The Watercooler -- Impressions, philosophical discussion and general banter. Index on first page. All welcome.

[phiemon]

As a lover of Raven: hype!

https://shop.musicteck.com/products/volk-audio-etoile

It's a shame that the bass quality isn't supposed to be on the same level as EE, as I've read.

 

[Leto Dal]

Spectrumica incoming! Really excited for this one.

 

[KuroKitsu]

A vibrating chair??? You sure you're on the right thread?

drftr

Someone get this man a barrel of coffee stat!

 

[pawdiophile]

Hi all, apologies for the slightly off-topic post — but I started a fun little thread on how you carry and display your gear!

There were a few older threads on this topic that fizzled out, so I thought I’d start a fresh one to keep the conversation going.

Feel free to jump in and share yours:
https://www.head-fi.org/threads/how-do-you-carry-and-display-your-gear.976585/

 

[TheMiddleSky]

As a lover of Raven: hype!

https://shop.musicteck.com/products/volk-audio-etoile

It's a shame that the bass quality isn't supposed to be on the same level as EE, as I've read.

For me the bass of Etoile is quite ok. Not as lively as typical EE's bass character, but Etoile still provide bass extension nicely. Personally, as a "whole", I prefer Etoile compared to Odin (a bit too aggresive on upper mid/high) or Raven (too bassy).

 

[phiemon]

For me the bass of Etoile is quite ok. Not as lively as typical EE's bass character, but Etoile still provide bass extension nicely. Personally, as a "whole", I prefer Etoile compared to Odin (a bit too aggresive on upper mid/high) or Raven (too bassy).

Very good to know, great that you are writing this!

Since I'm looking more for the bass, I'm probably best served by Raven.

 

[Pseudonym031]

Hello guys, I had the chance to get to listen to ICE LAB Spectrumica for a couple of weeks and these are my impressions!


Ice Lab Spectrumica

Pros

- Exceptional build quality; among the best I’ve encountered

- The included cable is outstanding for its ergonomics and feel

- Particularly strong with electronic music

- Generous accessory package and premium presentation

Cons

- Vocal timbre can sound slightly unnatural

- Could have been a lower price without the cable (But it is awesome)



Introduction

This review of the Ice Lab Spectrumica is made possible thanks to the AudioGeek EU tour, and I want to extend my sincere gratitude to both AudioGeek and ICE LAB for the opportunity to experience this unique IEM.



Design and Build Quality

The Spectrumica stands out immediately for its build quality. It is truly among the best I’ve ever handled. The aircraft-grade aluminum shells are both robust and lightweight, with a meticulous finish that exudes luxury and precision. Every detail, from the CNC-milled phase-synchronized chamber to the premium accessories like: Metal puck case a level beyond the ordinary offering and a generous selection of tips with Eletech Barouque standing out. All in all it truly shows ICE LAB’s dedication to craftsmanship.

A particular highlight is the included cable, it’s easily one of the most ergonomic and satisfying cables I’ve used. It’s soft, supple, Perfect weight in combination with my preference in earhooks and never gets in the way, adding to the overall sense of refinement and comfort.



Sound Impressions

Spectrumica delivers a balanced presentation with excellent separation and an open, airy stage. The bass is tight and deep, providing a solid foundation without overpowering the rest of the spectrum—especially enjoyable with electronic music, where its punch and control shine.



The midrange is detailed and smooth, but here lies my main criticism: vocals can sometimes sound a bit unnatural in timbre, lacking the last bit of realism compared to the very best in the field. It’s a minor issue, but worth noting for those who prioritize vocal authenticity.



Treble is airy and clear, with strong detail retrieval. I don’t know if it is the phase-synchronized bone conduction drivers that create a sense of space and depth that feels both technically impressive and musically engaging but something does.



Overall Impression

The Ice Lab Spectrumica is a technically innovative IEM that pairs uncompromising build quality with a modern, balanced sound. It excels with electronic genres, where its open stage and deep bass truly shine. The cable is a personal favorite for its superb ergonomics and tactile feel.

While the timbre of voices isn’t perfect, this is a minor quibble in an otherwise highly accomplished and enjoyable package. If you value top-tier build, comfort, and a contemporary sound signature, Spectrumica is a compelling flagship option.



Thanks again to AudioGeek and ICE LAB for making this review possible.

 

[thaslaya]

I just concluded my time with the tour units of the Plussound Sonora and Volta and published my reviews for each (click on the model names if you'd like to read them ).

I had the opportunity to demo the Sonora at CanJam SoCal last year. My initial impressions were not super positive, but once I spent more time with it, I grew to enjoy it more (plus pairing with tubes helped a lot). It is the bassier and more energetic of the two models, but unfortunately, it can be quite fatiguing for me.

I didn't know what to expect when it came to the Volta, but I was pleasantly surprised to find that I like a lot. The tuning is more neutral and balanced compared to the the Sonora, and it's a better choice for me and my preferences. Both have really great technicalities and build qualities, but the Volta speaks my language more.

A big thanks to Plussound and @Sebastien Chiu for coordinating the tour of the Sonora and Volta! I hope you all have a great weekend full of music and relaxation!

 

[emdeevee]

Cross posting from the Penon (don't laugh @bigbeans !) thread:

I wanted to report back on the burning progress of Archangel as it's been quite enlightening. In much the same way as other recent Penon releases with similar drivers, the process is long but at about 50 hours of time, they usually are showing how they'll sound. And with a lack of EST drivers, it's really getting the DDs worked out. So, treat these observations as initial impressions before Archangel has fully burned in.

That said, I am beginning to sound like a broken record when it comes to recent Penon releases finding very little to criticize and a whole lot to love. The Archangel continues this lovefest and just further cements my obvious preference for Penons in general.

The initial time I've had with Archangel has been nothing short of mind blowing for this price point in particular. I have recently acquired and/or toured many great sets in this price range, including the excellent FlipEars Legion, and Archangel is no less than any of them, and far more than many! I hear Archangel to have some serious uniquity in its tuning and I'm think that this is Penon continuing to keep up with the competition and try very hard to beat it.

As I have with my Voltage, I defaulted to both bass and treble switches in the up/on position from the get go. And while that works with Voltage, I am finding it not to be the case with Archangel. These DDs have been tuned for deep and rumbling subbass with a hefty dose of midbass. With the bass switch up, the bass begins to overwhelm the upper mids and lower treble, though I imagine many hardcore bassheads would feel like pigs in poo.

For me, I have switched the bass switch back to down, it's default position, while keeping the treble switch up. This is producing a beautiful balance while still remaining quite bass heavy. The bass has nice quality and obviously quantity. The treble is superb and I do not find myself missing anything that ESTs have brought to other Penon sets, right down to the Voltage. This is not exactly treble at the quality of the Rival, but it certainly outdoes the EBC80 for me, while perhaps equaling that of the Voltage.

The tuning seems more nuanced, and a bit of an evolution from typical Penon, more U shape but Penon warmth is there. For me, it is more engaging than either EBC80 or Shock,though it sounds closer to Shock with its very prominent bass. This bass also edges the Voltage by a length, so bravo Penon for bringing the bass with Archangel!

A big difference from EBC80 (and even Rival) is that Archangel BCDs do not seem to be pushing the sound as outward as they do in those sets and are much thumper than in either of those. I am really enjoying this BCD execution and I think it has a lot to do with the tuning being so engaging and emotive.

So for me, Archangel is likely to eclipse the Voltage and EBC80 for overall performance. It's really a stunning bit of tuning that has a visceral, in your face excitement. Not a laid back set by any stretch.

Also, kudos to the highly competent stock cable from EA! I was prepared to immediately jettison it, but so far, I am happy to say that I feel no real need to roll this one !

These are just initial impressions and I expect positive development to continue for at least another 50 hours! But in advance, I'm quite sure this will be getting a ton of use!!

 

[F700]

Cross-posting from the official Oriolus Traillii thread - it took its time, but every wait comes to a satisfying end (in best scenarios).

Timeless set-up / Extra sleepless nights are scheduled. And it starts now…

 

[Rockwell75]

Remember to do your Cooler duty and complete the Spring Survey if you haven't already.

 

[GiullianSN]

(Cross posting from Discovery Thread, as I know some here also likes this IEM)

Hello Folks,

I bit of “old news” for this fast pacing Thread.

I finally had a chance to spend some time with the ISN EBC80 and I know you guys love it. Some impressions on it below. Thanks to AudioGeek and Penon for sending these around.

ISN EBC80 - The sub-800 to beat

​

 

[pawdiophile]

(Cross posting from Discovery Thread, as I know some here also likes this IEM)

Hello Folks,

I bit of “old news” for this fast pacing Thread.

I finally had a chance to spend some time with the ISN EBC80 and I know you guys love it. Some impressions on it below. Thanks to AudioGeek and Penon for sending these around.

ISN EBC80 - The sub-800 to beat

​

So aesthetically pleasing

 

[mikaik]

Volk Etoile is really brilliant! Neutral with a hint of added bass, but well done! Nothing sticks out, all falls into place nicely. Large, full stage, big sound, forceful treble and well textured bass. The mids are quite velvety. Instant love!
Also chatting to the founder was a very pleasant experience.

 

[drftr]

Volk Etoile is really brilliant! Neutral with a hint of added bass, but well done! Nothing sticks out, all falls into place nicely. Large, full stage, big sound, forceful treble and well textured bass. The mids are quite velvety. Instant love!
Also chatting to the founder was a very pleasant experience.

It's the one I'm currently most interested in as I don't like rollercoaster FR curves. Curious for any follow-up thoughts.

drftr