Reviewing gears: Dell XPS420 - FooBar2K (ASIO) - Meier Audio's Corda 3MOVE (DAC+AMP)
Reviewing music:
1) Custom made music CD by ripping songs to FLAC than normalized/burnt via Nero9. Two songs with compression artifact included (CD → wma/mp3 → CD).
CD Tracks: [ Love Song - Sara Bareille / Have You Met Miss Jones? – Robbie Williams / Come Away with Me – Norah Jones / I Was Doing Alright – Diana Krall / Nostalgia – Yanni (Yanni Live At the Acropolis) / Not Of This Earth - Robbie Williams / Red Hot – Vanessa-Mea / Maneater – Nelly Furtado (artifact) / 1234 – Feist (artifact) ]2) [August Rush: Music From The Motion Picture] ripped with Monkey Audio codec (.ape).
Rating Style: From one star (★, lowest rating) to five stars (★★★★★, highest rating), including half a star (☆). Note: The rating is based on comparison b/w the IEM reviewed by me before and not on absolute term. There might be better / worst IEM that are not listed in this review. To get a better understanding of the meaning in the rating, please read my previous multiple IEM review / comparison thread (Multiple IEM Shootout v.1). Note: Instead of giving a rating of stars, the new rating will give both Overall SQ and Overall Value a numeric rating. 1/5 is the lowest and 5/5 is the highest.
★★★★★-The bestGlossary:
★★★★---Really good
★★★-----Average
★★------Just OK
★--------Not worth it
For Soundstage ONLY:
█ ▆ ▄ ▂ ▄ ▆ █ - Great / Wide
▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ - Good / Average
▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ - Small / Acceptable
▂ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▂ - Flat / In-Your-Face
Overall SQ:
[1 / 5] - Low-fi
[2 / 5] - Budget-fi
[3 / 5] - Entry-fi
[4 / 5] - Mid-fi
[5 / 5] - Hi-fi
Overall Value:
[1 / 5] - $$$ down the drain
[2 / 5] - The grass is in fact greener on the other side.
[3 / 5] - No loss; No gain.
[4 / 5] - Good investment
[5 / 5] - Sonic Diamond™
Note: A Sonic Diamond™ is awarded when the IEM achieves an overall value ranking of [4.85 / 5] or higher. What this usually means is that the IEM is selling at price point two classes (usually over $50~$100) below its own, representing the best of deals. Beware: this is just an endorsement based on personal opinion.
{┏━} - L-shaped / bent mini jack
{┃} - Straight style mini jack
Ч-cord - Asymmetrical cable (a.k.a. J-cord)
Y-cord - Symmetrical cable
ABF - Amplification Benefiting Factor
For definition of audio terms, please visit the Head-Fi audio glossary thread.
All IEM have been burn-in thoroughly by random music playback for at least 50hrs or extended until no detectable sonic alteration.
Head-Direct RE0
Variation: N/A
Transducer: Single 9mm Dynamic
Spec: 64Ω (@1kHz) | 100dB SPL | 15Hz ~ 22KHz
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.30m.
Mini Jack Style: {┃} style, light build.
Eartips Used: Single flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: N/A (sampling package)
┣ Accessories: ★★★★
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★
┣ Isolation: ★★★☆
┣ Microphonics: ★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: Not a very exciting look but it has by far the best build among Head-Direct's own IEM. Decent isolation is more than enough for daily use. The included filter replacement is a good plus. Quite sturdy. [Update] The new version of RE0 has a fabric 'knit' type of cable.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★★★
┣ Mid: ★★★★
┣ Bass: ★★★★
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ [Good / Average]
┣ ABF: [Mid]
┣ Overall SQ: [4.6 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is very balance and neutral, with a much fainted sense of warmness due to the rather smooth frequency response curve. Ultra fine detail like that of Etymotic, slightly lay back mid with good bass impact but lack true depth. Capable of rivaling some of the best universal IEM in the market. Not a very sensitive IEM but can be used unamped without any major SQ reduction. Pairing with a warm sounding amp is recommended.
Overall Value: [4.7 / 5] - US$ 200 | [5 / 5] - US$99 (Summer '09 sale)
Final Remark: RE0 is an excellent IEM that addressed some of the short coming of RE1 – amp is more or less not as important, detail has been significantly improved, and so is the overall SQ. All in all, it is the best of the family – and it put the IEM a few steps closer to being the best IEM in the market. The reasons why RE0 doesn’t receive the top value rating are 1) because user would probably be getting an amp down the road and 2) there are a few sub-$200 deals that come with very nice packaging with a lot of accessories even though they might not be as good in SQ. (In-depth review can be found here)
[UPDATE] A Sonic Diamond™ [5 /5] is given to RE0 for the current sale price of $99.
Maximo iMetal iM-390
Variation: N/A
Transducer: Single 9mm Dynamic
Spec: 16Ω (@1kHz) | 18Hz~ 22kHz | >100dB SPL
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.30m.
Mini Jack Style: {┃} style, light build.
Eartips Used: Single flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★★
┣ Accessories: ★★★★★
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★☆
┣ Isolation: ★★★
┣ Microphonics: ★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: Good packaging but I don't like blister pack in general. Quite an assortment of goodies are included but I do hope they will include bi-flanges eartips. Build quality is pretty high. The included hardcase is one of the best I have seen, especially considering its price point.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★☆
┣ Mid: ★★★
┣ Bass: ★★★
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ [Good / Average]
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [2.5 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is warm, energetic, and musical, but doesn't have a lot of detail. Good vocal and bass response suitable for most genre of music. Very good SQ for IEM in its price range.
Overall Value: [4.5 / 5] - US$40
Final Remark: With solid build quality, great accessories, and a decent sound, this IEM is quite a keeper. Not many IEM in the sub-$50 category are capable of doing everything right. More than often they have some kind of major short coming that lower their overall value. I am happy to say iM-390 isn't one of those. I am quite impressed by the solid performance and value of iM-390, especially since it isn't from a dedicated audio brand. If you have only $40 to spend on IEM, this one should be in your list of consideration. (In-depth review can be found here)
LEAR Le01
Variation: N/A
Transducer: Single 10.7mm Dynamic
Spec: 20Ω (@1kHz) | 10Hz~ 26kHz | 112dB SPL
Cord Style: Ч-cord, 1.00m.
Mini Jack Style: {┏━} style, normal build.
Eartips Used: Bi-flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★☆
┣ Accessories: ★★★
┣ Build Quality: ★★★
┣ Isolation: ★★
┣ Microphonics: ★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: Le01 comes in a nice looking box, but the content isn't better than others in its price range. All in all, it is just about average / typical in most account. Relatively weak isolation means it won't stand up to big noise. There are still places that can use some improvement, like better cable, a pouch / case, etc.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★☆
┣ Mid: ★★★
┣ Bass: ★★★☆
┣ Soundstage: ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ [Small / Acceptable]
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [ 2.7 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is warm, fun, slightly dark as treble roll off a bit but bass is quite big though not the deepest. Sound better with bi-flanges.
Overall Value: [ 4.2 / 5] - US$40~50 (price depends on dealer)
Final Remark: Le01 has quite an easy going sound signature. It is fun to listen to and pretty fatigue free. There isn't a lot of detail but enough to keep thing interested. If you are a basshead on a budget (or just someone who are looking for a good bass), this will be the IEM you are looking for, but don't expect it to isolate against really loud noise. Overall, it is a pretty good sounding IEM for its price. (In-depth review can be found here)
SoundMAGIC PL20
Variation: N/A
Transducer: Single 9mm Dynamic
Spec: 12Ω (@1kHz) | 20Hz~ 22kHz | 94dB SPL
Cord Style: Ч-cord, 1.20m.
Mini Jack Style: {┃} style, light build.
Eartips Used: Bi-flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★☆
┣ Accessories: ★★★☆
┣ Build Quality: ★★★
┣ Isolation: ★★★
┣ Microphonics: ★★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: Unlike its bigger brother PL30, PL20 comes in a more inconspicuous package. Most of the accessories in the PL30 are in here as well, but there is no hard case. Instead you get a soft pouch. Build quality is typical of SoundMAGIC - decent but care will be needed to last. PL20's isolation is better than PL30, which is no surprising since PL20's design is more conventional. What is unexpected is how the very little microphonics the cable has.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★
┣ Mid: ★★★
┣ Bass: ★★☆
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ [Good / Average]
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [ 2.4 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is balanced with a little bit of warmness, good on treble and mid but bass light. Not as airy / spacious as PL30's presentation but acceptable soundstage.
Overall Value: [ 4.3 / 5] - US$13~18 (price depends on dealer)
Final Remark: PL20 is by all means not a bad IEM for its price. It is a little step down on SQ in comparison to PL30. However, its (still) decent SQ, cheaper price and better fit / isolation make it a good inexpensive back up. For those who wish to know, PL20 also pair quite well with FiiO E3 but there is the suggestion of very faint hiss when silence.
Philips SHE9850
Variation: N/A
Transducer: Single Balanced Armature
Spec: 12Ω (@1kHz) | 20Hz~ 20kHz | 115dB SPL | 14g
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.20m.
Mini Jack Style: {┃} style, light build.
Eartips Used: Shure Black Foam
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★★☆
┣ Accessories: ★★★★☆
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★
┣ Isolation: ★★★★☆
┣ Microphonics: ★★★★☆
┣ Comfort: ★★★★☆
┗ Quick Sum: SHE9850 comes with pretty good packaging and very well accessories pack, as you might expect from such a big company. Beside the three different sized silicone single flange, you will also find a pair of Comply T100 in the box. The slide in/out black aluminum case is a big plus, it even has space for an extra set of eartips and the nozzle cleaning tool. A shirt clip is also supplied. The earpeice itself looks gorgeous with metal nozzle and BA drive housing inside transparent hard acrylic shell finished with soft rubber strain relief. The only downside is the cable used doesn't seem to be as high class as the earpeice, but that is just an minor issue. The good news is microphonics is quite low and isolation is excellent with both foam and silicone tips.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★
┣ Mid: ★★★☆
┣ Bass: ★★★☆
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ - Good / Average
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [ 3.25 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is warm and full, musical but not to a point of fun sounding. Vocal is sweet and so is the mid (kind of remind me about Shure). Treble changes a lot with the eartips used. Pairing with silicone eartips can sound a bit dull as treble roll off too early. Pairing with foam tips give more treble at the price of a bit harshness, but it is still not a very detail sounding IEM. SHE9850 is definitely tuned with foam tips usage in mind. I put in a pair of Shure olive instead of T100. The overall difference b/w them is minor but T100 does sound a bit smoother and less harsh. One point worths noting is the bass response. It is very good (both in quality and quantity) for a single BA transducer with accuracy, body and impact all together.
Overall Value: [ 3.9 / 5] - US$90~95
Final Remark: I generally won't expect much from Philips, but SHE9850 does prove itself to be a well made IEM. I paid mine with a higher price tag since I got it from a local electronic chain store that doesn't do much discount on headphone, but the online price of $90 is about right for SHE9850's SQ. It reminds me of my old E3c, except SHE9850 is better in most way. I'll like to think of SHE9850 as E3c-done-right, with slight better treble (on foam tips), improved bass, and a great look. The little harshness can be a bit annoying some time but it is well with in tolerable range. All in all, SHE9850 is quite good as an entry level IEM as long as you can find it around / under $90. (In-depth review can be found here)
JAYS' s-JAYS
Variation: Black and white models
Transducer: Single Rounded 'SIREN' Balanced Armature
Spec: 69Ω (@1kHz) | 20Hz~ 20kHz | 113dB SPL | 10g
Cord Style: Y-cord, 0.60m + 0.9m.
Mini Jack Style: {┃} style, heavy build.
Eartips Used: Single flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★★☆
┣ Accessories: ★★★★☆
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★★
┣ Isolation: ★★★☆
┣ Microphonics: ★★★☆
┣ Comfort: ★★★★☆
┗ Quick Sum: Like all JAYS' product, s-JAYS is really well packed and top notch in build quality. It might not have as many accessories compare to its bigger brother the q-JAYS, it is still more than adequate. The IEM has two pieces cable which add up to a longer than usual length, but it is always better to be longer than shorter. You also get a small leather carrying case, five different sizes of eartips plus one set of foam, replacement filters, airplane adapter and signal splitter, and an user manual. The earpeices are physically larger than your typical single balanced armature IEM, more so when compared to its tiny dual drive brother q-JAYS. Then again, the balanced armature transducers used are very different from the normal small boxy shape. s-JAYS is in fact the first to utilize the rounded shaped BA transducers called 'SIREN', produced by Knowles Electronics. Isolation is typical, enough for most noisy environment but the extreme. Microphonics is also typical. Despite its larger size, I find s-JAYS with stock eartips to be more comfortable the q-JAYS with stock eartips. It might look bulky but in fact s-JAYS is quite light. The housing is easy to handle and surprisingly comfortable when used. One of my complaint about the small q-JAYS is that the housing is so small that the cable often pulls it out from my ear canal (I have to mod a foam tips to solve the problem), but s-JAYS stays firm in my ear easily. The one thing I don't like about the earpiece is the very tiny 'left / right' marking on the short strain relief. I would imagine a small 'red / blue' dot will serve the purpose more effectively. In all, I'll say JAYS has again successfully brought another fine product to the market.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★☆
┣ Mid: ★★★☆
┣ Bass: ★★★
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ - Good / Average
┣ ABF: [Mid]
┣ Overall SQ: [ 3.15 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is warm, mid centric, laid back and very smooth . Unamped, the sound can feel a bit veil. Everything sounds further back on both sides but lacks a sense of depth. Amped, the detail and vocal is brought back to the front and it opens up the soundstage, especially on the depth. Treble rolls off a bit early, so not very detail sounding. Bass is strong, but slightly lacking in clarity and speed - yet it is still very good for a single balanced armature transducer. In a sense, s-JAYS carries a little taste of dynamic transducer in its sound signature. Though it may be too smooth and laid back for some, it is a very fatigue free and relaxing IEM.
Overall Value: [ 3.8 / 5] - US$80
Final Remark: s-JAYS is a very curious sounding IEM. It doesn't sound like what I would expect from BA drive yet it is not totally dynamic (moving coil) sounding as well. It gives me the impression of a hybrid especially when it is unamped. Thought not very difficult to drive, I do feel s-JAYS benefits quite a lot from the extra power, even from a small amp like the E5. JAYS has been marketing the s-JAYS as their lower end entry class, and I do think they have priced it just right for its SQ. It is definitely a good choice for stress free long listening session, and the alien / bee / bug shaped earpeices are a plus for those who want something unique. (In-depth review can be found here)
SoundMAGIC PL-11
Variation: N/A
Transducer: Single 9mm Dynamic
Spec: 12Ω (@1kHz) | 20Hz~ 22kHz | 97+3dB SPL | 12g
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.2m.
Mini Jack Style: {┃} style, light build.
Eartips Used: Single flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★☆
┣ Accessories: ★★★☆
┣ Build Quality: ★★★
┣ Isolation: ★★★☆
┣ Microphonics: ★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: Packaging and build quality is basically consistent with the other SoundMAGIC products I reviewed (decent for the price). Accessories is about the same as PL20 - eartips (3 sized), Shure olive style foam tips, shirt clip, silicone cable warp, and a soft pouch. The earpieces has better isolation than those previously reviewed SoundMAGIC's but microphonics is also more of an issue. You probably will need to use the included shirt clip.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★☆
┣ Mid: ★★★
┣ Bass: ★★★
┣ Soundstage: ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ [Small / Acceptable]
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [ 2.4 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is on the warm side with big bass. Treble is actually as good as PL20 but fine detail tend to get flooded by the bigger bass. Mid performance is also on par on PL20, but doesn't suffer the bass flooding issue. Due to the lost of fine detail, soundstage isn't as wide as PL20, but overall acceptable. In a way, you can say PL11 is bass enhanced PL20. If you want big bass, PL11 is the one for you.
Overall Value: [ 4.3 / 5] - US$13~18 (price depends on dealer)
Final Remark: Like PL20, PL11 is another very decent IEM of its price. It seems SoundMAGIC really has a strong point at making affordable good budget class IEM. You simply can't go wrong with any of its product - all you need to do is to figure out which IEM has the right sound signature you are looking for.
NuForce NE-7M
Variation: N/A
Transducer: Single 9mm Dynamic
Spec: 12Ω (@1kHz) | 20Hz~ 22kHz | 100+3dB SPL | 12g
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.2m.
Mini Jack Style: {┏━} style, normal build.
Eartips Used: Single flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★★
┣ Accessories: ★★★☆
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★
┣ Isolation: ★★★☆
┣ Microphonics: ★★★☆
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: NE-7M's box is pretty nice. Inside, you will find the manual, three set of different sized silicone eartips and a set of foam tips, a shirt clip which already attached on the IEM's cable, and a very nice synthetic leather pouch. Unfortunately all the included eartips are the same quality as those found on SoundMAGIC. I have a hard time getting good fit with those eartips and eventually switch to my old MylarOne eartips. With the proper tips in place, isolation is decent. Microphonics is not a major problem since there is a shirt clip. It is about as comfortable as any shallowly inserted IEM.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★
┣ Mid: ★★★
┣ Bass: ★★★★
┣ Soundstage: █ ▆ ▄ ▂ ▄ ▆ █ - Great / Wide
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [ 3.3 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature resembles PL-11, but better on all count. Treble is slightly more refine but harshness can still be detected especially on loud volume. Mid is about the same. Bass hits harder and very low - not quite the Atrio level but certainly better than most IEM I reviewed. Soundstage is very wide and spacious, some of the best I have ever heard.
Overall Value: [ 4.35 / 5] - US$49
Final Remark: In case you wonder: No, NE-7M isn't rebranded PL11 or X3. It is a class (or two) above those IEM. For the low price, NE-7M has fantastic price / performance ratio, just two things: 1) The included eartips couldn't match up with the IEM's sound quality and should be replaced. 2) You might not be able to use it as headset if you are not using iPhone. I tried it with my Sony Ericsson cellphone with no luck. Once you look pass those two minor imperfection, NE-7M could just be some of the best $50 you can ever spend on IEM.
CrossRoads' MylarOne Quattro
Variation: Red / Burgundy / Black (color)
Transducer: Single 7mm Dynamic
Spec: 16Ω (@1kHz) | 20Hz~ 22kHz | 95+4dB SPL
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.25m.
Mini Jack Style: {┏━} style, normal build.
Eartips Used: Bi-flanges
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★
┣ Accessories: ★★★★☆
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★
┣ Isolation: ★★☆ ~ ★★★☆
┣ Microphonics: ★★★☆
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: Packaging is pretty plain and simple, but there are quite a few accessories included. Inside, you will find the IEM, a short manual, 4 set of different sized single flange eartips (L, M, S, XS), 1 set of bi-flanges, an airplane adapter, a shirt clip, an useful pouch, and 3 set of 'Bass select ports' for bass customization. Build quality is pretty solid, Isolation varies depends on the flange and the ports in use. Microphonics is acceptable. Again, it is as comfortable as any shallowly inserted IEM
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★☆
┣ Mid: ★★☆
┣ Bass: ★★★
┣ Soundstage: █ ▆ ▄ ▂ ▄ ▆ █ - Great / Wide
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [ 3.15 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signatures are on the warm, slightly laid back side, probably because the upper mid~lower treble isn't very upfront. It actually resembles Bijou3 sound signature in many ways but better on all count. Treble extends very high but it is not the most detail sounding and should be adequate for none analytical listener. Bass (and mid to some extent) can be tuned by changing the bass select ports. Port #1 has the biggest bass but on the expense of resolution. Port #2 is the most balanced among the three. Port #3 has the best detail but a bit bass shy and has the narrowest soundstage. Due to the slightly low sensitivity, the volume might need to be turned up a bit more, but amping isn't necessary at all. Finding the right match between bass select ports and eartips is important for getting the right sound, which basically is the essence of Quattro's customizable sound.
Overall Value: [ 3.75 / 5] - US$88
Final Remark: CrossRoads has successfully applied the tunable concept and created a worthy IEM that is Quattro. It might not be a giant killer or ground shaker per se, but it is still a solid entry level IEM and a good follow up of the old MylarOne series. It does require a bit of effort to burn in so 50 hrs on high volume should be minimum before any serious audition. (In-depth review can be found here)
CrossRoads' Woody One
Variation: Black / White (color)
Transducer: Single 10mm Dynamic
Spec: 32Ω (@1kHz) | 18Hz~ 22kHz | 105+4dB SPL
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.30m.
Mini Jack Style: {┏━} style, light build.
Eartips Used: Bi-flanges
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★
┣ Accessories: ★★★★
┣ Build Quality: ★★★☆
┣ Isolation: ★★★☆
┣ Microphonics: ★★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: Packaging is pretty plain and simple. Inside, you will find the IEM, a wooden case as big as the packaging itself, 4 set of different sized single flange eartips (L, M, S, XS), and 1 set of bi-flanges. Due to the use of wooden housing, a bit of care is needed as it won't take abuse well. Isolation is better than average. Microphonics is quite good though I do like to see a shirt clip. Comfort is good if you have mid to big size ears. User will small ears might not get a good seal easily due to the large earpieces.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★
┣ Mid: ★★★★
┣ Bass: ★★★☆
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ - Good / Average
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [ 3.7 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signatures is very warm with big deep bass, full, upfront mid and a smooth upper end. Bass is big, deep, and slightly wet with a moderate attacking speed. Not really very refined but does retain enough control to not sound too boomy or muddy. Mid is full and upfront which tend to sound best with male vocal but not as well on female vocal. Upper mid and especially the treble sound pretty smooth without a lot of upper end sparkle and detail. No sibilance to speak of. Soundstage is slightly better than average and not as good as Woody Two.
Overall Value: [ 3.8 / 5] - US$95 (estimation)
Final Remark: See Woody Two's. (In-depth review can be found here)
CrossRoads' Woody Two
Variation: Black / White (color)
Transducer: Single 10mm Dynamic
Spec: 32Ω (@1kHz) | 18Hz~ 22kHz | 105+4dB SPL
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.30m.
Mini Jack Style: {┏━} style, light build.
Eartips Used: Bi-flanges
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★
┣ Accessories: ★★★★
┣ Build Quality: ★★★☆
┣ Isolation: ★★★☆
┣ Microphonics: ★★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: See Woody One's.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★☆
┣ Mid: ★★★☆
┣ Bass: ★★★☆
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ - Good / Average
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [ 3.7 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signatures is on the warm side yet still well balanced without any obvious flaw. Bass goes pretty deep but not as much as Woody One nor has its pronounced rumbling quantity. However, It does has a better sense of control in speed and attack. Mid is well balanced with a more upfront upper vocal (which is what makes female vocal sweet to listen). Treble is well extended with good highlight and sparkle which give great detail close to the point of being analytical. Soundstage is quite good and have a sense of airiness. Sibilance is minimum at worst and only very brief during the brightest passage.
Overall Value: [ 3.8 / 5] - US$95 (estimation)
Final Remark: Both Woodies seem to be more for in house rather than outdoor use and probably not be as versatile as their little brother, the Quattro, but they do offer more in what they have. If SQ is the only concern, I certainly prefer both over Quattro. I am not sure whether it is because of the use of wooden/metal housing or any other reason, but both woodies seem to have a distinct lushness in their sound that set them apart from other IEM even though one might consider the sound to be colored. Those who like big bass and smooth top will love Woody One and those who like well balanced sound will love Woody Two. Between the two, I think most people will be well covered.
(In-depth review can be found here)
Maximo iMetal iM-590
Variation: Black and white color
Transducer: Single 9mm Dynamic
Spec: 17Ω (@1kHz) | >100dB SPL | 12Hz ~ 22KHz
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.26m, Fabric Knit Cable.
Mini Jack Style: {┃} style, light build.
Eartips Used: Proprietary single flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★★☆
┣ Accessories: ★★★★★
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★☆
┣ Isolation: ★★☆
┣ Microphonics: ★★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★☆
┗ Quick Sum: Very good packaging with a whale full of accessories including 4 set of eartips, 2.5mm and airline adapter, extension cable, shirt clip and a great hard case. Overall build quality is pretty good. Isolation is a bit low but okay for light noise situation. The fabric 'knit' type cable has less microphonics but tend to tangle up easier. Overall a very comfortable IEM.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★☆
┣ Mid: ★★★☆
┣ Bass: ★★★
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ - Good / Average
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [ 3.45 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is on the analytical side but balanced. Bass is not strong but it has good attack, control and presence, Upper mid / lower treble is a bit more forward, Ety-like but not as piercing though vocal can be a tiny bit harsh on bright recording. Treble is well presented and detail with an above average, airy soundstage
Overall Value: [ 4.6 / 5] - US$59.99
Final Remark: iM-590 is simply a good blend of qualities (sound and build) and quantities (accessories, warranty and price) which shouldn't disappoint anyone. In fact, I think this IEM deserves to be placed under the list of best-sub$100-IEM-deal, if there is one around.
(In-depth review can be found here)
MP4 Nation's Alpha BRAINWAVZ
Variation: N/A
Transducer: Single 8mm Dynamic
Spec: 20Ω +/- 15% (@1kHz) | 110dB SPL | 15Hz ~ 28KHz
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.26m.
Mini Jack Style: {┏━} style, normal build.
Eartips Used: Single flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: N/A (sampling package)
┣ Accessories: ★★☆
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★
┣ Isolation: ★★★
┣ Microphonics: ★★☆
┣ Comfort: ★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: OEM package with three set of eartips. Sturdy build quality. A bit more microphonics but overall average in most count.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★☆
┣ Mid: ★★★
┣ Bass: ★★★
┣ Soundstage: ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ [Small / Acceptable]
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [ 2.4 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is slightly dark with a very mid and bass centric, fun and more personal sound. Big bass, heavy mid, and not very detail on the treble but still have a tiny bit of sparkle. Mid is slightly congested, but the bass has good resolution and texture. Vocal is pretty forward and dominant. Upper treble rolls off early. No sibilance to speak of. Soundstage is small due to the lack of fine detail and airiness.
Overall Value: [ 4 / 5] - US$16.50
Final Remark: Price wise, alpha Brainwavz is in the same region as the SoundMAGIC PL11 and PL20. PL20 is good on detail but lean on bass while PL11 is more bass oriented. Both has better soundstage and detail than alpha. However, alpha has better bass performance and sweeter vocal. SQ wise, I consider them to be just about the same. It is definitely one for the basshead with small budget.
(In-depth review can be found here)
MP4 Nation's Beta BRAINWAVZ
Variation: N/A
Transducer: Single 11mm Dynamic
Spec: 24Ω +/- 10% (@1kHz) | 110dB SPL | 8Hz ~ 28KHz
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.20m.
Mini Jack Style: {┏━} style, normal build.
Eartips Used: Big bi-flanges
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: N/A (sampling package)
┣ Accessories: ★★★★
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★☆
┣ Isolation: ★★★
┣ Microphonics: ★★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★☆
┗ Quick Sum: The final version will have a pair of orange cone silicone eartips, a pair of translucent white cone eartips, a pair of big bi-flanges, a pair of orange foam eartips, shirt clip, a fish bone shaped cable winder, a pair of removable metal mesh and a high quality soft pouch by Mofi. Included eartips are not suitable from small ear canal. Isolation is about decent but nothing specular. Microphonics is pretty good for this type of hanging style IEM. Overall build quality is very good for its price.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★
┣ Mid: ★★★
┣ Bass: ★★★
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ - Good / Average
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [ 2.75 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: beta with the mesh has a well balanced sound without any major strength or weakness. Its sonic characteristics resemble that of CrossRoads Woody 2, but in a lesser form. Without the mesh, beta becomes brighter sounding on the cost of bass quality
Overall Value: [ 4.6 / 5] - US$34.50
Final Remark: beta is an major upgrade from the alpha, both on build and sound quality wise. People with tight budget will not be disappointed by the beta, especially consider it high performance / price ratio. It is one of those IEM that are fully capable on taking down many other that have double or even triple the price tag. Those who are looking for the best bang for the bucks should put this one high on your list of consideration.
(In-depth review can be found here)
SoundMAGIC PL-50
Variation: N/A
Transducer: Single balanced armature
Spec: 55.5Ω +/- 15% (@1kHz) | 109 +/-2 dB SPL | 15Hz ~ 22KHz | 8g
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.20m.
Mini Jack Style: {┏━} style, normal build.
Eartips Used: Single flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★★
┣ Accessories: ★★★★☆
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★☆
┣ Isolation: ★★★
┣ Microphonics: ★★★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: Packaging is by far the best of SoundMAGIC, very classy looking. You get 4 set of silicone eartips and 3 set of black rubbery foam tip, user removable ear hook, hard case and a small warranty card. The foam tips is a bit small in size in comparison to Shure olive. The earpieces, cable, Y-splitter, and mini jack are all quite good in quality. Isolation is average on foam tip, Microphonics is great in over-the-ear style. The earpiece is very light and very comfortable.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★
┣ Mid: ★★★★
┣ Bass: ★★★
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ - Good / Average
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [ 3.4 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is warm, smooth and easy going in general. Bass is neither big nor shy; Treble is neither bright nor too dull; Mid is full and dominant with a rather sweet vocal, which work fairly well in most genre of music. Soundstage is about average and better when used with silicone eartips.
Overall Value: [ 4.7 / 5] - US$ 55
Final Remark: I have only one prediction: This is going to cast an even bigger storm than PL-30!!!
(In-depth review can be found here)
Apple In-Ear Headphones with Remote and Mic
Variation: Also known as Apple Dual Drive IEM (ADDIEM)
Transducer: Dual balanced armature
Spec: 23Ω (@100Hz) | 109 dB SPL | 5Hz ~ 21KHz | 10.2g
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.10m.
Mini Jack Style: {┃} style, light build.
Eartips Used: Single flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★
┣ Accessories: ★★★
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★
┣ Isolation: ★★☆
┣ Microphonics: ★★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: The packaging is quite simple, as is most Apple's product. In the box, you will find the IEM itself with the metal mesh and mid size single flange eartips pre-installed and sits inside a triangular plastic hard case. There is a pill shaped hard case holding the small and large sized eartips. Underneath them all is the user manual with an extra pair of metal mesh. It will be good if they also include a shirt clip, but no biggie. The nozzle of the earpeice is machined from aluminum and well cut for the metal mesh. The strain relief and the cable are all very soft. I find the cable to be a bit on the short side. The iPod / iPhone specific remote/mic is on the cable of the right earpiece. Its construction is a bit flimsy so if you intend to use the remote and mic, you might want to be more careful with it. Isolation is slightly below average but improve with foam tips. Microphonics is better than average because of the soft cable, but you might want to add a shirt clip if you are peaky about it. The stock eartips insert pretty deep so it is not as comfort as shallow inserted IEM, but still fairly good.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★☆
┣ Mid: ★★★
┣ Bass: ★★★
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ - Good / Average
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [ 3.2 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is on the cold, neutral, analytical side. Treble is by far its strength - crisp and sparkle though slightly sibilant. Bass lacks body and mid is too clinical if you use the stock eartips. Vocal is a bit further away but not too recessed. Foam tips (such as this) sounds warmer and more natural, but at the cost of a bit crispiness. Even so, it still sounds much colder than ER6i. Soundstage is about average.
Overall Value: [ 4.65~3.7 / 5] - US$35~79 (price depends on dealer and condition)
Final Remark: Dual balanced armature this is, but q-JAYS this is not. Regardless of how many transducers it has, ADDIEM is a compatible IEM for its original price range, not particularly high value but neither a waste of money. For the low eBay price however, ADDIEM is very much worth a consideration for all you analytical listeners, as long as you can look pass some of the short coming associated with these eBay items (questionable origin, B-stock, need of aftermarket eartips, etc).
Woodees IESW100B
Variation: IESW101B (w/o mic + remote)
Transducer: 10mm Dynamic
Spec: 16Ω (@100Hz) | 105 dB SPL | 20Hz ~ 20KHz
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.20m.
Mini Jack Style: {┃} style, light build.
Eartips Used: Single flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★★
┣ Accessories: ★★★☆
┣ Build Quality: ★★★☆
┣ Isolation: ★★★
┣ Microphonics: ★★★☆
┣ Comfort: ★★★★☆
┗ Quick Sum: The packaging, though simple, adequately shows off the beauty of the wooden earpieces. Beside the IEM, you'll also find a soft pouch, four sets of single flange eartips, a shirt clip, and a small manual. The wooden earpieces look and feel very good, but they are a bit on the long side. The cable does feel a little bit flimsy and the metal mesh is undersized, but nothing majorly flawed. Isolation is about average.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★★
┣ Mid: ★★★☆
┣ Bass: ★★★☆
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ - Good / Average
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [ 3.3 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is on the warm side, slightly lush on the bass and mid region but still quantitatively balanced. Treble is above average but the slight harshness on 5kHz region can be a bit problematic on bright music. Soundstage is about average.
Overall Value: [ 3.75 / 5] - US$69
Final Remark: Woodees is a fairly good sounding IEM with a slight touch of wood - not too much as to the degree of wooden-cabinet-speaker-like lush sound; but neither is it too little that you can't tell. Overall, it is still a good choice for iPod / iPhone user that can take advantage of the mic and remote.
(In-depth review can be found here)
Astello Radiance+
Variation: N/A
Transducer: 11mm Dynamic
Spec: 16Ω (@100Hz) | 92dB SPL | 10Hz ~ 25KHz
Cord Style: Y-cord, 1.20m, Fabric Knit Cable.
Mini Jack Style: {┃} style, light build.
Eartips Used: Single flange
Physical Properties:
┣ Packaging: ★★★
┣ Accessories: ★★★
┣ Build Quality: ★★★★☆
┣ Isolation: ★★
┣ Microphonics: ★★★★
┣ Comfort: ★★★★★
┗ Quick Sum: The packaging is fairly plain and simple, just unsealed blister pack. Accessories are also simple, three pair of silicone single flange eartips and an airline adapter (though a free set of Shure single flange and an earwax cleaner are given as extra). Build Quality is very solid, but the fabric knit type of cable is a bit stiff. Isolation is probably the worst as it is designed to be opened on both side of the transducer for sound tuning (more on this later). Microphonics isn't bad and it is quite comfortable to wear.
Sound Quality:
┣ Treble: ★★☆
┣ Mid: ★★★
┣ Bass: ★★★
┣ Soundstage: ▆ ▄ ▂ ▂ ▂ ▄ ▆ - Good / Average
┣ ABF: [Low]
┣ Overall SQ: [ 2.45 / 5]
┗ Quick Sum: The overall sound signature is warm, musical, mellow and smooth with a fairly full mid and bass. Treble and detail are there but not on the center stage. A relaxing sound signature that tends not to have any real fault with most music genre nor does it excel with any. Soundstage is pretty good due to the nature of its double-opened design.
Overall Value: [ 4.0 ~ 4.2 / 5] - US$30~42 (discount vs. regular price)
Final Remark: Astello Radiance+ is the brainchild of Stereo Electronics, a well known headphones and A/V store in Singapore. As their first IEM, Radiance+ is certainly not disappointing, but the decision to have a double-opened design means isolation is close to minimum. That by far is probably the most problematic for Radiance+ as an IEM. Beyond that, Radiance+ is actually quite a nice and stress-free IEM that you can keep listen to all day long. Consider that Stereo Electronics is selling them at a discount / promotion price now, it is not a bad choice at all for in house use where isolation is not important. As part of the promotion, you can also purchase a incredibly good quality hardcase for less than $2 which you can easily put an iPod Nano 4 inside with the IEM and all its accessories with room to spare. That probably is one of the best bundle of I have ever seen - but unfortunately the only place that sells this IEM is Stereo and they don't do Internet business. Well, at least you have an excuse to visit them now.
[IMPORTANT] This is a subjective review based on my own listening preference, so nothing said is on absolute term - especially when two IEM are rated closely (i.e. less than 0.5 apart). Quite often very close rankings are based on judgment call more than anything else. You might very well come to a different conclusion regarding those in the review especially consider there is synergy issue b/w gears, so please take them with a grain of salt.
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