emphasis at 2.8kHz to match natural hearing. The tweeter has been modified to achieve a smoother ultra-frequency response that integrates seamlessly with the midrange.

Tonal Signature and Tuning: The tonal profile of the Astral features a 9dB sub-bass shelf that transitions into the low-midrange with a cutoff at 300Hz. This design maintains a flat and neutral midrange, ensuring accurate sound reproduction. The treble is defined by a peak at 2.8kHz, which gradually rolls off up to 15kHz, extending the upper frequency range while avoiding harshness.

First impressions:
Anyone who has seen the Kiwi ears factory tour knows the company is doing their magic the old fashioned way. They are working for it to happen. Big IEM output yet super high quality and attention to detail. No to mention some of the highest technology used to design and build IEMs today in 2025. They are successful by catering to the masses with a true sound value……and whatever that brings to the table.

Astral:
Here we are shown 6BAs showcasing a little more brightness than the first impressions of the Kiwi ears Étude I just did. Then there is a 10mm bioceramic which produces a 9dB bass shelf which then cuts off at 300Hz. What this does is open a splendid window for the vocals to arrive at, never clouded over or in competition with the bass energy. In fact after a a half hour I’m experiencing this bass as maybe not as dramatic as the Étude with its BCD and 10mm Beryllium driver, but a more detailed and provocative reserved affair that still totally kicks. Yep, there is an extra level of bass sophistication here, where it is a little more in the pocket and careful competing with the 6BAs. This treble peaks at 2.8kHz and takes a downward drop to 15kHz. Such a tune then reinforces a flat midrange to carefully show just what is up if being used as a professional mixing monitor, or the transparent tune wanted by audiophiles.

Size:
Size is perfect and they fit slightly better than the Étude, still both are splendid in form and fit. You get an extra set of filters for the aluminum nozzles, and strangely only 3 sets of ear-tips.

Probably they had to account for the cost of the best cable ever for Kiwi ears. Yep, they did it this time. Finally Kiwi ears are keeping up with the Jones here. Offering a modular cable with a 3.5mm and 4.4mm termination. Not only that but the cable itself is the bomb!

Overall sound impressions:
Here we are shown a nice medium wide stage that is filled with extra details like you would expect from 6BAs. The timbre is really good here, as expected now in 2025. Probably my favorite aspect of this tune is how it is a little more vibrant than the Lush, and offers better contrasts and imaging than both the Lush and the Étude. While a little less romantic than the Étude, we are now here inside a clear yet very much all business tone. No bass lumbering, and a full-on balanced idea of how you should do midrange and treble. This is brighter than both the Lush and the Étude, brings about those details that arrive hand and hand with the extra action and energy from 6BAs!


Ziigaat Lush, Kiwi ears Étude and Kiwi ears Astral

I had my eye on these also after @thaslaya recommended I pick this up and @Leonarfd had a set too and spoke highly of them. But your first impressions and the golden glittery faceplate of the so called ‘Yellow’ version made me PTT.

Thanks @Uprox for mentioning this cable. This allowed me to be able to use the $70 coupon , along with the Kiwi Ears Astral.


Final May purchase.

---

PS in the process of catching up on 30 pages.

 

[GREQ]

What IEM is that ?

It's from Headfonia High End Munich 2025 show.

It's a new brand called Swecci Audio.

I was talking with the representative for a bit, they're planning to release their brand in the next few months.
They didn't even book a table, but luckily hitched a ride on the Erzetich table.

It's a higher end boutique brand with hand painted shells.
I think the 2nd most expensive model (on the right) will be over 1000 EUR IIRC.

 

[Leonarfd]

What IEM is that ?

It's from Headfonia High End Munich 2025 show.

As @GREQ say, it's an upcoming brand. I spent time with the two more expensive ones, the one on the right is called Scale and is 1dd 4ba 4est and had a thick fun sound. The Kukulkan middle one the flagship and has 2dd 6ba 4est 2bc, more balanced sound and the mids stuck out as clear and Nuanced.

Have some photos to share when home again tomorrow, maybe taking some extra with the phone incase the camera ones are bad

 

[FreeWheelinAudioLuv2]

I'm from Puerto Rico and have not seen tariffs yet on ali, no idea how tariffs will be handled here?

Changing the location to USA on Ali will clear any promo discounts and free shipping is pretty much nonexistent, presumably because that's how tariffs are being added to goods right now.

I've been browsing the aliexpress subreddit for a few weeks and found this:

https://www.reddit.com/r/Aliexpress/comments/1konapg/_/

If import fees are paid in advance or are included in the price, I assume no other fees will apply.

Yeah, I don't think the port tariffs work the same way in PR? My family is from there, and as a territory, not sure how the tariffs would work, but I imagine differently?

I had my eye on these also after @thaslaya recommended I pick this up and @Leonarfd had a set too and spoke highly of them. But your first impressions and the golden glittery faceplate of the so called ‘Yellow’ version made me PTT.







Thanks @Uprox for mentioning this cable. This allowed me to be able to use the $70 coupon , along with the Kiwi Ears Astral.


Final May purchase.

---

PS in the process of catching up on 30 pages.

Final May purchase of May 17th?

As @GREQ say, it's an upcoming brand. I spent time with the two more expensive ones, the one on the right is called Scale and is 1dd 4ba 4est and had a thick fun sound. The Rukulkan(maybe butchering the name) middle one the flagship and has 2dd 6ba 4est 2bc, more balanced sound and the mids stuck out as clear and Nuanced.

Have some photos to share when home again tomorrow, maybe taking some extra with the phone incase the camera ones are bad

Another start up coming at us with kilobuck offerings right out the gate. Let's see how this ends up?

 

[GroovyAudio]

I bet the Surface is really good too. Looks to have small shells, so this should be ideal for you?

Indeed the shells look very small, definitely below 6mm so I'm not worried about the fit with this one.

 

[GREQ]

As @GREQ say, it's an upcoming brand. I spent time with the two more expensive ones, the one on the right is called Scale and is 1dd 4ba 4est and had a thick fun sound. The Rukulkan(maybe butchering the name) middle one the flagship and has 2dd 6ba 4est 2bc, more balanced sound and the mids stuck out as clear and Nuanced.

Have some photos to share when home again tomorrow, maybe taking some extra with the phone incase the camera ones are bad

It's Kukulkan, the name of an ancient Mayan mythical deity.
Clearly they have some work to do with the marketing, I couldn't read it either XD

 

[nikbr]

The Bass on the Phonenixia is a little polite for my taste.

Polite in what way? It's not really a katana, instead it's more a blunted knife, sure, but overall I think it's balanced and does it all well enough at this price.

If you're after absolute detail retrieval, stage grandeur, and a clean neutral presentation, Archangel is your IEM

If you want lush mids, smooth highs, and rich musicality, EBC80 still holds its ground beautifully.

Both are standouts — but in different sonic worlds.

Great summary, really gives the reader a good insight what to expect! I would prefer the Archangel, most likely.

Man i really wanna grab a set, but right now a bit occupied with other stuff. Will wait for your impressions, kindly tag me when you post them.

*about Prelude*
More to come, but this responds to sources sweetly too, it's currently singing so beautifully via Nunchaku's tube mode.

Thank you. I hope to pair it with my Night Oblivion Butastur for even better resolution and details.

Butastur! Haven't heard about it in a while and I wouldn't mind hearing it again some day. Mids and treble were quite special.

 

[Uprox]

Butastur! Haven't heard about it in a while and I wouldn't mind hearing it again some day. Mids and treble were quite special.

As for me Butastur has quite boring tonality shape, therefore I'm looking for a cable can make more funcy sound. But Butastur is excellent in micro/macro dynamics and overwhelmed in realistic timbre.

 

[Redcarmoose]

As for me Butastur has quite boring tonality shape, therefore I'm looking for a cable can make more funcy sound. But Butastur is excellent in micro/macro dynamics and overwhelmed in realistic timbre.

Butastur comes alive with the Penon ASOS+X in 4.4mm. Also by adding the bass authority from the WM1Z! I love it to death!

 

[icnaiwhimor1975]

Latest BGVP cable Gold Rose
- incredible feel and build
- beautiful hardware
- nice weight, tasteful thickness, not too much of either
- stable weave, not too soft, no memory effect
- the most imperceptible insulation, even better than Effect Audio and Eletech
- uncapped extension into sub-bass and upper registers, dynamic and potent sound
- Great unboxing experience, full leather box and case
- comes stock with BGVP Phantom SE Year of the Snake edition

A very pleasant surprise, I was looking for a 4-wire replacement for Effect Audio in 200-300$ range.

the cable looks very massive