Review Of The Questyle M15i​

Introduction​

This is my second time reviewing a Questyle product. Questyle is a Chinese firm that specializes in electro-acoustic equipment, particularly DACs and amplifiers. Recently, they have entered the IEM industry as well. I first learned about this firm when I heard about one of their Dongle Dacs, the M15, which I personally purchased and enjoyed since there was no other Dongle Dac that could exceed it at the time. They just announced another lineup that includes the CMA18P, M12i, and M15i, of which I recently reviewed the CMA18P but was hoping to get my hands on the other two as well. Fortunately, I was able to obtain the M15i; however, before proceeding, I'd like to clarify a few points.

Disclaimer​

*Since this unit tour was organised by the kind people at Questyle, I am grateful to them. And as I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to this device as “M15i”
*Finally, I will only evaluate the M15i based on its performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification​

The M15i's high-end ES9281AC DAC chipset supports native DSD256, 32-bit/768kHz PCM, and two separate SiP CMA amplifier modules. While the majority of the functions remain the same as the predecessor, one significant distinction is that the M15i employs TOREX precise power management technology. The M15i is a more user-friendly device that accepts Type-C and Lightning data transfers, as well as 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced connectors. The device has a gain control on the side and a type-c connector on top. Four LEDs behind the glass display the gain level and send data. The M15i includes a Type-C to C OTG cable and a Type-C to USB-A converter. Regarding technical aspects, the data in the table is listed below for your convenience and comprehension.

Design And Aesthetics​

In terms of design and aesthetics, I believe it is identical to its predecessor, with the same frame, body, and dimensions. The body is composed of CNC anodized black aluminium alloy, and its dimensions are approximately 61.9mm X 27.9mm X 12mm. As previously said, there is a glass layer above the chipboard, which is within the aluminium block; while I am sceptical of the durability, having owned M15 before, I can tell that it is not a concern. Aside from the glass, the build seems solid, and from the looks of it, I still think it's quite useful and compact for what it can do.

Usage ​

With my usage, I found it to be as pleasant as previously; the cable itself seems stable, and the use with my smartphone is quite pocketable. The nicest aspect is that I can also use it with my iPhone using a lightning OTG cable. The M15i has a bigger body than the DEW4X, DAWN Pro, and Allegro, but its form factor makes it more comfortable and secure than any other dongle I've tested. Regardless of my personal preference, the dongle is larger than the ones I described.

Sound Impressions ​

IEMs​

Thieaudio Prestige LTD

Prestige LTD is the very reason I am now able to find the truth in my musical dreams; I have never heard another IEM that ploughs your ears with faith in each note, no matter how those notes should sound and nurtures your senses with dynamics and presentation as if I were hearing reality. Previously, I owned the Monarch MKII, which established what one would expect, but once the prestige's magic began to flourish, I knew I could explore so much more with it, especially when it came to the air and presence of each nuance the notes were able to grasp over and tingled my senses. To summarise the prestige's response sounds as if the Monarch MKII were given steroids and enhanced the upper frequencies in all directions with better authoritative flow in the lower response. The response is neutral with sub-bass boost, similar to the Monarch MKII, with the exception that the notes are airier and more revealing than any other IEM before this era. However, the thinner notes and excessive clarity provide obnoxious features that expose bad mixing and recordings, which were highly obvious when heard on my V6 but smoothed out on my WM1A, indicating source dependence.



When I listened to this coupling, the response seemed nicely spread out and forward in the mid-range, particularly the vocals. The presentation sounded less expansive, but the note expression was more textured and detailed, with a bright contrast that allowed for a far more resolved response, resulting in a more analytical approach to the mix. Whether I'm listening to Kool-Aid by Bring Me The Horizon or Miliyah's Kono Yumega Samerumade, there's a lot going on that sounds really revealing and vivid without being confusing or overlapping. Surprisingly, the entire presentation sounds entertaining and intriguing.

FlipEars Aurora

Aurora establishes itself in this market as one of the greatest musical and warm-sounding IEMs, providing a detailed but calming response that even my Prestige LTD cannot match. To be more specific, the Aurora has a warm-neutral sounding response that enables for a cohesive and effortless sound regardless of the music I choose. When it comes to the Prestige LTD, I believe the clarity, realism, and tonal correctness are the greatest. Aurora bends that will and produce a profound sense of natural sound that sounds precise and clear enough to provide harmony into the mix, which is better done on these IEMs. Because of the way the treble is adjusted, the response does not lean clinical or sterile in the upper harmonics. The midrange produces a spacious sound, and one will fall in love with the note’s depth, weight, and precision. The bass's impact hits you so hard that it leaves you in wonder due to its rapid striking and natural decay of the notes, which is backed by two subwoofers, resulting in a highly robust production of bass heaviness and presence without sacrificing clarity across the spectrum.

When I listened to this pairing, I saw that the response, which was energetic, thrilling, and engaging, enhanced in terms of what Aurora does well. Satellite by Valentino Khan is a great example of this, with its shimmering treble, revealing mid-range, and firing subwoofers packed with strong and impactful thumps and punches all sounding more textured and detailed, with better control over attack and decay of the notes allowing more details to conspire and more room for them to sound full and rich. However, in tracks such as Kohana Lam's A Few Sentimental, the vocals are unexpectedly sweet and tranquil, with a more upfront approach that provides a deeper and richer experience.

Thor Mjolnir MKII

Mjolnir is a very bassy set that has a lot of sub-bass emphasis. The treble and upper mid-range are also very forward in the mix. The upper treble has great extension as well. The bass is very punchy and boomy while acting fast. Mjolnir is a great V-shape-sounding IEM with a different approach to explosive bass that has better technicalities, especially in this price range. The stage is great with a nice surrounding stage and depth where the separation of each element sounds distant enough to procure space to breathe and distinguish themselves. The attack and decay of the driver capability are really quick and perform great. The vocals may feel lean and sparkly, but the warmth or the fuller experience is something that these lack. The bass response does vary from source to source whether I listen to a warm source or a neutral one, the bass becomes either overwhelming authoritative or both.



While listening to this pairing, the response sounds more transparent with better control over the revealing aspect of the treble region and upper mid-range. Usually, when I listen to clear and neutral sounding sources, the energy in the upper frequencies spikes a lot, causing me to respond to sound fatiguing and very intimate sounding, like for example Anytime and Anywhere by Millet had vocals forward and present in a very revealing manner which was very well balanced. With M15i, the response sounds well-resolved and expansive, while the note exposure improves, making the sound more mature and detailed. However, the bass seems as dominant as before, with improved control and punch in the low end, particularly while listening to Erotica by JAWNS, when the bass left deep and impacting with a powerful presence.

7Hz Aurora

Trust me when I say that Aurora is a literal detail monster, as every aspect of the presentation oozes out details and clarity with a versatile tuning that allows the intricacies and nuances to shower over the mix, bringing excellent clarity and transparency to the presentation. Though I notice that the existence of such notes results in sharp characteristics, I have never experienced a metallic nature. The crispness and air in the treble area, as well as the lively tone of the midrange, combined with a large stage that allows notes to breathe and sound full, result in remarkable detail retrieval. The nicest thing of the entire response is that the definition and tonal balance are nicely established, resulting in a lean yet coherent-sounding presentation. If I look at the graph, it appears frightening with peaks and dips over the treble area, however, such a presentation produces a vibrant and enticing response that isn't overly bright while also including crisp and sparkling aspect of the notes. On the other side, the midrange sounds broader and clearer without adding hotness or peakiness to the mix, while the bass may become a touch too controlled but still present enough to make the response feel full-bodied.



When listening to this pairing, the response sounds calm, allowing for an expressive and open-sounding response with better control over the revealing nature of the notes, allowing the notes to sound as natural as possible with a presentation spread out far and wide, where the upper mid-range pours everything while remaining airy and spacious. Listening to tracks like Gotye's Somebody That I Used To Know and Love Will Come Through, the vocals sounded incredibly real and detailed while yet being open and light without disrupting the tonal balance. In the end, what may have sounded analytical and impartial came off as well balanced and resolved. The bass felt a touch light but more textured.

Rose Technics QT-X

QT-X offers a mid-centric and neutral tone, with a focus on the sub-bass and an overall clean sound. When I first started listening to them, I noticed that whichever source I used changed the quality of the sound without affecting the tuning, which made me understand how versatile they are in terms of technical aspects. The sound is characterized by its cleanliness and transparency, with a particular emphasis in the midrange that gives the vocals and instruments a spacious and well-defined presence. While the graph may indicate that the treble lacks energy and the bass is lean, the tuning of this IEM actually allows the treble to sound expansive and smooth without being dark, and the bass to provide good depth and presence. However, there is a slight lack of warmth and note weight in the mid-bass region that is noticeable throughout the sound signature. Finally, I feel the response has been properly calibrated to sound neutral and accurate, particularly in the midrange, rather than offensive or bright.



While listening to this pair, the response felt slightly less weighted, with a more open-sounding presentation. Despite the fact that the response sounded light and lean, the notes' presentation did not add any metallic or harsh characteristics of the notes that are typical of a tuning like the QT-X. The treble sounded more prolonged and smooth than previously, but the mid-range seemed less front or in your face, with better-positioned singers and instruments sounding expansive and spread out. However, the response sounded confined in the left and right channels while spreading more in the front and rear. Tracks like Kenka by Kujira Yumemi sounded crisp and clear, without sounding hot or sibilant, thanks to voices scaling very high and chimes presented in your face. The bass seemed more powerful and genuine since the kick drums or bass guitar notes decayed organically after hitting.

Tracks​

Millet - Anytime Anywhere
Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness
Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo
Uru - Kamihitoe
Kujira Yumemi - Kenka
Majiko - Kokoronashi
Anly - Sukinishinayo
Kohama Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade
Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love
Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope
Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow
Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Jawns - Erotica
ISOxo - how2fly
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Weeknd - Popular
YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High)
Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid
Middle Kids - Bend
FLETCHER - Leads Me On
Loathe - Aggressive Evolution
The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
Sigrid - Burning Bridges
AURORA - Black Water Lilies
AURORA - Runaway
X Ambassadors - Renegades
Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold Us
Gotye - Somebody That I Used To Know
Jay-Z - Run This Town
Lady Gaga - Poker Face
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Ladytron - Ghost
Travis - Love Will Come Through
LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong
DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix)
Hoobastank - The Reason
Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care
Tool - 7empest
Tool - Vicarious
A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song
Zack Hemsey - Vengeance
Elton John - I’m Still Standing
The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin
Micheal Sembello - Maniac
Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine
A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun

Conclusion​

To conclude this evaluation, I can happily state that the M15i has the same sound but has been enhanced to the point where the noise, clarity, and, most importantly, cohesion sound make it highly appealing to people seeking the finest clear and transparent sounding dongle available. After listening to the M15i, I felt the same sense of astonishment and exhilaration that I had when I first heard the M15. Congratulations to Questlye for incorporating such a tweak into this generation of the M15. So all in all. I heartily recommend the Questlye M15i, especially at this price range, however I'd want to advise existing M15 customers to test it out before going through the process.

Review Of The FlipEars Aurora​

Introduction​

Aside from the Chi-Fi companies, the Philippines has joined the audiophile market with Flipears, a specialized IEM manufacturer adapted and specifically built for the masses of audiophiles. The firm is the first in the Philippines to make universal and custom in-ear monitors. The firm was formed by singer-songwriter Aries Sales. The firm focuses mostly on IEMs and has produced several of them, including Artha, Aether, Aurora, Zurq, and others, with their flagship IEM Aurora being regarded as one of the greatest flagships in the IEM market. Fortunately, I was able to get Aurora for evaluation; nevertheless, before starting, I'd want to clarify a few concerns.

Disclaimer​

*This is a review unit, courtesy of FlipEars and Audio Geek Brother_hood of Audiophiles. All thanks to them for providing. And as I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to these IEMs as “Aurora.”
*I am using different Ear-tips for convenience and better versatility.
*Finally, I will only evaluate the Aurora based on their performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification​

The Aurora has a 10-driver Tribid arrangement that includes custom-made two electrostatic drivers for ultra highs, six balanced armatures drivers (mids, mid-lows, and mid-highs), and two dynamic drivers known as fire-woofers for sub-bass. The shells are biocompatible and hypoallergenic, and they are large but light in weight. The faceplate features an Aurora engraved with a hologram of the Aurora, and the faceplate is a glittering blue and green colour combination that looks majestic and too glamorous. The shells also have the same design as the faceplate above the nozzle, which is unusual for an IEM that I've experienced. When it comes to fit and comfort, I'm a bit skeptical because the nozzles are far too large even for me, but I was able to get a flawless seal with Penon liquor eartips and use them for an extended amount of time. Consider the shell and nozzle size, but rest assured that Flipears also provides a custom-made shell. The Aurora cable is an 8-core OCC copper cable with a 4.4mm straight termination plug and 0.78mm 2-pin connectors. The IEMs include the cable, six pairs of silicon eartips with organizer, a microfiber cleaning cloth, cable adapters, cable organizers, and a leather carrying case. Even though I was only provided the cord and IEM for review. According to the technical specs, the impedance is 21 Ohms and the sensitivity is 124dB. The frequency response ranges from 5Hz to 70kHz.

Sound​

Aurora establishes itself in this market as one of the greatest musical and warm-sounding IEMs, providing a detailed but calming response that even my Prestige LTD cannot match. To be more specific, the Aurora has a warm-balanced sounding response that enables for a cohesive and effortless sound regardless of the music I choose. When it comes to the Prestige LTD, I believe the clarity, realism, and tonal correctness are the greatest. Aurora bends that will and produce a profound sense of natural sound that sounds precise and clear enough to provide harmony into the mix, which is better done on these IEMs. Because of the way the treble is adjusted, the response does not lean clinical or sterile in the upper harmonics. The midrange produces a spacious sound, and one will fall in love with the note’s depth, weight, and precision. The bass's impact hits you so hard that it leaves you in wonder due to its rapid striking and natural decay of the notes, which is backed by two subwoofers, resulting in a highly robust production of bass heaviness and presence without sacrificing clarity across the spectrum. Let's go further into the sound and learn more about it.



Treble

The treble region's response is not extremely target-specific or follows any, but the way it is tuned gives a more harmonic and tonally pleasing overall response, which mostly supports the mid-range to allow for a sophisticated response without bringing any offensiveness into the mix. The top treble sounds laid-back and relaxing, yet the extension and characteristics are clearly present in the mix. The lower treble provides a more dynamic and energetic response without sounding harsh or abrasive. Instead, the notes have an exquisite texture that, while vibrant, sounds well-rounded. The voice and instrumentation are thicker and more suited to the heavy reaction it evokes across the region. Tracks like Sukinishinayo by ANLY have a more vocal-oriented response with better control over the high octaves, making the response appear dynamic and cohesive. The entire response has strong note weight and richness, which highlights ANLY's sweet and delicate voice. However, tracks such as Kenka by Kujira Yumemi have an overly heavy response. The vocals have good note weight and control, which prevents the vocals from sounding shrill or peaky, nor do the instruments sound sibilant, but the heaviness in the vocals detracts from the magic of the overall response's airy clarity. As a result, the overall presentation of the treble area is composed, fluid, and tonally enjoyable.

Mid Range​

When it comes to the midrange, the nicest section is mostly the top area, where the 3kHz drop is visible. The reason I mention this is that it plays an important role here: the vocals and instruments have a vibrant, fuller, and clearer-sounding response while preventing any offensive characteristics from being introduced. This is due to the 3kHz dip, which softens the note's forward and strong approach in the mix without sacrificing tonal performance. The upper mid-range conveys the same vitality as the lower treble, with a stronger focus on vocalists and instruments. The voices and instruments have a well-rounded and full-bodied response, although at the expense of a thin and airy sound. The note's placement in the overall mix improves depth and musical approach, as the vocals sound upfront and rich, and the instruments compliment the vocals, making the overall response sound full and satisfied. In the lower mid-range, the notes have a rich and thick response, which gives the listener a natural and comfortable sounding pleasure. The voices and instruments have a clear response, but with complex tracks, they struggle and produce a muddled image. Tracks like Lead Me On by FLETCHER sound delicate and better composed in terms of note weight and thickness because the vocals sound heavy, bringing them closer to the instruments and bringing a natural and full-bodied response, and the instruments complement them by highlighting the correctness in the vocals' note octaves. Hence the overall presentation of the mid-range is natural, full-bodied and rich sounding.

Bass​

In terms of bass, it has everything a bass fan could desire, including punch, rumble, thumps, and slams. The two-firing subwoofer adds a lot of power and presence to the mix. The bass has a significant influence on the mix, adding warmth to the entire presentation. The emphasis is on the sub-bass, but the mid-bass has enough presence to provide warmth and an organic response, implying a naturally producing bass. The sub-bass hits deep and hard with a rumbling presence, and the punches are assertive and accurate, whilst the mid-bass creates a lot of slams and thumps, which are there and apparent but not particularly powerful. However, because to the rounded and natural response, the notes aren't too detailed or textured. Tracks like Jay-Z's Run This Town feature a linear bass response, which allows different types of bass notes from the lowest to mid-bass to sound forward revealed and forceful with an authoritative approach while not dissolving or baffling the upper frequencies. The assault of the notes seems rapid and accurate, while the decay is smooth and natural-sounding. As a result, the overall presentation of the bass region is strong, impacting, and realistic sounding.

Technical Performance​

Aurora implies a more musical presentation with tonally precise and natural sounding characters, which I find suitable in terms of separation, staging, and note speed. When comparing IEMs in this pricing range, I definitely find these on par with many other TOTL IEMs in this price range, but when compared to my Prestige LTD, they don't hold a candle. Let's be more specific.

Soundstage, Sound Imaging & Separation​

The stage is spread out, resulting in a fantastic holographic response with components pouring out of every direction owing to precise imaging and excellent note differentiation. The sharpness of the notes is lacking, but they are vivid in approach. In terms of separation, I find that the notes are a touch too near sounding, but I am able to identify where the sound is coming from.

Speed & Resolution​

In terms of resolution figuratively, I find the entire canvas to be loaded with outstanding color and depth, but the note’s presentation is comparable to that of Aurora’s counterparts. The detail retrieval is excellent, with macro naunces appearing smoothly, while hiding subtleties fall somewhat behind with emerging in the mix. The attack of the notes is quick and effortless, yet the gradual deacy has a natural aspect that adds authenticity and originality while keeping the overall presentation clean.

Sound Impressions ​

Sources​

Sony WM1A - When listening to this combo, the response appeared broader on the left and right sides, while the midrange sounded cleaner and less weighted, resulting in an amazingly expansive and invigorating listening experience. As the treble extension improved with better extension and presence, the notes became airier. The bass sounds huge and dynamic, with impacts that feels softened yet produces a more realistic sound; I believe the texture of the notes has also improved.



Questyle M15i - When I listened to this pairing, I saw that the response, which was energetic, thrilling, and engaging, enhanced in terms of what Aurora does well. Satellite by Valentino Khan is a great example of this, with its shimmering treble, revealing mid-range, and firing subwoofers packed with strong and impactful thumps and punches all sounding more textured and detailed, with better control over attack and deacy of the notes allowing more details to conspire and more room for them to sound full and rich. However, in tracks such as Kohana Lam's A Few Sentimental, the vocals are unexpectedly sweet and tranquil, with a more upfront approach that provides a deeper and richer experience.

Tracks​

Millet - Anytime Anywhere
Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness
Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo
Uru - Kamihitoe
Kujira Yumemi - Kenka
Majiko - Kokoronashi
Anly - Sukinishinayo
Kohama Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade
Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love
Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope
Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow
Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Jawns - Erotica
ISOxo - how2fly
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Weeknd - Popular
YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High)
Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid
Middle Kids - Bend
FLETCHER - Leads Me On
Loathe - Aggressive Evolution
The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
Sigrid - Burning Bridges
AURORA - Black Water Lilies
AURORA - Runaway
X Ambassadors - Renegades
Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold Us
Goyte - Somebody That I Used To Know
Jay-Z - Run This Town
Lady Gaga - Poker Face
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Ladytron - Ghost
Travis - Love Will Come Through
LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong
DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix)
Hoobastank - The Reason
Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care
Tool - 7empest
Tool - Vicarious
A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song
Zack Hemsey - Vengeance
Elton John - I’m Still Standing
The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin
Micheal Sembello - Maniac
Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine
A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun

Conclusion​

To summarize this review, The Flipears did an outstanding job of tuning such an aesthetically pleasing IEM with such a driver arrangement. Simply said, I cannot express how remarkable and musically sounding they are, with tone and technical abilities comparable to their competitors. I believe that Aurora's cohesive and powerful sound is just unparalleled since it maintains a unique position in the market and I find it very compelling, thus I wholeheartedly suggest these.

Review Of The 7Hz Aurora​

Introduction​

7Hz, a Chinese firm, has been creating electroacoustic products, specifically IEMs. The business has created several IEMs prior to the release of the Timeless, a full-range planar IEM that catapulted them to prominence. Many people admired and appreciated Timeless for its sound quality and tuning; following their success, they developed several IEMs that were highly accepted in the budget market, including the Zero, Dioko, Sonus, and Zero 2. The business has expanded into inexpensive dongle DACs, releasing 71. Since 7Hz teased the release date for the Timeless II last year, they have instead produced another IEM, their flagship known as the Aurora. Fortunately, I was able to obtain a pair for review, but before I go any further, I'd want to clarify a few points.

Disclaimer​

*Since this unit tour was organised by the kindly people at Linsoul, I am grateful to them. As I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to these IEMs as “Aurora.”
*I am using different Ear-tips for convenience and better versatility.
*Finally, I will only evaluate the Aurora based on their performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification​

The Aurora has a tribrid arrangement with four drivers on each side: one 12mm dynamic driver for bass, two bespoke full-range balancing armatures for mids, and a special micro planar for highs. The shells are on the larger side and composed of resin, while the faceplate is constructed of damascus titanium. It is a little troubling for persons with small ears because the shells are large, and the nozzle adjustment made it difficult for me to establish a suitable seal and comfort while wearing them, but after tip rolling, I was able to find comfort and an isolating fit with Azla Sedna Fit Crystals. The cable given is a modular 2-pin cable made of single-crystal copper. The cable feels nice and plasticky, yet it isn't heavy in your hands. The other included accessories include an elegant storage box, a selection of eartips, and modular plugs (4.4mm and 3.5mm). According to the technical specs, the impedance is 30 Ohms and the sensitivity is 105dB. The frequency response ranges from 5Hz to 40kHz, and overall harmonic distortion is less than 0.2 percent.

Sound​

Trust me when I say that Aurora is a literal detail monster, as every aspect of the presentation oozes out details and clarity with a versatile tuning that allows the intricacies and nuances to shower over the mix, bringing excellent clarity and transparency to the presentation. Though I notice that the existence of such notes results in sharp characteristics, I have never experienced a metallic nature. The crispness and air in the treble area, as well as the lively tone of the midrange, combined with a large stage that allows notes to breathe and sound full, result in remarkable detail retrieval. The nicest thing of the entire response is that the definition and tonal balance are nicely established, resulting in a lean yet coherent-sounding presentation. If I look at the graph, it appears frightening with peaks and dips over the treble area, however, such a presentation produces a vibrant and enticing response that isn't overly bright while also including crisp and sparkling aspects of the notes. On the other side, the midrange sounds broader and clearer without adding hotness or peakiness to the mix, while the bass may become a touch too controlled but still present enough to make the response feel full-bodied. Let's go further into the sound and learn more about it.

Treble​

The treble area is really funky, whether literally or figuratively, with peaks and dips that enact a new profound feeling of clarity and revelation, and while it does its job, I still find it a touch weak at times while revealing at others. When it comes to the upper treble, the sound is crisp, sharp, and detailed, with strong extension and airy presentation, but in certain sections it is suppressed, which I believe brings out some portions of the songs extremely effectively while subduing others and providing a perplexed response. The lower treble appears to be quite active and exciting to listen to, with voices that sound upfront and bright, while the instruments feel a touch subdued, with subtle nuances. Tracks like Kenka by Kuijira Yumemi feature vocals that may come over as peaky, but that is not the case in Aurora. In truth, the vocals sound completely clear and well established, as do the backing vocals, but an array of instruments sounds a touch subdued, with the nuances suppressed, particularly between 4kHz and 7kHz. However, tracks like Spiral by LONGMAN sound incredibly refreshing and tonally pleasing because they enable guitars and percussion to sound distinctive and prominent without interfering with the vocals; the whole response is engaging.As a result, the overall presentation of the treble area sounds crisp, clear, and revealing, despite being slightly inconsistent in tone.

Mid Range​

In the mid-range, I feel custom-tuned balanced armatures were the best decision; the response in this region does not sound metallic or hot in any manner, but rather tonally agreeable. Whether they are vocals or instruments, both provide a lifelike presence to the mix, making the overall response more revealing and calming without taking away the enjoyment. The upper mid-range is full of vitality, allowing the voices and instruments to take a forward approach that is vivid and detailed without sounding abrasive or rough. The intricacies are highly noticeable in this range, which sounds refreshing and intriguing to the listener. Even though the graph represents the upper mid-range feels very much prominent in the mix and the lower mid-range subdued, but when listening to it, the upper mid-range is well controlled but it shows a forward approach, while the lower mid-range brings a clean response without any vague or weighty response but dense enough to sound thick as instruments like bass guitars or vocals, especially male vocals sounds heavy and rich in terms of natural tone of each note arising. Tracks such as Kizuna No Kiseki by MAN WITH A MISSION and Lead Me On by FLETCHER, whether male or female vocals, have a very rich and full-bodied response even when they sound open and spacious, and the instruments sound as revealing as the vocals and distinct from vocals, allowing nuances to come across and fill the response completely. The forwardness of the vocals allows for an engaging and immersive experience. As a result, the mid-range area is presented in a natural, compelling, and comprehensive manner.

Bass​

Let me tell it honestly. The bass is excellent, and the potential for scaling is very astounding. The bass is quite comprehensive and precisely adjusted to deliver an assertive, noticeable and definite response without feeling ineffective since it subdues the warmth of the mid-bass. The majority of IEMs in this price range offer either highly playful/fun-sounding bass or well-controlled and clear bass. In terms of bass quantity, Aurora's bass lacks weight and organic heft to the notes; yet, the bass is highly textured and detailed, and its impact and power are solidly established. The focus is on the sub-bass, with the bass being deep enough to produce a rumbling sensation when necessary, and the punches being forceful enough to create a full response as well as a sense of resolve. The bass notes are very distinct, allowing for a smooth yet detailed response, but at the expense of warmth and a heavy presence of mid-bass, the slams and thumps lack the characteristics that contribute to a weightless response, but this has little effect on the lower mid-range thanks to the custom dual mid-frequency BAs. In songs like The Reason by Hoobastank, the drums can seem lacking in presence compared to the vocals and other instruments, with the toms and kick drums feeling light and lacking weight. Conversely, in Somewhere I Belong by Linkin Park, the bass has a clear and articulate response, though the impact and heaviness of the bass notes could be stronger. Overall, the bass region is controlled, detailed, and well-articulated.

Technical Performance​

In terms of details, speed, and resolution, I don't believe any other IEMs, such as the Hype 4 or Blessing 3, are even comparable. I'll have to test the Pilgrim to provide comment, but for now, I believe it's the finest in its class. It does not fall short in terms of stage imaging or separation, but it is comparable, if not superior, than the IEMs stated above. Let's be more specific.

Soundstage, Sound Imaging & Separation​

The stage features a holographic presentation that is big enough to create an open and airy atmosphere; the notes are crisp and lucid, demonstrating excellent imaging. The distinctness of the notes creates an excellent feeling of separation between the notes, allowing you to determine the source of the sound with ease.

Speed & Resolution​

As I previously stated, the resolution and detail retrieval are among the greatest I have heard; macro and micro nuances are readily revealed, and the attack and decay of notes is extraordinarily fast-paced, almost unnaturally so, but it still sounds authentic.

Sound Impressions ​

Sources​

Sony WM1A - While listening to WM1A, response spreads out further in the left and right directions, resulting in a more expansive and airy response. The treble sounded smoother and more coherent, while the mid-range sounded more open, allowing the bass to sound more lively and, with warmth added, making the overall bass sound organic and genuine. The details were a little suppressed, delivering a more rounded response, which caused the vocals a touch off-toned on several tracks like Sukinishinayo by ANLY, Kamihitoe by URU, etc.



SIMGOT DEW4X - while listening to the DEW4X, the response sounded a little crisper but not sharp, The stage depth was affected while the width felt more spread out. The treble sounded airy and extensive with pumping details, and the mid-range sounded a little less forward. The bass also felt more centred but had the same impact and physicality.



QUESTYLE M15i - When listening to this pairing, the response sounds calm, allowing for an expressive and open-sounding response with better control over the revealing nature of the notes, allowing the notes to sound as natural as possible with a presentation spread out far and wide, where the upper mid-range pours everything while remaining airy and spacious. Listening to tracks like Gotye's Somebody That I Used To Know and Love Will Come Through, the vocals sounded incredibly real and detailed while yet being open and light without disrupting the tonal balance. In the end, what may have sounded analytical and impartial came off as well balanced and resolved. The bass felt a touch light but more textured.

QUESTYLE CMA18 - Aurora's response was able to have the appropriate breadth and depth when listening to this pairing since the response was presented more frontally and backward. The vocals and instruments sounded more expressive than previously; with CMA18, the refinement in the notes increased in terms of details and contrast, providing more transparency and linearity throughout the response. The notes were clearer and revealed certain elements.

Tracks​

Millet - Anytime Anywhere
Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness
Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo
Uru - Kamihitoe
Kujira Yumemi - Kenka
Majiko - Kokoronashi
Anly - Sukinishinayo
Kohama Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade
Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love
Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope
Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow
Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Jawns - Erotica
ISOxo - how2fly
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Weeknd - Popular
YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High)
Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid
Middle Kids - Bend
FLETCHER - Leads Me On
Loathe - Aggressive Evolution
The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
Sigrid - Burning Bridges
AURORA - Black Water Lilies
AURORA - Runaway
X Ambassadors - Renegades
Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold Us
Goyte - Somebody That I Used To Know
Jay-Z - Run This Town
Lady Gaga - Poker Face
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Ladytron - Ghost
Travis - Love Will Come Through
LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong
DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix)
Hoobastank - The Reason
Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care
Tool - 7empest
Tool - Vicarious
A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song
Zack Hemsey - Vengeance
Elton John - I’m Still Standing
The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin
Micheal Sembello - Maniac
Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine
A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun

Conclusion​

To conclude this review, I have nothing else to say except that the Aurora is a literal detail monster, not by sounding sharp, lean, or offensive in any way, but by thoroughly and carefully tuning it to sound more natural and professional in terms of technical and tonal performance, which it does flawlessly. I'm completely captivated by the sound signature and the detailed focus presentation, which allows for clear vocals and instrument presentation while being expansive and airy and not affecting the bass's effect on the overall mix. This IEM has my wholehearted approval for anyone who does not want to spend more for details like TOTL IEM but at a third of the price; nevertheless, folks who want warm and more coherent or smooth sounding IEMs ought to try these first before making a decision.

Review Of The Questyle CMA18P​

Introduction​

Questlye is a Chinese company focused on researching and creating high-tech lossless audio systems with exquisite sound aesthetics and a comfortable listening experience. The company began creating headphone amplifiers in 2012, when it released the CMA800, and more recently, the CMA18P, M15i, and M12i. The company also released a lossless audio IEM. Personally, I bought their M15, which I loved for its design, form factor, and, most importantly, sound. At the time, there was no other dongle dac that sounded as clear and transparent. I was lucky enough to get my hands on CMA18P, their battery-powered portable DAC/AMP, but before going with the review, I'd want to clarify a few issues.

Disclaimer​

*Since this unit tour was organised by the kind people at Questyle, I am grateful to them. And as I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to this device as “CMA18”
*Finally, I will only evaluate the CMA18 based on its performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification​

The CMA18 includes four sets of patented PCT-class current-mode SiP chips capable of producing up to 5W of peak power, along with the XMOS XU316 platform and AK4493 DAC chip for HD D/A conversion up to PCM768/DSD512. It has two stereo line-in inputs (3.5mm AUX IN and 4.4mm BAL IN) for analog-to-digital recording, with monitoring via 3.5mm or 4.4mm outputs and seamless USB connection. It features a 4300mAh lithium battery for over 10 hours of battery life, MFi certification, and compatibility with multiple interfaces. Questyle's 3.5mm-RCA and 4.4mm-XLR cables allow connections to 2-channel Hi-Fi devices for home audio or monitoring purposes in recording and musical production. More technical specifications are mentioned below.

USB Playback:
Maximum support PCM768kHz/32bit
DSD Native: DSD64, DSD128, DSD256, DSD512
DSD Dop: DSD64, DSD128, DSD256
Supports:
Win XP / Vista / Win7 / Win8 / Win10 / Win11
/ Linux / Android / HarmonyOS / macOS and iOS
USB Recording:
Fixed 48kHz/32bit stereo recording
OPTICAL:
Supports 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 192kHz/24bi
BLUETOOTH:
Supports SBC/AAC/aptX/aptX-HD/LDAC D/A Convert
Maximum headphone output power:
BAL:1000mW@32Ω
THD+N:
<0.0003%@20mW，300Ω
SNR:
>120dB

Design And Aesthetics​

The CMA18's body resembles a flat block or numerous M15s stacked together. The frame is sandblasted aluminium, the front panels are glass with a gradient dot pattern, and the back has glass slapped on it. On the left side, there are four buttons and two toggle switches, and four output jacks with a USB-C OTG connector are located below the device. The buttons are used to move between functions while also acting as a volume rocker, hold and power button, while the toggle switch is used to change gain levels. When the device is turned on, the LED lights illuminate according to the function being used. Overall, the object has a computerized vibe, reminiscent of 1990s electrical equipment.

Usage ​

During my use, I discovered that these were not easily pocketable, but I was able to fit them comfortably in my pockets. The nicest aspect is that the form and design are not larger than my smartphone, and it provides a stronger grip when attached to the back of my smartphone. When it came to exploring all of its functions, I was only able to fully utilize the USB and Bluetooth modes, where the Bluetooth connection was quite dependable. Also, I usually used IEMs, but I never needed to use high gain, thus I never had any difficulties with power or SQ. Like I was with my M15, I am a bit concerned about the glass over it, but I have never heard of any quality concerns with M15, so I have great expectations with CMA18 as well. With my usage at regular gain and simply utilizing IEMs, I was able to achieve approximately 10 hours of use, which is what one should expect from a premium product. Finally, these are quite portable to utilize.

Sound Impressions ​

IEMs​

Thieaudio Prestige LTD

Prestige LTD is the very reason I am now able to find the truth in my musical dreams; I have never heard another IEM that ploughs your ears with faith in each note, no matter how those notes should sound and nurtures your senses with dynamics and presentation as if I were hearing reality. Previously, I owned the Monarch MKII, which established what one would expect, but once the prestige's magic began to flourish, I knew I could explore so much more with it, especially when it came to the air and presence of each nuance the notes were able to grasp over and tingled my senses. To summarise the prestige's response sounds as if the Monarch MKII were given steroids and enhanced the upper frequencies in all directions with better authoritative flow in the lower response. The response is neutral with sub-bass boost, similar to the Monarch MKII, with the exception that the notes are airier and more revealing than any other IEM before this era. However, the thinner notes and excessive clarity provide obnoxious features that expose bad mixing and recordings, which were highly obvious when heard on my V6 but smoothed out on my WM1A, indicating source dependence.



When I listened to this pair, it seemed really clear and fluid. The notes hit close together, capturing the listener's attention and keeping them interested. The soundstage sounded near, yet full of details that were easily pushed. The stereo image was improved by arranging the notes precisely and ensuring that the notes were distinguishable. The vocals in the higher section shine brighter, and the instruments have an added zing. Female voices and percussion, in particular, have an alluring quality that makes the music seem engaging.

Thor Mjolnir MKII

Mjolnir is a very bassy set that has a lot of sub-bass emphasis. The treble and upper mid-range are also very forward in the mix. The upper treble has great extension as well. The bass is very punchy and boomy while acting fast. Mjolnir is a great V-shape-sounding IEM with a different approach to explosive bass that has better technicalities, especially in this price range. The stage is great with a nice surrounding stage and depth where the separation of each element sounds distant enough to procure space to breathe and distinguish themselves. The attack and decay of the driver capability are really quick and perform great. The vocals may feel lean and sparkly, but the warmth or the fuller experience is something that these lack. The bass response does vary from source to source whether I listen to a warm source or a neutral one, the bass becomes either overwhelming authoritative or both.



While listening to this pairing, The smooth response sounds clearer since the vocals seemed more engaged in the mix and the instruments sounded less emphasized but more detailed. The overall approach of the response has improved. The bass sounded controlled, with a more textured bottom that helped to distinguish each note in the low end. Normally, the response does not sound as cohesive, but this pairing did make it seem nicely balanced. However, I did notice some white noise in the background on both analog outputs.

7Hz Aurora

Trust me when I say that Aurora is a literal detail monster, as every aspect of the presentation oozes out details and clarity with a versatile tuning that allows the intricacies and nuances to shower over the mix, bringing excellent clarity and transparency to the presentation. Though I notice that the existence of such notes results in sharp characteristics, I have never experienced a metallic nature. The crispness and air in the treble area, as well as the lively tone of the midrange, combined with a large stage that allows notes to breathe and sound full, result in remarkable detail retrieval. The nicest thing of the entire response is that the definition and tonal balance are nicely established, resulting in a lean yet coherent sounding presentation. If I look at the graph, it appears frightening with peaks and dips over the treble area, however such a presentation produces a vibrant and enticing response that isn't overly bright while also including crsip and the sparkling aspect of the notes. On the other side, the midrange sounds broader and clearer without adding hotness or peakiness to the mix, while the bass may become a touch too controlled but still present enough to make the response feel full-bodied.



Aurora's response was able to have the appropriate breadth and depth when listening to this pairing since the response was presented more frontally and backward. The vocals and instruments sounded more expressive than previously; with CMA18, the refinement in the notes increased in terms of details and contrast, providing more transparency and linearity throughout the response. The notes were clearer and revealed certain elements.

Rose Technics QT-X

QT-X offers a mid-centric and neutral tone, with a focus on the sub-bass and an overall clean sound. When I first started listening to them, I noticed that whichever source I used changed the quality of the sound without affecting the tuning, which made me understand how versatile they are in terms of technical aspects. The sound is characterized by its cleanliness and transparency, with a particular emphasis in the midrange that gives the vocals and instruments a spacious and well-defined presence. While the graph may indicate that the treble lacks energy and the bass is lean, the tuning of this IEM actually allows the treble to sound expansive and smooth without being dark, and the bass to provide good depth and presence. However, there is a slight lack of warmth and note weight in the mid-bass region that is noticeable throughout the sound signature. Finally, I feel the response has been properly calibrated to sound neutral and accurate, particularly in the midrange, rather than offensive or bright.



While listening to this pairing, the response sounded revealing, but not in an energetic way, but rather in a more soothing manner, with better contrast in overall reaction. The treble sounded more comfortable, with better extension. The voice and instrumentation both sounded more direct and appealing. The whole response sounded clearer and airier than previously.

Tracks​

Millet - Anytime Anywhere
Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness
Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo
Uru - Kamihitoe
Kujira Yumemi - Kenka
Majiko - Kokoronashi
Anly - Sukinishinayo
Kohama Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade
Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love
Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope
Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow
Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Jawns - Erotica
ISOxo - how2fly
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Weeknd - Popular
YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High)
Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid
Middle Kids - Bend
FLETCHER - Leads Me On
Loathe - Aggressive Evolution
The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
Sigrid - Burning Bridges
AURORA - Black Water Lilies
AURORA - Runaway
X Ambassadors - Renegades
Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold Us
Gotye - Somebody That I Used To Know
Jay-Z - Run This Town
Lady Gaga - Poker Face
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Ladytron - Ghost
Travis - Love Will Come Through
LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong
DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix)
Hoobastank - The Reason
Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care
Tool - 7empest
Tool - Vicarious
A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song
Zack Hemsey - Vengeance
Elton John - I’m Still Standing
The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin
Micheal Sembello - Maniac
Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine
A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun

Conclusion​

To summarize this evaluation, CMA18 is quite competent and filled with features that will completely gratify its user. I believe the power and sound quality it provides make it a highly practical device as a portable product, and in terms of sound performance, I have never heard anything that sounds this cohesive and smooth while improving on details and clarity. The whole presentation is synergistic and linear, making it versatile and mature-sounding portable DAC/AMP. As a result, I believe Questyle done an excellent job with CMA18, and I recommend them.

Review Of The Kiwi Ears X Crinacle Singolo ​

Introduction​

Kiwi Ears is a brand that has successfully established itself in the audiophile industry, receiving high accolades for its products and the value they provide. As I previously stated, with the exception of the original Orchestra, I have reviewed every single product that Kiwi Ears sells and they have never disappointed me in terms of sound quality. People already appreciate offerings like the Quintet and Cadenza for their favorable and balanced tuning. However, I believe they have delved further into different styled tunings to appeal to a broader range of audiophiles, which they accomplished well. Not only did they manufacture IEMs, but they also released the Allegro, a reasonably priced dongle dac that was well-received. They recently collaborated with Crinancle to create a one-of-a-kind release under $80 that employs a distinctive but not new method. The IEM is called as Singolo, and I was fortunate enough to receive a pair for review; but, before starting, I would like to clarify a few facts.

Disclaimer​

*Since this unit tour was organised by the kindly people at Linsoul, I am grateful to them. As I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to these IEMs as “Singolo.”
*I am using different Ear-tips for convenience and better versatility.
*Finally, I will only evaluate the Singolo based on their performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification​

The Singolo features a large 11mm custom Japan-made LCP dynamic driver on each side, and Kiwi Ears has implemented their new K.A.R.S technology, which appears to have introduced an elongated tubing structure for pressure release and airflow, with the understanding of Helmholtz resonance to regulate the tuning and manipulate the air pressure release to deliver the favourable bass response Kiwi Ears was achieving. The Shells are entirely manufactured of medical resin, specifically to apply their K.A.R.S technology and custom-built drivers. The shells are tiny and simple to slip into the ears, and the comfort is excellent even after extended listening sessions, however the nozzle adjustment may cause fit issues, as one of my friends experienced until he changed ear tips to ensure sufficient isolation. The bundled accessories are of lower quality than those offered by competing IEMs in this price range. As a result, I feel that the majority of the funding was spent on collaboration and IEM development. The accessories include a variety of eartips and a two-pin connection cable with an L-shaped 3.5mm termination plug. According to the technical specs, the impedance is 32 Ohms and the sensitivity is 108dB. The frequency response ranges from 20Hz to 20kHz.

Sound​

The Singolo's tuning tends toward a naturally warm tone that becomes increasingly pleasurable to listen to with each second. The bass response is optimized to sound larger, bodied, and genuine. Whatever I said, it wouldn't have mattered if the technology that the corporation was pleased to deliver to us wasn't effective. But, after giving it a good amount of time to understand and find logic, the only thing I was able to understand was that the driver used is of high quality, as is the use of the K.A.R.S technology, which is the implementation of acoustic tuning from the back of the driver to accentuate the air pressure, allowing for a dip around 200Hz-400Hz without affecting the natural tone that resides in that region. The whole response sounds genuine, lively, and right in every manner conceivable. The only issue I have is with the treble, yet it is what makes the Singolo sound great. Let's go further into the sound and learn more about it.

Treble​

To be honest, the Singolo's treble area lacks excitement and sparkle in the mix, but ample air and extension compensate for this, giving the treble region a solid presence. The response is also not the best in terms of note clarity or sharpness; however, the tuning tends to follow a natural and soothing response; personally, I don't like such a response dipping around 9kHz to 15kHz, subduing the tingling nuances and crispness of the notes, but it does make it sound more friendly and full-bodied while also keeping the listener engaged with a wholesome and natural sound. The upper treble extends sufficiently to provide enough air and space for the singers and instruments to breathe, making them seem open and alive. The lower treble, on the other hand, creates a pleasant interaction that the listener will find engaging. The lower treble contains enough energy to make the singers and instruments seem lively and upfront without being too hot or peaky, nor does it introduce any sibilance or tinniness. The notes have a more complete responsiveness and depth, sounding pleasing and melodic. As a result, the overall presentation of the treble range is soothing, natural, and enjoyable to listen to.

Mid Range​

In addition, the way the treble is adjusted harmonizes the bass and mid-range response balance, resulting in a clear and distinct response, if I were to examine the response as a whole. The mid-range enhances the voices and instruments enough to make them feel present and easy, while also providing a large sound with an open response. The treble and bass are adjusted in such a way that they never interfere with the midrange's clear and natural sound. The upper mid-range resonates with the lower treble, resulting in a more weighty and prominent response; the vocals, whether male or female, have a vivid and fuller response; and the instruments have a rich and rounded response with a distinct quality that enhances the vocals' presence, making the response musical and pleasant. I should also point out that the slightly shy response of roughly 1kHz to 3kHz region contributes to the spacious sound. The lower mid-range has a strong presence, allowing for good note weight and density, making the response sound thick and solid without becoming muddy or mumbly. Both the voices and the instruments sound rich and distinct, lending weight to top frequencies while compensating for the natural tone quality. Maybe the spike between 300 and 600Hz brings that warmth to the tones. As a result, the mid-range response sounds full-bodied, rich, and open.

Bass​

When it comes to bass, I have three key points to discuss: the technology employed, tuning, and the quality of the driver. Starting with the technology used, Kiwi Ears refers to it as K.A.R.S technology, which is the implementation of air pressure through elongated tubes to produce a more enhanced yet effortless bass response without interfering with any other region's natural quality of notes, essentially a cheat code that impresses me because no matter how many times I hear the Singolo, the region that is affected is not actually affected. The bass is tuned properly Harman, with sub-bass focus and enough mid-bass intensity to compensate. The sub-bass digs deep and hits hard, with plenty of rumble and power. The mid-bass has enough presence to make slams and thumps effective and engaging. Even if the notes aren't particularly precise, their number makes the response feel genuine and substantial. The rounded and weighted notes offer positive properties, allowing for a dynamic and engaging response. To be honest, I was skeptical at first and then perplexed since, while the response is packed with a powerful presence and each note conveys considerable differentiation without compromising integrity, it does not sound detailed or clear. I experimented with EQ and discovered that even when the sub-bass response was heavily emphasized, the driver did not distort or lose its composure. The best part is that even after heavily emphasizing the bass response, the mids remained completely clean and unaffected by the bass impact. This discovery finally led me to the conclusion that the driver utilized was of high quality and maybe wasn't intended to serve such a purpose. Overall, the bass area has a robust, forceful, and dense sound.

Technical Performance​

So when it comes to technical agility, I am afraid to say that Singolo is not a remarkable IEM, mostly audiophiles search for clarity and details around this price range and there are many IEMs around this saturated segment. Therefore I believe this pair produce a more tonally pleasing sound. However do not get me wrong, due to such saturation and spreading information across the globe doesn’t make it fair for me to say that Singolo suffices and has decent technical quality as I do find them on par with its peers. The areas where I find it interestingly different are the imaging, layering and separation. Let’s discuss in specifics.

Soundstage, Sound Imaging & Separation​

The stage is spread out enough to sound spacious and open, due to the fact that the response is spread out from more in the left and right side rather than front or back. The impressive part is the imaging which brings precision and clarity with great distinction between the notes which overall produces a very potent and strong sense of the presentation. The separation between the notes is accurate and allows me to effortlessly pinpoint where the sound is coming from.

Speed & Resolution​

Coming to the adequate resolution and details, the macro details are easy to surface yet the micro details suffer to come across. The attack and decay of the notes resolves at a natural pace which makes it sound more realistic even after not much refinement in the mix.

Sound Impressions ​

Sources​

Sony WM1A - While listening to the Singolo with WM1A, the response seemed more expansive, with stronger treble extension and less emphasis on bass presence in the mix, resulting in a more dynamic and large sound with hint of warmth. The female vocals were given more importance, while the instrumentation complemented them. The stage felt more equally distributed across the surrounds, making it sound more lively and expansive with correct note placement. The mid-range notes, however, sounded slightly thin and were presented lightly.



Tempotec V6 - While listening to the Singolo with V6, the midrange response seemed significantly accentuated, and the bass was well-controlled yet weighty. The treble was a tad hazy in presence but nonetheless thriving. The whole presentation conveyed an intimate, direct, and engaging tone.



Simgot DEW4X - While listening to the Singolo with DEW4X, the response appears cleaner and tonally leaner, while the notes sound closer, bringing the details and resolution to a higher level. The control over the vocals improves the overall tone of the response. The instruments also sound more engaged, with an overall open and energetic tone. Another component to consider is the treble, which sounds more polished and linear. Overall, the response sounds more lively and balanced in terms of detail, positioning, and staging.



Quloos MUB1 - While listening to Singolo with MUB1, The overall response had a distinct and resolved sound, with a significant focus in the mid-range area, which enhanced the voice impression and delivered a more clear, crisp, and transparent sound; the same can be said for the instruments, albeit the impact of the notes was not as powerful. The treble was more present, with finer details, yet the air and extension felt the same. In contrast, the bass seemed less lively in the mix, but it was accurate and well-controlled. The intricacies were easily revealed, but their effect lacked the brightness of the notes and their strong presence.

Tracks​

Millet - Anytime Anywhere
Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness
Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo
Uru - Kamihitoe
Kujira Yumemi - Kenka
Majiko - Kokoronashi
Anly - Sukinishinayo
Kohama Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade
Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love
Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope
Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow
Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Jawns - Erotica
ISOxo - how2fly
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Weeknd - Popular
YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High)
Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid
Middle Kids - Bend
FLETCHER - Leads Me On
Loathe - Aggressive Evolution
The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
Sigrid - Burning Bridges
AURORA - Black Water Lilies
AURORA - Runaway
X Ambassadors - Renegades
Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold
Goyte - Somebody That I Used To Know
Jay-Z - Run This Town
Lady Gaga - Poker Face
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Ladytron - Ghost
Travis - Love Will Come Through
LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong
DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix)
Hoobastank - The Reason
Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care
Tool - 7empest
Tool - Vicarious
A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song
Zack Hemsey - Vengeance
Elton John - I’m Still Standing
The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin
Micheal Sembello - Maniac
Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine
A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun

Conclusion​

To summarize this review, I believe Singolo is a uniquely introduced in-ear monitor that will appeal to a wide variety of audiences who can acquire it without hesitation to supplement their collection or for the first time test a really well tuned IEM from a highly complicated driver and its implementation. Singolo is a very well-tuned IEM based on a remarkable driver and genuine technology. Though I would stir away if I were searching for clarity and the details in this pair, I would still ask to give it a shot like I did. So, Kiwi Ears has once again earned my recommendation.

Review Of The Quloos MUB1​

Introduction​

Quloos, a Chinese firm also known as ShenZhen QLS Electronic Technology Co., Ltd, is devoted to offering high-end digital audio player research and development and has created a line of digital audio players. The firm also has an interest in various audio accessories such as audio power purifier filters and Analog to SPDIF converters. They have developed devices such as QA662, QP02, and QU02, and are commonly known as MC01 and MC01, but the most recent one that I was able to get my hands on is their new Bluetooth DAC/AMP known as the MUB1 for review, but before we get into the sound, I would want to clarify a few points.

Disclaimer​

**Since this unit tour was organised by the grateful people at ConceptKart, I am grateful to them. And as I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to this device as “MUB1”
*Finally, I will only evaluate the MUB1 based on their performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification​

The Quloos MUB1 is equipped with four CS43131 chips from Cirrus Logic, which provide exceptional specifications, including a Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) of 132dB and incredibly low Total Harmonic Distortion plus Noise (THD+N) of 0.0001%. The device offers unique functionalities that cater to audiophiles and music enthusiasts, including a Nos mode and an eight-channel Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) design. These features allow the MUB1 to support high-resolution audio formats, such as PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz and Direct Stream Digital (DSD) resolution up to 256. The MUB1 also boasts advanced technology like a low jitter range, an independent power supply system, and a four-stage HiFi structure. Its construction with premium components like Panasonic Electrolytic Capacitors, Wurth Alloy Inductor, and BUF634, commonly used for desktop AMPs, are implemented efficiently.

Below is an image providing other technical specifications:

Design And Aesthetics​

The MUB1 has the feel of a little square slab of metal with rounded corners, which appears small for a DAP but not for a dongle dac, hence I do not consider it a real dongle DAC/AMP. The device is made of silver aluminum and features a black front with a screen in its middle. Even being such a little device, it has a surprising number of functionality. Also, considering its appearance and body dimensions, I believe it resembles a power bank or utility gadget. Below are the device's technical specs.

Usage ​

First, I'd want to discuss the clicking sound it produces when it turns on or when the options it gives change since it sounds the most pleasant and minimalistic. Despite its larger size compared to other pocketable DAC/AMPs, the device is rather practical and easy to use or take out of pockets. Though the plastic cover made it difficult to operate the button, it was otherwise functional. With all of the capabilities, I could utilize the gain, filter, and volume, but it was simple to go through all of the settings. Using it simply at high gain was sufficient to drive hard-to-drive IEMs such as my Prestige LTD and Crimson. The positioning of the output ports below the device was a good idea since it made it simpler to control both the device connected to the source and the device itself, but I usually used it with Bluetooth, which was rather efficient for me and my usage preferences.

Sound Impressions ​

IEMs​

Thieaudio Prestige LTD

Prestige LTD is the very reason I am now able to find the truth in my musical dreams; I have never heard another IEM that ploughs your ears with faith in each note, no matter how those notes should sound and nurtures your senses with dynamics and presentation as if I were hearing reality. Previously, I owned the Monarch MKII, which established what one would expect, but once the prestige's magic began to flourish, I knew I could explore so much more with it, especially when it came to the air and presence of each nuance the notes were able to grasp over and tingled my senses. To summarise the prestige's response sounds as if the Monarch MKII were given steroids and enhanced the upper frequencies in all directions with better authoritative flow in the lower response. The response is neutral with sub bass boost, similar to the Monarch MKII, with the exception that the notes are airier and more revealing than any other IEM before this era. However, the thinner notes and excessive clarity provide obnoxious features that expose bad mixing and recordings, which were highly obvious when heard on my V6 but smoothed out on my WM1A, indicating source dependence.

While listening to LTD with MUB1, the response seemed more controlled and mature, with better control over the treble energy, which sounded somewhat more bodied and tonally warmer. The stage is large enough to provide a better holographic reaction, and the image has improved, resulting in a more engaging response. The voices are slightly soft, and the instruments seem rounded, but the wide and airy response is not impaired. Another thing that stood out was that the female voices, which were capable of showing air and realistic features in the high octaves, faded, and the instruments were somewhat limited in their ability to expose maximum clarity. The bass did not appear to be significantly altered, and it retained its punch and weight within the mix.

Symphonium Crimson

I have come across the Crimson IEMs and I have to say that they are a cut above my best-sounding IEM, the Prestige LTD. The Crimson provides an incredibly enjoyable experience, surpassing any other IEMs I have heard, whether they are top-of-the-line or not. The Crimson’s presentation is expressive yet smooth, with a balanced and warm response that accurately reproduces the quality of the notes while providing a playful presentation of the vocals and instruments. The newer BA IEMs can sound less metallic or artificial, but Symphoniom has gone above and beyond in this regard. I have previously thought that the Helios offered better detail retrieval than the Thieaudio Monarch MKII, but I preferred the Monarch MKII’s pleasing tonality, which became my favourite at the time. However, the Crimson has now generously offered everything I wanted and more, including the weight and impact of the bass, and the musicality in the presentation of the vocals and instruments in the upper frequencies while retaining a pleasing tonality.

During my listening experience with the Crimson and MUB1, I couldn’t help but notice how the response of the sound felt soft and rounded. While the detailed aspects of the notes were not as prominent, there was an improved grasp over the tonal quality which made the listening experience quite enjoyable. Another aspect that stood out was the spaciousness of the response, which allowed the vocals to sound open and free. Additionally, the treble felt extensive and airy, while the bass took a backseat in terms of power and impact, resulting in a sound that was warmer and more mellow than before. Overall, the listening experience was quite pleasant.

Thor Mjolnir MKII

Mjolnir is a very bassy set that has a lot of sub-bass emphasis. The treble and upper mid-range are also very forward in the mix. The upper treble has great extension as well. The bass is very punchy and boomy while acting fast. Mjolnir is a great V-shape-sounding IEM with a different approach to explosive bass that has better technicalities, especially in this price range. The stage is great with a nice surrounding stage and depth where the separation of each element sounds distant enough to procure space to breathe and distinguish themselves. The attack and decay of the driver capability are really quick and perform great. The vocals may feel lean and sparkly, but the warmth or the fuller experience is something that these lack. The bass response does vary from source to source whether I listen to a warm source or a neutral one, the bass becomes either overwhelming authoritative or both.



With this combo, the upper midrange and lower treble sounded more front, while the voices and instruments sounded leaner and forward, resulting in an open and energetic response. However, the bass felt more accurate and controlled. Finally, delivering an enthusiastic reaction with engaging voices and entertaining instrumental presentation improves the sound's detail and clarity.

Tin Hifi P1 Max II

Based on my recollection, the previous version of the P1 MAX II, the P1 Max, had a warm and neutral sound that produced a pleasing response with rounded notes and a safe response. However, the P1 Max II takes that safe tuning and adds more detailed aspects to the sound. Compared to its predecessor, the P1 Max II has a more balanced response with an emphasised mid-range. This results in a more engaging and lively sound. In today's world of Planar IEMs, many companies have started using this technology and released successful products. This has led to a highly competitive market, with each company striving to excel in their technology and tuning on planar drivers. Despite this, I believe that the P1 Max II stands out as a unique and intriguing IEM in the market.



while listening to P1 Max II with MUB1, the response sounds a little more weighted yet transparent with a more emphasised lower mid-range bringing a better tonally balanced response. The details and clarity are somewhat improved and the notes sound livelier. The bass impact has more oomph and meat in the mid-bass yet the impact is still light. The overall response is more enjoyable and natural sounding.

Kiwi Ears X Crinacle Singolo

The Singolo's tuning tends toward a naturally warm tone that becomes increasingly pleasurable to listen to with each second. The bass response is optimized to sound larger, bodied, and genuine. Whatever I said, it wouldn't have mattered if the technology that the corporation was pleased to deliver to us wasn't effective. But, after giving it a good amount of time to understand and find logic, the only thing I was able to understand was that the driver used is of high quality, as is the use of the K.A.A.R.S technology, which is the implementation of acoustic tuning from the back of the driver to accentuate the air pressure, allowing for a dip around 200Hz-400Hz without affecting the natural tone that resides in that region. The whole response sounds genuine, lively, and right in every manner conceivable. The only issue I have is with the treble, yet it is what makes the Singolo sound great.



While listening to Singolo with MUB1, the overall response was distinct and resolved, with a significant emphasis in the mid-range region, which enhanced the voice impression and delivered a more clear, crisp, and transparent sound; the same can be said for the instruments, though the impact of the notes was not as powerful. The treble seemed more apparent, with better nuances, but the air and extension felt same. In comparison, the bass appeared less alive in the mix, but it was precise and well-controlled. The complexities were quickly disclosed, but their impact lacked the brilliance of the notes and their powerful presence.

Tracks​

Millet - Anytime Anywhere
Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness
Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo
Uru - Kamihitoe
Kujira Yumemi - Kenka
Majiko - Kokoronashi
Anly - Sukinishinayo
Kohama Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade
Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love
Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope
Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow
Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Jawns - Erotica
ISOxo - how2fly
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Weeknd - Popular
YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High)
Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid
Middle Kids - Bend
FLETCHER - Leads Me On
Loathe - Aggressive Evolution
The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
Sigrid - Burning Bridges
AURORA - Black Water Lilies
AURORA - Runaway
X Ambassadors - Renegades
Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold Us
Gotye - Somebody That I Used To Know
Jay-Z - Run This Town
Lady Gaga - Poker Face
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Ladytron - Ghost
Travis - Love Will Come Through
LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong
DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix)
Hoobastank - The Reason
Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care
Tool - 7empest
Tool - Vicarious
A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song
Zack Hemsey - Vengeance
Elton John - I’m Still Standing
The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin
Micheal Sembello - Maniac
Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine
A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun

Conclusion​

In the end, I discovered this tiny piece of hardware packed with a lot of capabilities and power, and it eventually offers a superb sound quality to listen to whether IEMs or headphones, because it is so powerful. The way it is tuned is really incredibly clear and precise, giving you a specific place to scowl on and live with the music you purchased this device for. Given that they truly represent a revolution, they definitely receive a ten out of ten recommendation.

Review Of The ARTTI R2​

Introduction​

Artti, a rising star in the realm of electro-acoustic technology, has quickly gained popularity for offering exceptional value at an affordable price point. Their range of in-ear monitors (IEMs) has drawn significant attention from audiophiles, with the launch of four distinct models - the R1, R2, R3, and T10. I recently had the opportunity to experience the impressive sound quality and compelling pricing of the Artti R1 and T10, leading me to eagerly anticipate evaluating their latest offering, the R2. Fortunately I got hands on a pair for review but before proceeding further I would like to clarify some points.

Disclaimer​

*This is a review unit, courtesy of Concept Kart. All thanks to them for providing. And as I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to thislink.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to these IEMs as “R2.”
*I am using different Ear-tips for convenience and better versatility.
*Finally, I will only evaluate the R2 based on their performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification​

Unlike its sister R1, the R2 features a single dynamic driver arrangement. The R2 employs medical-grade resin to 3D print a tiny shell that contains a 10mm beryllium diaphragm driver. Thank goodness, audiophiles with small ears won't have any problems with fit or comfort. The small factor nearly makes the R2 disappear on the ear, and because of the simple comfort and isolated fit, they have become the most pleasant IEMs for me. The word ARTTI is written in the center of the geometric design faceplate. The OFC cable that comes with the IEM is a high-quality, silver-plated cable that terminates in a 3.5mm L-shaped termination plug on one side and two pin connections on the other. Six sets of eartips in two different types and three sizes, as well as a safe storage container, are the additional accessories offered. Regarding the technical details, the sensitivity is 106dB and the impedance is 15 Ohms. The range of the frequency response is 20 Hz to 40 kHz.

***Above Credit Image***

Sound​

According to my understanding, the R2 is designed to generate a neutral sound with a boost in sub-bass frequencies. This sound characteristic produces a warmer and more pleasing tonal quality than related IEMs, such as the EPZ G10. EPZ has recently made a huge impression on the audio community, demonstrating that emerging companies can produce exceptional sound quality. ARTTI is another brand that is becoming famous among audiophiles. When compared to the EPZ G10, I believe the R2 has higher tonal accuracy and coherence. Furthermore, the R1, the older IEMs, has seen substantial advances in tuning across the frequency spectrum, making it a far superior option overall. Let's go further into sound and learn more about it.

Treble​

Between 9k and 15k Hz, the treble of R1 and R2 varies dramatically. The R2 features a more pronounced treble as a result of the muted mid-bass, producing a crisper and more detailed sound. The treble leans darker, although it is quite close to the G10 tuning, just with more clarity and openness in the upper treble. The high treble has strong extension, resulting in an open and expansive sound with a clear feeling of note fidelity. The lower treble energy is suitable for producing tonally appealing and detailed vocalists and instruments. However, the notes are smoother and broader, resulting in a well-rounded sound, rather than sparkling or glossy. The voices are upfront and vibrant, making them stand out, but the supporting instruments mix in seamlessly due to greater vocal-instrument separation. Overall, R2's treble area is clean, extensive, and upfront, making for a delightful listening experience.

Mid Range​

The middle range sound is prominent and dynamic, due to the lessened focus on the mid bass, which results in a cleaner, lighter tone that improves vocal clarity. In comparison to the R1 model, its response is leaner, but it has a more precise tonal balance, resulting in a refreshing listening experience. Moving into the upper midrange, the energy from the lower treble is carried over, but with better note weight and presence, resulting in a bright and open sound with detailed singers and instruments. Female vocals sound wide and airy, perfectly expressing their character, whilst masculine vocals present a forceful and robust lower range. This balance is accomplished by tweaking the lower midrange, which produces an organic yet clear sound while avoiding the muddiness that may dull upper frequencies, as heard in the R1 model. Warm undertones in the lower midrange offer depth to the entire sound without overloading it with bass, enabling upper frequencies to remain crisp and enjoyable. Overall, the midrange presentation is distinguished by its openness, lightness, and clarity.

Bass​

When it comes to the bass, I wanted for this type of shelf in the tuning of the R1 or any other IEM with a comparable response, which allows for a touch of warmth in the overall response, resulting in a natural and unified response throughout the whole mix. The focus is on the subbass area, with deep extension providing a solid sense of rumble and excellent punches. The heaviness and weight of the notes are prominent in the midbass range, which adds body to the entire response. The mid bass has good smashes and thumps, but they're not that impacting, and the same is true for the sub bass. As a result, the texture and detail are satisfactory. As a result, the bass is presented in a controlled, rumbly, and punchy manner.

Technical Performance​

Regarding the technical features of the R2, the response is very decent for an IEM that is tonally appealing and enjoyable to listen to, with no harsh or lean responses. I mean it fits the criteria for being among its peers by having beautiful details, a strong stage and depth, as well as good imaging skills. Let's be more specific.

Soundstage, Sound Imaging & Separation​

When it comes to note placement, the stage is wide spread from left to right and more in front than in the rear, implying that the response is wide enough to sound expansive. The notes have a reasonable feeling of quality and layering, allowing for a somewhat crisp and clear response, which is excellent for this tune. Even the gap between the notes is apparent and far enough away for me to determine where the music is coming from.

Speed & Resolution​

The details are actually good for the price, even if the micro details aren't as revealing, but the macro elements are well articulated, and the overall resolution is rather decent. The notes' onset and decay are well-paced, resulting in a clear sound throughout the mix.

Sound Impressions ​

Sources​

Sony WM1A - When I listened to R2 with the WM1A, the response was more spread out, allowing the vocals to come across more forward and the instruments to sound separate and more resolving, but the details aren't as expressive, though the rounded notes do provide a pleasing tonality that is enjoyable to listen to, particularly the instruments, which have more room to breathe and sound fuller and richer. Even in terms of bass response, it does not sound overly controlled or lean, but rather warmer and bigger, making for a really delightful and fulfilling response.



Tempotec V6 - When I listened to R2 paired with the V6, the response was clear, with a concentration on sounding more forward, particularly in the midrange. The bass and treble sound little subdued in the expansion. However, the bass is really effective.



Simgot DEW4X - After pairing the R2 with the DEW4X, I was struck by the amount of accuracy in the notes' attack as well as the device's ability to reveal minor subtleties. The DEW4X is a really clean and precise source, which helped us bring out the finer nuances of each note and brought a degree of clarity that other DAPs typically lack. What impressed me about the DEW4X was its ability to properly recreate the speed of each note. This improved the transience of the music, resulting in a more detailed and clear mix. Furthermore, I noticed that the R2's presentation was well-balanced, with no single frequency or area taking precedence over the others. Overall, I was extremely pleased with the DEW4X's performance and would strongly suggest it to anybody searching for a clear, detailed, and accurate source for their music.

Tracks​

Millet - Anytime Anywhere
Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness
Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo
Uru - Kamihitoe
Kujira Yumemi - Kenka
Majiko - Kokoronashi
Anly - Sukinishinayo
Kohama Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade
Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love
Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope
Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow
Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Jawns - Erotica
ISOxo - how2fly
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Weeknd - Popular
YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High)
Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid
Middle Kids - Bend
FLETCHER - Leads Me On
Loathe - Aggressive Evolution
The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
Sigrid - Burning BridgesAURORA - Black Water Lilies
AURORA -
X Ambassadors - Renegades
Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold Us
Goyte - Somebody That I Used To Know
Jay-Z - Run This Town
Lady Gaga - Poker Face
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Ladytron - Ghost
Travis - Love Will Come Through
LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong
DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix)
Hoobastank - The Reason
Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care
Tool - 7empest
Tool - Vicarious
A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song
Zack Hemsey - Vengeance
Elton John - I’m Still Standing
The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin
Micheal Sembello - Maniac
Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine
A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun

Conclusion​

To summarize my review, the Artti R2 provides a pleasant and engaging sound thanks to its crisp treble, open midrange, and powerful bass, giving it a V-shaped sound. For the price and form aspect, they are the best in Artti's line. I really enjoyed the R2, thus this gets my recommendation.

Review Of The Linum DualBax​

Introduction​

This is my first review outside of Chi-Fi Marvels since Linum is a Denmark-based firm that specializes in manufacturing incredibly professional and excellent-sounding cable using the highest quality materials and extensive R&D. Based on my observations of their products, they are quite practical and rational, even if they do not reassure you when looked at or felt in your hands. But when the firm supplied one of the greatest cables in their lineup, the Linum DualBax, I was really delighted. So, before continuing with the review, I'd like to clarify a few topics.

Disclaimer​

*Since this unit tour was organised by generous people at Linum and Pradipta, I am grateful to them. And as I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to this cable as “DualBax”.
*I am using different IEMs for better understanding and findings.
*Finally, I will only evaluate the DualBax based on its performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification​

The DualBax is made of silver-plated copper litz wire (224 strands) that is twisted in a dual structure. The T2 connections with ear hooks are fabricated in-house. The cable weighs only 8 grams and has a length of 127 centimetres. The cable feels extremely lightweight and professional. The constructed quality keeps me aware at all times when I use this cable; nevertheless, I checked it by stretching the cable out after being reassured by the tour leader, and thank goodness it had no sign of any damage, but I was still unconvinced, maybe due to personal issues. According to the technical standards, the impedance is 0.6 Ohms and the pull strength is around 180 N/40lbs. The cable is available in translucent black and golden colour.

Sound​

I think we can all agree that the subjective nature of this hobby makes it a very difficult situation for an audiophile to handle. Usually, when discussing sources, cables, or eartips, the changes and effects are minimal to nonexistent to most people, but I am aware that there can be changes in sound when using different cables, sources, or eartips. Therefore, as I respect both your opinions and mine, I would appreciate no denigration of my integrity or disparaging remarks about them. Everyone has the right to share their experiences, and ultimately the audience will decide whether or not to believe them. I use the word "alter" in these cases because the exaggeration of my results does not significantly change the tuning or signature of the IEM. I hope everyone will give my request some thought.

The sources used are: ​

1. Tempotec V6
2. Sony WM1A
3 AFUL Snowynight
4 Colorfly CDA-M2

The IEMs the cable was used with:​

Thieaudio Prestige LTD

Prestige LTD is the very reason I am now able to find the truth in my musical dreams; I have never heard another IEM that ploughs your ears with faith in each note, no matter how those notes should sound and nurtures your senses with dynamics and presentation as if I were hearing reality. Previously, I owned the Monarch MKII, which established what one would expect, but once the prestige's magic began to flourish, I knew I could explore so much more with it, especially when it came to the air and presence of each nuance the notes were able to grasp over and tingled my senses. To summarise the prestige's response sounds as if the Monarch MKII were given steroids and enhanced the upper frequencies in all directions with better authoritative flow in the lower response. The response is neutral with a sub-bass boost, similar to the Monarch MKII, with the exception that the notes are airier and more revealing than any other IEM before this era. However, the thinner notes and excessive clarity provide obnoxious features that expose bad mixing and recordings, which were highly obvious when heard on my V6 but smoothed out on my WM1A, indicating source dependence.



When I paired this cable with the LTD, there was a definite change in how the response was for me when I used to listen with the stock cable. The first change I felt was with how the stage imaging and layering were altered in a way that the psychoacoustics made me hear the vocals sounds which were already far, further with a proper body to the vocals not being interfered with any nuances created in the response. Though with such a response, the vocals weren’t very spread out and were more breathable in my opinion. Usually with the stock cable the mid-range sounds ready far and wide with a balanced out approach to forwardness which is epically tuned by thieaduio which in my opinion makes the response substantially natural to hear. Other areas where I felt there was any change were when the bass became too obvious to sound more centred with the same amount of bass, which allowed it to sound more powerful because the mid-range was further away, but when it came to the treble, it was less airy and less spacious, regardless of how spacious it sounded, which I believe was caused by the cable. Listening to instrumental songs made the instruments seem more open and exposed, which made it sound fantastic when I used LTD with its standard cable; nevertheless, tunes that are either badly mixed or sound bright do not produce very EST driver timbre.

Thor Mjolnir MKII

Mjolnir is a very bassy set that has a lot of sub-bass emphasis. The treble and upper mid-range are also very forward in the mix. The upper treble has great extension as well. The bass is very punchy and boomy while acting fast. Mjolnir is a great V-shape-sounding IEM with a different approach to explosive bass that has better technicalities, especially in this price range. The stage is great with a nice surround stage and depth where the separation of each element sounds distant enough for them to procure space to breathe and distinct themselves. The attack and decay of the driver capability is really quick and perform great. The vocals may feel lean and sparkly, but the warmth or the fuller experience is something that these lack.



So after pairing this cable with Mjolnir, I find it more enjoyable to listen to because Mjolnir often sounds intimate and in your face, whether it's the bass or the upper frequencies, but with this combination, it seemed more surround than stereo-wide. The vocals seemed in front and farther, similar to the LTD response. Another difference was in how it normally sounded in terms of instrumentation; the instruments sounded like they were mixing with the vocals, but the vocals were attempting to escape away from it. Such a reaction with huge bass seemed too fun and thrilling, but after using this connection, the response became more balanced and was quite enjoyable to listen to. The treble, which used to sound sparkling and glittery with occasional sibilance, was controlled, balanced, and properly extended, resulting in a tranquil but invigorating sound. However, when it comes to bass, it keeps the same booming bass that would satisfy any bass enthusiast, albeit in a more mannered and controlled manner. I used to just listen to EDM and Hip Hop tracks with the Mjolnir, but this combo lets me appreciate cinematic, rock, and pop music as well.

Kefine Klanar

Instead of having a neutral tuning, the Klanar's sound tends to be lean and bright, with a V-shaped tuning. It's a very interesting IEM for the price, with plenty of exciting bass and a focus on clarity and nuances. Since I've heard so many Planar IEMs employing a full range planar, I don't think this is particularly novel or exceptional—rather, it's more sophisticated in some respects and stunning in others. In order to illustrate such a response, I would use the Timeless as an example, since they shared a similar sound profile. They sound inviting and subjectively either lean or incredibly detailed and clear due to the emphasis on the vocal region and the quality of the planar driver. Yes, even though it sounds more accurate than warm, the bass is still good for a Planar. The Planar drivers do have some sense of that wet response, but they are far better than the Timeless, for example.



As predicted, Planars are not tolerant when changing sources, whether cable, DAC, or amp. The response, which was already bright and snappy, seemed much brighter when I heard the peaky and sibilant notes at higher frequencies. Despite the fact that the response should have been more expansive and controlled, it seemed as if the lower treble and upper mid-range were amplified in terms of vitality, and the lower notes sounded more surfaced in the mix. To be more specific, the response did not meet my expectations, mostly because of how uneven it began to seem to me.

Hisenior Mega5EST

I could tell as soon as I heard the Mega5EST that it was a very well-tuned IEM because of its remarkable tone and strong technical capabilities. The tuning is more in line with my taste, which is a refined neutral with a sub-bass boost character. I've listened to the Variations, OH700VB, EJ07M, and all of its rivals, but despite the fact that all of these IEMs have my favoured response, the tonality is by far the safest and most pleasant sounding. The bass is powerful yet extremely well-controlled, the midrange is forward-sounding, and the treble is expansive and silky. With the exception of the fact that they aren't warm-sounding IEM, it sounds as calming overall as any other.



When I coupled the Mega5EST with this cable, I began to believe that it sounded more like the Monarch MKII, except for the resolution and clarity of the notes. The changes were the same as previously, with the stage shifting back and forth rather than spreading out wide. This enabled for better positioning of the parts, such as when the bottom notes sounded closer and either side of my shifted somewhat back, making the mid-range notes seem more distinct. I believe that the vocals, which were a touch dense in the 1-3k region, were much lighter and more open sounding, and that because the location was further away and in front, the vocals sounded more revealing. The treble and bass did not vary significantly, but as the stage seemed more expansive, the bass sounded less constricted and more boomy and punchy, while the treble sounded less brilliant and thorough in terms of forwardness. I loved listening to some bass-heavy and symphonic music.

Tracks Used​

Luna Haruna - Overfly
Rokudenashi - The Flame of Love
LMYK - 0 (zero)
ORESKABAND - Jitensya
Marina Horiuchi - Mizukagami no Sekai
RADWIMPS - Suzume
Indila - Love Story
Indila - Tourner dans le vide
Earth, Wind & Fire - September
Tom Petty - Free Fallin'
Fleetwood Mac - Everywhere
Nirvana - Smells Like Teen Spirit
Blue Oyster Cult - (Don't Fear) The Reaper
Guns 'N' Roses - Sweet Child O' Mine
The Police - Every Breath You Take
Gojira - Amazonia
TV on the radio - Wolf Like Me
Bring Me To The Horizon - Can You Feel My Heart
Bring Me To The Horizon - sTraNgeRs
Avril Lavigne - Dare To Love Me
Travis - Love Will Come Through
Gotye - Somebody That I Used To Know
DJ Shadows - Six Days (Remix) [feat. Mos Def]
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Lil Wayne - Lollipop
Flo Rida - Low
Sebastian Lopez & Flug - Electronic Measures
Federico Mecozzi - Blue (Da Ba Dee)
Wayve - Not Enough
Kai Wachi & TeZATalks - Ghost
NGHTMRE, Zeds Dead & Tori Levett - Shady Intentions
Zeds Dead, DNMO & GG Magree - Save My Grave
Skrillex, Noisia, Josh Pan & Dylan Brady - Supersonic
Skrillex & Nai Barghouti - Xena
Skrillex, Missy Elliott & Mr. Oizo - RATATA
Kaifi Khalil, Eva B & Wahab Bugti - Kana Yaari
A.R. Rahman, Javed Ali & Mohit Chauhan - Kun Faya Kun

Conclusion​

In the end, despite my concerns about the cable's feel, it promises me one thing: outstanding performance on every pairing I had; I enjoyed listening to every tune on whatever source I paired it with, with the exception of Planars. So, if you believe in cables, this is one heck of a great-sounding cable; it has earned my recommendation.

Review Of The Softears Studio 4​

Introduction​

Softears is one of the most professional firms I've ever experienced, based on my own experiences with their infamous IEMs like the RSV and Twilight, but they've also been embraced by many audiophiles. This Chinese firm was founded in 2017 and has been developing professional high-end products, particularly in-ear monitors. They have recently begun to experiment with other areas, such as accessories, to widen the reach of their ingenuity and inventiveness. They recently announced a new professional IEM called as the Studio 4, and I was fortunate enough to receive a pair for evaluation. But before we go any further, I'd like to clarify a few issues.

Disclaimer​

*This is a review unit, courtesy of Concept Kart. All thanks to them for providing. And as I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to these IEMs as “Studio 4.”
*I am using different Ear-tips for convenience and better versatility.
*Finally, I will only evaluate Studio 4 based on their performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification​

The Studio 4 has an all-custom balanced armature set made up of four drivers connected to a three-way crossover. The shells are composed of 3D-printed medical resin, and like with other BA IEMs, they lack a pressure release port, causing pressure to build up in the ears. The Shells are dark black, with Softears inscribed on one side and Studio 4 on the other; altogether, Studio 4 is quite professional. Even though I have difficulties with pressure buildup in my ears, The Studio 4 were bearable because to their simple and ergonomically formed body; they fit well and the comfort was enough, but not for extended lengths of time due to pressure buildup; nonetheless, with tip-rolling, it was manageable. The cable that is provided looks and feels quite expensive, as one would expect from a professional studio set. The cable terminates with two pin connections on one end and a straight, single-ended 3.5mm termination plug on the other. The additional accessories include three pairs of eartips in various sizes, a cleaning tool, a 3.5mm to a quarter-inch adapter, a velvet storage pouch for IEMs, a cleaning cloth and a highly practical pelican case. According to the technical specs, the impedance is 12 Ohms and the sensitivity is 123dB. The frequency response ranges from 5Hz to 20kHz, and total harmonic distortion is less than 1%.

***Above Image Credits***

Sound​

The Studio 4 has one of the most precise and targeted tunings that I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing. The Harman target is followed objectively, but the resulting sound is much more than just a flat response. Instead, it offers a fuller and more present upper treble response, which is a delight to the ear. I must say that this tuning has become one of my favourites, particularly because it places less emphasis on the mid-bass and more on the sub-bass, yet it still manages to maintain a pleasing tonal warmth in the overall mix. What struck me most about the Studio 4 is the quality and timbre of the mid-range notes. They sound properly rounded and natural, allowing the notes to blend seamlessly. This is especially impressive considering that Studio 4 is an all-BA set, which often tends to sound fatiguing with a less full response. The Studio 4, on the other hand, delivers a non-fatiguing and safe overall sound, while also maintaining a fuller response that places the details precisely where they should be. I have experienced many other IEMs in the same price range, but most of them tend to sound more balanced or mid-centric, with some focusing on crisp and detailed notes. Unfortunately, this often leads to metallic or artificial characteristics being introduced, which can be distracting. Thankfully, Studio 4 does not suffer from any of these issues, and it is a pleasure to listen to. Let’s delve deeper into the sound and find out more about it.

Treble​

The response from the treble area is as expected: linear and crisp, with outstanding clarity and notes that seem larger and more calming to listen to. The region represents an unquestionably safe sound, with all singers and instruments providing crisp and fresh-sounding notes that are not harsh or tinny, but instead balance the tonal quality. The upper treble is extended and airy, but it does not provide a huge or cavernous sound since the entire environment is filled with a good awareness of note dynamics and revelation. Specifically, the voices sound quite pleasing and on the spot. The lower treble brings more aggressive singing and instruments, allowing for a more forward approach and optimum seating, resulting in a more complete experience. Though there is a tinge of staleness in the bodied notes, which may get monotonous for some since they are not light or open sounding, as I previously stated, they are "on point." The vocals are lively and mature, but the instruments provide well-toned notes, resulting in an organic response. As a result, the treble area is presented sublimely, linearly, and extensively.

Mid Range​

In the midrange, it has a very safely calibrated response that does not sacrifice tonal quality and produces more bodied notes with enough tonal accuracy. Though it is more vocal-oriented, the instruments as a whole feel somewhat muted. The main reason is that the voices are advanced while delivering a tonally warm sound that lifts the lower mid-range and builds up a filling response that partially obscures the instrument separation, eventually merging in the overall response. The upper midrange resonates with the same vigour as the lower treble but adds weight to the sounds. The vocals are the star of the show; whether male or female, both tend to sound true but have a feeling of closeted nature in that even after sounding forward, they do not open up too much, maybe owing to how the metallic and crisp notes are not overemphasised in the upper frequencies. The instruments have rounded notes and provide a solid sound, but as previously said, they fit in with the overall response and do not stand out. The lower midrange has an excellent tonal balance due to the warmth in the mix, which makes the notes weighty and thick, allowing for a crisp response. Also, because of how the BA responds, the quality is quite clear and revealing, to the point that it doesn't sound drowned. While I feel such a reaction is faithful, some may find it uninteresting. As a result, the overall presentation of the midrange area is natural, full-bodied, and upfront.

Bass​

I think Softears has done an excellent job tweaking the bass. I have three reasons why. The first is that, while the emphasis is on the sub-bass, the quality and presence of the mid-bass region are not lacking; the second is that, even when using a BA for bass, it does provide a warm yet clear and textured quality bass; and the third is that the warmth that flows into the lower mid-range does not collude with the lower mid-range and allow any influence over the higher frequencies other than bringing warmth and allowing for a natural response. Though I feel the amount and natural decay of the notes to be lacking, I provide a handful of bass to compensate for the dynamic presence. The same can be said about the mid-bass and how controlled it is, which causes the slams and thumps to strike in a very premeditated manner, at least that's how it seems. But, even for an all-BA IEM, I think it's great to have a very precisely tuned bass that is both controlled and warm. Overall, the bass area is textured, detailed, and well-presented.

Technical Performance​

The Studio 4 excels in technical abilities, demonstrating a promising prowess throughout the presentation with its equality-focused features. Whether it's staging, imaging, or resolution, it maintains the appropriate quality that places it among its peers. Let's be more specific.

Soundstage, Sound Imaging & Separation​

The surrounding sounds are more holographic, providing a clear impression of what is left, right, and in front of you. Though the response is spaced out left and right rather than front and back, it sounds closer than it seems. The same way I felt when I heard Softear's more premium product, the RSV. The imaging is likewise excellent, given that the notes are rounded and full-bodied but could have been crisper. The distance between the notes is enough to make them seem larger, although the distinction suffers slightly, particularly while listening to busy tracks.

Speed & Resolution​

The details aren't overly expressive, but they accomplish the job by displaying good macro and microelements. The assault and fade of the notes make me doubt a BA response, despite the fact that it is quick enough to resolve and sounds more natural. The magnificent nature prevents it from sounding chaotic.

Sound Impressions ​

Sources​

Sony WM1A - While listening to Studio 4 with WM1A, the response widens and extends, allowing the notes to be more open and distinct, highlighting their integrity and idiosyncrasies. The midrange, which sounded strong and aggressive, sounds properly staged, and the notes are nicely positioned, which improves overall technical ability. Both the voice and the instruments shine brightly. The bass and treble stretch further, leaving a hypnotic response; the bass sounds emphasized but in quality rather than quantity, implying that the bass is better spread out and the presence is less exaggerated overall. The treble is smoothed out, bringing air into the overall response. Finally, it transforms a dull-sounding set into an engaging one.

Tempotec V6 - While listening to Studio 4 with V6, the midrange becomes more dominant while the treble response is slightly hidden/tamed, but the bass is not completely suppressed; instead, the sound is richer and warmer. The whole presentation suggests that it is a multi-driver arrangement with a specialized dynamic driver, rather than an all-BA set.

Simgot DEW4X - I observed a substantial boost in audio response clarity and resolution after pairing Studio 4 with DEW4X. The soundstage became more concentrated and tighter, adding depth to the overall response. In my perspective, this improved the audio quality significantly. The details in the vocals and instruments were communicated authentically, resulting in a more engaging listening experience. The treble was more open without sounding overly airy, and the mid-range was somewhat recessed, making the vocals sound more defined. The high octaves were very well-represented, outperforming all of my other audio sources. The bass was mild, yet it had a strong presence without becoming overbearing. Overall, the audio response was more monitoring-specific, which helped to bring out subtle subtleties in the mix.

Tracks​

Millet - Anytime Anywhere
Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness
Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo
Uru - Kamihitoe
Kujira Yumemi - Kenka
Majiko - Kokoronashi
Anly - Sukinishinayo
Kohama Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade
Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love
Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope
Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow
Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Jawns - Erotica
ISOxo - how2fly
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Weeknd - Popular
YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High)
Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid
Middle Kids - Bend
FLETCHER - Leads Me On
Loathe - Aggressive Evolution
The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
Sigrid - Burning Bridges
AURORA - Black Water Lilies
AURORA - Runaway
X Ambassadors - Renegades
Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold Us
Gotye - Somebody That I Used To Know
Jay-Z - Run This Town
Lady Gaga - Poker Face
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Ladytron - Ghost
Travis - Love Will Come Through
LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong
DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix)
Hoobastank - The Reason
Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care
Tool - 7empest
Tool - Vicarious
A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song
Zack Hemsey - Vengeance
Elton John - I’m Still Standing
The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin
Micheal Sembello - Maniac
Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine
A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun

Conclusion​

So, after giving it all, Studio 4 has left a lasting impact with its sound and experience. To be honest, Studio 4 accomplishes nothing unusual or better; rather, it is the height of perfection in terms of tuning and sound. The way the BAs are adjusted and their distinctive characteristics prevent me from comparing them to other IEMs. It's only that the IEMs are tuned extremely precisely, yet it sounds safe and natural to everyone who gets to experience them. This IEM has effectively removed the distinction between pros and audiophiles. I won't say that these shine in this region or this portion since they excel in overall sound. However, beware of the monotonous sound that could catch you off guard, as the name implies, it sounds like a reference monitor. With that stated, I would highly suggest it to any audiophile for its excellent tuning and experience.

Review Of The ARTTI T10​

Introduction​

Artti, a recently famous electro-acoustics firm, has been highlighted everywhere for the value they deliver for the price, and many audiophiles who gave them a chance and tested their goods were quite impressed. They launched with four IEMs: the R1, R2, R3, and T10. I recently evaluated the R1, which was quite wonderful and appealing for its sound quality and price. fortunately I was recently able to obtain the T10 for evaluation, but before going any further, I'd like to clarify a few items.

Disclaimer​

*This is a review unit, courtesy of Concept Kart. All thanks to them for providing. And as I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to these IEMs as “T10.”
*I am using different Ear-tips for convenience and better versatility.
*Finally, I will only evaluate the T10 based on their performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification​

The T10 features a 14.2mm full-range planar driver on each side, contained in a plastic shell inspired by Sony's MDR-Z1R design, and a faceplate made of 6063 aircraft aluminum alloy carved via CNC processing. Even after extended periods of listening, the shells effortlessly fit within the ear and cause no discomfort. The cables that comes with the T10 feels and looks like a basic grade cable, which is fair for an IEM at this price point, but it feels soft in your hands.The cable is a 4 core, 216 strand detachable cable that terminates with two pin connections on one side and a straight 3.5mm termination plug. Three sets of eartips in various sizes are also supplied, along with a storage case. According to the technical specs, the impedance is 16.5 Ohms and the sensitivity is 96dB. The frequency response ranges from 20Hz to 20kHz, and the overall harmonic distortion is less than or equivalent to 1.5 percent.

Sound​

The T10 earphone follows a response that is more neutral with a sub-bass boost that emphasizes details and clarity while maintaining a tonal balance. From my experience with full-range Planar IEMs, they are known for their fast transient response, accuracy, and clear response which makes it one of the most resolving drivers in this segment. The T10 is no exception and is a great product considering the price at which it is being offered. However, what makes it unique from other full-range Planar IEMs is the exceptional balance between safe tuning and expressive details. The emphasis in the lower treble allows for a leaner, clearer response but the slightly laid-back upper mid-range around 3k makes it non-offensive sounding. This reminds me of the response like the U12t. In summary, the T10 offers an impressive combination of detailed and clear sound while maintaining a safe tuning that makes it a great choice for music lovers who value balance and clarity. Well let’s delve deeper in the sound and get more in details.

Treble​

Alright so the response closely follows the response like the OG S12 by Letshuoer with a little less emphasis in the upper extension even though it extends greatly. For me the whole treble section of the S12 sounded a little too bright for me, though when it comes to the T10 the tuning is a little tamed which allows the lower treble to bring more elements on the surface and makes it sound filling while also sounding not bright. The vocals and the instruments sound extensive and airy with a good amount of presence in the upper treble with less emphasised sparkle. The lower treble on the other hand packs good amount of energy which reflects in the response where both the vocals and the instruments bring a vibrant and clear response with nicely toned notes. Though the notes aren’t very sharp or edgy, it still keeps the details on par with other planar IEMs around this price. Therefore the overall presentation of the treble region is safe, detailed and clear.

Mid Range​

Coming to the mid range, the vocals and the instruments brings a good amount of air, openness and space in the mix which allows for both a segregated and linear response, specially when the upper mid range resonates with the lower treble energy and makes the response till the lower mid range coherent. The upper mid range brings the vocals forward with better note weight and roundness which helps it sound less wet and more organic. The vocals still has that vivid clarity in the mix while the instruments compliments them with a detailed exposure which makes it sound captivating. The same I don’t think I would say about the S12 but I don’t have S12 for direct comparison. The scoop between 3k and 5k makes it sound as it does right now which helps eliminating any sibilance or peakiness in the mix. The lower mid range also holds a good amount of depth in the notes which makes it sound dense whether it is the vocals or the instruments. The notes have definition but in clean manner not in a detailed manner. This is what I like about the planars, the lower mid range has no warmth and yet subjugate enough note weight to make the response bodied and fuller. Hence the overall presentation of the mid range region is forward, captivating and lively.

Bass​

When it comes to bass region, it is done nicely with better exposure of the sub bass region where the mid bass also holds enough presence to keep it sound impactful and heavy. The emphasis is on the sub bass where the bass goes deep and produces sensations of rumble noticeable to ears easily. Also the fact that the punches have good impact which sounds more like pounding makes it a really clean sounding bass, and also thanks to the mid bass being present and not emphasising in the slams or thumps to overshadow the fuller response of the overall bass region. The texture and details is really great for the price which even though gives a soft response but still acts fast and gives a proper note. So all in all the overall presentation of the bass region is punchy, controlled and impactful.

Technical Performance​

No matter which ever Planar IEMs I have heard their technical prowess always surprises me whether it warmly tuned or otherwise. The details are impeccable yet T10 leans towards a more tonally pleasing response which does impact the details which are still at par with its peers yet not better than the likes of OG S12 or Timeless. Though there are IEMs which are less technically better than T10, ultimately keeping this on par with its peers and elder brothers. Let’s get in specifics.

Soundstage, Sound Imaging & Separation​

The stage is holographic in nature which is spread out not very far but close yet the response is very resolving thanks to the sharp and clear imaging and distinctive separation between the notes makes it easily recognizable.

Speed & Resolution​

Whether it is the macro details or the micro ones, both are splendidly expressed with a great resolution for the price. And The attack and decay of the notes is quick paced which helps resolve faster and makes the overall response clean and clear.

Sound Impressions ​

Sources​

Sony WM1A - while listening to the T10 with WM1A, the response sounded more spread out which made the notes sound more separated and gave a sense of better depth and height. The treble felt more airy while the upper mid range sounded more prominent in the mix while balancing the pleasing tonality. The bass on teh other hand sounded more rounded and warm which made it sound warmer while sounding clean. So from an overall perspective the response sounded rich and full bodied with the similar quality of details and clarity if not the same.



Tempotec V6 - while listening to the T10 with V6, the response was forward in the mid range with better control over the bass but made it sound a bit more leaner which kind of allowed a little bit sibilance, rarely heard though in the mix. The treble sounded the same and the bass impact was a little underpowered which made it sound more mid centric.



Simgot DEW4X - As I was listening to the T10 with DEW4X, I noticed a significant improvement in sound quality. The response became more delicate and nuanced, with a richer, more vibrant tonality on female vocals. The instruments also sounded more distinct and vivid, with a newfound lightness and openness. The mid-range was particularly refreshing to listen to, with a clear, well-defined sound that was easy on the ears. The treble was less prominent, but still present, adding a subtle sparkle to the overall sound. The bass was also impressive, with good impact and rumble that never became overwhelming, even on bass-heavy tracks. All in all, the T10 with DEW4X is an outstanding audio experience that delivers exceptional sound quality across the entire frequency range.

Tracks​

Millet - Anytime Anywhere
Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness
Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo
Uru - Kamihitoe
Kujira Yumemi - Kenka
Majiko - Kokoronashi
Anly - Sukinishinayo
Kohama Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade
Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love
Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope
Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow
Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Jawns - Erotica
ISOxo - how2fly
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Weeknd - Popular
YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High)
Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid
Middle Kids - Bend
FLETCHER - Leads Me On
Loathe - Aggressive Evolution
The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
Sigrid - Burning Bridges
AURORA - Black Water Lilies
AURORA - Runaway
X Ambassadors - Renegades
Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold Us
Goyte - Somebody That I Used To Know
Jay-Z - Run This Town
Lady Gaga - Poker Face
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Ladytron - Ghost
Travis - Love Will Come Through
LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong
DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix)
Hoobastank - The Reason
Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care
Tool - 7empest
Tool - Vicarious
A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song
Zack Hemsey - Vengeance
Elton John - I’m Still Standing
The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin
Micheal Sembello - Maniac
Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine
A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun

Conclusion​

To end this review, from the value that these T10 provides is exceptional for a full range planar IEM, mostly Planar IEMs around this price tends to focus too much on detail producing tuning or warm sounding but the T10 is best of both worlds while maintaining a good tonal balance between the regions. I wholeheartedly recommend the Artti T10. I urge you to at least try these, as these will trigger your curiosity.

Review Of The Tin Hifi P1 Max II​

Introduction​

TinHifi is a familiar brand notoriously known to huge numbers of audiophiles catering to them since 2017 as one of the first companies to offer quality at an affordable price in an electro-acoustic product like IEM. One of their famously known IEM is T2 which has many iterations, was originally praised for its sound performance. Since then, they have released many IEMs in their T series line up with their latest releases like T2 Mark 2 and T5S. Other than the T-series line up they also have a C series and P series line up where the P series is dedicated to planar technology, now recently they made another iteration known as the P1 Max II of the first full range planar driver IEM called as the P1 Max, fortunately I was able to get my hands on one pair for review, but before we proceed further I would like to clarify some points.

Disclaimer​

*Since this unit tour was organised by the kindly people at Linsoul, I am grateful to them. As I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to these IEMs as “P1 Max II.”
*I am using different Ear-tips for convenience and better versatility.
*Finally, I will only evaluate the P1 Max II based on its performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification​

The P1 Max II houses the next generation 14.2mm planar driver which uses 2 micron diaphragm and a dual N52 magnet array. The shell also incorporates a dual chamber design and is made of resin 3D printed by Heygears, weighing only 3.8 grams each side. The shells are semi transparent yet the faceplate brings a new 3-D like patterned design on it which is new to my eyes. When it comes to the fit and comfort, I discovered that these are on a big side yet they fit perfectly well while the comfort is the best. I think these are one of the lightest shells I have ever encountered. Coming to the cable, it feels really good in hands and kind of feels premium, it is a 4 strand OFC cable ending in 2 pin on one side and 3.5mm straight termination plug on the other. The other accessories included are various types and sizes of eartips. In terms of the technical specifications, the sensitivity is approximately 98dB, and the impedance is 16 Ohms. The effective frequency response spans the range of 10Hz to 20kHz and total harmonic distortion is around 3%.

Sound​

Based on my recollection, the previous version of the P1 MAX II, the P1 Max, had a warm and neutral sound that produced a pleasing response with rounded notes and a safe response. However, the P1 Max II takes that safe tuning and adds more detailed aspects to the sound. Compared to its predecessor, the P1 Max II has a more balanced response with an emphasised mid-range. This results in a more engaging and lively sound. In today's world of Planar IEMs, many companies have started using this technology and released successful products. This has led to a highly competitive market, with each company striving to excel in their technology and tuning on planar drivers. Despite this, I believe that the P1 Max II stands out as a unique and intriguing IEM in the market. Let's take a closer look at the sound of the P1 Max II and discover what makes it so unique and interesting.

Treble​

The tuning of the mid-range plays a crucial role in how the treble sounds in the overall mix. In the case of the P1 MAX II, the treble response is smooth, expansive, and airy, creating a spacious and wide sound. While other Planar IEMs tend to focus on emphasising either the lower treble or the entire treble region, resulting in sharp and crisp notes, the P1 MAX II strikes a tonally balanced tuning by not highly emphasising the treble but giving it just enough presence in the mix. This produces a lively and open sound for both vocals and instruments, with nuances often surfacing in the mix. The upper treble has a pleasant airy and smooth response that brings a softness to the notes but can be unrefined at times. On the other hand, the lower treble has great energy, adding more liveliness and detail to the vocal and instrument sound, while still maintaining tonal balance. However, there are instances where the notes sound a little hazy and sharp, making them lean. Overall, the treble region is extensive, airy, and smooth-sounding, giving the listener a detailed and pleasant listening experience.

Mid Range​

Many people may dislike the emphasis on mid-range sounds between 1.5kHz to 3kHz, but it gives a light and airy quality to female vocals that is refreshing. This is similar to IEMs like S12 or Z12, although those have more bass emphasis to add warmth to the mix. The emphasis in the upper midrange and lower treble does introduce some sibilance, but it also makes the upper mid-range sound energetic and lively. This creates an open and vibrant sound with plenty of space for vocals and instruments to breathe, but it also introduces some hotness in the mix. In tracks like I Can’t Stop the Loneliness by Anri or Runaway by AURORA, the female vocals have a delicate and feathery aspect that becomes sharp and metallic when the notes hit high. The lower mid-range has a clean response but lacks the natural tonal quality of thicker or denser notes, also the lower mid-range may feel a bit subdued due to the emphasis on the 1.5kHz to 3kHz region. Overall, the mid-range is light, refreshing, and lean-sounding.

Bass​

When it comes to the bass response, the impact and the presence are very well controlled and specific, I find the impact and quality great as it brings a punchy and thumping response which allows a clean and fast response. The response is very well-textured and detailed which is expected from a planar driver yet it sounds way too clean as the mid-bass lacks its presence even though the graphs show the opposite, the notes feel weightless, and slams sound weak but fast to act. The emphasis is on the sub-bass region which sounds deep and rumbling enough to cause a sensation in the ears, the impact of the punch is heavy and precise while the thumps and slams feel a little laid off. The mid-bass lacks the note weight in turn lacks presence. Whether I listen to tracks like Ghost by Ladytron or how2fly by ISOxo the impact of bass feels powerful and fast yet the weightlessness makes the overall experience less dynamic. Therefore the overall presentation of the bass region is impactful, punchy and well-controlled.

Technical Performance​

While knowing that most Planars are very technically able to produce great details and resolution with snapping speed, this might not be the case with the P1 Max II. IEMs like S12, Timeless or MP145 sound very detailed and crisp but the P1 Max II sounds better spread out and airy. Let’s get more into the specifics

Soundstage, Sound Imaging & Separation​

The stage is more spread out from left to right which allows the notes to have enough room to breathe and bring a spacious and airy response, thanks to adequately sharp and clear imaging the notes bring preciseness, and the distinction between the notes helps to understand the separation which helps in pinpointing where the sound is coming from.

Speed & Resolution​

The details are adequately expressed whether they are macro details or micro details, though the crispness and clarity are what it suffers from. Still, the attack and decay of the notes is quite fast-paced allowing a good resolution and a non-chaotic response overall.

Sound Impressions ​

Sources​

Sony WM1A - while listening to P1 Max II with WM1A, the response sounds a little laid-back overall, with the mid-range still shining forward in the mix. Still the treble sounds extensive yet the response is smoother and a little relaxed, while the bass response has more weight in the lower notes which brings more lively slams and thumps. The overall response sounds as spacious as before but with a more tonally dense and better balanced response.



Tempotec V6 - while listening to P1 Max II with V6, the response embraces the mid-range light and open sound further and brings a clear and airy response. The treble sounds a little less surfaced in the overall mix though the well-controlled bass sounds punchier but detailed and lighter. Due to how vocals are overly emphasised, the hotness in the higher notes becomes easily noticeable.



Simgot DEW4X - As I was enjoying listening to my P1 Max II with DEW4X, I couldn’t help but notice the astounding clarity and lifelike quality of the sound. The notes were crystal clear, with a crispness that I had never experienced before with any of my other audio sources. The resolvability of the notes was simply remarkable; every single note was easily distinguishable, and the overall sound was a delight to the ears. The overall balance of the sound was impressive, with the treble response being particularly noteworthy. It was more pronounced and noticeable in the mix, yet it seamlessly blended with the rest of the audio. The bass was punchy and impactful, yet it felt lighter and more refined than ever before. Overall, my listening experience was incredibly immersive, and I couldn’t be more delighted with the clarity and precision of the sound.

Qoobus MUB1 - while listening to P1 Max II with MUB1, the response sounds a little more weighted yet transparent with a more emphasised lower mid-range bringing a better tonally balanced response. The details and clarity are somewhat improved and the notes sound livelier. The bass impact has more oomph and meat in the mid-bass yet the impact is still light. The overall response is more enjoyable and natural sounding.

Tracks​

Millet - Anytime Anywhere
Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness
Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo
Uru - Kamihitoe
Kujira Yumemi - Kenka
Majiko - Kokoronashi
Anly - Sukinishinayo
Kohama Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade
Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love
Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope
Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow
Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Jawns - Erotica
ISOxo - how2fly
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Weeknd - Popular
YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High)
Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid
Middle Kids - Bend
FLETCHER - Leads Me On
Loathe - Aggressive Evolution
The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
Sigrid - Burning Bridges
AURORA - Black Water Lilies
AURORA - Runaway
X Ambassadors - Renegades
Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold Us
Gotye - Somebody That I Used To Know
Jay-Z - Run This Town
Lady Gaga - Poker Face
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Ladytron - Ghost
Travis - Love Will Come Through
LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong
DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix)
Hoobastank - The Reason
Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care
Tool - 7empest
Tool - Vicarious
A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song
Zack Hemsey - Vengeance
Elton John - I’m Still Standing
The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin
Micheal Sembello - Maniac
Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine
A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun

Conclusion​

To end this review, I believe that the P1 Max II has potential because of it’s different response from its predecessor and brings a more open sounding response filled with good impactful bass response, lively mid range and airy treble. If a person wants a detail monster I;d suggest to look elsewhere as it sounds appealing to people who prefer a less active yet execute similar sounding treble with good punchy bass and lively mid range. Therefore this has my recommendation to at least try them out.

Review Of The Symphonium Crimson ​

Introduction​

This may be the first time I am assessing an audio product outside of the Chi-Fi business, but the company and their product, which I have previously been pleased with, are not new to me. Symphonium Audio is a Singaporean company founded in 2016 by three entrepreneurs who want to convey the delight of sonic bliss to the entire globe while also creating something special and unique. Many audiophiles, like myself, have previously praised their efforts and quality in producing such excellent products. I've already tested several of their offerings, including Helios and Meteor, which both astounded me with how easy they sounded. Though I wasn't able to evaluate them, I was fortunate enough to review one of their newest releases, the Symphonium Audio Crimson, but before I go any further, I want to clarify a few points.

Disclaimer​

*This is a review unit, courtesy of Pritam from Audio Store. All thanks to them for providing. And as I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection and receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to these IEMs as “Crimson.”
*I am using different Ear-tips for convenience and better versatility.
*Finally, I will only evaluate the Crimson based on their performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification​

The Crimson is equipped with an all-balanced armature driver made up of four BAs and three in-house created technologies. TrueX 4-way crossover is used for driver integration and employs two distinct but complementary technologies: FLAT and PHAT. FLAT ensures low impedance and immunity from impedance mismatch, while PHAT ensures no unnecessary frequency inversions or phase cancellation. The Crimson shell is made of high-grade T6 heat-treated AL6061 aluminium alloy, with a new colour scheme over the faceplate including a premium carbon fibre in the centre that pays homage to the brand's origins and resilience. The shell's design and feel are highly premium and minimalist in appearance, giving it a professional and distinctive vibe. The shape is also not an issue for my ears because they fit and isolate properly; nevertheless, people with small ears should be aware that the shells are on the larger side. The included cable is an Altalune Audio Novaron 26AWG Type 2 Litz copper cable with a modular termination on one end and a spring-loaded 0.78mm two-pin connector on the other. In my perspective, the cable appears substantial but feels light in my palm; it also combines nicely with the Crimson. The cable is also available in two variants: 4-core or 8-core unique offerings. The bundle also includes three different sizes of Azla Sednafit standard eartips, three different sizes of Divinus Velvet eartips, and a 3.5mm and 4.4mm termination plug. According to the technical parameters, the IEM's impedance is 6.05 Ohms and its sensitivity is 106dB. The frequency response spans 10 Hz to 24 kHz. The cable impedance for the 4-core cable is 0.12 Ohms.

Sound​

I have come across the Crimson IEMs and I have to say that they are a cut above my best-sounding IEM, the Prestige LTD. The Crimson provides an incredibly enjoyable experience, surpassing any other IEMs I have heard, whether they are top-of-the-line or not. The Crimson’s presentation is expressive yet smooth, with a balanced and warm response that accurately reproduces the quality of the notes while providing a playful presentation of the vocals and instruments. The newer BA IEMs can sound less metallic or artificial, but Symphoniom has gone above and beyond in this regard. I have previously thought that the Helios offered better detail retrieval than the Thieaudio Monarch MKII, but I preferred the Monarch MKII’s pleasing tonality, which became my favourite at the time. However, the Crimson has now generously offered everything I wanted and more, including the weight and impact of the bass, and the musicality in the presentation of the vocals and instruments in the upper frequencies while retaining a pleasing tonality. I truly enjoy these IEMs and would like to explore their sound further to find out more about their exceptional quality.

Treble​

Upon careful consideration, I must admit that the LTD has a more vibrant and lively treble region than the Crimson. While the Crimson's response strikes me as somewhat crazy, its sound is airy and expansive, with both vocals and instruments possessing a comforting, nuanced quality that never compromises their tonal integrity. The passive, cohesive response maintains a mesmerising quality of the presentation. The upper treble offers a hint of zing, allowing cymbal crashes or chimes to stand out in the overall mix, which adds distinction and favourability for the listener. Songs like Kujira Yumemi's "Kenka" showcase the chimes in a stunning, expressive way, without overwhelming the listener and losing fidelity. The lower treble also offers a similar experience, with a direct, forward approach that does sacrifice the lean adequacy and sharpness of the notes yet brings vibrancy to the presentation. The notes have great energy, which is spread evenly over the entire region to bring each note to life for the listener. The separation between vocal notes and instruments is impressive, creating a clear and defined soundstage. Despite this, the soundstage never feels too vast, allowing for a more nuanced, intimate listening experience. Additionally, the 4k dip creates a safer approach for the notes while maintaining a linear response. To sum up, the treble region's overall response is extensive, airy, and detailed, with a pleasing balance between expressiveness and fidelity.

Mid Range​

The Symphonion Crimson offers a truly captivating experience when it comes to the mid-range notes of both vocals and instruments. The vocals are rendered with full-bodied emotion and realism, while the instruments stimulate the senses and bring the entire soundscape to life. Listening to Miller’s “Anytime Anywhere” with the Crimson is truly a treat, with multiple vocals coming across close, clear, and full of character. The upper mid-range is well-rounded and tonally balanced, with forward vocals that draw the listener in and playful instruments that make the presentation enjoyable and welcoming. Compared to the Monarch MKII, the Crimson’s response is even better, with superior revelation of both vocals and instruments, albeit at the expense of some openness and spaciousness. The response is still lively, keeping the listener engaged and interested. The impact of the high and low notes is naturally occurring and true to life, with a dense quality that is particularly impressive for a response that relies solely on BAs. While the lower notes can sometimes feel hollow, the lower mid-range maintains a heftiness without becoming muddy or mumbly. Overall, the mid-range presentation of the Crimson is authentic, expressive, and truly captivating.

Bass​

When it comes to the bass response of this particular IEM, it is truly remarkable. It is the best bass I have heard from an all-BA IEM that falls under this price range. The tuning is such that it follows a neutral with sub-bass boost tuning, which results in an exceptional listening experience. What is particularly impressive is how the BA bass can deliver such quality and flexibility that is on par with what a dynamic driver can produce. However, what sets it apart is the cleanliness and accuracy of the impact of the notes. It is different from the natural decay that a dynamic driver produces but in an admirable way. The impactful notes are truly a delight for my ears, and I enjoy the weight and quality of the sound. The bass response is well-balanced and emphasises the sub-bass region, while also allowing for the mid-bass presence to be sustained. The deep rumble and punch of the bass have a noticeable impact on the response, making it an effective occurrence. The mid-bass presence brings a warmer response to the sound and delivers nice slams and powerful thumps in the mix. The mid-bass does leak into the lower mid-range, but it is not enough to detract from the overall quality of the sound. As you listen, you can feel the air pressure filling up your ears, giving you a sense of thumps and heaviness, while still resolving fast to keep the upper frequencies clean and clear. All in all, this IEM delivers an exceptional bass response that is sure to impress.

Technical Performance​

As an avid audiophile, I must say that the technical prowess of the Crimson IEM is truly marvellous in my eyes. However, I must admit that I haven’t given as much time to other IEMs around this price range, which makes it a bit difficult for me to evaluate it fairly. That being said, when it comes to comparisons, I can only truly compare it to the Thieaudio Monarch MKII or Thieaudio Prestige LTD. In terms of sound response, the Crimson IEM is more intimate and better expressed in terms of forwardness and involvement in the mix. To be more specific, the sound quality is simply outstanding and the level of detail and clarity is unmatched.

Soundstage, Sound Imaging & Separation​

Although the stage gives a more holographic response, it falls short in the closer approach, where the notes sound fuller and more complete. The sharpness and cleanliness of the notes, however, do provide great imaging capabilities. Even with such a response, the separation between the notes is surprisingly distinctive, which helps to better understand the direction of the sound. Nevertheless, when I compare it to the LTD or Monarch MKII, I find it to be a little stepped back. These two bring a more spacious sound while generating strong imaging and better distinction between the notes.

Speed & Resolution​

When I listen to LTD, it gives me a clear understanding of what resolution is. The Crimson defines it as having a highly detailed response, whether it’s macro or micro details. The notes’ attack and decay are fast-paced, yet not too fast or slow, creating a natural sound. However, sometimes, it fails to achieve that natural sound.

Sound Impressions ​

Sources​

Sony WM1A - While listening to the Crimson with WM1A, I noticed a marked improvement in the vocal expression and note clarity. The notes were crisp and clear, and the overall sound was simply stunning. The treble had an airy quality to it, which allowed the vocals to sound even more expressive and complete. However, this did come at the cost of sounding a little light, which sometimes resulted in a faint sibilance in the lower treble region. Despite this, the tonal balance remained undisturbed. Additionally, the bass had a fuller and richer sound, whether in the sub-bass or mid-bass range. The upper frequencies were kept clean, but the impact of the bass made it sound organic and natural. Overall, listening to the Crimson with WM1A was a truly exceptional experience.

Tempotec V6 - As I was listening to the Crimson with V6, I couldn’t help but notice the forwardness of the vocals in the overall response. The treble was exceptionally smoothed over, and the mid-range vocals were pushed up, resulting in a more vocal-centric sound. However, when it came to the bass, I was pleasantly surprised to find that even though it was well-controlled, it still managed to deliver a powerful punch. The result was a slightly dark, yet energetic response that left me thoroughly impressed.

Simgot DEW4X - As I was listening to music on the Crimson with DEW4X, I couldn't help but notice the transparent response and enhancement over all frequencies. The sound was clearer and more expressive than ever before, with every detail feeling stronger and more potent in the mix. This allowed for better clarity overall, making it easier to hear every note and nuance in the music. However, while the bass and treble did feel a little more linear and clearer, it also made the music sound less organic and natural. The tonality faced a leaner presentation of the notes, which might not be preferable for those who prefer a warmer, more natural sound.

Quloos MUB1 - During my listening experience with the Crimson and MUB1, I couldn’t help but notice how the response of the sound felt soft and rounded. While the detailed aspects of the notes were not as prominent, there was an improved grasp of the tonal quality which made the listening experience quite enjoyable. Another aspect that stood out was the spaciousness of the response, which allowed the vocals to sound open and free. Additionally, the treble felt extensive and airy, while the bass took a backseat in terms of power and impact, resulting in a sound that was warmer and more mellow than before. Overall, the listening experience was quite pleasant.

Comparison Between Symphonium Crimson and Thieaudio Prestige LTD​

Despite having similar frequency responses, I found both to be distant in sound, primarily because of the different configuration setups of drivers and synergy across the frequency response spectrum. The Crimson responds in a more fun and lively manner, bringing forth a lot of energy in both the instruments and the vocals. Nonetheless, I do believe that the Prestige LTD generates a sound that is larger and more expansive, with more zing and sparkle in the air and a strong overall contrast in the notes. The Prestige LTD's leaner response sounds a little more mysterious and captivating, but the Crimson does a better job of tonally accurate note depiction than the Prestige LTD. The Prestige has a more U-shaped sound than the Crimson, and as a result, it has a less forgiving and warmer tone with finer details. The Prestige LTD enhances the texture and details more than the Crimson, but the Prestige LTD wins out when it comes to the bass response's natural decay and dynamic physicality. The bass response in the Crimson is more precise and noticeable overall. The energy in the overall mix is more concentrated within Crimson, which accentuates the forwardness and lively response; however, the Prestige LTD produces a well-balanced response that allows for great separation, layering, imaging, and staging in terms of technical sound, resulting in a better perception of depth and width than the Crimson. Overall, I feel the Crimson to be more melodic and delightful to listen to, whilst the Prestige LTD provides an accurate understanding of sound and its features.

Tracks​

Millet - Anytime Anywhere
Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness
Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo
Uru - Kamihitoe
Kujira Yumemi - Kenka
Majiko - Kokoronashi
Anly - Sukinishinayo
Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade
Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love
Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope
Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow
Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Jawns - Erotica
ISOxo - how2fly
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Weeknd - Popular
YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High)
Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid
Middle Kids - Bend
FLETCHER - Leads Me On
Loathe - Aggressive Evolution
The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
Sigrid - Burning Bridges
AURORA - Black Water Lilies
AURORA - Runaway
X Ambassadors - Renegades
Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold Us
Gotye - Somebody That I Used To Know
Jay-Z - Run This Town
Lady Gaga - Poker Face
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Ladytron - Ghost
Travis - Love Will Come Through
LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong
DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix)
Hoobastank - The Reason
Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care
Tool - 7empest
Tool - Vicarious
A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song
Zack Hemsey - Vengeance
Elton John - I’m Still Standing
The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin
Micheal Sembello - Maniac
Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine
A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun

Conclusion​

To end this review, What Symphonium Audio strides to achieve and what goals they have set have been validated by Crimson, The precision in quality and redefining the parameters of elegance in sound reproduction is achieved through Crimson. The musical and lively response with robust and cohesive quality across the overall tuning makes it one of the most enjoyable, detailed and engaging IEM. A wonderful and satisfying innovation, to be sure. However, I cannot speak for the audiophile community regarding whether the price justifies the overall offering. However, when I compared my beloved PRESTIGE LTD to Crimson, I found the Crimson to be on par with LTD while offering a different taste, so Crimson has my wholehearted recommendation. You won't be able to let them go once you get them on your ears, I promise.

Review Of The SIMGOT DEW4X​

Introduction​

Simgot is a Chinese audio company that has been making waves in the industry with its impressive releases since last year. They have captured the hearts of not just me, but many audiophiles in our community with their exceptional sound quality and attention to detail. What's more, Simgot is also renowned for its unparalleled customer service, which is a rare and valuable trait in today's market. Along with Kinera and Kiwi Ears, Simgot is celebrated as one of the friendliest and most understanding companies out there. In recent times, new companies like Kiwi Ears, AFUL, and others have been delving into the technology of DAC/AMPs. Nevertheless, Simgot has been in this market for quite some time and has released the third iteration of its dongle DAC, following DEW0 and DEW1, known as the DEW4X. Fortunately, I was able to get my hands on one. Before proceeding, I'd like to clarify a few points.

Disclaimer​

*Since this unit tour was organised by the kind people at SIMGOT, I am grateful to them. And as I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to this device as “DEW4X”
*Finally, I will only evaluate the DEW4X based on their performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification​

The Dual CS43198 DAC chipset in DEW4X supports native DSD256 and 32-bit/384kHz PCM. As a more user-friendly device, the DEW4X supports type-C and lightning data transmission in addition to 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced. The device has two volume rocker controls on the side, and one beside the type c port, it includes an indicator light that changes colour according to the format sampling feeding, from blue to green. The user can also switch between low and high gain by pressing both volume buttons at the same time. To activate UAC 1.0 before powering on the device, press and hold the volume up button until the indicator light flashes after connecting it; once it does, release it to support UAC 1.0 mode. The DEW4X includes a type-c to c OTG cable and a USB C to A adapter. Regarding technical aspects, the data in the table is listed below for your convenience and comprehension.

Design And Aesthetics​

To give you a detailed description, I must say that upon close inspection, the device seems to be smaller than the Moondrop Dawn Pro, and may even be more compact, with dimensions of 12.6 mm * 41.7mm * 24mm. The device is CNC machined, which gives it a very practical and functional look. The oxidized black shade with black and purple cross design, along with the purple etched DEW4X, adds a distinct and premium look to the device. The construction seems ultra-fine and has a sleek form factor that makes it stand out from the rest. The cable is also noteworthy, as it is constructed with high-purity OFC wire that is wrapped in a sturdy shielding layer.

Usage ​

During my time using the device, I was pleasantly surprised by how convenient and user-friendly it was compared to the Allegro I had previously reviewed. Although I hadn’t reviewed or used the DAWN Pro for an extended period, I found the DEW4X and Allegro to be more compact and intriguing than the DAWN Pro. The DEW4X has a multi-level volume control that can be adjusted independently of the volume control on the source it is connected to. I even took it outside and found it easy to carry in my pocket, though the slightly sharp edges made it a bit challenging to remove from my pants pocket. However, this did not cause any significant inconvenience.

Sound Impressions ​

IEMs​

Thieaudio Prestige LTD

Prestige LTD is the very reason I am now able to find the truth in my musical dreams; I have never heard another IEM that ploughs your ears with faith in each note, no matter how those notes should sound and nurtures your senses with dynamics and presentation as if I were hearing reality. Previously, I owned the Monarch MKII, which established what one would expect, but once the prestige's magic began to flourish, I knew I could explore so much more with it, especially when it came to the air and presence of each nuance the notes were able to grasp over and tingled my senses. To summarise the prestige's response sounds as if the Monarch MKII were given steroids and enhanced the upper frequencies in all directions with better authoritative flow in the lower response. The response is neutral with sub bass boost, similar to the Monarch MKII, with the exception that the notes are airier and more revealing than any other IEM before this era. However, the thinner notes and excessive clarity provide obnoxious features that expose bad mixing and recordings, which were highly obvious when heard on my V6 but smoothed out on my WM1A, indicating source dependence.



It was an amazing experience to listen to LTD with DEW4X. The response from the IEMs was outstanding as it brought out a more crisp quality and refinement in the notes. The presentation sounded more engaging and precise, especially with the attack of notes that seemed to be delivered with great accuracy and clarity. However, while listening to the overall response, it seemed like the pairing got a little congested, where the vocals blended better with the instruments, creating a harmonious and enjoyable musical response. The bass sounded more prominent and centered, producing an authoritative approach that made the whole response sound vigorous and fuller. Overall, the listening experience was truly immersive and satisfying with the perfect balance of all the elements.

Symphonium Crimson

I have come across the Crimson IEMs and I have to say that they are a cut above my best-sounding IEM, the Prestige LTD. The Crimson provides an incredibly enjoyable experience, surpassing any other IEMs I have heard, whether they are top-of-the-line or not. The Crimson’s presentation is expressive yet smooth, with a balanced and warm response that accurately reproduces the quality of the notes while providing a playful presentation of the vocals and instruments. The newer BA IEMs can sound less metallic or artificial, but Symphoniom has gone above and beyond in this regard. I have previously thought that the Helios offered better detail retrieval than the Thieaudio Monarch MKII, but I preferred the Monarch MKII’s pleasing tonality, which became my favourite at the time. However, the Crimson has now generously offered everything I wanted and more, including the weight and impact of the bass, and the musicality in the presentation of the vocals and instruments in the upper frequencies while retaining a pleasing tonality.



As I was listening to music on the Crimson with DEW4X, I couldn't help but notice the transparent response and enhancement over all frequencies. The sound was clearer and more expressive than ever before, with every detail feeling stronger and more potent in the mix. This allowed for better clarity overall, making it easier to hear every note and nuance in the music. However, while the bass and treble did feel a little more linear and clearer, it also made the music sound less organic and natural. The tonality faced a leaner presentation of the notes, which might not be preferable for those who prefer a warmer, more natural sound.

Softears Studio 4

The Studio 4 has one of the most precise and targeted tunings that I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing. The Harman target is followed objectively, but the resulting sound is much more than just a flat response. Instead, it offers a fuller and more present upper treble response, which is a delight to the ear. I must say that this tuning has become one of my favourites, particularly because it places less emphasis on the mid-bass and more on the sub-bass, yet it still manages to maintain a pleasing tonal warmth in the overall mix. What struck me most about the Studio 4 is the quality and timbre of the mid-range notes. They sound properly rounded and natural, allowing the notes to blend seamlessly. This is especially impressive considering that Studio 4 is an all-BA set, which often tends to sound fatiguing with a less full response. The Studio 4, on the other hand, delivers a non-fatiguing and safe overall sound, while also maintaining a fuller response that places the details precisely where they should be. I have experienced many other IEMs in the same price range, but most of them tend to sound more balanced or mid-centric, with some focusing on crisp and detailed notes. Unfortunately, this often leads to metallic or artificial characteristics being introduced, which can be distracting. Thankfully, Studio 4 does not suffer from any of these issues, and it is a pleasure to listen to.

As I paired Studio 4 with DEW4X, I noticed a significant improvement in the clarity and resolution of the audio response. The soundstage was more focused and closer, which added depth to the overall response. In my opinion, this made the audio quality sound much better. The details in the vocals and instruments were expressed sincerely, allowing for a more immersive listening experience. The treble had a more open feel without sounding too airy, while the mid-range was slightly recessed, making the vocals sound more defined. The high octaves were particularly well-expressed, surpassing any of my other audio sources. The bass was light, but it still had a prominent presence without feeling too overpowering. Overall, the audio response was more monitoring-specific, which helped to highlight small nuances in the mix.

Thor Mjolnir MKII

Mjolnir is a very bassy set that has a lot of sub-bass emphasis. The treble and upper mid-range are also very forward in the mix. The upper treble has great extension as well. The bass is very punchy and boomy while acting fast. Mjolnir is a great V-shape-sounding IEM with a different approach to explosive bass that has better technicalities, especially in this price range. The stage is great with a nice surrounding stage and depth where the separation of each element sounds distant enough to procure space to breathe and distinguish themselves. The attack and decay of the driver capability are really quick and perform great. The vocals may feel lean and sparkly, but the warmth or the fuller experience is something that these lack. The bass response does vary from source to source whether I listen to a warm source or a neutral one, the bass becomes either overwhelming authoritative or both.

As I was listening to the Mjolnir with DEW4X, I noticed that the response was more refined and tightly controlled, resulting in a less scattered soundstage. This helped to tone down the treble sparkle and instead emphasized the robust characteristics of the notes. Additionally, the upper mid-range was less emphasized, allowing for a greater presence of the lower mid-range. This helped to correct the tonal balance from my perspective and gave the music a more natural and pleasing sound. As for the bass, I noticed that even the strongest impacts sounded light and well-rounded, resulting in a warm and inviting sound. Overall, the sound signature was less lively but better balanced, providing a more enjoyable listening experience.

Tin Hifi P1 Max II

Based on my recollection, the previous version of the P1 MAX II, the P1 Max, had a warm and neutral sound that produced a pleasing response with rounded notes and a safe response. However, the P1 Max II takes that safe tuning and adds more detailed aspects to the sound. Compared to its predecessor, the P1 Max II has a more balanced response with an emphasised mid-range. This results in a more engaging and lively sound. In today's world of Planar IEMs, many companies have started using this technology and released successful products. This has led to a highly competitive market, with each company striving to excel in their technology and tuning on planar drivers. Despite this, I believe that the P1 Max II stands out as a unique and intriguing IEM in the market.



As I was enjoying listening to my P1 Max II with DEW4X, I couldn’t help but notice the astounding clarity and lifelike quality of the sound. The notes were crystal clear, with a crispness that I had never experienced before with any of my other audio sources. The resolvability of the notes was simply remarkable; every single note was easily distinguishable, and the overall sound was a delight to the ears. The overall balance of the sound was impressive, with the treble response being particularly noteworthy. It was more pronounced and noticeable in the mix, yet it seamlessly blended with the rest of the audio. The bass was punchy and impactful, yet it felt lighter and more refined than ever before. Overall, my listening experience was incredibly immersive, and I couldn’t be more delighted with the clarity and precision of the sound.

Kiwi Ears X Crinacle Singolo

The Singolo's tuning tends toward a natural warm tone that becomes increasingly pleasurable to listen to with each second. The bass response is optimized to sound larger, bodied, and genuine. Whatever I said, it wouldn't have mattered if the technology that the corporation was pleased to deliver to us wasn't effective.But, after giving it a good amount of time to understand and find logic, the only thing I was able to understand was that the driver used is of high quality, as is the use of the K.A.A.R.S technology, which is the implementation of acoustic tuning from the back of the driver to accentuate the air pressure, allowing for a dip around 200Hz-400Hz without affecting the natural tone that resides in that region.The whole response sounds genuine, lively, and right in every manner conceivable.The only issue I have is with the treble, yet it is what makes the Singolo sound great.

While listening to the Singolo with DEW4X, the response appears cleaner and tonally leaner, while the notes sound closer, bringing the details and resolution to a higher level. The control over the vocals improves the overall tone of the response. The instruments also sound more engaged, with an overall open and energetic tone. Another component to consider is the treble, which sounds more polished and linear. Overall, the response sounds more lively and balanced in terms of detail, positioning, and staging.

Arrti R1

The comparison drawn here is quite similar to a recent experience I had with the Tin Hifi T5S. Both the R1 and T5S have a dark, warm bass response, with a particular emphasis on the sub-bass and forward mid-range. However, the R1’s bass is much heavier than the T5S, and it also has a better elevation in the upper treble, allowing for a more extensive treble response. The mid-range on the R1 is not too forward, which is a positive trait. The R1’s bass has a tucked lower mid-range, which gives it a more powerful sound, but it is less warm than the T5S. The T5S has less boom and more punch in the bass region.



As I was listening to P1 Max II with DEW4X, I noticed that the audio response was incredibly clear and vivid. The notes were crystal-clear and precise, without any sharpness to them. The level of detail in the notes was significantly higher than anything I've heard from other audio sources. What impressed me the most, however, was the way that the treble response was so noticeable in the mix. The sterile response of the equipment allowed the treble to shine through, while still maintaining a punchy, impactful bass response that felt lighter and more dynamic. Overall, the sound quality was breathtaking, and I can't wait to experience it again.

Arrti R2

According to my understanding, the R2 aims to produce a neutral sound with a boost in sub-bass frequencies. This specific sound signature results in a warmer and more pleasant tonal quality compared to similar products, such as the EPZ G10. Recently, EPZ has also made a significant impact on the audio community by showcasing that new brands can deliver excellent sound quality. ARTTI is another brand that has been gaining popularity among audiophiles. When comparing the R2 to the EPZ G10, I find its tonal accuracy and cohesiveness to be superior. Furthermore, the R1, its older unit, has undergone significant improvements in tuning across the frequency range, making it a much better option overall.



After testing the R2 with the DEW4X, I was impressed by the level of precision exhibited in the notes' attack and the subtle nuances that were brought out by the device. The DEW4X is an incredibly clean and accurate source, which helped to bring out the finer details of each note and provided a level of clarity that is often missing in other DAPs. What stood out to me about the DEW4X was the device's ability to reproduce the speed of each note accurately. This meant that the transience of the music was much better, resulting in a more detailed and clear mix. Additionally, I found that the R2's presentation was well-balanced, with no particular frequency or region being emphasized over the others. Overall, I was very impressed with the DEW4X's performance, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a clean, detailed, and accurate source for their music.

Arrti T10

The T10 earphone follows a response that is more neutral with a sub-bass boost that emphasizes details and clarity while maintaining a tonal balance. From my experience with full-range Planar IEMs, they are known for their fast transient response, accuracy, and clear response which makes it one of the most resolving drivers in this segment. The T10 is no exception and is a great product considering the price at which it is being offered. However, what makes it unique from other full-range Planar IEMs is the exceptional balance between safe tuning and expressive details. The emphasis in the lower treble allows for a leaner, clearer response but the slightly laid-back upper mid-range around 3k makes it non-offensive sounding. This reminds me of the response like the U12t. In summary, the T10 offers an impressive combination of detailed and clear sound while maintaining a safe tuning that makes it a great choice for music lovers who value balance and clarity.



As I was listening to the T10 with DEW4X, I noticed a significant improvement in sound quality. The response became more delicate and nuanced, with a richer, more vibrant tonality on female vocals. The instruments also sounded more distinct and vivid, with a newfound lightness and openness. The mid-range was particularly refreshing to listen to, with a clear, well-defined sound that was easy on the ears. The treble was less prominent, but still present, adding a subtle sparkle to the overall sound. The bass was also impressive, with good impact and rumble that never became overwhelming, even on bass-heavy tracks. All in all, the T10 with DEW4X is an outstanding audio experience that delivers exceptional sound quality across the entire frequency range.

Kefine Delci

When it comes to sound quality, this single dd IEM blew me away, and I feel they are the most well-tuned “balanced” sounding IEM under $100. I mean, I don't see anything wrong with it and I can't put them down. As previously stated, the response leans toward a tonally rich, revealing, and balanced sound profile. To believe that in this highly saturated category, an IEM that does not need to excel in sounding very precise or very target-specific, I am quite pleased with Kefine for delivering essentially an IEM that everyone will like. I mean lately, I also got the chance to evaluate the rose technics Quietsea which also follows a balanced sound with warmth in the bottom to mid region while sounding a bit spicy in the high area however the quality of the tuning Kefine produces makes the sound interesting and engaging.



While listening to Delci coupled with DEW4X, the clarity and forwardness felt greater than any of my other sources, but DEW4X also maintained a coherent and tonal agreeable response. The clarity is attributable to the fact that the stage is narrower and more intimate, yet the whole reaction remains defined and separated. The notes sound polished, making the overall response more fascinating. The combo makes perfect sense to listen to.

Tracks​

Millet - Anytime Anywhere
Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness
Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo
Uru - Kamihitoe
Kujira Yumemi - Kenka
Majiko - Kokoronashi
Anly - Sukinishinayo
Kohama Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade
Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love
Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope
Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow
Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Jawns - Erotica
ISOxo - how2fly
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Weeknd - Popular
YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High)
Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid
Middle Kids - Bend
FLETCHER - Leads Me On
Loathe - Aggressive Evolution
The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
Sigrid - Burning Bridges
AURORA - Black Water Lilies
AURORA - Runaway
X Ambassadors - Renegades
Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold Us
Gotye - Somebody That I Used To Know
Jay-Z - Run This Town
Lady Gaga - Poker Face
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Ladytron - Ghost
Travis - Love Will Come Through
LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong
DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix)
Hoobastank - The Reason
Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care
Tool - 7empest
Tool - Vicarious
A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song
Zack Hemsey - Vengeance
Elton John - I’m Still Standing
The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin
Micheal Sembello - Maniac
Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine
A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun

Conclusion​

Upon extensive testing and analysis, I am pleased to report that the DEW4X is an awe-inspiring product that offers incredible value for the price. I experimented with multiple in-ear monitors and found that none of them had any negative impact on sound quality. On the contrary, the DEW4X enhanced the sound quality by providing a stunningly clear, detailed and precise output. I was particularly impressed by its forward clarity, which brought out the best in any IEMs I paired it with. Overall, I am convinced that the DEW4X is the best dongle DAC in its price range, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an outstanding sound experience.

Review Of The ARTTI R1​

Introduction​

I have recently discovered a company called Artti, but I am not entirely sure of its origins aside from being seen on an AliExpress seller page. Artti appears to specialise in producing elector-acoustic products, particularly in-ear monitors (IEMs). As far as I know, they launched their brand with four IEMs featuring different tuning and technology: the T10, R1, R2, and their latest product, the R3. Fortunately, I was able to acquire their first multi-driver IEM, the Artti R1. Before we proceed, I would like to clarify a few points.

Disclaimer​

*This is a review unit, courtesy of Concept Kart. All thanks to them for providing. As I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to these IEMs as “R1.”
*I am using different Ear-tips for convenience and better versatility.
*Finally, I will only evaluate the R1 based on its performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification​

The R1 earphones have a three-driver setup on each side, with two dynamic drivers made of titanium-done diaphragm and one with a custom composite beryllium diaphragm. The earphone shells are made of 6063 aerospace-grade aluminium alloy, and the faceplate has a raised silver boundary that looks a bit weird. The earphones come with a 4-strand cable made of 216-core Australian high-purity copper wire with two pin connectors and a 3.5mm straight termination jack. The package also includes three pairs of ear tips and a fabric storage case. The earphones have an impedance of 20.4 ohms, a sensitivity of 102dB, a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, and a total harmonic distortion of less than or equal to 3%. The size of the earphones may be a bit large for some people, but they are comfortable to wear.

Sound​

The comparison drawn here is quite similar to a recent experience I had with the Tin Hifi T5S. Both the R1 and T5S have a dark, warm bass response, with a particular emphasis on the sub-bass and forward mid-range. However, the R1’s bass is much heavier than the T5S, and it also has a better elevation in the upper treble, allowing for a more extensive treble response. The mid-range on the R1 is not too forward, which is a positive trait. The R1’s bass has a tucked lower mid-range, which gives it a more powerful sound, but it is less warm than the T5S. The T5S has less boom and more punch in the bass region. If you are looking for a more in-depth understanding of these differences, let’s dive into the specifics.

Treble​

Initially, I had assumed that the audio quality would be subdued and dark, but to my surprise, it had a subtle yet lively energy around the 10k-11k range, which resulted in a smooth and immersive experience. I attribute this to the upper mid-range not being too prominent. The upper treble, while not airy, sounded extensive and intimate, with all the sound elements occurring within the listener’s proximity. The vocals and instruments lacked some of the sparkle and note definition but compensated for it with a smooth, flowing sound. In contrast, the lower treble was energetic and forward, but the bass heaviness influenced it, making it sound weighty and less lively. Although the warmth in that region produced an organic sound, it lacked clarity and effectiveness. Nevertheless, the vocals and instruments were still vividly presented. Overall, the treble region presented a smooth, clean, and laid-back sound.

Mid Range​

When considering the mid-range, it doesn’t quite capture my attention as it has a more relaxed feel. The notes have a distinct weightiness and a slight muffled quality, which could be described as dense, but with a little more nuance. The upper mid-range shares the same energy as the lower treble, but comes across as even heavier, with both vocals and instruments having a tonally dense and natural sound, yet feeling somewhat muted. Male vocals are beautifully rendered, and listening to tracks with metal or male-centric vocals is a real treat. However, when it comes to female vocals, they sound lacklustre and unappealing. As for instruments, vocals tend to drown out the notes, even in instrumental tracks, and the heavy notes don’t do justice to the flute, snares, synths, or percussion instruments, making them sound dull and unclear. The lower mid-range is particularly heavy and lifeless, making it difficult to distinguish between vocal and instrumental notes. While the tuck in this range may prevent it from affecting the upper frequencies too much, it doesn’t quite succeed in making it sound better. Overall, the mid-range presents itself as dense, thick, and laid-back.

Bass​

In terms of bass response, my personal preference is for a sound similar to that offered by the R1. However, I find that the impact and influence it has over the other regions can sometimes make me dislike it. Nonetheless, when it comes to bass-heavy tracks, the R1 more than makes up for this. The emphasis is on the sub-bass region, which goes deep and produces an effective rumble and punch. The mid-bass region also produces a good amount of slams and thumps, which makes it an overall bass set in that manner. That being said, the bass can be very influential and can affect the higher frequencies. It is not, however, so emphasized that it would make the sound only bass-heavy. It is still balanced enough to keep it from sounding drowned or hollow. The texture or details of the bass are not particularly impressive, but they do their job by making the notes sound distinct.

Technical Performance​

When it comes to analyzing the technical specifications of the R1, I have observed that it falls short of the required standards to be in line with its competitors in this particular price bracket. This holds irrespective of the tuning of the device. To delve deeper into the matter, let’s take a closer look at some of the specifics.

Soundstage, Sound Imaging & Separation​

The way the stage is set creates an intimate atmosphere that keeps you entertained. However, the precision and layering of the notes are not very sharp or clear. The imaging is also lacking, but it manages to do its job to some extent. While the separation between the notes is distinct, it’s still difficult to pinpoint where the instruments and vocals are coming from.

Speed & Resolution​

The overall quality of the sound, whether it pertains to the macro or micro details, can be described as average. While the sound is not particularly revealing or resolving, it does not sound chaotic either. The attack and decay of the notes are not very fast-paced, which can affect the overall response to some extent. However, despite this, the sound retains a sense of coherence and stability.

Sound Impressions ​

Sources​

Sony WM1A - As I was listening to R1 with the WM1A, I noticed a significant improvement in the clarity, expansiveness, and overall cleanliness of the response. The soundstage seemed to have expanded, which improved the separation and layering of different frequencies, resulting in a better overall response. The treble notes were smoother and cleaner, while the mid-range had a certain heaviness to it that made the vocals sound more spacious and open, albeit a bit dull. However, the female vocals had a hint of liveliness in their notes, which added a unique flavour to the sound. The bass notes were well-controlled in the mid-bass range, but the sub-bass did tend to overpower at times. Nevertheless, this gave the presentation a unique characteristic. The technical quality of the sound was also enhanced, and the details seemed to be more pronounced than before.

Tempotec V6 - As I was listening to R1 through the V6, I noticed that the sound response seemed to be more forward and cleaner. The notes were pushed up to produce a more revealing response, which it did to some extent. However, I also noticed that the sound didn’t flow finely or smoothly. Despite this, the vocals seemed a little clearer, and I could feel that the bass was a little more in control, though the overall sound response remained largely the same.

Simgot DEW4X - As I was listening to R1 using the DEW4X, I couldn’t help but notice how robust and well-defined the response was. The audio quality was notably superior compared to any other source I’ve used before. The bass was tightly controlled, resulting in a more well-balanced and harmonious sound. The vocals were tonally precise and clear, with less crowded notes that allowed the instruments to shine through with greater clarity. The treble was smooth and cohesive, creating a light and airy sound that was further enhanced by the forward mid-range and reduced bass. The overall presentation of the audio was remarkably soothing and pleasing to listen to, making it the best pairing of all.

Tracks​

Millet - Anytime Anywhere
Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness
Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo
Uru - Kamihitoe
Kujira Yumemi - Kenka
Majiko - Kokoronashi
Anly - Sukinishinayo
Kohama Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade
Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love
Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope
Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow
Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Jawns - Erotica
ISOxo - how2fly
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Weeknd - Popular
YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High)
Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid
Middle Kids - Bend
FLETCHER - Leads Me On
Loathe - Aggressive Evolution
The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
Sigrid - Burning Bridges
AURORA - Black Water Lilies
AURORA - Runaway
X Ambassadors - Renegades
Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold Us
Gotye - Somebody That I Used To Know
Jay-Z - Run This Town
Lady Gaga - Poker Face
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Ladytron - Ghost
Travis - Love Will Come Through
LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong
DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix)
Hoobastank - The Reason
Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care
Tool - 7empest
Tool - Vicarious
A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song
Zack Hemsey - Vengeance
Elton John - I’m Still Standing
The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin
Micheal Sembello - Maniac
Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine
A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun

Conclusion​

Although I feel that the ARTTI R1 doesn’t match up to the sound quality of other companies’ offerings and the target market they cater to, the ARTTI R1’s dynamic drivers produce a natural timbre, resulting in a safe, pure, and attention-grabbing sound. If you’re someone who prefers a sound that is more relaxed, warm, and bass-heavy, without any sudden treble spikes, then the ARTTI R1 could be a viable option for you. Overall, I would recommend it as an IEM that sounds good.

Review Of The Akliam PD4 Plus​

Introduction​

This is the first time I've heard about the firm Akliam, which has lately emerged and is being recognized by audiophiles. I suppose it already has other goods related to electroacoustics. After doing some investigation, I discovered that this firm also manufactures full-size desktop DACs and amplifiers. I recently learned about their product, the PD4 Plus, which is a dongle dac garnering the attention of audiophiles, and I was fortunate enough to get my hands on one, but before I go any further, I'd want to clarify a few issues.

Disclaimer​

*This is a review unit, courtesy of Concept Kart. All thanks to them for providing. As I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to this device as “PD4”
*Finally, I will only evaluate the PD4 based on its performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification​

The twin CS43131 DAC chipset in the PD4 is paired with an SA9312 audio bridge chip, a strong amplifier, and sophisticated oscillators to provide native DSD256 and 32-bit/384kHz PCM. As a more user-friendly device, the PD4 supports type-C and lightning data transmission in addition to 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced connections. One side has three buttons, while the other has a toggle switch for high and low gain. The play/pause, volume up/down, forward track, and previous track functions are all controlled by these three buttons. Additional technical details are listed below:

Design And Aesthetics​

The PD4's ergonomic and portable design makes it simple to use and transport. Measuring 57x25x10 mm, it weighs a mere 22g. Because the PD4 has a clear glass covering that shows half of the chip that is being utilised, it looks expensive. All in all, it's a work of beauty. The glass feels solid and stiff, and even if it scratches readily, I think it won't break easily. Additionally, there is an LED indication that illuminates red when it is in DSD mode and green when it is in PCM mode.

Usage ​

In terms of use, I was rather pleased with the features and quality it offers, along with how convenient it is. The nicest thing about it is that, although having a simple user interface, the same buttons that control volume also let you switch between the previous and next tracks. A USB converter and lightning to type C cable are included in the packaging, which adds to the user-friendly method of connecting to any device—Windows, Mac, Android, or iOS—and is highly welcomed.

Sound Impressions ​

IEMs​

Thieaudio Prestige LTD

Prestige LTD is the very reason I am now able to find the truth in my musical dreams; I have never heard another IEM that ploughs your ears with faith in each note, no matter how those notes should sound and nurtures your senses with dynamics and presentation as if I were hearing reality. Previously, I owned the Monarch MKII, which established what one would expect, but once the prestige's magic began to flourish, I knew I could explore so much more with it, especially when it came to the air and presence of each nuance the notes were able to grasp over and tingled my senses. To summarise the prestige's response sounds as if the Monarch MKII were given steroid and enhanced the upper frequencies in all directions with better authoritative flow in the lower response. The response is neutral with sub bass boost, similar to the Monarch MKII, with the exception that the notes are airier and more revealing than any other IEM before this era. However, the thinner notes and excessive clarity provide obnoxious features that expose bad mixing and recordings, which were highly obvious when heard on my V6 but smoothed out on my WM1A, indicating source dependence.

The voice response sounded forward when listening to Prestige LTD with PD4, however the bass did feel boomier. While the mid-range region made the response seem closer and richer, the treble appeared less expansive, but the note quality did decrease. In addition, the LTD shouldn't have sounded as compressed while using the PD4 in comparison to other sources I've heard.

Thieaudio Hype2

The hype2 is an IEM with a natural sound that completely outperforms IEMs in this price range in terms of tonality, sound imaging, separation, and resolution. The sound is fuller and richer, and the imaging and separation make it easy to listen to vocals, particularly female vocals. It is hypnotic to listen to because it is easy to distinguish between the various vocalists or the vocal layering. The Hype2 is a very capable IEM because I never noticed any changes in tone or quality missing from the response from any of my sources, including the Sony WM1A, Tempotec V6, or other sources I had the chance to listen to like the RU7, BTR7, or Astell & Kern Khan Max. It is only when the vocals are slightly provoked or subdued using sources that there is a slight difference, but that is mostly what I heard while listening. The Hype2 is one of the top IEMs in this price range in my opinion, and it can layer and image just as well as the Monarch MKII.

Hype2 sounds a little laid back in the mid-range, but when I listened to it with PD4, the response sounded very excellent. This combination pulls the mid-range forward, but it doesn't seem as well resolved as it did with other sources of mine. The bass continued to seem energising, but the treble also felt subdued.

Thor Mjolnir MKII

Mjolnir is a very bassy set that has a lot of sub-bass emphasis. The treble and upper mid-range are also very forward in the mix. The upper treble has great extension as well. The bass is very punchy and boomy while acting fast. Mjolnir is a great V-shape-sounding IEM with a different approach to explosive bass that has better technicalities, especially in this price range. The stage is great with a nice surround stage and depth where the separation of each element sounds distant enough for them to procure space to breathe and distinct themselves. The attack and decay of the driver capability are really quick and perform great. The vocals may feel lean and sparkly, but the warmth or the fuller experience is something that these lack. The bass response does vary from source to source whether I listen to a warm source or a neutral one, the bass becomes either overwhelming authoritative or both.

The response sounded distant and deep while listening to Mjolnir MKII with PD4, but it wasn't dispersed. In contrast to the bass, which was broader and beautifully bodied but seemed farther away when contrasted to the mid-range tight response, the upper mid-range was particularly emphasised and projected forward. With less vigour, the treble felt the same.

Simgot EA500 LM

I must say that I am astounded by the degree of improvement felt while listening to the EA500LM compared to the EA500, even though the tuning is nearly identical but with higher sound quality and quantity. I already feel that the EA500 sounds great, but when compared to the EA500LM, it appears to be lacking in technical ability as well as tuning, which might be because I like that type of response. To be honest, I can't tell much more about the differences because I don't have the EA500 to compare them to, but I was able to listen to it lately and evaluated the two based on that memory. However, I don't believe any other IEM in this price range can compete with the quality that SIMGOT provides unless the listener desires a different tune. The EA500LM's response is more V-shaped than balanced, with notes that have a distinct clarity unlike any other IEM I've heard in this price range, and this time I like the bass response.

When paired with the PD4 Plus, the response was nicely resolved, with a pleasant tonal sound that retained the same details as any other source. The midrange is more accentuated, and the bottom seems slightly meatier than previously. The response sounds more intimate, with less treble extension.

Rose Technics QuietSea

To be honest, in this price range, most IEMs tend to provide a linear and defined-sounding IEM that is pretty well V-shaped or neutral sounding to cater to audiophiles who want details and clarity. The Sea's sound leans towards a warm balanced thing, which I believe to be a safe tuning. The notes are thick and dense which makes the response pleasing and satisfying to listen to. The upper frequencies are heightened regarding such a warm response to surface more clarified and detailed notes without introducing any offensive characteristics. Regarding the Sea, I think its enveloping and calming response makes it a very well-balanced and warm-sounding IEM that anybody may enjoy.



When listening to Sea with PD4, the reaction seemed less energising and more dispersed, which contributed to its unified sound. It sounded more presentable and more linear in terms of energy thanks to the treble. Overall, the bass did feel weaker but the sub-bass had a stronger sense of authority.

ND ZR

The midrange and sub-bass are the main areas of focus for the ZR's dark response. Since it sounds different from any other generic Chi-fi IEM in this price range, its tuning approach is not generic. The reaction is non-offensive and permits a more revealing midrange response. The tone of the response is similar to that of the rivals, although it is not as well-tuned technically as it could be.



The response seems even more forward in the midrange when listening to ZR with PD4, which finally muffles the upper extension and produces a mid-centric sound. On the other hand, the bass appears more subdued and under control inside the mix.

Tracks​

Luna Haruna - Glory days
Luna Haruna - Overfly
Rokudenashi - The Flame of Love
LMYK - 0 (zero)
ORESKABAND - Jitensya
Marina Horiuchi - Mizukagami no Sekai
RADWIMPS - Suzume
Indila - Love Story
Indila - Tourner dans le vide
Earth, Wind & Fire - September
Tom Petty - Free Fallin'
Fleetwood Mac - Everywhere
Nirvana - Smells Like Teen Spirit
Blue Oyster Cult - (Don't Fear) The Reaper
Guns 'N' Roses - Sweet Child O' Mine
The Police - Every Breath You Take
Gojira - Amazonia
TV on the radio - Wolf Like Me
Bring Me To The Horizon - Can You Feel My Heart
Bring Me To The Horizon - sTraNgeRs
Avril Lavigne - Dare To Love Me
Travis - Love Will Come Through
Gotye - Somebody That I Used To Know
DJ Shadows - Six Days (Remix) [feat. Mos Def]
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Lil Wayne - Lollipop
Flo Rida - Low
Sebastian Lopez & Flug - Electronic Measures
Federico Mecozzi - Blue (Da Ba Dee)
Wayve - Not Enough
Kai Wachi & TeZATalks - Ghost
NGHTMRE, Zeds Dead & Tori Levett - Shady Intentions
Zeds Dead, DNMO & GG Magree - Save My Grave
Skrillex, Noisia, Josh Pan & Dylan Brady - Supersonic
Skrillex & Nai Barghouti - Xena
Skrillex, Missy Elliott & Mr. Oizo - RATATA
Kaifi Khalil, Eva B & Wahab Bugti - Kana Yaari
A.R. Rahman, Javed Ali & Mohit Chauhan - Kun Faya Kun

Conclusion​

To summarize this review, the PD4 Plus is acceptable for the price, whether it is in terms of aesthetics, convenience, or sound quality, and is an excellent pick for any newbies or novices to check out and settle into. As a result, I highly suggest them.

Review Of The Kefine Delci ​

Introduction​

Kefine, a newly established company, debuted its first product, the Klanar, which was well received by many audiophiles, including myself. In my opinion, it was an upgraded version of the original 7Hz Timeless or LetShuoer S12 with better details and clarity while maintaining safe tonality. The firm specializes in electro-acoustic equipment, notably in-ear monitors. They just introduced a budget set called as the Kefine Delci, which I have had the opportunity to evaluate; however, before I go any further, I would want to clarify a few issues.

Disclaimer​

*Since this unit tour was organised by the lovely people at Kefine, I am grateful to them. And as I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to these IEMs as “Delci.”
*I am using different Ear-tips for convenience and better versatility.
*Finally, I will only evaluate the Delci based on their performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification​

Delci features a single dynamic driver with a 10mm DLC+PU diaphragm. The shells appear to be composed of light metal, yet they look and feel well manufactured. In terms of comfort and fit, its lightweight and design made it quite easy to listen to even for long periods of time, and the fit was excellent. The cable offered is comprised of 164 copper wires designed to compliment the DLC diaphragm and terminates in a 3.5mm straight connector with two pins on the other end. The other included equipment are six pairs of eartips and a carrying bag. Technical characteristics include an impedance of 28 Ohms and a sensitivity of 108dB. The frequency response ranges from 20Hz to 20kHz.

***Above Image Credits***

Sound​

When it comes to sound quality, this single dd IEM blew me away, and I feel they are the most well-tuned “balanced” sounding IEM under $100. I mean, I don't see anything wrong with it and I can't put them down. As previously stated, the response leans toward a tonally rich, revealing, and balanced sound profile. To believe that in this highly saturated category, an IEM that does not need to excel in sounding very precise or very target-specific, I am quite pleased with Kefine for delivering essentially an IEM that everyone will like. I mean lately, I also got the chance to evaluate the rose technics Quietsea which also follows a balanced sound with warmth in the bottom to mid region while sounding a bit spicy in the high area however the quality of the tuning Kefine produces makes the sound interesting and engaging.Alright, let's go further into sound to learn more.

Treble​

So, I don't think there's a problem with the treble, and as I previously stated, this isn't a particularly target-specific sound like the CCA Rhapsody, QKZ Khan, or Truthear Zero, but rather a really nice and smooth adjusted treble. The treble holds the excitement at bay and attempts to make the details seem less exhausting and more revealing. A fantastic example is the upper treble; while listening to tracks like AURORA's Black Water Lilies or RADWIMPS' The great Escape, the higher treble helps show the small details yet does not sound excessively dazzling and glittery.The voice and instruments have a relatively broad and airy expression, yet they seem unified and relaxing to listen to. The lower treble tends to bring the energy out of the vocals where the instruments complement them. The vocals have a solid response, but the dynamic quality is surprising. This could be due to the fact that the instruments do not come across as sharp and detailed sounding, which allows the vocals to breathe and move around freely. As a result, the overall presentation of the treble range is mellow, calming, and expansive.

Mid Range​

When it comes to the midrange, I believe there are two approaches I may take. The first is that some people may find it quiet, while others may find it tonally rich and true. From my viewpoint, both are correct; the reason being that the bass elevation and a peak in the upper treble at 11-12k make it sound not bizarre but distinct; I believe I can relate to the TangZu Fudu Verse in terms of how the Delci is tuned in the midrange. Don't get me wrong; I'm not suggesting they are deep and drowning-sounding vocals, but rather quite natural and relaxing. The upper mid-range places a strong focus on how voices and instruments should complement each other. In fact, I feel the upper midrange and lower treble have the same intensity and cohesive character, making the sound smooth and genuine. Returning to the point, I find mid range to be both somewhat subdued and tonally accurate because most IEMs in this price range bring vocals forward and splashing instruments, while IEMs that don't tend to sound very mellow as if the vocals are drowned, not that I compare them to the Delci. Delci gives harmony and tone richness to the voice and instruments, which I believe combine well. Regarding people's preferences, this may not meet your need for open-sounding female vocals and crispness. The lower midrange is adjusted to keep note weight and density under control, resulting in a tonally pleasant and rich response. The lower midrange has a thick and hefty response, yet it allows vocalists and instruments to be heard. As a result, the midrange presentation sounds natural, tonally correct, and rich.

Bass​

When it comes to the bass, I have no idea why dynamic driver bass sounds so good. I love how fluid and adaptable this bass response is. Looking at the Delci's FR response, one could easily conclude that the bass emphasis makes it a bass-heavy IEM—in fact, that's exactly what I thought. Let me clarify that it sounds warm instead of bass-heavy. Although the mid-bass presence is also very noticeable, the bass emphasis is over the sub-bass region. The answer could be described as a prominent or influential bass presence that isn't overtly focused on pounding bass, but when it comes to bass-heavy tracks, it definitely reveals a very satisfying thumping and rumbling. While the slams and thumps in the mid bass region are controlled, the sub bass texture and quality make it easy to come through, giving it a deep, rumbly sound. Warmth that flows into the lower mid range is rather welcomed by the mind bass, but masking is not possible. To put it another way, the way the warmth is controlled and allowed to spread makes it sound like a calming and fulfilling reaction. In addition, the tonal accuracy of the kick drum, toms, and four-string bass guitar all exhibit a very organic response that is not cold or precise, but rather produces a warm and pleasant sound that is not sharp or edgy.

Technical Performance

I'm not sure if one should anticipate specifics and clarity from this duo, given the reaction is more tonally oriented. But I think the layers and staging are wonderfully done. Of course, for the price, they sound quite adequate in terms of technical capability, but for the amount of money spent, clarity is also expected. So let's get more precise for a better understanding.

Soundstage, Sound Imaging & Separation​

The stage is well-established, with a wide spread that makes it sound spacious and allows for good pointing of the vocals and instruments, but they don't sound very precise and sharp, so imaging is not very clear and edgy, but clean enough to convey an understanding that the space between notes is recognisable, and the distinctiveness allows for a better presentation that sounds satisfying.

Speed & Resolution​

As I previously stated, I feel that most micro details are not adequately revealed, while big elements are readily apparent. The assault and decay of the notes are not fast-paced, but rather natural, which helps to keep the mix from becoming chaotic.

Sound Impressions ​

Sources​

Sony WM1A - while listening to Delci paired with WM1A, I instantly felt the stage becoming wider and spacious while the whole response sounded more warm and big. The response in the bass region or treble felt more extensive and large. But again the mid range felt richer and maybe more than it should. But all in all I find the pair sounding very emotional while listening to slow pacing tracks or concerts.



Tempotec V6 - While listening to Delci paired with V6, I noticed that the response was more forward and revealing generally, with the exception of the bass, which was less accentuated since the vocals, or upper midrange in particular, gave more revelation to the mix. The treble sounded similar to the asme, but with a more powerful response. This combo may be perceived as more distinct and defined, making it an excellent choice for those seeking clarity in their blend.



Simgot DEW4X - While listening to Delci coupled with DEW4X, the clarity and forwardness felt greater than any of my other sources, but DEW4X also maintained a coherent and tonal agreeable response. The clarity is attributable to the fact that the stage is narrower and more intimate, yet the whole reaction remains clearly defined and separated. The notes sound polished, making the overall response more fascinating. The combo makes perfect sense to listen to.

Tracks​

Millet - Anytime Anywhere
Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness
Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo
Uru - Kamihitoe
Kujira Yumemi - Kenka
Majiko - Kokoronashi
Anly - Sukinishinayo
Kohama Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade
Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love
Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope
Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow
Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Jawns - Erotica
ISOxo - how2fly
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Weeknd - Popular
YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High)
Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid
Middle Kids - Bend
FLETCHER - Leads Me On
Loathe - Aggressive Evolution
The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
Sigrid - Burning Bridges
AURORA - Black Water Lilies
AURORA - Runaway
X Ambassadors - Renegades
Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold Us
Goyte - Somebody That I Used To Know
Jay-Z - Run This Town
Lady Gaga - Poker Face
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Ladytron - Ghost
Travis - Love Will Come Through
LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong
DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix)
Hoobastank - The Reason
Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care
Tool - 7empest
Tool - Vicarious
A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song
Zack Hemsey - Vengeance
Elton John - I’m Still Standing
The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin
Micheal Sembello - Maniac
Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine
A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun

Conclusion​

Finally, the Delci impresses me with its overall tuning for its melodic and pleasing presentation, which has not been surpassed by any other IEM. Whether it meets your taste in terms of technicality will depend on your testing, but from what I've heard, a well-balanced sound with a fantastic warmth and exquisite bass response makes it a really fulfilling and delightful experience, and for the price, I believe it's worth it. So these have my entire approval, unless you want to go with the same old tuning preferences you think would bring justice.

Review Of The Hisenior Mega5EST​

Introduction​

This is my second time reviewing an IEM from Hisenior, a Chinese-founded firm. Though I was just recently introduced to them, this business is widely recognized for its electro-acoustic gadgets. I was quite pleased with the T4 IEM's responsiveness. This time around, I had the opportunity to evaluate their flagship IEM, the Mega5EST, which is essentially a distinct version of the Mega 5P Ultra. The Mega5EST employs two EST and two balanced armatures in place of four balanced armatures. I thus want to make a few items clear before continuing.

Disclaimer​

*Since this unit tour was organised by the generous people at HiSenior Audio and Aural Cafe, I am grateful to them. And as I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to these IEMs as “Mega.”
*I am using different Ear-tips for convenience and better versatility.
*Finally, I will only evaluate the Mega based on their performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification​

Two sonion EST drivers, two custom balanced armatures, and one 10mm bio-cellular dynamic driver are all part of the tribal configuration housed in the Mega and are coupled by a 4-way crossover. Because the shells are ergonomically formed and composed of resin, they fit my ears wonderfully and don't create any tiredness, even after extended periods of time spent listening. Regarding the White Whale cable, which is Hisenior's exclusive premium product, it is a UP-OCC silver plated cable with 4.4mm termination plugs on one end and two pin connections on the other. Additional accessories that come with the device are a cable clip, a clean wiper, a choice of eartips, and a pelican protective case. Regarding the technical specifications, the sensitivity is 105dB and the impedance is 25 Ohms. The range of the frequency response is 10Hz–50kHz.


***Above Image Credits***

Sound​

I could tell as soon as I heard the Mega that it was a very well-tuned IEM because of its remarkable tone and strong technical capabilities. The tuning is more in line with my own taste, which is a refined neutral with a sub bass boost character. I've listened to the Variations, OH700VB, EJ07M, and all of its rivals, but despite the fact that all of these IEMs have my favored response, the tonality is by far the safest and most pleasant sounding. The bass is powerful yet extremely well-controlled, the midrange is forward-sounding, and the treble is expansive and silky. With the exception of the fact that they aren't warm-sounding IEM, it sounds as calming overall as any other. Let's investigate the sound more thoroughly to learn more.

Treble​

What sets it apart from other IEMs in this pricing range is the treble.It's not hidden or subdued, nor is it energizing or particularly revealing.I want to emphasize that, for an IEM in this price range, the treble is smooth and silky, something I have never experienced.The sound from the upper treble range is expansive, airy, and stretched out far. The fact that the higher extension doesn't add any irritating elements is another benefit. The voices and instruments sound stretched and satisfying. The lower treble's natural timbre makes the notes feel calming and encompassing, and it also helps the singers and instruments build a stronger presence by sounding more revealing and energetic. I believe that the tone would have sounded a little contradictory in terms of offensiveness if the notes had been sharp rather than softened. However, the notes provide enough information to give the instruments and voices a crisp, professional sound. As a result, the treble zone appears silky, peaceful, and roomy overall.

Mid Range​

Once again, I have no complaints with the mid range.In comparing them to their rivals, I have to admit that others have a stronger understanding of both the amount and quality of notes.While the Mega's midrange presentation is more relaxed and somewhat flushed, it sounds successfully focal and open when the treble kicks in, maintaining a little laid-back tone.The voices tend to retain their rich and filling response in the high mid range, where the instruments seem more expansive and full.Surprisingly, though, both the note separation and placement are really well done, giving the music a clear, focused sound. My favorite range is the lower midrange because it maintains the weight and richness of the notes while maintaining a clear sound in the upper frequencies, which surprised me by making the notes seem more disclosed. As a result, the mid range area has a rich, pleasing, and organic sound overall.

Bass​

In terms of bass, I am rather impressed since the bass's quality is so gratifying that it effortlessly provides the necessary quantity of bass wherever and whenever it is needed. Although the bass may seem underappreciated at first, it becomes noticeable when listening to music with a lot of bass. It is big and robust without becoming bloated or intrusive. The sub bass range is where the concentration lies, and as pressure is sensed inside the ear canal, the rumbling feeling is quite effective. Although the blows are equally powerful, the presence of the mid-bass area responds more successfully. Though not very strong, the smashes and thumps work nicely with the sub bass to provide a hearty response when needed. The amount and control of the bass more than make up for the somewhat inaccurate and unresolved texture and details. Overall, the bass area is presented in a pleasing, weighty, and extremely well-controlled manner.

Technical Performance​

I must also admit that, in terms of technical ability, I think Mega5EST to be on level with other IEMs, if not superior to the Variations or OH700VB. All things considered, though, the quality and response are adequate to make this IEM worth the price. Let's continue our discussion regarding the technological potential of the Mega.

Soundstage, Sound Imaging & Separation​

The stage is rather large; in terms of comparison, it is similar to UM MEXT but obviously smaller than the Monarch MKII. Because of how well the notes are separated from one another and how easy it is for me to tell where the sound is coming from, I think the Mega's large and expansive response is among the best I have heard in this price range. I think it falls a little short in terms of clarity and precision in the picture.

Speed & Resolution​

The resolution is undoubtedly high, but although the macro details are sufficient to ensure the response's quality and clarity, the micro details aren't really illuminating. The fast-paced onslaught and fade of the notes eventually maintains the mix's cleanliness.

Sound Impressions ​

Sources​

Sony WM1A - Mega sounds more expressive when listened to with WM1A since the voice response is raised, particularly in the high mid range. The entire midrange has a livelier, more forward tone to it. The treble continues to sound as it did previously, but the bass is now more powerful and impacting. The reaction, in my opinion, is still smooth and pleasant but is more lively and energized.

Tempotec V6 - The response is really clear and revealing while listening to Mega over the V6, but it's not as crisp or detailed as I had anticipated. Even yet, the bass has a more restrained sound, with a hint of restrained intensity in the midrange. The vocals sound the same in the midrange, but when actual high frequency notes are emphasized in the recordings, the reaction seems a touch sickening. However, the intensity forces the notes to sound more revealing.

Aful SnowyNIght - While listening to Mega5EST with snowynight, the response seems more expansive and detailed, particularly in the upper frequencies. One thing I noticed with every pair coupled with snowynight was that the expressive quality of the upper midrange was more prominent in the mix, making the Mega5EST seem more spacious and airy.

Colorfly CDA-M2 - While listening to Mega with M2, the response seems more centered, as if the layering and imaging of the notes helped to bring the notes closer together while yet achieving a wide sounding response, as the voices sound somewhat more expressive. In addition, the bass and treble are more subdued, which makes it seem a little uninteresting in my opinion. But altogether, it sounds enjoyable to listen to.

Tracks​

Millet - Anytime Anywhere
Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness
Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo
Uru - Kamihitoe
Kujira Yumemi - Kenka
Majiko - Kokoronashi
Anly - Sukinishinayo
Kohama Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade
Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love
Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope
Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow
Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Jawns - Erotica
ISOxo - how2fly
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Weeknd - Popular
YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High)
Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid
Middle Kids - Bend
FLETCHER - Leads Me On
Loathe - Aggressive Evolution
The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
Sigrid - Burning Bridges
AURORA - Black Water Lilies
AURORA -
X Ambassadors - Renegades
Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold Us
Goyte - Somebody That I Used To Know
Jay-Z - Run This Town
Lady Gaga - Poker Face
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Ladytron - Ghost
Travis - Love Will Come Through
LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong
DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix)
Hoobastank - The Reason
Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care
Tool - 7empest
Tool - Vicarious
A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song
Zack Hemsey - Vengeance
Elton John - I’m Still Standing
The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin
Micheal Sembello - Maniac
Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine
A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun

Conclusion​

As I wrap up my evaluation, I think that Hisenior has a tendency to make easy-to-listen IEMs that appreciate every nuance of the tuning and sound profile. The Mega5EST is a product of this tendency, regardless of how its rivals fare. The sound that Mega5EST provides is sophisticated and unique in a manner, regardless of whether it sounds more tonally or detailed. Therefore, I wholeheartedly suggest them, and anybody who enjoy neutral response with a sub boost boost will be thoroughly delighted.

Review Of The Dunu SA6 MK2​

Introduction​

DUNU is a reputable firm that specializes in manufacturing cables and other electro-acoustic goods. Additionally, they offer their own line of eartips called Candy and S&S. The firm was commended for its technology and quality, and it was among the first to create modular cables with modular termination connectors. I have adored all of their IEMs, including the Vulcan, Kima series, Tales, SA6, and others, because of their excellent build quality, excellent sound quality, and superior aesthetics. I managed to obtain a pair of DUNU SA6 MKII for review purposes, despite the fact that it has been some time after their debut, but before, I would want to address a few points.

Disclaimer​

*This is a review unit, courtesy of Concept Kart. All thanks to them for providing. And as I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to these IEMs as “SA6 MKII.”
*I am using different Ear-tips for convenience and better versatility.
*Finally, I will only evaluate the SA6 MKII based on their performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification​

Six balancing armature drivers make up the multi-driver arrangement of the SA6 MKII. Two Sonion woofers are used for low frequencies, Knowles twin midrange drivers are used for middle frequencies, and Knowles dual treble tweeters are used for high frequencies. Through a three-way frequency crossover, all of these drivers are connected and regulated. Unlike its predecessors, which had a more bespoke-looking shell from the nozzle side, this one is incredibly ergonomically designed. At the end of the day, they appear really different from other IEMs, so I would advise trying it before making any decisions. There were no problems or weariness felt when wearing or using it, even after listening for a long time. The faceplate is made of wood and has a layer of resin applied to maintain its original appearance. The DUNU Hulk mini cable, a premium two-pin cable with modular plug attachments at one end, is included with the IEMs. Additional accessories that come with the IEM include a carrying bag, modular plugs (3.5mm and 4.4mm), a cleaning brush, eartips in a variety of sizes, and a 3.5mm to 1/4inch connector. Regarding the technical details, the sensitivity is 114dB and the impedance is 24Ohms. The frequency response spans from 5 Hz to 40 kHz, with less than 0.5% of total harmonic distortion.

***Above Image Credits***

Sound​

The balanced tuning of the SA6 MKII favors the mid range, making the sound open and more expressive, while the treble's spacious and airy response balances it out. The SA6 MKII's response is quite subtle and soothing, yet it's not depressing or laid back in the slightest; rather, it elicits an enthusiastic response rather than a tranquil one. The response is more in line with what I would have imagined from my Monarch MKII when compared to the SA6 MKII with Monarch MKII; nonetheless, the bass and treble are not as deep and expansive.In my perspective, the SA6 MKII is exceptional because, even after being advanced in the upper frequencies, it still sounds remarkably natural and smooth. While none of its competitors can equal what DUNU has accomplished with the SA6 MKII, it can still compete with IEMs that have tribid or hybrid drivers installed. What makes the BA so good is its ability to balance secure and polish with clarity and details. Let's take a closer look at the sound.

Treble​

The response of the treble area is quite calming and revealing, allowing for a safe and comprehensive response to that doesn't come off as aggressive. I mean, this is the first time I have heard a smooth response in the upper frequencies while still generating amazing details—especially when it comes to an all-BA set. The vocals, which often sound open and forward, don't appear to come over as such in places where the upper treble, which has excellent air and wide response, seems a touch muted. Conversely, the tones of the instruments are lively but round; they don't sound harsh or metallic. The lower treble brings the notes forward and vibrant, all the while sounding forward and with a strong feeling of tonal correctness. The response highlights the light and energetic sound of the instruments and singers, while also exhibiting lean features that may deviate from a natural sound. However, the impact of these notes isn't heavy, which may disclose such response. As a result, the treble region's overall appearance is vast, light, and calming.

Mid Range​

In terms of the mid range, I was astounded by the contrast and intricacies that each note could offer; the delicately smooth yet crisp intensity created a soothing and invigorating sound. The primary cause of it was that neither the instruments nor the vocals were really thrust forward. The note sounds a little different in my opinion because of its occurrence and unusual presentation without depending too much on energy, which also suitably separates the vocalist's presence from the surrounding instruments in a large area. Similar energy was resonant in the upper mid range as in the lower treble, but the presentation is more enjoyable to listen to. However, while listening to livelier or even basic tunes, the voices occasionally tend to sound off-key. The instruments and vocals sound clear and beautifully detailed, especially the female vocals, which captivate and enliven you with their light and open response. The voices and the instruments seem upfront and dense, but not thick or heavy, which drowns out and leaves the sound wobbly and mumbly. The lower mid range plays a significant role in creating this lively yet peaceful response. The notes should have depth and thickness; some may claim that they do, but I think it sounds a little strange and odd. The clarity in this area also contributes to the sound's pleasing quality. However, once more, the notes are helped in by the dense response produced by the lower mid range. Compared to thin, the higher frequencies should sound more genuine. As a result, the mid range area is presented in a pleasant, revealing, and fascinating manner overall.

Bass​

Getting to the bass, I think it makes the entire response right. By which I mean that the bass responds very well, allowing for a more controlled yet effective response that influences the warmth into the lower mid range. Although many people may be aware, the BA bass has a certain quantity and quality to it. It used to sound more puffy than thump, but that is usually not the case these days. In contrast, the SA6 MKII exhibits a more punchy and rumbly bass instead of a thumping and booming sound because the bass is more prominent in the sub bass region. Although the quantity of the guitar slams isn't quite there, they do sound satisfying. However, I do agree that the bass has a nice, detailed, and controlled feel. Like previously indicated, the mid bass has a good heft and presence but doesn't sound particularly powerful or engaging—rather, it sounds warm. The emphasis is in the subbas region, which tends to sound deep and punchy. Ultimately, I think the bass is done really well; I'm not sure about the earlier models, but I do think this pair is unique compared to others on the market, particularly its competitors. Overall, the bass response is punchy, rumbly, and controlled in its presentation.

Technical Performance​

The technical skill of the DUNU SA6 MKII is another feature that makes me adore them even more. I think that every aspect of them, from the imaging to the layering to the details, is done to the highest standard. I find the SA6 MKII to sound more refined and immersive, even though its peers have a more expansive, open, and vast sounding response. However, even the stage is quite roomy; let's delve deeper into the specifics.

Soundstage, Sound Imaging & Separation​

The response is more holographic, the notes are firmly present and positioned to create a very nicely staged presentation that is nicely spread out, and because the stage is not greatly expanded, the presentation becomes more engaging. It was a surreal experience for me because of the crisp, clear imaging that enhances the overall clarity of the notes and the precise layering and separation that makes the notes stand out more.

Speed & Resolution​

The resolution of this all-BA IEM is the best I have heard of, but the details are not crisp or metallic—rather, they are smooth but not soft, with the micro details being particularly notable as well as the macro details are also certainly revealing. Although I find the notes' attack and decay to be a little off, their rapid pace effectively resolves the presentation and prevents it from sounding disorganized.

Sound Impressions ​

Bass Switch​

Although I didn't think there was much of a difference, it was effective where it mattered. The response did sound less thrilling and more balanced in the higher frequencies when I turned on the switch. Additionally, I discovered that the thinness that occasionally surfaced when I listened to upbeat music or, more especially, female vocals, was subdued and seemed more realistic to me. Although the bass felt strong and powerful as well, which contributed to the bass sounding more pounding and dynamic, I think the bass of the dynamic driver is far superior. I found the differences to be subtle, but for other listeners, they will have a greater effect.

Sources​

Sony WM1A - The response from this pair was exactly what I could have hoped for when listening to SA6 MKII with the WM1A. It sounds very wholesome and well-balanced because of the notes' roundness and fullness. Whether it's the vocals or the instruments, both maintain the same level of quality and quantity while adding a comforting warmth. Although the same can be said for the other sources I tried, I think this pairing has a more natural presentation and heavier notes. The treble sounds more expansive and removes the subdued effect, while the bass is also less controlled and causes a natural decay.

Tempotec V6 - I find that the more transparent and detail-revealing sound of the SA6 MKII when paired with the V6 sounds a little too expressive. The vocals frequently start to sound metallic because the response is more focused on the upper mid range and lower treble while the bass is more in control, making it sound a little sharper than before. However, I find that listening to tracks with a lot of bass has a very enjoyable and fun sound quality because of the impact and cleanliness of the bass as well as the sparkling high notes.



Kiwi Ears Allegro - When listening to SA6 MK2 with Allegro, the sound seemed more personal, which made it easier to understand the notes' sharpness and differentiate them. The response was all pushed forward, from bass to high, yet the coherence and balance in between seemed organic and seamless. However, I did notice that listening to busy or complicated tunes made it difficult to pick up on subtleties because of the forward and near response, but the bass also felt more prominent and forceful. Even yet, I continue to like its meticulous and sterile presentation.

Tracks​

Millet - Anytime Anywhere
Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness
Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo
Uru - Kamihitoe
Kujira Yumemi - Kenka
Majiko - Kokoronashi
Anly - Sukinishinayo
Kohama Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade
Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love
Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope
Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow
Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Jawns - Erotica
ISOxo - how2fly
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Weeknd - Popular
YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High)
Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid
Middle Kids - Bend
FLETCHER - Leads Me On
Loathe - Aggressive Evolution
The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
Sigrid - Burning Bridges
AURORA - Black Water Lilies
AURORA - Runaway
X Ambassadors - Renegades
Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold Us
Goyte - Somebody That I Used To Know
Jay-Z - Run This Town
Lady Gaga - Poker Face
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Ladytron - Ghost
Travis - Love Will Come Through
LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong
DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix)
Hoobastank - The Reason
Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care
Tool - 7empest
Tool - Vicarious
A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song
Zack Hemsey - Vengeance
Elton John - I’m Still Standing
The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin
Micheal Sembello - Maniac
Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine
A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun

Conclusion​

Ultimately, the DUNU SA6 MKII is a fantastic all-around BA IEM because of its subtle yet calming response, which captivates you whether you're listening to tracks with Vocal specific tracks or Bass heavy tracks. The SA6 MKII is a truly unique piece of art, and I had a great time listening it. For that reason, I heartily recommend it to anyone looking for a detailed and engaging sounding response.

Review Of The Kiwi Ears Allegro​

Introduction​

Only two brands wowed me the most last year with new product launches, and Kiwi Ears is one of them. Kiwi Ears is now well-known in the industry for its excellent IEM offerings in terms of build, functionality, and sound quality. With the exception of their debut Orchestra, I have tried and heard nearly every thing they have produced, and I have always loved them all. This isn't just me, though; a lot of audio enthusiasts have been fans of theirs since the beginning and adore their offerings. They just made their entrance in the dac/amp category with Allegro, much as SIMGOT, AFUL, etc., now that they have established their place in the IEM category in the inexpensive to budget-mid tier area. And I'm fortunate enough to get the new Kiwi Ears Allegro for evaluation, but first, I want to make a few clarifications.

Disclaimer​

*Since this unit tour was organised by the kindly people at Linsoul, I am grateful to them. And as I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to this device as “Allegro”
*Finally, I will only evaluate the Allegro based on their performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification​

The ES9028Q2M dac chipset in Allegro supports native DSD256 and 32-bit/384kHz PCM. As a more user-friendly device, the Allegro supports type-C data transmission in addition to 3.5mm single ended and 4.4mm balanced. The device has two volume rocker controls on the side, and it includes an indicator light that changes color according on the format sampling feeding, from blue to green. Regarding the technical details, the balanced 4.4mm jack has an output power of 155mW at 32 Ohms and a THD+N of 0.0015%, while the single ended 3.5mm jack has an output power of 70mW at 32 Ohms. The SNR is 123dB and the noise floor is less than 1uV.

Design And Aesthetics​

In terms of overall body design, it resembles a bogie that has been detached from the train, but from the front, it appears more like a controller that a gameboy would use. Because the item is composed of metal, it feels and looks luxurious for the price it is being provided. Overall, the gadget has a clean, modern appearance that makes it seem more like an accessory than a dac/amp. This helps it fit in with the surroundings and makes it stand out, at least that is how I see it.

Usage ​

With the exception of the type-c connection being somewhat too lengthy in comparison to the tiny dongle dac, Allegro is a pretty little gadget that pairs with either my MacBook or my smartphone. I have never had any problems with the dongle's operation. It was also advantageous since I could adjust the volume using the volume rockers, which were separate from the DAP's volume, even when I couldn't do so with the DAP. Thus, after I learned about the dongle dac's independent volume setting, I was able to turn up the level where I believed that the Sundara and HD600 headphones, were incapable of producing enough sound. Even though the top frequencies of both headphones were spot on, I still thought that the lower frequencies lacked strength. During my commute, I discovered that it was effortless to slide it in and out of my pocket with the associated source anytime I want. All things considered, it passes my usability test with flying colors.

Sound Impressions ​

IEMs​

Thieaudio Prestige LTD

Prestige LTD is the very reason I am now able to find the truth in my musical dreams; I have never heard another IEM that plows your ears with faith in each note, no matter how those notes should sound, and nurtures your senses with dynamics and presentation as if I were hearing reality. Previously, I owned the Monarch MKII, which established what one would expect, but once the prestige's magic began to flourish, I knew I could explore so much more with it, especially when it came to the air and presence of each nuances the notes were able to grasp over and tingled my senses. To summarise the prestige's response sounds as if the Monarch MKII were given steroid and enhanced the upper frequencies in all directions with better authoritative flow in the lower response. The response is neutral with sub bass boost, similar to the Monarch MKII, with the exception that the notes are airier and more revealing than any other IEM prior to this era. However, the thinner notes and excessive clarity provide obnoxious features that expose bad mixing and recordings, which were highly obvious when heard on my V6 but smoothed out on my WM1A, indicating source dependence.

The response was closer, sharper, and more forward while listening to LTD with allegro, which contributed to a more immersive response. However, even if there was no discontent, the gap between the notes aggravated. Rather of sounding left or right, the response sounded more forward. Though it had a more strong hit and impact, the bass seemed more central and noticeable.

Thor Mjolnir MKII

Mjolnir is a very bassy set which has a lot of sub bass emphasis. The treble and upper mid range is also very forward in the mix. The upper treble has great extension as well. The bass is very punchy and boomy while acting fast. Mjolnir is a great V-shape sounding IEM with a different approach to explosive bass that has better technicalities, especially in this price range. The stage is great with nice surround stage and depth where the separation of each element sounding distant enough them to procure space to breathe and distinct themselves. The attack and decay of the driver capability is really quick and performs great. The vocals may feel lean and sparkly, the warmth or the fuller experience is something that these lack. Th bass response does vary from sources to sources whether I listen to a warm source or a neutral one, the bass becomes either overwhelming or authoritative or both.

As opposed to the response, which often seemed more left to right, which sounded holographic, Mjolnir with Allegro felt more precise and crisp. Similar to the upper mid range, which assisted in achieving the lean character often heard between 4 and 8k, the treble, particularly the lower treble, seemed rather muted. All things considered, the response sounded better than my DAP V6. Although the amount and quality of the notes haven't changed much, the overall reaction has improved the density and weight of the sounds.

DUNU SA6 MK2

The midrange is given priority in the balanced tuning of the SA6 MKII, resulting in a more rich and full-bodied sound that is complemented by the treble's expansive and airy response. The response of the SA6 MKII is incredibly delicate and calming, yet it's by no means gloomy or relaxed; rather, it provokes an energetic response rather than a calm one. When compared to the SA6 MKII with Monarch MKII, the response is more in line with what I would have hoped from my Monarch MKII, but once more, the bass and treble are not as deep and expansive.The SA6 MKII is unique in my opinion since it sounds very smooth and natural even after being forward in the higher frequencies. In comparison to its counterparts, I find that none of them can match what DUNU has achieved with the SA6 MKII; nonetheless, it can compete with IEMs configured with hybrid or tribid drivers. The BA's mastery of clarity and details while maintaining a secure, polished tone is what makes it so great. Let's investigate the sound more thoroughly.

When listening to SA6 MK2 with Allegro, the sound seemed more personal, which made it easier to understand the notes' sharpness and differentiate them. The response was all pushed forward, from bass to high, yet the coherence and balance in between seemed organic and seamless. However, I did notice that listening to busy or complicated tunes made it difficult to pick up on subtleties because of the forward and near response, but the bass also felt more prominent and forceful. Even yet, I continue to like its meticulous and sterile presentation.

QKZ X HBB Hades

When it comes to exposure to my ears, the Hades is really badass; the bass is so intense that it's difficult for me to focus. especially when I'm listening to tunes with a lot of bass. When the bass hits you, you feel its tonal wrath rather than the quality being heavily emphasized in the mix. Upon initially observing the graph, I thought it would be strange as the bass and mids' tuning would cause the response to sound compressed, Bloated, and muddy throughout, drowning out its presentation. However, I was pleasantly surprised that this wasn't the case. Thus, yes, I do think that this IEM has a lot of bass—the most in this price range—while maintaining decent high frequencies. Please take note that the vocals feel muffled in the mid range due to the increased note weight, yet they still have enough vitality to bring the notes forward.

The Allegro produced a more closed-off response, resembling my DAP V6 in terms of sound quality. When Hades was coupled with the V6, the bass seemed more thundering, and the midrange seemed just as forward as the bass. However, the bass prevents the upper frequencies from being overwhelmed by the bloating and strong presence of the mid bass. Aside from the whole bass range, the mid range had the greatest energy and the treble seemed a touch more forward.

Tracks​

Millet - Anytime Anywhere
Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness
Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo
Uru - Kamihitoe
Kujira Yumemi - Kenka
Majiko - Kokoronashi
Anly - Sukinishinayo
Kohama Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade
Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love
Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope
Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow
Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Jawns - Erotica
ISOxo - how2fly
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Weeknd - Popular
YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High)
Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid
Middle Kids - Bend
FLETCHER - Leads Me On
Loathe - Aggressive Evolution
The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
Sigrid - Burning Bridges
AURORA - Black Water Lilies
AURORA - Runaway
X Ambassadors - Renegades
Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold Us
Goyte - Somebody That I Used To Know
Jay-Z - Run This Town
Lady Gaga - Poker Face
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Ladytron - Ghost
Travis - Love Will Come Through
LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong
DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix)
Hoobastank - The Reason
Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care
Tool - 7empest
Tool - Vicarious
A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song
Zack Hemsey - Vengeance
Elton John - I’m Still Standing
The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin
Micheal Sembello - Maniac
Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine
A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun

Conclusion​

In closing, I would like to say that Allegro sets the standard for Kiwi Ears, who dazzled me with their product launch outside IEMs and proved that they can succeed wherever their curiosity and genius lead them. It is a solid suggestion since it is a sterile-sounding, clean DAC that enables a comprehensive presentation at a very reasonable cost. I'd at least advise giving them a try since once you get the hang of them, you won't be able to put them down. Something about these makes me want to keep attempting to press the gamepad buttons and keep me involved, but I love the Allegro.

The Review Of The QKZ X HBB Hades​

Introduction​

QKZ is a long-standing Chinese company that was among the first to offer affordable audiophile products, particularly in the form of ear monitors. They gained notoriety for the first time with the VK4, an IEM that many audiophiles loved for the price they were being offered. However, they were unable to produce another top-tier IEM until they teamed up with the well-known YouTuber and audiophile HBB or BGGAR. Together, they produced two inexpensively priced IEMs with excellent sound quality and tuning. I am fortunate enough to review the Hades, a newly released differently tuned IEM that is touted as a basshead IEM. The Hades was introduced recently, following the realization of Khan and QKZ x HBB, but before we get started, let me clarify a few things.

Disclaimer​

*Since this unit tour was organised by the kindly people at Linsoul, I am grateful to them. And as I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to these IEMs as “Hades.”
*I am using different Ear-tips for convenience and better versatility.
*Finally, I will only evaluate the Hades based on their performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.

Specification​

Two 9mm dynamic drivers with LCP diaphragms make up the twin driver arrangement found in the Hades. The ergonomic design and skin-friendly resin material of the shells allowed them to sit comfortably on my ears. Regarding comfort and fit, I didn't feel tired after listening to music nonstop for three to four hours. The shell body appears semi-transparent, while the eye-catching, unique pattern on the blueish-violet faceplate is striking. The cable includes a 3.5mm straight termination connector on one end and a two-pin connection on the other; it appears ordinary for the price and was even offered with previous IEMs from QKZ around this price. The additional accessories that come with the package are a gold-looking coin that highlights the partnership between HBB and QKZ and three sets of eartips in three different sizes.

Sound​

Prior to writing this review, I would like to make it clear that this one will differ slightly in terms of its positioning in the market and the target audience it is truly being presented to. Thus, in my opinion, this is more of an IEM for bassheads than for audiophiles, with a focus on the upper mid range and the entire bass spectrum, including the midsection and subregion.

When it comes to exposure to my ears, the Hades is really badass; the bass is so intense that it's difficult for me to focus. especially when I'm listening to tunes with a lot of bass. When the bass hits you, you feel its tonal wrath rather than the quality being heavily emphasized in the mix. Upon initially observing the graph, I thought it would be strange as the bass and mids' tuning would cause the response to sound compressed, Bloated, and muddy throughout, drowning out its presentation. However, I was pleasantly surprised that this wasn't the case.

Thus, yes, I do think that this IEM has a lot of bass—the most in this price range—while maintaining decent high frequencies. Please take note that the vocals feel muffled in the mid range due to the increased note weight, yet they still have enough vitality to bring the notes forward.

Technical Performance​

Despite being so loud and dense, the response is actually quite straightforward, with just enough vocal and instrumental presence to make it sound pleasant. Although the IEM is a Basshead IEM, which is designed for a fun and entertaining listen, I wouldn't compare it to its competitors because the stage is nicely spread out despite feeling spacious rather than open sounding.

QKZ X HBB Hades Vs QKZ X HBB Khan​

Well, I made a comparison just out of curiosity in which I imported Khan’s FR from HBB's Squiglink and essentially eq'ed Hades to it. The purpose of this was to determine whether or not audiophiles would find them enjoyable and whether or not the drivers could support them. To be clear, I had to tone down the portion between 10k and 15k because it was starting to sound a little nauseating.

Since I generally like the Khan's tuning, I really liked it. I also evaluated them and had a buddy give me the Khan so I could compare them. I was astonished to learn that the Hades could easily accomplish this after comparing the two when EQ'ed Hades to Khan's FR.

The response was leaner than the Khan as compared to the Hades (tuned to Khan's FR), which sounded much more detailed and technically pronounced where it lacked the note weight and depth for better tonal satisfaction. Safe tuning-wise, the Khan sounded more fitting.

When I compared Hades (tuned to Khan FR), I found that the notes' texture and clarity were far better than those of Khan, even if I'm not sure how precise the response would be when I explored appropriately. As I mentioned before, this was an experiment, so proceed with caution, but I would advise Hades to give it a shot.

More On Hades​

To be honest, not much at all, but when I consider it as a product in this extremely crowded market, two things do spring to mind. Of course, I want to make clear that in my opinion, my curiosity is getting the better of me rather than the product being poor or improperly advertised.

First off, QKZ is a reputable business that specializes in producing extremely affordable IEMs; nevertheless, the majority of their models tend to be bass-heavy, at least from my experience testing their more budget models, such as the AK6 series, ZX1, ZAX 2, ZXT, etc. And they do deliver the same thumping bass sound as the Hades; the quality is undoubtedly greater, but I'm not sure if this is better in terms of cost to performance ratio or not.

Secondly, I would have wanted to receive a little bit more vitality in the upper mid range, but that is mostly a personal choice.

Sound Impressions ​

Sources​

Sony WM1A - As I was listening with the WM1A, I realized that this pairing was meant to be. Hades' sound was more rounded and expansive when paired with the WM1A. Although the bass remained powerful, there was no noticeable bloating or heaviness in the mix of the mids. Without being overpowering, the instruments and voices have a deep, solid tone. For the first time, the treble was expansive and silky. Although the roundness of the notes made it sound a little less clear and resolving, for an audiophile or basshead, it was still an IEM worth the money.

Tempotec V6 - I noticed that the bass had less warmth in terms of hits and impact when I was listening on the V6. The treble seemed the same, but the mids—most especially, the vocals—were more immersive and upfront, allowing for more clarity in the upper area. Hip-hop definitely came through with this combination, at least to me.

Kiwi Ears Allegro - The Allegro produced a more closed-off response, resembling the V6 in terms of sound quality. When Hades was coupled with the V6, the bass seemed more thundering, and the midrange seemed just as forward as the bass. However, the bass prevents the upper frequencies from being overwhelmed by the bloating and strong presence of the mid bass. Aside from the whole bass range, the mid range had the greatest energy and the treble seemed a touch more forward.

Tracks​

50 Cent - Candy Shop
50 Cent - In Da Club
Tupac - Keep Ya Head Up
Tupac - So Many Tears
Timbaland - The Way I Are
Timbaland - Bounce
Dr. Dre - Nuthin’ But a “G” Thang
Jay Z - Run This Town
Jay Z - N***** In Paris
Kanye West - Stronger
Kanye West - American Boy
T.I. - Swagga Like Us
T.I. - Dead and Gone
Lil Wayne - Lollipop
Flo Ride - Low
DJ Shadow - Six Days(Remix)
ATliens - Obsidian Vortex
ATliens - Alchemy
Yookie - Ignite
Yookie - Heater
Skrillex - Rumble
Skrillex - Xena
JAWNS - Erotica
JAWNS - Catalyst
Ricky Martic - I don’t care
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Valentino Khan - Blackmail
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade

Conclusion​

To sum up my review, I will say that Hades is a true Basshead IEM, with enough high frequencies to make sense of it and a strong bass presence to please any serious listener. I can heartily suggest this IEM to bass enthusiasts because I'm a basshead, but audiophiles who would like to give it a try will also find it enjoyable if they tweak the EQ to suit their preferences.