Penon ASOS

Penon ASOS is an unashamedly chunky 8 wire, 24AWG OCC copper litz & SPC cable with a slightly higher price of USD $169.

Make no mistake, ASOS is a substantial cable that's thoroughly deserving of behemoth status. If the cable reminds you of Effect Audio's Cadmus 8 wire cable you're not alone, because hardware aside the appearance & weight of both are nearly identical.

I was surprised when Penon sent me the ASOS in exchange for a review because they've focused on smaller 2 or 4 wire cables lately, so it's nice seeing them release a proper 8 wire monster for a change!

Packaging​

ASOS arrives in a smallish cardboard box, inside is a fabric carry case that's decently sized but still pocketable, along with a shirt clip.

When purchasing the ASOS you can elect to have it terminated in a 4.4mm, 3.5mm or 2.5mm plug, or alternatively purchase the modular plug system where you'll get one of each to swap them around.

I'm usually more of a fixed plug guy since all my devices feature 4.4mm sockets and it's been a long time since I've used anything else, but the 3.5mm option is handy if you'd rather not use adapters.

Ergonomics​

At 54 grams ASOS is the heaviest cable in this roundup, but also the most flexible & supple, in part thanks to its' very soft PVC insulation.

If you're someone bothered by cable weight then a 4 wire option may suit you better, but I'm far more irritated by stiffness so I find the ASOS perfectly usable. That said the weight is significant and means the cable won't quite "disappear" in use as much as others will.

The finish of ASOS' hardware is a step-up in quality from other cables in this roundup, helping to lend it a premium feel. I would suggest purchasing the fixed-plug version if you prioritise performance & reliability, but the modular plug on mine hasn't given me any issues so far.

Sound Performance​

If you want more bass, especially midbass, ASOS should be on your shopping list. There's good reasons why chunky 8 wire cables like this exist - one is to boost the bottom end beyond smaller 4 wire offerings.

However ASOS isn't a one trick pony, also emphasising the lower midrange which can enhance the vocal resolution, doing it without adding the warmth a pure copper cable to keeps things more neutral.

The soundstage is usually expanded in a manner you'd expect from a large 8 wire cable, with most IEMs I usually notice an uptick in dynamics as well, and slightly more defined imaging in some cases.

Bear in mind ASOS does a great job of beefing up the lower frequencies without deviating too far from neutral, but won't boost treble quite as much as many pure silver cables out there.

IEM Impressions​

Simgot EA1000 - 1xDD 1xPR (USD $219)

ASOS deepens bass with more midbass in particular being added, and I also notice a greater emphasis on the lower midrange as well with improved dynamics.

The soundstage is deeper & tonality shifts to one that's more bass focused. However treble is a little darker than using a silver cable, but ASOS does create a more powerful, earthier sound.



ISN EST50 – 2xBA, 1xDD, 2xEST (USD $449)

Bass is boosted with additional midbass, and again the lower midrange is given greater prominence which helps correct the EST50s' v-shaped tonality a little.

I also notice better dynamics and also a blacker background, but the soundstage dimensions don't seem to change very much.



Penon Turbo - 6xBA (USD $549)

In this satisfying pairing I notice more midbass impact with an uptick in note weight. The soundstage feels deeper but no wider, yet gives the impression of being more spacious & three dimensional.

Imaging is slightly improved, tonality isn't much different which is good if you enjoy the stock cable's tonality, though I miss the extra treble sparkle of the CS819 as the Turbos are tuned rather dark.

Conclusion​

Cable manufacturers have experimented with all sorts of tricks like shielding, fancy geometries & alloys to elevate performance over the years, but the most surefire path to greatness seems to be building thick, heavy cables with huge numbers of wires in them.

More wires means more conductivity, which usually translates to better performance.

In the case of the Penon ASOS that means more bass, a deeper soundstage & better dynamics - you may also hear a number of other improvements depending on the IEM you pair it with.

Considering EA charge USD $299 for their Cadmus 8 Wire, at just over half the price the ASOS feels like a worthy rival that delivers a slightly less treble-intense, more bottom end focused sound without being excessively warm like a lot of copper 8 wire cables are.

The Penon ASOS
Taking everything to the next level!


The ASOS has a funny thing it does where it convinces you (while listening) that it’s the best cable for the job 90% of the time? Strange and a first in my experience?

The new Penon ASOS is a OCC Silver-Plated, Copper Litz cable. Such cable is an 8 wire, 24 AWG configuration. You get a technicalities boost over your included IEM cable, while adding heft and clarity to the midrange. Literally to me it was like a slight clean-up down-low, adding bass texture and adding size to the stage, while enhancing imaging and details up-top. This review comes in two parts, where I first describe my usage with 5 IEMs, then tell a tale about using the ASOS Cable along with 7 other cables. So the way this review unfolded was easier than I thought. The new $349.00 Penon DOME 1DD X3BA Hybrid arrived at Redcarmoose Labs, only it also came with a new cable on the side........can you guess which cable that was? Yep, it’s only natural that a person would at least try this new cable. Sure it looks more Hollywood than the regular included DOME cable. But also the ASOS seemed almost like it was made for the DOME IEM. And while the retail price of the ASOS is $169.90, I’m told the ASOS is a lot like the same 8 wire, 24 AWG Cadmus cable made by Effect Audio, though the difference is it doesn’t cost $199.00 like the Cadmus does.

A huge part of the Cadmus Cable expense comes from the additional Gucci hardware. It doesn’t really come from Gucci, but it resembles the stuff. So if you’re into that look, then maybe it’s a good deal? Except the additional hardware size makes a big cable even bigger and adds unnecessary weight, without truly adding any actual sound benefits.

So now I find myself writing this cable review, yet it has been weeks and weeks since the ASOS Cable arrived. Any (new-toy-phenomenon) psychological-boost in favor of the ASOS surely has worn-off by now? Also I have tested the ASOS along with 7 other cable choices to try and get an understanding of both the ASOS sound, and the relative value.


Top to bottom:
ISN G4 (Graphene) $99.50
Penon ASOS $169.00
Penon Bass $79.00
Penon OSG (Graphene) $299.00
Penon Vocal $69.00
Penon Leo Plus $249.00
Penon Mix with Rhodium Plug $149.00/$29.00
Penon Space $99.90

The Penon DOME IEM:
Most of the cable side-by-sides were done with the Penon DOME. So keep in mind that the Penon DOME, while even and correct, still it may still show favoritism to a certain cable? And in fact in this test the DOME was better with the ASOS cable than the Penon Bass Cable, in my humble opinion. Yet in prior testing the Bass Cable was quite the cable during my Penon 10th Anniversary Edition testing. So this phenomenon is simply cable matching and mixing. Where often synergy is found due to the IEM blending with the cable personality. At times cables can be fixer-uppers too, which means there may be a slight attribute in playback that a cable enhances or suppresses, which we want. Also remember this is just one guy's findings, and while here at Redcarmoose Labs these results are repeatable, you on the other hand may want a different sonic outcome. Meaning there are variables like the tone of your DAP, the ear-tips you are using, if narrow bore or wide bore…..etc, etc. But to generalize here, the actual IEM tests were way more easy to understand and process. Why? Well we were simply joining the ASOS Cable and interpreting the results. If you are wondering how the IEMs were chosen, they are simply IEMs I like…..really that’s it. To over generalize here, the only IEM that was borderline was the Noble Audio Encore K-10. Meaning the ASOS has a slight boost in the midrange, where often we are looking for more silky and smooth demeanors to kind-of subdue the midrange/treble shelf of the Encore.


Noble Audio Encore K-10 Universal IEM: Top: $1850.00

Second row, left to right:
Penon Volt Universal IEM:$799.00
Penon 10th Anniversary Universal IEM: $499.00
ISN EST50 Universal IEM: $449.00

So imagine with me those same features which took the K-10 Encore over the top in playback, went and cleaned-up the ISN EST50. Where in many ways these two IEMs can be looked at as opposites. The Encore offers a neutral bass response, where it’s safe to say the EST50 is more L-shaped. So while in use the ASOS Cable actually made the Encore bass still clear and clean, we never had a problem in the low-end. In fact the Encore lows were totally special in that there was clarity which enhanced bass detail and texture. The only issue was the midrange and treble which have this total shelf which most of the time needs smoothing, combined with the aluminum enclosure which again seems to resonate those brighter frequencies? Where the response from the EST50 is a mesmerizing feature. Where we are finding clarity into how the mids are positioned, that and the bass response is actually clear and clean…….adding pace and texture to the lows……..but more than that…..adding bounce to rock and improved pace to pretty much everything. Most of us who have spent a while with ISN EST50 frequencies either are bass-heads, or like myself looking for slight attenuation? Here I found a home with the EST50, a place that with the ASOS aboard, I could stay all day in infatuation.


ISN EST50 Universal IEM and Penon ASOS Cable:

2 Sonion Electrostatic driver for ultra-high frequency
1BA Knowles for high frequency
1BA Sonion for middle frequency
10mm dynamic for bass

So, remember we were talking about midrange boost? And we were talking about a slight addition of bass definition? So that is what the ASOS brings to the table. Yet the reason this works out so well is we still have the sonic thickness and bigness with the ISN EST50. To me using the Penon ASOS Cable is more balanced than with the included ISN EST50 S8 cable or with a few aftermarket cables. Probably my real infatuation with this set-up is due to me not always hearing this much bass on a regular basis, except here I would say it’s AAA quality, especially now with what clarity the ASOS brings. Big wide staging of authority and dimension. Dimension because the bass is “clear”.............it’s there with the frequency response, except in no way protruding into our pace......or too much into other frequency zones........which is surprising in and of itself? When I reviewed the ISN EST50 I liked it, but I didn’t know my relationship with it would be so long and drawn-out. Drawn-out in a good way. You see, I didn't know about wide-bore tips when I reviewed the EST50. I also was new to cables and didn’t quite understand how they could tailor the bass to a better place. So if you’re with me, still reading this diary of a madman…………………..The ISN EST50 is now maybe the best it has ever been. I’m using the very mid centric WM1A with MrWalkman’s firmware, no EQ and find it totally satisfying. Satisfying because I’m not bored with the sound, and it has been weeks now with the ASOS. Another reason I’m not bored is due to pace, the fact that this example of an IEM and playback that really has it all. The ISN EST50 didn’t quite have this style of midrange when I reviewed it, because if it did I would have talked about it.......more than the regular EST50 midrange. Also as far as my daily listening.........normally I don’t regularly listen to exactly this much bass, so it’s a thrill, a thrill to behold and one of my alternative sound signatures. Truly we are dealing with the basics still, the EST drivers adding a smoothness and level of detail that is special in comparison to BAs. There is nothing wrong with BAs, except (when done right) EST drivers can approach the signal with slightly better timbre. But here and now we are experiencing even better midrange due to the gifts the ASOS is up to. That enhances the interpretation of the bass too, making the low-end just that much more even and satisfying. I know this may sound dumb, but this is exactly how I always wanted the EST50 to sound. It has extra transparency from the ASOS, that and it’s just dialed-in?


Penon Volt Universal IEM and Penon ASOS Cable:

Sonion 4 electrostatic
Sonion 2 Balanced Armature
10mm dynamic driver

Same-exact-same audio set-up as above, except we changed to the Penon Volt. If you were here (listening) with me you would understand this well roundedness that is going on, we just went from a more bass centric IEM to a mid-centric IEM using the same cable, and it is also bringing out the very best. Well, not maybe the very best but what $169.90 would get you. I mean that. There is word on the street that Penon is planning to bring about a VOLT II. If you could hear this set-up right now you may understand as to why I could care less about it. Yep, same as cars and motorcycles, once you reach a certain level it’s all (in the end) personal taste. Meaning sure more expensive does this or that, except this is singularly one of the best IEMs I’ve ever heard. Now I haven’t heard them all, but I have heard a few. It’s just that the ASOS is doing its midrange magic again………that and it is tailoring the bass, making it slightly become into better definition. Now those two things sound simple, but not every cable has this exact personality this way. Think of it as being slightly closer to your source, that's all. Bass has added clarity and texture, and the Volt is not renowned for bass replay, yet this is really fine. The mids……the mids are lush……lush and full. And the treble is a perfect example of EST treble balance, really the whole signature is dove-tailed together. And of course the effect is synergy just like the EST50. You are reading this and you may think I chose these IEMs, that I picked them to go with the ASOS, just so I could write about it, and it would make a happy story in the end? A fairy-tale of audio with a happy ending…….maybe? And that is just not so. I chose these IEMs because I like them, what better reason to find a cable to work-out? I mean right at this point I don’t want to continue writing the review, I want to stop and take-in the music. Why? Primarily because this is my idea of correct, that and there is a magic to it all, one I don’t know how to put into words……..and maybe don’t need to?


Penon 10th Anniversary Universal and the Penon ASOS Cable:

2x Sonion EST for ultra-high frequency
1x Knowles BA for high frequency
1x Sonion BA for middle frequency
2x 6mm crystalline plated biofilm dynamic driver for low frequency

At times I’m a little confused, as typically in life you always get better quality from spending more money. Except IEM audio is different. Sure this is a subjective game. But also it is a game of basics, meaning take care of the basics, and do a good job and more people will find positive subjective ideas from listening to your products. That still will not make everyone happy, but if there is a music realism found (in-the-end) more people will be able to relate and a connection will be made. In truth the 10th Anniversary is a grand departure for Penon Audio. With all the IEMs they make and have made in the past this new idea of sound design is welcome. But to me it’s possibly my very favorite PENON IEM. I wrote a ridiculously long review simply explaining my love for what it does. And just like the IEMs above, we are not really changing the sound too much. Again maybe a few mild basics are enhanced, but this is a perfect example of how the ASOS goes with almost everything. Now later I will go into the (above) cable comparisons, yet I will try and keep it short. Except often we choose cables because they offer a solution of sorts. A way to make an IEM better to the point of keeping it.....and not selling it off. Or just using the same old IEM more........... listening to it more, and there is nothing wrong with that as a concept. Only today we are simply pin-pointing the subtle extras the Penon ASOS does. With our selected IEM group here we are enhancing each IEM natural attribute, but except for the ISN EST50, we really are not putting out fires. Simply what the ASOS did naturally was the key (to me personally) to arrive at a special EST50/ASOS success. What I’m trying to say is the midrange boost of the ASOS really works wonders on most of today's IEM……..except for the Noble Audio K-10 Encore. Yep, what the ASOS does as far as adding slight energy to the mids/treble doesn’t seem to make the Encore better, for me anyway? I will get to the Encore next. But for now...........what are we getting with the 10th Anniversary Model?

First off, the 10th is a little bit chunky in size. Look at the pictures, as it fits me fine, except really the size of the ASOS has met its match maybe? I mean the ASOS size is large and the 10th is on the big side. The results…you ask. Smooth, smooth and balanced. There is this bass and lower midrange which separates the 10th from the Volt. Now remember with different ideas of sound design, we may never ever reach a sound like what the Volt has by trying to add the extra bass to the inventive sound design? You see part of the very reason the Volt midrange takes front and center position is due to the way the bass is subtly formed. I mean if there ever is a Volt II, I know Penon will keep those mids, they have to…..it is what the Volt is famous for. And just like how the ASOS made the midrange of the Volt milky smooth, the ASOS is adding the traits to our lower midrange. Yep, we find the extra lower frequencies to be of notice with the 10th. Except maybe, just maybe the ASOS is also putting out another fire like the ISN EST50? I mean this is where the 10th gets controversial……..it is all about what midrange and vocal abilities you come to the 10th expecting. Expectations..................For me the 10th Anniversary is fine, but I can understand why some may want more? And possibly the ASOS Cable brings a slight vocal forwardness to the 10th sound? Maybe? Though in truth what I hear more about the ASOS playback with the 10th is careful and calculated bass replay. Meaning we had room for bass sculpting with the 10th, and you know what, it’s perfect really, I love this style of bass.

So in-fact it is possibly the refinement of bass character that is letting the 10th midrange show through?

Home:
So once again I’m home with the ASOS Cable and 10th IEM. Also the ESTs are in-fact smooth and detailed.........reserved, and just right too. Flowing freely outwards into the stage we are witnessing basic clarity at hand……..I mean why else would you spend $169.90 of your hard earned money on a silly piece of wire? Well, of course looks too, sure the ASOS is a looker! Look at it!


Noble Audio Encore K-10 Universal IEM and the Penon ASOS Cable:

10X Balanced Armatures of unspecified make:

The Encore is a strange bird. Really I read a review and the review (with-out going out and saying it) reminded me that maybe the Encore could sound like the AKG k701 full-size headphone? Maybe it does, maybe not, really it doesn’t matter, but one thing for certain is the Encore is bright in a way. Showcasing an almost neutral lower midrange and bass, the Encore lights fireworks off in the upper midrange and lower treble. Add to that and there is this kind of halo effect to the treble where it travels into 3D formation and never lets go. So strange of a bird that many a reviewer simply doesn’t understand what the Encore is going after as far as sound design. Then of course there are the followers like myself…….I’ll never sell it because nothing sounds like it. And while I also have smoother cables, smoother than the ASOS to make the Encore work-out, not everyone is going to be willing to invest in this style of sound. The Penon Totem is spectacular, the ISN Solar again....ultimately amazing, and are the stuff of dreams with the Encore. Yet, what the ASOS cable brings to the table may not be what every Encore owner wants. Don’t get me wrong, I’m sure there is a group of crazies that are game for this level of brightness, it’s just not me, or anyone I know. This particular test today will utilize two DAPs (the WM1A and WM1Z) as a way to try and find a way in…….a way into acceptable sound replay.

The Noble Audio K-10 Encore Universal with Penon Solar Cable

Kinda-fun?:
It’s kind-a fun for a while with primarily the vocals being way, way forward. Big, in-your-face and not taking any prisoners. Bigger than life with what the stage is doing. Yet, the ASOS is leaving the bass energy alone and really enhancing the bass clarity. With the neutral midrange and neutral lower midrange, we are left with what could be described as a window looking down into the bass areas. What can be found down there is tight, firm and well-paced bass action, really it is quite fun and refreshingly new from all the big DDs that have been bestowed upon me here at Redcarmoose Labs. What could this possibly mean for you? Well, upper midrange heat is subjective, so some like their drinks straight and some like girly cocktails. There is nothing wrong with cocktails........as many have found they can prolong their enjoyment, without getting in a car accident. Yet, back to the subject at hand, basically there are time limits and volume limits to how much the human can take of this potion. And while entertaining, after a while too much is simply too much. So imagine with me that we have a personality with the ASOS………….that for the most part, and with maybe 90% of IEMs out there on the street you’re going to be fine. And even with the Encore there is a lot of win here, really more win than I am disclosing to you. So let’s try a darker source, the WM1Z.

WM1Z:
This was a wild coincidence. While I haven’t listened to the WM1Z for days, the exact same song was in place as the WM1A. In fact I had to make sure I didn’t get confused and use the WM1Z already? Nope, the same song, all ready to go, I have to get into more test music, that may be the message? Actually it’s borderline workable now…..maybe not something I would choose, but not bad, not really that awful?

Top to bottom:
ISN G4 (Graphene) $99.50
Penon ASOS $169.90
Penon Bass $79.00
Penon OSG (Graphene) $299.00
Penon Vocal $69.00
Penon Leo Plus $249.00
Penon Mix with Rhodium Plug $149.00/$29.00
Penon Space $99.90

Cable tests:
These were done for my recent review of the new Penon DOME IEM. Coincidentally the DOME came as a package with the ASOS to review. Quickly as I can I will go down the list and make a summary of what I experienced in my DOME review. The wild part was I didn’t even think this grouping test would be relevant to a future ASOS review until the cable's sonic personality started to reveal itself. So just like using different IEMs to test a cable, using different cables back-to-back can go ahead and offer insight into a cable's personality. This is even a more vibrant truth once you get into the middle of testing. If you’re like me, you made the DOME and ASOS a team.............which was used for weeks on end.

Each cable has a personality with the IEM you are testing, and at times that personality is wanted and other times it’s not so great. Also having a long term relationship with the cables on the list gives you prior ideas as to how they may sound. But of course it is the DAP (WM1A)…the Cable and the IEM…..all coming together to realize a particular sound. Some may find parallel experiences, maybe not………….but it is what it is.



The ISN G4:
The G4 is a standard cable used often, here we are awarded with the Graphene tone. Such personality is slightly subtle to induce a midrange boost, which comes with a warmer tone than pure silver. Yet along with that there is a slight blackness to the background where the bass is delineated. Where the ASOS is more open and airy, taking advantage of technicalities and clarity slightly ahead of the G4. Though the G4 has its uses........aside from what the ASOS does. This is a more ASOS straightforward style of playback, with enhancement in stage size above and beyond what the G4 does on a regular basis.

Penon Bass:
With the DOME it was slightly less clear, where yes the DOME had a slight extra sub-bass, the overall technicalities were not as good as the ASOS. The ASOS cost more, so in this case, you get what you pay for.

Penon OSG:
Using Graphene to the fullest extent, here we probably experience a blacker background than the ASOS offers, and while the OSG goes ahead to itemize the bass, it is almost done with a distinct personality. You would need to hear Graphene cables to understand this specific personality? The Graphene personality enhances the mids and spreads them out into the stage, while intensifying the imaging and tone of different instruments and vocals. In the end the ASOS offers a fuller more straightforward rendition, not exactly better, but different. It just depends what sound you are after.

Penon Vocal:
Imagine the DOME having forward vocals…too forward. In many ways this emulated our ASOS/Encore replay, in that here the midrange in way, way, way forward, and at the expense of everything else. The DOME and Vocal Cable are not maybe recommended, unless of course you really want a dramatic midrange boost, and know what you're signing-up for before hand.

Penon Leo Plus:
One of the unexpectedly warmer styles of cables in use with the DOME. Analogue and more laid-back than the ASOS is capable of. Yet, total quality here, just the way the DOME came alive and offered a more relaxed and smoother rendition of all the music. Great imaging despite being warmer, and truly a full and correct way to go, one of the very best with the DOME in replay.

Penon SPACE Cable and Penon Mix cable with Rhodium Plug:
Surprisingly the MIX and SPACE added that size, or should I say stage shape perceived as an equal brother to the ASOS. Both the SPACE and Penon Mix offered an increase in stage size, except the Mix with Rhodium Plug jumped ahead (in treble and midrange imaging) due to silver in usage……sticking imaging slightly farther out to the sides in physical distance. Pure silver will go ahead and add that separation between imaging in the stage, as well as create contrast due to such polarizations of frequencies. Yet in many ways the ASOS was clearer in that the bass was more defined than the SPACE, things just had finer details, where the SPACE offered a warmer wall of sound? There have been (other) times when I thought the SPACE was slightly bright, but in comparison to both the ASOS and Penon Mix, the SPACE seemed very neutral, with just a hint of that natural warmth? So while I could hear the pure silver imaging inside of the Mix stage, those items were boosted and imaged (through frequency) farther out than any cable. Yet remember too, the Mix has the Rhodium plug (in use) which sound changing traits do the same with the signal, making it slightly brighter and tighter. In the end the ASOS was just slightly clearer than both the SPACE, and even the Mix, except the Mix offered wider clearer treble items. It’s funny here as each cable sounded (kind-of) the way like they look. The Mix offered bright edges due to the pure silver stands, and warm bass due to the pure copper components………..and sounded very separated. Where the SPACE was just big, due to 2X the material than its prior little brother, the Penon OS133 cable inspiration, it was designed after. So the SPACE is simply big in size of stage, but less detailed inside and more warm due to less silver.

Cable side-by-side conclusion:
So in many ways this becomes a path to truth. First choosing the Penon DOME IEM and going about weeks of listening, then attempting to mix things up, by trying different cables in place of the Penon ASOS. While what was apparent was the DOME was incredibly forgiving allowing us leeway as to all the possible sonic changes. Finally it became noticeable that each cable had slightly different ideas (as to what they will do) to influence the transference of signal. While I was asked (personally) which was better, the better cable (for the DOME) could be a matter of taste? Except there were a few winners here, and a few not best in the combinations. Most of all I could see people accessing the ASOS as a low-cost way to introduce a transparent signal carrier which added a small amount of midrange energy, and had the character of focusing the bass. Such ASOS demeanor slowly became more obvious the more cables I used with the DOME, thus truth. Of course this was only the specific truth for the DOME, then I parlayed that knowledge to go to the next level just seeing how the Penon ASOS would go ahead and bestow those same delineated character traits to other IEMs.


Penon ASOS Cable with SIMGOT EA1000

Conclusion:
Well there you have it, a wonderful new Penon cable. And while I have more expensive cables, the Penon ASOS has a personality which sets it apart from all the cables I have. Such personality is clarity and transparency, that and a very natural and critical positioning of musical information inside the stage. And while I spent weeks with the ASOS Cable, it wasn’t till I really started comparing DOME back-to back (cable tests) that this laundry list of attributes started to show-up. Then I grabbed a handful of my favorite IEMs to see if in fact those same attributes could be supplied just as before with the DOME test vehicle? And sure enough that there was a commingling of both characters inside of the IEM response and fortifications of transfer into the wire of what was going into the IEM from the DAP. Simply the ASOS is great at transparency and any midrange heft and note-weight was a wanted effect.

The bass relay was always improved across the board, and I suggest looking for that truth as one of the first realizations that your getting somewhere with this cable. And while treble space was in-fact increased, they didn’t add the energy typically found with a pure silver conductor. So yes, there is a slight focusing of bass, yet really the ASOS is having fun all the time with its daily jobs. It’s only when you put the ASOS to work helping dial in the ISN EST50, that you realize that the ASOS does have a job to do. While most usages will encounter a smooth yet detailed images closer to the reality of your music, it’s the fact that all this fun takes place at a reasonable price!

What else could you possibly ask for…..huh? Looks?....the ASOS is a looker too. And while the ASOS is slightly big in size, it's incredibly flexible due to the smaller diameter of each of the 8 strands. If you don't want a 3-in-1 system, simply order an ASOS Cable with a single permanent plug. Really the ASOS Cable goes with 80-90% of IEMs out there, seemingly always convincing you that it's the best cable for the job!

Just buy it, you have nothing in the world to lose! Unless you have only one single bright IEM in your collection, then you wouldn’t be reading this review in the first place.

$169.90
https://penonaudio.com/Penon-ASOS.html

Penon ASOS 8 Shares Alloy copper Silver-plated & OCC Silver-plated Mixed HiFi Audiophile IEMs Cable wth 3-in-1 Modular Plugs

Description
Penon ASOS Audiophile IEM Cable

Brand: PENON
Model: ASOS
Materials: 8 strands, 25 cores alloy copper silver-plated + 99 cores single crystal copper silver-plated wire mixed
High transparent imported PVC wire sheath
Carbon fiber silver shell
3-in-1 modular plug

Package includes:
Penon ASOS cable
3.5mm audio plug
2.5mm balanced plug
4.4mm balanced plug

Disclaimer:
I want to thank Penon Audio for the love and for the ASOS Cable review sample.

Disclaimer:
These are one person's ideas and concepts, your results may vary.

Equipment Used:
Sony WM1A Walkman DAP MrWalkman Firmware 4.4mm
Sony WM1Z Walkman DAP MrWalkman Firmware 4.4mm
Sony TA-ZH1ES DAC/AMP Firmware 1.03
Electra Glide Audio Reference Glide-Reference Standard "Fatboy" Power Cord
Sony Walkman Cradle BCR-NWH10
AudioQuest Carbon USB
HiBy R3 II DAP 4.4mm

Penon ASOS

8cores, 25 strands per core, silver plated single crystal copper & alloy copper. PVC wire sheath
W Carbon fiber accents for plugs and accessories.

A sound chain is described as the elements connected to your ear speaker that influence how we hear from said ear speaker. Be it the source, the amp, the cable, the tips carefully chosen to get the best seal in the ear for the best sound. If you skimp on one aspect of what is on your sound chain. It might be the difference of why some love a sound and some don’t. In our hobby, everything counts from the type of music files to the type of drivers used in the IEM that will determine if we get a nice sound experience or not. This goes without saying but a cable as minor or as important as you think does make a difference. Let's say you got all the parts right except you're using the included cable on your IEMs as much as you are a believer of cables or not. Will pique your interest when reviews say this or that cable makes a big difference.

OK so I am guilty of being one of them reviewers. I own and have used too many cables to count to say that they don’t make much of a difference. I am a firm believer of cables enhancing or detracting a sound. The last thing you want is a cable that detracts from a sound. Believe me a lot of the included cables with todays IEMs do no justice to exactly how good your IEMs can sound. This being said the new cable from Penon is yet another serious option for cable land and I will go into details why.

The newest cable from Penon is a stunner. First and foremost. It is a substantial cable. Looks to be about 24Awg in thickness meaning it is Chonky one. 8 thicker cores of the stuff. The ASOS is a mix of two types of silver plated copper. Alloy copper and crystal copper both with a healthy plating of silver then it is finished off in Penons 3-1 modular plug system.

Just like the local amphitheater with the high school rock wars going on. There is a lot of heavy METAL going on here. If you're not into your heavier thicker IEM cables I would look into a 4 cored variety for the rest of you who don’t mind a thicker more substantial cable. Keep reading.

Even though the ASOS is clearly in the thick and chonky IEM cable category. It is rurpisingly pliable meaning it wont take on much memory if at all. It is how they look with your IEMs that will get the sound geek in you praising to the high heavens how good that looks. Case in point! ( ASOS w Dome pictured above.)

The ASOS RP goes for $169 and at this price these are a relative bargain and here is my reasoning for why I feel that way. These are comparable to some of Penons competition that sells their version of the silver plated copper cable at almost double the price. I should know as I actually did reviews for said competition at almost double the price..

Cables that cost over the magical $100 mark has to be more substantial over what is included with your IEMs. It has to be a cable that once connected to an IEM. Should be more than “ well I think I hear a difference.” There has to be a definitive. “ WOW I hear a difference!” Because let's get real. You can buy a decent IEM for that price which includes a throw in cable and if you're not a believer in cables, that cable they threw in for free is just as good right? Might as well get the IEM instead. So that money spent has to actually improve an IEM sound. Why would you buy a cable if it doesn't? Just for looks?.

The ASOS will improve your sound. In what way you ask? The sound changes/ enhancements are as follows. Using the Night Oblivian Butastur/ Penon Dome/ Penon Impacts.

-Stange enhancement in all axis including depth of sound.

Yes, these cores are thick and thicker cores enhance stage especially with a healthy dose of silver in the mix. It will be the first thing you notice when connected to the ASOS. In the headphone game you have to have a completely different type of headphone an open CAN in order for better stage perception but for IEMs which by default is a much more intimate experience enhancing stage with a cable change is out right magical. Tell me an IEM that sounds better with a more narrower stage? Of course, we want a more expanded stage and I am happy to report. Much like all great cables do these will enhance the sense of stage perception in all directions.

-Enhance note weight.

Note weight? Ya that is the difference in hearing your thinner sounding IEM vs a thicker fuller bodied sounding IEM. The ASOS due to its ability to enhance the overall picture of your sound also has a side effect of thickening the notes your hearing. And that is a good thing. Nothing ruins a natural timbre for sound like thinner notes. This is the source of all things “brittle”. Never heard a true earphone fan say they love a thinner sound. If so than you have very specific taste in how you want to hear your music. Nothing wrong with that per se but just know you're not going to hear much thinness using the ASOS.

-Enhances technicalities

Imaging, sound separation, definition of the sound all of it will be enhanced and in cases where you are comparing the ASOS vs copper type cables will have better clarity. The ASOS is a much more transparent cable than what is included with most IEMs so this is something to be expected. This effect has a relation to the more substantial note weight and sense of stage. That sound your hearing is now more expansive and denser so what was once perceived as a certain level of imaging for example also expands. Which also has a side effect of increasing how your hearing the smaller details from your music. It will be easier to hear vs your cable.

-Best of pure silver and copper?

Yes indeed. Copper enhances dynamism from your IEMs and adds greater note weight and warmth. Pure silver helps with the technicalities; stage, imaging, clarity and details. Here you get the mix of both elements and while you might see a lot of cables with this particular mix. Not all SPC types are the same. The ASOS is clearly playing at a different level for these types of cables and hence they are priced competitively for what they are.

Penon sees these being an upgrade on the classic do it all OS849 and the Orbit. I have to agree. While these 3 cables share some similarities in their make up the new ASOS includes an extra type of silver plated copper, alloy copper. Which seems to be in the vein of higher transparent coppers. Cheaper version of the UPOCC cables? Could be. Which brings me back to the cables I feel they are very comparable to

That is Effect Audios Cadmus 8w. This cable goes for almost double that of the ASOS and for a good reason. It is using some of the purest most transparent copper type for cables in the UPOCC base cores also plated in pure silver. The Cadmus 8wire is imo the best of the signature series as it is the most versatile out of the 3 cables that was introduced over a year ago.

For my own curiosity I had to compare the two using the Impacts.

Going back and forth from the ASOS and the Cadmus 8w I have to say the general technical enhancing abilities on both sets of cables are at very similar levels here. I will say the Cadmus has just a smidge more in the way of stage width wise but that is due to the mids not being as dense as it is using the ASOS which also has a bit more note weight over the Cadmus 8w. Cadmus 8w brings a bit more for sound separation but otherwise if you compared these two in a blind test you're going to have a very tough time telling these two apart in both form and sound.

Out of the box listening using the ASOS I was thinking about the Cadmus 8w. These are brothers from another mother. No question which cable here has the leg up in value. The differences on both these are more like splitting hairs than obvious differences in cable abilities and that says something about the ASOS. No question these are an upgrade on the OS849.

Vs the OS849.
The ASOS brings a different level of detail for the Impact sound profile. Treble sounds a touch more articulate because of the transparent nature of the ASOS. It gets a touch more fullness/ note weight over the OS849. OS849 is a well balanced classic SPC type cable that has been a favorite cable of mine ever since I did a review for it long time ago. It is the OS849 that is the gateway to higher end cables and the beginning for diminishing returns in cable land. So Penon got the pricing right, a more transparent OS849? That is very much what the ASOS represents.

Overall
The new ASOS is one of those cables that will be a mainstay for audiophiles that are looking for value in an IEM cable. It is most definitely versatile and will upgrade any IEM you throw on them. Its transparent ability is actually greater than what Penon is selling them for. Comparable to some of the best SPC type cables in the market sold for almost double. The ASOS drawbacks is that it is a chonky boy very similar to the Cadmus 8w which is a 24awg cable.
Otherwise these are extremely handsome accessory and sound enhancing cable that will go with just about any type of IEM. Yet another excellent cable by Penon Audio.