Mee audio Pinnacle P2 High Fidelity Audiophile In-ear

thatBeatsguy

Headphoneus Supremus
Pros: Fantastic from every angle.
Cons: Cable is a bit cumbersome. Treble is a little splashy.


Two years ago, I reviewed the P1, MEE Audio's first attempt at a high-end flagship. It stood as the culmination of their experience and expertise in engineering and manufacturing. It was – pun intended – the pinnacle of their capabilities, and it remains the best earphone I have ever reviewed to this day. A year later, they released a new model.

This new model, the Pinnacle P2, was not the P1 successor some of us had expected. This was instead a takedown model, an earphone that lowered the cost of entry into the Pinnacle experience. Priced at half that of the P1 – $100 – we can reliably expect it to leave out some of the details that made the P1 the luxurious earphone it is. Does this apple fall too far from the tree? Let's find out.

TL;DR: The MEE Audio Pinnacle P2 is a fantastic IEM that packages the Pinnacle formula into a more accessible package and a sweeter, mid-centric sound. A formidable competitor at the $100 price bracket.

(Full disclosure: Mike from MEE Audio sent me a unit of the Pinnacle P2 at no charge in exchange for this review. The P2 was tested for about three weeks before writing this review. The purchase links for the P2 in this review are affiliate links, so any purchase made through those links will give me a small commission. If you don’t like affiliate links, you can purchase them through the MEE Audio website.)




The P1 is, to describe it in one word, luxurious. In true MEE Audio fashion, nothing is compromised; every bit of the packaging is presented as elegantly as the earphones themselves. You are simply guided through to them like walking through an opulent ballroom to meet the maiden of the night.

The P2, owing to its half price, understandably cut a few corners in this regard. Unlike the P1, the box is smaller and uses a matte-textured wrap; the carrying case uses fabric and a leather-like vinyl wrap instead of real leather; you get one pair of Comply foam eartips instead of three; and you get one standard cable as opposed to the P1's two braided cables. But beyond that, the P2 doesn't compromise on much, if at all.




Another area that the P2 doesn't compromise on is the build. Sure, the earpieces use plastic instead of the zinc alloy on the P1, but despite that the P2 is still quite the looker with its glossy piano black finish. The plastic does feel a lot lighter, but they are still remarkably solid. The cable, though not braided and makes a lot of cable noise when worn cable-down, feels reassuringly substantial and doesn't seem to have too many weak points.

However, the cable does have one noticeable design flaw that I didn't get to cover in my review of the P1. Simply put, the MMCX connectors (the part that connects to the earpieces) create a strain point on the cable when the earphones are worn around the ear. This resulted in a P1 with two broken cables within a year. Unfortunately the P2's cable also suffers from this problem, so I've resorted to wearing them exclusively with the cable hanging straight down in an attempt to prolong its life.



As far as I can tell, there are two ways to fix this problem. The first is to make the MMCX connectors shorter or more flexible so the cable can curve around the ear more naturally. The second option is to add memory wire to that section of the cable, like what MEE Audio already does with the M6 PRO. This will make the cable rigid, thereby preventing strain from constant pulling.

So, being as (comparatively) cheap as it is, the P2 clearly did away with some of the luxuries that the P1 offered to keep the price at a more accessible 100 dollars. But I will tell you right now that the P2 did not skimp on the sound quality by any means. Mike from MEE Audio has told me before that the P2 was not made to sound like the P1 outright, instead aiming for a warmer tone. But if you were expecting a sound signature similar to the P1, throw those notions out the window, since the P2 is a completely different beast. And I love it.



Unusual for a 100-dollar earphone, bass does not take precedence over everything else on the P2. This is especially evident in dubstep tracks that cram lots of information across the frequency range at the same time. In examples such as "Myosotis (VIP Remix)" by M2U, "Kali 47" by Savant, and "Must Destroy" by Figure, the P2's midrange emphasis seems to overshadow the bass. However, I'm not saying that the P2 is wanting in the lower frequencies, as even in the above recordings the P2 displays a strong punch and excellent reproduction of sub-bass sounds.

Despite this, the midrange still shines the brightest on the P2. Its even tone renders vocals with a sweet colouration that I can't really describe. I *can* tell you, though, that voices ranging from DEAN's slick falsetto in "What2Do" to Post Malone's raw growls in "I Fall Apart" to Karen Carpenter's silky, wide range in "This Masquerade" to Chris Martin's yearning delivery in "Shiver" all sound ridiculously good on the P2.



I should note that the P2 isn't a very warm IEM – in fact, I'd say it has a bit of a colder tone compared to the P1 due to the former's midrange emphasis and the latter's stronger bass presence. This allows the P2 to really capture the atmosphere or "vibe" in a lot of recordings. The expansive synths in Haywyre's "Insight", the loose, laid-back sounds of offonoff's "Cigarette", and the hypnagogic tones of HOME's "Resonance" are all presented with the sort of reverence that really brings them to life. This, I believe, is also helped in part by its soundstage. As the P2 shares the exact same housing shape with the P1, the soundstage feels very similar, if not nearly identical. And it, like the P1, sets the music in a well-defined space that sounds very natural to the ear, regardless of the nature of the recording.

If you have been reading this review so far, you will have noticed that I have been reviewing the P2 mostly in comparison to its more expensive brother. And you might think that, across the board, the P2 is inferior to the P1. And sure, the P2 does have some flaws. The cable is a bit too heavy and suffers from the durability issue as with the P1; the treble can sound a bit splashy at times; and the earphones themselves have a bit of a hard time fitting into the case. But I'm just nit-picking at this point.



On its own, the MEE Audio Pinnacle P2 is a gem. It goes into a unique direction with a midrange so beautifully tuned that it, in my opinion, can even outclass the flagship P1. All the while, it still retains the Pinnacle formula of luxury elegance in its look and feel. And it does this while competing in a lower price bracket.

If I've learned anything from reviewing MEE Audio's fantastic earphones, it's that they seem to have mastered the art of maximising value for money. Each of their products have so much to offer – from the accessories to the outright quality of the earphones themselves – that they always feel like they're worth more than what you paid for them. The Pinnacle P2 serves as further proof of that, and it is a worthy addition to the MEE Audio product line.

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As always, thank you so much for reading another one of my reviews, and a huge thanks to MEE Audio for sending out the amazing P2 to review. If my review has convinced you to want to buy these earphones, you can do so by clicking on this link here. (I should note that it is an affiliate link, so I earn a small commission from any purchases made through this link. If you don’t like that idea, you can go through the MEE Audio site instead and purchase through there.)

This has been thatBeatsguy of DB Headphones; thank you for reading and have a great day!

Dobrescu George

Reviewer: AudiophileHeaven
Pros: Clairty, Revealing Abilities, Comfort, Price, Build Quality, Detail, Instrument Separation, Accessories, V-Shaped Sound, Sparkly Treble, Strong Sub-Bass, Soundstage size for this price
Cons: It's strong revealing abilities make it reveal sibilance easily, so albums which are a bit sibilant will show it, Treble is on the strong side
Mee Audio Pinnacle P2 - The Sound of Passion

Mee Audio has a reputation for making an excellent IEM on the cheap. We're going to test this reputation, and see what their P2 is capable of. We're also going to look into some other Mee Audio Products, like M6Pro and their Mee M6Pro Second Generation, and their Professional Balanced Cable.






Introduction

Mee Audio is a friendly company from USA which is known to have produced some of the best IEMs while on a budget, and we even received a lot of recommendations directly to look into their products, as they have proven to really have been worth to buy for many of our readers and fans. We can guarantee that Mee Audio will solve issues if any are to arise, and we're sure they will be around for a long time, tinkering with new products, and refining their existent ones. In all fairness, it is a really nice company, which has a lot of potential to grow and expand into other new territories in the upcoming years.

It should be noted that I have absolutely no affiliation with Mee Audio , I am not receiving any incentive for this review or to sweeten things out. This review is not sponsored nor has been paid for by Mee Audio or anyone else. I'd like to thank Mee Audio for providing the sample for this review. The sample was provided along with Mee Audio request for an honest and unbiased review. This review will be as objective as it is humanly possible, and it reflects my personal experience with Mee Audio P2. Every opinion expressed is mine and I stand by it, the purpose of this review is to help those interested in Mee Audio P2 find their next music companion.



About me

https://audiophile-heaven.blogspot.ro/p/about.html



Packaging

First things first, let's get the packaging out of the way:











Starting with the outer package, P2 is made very well. They have a nice outer package, which has all the information one could desire about their new purchase, and it is made well to protect P2. The IEM shells are seated in a foam cutout, without their cables attached.

There is a large number of tips underneath the foam cutout which holds the IEM shells, and there are even foam tips, for those who like the kind of buttery smooth sound those provide. The number of silicone tips is 6 pairs in total, and the code for the comply foam tips, if you need a replacement, is T200. The cable has a microphone on it, in case you want to pick up a phone conversation using Mee Audio P2.



There is a cable, and a carrying case included with them. The carrying case is especially nice, this is not your average carrying case for IEMs, it is covered in what seems to be leather on the outside, and it feels sturdy, providing protection and support for P2. Even with their cables attached, they fit nicely in the carrying case, and it will protect them against impact and pressure, gaining our love for having such a great accessory included from the factory. The cable is Oxygen-Free-Copper and it feels quite good.





There's a shirt clip included with P2, but it wasn't really necessary, given that they are not quite that microphonic, or rather, they are not microphonic at all.

All in all, with the package composition, Mee Audio wins our hearts and we can say that for their price tag of 100USD, they are what we'd consider a golden package.




What to look in when purchasing an entry-level In-Ear Monitor

https://audiophile-heaven.blogspot.ro/p/what-to-lookl.html



Technical Specifications

driver type - moving coil (dynamic) with copper-clad aluminum voice coil
bass driver - 10 mm moving coil (dynamic)
frequency response - 17 Hz to 20 kHz
Impedance - 16 Ohms at 1K
Sensitivity - 100±3 dB (1mW at 1KHZ)
ear coupling - intraaural (in-ear)
cable length - 51 inches (1.3m), MMCX detachable
cable connector - 3.5mm, right angle plug
weight (without cable) - 0.1 oz (4 g)
Weight - 0.7 oz (21 g)
included accessories - audio cable with headset, shirt clip, silicone eartips (6 pairs), Comply foam eartips, carrying case, ¼” adapter, user manual




Build Quality/Aesthetics/Fit/Comfort


The build quality is quite excellent, they are made from hard plastic, they are black in color, and they are slightly glossy, giving them a nice modern look. The IEM shells are on the small to medium size, thing which works well for them, they not only fit well, but they are also very light. The cables are rubber-covered, so they are flexible, but they aren't very soft. This means that they are ever so slightly springy.





The cable quality is quite good, the cable has a microphone on it, which works very well for phone conversations, and the cable itself loops nicely around the ears.

Fit for P2 is over-the-ear only, and they fit well, one thing which comes in really handy for their fit, being that the entire cable part that loops around the ear is soft, so you don't have to deal with hard ear guides, which for some users can be uncomfortable, especially if the IEM didn't require it.

The cable is a bit springy, but this doesn't affect their portability in any way, they are very portable, they sit nicely they do not have any kind of driver flex, being one of the most comfortable IEMs we had the chance of testing in the past few months. The fit is medium to deep-fit, so they also provide a good amount of isolation from the outside noise.

Cables are detachable, and they connect to the IEM with a MMCX connector, thing which comes in handy when you also have the MMCX Balanced cable from MEE Audio, which pairs really well with P2.

Mee Audio P2 manages to receive a golden level for their comfort as well.




Sound Quality

The sonic quality of P2 is most impressive. Like most of our readers have told us, Mee Audio produces high-quality items with a value higher than their price point, thing which is proven true with P2 as well. They have a commendable detail level, comparable with the detail level of 300USD - 350USD IEMs, thing which is quite nice. They tend to be on the analytical side, revealing details well, but they are also on lighter side, having a snappy, quick, lighter, and more detailed sound. Given their enhanced bass, and enhanced treble, one could say that they are a healthy V-Shaped Signature IEMs, with good analytical and revealing abilities.




The bass is deep and goes as low as one could ever desire, but it is also fairly fast, especially for this price point. One could say that it has a normal speed on the overall level, it has a good texture revealing ability, and the bass doesn't feel overwhelming at any time. The sub-bass is larger in amount compared to the mid-bass, which is slightly larger in amount compared to the midrange. This means that the sub-bass, the part which gives most tactile impact, is enhanced, leading to an impactful overall sound, but the mid-bass being on the lower-than-the-sub-bass level, means that they aren't boomy nor very thick.

The midrange is not quite that thick, being on the lighter side, which is nice for acoustic music and for female vocals, which fly with a unique naturalness, although male voices and certain instruments relying on the mid-bass can be a bit on the light side, especially compared to how good the female vocals are rendered. The textures in the midrange are rendered quite nice, and although we noticed very different results with other Alu based voice-coils, we can say for sure that all of them were quite interesting, P2 being no exception. If you like your violins to sing that passage with a passion, then P2 is one of the best choices you can make.

The treble is on the happier side, bright, being enhanced, especially compared with the midrange, being a bit enhanced even compared with the bass. The treble reaches high, but its bite is not quite that high, at around 7-9kHz, where it gives a bit of bite to cymbals and makes acoustic music much more worthwhile. This means that certain music which has a bad master might sound sibilant, since P2 will reveal sibilance, along with other issues, if those were in the recording, but it doesn't add it where it wasn't already present, so you don't have to worry about this too much, and especially if you use to listen to high quality music recorded very well, you'll have a blast with P2.

All in all, their signature works well with electronic, acoustic, metal, rock, and most music you can throw at them, being rather universal and versatile, as most V-shaped signatures usually are. Just be careful with records which have a bad mastering, because P2 can surely shed some light on those.



Soundstage

Mee Audio P2 is quite nice in its soundstage, being rather open and large, especially for a pair of In-Ears at the price of 100 USD, but the biggest surprise comes from the instrument separation, which is quite good, revealing certain instruments in the background, which most IEMs at 100 USD will blend together with the background.



ADSR / PRaT

The ADSR and PRaT (Texturization) is slow to natural, meaning that textures are generally rendered smooth and songs like those of Mindless Self Indulgence have their textures rendered generally natural with the micro-textures being extremely smooth, and the macro-textures being easier to notice, but still pretty smooth. This works very well with music like hip-hop, and it helps with instruments where textures can sound a bit hard, like trumpets for example, making jazz liquid and soft, but with music like metal, it can make certain guitars a bit too smooth, and especially rough and aggressive metal can feel friendly.




Portable Usage

The portable usage is quite good.


In fact, to put it simply, P2 is so comfortable, that it mostly disappears from your ears while wearing them. The shells are extremely ergonomic, really manufactured for actual usage, and the cables combine well with both the IEMs and with going around the ear, so that you really feel like you're not wearing an IEM at all.







P2 is easy to power, very sensitive, and it is one of the few IEMs that work really well straight out of my Xiaomi Mi Max 2. They will sound better with a better source, but you're looking at a 100 USD IEM which can sound great from any source.

They isolate quite well, enough to be able to take a walk through noisy streets, and they don't leak much either.

There are no microphonics or any other issues, and all in all, P2 makes itself remarked as an awesome portae IEM, being a golden IEM when it comes to portability.

Now, when it comes to their cables, Mee Audio also has a custom cable they are creating, which is a real treat. It is basically an MMCX cable, which combines really well with both MEE Audio M6Pro Second Generation, and with P2, and which has terminations for both Single Ended 3.5mm plug, but also 2.5mm Balanced, and 4.4mm Balanced plugs. This means that you can virtually connect this cable to anything you have, and mind none, it will work really well regardless what you're doing, being a heaven for those who want a more versatile cable. We're going to do a lengthier article on the cable, but the short version is that it really doesn't add anything to the sound, being very neutral in its response, compared to the original cable, sounding mostly the same, the biggest difference coming from the fact that with it, you can use the balanced outputs of your Player and Amplifier, making listening to music more fun.



Comparisons

Now, Pinnacle P2 has a lot to fight in this price range, and all the contentenders here are fierce fighters, so we're quite enthused to see how it will stand its ground.



Mee Audio Pinnacle P2 vs FiiO F9 - Now, FiiO F9 Pro would have been interesting to compare to, but its price is a little out of P2's, so we're going to compare P2 with FiiO F9, which will be quite an interesting comparison to see. Starting with the package, P2 has an excellent package, but so does F9. F9 has a case made of plastic, in the Peli style, which is one of the best there are, while P2 goes for something, resilient, not quite as resilient, but better looking, since P2's case is a leathery case covered in leather which looks pretty nice. FiiO F9 comes with two cables, one of which is Balanced, they come with six sets of tips in total, two flavors, and they come with ear guides embedded into the cables. P2 comes with a single cable, but they also have a large number of tips, including Comply, they come with their carrying case, and their cables do not have ear guides, which, depending on how you prefer your fit, can be for the better. F9 has a similar fit and comfort, similar build quality, and both IEMs are just excellent in the technical aspect. Now, when it comes to their sound, F9 is a bit brighter, more neutral, and has a bit less bass, along with a slightly more revealing sound. By comparison, P2 has a warmer sound, with more bass, more bass emphasis, its midrange is pulled back by quite a bit, the treble is similarly bright as the one on F9, and they have a larger soundstage with more instrument separation, which is helped quite a bit by the V-shaped sound, so the midrange being a bit recessed, opposed to F9's midrange, which can be described as not-so-recessed.


Mee Audio Pinnacle P2 vs Mee Audio M6Pro Second Generation - M6Pro Second Generation is also made by Mee Audio, and it comes at a lower price than P2, but until we manage to finish writing an official article on it, we thought people might be curious how it stands to its bigger brother. We received M6Pro Second Generation in its carrying case, so we're not sure how the main package looks like. As far as build quality goes, M6Pro2 is a bit stiff, there are ear hooks on the cable, which are pretty stiff and you need to use those for fit, although the IEM itself is well built. M6Pro2 is transparent and you can see its inner parts, which is interesting if you're into this type of design, but it can be a bit tacky if you were looking for a more professional design. The sound of M6Pro2 is actually very interesting for its price point, it is also aggressively V-shaped, with a strong sub-bass and mid-bass, a recessed midrange, and a pretty strong treble, with good revealing abilities. By comparison with P2, M6Pro2 sounds a bit crude, with P2 revealing considerably more detail, having better overall depth and dynamics, and being more comfortable. The two are not at the same price point, but in perspective, if you have the money for M6Pro Second Generation, it is a good deal, but P2 makes a much more compelling purchase, if you can save enough to afford it.

Mee Audio Pinnacle P2 vs iBasso IT01 - This review would be incomplete if at this price point we wouldn't mention IT01, which are quite the titan. One thing one notices from the start, is the quality of the cable included with the two IEMs, with P2 having a pretty nice cable, but IT01 having a really awesome cable, thicker, more resilient, and even softer, so you can be sure it will last a long while. IT01 has a carrying case exactly like the once included with HIFIMAN RE2000, so quite the thing, while P2 has a leather covered, portable carrying case, which is quite nice as well. The construction quality of the IEM bodies is excellent on both, and so is the comfort, both IEMs being over-the-ear style, both having no microphonics and no issues with their build quality. As far as the revealing abilities of both go, they are similar. They have a similar amount of details with IT01 having a smidgen more detail, but P2 being quite good as well. Now the tonality, and the way they both portray music is quite different. IT01 is warm, and its bass enhancement lasts way more than P2, up until the upper mid-bass, so there is a certain warmth and thickness to the sound. By comparison, P2 has less of their bass enhanced. The speed of the bass, though, is quicker on IT01, so they have a tad more revealing power, although P2 is not far behind either. The midrange is similar, although it is a bit more recessed on P2, where it is a bit more forward on IT01. The treble, is a bit spicy on both, with good expression and extension, and with a similar presentation for both. The largest difference is in the thickness of the sound, IT01 being thicker, where P2 is thinner sounding. Both are excellent choices really, and you can't go wrong with either, but if you prefer a generally thicker sound, you can go with IT01, while if you prefer a lighter sound, you can go with P2.



Recommended Pairings

P2 is not quite that dependent on the source it is being paired with, although some sources do enhance their sound by quite a bit. Basically, they are revealing enough to reveal differences between different sources, so if you can pair them with something a bit better, it will be rewarding to do so.



Mee Audio Pinnacle P2 + Cayin N5ii - N5ii is actually a great source to combine with almost any IEM. It is a great little DAP, now it is on sale, and you can enjoy quite a few functions with it. IT has a good battery inside, and it also provides wifi and Bluetooth, in case you wander into Streaming or other kind of features. N5ii's sound is a bit warm, but mostly neutral, they have good extension both ways, and they pretty much leave P2's sound unchanged compared to most neutral sources, maybe adding a bit of warmth to it.

Mee Audio Pinnacle P2 + FiiO M7 - FiiO M7 is another great choice at this moment, being part of an special package sold by FiiO. It has Radio, Bluetooth, and a very similar design to Cayin N5ii. The one thing that is a tad different between the two DAPs, is the fact that M7 doesn't have Wifi like N5ii does, so you can't Stream music using M7, while you can using N5ii. OF course, M7 is also quite a bit less expensive. In its sound alone, M7 is a really amazing DAP, with an almost pure neutral signature, so no coloring of the sound of what is connected to it, making P2 sound pretty strongly V-shaped, with a sparkly treble and a strong bass, making up for a fun and engaging listen.

Mee Audio Pinnacle P2 + Shanling M2s - Shanling M2s is now almost entirely replaced by Shanling M0, but this also means that you're going to see some M2s units left with a really amazing price. The main change in sound compared to N5ii and M7, is the fact that M2s has a thicker sound, with a smoother treble, so it changes the signature of P2 making them smoother and thicker, in case you wanted them to sound like this. All in all, it is quite the amazing option, if you're on a budget and if you're looking for something modestly priced, but effective.



Value and Conclusion

Mee Audio Pinnacle P2 sells for about 100 USD at this moment, and they are a very compelling purchase at this price point.

They come in a good package, surrounded by a good amount of accessories, and especially a very nice carrying box. That carrying box alone is worth quite a bit, and it will keep P2 safe during transport, or if thrown in a bag or pocket.



The build qualit of Pinnacle P2 is exemplary, they are made of hard plastic, their cables are a bit springy, but they fit well around the ears, they have no microphonic noise, and they are light enough to not be felt while in usage. The tips included with P2 are of good quality, and while they're not spinfit tips, they fit similarly well.

P2 disappears in your ears while you're wearing them, would be the best way to describe their comfort. There's nothing more you can ask of their comfort, and they surely can isolate you from the noise outside while walking on a busy week day, trying to focus on the music, instead of the new buildings being constructed all over Bucharest.

Another aspect you can consider is how easy they are to drive. They need very little power, so any smartphone, even those with a very weak signal, can drive P2 very well, but if you already have a high-end source, don't worry, you're going to feel the better quality of your source when connecting P2 to it, as it can reveal a better source from a weaker one.

The sound is V-shaped, with a strong sub-bass, a strong bass, and a weaker mid-bass, with the midrange being pulled a bit back compared to the rest of the sound, and with the treble being sparkly, expressive, and happy, with a lot of emotion and enough air between the instruments to make even the picky listeners happy for this price point. The detail levels of P2 are in line with other really good 100USD IEMs, and they surely satisfy in terms of instrument separation as well.



If you're looking for a IEM that's well built, isolates well, and which has an engaging, V-shaped sound, with a strong bass, and with a touch of sparkle in its treble, then P2 is surely worth checking out, being a really good choice for this kind of sonic signature.



I hope my review is helpful to you!



Stay safe and remember to always have fun while listening to music!




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Moonstar
Moonstar
Great review !
Dobrescu George
Dobrescu George
@Moonstar - Thank you!! I should probably add a few more notes about the stock cable not being quite that good though, seems some people have ran ionto issues with it...

Moonstar

100+ Head-Fier
Pros: Engaging sound
Good detail level
Great price to performance ratio
Perfect fit for long listening periods
Detachable cable = upgrade option
Cons: Plastic (ABS) housing vs. Zinc Alloy on Pinnacle P1
Stock cable
Hi-fi sound for an affordable price


The MEE audio Pinnacle P2 In Ear Monitor (in short IEM) that I’m reviewing was provided to me free of charge as a review sample. I am not affiliated with MEE audio beyond this review and these words reflect my true, unaltered, opinion about the product.

About MEE audio:

MEE Audio is established in the USA and is crafting headphones and earphones since 2005.

Official Website of MEE audio

The Price:

The manufacturer's suggested retail price (in short MSRP) of the MEE audio Pinnacle P2 is $ 99,99.


Package and Accessories:

The Mee audio Pinnacle P2 comes inside a small card box and this card box includes the following contents;
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  • Pinnacle P2 Audiophile In-Ear Headphones
  • OFC audio cable with inline microphone and remote
  • Comply T-200 memory foam ear tips
  • Silicone ear tips (6 pairs)
  • Zippered carrying case
  • Shirt clip
  • User manual
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Stock Cable:

The 3.5mm gold plated SE (Single Ended) stock cable of the Pinnacle P2 has a MMCX connector interface that is seen more and more often as standard connector in new IEM models. The cable of the P2 is made of a rubber material that is quite thick and feels sturdy in my hand.


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It doesn’t looks as sexy as the stock cable of the Pinnacle P1 but it has a build in microphone, which I have tested with my Samsung Galaxy S8+ that is quite sensitive and has enough clarity for a comfortable phone conversation.

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Design and Build Quality:

The Pinnacle P2 has the same shell shape as the Pinnacle P1; the main difference is the material that MEE audio decided to use.


The Pinnacle P2 has the same design as the Pinnacle P1 that I found also very nice looking. The main difference between the two models is the material that MEE audio have used on the new P2. The Pinnacle P2 housing is made of ABS that is a sort of plastic, with a piano black finish. The Pinnacle P1 on the other hand is a hand polished die-cast zinc alloy material, which looks and feels more premium in my opinion. But don’t to forget, that the P1 is more expensive due the use of more expensive materials.


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Fit, Comfort and Isolation:

The Pinnacle P2 is in my opinion; one of most comfortable Universal IEM’s in the market, together with my old Westone’s and the Ibasso IT03. You can wear it for hours without to fatiguing your ears. It has a compact design that should fit to almost every ear type.




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Technical Specifications:

Driver : 11mm Ø moving coil (dynamic) with copper-clad aluminum voice coil
Sensitivity : 100±3 dB (1mW at 1 kHz)
Impedance : 16 Ohm @ 1K
Frequency Resp. : 17 Hz to 20 kHz
Weight : 4gr (without Cable), 21gr (with Cable)
Plug : 3.5 mm right angle plug

Cable length : 1.3m
Connector Type : MMCX connector
Microphone Specs : Omnidirectional mic, freq. resp. 100 Hz to 5 kHz, sensitivity -40dB± 3dB


Drivability (Impedance):

The Pinnacle P2 is an easy to drive IEM with an impedance of 16 Ohm @ 1K. The Pinnacle P1 on the other hand with its 50 Ohm impedance @ 1K was not a very easy to drive IEM. MEE audios target with the new P1 are Smartphone users and Digital Audio Players (in short DAP) that have less juice. My Samsung Galaxy S8 and IPad Air 2 could push the Pinnacle P2 to very high volumes without any noticeable struggling.


Sources:

Albums & tracks used for this review:
  • Megadeth – Sweating Bullets (Flac 16bit/44kHz)
  • Lazarus A.D. – The Onslaught (ALAC)
  • Opeth – Damnation (Tidal Hi-Fi)
  • Metallica - The Black Album (Flac 24bit/96Hz)
  • Pink Floyd - Money (Flac 24bit/96Hz)
  • Otto Liebert & Luna Negra – Up Close “Album” (DSF) – Binaural Recording
  • Max Richter – Recomposed by Max Richter : Vivaldi and The four Seasons (Tidal Hi-Fi)
  • Diana Krall - So Wonderful (DSF)
  • GoGo Pengin – Fanfares (ALAC)
  • Alboran Trio’s – Cinque Lunghissimi Minuti (Tidal Hi-Fi)
  • Yosi Horikawa – Bubbles (Flac 16bit/44kHz)
  • Melody Gardot – Who Will Comfort Me (Flac 16bit/44kHz)
  • Aretha Franklin – I Say a Little Prayer (Apple Music)
  • Daft Punk – Get Lucky (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
  • Hans Zimmer & James Newton Howard – A Watchful Guardian (Flac 16bit/44kHz)
  • Michael Jackson - Billie Jean (DSF)


In Ear Monitor : MEE audio Pinnacle P2

DAP/DAC : Echobox Explorer, Aune M2 Pro, Yin Lu Mei D200+, Chord Mojo, Zishan Z2, Ipad Air2, Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus

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Sound Analysis and Comparisons:


This review is written after an intensive burn-in process of 100 hours. I have used the stock provided double flange silicone ear tips due this review.

I will compare the Pinnacle P2 in many situations with the predecessor, the Pinnacle P1.


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Tonality:

The tonality of the Pinnacle P2 is relative warmer compared to older brother the Pinnacle P1. The additional warmth comes from the mid bass region. Anyway, great to hear that MEE audio didn’t overpower the warmth to much that would otherwise destroy the balance that they have archived with the tonality of the P2.


Lows (Sub Bass and Bass):

One of the first differences I have noticed on the Pinnacle P2 over the P1 is the sub bass quantity. The Pinnacle P2 has more sub bas quantity then the Pinnacle P1. It sounds also tight and has good definition, especially for a $ 100 IEM.

Some sub bass tones created with bass guitars, kick drums or organs sounds live like and organic.

For example; the amazing fast kick drum performance in Lazarus A.D. – Last Breath sounds quite amazing with its great control. In short, the sub bass of the P2 is by no way overwhelming and is only there when it’s needed and I think that this is a good ability in for a IEM in this price range.


The Pinnacle P2 has also a noticeable difference over the P1 around the 100 – 200 Hz bass range. The bass has more presence and adds additional warmth to the P2 that is missing on the P1. The bass of the Pinnacle P2 is quite impressive for a sub $ 250 priced IEM and the right amount of warmth that comes from the 150 Hz range gives it a more organic presentation over similar priced IEM’s like The Fiio F9 or the TFZ Series 4.

The P2 should satisfy most Rock, Jazz, Pop or even R&B music lovers in this aspect, but is by no way a bass-head IEM for House music freaks.


Mids (Lower midrange – Midrange – Upper midrange):


The Pinnacle P2 has a slightly V shaped sound tuning while the Pinnacle P1 had also a V shaped presentation but with a slightly more forward midrange presentation.

Here again, at the upper midrange are some differences between the Pinnacle P1 and the P2. The P1 has more midrange clarity in direct comparison to the dryer sounding P2. The Pinnacle P2 has also a warmer and more organic sound tuning that gives both male and female vocals a fuller presentation. Female and Male vocal sounds rich and full and have a good detail level.

The resolution of the between 1 – 2 kHz is great, especially female vocals benefits form this tuning. My favorite female Vocals like Diana Krall or Melody Gardot voices sounding emotional and the detail retrieval is top notch in this price range. And again the Pinnacle P1’s vocal presentation is clearer and crisper with a bit more micro detail. I think it comes to personal preferences regarding the sound tuning.


One of the good parts of the frequency range is the upper midrange presentation of the Pinnacle P2. The upper midrange of the P2 around the 3 kHz barrier is a little bit rolled off, that makes the overall sound presentation more pleasant for log listening periods. For example; Female voices like Aretha Franklin or Céline Dion sounding delightful and intimate without being harsh or ear piercing, even in higher volumes. Another example for upper midrange control is Alboran Trio’s – Cinque Lunghissimi Minuti, the piano pulse between 14 – 15 seconds sounds soft, is relative good controlled and spreads very well for a $ 100 IEM.


The Pinnacle is thanks to this tuning not stricken from sibilance like similar priced IEM’s like my old friend the Vsonic Gr07BE or newer models like the newly released hybrid model of Fiio, the F9 that has a different driver combination but is in the same price range.


Highs (Treble – Upper treble):

The treble quantity of the Pinnacle P2 is nearly identical with those of the Pinnacle P1, but due the warmer tuning and a small roll-of on the top around 5 kHz, makes it doesn’t sound as bright as the P1. The slightly boost in the 5 kHz range gives the Pinnacle P1 additional clarity in comparison to the more distant and transparent sounding new Pinnacle P2.


The great thing about the Pinnacle P2 is that the treble section is present but never being harsh. This tuning allows the listener a comfortable sound experience without any ear fatiguing. Instruments like cymbals sound relative natural and makes the P2 a great pair for Metal Music listeners. For example, the treble extension on Megadeth’s – Sweating bullets and the cymbal strike ton in Opeth’s – Damnation is quit impressive for an IEM in this price league.


The upper treble tuning between 6 kHz - 20 kHz (20 kHz is the max. frequency that the P2 can represent) makes the Pinnacle P2 a relative airy sounding IEM. It has not as much sparkle as the P1, but the Pinnacle P2 sounds more engaging in many situations due this new tuning.


Please don't get me wrong the Pinnacle P2 sounds in no way dull like the TFZ Series 4, but it has not as much upper treble presence as the predecessor P1 and exactly this new tuning gives Pinnacle P1 additional clarity and detail.


Soundstage and Imaging:

The soundstage of the Pinnacle P2 is above average; it is not as wide as the Pinnacle P1 but the depth is nearly the same. I have to say that the soundstage presentation is not the strength of the Pinnacle P2.


The instrument separation and imagine in GoGo Pengin’s – Fanfares was relative accurate, but there is missing some sense of space that was better with my old Pinnacle P1. Live recordings have a better sense of imagine than bass heavy modern genres.

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Conclusion:

The Pinnacle P2 is a very good option in the $ 100 USD category. It has a different tuning (warmer) to these of the Pinnacle P1 (brighter) that sounds more mature.

It is a matter of preference; if you want an easier to drive and cost efficient Pinnacle with a warmer sound and punchier bass, go for the P2. But if you do critical listening and can spend additional 100 Bucks, you can get the Pinnacle P1 with more detailed sound, better stock cable and a premium housing.


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Pros and Cons:

+ Engaging sound
+ Good detail level
+ Great price to performance ratio
+ Perfect fit for long listening periods
+ Detachable cable = upgrade option

- Plastic (ABS) housing vs. Zinc Alloy on Pinnacle P1
- Stock cable


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Dobrescu George
Dobrescu George
Really nice photos~~~
Moonstar
Moonstar
Thank you : )
P
Pietrone
great review @Moonstar I was thinking to buy the p1 because I have read they are really good for metal, rock and prog but they are not available while the p2 is and at a good price. I might spend 115 for the p1 if you tell me it is worth the difference against the 80 i can spend for p2. interesting to me was the ability to reproduce satisfying distorted guitars in the p1, thanks

audio123

Reviewer at audio123
Pros: Bass Decay, Engaging Midrange, Wide Stage
Cons: Cable
Introduction

MEE Audio is launched in 2005 with production of in-ear monitors (iems) and headphones. They have products that can cater to different needs. Their flagship Pinnacle P1 has been widely received and this year, they release the Pinnacle P2. I would like to thank MEE Audio for this review unit and you can purchase the Pinnacle P2 from http://www.meeaudio.com/P2 .

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Specifications
  • Driver Type: Moving Coil (Dynamic) with Copper-Clad Aluminum Voice Coil
  • Bass Driver: 10mm Moving Coil (Dynamic)
  • Frequency Response: 17Hz to 20kHz
  • Impedance: 16 Ohms at 1kHz
  • Sensitivity: 100±3 dB (1mW at 1kHz)
Unboxing & Accessories

The Pinnacle P2 comes in a rectangular black box with a white sleeve protector that sports the MEE Audio logo and the model name, “Pinnacle P2 High Fidelity Audiophile In-Ear Headphones”. On the sleeve protector, there is a picture of the P2 printed on it. On the back of the protector, you will see the characteristics of the P2. At left side, there are description on the specifications and the package contents while on the right side, there are information on the place of manufacturing and warranty. After removing the sleeve protector, you will be presented with a black package. After opening the package, you will greeted with the P2 and the storage case. Below the iem, there is the headset cable, shirt clip and eartips of different sizes. There is an instruction manual beneath the case.

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IEM Build & Design

The Pinnacle P2 is made out of plastic and has a similar shell to the Pinnacle P1. It has a nice glossy black surface. The P2 is constructed with a good build. On both the left and right faceplate, there is the MEE Audio’s logo printed on it. There is a small vent at the top side of the iem. The nozzle is slightly angled and there is a soft material that acts as a mesh. It utilises MMCX connector for the detachable cables. The P2 is very lightweight and weighs 4 grams. Coupled with an ergonomic design, I can use the P2 for a long listening session. Overall, I find the Pinnacle P2 to have an exceptionally light weight with a rather small shell that fits comfortably inside my ears.
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Cable Build & Design

The cable is quite average and on each of the connector, there is a L & R marking to differentiate between left and right. There is grip on the connectors too. There is no memory wire area and there is microphone on the right. Moving on to the y-splitter, it is y-shaped and the chin slider is round in shape. Lastly, the jack is 3.5mm gold plated right angled and there is strain relief.
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Sound Analysis

Lows

The Pinnacle P2 has a good amount of sub-bass extension with a rather quick rumble. The extension is quite deep and the bass is being articulated tightly and precisely with an excellent definition. The bass has a quick decay and it presents each note fast. I feel it makes the overall sound lively and exciting. The mid-bass has a nice slam to it and it has a right amount of quantity. With slightly more mid-bass, it may make the sound dense. The bass is impactful and enhances the overall sound.

Mids

The midrange on P2 is slightly v shaped. The lower mids is definitely aided by the lows. There is a good amount of body to it to prevent hollowness. However, male vocals is slightly dry in its presentation. Moving on to the upper mids, it is slightly forward and provides more definition to female vocals. The resolution is quite good. The overall midrange operates in a transparent and clean approach yet retains the liveliness.

Highs

The treble is extended well and there is no sibilance and harshness. There is a good amount of air to lighten the presentation. The sparkle is present but in a small quantity. The treble has definition and is very crisp. I feel it is suitable for a long listening session.

Soundstage

The P2 has a great soundstage for both the width and depth. While the width is not the widest I have heard, there is a good amount of space and it prevents the music from sounding too congested which results in a more accurate positioning of vocals and instruments. The depth is average and not too close in. The stage helps to give the sound a more full performance.

Comparisons

Pinnacle P2 vs Pinnacle P1

The P2 has more sub-bass quantity and extension than the P1. It provides more impact to the overall sound. P1 bass is more clean and tight. The decay on the P2 is quicker and each bass note hits with a good engagement. Rumble on the P2 is slightly slower. I find the P1 to have a better definition and texture. P1 is definitely more crisp but there is more musicality on the P2. The mid-bass has more slam than the P1 and the dynamics is better. I feel the lower mids on the P1 is better controlled but the P2 is aided by the lows which allows a smoother transition from the lows to the mids. The upper mids on the P2 is more forward and it is more organic in its presentation. The definition on the P1 is better. For the treble, there is more energy in the P2. The P1 operates in a clinical approach with more extension and clarity but there is slight harshness. On the other hand, the P2 operates in a smooth approach and does not sacrifice the clarity. In terms of soundstage, P1 has the better width while P2 has the better depth. Resolution of the P1 is better. I find the P2 to be musical sounding while the P1 is on the technical side with good separation and layering.

Pinnacle P2 vs TFZ Exclusive King

The King has more sub-bass quantity than the P2. I find the extension on both to be very similar. King has a more authoritative approach in its bass presentation and this makes the King to be more punchy and dense sounding. The decay on the P2 is more pacey and this contributes to a slightly better bass definition. The mid-bass on the King has more slam and this helps to create a good impact. The lower mids on the King is slightly thicker than the P2 and male vocals are being presented with more body. The upper mids on the King is slightly more forward and this makes the P2 seems very controlled here. It has a good grasp in the upper mids and does not deliver aggressive vocals. The definition on the King is slightly better. Moving on to the treble, the King has more extension and there is clarity. I find the air on the King to be slightly better rendered. In terms of soundstage, both have very similar width and depth. I feel female vocals is better presented on the P2 due to its tight control at the top end. The King has more body in its low end and male vocals excel.

Pinnacle P2 vs Kinera H3

The P2 has similar sub-bass quantity and extension as the H3. I find the P2 to be quicker in its decay. It is presented with a good cleanliness and tightness. Each bass note on the P2 is being presented with more speed and it creates more engagement. The H3 bass is more textured and coupled with more mid-bass slam, the H3 is more dynamic than the P2. I find the H3 has a better transition to the lower mids. The lower mids on the P2 is slightly thicker than the H3 and the body is appropriate. The upper mids on the P2 is more forward and I find female vocals is being presented with more intimacy here. Next, for the treble, the H3 is extended slightly better. The definition and crisp are expressed more. The P2 operates in a slightly different approach with more smoothness to it. Finally, the P2 has an edge in the stage width while H3 has the better depth. Resolution of both is very similar with the H3 producing slightly more details.

Conclusion

The Pinnacle P2 is MEE Audio’s latest iem and it shows a very good control in all aspects of the frequency range. The combination of finesse and pace makes the P2 a delight to listen to. Coupled with its ergonomic design, it brings listening comfort to a high standard. The controlled musical sound definitely makes the P2 enjoyable without feeling fatiguing.
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ryanjsoo

Reviewer for The Headphone List
ryanjsoo's Reviews
Pros: Well balanced V-shaped tuning, Clarity, Detail, Agile, punchy bass, Class-leading ergonomics, Removable cable, Value, Great isolation
Cons: Stock cable is horrific, Mids and highs a bit thin and dry
Introduction –

Meeaudio have received no shortage of acclaim, achieved mainly through their very affordable sports orientated in-ears and their flagship Pinnacle P1 that really shocked reviewers. The P1 was an ace example of a budget flagship done properly with gorgeous metal housings, class-leading ergonomics and a clear yet refined sound. However, even that model came with some caveats; namely, their heavy shells weren’t perfectly stable during activity and their high-impedance and brighter tuning really mitigated portable use. Moreover, their $200 asking price, while modest considering the product on offer, can still be considered inaccessible to a lot of buyers.

However, with such a winning formula, Meeaudio didn’t reinvent but rather went back to the drawing board, redesigning a new model that seeks to address all of these aforementioned issues. The P2 is the second earphone in the Pinnacle line-up and one that seeks to achieve more widespread appeal through its very attainable $100 asking price, warmer tuning and higher sensitivity better suited towards smartphone use. However, with such changes, can the new P2 retain the refinement of the original P1 and does it earn its Pinnacle moniker? Let’s find out.


Disclaimer –

I would like to thank Mike from Meeaudio very much for his quick communication and for providing me with the Pinnacle P2 for the purpose of review. All words are my own and there is no monetary incentive for a positive review. Despite receiving the earphones free of cost, I will attempt to be as objective as possible in my evaluation.


Accessories –

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The P2’s packaging presents well and Meeaudio includes a thoughtful selection of accessories. The P2 comes packaged with an assortment of tips, 3 pairs of regular silicone tips, 3 pairs of dual flange tips and a single pair of medium Comply foams.

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Meeaudio also provide a ¼” adapter for use with a desktop amp in addition to a nice faux leather zippered hard case that finds a nice balance between protection and portability. A small shirt clip helps to keep the cable in check during portable use.


Design –

Those who have experience with the original P1 will find a familiar experience here with the P2, both are easily among the best fitting earphone designs on the market. Meeaudio’s new model utilizes the same shell shape but exchanges the hardy metal shells of the original for a lighter weight plastic construction. As such, the P2 doesn’t feel quite as solid or premium but their housings are well finished, smoothly sculpted and less cumbersome in the ear. They are also a compact earphone, far more so than competing models from TFZ, Kinera and Simgot, achieving almost flawless long-term comfort. In addition, their light weight design combined with their strong seal makes them perfectly stable in the ear, staying put during a 6Km run without requiring adjustment.

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The P2’s also possess a very low profile fit that is perfect to sleep on and noticeably less susceptible to wind noise than more protruding designs. This is complemented by excellent noise isolation, the P2’s have a small vent on the outer face but they attenuate as much noise as most sealed in-ears if not quite as much as models like the Shure SE215. In addition, while the P2’s are most at home with an over-ear fit, they are also designed to be worn inverted or cable down (cable orientation must be swapped). This style of fit is almost as comfortable and will be more familiar to newer iem users though those that intend to use the P2 for activity will still want to wear them over-ear for the added stability.

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The P2 also retains the same removable MMCX cable system as the original but the included cable is, unfortunately, a far cry from the excellent units included with the P1. The cable is quite thick and feels sturdy, but it’s incredibly stiff and uncompliant with a lot of memory and a very grippy texture. The cable does have a smart remote but its excessive thickness makes it difficult to live with. Furthermore, while the connectors were tight and snappy on the earphones themselves, they were quite loose on the cable resulting in some intermittency in the left earpiece. Luckily, the cable is easily replaced since MMXC is so widely adopted and there are plenty of fantastic options available for cheap. I found a good experience with the Ourart upgrade cable, it’s far more compliant than the stock cable, silver plated and retains a mic/remote for smartphone usage. I also didn’t experience any intermittency from my other MCMX cables.



Sound –

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The P2 utilizes a single 10mm dynamic driver like the P1 before it, however, it has been reworked to achieve easier drivability and a generally friendlier sound. Of note, I gave my unit 150 hours of burn-in before my final verdict to little effect, perhaps bass tightened up slightly but I cannot confirm any changes. I also tried swapping out the stock cable with both the original and silver plated P1 cable and did not notice a huge transformation besides ergonomics. That said, the P2 definitely does benefit on some level from a silver plated cable. Even a cheap one, if authentic, helps to smooth the P2’s midrange and slightly increase resolution without leaning out the low-end. That said, it’s hardly an economical investment, you would be $50 off the P1 if buying through Meeaudio for example. Users should not feel that the stock cable is bottlenecking the P2’s sound, I would suggest replacing the stock unit simply due to its frustrating ergonomics.


Tonality –

The P2 has a lightly v-shaped sound with a mid-bass bump, slightly brighter midrange and a modest treble spike that gives them a more aggressive high-frequency presentation. To my ear, they are actually a little better balanced than the P1 as their warmer low end and less recessed lower midrange better balance out their brighter treble. The P2 is also significantly more balanced than most competing models such as the TFZ Exclusive 4 and 5 in addition to the Kinera H3. They also lack the forwardness of the TFZ King and though their treble is aggressive, they are still markedly more linear than all of the aforementioned models within the higher frequencies.



Bass –

The P2’s low end is agile, defined and well controlled, especially when considering their asking price. And despite their mid-bass focus, the earphones find a nice balance between engagement and linearity, neither sounding excessively bloated nor lean in any way. They have good sub-bass extension with noticeable but not bothersome roll-off though impact is tight and rumble defined, more so than the Simgot EN700 Bass and higher end TFZ earphones. And as with the P1, the P2 doesn’t possess huge slam, rather they pursue a slightly smoother, more organic tone with rounder note presentation. As such, the earphones lack muddiness that accentuates the more agile nature of their bass response. Upper bass is also emphasized though tastefully so, creating a midrange that is slightly warmed but well separated nonetheless. Through this tuning, the P2 sounds very inviting yet natural, some bloat is evident though they are easily one of the more mature offerings around this price.

As a result of their smooth sculpting and lack of any muddiness, the P2’s low-end sounds quite clean and defined. They also have excellent resolution for their price, matching the TFZ King on technical ability. Bass notes are well separated and though texturing falls just short of the H3, they find a nice medium between the technicality of the TFZ and the musicality of the Kinera. Listening to Bruno Mar’s “24K Magic” and the P2 was quick and tight with nice sub-bass slam. Mid-bass had plenty of body and though notes were slightly rounded, bass never came across as tubby or bloated. The P2’s also well complements slower songs such as Hyukoh’s “Tokyo Inn” where the Meeaudio’s provided a clean, snappy drum beat set to the concise plucking of bass guitars. So while the P2 may lack some sub-bass slam and a little texture on certain tracks, they compare very well to class leaders around this price with their agility, definition and control.



Mids –

Mids are among the most balanced around this price; the P2’s are slightly bright with great clarity and resolution, well-suiting pop, acoustic and Asian music while slicing through the muddiness of poorly mastered albums. However, they achieve brightness, not through a sense of upper midrange forwardness, but slight recession of the lower mids. That said, the P2 isn’t scooped like the Kinera H3 or even the more expensive P1, but the upper midrange is the main focus in both quality and quantity. Some tonal oddities are present, manifesting through odd voicing to some vocals though the P2’s are no worse than the TFZ Exclusive and Kinera earphones. Lower mids are the weakest aspect of the P2’s sound, male vocals come across as quite dry, thin and truncated, something the more recessed P1 doesn’t suffer from. And while midrange resolution is very good throughout, the P2’s lack of lower midrange body really saps texture and detail. By comparison, the more bodied Simgot EN700 Bass and K3 HD both sounded more natural with more accurate timbre and greater detail retrieval within these regions while the similarly voiced Kinera H3 and TFZ Exclusive 5 both experienced similar difficulties.

However, the P2’s middle and upper midrange are quite the opposite with much-improved quality and vastly smoother tuning. Higher male and female vocals sound consistently clean with excellent definition. Female vocals, in particular, have superb quality with quite a refined tone and great resolution of layering and detail. Clarity is also especially good without becoming overbearing and the P2 never suffered from excessive sibilance in my testing. Their brighter tone definitely preferences engagement over naturalness and upper mids on the P2 still doesn’t extend like those on the Rose Mini 2, but female vocal aficionados will no doubt enjoy the P2. So despite not besting my personal midrange benchmark from Rose, the P2 is still a terrific performer with a more vibrant presentation and warmer low-end finding greater engagement in daily use. Mids may not hold the greatest emphasis within the sound, but they do have many redeeming qualities that draw more attention to the intricacies within this frequency range.



Treble –

High-frequencies are on the aggressive side, bringing details to the fore as with the P1 before it. However, the P2 counterbalances their spiked lower-treble response with a slightly greater sense of body, allowing instruments to retain surprisingly accurate timbre and texture despite the nature of their tuning. As such, the P2 sounds more natural than earphones like the Kinera H3 and TFZ King with a similar approach overall to the Magaosi K3 HD. Extension is good but not outstanding, high-hats sound pretty thin and higher notes lack detail in general. And while the P2 doesn’t lack treble air or separation, they don’t excel either, the King and H3 both providing noticeably superior performances. The P2 also isn’t the most detailed earphone though they are very close to class leaders without being quite as peaky. As a result, though the K3 HD and Kinera H3 retrieve more raw detail, the P2 presents them in a more realistic, natural fashion akin to the Rose Mini 2.

However, coming back to their somewhat uneven tuning; where lower treble is aggressive and well-detailed, they do smooth off above that, clearly lacking the extension of the P1. Higher notes are very thin and some are quite distant. Their slightly rough high-end tuning does compromise a lot of higher frequency information that more linear earphones handily resolve. The Mini 2 best embodies this, its less exciting but more linear high-end providing a more consistently nuanced performance. This was highlighted when listening to Guns n’ Roses “Sweet Child O’ Mine” where the P2 had a very clear reproduction of guitars and cymbals but also suffered from a distinct lack of air. Some air was evident and treble doesn’t suffer from blunting or congestion, but high-hats and atmospheric effects tended to get a bit lost in the mix. Still, though the P2 is bright and can tire after longer listening sessions, the earphones never sounded harsh with a smidge of refinement providing just enough high-frequency restraint.



Soundstage, Imaging and Separation –

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As the P2 lacks the outright resolution and extension of the P1, it also fails to retain the wide open soundstage that model could produce. Width is still commendable but they never reach outside the head and depth is more intimate. As a result, the P2 is just above average in space but is quite coherent in its presentation. Imaging is accurate though some details can be too distant due to their sculpted treble and lower midrange. Centre image is strong and separation is very good on account of their cleaner, clearer sound.



Drivability –

The P2 was designed to be much easier to drive than its predecessor that could struggle during portable use. And with a 16ohm impedance and 100dB sensitivity, that is no longer the case with the P2. While not the most sensitive earphone around this price nor the outright easiest to drive, the P2 will happily sing from any decent smartphone. And being a single dynamic driver earphone, they also aren’t overly affected by output impedance if at all, I didn’t notice huge tonal changes when switching from my Chord Mojo to my HTC 10 besides the tone of the sources themselves. That said, the P2 scales better than most competing earphones, thriving off some additional amplification and a musical source. The aforementioned Mojo provided an excellent companion as did the Shozy Alien+ that both granted lower mids with a bit more body and smoothed the P2’s treble response. And even affordable sources like the Fiio Q1 MKII provided a nice bump over my smartphone with a noticeably smoother sound, more treble body and detail in addition to a little more bass control. The P2 is certainly a lot easier to drive than the P1 and doesn’t absolutely require a DAC/AMP but it does benefit quite a bit from a musical dedicated source.



Comparisons –

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Rose Mini 2: Both feature removable MMCX cables though the Rose unit is far more compliant. Both are also very comfortable and isolate similarly well though the P2 will likely be more stable in the ear for most people due to its size and shape. The Mini 2 has a more controlled, even bass response with greater definition at the cost of the fullness and sub-bass extension of the P2. Both are agile and tight, the P2 is more dynamic and the Mini 2 is more articulate. Mids are quite dissimilar, the P2 is V-shaped, brighter and considerably clearer while the Mini 2 is more neutral, linear and natural. As such, the Rose sounds cleaner and doesn’t suffer from the same lower midrange issues as the P2 but it can sound quite mellow compared to the very glossy P2, especially within the upper mids.

The P2 also has a slight midrange resolution advantage with superior retrieval of background detail in some areas though the Rose is more consistently detailed on account of its more even tuning. Treble is considerably more aggressive on the P2, the Mini 2 is actually more detailed and micro details are far more present but the P2 has a lot more shimmer. However, the P2 is also quite thin, the Mini 2 has more body and more extension so it doesn’t overshadow higher details like the peakier P2. Both separate well, the P2 has a wider soundstage though the Mini 2 images better. While it may seem that the Mini 2 is the obvious choice, that is most certainly not the case since its very mellow, balanced tones can come off as bland to many listeners. The P2 fits better and is considerably more vibrant without coming off as overly sculpted, making it a better choice for listening in louder environments.

Kinera H3: Both earphones are completely plastic but feel solid in the hand. The Pinnacles are a little more solid, they’re also lighter and much smaller creating a more comfortable fit. Both have a removable cable, MMCX on the P3 and 2-pin on the H3 though the cable on the H3 is far softer and more compliant while the P2’s cable is very rubbery and has a lot of memory. Sonically, the P2 is more balanced while the H3 is considerably more v-shaped; bass is more prominent with considerably more slam and increased mid-bass fullness. However, the H3 has a more defined, textured and extended bass response though it is more bloated and lacks the agility of the P2. The H3 also has greater midrange clarity but it sounds thin, the P2 sounds dry but still more natural overall than the H3, especially upper mids.

Both have a brighter tonal tilt with scooped lower mids and more upper mid presence, the H3 to a greater extent due to its greater bass and treble presence. Both also have somewhat spiked treble, the H3 more so, making it very aggressive. The P2 is also a more aggressive earphone in its own right but treble is more even than the H3. I feel that the P2 will be more forgiving of lower bitrate files since it is less aggressive and generally smoother than the H3. If you want a lot of engagement, the P2 might be a bit lean for your tastes where the H3 really flourishes. Both are similarly technical, the H3 has a slight upper hand on raw detailing and definition though the P2 is certainly no slouch. The H3 does still have better end to end extension.

Pinnacle P1 ($200): The P1 is shaped identically to the P2 and finds similar comfort as a result. However, the P2’s metal construction is superior in every way and its two included cables are light years ahead of the tacky unit included with the P2. Sonically, the two are similar as expected though the P2 has some little tweaks that better suit portable use. This starts with their lower impedance/higher sensitivity that omits the need for external amplification. In addition, the P2 has a warmer low end with slightly greater sub-bass emphasis and notably more mid and upper bass fullness. They have a thinner, drier midrange than the P1, especially lower mids though lower mids are more present, creating a less skewed midrange.

Upper mids have great clarity and are quite smooth but the P1 still holds a notable lead in overall refinement and resolution, they are just smoother and more nuanced throughout. Treble presentation is similar on both, the P1 is more aggressive while the P2 has been smoothed off a little. The P2 is still on the more aggressive side, notes are nicely crisp but detailing doesn’t quite match the P1 due to some roll-off. I think the difference between the P2 and P1 can be somewhat likened to that between the 1More Triple and Quad drivers, the P2 is warmer and more consumer-friendly while the P1 is a bit more revealing and generally improved in terms of technicality.


Verdict –

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The P2 is undoubtedly a great earphone with some truly outstanding aspects offset by some smaller technical quibbles. On a superficial level, they are shockingly close to the P1 in tuning and some tasteful sculpting does make them more universally appealing. Moreover, extended listening reveals that they retain much of the same clarity and agility of Meeaudio’s higher model with excellent resolution to top it off. Ergonomics are another high point, the P2 is easily the best fitting earphone I’ve tested around this price even if their plastic construction doesn’t inspire as much confidence. Of course, they aren’t perfect, and at $100 I wouldn’t expect them to be; most of my complaints stem from the lower midrange and included cable with treble more or less coming down to personal taste. They aren’t polite nor are they the most explicitly engaging earphone around this price, but the P2 reciprocates with excellent ergonomics and a sound that well balances its slightly fuller low-end with a crystal clear treble response.

Verdict – 8.75/10, The P2 combines all-day comfort with tonal maturity even if their sound isn’t absolutely refined. Their tacky stock cable and aggressive treble won’t find universal praise but buyers looking for a balanced yet vibrant earphone will find nuance within the P2’s agile, high-resolution sound.
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