Hiby R4 is reviewed at MBA, thanks to Mahir Efe Falay directly and HiBy Music indirectly for the tour, and Sandeep A. for making it come true.
The HiBy R4’s sound output is notably impressive, positioning it as a top competitor within its price segment. As an enthusiast of finely tuned and balanced sound, I’m particularly satisfied with its performance, driven by the robust Quad ES9018C2M DAC configuration. The audio profile of the R4 is remarkably neutral, offering a pure and uncolored sound that faithfully reproduces recordings, making it perfect for listeners who prefer an authentic audio experience.
Celest Relentless had been reviewed at MBA, by Chris
"Because the Relentless is built very well with a HeyGears 3d printed build. The design is second to none in the price point. It is exceedingly slick and totally gorgeous. This pair is very light on the ear and feels like nothing over long listening sessions. Still, like all iems or audio devices the real worth will always stop and start at the sound. Good for the Relentless because this happens to be its greatest strength. This set sounds very good for $169 folks. That deep yet tight bass which can handle most anything you throw at it. It’s full and fun and nicely dense. The mids compliment the tuning well with loads of details and very nice resolution. Another good subjective reason why is that the treble has that bright yet not overly fatiguing sound which also has awesome details and also has great resolution. The treble is energetic, punchy, and has some very good extension into the upper treble. Technically the Relentless does a great job, nice stage, separation of elements of that stage and great imaging within the stage too. Really a fine set and yes, 100% the Relentless is worth the asking price. This one is a rec for sure. "
Greetings, MBA followers! I just reviewed the Elysian Audio Labs - Pilgrim, renowned for its sound quality, elegant design, and unmatched performance. Whether you’re into classical or rock, get ready to experience your music in a whole new dimension with the Pilgrim. Check out my detailed review and comparisons to dive deep into the music together!
Pros__
Exceptional Sound Quality: The Pilgrim earphones deliver an audiophile-grade sound experience, characterized by its balance, clarity, and depth across all frequencies.
Expansive Soundstage: These earphones provide a wide and immersive soundstage that makes listening feel like a live performance, enhancing the spatial representation of instruments and vocals.
Detailed Midrange: The midrange is a standout feature, where vocals and instruments are rendered with exceptional clarity and naturalness, making each listening session a true auditory pleasure.
Controlled Bass: Unlike earphones that can overpower with their bass, the Pilgrim offers a strong yet controlled bass that enhances rather than dominates the music, suitable for a wide variety of genres from classical to electronic and hip-hop.
Crisp Treble: High frequencies are treated with precision, ensuring that high notes and subtle details are sharp and clear without becoming harsh, ideal for detailed listening of high-resolution tracks.
Premium Build Quality: Constructed with high-quality materials, the Pilgrim earphones are not only durable but also boast an elegant design that matches their premium sound output.
Comfort and Fit: Designed for extended listening sessions, these earphones come with Spinfit ear tips and are shaped to fit comfortably and securely in most ears.
Cons__
High Price Tag: The premium features and quality come at a high cost, which might not be accessible for all budgets, making them a significant investment.
Size and Weight: Due to the robust build and sound technology, these earphones might be bulkier than average, potentially uncomfortable for users with smaller ears.
Complexity for Casual Listeners: The high fidelity sound might be more appreciated by audiophiles than casual listeners, who may not find the sound signature dramatically different from less expensive models.
Requires Good Source Equipment: To fully benefit from the Pilgrim’s capabilities, high-quality source equipment and recordings are necessary, which could mean additional investments for some users.
Potential Overkill for Some Genres: For listeners who primarily enjoy vocal-heavy tracks or less complex music, the extensive capabilities of the Pilgrim might not always translate into a noticeably better listening experience.
The BQEYZ CLOUD delivers a detailed and satisfying listening experience across different music genres. Its bass performance can reach deep sub-bass levels and offers impactful bass effects, the midrange is clear and defined, and the treble generally provides good resolution. However, the treble might feel light in some music genres, and there can be slight struggles with dynamics. This earphone could be a good choice for those looking for high performance across a broad range of music at 100-200 usd range. Based on my experiences, I hope my evaluation of the CLOUD’s pros and cons helps you make an informed decision.
The Fiio M17 stands out as a premier digital audio player, combining advanced technology with a touch of nostalgia to deliver an exceptional listening experience. Its dynamic and powerful sound profile, detailed and expansive soundstage, and robust build quality make it a top choice for audiophiles seeking both portable and desktop-class performance. My eyes see M15S as a trial for this one. And the review of the another king Cayin N8ii will land maybe soon or next Sunday.
Pros:
• Powerful and dynamic sound with deep bass, transparent mids, and sparkling highs
• Detailed and expansive soundstage
• Robust metal chassis with elegant design
• Dual ES9038PRO 32-bit DACs for high-resolution sound
• THX AAA-788+ amplifier module for detailed and dynamic sound
• Liquid-cooled thermal balancing board for heat management
• Extensive connectivity options with dual USB-C ports and various headphone outputs
• Bluetooth 5.0 and AirPlay support for wireless streaming
• User-friendly FiiO Music app with features like music playback, file transfer, and EQ settings
Cons:
• Large and heavy, making it less portable
• High price point
• Complexity in use due to multiple settings and modes
• Requires external power supply for optimal performance in some modes
• Limited onboard storage capacity, requiring additional microSD cards or external storage for large music libraries
The Letshuoer S08 represents a significant leap forward in planar IEM technology, building on the foundation laid by its predecessor, the S12. This advancement is evident in its meticulously refined sound signature that addresses the shortcomings of the S12 while enhancing its strengths. One of the most notable improvements is the S08’s bass control. Unlike the somewhat bloated bass of the S12, the S08 offers a tighter, more controlled low end that complements a variety of genres without overwhelming the other frequencies. This allows for a cleaner and more precise bass response, making the S08 suitable for both bass-heavy genres like dubstep and more delicate compositions found in classical music.
Furthermore, the S08 excels in the midrange and treble regions. The midrange is particularly impressive, delivering a natural and lifelike sound that brings instruments and vocals to life with exceptional clarity and detail. This adaptability makes the S08 a versatile choice, capable of handling a wide range of musical styles from smooth jazz to symphonic metal. The treble is clear and detailed, with an impressive extension that ensures high-frequency sounds are crisp and well-defined. Combined with its wide soundstage, the S08 provides an immersive listening experience that enhances the depth and space of the music. These qualities collectively make the S08 a highly engaging and versatile IEM, ideal for audiophiles looking for a high-quality audio experience across various genres.
Pros__
– Improved Bass Control: The S08 offers a refined and controlled bass response, addressing the issues of its predecessor, the S12. This results in a cleaner low end that complements various genres, from dubstep to classical, without overwhelming the other frequencies.
– Rich Midrange: The midrange is one of the standout features of the S08. It delivers a natural and lifelike sound, making instruments and vocals sound authentic and engaging. The midrange adapts well to different musical styles, providing clarity and detail that enhances the overall listening experience.
– Crisp Treble: The S08 excels in the treble range, offering clear and detailed highs with impressive extension. Cymbals and high-frequency instruments are rendered with precision, contributing to an overall balanced sound signature.
– Versatile Sound: The S08’s ability to handle a wide range of genres makes it a versatile choice for many listeners. Whether it’s smooth jazz, symphonic metal, or electronic music, the S08 adjusts its performance to deliver a high-quality listening experience.
– Wide Soundstage: The S08 provides an immersive and spacious soundstage, creating a sense of depth and space that enhances the listening experience. This is particularly noticeable in complex musical arrangements and live recordings.
Cons__
– Slight Sibilance: While the treble is generally well-controlled, there are instances where it approaches sibilance, especially with certain recordings or at higher volumes. This can be a minor distraction for sensitive listeners.
– Volume Instability in Vocals: There are slight inconsistencies in the volume of high-pitched vocals. This can lead to moments where the vocals feel less stable and slightly uneven, affecting the overall coherence of the sound.
– Lean Bass in Certain Genres: In some music styles, such assmooth jazz, the bass may come across as lean. While the bass is controlled and precise, it might lack the fullness that some listeners prefer in these genres.
AFUL Explorer is reviewed at MBA by Mahir Efe Falay
The AFUL Explorer impressed me with its high passive isolation, detail projection, and organic playback qualities. Given its price, it delivers outstanding performance in rock, smooth jazz, and electronic music genres. The midrange frequencies are smooth and coherent, the bass adapts to the genre, and the treble is detailed and extended. Overall, the AFUL Explorer offers an excellent price/performance ratio and a good listening experience.
Disclaimer: It was a HiFiGo unit from Letshuoer Audio. Arrived under AG Audio Geek “Brother_Hood of Audiophiles” conditions and Turkey tour will began soon.
Pros__
High Passive Isolation: The AFUL Explorer provides excellent noise isolation, making it suitable for various listening environments.
Detail Projection: Especially effective in delicate genres like smooth jazz, offering impressive detail and clarity.
Organic Playback: The sound is syrupy smooth, fast, dark, and fluid, enhancing the overall listening experience.
Versatile Bass Performance: Adapts well to different genres, providing rumbling in rock, clean bass in pop, and a gentlemanly bass in smooth jazz.
Rich Midrange: The midrange is coherent and syrupy smooth, making vocals and instruments stand out naturally.
Crisp Treble: The treble is detailed and extends well, providing a satisfying high-frequency experience.
Transparency: High, allowing even amateur non-studio recordings to be clearly heard.
Ergonomic Design: Lightweight and comfortable for extended listening sessions.
Cons__
Actually, I have one to mention, and regarding the price tag, ultra-nitpicking is unnecessary:
Some Boominess: When multiple low frequencies add up in the mix.
The Moondrop Blessing 3 stands out with its hybrid driver setup, combining two dynamic drivers and four balanced armatures. This unique combination balances the natural bass and midrange with clear, detailed trebles, ensuring a vibrant and alive sound across all music genres. Its wide, well-defined soundstage puts you at the center of the performance, making instruments and vocals feel precisely placed around you. This makes the Blessing 3 exceptional for genres that thrive on small hints, like classical and jazz.
In terms of sound clarity, the Blessing 3 excels in delivering crisp and clear highs without harshness, bringing out the subtlest details in the music. The midrange is natural and true to life, especially in vocal performance, providing an engaging listening experience without coloring the sound too much. This clarity and uncolored reproduction make it ideal for vocal-heavy tracks, where the authenticity of the voice is great.
The build quality and design of the Blessing 3 also add to its appeal, robust and sleek, making it durable and stylish for everyday use. Although its bass might be more subdued than some might prefer, making it less ideal for bass-heavy genres, its overall balanced sound profile and ability to adapt to various music styles make it a versatile and highly competent choice for audiophiles seeking a detailed and immersive audio experience.
Pros:
– Wide and detailed soundstage, offering distinct spatial placement for each instrument.
– Exceptional resolution and clarity in sound details.
– High-quality materials and robust construction for long-term durability.
– Flexible sound profile that adapts well across various musical genres.
Cons:
– Bass performance may be inadequate for fans of bass-heavy music genres.
Disclaimer: DT03 is the second unit* of Letshuoer tour at Turkey. I thank all the parties involved
*S08 was the first and its review can be read here: Letshuoer S08 Review - Planar of My Dream
the Letshuoer DT03 significantly enhances the overall listening experience by improving instrumental separation, dynamics, and reducing bass bloat. It brings out the best in both planar and balanced armature IEMs, making each note clearer and adding a 3D image to the vocals. With high gain settings, it excels in delivering precise, impactful sound in both electronic and acoustic music, adding life and energy to the performance.
Pros
– Dual ESS SABRE ES9219C DAC Chips: Provides excellent sound quality with support for high-resolution audio.
– High Power Output: 3.5mm single-ended output (78mW at 32Ω) and 4.4mm balanced output (195mW at 32Ω) ensure sufficient power for a variety of headphones.
– Build Quality: CNC-milled aluminum alloy body is both durable and aesthetically pleasing.
– RGB LED Sampling Rate Indicator: Provides visual feedback on the audio sample rate, enhancing the user experience.
– Versatile Connectivity: Comes with both short and long Type-C to Type-C cables, and a Type-C to USB-A adapter, making it compatible with most devices.
– Improved Instrument Separation and Dynamics: Enhances the overall listening experience, making each instrument more distinct and adding a 3D image to vocals.
– Adaptable Gain Settings: High and low gain options allow for better adaptation to different headphones and listening environments.
Cons
– No App or Filter Options: Lacks app support and filter options, which could limit customization for some users.
– Volume Controls: The volume controls are not independent and have wide spacing, which might be less precise.
– Power Limitation: Although powerful, it might struggle with very high-impedance headphones at maximum volume, compromising sound quality.
Simgot SuperMix 4 is reviewed by @kindlefirehditaly
I think the Simgot SuperMix 4 will become one of my reference hybrids, Even if the tone could be warmer, its technical aspects make it even better than more expensive hybrids. Track after track, different musical genres—the representation of the genres I listen to is more than satisfactory.
But don’t worry, it’s not absolutely cold or metallic and only slightly thin in the mids. For what it’s worth, it’s excellent by my standards.
In conclusion, this mixed salad of drivers made by Simgot is a very respectable result. An IEM that makes you rediscover some tracks you hadn’t noticed any details about is always very welcome. I would have appreciated at least another type of tip included in the package and the possibility of choosing a balanced 4.4mm terminal. Personally, I would have also liked a transparent variant similar to Celest Phoenixcall.
The NF Audio RG15 is a versatile USB-C IEM that delivers high-quality sound across various genres and excels in gaming performance. The detailed bass, clear midrange, and generally pleasant treble make it a strong contender in its category. Despite minor issues, its overall performance is impressive, providing an enjoyable and immersive listening experience. Whether you’re a music enthusiast or a gamer, the RG15 offers a compelling audio solution that’s both stylish and functional.
Disclaimer: This earphone was loaned by NF Audio for the AG Turkey tour. Thanks to both parties for this opportunity.
Pros__
– Detailed and resonant bass performance
– Clear and present midrange vocals
– Balanced musicality with a smooth flow
– Good atmosphere and distance sense in gaming
– High build quality and stylish design
Cons__
– Upper treble could be weightier
– Minor compatibility issues with certain apps
– Slight depth deficiency in playback with some sources
In conclusion, the NF Audio NE4 has proven to be an exceptional in-ear monitor, delivering a versatile and immersive audio experience. Its minimalist design, combined with the innovative use of faceplates for tuning adjustments, offers both aesthetic appeal and functional flexibility. This allows users to customize their sound profiles to match personal preferences and musical genres. The NE4 consistently impresses with its detailed and balanced sound signature, providing clarity and depth across various music styles. Whether enjoying the intricate nuances of smooth jazz or the dynamic storytelling of symphonic rock, the NE4 excels in delivering a coherent and transparent soundstage.
Disclaimer
This earphone was loaned by NF Audio for the AG Turkey tour. Thanks to both parties.
Pros__
• excellent clarity and detail
• customizable sound profiles with faceplates
• impressive 3D imaging
• versatile across various genres
Cons__
• lacks heavy impact of dynamic drivers
• some loss of realism in extensions
• less enjoyable with certain genres like dubstep
