Ever since in late August early September 2021 , 7hz shocked everyone with the launch of a Planar IEM, that cost under 250usd, was actually properly tuned, did not require fancy DSP balancing and compensation, the scenario was set for what is currently happening and definitely being the 2022 trend…Planar IEMs!
The latest is the MUSE HiFi Power, a 14.5mm Planar that is presented to us in a simple, but classy package with a nice carrying case, very unique cable and all the tips that could possibly be needed.
The unit itself is very light and seems well out together although I get this feeling that the plastic/resin used on the shell isn’t the best and thus conveys a sense of fragility that doesn’t match the looks.
So far so good, but what about the sound?
Ocasssionally we have cases of the right hardware but wrong software…this is one such time.
Muse had the unique opportunity of having the Timeless and S12 to learn from, it was a simple case of " copy paste" …don’t try some unique tuning unless it’s verified by competent , reputable , knowledgeable individuals that give their ok.
The Muses sound signature is eclectic…it’s got this dip between 2k and 4k that shuts down vocals and Instruments, making the sound veiled and dark…where is the Planar magic??? non existent!
Then we have a dip at around 5k, which is ok, no real sibilance present in the Muse, but for some reason all the information up to 10k is also missing further compounding the lack of air…of space…of what I call sparklies, so all the resolution that the other two offer is non existent here or very tamed down.
Finally at least on paper we see all this info past 10k, but in reality theres nothing once again.
Well I guess this is the design engineers interpretation of what a Planar IEM should sound like, but if it’s sales are the ultimate goal, I’m sorry to say they won’t be happening.
I take no pleasure from being " hard " on a product, especially because I consider myself a person that is capable of seeing different points of view, however when it comes the earphones and the current state of growth, decisions must be done with a success rate of 70% as a priority, products need to be consistent with the competition if beating them is not a possibility, basically what I am trying to say is manufacturers must learn with Moondrop, they have been known to repeat themselves, but truth be told , they are good at it, and most of the time they offer a better product at a lower cost!
This guarantees them sales success, growth, more money in the bank, all the while feeling confident they are giving their clients a good product!
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