Hi there folks and welcome to another review. Today on the test bench we have the HE 150Pro earbud from Hi-Fi End. There has been a real resurgence in popularity for earbuds lately and it looks like they're here to stay.

When I first saw the box (more on this below) my expectations were not high but in fact, I was astonished by what these have to offer. In a very short time, this little earbud had won me over. So let's dive in and I'll tell you how it happened.

Disclaimer: This sample was provided for the purpose of an honest review. I'm not affiliated with the company and all observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product. The HE 150Pro earbud is currently listed at $29.90 and you can get it at Penon Audio.

Specifications

• Sensitivity: 103dB / mW
• Driver: Dynamic driver
• Impedance: 150Ω
• Frequency response range: 20-20000Hz
• Plug: 3.5mm straight
  
• Cable length: 1.2m

Package & accessories
It all starts with a little, brown, cardboard box and that's almost where it ends. But when you open up the box, inside you'll find a nice little circular clamshell case. What I like about this case is that it's a bit larger in diameter and a bit more sturdy than the usual type that we see so often. So while it's still the perfect size for a pocket, it's also got that bit of extra room that makes it easier to stash your earbuds away inside.

Inside the zip case is the HE 150Pro earbuds and 4 pairs of foam covers. And that's all there is to it but they're earbuds so you don't really need anything else.



Build quality
For the princely sum of $29.90 you might expect the usual plastic shells but right away you'll notice the HE 150Pro earbud is crafted from a smooth metal with a matte black finish. On the front end is a silver-coloured metal grill typical of many earbuds on the market and this is held in place by a plastic bumper.

The shells taper down towards the back end, which also has an open, silver-coloured metal grill. The outer side of each shell is adorned with the HE logo in white print.

Next are the cylindrical stems that hang down where the cable attaches. The stems are also metal and are decorated with a couple of silver rings.

Moving on to the cable, it's a black, twisted, plastic-sheathed affair and it's actually really nice. In fact, it's not too different from the type commonly supplied with custom in-ear monitors, though obviously, it is not detachable. It has the same type of rubberized Y-split which is unobtrusive and I've found to be very effective from past experience. The cable is neither too stiff or flimsy and finds a nice balance between the two so it sits and winds up nicely. It doesn't have kinks and it's not one of those annoying "bouncy" types that never sit right. Also of note is that there is no microphonics at all. The cable terminates in an L-shaped plug that has a very good strain relief.



Comfort & isolation
In terms of comfort - well, it's an earbud so if you've used one in the past you will know what to expect. Personally, I like the size and shape of these and with the black foams attached, I get a nice, secure fit. However, after an hour or so I tend to start getting uncomfortable hot spots with earbuds and that is one reason why I still prefer in-ear type earphones. If you're a seasoned earbud user though these are likely to be just as comfortable as any other one.

For noise isolation, well, nope. Just nope! As with just about every earbud noise isolation is practically non-existent but hey, that's why you have big-ass dynamic driver strapped to your ears: so you can still hear the music. While IEMs that isolate really well tend to draw you into the music, I find that earbuds draw the music into your environment. And that can be great, making them sound more akin to the experience you get from speakers.



Sound
Gear used for testing

• Acoustic Research AR-M20
• ATC HDA-DP20
• Samsung Galaxy Note 5
• PC/MusicBee > Topping DX7

Despite its 150 ohm impedance, the HE 150Pro earbud doesn't require extra amplification. My Galaxy Note smartphone can power it sufficiently at less than full volume. Of course, as always you are likely to get a better result when using a quality DAC or amplifier.

The HE 150Pro is a feisty little bugger. It has a slightly V-shaped signature but is still nicely balanced with just a slightly recessed midrange. It has a warm tonality which can be attenuated by going naked (without foams) if you prefer a leaner presentation.

Bass
This earbud's bass still surprises me, even after a couple weeks of testing. It has all the things I like to hear in the lower frequencies: punch, impact, rumble and texture. Yes, it really does have all those things. A lot of budget earbuds that go for a full-bodied bass end up smearing and colouring the midrange but the HE 150Pro does admirably. There is some body from the bass that carries over into the midrange but it doesn't' blow things out of proportion.

Across all genres, the bass on these hits the sweet spot. Albums like Seamoon's Expression of the Moment sound fantastic with the HE 150Pro. When your music calls for some sub-bass goodness, again this earbud delivers. Tracks like "Untouchable" by Scarface sound fantastic with a solid midbass thump and a solid but controlled deep rumble.

Mids
The midrange is mildly recessed but by no means does it sound thin. Male vocals carry weight and authority and female voices are smooth and emotive. Julia Michael's voice comes through silky yet defined in the song "Heaven". There's a surprising amount of detail to be found and even busy segments are handled well. Instrument separation is above average for any type of transducer in this price range.

Treble
As we move up the scale and into the treble there's a relaxed but airy presentation. It's not the most energetic or pronounced, but that also means it's not harsh or fatiguing. The extension is quite good, although cymbal sheen rolls off a little early in some cases. There's no hint of sibilance or brain piercing shards of icy terror but rather just a nice amount to liven up whatever you're listening to.

Soundstage
Being an earbud the HE 150Pro naturally has a pretty wide soundstage. Sounds can easily reach outside of the headspace and due to the earbud's open nature, you might sometimes find yourself looking over your shoulder and trying to determine where that sound just came from.

Vocals are front and centre but quite intimate, although there is sufficient depth in the space to keep you from feeling too close to the action. Positioning and imaging are not the strongest points of this earbud. Still, while listening to the Emerson String Quartet performing Beethoven, the location of different sections is easily distinguishable.



Comparisons
Penon BS1 Experience Version ($39 USD)
The Bs1 Experience Version has a more mid-focused sound with forward vocals. The midrange sounds a little muddy in direct comparison to the HE 150Pro. Treble is crisper on the BS1 but is pushed back more behind the midrange while the HE earbud has a cleaner and more balanced overall signature.

Bass on the BS1 doesn't have the same impact as the HE's but is still fairly punchy. These are both good earbuds but IMO the HE 150Pro costs around $10 less which makes it a great alternative.

Venture Electronics VE Monk (discontinued)
The Monk brings vocals and the midrange a little more forward. Bass doesn't dig as deep as it does on the HE 150Pro but has a similar quality. The Monk has a livelier treble and similar level of extension. These two are really similar in some ways. The main differences are in the midrange forwardness of the Monk and of course, in build quality. The cable on the HE 150Pro is clearly superior and while the Monk's shells are plastic they're very durable and have held up extremely well. This comparison really just reminded me what staggeringly good value the original Monk earbud was, even next to the HE which I would also label as great value for money.

Conclusion
So am I throwing all my IEMs away? No, of course not, but I feel more enamoured towards this earbud than any I've heard since the stupendously good VE Monk. There's something about the HE 150Pro's clean and balanced sound that makes it really pleasurable to listen to.

The all-metal build, fantastic cable and budget-friendly price make this a product I can easily recommend. If you're a fan of budget earbuds you owe it to yourself to get some of these.

Introduction
Aune is the high-quality HiFi brand of AO LAI ER Technology Co.ltd which was founded in 2004. In the past, they have created some iconic digital audio products. One of the most enduring is the X1s DAC/headphone amplifier. The X1s has been through several iterations over the ten years since the first model was released. While it has retained its familiar physical characteristics, with each generation, the company has continued to refine its appearance and internals and strengthened its identity. To celebrate a decade since the first release, Aune has released the 6th generation of their DAC/headphone amplifier and that's what we're looking at today. Meet the Aune X1s 10th Anniversary Edition.

Here's what the company has to say about it:

Aune X1s 10th Anniversary Edition is a special edition commemorating 10 years of the X1 series. Now in its 6th generation, the X1 series is a multi-functional DAC/headphone amplifier developed for PC HiFi and small audio systems. The X1s uses the Sabre ES9018K2M chip which has 3 filter modes and supports 32bit/384k and DSD128. The decoding capability is simply outstanding.

Disclaimer: This sample was provided for the purpose of an honest review. I am not affiliated with the company and all observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product. The X1s 10th Anniversary Edition is listed at $249 at the time of writing. You can get it from the official Aune store.



Package and accessories
The Aune X1s comes with a basic unboxing experience. It starts off with a heavy-duty black box that is unadorned except for the single Aune logo on the front.

On the inside, you'll find the X1s DAC nestled in a soft, black foam. There's also a thick sheet of the same foam covering the goods so everything should be well protected during postage/transit.

So what exactly is in the box?

• Aune X1s 10th Anniversary Edition DAC/headphone amplifier
• Power adapter & cable
• USB cable
• USB drive with user manual and drivers
• 6.35 mm adapter

So there are just the basic necessities inside but really what more could you need? As far as unboxings go there's not a lot to get excited about but of course, it's the actual device and the sound that really matter. The included USB cable is robust and high quality, with gold-plated connectors.

Build & functionality
Now onto the device itself. The Aune X1s has an aluminium chassis with a matte black finish (unless you get the silver one). It's a sleek looking piece with concave sides and a convex top. The resulting curves keep the Aune X1s from being another boring, black box and I think it looks great.

The dimensions are W145 mm x L171 mm x H45 mm which is a nice size to fit on a small to a medium desk. On the underside are 4 silicone feet that protect the surface the DAC is sitting on and they also have a very good grip which prevents it from sliding about.

On the front panel is the input select/filter mode button. To the right of the button are 4 LED indicators, showing which input is selected. In the middle is a gold-plated 6.35 mm headphone jack. I would have liked to see an additional 3.5 mm jack here - something I always miss after having it on the Audinst HUD-MX2. Lastly, on the right side is the volume pot. The pot is quite large and has very smooth tracking, with enough resistance to enable precise adjustments.



The rear panel hosts all the input and output options and has a nice, tidy layout with easy to read labels. Here you'll also find the only air vents, sitting above and below the power socket. It's worth noting that during use the Aune X1s never gets hot but only slightly warm and that's always reassuring. Right so let's take a gander at what makes up the back panel (from Left to Right):

• 5-pin power socket
• L & R Audio In RCA
• L & R Audio Out RCA
• Coaxial In & Coaxial Out
• Optical In
• Power On/Off switch
• USB In

Internals
Just like the previous generation, the Aune X1s 10th Anniversary Edition supports up to 32bit/384k and DSD128. Powering the conversion is a Sabre ES9018K2M DAC chip. The headphone output power is rated at 200mW @ 300Ω and 560mW @ 32Ω.

The Sabre ES9018K2M DAC has 3 different filter modes: 1. Fast roll-off 2. Slow roll-off 3. Minimum phase. There's very little difference between the filters but for testing, I stuck with the fast roll-off. Aune says that the X1S has ultra-low noise and ultra-low distortion and I won't argue with that since I heard neither. Another feature is the low jitter from the high-performance USB interface.

Something you might be interested in knowing is that when using the line out the headphone jack is still active. It would be nice to have a dedicated switch to change between the two (like the JDS Labs The Element) or automatically disable the headphone jack when the line output is selected.

The X1s has a fixed level line out so it can only be used with powered monitors or as a preamp i.e. when using the line out you have no control over the volume. Also, there was some channel imbalance at very low volume when I was testing sensitive IEMs but to be fair, it only happened at levels below what I would normally listen to, even during quiet listening.



Setup (Windows)
It has been a long time coming but Microsoft has finally made some improvements to Windows support for external DACs. After plugging in the X1s via USB, Windows proceeded to install drivers for the device and in just a few seconds it was up and running. However, I would suggest that you manually install the XMOS drivers to unlock the full functionality of the DAC.

Although there was a USB drive included in the package with the drivers preloaded on it, the one I received had errors and the driver file was corrupted. Not a problem. I hopped over to the Aune website and downloaded the driver there (which happened to be a more recent version) and a couple of minutes later had the driver installed.

Setup (Shinrico D3S)
This couldn't have been any easier. I connected the X1s via the optical in and was good to go - well with headphones at least. To test with my speakers I used the RCA line out and plugged into my FX Audio E1002A amplifier, which is connected to my ELAC Debut B6 monitors. Sweet sounds ensued.

Sound
Testing was done using my PC and MusicBee via USB-in and the Shinrico D3S via optical-in. All music was served as lossless flac files. The Aune X1s sounds neutral and transparent to my ears with a great sense of rhythm and dynamics.



Acoustic Research AR-H1
The X1s is a great pairing for the H1 and highlighted it's strong points. Levels were around 10-12 o'clock on the pot with this headphone. Bass is solid and punchy with that well-defined planar edge. Treble is crisp, almost clinically clean and clear without any edginess. The X1s provided excellent instrument separation and a wide soundstage.

Beyerdynamic DT990 Pro
This was another good match that brought to life that classic Beyer bass that has wonderful, tidy control and strong impact. At 250 ohm these require a bit more power but the X1s handled them with ease, leaving plenty of extra play available on the volume dial. The sound from this pairing was detailed with a wide soundstage.

Meze 99 Classics
For some reason, the 99 Classics didn't fare as well with this combination. The sound was a little muddy with a bloated and overpowering bass. This might be caused by the output impedance of the X1s but I can't be sure. The website doesn't specify what the output impedance is but if I remember correctly it was 10Ω in previous iterations.

I did notice, however, that the midrange and vocals were rich and vibrant. The soundstage was fairly narrow but it had a nice amount of depth.

DUNU DK-3001
At just 13Ω the DK-3001 didn't have any problems at all with the X1s. I couldn't detect any hissing or background noise. The sound is full-bodied with excellent detail and separation. Treble extension is stellar and the soundstage wide.

Comparisons
Audinst HUD-MX2 ($228 USD)
Compared to the X1s, the HUD-MX2 has a little more fullness in the bass and lower midrange and vocals are a touch more forward. There's a smoothness to the HUD-MX2 in contrast to the X1s which is more transparent and slightly more resolving. Soundstage is a touch wider on the X1s, giving it a larger, airier sound and more energy.

One thing I really like about the HUD-MX2 is the dual headphone jacks, one 3.5 mm and one 6.35 mm. I wish more headphone amplifiers had this feature because it just makes it so much more convenient when switching between headphones or IEMs. I'd love to see this added on a future generation of the Aune X1s.

Topping DX7 ($399 USD)
The DX7 and X1s share a very similar sound. That's hardly surprising since they both use the ES9018K2M chip. Where the X1s is transparent, the DX7 is even more so, though its extra neutrality is only noticeable when doing a direct A/B comparison. The X1s presents vocals ever so slightly more forward. The DX7 also seems to have more depth in its soundstage and overall separation is superior. Topping's unit also offers a balanced XLR headphone output and OLED display but of course, it's roughly double the price of the Aune X1s.



Conclusion
The Aune X1s performs really well for its modest asking price. Its sound is clear, transparent and on par with some of the more expensive DACs out there. It's all wrapped up in a gorgeous chassis that thankfully moves away from the common, straight-edged boxes that are so prevalent. The curved top and sides give it a prestigious appearance that is only exemplified when you feel how solid the build quality is.

Other standout points are the high bit-rate and DSD support plus the generous input and output options that adorn the rear panel. Anyone looking for a DAC/amp combo for their desktop should definitely take a look at this one. It's one of the best options available at this price point and I would gladly dedicate a space for it on my desktop.

*This review was originally posted on my blog at Prime Audio. Hop on over to see more like this.

ACS is a company that specializes in producing custom in-ear monitors but you can also buy their models in a universal format. They have over 20 years of experience in the industry and have locations around the globe including Europe, Asia, Australasia, USA and Africa. Today I'll be looking at their single balanced armature, entry-level model, the ACS Evoke custom in-ear monitor.

The Evoke is available at a starting price of £249.00. You can find more information and pricing at ACS Custom.

Disclaimer: This sample was provided for the purpose of an honest review. I have no affiliation with the company and all observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product.

Specifications
No. of Drivers 1(wideband)

Build Material 40 Shore, custom fit, medical grade silicone moulds finished with a hard wearing flexible lacquer

Cable Type Detachable ACS IEM Twist Stereo Cable

Standard Cable Length 1.5m

Standard Connector Low profile 3.5mm stereo right angled plug

Frequency Range 20hz-20Khz

Sensitivity @ 1Khz 105.5db

Impedance @ 1Khz 48ohms

Package & accessories
The Evoke arrived in a large, black box with the ACS logo embossed in silver on the front. At the bottom corner is a customized sticker printed with the recipient's name. Opening the magnetically sealed box reveals a very tidy layout within. On the left side is the documentation, tucked into a little pocket. On the right is the carry case (above) and the ACS Revivo dehumidifier (below).

Let's run through everything included:

• ACS Evoke custom in-ear monitor
• ACS Revivo dehumidifier (including USB charging cable & desiccant
• IEM zip case
• 1 x tube of comfort cream
• 6.35 mm adapter
• Wax cleaning tool
• Thank you card
• Warranty card
• CIEM Instruction booklet
• Revivo Instruction booklet

As you can see that's quite a bundle. First impressions are very positive and overall the package feels premium.



The included IEM zip case is very good quality. It's a bit too large for pockets but is perfect to throw in a bag and with this type of IEM, you should really keep it stored well.



ACS Revivo dehumidifier
Description (from the ACS website):

ACS Revivo is a portable rechargeable electronic device designed to remove the harmful moisture and bacteria that can penetrate into any electronic devices worn in the ears.

The special high-speed fan circulates air inside the Revivo to capture moisture via the replaceable silica gel desiccant sachet. Titanium dioxide and UV reactions generate hydroxyl radicals and negative oxygen ions to both sterilise and sanitise the devices.

The Revivo is extremely well built. Its plastic case is thick and robust. After a full charge, it's good for 30 hours of use. There's an LED indicator next to the micro USB port which displays a red light while charging. On the top is the power button with an additional LED that lights up blue when the battery is getting low. You can choose different program cycles from 3 to 30 hours. This is a great addition and adds even more value to the bundle.

Build, customization & comfort
ACS' custom monitors are made from silicone, which is a little less common than the acrylic variant. The benefits of silicone ear moulds are the comfort and superior noise isolation. Therefore silicone is a great choice for musicians and performers but of course, these things can be benefits for music lovers as well.

Build
The silicone moulds are built really nicely. There are no air bubbles or inconsistencies visible anywhere, so you can get a nice, clear view of the inner workings of the monitors. They're pretty firm shells and feel as though they should be quite durable and robust. There is a single tube leading into the ear, unlike acrylic shells that tend to have 2 or 3.

There are some interesting new technologies present throughout the entire model range. The first is IRIS – Intelligent Resonance in Silicone which ACS says allows very precise acoustic tuning and mimics the warmth of valve amplifiers.

Secondly, SSI – Sound Stage Imaging aims to enhance the soundstage by adopting a wider array than other earphones. Does it work? I'll cover this more in the sound section below.



Cable
I want to talk about the cable for a moment here. ACS' new (since 2017) twisted cable is one that they developed in-house themselves and it is spectacular. All their new cables are detachable so they're easy to replace or interchange across all the different models. The cable is thick yet smooth and supple. There's very little microphonics present and it's also very resistant to tangling.

There's a clear plastic Y-split with a matching chin slider. The cable terminates in an L-shaped 3.5 mm plug, complete with good strain relief. This is by far the nicest stock cable I've seen supplied with a CIEM to date and I just love it.


ACS cable (left), common stock CIEM cable (right)

Customization
Okay, diving in here so let's take a look at your options. First of all are the colours. There are 10 colours on the website's list you can choose from, all of which are translucent. Some examples are translucent champagne, translucent slate grey etc. You can also choose from 3 different cable styles, one of them being 2.5 mm balanced. Lastly, you can opt to get laser text etching, so you could, for example, have your name etched onto the sides.

Comfort/isolation
Like I always say, this will depend on sending in good quality ear impressions to ensure a proper fit, so make sure you follow the guidelines and let your audiologist know the requirements. Unlike acrylic CIEMs, silicone monitors require closed-jaw impressions.

For me, these are extremely comfortable indeed and after some time it's not difficult to forget that they're in your ears. There is one drawback to silicone shells, at least for me personally: they are much more difficult and take longer to insert into your ears than acrylic shells. Fortunately, the supplied comfort cream (basically a water-based moisturizer) makes the process a whole lot easier. You don't need to use the cream but I would strongly recommend you do.

The silicone CIEMs maintain an excellent and consistent seal, even when you're opening and closing your mouth. Noise isolation is bonkers and surpasses anything I have experienced with acrylic shells. Put these in your ears and they simply shut out the outside world, even before you start playing music.

Sound
The ACS Evoke custom in-ear monitor has a smooth sound with a warm tilt. It's quite mid-forward, with a strong emphasis on the midrange and vocals. Bass plays a big part too and is positioned just behind the rich midrange and adding a solid amount of body to the sound. The sound is rounded out with a smooth but clear treble. All this is provided by a single balanced armature driver and believe me if I wasn't able to see it through the translucent silicone shells it might be hard to believe.

Just like its name suggests, the Evoke stirs the emotions and gets you involved in the music. I'm singing along to some old favourites as I write this and that's about as good a sign as you can get.

Gear used for testing

• PC/MusicBee > Topping DX7
• Acoustic Research AR-M20
• ATC HDA-DP20

Bass
I haven't had a great deal of experience with single BA IEMs but I've heard a few. What immediately made the Evoke stand out from the others I've heard was the solid bass. It has a real body to it, nothing like the generally fast but shallow bass I'm used to from a single balanced armature.

The ACS Evoke custom in-ear monitor carries some real authority at its low end and doesn't sound inhibited in the least. The attack is a little on the slow side, giving bass notes a rounded front edge and imparting that sense of a heavy impact. However, there is still enough texture there to avoid that 'hitting a pillow with a stick' effect. Decay, on the other hand, is pretty quick so there's that typically well-controlled bass that is characteristic of BA drivers.

When it comes to sub-bass this single driver CIEM really delivers. Listening to Nas' "Take It In Blood" was enough to confirm the Evoke has the goods. It digs deep and extends really well without falling off too early. Also on the cards was a playthrough of "Motive 4 Murder" by Twista & The Speedknot Mobstaz. Fans of old-school hip-hop can be assured that the Evoke will do justice to that classic 808 bass.

Mids
Here is where you'll find the star of the show. The Evoke highlights the midrange, putting it in front of the bass and treble. Vocals are forward, intimate, rich and emotive, while instruments stand out clearly. In the lower mids, you get a nice touch of warmth that blends in nicely with the bass, without any significant bleed. It adds body to male vocals and prevents music from sounding anaemic.

In "To Everness" from Paint the Sky Red, the Evoke faithfully reproduces the guitar notes with accurate tonality and brings them to the forefront, rising above the orchestral strings and bass. It also does a great job with stereo separation here, throwing various instruments at you from both sides while the body of the song stays centred.

Treble
Treble is a little bit understated, so there's no sibilance or harshness but as a result, some of the more subtle details can get lost. Having said that, however, the Evoke still manages to impart a sense of airiness in the music. The quality of the treble is excellent but at times I wished for a bit more in quantity, particularly in high-hats and cymbals.

Soundstage
The Evoke's soundstage is actually really good. It's surprising considering the treble can at times come across as a little muted. I'm willing to bet that ACS' SSI – Sound Stage Imaging is playing a part here and whatever they did it really does work. Not only does it reach fairly wide but there's plenty of depth too. Vocals sit in front of the listener, still intimate but not in your face. Imaging and instrument positioning are good, so you can easily determine where sounds are coming from.

Sources & compatibility
The ACS Evoke custom in-ear monitor paired well with everything and only showed minute changes in frequency due to the properties of the source. I didn't hear any hiss or background noise from any of these sources.

Topping DX7
A wide soundstage with forward and intimate vocals. There's some added energy in the treble giving high frequencies some lift. Midrange is slightly leaner and revealing with less body. Bass and sub-bass have less depth and impact.

Acoustic Research AR-M20
The M20 gives the Evoke lots of depth in the soundstage. It fills out the mid and sub-bass a bit giving more impact and weight. Treble is very similar, maybe a little less than the DX7. The midrange has some more body and fullness. Detail and separation are excellent, bringing a smooth sound and not sacrificing any quality.

ATC HDA-DP20
Wide soundstage. Detailed midrange with a bit less body but great tonality. Bass unchanged, similar to DX7 levels. Vocals are a little further back and very textured. Clear and airy treble adds to the sense of space and enlargens the soundstage. Very transparent and uncoloured sound.



Comparisons
Custom Art FIBAE 2 (starting at €475)
The FIBAE 2 has a more V-shaped frequency with a similar bass presence but more energy and sparkle in the treble. As a result, its midrange isn't as forward as the Evoke's but it does carry a touch more clarity and separation and ACS's CIEM competes remarkably well with half the driver count and significantly lower cost.

There's a kind of rawness to the FIBAE 2 that I find rather exciting where the Evoke has a tube-like smoothness that mellows the sound more. Both of these CIEMs share a similar sound signature but the biggest differences are in the treble and the Evoke's emphasis on vocals. The soundstage of both monitors is very impressive, giving an impression of a 3-dimensional space with the FIBAE 2 pulling slightly ahead in terms of left and right separation.



Conclusion
The ACS Evoke custom in-ear monitor surprised me in a few ways. First of all is the fullness of the sound brought by its single balanced armature driver, particularly in the bass and midrange. Then there's the quality of the build and that fantastic cable. Finally, the overall value that you get from this entry level CIEM package is what makes it really stand out.

For audiophiles and music lovers, this would be a great starting point if you're considering going down the CIEM route. Even more so, I would heartily recommend these for musicians or performers. If you have thought about getting custom monitors but hesitated because of the usual inflated prices then the Evoke could be just what you've been looking for. It comes with a great bundle, quality of sound that will impress you and most of all great value for money.

*This review was originally posted on my blog at Prime Audio. Hop on over to see more like this.

Not too long ago I tested a couple of Bluetooth headphones from iDeaUSA, the V200, and V203. The V200 has aptX Bluetooth and an impressive battery life while the V203 has Bluetooth 4.1 and active noise cancelling. You can see those reviews here: V200, V203. Today I've got another one from the same company, the V201 ANC, Bluetooth headphone. Let's see how it stands up against the previous models.

Disclaimer: This sample was provided for the purpose of an honest review. I'm not affiliated with the company and all observations and opinions are my own, based on my experience with the product. You can get the iDeaUSA V201 Bluetooth headphone for $69.99 from Amazon: iDeaUSA V201 Bluetooth headphone.

Package and accessories
Just like the previous models tested, the V201 comes is a dark grey box with the white and green atomicX logo, along with an image of the headphones on the front. Over on the back are some more images of the headphones and some of the key features.

The first thing you see inside the box is the included semi-hard, zippered carry case with a carbon fibre style pattern. This adds a good bit of value to the package as it's practical and of good quality. On the right side is the headphones, held in a contoured recess and on the right, in a little pocket are the rest of the accessories which include:

• user manual and warranty card
• airplane adapter
• USB charging cable
• auxiliary audio cable

So considering the price that's a fairly well-rounded kit right there, and contains everything you need to get underway.



Build, comfort and design
Due to my previous experience with iDeaUSA products, it came as no surprise to see that the V201 ANC, Bluetooth headphone has a solid, durable build.

Starting at the top is the padded headband with carbon fibre patterned protein leather top and plain underside with the atomicX logo underneath. This is attached to the metal adjustment sliders secured into the lower arms. This bottom section has a matte black finish on the outside and glossy finish on the inside.



The yoke is attached to a swivel that rotates over 90°. This serves two purposes: to allow the earcups to self-adjust and sit comfortably on your ears and secondly so that you can lay the headphones flat on a desk, when around your neck or when they're in the carry case for a reduced footprint. The swivels have just the right amount of resistance so that they adjust automatically on your ears without being either too firm or too loose.



Solid!
Matte black yokes connect to the earcups via a matte black plastic, matching the headband. There are additional swivels here as well for up and down movement to make sure you get a good fit. On the outside of the earcups is the carbon fibre pattern again, complimenting the overall design. Soft, protein leather earpads complete the fit and similar to the other models I tested they're large enough to fit comfortably around my big ears. It's worth noting too that the pads are detachable so you could easily change them out to a third party option if you prefer or if the original ones start showing signs of wear.



On the inside of the earcups are Left and Right markers, similar to the Bose headphones. I like this a lot as it makes it so easy to know which side is which.

Playback controls are on the right earcup and include the Power/Play/Pause/Answer call/Hang up button, along with the Volume up/forward and Volume down/back buttons. Finally, there's the 3.5 mm jack for plugging in the audio cable and power/pairing LED indicator.

The left earcup has a Micro USB port for charging and the ANC Off/On switch with a LED indicator.



Battery life
Rated at 25 hours with ANC on, I found that number to be on the money. That's a pretty decent amount of listening time from a full charge and can last for several days or even weeks depending on how much you use the headphones.

Bluetooth
4.1 aptX is what you'll find on the V201 ANC, Bluetooth headphone. Connecting is super easy and the range is good. I was able to walk outside and leave my phone on the desk and the signal didn't drop or break up. It worked better with my smartphone than with the AR-M20 which has a kinda dodgy signal at times. With aptX on board, the audio quality is good and hard to distinguish from when using the headphones wired.

Sound
Gear used for testing

• PC/MusicBee > Topping DX7
• Samsung Galaxy Note 5 (Bluetooth)
• Acoustic Research AR-M20 (Bluetooth)

The V201 ANC, Bluetooth headphone sounds a bit like the way it feels on your head: kind of light and airy. It's not packed with detail but is more tuned for easy rather than critical listening. The sound is mid-centric and much less V-shaped than the other products in the iDeaUSA V series.

Bass
Bass is more balanced with the mids and highs compared to the other models I've tried from iDeaUSA. It's a bit loose and lacks texture but doesn't overreach and interfere with the midrange. It won't shake you about as the levels are fairly tame but the extension is quite good and there's enough impact to push hip-hop and electronic music along.

Mids
The midrange is a lot more forward than the V200 and V203 models which is great for vocals and instrumentals. It's not the cleanest or clearest sound but is musical and enjoyable. Vocals are a bit spread out with ANC off (more on this later) but overall it's very listenable. Thundercat's "Show You the Way" is nice with the various male vocalists sounding rich and full-bodied. Even a bit of the Emerson String Quartet is worth a listen, with the V201 producing the strings with vibrancy and body.

Treble
When we get to the treble it's fairly polite and can be found sitting behind the midrange. There's no stridency in it but there's no sparkle either. It rolls off a little early and lacks extension but there's enough of it there to keep things from sounding too dark. That might sound negative but it's actually quite good - just not spectacular. I'd say it's better than that of the V200 as its a little more energetic yet doesn't border on edginess like the V203 tends to do.

With ANC On
When you turn the active noise cancelling on the change is fairly dramatic. First of all the soundstage tightens up and the sound loses some of that airiness. That's not to say it gets too intimate or closed-in but rather just pulls everything together. The bass gains more impact, instrument separation becomes more defined and imaging improves as well. It's kind of a case of "same but different" but I like it both ways. (No....not in that way. Get your mind out of the gutter!)

Comparison
iDeaUSA V203 Bluetooth headphone ($59 USD)
The V201 has a wider soundstage and is less V-shaped. It also has a tamer bass that doesn't have as much impact as the V203 but that can be a good thing as the V203 slams pretty hard.

The V203, on the other hand, has a more recessed midrange, more detail and better separation. Vocals are more forward on the V201 but the wider, airy presentation lacks the imaging and positional cues of the V203. Overall the V203 sounds more natural but its recessed midrange plus boosted bass and treble are a bit in your face.

Physically the V203 feels a bit more closed in and gets hotter on the ears. The V201 is more comfortable for me, with its elongated earpads but in fact, they are both quite good in this regard.

iDeaUSA V200 Bluetooth headphone with ANC ($79.99 USD)
Here, the V200 has a more impactful bass. It's more similar to the V203 in this aspect. Both have a large soundstage and similar imaging. The V200 has a somewhat darker sound, with that impactful bass carrying over more into the midrange. The V200 is a bit more intimate sounding, while the V203 sounds lighter with more airiness.

There's no doubt that the V201 is well built but the V200 takes it to another level, utilizing metal yokes and earcups. That makes it heavier though and slightly less comfortable during long sessions. There's no clear winner here as there are many factors that will determine which one each individual prefers but the V201 does cost $10 less.



Conclusion
Well, it seems as though iDeaUSA has again found a great balance between value and quality. The V201 ANC, Bluetooth headphone provides a competent sound signature and the usual high level of manufacturing that I've come to expect from these guys.

If you're coming from higher end gear you likely won't be blown away by the audio quality. BUT for an entry-level product, this does set the bar high when it comes to Bluetooth headphones. Because pricing and perceived value rate highly in my overall scoring, the V201 ANC, Bluetooth headphone ranks well. Keep that in mind when you look at the numbers.

Wrapping it up, anyone looking for an affordable Bluetooth headphone with active noise cancelling should definitely take a look at iDeaUSA's wireless range. For the price, they're hard to beat.

*This review was originally posted on my blog at Prime Audio. Hop on over to see more like this.

Whizzer is a relatively new earphone company that released their first product in 2017. That first earphone was the A15 and I was quite impressed by it, particularly it's fantastic, airy treble. You can read about it in my Whizzer A15 review. Today I'll be looking at the company's latest release, the Whizzer Haydn A15 Pro earphone.

Disclaimer: This sample was provided for the purpose of an honest review. I'm not affiliated with the company and all observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product. You can get the Haydn A15 Pro on the official AliExpress page here

Specifications
Driver: 10mm Beryllium Dynamic
Sensitivity: 98dB
Impedance: 16Ω
Frequency response range: 20Hz - 40kHz
Connections: Angled 3.5mm / MMCX
Housing material: Stainless steel
Cable length: 1.2m
Wire material: 6N OFC
Dimensions: 18x17x15 (mm)
Weight: 8.9g

Packaging and accessories

The Haydn experience begins similarly to the original A15, with a black box encased by a white cardboard sleeve. On the front is an image of the earphones. On the back are the specifications and an exploded diagram, detailing all the components that make up the IEM.



Upon opening the box you're presented with everything beautifully laid out and secured in black foam. On the left side is the excellent assortment of eartips, all held by the also excellent metal plate, which can be used as a stand. That's a unique and classy way of doing things. I approve. There are four types of eartips provided.

• 3 x. pairs "Reference" silicone tips (S, M, L)
• 3 x pairs "Transparent" silicone tips (S, M, L)
• 1 x pair "Reference" foam tips
• 1 x pair "Transparent" foam tips

The two different sets of tips vary in shape with the reference ones having a more circular shape and narrow bore while the transparent ones have more of a conical shape and wider bore.

On the right side are the Haydn A15 Pro earphones and the tan colored storage case with magnetic seal. The case is made of protein leather and is the perfect size for holding the earphones and being pocket friendly at the same time.

Lastly, under the eartip plate is a user manual and warranty card. Although it appears simple, it's apparent that someone has put some serious thought into the layout of the packaging.



Build, comfort and isolation

Just like the original, the Haydn A15 Pro earphone has metal housings and a very solid build. In fact the build is almost identical to the original but this time the finish on the housings is a dark gray and has a matte finish. They're fairly small but have some weight to them and feel very sturdy. All rounded edges here too which is always a good sign. The join between the two halves is really well done with no gaps in between.

On the outer side is the Whizzer logo in white. The inner side has Whizzer printed in white along with Left and Right markings - something that I believe every IEM should include. There's also a vent/bass port on the inside here.



The nozzles are angled and have a good lip to securely hold the eartips in place. There's also a gold-colored mesh covering the nozzle ends to keep out ear wax and other debris. Classy! Overall the build quality is top notch and is in line with what you can expect with something around the $100 mark.



Now onto the cable which is where things take a downturn. The look and feel of it is somewhat cheap. I'm not a fan of braided cables and this one just doesn't feel as premium as the earphones themselves or the rest of the package. The actual cable core however is a very good quality 6n OCC.

This time around the memory wire on the Haydn A15 Pro earphone is a huge improvement over the stiff and unyielding ones that came on the original. It's very pliable and much easier to work with. You'll hardly notice it's there at all for the most part.

Above the Y-split the cable is rubberized and I really wish the bottom section was the same instead of having the braided cover. The Y-split is nicely done, and has A15 in gold print on one side and Pro on the other. There is also a chin slider which is always a plus. The cable terminates in a 3.5 mm gold-plated L-shaped plug with good strain reliefs.

What really hurts the cable the most though is the long, angled MMCX connectors. It was literally impossible to get a good fit and seal because of these. I have larger than average ears but nothing freakish or unusual. The shape and angle of the MMCX connectors made it simply impossible to get a proper fit. Just like the original A15 I had to switch to a third party cable to be able to wear these earphones. I think this is something the company needs to make some revisions on in future releases. I will say though that the MMCX connectors themselves, just like the original A15 are excellent. They're sturdy yet easy to disconnect and have a satisfying click.

Comfort and isolation

Once I had changed to another cable I found the Haydn A15 Pro earphone to be very comfortable. The housings sit nicely in the ears and the rounded edges provide great comfort.

The housings are quite small so even though they are metal the noise isolation is about average. It's certainly on par with most IEMs and suitable for everyday use.



Sound

Gear used for testing

• Acoustic Research AR-M20
• Benjie T6
• PC/MusicBee > iFi Audio iDSD Nano Black Label
• PC/MusicBee > Topping DX7

Although the Haydn has a low 16Ω impedance the beryllium drivers do like a bit of power to bring out their best. While you can drive them with a smartphone you'll need to turn up the volume quite a lot - on my Galaxy Note 5 I had it at 90% or more depending on the recording. Best results can be had when using a dedicated DAP or headphone amplifier.

After hearing the original A15 I was definitely not expecting what the Whizzer Haydn A15 Pro earphone delivers. It's refined, resolving and loaded with details. With a near neutral bass and somewhat lean midrange this is a completely different beast than its predecessor. It's almost clinically clean but is still musical and emotive.

Bass
Bass is tight, textured and detailed but it doesn't have a lot of impact. In fact it's quite close to neutral. Some people will surely love this kind of presentation but if you're a basshead then you would be better served by the original A15. Driver speed is fast and these can handle complex bass lines with finesse. There's no sign of sluggishness or bloat whatsoever. Sub-bass extends well, has a short decay and is extremely controlled with no hint of distortion in the driver or housings. For my personal preference these take a little too much of the fun aspect out of the bass but from a technical standpoint the Haydn A15 Pro earphone is masterful in this area.

Mids
Midrange is a highlight of the Haydn A15 Pro earphone. Thanks to the tightly controlled bass there's no bleed or contamination from the low frequencies. The amount of detail is pretty remarkable for an earphone in this price range and the Haydn is highly resolving in this regard. Deft and agile, the Haydn easily handles complex passages and does a great job of keeping elements separated. For those who enjoy picking up the minute details in music this would be a good choice.

Treble
The Haydn A15 Pro earphone shares many similarities in its treble with the original A15 and that is a good thing. There's plenty of extension and the same airiness that made the original A15's treble so impressive. There some sparkle and energy but at no time does it become strident or offensive. Hi-hats and cymbals have good timbre and sheen. This is an area where the A15 series is very strong.

Soundstage
There is more width than depth but it portrays quite a large stage and space, thanks to that fine treble and clean separation in the midrange. Imaging is also nice with solid coverage of the headspace and good positional information.

Comparisons

Whizzer A15 (original) ($69 USD)
Let's start with the similarities here, rather than the differences. Treble. The original A15 and the Haydn A15 Pro earphone share a similar, airy treble. It's not harsh and won't poke icy shards into your brain but is well extended with some added sparkle. It's really good. But that's about where the similarities end.

Bass on the original A15 is big. Big and boomy and fun. The Haydn on the other hand is very reserved and conservative in the bass. Whizzer's Haydn is also noticeably leaner in the midrange and there's virtually no carryover from the bass into the lower midrange.

Basically what you're getting with the A15 is a fun, V-shaped, bordering on basshead IEM and the Haydn A15 Pro earphone moves in the opposite direction. The Haydn Pro is linear, with a near neutral bass, more details (crazy detail) and a more balanced approach.

TFZ Exclusive King Experience Version ($99 USD)
Has significantly more mid and sub-bass impact. Simirlarly lean midrange but has a more noticeable peak in the upper mids while the Haydn has a more linear rise. The Exclusive King has less sparkle in the treble and instead focuses on the upper midrange. Both earphones have a similar soundstage that is fairly spacious and wide.

In terms of comfort TFZ's IEM feels more secure in the ears and offers better noise isolation. Build quality on both is excellent for their respective prices.



Conclusion

Whizzer's Haydn A15 Pro earphone is so far removed from the original it's surprising the company didn't give it a completely different name. While it does retain similar characteristics in the treble, the rest of the spectrum is a vast departure from its predecessor.

However the Haydn A15 Pro earphone has it's own merits, particularly in its resolving nature and excellent detail retrieval. It's another of those "audiophile" tuned IEMs of which we've seen several lately. Is it a worthy upgrade over the original? Well that depends what kind of sound you like. Either way, the Haydn A15 Pro earphone is technically impressive and for its sound I would definitely recommend it. The only caveat is that I'd suggest you have a spare cable on hand just in case.

*This review was originally posted on my blog at Prime Audio. Hop on over to see more like this.

For a lot of people the DAP acronym likely means nothing or very little. Those people are probably content to use their smartphones as a daily driver to fulfill the task of a music player. And why not? Today's modern smartphones generally have a large screen with excellent visibility, a responsive user interface plus there are a multitude of third party music apps and streaming services available. However phones don't usually deliver the best quality audio and it's for that reason things like the iFi Audio Nano iDSD Black Label exist. Landing at a price of $200 this little, portable DAC boasts an impressive feature set at a competitive price. Let's take a closer look.

Dislcaimer: This sample was provided for the purpose of an honest review. I am not affiliated with the company and all observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product. Check out the official page for more info and full specifications.

Packaging and accessories

Things start off with a fairly compact, white box enclosed in a cardboard sheath. The box is adorned with an image of the device on the front along with some text outlining key features. Over on the back is a more comprehensive list of features and specifications.

After opening the box you see the device nestled in a foam cutout. Under the foam are the accessories which include 2x silicone bands, 1x USB cable, a fabric carry pouch and a couple of adapters. Like some others, I am a little puzzled about the lack of any OTG or lightning cable considering one of the device's main selling points is being able to connect it to your smartphone. You do however have everything you need to connect to a computer out of the box.



Build quality and functionality

The iFi Audio Nano iDSD Black Label portable DAC is roughly the size of a deck of playing cards or for those familiar, a Chord Mojo. Therefore it's a good size for attaching to a smartphone (although a bit bulky for pockets) and very diminutive if situated on your desktop.

The brushed metal chassis looks and feels nice and durable. The top of the chassis is bare apart from the ifi branding. On the bottom side there are four small silicone feet to hold it in place on a surface and prevent scratching if strapped to a smartphone.



On the front end are (from left to right): 3.5mm iEMatch headphone jack, 3.5mm Direct headphone jack, LED indicator and Power switch/volume knob. The purpose of the iEMatch jack is for pairing with sensitive in ear monitors and I found it to work well, allowing for better volume control and with no audible hiss.

I do have one gripe with the volume knob and that is the low resistance that it has. Considering this is meant to be a portable device the volume knob is a little too easy to turn and it's near impossible to put into your pocket without moving it. This can result in either getting a deafening blast of music or having sound reduced to near nothing or even switching the device off accidentally. I feel that a recessed knob would have been more appropriate here, or at least one with greater resistance, although it does work well on the desktop.



At the back end are (from left to right): 3.5mm Line Out, Measure/Listen filter switch and the USB digital input. With the filter set to "Measure" the output signal is more neutral and uncolored, great for those recording frequency response or the analytical fans. In "Listen" mode the sound is a little fuller and more enjoyable to my ears. During my testing I left the filter on the "Listen" mode.



I had read that some people were not able to successfully connect the Nano BL to their smartphones. For me however, I plugged into my Samsung Galaxy Note 5 with the OTG cable (which I had to go out and purchase separately...) and it was good to go. It certainly was noticeably better than my phone's DAC and needless to say a much higher output power than provided by my phone as well.

Sound

Gear used for testing

• PC/MusicBee > USB to USB
• Samsung Galaxy Note 5 > OTG
• Beyerdynamic DT990 Pro (250 ohm)
• Meze 99 Classics
• Acoustic Research AR-H1
• Inearz Audio Fusion
• DUNU DK-3001

The Nano Black Label performs extremely well for a portable device. Although the soundstage is about average it does have great detail retrieval. Its sound is mostly transparent with good extension at both ends. The Nano Black Label converts your musical data and forwards it onto your listening medium and lets the latter paint its own image, which is just the way it should be IMO.



DT990 Pro
iFi claims that this little guy can drive almost any headphone. While it was able to do so with everything I tested with, I found on some tracks I was pushing the volume almost to maximum with the Beyerdynamic DT990. That's a 250 ohm headphone so I'm not entirely convinced that this DAC would be sufficient for something 300 ohm and upwards. Having said that though the DT990 Pro sounded to be performing at its best with good dynamic range and full-bodied bass.

AR-H1
With the Acoustic Research AR-H1 there's definitely more than enough grunt on tap to make these sing. Listening to Bach's Six Concertos by Trevor Pinnock and the European Brandenburg Ensemble was a treat with this pairing, the imaging and soundstage were very immersive and immensely enjoyable.

Meze 99 classics
iFi Audio's Nano BL wakes the bass dragon in these headphones. But it's not a bad thing. It's like you know that there's too much bass but you love it anyway and can't stop listening and tapping your feet. When you get that basshead urge and want your skull shaken the 99 Classics will happily oblige and the Nano is more than happy to provide the juice.

Inearz Audio Fusion
This is one of, if not the best pairing I've heard for the Fusion so far. Using the iEMatch jack on the Nano BL the Fusion's bass seems to tighten up, making it a little less boomy but maintaining its impressive impact. Separation is excellent with sounds coming from a deep, black space. There's not a hint of hiss or background noise and detail is really good. In fact I'm enjoying this combination so much right now I want to keep listening instead of moving on to the next earphone!

DUNU DK-3001
Still one of my all time favorite IEMs, the DUNU DK-3001 falls right into my personal preference when it comes to sound signatures. The 13mm dynamic driver provides a powerful, punchy bass while the balanced armatures deliver clear mids and crisp treble. The Nano Black Label portable DAC again presents the music with great separation, detail and tonality and lets the transducers work their magic.



Conclusion

iFi Audio has a very solid reputation among Head-Fiers and now that I've (belatedly) seen and heard what they can do I totally get it.

The Nano iDSD Black Label is a fantastic little unit. I love the aesthetic, the build quality, features and of course the sound. The only thing that doesn't sit well with me is the resistance of the volume knob, as I mentioned before. Everything apart from that makes this a very appealing device. With its reasonable price this is definitely something I can recommend for anyone looking for a portable DAC to pair with their phone or computer.

*This review was originally posted on my blog at Prime Audio. Hop on over to see more like this.

It's amazing some of the value audio products that are available to consumers these days. One example is the active noise canceling earphones I tested recently, the OVC H15. I was quite impressed by those, especially considering their $43.99 price tag. Today I'm looking at a similar product but this one costs even less! Meet the DECOKA DK100 active noise canceling headphone and read on to see if it's worthy of your attention.

DECOKA is actually a subsidiary of Linner. Linner is an audio company specializing in producing active noise canceling earphones. You can check out their products here.

Disclaimer: This sample was provided for the purpose of an honest review. I'm not affiliated with the company and all observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product. You can find the DECOKA DK100 on Amazon here.

Packaging and accessories

The DECOKA DK100 is compact, dark gray box with a silhouette image of the earphones on the front and some specifications on the back. Inside the box is a cardboard sheet that lists the box contents. Under that is the earphones, seated in soft, black foam. Finally, under the foam are the accessories which include:

• DECOKA DK100 earphone
• multi-language user manual
• 3 x pairs silicone eartips (S, M, L)
• 3 x pairs silicone ear hooks
• USB charging cable
• fabric carry pouch

Okay, so far so good. It's pretty much what you would expect to find in the box. The tips and hooks are of good quality and the carry pouch is always a welcome addition. First impressions are good. Everything is laid out and presented very nicely.



Build, comfort and isolation

The DECOKA DK100 has a fairly common housing style, similar to the 1More Triple Driver and Magaosi BK50. It has a cone shaped housing with angled nozzle. The nozzle is a little unusual as it is oval shaped, rather than the usual circular shape. I'm not sure what the purpose of that is but it does make things more difficult if you want to use third party eartips.



On the back end of the housing is a metal backplate with the DECOKA branding in white text. Just above the text is a small vent or perhaps it's the microphone for the noise canceling system, I'm not sure. The rest of the housings are plastic but look and feel well constructed and durable. There's another vent near the base of the nozzle.



Moving onto the cable, it's immediately apparent that the DECOKA DK100 has a pretty good one. It's a rubber coated wire that's quite thick but very supple and doesn't suffer from any stickiness. It doesn't have any kinks or memory whatsoever and would put the cables of many higher priced earphones, or even standalone cables to shame.



At the top of the right side cable is a plastic, three button control with microphone. The buttons have a nice tactile click and worked perfectly with my Android smartphone.



Down toward the end of the cable is the disc shaped ANC unit. It's a little bulky but is lightweight and positioned close to the plug so it's not really bothersome at all. On one side is the Micro USB charging port which is hidden behind a rubber gasket. Just near the USB port is the On/Off switch that activates the ANC. When the unit is switched on there's a tiny green LED indicator that lights up in the middle of the disc.

Opposite the power switch is the Monitor button which activates an interesting feature. Basically what it does is it lowers the level of your music and slightly amplifies the sounds of your surroundings. This is very handy if someone is talking to you (assuming you want to hear them) or if, for example you're on public transport and want to hear announcements. Rather than fumbling with volume controls or trying to find the pause button you can simply press the monitor button to hear what's going on around you. It's a really cool and useful feature. How much do these cost again?



Comfort is very good and comparable to other IEMs with a similar design. The earphones are lightweight and do not have any sharp edges so you should be able to wear them for hours on end.

Noise isolation is pretty good, again about average for something like this. There is some microphonics present which can be mitigated by using a shirt clip but it's not really bothersome as is.

Active Noise Canceling & battery

The ANC on the DECOKA DK100, to put it simply works very well. Like the majority of ANC devices it is most effective at attenuating lower frequency sounds. In particular it's very adept at masking low, droning sounds like fans, the hum of machinery or engine noises. If there are people talking nearby you'll still hear them but the voices will be muted significantly.

I did notice that with ANC turned on you will still hear a good deal of wind noise if it's gusty outdoors but for the most part the function does a great job. It would be very handy on a noisy bus or in an airplane.

Battery life is rated at 20 hours of playback/talk time. I didn't measure it directly but have been using these all week for several hours per day and it's still going strong.

Sound

The DECOKA DK100 has a fairly balanced sound with an elevated bass and a slightly warm tilt. Sound with ANC on is almost identical to when it is turned off and that's a bonus IMO. With ANC on the overall levels increase slightly and the midrange gains a little more body and vocals move forward a little in the mix. Overall it's better than expected considering the price and added functions.

Bass

Bass is boosted but I wouldn't call the DK100 a "bassy" earphone. It's well controlled and carries a good amount of weight without being boomy or bloated. There's plenty of impact but only when needed. Listening to E40's "Club On Lock" there's plenty of bass on hand but it doesn't intrude on the midrange. Likewise the sub-bass in that track is heard and felt and carries a nice amount of rumble without being overbearing. In Hilltop Hoods' "Chris Farley" the bass is already "thick" with a soft edge but the DK100 reproduces it nicely and keeps things tame with a reasonably fast decay.

Mids

Into the midrange the DECOKA DK100 again shows its competence with natural tonality and smooth vocals. Some inherent warmth in the lower midrange makes male vocals rich and full yet at the same time they don't sound colored or veiled. Despite a mild V-shaped signature the mids don't come across as being recessed or overpowered by the bass. Acoustic guitars sound great as do orchestral string instruments, the DK100 being adept at reproducing resonance. This makes it a great earphone for albums like Jeremy Soule's "The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim". To sum up, the mids are smooth and natural.

Treble

There's some airiness and energy to be found here but the treble is polite and doesn't become sibilant or harsh. Clarity is good for something in this price range and the highs extend well, adding some sheen and harmonics which open up the soundstage and give a sense of space while at the same time sprinkling on some extra detail. Overall the treble is another area where the DK100 scores strongly.

Soundstage

The stage on the DK100 is good, even with ANC on. It spreads out in the front of the headspace as well as to the sides and positional cues are also solid. These earphones don't make you feel closed in but present a nice space for your music to breathe in and there's a sufficient degree of separation between elements.

Comparison

OVC H15 ($43.99 USD)
Midrange on the H15 is thinner but is more resolving and picks up more small details. The treble sounds a little artificial compared to the DK100. Bass is done well and not overblown on either of these. ANC has a similar degree of effectiveness on both of these earphones as well.

The H15's biggest advantage over the DECOKA DK100 is that it has 3 times the battery life at a whopping 60 hours. The DK100 however has the added Monitor feature which is really useful and the cable is of better quality.

Conclusion

The DECOKA DK100 is yet another great, budget earphone. The build is solid, as is the battery life. Active Noise Canceling works very well and the Monitor function is a handy bonus to have. Then there is the sound, which is really solid and unlike some other products the audio quality is as good with the ANC on as it is with it off.

My only gripe is the oval shaped nozzles which make tip rolling more hit and miss. I'd prefer to see a regular circular shaped barrel. But that's a very minor complaint for a product that I can easily recommend to anyone looking for a cheap Active Noise Canceling earphone for themselves or as a gift for someone else.

*This review was originally posted on my blog at Prime Audio. Hop on over to see more like this.

Hello readers. Today we're looking at the Macaw T50 Bluetooth sports earphone. Coming in at a price of just $19.90 these offer a 5 hour battery life, decent build quality and surprisingly good sound. Read on for the full review.

Disclaimer: This sample was provided for the purpose of an honest review. I am not affiliated with the company and all observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product. You can find the Macaw T50 at Penon Audio: https://penonaudio.com/Macaw-T50

Specifications
Driver unit: 12mm
Frequency response: 20~20KHz
Impedance: 16ohms
Sensitivity: 92dB
Talk time: 5H
Music Time: 5H
Standby time: 170H
Charging Time.: 1.5H

Packaging and accessories
The Macaw T50 comes in a stylish black box with a glossy image of the earphones on the front and specifications on the back. Inside we find the earphones secured and presented in a black foam cutout. Beneath the foam section is a smaller box containing the accessories which include:

• Macaw T50 earphone
• Micro USB charging cable
• 3 x silicone eartips (S, M, L)
• User manual in English and Chinese
• Fabric carry pouch

So from the box's exterior to the first glimpse inside impressions are pretty darn good, keeping in mind that the Macaw T50 costs less than $20.



Build, comfort and isolation
The Macaw T50's housings have a capsule shape and are made of a glossy plastic with company branding on the outer side. Attached to the rear of the housings is a rubberized disc which is the part that fits into your ear. The disc has an angled nozzle that is a little short for my preference but has a solid lip to hold the eartips in place securely. On the left earpiece is the Micro USB port for charging. There's a rubber grommet sealing the port to help keep out sweat or light rain.



One noteworthy feature of the Macaw T50 is it's IPX5 rating, meaning they're water resistant, so they're ideal for sweaty gym use or running and probably okay in light rain as well. The housings have a smooth finish, feel durable and looking at them I would not think that they are an ultra budget earphone.

The attached 0.5 meter cable has a braided fabric cover and feels well built, although I did find it a little stiff. On the right side is the 3-button inline control with microphone. I found the 3 buttons difficult to distinguish as there isn't really any physical indicators denoting each one but I got used to it in a fairly short time. Strain reliefs where the cable connects to the housings are very solid.



In terms of comfort I find these a little finicky when trying to get a good fit, due to the short nozzle length. However with the right eartips and positioning they are quite comfortable for my ears.

Noise isolation is about average and this will probably vary a lot between people depending on the size of their ears and how well the "disc" part sits for them. Overall though they're on par with most regular IEMs and would be suitable for use in transit and semi-noisy environments.

Bluetooth and fuctionality
The Macaw T50 is compatible with IOS and Android devices and worked flawlessly with my Galaxy Note 5 and the Acoustic Research AR-M20. I was able to adjust volume, shuttle and skip or rewind tracks with ease using the inline control. It also worked great with Tidal and other third party music apps.

Bluetooth 4.1 is what is used to connect to your source and the Macaw T50 has a very solid implementation. It's super easy to pair and signal strength is excellent. I was able to get up to the stated 10 m range easily and had no signal loss or cutting out, even with a solid wall between the earphones and the source.

Unfortunately there's no aptX support but the signal quality is still very good and if you're paying less than $20 for a Bluetooth earphone you probably won't be bothered by this.

Battery
The built-in 85mAh Li-ion Battery is good for 5 hours of talk time or continuous music playback. This is a pretty good number, considering the quality of the Bluetooth connection and low price of the earphone. Battery charge time is 1.5 hours and it has an impressive 170 hour standby time.

Sound
The Macaw T50 has a mild, V-shaped signature that's a bit more refined than what you usually find in ultra budget earphones. While the bass and treble are accentuated, it's done in a way that doesn't compromise too much on the midrange. There's good clarity throughout, with an emphasis on presence in the upper midrange.

Bass
Bass was the biggest surprise for me with this earphone as it's not the usual flabby, bloated mid-bass monster that I've come to expect for cheap IEMs. The mid-bass is in fact, quite well executed, having plenty of punch without being overbearing. It's also relatively well defined with a clean front edge and fast decay.

There's actually a bit more emphasis on the sub-bass and that makes me happier than a pig in shhhh.... The sub-bass can really shake things up when called upon but settles down quickly enough to stay in control. It's not crazy big, it doesn't need to be with such a well behaved mid-bass sitting in front of it

Mids
The T50's midrange is clean and clear (that sounded like a shampoo ad..) and a little on the thin side. However male vocals have enough body to not sound anemic or frail. Rather it just adds to the overall clarity and keeps congestion at bay. Acoustic guitars sound great and tonality is really pretty darn good. The amount of detail is also nothing to scoff at, these things can pick up things that other cheap gear often misses and they do so without sucking out the musicality.

Treble
When we get into the treble this is where I find my only real gripe with the Macaw T50 in terms of sound. Things are a little on the splashy side. If one of your favorite songs is playing and you feel like bumping up the volume you might get a bit of a nasty surprise as cymbals become harsh and a touch artificial. Despite the eager nature of this range it lacks air and brilliance. For the most part it's perfectly fine but if a drummer in a song feels like beating his sticks on metal you'll surely know about it.

Soundstage
The Macaw T50 portrays a fairly small stage. It doesn't feel closed in but it also doesn't make you feel like you're dancing through a field of daisies. Fortunately it doesn't feel like you're stuck in a narrow alley and facing the wall. There's some pretty good depth there that compensates for the average width of the space.



Conclusion
After spending several days with the Macaw T50 I came to the conclusion that this is an absolute bargain. It's not going to compete with higher priced earphones and there are arguably many in the same price range that sound better. The thing is though, those other ones don't have Bluetooth and a 5 hour battery life. The Macaw T50 does. On top of that it's a well constructed earphone that looks and feels more valuable than the price suggests.

An IPX5 rating adds even more to the value of this Bluetooth earphone. If you're looking for something wireless to take running or to the gym and are on a tight budget then look no further. These are more than adequate for the task and you should go ahead and get yourself a pair.

Today we're taking a look at the Inearz Audio Fusion custom in ear monitor. It boasts six balanced armature drivers per side and has a smooth, full-bodied signature. But first here is a little background.

In the year 2003 Fisher Hearing Technologies was formed by Mr. Kim Alan Fisher. After leaving the the United States Air Force in 1976, Kim has been involved in the personal audio business. He created his own integrated crossover and has been working on perfecting the InEarZ brand since the company's inception. Originally known for their expertise in re-shelling the family run business has since come into maturity with their own custom in ear monitors.

Disclaimer

This sample was provided for the purpose of an honest review. I'm not affiliated with the company and all observations and impressions here are my own, based on my experience with the product.

Interested parties can purchase the Inearz Audio Fusion from their web store at a starting price of $725: https://www.inearz.com/product/fusion/

FEATURES

• 2 Low, 2 Mid, 2 High Balanced Armatures
• Triple Bore Design
• Impedance: 20 Ohm @ 1kHz
• Noise Isolation: -26dB (+/- 2dB)
• Input connecter: 1/8″ (3.5mm)Stereo Jack
• Shells made from medical grade, hypoallergenic acrylic

Package and accessories

The Fusion arrived in a very robust, large, black, Pelican type case. First impressions are great as you get a personalized label with your name etched onto it. Inside you'll find an Inearz sticker, a microfiber cleaning cloth, wax-cleaning tool and of course the custom IEMs. You might be expecting a little more but what else could you possibly need! Actually now that I think of it, it would be nice to get a secondary, more portable clamshell case that can fit in a pocket.

The included 2-pin detachable cable seems to be the standard type that come with many CIEMs. It’s a little thin above the Y-split but it’s very supple, lightweight and unobtrusive. It comes with a chin slider and terminates in a L-shaped plug. Strain reliefs are good from top to bottom.



Build quality and customization

The team at Inearz recently implemented a system that allows you to buy directly via their website. You can now also choose your preferred colors and designs all on the same page. While it isn't as jazzy as the ones that give you a real time preview it certainly makes the ordering process a lot easier.

I chose the even easier route and left the design up to them. Hey, I like surprises! If you're buying one yourself though you will probably want to make those choices and luckily for you there are heaps of possible variations. You can customize almost every aspect of the design, including cable, shell, canal and faceplate colors. In addition you can choose the logo color and even custom artwork.

The pair I received have teak faceplates with transparent purple shells and gold logo. Inearz also prints your initials on the inside of the shells which adds to the customization and rationalization. The build is very tidy with no visible flaws. You can see the intricate inner workings through the transparent shells which is pretty cool. The faceplates are attached seamlessly to the shells to create a cohesive single piece.

All Inearz in-ear monitors come with a one-year External Shell/Internal Parts Warranty as well as a 30-day Fit Warranty so you should feel confident that you'll end up with a well built pair of IEMs with good fit.



Comfort and fit

These are the most comfortable of the CIEMs in my collection so far. The shells have smooth, rounded edges and the team did a fantastic job of recreating the shape of my ears. This should come as no surprise as their technicians have 20+ years experience in the in-ear monitor and hearing aid industry.

To get the best fit depends on sending in good quality ear impressions so make sure you know the requirements beforehand and let your audiologist know before you get your impressions done. This will ensure you get the best possible results when it comes to seal and comfort.



Sound

The Inearz Audio Fusion has a warm and smooth signature. On the website it is described as having a "V-shaped curve" but I personally find it to be fairly mid-centric with a weighted low end.. The sound, which is characterized by its meaty bass and fairly forward midrange is still nicely balanced from top to bottom. This IEM is tuned for musicality rather than reference, although having said that, it is still transparent and tonally accurate. It's organic and natural with lots of body and a laid back nature. When called upon though the Fusion can get up and dance, particularly when it comes to bass if you turn up the volume.

Bass
Mid-bass punches with authority but only when it's meant to. Katatonia's "Leech" is a track I use often to test impact and here the Fusion obliges in spades. Thundercat's "Uh Uh" shows that the Fusion is no slouch either when it comes to frantic renditions. It delivers the track with ease, putting out well-defined notes in earnestness all without compromising the mids and highs.

It's not the most textured bass but tends to focus more on body which contributes to the Fusion's smooth and rich presentation.

The Fusion's sub-bass has great extension but doesn't hit as hard in the subterranean levels as it does in the lower mid-bass region. There is enough quantity there though to let you feel the shells vibrating in your ears but it doesn't turn your legs to jelly. However tracks like Daft Punk's "Lose Yourself to Dance" sound nothing short of amazing with the Fusion transforming those sound waves into a palpable presence.

Midrange
As we move into the mids the Fusion's smooth character really comes to light. It's smooth again but also resolving at the same time. It comes to the forefront, often placing itself in front of the bass. Liquid and velvety are words that come to mind, The Fusion's mids have a richness that will just draw you in and hold you there.

Björk's "Blissing Me" showcases the sultry nature of the Fusion, with her vocals taking the spotlight while the plucked strings in the song seem to float up from out of nowhere and envelop the singer's voice. While this isn't an ultra detailed IEM there are still loads of small details to be heard but it's certainly more on the musical rather than analytical side of things.

In "Tear You Up" from the Pineapple Thief's Where We Stood (In Concert) acoustic guitars are masterfully reproduced and electric guitars have a tangible crunch. The Fusion does a fine job with Bruce Soord's vocals which are raspier and grittier than in the studio recorded version.

Treble
Here the Fusion continues to impress with a treble that is sweet as chocolate syrup but crisp and light as a lime sorbet. Dr Dre's "It's All On Me" can be a challenge for monitors with its sharp tambourine and sibilant vocals but that's not an issue here. The Fusion takes it all in stride with that tambourine fading off into the distance with excellent timbre and presence.

Cymbals and high hats sound equally tidy, with a very controlled sparkle and natural decay. The treble sounds so clean and so good but sometimes I wanted to hear a bit more of it. For my preference (and of course this is subjective) I'd like the level of the treble to be a bit more prominent. The quality is unquestionably good but a little more quantity would add some bite and energy to balance out that warmth. Overall it's a tad subdued although it is wondrously clear.

Soundstage and imaging
While not the widest of stages, the Fusion is adept at portraying depth in a palpable space. Sounds do seem to float outside of the headspace but they're still close enough to make you feel like you could reach out and touch them.

Where it does find a notable strength is in its stereo separation which is perfectly showcased in Bob Marley and the Wailers "Is This Love" with the sounds very clearly separated and the echo of the guitar bouncing from left to right. The Inearz Fusion gives a clear representation of instrument and sound positions that add a great deal to immersion.



Sources and compatibility

The Inearz Audio Fusion isn't as sensitive as some other IEMs and in pairing it with several different sources I didn't notice any background hiss. I did find some slight variations in the sound however and over time discovered which sources I favored to pair with the Fusion.

Starting with the TOPPING DX7 bass seems a little looser, perhaps affected by the 10 Ohm single-ended output impedance. Details overall are very good with the DX7's neutrality working well with the Fusion's inherent warmth.

The Acoustic Research AR-M20 makes the mids a bit fuller and bring vocals more forward. With it's Burr-Brown PCM5242 doing the DAC duties the AR-M20 is perhaps not the best match for the Fusion's already warm nature. Having said that this pairing certainly still sounds good but doesn't provide the best synergy.

Onto the Arcam irDAC-II and this one caught me unawares. I wasn't expecting this pairing to work so well but it really rocks when paired with the Inearz Audio Fusion. The irDAC-II has a rhythm and sense of timing that's hard to beat and turns the Fusion's already velvety sound into a delectable liquid delight. The details are just superb and treble extension is better than the other sources I tested. This was definitely my favorite driving source for the Inearz Audio Fusion.

Inearz Audio Fusion Comparisons

Custom Art FIBAE 2

The Inearz Audio Fusion is inEarz’ newest six driver CIEM which has just been officially released. It’s perhaps not the fairest of comparisons considering the Fusion has three times the driver count but I can only use what I have on hand to compare with, which at this stage is very limited as far as CIEMs go.

The Fusion has a more weighted bass but it’s not quite as textured as the F2 and doesn’t have the same defined edge and transients. Despite having more quantity in the bass the Fusion smooths it over and doesn’t hit with the same aggressive rawness that makes the F2 so fun to listen to but it takes the crown when it comes to weighted impact..

Midrange is more forward on the Fusion but again its transients are less defined and have a rounded edge which makes the presentation smoother and less gritty. Where the Fusion pulls ahead here though is its instrument separation and rendering of complex passages. It has a cleaner and more refined approach and superior resolution.

The FIBAE 2 has a more energetic treble where the Fusion once again goes for a softer and less aggressive one, putting more emphasis instead on it’s upper midrange. This give the FIBAE 2 a slightly lighter and more airy high end. I’m not going to crown either IEM as a winner here because they’re both excellent in their own way and each has its own unique approach..



Conclusion

The Inearz Audio Fusion custom in ear monitor is a fine addition to the company's lineup. While so many producers are concentrating on neutrality and accuracy the Fusion aims to be warm, musical and tuned for enjoyment.

Inearz' experience and expertise are evident not only in the sound of their IEM but also in the craftsmanship of their shells. As I mentioned earlier these are the most comfortable of all the custom monitors I've used thus far (your mileage may vary). The Inearz Audio Fusion is, as its name suggests, a blend of smoothness and transparency. If you like some warmth and a solid low end from your in ear monitors then be sure to add this one on your list of possibilities. Whether you're a musician or just enjoy quality audio, the Fusion get a solid recommendation.

Lend Me UR ears is a Singapore based retailer of personal audio equipment. The store was opened in December 2011 with a goal to “bring quality audio products to the masses and providing good customer service in the process”. They offer free international shipping and international warranty for all items purchased. LMUE also develops their own earphone brand "Alpha & Delta".

A little over a year ago in September 2016 I reviewed the Alpha & Delta D2 (review here). My wife has been using it as her daily driver ever since and it's still in perfect condition - testament to its durability and build quality. Lend Me UR ears has long been developing a new line of IEMs and one of them, the Alpha & Delta D6 is finally ready for the people. The D6 has a clear, resolving and balanced sound that's not often found it its price range. The D6 boasts some impressive features including a Dual Air Chamber acoustic design, licensed HDSS high definition technology and Hi-res audio certified drivers. But how does that relate to the end user experience? Let's see if we can find out.

Disclaimer

This sample was provided for the purpose of an honest review. I'm not affiliated with the company and all observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product.

The Alpha & Delta D6 is available from the Lend Me UR ears store: http://www.lendmeurears.com/alpha-delta-d6/ (price in Singapore dollars).

To buy in US dollars you can go to the official Alpha & Delta webstore here: https://www.alphandelta.com/product-page/d6

Specifications

• Driver unit: 10mm dynamic driver
• Impedance: 16 ohm
• Rated power: 1mW
• Frequency Response: 10 Hz- 40 Khz
• Speaker Sensitivity: 105 +/- db/ mW
• Cord Length: 1.2m silver plated copper cable (each core contains 22X 0.05 silver plated copper wires)
• Plug: 3.5 mm

Package and accessories
*Note this is a pre-production model so there was no packaging included. Here is a look at the accessories that will be included with the retail version:

• 1 pair of ear guides
• 1 shirt clip
• 1 pair of foam tips
• 9 pairs of silcone ear tips
• 1 leather case
• 1 leather cable wrap

Build, comfort and isolation
The D6 sports metal housings in a polished, gunmetal gray color. They are of the common cylindrical shape type that is popular in IEMs with a couple of rings toward the back that serve to give the shells a more interesting appearance rather than having a plain and straight surface. On the rear of the shells is the Alpha & Delta branding and HDSS lettering. I would have liked to see the rear edge a little more rounded as it can sometimes press against the antihelix and cause hotspots. On the top of the shells towards the rear is a very pinhole sized vent/bass port and there's another at the base of the nozzle. The nozzles are of average length and width, making tip rolling easy and there's a distinct lip to hold the eartips securely. The D6 are very lightweight and look to be very durable and well built.



Onto the cable now and easily the nicest cable I've seen on a sub $100 IEM. The white, 8 core, silver-plated copper cable is deliciously thick from the plug to the Y-split. It feels fantastic and sturdy in the hand yet is really soft and supple, so it sits well and there's no bounciness to it. There's a metal Y-split made from the same metal as the housings and the same gunmetal gray color. The strain reliefs from top to bottom are fantastic. There's a small bump on the left side where it attaches to the housings to denote the Left side. The cable terminates in an L-shaped plug, again using the same metal as the housings. There's also a substantial spring style strain relief here, similar to what you find on some Trinity Audio IEMs. It works extremely well but I feel it could have been made half as long and still be just as effective. The only downside to this cable in my opinion is that it is non-detachable but it really feels built to last and as is absolutely gorgeous.



Comfort is good, as is the norm for this shape in an IEM and the light weight of the shells doesn't cause any burden on the ears. I found noise isolation to be about average and suitable for most situations.

About HDSS high definition Sound Technology

Real-time crystal clear sound without distortion

Speakers create sound through vibration. Due to the small enclosure, the reflected sound waves can distort our music by interfering with the sound waves entering our ears. HDSS technology removes these reflected waves to ensure crystal clear sound.

Detailed 3 dimensional sound reproduction

The removal of reflected waves also allows speakers to disperse sound coherently, allowing for a naturally projected sound stage.

About Dual Chamber Accoustic Design

The dual chamber accoustic design redirects reflected sound waves into a uniquely designed second chamber which absorbs these sound waves. This reduces distortion and improves the clarity and soundstage of the earphones.

Built like a tank- 3 years warranty

The weakness of any pair of earphones lies in its wires. Majority of the earphones uses 4 core cable. Once breakage occurs in one of the cables, the earphones cease to function. Many earphones also do not come with sufficient strain reliefs to reinforce vulnerable areas such as the 3.5mm jack.

In response, the D6 reinforces the 3.5mm jack with a spring loaded design. Furthermore, D6 uses an 8 core silver plated copper cable to ensure extra durability. Thus, even if wire breaks, the remaining cores will ensure the continued functionality of the earphones.

Sound
This is a very different beast from the A&D D2. It's more balanced and resolving across the board. The bass has more texture and definition, vocals and midrange are clearer and treble has more presence and extension. There isn't any single area where the D6 shines, it's more of a goodness across the board type of IEM. Sound is balanced and leaning slightly towards bright.

While the D6's sub-bass has great extension it doesn't carry a lot of weight, keeping in line with its balanced approach. When it comes to mid-bass the D6 has lovely texture and definition but is consistent with the sub-bass in its mature levels. There's enough punch there to drive music and a natural, fairly fast decay that brings realism and at the same time great control. This is not an IEM for the bassheads out there but for those looking for a more even tonal presentation..

Midrange is very tidy, its instrument separation impressive and level of clarity above average. Vocals are sweet, particularly for female vocals that get a little boost and are a real treat. Male vocals also get some love with a little weight carried over from the upper bass to give them enough richness to avoid sounding thin, yet at the same time don't sound colored. Lovers of classical music should appreciate the timbre and clarity of the D6's midrange with its slight upper midrange boost - Beethoven's String Quartets by the Emerson String Quartet sounds fantastic with these. Don't think these are limited to the classics though - "Down" by Run the Jewels sounds energetic with the vocals still managing to pop despite the tracks heavy bass.

Treble is nothing short of excellent on the Alpha & Delta D6 for something in its price range. The extension is fantastic, providing plenty of air and detail. It's nimble and energetic but never strident or piercing. The sheen of cymbals and bells is really nice, the way they ring before fading into the distance. There's enough sharpness to grab your attention but it eases up before it becomes uncomfortable and its far reaching nature adds greatly to the dynamic range. It's clean, it's nimble and it pops.

Soundstage here is very clean with a fair amount of width and depth. There's plenty of space between instruments which are positioned accurately enough to let you know just where they're situated. Stereo separation is another strong point and imaging is above average, the overall impression is one of clarity and detail.



Comparisons

TFZ Series 4 ($99 USD)

The most notable difference here is the bass, with the series 4 having a much more pronounced mid-bass. It's a really punchy and impactful bass which actually sounds a bit over the top after listening to the D6 for several consecutive days. The jump between the bass and midrange is more noticeable on the Series 4 - that meaty bass doesn't carry over into the lower mids, making them sound a little thin. The TFZ's thinner, boosted upper midrange gives less distinction between upper mids and treble making the top end sound less separated and lacking the separation of the D6. While the Series 4 sounds more typically V-shaped the D6's rise from low to high is more linear without the associated peaks found in the Series 4. The D6 has a more defined soundstage with superior imaging.

Toneking 9 Tail ($125 USD)

The TNT has more bass presence but it lacks the texture and definition of the D6. Both these IEMs are fairly balanced but where the TNT puts more emphasis on bass the D6 instead boosts the upper midrange. While the D6 has a bright personality the TNT is a smoother and more relaxed listen. Both of these IEMs have good detail retrieval but the D6 has more clarity in the midrange that gives it an edge in instrument separation. Treble on both is light and airy, the TNT being a little smoother in this area and soundstage is equally impressive on both with the D6 having a slight advantage in imaging.



Conclusion
The Alpha & Delta D6 was certainly not what I was expecting after my experience with the D2. The D6 has a much more refined and mature tuning and is definitely a big step up in terms of technical performance.

With its mature tuning the D6 is a more serious offering from A&D that aims more towards transparency and resolution compared to the D2's fun and relaxed approach. The D6 impresses not only with its clarity and detail but also with soundstage and imaging. Anyone looking for something more balanced and less V-shaped than the typical offerings in the $100 range should take a look at the Alpha & Delta D6. It offers a solid build and great sound and comes with a very impressive 3-year warranty.

Do you travel often? Spend a lot of time on airplanes, buses, trains etc. or maybe the hum of the fan or air conditioner in your office drives you crazy when you just want to enjoy some quiet music? If that's the case then you might have already considered getting something with Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and if you haven't then you probably should!

If you have done any searching for ANC products you've probably noticed that they usually don't come cheap. Well OVC (Original Value Creator) could have the solution with their OVC H15 ANC earphones that boast a patented dual driver system and claim a huge 60 hour battery life. Sounds good right? Let's dive right in.

Disclaimer

This sample was provided for the purpose of an honest review. I have no affiliation with the company and all observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product.

The OVC H15 currently retails for $43.99 and is available from Amazon.

OVC website: http://www.ovc.com.cn/index.html

Packaging and accessories
We start off with a black box that has a gray, outer cardboard sleeve. The sleeve has an image or the earphones plus some features and specifications on the outside. The cardboard is a little flimsy but the package looks nice.

Inside the hard box are the earphones nestled and on display in a molded plastic tray. Under the tray are the rest of the accessories. So what's in the box?

• OVC H15 earphone
• 3x pairs of silicone eartips (S, M, L)
• Shirt clip
• Magnetic cable tie
• Airplane adapter
• USB charging cable
• User manual and warranty card
• Fabric carry pouch with drawstring

Not a bad package at all. There's everything you need to get up and running. The soft silicone eartips in particular are very good quality and make insertion effortless.



Build, comfort and isolation
At a glance the H15 looks like an average earphone. The housings are made of plastic but it's a very good plastic that does not feel or look cheap. In fact these feel really durable and appear to be built very well. The black housings are smooth with rounded edges and the two parts are connected very tidily at the seam. On the outer side is an oval shaped metal grill that matches the color of the silver ring where the cable connects. They have an angled nozzle with a protective mesh to keep any nasty debris or ear wax at bay.



The silicone eartips with their little stabilizing wing feel great in the ears, very soft and held securely. I'd actually like to more standard, high quality IEMs with this type of tip as the conical shape and aforementioned stabilizers give a really solid fit and seal. One thing that really surprised me about this is that the large tips fit perfectly in my over-sized ear canals, which is something that rarely happens with any earphone.



There are no Left and Right markings but the left housing does have small bump on the lower stem to differentiate it but because of the tips it's really easy to recognize each side anyway.

The cable has a braided fabric coating that feels smooth and durable from top to bottom, though it is a little stiff below the Y-split. The inline remote and microphone is actually integrated into the Y-split which I think is a great idea and more practical than having the two separate. It's made from the same plastic as the housings so blends really well in the overall styling. The buttons on the remote are rubberized and have a reassuring tactile click to them. The bass boost button can also be found here on the side of the remote. Just above is a chin slider which is always an appreciated addition to any cable.



Further down is the ANC module which is again crafted from the same solid plastic as the housings and remote. On the front side is a metal faceplate with the ANC on/off button and two small LED indicators that show power on/off and battery status. On the side of the module is the micro USB charging port. Finally the cable terminates in a right angle 3.5mm plug.



Overall the build quality seems really good, as is the comfort, mainly due to those great ultra-soft silicone eartips and rounded housings. Isolation is pretty good even with ANC turned off, though obviously not as good as a fully closed system will be.

ANC and battery life
Noise cancelling

Utilizing a dual driver system (one driver for music, one driver for active noise cancelling), according to OVC the noise cancelling can reduce noise up to 30dB and I don't doubt it. To put it briefly - it works great. Constant sounds like engine/fan noise and machine hum are drastically reduced. Shorter or higher pitched sounds aren't cancelled as effectively but that's a common issue for any ANC earphone. Overall I was very impressed by the H15's ANC capabilities which were much better than I expected for something in this price range and even better than some full-sized ANC headphones I've tested in the past.

Battery life

The battery is rated at 60 hours and I was skeptical at first but it's totally on the money. With regular use of a few hours per day this thing can go for weeks on end without needing a charge. If you're taking a long flight or train ride a flat battery will be the last thing on your mind, assuming there was a decent charge before starting out. Nothing more to say about it really, the H15 is absolutely stellar in this regard.

Sound
*Testing was done with the Acoustic Research AR-M20, Benjie T6 and Samsung Galaxy Note 5.

One thing that really stands out with the H15 is just how resolving they are. They have a great ability to pick up minuscule details that other IEMs can gloss over. The sound leans toward the bright side but be assured when bass boost is turned on there's more than enough of that to even things out. It's really better than I anticipated and I would be perfectly happy to listen to these for several hours on a flight or noisy train etc.

There are 4 different modes that you can run the H15 and I'll go over each briefly here.

ANC off + bass boost off: Sound is very thin from top to bottom but tonality is still quite good. In this mode treble is well forward but it's not a harsh or sibilant treble, just clear and prominent. Mid-bass is very clean but subdued and sub-bass is almost imperceptible, though the extension is still there albeit at very low levels. There are some types of music where this works well but personally I find the lack of bass to be unsatisfying, however acoustic instruments sound really clear and detailed.

ANC On + bass boost Off: There is almost no perceptible change here from the above mode, which is testament to how well the ANC works without adversely affecting the original sound.

ANC Off + bass boost On: This is the least favorable mode for me as I find the bass to be too much and it bleeds over and colors the midrange. As a result clarity takes a hit and things sound muffled and congested.

ANC On + bass boost On: Bass drops down a couple of notches compared to when ANC is off but still has plenty of body and some punch. Detail and separation are surprisingly good and the overall sound is quite engaging although vocals are pushed back a little compared to when ANC is off. Listening to Radiohead's "The Tourist" from OK Computer the H15 has solid layering and timbre and clear vocals. Really the only hint of alteration from ANC is a slight metallic edge on the treble but that's only mild and not really bothersome.



Conclusion
I have to admit I didn't have very high hopes for the H15 at first. After all how much can you expect for an active noise cancelling earphone at just $44? Well it turned out to be one surprise after another for me during testing. First of all the ANC works really well. It does a great job of attenuating external noise and it does that without negatively impacting the sound quality. Secondly the build quality is genuinely good, as are the ergonomics and comfort. Add to that a notably good sound (for the price) and an insanely good battery life and it's plain to see why I think OVC have a great little product here.

If you're looking for an earphone with ANC and don't want to spend in triple figure amounts then I would urge you to consider the OVC H15. I know I definitely plan to take these with me the next time I travel abroad (CanJam here I come!).

"Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies."

Click to expand...

ARISTOTLE

Introduction

Around 260 kilometers from the Baltic Sea and nestled on the Vistula River sits Poland's capital and largest city: Warsaw. It was here in 2012 that a former reviewer and enthusiast of portable audio gear Piotr Granicki founded Custom Art. Since then the company has seen remarkable success, placing themselves among the elite of Custom In-ear Monitor producers yet are still providing some of the best price vs performance custom IEMs out there.

In 2015 CA (Custom Art) delivered a new technology which they call FIBAE, which stands for Flat Impedance Balanced Armature Earphone. If you've heard of this before then you'll know what it does but for the people out there who don't know, it basically means that earphones fitted with FIBAE will allow their owners to forgo the hassle of trying to find the right source to pair them with. You can read more details about FIBAE technology here: https://thecustomart.com/fibae/

The FIBAE 2 sports dual balanced armature drivers, one handling the lows and mids while the other one takes on treble duty. Early impressions from various sources have been positive and now they're here at Prime Audio. So without further ado let's take a look and a listen to the Custom Art FIBAE 2.

Disclaimer

This product was provided for the purpose of an honest review. I'm not affiliated with the company and all observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product.

The FIBAE 2 starting price is 1900 PLN / 475 EUR and can be ordered directly from the Custom Art website: https://thecustomart.com/

Specifications

• Single Low/Mid, Single proprietary High
• 113dB @1kHz @0.1V
• 7.1 Ohm @1kHz (+-0.5 Ohm 10Hz-20kHz)
• 10Hz-16500Hz (+-10dB into IEC 60318-4 coupler)
• Silicone or Hollow Acrylic body

Package and accessories

The FIBAE 2 arrived in a black, cardboard box, inside which you'll find a very nice PELI 1010 hard carry case as well as a more portable clamshell carry case. The good stuff is found inside the hard case and includes the FIBAE 2 earphones, wax cleaning tool, drying pellet and a welcome brochure/warranty card that includes the CIEM manufacture date and serial number. There's not a lot included but it's really all you need although it would have been nice to see a cleaning cloth included.



The included 2-pin detachable cable seems to be the standard type that come with many CIEMs. It's a little thin above the Y-split but it's very supple, lightweight and unobtrusive. It comes with a chin slider and terminates in a L-shaped plug. Strain reliefs are good from top to bottom.



Build, comfort and customization

On the website's order page they have a great customizing application that let's you browse the various colors and styles available. You can personalize almost every part of the CIEM such as the faceplate, shell and canal color and logo for each side. There are a bunch of options available but just for kicks when asked which colors I wanted I told the guys to "have at it" and let them decide on the design. I think it was a good decision as the final product looks fantastic in my opinion.

What I ended up with is blue faceplates with a swirling, galaxy like design, complete with cosmic dust and glittering stars, matching shells and the Custom Art logo in white. The faceplates join seamlessly with the shells and there are no visible flaws or bubbles in the acrylic. The end result comes together in a CIEM that looks and feels fantastic and feels premium and durable.

Fit and comfort are great. I can wear these for hours without any hint of discomfort. The seal remains consistent when I'm talking or moving my jaw. The fit of course relies on sending the team at CA a good set of ear impressions to work with so if you're planning on ordering something make sure you read through the impressions requirements on the website and let your audiologist know exactly what is required to get the best result.



Sound

The FIBAE 2's sound is much like it is described on the website: "bold, powerful, yet smooth". It has a warmth that belies its cleanliness and clarity. Often when we think of a warm IEM we think of muted or veiled midrange but that isn't the case here. There's a rythms and timing that makes the FIBAE 2 feel like it's always ready to go at the starting gun but is never rushed or frantic, rather there's sense of effortlessness and confidence in its presentation. Despite the warm undertones the tonal balance is such that no particular section feels exaggerated or subdued, it's all on the table in an engaging but non-fatiguing manner. Music with the F2 is full bodied but still feels lithe and agile without any of the sluggish characteristics and coloring that often accompany such body in IEMs with a low driver count.

Bass has a wonderful definition and texture giving kick drums that initial impact and attack, paired with just the right amount of decay to give the low end power while maintaining a conservative level that doesn't intrude over the midrange or treble. They don't have that fake sounding snap that some IEMs have but one that sounds more natural and intensely satisfying. Often the more entry level tiered products will try to wow you with a meaty bass, that makes you feel as if you're getting smacked upside the head with a down-filled pillow but the FIBAE 2 delivers a more balanced, very controlled and defined one that is cohesive in the overall spectrum and elicits an emotional response.

Something that really enhances the immersion factor is the resonance in the shells from bass notes, even those that aren't the highlight in a song but just an accompaniment. Even at tame levels the bass produces a visceral and physical experience and all the while maintains its mature composure. A good example of this effect is "K.O.F" from iamthemorning's Belighted album. The bass has that powerful presence yet doesn't in the least hinder or obscure the often timid sounding vocals of Marjana Semkina. Sub-bass is equally as impressive and just as mature as its mid-bass counterpart. It's not going to rock your world with quantity but the quality of it is sure to leave a smile on your face.

The FIBAE 2's midrange is intoxicating and engaging and seems to put emphasis on the middle region more so than the usual upper midrange boost that's so popular and what I sometimes think of as "poor man's detail". Instead the FIBAE 2 brings the forwardness down the range a little so deep male vocals sit back a little further than those of Loreena McKennit. Listening to "The Gates of Istanbul" from Loreena's An Ancient Muse just about had me prostrating in front of these CIEMs in unadulterated worship in awe of her melodic crooning and the exotic mix of traditional Celtic string instruments. Again my will to remain dignified almost collapsed when I heard the guitars in "The Lonely Views of Ondors" from The Art of Navigating by the Stars.

Heck, for this section I almost feel as if I could write down all the superlatives I can think of and still get it right. Ludovico Einaudi's "Indaco" sounds majestic and hypnotizing. Many an IEM has fallen prey to the heavy piano notes in this track but the FIBAE 2 makes me feel as though I'm listening to it live and the subtle and delicate segments sound every bit as impressive as the crescendos.

Treble is presented at a tasty level to complement and balance out the bass and midrange. The extension and timbre are excellent and it gives the FIBAE 2 energy and gusto but it remains smooth and non-fatiguing. However if there is inherent sibilance in a recording you'll still hear it, as I discovered with my usual test song for sizzle: Utada Hikaru's "Traveling". In a normal scenario though the treble is a true delight. There's a kind of raw effect to the treble (which in a way contradicts my earlier comment about it being smooth) that gives it a unfettered energy but one that is extremely well controlled without granularity. The FIBAE 2 has plenty of air up top and an dynamic openness that defies the warm undertones present throughout.

Soundstage and imaging are the icing on the cake with the FIBAE 2. Those properties mentioned about the treble really come into play here, as does the natural decay found across the board but where this CIEM really shines is in its stereo separation. In "The Last Dive of David Shaw" from Departure Songs by We Lost the Sea the stereo separation and soundstage are astoundingly impressive. Headroom is expansive, wide and deep, yet the positional cues are precise and easy to visualize. The FIBAE 2 can dissect music and hurtle separate elements at you from anywhere in the space with perfect timing and positioning. What might sound like a wall of sound on a lesser platform is apportioned and individual instruments are isolated and presented as if they're partitioned and the effect is probably the best I've heard in a mid-tier product.

Sources and compatibility

So does the FIBAE technology work? Quite simply: yes it does. It does indeed. Across all the sources I tested with the frequency response remained consistent and the differences you'll hear are the nuances and properties of the DAC driving things. So rather than trying to find synergy with a chain that has the best power or impedance output you can enjoy scaling of a different kind - the FIBAE 2 is a great tool for discerning the inherent nature of your various DACs. Just plug them into something and you'll be rewarded.


Comparisons

inEarz Fusion (price unannounced at the time of writing)

The Fusion is inEarz' newest six driver CIEM which is due for official release very soon. It's perhaps not the fairest of comparisons considering the Fusion has three times the driver count and will likely cost significantly more but I can only use what I have on hand to compare with, which at this stage is very limited as far as CIEMs go.

The Fusion has a more weighted bass but it's not quite as textured as the F2 and doesn't have the same defined edge and transients. Despite having more quantity in the bass the Fusion smooths it over and doesn't hit with the same aggressive rawness that makes the F2 so fun to listen to.

Midrange is more forward on the Fusion but again its transients are less defined and have a rounded edge which makes the presentation smoother and less gritty. Where the Fusion pulls ahead here though is its instrument separation and rendering of complex passages. It has a cleaner and more refined approach and superior resolution.

The FIBAE 2 has a more energetic treble where the Fusion once again goes for a softer and less aggressive one, putting more emphasis instead on it's upper midrange. This give the FIBAE 2 a slightly lighter and more airy high end. I'm not going to crown either IEM as a winner here because they're both excellent in their own way. What I will say though is the FIBAE 2 gives an extremely strong performance against far more expensive and more technically complex alternatives.

M-Fidelity SA-50 ($970 USD)

Again not the most ideal comparison, the SA-50 is M-Fidelity's new flagship model with over double the driver count (5 per side) and roughly double the price. M-Fidelity describes it as A revelation in balance and details, space and dynamics."

The SA-50 has all the bass impact of the FIBAE 2 but brings it with more clarity and refinement. In fact clarity is a staple of the SA-50 and makes many other IEMs sound a bit veiled. It's midrange too, has superior clarity and resolution. What the FIBAE 2 brings to the table is that raw excitement - like the shackles are off and it's time to party. The SA-50 has a ludicrously crisp and clean treble that doesn't excite the same way as the FIBUE 2 but will amaze you with its clarity and extension.

One area that FIBAE 2 dominates the SA-50 is in the amount of customization and color options available and the online tool gives you a visual representation in real time to help you choose the perfect design. In contrast the M-Fidelity customizations are quite limited but they sure deliver a fantastic sound.



Conclusion

The FIBAE 2 just knocks it out of the park and ticks all the boxes in the process. Every aspect is done right, from the customization options, build quality and price to the dynamic, energetic and ever so emotive musicality that it brings to the table. Let's not forget also that you can plug it into pretty much anything and still get amazing results thanks to the FIBAE technology.

This should be a wake up call for manufacturers and consumers alike who believe you need a huge driver count with a price to match in order to make an outstanding IEM. I can't wait to see how the competition responds and what Custom Art can do next (spoiler: FIBAE 3 will be available soon).

If you've thought about going the CIEM route before then this has to be an ideal place to start. Even if you've got several CIEM's already and have the itch for another this one deserves your consideration.

Maybe one day I'll even learn how to pronounce the name!

Toyeteam is a relatively new entry in the crowded Chinese earphone manufacturer space. After a bit of research I was able to find four different models from the company: The UFO, UFO Pro, Thor and TX 601, the former 3 having dynamic drivers while the TX 601 is a dual hybrid driver configuration. Today I'll be taking a look at the UFO so if you want to know whether these can whisk you away to another planet follow me.

Disclaimer

This sample was provided for the purpose of an honest review. I'm not affiliated with the company and all observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product.

The Toyeteam UFO retails for $35 at the time of writing and is available from Penon Audio: https://penonaudio.com/TOYETEAM-UFO

Specifications

Impedance: 18Ω
Driver: 8 mm dynamic
Earphone sensitivity: 105dB+3
Frequency range: 20-20000Hz
Maximum power: 2mW
Interface: 3.5mm Gilded
Cable Length: 1.2m±0.05m

Package and accessories

The UFO comes in a very compact white box with a color image of the earphone on the front. On the back of the box are the specifications and a frequency response graph. Inside the box is a clamshell carry case. Everything else is of course found inside the carry case and includes the UFO earphones, x3 pairs of silicone eartips (S, M, L), a shirt clip and user manual. It's a very basic package but I like the way they were able to keep it so small yet still provide the clamshell case which is always a welcome addition.



Build, comfort and isolation

There are four variants of the UFO, with the only difference being the cables. There's a red cable, one with microphone and one without then the same again in a black version. My sample has the black cable with microphone.

The all metal housings have a polished silver finish and at a glance look nice for a budget IEM. They're a slight variation of the common barrel shape with a raised disc section in the middle where the two halves of the shells are joined together. It's this section that gives the earphones their UFO type appearance. The rear half has several slits running lengthwise from just behind the "disc" which act as vents/bass ports. It then tapers down slightly where the cable connects. On the back of the housing is the company logo. The front half of the housing tapers down to the nozzle which has a nicely pronounced lip for securing the eartips. The nozzles have a protective metal mesh inside the end. These IEMs are really small. They don't protrude out of the ears at all and so are great for laying down.



The cable is a simple rubber sheathed affair but it's a lot better than many that you find in its price range. It's fairly supple, smooth to the touch and doesn't have any stickiness or kinks. On the left side is a plastic, single button control and microphone. Although the control is made of plastic it doesn't look or feel cheap and the button has a solid tactile click. There's a small, hardened rubber Y-split and finally the cable terminates in a straight 3.5 mm plug. Strain relief from top to bottom is excellent and I actually like it a lot. There is some microphonics but that's very common for any earphone with small housings.



These are super comfortable because of their small size and I had no trouble wearing them for several hours. Noise isolation for me personally is a bit better than average for this type of IEM because of their size and shape they give me a great fit and seal.

The UFO looks pretty good (a bit similar to the DUNU Titan 1 if you use your imagination) but don't look quite as premium. For the price I think they're really well built and as I mentioned above I really like the cable.



Sound

Gear used for testing

Benjie T6

ATC HDA-DP20

JRiver > Topping DX7

First thing you're likely to notice listening to the UFO is the rather massive bass. It has a real meatiness and is thick and impactful,. It's kinda like standing outside a nightclub: all you can hear is the thumping of the bass through the walls with just a hint of midrange and treble in the background. Well, that is exaggerating of course but you get the idea.

Bass is where the spotlight shines on the UFO. It's big and bold with an ability to get physical with its impact. Sub-bass similarly can really shake you up. It digs deep and oozes with dominating power and can be a lot of fun. Definition is actually not bad but the attack is fairly slow so you don't get much sense of the "thwack" - rather you're assaulted with the thump. The bass is thick and a bit woolly but feels controlled at the same time.

Midrange is fairly recessed compared to the abundant bass. There's a fair bit of bleed from the lower end, coloring the lower mids and giving them some excess weight. Timbre is not too far off but vocals and instruments can sound a bit veiled. Notes have a soft, rounded edge and lack definition.

Treble on the UFO is actually pretty nice but it rolls off early and sits too far behind the bass to give music enough lift and energy. There's no hint of sibilance anywhere though and that's always a bonus. The treble is executed quite well but doesn't quite have enough presence to rise out of the dominant lower frequencies.

Soundstage is fairly limited which is normal for an IEM with such a dark and warm signature. On tracks where the bass is light or there isn't much bass present things feel less congested and more open but in general the stage feels pretty intimate.



Comparisons

BGVP BKYT MRY6 ($24.90 USD)

The MRY6 has a more even tonal balance than the UFO. Bass quality is similar but not as overwhelming as it is on the UFO. Midrange is less recessed with less sense of a veil over it and sounds a little more natural. The MRY6's treble has more presence and better extension than the UFO and it has a slightly bigger soundstage.

Both of these IEMs are well built but the UFO's cable is a definite step up from the one on the BGVP. They're both very comfortable but the UFO's smaller form factor makes it even more so. In terms of accessories the UFO comes with a nice clamshell case where the MRY6 has a larger eartip selection but just a velvet carry pouch. For $5 less the MRY6 is my pick of the two but there are better options available IMO, such as the Brainwavz Jive or Fischer Audio Paco.

Conclusion

The Toyeteam UFO is a very well built and comfortable IEM with an above average quality cable. The sound is not one that will be for everybody as it ultimately falls a bit short and fails to excite or inspire with its dark overtones. It might be a good choice for anyone who is hypersensitive to treble or is looking for a dark sound with impactful bass. It's not a bad IEM but comes across as only average and in my opinion there are better options around the same price. However I do look forward to seeing and hearing more from Toyeteam as they've proven that they can make a quality product at least in the physical sense.

Are you a budget DAP lover? (Let us know, comments are always welcome.) Well today I'm be running another one through its paces - the IQQ C5. IQQ is the electronics company that brought us the C18 which had good audio quality but a button arrangement that was not optimized and an average UI. This time they're back with an even cheaper model that boasts a similarly "crazy good" battery life and 2.4 inch TFT screen. You would probably expect it to be a lesser player than the more expensive predecessor but things move fast in the world of electronics so you just never now. How does it fare compared to its more expensive sibling and a slew of other super cheap competitors? Follow on to learn more.

Disclaimer

This sample was provided for the purpose of an honest review. I'm not affiliated with the company and all observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product.

The IQQ C5 is $26.90 at the time of writing as is available from Penon Audio: https://penonaudio.com/IQQ-C5

Specifications

• Support MP3,WMA,OGG,APE, FLAC,WAV,AAC-LC.
• Aluminium alloy case
• Support video play and picture viewing and TXT e-book reading
• Support Voice recording,FM radio and FM radio recording.
• Support TF card up to 32GB.
• Solution:ATJ 2127.
• Screen:2.4" TFT screen(320×240).
• Battery:650mAh,support 60 hours music playing by earphone.
• Size:108×47.5×8.5mm,net weight:64g.
• Color:Black,silver.

Packaging and accessories

The unboxing of the C5 is a very simple one indeed. Starting with an off-white cardboard box with a generic "[HIFI] Music Player on the front it's a little unusual to see there is no sign of a brand name present anywhere. Looking on the back however reveals that the product comes from Shenzhen Tengsen Technology Co,.Ltd.

The first thing you see when you open the box is the player, wrapped in plastic and seated in a white foam cutout. Underneath the foam are the accessories which include a USB cable for charging and data transfer, along with a user manual and warranty card. It doesn't get much more basic than that! When you consider the low price though it seems acceptable and you don't need anything else to get going, assuming you have some kind of earphones to plug into it.



Build quality

I recieved the C5 in the gunmetal gray/silver variant (it also comes in black). The C5 sports an aluminium alloy body and weighs in at just 64 g. Initial impressions when you first pick it up are good. It feels light but sturdy in the hand. Unfortunately just like the C18 and several other recent players the C5 has sharp corners that take away from the experience a little but keeping the low price in mind it's not a major issue.

On the front is the 2.4 inch TFT screen and the navigation and control buttons. The cover on the display is plastic but feels much nicer and more durable than the flimsy one found on the Benjie players.

So the button layout is very simple. There are 4 directional buttons plus a central one which acts as the Select, Play and Pause. The play button in the center has a small, blue LED light that flashes every 3 seconds when the unit is powered on. I'm not sure what its purpose is really but I guess it could act as a reminder if you've forgotten to power off the unit when it's not in use.

On the bottom edge (from left to right) are: 3.5 mm headphone jack, microphone, On/Off switch and micro USB port. On the left side of the player is the micro SD card slot.



That's really all there is to it. It's a very basic layout - some might say a little too basic as once again there are no dedicated volume buttons (which is a real pet peeve of mine). Despite that though it has clean lines, looks quite nice and feels like the build quality is solid.



UI and functionality

In use the display looks fairly good but here's no setting to adjust the screen brightness so it can be very difficult and at times near impossible to navigate in bright sunlight.

The first time I turned on the player I thought I was in for a real treat when I saw the lovely startup animation. Sadly that wasn't to be. The home screen looks great with nice, large icons and each one is clearly labeled. There's a dark gray background with white text but the text is really tiny.

The text is heavily truncated and that combined with the small fonts make things difficult to read when navigating. I will say though that the UI feels snappy and responsive and does not suffer from any input lag. Album art looks pretty good but there is some unused space around it and it would have been much better had they enlarged it to fill the width of the screen.

Navigation is awkward despite the UI being responsive and that's because of the limited buttons. As I mentioned earlier there are no dedicated volume keys and there's no back button so you have this weird mix of functions such as pressing left and right to go up and down in the menus which just feels unintuitive and clumsy. There's no dedicated back button so in order to get to the home screen from the now playing screen you need to press the down key 5 times! Doing a long press on the up button while music is playing activates the button lock while a short press gives you access to the now playing menu where you can change sound settings like repeat mode and equalizer. To change the volume you need to do a long press on the down key and then left or right to make adjustments, similar to the Benjie K9 and X1 - not ideal in the least.

There's no gapless support but that is the norm for all ultra-budget DAPs that I have tested so far. Let's look at some of the features the player does have. There's a voice recording function and an FM Radio. During testing the radio works fine and there's also the ability to record radio which could come in handy for some. There's an eBook reader and the ability to play video but I didn't test those as anyone with a half decent smartphone and a lick of sense would be better off using that for those things. There is also a calendar, stopwatch and alarm which are all pretty neat but again why bother if you have a smartphone?

Files are not sorted automatically so you'll need to use a third party app like DriveSort to get your lists in order. Overall for basic music playback the UI is just okay. It's not really any better or worse than other super cheap DAPs out there and I don't want to sound like a broken record but it's important to make judgements in context of the very low price these players come at.

A couple of final points to look at here. One is the On/Off switch on the bottom of the player. This is a great feature and very useful if you have to turn the player off in a hurry The only drawback using this method is that breakpoint resume points are not saved when you power off the unit this way. The other way to power off the unit is by doing a long press on the Play button. This will save your breakpoint and the next time you tun the player on it will resume playback where you left off.



Battery life

If there's one thing that IQQ do really well it's battery life. The C5 has a 650mAh Lithium-ion battery is rated for 60 hours of continuous playback. I haven't measured the actual time but I can say that I've been using this player over the last couple of weeks for 2-3 hours per day and there's still more than 50% charge. Incredible! Charging time is about 3 hours.

Sound

IEMs & Headphones used for testing

• KZ ZST
• Toneking Nine Tail
• Dynamic Motion DM200H
• Acoustic Research AR-H1

During testing I tried a variety of IEMs all of which I'm familiar with, from different price brackets and all with their own unique sound signatures. The AR-H1 planar headphones were added because even though they have a low impedance (33 Ohm) they do require a fair amount of output power to drive to their full potential. The C5 comes across as a competent addition to the ultra budget segment. Presentation is close to neutral with good extension at both ends. Output power is near identical to the Benjie X1 and should be enough for just about any IEM. With the AR-H1 headphone it was loud enough depending on the recording but needs to be near or at 100% volume for me. Those who like their music LOUD will be fine with earphones but for harder to drive headphones you'll need additional amplification.

Neither the DM200H or the TNT (Nine Tail) have a "heavy" bass as they're both fairly balanced in that respect but the C5 had no trouble drawing it out of them. There's a little bit of extra weight added that feeds some warmth to the low end. This works great when listening to some old school Scarface in "On My Grind" from Balls And My Word and is a real treat with the TNT which on occasion can leave me wishing for a bit more bass grunt. The DM200H can also benefit from a slight boost in the basement but via the C5 it still manages to retain its fantastic etched notes and texture.

Midrange is well defined and has a good amount of transparency, once again highlighted by the amazing mids on the DM200H. There's a good synergy with this pairing which allows the C5 to display its ability for detail and resolution. Vocals are front and center with a reassuring weight and richness and at times it's easy to forget you're listening to a sub $25 DAP!

There's not a lot to say about the treble and that's a positive because its presentation is neutral. If your earphones/headphones have sparkle and air you'll hear it again here. The C5 doesn't boost or mute treble so with the right pairing you'll have the energy and air to keep music light or energetic. One of the tracks I like to test lower treble is "Hem" by Mathias Eick. At the beginning of the song there are certain chimes and light percussion tings and pings and they sound just as they should with this DAP and maintain their wide reach in the soundscape.



Comparisons

Benjie X1 ($26 USD)

The x1 is a hint warmer which makes vocals sound more intimate and closes in the stage a little in comparison. I'd give the C5 a slight advantage in sound quality but to be honest there's not much differentiating these two budget buddies. Output power and battery life is also very, very close here with neither gaining an advantage over the other. Where they do differ more is in their usability. Although the X1 has a smaller screen its album art is bigger, as is the size of fonts so it's a bit easier to read text. The big win for Benjie's X1 though is its dedicated volume buttons which make finding your listening level faster and easier and it can be adjusted easily while it's in your pocket.

Conclusion

The IQQ C5 doesn't really bring anything new to the ultra budget DAP arena. It's not a bad player but there's nothing remarkable about it either. It suffers from the same flaws as its big brother the C18, namely a less than stellar button setup that leads to cumbersome navigation. As for the UI the only real drawback is the small size of the text and display is in line with other players in its class. The screen seems like it should be large enough to do more but the developers haven't utilized it to its full potential and result is empty spaces and truncated text. This is likely due to a limitation of the low power processor that is great for preserving battery life but struggles with more complex tasks such as rendering album art.

It's not all bad though. While this review might have sounded negative the sound is easily as good as the competition around the same price and the battery life is absolutely terrific. I feel that IQQ definitely have the potential to make a truly excellent player if they keep at it. When you factor in the price which is always a large consideration in my overall rating the IQQ C5 is still a heck of a lot of DAP for your money and I'd take it for music playback over my smartphone any day of the week.

Usually when I think of Chinese made dual dynamic driver earphones a couple things come to mind because of my past experience with those products - huge bass and a dark sound signature. Nothing wrong with that if it floats your boat but there are a boatload of IEMs that do that already. So when I had a listen to the TinAudio T2 it came as a bit of a shock to hear it was the polar opposite of what I was expecting. So folks, that's what we have today - the TinAudio T2 dual dynamic driven earphone. Onward!

Disclaimer

This sample was provided for the purpose of an honest review. I'm not affiliated with the company in any way and all observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product.

The TinAudio T2 is listed at $49.90 at the time of writing and is available from Penon Audio: https://penonaudio.com/Tin-Audio-T2

Specifications

• Driver: dynamic 10mm woofer + 6mm tweeter
• Impedance: 16Ω
• Sensitivity: 102dB/mW
• Frequency response range: 12-40000Hz
• Earphone interface：MMCX
• Plug: 3.5mm Carbon fiber gold-plated straight plug,
• Cable: 1.2M 5N oxygen free copper silver-plated wire

Package and accessories

The T2 arrives in a discreet, little white box with just the TinAudio name, logo and model on the front. Inside the box is another little box that looks like a book with a blue cover - pretty cool! Opening up the "book" the first thing you see is a little user manual. Underneath that is the earphones presented nicely and seated in a black foam cutout. And of course under the foam are the rest of the accessories.



So what's in the box?

• T2 earphone
• 1x MMCX cable
• 3x pairs silicone eartips (S, M, L)
• 1x pair foam eartips
• User leaflet

So very straightforward but unique presentation is what you get here. It would have been nice to see a carry case of course but it looks like the resources were put into making the actual IEM while keeping the cost as low as possible which is great for the consumers.



Taking a quick look at the cable - it's pretty decent if a little ordinary. The feel of this 5N oxygen free silver-plated copper wire is quite nice even though it's a bit industrial. The beige MMCX connectors look and feel a little cheap but they're functional and seem durable enough. There's a piece of clear plastic tubing that acts as a chin slider and the same tubing is used again for the Y-split. The cable terminates in a large, straight 3.5mm gold plated plug with a carbon fiber-finish. The cable has a few kinks and holds its shape a bit there's very little in the way of microphonics. I found this cable to be fairly prone to tangling as it's pretty thin above the Y-split.



Build, comfort and isolation
The metal housings of the T2 are very nicely crafted and are lightweight. There is a blue or red plastic ring on the MMCX connector on each piece to determine Left and Right - yes! Finish on the metal T2 has a very good finish and you could be forgiven for thinking that these cost more than their selling price. There is a pinhole vent near the base of the nozzle and another on the rear of the housing. Speaking of the nozzles they are fairly short but they have a solid lip on them to hold your eartips securely in place. There is also a metal mesh in place to keep our ear wax and debris.

The T2 is designed in a way so they can be worn cable down or over ear adding versatility and more options for the listener. Overall build quality is excellent.

When it comes to comfort the T2 is no slouch here either. It has a mostly generic cylindrical shape with an wider section at the rear to accommodate the MMCX connector. I would have liked the back edges to be a little more rounded but because of the housing's short length it doesn't normally come into contact with the outer ear. All this means the T2 is a very comfortable IEM.

Noise isolation is about average for a typical earphone making them perfectly suitable for normal situations.



Sound

Gear used for testing

• Samsung Galaxy Note 5
• Acoustic Research AR-M20
• IQQ C5
• JRiver/flac > Arcam irDAC-II

The 16Ω impedance and 102dB/mW sensitivity makes the T2 pretty easy to drive and they sound great even from my smartphone. Having said that though, you can throw extra power at these and they will soak it up and respond in kind with a little more weight in the bass and some added fullness in the midrange. Frequency response is not what we're used to seeing at this segement - after a slight mid-bass hump it flattens right out and remains even all the way to the upper treble.

In general the sound signature of the T2 is very linear and even from top to bottom giving them a sound that leans towards neutral. Sounds are clear and vibrant making overall presentation very tidy. With brilliant tonality and realism the T2's tuning makes it a true rarity in the sub $50 range.

Bass is a mixed bag being in parts the most impressive and the most disappointing range of the T2. Mid-bass is fast and tight with excellent texture and punch. It's agile and very well controlled and of a caliber I normally expect from more expensive earphones. Where the T2's Achilles heel resides is in the sub-bass, which can dig deep but it's at a very low level making it unsatisfying. It rolls off heavily below 25Hz where it becomes almost inaudible. At 30Hz and above however, it can be really pleasing and is of excellent quality.

The T2's midrange is a real treat. The timbre of stringed instruments is fantastic and true to life, as are vocals which can rise up out of the din and present themselves very clearly. There's air and space between elements which help to maintain that clean aspect that the T2 does so well without becoming too thin or analytical. There's no noticeable bleed at all from the bass leaving the midrange free to shine.

Treble is prominent but it's the good kind that won't induce spikes of terror or annoyance. Extension is good and fairly even throughout. There's enough sheen and sparkle to provide some airiness without being strident. Treble notes sound natural and blend seamlessly with the overall presentation.

Soundstage on the T2 is fairly average for this price range. It's not vast but neither is it too intimate or closed in. Left and right stereo imaging is a strong point and positional cues are slightly above average. Where the T2 shines is in its separation and ability to spread elements rather than present you with a solid wall of sound.

Comparisons

Tennmak Pro ($27 USD)

The Tennmak Pro is another dual driver IEM that became quite popular in budget enthusiast circles. The Pro has a weightier bass than the T2 but is less textured. It's also warmer and has a thicker midrange. Treble is more subdued on the Pro giving it a slightly darker feel. The T2 in comparison has a lighter and brighter sound with much improved overall clarity. The Pro's sound has a more fun twist while the T2 scores more points in technical ability.

The Pro is extremely comfortable and has better noise isolation than the T2 but in contrast can only be worn over ear. I feel that either of these is a worthy purchase -the Tennmak for a fun all-rounder budget IEM and the T2 for a more audiophile tuned experience.

Veedix NC50 ($56 USD)

The Veedix is in my opinion a largely underrated earphone that deserves more recognition. The NC50's Bass has a lot more weight and impact compared to the T2 and its sub-bass is sublime. Midrange has delightful clarity, as does the T2 but the Veedix carries a slightly warmer tone making it less in your face and thus less fatiguing over time. Treble is less accentuated on the NC50 but the timbre and extension is amazing. Cymbal sheen is exceptional and you can hear the ringing presence fade into blackness with natural decay.

Both of these are comfortable but the Veedix comes out slightly ahead because of it's more secure fit in the ears and the rubberized coating on the housings. If you're a fan of bass then the Veedix is the way to go here. Those looking for more neutrality would be better suited to the T2.



Conclusion

The TinAudio T2 delivers an uncommonly refined tuning in the sub $50 bracket, steering away from the usual bass-heavy and V-shaped sound that is prevalent in this segment. Their well built and classy looking housings reflect the mature sound that they have to offer.

The T2 has restored my faith in what a dual dynamic solution can bring to the table and I hope to see more like this in the future, as we're already neck deep in budget hybrid IEMs at present. So to sum up - those looking for a solid budget earphone that leans more toward neutrality but is still musical and emotive look no further. The TinAudio T2 has got you covered.

TFZ is an audio company that has had a fast rise to popularity since they started with their Series 1, 3 and 5 earphones. I've been a long time fan, especially since I reviewed the TFZ Balance 2M which is a great sounding IEM. Recently their latest Exclusive series won the Japanese VGP authority awards 2017. Today I'll be checking out the TFZ Series 4 to see how it stacks up.

Disclaimer

This sample was provided for the purpose of an honest review. I'm not affiliated with the company and all observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product.

The TFZ Series for retails for $99 at the time of writing and is available from Penon Audio: https://penonaudio.com/TFZ-SERIES-4

Specifications

• Driver: 12mm dual magnetic circuit graphene driver
• Sensitivity: 108dB / mW
• Impedance: 16 ohm
• Frequency response: 5-40kHz
• Connectors: 2-pin 0.78mm
• Lowest power:8MW
• Microphone: None
• Plug : 3.5mm
• Cable length: 1.2M

Packaging and accessories

The Series 4 comes in a long, slender black box with the logo and model printed on the front in silver. After opening you see a long card with a couple of slogans on it. Lifting out the card reveals the earphones secured in a plastic tray and a smaller cardboard box beneath that. I quite like this unboxing experience. It's nicely presented and not over the top. Here's what you get inside:

• TFZ Series 4 earphones
• Shirt clip
• User manual & warranty card
• 3x pairs of wide bore silicone tips
• 3x pairs of narrow bore silicone tips
• 1x pair of foam tips
• Soft carrying pouch
• Detachable 2-pin cable
• Velcro cable tie

It's great to see some different eartip styles included in the package. The shallow fit, wide bore tips are actually big enough for my large ear canals and of good quality and very comfortable.

While the carry pouch is good for storing the earphones it won't give much protection if you're carrying it around in a bag or pocket. A clamshell case would be preferred but of course a carry pouch is better than nothing at all and is a welcome addition.



The included cable is an improvement over the one that comes with the Exclusive King. It's similar in style and build but is more substantial and thicker below the Y-split while retaining the same pliability. It comes with a pre-shaped, clear plastic tubing which I find a much better solution than memory wire. The Y-split is a circular, translucent plastic with the TFZ logo on it. It's a little large but I like it. Kudos to TFZ for having the balls to do things differently. Similarly the straight plug is made of the same translucent plastic. It's wider than average which might cause difficulty with some phone cases but for me is not an issue whatsoever. Strain reliefs are good from top to bottom.



Build, comfort and isolation

This model comes in two color variants, gray and blue. Like all of TFZ's recent models the Series 4 is drop dead gorgeous for a UIEM. It's similar in size and shape to the Exclusive King and in my opinion looks better even than that. With it's transparent plastic housing and metal faceplate, both of which are immaculately joined together with a uniform and very tidy seam.

An angled nozzle with protective metal mesh protrudes from the housings and includes a proper lip to secure the eartips. All the edges on the IEM are rounded and smooth and there are no visible inconsistencies or flaws found anywhere. There's a nice weight to them that makes these feel substantial and premium. From the inner side you can clearly see the large 12mm dynamic driver.

Like all recent TFZ releases the Series 4 comes with detachable 2-pin 0.78mm cable which for me is a welcome change from the often unreliable MMCX type. Build quality overall is exceptional for an earphone at this price.

In terms of comfort I find the Series 4 to be really good. I can wear these for hours on end no problem at all. The shape of the housings with their smooth edges, angle of the nozzle and over-ear wear combine for a comfortable experience.

Isolation is about average for me personally but I feel that those with smaller outer ears will likely find them above average for blocking outside noise.



Sound

Gear used for testing

Acoustic Research AR-M20

ATC HDA-DP20

JRiver/flac > Arcam irDAC-II

TFZ IEMs have always been easy to drive and the Series 4 is no exception with its 16 Ohm impedance and 108dB / mW sensitivity. These can be paired with any low powered device like a smartphone and still sound good.

The general signature of the Series 4 is a punchy but still linear bass with a boosted upper midrange and well extended treble. There seems to be a definite trend in a lot of Chi-Fi IEMs that boost the upper mids and reduce the bass to achieve a more "audiophile" type tuning but in a lot of cases it comes across as a cheap fix. Luckily TFZ gets it largely right but it's not perfect.

Note that my measurements are not 100% correct but you can get a pretty clear idea of the general frequency response.



The bass is a high point in the Series 4, just as it was with the Exclusive king. It's fast and punchy without being overbearing or showing signs of bass bleed. The sub-bass in particular is really nice. It has a physical presence that you can feel in your ears but just like the mid-bass it's more linear and plays its role rather than trying to be the star of the show. Daft Punk's "Lose Yourself to Dance" is a great track to highlight the Series 4's fantastic sub-bass control. Overall it's tight and well presented with good texture.

Midrange has a nice energy for sure but that upper midrange emphasis can become fatiguing after a while. It gives an impression of extra detail but when things get busy in a track you can hear things becoming congested and layering is only average. There's a dip in the lower mids that can make it sound a little thin and anything falling into the upper midrange tends to dominate the overall sound which isn't always a bad thing, for example when people want to get close and personal with female vocalists. Clarity is excellent and what's particularly impressive is that despite the emphasis on upper mids there's very little to no sign of sibilance.

Treble has good extension and timbre but sits at the back of the upper mids so tends to get a little lost on occasion. This does however also mean that it is not harsh and has good control. The sheen of cymbals sound natural with some air and sparkle but the treble for the most part is a bit distant.

Soundstage is one area that TFZ does really well and that's the case again with the Series 4. It has more width than depth but feels pretty expansive for something in its price range. Listening to "Mob Mentality" by Earthside presents the vocals up front and center with instruments reaching out to the edge of the headspace. There's good spacing and positioning of separate elements making music immersive with touches of excitement.



Comparisons

Kinera H3 ($99 USD)

The H3 is an interesting IEM with lots of potential but some drawbacks that make it ultimately mediocre. It has slightly less mid-bass and noticeably weaker sub-bass than the S4. It's just as comfortable if not even more so with its more rounded contours. The lower treble peak makes it quite sibilant and edgy to listen to. It's vocals are a little more recessed in comparison to the TFZ. While both are competent entry level IEMs The Series 4 has an edge in audio quality. The H3 does however have a more comprehensive accessory bundle including a very nice carry case and an excellent cable.

Toneking Nine Tail ($125 USD)

The 9T is more evenly spread across the frequency response making it less in your face but ultimately more relaxing and better for longer listening sessions as the Series 4 demands a little too much of your attention and can be fatiguing to listen to depending on the type of music. Bass levels on the 9T are a bit lower and it doesn't have the same reach in sub-bass nor is it as textured as the S4. Midrange has more body on the 9T and is more even without any noticeable peaks. Toneking's offering has better layering and separation and overall a more cohesive and organic sound as well as the custom tuning options provided by the various filter combinations.


From bottom left to top right: TFZ Series 4, Toneking 9 Tail, Kinera H3

Conclusion

TFZ remains one of my favorite entry level earphone brands. With each new release their sound becomes more refined but the real standout is their impeccable style and build quality. They produce some of the best looking IEMs under $100 without a doubt.

The Series 4 is a great sounding earphone, particularly if you're a fan of boosted upper midrange. The bass is exquisite, carrying texture and authority while retaining a linear level and the sub-bass is among the best in its class.

Build, aesthetics, detachable cable and good accessory bundle - what's not to like? Simply put, the Series 4 is a perfect example of why TFZ is well deserving of their fast rise in the IEM market and I'm already looking forward to see what they bring out next.

"Remember this: classics never make a comeback. They wait for that perfect moment to take the spotlight from overdone, tired trends."

Click to expand...

Tabatha Coffey

Introduction

In 2015 Meze Audio released a headphone called the 99 Classics which led to what they call their "breakthrough year". It was their first headphone created entirely in house whereas before they were buying components externally. The Classics took the audio enthusiast community by storm and suddenly we were seeing it everywhere and just about everyone seemed to own one.

What was it that made them so desirable? Well, there were a few reasons they have been so successful. First of all they look dope, especially if you're a fan of wooden earcups. They have a design aesthetic that's is immediately appealing with it's simplistic elegance. Not only that but they're built with longevity in mind, each individual part being easy and inexpensive to replace. They also sound good, which obviously matters as fickle audio aficionados aren't going to buy something purely on looks alone. Wrap all that up with a very affordable price tag and the rest is history. Today I'll be taking a much belated look at the walnut and gold variant of the Meze 99 Classics.

Disclaimer

This sample was provided for the purpose of an honest review. I am not affiliated with the company and all observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product.

The Meze 99 Classics cost $309 USD and are available from the Meze Audio website and Amazon.

Packaging and accessories

The 99 Classics come in a tasteful white box with a nice picture of one of the earcups on the front and back along with some of the various awards the headphones have collected since their release. There are some specifications and features listed on the sides and first impressions are positive.



Opening the box we find a very nice, contoured, clam-shell carry case with a smooth matte texture and finish. I actually like this more than the one that comes with the Neo although they're essentially the same albeit with a different finish.



Inside the case are the headphones and another small zippered pouch which contains two cables, an airline adapter, a 6.35mm adapter, user manual and warranty information.



Let's look at the two cables - one is ten feet long and ideal for desktop or living room use and the other four feet long with an inline control and microphone which is great for portable use, whether you're taking the Classics outdoors or just moving around the house. Both cables have a braided material cover from the plug to the Y-split where it changes to a rubberized style to reduce microphonics. They Y-split has a nice gold band with the company logo and this matches perfectly with the gold accents on the headphones. At the top are two 3.5mm plugs and both cables terminate in a straight, gold plated 3.5mm plug. These cables have just the right mix of strength and suppleness so they feel durable yet sit and roll up nicely.



Specifications

• Transducer size: 40mm
• Frequency response: 15Hz - 25KHz
• Sensitivity: 103dB at 1KHz, 1mW
• Impedance: 32 Ohm
• Rated input power: 30mW
• Maximum input power: 50mW
• Detachable Kevlar OFC cable
• Plug: 3.5mm gold plated
• Weight: 260 gr (9.2 ounces) without cables
• Ear-cups: walnut wood

Build, comfort and isolation

For many users appearance is an important factor when purchasing headphones. If you're one of those people then this could be the one for you. Enter the Meze 99 Classics with their simplistic yet sophisticated and elegant looks that are so easily distinguishable from all the rest.

In a lot of cases if a single piece or section breaks you're up the brown creek in a barbed wire canoe or in other words, you're out of luck and have to start looking for a new headphone. Well this isn't the case with Meze's 99 series headphones as they've been designed in a way so they can be fully disassembled. Thus if a component breaks the headphones are still fully serviceable. You can simply order the replacement part and get yourself back up and running in no time. Kudos to Meze for doing this rather than going with the usual "designed to fail" practice of so many products.

Starting with the spring steel headband which is very sturdy but also due to the minimalist design using two thin strips it's very lightweight. Attached to this via a cast zinc alloy cross structure is the wide and well padded self adjusting headband. The steel headband extends all the way down to where it's attached to the center of the earcups. The conical earcups are made from a single piece of wood - in this case walnut, which not only looks great but has wonderful, natural resonating properties. On the underside of each earcup is where the 3.5mm cable plugs connect, again highlighted with a subtle gold ring surrounding the holes to fit into the the overall style.



Onto the earpads now and I believe that these have been improved since the early versions of the Classics and now share the same ones that are used on the 99 Neo, being a bit thicker and more plush than the original ones. They're large enough to fit around my big ears and deep enough so that my ears don't come into contact with the driver covers.

These are very comfortable headphones and I can wear them for hours on end with no discomfort whatsoever. They are closed backs though so if the weather is hot your ears can become a little warm over time. The earpads are soft and plush, clamping force is just enough to hold the headphones steadily in place without putting the squeeze on your precious dome and the headband sits really nicely without any unnecessary pressure on the top of your head. This along with the light weight means top marks for comfort.

Isolation is about average for a closed back headphone so they do block a good amount of external noise and should be suitable for most situations whether at home or out and about.



Sound

Gear used for testing

Acoustic Research AR-M20

ATC HDA-DP20

Galaxy Note 5

JRiver/flac > Arcam irDAC-II

JRiver/flac > Topping DX7

The 99 Classics are very easy to drive. With an impedance of 32 Ohm and 103dB sensitivity they can be paired with just about any device. The Galaxy Note 5 had no problems driving these and for my preferred listening level 70-80% volume was plenty loud enough without any noticeable drawbacks. Obviously using a high quality DAC or amplifier is likely to give even better results. Because of their warm and bass heavy nature I prefer to use them with a neutral or bright source but in fact they still sound great regardless.

After having experience with the 99 Neo I had a fairly good idea what to expect from the Classics and I was not disappointed. Just like with the Neo the first thing that struck me was the bass - again there's a lot of it. Then there's the silky musicality and superb tonality. The 99 Classics have a fun approach to sound reproduction but that doesn't mean they can't also take on a serious tone. Listening to Beethoven's string quartets is just as satisfying as some hard hitting Infected Mushroom. There's an energy to the Classics that belies their technical ability.

As I mentioned above there is loads of bass present and while it's not the most controlled and sometimes even a bit loose it does sound very natural. Bass notes are fairly rounded, so they don't have a sharp or etched presentation but one that is more liquid and relaxed. There is a little bass bleeding into the midrange but it's not a detriment, it just adds to the overall warmth and the mids are not compromised as a result but rather enhanced by it. Sub-bass hits pretty hard but isn't as prominent as the mid-bass. There's enough of it to give you that sense of an earthquake without bringing the house down around you.

Midrange on the Classics is definitely one of the highlights. Despite the warm overtones the mids still manage to reveal a great amount of detail and maintain their excellent tonality. Vocals are forward sounding but not overly intimate and possess that same silky smoothness throughout. It's organic, natural, even and ridiculously easy to listen to. Just like with the Neo stringed instruments sound amazing from classical pieces to the crunch of electric guitars and everything in between.

Treble has a crisp and airy appeal that brings some much needed lightness to balance the Classics' warmth. There's good extension without ever being harsh or sibilant. It really helps to bring out some of the detail that might otherwise be lost in the richness of the bass and mids but somehow Meze found the perfect amount to keep the balance without making the headphones overtly V-shaped.

For a closed back headphone the Classics have a great soundstage that provides immersive depth and excellent layering throughout. Imaging is superb and instrument placement makes for a truly engaging experience. This also makes the 99 Classics a pretty good companion for gaming and watching movies too.



Comparisons

Meze 99 Neo ($249 USD)

The Neo comes very close when it comes to audio quality but the Classics seem to have something that gives them a slight edge. Is it worth shelling out the extra money for the Classics? When it comes to pure sound there's not much in it but the Classics do seem to have a little more refinement, most notably for my ears in their treble which has a little more sparkle and air and in the bass which is slightly tamer and tighter. In terms of appearance the two are obviously very similar but for me there's something about wooden earcups that makes them that much more desirable. Either way if you buy one or the other I'm sure you'll be more than pleased with the results.

*The next two comparisons are basically copied+pasted from my 99 Neo review (here) because the Neo and 99 Classics are so very alike in terms of sound quality.

Beyerdynamic DT990 Pro 250 Ohm ($179 USD)

The DT990 is well known for its strong V-shaped signature so it has similarly boosted bass levels but also has a lot more treble as well. It’s more resolving than the Classics and reveals more small details but can get a little strident or overenthusiastic on the high frequencies. The DT990’s bass notes are more defined and controlled bringing more punch where the Classics brings the thump. Both headphones are exceptionally comfortable and well worth their respective prices.

Ultrasone Performance 860 ($362 USD)

The 860 is much more linear across the board so offers a very different sound compared to the Classics. Bass is tighter and faster without any of the same boomy properties found on the Meze. Midrange in comparison is a lot thinner and less lush than the Classics'. The treble is where these two have the most in common, being neutral-ish on both. The 860 reveals more details in music but presents itself in a more accurate and less emotive manner compared to the “fun” tuning of the Classics.



Conclusion

So there you have it. It was almost a forgone conclusion after experiencing the 99 Neo that I would enjoy the 99 Classics but I didn't expect to enjoy them that much more. Yes, they sound very similar indeed. Yes, they look similar but there's just something about the 99 Classics that I love. It's an experience from the moment you pick them up until real life obligations or things like food and sleep force you to put them down.

They're attractive, lightweight, comfortable, portable and a totally enjoyable listen. They're fun but they also give you juicy detail, great extension on both ends, a full-bodied and rich midrange. They're easy to drive and sound good even straight from a smartphone. If you're looking for a pair of headphones and $309 is within your limits then the Meze 99 Classics come highly recommended from me.

Maybe Meze Audio knew they had something special on their hands when they named these Classics because they have essentially become that in their own right.

BGVP has been around for a while and as far as I know they used to be known as Sidy, or at least released several earphones/earbuds under that name. So, with that very informative little nugget of information out of the way let’s get into it. Today I’m looking at the BGVP BKYT MRY6, a single dynamic earphone utilizing 9mm titanium composite drivers and from hereon will be called the MRY6.

Disclaimer

This sample was provided for the purpose for the purpose of an honest review. I’m not affiliated with the company and all observations and opinions here are my own based on my experience with the product.

The MRY6 retails for $24.90 at the time of writing and is available from Penon Audio: https://penonaudio.com/BKYT-MRY6


Specifications

• Brand: BGVP
• Model: MRY6
• Driver: 9mm customized dynamic driver
• Sensitivity: 110dB / mW
• Impedance: 16Ω
• Frequency response range: 15-22000Hz
• Plug: 3.5mm stereo gold-plated
• Cable length: 1.1m

Packaging and accessories

Similar to the YSP04, the MRY6 comes in a barebones black box enclosed in a black sleeve with the company logo on the front. Opening the box reveals the earphones presented nicely in a black foam cutout with a velvety surface, similar to a jewelry or watch box.

Under the foam are the rest of the accessories which include:

• BGVP BKYT MRY6
• velvet carry pouch
• 3x pairs of red silicone eartips (S, M, L)
• 3x pairs of black silicone eartips (S, M, L)
• 3x pairs of white silicone eartips (S, M, L)
• shirt clip

Overall a pretty simple but satisfactory unboxing and it's great to see a good selection of different silicone tips provided.



Build, comfort and isolation

The MRY6's dynamic driver is a CCAV bio-composite diaphragm material. The earphones come in two colors - gray/silver and pink. I received the pink version but that's okay - I'm not afraid to get in touch with my feminine side! The housings of the MRY6 are crafted from CNC diamond arc-cut alloy and have a sort of bomb or tuna shaped body.



So you have this barrel shaped housing, which is very smooth and uniform which tapers down to a sort of tail or fin at the back. I don't know why they added this but I'm guessing it's to give you something to grip on and make insertion and removal easier. This it achieves very well but I do wish they had made it a little less pronounced as it adds extra length and makes the housings protrude out quite far from you ears. Finish and texture is very nice and belies the low cost of the earphones, similar to the company's YSP04. On the top of each side is a L or R denoting left and right sides (always appreciate this - thanks!)



On the front section where the nozzle is there's some printed text which has the model number plus a slogan: "Feel the Difference". Speaking of the nozzles, they're a little short but have a very good ridge added to the end which holds the eartips very securely. Inside the nozzle is some steel mesh to keep that nasty ear wax at bay.

There is a small port on the underside near the front but I did still notice some driver flex on the left side, however it's only when inserting the IEM so no biggie.



I noticed from pictures online that the silver version appears to have the same cable as the one found on the YSP06 which is an excellent cable indeed. However the pink version comes with a white cable that is quite different. The 32-core oxygen-free copper cable feels really strong but is a little stiff and bouncy. On the right side there's an inline, single-button control and microphone, the same one found on the YSP06. The plastic Y-split in this case matches the color of the housings, as does the chin slider. The cable terminates in a 45° plug. The plug is the same matching color as the Y-split. I must say that the strain reliefs from top to bottom are all very good so this should be a really durable cable. There is a bit of microphonics present but that can be alleviated by using a shirt clip, however I really would have liked to see the same cable from the YSP06 used here.



As is usually the case with these traditionally shaped IEMs they're very comfortable and can easily be worn for long periods. They're lightweight and the housings are very smooth so you hardly notice they're there at all, although it would have been even better if not for the extra length added by the "fin" as I mentioned earlier.

Isolation is about average for a standard IEM and will depend largely on having a good seal with your chosen eartips. The MRY6 is perfectly suited for most noisy environments and public transport.

Sound

Gear used for testing

• Acoustic Research AR-M20
• ATC HDA-DP20
• MusicBee/flac > Arcam irDAC-II

With an impedance of just 16 ohm the MRY6 is very easy to drive and can be paired with any device. No perceptible benefits were gained from extra amplification.

From my previous experience with BGVP I was expecting these to be outright bass cannons but that's not the case at all. The MRY6 is definitely capable of bringing some thump and rumble but it's fairly tame in comparison to the YSP06 and has none of the lower midrange bloat of that model either. The MRY6 comes across with much better (IMO) tonal balance. It has a warm sound with a boosted low end, slightly recessed midrange and boosted treble, giving it the common V-shaped signature.

Bass is solid and has some good weight with a slow attack but is a bit lacking in texture. Compared to the YSP06 the tonal balance of the bass is much more in line with the mids and highs but is rather unremarkable being neither particularly good or bad. Control is there as the bass never sounds loose nor overpowering. Mid-bass is boosted but with more emphasis put on the lower/sub-bass region. Despite the sub-bass boost the MRY6 isn't a real skull shaker. It's more on the mature side of things, never really standing out above the music even in songs like "Wetter" by Twista but finding a good level for itself. Pretty nice.

The midrange is a bit recessed but sounds more natural and less colored than the YSP06. There's some emphasis on the higher mids while the lower midrange is for the most part uncolored which sometimes results in things sounding a bit thin, however vocals do sound lifelike and the MRY6 recreates the piano in Helen Jane Long's "Embers" more convincingly than some others I've heard in this price range. Acoustic guitars also sound pretty good here too.

Treble has good extension, bringing a bit of energy to the high end without becoming strident, harsh or sibilant. Occasionally some treble notes have a slightly metallic edge but for the most part sound lifelike. There's some airiness to lighten things up and that extended frequency range up top ensures there's no early roll-off for treble notes.

The soundstage on the MRY6 is not overly wide or spacious but it does contain a sense of depth which keeps things from feeling too closed in. Sound doesn't really reach outside of the headspace but at the same time never feels too intimate or closed in.

Comparisons

Brainwavz Jive ($28 USD)

The Jive has been featured in so many of my comparisons I feel I could almost copy and paste over whatever I said in the last review! But there's a good reason for that and that is that the Jive simply excels at it's price range with an impeccable build quality, very well rounded accessory bundle and accomplished audio properties.

The Jive in comparison to the MRY6 has less mid-bass punch and doesn't extend as well in the sub-bass but while it has a similarly thin midrange it has better clarity and definition. I feel it also has a slight edge over the MRY6 in the treble which sounds more natural. Soundstage on both of these IEMs is fairly intimate but about what you would expect for less than $30 in most cases.



Conclusion

I feel like these guys are on the verge of making something that truly stands out. Their machining and build quality is very good and they've proven that they can make some original designs. Their IEMs seem to use good quality components and drivers and the MRY6 shows that they're not limited to bass heavy signatures.

The MRY6 is a solid offering for a budget IEM but doesn't really excel in any particular area, except perhaps the build and finish on the housings which is very good indeed. Having said that it does provide an entertaining listen and I've enjoyed my time with it. If you're shopping around for something in this price range the MRY6 is definitely worth considering, especially if you want something durable with the convenience of an added microphone.

If you have enthusiasm, you have a very dynamic, effective companion to travel with you on the road to Somewhere. (Loretta Young)

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Introduction

Dynamic Motion is a Korean based company that has been around since 1982 but were recently acquired by Lefrig Audio and as such have had somewhat of a hiatus during the transition, however will be forthcoming with new releases in the near future. They produce headphones and IEMs in various flavors but for today's item rather than utilize existing technologies they went out and created something unique. This patented solution is called BED™ (Bulls Eye Driver™). What they've done is made a dynamic driver with a hole in the center and taken a wide band tweeter balanced armature driver and inserted it through that hole effectively joining the two together. Now what this supposedly does is minimize the phasing issues that are inherent in traditional implementations and also reduces the space needed to house the drivers. The BED™ has been utilized in the company's DM200H high fidelity earphone which is what I'm looking at today. Interesting right? So how does it sound? Does this new technology work? Well, let's find out!



Disclaimer

This sample was sent for the purpose of an honest review. I'm not affiliated with the company and all observations and opinions are my own, based on my experience with the product.

Special thanks to Wonsok for arranging the sample and his timely responses. Can't wait to see what Dynamic Motion does in the future.

The DM200H is available at $229 directly from the Dynamic Motion website.

At this stage it seems to be only available directly from the Dynamic Motion web store. There are some listings on Amazon and eBay but they're grossly overpriced.

Packaging and accessories

The DM200H arrives in a black box with a foldable flap on the front that's held in place magnetically. On the outside is a cardboard sleeve with an image of the earphones on the front and on the back are some of the features as well as some information about the Bulls Eye Driver™. Opening it up you see on the inside of the cover is some more detailed information on the company's innovative BED technology.

In the box is a black foam inlay with the earphones and accessories seated in their own cutout sections. The presentation is gorgeous and looks really premium. Let's take a look at what you get:

• DM200H earphone
• 4x pairs silicone eartips (XS, S, M, L)
• 1x pair Comply foam tips
• Airline adapter
• Shirt clip

The carry case is pretty nice and big enough to comfortably fit the earphones inside but can still fit in a pocket.

For most people the bundle should cover everything they need but for me as happens so often all the eartips were far too small for my ear canals. I'm so used to this happening I usually don't make a fuss over it but when an earphone costs over a hundred dollars I expect it to come with a wide range of eartips in various sizes. It's nice to see the Comply foams included and for the majority of people they'd probably find something suitable in the box. Apart from that the overall unboxing experience is a very pleasant one.



Build, comfort and isolation

Specifications:

• TYPE: Bulls Eye hybrid · 11mm dynamic + Single Wide BA
• Frequency response: 5Hz ~ 40kHz
• Impedance: 24Ω
• Sensitivity 104dB±3dB@1kHz/1mW
• Weight: 16.7g (including cable) / cable length: 1.25m

The DM200H's black shells are constructed of a lightweight metal and have a 40 degree angled nozzle. The rear section where the cable is attached has a rubberized coating and there's a pinhole sized vent near the base of the nozzle. There's also another vent just in front of where the cable connects. On the back of the shell is the company logo.

The dual coated cable which has a winding lead-in for extra durability feels and looks great. It sits pretty well and is very smooth and resistant to tangling. Where it connects to the housings there's a decent strain relief and there's a similarly good relief on the L shaped, gold-plated plug.

The winding lead-in on the cable is said to reduce microphonics but unfortunately it's still very present. There is a shirt clip included in the bundle to alleviate the cable noise. I would have preferred if the earphones were designed to be worn over ear which is easy to do with this kind of housing design and when getting into a higher price range I also expect to see detachable cables. Fixed cables just seem to be a little outdated in the current market, with even many ultra budget Chinese IEMs offering MMCX or 2-pin detachable options and I believe going into the future those who don't utilize them are putting themselves at a disadvantage.

Comfort wise, these are pretty darn good and I can wear them for several hours without a problem. The angled nozzles make it easy to get a good seal (provided you're using the right tips) and they sit securely when you're moving around.

Isolation isn't great due to the dual vent system but it's not at all bad and I've used the DM200H in all types of noisy environments without it being a problem. While not as effective as a sealed housing it's obviously much better isolation than what you get with earbuds. One advantage of the vents is that you don't get any pressure build up inside your ears and that's always nice.

Overall I find the build quality to be really good and what you'd generally expect at the given price.



Sound

Gear used for testing:

• Acoustic Research AR-M20
• ATC HDA-DP20
• Samsung Galaxy Note 5
• MusicBee/flac > Arcam irDAC-II

This IEM is easy to drive and sounds great from all the sources I've tested from my smartphone to my desktop setup.

The DM200H is rather interesting with it's unique BED driver and I'm curious to see future iterations of the technology. The presentation is fairly balanced or slightly mid-centric so it's a great one for lovers of vocals and acoustics but there's a lot more to it than that. What really struck me about the DM200H is the instrument separation and overall clarity that comes through, along with the cohesion the BED brings to the table blending the dynamic and balanced armature to sound like a single entity. I think the company could be onto something great here with their unique hybrid system. It's a non fatiguing IEM to listen to and I've really enjoyed my time with it. It works well across a wide range of genres.

Take the graph below with a grain of salt as it's measured with my own poor attempt at compensation but it should give you a ball park idea of the frequency response.


Extension is great from top to bottom, as are transients but again, that magical separation, clarity and cohesion is what makes the DM200H well worth the asking price in terms of sound quality.

Bass is fast and tight with a short decay. Texture is good, very clean and controlled. At times the bass seems to lack presence but then all of a sudden it will surprise you with it's authority. It really draws on the properties of the track and accurately represents the recording. It's a testament to the BED technology's viability that bass can sound this good, even with a BA appendage speared through its center. Sub-bass is also satisfying. It won't shake your skull but you can definitely feel it when it's needed as it resonates nicely through the housings.

The midrange on the DM200H is stellar, being simultaneously very clear and smooth. Male and female vocals alike come across as lush and buttery, from the deep voice of Keb' Mo' on his "Live - The Hot Pink Blues Album" to the emotive crooning of Toni Braxton & Babyface in "Where Did We Go Wrong?". The tonality here is superb. It's natural and organic and in my opinion edges out a lot of the competition in its price range. Instrument separation is superb as is the definition.

Treble is masterfully reproduced and strikes the perfect balance between energy and comfort. It never gets harsh or strident yet has a strong enough presence to excite and invigorate the music. Extension is great with the shimmer and sheen of cymbals rolling off naturally with lifelike timbre.

Soundstage has good width and average depth. Listening to Henry Purcell-Dido And Aeneas (English Chamber Orchestra, Raymond Leppard 1985) shows the DM200H to have very good imaging and an ability to portray a large sense of space.



Comparisons

TFZ Balance 2M ($199 USD)
This competent single dynamic driver IEM sadly went largely unnoticed among the Head-Fi community. It brings a much weightier bass than the DM200H with an authoritative punch and rumbling sub-bass. The DM200H in comparison has a more forward midrange, greater separation and more energetic treble. The B2M has a fuller and warmer midrange but it sits a bit further behind the bass. Both IEMs have nice width and depth in the soundstage. If you prefer a meatier bass and more full-bodied sound then this is the one to go for.

LZ A4 ($195 USD)
The most obvious difference apart from the driver configuration is the A4's tuning options which adds a lot of versatility to this IEM. Having said that I think the DM200H is every bit as impressive when it comes to sonic ability. Using my preferred filters on the A4 (black rear + gunmetal nozzle) the DM200H is a bit more authoritative in the bass with the midrange being less recessed in comparison. Treble has the same excellent clarity on both - hardly surprising as both use balanced armatures for the highs. Build quality is very good on both but people are less likely to have comfort issues with the DM200H as it conforms to a more standard design. The A4 does have the advantage of being able to use it over ear or cable down. These two IEMs have a decent soundstage with the A4 taking a slight lead. Both are outstanding value and are capable of amazing sound.


From left to right: Dynamic Motion DM200H, TFZ Balance 2M, LZ A4

Conclusion

The DM200H was a bit of a surprise for me. I'm blown away by the sound these things bring to the table. Normally something that sounds this good will get more praise and hype in the enthusiast circles. Maybe it was only marketed in Korea and that's why so many people don't know about it, I'm not sure but hope to see more international exposure for DM products in the future.

Really the only negative I can find with these earphones is the fixed cable and for some that might not even register as an issue. The sound is dynamic, clear and lively. It continues to surprise with its nimbleness across all genres and music styles. It's all there really - sound, comfort and build quality. What more could you ask for? Bottom line is if you're shopping for something around the $200 mark and don't mind a fixed cable you should consider the DM200H because they really sounds amazing.

Located in Zhonghsan and founded in 2013, Toneking, previously known as "MusicMaker" has made quite a reputation for themselves by consistently producing quality earphones and earbuds, most notably the MrZ earbud and Shockwave III 5 driver hybrid earphone. In Auguest 2015 the company became officially known as Zhongshan Tiankui Electronic Technology Co Ltd. The company recently released a new in-ear monitor which contains a single dynamic driver and has interchangeable front and back filters for up to nine different combinations, each one with a slightly different sound signature. Hence the name "Toneking Nine Tail". The name is based on a mythical Chinese creature. According to Wikipedia -

Huli jing (狐狸精; literally: "fox spirit") or jiuweihu (九尾狐; literally: "nine-tailed fox") are Chinese mythological creatures who can be either good or bad spirits.

Today I'll be looking at the Toneking Nine Tail and I can tell you right now that this is one of the good spirits. Read on to find out why.

Disclaimer

This sample was provided for the purpose for the purpose of an honest review. I'm not affiliated with the company and all observations and opinions here are my own based on my experience with the product.

The Nine Tail is currently priced at $125 and is available from Penon Audio: https://penonaudio.com/TONEKING-9way?search=toneking

Specification

• Brand: TONEKING
• Model: 9way / Nine Tail
• Sensitivity: 100dB / mW
• Impedance 16Ω
• Headphones sound principle: Dynamic driver
• Frequency response range: 5-40000Hz
• Plug: 3.5mm Straight Type
• Cable length: 1.2m

Packaging and accessories

The Nine Tail arrived in a small, square black box with TONEKING embossed in silver on the front. Lifting off the lid you find a semi-hard carry case secured in a slab of black foam. Everything else is found inside the carry case. This is about as simple a packaging that you can get but it doesn't bother me in the least as it allows cost savings that can be channeled directly into the enclosed product. Sure it's nice to have all the fancy packaging sometimes but in this case you're getting an earphone with sonic abilities that punch well above its price point. But more on that later. Let's take a gander at what's inside:

• Toneking Nine Tail IEM
• 7N 4-wire single crystal copper silver-plated +4-wire single crystal copper MMCX cable
• Shirt clip
• 3x pairs black silicone eartip (S, M, L)
• 3x pairs white silicone eartips (S, M, L)
• 2x pairs foam eartips
• 3x rear IEM filters
• 3x pairs front IEM filters

As you can see it's a pretty basic bundle but for most people should be sufficient. Unfortunately all the eartips are too small for my extra large ear canals so I had to resort to some from my personal collection of silicones.



The included cable is actually really good quality, better than most in this price range. In my opinion it's every bit as good as the one provided with the Kinera H3 although it is significantly different. Starting with the silver colored MMCX connectors that have an L and R denoting sides - I do wish there was some color coding added because the letters are difficult to see and due to the unique nature of the IEM shells it's quite difficult to pick the left and right at a glance.

There's a silver Y-split but unfortunately no chin slider. Not that I use them anyway but I know some people get upset if there isn't one present. There's a clear, rubber strain relief on the lower end of the Y-split.

The cable terminates in a straight, silver, gold-plated 3.5 mm plug that has another clear strain relief. The wires are braided and although they feel quite firm and robust the cable sits really well, is quite pliable and is resistant to tangling. I like this!



Build, comfort and isolation
The first thing you'll likely notice is the unusual design and shape of the Nine Tail, which according to the description is an original patent design, inspired by dripping water. The spherical cavity is said to curb resonance sound loss and enhance fidelity.

So we have a 3-tiered all metal water drop shaped housing in silver color. They're fairly lightweight and have the Toneking logo lazer engraved on the end of the bulb. On the side of the bulb is where the various nozzles attach. They're very easy to insert and remove, the machine threading precise and are held securely with a rubber washer. At the other end are the rear "bolts" which are equally as simple to interchange. Just next to the rear filters are the female MMCX connectors.

Build quality is excellent and the IEMs feel very robust. The edges and joins are all clean and well assembled. Not much more to say on that really.

The Nine Tail is designed to be worn over-ear. It can be worn cable down but it's a little awkward and not really practical. The fit is quite unusual to say the least. They sit in my ears with the narrow end pointing upwards and the bulb at the bottom, much like a drop of water or teardrop. Inserting them takes a little getting used to but becomes second nature in a short amount of time. I find these really comfortable and can easily wear them for hours on end.

Isolation is pretty decent, assuming you have a good seal with your chosen ear-tips. I'd say it's a slightly above average because the bulb section of the IEM fills a good part of the ear's conch and helps to block outside noise. These are perfectly suitable for noisy environments enabling you to enjoy your music wherever you are.



Sound
Gear used for testing

Acoustic Research AR-M20

Benjie T6

Samsung Galaxy Note 5

Foobar2000 > Topping DX7

With an impedance of 16Ω and 100dB sensitivity the Nine Tail is easy to drive and works just as well from a smartphone as it does from a good DAP and doesn't require extra amplification.

The general sound is fairly balanced tonally, organic, natural and is quite forgiving to poorly mastered tracks but it still carries plenty of detail. It's hard to believe that a single dynamic driver at this price can have such a masterful coverage of the frequency range and the layering and separation is similar to what I would expect from a good hybrid IEM. Perhaps it has something to do with the unique, spherical shell design combined with a very capable driver but these have a technical ability that one expects from much more costly earphones. Not only that but because it utilizes a single dynamic driver the sound produced is very cohesive from top to bottom, from the brilliance of crisp upper treble to the low physical impact of the sub-bass.

FILTERS

Obvously people are going to be curious about the effects of the various tuning filters. Rather than create another wall of text trying to explain it I'll just show my measurements here. Do note that these measurements are only very roughly compensated so don't take them as totally accurate (especially the peak at 12k) but they should at the very least give you a ballpark impression of the tonal properties of various combinations. Also note that for most of my listening I stuck with the Silver rear + Silver or Blue fronts.



As you can see the effect of the rear filters is quite subtle, making slight changes not only to the bass but also from 1k upwards. Changing the front filter will have a more immediately noticeable reaction.

Bass has a nice impact to it and is well balanced regardless of filters used as the rear filters only have a slight effect on overall sound. Response in the bass is linear, maintaining steady levels from the lowest notes to the upper mid-bass. Speed is good and control is very tight. The Nine Tail had no problem at all keeping up in Katatonia's "The Night Subscriber" and kept right on top of things without any noticeable bleed into the lower mids. Sub-bass is fantastic as well, bringing the rumble that you can feel in your ears in a seemingly effortless fashion without being too aggressive or overpowering. There's fantastic texture and definition throughout making the bass one of my favorite aspects of this earphone.

Midrange oozes with clarity, deftness and just the right amount of warmth to make them musical but maintain a natural tone. There's great layering as well and instrument separation is handled with aplomb. Male vocals are rich, smooth and full-bodied while female voices ring with vibrancy and clarity. Despite the excellent detail retrieval the Nine Tail still manages to be forgiving and works well with just about any type of music. Listening to Ludovico Einaudi's "The Earth Prelude" is a wonderful example of how this IEM handles the resonance of string instruments and piano.

Treble lifts up out of the spectrum with such clarity that it once again makes me wonder at the nimbleness of this single dynamic driver. It's not aggressive but has plenty of energy and great extension. Timbre is on point and hi-hats and cymbals sound lifelike with a good sheen that never fatigues like in Keb' Mo's "France" with it's forward in the mix hi-hats and cymbals.

Soundstage is another strength of the Nine Tail. Having the vented rear filters probably helps in this aspect, giving a sense of air and space in music. Width is good, with sounds often being perceived out past your ears and depth is satisfying too. Aaron Copland's "An Outdoor Overture" is a great track for highlighting the scope of the Nine Tail's soundstage as it really transmits the sense of the large orchestra being spread out in a large space. It also shows well this IEM's imaging capability as you're easily able to pick the direction of the separate elements coming from among the group.



Comparisons

TFZ Exclusive King ($99 USD)

The TFZ is a very agile single driver IEM. It focuses a lot on the upper midrange which can become fatiguing if you're sensitive in that area. It has great clarity and a clear, crisp sound. Bass has a really authoritative punch, great speed and well defined edges. Midrange on the TFZ is very clean with little coloring and good detail. I personally find the sound to get fatiguing quite quickly but if you prefer a brighter signature the Exclusive King would be a good choice. The 9T in comparison is more relaxed, musical and emotive and of course has the option to customize the sound more to your preference.

Kinera H3 ($99 USD)

The H3 is a great looking IEM that has gained a lot of popularity since its release. It's probably safe to say that the H3 is more attractive aesthetically and its conventional style of wear will be less daunting than the unusual style of the 9T. When it comes to sound though the H3 lacks the body and fullness of the 9T. As a result it comes across as a bit thin sounding and at time can be harsh in the upper midrange. The H3 lacks the authority found in the 9T's bass, the 9T having more texture and body and is more musical and organic.


Conclusion

I'm somewhat in awe of this IEM. Maybe it's just tuned very much toward my personal preference (as is the DUNU-DK3001) but I really think that there's something special about the sound that the Nine Tail puts out.

It's very comfortable. It's customizable. It's well built. It sounds incredible. I'm just a little concerned that some people might be deterred by the unique design and end up missing out on a truly stellar sounding product. This is probably the best IEM I've heard under $150. The sound does seem to border on mythological as the name would suggest. This is one of those mysterious and elusive products that hits above its price point, with an ability to take on many different forms and dwells on the fringes of the spirit world. Am I losing you here? Let me bring it back to more direct and earthly terms: The Toneking Nine Tail is just awesome.