The Musicopia : A wonderous community for sharing and discussing music, audio gear, IEMs, headphones, and a cornucopia of experiences small & large.

[AxelCloris]

Totally dig these Can Jam preview videos that @jude and @AxelCloris deliver! Gets me so psyched for my upcoming Can Jam experience (No! It's not Singapore! I WISH!). I'll be at SoCal. This one is 5 hours long! Can't wait for the SoCal vid to hit, and the preview thread and impressions thread. I'm gonna be neck deep in those.

Thank you for the kind words. I just wanted to chime in and make sure that @joe, who does the majority of the editing on these Preview Videos, and @warrenpchi, whose graphics can be seen across many of our videos, don't get missed in the shout-outs! CanJam Singapore is going to be fire this weekend.

 

[FreeWheelinAudioLuv2]

Thank you for the kind words. I just wanted to chime in and make sure that @joe, who does the majority of the editing on these Preview Videos, and @warrenpchi, whose graphics can be seen across many of our videos, don't get missed in the shout-outs! CanJam Singapore is going to be fire this weekend.

Yes! Thank you @joe and @warrenpchi (an active member of Musicopia) for your hard work with these vids! You're welcome, Brian. Thank you!

---

Excellent listening day on Monday March 31st. Started the morning off with what carried me thru the night, which is the Sony NW-A45 (mwm mod) + FiiO Q1 II + CCA Trio. Listened to some jazz instead of my usual metal with the Trio, and they performed more than admirably, and actually are very good for jazz as well.

Then my daily trio, which includes the AFUL MagicOne, Letshuoer Cadenza 4, and the NiceHCK NX7 MK III (my favorite in the series). The MagicOne and NX7 will be getting the big green TOOB treatment, which some vocal jazz stylings from the XD05T! Then the Cadenza 4 will get the Clarinet treatment late tonight. Bon Audiotit! (teat?!).

---

@jbfps116 - We're gonna have to agree to disagree here. LOL I'm starting to call into question your sources?

The H20 splashier than the ZXN? That's almost on par with saying the Zenith has more extension of both ends than the ZVX?! LOL The H20 has very reserved extension and air, with very little shimmer, so how it can be splashy is beyond me? Either there's some synergy issues with your sources, synergy mismatches with cables and tips, or I don't really know?! Overanalyzing the music?! I really don't know?! LOL

 

[jbfps116]

Got a mail call in today... [STILL no Shell though... if they don't come tomorrow, I'm going to contact Linsoul. It's been Way longer than it should.]
~Juzear Clear
~QKZ ZX2
~ZINHS HS80

Problems:
Clear is very bassy, but unsure I like the overall sound. I paid the price of the amazing cable though, so the IEM was basically free. More burn-in / cable rolling needed.

~ZX2: ... I LIKE LIKE LIKE what I hear, BUT. I think there's a massive channel imbalance because one side is way less bassy than the other. At first, I thought I wasn't getting a good seal... but after multiple tip/source rolls, I'm fairly convinced the QKZ lottery bit me this time. This is the VERY FIRST case of this channel imbalance I've ever heard on ANY IEM so...Kinda dissapointed, because the mids and treble sound STUNNING... probably better than ZXN or ZXD... but the bass is just NOT the same on both sides. Will ask for a refund, and will order another set because I think this could be a real WINNER if I get a properly balanced set. There's just almost no sub-bass in the left side I'm not even going to burn these in because... they're essentially useless.
That being said, I'm assuming there's no practical way to try fix the channel balance myself?? like checking for a filter or something...

~HS80... awesome IEM looks and cable... but I'm not super convinced of the sound off the bat. and the fit is... a bit tough for me. [kinda like the ISN H60j] However, this is the best of the three sets I just got so I'm going to hold out hope for them haha... it's a very mature, sober sound... a little thick maybe...bassy enough I think... I could see it getting better over time though!

 

[FreeWheelinAudioLuv2]

Got a mail call in today... [STILL no Shell though... if they don't come tomorrow, I'm going to contact Linsoul. It's been Way longer than it should.]
~Juzear Clear
~QKZ ZX2
~ZINHS HS80

Problems:
Clear is very bassy, but unsure I like the overall sound. I paid the price of the amazing cable though, so the IEM was basically free. More burn-in / cable rolling needed.

~ZX2: ... I LIKE LIKE LIKE what I hear, BUT. I think there's a massive channel imbalance because one side is way less bassy than the other. At first, I thought I wasn't getting a good seal... but after multiple tip/source rolls, I'm fairly convinced the QKZ lottery bit me this time. This is the VERY FIRST case of this channel imbalance I've ever heard on ANY IEM so...Kinda dissapointed, because the mids and treble sound STUNNING... probably better than ZXN or ZXD... but the bass is just NOT the same on both sides. Will ask for a refund, and will order another set because I think this could be a real WINNER if I get a properly balanced set. There's just almost no sub-bass in the left side I'm not even going to burn these in because... they're essentially useless.
That being said, I'm assuming there's no practical way to try fix the channel balance myself?? like checking for a filter or something...

~HS80... awesome IEM looks and cable... but I'm not super convinced of the sound off the bat. and the fit is... a bit tough for me. [kinda like the ISN H60j] However, this is the best of the three sets I just got so I'm going to hold out hope for them haha... it's a very mature, sober sound... a little thick maybe...bassy enough I think... I could see it getting better over time though!

The Juzear Clear are terrible. Too much mid bass presence, and distant and wonky midrange. It's like down the street! Treble is good though, and with the right amount of extension to keep up with the bass bloom, but the mids are sad, so it's a wash.

 

[jbfps116]

The Juzear Clear are terrible. Too much mid bass presence, and distant and wonky midrange. It's like down the street! Treble is good though, and with the right amount of extension to keep up with the bass bloom, but the mids are sad, so it's a wash.

haven't listened to them THAT much, but I think you're right... sometimes, they sound almost as bad as some of the older QKZ sets I've tried.
Edit: I begrudgingly am allowing the Clear to burn in overnight but… I don’t think anything can save it from the wonky tuning.

Also: the PR3 came in today… gotta say I’m not super impressed at first… lacking some midbass punch…I mean it’s good and clear, but I wasn’t BLOWN away. but I have some really good planars like the ZeTianWu, Aether, TD20… the Space cable helps a bit, but for now I have it on the pure copper (I think!) cable that came with my Nautilus. Obviously more burn-in, ear time, and probably a more powerful source than my laptop needed for best sound.

---

Gotta say... I decided to burn in the Juzear Clear anyway, and put it on a bright cable [TRN T2 Pro] and it IS sounding better... Let's see how another day or so of burn-in affects it. It seems to have good stage for a cheap single DD... decently detailed as well... mids/vocals still have a little... odd timbre, but it's not as bad as I heard at first.

---

Just swapped the Penon Space cable for the Jomo Nautilus' cable... on the HS80 [a pure copper one, apparently:

• 4 strands of selected premium 21 AWG OCC Copper Wire [from the Jomo website]

improves the sound even MORE... wow. the XINHS HS80 is sounding better every time I hear it... spacious, decent and clean bass punch, lush sound, good vocals... I gotta admit I was worried at first, but I think they ARE actually worthy of their midfi pricing [ahem... 200ish ... not sure about the 400 MSRP... the H60 is strict competition lol.] Everything I listen to just sounds GREAT through the HS80. Truly a dependable All-rounder! JUST warm enough for a rich sound, and just detailed enough for a clear sound. A shame the shells are SP chunky and oddly-shaped at that... comfort IS an issue. I'm still trying to find "the perfect tip" haha. At the moment, Penon blue tips are about 7/10 for comfort...

Non-burned in Shell sound startlingly good though... punchier, lusher, wow. I don't think the Trio stands a chance anymore!

 

[FreeWheelinAudioLuv2]

Excited for So Cal 2025. Finished off the rest of my pre-travel details, and now it's just a waiting game until my wife and I fly down to John Wayne Airport and hitch a ride over to the Irvine Marriott. Can't wait for the fellowship with fellow Head-fiers and getting to try out all the fantastic gear!

Who else plans on being there?

---

From @Crazeee 's post in Watercooler. His impressions seem to match a lot of other folks who listened to these at CJ SG. Reminds me of the reaction to the Flipears Legion at CJNYC. Comes in at $1,000, with a metal shell. This might very well end up being the latest gatekeeper for the kilobuck sector that is currently inhabited by the Thieaudio Monarch MK III?

Mysticraft Tri-Brid Prototype

This tri-brid prototype (composed of DD/BA/Planar drivers) is simply the best sub-$1k set I’ve ever tried. Its dynamics, tuning, and resolution punch far above its price range, reminding me of sets in the $3k–$6k category.

 

[Zerstorer_GOhren]

Hello mates, check out my latest review articles.

ND AUDIO NX2


https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/nd-audio-nx2.28068/reviews#review-37613

TANCHJIM ZERO ULTIMA

https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/tanchjim-zero-ultima.27908/reviews#review-37614


TANCHJIM STARGATE II


https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/tanchjim-stargate-ii.28057/reviews#review-37615

 

[FreeWheelinAudioLuv2]

MAIL CALL!!!

The Lime Ears series has landed!! Thanks to @He_Is_Emil, @Jaytiss and @MakeItWain for this golden opportunity to get some ear time with these three beauties. Actually, this is twice around the ride for me with the Lime Ears Terra! So I'm getting reunited, and it feels so good! I rated the Lime Ears Terra above the AFUL Cantor and the ISN EBC80 as my favorite IEM of late 2024, just barely nudging the Elysian Noir from that spot in my year end list : Lime Ears Terra > Elysian Noir > AFUL Cantor > ISN EBC80. If I could rearrange it in early 2025, I'd put the EBC80 ahead of the Cantor (just barely), thanks to some tip and cable rolling that benefitted the EBC80. So welcome back! The others are the Lime Ears Maris, and the Lime Ears Incognita! Only had about 45 minutes with each, so not ready to really share my impressions, but I can say one thing....the Maris has a huge stage. Very immersive sound, that's refined, like the Flipears Legion, only with less intrusive mid bass, but with similar treble air and texture.

I'm happy to say that I'm falling in love all over again with the Lime Ears Terra. When I had them last, I did not have the xDuoo XD05T, or the Nunchaku in my possession when these were last in my care. Also didn't have the Dethonray Clarinet, so there's some key sources that I'm able to introduce to the Terra. These simply speak my language fluently. The TOOBS give it some warmth, and the upper register harmonics are simply awe inspiring, as is the resolution. Now the mid bass punch still isn't there, but note resolution is, as is that HUGE soundstage and keen layering/depth. Still impressive.

@Zerstorer_GOhren - I have the ZERO. So the Ultima rolled back the resolution and treble air/extension? That's one of the positive traits of the ZERO. So did Tanchjim roll it back like they did the Bunny and Origin?

 

[FreeWheelinAudioLuv2]

AFUL POLAR NIGHT

My reviews are now old enough to slam down a pint (21), and this one was especially fun, as it's my first earbud review.

Thank you ahead of time for your likes, comments, and shares, and hope it helps you with any decision making you might need?


https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/aful-polar-night.28067/reviews#review-37707

 

[jbfps116]

AFUL POLAR NIGHT

My reviews are now old enough to slam down a pint (21), and this one was especially fun, as it's my first earbud review.

Thank you ahead of time for your likes, comments, and shares, and hope it helps you with any decision making you might need?


https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/aful-polar-night.28067/reviews#review-37707

Interesting… I have a cheap pair of Sony buds that claim a low FR… (like 10hz or something) and while they aren’t PUNCHY, the subbass is certainly audible which is something… not sure I’d spend a lot on ear buds but those Polar Nights look amazing!

EDIT: @FreeWheelinAudioLuv2 convinced me
SP01 on the way, in red, along with a stunning XINHS H04 red cable (frozen copper palladium!?) basically for free as per the SP01’s MSRP.


EDIT:
Still unsure about culling the H20... I tip-rolled to the INfilter TPE tips and it's a good match... but I still think the bass is too overbearing at times. And let's be real... if I enjoy the much cheaper QKZ ZXD, that's also bassy but a bit more controlled, still having GREAT stage and treble... why would I keep the H20? I think the TRN Shell also would basically make the H20 obsolete for the same price, really. The Shell's treble is more extended, hence more to my liking. but as I'm listening to the H20 tonight... I gotta admit I'm not hating them haha. They just sound different than most my IEMs.
Maybe I'll be more reserved about culling with all this tariff uncertainty.

but.

The CKLVX CK2V is ALSO a sub-bass monster... with very clean vocals and extended treble... but I think the H20's vocals are SMOOTHER... the CK2V being more on the detailed side.

WHOA. I just heard a song with the CK2V in a way I never have before... "Cure for Me (Acoustic)" by AURORA. mind-blowingly clean and impactful bass, and sweet clear vocals. The H20 PALED in comparison, on this song.

on "Same Dream, Same Destination" by Ryuichi Sakamoto, the H20's male vocals sounded veiled compared to the CK2V... I actively dislike this.

Overall, I think the H20 is on par with the Tiandirenhe TD20... both are thick, bassy sets, and sometimes prefer on, than the other... The H20's treble is a TAD brighter, but the midbass is even more boomy than the TD20, so it makes the TD20 sound more balanced, despite the H20's BA treble being quite capable. I think the TD20's bass is cleaner and tighter, so I prefer that overall.

 

[pk4425]

I've struggled with finding adequate hearing protection over the last few years, recently came across the end game for ear plugs for me.

Loop Experience 2 Plus + Penon Liqeuer eartips


The white section comes out to allow a bit more sound. Theoretically could use a lot of different IEM tips, I picked orange in case i drop it on the floor (am clumsy)

Hours of comfort at the last show I went to (Poison the Well and Better Lovers)

Genius solution! I use Earasers, which work well. But I've always been curious about Loops. Even more so with that cool mod!

One person's perception of "plain insanity" is another's perception of pure audio bliss worth every penny.

Good reminder. I need to plant this sentence in my head every time I'm about to cast judgment on others' spending habits compared to my incredibly cheap fiscal ways. I'm the freak, the weirdo.

This thread feel like gold mine, reviewer keep coming here, I get to check what you ppl personal favourite or some of the 4★/5★ review item. I wonder I can drop some question about some of the IEM here?

Of course, mate! That's one of the main purposes of this thread -- SHARED discoveries!

So, is there IEM you heard able to envelope you and giving the illusion of atmosphere of being in there, in the music, with enough auditory cues to recreate the stage or scene without feeling fake or overextended. Anyway what your ppl(maybe I should @mention) thought about EarAcoustics SPA Hi-End Ultra, Letshuoer Cadenza 4, or maybe the meta Softears Volume S in this regards? Maybe also suggest me something else that is decently priced.

Keywords:
"Immersive, 3D, holographic, good amount of height depth and width"

Maybe the Penon Fan 3? Bone conduction driver. Holographic, but some may find the BCD effect overdone. I don't.

I'm good, thanks. Just realized how naive I was about sharing my hearing struggles here. No worries. I'll still be around the forum, just not this thread.

It happens to most of us, dude. We're not indestructible. You can still maintain what you have by careful volume control and devotion to protection.

Take the time you need to cope. But return here, please. We all dig your fellowship and feedback.

 

[jbfps116]

Starting my rating impressions of two not-super-awesome IEMs... QKZ ZX2 and Juzear Clear. While the ZX2 has a good graph, at least to me, I'm not convinced it's better than the ZXN or ZXD. It doesn't sound as clear and detailed as the ZXN, have NOT done extensive comparisons though.] [Yes, I know there's a ZX3 out, but I haven't gotten it yet... ]
The ZX2 was half the price of the other two, but I had to buy 2 sets before I got a good pair. [first had bad channel imbalance.]

Sometimes I wonder what the timeline is of all these QKZ releases, but they don't seem to have a real website, so it's almost impossible to know what they're latest and greatest sets are... The ZX2 and ZX3 are almost sold out, along with the ZXN so... who knows.

And the Clear ... isn't sounding that "clear" on classical tracks... hmm, sad. Like, I think it sounds worse than the ZX2! Which is ridiculous, considering it cost over twice the price, on SALE. I know I was saying the Clear sounded better after burn-in, and I still think it DOES... but coming back to it after a rest, to review it... it's not holding up well. Like not only is the ZX2 clearer, it has WAY better note texture, more sub-bass, [I thought the Clear was supposed to be a bassy IEM?! Seriously, it feels like the sub-bass is really rolled off on the Clear] and better mids, slightly. But sometimes, surprisingly, the Clear has GREAT stage, at least compared to the ZX2 haha.

I guess these two will be going out the door, which will make room for the two sets I have incoming: ivipQ Phoenixia, and the famed SP01!! [I have this gut feeling the SP01 will be similar to the TRN Shell, but maybe I'm wrong? Guess I'll never know until I hear it in person!]

 

[FreeWheelinAudioLuv2]

PENON ARCHANGEL :

The near kilobuck IEM that I've been waiting a year for. The one that price to performance, plays in the same playground as sets above $999. This one ticks all the boxes, while providing maybe a bit more sub bass and mid bass than I'm used to or ask for, but after intense burn in for approx 15 hours, and the fitting of Penon black lickies, this IEM is right where I want it, and enjoy it.

Ran it thru the Nunchaku, and this IEM also takes quite beautifully to tube harmonics and resonance, and it's easy peasy to drive, with full headroom and dynamics, from a Sony DAP untethered or the Hiby R3 II in 4.4mm mode.

So balance would be bass > midrange > treble, but there truly isn't much of an imbalance, so it's a warm and clean presentation, that's not quite lush, despite the bass lean, and technical, despite the treble being 3rd in line, and peek-a-boo style, while boasting a tone, stage, imaging, and layering that's very natural and belies the fact this sports 2 Sonion BCD's. It works more on refinement and dimensionality vs sheer size and width of stage, as you find with other BCD's.

IMHO, it's WORTH. EVERY. PENNY of the $800.00 asking price, and is one of the table setters for this price range from $700-$999.00, and is competing in the same sonic and technical playground as the $1.200 Lime Ears Terra and Incognita. It's technically and sonically superior to the ISN EBC80, Flipears Legion, and AFUL Cantor.

Current ranking :

Elysian Apostle > Lime Ears Maris > Penon Archangel = Lime Ears Incognita > Lime Ears Terra > AFUL Cantor = Flipears Legion = Elysian Noir > ISN EBC80 > ISN H60.

I'll do a full comparison in the coming days, to clarify the ranking, but for now, this should suffice as to where it sits from a technical and sonic standpoint? Thanks!

 

[pk4425]

It's technically and sonically superior to the ISN EBC80, Flipears Legion, and AFUL Cantor.

Strong words! My interest is piqued, although the price range is a bit high for me right now. Already have burned through half of my Aeolus windfall on the Aether, Volume S and a wired IEM system for my band vocals.

Plus, I like to climb the ladder without skipping rungs in my journey. With headphones, I went from double-digits to around $300, then to $500-ish and then to the $750-$1,200 range. I'm done with double-digit IEMs for now and have graduated into the $150-$300 range. Would like to play next in the $300-$600 range before jumping to $750+.

But hell yeah, your testimony above compels. I'll definitely keep a look out for these later this year in the used or sale market. Hopefully the Chi-fi sales will actually mean something other than reducing the Trump Tax tariff amount.

 

[Zerstorer_GOhren]

Hello mates, I just want to share my latest product review.



https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/juzear-x-z-reviews-defiant.28079/reviews#review-37774