Any suggestion for an upgrade from VSD3S?
I have been using VSD3S for around 2 years and quite satisfied with its sound. I would like to look for an IEM or headphone that:
1. costs less than USD150,
2. sounds better than VSD3S in general (or at least not worse than VSD3S), and
3. offers significantly more bass (in terms of both depth and quantity) than VSD3S .
Thanks, everyone!
I personally own the Future Sonics Atrio with MG7 Transducers, that's an earphone that has a killer thick, tight yet super punchy bass, sparkly energy in the highs and much less sibilance than the VSD3. Not always available for $150 though, depending on color and seller. That said, it has a very similar sound signature to the VSD3, just better and costing $100-ish more.
Note though, that I think the Atrio MG7 is discontinued. If memory serves me right, it's available on Amazon and eBay, but I don't think it'll be at physical retail, for example.
Another option that's much more budget friendly yet ticks all 3 of your stipulations would be the new, updated VSD3S. Same price as the older VSD3 (which I'd imagine is the version you have), thicker bass, more natural sound staging and imaging, better build and upgraded cable. Cable is not detachable though, but I think the better build alone makes it a worthy purchase. If you liked your older VSD3S and want something similar with better bass, I think the VSD3S Version 2 will be your winner IEM if you want to be on a budget.
Comparing the new VSD3S to my Atrio MG7, the MG7 has more detail in the bass, less sibilance, lusher mids and comparatively more refined highs. However, the new VSD3S is hard to beat in terms of value for money in an earphone.
My opinion aside, the mentioned Audio Technica CKR9 and Trinity Audio Delta V2 are probably worth your consideration. Haven't had a meaningful demo with either of those earphones, but they're most likely popular around here for a reason.
Final note: Sorry if this may confuse you after all that I've said, but if you're looking for the absolute best audio for your dollar, headphones are most likely going to serve you much better. There will be obvious exceptions to the rule, but generally headphones would beat IEMs in longevity, control of splashy-ness and sibilance, sound stage and imaging, etc. For example, consider the Hifiman Massdrop HE350 when more reviews come out. At $99 on Massdrop, they may just be a contender for one of the best values in open headphones, but we of course have to wait and see.
Hope I've helped, even if just a little. Let us know if I've only confused you and I'll explain the best I can.