Nicehck DB2 Review​

In this review, I want to share my experiences listening to and enjoying the NiceHCK DB2 hybrid (1 DD + 1 BA) over the past few weeks. As you can see from the picture above the DB2 is a gorgeous IEM, but is it something that is right for you.

I believe we are in the golden age for IEM’s especially for those that want to build a nice collection at very little cost. I also believe if you are building a collection you should own a variety of sound signatures especially if you like appreciated different genres of music and want to experience your music to the fullest extent.

So how would the Nicehck DB2 fit into your collection, lets find out in this review.

I would like to thank Hifigo for providing the DB2 for this review. If you are interested in purchasing the DB2 here is a non-affiliated link

Retail Box​

The DB2 comes in a nice quality box which gives you a hint that this isn’t the typical $24 IEM, a lot of thought was put into making the experience of opening the DB2 a rewarding experience:



Unboxing the NiceHCK DB2 reveals the gorgeous shell design and a nice waifu card:


As you open the packaging, you are greeted with a thoughtfully assembled set of accessories designed to enhance your listening experience.



Here’s what you can expect to find inside the box of the NiceHCK DB2:

The NiceHCK DB2 IEMs:​

Central to the package, the DB2 earphones themselves are meticulously crafted, showcasing the chosen color variant - be it the elegant Blue, the vibrant Purple, or the classic Black. Each earpiece is constructed from a robust combination of PC and Aluminum Alloy, ensuring durability without compromising on style.

I made 2 short videos showcasing the lovely clear shell from different angles:




One minor complaint would be that the 2-pin are not recessed, I prefer a recessed 2-pin so that there is no chance that the pins might be accidentally bent as has happened to be me in the past.

Detachable 0.78 2pin Cable:​

The included cable is good for the price, offering a good ‘shape’ for wrapping the cable around your ears for maximum comfort.

I didn’t get the cable with the microphone, but I believe for a few extra dollars you can purchase a version of the cable with an integrated microphone which depending on your use-case might be a good option.

Selection of Ear Tips:​

I did like the selection of ear tips provided, though ultimately I used my own and did a bit of tip rolling to tweak the sound to my preference. I will get into what you can expect from the different ear tips in the measurement section below.

Carrying Case:​

The DB2 comes with a nice protective carrying case again this is rare at this price point.

Size Comparison:​

I thought to give a better feel for the size to expect with the DB2, I would take a few comparison photos with some of my other IEM’s that you might already be familiar with in your collection.

So here is the size compared to the Truthear Zero Red (which is possible at the upper end of the scale for size of IEM shell) and the Tanchjim One (which is a small almost a ‘bullet sized’ IEM):





Note: This comparison is just showing how the DB2 is sort of at the ‘goldie locks’ size, not too big and not too small and therefore should suit the majority of ears. The shape of the DB2 is not opinionated so again should accommodate the majority of ears.

Comfort​

As you can hopefully see from the comparison photos above the nicehck-db2 size and shape make it a very comfortable, I like the angle of the nozzle allowing the IEM to sit firmly in my ears without moving when out walking. I found myself wearing it for hours without problems.

Sound quality​

Overall the sound signature of the DB2 has a warm / bass forward sound signature, I found it really came into its own with specific genres of music like Heavy Metal and some EDM where that extra bass can really enhance the listening experience. If you are looking for a neutral IEM this is not the one for you, this is much more in the fun sounding but never fatiguing category.

But let’s get into the detail and give you a feeling of what you can expect from the DB2:

Bass​

Because it’s a hybrid IEM the bass especially benefits from have a dedicated dynamic driver.

While the sub-bass is good, It was really with mid-bass tracks, it makes them deep and satisfying. So tracks like Billie Ellish Xanny sounded even richer / fully than normal and for a bit of retro music, I listened to some class metal from the 70’s from Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath, the enhanced bass really brought those tracks to life.

Midrange​

Nicehck have done some clever tuning with the midrange, while its slightly recessed (typical of a V-Shaped sound signature) Vocal especially female vocals really popped out of the mix. So some classic Joni Mitchell tracks like ‘Both Sides Now’ sounded great, the midrange boost for vocals coupled with the lower treble recession means you can really enjoy female vocal tracks that you might have found too sibilant previously.

Treble​

Nicehck have played it fairly safe with the treble response on the DB2, I feel they could have pushed the treble more but what we get on the DB2 (without EQ) is satisfying treble which is never sibilant or fatiguing, so you can be listening to the DB2 for hours.

Soundstage and Imaging​

I found both the soundstage and imaging to be good but not great, the extra mid-bass probably takes away a little from the soundstage so test tracks like Tool’s Chocolate Chip Trip didn’t quiet have the swirling soundstage I am used too. But I did a bit of ear tip rolling and found with some Foam tips I could restore that soundstage significantly but this will be dependent on your own ear canal and tip preferences.

Specs and Measurements​

In order to provide a comprehensive understanding of the NiceHCK DB2 In-ear Monitors, it’s crucial to delve into both its specifications and the measurements obtained from using my 711 ‘clone’ coupler, particularly with different ear tips. This section is divided accordingly to present a detailed view.

Specifications:​

The specifications of the NiceHCK DB2 are a testament to its design and potential performance. These technical
details are crucial in understanding the baseline from which the IEM operates:

Measurements:​

These measurement were taken with my 711 ‘clone’ coupler and are available on my measurement database here

Frequency Response​

Here is the Left and Right frequency response compared to the Harman target.

You can see that extra mid-bass boost giving the DB2 that warm rich bass. I did many attempts to make sure I had the correct measurements but that difference in treble around 3K between the left and right was always present, but I guess this is normal with unit variants.

Alternative Ear-tips​

I tried both set of stock tips but also a bunch of different types of ear tips and as you can see you can significant alter the treble response using different ear tips

Some comparisons​

Here are some comparisons with other IEM’s

Distortion​

Very little distortion so if you plan to use EQ with this IEM it will take it very well:

Rating​

I gave the Nicehck DB2 a pragmatic rating of 4 - it is a gorgeous looking IEM with a great set of accessories at a great price but its bass heavy sound signature might put some people off.

Conclusion​

The Nicehck DB2 is a great IEM to add to your collection, especially if you already have the typical Harman / Neutral sounding IEM’s and want something a little different. For its price, the sound signature that the DB2 provides, is a very nice alternative to those more typically sound signatures and listening to music is all about finding ways to appreciate your music in different ways.

A ‘Futurefi’ IEM at a bargain price​

This is one of the most pragmatic devices I have bought in the past few years. It is effectively a 2:1 IEM for less than $30, by ‘default’ the Tanchjim One DSP has an excellent sound signature which for the price I would not complain about but then once you open up the App (Android only I am afraid) you have a series of very well specified alternative EQ based 'profiles', effectively giving you lots of variety without needing to get fully into the 'numbers' within the PEQ filters provided.

And then if you feel like you don’t need DSP with the Tanchjim One (which to be honest you don’t as it has an nice warm tuning by default), you can even use the Tanchjim One Cable with other IEM’s to change their sound signatures to your liking using the ‘magic’ powers of PEQ.

Note: I purchased the Tanchjim One DSP from Linsoul for the purposes of this review. If you wish to do the same here is a non-affliated (link)

So is the Tanchjim One DSP the IEM for you, read on to find out …

What’s in the box​

Upon unboxing, the Tanchjim One DSP Edition reveals an array of thoughtfully selected accessories.

These include a plush “velvet” bag, the ‘DSP’ cable and two sets of finely crafted tips encompassing a total of seven pairs. The inclusion of the manual and warranty rounds off the essentials, neatly presented.

Design and Build Quality​

The design and build quality of the Tanchjim One Shell is good for this price range but while the cable has amazing technology inside it is not the best quality cable, i imagine Tanchjim will improve the quality and feel of the cable but use and extend upon the technology within the usb-c connector.



The minimalist design ethos is evident in the metal faceplates, clearly displaying the brand name, while the transparent plastic offers a glimpse into the heart of the device – the 10mm Dynamic Driver.

Remarkably, all of this is offered at a price point under $30 USD, highlighting Tanchjim’s commitment to affordability without compromising on quality. Compared to the Tanchjim Zero, the One boasts an increased percentage of metal in the shell compared to earlier models, detachable cables, and a comfortable fit.

Here is a quick video to show how nice the IEM and where you can see the angle of the nozzle:

Comfort and Fit​

Comfort and fit have been significantly improved in the Tanchjim One DSP Edition. Gone are the sharp edges of the Zero, replaced with a more rounded and ear-friendly design. This change ensures a comfortable fit, allowing for prolonged listening sessions without discomfort. I liked the slight angled nozzle and the flexibility of wearing the cable either hanging down or wrapped around your ear give the One those options that allow people to find the best fit and comfort for them.

If you do decide to use the cable around your ears (IEM style) make sure to swap the Left / Right IEM’s as you are effectively wearing them ‘upside down’ - see the picture below:

Sound Quality​

In terms of initial sound impressions, the Tanchjim One DSP Edition offers a surprising auditory journey especially for those unused to EQ and DSP. The DSP cable introduces a new dimension to the sound, with more pronounced sub-bass and a three-dimensional soundstage that adds depth to the audio experience.

The convenience of the DSP, with its compact design and built-in DAC, offers a plug-and-play experience without the need for additional equipment.

Note: For these sound impressions below - I used the ‘Popular’ DSP present - which aligns the One close to the Harman target.

Bass​

Since this is close to the harman target there is a good deep bass and sub-bass with the upper-bass recessed. Subjectively I did feel the sub-bass wasn’t as clean as IEM’s like the Truthear Zero Red but that is more to do with the number of Dynamic drivers within the Truthear Zero Red, but compared to similar priced IEM’s this
has a bass performance that is more than acceptable.

Mids​

The Mid were excellent especially when using this ‘popular’ EQ filter really allowing the vocals to shine and providing excellent tonality with everything I played.

Treble​

While the treble was good with this EQ setting I did think this where the limitation of the 5 available PEQ filters is found a bit wanting (that the EQ presets like ‘Popular’ are made from), I would have like maybe 10 PEQ filters to tweak the treble a little more. I imagine in the next few years we will get similar usb-c ‘DSP cables’ but with a large number of filters.

Soundstage and Imaging​

With the ‘Popular’ present the intimate soundstage is complemented by excellent imaging, tight and controlled bass, a clean and crispy mid-range, and smooth, airy treble. This performance, especially considering the price point, is nothing short of remarkable.

Tanchjim Mobile App and EQ​

The real ‘futurefi’ aspect of this IEM is how well the implementation of the Tanchjim works when saving the EQ settings to the cable.

For those wondering why bother can’t you just EQ on your Smartphone, PC or Mac. There are many advantages when saving a ’tuning’ to an IEM cable:

1. Single EQ across devices
   Once saved to the device, that profile is then available across all your devices, so while I initially tuned the Tanchjim One DSP on my Android Smartphone, I actually used it extensively accross all my devices including an iPhone 15 Pro Max (due to Apples switch over to usb-c this works great) and my Macbook Pro.
2. Tuning alternative IEM’s with the cable
   Another key advantage is you can actually use the cable on other IEM’s, simpling changing the profile to your preference
3. Providing a “systemwide” EQ on IOS
   If you use various music apps on IOS (as I do), you will know there is no systemwide EQ. While some music apps have some EQ while others do not have any, so listening to a cable with ‘built-in’ is a huge advantage.

Android​

To give people a feel for the capabilities of the Mobile App I took a few screenshot to show how easy it is change EQ profiles.

So first the App recognizes the One is connected:



The clicking on the IEM in the menu you get the list of profiles:



I mainly used ‘Popular’ but as you will see in the measurements section all these profiles provide excellent and interesting alternative tunings.

Once a EQ profile is picked you can then click the ‘Custom Sound’ option at the end of the list of Profiles and then further tweak the profile:



You change the Gain on the upper set of 5 sliders and the Q values on the bottom set of sliders.

I would love to see this screen be extended with 10 or more ‘filters’ but the 5 available are an excellent start.

Comparison with other PEQ based Apps​

In the last few months I have been using the PEQ features of many audio products, so here are a few comparisons:

• Qudelik 5K
  If you are a total PEQ ’nerd’ get a Qudelik 5K as their Mobile App (both Android and IOS) has fantastic control over the PEQ and many other features to play with but IMO it is too complicated for most users and while I still use my 5K I feel other devices have overtaken it in audio quality.
• FiiO Control
  FiiO application is rapidly improving (both on IOS and Android) but still has many UI quirks and does not offer the simplicity of the presets that Tanchjim offer.
• Moondrop Free DSP
  While the FreeDSP cable definitely a set up over the Tanchjim usb-c cable, there application is at the time of writing this review a complete mess with confusing UI, odd limitations (e.g. can’t set PEQ for sub-bass or Q values can only be whole numbers). I do like their cable but at the moment it is incredible complicated to get the right settings for your own IEM, though Moondrop does offer some presets what you get with those presets is not obviously from their Application.
• Soundcore
  Even though it’s only for Soundcore Headphones and IEM’s their Mobile app does at least try to expose enough EQ power (not PEQ though) to compensate for their default ‘bass heavy’ tuning while still offering lots of presents for their headphones and TWS and its one of the best mobile Apps for TWS devices.

Overall, I feel the Tanchjim application is the right balance for most people of simplicity and power, here are my comparisons with other EQ / PEQ applications that ‘save’ their PEQ to their associated device

IOS and MacOS​

Due to some current limitations with iOS, you cannot ‘save’ settings to usb-c devices, so I therefore mainly used the Android version of the Tanchjim Mobile app to switch sound profiles and experiment with the 5-band PEQ offered with the One DSP. I believe this limitation will be removed soon as it is a legacy limitation from the time when Apple ‘controlled’ the ’lightning’ cable connectors.

On a Mac this is how the DAC is exposed when the usb-c cable is connected:Though there is no application currently available to configure the EQ filters.

Specifications and Measurements​

Specifications​

The important specifications:

Measurements​

Npte: For those interested I have published these measurements to the PragmaticAudio Squig [website] (https://pragmaticaudio.squig.link/)

Frequency Response:​

There is a slight channel imbalance of 1db but this affects the bass region so you will not hear an imbalance.

DSP ‘Presets’ Measured:​

I hope this graphs shows the power of the One DSP, each “preset” offers a great alternative frequency response. IMO, this makes the Tanchjim One DSP an amazing first IEM for someone getting into the hobby.



This is the most interesting set of measurements for the Tanchjim One DSP:

1. Stock Tuning ( using a non-DSP enabled cable)
   This provides a nice ‘warm’ sound for those who like a ‘fuller’ bass, so if that is your preference I suggest swapping the cable with a different IEM and possible tune that other IEM with DSP to your preference
2. Default This is the default DSP settings without selecting a given profile. Its mostly pretty balanced with a slightly fuller midrange.
3. Nature
   This tuning is the most dramatic, effectively reducing the bass to allow the midrange and treble to shine.
4. Balanced
   This as the name implies is a balanced sound - less bass and less treble more midrange focused for a balanced sound
5. Popular
   This is the one I mainly used it has that ‘harman target’ curve (as you will see below).
6. Musical
   This one is probably the nearest to my own personal preference as its like the Popular one but with a little less bass and treble. Basically 1/2 way between the Popular (i.e. Harman) and the Balanced ( i.e. Flat ) sound.

Distortion Measurements:​

With the DSP is enabled the 2nd harmonic is quiet high but less than the 1% audible range for ’even’ harmonics. The 3rd harmonic does creep up in the bass region when using the Popular (i.e. Harman ‘bass’) profile. But again the 3rd harmonic is below the 0.1% audibility range of ‘odd’ harmonics.

The 3rd harmonic while still in-audible distortions is no doubt a side effect of using single Dynamic Driver. Therefore, if Tanchjim used the same technology with more say a double DD (like the Truthear Zero Red) or a DD+BA hybrid the amount of work the single DD has to do would be limited and the distortion levels would go down. But since its below audible thresholds it is not really a concern especially at this price point.

Comparison to the Harman Target:​

As you can see from this graph the “balanced” profile is an excellent match for the Harman IE target with a slight roll off in the sub-bass frequencies:

Note: I would like to see a 10 band PEQ in the next generation of these devices as I feel that would help with tweaks in the treble frequency range.

Rating​

I gave One DSP as very pragmatic rating of 4.5 stars as I feel it is a glimpse of the future. I feel Tanchjim will ultimately release more expensive models with a better quality cable, more or upgraded drivers and an upgraded DSP with a 10 band PEQ but for less than $30 the One DSP is a glimpse of the future with an excellent implemented Mobile App.

Conclusion​

The Tanchjim One DSP is a fantastic IEM for its price, it has a great ‘default’ tuning but with the additional ‘super powers’ of DSP ‘profiles’ within the Tanchjim Android app you get everything you need to enjoy your music no matter what your audio ‘preferences’. It is a high recommended IEM for those who like to investigate different sound profiles.

Blafili B3 - An impressive device from an ambitious new audio startup​

Introduction​

Blafili have an appealing new product with their initial ‘audiophile’ offering the B3. Specifically it is a 2 in 1 Bluetooth and USB DAC but what I found interesting (and the main reason for this review) is the appeal of the XLR
outputs at the price point of $109.

Beyond the XLR outputs, I was also impressed with it’s bluetooth implementation, so read on to find out if it’s a device you should add to your audio stack.

Packaging and Unboxing:​

The BlaFili B3 arrives in a well-designed package that ensures the device’s safety during transit. My box seemed to have a hard time but everything was secure inside the box:

The unboxing experience is straightforward yet satisfying, revealing the device nestled securely amidst protective materials and a very generous set of connectors cables. While a pair of XLR cables are extra (but you can order them from blafili websitex). Finally, also included was a bluetooth aerial and some little ‘feet’ to stick on the bottom of the Box.

Build Quality​

Here is a little video showing the build quality you can expect from the B3:



Overall, I was impressed with the B3 box, though the front screen is a bit of a fingerprint magnet.

The build is solid with a clean finish and I like the design ’language’ compared to the similar devices from likes of SMSL or Topping.



When switched on the B3’s OLED screen is nice and bright, though in direct light it can be a bit hard to read.



Internally, the B3 also has a nice clean design :

Front​

BlaFili obviously favour a minimalist design so on the front you get an OLED display and a single button to toggle some options, realying instead of sensible defaults e.g. bluetooth streaming takes priority over USB and all outputs are enabeld by default.

Once you start playing audio the OLED display information changes to show you the codec and format of the audio playing. While its great that it shows the codec (as this is often a mystery with bluetooth devices) it would be
even better if it showed the bitrate selected on the OLED screen.

Here is what you can expect from the OLED screen:
When LDAC is playing:



Here is when the B3 is behaving as an USB DAC:




It correctly shows a 48khz FLAC file playing via USB:



And finally when I use my iPhone (or Mac) It correctly shows AAC as the codec:



The little animation in the bottom right is a nice touch, though it is a pity it is not a proper spectrum analyser.

Back​

At the back, the B3 has its various ports and connections are well-placed, clearly marked and constructed with quality materials, ensuring durability and reliable connectivity.



The USB connection doubles as the power source and a simple 5v power supply can power it. So, if you are not interested in also using the B3 as a USB DAC a typical USB phone charger is perfect to power on the B3.

The B3 has 2 inputs (Bluetooth and USB) on the righthand side and all the other connections on the back are outputs (all of which are active by default).

Let’s get into the details:

Features​

Bluetooth​

The B3 supports a wide range of Bluetooth audio codecs including LDAC, aptX HD, aptX LL, aptX, SBC, and AAC. This wide codec support ensures compatibility with various devices and optimizes wireless audio performance.

I specifically found both AAC from my iPhone (and Macbook) and LDAC from my Xaoimi Android Phone sounded excellent, in my opinion the bluetooth options is the key strength of the B3.

Note: there are some extra tricks to the bluetooth interface that Blafili offer. Check out this youtube video for details - effectively Blafili have exposed the configurability of the Qualcomm tools availalbe for their device, giving lots of technical options, like change the bluetooth device name or pin but other configuration options:

Side Note: Experimenting with Bluetooth Codecs​

Given the wealth of codecs offered by the B3 I thought I would experiment a little with different codecs and for those curious I thought I would share some screenhots of what is available.

With Android by default you should get the best codec which in a modern Android DAP or Phone should be LDAC but it can still be interesting to experiment with different codecs.



So if you are interested you need to enable “Developer options” on Android - check with your model of Android device but typically this is clicking 3 times on the “Build version” in the “About Android” screen. Once the Developer options are enabled, there are various Bluetooth options available:



Each of these menu options has various options available e.g. the selection of codec on my Xiaomi phone:



Finally it can be worth setting bluetooth to use the maximum availalbe settings over bluetooth with this menu option:

USB Input​

The USB input allows for direct digital connection from computers or other USB audio sources, providing an alternative to Bluetooth streaming.

So with USB the options a little bit limited with a max of 16/48- so you effectively get CD quality from the USB ‘DAC’ input but no ‘highres’ format like 96Khz. Given that the internal ES9018K2M DAC can handle up to 384kHz PCM data you only really get to utilise its full power via the LDAC Bluetooth input.

But for me CD quality is perfectly fine over USB but I am just mentioning it here for completeness.

So on MacOS this is what you see for the audio interface of the B3:

Balanced outputs​

The inclusion of balanced outputs is in my opinion the key feature that sets the B3 apart from similiar bluetooth DACs in this price range, offering enhanced audio quality with less potential cable interference for users with compatible equipment.

RCA​

The RCA outputs provide versatility in connectivity, ensuring the B3 can integrate seamlessly into a wide range of audio setups. I tested feeding the RCA outputs into my FiiO K7 headphone Amplifier and it worked perfectly.

Optical and COAX​

I personally would rather have had Optical and COAX inputs into the onboard DAC, but I imagine it is much more flexible
that the B3 has optical and COAX outputs feeding the high quality LDAC bluetooth audio stream’s digitially into an external DAC.

I briefly tested the optical outputs into both a SMSL DAC with my Schiit Midgard and a FiiO K7 headphone amplifier I found it audible indistinguishable from going directly from the B3 via XLR into the Schiit or the FiiO, So the internal ES9018K2M DAC is well implemented. But if you already have a high quality DAC the B3 can be a great way to enhanced your stack with high quality bluetooth input.

Listening impressions​

The BlaFili B3 delivers a sound quality that is impressive for its price class. The sound is clean, detailed, and well-balanced across different genres of music. I found both the USB and the bluetooth inputs equally good though I was mainly using the bluetooth inputs due to the B3 impressive bluetooth support.

I also spent a few evenings A/B testing the sound quality comparing the output from the B3 with a SMSL SU-1 DAC using a Schiit Midgard switching between the Balanced and RCA inputs and once level matched I could not tell the difference between the inputs, the Midgard is an excellent device for this as it as the same volume from its XLR and RCA inputs.

I also use the B3 to feed my Fosi Audio ZA3 XLR inputs and again the sound impressed and for those who worry about bluetooth ‘interference’ I heard no annoying bluetooth artifacts from my speakers, overall for a small desktop setup the B3 paired with the ZA3 and some small bookshelf speakers would make a nice simple but good quality setup.

This is one of the first devices where I am happy to use bluetooth without feeling like I am compromising too much on sound quality due to the inclusion of the high-quality codecs like LDAC, AAC and aptX HD.

Rating​

I have rated the Blafili B3 with a pragmatic rating of 4 as it’s rare to get XLR outputs paired with high quality bluetooth codecs from a DAC at this price point, though it’s a pity the USB DAC doesn’t fully utilise the ES9018K2M DAC.

Conclusion​

The BlaFili B3 stands as a strong contender in its price category, offering a combination of solid build quality, versatile features with an excellent bluetooth, and an overall impressive audio performance. The inclusion of the XLR outputs to be set this device apart and is a sign of the ambition of Blafili to aim at the mid-fi audiophile market typically dominated by Topping and SMSL with a very pragmatically priced product.

The Nuo is Ziigaat’s entry level IEM and entries the market in the super competitive sub $30 price range (currently $24 ).



So, if you are interested in an excellently tuned IEM, the Nuo may well be one to add to your collection.

Read on to find out why …

What is in the box​

The Nuo comes in a fairly simple box, typical of this end of the IEM market.



I do like the way the Nuo’s are presented to you once you open the box.



It is a little hard to get them out but once you do, you can then easily access the cable and the accessories.

Overall it is a well-designed package. The accessories are a bit limited with just the usual L/M/S sized ear tips. The cable is reasonable quality for this price and finally a user guide is provided.

Design and Build Quality​

The Nuo IEM shell itself boasts a sleek, minimalist design, appealing to those who appreciate subtlety and elegance in their audio gear. The build quality is impressive for its price bracket, featuring a durable body that feels robust yet lightweight. The attention to detail in the finish and the choice of materials raises it above similar priced IEM’s like the Salnotes Zero 2. a pleasant surprise in this cost-effective segment.




One minor thing, was it is a pity that the Nuo doesn’t have a recessed 2-pin connection, as I do worry that eventually the 2-pin connector will bend and ultimately break.

Here is a short video:

Comfort and Fit​

I found Ziigaat Nuo comfortable (though it’s ‘sister’ the Ziigaat Cinno’s was more comfortable). I think it has much better shape than similarly priced competitors like the Moondrop Chu 2 (too small) or the Salnotes Zero 2 (too blocky) or even the Tanchjim One (too small). I spend 4-5 hours one day without any discomfort, with an excellent seal and almost forgetting I was wearing them.

That said I did find the angle of the nozzle wasn’t quite right for me, this is where I think the Ziigaat Cinno has the more comfortable fit, but this especially will be very subjective and it was only a concern when trying the longer fitting Ear tips (like a triple flange).

My advise is to try allot of IEM’s and once you discovery the shape and nozzle angle that suits you best, use a video like the one I provided above to find the best IEM for comfort and fit and then look into the sound signature.

I found the weight and balance to be excellent, again at an almost ‘goldilocks’ level where it was not too light and definitely not too heavy but just about right for long sessions.

The cable was good especially at this price point, it was mostly tangle free and kept its shape well so did not get in the way.

Sound Quality​

The sound quality of the Ziigaat Nuo is remarkably neutral, nicely following the ‘Harman Target’ target. The only concern I had was with the upper treble but lets get into the details.

Bass​

The bass is well-balanced, providing enough punch and depth to satisfy bass enthusiasts without overpowering the mids and treble. It’s tight and controlled, offering a natural and accurate representation of low frequencies. I did find a sub-bass roll off when listening to a frequency sweep, so a deep subwoofer rumble when watching movies might not always happen but for listening to music I never found the bass wanting. With Massive Attack’s Angel the bass kicked in after a second or 2 and was appropraite balanced for the whole track, no ‘boomy’ bass but also nothing missing from the bass.

Mids​

Midrange performance is a standout feature, with vocals and instruments rendered with clarity and detail. The neutrality in the mids ensures a true-to-life representation, making it ideal for a wide range of music genres. I loved the tonality on all of my usual midrange tracks for example on “Baby plays around” by Elvis Costello and Anne Sofie van Otter, Anne’s voice was just stunning.

Treble​

Treble frequencies are mostly handled with care, delivering crisp and clear highs without any sibilance or harshness. But I did feel occasionally there was slightly too much upper treble though some people will simply call this its ’technicalities’ I would have thought its slightly more than appropriate at least in my reference songs. But if you want to hear treble detail without sibiliance this makes a great choice at this price point. My own preference would be for slightly ‘brightness’, so I used a Foam eartip ultimately which as you will see in the Measurement section does lower that treble region slightly.

Soundstage and Imaging​

The soundstage is surprisingly expansive for an IEM in this category, providing a good sense of space and positioning. Imaging is good for this price point, with a clear distinction of instruments and vocals, allowing for an immersive sound experience.

Specifications and Measurements​

Specifications​

The important specifications:

Measurements​

Background to these measurements​

So new in this review I decided to standardise on a set of measurements which I will use in all future reviews. The idea is to do measure the frequency response of the standard tips (typically the Medium size) but then also measure a typical selection of ear tips which can easily be used to adjust the sound signature. So, I have choosen the following extra measurement options, a narrow bore ear tip, a wide bore, a ’tall’ shaped ear tip, a normal foam tip, a large ‘comfly’ foam tip, a double flange and finally a triple flange.



Because a double and triple flange are typically used by people who have larger than average ear canals so I have adapted these eartips slightly to allow a ‘deeper’ fit my IEC711 ‘clone’ coupler, basically try to simulate a longer ear canal in ‘standard’ coupler. I believe this technique will allow people to select both the best IEM for a specific tonality for them (does not always have to be ‘harman’) and then fine tune it with some ’ear tip rolling’ and for those who find it hard to get good seal this technique might allow them to experiment with alternative eartips and have a reasonable understand of how those alternative eartips alter the frequency response of their ideal IEM.

All measurements will go up on the Pragmatic Audio Squiq.link

So now onto the measurements…

L/F Balance and Distortion​

Good Left/Right balance and tonality is very close to Harman:

Very low distortion

Various Ear tip Frequency Responses​

Showing all the ear tip variatons shows you can alter the treble regions significantly in the 4kHz to 8Khz region depending on the tip:



Given how close this is to Harman depending on if you want a more Air

Comparison with IEM’s​

Some comparisions (lots more on my squiq website ):



Overall you can see the Nuo is an excellent Harman Neutral IEM.

Rating​

The Nuo gets a pragmatic score of 4 stars, it is one of the best IEM’s in this price range (if not the best), it is comfortable, measures well and most importantly sounds great.

Conclusion​

Note: I would like to thank Lillian @ Linsoul for providing the Ziigaat Nuo - if you are interested in purchasing it here is a non-affiliated link to their store: here

The Ziigaat Nuo IEM is a stellar offering in the budget IEM market, especially for audiophiles seeking a neutral sound signature. It’s adherence to the Neutral ‘Harman Target’ frequency response, combined with a single dynamic driver design, results in an authentic and balanced audio experience. The build quality, comfort, and sound performance make it an excellent choice for both casual listeners and audio enthusiasts.

The Ziigaat Nuo stands out as a high-value proposition, offering a premium listening experience at an accessible price point.

Ziigaat Cinno - A discerning IEM with a lovely warm sound​

Ziigaat are a fresh entrant into the very competitive IEM market and so as well as their new dynamic driver IEM the Nuo (reviewed here ), the Ziigaat Cinno is their more premium offering featuring a nice hybrid configuration of (1DD+4BA).

Read on to find out more…

Introduction​

With the combination of a 10mm Liquid Crystal Polymer dynamic driver and four balanced armature drivers, 2 dedicated to the midrange and 2 for the upper treble regions, the Cinno promises an excellent balanced sound signature.

The design philosophy extends beyond sound, with an emphasis on comfort and ergonomics. The tiny, lightweight housing is designed for prolonged and comfortable listening sessions, a critical aspect often overlooked in IEMs.

Whats in the box​

The box that the Cinno comes in is very similar to the Nuo and while it is perfectly acceptable for a $24 IEM like the Nuo, it is a little disappointing that the Cinno did not get a more premium box and accessories.



In the box, users will find the Ziigaat Cinno IEMs, accompanied by a very small selection of ear tips but with a pretty good cable.



The cable with the Cinno is better quality than the one that came with the Nuo and much more inline with the Cinno price of $99.



The Cinno’s cable employs a 0.78mm 2-pin connector and I found the material used for the cable eas excellent and helped avoid any microphonics.

Design and Build Quality​

The Ziigaat Cinno’s shell showcases an elegant and compact design, with a focus on creating a balance between mature aesthetic appeal and functional ergonomics. The build quality is better than average for this price range, featuring high-grade materials that ensure both durability and comfort. The small, ergonomic shape of the IEMs is a testament to the meticulous design process aimed at providing a comfortable fit for prolonged listening sessions.





Here is a photo comparing the shells of the Cinno and the other new Ziigaat IEM the Nuo:



Their small, ergonomic shape and lightweight construction provide a secure and deep fit within the ear canal, ensuring excellent sound isolation and a seamless audio experience.

Comfort and Fit​

I found Ziigaat Cinno exceptionally comfortable. The weight, combined with the shape and the angle of the nozzle worked perfectly for me and I found the Cinno the most comfortable IEM The lightweight design, coupled with the selection of ear tips, ensures that users can enjoy their music for extended periods without discomfort. The IEMs fit securely and deeply in the ear canal, which is crucial for optimal sound isolation and a superior listening experience.


One minor thing, it is a pity that the Cinno doesn’t have a recessed 2-pin connection, as I do worry that eventually the 2-pin connector will bend and ultimately break, but as you can see in this video it does mean the Cinno has a very smooth shell and appearance.

Sound Quality​

The tonality of the Ziigaat Cinno might be described as a “warm rich” neutral, where the upper bass / lower midrange has a extra warmth. This combined with a upper midrange dip gave the cinno a subtly unique what I would call a grown up sound, you are not overwhelmed by the bass or the treble but the midrange has a special focus giving the Cinno nicely unique sound especially in this very competitive price range where every other IEM is trying to be ‘Harman’ neutral.

Bass​

The Cinno’s bass response is both articulate and robust, thanks to the 10mm Liquid Crystal Polymer dynamic driver. It excels in delivering a deep and impactful low-end without overwhelming the overall sound profile.

Depth and Texture: The sub-bass has a satisfying rumble that adds depth to electronic and orchestral music. This depth is complemented by the texture in the mid-bass, offering a rich portrayal of bass guitars and kick drums.

Control and Balance: Despite its power, the bass is well-controlled, avoiding any muddiness or overpowering of the midrange. This balance ensures that the bass enhances rather than dominates the listening experience.

Mids​

The midrange of the Cinno is where its hybrid nature shines, offering clarity and warmth that caters to a wide range of musical genres.

Vocal Clarity: Both male and female vocals are rendered with natural warmth and clear articulation, making the Cinno ideal for vocal-centric tracks. I loved listening to tracks by Kate Bush and Perfumed Genius where the vocals really stood out.

Instrumental Accuracy: The midrange also excels in the accurate reproduction of instruments. Stringed instruments have a lifelike presence, with enough detail to discern individual notes and playing styles.

Treble​

The Cinno’s treble response, handled by the balanced armature drivers, is refined and detailed, striking a balance between brightness and smoothness.

Detail and Clarity: High-frequency sounds like cymbals and high-hats well-defined but a little recessed compared to the competition at this price, so these are not as 'technical' as the other $100.

Smoothness: The treble is smooth and non-fatiguing, making the Cinno suitable for extended listening sessions without discomfort.

Soundstage and Imaging​

The soundstage and imaging of the Cinno is impressively expansive for an IEM, as you will see in the measurements section below I believe this is because of a slightly unique tuning done by Ziigaat, offering an immersive listening experience.

Width and Depth: The Cinno presents a wide soundstage, giving the impression of a live performance. This width is paired with a sense of depth that places different elements of the music at varying distances.

Environmental Immersion: This expansive soundstage contributes to a feeling of being in the environment of the recording, be it a concert hall or a more intimate studio setting.

*Instrument Placement: The Cinno offers precise imaging, allowing listeners to pinpoint the position of various instruments and vocalists in the sound field.

Layering and Separation: There is a distinct layering of sounds, with clear separation between instruments. This separation ensures that complex compositions are rendered coherently, with each element distinct and identifiable.

Specifications and Measurements​

Specifications​

The important specifications:

Note: the specific configuration of the drivers are:

Measurements​

Background to these measurements​

So new in this review I decided to standardise on a set of measurements which I will use in all future reviews. The idea is to do the normal measure the frequency response of the standard tips (typically the Medium size) but then also measure a typical selection of ear tips which can easily be used to adjust the sound signature. So, I have choosen the following extra measurement options, a narrow bore ear tip, a wide bore, a ’tall’ shaped ear tip, a normal foam tip, a large ‘comfly’ foam tip, a double flange and finally a triple flange.

Because a double and triple flange are typically used by people who have larger than average ear canals so I have adapted these ear tips slightly to allow a ‘deeper’ fit my IEC711 ‘clone’ coupler, basically try to simulate a longer ear canal in ‘standard’ coupler. I believe this technique will allow people to select both the best IEM for a specific tonality for them (does not always have to be ‘harman’) and then fine tune it with some ’ear tip rolling’ and for those who find it hard to get good seal this technique might allow them to experiment with alternative eartips and have a reasonable understand of how those alternative eartips alter the frequency response of their ideal IEM.

All measurements will go up on the Pragmatic Audio Squiq.link

So now onto the measurements…

L/F Balance and Distortion​

Excellent Left/Right balance (typical of a more premium IEM) and some interesting tonality choices were made by Ziigaat:So the midrange has been boosted slightly so vocals will sound forward and most genres of music will sound amazing. The treble is a bit recessed so no chance of any sibilance, for those wanting a little more treble check out my measurements of alternative ear tips below.

Reasonable low distortion - typical of a Balanced Armature IEM:

Various Ear tip Frequency Responses​

As you can see some ’tip rolling’ can increase the treble trying some alternative eartips:

A Comparison with some other IEM’s​

Rating​

The Cinno gets a pragmatic score of 4 stars, it is an excellent mid-range focused IEM which was incredible comfortable and well built. But a little let down by not having a more premium box and accessories.

Conclusion​

Note: I would like to thank Lillian @ Linsoul for providing the Ziigaat Cinno - if you are interested in purchasing it here is a non-affiliated link to their store: here

The Ziigaat Cinno Hybrid IEM stands out with its well-rounded sound profile. The bass is powerful yet controlled, the midrange is warm and clear, and the treble is detailed without being harsh. The expansive soundstage and precise imaging enhance the overall listening experience, making the Cinno a versatile choice for various musical genres and applications.

The ergonomic design, coupled with the lightweight nature of the earpieces, ensures that users can enjoy prolonged listening sessions without discomfort.

However, it’s important to acknowledge that the Cinno does have its shortcomings. The most notable is the packaging, which falls short of the mark when compared to the IEMs’ quality and performance. The somewhat sparse and uninspiring packaging might not meet the expectations of users who are used to more premium unboxing experiences. This aspect, although minor in the context of the Cinno’s overall performance, is a point that Ziigaat could consider enhancing in future iterations.

Overall, the Ziigaat Cinno emerges as a robust contender in the sub $100 market, impressing with its sound quality, comfort, and cable design.

A gorgeous IEM to add to your collection​

If you are at all interested in building a collection of IEM’s, I believe that you should have at least 3 different IEM ’tunings’, a balanced ‘Harman’ IEM, mid forward/centric tuning and finally a V-shaped ‘fun’ IEM tuning. Having a small collection with at least these 3 options really allows you to get the best from a wide range of your music, each IEM in your collection can extract different aspects of the music and the Forteza makes a great choice for those looking for a V-shaped tuning.



Read on to see if it is the right IEM for you to add to your collection.

Design and Build Quality​

The Forteza utilises a fairly unique combination of drivers with 2 Dynamic Driver’s (one for bass and one for the midrange) and a single BA handling the treble. This is an excellent design choice as it lowers the potential for any distortion (if you were to really push these IEM’s) where each driver has a set range of frequencies to handle.

Whats in the box​

The Kiwi Ears Forteza comes in a nice box with a three sets of ear tips and a pretty good cable for this price point.



I do like a little bit ear-tip rolling so having a good variety of stock ear tips is great but as you will see later in the review, I also tried and measured a few others ear tips to get the best sound out of these IEM’s for me.



The Kiwi Ears Forteza boasts a gorgeous slightly transparent shell housing where you can see the drivers. As a nerd I always appreciate being able to subtle see the electronics inside the shell, unlike ‘dark’ shells used typically on the many IEM’s at this price point. The shell does give the Forteza a premium look and serves as a taster for the premium shells available on some of the more expensive Kiwi Ears models.

Comfort and Fit​

The design of the Forteza ensures a comfortable fit for most users. The earpieces are ergonomically shaped, and when combined with the right selection of ear tips, they provide a secure and comfortable fit, making them suitable for long listening sessions or even out on a long walk. I found as comfortable as my Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite and a more stable fit than my Gizaudio Chopin’s.

Hopefully in this comparison photo you can see that the nozzle is smaller than the Truthear Zero and therefore for most people it will be a much more comfortable IEM to wear (the Forteza is on the left):



As a size comparison, here is the Truthear Zero, the Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite and finally the Forteza on the right:




Overall, I found the shape of the shell used on the Forteza as well as the nozzle size to the perfect shape for my ears.

Sound Quality​

So as I mentioned in the intro the Forteza has a ‘fun’ V-shaped sound signature, I believe this is a good move by Kiwi Ears as the current IEM is flooded with good and cheap ‘harman’ tuning IEM’s like the Truthear Zero Red while the there are not many quality V-shaped IEM’s priced less than $100 making the Forteza a great deal at $59.99.

Lets get into what you can expect from the sound of the Forteza …

Bass​

The Forteza’s excellent bass is immediately apparent, it is both deep and punchy, catering well to genres of music that benefit from a more robust low-end presence. The bass is not overly dominant in any one area so even listening to a ‘sweep’ you get a smooth transition through the bass frequencies, allowing for a balanced listening experience without overshadowing the mids and highs. It’s a perfect V-shaped bass, giving you a visceral bass punch yet still allowing the treble detail to shine through. So on tracks like Billie Ellish’s Bad Guy and Xanny sounded great and Massive Attack’s Angel had that bass punch it needs without overwhelming the treble.

Mids​

Despite the V-shaped tuning, the mid-range remains surprisingly clear and detailed and though I did find in some track that the vocals
took a slight backseat to the more pronounced bass and treble frequencies. That said tracks some very mid-centric tracks from the classic Elton John “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” album sounded better than I have heard them in a while with the overall listening session getting something unique from that classic recording. So I believe the Forteza is suitable for a wide range of musical genres and will allow you to hear your music in new and unexpected ways.

Interestingly, I found the Forteza almost the opposite tuning of the Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite which is mid-forward, so between the 2 Kiwi Ears IEM’s you get a very interesting contrasting music experience which is great fun to try on your collection.

Treble​

The treble range is where the Forteza truly distinguishes itself. While exhibits an elevated treble response, which contributes to an overall sense of clarity and detail in the music. This elevation in the treble range enhances the listening experience for tracks where high-frequency details are pivotal. However, this elevation might, depending on your preference, occasionally lead to a perception of sharpness or sibilance, particularly in tracks with already prominent high frequencies. So, for example, in the new Japanese House song ‘Over There’ I felt the treble on the female vocals where a little sharp. This is where either some EQ or some ’tip’ rolling can be used to relax the treble frequency slightly.

Soundstage and Imaging​

The soundstage of the Kiwi Ears Forteza is commendably wide for an IEM in this price point, providing a sense of space and directionality that enhances the overall listening experience. I believe the high quality drivers mixed with the elevated treble help provide some precise imaging, allowing for accurate placement of instruments and vocals within the soundstage.

Specifications and Measurements​

Here are some of the key specifications:

The specifications show that the Forteza is very easy to drive, a simple Apple USB-C Dongle adapter could be used when on mobile and these IEM’s will sound amazing without needing to switch to high gain on even a modest desktop headphone Amplifier. I tried them on various equipment from an Apple USB-C dongle onto my iPhone 15, with the headphone jack on my Macbook Pro and with various desktop headphone amps including the FiiO K11 and K7.

Measurements​

These measurements were carried out on my IEC711 ‘clone’ coupler using REW

I decided to measure the frequency response various ear-tips provided with the Forteza as well with 2 sizes of ‘flange’ based ear-tips and a comply foam ear tip.

Firstly here are some measurements of the different ear-tips provided:



As you can see the different stock tips had a very similar response.

But as I mentioned earlier I am a big believer is getting the right ear tip for you for a given IEMs as this can change not only how well they fit in your ear (so how they affect the bass response) but can also affect the treble (sometimes increasing and sometimes decreasing the treble) depending on your personal HRTF and I did feel when listening to this IEM that some people will like a slightly reduced treble in specific regions and a different Ear tip is a great way to subtly manipulate the treble response.



So for example the triple flange reduced the treble peaks, but this effect will be different as everyone ear shape is slightly different, but I think it’s a great way to tame the treble response if you have a bunch of different ear tips to play with.

Finally, here is a comparison of the Forteza with a few other IEMs:



As you can see the Forteza has great bass and an elevated treble (which can be tamed as I mentioned above) and slightly recessed midrange giving it that classic V-shaped sound signature.

I have uploaded all these measurements and others to the new Pragmatic Audio Squig website here

Distortion​

I did noticed that the 3rd harmonic was a little high in the midrange - but still below audible limits - just posting it here for completeness:

Rating​

I have given the Forteza a rating of 4, it’s V-shaped tuning while a great addition to a collection is probably not for everyone but the Forteza represents a good deal for a quality IEM with the looks and comfort of a much more expensive IEM.

Conclusion​

Note: I would like to thank Lillian @ Linsoul for providing the Kiwi Ears Forteza - if you are interested in purchasing it here is a non-affiliated link to their store: here

The Kiwi Ears Forteza are a compelling option, particularly for listeners who are looking for something different than the usual ‘Harman’ sound at this price point and wanting to build their IEM collection with different sound signatures. Its robust bass response, detailed yet slightly recessed mids, and treble make it a versatile choice for a variety of music genres. While the treble elevation might not suit all preferences, it contributes to the clarity and detail that many will love.

The combination of sound quality, comfort, and build quality makes the Forteza a noteworthy IEM in its price range.

FiiO K7 Long term Review​

Introduction​

So early this year I decided to upgrade my headphones from the usual Sennheiser and AKG ones and I decided I needed some Planar magnetic headphones and while my previous headphone amp, a Fosi Audio one was fine with the dynamic drivers I had previously it only sounded ok with these harder to drive Planar’s. It didn’t seem to have sufficent power especially with the low frequencies bass, to get these new headphones sounding as good as I expected. So after doing some research I decided a FiiO K7 and it was a revelation the difference a quality headphone Amp with sufficient power can make is incredible. So I thought after about 6 months of usage I would share some of my experience with the K7.

Since it is a while since the K7 was released and there are lots of other reviews already online, I decided to focus on a few key points that I believe are still relevant after 6 months of usage, so read on to see what I think of the K7.

Packaging and Unboxing:​

My experience with FiiO products is they are exceptionally well packaged and FiiO when appropriate will provide a good range of accessories and with the K7 this is again evident.



The box contained a quality power supply, a quality USB cable, a 6.35mm 1/4Inch Male to 3.5mm 1/8 Inch Female headphone adapter and of course the star of the show the “K7” itself.

Build Quality: FiiO K7​

Note: I had no interested in bluetooth so got the non-BT version but I will reference the BT where I think it might be relevant.

Front​

The front panel of the K7 is similar to FiiO other offering, the K5Pro and the K9. It sports a sleek, low-profile input button replacing the traditional lever. This modification, coupled with two strategically placed switches for gain control and output selection, elevates the unit’s ergonomic appeal. Above these controls, four white LEDs, a visual cue for the active input is a nice touch.



Notably, the K7’s volume wheel, a central feature is alson probably the most “controversal” aspect of the design. There are 2 key aspects of the design of the volume wheel are probably crucial to your feelings about the K7.

1. It has ambient glow around the volume, with a different color depending on the source playing
2. It’s a digital Volume control that is subtle at low volumes but much larger at higher volumes so can be non-intuitive compared to other devices.

So with the first point above, FiiO now have a firmware update that can be applied to remove this ambient glow. I personally like it so hadn’t applied that update, but it is one of those things that can annoy people so I thought worth mentioning.

With the second point, I actually appreciate what FiiO have done but it might depend on your use-case, if you have both easy to drive IEM’s and harder to drive headphone’s you will probably appreciate the way the volume control works. Basically the first 1/2 of the volume is for IEM’s giving you lots of control over subtle changes in volumes, but when using hard to drive headphones you won’t hear anything until you get to maybe the 2 o’clock position. It one of those things in audio, the massive contrast in SPL needed between easy to drive IEM’s (that need to work on low powered mobile devices) and headphones that require lots of power. The other notably thing about the volume control is that it is digital so perfectly matched but can be a minor 1/2-second delay between turning the control and the volume updating, I generally set a volume for my headphone of choice and then use the volume on my ‘streamer / pre-amp’ but if you were adjusting the volume continuously the minor delay is something to be aware off.

Back​

The rear panel of the K7 hosts a comprehensive array of I/O options including RCA Line In, RCA Pre/Line Out, Coax, Optical, USB input and a 12V barrel connector. For the K7 BT variant, there is also a BL antenna socket near the power connector.

Internals​

At the heart of the K7 lies a pair of AK4493SEQ DAC chips and an XMOS XUF 208 microcontroller, each channel being individually catered to. The inclusion of dual THX AAA 788+ modules, typically reserved for higher-end equipment, reflects FiiO’s uncompromising approach to sound quality.

Furthermore, six different audio circuits are in place to prevent issues like crosstalk, enhancing signal purity. The presence of the XMOS XUF208 decoder chip and dual-clock management ensures compatibility with a wide range of music formats, adding to its versatility. FiiO have an impressive balanced architecture within the F7:

Key Specifications:​

Format Support:​

In terms of audio support, the K7 is impressively versatile. It handles PCM audio up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256 via USB, 24-bit/192kHz through coaxial, and 24-bit/96kHz via optical.

Although it does not support MQA, this is becoming less of a concern in the current audio landscape.

Listening impressions and Key Measurements​

Impressions:​

Quiet simply at this price point this is the best sounding headphone amplifier you can get. Too many < $200 headphone amplifers just haven’t the power to really deliver a bass depth for planars (and provide power to other hard to drive headphones like the Sennheiser HD800 ). The “balanced audio architecture” that FiiO have implemented is exceptional for a clean sound, and as you will see in the measurement the K7 deliveries a flat “frequency response”, so it’s not coloring the sound in any way. So feed a clean digital source (via USB or optical ) and you are hearing how your headphones interpret the audio “transparently” as it should be with a headphone amplifier.

High Gain:​

It also has enough power that I did not normally have to use the high-gain with my planars, but again I appreciate that it is available for some future headphone purchases. I do have a few test tracks, for example, John Cage famous 4.33 where I switched to high gain and maximize the power to really test how well a headphone DAC performs. That famous ‘silent’ track is not silent at all, it’s recording obviously has some tape hiss given its age, but with super resolving headphones and a great Amp you can hear extra things like a ticking clock, and dinner plates and the occasional door in the background opening and closing. The FiiO with high gain did not distort the sound or introduce extra noise into the mix and these subtle details all came out crystal clear. This headohone amp therefore has an amazing ability to get all the detail out of a recording.

Key Measurements:​

As you can hopefully tell from my listening impressions this is a very clean sounding headphone amp with lots of power.

So FiiO also produce some excellent measurements here but let’s briefly look at some indepedent measurements to back FiiO own measurements claims and I think are inline with my subjective opinions:

Frequency Response - digital input with balanced headphone output:​

Thanks to Techpowerup:



The left scale of this is important as it shows a perfectly linear FR up to 15k and then a slight roll off less than 0.5 dB as it approaches 20k

SINAD​

Thanks to l7audiolab

Obviously SINAD is a slightly controversial metric but basically anything with better than 80 SINAD is ‘clean’ sounding and both from the single ended and the balanced the K7 is exceptional:



Here the SINAD of 115 dB is the balanced output (though the Single Ended is also exceptional 113 dB)

Multi-tone distortion:​

And finally the multi-tone distortion (again thanks to l7audiolab):



Again, this is exceptionally good, basically when multiple tones are simulateously fed into the Amp it is not producing any distortion below -109 dB well below the audible thresholds.

Rating​

I gave this a pragmatic rating of 4 - while it’s still great there are other alternatives now including the FiiO’s K11 which while it has less power it has more features at an even more pragmatic price, but I still believe the K7 is probably the safer bet for someone starting off in the IEM and headphone hobby as it covers everything from the easiest to drive IEM’s to the hardest to drive headphones and has an exceptionally good DAC.

Summary​

This can be the only headphone amplifier you will ever need, it measures well, has lots of appropraite features, a great internal clean audio architecture and supports both low impedance headphones, IEMs and high impedance power hungry headphones.

The K7 sets a new standard in what headphone driving performance you can get at a budget-friendly price, making it very much the perfect pragmatic choice.

Planar on a Budget​

Hifiman make exceptional open back Planar headphones ( though their closed backs so far have been disappointing ) but can we really expect that planar experience for little over $100.

What is the planar ’experience'​

If you are new to headphones you might wonder why would I want a planar magnetic headphone instead of a traditional dynamic driver headphones. Well Planar’s typically provide better detail retrieval, a much more even frequency response resulting in a much more balanced sound. They also typically have much better bass than open back dynamic drivers and have lower distortion meaning playing music with a larger dynamic range without affecting the fidelity, but the downside is typically that you need more power (so are less portable) and with an open back headphones in general, you will hear the outside world and other people near you will hear your music, so not the best headphone for commuting or a shared workspace, but when listening at home or in a private office space they provide an excellent audio experience.

Read on to find out if the base model in Hifiman lineup can live up to reputation that their more expensive planars deliver …

Introduction​

Note: Shout out to Mark @ hifiman for supplying these headphones for the purposes of this review.

In my headphone journey, I somehow missed out initially on the Hifiman HE400SE - when looking at headphones at this price point I went with closed back AKG and Sennheiser dynamic driver headphones. When I did go for an open back AKG K702 I was disappointed with the bass and the lack of balance which caused some of sibiliance issues with the treble. I simply didn’t believe I could get a decent open back planar experience on a budget, when I eventually did buy a planar with Hifiman Edition XS I was completely blown away. But the Edition XS made me curious about other Planar’s such is the headphone hobby. When some friends were asking for advise on what to get on a budget I became curious about the HE400SE, so I was very thankful with I got a HE400SE to review.

Packaging and unboxing​

The package includes the headphones, a dual-sided high-performance 3.5mm cable, and a 6.3mm adapter.

Similar to the packaging in other Hifiman headphones, the protective construction clever doubles as a headphone stand, though not a particular high quality one. But I do like this clever re-use of the packaging:

Build Quality​

The HE400SE has a solid construction that exceeds expectations for its price range. Its combination of metal and plastic components, comfortable padding, and sturdy connectors contribute to a build quality that is both reliable and comfortable for extended use.

The supplied cable is also a much better quality than the one that shipped with the original HE400.

Comfort and Fit​

The Hifiman HE400SE excels in providing a comfortable listening experience. I found that I could wear these all day without it feeling heavy, unlike say the larger heavier egg cup shaped Hifiman, like the Edition XS.

Both the headband and earcups are designed with the user’s comfort in mind, making these headphones a great choice for those who value comfort as much as sound quality.

Let’s get into the detail:

Headband​

Material & Padding:​

The headband of the HE400SE is a blend of functionality and comfort. It is padded adequately, possibly with memory foam, and wrapped in a soft, durable material that rests comfortably on the head. This design choice not only ensures comfort during prolonged usage but also promises durability.

Adjustability​

Adjustability is a strong suit of this headband.

It easily accommodates various head sizes, maintaining its position reliably. This feature is particularly appreciated during extended listening sessions, as it eliminates the need for constant readjustment.

Weight Distribution:​

The ergonomic design of the headband distributes the weight of the headphones evenly across the head. This distribution minimizes pressure points, making the HE400SE suitable for long listening hours without discomfort.

Clamping Force:​

The clamping force is well-balanced – firm enough to secure the headphones in place without exerting excessive pressure on the ears or the sides of the head. This balance is crucial for comfort, especially for users who are sensitive to pressure.

Earcups​

Size:​

The earcups are generously sized, fitting comfortably around the ears. This design choice not only enhances comfort but also adds to the overall sound experience, providing a sense of spaciousness while obviously not as good as the egg shaped design,



I did find it a perfect size for my large ears unlike say the new FiiO FT5 which has a similar circular design but the internal diameter was smaller so just that bit smaller and less comfortable.

Shape and Depth:​

The earcups have a thoughtful design, with an circular shape and adequate depth, preventing the ears from touching the drivers – a common issue with shallower cups. This depth enhances the comfort significantly.

Cushioning:​

Hifiman has used plush cushioning in the earcups, likely a high-grade memory foam, which molds to the shape of the user’s ears.

The outer material, possibly a soft velour or leatherette, adds to the luxurious feel and comfort.

Breathability:​

The material of the earcups also aids in breathability, reducing heat and sweat build-up during long sessions. This feature is essential for maintaining comfort over time.

Sound Isolation: i​

For an open back headphone the design of the earcups provides some sound isolation, but like all open backs its designed to blend you music with your surroundings. This not only enhances the listening experience but also adds to the comfort by minimizing external distractions.

Sound quality​

The Hifiman HE400SE not only impresses with its comfort but also stands out with its remarkable sound quality at this price point. This section explores the nuances of its bass, midrange, treble, soundstage, and imaging, underpinned by some song references that highlight these characteristics.

Bass​

Characteristics:​

The HE400SE produces a bass that is both deep and articulate. It’s not overly boosted but offers a natural and balanced low-end presence. The bass is tight and controlled, avoiding any muddiness or bloating. However, it may not satisfy those seeking deep or impactful bass, especially in genres like hard rock or electronic music. But a little bit of EQ can provide that boost for those genres of music.

Song Reference:​

With Portishead’s songs like “Glory Box” or “Roads,” the bass elements maintain their distinct character, avoiding muddiness or blending with mid-range frequencies. With the classic “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson. The iconic bassline in this track is rendered with precision and clarity on the HE400SE, demonstrating its ability to handle rhythmic and dynamic bass lines effectively.

Midrange​

Characteristics:​

The midrange on these headphones is detailed and clear, ensuring vocals and instruments are well-represented. There’s a sense of warmth and naturalness to the mids, making it pleasant for long listening sessions.

Song Reference:​

“Someone Like You” by Adele. The emotive vocals in this song are beautifully articulated, showcasing the HE400SE’s ability to capture the nuances and warmth of human vocals.

Treble​

Characteristics:​

The treble range is crisp and airy, without veering into harshness. It adds a delightful sparkle to the overall sound signature, enhancing the detail in high-frequency sounds. This emphasis on treble complements the soundstage, giving instruments and effects a distinctive sizzle and contributing to the overall tonality of the headphones

Song Reference:​

“Vivaldi’s Four Seasons - Spring”. This classic piece, with its high-pitched violin notes, demonstrates the HE400SE’s ability to handle treble without any sibilance, preserving the finesse of classical instruments.

Soundstage and Imaging​

Characteristics:​

While not as good as the Edition XS the soundstage of the HE400SE is notably expansive. Despite its modest pricing, the soundstage’s width and height create a layered, articulate, and immersive experience. This is particularly evident in complex musical arrangements where it achieves great separation between various elements, although it still relies on a somewhat closer image compared to other HiFiMAN models

Song Reference:​

“Hotel California” by The Eagles, live version from “Hell Freezes Over”. The live ambiance, the placement of instruments, and the audience’s applause are portrayed with a remarkable sense of space and position, making it a great test for the HE400SE’s soundstage and imaging capabilities.

Audio quality Conclusion​

The Hifiman HE400SE excels in delivering a balanced and detailed sound across the spectrum. Its ability to render bass with precision, articulate the midrange with clarity, and provide crisp treble, all while offering an expansive soundstage and accurate imaging, makes it a versatile choice for various music genres.

Specs and Measurements​

The most important specifications is the 91db here as that indicates that you will need a good bit of power to power the HE400SE, an Apple Dongle (especially the European variant) will not have enough power, but the HE400SE will work with more powerful dongles (e.g. a Qudelix 5K or a FiiO BTR dongle) but I would suggest a nice desktop headphone amplifer to really get the benefit of this headphone. I was listening to it with various headphone amplifiers, even a basic headphone amp like the FiiO K11 provided plenty of power, also my new Macbook Pro headphone jack worked well but it really sounded amazing with the new Schiit Midgard which has tons of power, so I would suggest a good headphone amplifier.

Measurements:​

I usually present measurement to indicate that some EQ modifications might be necessarily (e.g. increase the bass or lower the treble) but in the case of the HE400SE I found the out of box tuning was excellent, not as quiet good as the next ’level’ up Hifiman models (the Sundara and the Edition XS) but effectively nothing to cause any concern, I listened to the HE400SE for hours without feeling I was missing anything or getting overlay fatiqued with the amount of treble, it really is a great sounding headphone at this price.

Frequency response​

But For those interested here is the Frequency response compared to some other well known open back headphones (all of which are considering more expensive):A little bit of a dip between 1Khz and 2khz might be something that you could EQ and while the HE400SE has a typical planar Bass you can easily EQ that to your preference. Note: The Sennheiser HD 6XX (a legendary open back dynamic driver reference headphone has considerable worse bass).

Distortion​

Distortion with most planars is incredible low and the HE400SE is no exception. Here are some measurements from the AudioScienceReview:The ‘green’ level above where the distortion is still only 2% is at ear shattering 114db your own listening level wiil be below 94db.

EQ​

There is really nothing to EQ but you could add a bass shelf of a couple of db and possible raise that 1.9Khz dip a few DB.

Hacks​

One interesting aspect of the HE400SE is possible because it’s easy to lower the treble without EQ with some simple hacks. I didn’t find this necessarily but I guess some people like a little less treble and I am only referencing the hacks here for completeness. Effectively the ‘hacks’ are simply adjustments to the planar drivers which are easily accesssible once you take off an earcup:



The simplest hack was suggested by DMS in this youtube video (a bit of tape over part of the planar driver will dampen the treble slightly):

Alternatives​

At this price point ( $100-$150), there simply isn’t an viable alternative planar, but at the ($300-$500) level Hifiman have 2 alternatives the Sundara (also with round earpads) and the Edition XS (with iconic Egg shaped earpads), there is also the new Moondrop Para at about the $300.

Rating​

I gave the HE400SE a pragmatic rating of 5 the same as the Hifiman Edition XS, in their price categories they are both amazing headphones and are the best choices for those wanting that planar sound. The Edition XS is better but at about 1/4 of the price the HE400SE is a superbly 'pragmatic' headphone.

Summary​

Overall, the HE400SE is an excellent choice for those new to planar headphones and looking for a high-quality yet affordable option. Its strengths include a deep soundstage, detailed midrange, airy highs and comfort. While its sound signature may be pickier and more relaxed, it excels in depth and detail retrieval, making it the definitive planar headphone in the sub $200 price range.
I have already recommended it a few times as good Christmas presents as whoever receives will not be disappointed.

Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite - A long term review​

Of all the IEM’s I have used this year the Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite have proven the most resilient. Time and again these are the IEM’s I have gone back too when I want to really hear a new release the way it should sound. It is also my goto IEM when out walking, the all BA design and the seal mean it has the best passive noise isolation of any IEM in my collection.

So, I thought after 6 months, it deserved some further recognition, I believe it is unsung classic.

Packaging and unboxing experience​

The Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite does not really provide that wow factor out of the box, it’s a ‘standard’ IEM box with nothing to really make it stand out in this crowded market:

Once open you get a reasonable nice carrying bag and a good selection of ear tips:

I ended up using my own ear tips as I wanted a deeper fix and a better seal, but you may be fine with the supplied ear tips.

But once you start admiring the IEM’s themselves (and the cable to a lesser extent) you realise Kiwi Ears decided to correctly spend the budget on what really matters the build quality of the IEM and ultimately the sound.

Build and Design:​

The resin construction of the Orchestra Lite downright gorgeous. The craftsmanship is meticulous, with a comfortable, ergonomic design that ensures hours of fatigue-free listening.



The semi-transparent shell design itself is lovely, to allow us ‘audio nerds’ see ‘under the hood’ :

Sound Signature: A Symphony of Detail​

So, my initial feeling when I first tried these IEM’s was of astonishment, I couldn’t believe I was hearing the pinpoint accurate details within the mix. I went back and forth between these are a few of the IEM’s I was listening to at the time, like the Truthear Zero’s, various Moondrop IEM’s and even my ER2XR’s and everytime (and with almost all genre’s of music) the Orchestra Lite’s were levels above as far as sound quality is concerned. I would describe the detail almost like an IEM version of the legendary Sennheiser HD600 except with better bass, but with so much midrange detail balanced with excellent treble that vocals and details pop out of the mix.

I was actually reminded of these feeling when I watched the YouTuber’s Revolve’s reaction to first hearing the Kiki Ears in one the headphone shows recent YouTube videos:

Bass​

While the bass isn’t earth-shattering, it’s undeniably musical and well-controlled. The warm low-end offers a satisfying counterpoint to the detailed mids and highs. I find this balance to be ideal, especially during longer listening sessions where overly aggressive bass can become fatiguing.

Midrange​

Over the months, the midrange is where the Orchestra Lite has truly stood out for me. The emotive weight it lends to vocals and the natural timbre it confers to instruments make it my goto IEM for enjoying music with a reference quality that was “true to the source”.

Treble​

The treble on the Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite is excellent, it perfect compliments the midrange without sounding artificial, and provides those ’technicalities’ which are elusive on cheaper IEM’s in the < $100 price range.
One interesting thing in the measurement section later is you can ‘see’ in those measurements how different ear tips and different insertion depth can make a large difference to how you will hear the treble region.

Sound-stage and Imaging: A Walk in a Musical Park​

The Orchestra Lite offers a reasonalbe good sound-stage. However, it’s the precise imaging that truly enriches my listening experience. The clear placement of instruments and vocals brings the music to life, adding a dynamic layer which is to use that audiophile cliché ‘holographic’ at times.

Some Measurements​

While a “squiq” Frequency Graph (like the ones I present below) can show you the tonal response of an IEM, they can be unreliable specifically because the individual doing the measurements uses different tips, different insertion depth and probably has a ‘clone’ coupler rather than the more accurate (but more expensive) headphone measurements tools like the BK-5128. But the most important difference (and this IEM’s has really brought this home to me) is that the FR graphs on “squig” rarely show proper channel differences (due to the placement issues above), never show distortion and rarely show unit variances.

As an idea of just the different insertion depths can make to an IEM here are various insertion measurements of different tips at different insertion depths for the Orchestra Lite, this is why I feel that people should not use Auto-EQ beyond about 5K as their person HRTF and preference for tips will no doubt have can change dramatically the treble response especially (even if they get a good seal):



For my specific HRTF (Head Related Transfer Function), I preferred a deeper insert with the Orchestra Lite as that got the balance of good bass with excellent treble but left the amazing midrange intact, but your own HRTF will no doubt be different.

One very nice aspect of the Kiwi Ear Orchestra Lite (and something I haven’t seen mentioned elsewhere) was the “statement provided with the IEM” of the level of QA done on each and every IEM leaving their factory, I believe this has meant excellent channel matching and reduced distortion and this more than anything has contributed to the amazing accurate sound-stage and detail I hear with this IEM.

So as far as tonality is concerned this graph might give you an idea compare to some well known IEM’s:As you can see the Orchestra Lite is close to the Harman target but a little warmer in the upper bass and a little resessed in the 3K-5K region (which itself is region of the Harman IE target that has come under critizism for being too high).

Since the Orchestra Lite was released, Kiwi Ears have been release numerous very good IEM’s at different price points, but I have noticed they have been moving to more ‘fun’ V-shaped sound signatures as shown in this comparison:



I think your second IEM (after getting a balanced one like the Orchestra Lite) should be a V-Shaped IEM as it can be a fun listen for specific music genres, I loved the V-Shaped FiiO FX-15 sound signature with the extra sub-bass and the sparkly treble, but to use that IEM long term I would EQ while the Orchestra Lite needs no EQ, in my opinion.

What could be better:​

Sub-bass:​

Doing a tone sweep with my preferred tips, I find that the bass rolls off around 30hz, while this is perfectly acceptable for the majority of music I do have other IEM’s that have deeper sub-bass, but they are dynamic driver IEM’s and lack the detailed bass that the Orchestra Lite provides.

Cable Connectors:​

Six months in, the detachable 2-pin cable have mostly proven sturdy, but I would actually like a recessed 2-pin to protect the pins from being bent, the pins have slightly bent a few times and its simple to fix but I will probably replace the cable in the next few months.

BA in-ear pressure build-up​

This is more a reminder but while an all-BA design isolates the outside sound better than a dynamic driver it does this at the cost of a little bit of in-ear pressure and I find that I have adjust the Orchestra Lite in my ears every 10 / 20 minutes.

Rating​

I gave the Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite a pragmatic rating 5, because it is still after 6 months and listening to many competitors my goto IEM’s for evaluating music. Unlike most IEM’s I try the Kiwi Ears need no EQ.

Conclusion​

Note: I would like to thank Lillian @ Linsoul for original recommending the Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite - if you are interested in purchasing it here is a non-affiliated link to their store: here

Click to expand...

After six months, the Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite continues to be a rewarding audio investment. It shines in revealing musical details, making it not just an IEM but a reliable companion for long walks and thoughtful moments. If you’re seeking an IEM that delivers in terms of both comfort and sonic fidelity, this is one that deserves a spot on your shortlist.

In conclusion, the Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite is a standout performer in the neutral IEM category, especially for those who prioritize midrange. Its ability to deliver a balanced, detailed sound across all frequencies, coupled with its build quality and comfort, makes it a top choice for both audiophiles and casual listeners alike. Its performance over the past six months has not only been consistent but has also set a new standard in its class.

Fosi Audio ZA3 Review​

In this review, we will get into the details of the new Fosi Audio ZA3 Amplifier - the latest TPA3255 amplifier Fosi Audio. It is currently available on their kickstarter here and lots of extra details on the Fosi Audio website roughly it costs $125 before discounts.

What is in the Box, internals and overall Build Quality​

The ZA3 arrives in a larger package compared to other Fosi amplifiers. Contents include the ZA3 amplifier itself, a robust 48V 5A power supply unit (PSU) similar to the one that comes with the V3, and a comprehensive manual detailing connectivity options.

Note: depending on your order you will also either get an orange or a black volume control, I picked the orange one.

Here is the excellent power supply:

Internally the ZA3 is as nicely built as it is externally with the opportunity to swap out the NE5532 op-amp’s for tweaking the sound.

The build quality is outstanding, basically using the lesson learned with the V3, Fosi Audio have gone up to the next level with this Amplifier. I love the little design touches for example the quality of the vent holes on the side have a certain class about them:



The ZA3 is a little bit bigger than the V3 and the new Aiyima A07MAX:

This photo from above really shows how much larger the ZA3 is:

The extra size does allow more space for more connections (which I will get to in the Features section below) but also more space between the binding posts.

Though what really sets the ZA3 apart from these 2 other class D amplifiers is its feature, lets look at the features now in detail:

Features​

Compared to the Class D amplifiers that Fosi Audio have previously released, the ZA3 has many new features specially designed to get the best sound quality out of your system. The features alone make it a significant device in the history of class D amplifier, this is the moment when Fosi Audio have upped their audiophile game and we the users who appreciate great sounding music benefit from the extra quality audio experience the ZA3 helps to provide.

Volume Control / Power toggle​

There is a very nice Taper A Potentiometer volume control on the ZA3 so excellent control of the volume but the volume control is also a power toggle. Some recent Class D amplifier can only be turned off my moving the volume back to 0 but for a Mono block especially this can be problematic, not so much with the ZA3. You can fix the volume and press and hold the Volume button to switch on the ZA3. Therefore, when you have matched the volume on 2 setup as monoblock it is key not to have to touch the volume again (typically you would control the volume to both ZA3’s via a pre-amp or in my case via the WiiM Pro Plus).

Mono Switch​

The Mono Mode switch on the front of Fosi Audio ZA3 is a probably its key new feature, enabling users to get the benefits of more power from 2 ZA3 acting in parallel, one ZA3 feeding the left speaker and the other feeding the right Speaker.

Here are the back of 2 ZA3 setup in Mono block mode, in this case one ZA3 is handling the Left and the other is handling the right:


I also subjectively thought this not only provided more power but a cleaner signal, where there is no chance of channel leakage within a ZA3.

Balanced Inputs (as well as the usual RCA)​

Another of ZA3’s standout features is including balanced RCA and XLR/TRS inputs, offering versatility and improved audio quality. Here is an example where I have feed a TRS input into 2 ZA4 to provide extra clean audio using the Mono block setup:

Here is the back of a ‘fully loaded ZA3’ where both the balanced and RCA inputs are connected:

Simply using the RCA/BAL switch on the front will select the appropriate input. It should go without saying that a Balanced (XLR or TRS) input will potentially have less noise than an RCA but in practice the RCA will also be incredible clean sounding.

Subwoofer Output​

It also features a proper subwoofer output, so unlike previous Class D Amplifier that had a ‘aux out / subwoofer out’ this is a dedicated subwoofer that is controlled by the volume so can be blended with your speakers to provide that extra sub-bass when required. For example, here is an example of a measurement I made with a subwoofer added to the ZA3 providing subbass down to 30Hz where my speakers were rolling off at 50hz:
I believe the sub-woofer output also has a fixed Low pass filter of 300Hz but there is no high pass filter on the speaker output when the sub-woofer is connected - something to work on in a future version in my opinion.

12V Trigger input​

The 12V trigger input for integrated system control, currently I am using a Wiim Pro Plus as a Streamer and DAC feeding the ZA3 and using the trigger to wake up the ZA3 whenever the music is about to start playing.



So one nice side effect of this feature is the Amp is only drawing power when its music. A quick comparison of the energy used when in Standby waiting for a trigger and being triggered and playing music is:

Here is a typical 3.5mm trigger needed for the ZA3 (to work with a WiiM Pro Plus I had to buy a 3.5mm to 2.5mm cable such is the inconsistencies with trigger cables):



Because the Amp is switching itself on there is no danger of a power on signal damaging your speakers.

Sound quality, Measurements and Specifications​

The ZA3 exhibits clean, powerful sound with excellent stereo separation (especially when used as Mono blocks). The sound will be punchier compared to similar amplifiers due to its neutral frequency response (some similar priced Amplifiers will roll off before the sub bass and roll off the upper treble regions and therefore will not sound as rich and dynamic as the ZA3), When you then add a subwoofer to the ZA3 it is no competition at all with similar priced Class D amplifiers, the ZA3 has a unique set of features at this price point. The unit runs cool even at higher volumes, maintaining energy efficiency.

I will update this review with independent measurements when they become available but currently the official measurements provided by the Fosi Audio for the ZA3 have a SINAD value of 88db which is exactly the same as the Fosi Audio V3 and I would imagine independent measurements will back up this value. The SNR of 106db is actually better than the V3 (but again would need to be verified independently).

Specifications - I have highlight the key measurements below:

• Amp Chip: Texas Instrument TPA3255
• SINAD: 88dB
• SNR: 106dB
• Dynamic Range: ≥106dB
• THD: <0.005%
• Terminating Impedance: 2-8 Ohm
• Rated Output Power:
  • Stereo Mode: 180W*2 @ 4 Ohm
  • Mono Mode: 240W @ 4 Ohm
• Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz (‡0.1dB)
• Power Input: DC 24V-48V

Overall these are exception, but its probably worth nothing that when in Mono Mode you do not get double the power as each ZA3 would get a max 240W into 4 Ohms.

What could be improved​

Very little at the price but possible the following could be implemented in a future ZA3 (maybe the ZA4):

1. Move mono switch to the back (or underneath as with the Aiyima A07MAX)
2. Add a switch and implement a High pass filter on the speaker outputs to further take advantage of the subwoofer output.
3. An implementation with Post Filter Feedback (PFFB) - this is an extension of the TPA-3255 design to better handle distortion and provide a more linear frequency especially in the upper treble when connected to specific speakers with high variations in speaker impedance.
   This will also improve the already impressive THD+N / SINAD of 88db
4. A trigger out to pass the trigger onto a second ZA3 - this would be useful when the ZA3 is set up as a Monoblock, but you still want triggered input to wake both ZA3’s.
5. A remote to switch the inputs and control the volume

Ratings​

The ZA3 represents tremendous value for money and has some outstanding features like support for subwoofer, trigger input for the price, coupled with a really nice design and excellent measurements this is a top pragmatic choice, so it has to be a 5-star rating.

Summary​

The Fosi Audio ZA3 is an impressive amplifier, offering high-quality sound, versatile features, and efficient operation. Its ability to run cool, coupled with its mono block support and balanced input options, positions it as a competitive option in the audiophile market.

In Norse mythology Midgard is the name for Earth (the realm of the mortals) so in this review let’s see if Schiit Audio new Midgard headphone amp and preamp is earthly treasure for us mortals that can play heavenly audio.



Note: I would like to thank Schiit Audio for providing the Midgard for the purposes of this review.

The Midgard’s shares the same gorgeous design language with the majority of Schiit products. But lurking underneath the midgard relatively straightforward exterior is a possible ground breaking technology. While obviously there are lots of secrets about the ‘Halo Topology’ the tantalising snipbits of information we know about this technology it is normally used with speakers to help reducing distortion and stabilise the frequency response in some specific cases. But the big question is does this technology work with headphones.

So to really understand the Midgard, I decided to do a deep dive on some of the research behind ‘mixed-mode feedback’ technology and then speculate as to how it might work with headphones when implemented with the ‘halo topology’.

But even without the ‘halo topology’ the Midgard represents an amazing headphone amp and preamp especially at it’s price point of $219.

Therefore, I have broken the review into 3 sections:

1. Review of Midgard build, features and sound quality
2. A technical deep dive on Mixed Mode Feedback, the technolgy behind ‘Halo Topology’
3. Use insights from this research to define and then execute a set of measurements of the Midgard.

So lets start with the more normal review:

Design and Functionality​

The Midgard exudes the characteristic Schiit Audio build quality. Its all-metal chassis, adorned with a stamped and painted logo, speaks to its durability and aesthetic appeal.The front panel, hosting a couple of toggle switches and a volume Pot, a 6.3mm Single Ended headphone connection and what looks at first view like a 4-Pin balanced output but in reality this connection is designed to take advantage of the ‘Halo topology’ lots of details about this later in this review.

The back panel is beautifully simple to set up, being a pre-amp we get 2 inputs (RCA and Balaned ) and 2 outputs (RCA and Balanced), in my subjective testing I mainly used a SMSL SU-1 DAC feed by a Wiim Pro Streamer) connected to the RCA input but initially I did try all the connection for the purposes of testing the Midgard using a Topping D10 to feed its balanced inputs. When measuring I have a laptop running REW connected to the RCA inputs.

So obviously depending on the RCA/Balanced toggle on the front you switch the inputs.

I also feed the outputs to a Fosi Audio ZA3 separately testing the balanced and RCA outputs with that Amplifier as it supports both inputs.

Internally, the Midgard uses a fully discrete circuit topology, which means that all of the signal processing is done using individual transistors. This approach is often considered to be more transparent and less prone to coloration than integrated circuits, though obviously some people like discrete op-amps and the sound colorization to taste they can apply.

Sound quality​

I will cut to the chase - the Schiit Midgard is a powerful extremely clean and neutral sounding headphone amplifiers. It does an excellent job of bring out the best in the source input whether you use RCA or Balanced Inputs and providing that in crystal clear clarify with great ease to bring out the best in your headphone.

So the key things are that there is no bass or treble roll off or channel mismatches this is the cleanest and best measuring headphone Amplifier that Schiit Audio have produced.

As for power there is ample power for even the most demanding headphones

Power Ratins (Max)​

• 16 ohms: 5.5W RMS per channel
• 32 ohms: 4.8W RMS per channel
• 50 ohms: 3.2W RMS per channel
• 300 ohms: 750mW RMS per channel
• 600 ohms: 375mW RMS per channel

On ASR when tested the Midgard actually had higher output of 822mw into 300 Ohms:

The High Gain toggle on the front of the midgard adds 14db. Both the single ended and 4-pin outputs at the same volume (making sighted A/B testing much easier) but obviously the 4-pin may optimise the distortion directly on headphone using the mixed-mode feedback.

Subjective listening​

Subjectively over the past few weeks I have been swapping between both interfaces and numerous times I have went “eureka” I can hear the difference ‘Halo’ makes only to switch back over to the single ended interface and listen again and think “maybe / maybe not” as it sounds very similar. So while I was convinced numerous times the power of ‘sighted bias’ is incredible strong so I will say I preferred using XLR interface but I am not 100% convinced if I was to do a full blind test that I could tell the difference, though as you will read later in the review this might be because of the selection of headphones I have in my collection.

I was initially using the Midgard with my planars (mainly Hifiman Edition XS and HE400-se) but also the new FiiO FT5 but as you will see in the research section I did add some AKG dynamic driver headphones, even a balanced ‘modded’ version of the AKG K702 and I also listened with some IEM’s (FX-15, Truthear Zero and KiwiEars Orchestra lite) in all cases the Midgard sound completely transparent bringing out the best in these headphones and IEM’s.

Here are some brief subjective opinions:

Bass​

The Midgard’s bass response is detailed and precise with no roll off in the sub-bass regions, the midgards pushes even my most depending planar’s sound fantastic even when I pushed the bass using EQ to really test that the midgard was driving the bass response approprately.

Midrange​

The amplifier shines in the midrange, rendering vocals and instruments with exceptional clarity and dynamics. The natural timbre and resolution of this range are particularly noteworthy, offering an engaging and realistic listening experience. The lack of colorisation really helps the midrange with the midgard.

Treble​

In the treble region, the Midgard demonstrates a fine balance of detail and smoothness. Metallic sounds are rendered with an authentic crash and reverberation, showcasing the amp’s ability to reproduce high frequencies without artificial brightness.

Soundstage​

The soundstage presented by the Midgard is impressively holographic, with excellent channel matching the midgard provided well-defined depth and layering. Its ability to precisely position sound sources within this space contributes to an immersive auditory experience.

What is the ‘Halo Topopoly’ - Some research​

Halo Topology is an unique mixed-mode feedback technology specifically applied to headphones, I believe Schiit are the first company to use this in a headphone amplifier and to introduce this technology at this price point rather than in some $800 headphone amp shows Schiit commitment to getting exciting new technology into as many customers as possible.

Executive Summary:​

From reading about this technology, I believe this technology has tremendous potential to provide lower distortion in specific headphones. Specifically low impedance headphones with large swings in impedance, specifically this is because when used to optimise the response of speakers (as you will see below) it in relation to allowing an amplifier to respond appropraitely when a specific speaker has large variations in impedance.

`So first lets delve into Mixed Mode Feedback:

Mixed mode feedback in speaker amplifiers​

Mixed mode feedback in the context of speaker distortion refers to a technique used in audio engineering and speaker design to manage and reduce distortion. To understand this concept, it’s important to first grasp the basics of speaker distortion and feedback mechanisms.

Speaker Distortion​

Types of Distortion:​

• Thermal Distortion: Caused by changes in the speaker’s temperature, affecting its performance.
• Mechanical Distortion: Due to physical limitations or mechanical failures in the speaker components.
• Intermodulation Distortion: Occurs when multiple frequencies interact, producing sum and difference frequencies not present in the original signal.
• Doppler Distortion: Results from the movement of the speaker cone, affecting the frequency and phase of the output.

Causes of Distortion:​

• Exceeding the linear operating range of the speaker.
• Imperfections in speaker design or manufacturing.
• Inadequate power handling or poor thermal management.

Feedback Mechanisms​

Voltage Feedback In a traditional VF amplifier, the feedback loop measures the output voltage and compares it to the input voltage. The amplifier then adjusts its gain to minimize the difference between these two voltages. This approach is known for its stability and ability to handle high input impedances.

Current Feedback CF amplifiers, on the other hand, measure the current flowing through the output stage and compare it to the input current. The amplifier then adjusts its gain to minimize the difference between these two currents. This approach is known for its high power output and efficiency, making it suitable for driving demanding headphones.

Mixed-Mode Feedback MMF amplifiers combine elements of both VF and CF to achieve a balance of performance characteristics. The feedback loop typically incorporates a combination of voltage and current sensors, allowing the amplifier to optimize both gain and power delivery. This approach can potentially improve the amplifier’s ability to control driver resonance and reduce distortion.

In summary, mixed mode feedback in speaker systems is an advanced technique for managing distortion. It requires a delicate balance and deep technical knowledge in audio engineering to be effectively implemented. The goal is to enhance the speaker’s performance by minimizing distortion without compromising on sound quality or introducing new problems.

Post-Filter Feedback in Speaker Amplifiers​

I thought I would put small section here about PFFB as that is a hot topic with Class-D amplifiers and allowing Speaker Amplifiers managing impedance variations in speakers. Speciifically it is a Voltage Feedback mechanism which when implemented will reduce distortion and avoid variations in frequency response.

For example the otherwise excellent Fosi Audio V3 does not support PFFB feedback so when paired a speaker with large variations in impedance it causes the V3 to sound either bright or dull as far as the treble when paired with different speakers:

While a similar TPA3255 vased Amplifier (3e Audio TPA3255) that does implement PFFB both reduces distorition and is not dependent on the speaker impedance:

And comparing the distortion the V3 does well (note the comparison is the 48 Volt):



While the 3e Audio does much better:

This is what interested me the most when I heard about the Midgard and to do this innovation in a $219 Amplifier (instead of a $800) is pretty special.

That said most headphones do not have massive swings in Impedance the way some speakers do as we shall see later in the measuremen section.

Mixed mode feedback with Headphones​

In headphones, mixed mode feedback plays a slightly different role compared to loudspeakers, primarily due to the differences in design, application, and user experience. However, the fundamental principles remain similar: it’s about managing distortion and improving audio quality. And specifically this affects headphones which are more like tradtional speakers (hence why its more relevant for dynamic headphones than planar or electrostatic). Let’s delve into how mixed mode feedback applies to headphones:

Distortion in Headphones​

• Intermodulation and Harmonic Distortion: More critical in headphones because they can significantly affect the perceived audio quality in the intimate listening environment that headphones provide.

Factors Affecting Distortion in Headphones:​

• Driver quality and design.
• Enclosure design (closed-back, open-back, in-ear, etc.).
• Power handling and impedance characteristics.

Mixed Mode Feedback in Headphones​

Implementation Challenges:​

• The close proximity to the ear means that any distortion or artifacts introduced by feedback mechanisms are more easily perceived.
• The small size and delicate nature of headphone drivers require a very careful application of feedback techniques.

Benefits:​

• When implemented correctly, mixed mode feedback can help in fine-tuning the headphone response, reducing certain types of distortion, and improving overall sound quality. This is the key benefit of Halo Topology
• Can be particularly beneficial in high-end headphones where fidelity and accuracy are paramount.

Research Conclusion​

As you can see from the benefits above mixed mode feedback is around lowering the distortion of traditional speakers, and with Halo Topology it is now uniquely applied to headphones, this technology should provide the same benefit to similar architected headphones, i.e. when applied to dynamic driver headphones as some unique headphone drivers have that same variable impedence as some speakers.

Therefore, I will use a word that is seldom used in an online review the word ‘Assurance’, the assurance that if you have or possible in the future will purchase a headphone that might benefit from lower distortion then with the midgard (and only the midgard) you have that added assurance.

But the purpose of this deep dive was to understand what I should specifically try and measure with the halo topology and it became obvious as I research this that I need to look at difference in distortion with specific headphones by measuring the headphone response (not the amplifier output).

Some Measurements​

Measurement process​

Given the objective is to now measure a delta in distortion between the single ended and the ‘Halo’ 4-pin interfaces from the headphone itself I used my Minidsp Ears, obviously this is a much simpler measurement tool than BK-5128 or a Gras Coupler, but given I was looking for a statistical difference I decided a methodolical and repeatable process could be used with the Minidsp.

I decided that I would follow this process:

1. Use Left Ear in all measurements
2. Only measure when the headphone was properly positioned with reasonable good seal (throwing away any outlying measurements that looked like in-accurate placement of the headphone)
3. Once properly position - measure the distortion 3 times using REW
4. Swap from SE to the 4-pin and repeat from 2. above
5. Repeat this process 10 times (5 times per SE and 5 per 4-pin)

The average of the 3 seated measurements is taken at each frequency during the sweep and then the 5 SE and 5 4-pin measurements, this was to avoid as much as possible differences due to the headphone moving around while the cable was swapped.

One problem. I had was the selection of headphones was to identify a suitable set of headphones to measure. From the research above (and from reading online forums) I would idealy measure a headphone with large swings in impedance but also support a balanced cable. Even though the Midgard is not a balanced headphone Amplifier, for the Halo Topology to work the extra wire in a 4-wire balanced cable is used by the mixed-mode feedback to adjust the output, so a headphone (or IEM) that supports balanced connections is required.

Also, Dynamic Driver headphones and not Planars are the ideal headphone to measure a differance, as Planar have a very even impendance so not ideal for this test but after looking at my small collection of headphones, the only ideally suited headphone in my collection was an old AKG K702 ( being a dynamic driver) which was modified a few years ago to supported balanced cables, but in the interests of this experience I also decided to measure against one planar (the Hifiman HD200-SE and one IEM the FX-15 as I had both balanced and SE cables for that IEM ).

But even the K702 only has a minor variation in impedance:

For example, diyaudioheaven measured the frequency response differences (i.e. tonal differences) when this headphone was presented with different impedance amplifiers


Again this upper treble region has slight variations depending on the impendence.

Note: One headphone that might have the right criteria is the Sennheiser HD650:

Amir from ASR, during his review on ASR actually subjectively mentioned that he thought they sounded better on the 4-pin than the SE which would make sense based on the research above.

So with this process in place I believe the labourious task of capturing: 3 (measurements per sitting) x 5 (sittings per interface ) * 2 (interfaces) * 3 ( headphones / IEMs) so a total of 90 measurements of the distortion difference. So lets see the results:

1. Headphone 1 - the Hifiman HE200-SE

• Distortion Via Halo:
  
• Distortion via SE:
  

So no significant difference was measured but a few times there was less distortion via the ‘Halo Topology’ though this wasn’t consistent could have been a measurement anomaly.

1. IEM - FX-15:

• Distortion Via Halo:
  
  
• Distortion via SE:
  
  

So no significant difference was measured.

1. Headphone 2 AKG K702:

• Distortion Via Halo:
  
• Distortion via SE:
  

So no significant difference was measured.

Note: I have a few links here, here and here for raw measurements used above.

Measurement summary​

Sadly I could not proof the technology with my limited measurements and
my limited set of headphones.

While these measurements did not show any significant differences between the Single End and the 4-Pin ‘Halo’ interface the process of researching and then measuring the Midgard with my headphones gave me a both a sense for what Schiit Audio have implemented with the Midgard and the audio ‘problem’ that they were trying to solve.

This has given me an even more impressive feeling about the Midgard and I now believe the Midgard is the perfect headphone amplifier for someone who is growing their collection.

What could be better​

There are a few things I think Schiit could improve on:

1. Include both a ‘Halo’ 4-PIN and a Balanced output as well as the Single Ended interface
2. Switch off the RCA / Balanced output on the back when a headphone is connected

Rating​

I gave this a 5-star rating as it’s rare to get a premium audiophile product that has outstanding measurements and unique technology at this reasonable price.

Summary​

The Schiit Audio Midgard stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity and affordability. This $219 headphone amplifier and pre-amp, proudly American-made, encapsulates a blend of robust metal construction, discrefte circuitry, with the standout feature the intriguing addition of ‘halo topology’.

While I could not measure a notable difference, from the research I made I believe that the ‘halo topology’ adds a level of assurance to your listening pleasure, that is unique within headphone amplifiers. This alone should be a reason to purchase the midgard but even without the ‘halo topology’ the Midgard is a top product which measures exceptioanlly well and most importantly make your headphone sound like they belong in the realms of the gods.

FT5 Review​

FiiO have been on a roll this year with a huge range of product offerings and they have already released some quality headphones with the FT3, but with the FT5 this marks a significant audiophile step up, into the world of planar magnetic headphones, a segment of the industry traditionally dominated by brands like HIFIMAN, DCA, Meze and of course Audeze.

So with the FT5, priced at an $449, this firmly puts FiiO into the competitive mid-fi planar segment against some well regarded HifiMan planars like Sundara and Edition XS and some recent Moondrop offerings like the Venus and the Para.



So the questions is did they succeed? Let’s delve into the specifics of this review.

Note: FiiO kindly provided me with the FT5 for review purposes.

Whats in the box​

When you purchase the FiiO FT5, you’re not just getting a pair of high-quality headphones, but also a comprehensive package that ensures you have everything needed to enjoy a premium audio experience.

Once you open the box you are greeted with a cloth cover - giving a nice premium anticipation to what is contained within:


Here’s a detailed overview of what’s included in the box:

Faux Leather Storage Case:​

The next thing you are greeted with is a well-built and aesthetically pleasing case is provided for storing and transporting the headphones. My wife thought this whole unboxing experience was worthy of a high end luxury hangbag.

The case is designed to accommodate all the plugs neatly. So I can imagine this packaging will make for a very impressive gift.

The Cable and its connectors:​

The provided cable is a high quality 1.5m long 23AWG gauge cable. It’s sturdy and features soft parts around the plugs for excellent durability. The cable immediately make me understand part of what FiiO were aiming for with this headphone, basically a rugged design that can withstand significant usage. While I love the sound of my other planars, their accessories and build quality is not as premium as what FiiO are offering here.

A key feature of the cable and comes with interchangeable connectors, with a unscrew mechanism allowing you to switch between 3.5mm or 4.4mm connections.

For example:

Noticed how you cleverly unscrew the 3.5mm connector:

You alight the arrow inside the adapter next to the 4 pins and you align this with the grove on which ever connector you want to swap.


And then you screw in the 4.4mm balanced connector:

One thing of note with the cable is that while FiiO provide balanced adapters as connectors to the source end of the cable, the dual 3.5mm ends are single ended so it’s not a fully balanced cable, as you can see in this photo:

But I did test the FT5 with fully balanced cables so you can easily swap to a fully balanced cable if you so wish.

XLR Converter:​

I thought a lovely touch was the inclusion of a XLR connector:

With the inclusion of all these connectors, users have the flexibility to connect to almost any amplifier or audio source and the convenience of a portable and protective storage solution all housed nicely within the premium carrying case.

Two Sets of Earpads:​

FiiO includes two sets of earpads with the FT5. One set is made of suede, while the other is made of protein leather.

I have large ears and the cup sizes were just large enough to encase my ears with the protein leather and are fractionally larger and deeper than the suede. I imagine there will be some people where these are not large enough, and certainly when compared to the egg shape Hifiman earpads these earpads are on the small side.

But even comparing the sizes with some of the oval shared Hifiman earpads while they are similar in shape they are slightly smaller than the hifiman:

While I liked both earpads, for comfort and a slightly deeper sound signature, I preferred the leather. The Suede were touching the inside of my ears which would definitely affect the sound signature but I can imagine the suede earpads will be some peoples favourites.

The Headphone:​

And so to the centerpiece of the package, these are the flagship open-back 90mm planar magnetic driver headphones from FiiO.

Here are the specifications:

• Driver Size: 90mm planar magnetic
• Diaphragm Thickness: 6um
• Impedance: 36Ω
• Sensitivity: 110dB/rms (@1kHz), 96dB/mW (@1kHz)
• Frequency Response: 7Hz-40kHz
• Max Power Input: 2000mW
• Cable: 1.5m, 392 wires of high-purity silver-plated monocrystalline copper
• Connectivity: Dual 3.5mm plugs with swappable audio plugs

The open-back grilles, fashioned in a turbine-like pattern:

Fit, Comfort and Feel​

While the earpads fit might be a problem for those with larger ears, I did find, for me, that the leather pads where extremely comfortable for hours of use and FiiO included some nice design touches to make the headphone suitable for a wide range of head profiles.

Here’s a closer look at the features of the headphone:

Swivel Mechanism and Suspension:​

The FT5 headphones feature a well-designed swivel mechanism that enhances their flexibility and fit. This feature allows the ear cups to adjust naturally to the shape and angle of your head, providing a more personalized and comfortable fit. The swivel mechanism contributes significantly to the ease of wear, especially during prolonged listening sessions. Here are 2 photos showing the extremes of the swivel mechanism but also showing the flexibilty of the suspension.


The suspension mechanism distributes the weight well across your head, so a good choice to faciliate longer listening sessions. This design provides good adaptability to different shaped heads and peoples preferences.

Weight:​

Despite their robust build, the FT5 headphones maintain a manageable weight of 456 grams, thanks to the use of lightweight materials in their construction. It looks heavier than it feels when you are wearing it.
The choice of magnesium alloy for the frame strikes an ideal balance between durability and lightness, ensuring that the headphones don’t become a burden during extended use.

Construction:​

The rugged external construction of the FT5 greatly helps the durability and solid feel of the headphone. I would have no problem “throwing” this headphone in a bag for a long trip unlike most of my other planar’s where I am always worried that the “open” nature of the design means they are fragile.

Overall, the FiiO FT5 stands out for its comfortable fit and feel, thanks to the thoughtful design elements such as the swivel mechanism, lightweight construction, and earpad options. These features work in harmony to provide an enjoyable and fatigue-free listening experience, even for extended periods.

Listening and Sound impressions​

The FiiO FT5 headphones, particularly when paired with the protein leather pads, offer a distinct sound quality that can be best described as warm with a U-shaped sound signature. This characterization refers to a slight emphasis on the lower (bass) and higher (treble) frequencies, while maintaining a satisfactory representation of the midrange.

Warm and U-Shaped Sound:​

The use of protein leather pads on the FT5 accentuates a warm tonality, enriching the listening experience with a fuller extended bass. This U-shape tuning makes for an engaging listening experience, particularly for genres that benefit from a more pronounced low-end and a lively treble. However, the midrange, while slightly recessed, still retains enough presence to keep vocals and instruments clear and distinct.

That said I do believe the ideal headphone is not only has its own distinct ‘fun’ sound signature but one that can easily be adapted with a few EQ filters to a much more balanced ‘detailed’ sound. I will present my EQ settings and the logic behind them later in this review.

Bass Response​

FiiO have gone for a broad bass sound remincent of some high end Meze planars like the Empyrean but the subbass on the FT5 doesn’t go as deep especially below 30hz. That said it a full wide bass response, some people will not like the enhanced mid-bass and lower midrange regions but these are easily EQ to taste as you will see and I appreciate that FiiO wanted to do something different, providing a “rich sounding” rather than the typical ’neutral sound signature’. It means some tracks like Portisheads Roads had just a little too much bass with this tuning but with most rocks tracks e.g. AC/DC or the new Rolling Stones album, I found the sound fun and engaging.

Midrange​

The lower midrange on the FT5 (as I mentioned above) is emphasised but the upper midrange is scouped out, providing that U-Shaped sound. This specifically was the one area where I felt I needed some EQ especially in vocal heavily tracks but this tuning is becoming much more popular as a ‘warm luxurixous sound’ and when I get to some Frequency Response comparisons later you will see some very similar frequency response from very expensive and well known headphones.

It was an interesting decision by FiiO to not follow the harman / neutral sound signature that the majority of headphones at this price point follow but go for a rich “more expensive” sound, possible in the knowledge that their customers might already have a more ’neutral’ sounding headphones (like FiiO FT3) and want something a little different.

Treble​

I found treble excellently balanced with the bass in that U-shaped sound. For me there was no sibiliance but that midbass extension does mask some of the treble detail you should expect and once I started to play around with EQ and lowered the midbass region I also slightly tweaked treble region to match.

Soundstage and Imaging​

I found the soundstage good with the FT5 but not massive like the Hifiman Edition XS. That said songs classic binarual recordings like Earth Drum or Horikawa’s Bubbles had excellent width.

With imaging, I found that without EQ some of the detailed treble that provides that ‘pin precise’ imaging within the soundstage was masked by that midbass extension. But once I applied some EQ that detail and then subsequently that accuracy to the imaging was restored. Songs like Tools ‘Chocolate Chip Trip’ had excellent distinction between instruments as the percussive parts were floating around the soundstage.

Adaptability to EQ (Warm or detailed sound - it’s your choice):​

As I mentioned above the FT5 sound signature is great for some genres of music with its warm and engaging sound. The FT5 as with most planars are highly responsive to equalization due to the low distoration. This is especially true with the FT5 as it is incredible easy to drive. Even with EQ requiring a few DB of headroom a dongle as basic as the Apple Dongle still had significant head room for those wanting to listen very loud.

Over the past two weeks of alternating between EQ settings and no EQ, it has become evident that these headphones can be easily adjusted to approach a more balanced sound signature. With EQ the FT5 is versatile for a variety of listening tastes, but it is by no means necessary to apply EQ as I loved the warm luxurious sound on a significant amount of my audio test tracks and favourite artists. Whether you’re aiming for a flatter response or wish to accentuate certain frequencies, the FT5 responds well to these adjustments without losing its inherent sound characteristics.

FT5 Measurements​

Note: These graphs are based on RAW measurements from a BK-5128 - Fiio provided the raw data but I have only use some of
the data provided as there is a limited set of BK-5128 data on other planars to compare the FT5 with and as of this review still not new BK-5128 “Harman Curve”.

Frequency Response​

First - the RAW Left and Right channel at 96db and 104db taken with the Suede earpads - I do not have BK-5128 measurements of the Protein Leather pads but I will present some third party measurements of both pads a little later.These subtle differences where due to different placements when taking the measurements. I noticed while listening to a sweep (which I always do to verify EQ with my own personal HRTF) that the treble peaks where slightly different with the suede ear pads on my head, so as every I think about care should be taken EQ blindly from a chart especially beyond 8Khz (where subtle placement differences can make large differences in FR).

Note: I also noticed that the large drop off at 400Hz was not as deep as it appears in this measurement so I went for a smoother EQ when lowering this mid-bass peak.

Here is a brief comparison of one of these channels with a Hifiman Sundara and compared with FiiO recently released FT3 (note these alternative measurements are only for illustration purposes):You can see from this comparison the extended bass response up to 400Hz and that dip in the 1.5K region. The treble region is mostly very smooth and as you can see the FT5 avoids the hifiman treble peaks.

Distortion​

Distortion is good even at 104db so no worries about EQ and plenty of dynamic range:

FR Comparisons​

I do believe that FiiO was going for something of a premium sound from the FT5 and were heavily imspired by some premium sounding planars. To illustrate this check out these measurements I borrored from VSG Squig.link:

EQ Recommendation​

As I mentioned in the subjective section, there is a rich “warm” but slightly muffled (lacking in detail) default sound signature - some minor eq tweaks can really bring out the best in the FT5 and have the ability to A/B switch between this EQ and the default sound signature was a very reveling experience while listening to my favourite tracks:



Filter 1 is the main one to lower that mid bass entension. Filter 2 and 3 are to raise the dip in the midrange (filling in the U-Shape) Filter 4 is totally optional but I decided to slightly lower the treble

Also I did play with a sub-bass filter for a few days but I ultimately felt it wasn’t needed - but you may want to add one to your own tastes.

Source Pairing​

Put simply these are the easist to drive set of planars I have. Without EQ even just using the Apple Dongle I barely needed to goto 50% to get a deep satisifying sound at very high volume. With EQ applied I did have to increase the volumen to roughly 70% but I still had lots of headroom. With that as the base level you can be confident that it will sound great on any of your equipment.

I was mainly listening with my FiiO K7 and a Schiit Midgard both of which had so much more power than the FT5 needed and happily drove it at low gain settings, while working I also used my Macbook Pro’s headphone Jack and again even with EQ I was barely at 50% volume when listening at comfortable levels.

Rating​

I gave the FT5 an overall rating of 4 its price while very reasonable for such a high quality product is expensive and while I loved the sound signature especially with the leather earpads, I feel it more limited sound stage compared to say the Hifiman Edition XS means that it is less appealing as first choose Headphone. I actually think it makes the perfect second planar, because it is much better built and more rugged and can be driven by mobile and has a beautiful carrying case it is a perfect travel planar.

Summary​

So with the FT5 FiiO have created an impressive first entry into the premium planar headphone segment. The packaging and quality of the accessories are amazing at this price point. I was especially impressed how easy to drive the FT5 for a planar even with a basic dongle. But I was a little disappointed with the soundstage and imaging and thought the rich bass was masking some of the treble details that lots of users crave. For users that want a harman like neutral sound, I believe the very simple EQ recommendations I presented above will provide an extra dimension to the sound should they require it.

Overall it is a strong recommendation especically for those who like a complete premium package and are happy to do a little EQ.

Hifiman-RE400 Review​

I would like to thank Mark from Hifiman for providing these IEM’s for this review

I came across this IEM maybe 10 years ago - it was then a steal at $99 for its then reference sound. But allot has happened in the IEM market in 10 years so has this ‘old dog’ still got tricks for the ‘young pups’ of the IEM market. And mostly importantly how does it sound stack up against its competition.

Original launch​

It can be funny to look back at old reviews for products that are still around, for example, here is Steve Guttenberg written Review(‘i.e. The Audiophiliac’) of the RE-400. The major complaints in this review and others from the original launch was the lack of a carrying case and a limited amount of ear tips. The price of the RE-400 at the time was $99 but unlike nearly every other bit of classic audio gear, the new RE-400 starts at an incredible $19.

Let’s see in detail how an upgraded RE-400 “waterline” stacks up - first lets have a look at what Hifiman now provides ‘in the box’:

Whats in the box:​

So looking at what we get now with the RE-400, never let it be said that Hifiman do not listen to their customers feedback as the “new” RE-400 addresses these issues mentioned above immediately once you open the box.

IEM and Cable​

While the IEM itself is tiny and cable is permanetly attached, which for $19.99 that is perfectly fine but obviously more expensive IEM’s now have detachedable cables unlike when the RE-400 was launched.

Eartips​

What I think is excellent is the sheer variety of sizes and even shapes of the ear tips provided and they have even provided some filter replacements. Different tips can have a massive effect on the sound profile and comfort of an IEM so having this variety is a massive benefit over similar priced IEMs.

Comfort​

For such a tiny IEM, the variety of eartips sizes can greatly effect the comfort. For me and my large ears, I found the largest ‘fat’ tip provided excellent seal and was very secure in my ears during a few long walks. I love how they provided angled eartips also which no doubt will suit some people.

Because it’s so small, it is incredible lightweight and mostly you can wear this for hours without any discomfort, it never feel out of my ear and it lack of weight greatly helped it stay in place compared to much larger IEM’s like the Truthear Zero (see photos later), my one issue with the comfort was the cable. I found it caused some microphonics as it rubbed again my clothes. I did change its position to around my ear which greatly helped but it is something to bear in mind.

My wife on the other hand has tiny ears she loved the size of the small tip and she has now taken the RE-400 as per favourite IEM’s for comfort and sound quality.

The difference is size can be seen in these 2 photos:

Sound quality​

So running through my long audiotext playlist - the RE-400 came across as very neutral, but does lack a little in the sub-bass region. As a sound signature, I thought it was more like the Etymotics ER2SR than the ER2XR, so bass heavy tracks like James Blake’s"Limit to your Love" didn’t have the bass punch you might expect coming from a Harman or V-Shaped IEM. But it more than made up with the with female vocal tracks - Kate Bush sounded amazing and Amy Winehouse had a liveliness that I have not often heard from IEM’s.

Midrange Clarity​

Midrange performance is exemplary, delivering vocals and instruments with a natural and lifelike presence. This midrange fidelity is a testament to the RE-400’s engineering especially looking at the size of the IEM it is hard to believe it can make such beautiful sound, appealing to audiophiles who appreciate a true-to-source experience. It actually sounds more like a Sennheiser headphone than a Hifiman.

Realistic Treble and Imaging​

High frequencies are handled with precision and without harshness, contributing to an extended and airy soundstage. This attribute makes the RE-400 particularly suitable for acoustic and vocal-centric genres.

Specs and Measurements​

The main specifications:

With measurements, due to its size this IEM especially will highly dependent ear tips and there objective measurements especially of bass and treble with vary greatly.

But I thought this might graph from Crinacle IEM comparison tools might provide a good match for what I heard from the RE-400, specifically compared to an classic Etymotic IEM:



As you can see both are incredible similar until the treble region where each manufacturer has their own unique take on treble. I personally like the RE-400 more, that boost in the 5-6Khz region provided excellent dynamics while to me was never fatiguing.

Comparisons​

Here is a comparison of the sizes of some similar priced IEM’s, the difference in size is remarkable with the Truthear Zero Red on the left, the Moondrop Chu in the middle and RE-400 on the right:

Sound quality wise the Truthear and Chu have more sub-bass both targetting that Harman curve but the RE-400 is much more balanced especially in the midrange. Basically if you want a reference IEM’s go for the Hifiman if you want a ‘fun IEM’ go for the Truthear. I would probably not recommend the Moondrop Chu due to its poor treble response, though its a similar price to the RE-400.

Summary​

The Hifiman RE-400 is a remarkable contender in the in-ear monitor market. Its focus on delivering an accurate and balanced sound profile makes it a prime choice for audiophiles on a budget. While its non-detachable cable may not appeal to everyone, its sound quality undoubtedly places it among the top performers in its price range. The RE-400 is a testament to Hifiman’s commitment to high-fidelity audio, packaged in a practical and everyday use design.

The K11 is FiiO’s new entry level headphone amplifier. It is both an incredible nice looking device and also incredible feature rich. This might be the only headphone amplifier you will ever need, to find out why, please read on:



Thanks to FiiO for providing me with the K11 for this review.

A note about FiiO Naming:
I think its worth clarifying FiiO’s new device naming conventions. With a device name like the K11 - you might expect this headphone amplifier to be the top of FiiO range, considering FiiO already offer a K9, K7, K5 and even a K3.
But a quick check on FiiO website clarifies that they have adopted a new naming convention for their devices.

Therefore the 11 number actually means update 1 of a level 1. Therefore, we will no doubt see future headphone amps named K15, K17, K19’s as FiiO upgrade their range.

Click to expand...

But the naming convention is not the only ’new’ aspect of this headphone amp. It is the first of this product line from FiiO to contain a screen with a new user interface and expose associated ‘platform’ with many features that are currently unique to the K11.

I would also expect future FiiO products K15, K17 etc to be based of this new platform and contain a similar display to access those features as the K11.

Before we get into the features and sound quality lets check the packaging:

What’s in the box​

As you would expect from FiiO the packaging is excellent:

And nicely laid out within the box:

Once you take everything out of the box, as well as the power supply you get a USB cable and a 3.5mm adapter.


Looking at the K11 itself I thought it might be usefull to compare the size with the K7:On the front you get a nice volume control (that is volume control is central to accessing the features of the K11 - see later on for details) and both a balanced 4.4mm and a 3.5mm headphone jacks.

As you can see it is slightly wider but less tall than the K7, the underside of the K11 has a nice non-slip mat to keep it in place.

Around the back you a modern USB-C connection (instead of the older USB connection on the K7), a optical and a coaxial inputs and a RCA output (LO in FiiO terminal) for connection to an external amplifier or powered speaker.

Note: It lacks the RCA input that K7 provides but the interesting the coaxial can act as an output as well as input.


Overall the K11 has a very clean and well laid out design.

Features​

So the K11 has a tremendous amount of features and there is allot going on behind that volume button.

First the screen is small but easy visible and the ‘home’ page information is nicely laid out:The screen by default shows:

• the gain level (high, medium or low)
• the format (PCM or DSD)
• the output (PO for headphone, LO for Line out / RCA output and Coaxial output if connected)
• bitrate of the input in this case I have set the maximum availalbe via the UAC-2 option and set on my Macbook Pro
• the Volume level

The volume button does feels a bit cheap when adjusting the volume especially compared to the K7, but the key thing is that the button is clickable in 2 ways:

1. A short click access input switch - between the USB, Optical and Coaxial inputs - it returns to the default screen above after a timeout
2. A long press and hold - this switches the display to show the options menu.

The Options Menu is the heart of configuration of this headphone amplifier ( this is the “new platform” for configuration of the K11 and I believe we will see similar in future FiiO desktop headphone amplifiers ). It has the following options:

• Gain (High, Medium, Low) - see below
• Output (LO - Line out or PO headphone output)
• Filt - this is the filter menu and there are 6 filters available (more about this in the subjective listening section):
  • 1 Minimum phase fast roll-off filter
  • 2 Fast roll-off, Phase-compensated filter
  • 3 Minimum phase slow roll-off filter
  • 4 Slow roll-off, Phase-compensated filter
  • 5 Wideband flatness filter
  • 6 Non over-sampling filter
• UAC (1 or 2) - this option allows configuration of the USB-C connection - 1 is compatible with older devices while 2 has much higher bandwidth and supports 384K 32bit audio
• RGB - there are 3 separate menus for configuring the RGB on the top of the box
• LCD - there are 2 separate menus for brightness and timeout of the LCD on the front of the box
• Reset - this restores all the settings to their default
• Update - this restarts the K11 into update mode - I had no updates
• Return - back to the ‘home’ screen

FiiO provided a useful graph of the difference in gain:

Desktop and mobile DAC​

When connected to a PC or MAC you can utilise the UAC 2 mode above and this provides excellent hi-res audio support of up to 384K.




When connected in UAC 1 mode it only supports 96 Khz:



Before we get into the sound quality and playing with some of these features, lets delve a little into the measurements:


I also tried the K11 with my new iPhone 15 (using its USB-C connection):



Though I was limited to 44khz output - this is an IOS restriction I believe.

Measurements & Specifications and technical comparisons​

This being the FiiO entry level headphone DAC we should not expect SOTA measurements. The 2 core components of the K11 are its DAC which is a single CS43198 DAC and its headphone amplifier which is a dual SGM8262-2 setup. FiiO has already used these components in its entry level portable headphone Amp the Q11 but with the K11 they are using dual 8262-2 for a much more powerful amplification as we will see in the specification below.

The CS43198 DAC itself is an excellent choice and used in many more expensive headphones amplifiers
and FiiO themselves has used this DAC in various configurations include dual CS43198 in the FiiO JadeAudio KA5.

I would not be surprised if we see a K13 or K15 with both dual CS43198 and dual SGM8262-2 in the next year.

By only having a single CS43198 the K11 does suffer from low THD+N / SINAD measurements especially when measuring
the balanced output as we can see in the figures below:

The 4.4mm balance SINAD score 97 is reasonable for an entry level device.

The 3.5mm SINAD score of 104.5 is pretty competitive with, for example, this is a similar value to the Schiit Magni 3+

Note: While the THD+N / SINAD ‘score’ is an excellent measure of engineering excellence, once you get a score in the 90+ range the difference are mostly of engineering interested, as any differences will be in-audible. Therefore, in an entry level device these measurements are perfectly acceptable.
Higher SINAD is really for those chasing excellence that they cannot hear.

Click to expand...

The Line Out of the K11 has THD+N value of 0.00035% which is a SINAD of 108.57 dB which is an excellent score for an entry level DAC, though also certainly not "state of the art".

Headphone output Power​

In my opinion, the power output of a headphone amplifier is much more important, once a reasonable level of THD+N / SINAD has been reached and the K11 does not disappoint.

The following table shows an excellent amount of power from both the 3.5mm and the 4.4mm headphone jacks:

This shows that the K11 can drive most demanding headphones easily and when I used the K11 with my more demanding planars it was not found wanting.

For those interested FiiO provides extensive specifications on their website

Technical Comparisons​

I have been a long term fan and daily user of the FiiO K7 and I was fastinated to see how the K11 would stack up against it. I was also keen to see how the K11 would compare with the entry level headphone dac’s from SMSL and Topping.

Compared to the K7:​

The K11 has many many more features than the K7, but the K7 does have more power and has much better measurements. It also a few simple features that I did miss when using the K11, specifically a simple switch on the front to switch inputs, but I missed the volume control on the K7 as it is much more premium than the one on the K11.

K7 power for comparison - effectively the K7 has double the power of the K11:

Also, and its probably very subjective but I feel that the THX AAA 788+ Amplifier in the K7 sounded ‘cleaner’ than the dual SGM8262-2 in the K11.

But this is probably an unfair comparison considering the K7 is roughly double the price of the K11.

I cannot wait to see what FiiO will do with what I am guessing will eventually be called the K17.

I will be doing a long term review of the K7 very soon with more details.

Compared to the SMSL M300SE:​

The SMSL support MQA files, supports up to 768khz 32bit DSD files and has better SINAD scores. But in the more important area, output power the SMSL is massively lacking compared to the K11:

In my opinion, those values are not competitive at all.

Compared to similar priced offerings from TOPPING​

Topping doesn’t have a similar priced offering to the K11, their base models are either a basic DAC without headphone output like the D10 or a headphone amp / pre-amp like the L30. While some people will prefer having 2 separate devices it effectively double the price compared to the K11.

The TOPPING DX3pro+ DAC + Headphone Amp has some similar features to the K11 but it is also double the price and is more competitive with the FiiO K7.

Even then the topping does not have a balanced 4.4mm output so these figures are just for the 3.5mm:

Sound Impressions​

FiiO’s DACs and amps are known for their ability to provide a clean neutral listening experience, and the K11 lives up to this reputation.
When using headphones like the Hifiman XS and Sennheiser HD-600 benefit from the K11’s ability to provide that power over the balanced output for the absolute best sounding output.

There is no sense of colouring the output, so you are getting crystal clear sound the way it should be, contributing to an overall balanced sound profile.



In my listening tests with my Hifiman Edition XS and HE-400SE I found the K11 had ample power to drive these planars both via the 3.5mm and via the 4.4mm jacks.

While there is no colouring of the sound with this amplifier, FiiO does provide the K11 with 6 interesting filters to play with the top end of the frequency response, for example, filter option 4 is a "slow roll off" filter which lowers the upper treble region earlier and might be useful for headphones with extra ‘peaky’ treble. But for me a "sharp roll off" ( filter 1 or 2 ) gives the most natural sounding response.

Summary​

The K11 is an amazing bargain and for those looking to get into the hobby it is a great feature rich first headphone amp. It might even be the only headphone amplifier you will ever need, given the K11 power especially from its balanced headphone jack.

But for me the real star of the K11 is the features it provides and how easily accessible these are via the lovely screen.

In my opinion, the K11 sets a new standard in terms of both performance and budget-friendliness, making it the pragmatic choice for those who want a great headphone experience without breaking the bank.

Hifiman Edition XS - A Long-Term Review​

Only maybe 3 or 4 times in this hobby have I come across a product that completely upgrades my expectation of the quality that I should expect when listening too music. The Hifiman XS has done that for me for headphones.



It’s been about 6 months now since I upgraded to the XS, so I felt it was a good time to write a long term review. For those holding out on Planar Headphones, it is time to jump on-board as these headphones fulfil an experience that you can’t get with similarly priced and highly regarded dynamic driver headphones.

Before I get into the details I thought it might be useful to provide a little background into my headphone audio journey:

A Headphone upgrade journey​

Having been a Sennheiser fan for many years starting with the iconic ‘yellow’ foam HD-414 (anniversary edition) then moving to the HD-560’s and finally getting the incredible well regarded studio reference HD-600, I had thought I was finished in my search for the best headphone, but then at the start of COVID I found myself working from home and wanting to experiment a little with headphones. From reading the latest research into the Harman Over Ear target curve, I decided to pick up an AKG K371 as this was Dr Sean Olive’s “baby” created to be a reference headphone for that preference curve and while I thought the bass was great (much better than the HD-600) being a closed back it lacked any decent soundstage and the midrange wasn’t nearly as good as the HD-600. I then thought lets go for a headphone with great / wide soundstage, this time trying the AKG K702 and while it has a great soundstage, the bass was lacking, and it wasn’t the most comfortable for long working hours.

And then this is when I realised that I had to get a planar that would provide that ideal ‘goldilock’ headphone with both bass and that wide ‘open back’ soundstage, some experimentation with different models for comfort, and it became obviously that the Edition XS was the most pragmatic choice.

But it wasn’t all plain sailing from them on, read on to find out why:

Give the Edition XS the power it deserves​

So initially I was using the Edution XS a few different amplifiers around my house but also using it with an older Macbook Pro and with my iPhone (using an Apple Lightning adapter sadly the underpowered European one). And while it sounded amazing from say my Volumio ‘Integro’, and even my Denon AVR the bass wasn’t quiet right on the Macbook Pro or the iPhone or even the cheap desktop headphone amp I had tried as an alternative to the Macbook Pro’s headphone socket.

I was curious and the Edition XS while realatively not that hard to drive can soar, especially in bass response when given enough power. I immediately bought a FiiO K7, and I was astonished how well it sounds, this combination has become my evening goto setup for listening to music. I also upgraded my Macbook Pro and found the latest models have much better audiophile headphone support and while it’s far better than before it is not the equal in power to the FiiO K7.

So how does it sound in practice?:

Sound quality​

Rather than give a list of my subjectively impressions of songs I will just focus on 4 areas where I think the Edition XS shines:

Bass worthy of a subwoofer​

It not just the bass is deep and natural with the Edition XS (as say the AKG K371 also has excellent bass) but the combination of bass with an open back headphone that is incredbile. It is like being in a room with no “room modes” because of well-placed subwoofers. The amount of tracks where I was in awe from the physical bass response in my ears (sometimes even ’textured’ bass which I have never heard in a room), it totally satisfied my need to listen late at night but not annoy the rest of the house with thumping bass.

Massive Soundstage​

Planars have a flat diaphragm and Hifiman Planars especially have extra thin diagphram’s providing much more sound from a larger surface in each ear. Further the earpads on the Hifiman XS are angled which enhances that sense of listening to music presented in front of you.
This together with the open back mean they sound much more like I can in a room than with other headphones (including the AKG K702) with different instruments / vocals in clearly separately distinct places in 3D space.

Midrange Clarity​

The midrange is a high point of these headphones. It’s transparent and natural, capturing the intricate nuances of vocals and string instruments with striking clarity. This makes the Edition XS ideal for genres that rely heavily on vocal accuracy and instrument detail. While I would say the Sennheiser HD600 has slightly better midrange tonality, the midrange on the Edition XS massively benefits from that wider soundstage. I have watched Movies late at night with the XS and have not missed my surround sound system and found the vocals clear while still having that bass punch when required by the movie.

Realistic Treble and Imaging​

Poeple sometimes complain about planar treble sounding metalic and maybe that is the case with cheaper planars but I think Hifiman have the right treble tuning with the Edition XS to give a nice ’edge’ or ‘air’ but still sound natural to me. I actually found the AKG K702 was slightly too bright (a bit sibiliant at times) and I was a bit worried that the Edition XS might be similar but I think the better bass evens out the treble response providing a perfect balance with percussive tracks with symbals and high hats and lots of details to the imaging.

Specs and Measurements​

Specifications:​

• Impedance: 18 Ω
• Drivers: Planar Magnetic
• Frequency range: 8 Hz – 50 kHz
• Sensitivity: 92 dB
• Weight: 405 grams
• Cable length: 1.5 meter (straight)

Measurements:​

It is problematic doing graph comparisons between planar’s especially with large angled ear pads and dynamic drivers, the headphone measurements rigs do not accurately represent the bass response and angled drivers cause other inaccuracies.

More details in this issue are described on diyaudioheaven here but a small quote:

The dip between 1kHz and 5kHz is smaller in reality than how it measures because of the so-called concha gain. This is because the drivers are angled (only 6 degrees) and thus makes slightly more use of the concha which ‘boosts’ certain frequencies that arrive under an angle.

Click to expand...

With that said here is a comparison from rtings.com between the Sennheiser HD-600 (in green) and the Hifiman XS (in blue) showing the a much stronger bass (in reality for me its even nearer that dotted line target):

Build quality and Accessories​

The Hifiman Edition XS inherits a mature design from previous models like the Edition and Ananda and is the build is both lightweight and durable. This ergonomic design ensures that even during extended listening sessions, fatigue is kept to a minimum.

However, it does have large oval ear cups so may not suit everyone, I have large ears so I appreciated the shape (say compared to the Hifiman Sundara which has massive circular shaped pads).

The Hifiman XS comes with a clever “stand” built into the box and a short 3.5mm to dual 3.5mm cable.





I have since upgraded my cable with a 2m one and given it a nice stand:

Alternatives​

There are alternative Planars both from Hifiman and others at various price points, for example the Sundara is typically a little cheaper but for me, it wasn’t as comfortable and while Planars are a fairly new technologies I believe other competitors (like the recent Moondrop Para) do not have the experience that Hifiman have in building Planars. Obviously there are many more expensive Planars but the Edition XS seems to me to have that correct balance of price versus performance.

Summary​

Priced moderately in comparison to other planar magnetic models, the Edition XS offers considerable value for the money. It provides a balanced combination of sound quality, comfort, and practicality, making it a compelling choice for those unwilling to compromise on either front.

I believe with the Edition XS, Hifiman succeeded in bridging the gap between high-end audio fidelity and pragmatic daily usage and have made an astonishing headphone that is a worthy upgrade for those seeking headphone nirvana.

Shout out to HifiGo for giving me to opportunity to have an early listen and share my opinions.

I have been listening exclusively to the Chopin since I received it earlier in the week, using it both while working but also while commuting (so both in quiet and noisy environments) and I can’t think of a better IEM for listening for long periods.



The Chopin is the 2nd collaboration of Timmy of Gizaudio Youtube channel fame and I think he has put all his experience into providing Binary Acoustics with excellent tuning guidelines for this IEM. It consists of 1 x 8mm "Ceramic Diaphragm" Dynamic driver and 3 BA, 1 covering the midrange and 2 specialised BA's for the treble region and in my opinion is impeccably well tuned.

But let’s get into the details:

What's in the box:

The unboxing experience is very unique; I really like the vertical presentation of the IEM ‘box’ and the accessories and the IEM’s themselves come wrapped in individual pouches providing that quality experience when you first open everything up.

The accessories consist of:

• A ‘cool’ rectangular carrying case
• The Two IEM in their pouches
• A cleaning tool
• The 4.4mm balanced cable apparently made of “high purity LITZ oxygen-free copper silver-plated” - You can separately order a 3.5mm cable
• A single set of eartips in small, medium, and large sizes

While I appreciate the box I am not so sure about the pouches and I feel instead of the pouches a few more tips could have been provided.

I also feel that only providing either a 4.4mm balanced cable or a 3.5mm cable depending on your order is odd, providing an adapter in the box would be better but its minor compliant. I can imagine there was an effort to keep the costs down and I am very happy when a company focuses on the quality of the IEM itself and that is certainly the case here. I didn't think the quality of the cable was great but it's certainly better than the ones you get on the sub $100 IEM's so will be a nice upgrade for many users. I think it's a pity that more companies don't provide cables like the FiiO's FX-15 with interchangeable adapters (but then the FX-15 is 4 times the price of the Chopin).

IEM Build Quality:

I feel the photos do not do it justice as this is an extremely nice IEM shell and with a stainless-steel faceplate with very subtly different branding on each faceplate. It should be pointed out that the nozzle extends a little further than most IEM’s, but I did not find it uncomfortable, in fact I found the smooth shell incredible comfortable and extremely lightweight.


Here it is compared with a Truther Zero, you can see that the shape and nozzle make it the perfect IEM for those that require a slightly deeper fit.

I would also point out that it has a rectangular recessed 2-pin connector which might limited some users choice in swapping around with other cables in their collection. But having had 2-pin connectors bend in my daily driver IEM’s in the past, I actually feel the protection from bending provided by the recessed connector a nice benefit of this design.

Comfort:

The smooth shell and lightweight nature of the IEM meant for me I could wear it for hours on end without any discomfort or even the need to adjust, it never felt like it was being ‘pulled’ by its own weight. Some IEM’s have ‘opinionated’ shapes which can either work great in one persons ear or just get in the way in another persons, the chopin’s lightweight and smooth nature means it should suit a wide variety of users.

Again here is it compared with Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite which worked for me but that extra shape (and the extra weight from the clear resin makes it less comfortable than the Chopin):


Another advantage of the design of this IEM is that the nozzle angle and shape allowed me to play around with a wide variety of ear tip’s providing the ability to tweak the bass (and treble) regions to my liking. My normal ear tip preference is a tall / thin ear tips to allow IEMs to fit deeper in my ear, giving me better seal and a nice bass response (and better isolation when commenting in a noisy environment), but with the Chopin, I eventually went with wider but shallower ear tips that allowed the Chopin to sit further out yet provide a good seal. This gave me a beautiful balanced sound. But this is obviously subjective and will be different with everyone’s ear canal. But I appreciate the fact that the design here allows this freedom without resorting to using EQ or tuning ‘switches’.

Sound Quality:
As mentioned above you can tweak the sound easily with different tips (providing different fits) but once you get the right fit it is a very well tuned IEM. So what should you expect from the sound:

Bass
I found the bass is fantastic, track after track of my normal bass test tracks sounded deep and appropriate without overwhelming vocals and instruments. For example, tracks like Bjork’s Hunter, the bass attack was well handled without sounding bloated / boomy. The bass in Massive Attack’s Angel sounded appropriately ominous without being overpowering. In James Blake's Limit to your Love when the bass kicks it in (after 50 seconds) it was awesome, yet the Chopin still allowed the high treble to clearly heard. The bass in Billie Ellish Xanny had lots of texture and micro dynamics and never sounded boomy. Similarly with Roads by Portishead the bass was excellently controlled without sounding over bearing.

Midrange
For the midrange I listen to a variety of pop and rock tracks, making sure vocals and the instruments were well separated and appropriately present in each track. There is no mudding of the midrange like some similar V-shaped IEM's, just clear engaging audio. I think the Chopin provides the perfect balance where the bass and treble do not overpower the midrange. Though with different tips you can tune it into a more V-Shaped sound signature if that is your preference.

Treble (and technicalities)
The treble was very smooth and never sibilant. For me it was perfect for long listening sessions though some might call it boring. Tracks like Fine Time by New Order start with an incredible barrage of treble which had the right level of edginess and it was well balanced as the sub-bass joins the treble after about 10 seconds. Tracks like Tamacun by Rodrigo y Gabiella had excellent treble extension allowing the plucky guitars to sound amazing. I imagine some people would appreciate more treble but then for me a tuning with more treble can get fatiguing after a while, e.g. try listening to Portishead Dummy with an IEM with enhanced treble you might not get through the album, while here it sounded great just edgy enough for my tastes.

Soundstage and Imaging
Not the widest soundstage for an IEM but it has excellent precise imaging, the swirl of instruments in Tool’s Chocolate Chip Trip was great allowing me to clearly hear as the sound moved in the soundstage in front of me. I loved how Earth Drums sounded with all the percussive instruments coming in appropriately. Overall no complaints about the clear separation of instruments.

Measurements:
Here is a small graph to provide people with an idea of how its sounds compared to other popular IEM's, using Timmy's own measurements:

As you can see other than a slight sub-bass roll off it is has a reference frequency response, incredible similar to the Variations. As with any of these graphs you should mostly ignore the measurements > 8K as it will be very different depending on a persons own HRTF and the measurement rig. But I do like how the Chopin mostly hugs Timmy's own target in the midrange ( you would hope so ) and I like how it correctly balanced especially in the crucial 2k-4k region.

Summary:
If you are in the look out for a significant set up of an over say a sub $100 IEM like a Truthear Zero Red, the Chopin is a perfect choice. It's so well tuned and easy and lightweight to wear that I could and was wearing it for hours at a time without any fatigue either audible (e.g. no annoying sibilance) or physical ( lightweight with no adjustment needed). For me it's a perfect daily driver.

Again a huge thank you to Ivy from HifiGo for providing this IEM in advance.

Note: both a 4.4mm and a 3.5mm version is available at the locations below.

Gizaudio × Binary Chopin can be found in these locations:

HiFiGo： https://hifigo.com/products/gizaudio-binary-chopin

Aliexpress： https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005006135789174.html

Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CL6LNF82/binary+gizaudio+chopin/

Amazon JP： https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B0CL6MRTW9/binary+gizaudio+chopin/

A quality compact Desktop Speaker​

If you are in search of a compact desktop speaker for your home office, the FiiO SP3 is likely an ideal choice, especially in settings where limited desk space and the need for a small speaker form factor limit your speaker choices. By integrating a subwoofer and making subtle equalization adjustments to your audio setup, you can further enhance the performance of FiiO’s SP3.

This ultra-compact and aesthetically pleasing speaker is capable of delivering remarkable sound quality relative to its size.

My desktop setup for this Review​

In my current setup, I fed the FiiO SP3 from a MiniDSP 2x4 HD, which is connected to my computer via USB but also receives an optical feed from a Wiim Mini. The MiniDSP serves to apply a degree of equalization to the FiiO SP3, details of which will be elaborated upon later in the review. Additionally, the MiniDSP is optionally configured to use a crossover for a compact subwoofer which I have under my desk.

This configuration allows me to achieve a challenging objective: utilizing minimal desk space for small desktop speakers while still attaining exceptional sound quality.



Here is a picture of the “clean” look of my desk setup, it was very important for me and especially for my partner (who shares the space) that the speakers take up minimal space, but for me it was still very important to have impressive audio while I work.

In this review I will focus on the FiiO SP3 speaker, more information an the FiiO SP3 can be found on the FiiO website:

https://www.fiio.com/sp3

Features​

What’s in the Box:​

The FiiO SP3 comes in a nice quality packaging with a very nice unboxing esperience. It comes with some nice cables including the cables to power it and separate cables to connect the left and right hand speakers to each other. FiiO also provide a nice 3.5inch to RCA cable for connecting to a laptop (or streamer).



The box also contains ith 2 separate pairs of plastic “feet” to provide some flexibility in the angle of the speaker on the desk. You can chooise between flat or angled speakers:



And all the connections go into the back of one of the speakers:



The following are the purposes of the connections on the back from top to bottom:

1. Volume - I would have preferred to have the volume on the front but since I am controlling the volume via my computer (and on the Wiim App when using the Wiim Mini) this is not an issue for me.
2. Bass Boost - This mainly boost about 80hz but I personally had this dialed down to a 10 o’clock position - any higher and it overly boost that one frequency - more about this in the measurements section.
3. Input selector - simple toggles between the 2 analog input options - its a pity there isn’t a few digital inputs but for me using the MiniDSP in the overall setup this wasn’t a problem
4. LED RGB toggle - I actually quiet liked the LED RGB lights onon the bottom of each speaker but this switch can turns it off
5. RCA input and Line Input - So either a RCA our a line input controlled via the Input selector, I mainly used the RCA input from the MiniDSP output.
6. L/R switch - you flip which side of your desk each speaker might need to be placed.
7. Power switch - I would also preferred to have the power switch on the front but I guess FiiO where going to a clean symmetric look for the front of each speaker
8. Power connection - it comes with a nice power brick
9. Connector to the other speaker - it comes with a cable to connect both speakers together - a longer connector would have been nice but the one supplied is perfect for a normal desk

Build Quality: Quality Meets Compactness​

With its “Pressure die-cast liquid metal cabinet” machining, the SP3 strikes a balance between robust construction and sleek design, making it an elegant yet unobtrusive addition to your home office without occupying much-needed space. The hefty quality to each speaker not only feel like quality but helps with the audio quality as we shall see later in this review.

The overarching design philosophy of the FiiO SP3 is centered on minimizing unwanted vibrations, both within the speaker cabinet and in the external environment including utilizing the rubber “feet” pictured above and this makes it an ideal compact high quality speaker for a desktop setup.

According to FiiO documentation internally you will find asymmetrical internal and external magnetic circuits, complemented by a double diffused S-shaped port tube. This design enhances dampening, and I can confirm that, when the speaker is appropriately placed on my desk, there is minimal vibration or rattling transmitted to the surface even at “high” audio levels.

Desktop Speaker Setup: Some unique constraints​

When an ultra compact speaker is required - this introduces some unique constraints to the speaker setup even over a setup with a small studio monitor (like a ROKIT RP5):

1. Angle of Tweeter: With ultra compact speakers it can be hard to get the tweeter pointing “on-axis” directly at you, hence why I would have liked a steeper angle on the rubber feet (or more variations of rubber feet), but I found with a little adjustment I got a good sound. See measurements section below for details of how placement is very important as the sound can be dramatically different depending on placement.
2. Desk bounce: The desk itself causes a “boost” in the lower mid-range and the amount of “stuff” on your desk and the material of the desk can cause the audio to vary.
3. Minimizing Vibrations - as mentioned previously - its important to dampen any vibrations - hence the rubber feet
4. Wall bass boost And finally due to the size of a small speaker, and its woofer and bass port, the speakers placement typical near a back “wall” greatly affect the bass response, you therefore need onboard DSP to be flexible with the bass response, hence the bass boost control on the back.

I believe FiiO took into account all of these constraints in the design of the FiiO SP3.

Limited inputs: A Simplified Audio Chain​

One limitation of the FiiO SP3 is that it does not provided a DAC; it solely provides two analog inputs.

In my setup, my computer or audio streamer serves as the source, feeding into the MiniDSP, which then supplies the SP3 with analog input. The MiniDSP also provides the versatility of USB, optical, and additional analog inputs, augmenting the 2 analog inputs of the SP3.

Initial Subjective Sound Quality​

Before I configured the MiniDSP PEQ filters, I initially listened and adjusted the SP3 without DSP, while I found it great on certain tracks, the treble was a little bright and the bass was problematic (sometimes great sometimes boomy). And the midrange was a little lacking.

But with a little adjustments, I lowered the Bass Boost to about 10 O’Clock and angled the SP3 so that it could maximise the Desk Bounce it started to sound pretty good.

Here is a graph of just the differences with the bass boost - different Bass Boost levels (Blue is maximum, green minimum, red half way, yellow the level I settled on in my room - obviously i have some room modes in this space, hence why I typically use MiniDSP anyway):



I took some measurements with each adjustments and you can see in the following graph how varied the sound can be in different positions on my desk:

Initial subjective opinions before EQ​

The overall sound was very detailed and some tracks sounded incredible for a desktop speaker, even normally problematic tracks like Billie Ellish’s Xanny sounded good but the bass suffered in other tracks like Massive Attack’s Angel and the midrange in classics like Tracy Chapman’s Fast car did not sound appropriate so I knew I needed some EQ.

The SP3 does have a treble range that is generally clean and articulate but can at times seem slightly emphasized that plus the bass drop off means EQ is a must for a “perfect” sound.

So I enabled some MiniDSP PEQ filters and ultimately added a basic subwoofer. The difference was incredible - more subjective thoughts after a section of Objective Measurements Various Measurements

Measurements and DSP​

So while I was evaluating the SP3, Erin’s Audio Corner actually measured the SP3 on his $100,000 Klippel near field scanner.

He published these measurements to this website: https://www.erinsaudiocorner.com/loudspeakers/fiio_sp3/ and created a video.

Erin had some issues with the SP3 - though a significant amount of the issues where with the marketing Fiio text used on their website and not the speaker itself.

Here is Erin “In room response estimate” from the Klippel:



I have highlighted 2 areas in Erin response where I think he is wrong:

1. The Bass peak (A) - Erin called it a “One note Wonder” From my own measurements this looks like Erin has the “Bass boost” enabled either full or nearly full - Erin did not mention the Bass adjustment dial so I believe he may have measured the SP3 with this enabled at full.
2. The lower midrange dip (B) The Estimate In-Room is an algorithm created for speakers in a Room from the Spinorama data generated by the Klippel Near field scanner. It is normally a very accurate estimate of how a “normal” speaker (on stands in a normal room ) would sound but not a near-field desktop speaker.
   As it does not take into account a desktop “bounce” where this region is naturally boosted by bouncing off the desktop top. Again my measurements (without EQ) show this area can be normalised / enhanced simple by providing some area in-front of the desktop speakers.

One area where my earlier measurements and Erin estimate do agree is the dip after the 2K region (C). You can see the same Dip earlier in my measurements - this area though can be EQed and the subsequency boosted treble area beyond 5K can also be easily lowered with some EQ as we shall see.

Some areas where Erin review was complimentary are as follows:

1. Distortion (especially for such a small speaker)
2. Dynamic Range (the SP3 has great dynamic range - this allows for better EQ)
3. Build Quality (as I mentioned earlier)

So, once I eq’ed the FiiO SP3 I got the following relatively smooth frequency response:

1. The Red is just the EQ corrected SP3 - I could have spend more time flattening the 4-5K bumps but even this quick EQ the SP3 sounded great. I will flatten it further in the next few days.
2. The Green is when I added a small Subwoofer (A Yamaha NS-SW050) hidden under the desk - with this I am gettin nice bass down to < 40Kh (a more expensive Subwoofer would obviously go lower)

Subsequent Subjective Sound Quality​

So, the problematic tracks from before EQ were now much more realistic and balanced. I listened to all my normal reference tracks which can cause issues with bass limited or treble bright speakers like Bjork’s Hunter, Radioheads The National Anthem and James Blakes Limit to your love, all sounded the way they should (comparable with my main living room $1000+ setup). I was also amazed with the soundstage (at my working position in front of the desk) with tracks like Tool’s Chocolate Chip Trip and Earth Drums by He Xun-Tian.

The DSP proved invaluable, I spent the last few days with this setup while working, enjoying the full rich sound while almost not noticing the speakers due to their compact size. Occasionally being distracted / astonished by the quality of the sound.

Overall I think the FiiO SP3 are a tremendous speakers for their size and I have no complaints and plan to enjoy them while working for the immediate future.

Summary​

The Fiio SP3 is a tremendous compact speaker for anyone’s desktop setup when paired with the right equipment for digitial inputs, some EQ and crossover management for a subwoofer, it forms the backbone of a highly capable “work from home” audio system.

Making it an ideal solution for any home office setup that requires amazing sound from minimal usage of their desktop real-estate.

Review​

I have been a fan of the Soundcore Q30 for a while, with the right EQ it can sound great. It is a budget “audiophile” secret especially with its decent ANC. Then I spotted the Soundcore Space One launch and given that it seems to be aiming at the same sub $100 market I thought It would be worth seeing if it can replace the Q30 for my commuting and travelling needs.

More details on the Soundcore Space one https://eu.soundcore.com/products/space-one-a3035031

In this review, I thought I should share my finding



I got the black model but there are 2 other colours available.

What’s in the box and Build Quality​

Not as much in the box as previous Soundcore headphones, specifically it is missing the normal hard shell carrying case. For me this is a non-issue and Space One does comes with a carrying bag, if I really want to “pack it” for a long trip. Other than that you get the usual charging cable and audio cable and documentation.



The build quality is good for this price range though it is all plastic. The design looks much more premium than the Q30 / Q35 models and debatably even more premium looking than Soundcore top model, the Q45 especially from a distance, but because the Space One uses all plastic material it does slightly betray when directly compared against the Q45 model. There are little touches in the design which I do appreciate like it’s now much easier to tell the left and right side from the feel of the buttons, so you don’t need to stare at buttons or look at the L and R letters inside the ear cups when putting it on.

Comfort​

Comfort wise the Space One is more comfortable than I thought from initial opening the box, the ear cups are shallower than I would like but my ears are fairly large and they actually can fit fully inside the ear cups unlike with the Q30 and this certainly helps with the passive sound isolation, but I do know this can be very subjective and it may not suit everyone.


In this picture you can also see the “Wearing detection” sensor - which possible sticks out a little into your ear - but it;s a good feature, see the Features section below.

One little thing I noticed about the design of the ear cup cavity is there is a holo chamber as it's not solid. Mostly this I imagine this was a good design decision to keep the overall weight down, but the side effect is you can hear subtle resonances, especially when walking (basically you hear a slight resonance as you walk). I imagine this could be fixed with a simple “hack” of filling the area behind the driver with foam, so if your main use case is to use this walking, it is something to be aware off. You actually forgot about it quickly so probably a non-issue for most people.

But other than this I personally found it a very comfortable headphone. But your mileage may vary.

Features​

Soundcore have really out did themselves with the features on this headphone. You simple do not normally get this level of capability at a headphone at this price. It actually has more features than the more expensive Q45 so I would imagine we might get a Q45 replacement (maybe a Space Two) in the coming months.

Here are key features that I liked the most:

Sound quality related features:​

The Soundcore App is exceptional for allowing someone tweak the sound, this is especially vital IMO on say IOS where there is no system wide EQ so having EQ tweaked within in the app yet saved to the headphone is a great feature even compared to Apple’s own devices.

• EQ Features
  • Pre-built EQ options - Soundcore have a nice selection of pre-built EQ and the “default” Soundcore sound signature lives here though I would not recommend it as its the typical bass heavy extreme V-shaped sound.
  • HearID - personalisation the tuning - this takes a little bit of time to measure initially but well worth it IMO. This is measuring your hearing and generating a basic “flat” response for you to then further customise.
    This is a very nice implementation of the “Mini Hearing test” available separately in the AppStore but with the added benefit as it can be used as the basis for further EQ tweaking.
    
  • Custom EQ Options - The 8 band EQ lives here and lots on this feature later in this review
• Active Noise Cancellation Features
  Note: I have put this feature under sound quality because for me the purpose of this headphone is to listen while in a noisy environment (flying or commuting or when in a noisy office environment or even out for a walk).
  I have other headphones (typically open backs for a wider sound stage) for listening at home, but having very effective ANC is vital for me when commuting or at the office and it affets how good the overall music sounds.
  • Adaptive ANC - One of the key features IMO and usually only available in much more expensive headphones. For me this is the best ANC option - the “most of the time” setting as it reduces the odd feeling of “pressure” you get from wearing an ANC headphone especially when it’s not noisy.
    The one exception I found was when I was in a constant noisy environment for example a long train journey - it was better to pick one of the fixed ANC options e.g. level 3 or 5 and leave it for the journey.
  • Customised ANC - Soundcore also provide 5 levels of customisation of the ANC, interestingly level 5 isn’t always the best so worth trying different levels if you are in a “fixed” constant noisy environment (like an Airplane or a train).
    Interesting rtings measured each level and each level can have a different effect at different frequencies:
    
  • Wind Reduction - this is another nice option - but not always effective for me, but did a subtle effect with removing lower levels of wind from “whistling” around you ears
  • Transparency - works well but not nearly as “normal” sounding as say the Transparency on Apple Devices but for the price it good to have and with the “Easy Chat” feature it is great to have.

Other features:​

• Easy Chat
  This activates transparency when you can hold your hand over a ear cup to lower the volume so you can chat (for example, it is good on an airplane) and there is a “Speak to enable” option (in beta currently) to do the same, just talk and it will immediately switch on transparency.
  
  
  
  
  
  
• Multi-Point bluetooth
  A now standard bluetooth feature but nicely managed within the “Device List” menu within the app supporting 2 active devices and it’s easy to enable / disable more devices in the list within the app. Very handy with a mobile and a laptop at the same time.
• Wearing detection
  Where the space one will auto pause the music once you take the headphone off. Should be a standard feature on every bluetooth headphone but usually reserved for higher end headphones. Enabled by that sensor just inside the earcup.
• Auto-power off Should be standard but it good to have - nothing worse than reaching for your headphones only to realise you forgot to switch them off and now the battery is dead
• LDAC Again a premium feature (though becoming more common place now) - the nearest we can get to lossless audio over bluetooth. Can I tell a difference? Not really but its reassuring that this codec is built it and of course the headphone supports AAC (for Apple devices) and other typical codecs like SBC and AptX. I remember when most cheap bluetooth headphones only support SBC so having an advanced codec like LDAC is a good future proof feature to have.
• Button customisation
  While it’s nice to have some customistaion, it is a very limited with only one button configurable with a Press Once and a Press Twice configuration option and very limited options - but this is a minor complaint as there are enough buttons to support almost all thing you might need without needing to jump into the app or even reach for your phone.

Sound​

So in this section I will mainly compare the sound of the Space One with the Q30 and present some custom EQ options for the Space One. Why the Q30?

As I mentioned in the intro, it’s a dirty little secret in the “bargain audiophile world” - in that it could be EQed easily within the Soundcore EQ options to a reasonable good balanced “neutral” sounding headphone. It was not perfect especially with some distortion when ANC is enabled so not exactly a “reference” but good enough for a “second” headphone for commuting and noisy office environments.

Subjective listening experience​

So does the Space One have better sound quality than the Q30.

The short answer is no but you can get very close with a little work on the EQ. That said, it is better when you are mostly in a noisy environment like an office as the benefits of the newer ANC kick in.

But let’s get into the detail of how is sounds:

Default Soundcore profile and initial EQ​

The default Soundcore profile is extremely V-Shaped so not recommended by me at all. I very quickly tweaked the EQ so the was my initial go at EQ ( though eventually I tweaked it further using some high quality measurements from the rtings review here - see later in this review from my updated EQ).



Nothing too clever initially - just a little “normalisation” as there are considerable audible peak and throughs in the default sound.

Bass​

I found the bass pretty good (once I got a good seal) and in classic bass test tracks like “James Blake - Limit to your Love” it sounded pretty controlled (which is not often the case in cheaper headphones) and the bass on “Massive Attack - Angel” sounded excellent as did “Portishead - Roads” (though the treble region caused lots of problems on that track). “Billie Ellish - you should see me in a crown” also sounded appropriate with nice been textured bass.

Overall no complaints about the bass (once EQed down a little and balanced with the midrange).

Midrange​

The EQ above significantly pulled up the midrange to make it much clearer, this greatly “opened up” the sound on the headphone. Really enjoyed the musicality on pianos and vocals in say Elton John’s back catalog and all the typical “midrange test tracks” like Diana Krall or say “Paul Simon’s - Diamonds on the souls of her shoes” sounded good.

Treble​

So treble was more difficult, when fine tuning my initial EQ I could not get a balanced sound with just the Soundcore EQ settings, specifically the 6.4K region was either too much or too little in the surrounding regions. But I got it acceptable to me, though if you are suspectable to sibilance you will definitely want to lower the 6.4K band even more.

But with this EQ level, I could listen overly treble “heavy” test tracks from say Alanis Morisette and Laurie Andersson without any fatique and they certainly had “detail”.

Summary​

With a good fit, allot of EQ and the advanced ANC you get the best sound at this price range.

So before I present the my revised EQ, I thought I would show some measurements of the Space One.

Measurements and EQ​

As I mentioned earlier the default soundcore profile is extremely V-Shaped and while this might appeal to some people but I found that signature a little too much for longer listens so will always go for a more neutral sound signature.

Unfortunately “flat / neutral” with the Soundcore EQ profiles on this headphone isn’t really so certain tweaking of EQ is always required.

Note: To show how V-shaped the default soundcore profile is, DMS measured the Space One on the headphones.com BK-5128 rig and got the following EQ:


This looks terrible all boosted bass, lower midrange absent and upper midrange boost and lots of variations in the treble region.

Unfortunately DMS review was mostly based on using this sound profile while the Soundcore app as I mentioned above has lots of EQ options, but how “normal” can you get the sound with EQ?

Luckily rtings.com have recently also measured the Space One on their measurement rig and provided lots of RAW data to play with. Here is their average of many different settings:


So to derive some good EQ the simplest graph to understand is this one:

Note: this is based on an average of various measurements in the previous graph, if you notice the various measurements taken previously you can see they failed to get a good seal and this brought the average sub bass FR down a little too much, therefore without that outlier measurement the bass would be more flat at +3db.

So at this point I decided to revisit by initial EQ and using this I roughly came up with the following:



Again I could not “solve” the variations in the treble region but mostly I think this sounded slightly better than my original EQ with my list of test tracks.

Microphone performance issue​

Sadly this is a very weak part of the Space One - I could not get satisfactory noise reduction on the microphone when using it outside. People commented that they could barely hear me over the background noise.

Compared to the Soundcore Q30​

So what about my initial question? Is it a replacement for the Q30?

How is the Space One better than the Q30​

• EQ Features - HearID is a nice enhancement to quickly get a bass EQ going
• ANC - Adaptive ANC is better and there is less “masking noise” introduced with ANC than on the Q30
• Fit and comfort - this will be subjective but for me this is more comfortable
• So many other features - like “easy chat” etc are great

How is the Space One worse than the Q30​

• Sound profile - it’s harder to EQ with just the soundcore App - basically a third party EQ is really required to get a “neutral” sound
• Resonances - if walking you may notice the sound resonant slightly as you walk

If you are primarily using the Space One with ANC on in a noisy environment (like an office or community by train or airplane) the overall sound is better. The advances in ANC provided by Soundcore e.g. Adaptive ANC especially provides an overall audio experience which IMO is superior to the Q30.

So for me it is a good replacement for the Q30, the ANC implementation more than makes up for the slightly harder to EQ sound. Though this is mainly because I only use ANC based bluetooth Headphones when commuting and in our noisy office space, but when I am at home I have other much more expensive headphones for listening to music.

My Ratings​

Overall I gave the Space One 4 stars, in features it is definitely a 5 star, the price is good, but the measurements let it down,
But the EQ software / firmware can make a huge difference to the sound, and the advancement in ANC really make it a great "commuting" headphone but without the EQ I would only give it a 3.

Conclusions​

It’s a good buy at $100 (mainly for its excellent feature set ) and I would guess from the past that Soundcore will have it on sale during Black Friday and say @ 20% off for example, it will be a super bargain as a second headphone.

So I have been listening to these earbuds for the past few days and I thought I would share my experience.

Packaging and accessories​

For the price ($30 or so), this ear bud comes with a nice set of accessories. In the box you get multiple different options for modifying the sound signature and keeping the earbuds stable in your ear during work outs. I am also reasonable impressed with the detachable 2-pin cable and a microphone, it’s cheap but has a nice material feel so one of the better cables at this price point. I really like that FiiO included a pretty good USB-C Dongle DAC in the box for those that need it. Overall no complaints - see picture below.

Listening tests​

So initially I decided to listen to these without using the applying any of the provided sponges or silicone rings or hooks i.e. "naked" . It didn’t sound right so I decided to do a couple of frequency sweeps and was sort of horrified by the extreme 3-4Khz peak in the lower treble, it was unlistenable in certain tracks and in general using the FF1 this way would not be recommended at all. So I did a bit of experimentation with the provided silicone and sponges and pretty quickly it became obvious that it needs the sponge cover to be sound they way it should. But once I applied one of the sponges (without the hole) see picture below, the sound started to make sense.


There was a much more balanced sound - still not perfect IMO (hence the 4-star rating) but much better, the 3-4Khz was less of a peak (more of a “hill” than a “mountain” ) and there was now some decent mid-bass which wasn’t there when it was “naked”. In summary, I found the FF1 was now providing a treble focused V-shaped sound which will probably appeal to lots of people. For those wondering, I also tried the sponge without the hole and silicone rings but for me they were still too much treble for my tastes, but I do appreciate that FiiO provide the options in the box as everyone has different tastes.

But I thought I would see could I add a little EQ to make it more natural to my ears. So with a little bit of trial and error - I decided to make an EQ with a few minor changes to it more “harman neutral”, basically I felt that I could enhance the midrange and lower that troublesome 3-4Khz region some more and I settled on a relatively simple 3 filter PEQ see below for details. I left the bass alone (though it could easily be enhanced for those users who want more bass even for an EarBud) and I was very pleased with the result.

Preamp: 0 dB
Filter 1: ON PK Fc 1175 Hz Gain 5.52 dB Q 1.41
Filter 2: ON PK Fc 3124 Hz Gain -4.23 dB Q 1.03
Filter 3: ON PK Fc 2353 Hz Gain -5.97 dB Q 1.41

This was the effect on this EQ:


With this EQ in place I went back to my reference tracks and started to enjoy the FF1 greatly.

Bass​

As an earbud (especially at this price range) it was never going to have any sub-bass, but I was very impressed with mid-bass I was getting mainly after applying the "sponge" cover but I feel my EQ settings above also helped. So, there was a good "rumble" in James Blake “Limit to your Love” at the 50 second mark, the careful balance of bass and treble required with the production in Billie Ellish’s debut Album “When we fall asleep ..” was mostly excellent and tracks like Bjork’s Hunter had the swirling percussion that I would expect - far superior to the original Apple EarPods for comparison.

Treble​

When testing treble, with some “sibilant” tracks (badly recorded but good for testing) like Alan’s Morissette’s MTV Unplugged, they were now listenable (where this album was a mess without the sponge dampening the treble and even somewhat sibilant for me without the EQ). I tried Laurie Anderson "Born Never Asked" and was very impressed that something at this price point can provide decent treble in that challenging track. I would not say is the most detailed but it was perfectly acceptable.

Summary​

Jumping between EarBuds, IEM’s and closed and open back headphone’s can be an interesting way to appreciate each type of “headphone” for what they provide. This FiiO FF1 provides a bargain earbud which with a couple of tweaks can be provide a lovely “open back” sound signature. The default V-Shaped signature with the sponge cover will definitely appeal to lots of people, its size and shape is nice for those with smaller ears.

My wife who has smaller ears and doesn’t like IEM’s has already started to use this EarBud for her daily walks. She likes an open sound when walking in the countryside while listening to music so that ear bud open sound is very appealing to her.

So this new entry level IEM from FIIO is an interesting addition to their range. I think Fiio went for a different tuning to distinguish themselves for competition like the Truthear Zero's / Kiwi ears Cadenza's etc

For me personally, I didn't like the sound signature, I found the bass overwhelmed the midrange and the treble was not as balanced as some IEM's bass heavy IEM's. But I personally like a harman neutral with a slightly bass boost. With lots of EQ the bass can be tamed but I don't think that is the point of these IEM's. I think these are well design for a particular market segment and I imagine they will do very well, especially with their very bass heavy V-shaped sound signature.

Here are some photos of what you get in the box:


While you can't expect too many accessories at this price point, I found the cable and the different ear tips provided to be pretty good quality. Other than the bass boost my only other complaint (was the shape of the IEM's in my ear), my wife has small ears and they fit her nearly perfectly. found them too small compared or oddly shaped compared even to other small IEM's like the Moondrop Chu.

Overall a nice entry level IEM with a unique (in the current market) sound signature that will appeal to many but not really for me.