None for me, and fit was very straightforward once I figured out the best tips and angle. Now it's a quick plug-and-play. (You'll know if you're not getting a seal when the bass sounds like thin porridge).
Sennheiser IE900 Review, Measurements, & Harman Target Talk
- Thread starter jude
- Start date
newworld666
Headphoneus Supremus
In my case not plug and play with stock IE900 tips, the only way I found was getting AZLA SednaEarfitLight 2 Pairs (Size L) ... Then even with Sennheiser stock balanced Cable, It became plug and play and less uncomfortable.
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These things put a smile on my face every time i listen to them. I literally can not go back to other iems, since the IE 900 is so small and comfortable in ear. The cable is also good enough and not too attention seeking. I think they are worth every penny they cost. Had some great walks outdoor with them.
However, i am only able to get a good seal with the foam tips. I've ordered some third party silicone tips (AET07 and Spiraldot++) to test out. I am just wondering, is there a risk that some earwax will get into the iem without tip filters like in stock tips?
Cheers
However, i am only able to get a good seal with the foam tips. I've ordered some third party silicone tips (AET07 and Spiraldot++) to test out. I am just wondering, is there a risk that some earwax will get into the iem without tip filters like in stock tips?
Cheers
Chris Kaoss
Headphoneus Supremus
Thank you for this amazing suggestion.I've just had another (of now many) spiritual experiences with the IE 900, revisiting (excuse the pun) one of the most exquisite new age/folk/Celtic vocal albums ever made: Loreena McKennitt's The Visit.
You can stream it here: https://album.link/za/i/67628462
Highlights include the bass of the rhythmic drums in The Old Ways, the crisp, tingling treble in the guitar plucks on Cymbeline, and if Loreena's pure, powerful, mesmerising voice in the telling of the Lady of Shalott doesn't bring you to tears, nothing will.
I haven't heard this album for several years now, and noticed it was just released in Hi-Res, which prompted a listen, and for the first time with the IE 900.
Do yourselves a favour, find a comfortable recliner, sofa or bed, dim the lights, and savour it in one sitting. It's an experience like no other. To say it's the most emotional rendition of The Visit I've heard in all my years enjoying this magical album would be underselling it. Simply transcendent.
Reminds me of the beautiful voice of Sharon den Adel of Within Temptation quite a bit.
Like it. So thanks again.
chortya
100+ Head-Fier
- Joined
- Feb 14, 2017
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I am in the re-discovery phase of IEMs after selling my Sony Z1R and going for IE900. I have got Thieaudio Monarch, Beyerdynamic Xelento, Ultraaone IQ and one of my favorites - Sony XBA-N3 and boy are they all different.
But non can match IE900 in terms of resolution and bass clarity and energy. Bass amount is somehow lower compared to Xelento and Monarch then I can see from the frequency response curve comparisons. Not sure if this is right or is my fit not good enough (tip rolling applied).
All are tested from Fiio M11Pro and Xperia 1iii.
IE900 highs are also unmatched, such sparkle. Event Monarch Electrostatic drivers can't improve over single DD IE900. Sennheiser just did some magic here...
But non can match IE900 in terms of resolution and bass clarity and energy. Bass amount is somehow lower compared to Xelento and Monarch then I can see from the frequency response curve comparisons. Not sure if this is right or is my fit not good enough (tip rolling applied).
All are tested from Fiio M11Pro and Xperia 1iii.
IE900 highs are also unmatched, such sparkle. Event Monarch Electrostatic drivers can't improve over single DD IE900. Sennheiser just did some magic here...
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VendettaRiich
100+ Head-Fier
Look what just arrived
Love it
Has anyone had both the IE900 and either the SE846, Aonic 5, or even the IE300 (to a lesser extent)?
I have tried the IE300 several times but feel there's touch too much bass elevation, not enough resolution, not enough speed and texture to the bass, and instrument placement in the mix can sound off.
I'm looking to get opinions on whether upgrading from the Aonic 5 would be worth it?
I love the tuning of the Aonic 5 as it's pretty similar to the SE846 but with more upper extension and excitement although it does miss out on the bass elevation.
Looking at Crin's graph (IE900 & SE846 blue filter) the IE900 may be the ideal IEM? Also would prefer a single driver IEM anyway.
I guess the thing putting me off is that I've tried the IE300 and not sure how much better the IE900 is on detail resolution, speed, and having a more neutral sound (obviously there's boosted bass).
I have tried the IE300 several times but feel there's touch too much bass elevation, not enough resolution, not enough speed and texture to the bass, and instrument placement in the mix can sound off.
I'm looking to get opinions on whether upgrading from the Aonic 5 would be worth it?
I love the tuning of the Aonic 5 as it's pretty similar to the SE846 but with more upper extension and excitement although it does miss out on the bass elevation.
Looking at Crin's graph (IE900 & SE846 blue filter) the IE900 may be the ideal IEM? Also would prefer a single driver IEM anyway.
I guess the thing putting me off is that I've tried the IE300 and not sure how much better the IE900 is on detail resolution, speed, and having a more neutral sound (obviously there's boosted bass).
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Cross-posted from the @EffectAudio Cables thread, but relevant to this thread too. If you're wanting a cable option to replace the stock IE 900 cable, and either already have a cable you really like (but doesn't fit) or are considering a third-party cable upgrade, I suggest you take a closer look at ConX.
ConX saved my Cardas cable
Hey guys (and gals). I just wanted to pop in to share my experience with @EffectAudio's ConX modular IEM connector system.
This is a short review (of sorts), but also a first-hand account of the process of getting one of my favourite cables of all time - a custom-made Cardas Clear cable by @doctorjuggles - converted to ConX.
What's ConX?
Probably a silly question given this is the EA cables thread, but for the benefit of newcomers, ConX is Effect Audio's take on a modular IEM connector system that allows you to easily share a single cable between different IEMs with different connectors types.
At the time of writing, the standard ConX system ships with one each of 2-pin (0.78mm), MMCX, A2DC and Pentaconn Ear (p-Ear) Connector modules. There's also a new 'ConX Reserve' option that ships with two each of the 2-pin and MMCX connectors, those being the two most popular IEM connector types on the market.
The two-part ConX system incorporates a female connector on the cable side into which a male screw-type connector, which comprises the termination part, firmly attaches. Once attached to each other, the resulting connector is only slightly larger than most standard IEM connectors, so doesn't add any unnecessary bulk to your cable or IEM.
ConX is currently available in a silver/chrome and a semi-gloss anodised black finish, though I'm unsure if Effect Audio has any plans of offer other finish options, which could be quite cool for customised designs.
Why ConX
I can't speak for anyone else, but for me the real value of ConX became clear when I bought a new IEM (Sennheiser's IE 900) that not only had a different termination to the bespoke high-end Cardas cables I recently had made (MMCX, with my cables being 2-pin terminated), it also had non-standard MMCX sockets that didn't support most standard cables (or 2-pin to MMCX adapters, for that matter).
Lo and behold, I read on this forum that ConX's MMCX connectors were one of the few that perfectly matched the IE 900. I also read on this forum that Effect Audio offered a refit service converting third party cables to ConX, and since I wanted to upgrade the IE 900's stock cable with my custom Cardas, this was an ideal solution without having to go back to the drawing board or invest in a new cable (at a significantly higher cost than the ConX conversion).
How to ConX
If you have a cable you think would benefit from the ConX treatment, the quickest way to arrange a conversion is to drop them an email at info@effectaudio.com, or better yet, PM @EffectAudio. I did the latter, and within a few days of friendly chatter, had a DHL label emailed to me for my cable pickup fromTatooine Cape Town to Singapore.
A full ConX conversion will set you back $50, plus $30 for labour on your custom/non-EA cable, plus shipping. You're probably in for ~$200 if you live in a far flung city like I do, but it should be a fair bit cheaper if you're from Asia, the US or Australia.
The longest part of the process was a stoppage at my local customs office, which ended up delaying the shipment by a week (my fault for picking the wrong export option). Once it reached Singapore, Effect Audio quoted me three to five business days for completion - it took exactly five days. Then it was a quick trip back (incredibly less than three days door to door in my case) and I had my newly-ConXed Cardas cable in hand.
For the record, I chose the black Reserve version for my black hardware cable, and the result is nothing short of stunning. Not only was the quality of the refit faithful to the cable itself (and if you're familiar with @doctorjuggles' work, you'll know all about his meticulous craftsmanship), the connectors are even better than the originals they replaced (and obviously far more versatile).
From what I can see the connectors are gold plated and very smoothly finished off. The cable-side connectors sit flush without any visible glue residue, but I would have appreciated some clear left/right markings to make quick swaps easier - even though it's easy enough to see which side is which by aligning the connector notch.
My cable was returned to me vacuum sealed in a branded Effect Audio bag, along with a small carry case for the spare connectors. My original (now removed) 2-pin plugs were also returned to me unharmed.
Inside the case, Effect Audio provides a silver key that catches into two small notches in the removable connectors to help loosen them. Simply align the hole in the key with the connectors, and gently turn it anti-clockwise until you feel it turn. Then remove the key and continue manually twisting the connector with your fingertips until it comes loose.
I find that you don't need to use the key to 'lock' the replaced connectors in place. Just turn them, carefully, clockwise, and they should align perfectly with the angle of the ear guide (if your cable has one).
Closing thoughts
I've enjoyed several sessions with my 'new' ConX Cardas cable, and can happily report there's absolutely zero quality loss with ConX compared to the original 2-pin connection to my Legend X IEMs. Switching connectors, not only does the MMCX option fit seamlessly on the IE 900, the Cardas is a significant sonic and ergonomic upgrade over the stock cable.
You may or may not be in the 'cables make a difference' camp, but it's not a stretch to say ConX made a massive difference to the usability and versatility of a cable I consider among the very best I've used. At a fraction of the original cost of the cable, it was a small price to pay for extending the life of my cable and enhancing the enjoyment of my existing IEMs in the bargain.
Better yet, I'm safe in the knowledge I can now use this cable for future IEMs too. In fact, I can't see myself investing in another high-end cable without giving it the ConX treatment from the start.**
**When you buy from one of Effect Audio's own range of cables you can add a ConX system of your choice for $30 as part of your order.
ConX saved my Cardas cable
Hey guys (and gals). I just wanted to pop in to share my experience with @EffectAudio's ConX modular IEM connector system.
This is a short review (of sorts), but also a first-hand account of the process of getting one of my favourite cables of all time - a custom-made Cardas Clear cable by @doctorjuggles - converted to ConX.
What's ConX?
Probably a silly question given this is the EA cables thread, but for the benefit of newcomers, ConX is Effect Audio's take on a modular IEM connector system that allows you to easily share a single cable between different IEMs with different connectors types.
At the time of writing, the standard ConX system ships with one each of 2-pin (0.78mm), MMCX, A2DC and Pentaconn Ear (p-Ear) Connector modules. There's also a new 'ConX Reserve' option that ships with two each of the 2-pin and MMCX connectors, those being the two most popular IEM connector types on the market.
The two-part ConX system incorporates a female connector on the cable side into which a male screw-type connector, which comprises the termination part, firmly attaches. Once attached to each other, the resulting connector is only slightly larger than most standard IEM connectors, so doesn't add any unnecessary bulk to your cable or IEM.
ConX is currently available in a silver/chrome and a semi-gloss anodised black finish, though I'm unsure if Effect Audio has any plans of offer other finish options, which could be quite cool for customised designs.
Why ConX
I can't speak for anyone else, but for me the real value of ConX became clear when I bought a new IEM (Sennheiser's IE 900) that not only had a different termination to the bespoke high-end Cardas cables I recently had made (MMCX, with my cables being 2-pin terminated), it also had non-standard MMCX sockets that didn't support most standard cables (or 2-pin to MMCX adapters, for that matter).
Lo and behold, I read on this forum that ConX's MMCX connectors were one of the few that perfectly matched the IE 900. I also read on this forum that Effect Audio offered a refit service converting third party cables to ConX, and since I wanted to upgrade the IE 900's stock cable with my custom Cardas, this was an ideal solution without having to go back to the drawing board or invest in a new cable (at a significantly higher cost than the ConX conversion).
How to ConX
If you have a cable you think would benefit from the ConX treatment, the quickest way to arrange a conversion is to drop them an email at info@effectaudio.com, or better yet, PM @EffectAudio. I did the latter, and within a few days of friendly chatter, had a DHL label emailed to me for my cable pickup from
A full ConX conversion will set you back $50, plus $30 for labour on your custom/non-EA cable, plus shipping. You're probably in for ~$200 if you live in a far flung city like I do, but it should be a fair bit cheaper if you're from Asia, the US or Australia.
The longest part of the process was a stoppage at my local customs office, which ended up delaying the shipment by a week (my fault for picking the wrong export option). Once it reached Singapore, Effect Audio quoted me three to five business days for completion - it took exactly five days. Then it was a quick trip back (incredibly less than three days door to door in my case) and I had my newly-ConXed Cardas cable in hand.
For the record, I chose the black Reserve version for my black hardware cable, and the result is nothing short of stunning. Not only was the quality of the refit faithful to the cable itself (and if you're familiar with @doctorjuggles' work, you'll know all about his meticulous craftsmanship), the connectors are even better than the originals they replaced (and obviously far more versatile).
From what I can see the connectors are gold plated and very smoothly finished off. The cable-side connectors sit flush without any visible glue residue, but I would have appreciated some clear left/right markings to make quick swaps easier - even though it's easy enough to see which side is which by aligning the connector notch.
My cable was returned to me vacuum sealed in a branded Effect Audio bag, along with a small carry case for the spare connectors. My original (now removed) 2-pin plugs were also returned to me unharmed.
Inside the case, Effect Audio provides a silver key that catches into two small notches in the removable connectors to help loosen them. Simply align the hole in the key with the connectors, and gently turn it anti-clockwise until you feel it turn. Then remove the key and continue manually twisting the connector with your fingertips until it comes loose.
I find that you don't need to use the key to 'lock' the replaced connectors in place. Just turn them, carefully, clockwise, and they should align perfectly with the angle of the ear guide (if your cable has one).
Closing thoughts
I've enjoyed several sessions with my 'new' ConX Cardas cable, and can happily report there's absolutely zero quality loss with ConX compared to the original 2-pin connection to my Legend X IEMs. Switching connectors, not only does the MMCX option fit seamlessly on the IE 900, the Cardas is a significant sonic and ergonomic upgrade over the stock cable.
You may or may not be in the 'cables make a difference' camp, but it's not a stretch to say ConX made a massive difference to the usability and versatility of a cable I consider among the very best I've used. At a fraction of the original cost of the cable, it was a small price to pay for extending the life of my cable and enhancing the enjoyment of my existing IEMs in the bargain.
Better yet, I'm safe in the knowledge I can now use this cable for future IEMs too. In fact, I can't see myself investing in another high-end cable without giving it the ConX treatment from the start.**
**When you buy from one of Effect Audio's own range of cables you can add a ConX system of your choice for $30 as part of your order.
I compare the IE 900 to the IE 300 quite extensively in my IE 300 review here. Feel free to PM me if you have any questions I didn't cover in the review. TL;DR - IE 900 is a significant upgrade over the the IE 300.
I have reviewed both for hxosplus printed edition and I find your reviews and comparison spot on.
Congratulations!
111MilesToGo
500+ Head-Fier
Please, could a Sennheiser ”official“ comment: In the Sennheiser online shop (German site) https://de-de.sennheiser.com/ie-900, the IE 900 is currently ”out of stock“ / ”nicht vorrätig“ and cannot be ordered.
Will it be available again, and when? Are you producing a new batch? Hopefully it won‘t be plagued by those initial failures, as often discussed here?
And if it we’re available again from a new production batch, how could we distinguish between batches, e.g. by serial number?
Thanks a lot in advance.
Will it be available again, and when? Are you producing a new batch? Hopefully it won‘t be plagued by those initial failures, as often discussed here?
And if it we’re available again from a new production batch, how could we distinguish between batches, e.g. by serial number?
Thanks a lot in advance.
C_Lindbergh
Headphoneus Supremus
GL, getting Sennheiser to comment on this topic...One of their German dealers are projecting 1st November... :/
https://www.auditorium.de/en/detail/345b5101035d5fc991bf0f073eb229e1
111MilesToGo
500+ Head-Fier
Yes, seems like ”GL“ is an ingredient that is getting more and more important in anything relating to Sennheiser. Besides item availability: I recently had to learn that my local dealer doesn‘t work with them any longer - dropped the brand or got dropped, I don‘t know.
joshnor713
Headphoneus Supremus
Yeah, like what is going on. I ordered in Aug. and Senn told my dealer they'll get it "end of Sept". It's now Oct and no word. What's going on with this IEM?
I got the last one in Dubai a couple of weeks ago and it is still showing out of stock..
I'm not surprised if it is true that Senn can currently only manufacture 60 pcs per day.
Btw, I'm really happy I ordered them just by reading this thread (which are usually hyped..).. didn't buy an IEM without listening to them in quite some time. The IE900 is definitely not the best IEM I heard or I own(ed) but they're really a joy to listen to!
I'm not surprised if it is true that Senn can currently only manufacture 60 pcs per day.
Btw, I'm really happy I ordered them just by reading this thread (which are usually hyped..).. didn't buy an IEM without listening to them in quite some time. The IE900 is definitely not the best IEM I heard or I own(ed) but they're really a joy to listen to!
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