Pros: 

• Snappy, simple and intuitive UI with a clean play/pause button and volume rocker
• Tube mode genuinely adds a layer of warmth and lushness that makes bright IEMs more listenable
• As a basshead I find the tube character really enjoyable
• Excellent power output for a dongle at up to 550 mW at 32 ohms
• The side tube windows with their subtle glow look fantastic
• PC use is essentially flawless for me

Cons: 

• Cannot use this with a phone over regular WiFi or LTE without hearing an annoying scratch in the audio
• Detail heads may find the upper treble layer over-smoothened in tube mode
• The interference essentially rules this out as a truly portable phone dongle

The Onix Beta XI2 is a dual CS43198, dual JAN6418 tube dongle DAC from Shanling's ONIX sub-brand, and it occupies a genuinely interesting niche: a portable tube hybrid that brings warmth and musicality to your listening chain without asking you to carry a box around. I have been using it primarily with my PC setup and I have to say it has been one of the more enjoyable listens I have had in a while. But there is a caveat that phone users absolutely need to be aware of before buying, and I will get to that.

Disclaimer:​

A huge thanks to SushiiFi for providing this unit for review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.

Design and Build​

The Beta XI2 is pretty thick, but it still qualifies as a pocketable dongle. The metal body feels solid and well put together, and the two side windows that reveal the glowing JAN6418 tubes are a genuinely nice visual touch. It adds a certain personality to the device that I appreciate.

The OLED display shows playback format, volume, and gain information clearly. The UI is where I was happily surprised: it is very snappy and responsive, with a simple play/pause button and a volume rocker that just work without any lag or fidgeting. Coming from other dongles that have made me fight with their controls, this felt refreshing.

Technical Specs:​

Spec	Value
DAC Chipset	Dual Cirrus Logic CS43198
Amplifier	4x BUF634, 2x OPA1662
Tube Stage	Dual JAN6418 (visible through side windows)
Output Power	Up to 550 mW at 32 ohms (balanced)
Display	0.87-inch OLED
Hi-Res Support	PCM 32-bit/768 kHz, DSD512
Dimensions	69.8 x 39 x 14 mm
Weight	45.3 g

Sound Impressions​

This is where the XI2 earns its keep for me. The tube mode is not just a gimmick: it genuinely adds a layer of warmth and lushness to the presentation that I find very enjoyable. IEMs that teeter on the sharper or brighter side become more listenable and musical in tube mode, which is exactly the kind of tonal shift I want from a source device.

Bass​

The low end feels weighty and textured in tube mode. As a basshead I find the added warmth gives the bass a more satisfying, fuller body without it ever getting loose or uncontrolled. It is not an exaggerated bass boost, more like the low end just feels more present and enjoyable to sit with.

Mids

The mids carry that ONIX house sound: balanced, natural, and with a hint of warmth that keeps vocals sounding smooth and lifelike. In tube mode especially, the midrange feels lush and easy to listen to for long sessions.

Treble​

This is the one area where I acknowledge tube mode may not suit everyone. The upper treble feels over-smoothened to some degree, and detail heads who want air and sparkle may find that the tube is doing a little too much rounding off up top. For me personally this is not a problem, but it is worth flagging if you are treble-forward in your preferences.

The Phone Interference Issue​

I want to be very direct about this because it is the most important thing for a potential buyer to know. The RF interference in tube mode when a phone is nearby is not subtle. If my phone is anywhere near the XI2 while it is in tube mode, I hear an annoying scratch in the audio. If my phone is on top of it, it is even worse. WiFi and LTE signals are the main culprits, and the only real fix is airplane mode. My personal solution was to use it exclusively with my PC, and in that context I had zero interference and a wonderful listening experience. But if your plan is to attach this to the back of your phone and stream music on the go, you will be frustrated.

Final Impressions​

The Onix Beta XI2 is a genuinely wonderful dongle DAC for the right use case. The tube mode is real, the warmth is real, the power is real, and the UI is a pleasure to use. For PC or laptop use where your phone is not in the picture, this is easily in the top tier of what I have heard. The 0.5 deduction comes entirely from the RF interference issue that makes phone-based listening a frustrating experience rather than an enjoyable one.

Who is this for?

• PC or laptop users who want tube warmth and lushness without the noise penalty
• Bass enjoyers and warm-signature lovers who want smooth, musical listening
• People with brighter IEMs that could benefit from the tube's smoothing character

Who is this not for?

• Phone users who want a portable dongle for on-the-go streaming
• Detail heads who want maximum treble air and upper extension
• Anyone not willing to deal with RF interference management

Pros: 

• Snappy, simple and intuitive UI with a clean play/pause button and volume rocker
• Tube mode genuinely adds a layer of warmth and lushness that makes bright IEMs more listenable
• As a basshead I find the tube character really enjoyable
• Excellent power output for a dongle at up to 550 mW at 32 ohms
• The side tube windows with their subtle glow look fantastic
• PC use is essentially flawless for me

Cons: 

• Cannot use this with a phone over regular WiFi or LTE without hearing an annoying scratch in the audio
• Detail heads may find the upper treble layer over-smoothened in tube mode
• The interference essentially rules this out as a truly portable phone dongle

The Onix Beta XI2 is a dual CS43198, dual JAN6418 tube dongle DAC from Shanling's ONIX sub-brand, and it occupies a genuinely interesting niche: a portable tube hybrid that brings warmth and musicality to your listening chain without asking you to carry a box around. I have been using it primarily with my PC setup and I have to say it has been one of the more enjoyable listens I have had in a while. But there is a caveat that phone users absolutely need to be aware of before buying, and I will get to that.

Disclaimer:​

A huge thanks to SushiiFi for providing this unit for review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.

Design and Build​

The Beta XI2 is pretty thick, but it still qualifies as a pocketable dongle. The metal body feels solid and well put together, and the two side windows that reveal the glowing JAN6418 tubes are a genuinely nice visual touch. It adds a certain personality to the device that I appreciate.

The OLED display shows playback format, volume, and gain information clearly. The UI is where I was happily surprised: it is very snappy and responsive, with a simple play/pause button and a volume rocker that just work without any lag or fidgeting. Coming from other dongles that have made me fight with their controls, this felt refreshing.

Technical Specs:​

Spec	Value
DAC Chipset	Dual Cirrus Logic CS43198
Amplifier	4x BUF634, 2x OPA1662
Tube Stage	Dual JAN6418 (visible through side windows)
Output Power	Up to 550 mW at 32 ohms (balanced)
Display	0.87-inch OLED
Hi-Res Support	PCM 32-bit/768 kHz, DSD512
Dimensions	69.8 x 39 x 14 mm
Weight	45.3 g

Sound Impressions​

This is where the XI2 earns its keep for me. The tube mode is not just a gimmick: it genuinely adds a layer of warmth and lushness to the presentation that I find very enjoyable. IEMs that teeter on the sharper or brighter side become more listenable and musical in tube mode, which is exactly the kind of tonal shift I want from a source device.

Bass​

The low end feels weighty and textured in tube mode. As a basshead I find the added warmth gives the bass a more satisfying, fuller body without it ever getting loose or uncontrolled. It is not an exaggerated bass boost, more like the low end just feels more present and enjoyable to sit with.

Mids​

The mids carry that ONIX house sound: balanced, natural, and with a hint of warmth that keeps vocals sounding smooth and lifelike. In tube mode especially, the midrange feels lush and easy to listen to for long sessions.

Treble​

This is the one area where I acknowledge tube mode may not suit everyone. The upper treble feels over-smoothened to some degree, and detail heads who want air and sparkle may find that the tube is doing a little too much rounding off up top. For me personally this is not a problem, but it is worth flagging if you are treble-forward in your preferences.

The Phone Interference Issue​

I want to be very direct about this because it is the most important thing for a potential buyer to know. The RF interference in tube mode when a phone is nearby is not subtle. If my phone is anywhere near the XI2 while it is in tube mode, I hear an annoying scratch in the audio. If my phone is on top of it, it is even worse. WiFi and LTE signals are the main culprits, and the only real fix is airplane mode. My personal solution was to use it exclusively with my PC, and in that context I had zero interference and a wonderful listening experience. But if your plan is to attach this to the back of your phone and stream music on the go, you will be frustrated.

Final Impressions​

The Onix Beta XI2 is a genuinely wonderful dongle DAC for the right use case. The tube mode is real, the warmth is real, the power is real, and the UI is a pleasure to use. For PC or laptop use where your phone is not in the picture, this is easily in the top tier of what I have heard. The 0.5 deduction comes entirely from the RF interference issue that makes phone-based listening a frustrating experience rather than an enjoyable one.

Who is this for?

• PC or laptop users who want tube warmth and lushness without the noise penalty
• Bass enjoyers and warm-signature lovers who want smooth, musical listening
• People with brighter IEMs that could benefit from the tube's smoothing character

Who is this not for?

• Phone users who want a portable dongle for on-the-go streaming
• Detail heads who want maximum treble air and upper extension
• Anyone not willing to deal with RF interference management

Pros: 

* Premium, comfortable metal shells
* Organic V-shaped sound with punchy bass
* Fantastic stock cable with no memory issues
* Semi-open design offers a wider-than-average soundstage
* Interchangeable tuning nozzles

Cons: 

* Only includes a 3.5mm cable
* Layering can get muddled on complex tracks
* Gold nozzles can cause sibilance

If you are familiar with the Fosi Audio brand, you know they make fantastic, value-for-money DACs and Amps, like the ZH3. Now, they are taking their very first step into the IEM market with the Fosi IM4. Priced at $100 for the standard 3.5mm starter version, let's see how this debut holds up.

Video Review:​

https://youtu.be/5IJOcfCM7gs

Disclaimer​

A huge thanks to the team at Fosi Audio for graciously providing this unit for review. As always, all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
You can get The Fosi IM4 from here (Non affiliate): https://fosiaudio.com/products/fosi-audio-im4

Design and Build​

The unboxing experience is quite nice, featuring a spacious blue carry case, three sets of ear tips (balanced, bass, and deep bass), and two sets of tuning nozzles.

I received the "Black Obsidian" version, which features a premium metal shell that is cool to the touch. It sports a classic orange Fosi accent over a vented opening, which acts as a semi-open-back solution. Fit and comfort are absolutely top-tier; I was able to wear these for long hours during travel and work calls with zero fatigue or pressure points.

The included cable is wonderful as it behaves perfectly with no memory or kinks, and features a functional chin slider. However, it only terminates in a 3.5mm plug out of the box. If you want a 4.4mm balanced cable, you have to pay extra for an accessory package, which is a bit of a bummer considering the $100 price bracket where competitors often include modular cables.

Sound Impressions​

The Fosi IM4 delivers a very typical, organic V-shaped tuning.

• Bass: The low end is punchy, and the sub-bass rumble is prominent and highly enjoyable.
• Mids: The midrange is colored towards the warm side. There is a bit of bass bleed into the lower mids, but it adds a pleasant thickness rather than muddying the waters too drastically.
• Treble & Tuning Nozzles: The stock Black nozzle provides a smooth, fatigue-free treble that I heavily preferred. If you want to spice things up, swapping to the Gold nozzle pushes the treble much higher, pulling out more micro-details but bordering on sibilance.
• Technicalities: Thanks to the vented shells, the soundstage is wider than average, though I wouldn't call it a true, massive open-back experience. Layering is mostly good but can get slightly muddled on highly congested tracks.

Song Impressions​

"Next to Me" by Axel Johansson (feat. Tina Stachowiak): The iM4 renders the bass lines of this track brilliantly with great thump and rumble. Using the black nozzles, the vocals maintain good clarity, though they are slightly softened. The high-frequency instruments are present but never get shouty.

"Nice To Meet Ya" by Niall Horan: This is an excellent test for layering. The bass rumble is incredibly thick, and the background bass guitar is picked up perfectly which is an absolute chef's kiss. Niall's vocals sit cleanly forward in the mix. However, when all the instruments come together in the chorus, the layering gets slightly stressed, though it manages to hold its form.

Conclusion:​

The Fosi iM4 is an amazing package and a stellar first IEM from the brand. I give it a 4.5 out of 5, deducting half a point strictly because it forces you to pay extra for a 4.4mm balanced cable in a market where $100 often buys you a modular setup. Otherwise, the exceptional comfort, great build quality, and thumping V-shaped sound make it a highly enjoyable daily driver.

Who Will Buy This?

• Users who love a warm, organic, V-shaped sound with punchy bass.
• Listeners who value extreme physical comfort and premium metal shells for long listening sessions.
• Detail-heads who enjoy tweaking their sound using the included treble-enhancing gold nozzles.

Who Won't Buy This?

• Analytical listeners looking for a perfectly neutral, uncolored midrange.
• Buyers who absolutely require a 4.4mm or modular cable included in the base price.
• Those who primarily listen to highly complex, congested orchestral tracks where surgical layering is required.

Pros: 

* Premium, comfortable metal shells
* Organic V-shaped sound with punchy bass
* Fantastic stock cable with no memory issues
* Semi-open design offers a wider-than-average soundstage
* Interchangeable tuning nozzles

Cons: 

* Only includes a 3.5mm cable
* Layering can get muddled on complex tracks
* Gold nozzles can cause sibilance

If you are familiar with the Fosi Audio brand, you know they make fantastic, value-for-money DACs and Amps, like the ZH3. Now, they are taking their very first step into the IEM market with the Fosi IM4. Priced at $100 for the standard 3.5mm starter version, let's see how this debut holds up.

Disclaimer​

A huge thanks to the team at Fosi Audio for graciously providing this unit for review. As always, all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.

Design and Build​

The unboxing experience is quite nice, featuring a spacious blue carry case, three sets of ear tips (balanced, bass, and deep bass), and two sets of tuning nozzles.

I received the "Black Obsidian" version, which features a premium metal shell that is cool to the touch. It sports a classic orange Fosi accent over a vented opening, which acts as a semi-open-back solution. Fit and comfort are absolutely top-tier; I was able to wear these for long hours during travel and work calls with zero fatigue or pressure points.

The included cable is wonderful as it behaves perfectly with no memory or kinks, and features a functional chin slider. However, it only terminates in a 3.5mm plug out of the box. If you want a 4.4mm balanced cable, you have to pay extra for an accessory package, which is a bit of a bummer considering the $100 price bracket where competitors often include modular cables.

Sound Impressions​

The Fosi IM4 delivers a very typical, organic V-shaped tuning.

• Bass: The low end is punchy, and the sub-bass rumble is prominent and highly enjoyable.
• Mids: The midrange is colored towards the warm side. There is a bit of bass bleed into the lower mids, but it adds a pleasant thickness rather than muddying the waters too drastically.
• Treble & Tuning Nozzles: The stock Black nozzle provides a smooth, fatigue-free treble that I heavily preferred. If you want to spice things up, swapping to the Gold nozzle pushes the treble much higher, pulling out more micro-details but bordering on sibilance.
• Technicalities: Thanks to the vented shells, the soundstage is wider than average, though I wouldn't call it a true, massive open-back experience. Layering is mostly good but can get slightly muddled on highly congested tracks.

Song Impressions​

"Next to Me" by Axel Johansson (feat. Tina Stachowiak): The iM4 renders the bass lines of this track brilliantly with great thump and rumble. Using the black nozzles, the vocals maintain good clarity, though they are slightly softened. The high-frequency instruments are present but never get shouty.

"Nice To Meet Ya" by Niall Horan: This is an excellent test for layering. The bass rumble is incredibly thick, and the background bass guitar is picked up perfectly which is an absolute chef's kiss. Niall's vocals sit cleanly forward in the mix. However, when all the instruments come together in the chorus, the layering gets slightly stressed, though it manages to hold its form.

Conclusion:​

The Fosi iM4 is an amazing package and a stellar first IEM from the brand. I give it a 4.5 out of 5, deducting half a point strictly because it forces you to pay extra for a 4.4mm balanced cable in a market where $100 often buys you a modular setup. Otherwise, the exceptional comfort, great build quality, and thumping V-shaped sound make it a highly enjoyable daily driver.

Who Will Buy This?

• Users who love a warm, organic, V-shaped sound with punchy bass.
• Listeners who value extreme physical comfort and premium metal shells for long listening sessions.
• Detail-heads who enjoy tweaking their sound using the included treble-enhancing gold nozzles.

Who Won't Buy This?

• Analytical listeners looking for a perfectly neutral, uncolored midrange.
• Buyers who absolutely require a 4.4mm or modular cable included in the base price.
• Those who primarily listen to highly complex, congested orchestral tracks where surgical layering is required.

Pros: 

* Premium, comfortable metal shells
* Organic V-shaped sound with punchy bass
* Fantastic stock cable with no memory issues
* Semi-open design offers a wider-than-average soundstage
* Interchangeable tuning nozzles

Cons: 

* Only includes a 3.5mm cable
* Layering can get muddled on complex tracks
* Gold nozzles can cause sibilance

If you are familiar with the Fosi Audio brand, you know they make fantastic, value-for-money DACs and Amps, like the ZH3. Now, they are taking their very first step into the IEM market with the Fosi IM4. Priced at $100 for the standard 3.5mm starter version, let's see how this debut holds up.

Disclaimer​

A huge thanks to the team at Fosi Audio for graciously providing this unit for review. As always, all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.

Design and Build​

The unboxing experience is quite nice, featuring a spacious blue carry case, three sets of ear tips (balanced, bass, and deep bass), and two sets of tuning nozzles.

I received the "Black Obsidian" version, which features a premium metal shell that is cool to the touch. It sports a classic orange Fosi accent over a vented opening, which acts as a semi-open-back solution. Fit and comfort are absolutely top-tier; I was able to wear these for long hours during travel and work calls with zero fatigue or pressure points.

The included cable is wonderful as it behaves perfectly with no memory or kinks, and features a functional chin slider. However, it only terminates in a 3.5mm plug out of the box. If you want a 4.4mm balanced cable, you have to pay extra for an accessory package, which is a bit of a bummer considering the $100 price bracket where competitors often include modular cables.

Sound Impressions​

The Fosi IM4 delivers a very typical, organic V-shaped tuning.

• Bass: The low end is punchy, and the sub-bass rumble is prominent and highly enjoyable.
• Mids: The midrange is colored towards the warm side. There is a bit of bass bleed into the lower mids, but it adds a pleasant thickness rather than muddying the waters too drastically.
• Treble & Tuning Nozzles: The stock Black nozzle provides a smooth, fatigue-free treble that I heavily preferred. If you want to spice things up, swapping to the Gold nozzle pushes the treble much higher, pulling out more micro-details but bordering on sibilance.
• Technicalities: Thanks to the vented shells, the soundstage is wider than average, though I wouldn't call it a true, massive open-back experience. Layering is mostly good but can get slightly muddled on highly congested tracks.

Song Impressions​

"Next to Me" by Axel Johansson (feat. Tina Stachowiak): The iM4 renders the bass lines of this track brilliantly with great thump and rumble. Using the black nozzles, the vocals maintain good clarity, though they are slightly softened. The high-frequency instruments are present but never get shouty.

"Nice To Meet Ya" by Niall Horan: This is an excellent test for layering. The bass rumble is incredibly thick, and the background bass guitar is picked up perfectly which is an absolute chef's kiss. Niall's vocals sit cleanly forward in the mix. However, when all the instruments come together in the chorus, the layering gets slightly stressed, though it manages to hold its form.

Conclusion:​

The Fosi iM4 is an amazing package and a stellar first IEM from the brand. I give it a 4.5 out of 5, deducting half a point strictly because it forces you to pay extra for a 4.4mm balanced cable in a market where $100 often buys you a modular setup. Otherwise, the exceptional comfort, great build quality, and thumping V-shaped sound make it a highly enjoyable daily driver.

Who Will Buy This?

• Users who love a warm, organic, V-shaped sound with punchy bass.
• Listeners who value extreme physical comfort and premium metal shells for long listening sessions.
• Detail-heads who enjoy tweaking their sound using the included treble-enhancing gold nozzles.

Who Won't Buy This?

• Analytical listeners looking for a perfectly neutral, uncolored midrange.
• Buyers who absolutely require a 4.4mm or modular cable included in the base price.
• Those who primarily listen to highly complex, congested orchestral tracks where surgical layering is required.

Pros: 

* Premium, comfortable metal shells
* Organic V-shaped sound with punchy bass
* Fantastic stock cable with no memory issues
* Semi-open design offers a wider-than-average soundstage
* Interchangeable tuning nozzles

Cons: 

* Only includes a 3.5mm cable
* Layering can get muddled on complex tracks
* Gold nozzles can cause sibilance

If you are familiar with the Fosi Audio brand, you know they make fantastic, value-for-money DACs and Amps, like the ZH3. Now, they are taking their very first step into the IEM market with the Fosi IM4. Priced at $100 for the standard 3.5mm starter version, let's see how this debut holds up.

Video Review:​

https://youtu.be/5IJOcfCM7gs

Disclaimer​

A huge thanks to the team at Fosi Audio for graciously providing this unit for review. As always, all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
You can get The Fosi IM4 from here (Non affiliate): https://fosiaudio.com/products/fosi-audio-im4

Design and Build​

The unboxing experience is quite nice, featuring a spacious blue carry case, three sets of ear tips (balanced, bass, and deep bass), and two sets of tuning nozzles.

I received the "Black Obsidian" version, which features a premium metal shell that is cool to the touch. It sports a classic orange Fosi accent over a vented opening, which acts as a semi-open-back solution. Fit and comfort are absolutely top-tier; I was able to wear these for long hours during travel and work calls with zero fatigue or pressure points.

The included cable is wonderful as it behaves perfectly with no memory or kinks, and features a functional chin slider. However, it only terminates in a 3.5mm plug out of the box. If you want a 4.4mm balanced cable, you have to pay extra for an accessory package, which is a bit of a bummer considering the $100 price bracket where competitors often include modular cables.

Sound Impressions​

The Fosi IM4 delivers a very typical, organic V-shaped tuning.

• Bass: The low end is punchy, and the sub-bass rumble is prominent and highly enjoyable.
• Mids: The midrange is colored towards the warm side. There is a bit of bass bleed into the lower mids, but it adds a pleasant thickness rather than muddying the waters too drastically.
• Treble & Tuning Nozzles: The stock Black nozzle provides a smooth, fatigue-free treble that I heavily preferred. If you want to spice things up, swapping to the Gold nozzle pushes the treble much higher, pulling out more micro-details but bordering on sibilance.
• Technicalities: Thanks to the vented shells, the soundstage is wider than average, though I wouldn't call it a true, massive open-back experience. Layering is mostly good but can get slightly muddled on highly congested tracks.

Song Impressions​

"Next to Me" by Axel Johansson (feat. Tina Stachowiak): The iM4 renders the bass lines of this track brilliantly with great thump and rumble. Using the black nozzles, the vocals maintain good clarity, though they are slightly softened. The high-frequency instruments are present but never get shouty.

"Nice To Meet Ya" by Niall Horan: This is an excellent test for layering. The bass rumble is incredibly thick, and the background bass guitar is picked up perfectly which is an absolute chef's kiss. Niall's vocals sit cleanly forward in the mix. However, when all the instruments come together in the chorus, the layering gets slightly stressed, though it manages to hold its form.

Conclusion:​

The Fosi iM4 is an amazing package and a stellar first IEM from the brand. I give it a 4.5 out of 5, deducting half a point strictly because it forces you to pay extra for a 4.4mm balanced cable in a market where $100 often buys you a modular setup. Otherwise, the exceptional comfort, great build quality, and thumping V-shaped sound make it a highly enjoyable daily driver.

Who Will Buy This?

• Users who love a warm, organic, V-shaped sound with punchy bass.
• Listeners who value extreme physical comfort and premium metal shells for long listening sessions.
• Detail-heads who enjoy tweaking their sound using the included treble-enhancing gold nozzles.

Who Won't Buy This?

• Analytical listeners looking for a perfectly neutral, uncolored midrange.
• Buyers who absolutely require a 4.4mm or modular cable included in the base price.
• Those who primarily listen to highly complex, congested orchestral tracks where surgical layering is required.

Pros: 

·       Delivers a highly engaging V-shaped signature with tight, thumpy, and precise bass punch.

·       Features crystal clear, forward vocals that are incredibly sweet for female artists and powerful for males.

·       Super pretty shell

·       High-quality cable that is very soft and well-behaved.

 

Cons: 

·       The included premium cable is not modular

·       The treble borders on high and can occasionally lean into sibilance on tracks with very high-frequency instruments

·       The distinctly forward vocal presentation might be a bit too aggressive depending on your personal preference

Today we are taking a look at a rather striking release from EarAcoustic: the VSA PM Crown. Priced at $899.90, this IEM brings some serious hardware to the table with its unique 11.4mm Planar Ribbon Diaphragm. It features an impedance of 16 ohms and a sensitivity of 105dB. Let's see how this royal planar offering performs in the real world.

Disclaimer: ​

This unit was graciously provided to me by the Audio Geek Group and EarAcoustics. I got the IEM with its case and didnt get any original packaging hence I wont comment on unboxing. As always, all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own with zero biases.

Design, Build, and Fit​

Right out of the box, the design of the VSA PM Crown is an absolute showstopper. It sports a striking aluminum alloy "hammered" shell finish topped off with a very distinct crown faceplate. If you are a fan of that "bling bling" aesthetic, this IEM absolutely ticks that box. Beyond just the striking looks, I am completely in love with the style and fit; the shells are lightweight, average in size, and sit incredibly comfortably in the ear for long listening sessions.

The included 2-pin (0.78mm) cable is of stellar quality and exceptionally well-behaved. It is a premium cable which is silver plated copper and feels premium too. It feels incredibly soft and handles perfectly, though there is one minor drawback: the cable is not modular, which is a bit of a missed opportunity at this premium price point.

Gear Used for Review​

The PM Crown ran pretty well in all my gear and I had no power issues. As usual bass definition gets better with more powerful gear. So it scales well.
DAC/Dongle: Gustard H16/X16 stack, Muse M5 Ultra
Device: iBasso DX320 or with my MacBook Pro
Music: Apple Music lossless

Sound Impressions​

The VSA PM Crown delivers a highly engaging, V-shaped sound signature that immediately grabs your attention while maintaining impressive transparency.

• Bass: The low-end on the Crown is undeniably good and very thumpy. The bass punch is tight and precise, resulting in a fantastic V-shape implementation that provides plenty of energy and rhythm.
• Mids: The midrange remains quite clean, though it does carry a little bit of coloration that leans towards the bass, adding a pleasant touch of warmth and body to the lower mids.
• Vocals: This is arguably the absolute main selling point of the VSA PM Crown. The vocals offer outstanding clarity and a distinctly forward presentation. Female vocals come across as incredibly sweet and engaging, while male vocals pack a serious, powerful punch that demands your attention.
• Treble: The highs are crisp, airy, and extended, sitting right on the border of being high. If a track features a very high-frequency instrument, it can occasionally be perceived as a little sibilant. That said, I personally did not have much of an issue during my own listening sessions, finding the treble to add great resolution without crossing into harsh fatigue.

Song Impressions:​

"Overthinking" by RYYZN: The bass on this track is very good, and the vocals sit pretty forward in the mix. I enjoyed listening to this one a lot. The guitars sound really clean, and the stereo imaging is very nice, leading to an overall very good presentation.

"OverThink" by Frankly Speaking: The instruments are separated very well on this track, and the spatial imaging is really good. The vocal is not drowned out by the low-end; rather, it is very clear and crisp. The bass thump is excellent and absolutely bass head approved. If I had to nitpick, it is just that the vocal is a tad too forward for my own preference, but it remains a highly engaging listen.

Conclusion:​

The EarAcoustic VSA PM Crown is a beautifully crafted planar IEM that caters directly to listeners who want an energetic, thumping V-shaped sound without sacrificing spectacular vocal performance. The "bling" factor of the hammered faceplates and the superb, comfortable fit make it a joy to wear and look at. While the lack of a modular cable and the borderline-high treble on specific tracks might be minor nitpicks for some, the tight bass and incredibly sweet, forward vocals make this a highly compelling and unique option in the sub-$1000 market.

Pros: 

·       Delivers a highly engaging V-shaped signature with tight, thumpy, and precise bass punch.

·       Features crystal clear, forward vocals that are incredibly sweet for female artists and powerful for males.

·       Super pretty shell

·       High-quality cable that is very soft and well-behaved.

Cons: 

·       The included premium cable is not modular

·       The treble borders on high and can occasionally lean into sibilance on tracks with very high-frequency instruments

·       The distinctly forward vocal presentation might be a bit too aggressive depending on your personal preference

Today we are taking a look at a rather striking release from EarAcoustic: the VSA PM Crown. Priced at $899.90, this IEM brings some serious hardware to the table with its unique 11.4mm Planar Ribbon Diaphragm. It features an impedance of 16 ohms and a sensitivity of 105dB. Let's see how this royal planar offering performs in the real world.

Disclaimer: ​

This unit was graciously provided to me by the Audio Geek Group and EarAcoustics. I got the IEM with its case and didnt get any original packaging hence I wont comment on unboxing. As always, all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own with zero biases.

Design, Build, and Fit​

Right out of the box, the design of the VSA PM Crown is an absolute showstopper. It sports a striking aluminum alloy "hammered" shell finish topped off with a very distinct crown faceplate. If you are a fan of that "bling bling" aesthetic, this IEM absolutely ticks that box. Beyond just the striking looks, I am completely in love with the style and fit; the shells are lightweight, average in size, and sit incredibly comfortably in the ear for long listening sessions.

The included 2-pin (0.78mm) cable is of stellar quality and exceptionally well-behaved. It is a premium cable which is silver plated copper and feels premium too. It feels incredibly soft and handles perfectly, though there is one minor drawback: the cable is not modular, which is a bit of a missed opportunity at this premium price point.

Gear Used for Review​

The PM Crown ran pretty well in all my gear and I had no power issues. As usual bass definition gets better with more powerful gear. So it scales well.
DAC/Dongle: Gustard H16/X16 stack, Muse M5 Ultra
Device: iBasso DX320 or with my MacBook Pro
Music: Apple Music lossless

Sound Impressions​

The VSA PM Crown delivers a highly engaging, V-shaped sound signature that immediately grabs your attention while maintaining impressive transparency.

• Bass: The low-end on the Crown is undeniably good and very thumpy. The bass punch is tight and precise, resulting in a fantastic V-shape implementation that provides plenty of energy and rhythm.
• Mids: The midrange remains quite clean, though it does carry a little bit of coloration that leans towards the bass, adding a pleasant touch of warmth and body to the lower mids.
• Vocals: This is arguably the absolute main selling point of the VSA PM Crown. The vocals offer outstanding clarity and a distinctly forward presentation. Female vocals come across as incredibly sweet and engaging, while male vocals pack a serious, powerful punch that demands your attention.
• Treble: The highs are crisp, airy, and extended, sitting right on the border of being high. If a track features a very high-frequency instrument, it can occasionally be perceived as a little sibilant. That said, I personally did not have much of an issue during my own listening sessions, finding the treble to add great resolution without crossing into harsh fatigue.

Song Impressions:​

"Overthinking" by RYYZN: The bass on this track is very good, and the vocals sit pretty forward in the mix. I enjoyed listening to this one a lot. The guitars sound really clean, and the stereo imaging is very nice, leading to an overall very good presentation.

"OverThink" by Frankly Speaking: The instruments are separated very well on this track, and the spatial imaging is really good. The vocal is not drowned out by the low-end; rather, it is very clear and crisp. The bass thump is excellent and absolutely bass head approved. If I had to nitpick, it is just that the vocal is a tad too forward for my own preference, but it remains a highly engaging listen.

Conclusion:​

The EarAcoustic VSA PM Crown is a beautifully crafted planar IEM that caters directly to listeners who want an energetic, thumping V-shaped sound without sacrificing spectacular vocal performance. The "bling" factor of the hammered faceplates and the superb, comfortable fit make it a joy to wear and look at. While the lack of a modular cable and the borderline-high treble on specific tracks might be minor nitpicks for some, the tight bass and incredibly sweet, forward vocals make this a highly compelling and unique option in the sub-$1000 market.

 

 

Pros: 

·       Delivers a highly engaging V-shaped signature with tight, thumpy, and precise bass punch.

·       Features crystal clear, forward vocals that are incredibly sweet for female artists and powerful for males.

·       Super pretty shell

·       High-quality cable that is very soft and well-behaved.

 

Cons: 

·       The included premium cable is not modular

·       The treble borders on high and can occasionally lean into sibilance on tracks with very high-frequency instruments

·       The distinctly forward vocal presentation might be a bit too aggressive depending on your personal preference

Today we are taking a look at a rather striking release from EarAcoustic: the VSA PM Crown. Priced at $899.90, this IEM brings some serious hardware to the table with its unique 11.4mm Planar Ribbon Diaphragm. It features an impedance of 16 ohms and a sensitivity of 105dB. Let's see how this royal planar offering performs in the real world.

Disclaimer: ​

This unit was graciously provided to me by the Audio Geek Group and EarAcoustics. I got the IEM with its case and didnt get any original packaging hence I wont comment on unboxing. As always, all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own with zero biases.

Design, Build, and Fit​

Right out of the box, the design of the VSA PM Crown is an absolute showstopper. It sports a striking aluminum alloy "hammered" shell finish topped off with a very distinct crown faceplate. If you are a fan of that "bling bling" aesthetic, this IEM absolutely ticks that box. Beyond just the striking looks, I am completely in love with the style and fit; the shells are lightweight, average in size, and sit incredibly comfortably in the ear for long listening sessions.

The included 2-pin (0.78mm) cable is of stellar quality and exceptionally well-behaved. It is a premium cable which is silver plated copper and feels premium too. It feels incredibly soft and handles perfectly, though there is one minor drawback: the cable is not modular, which is a bit of a missed opportunity at this premium price point.

Gear Used for Review​

The PM Crown ran pretty well in all my gear and I had no power issues. As usual bass definition gets better with more powerful gear. So it scales well.
DAC/Dongle: Gustard H16/X16 stack, Muse M5 Ultra
Device: iBasso DX320 or with my MacBook Pro
Music: Apple Music lossless

Sound Impressions​

The VSA PM Crown delivers a highly engaging, V-shaped sound signature that immediately grabs your attention while maintaining impressive transparency.

• Bass: The low-end on the Crown is undeniably good and very thumpy. The bass punch is tight and precise, resulting in a fantastic V-shape implementation that provides plenty of energy and rhythm.
• Mids: The midrange remains quite clean, though it does carry a little bit of coloration that leans towards the bass, adding a pleasant touch of warmth and body to the lower mids.
• Vocals: This is arguably the absolute main selling point of the VSA PM Crown. The vocals offer outstanding clarity and a distinctly forward presentation. Female vocals come across as incredibly sweet and engaging, while male vocals pack a serious, powerful punch that demands your attention.
• Treble: The highs are crisp, airy, and extended, sitting right on the border of being high. If a track features a very high-frequency instrument, it can occasionally be perceived as a little sibilant. That said, I personally did not have much of an issue during my own listening sessions, finding the treble to add great resolution without crossing into harsh fatigue.

Song Impressions:​

"Overthinking" by RYYZN: The bass on this track is very good, and the vocals sit pretty forward in the mix. I enjoyed listening to this one a lot. The guitars sound really clean, and the stereo imaging is very nice, leading to an overall very good presentation.

"OverThink" by Frankly Speaking: The instruments are separated very well on this track, and the spatial imaging is really good. The vocal is not drowned out by the low-end; rather, it is very clear and crisp. The bass thump is excellent and absolutely bass head approved. If I had to nitpick, it is just that the vocal is a tad too forward for my own preference, but it remains a highly engaging listen.

Conclusion:​

The EarAcoustic VSA PM Crown is a beautifully crafted planar IEM that caters directly to listeners who want an energetic, thumping V-shaped sound without sacrificing spectacular vocal performance. The "bling" factor of the hammered faceplates and the superb, comfortable fit make it a joy to wear and look at. While the lack of a modular cable and the borderline-high treble on specific tracks might be minor nitpicks for some, the tight bass and incredibly sweet, forward vocals make this a highly compelling and unique option in the sub-$1000 market.

Pros: 

• Beautiful metal shells with a premium, jewelry-like stone finish.
• Incredibly comfortable fit with excellent isolation when using the included liquid silicone gel tips.
• Guttural, enveloping sub-bass rumble that bass heads will absolutely love.
• Fantastic micro-details and clear vocals without any harshness or sibilance.
• Excellent instrument layering and a surprisingly wide soundstage.
• Very easy to drive straight from a regular laptop or phone.

Cons: 

• The decorative stones on the faceplate are delicate and prone to falling off.
• The stock cable holds memory, flares out awkwardly, and features a useless chin slider that slips down.
• The bass slam and thump are a bit on the softer side.
• The midrange is quite colored and not the absolute cleanest.

Today, we are taking a look at a rather interesting set, the SoundRhyme SR10. Priced at $499 over on the Penon website, this one is positioned in a highly competitive bracket. Let's dive in and see what it brings to the table.

Disclaimer: 

This unit was graciously provided to me by the Audio Geek Group and SoundRhyme. As always, all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own with zero biases.

Video Review:

https://youtu.be/Ol6VeBGKw-o

Design and Build

The SR10 features a beautiful blue metallic shell that feels premium and cold to the touch. It is adorned with a stunning stone finish that gives it a jewelry-like aesthetic. However, there is a catch: the stones tend to drop or fall off with use, so you will need to handle the earpieces with extra care. 

The included carry case is a nice blue faux leather with velvet padding and a removable separator. Oddly, there is a glaring typo on the lid, reading "Souud Rhyme" instead of "Sound Rhyme".

As for the cable, it is a modular braided cable with 3.5mm and 4.4mm terminations. Honestly, the cable is not the best as it holds a lot of memory, flares out uncomfortably around the ear, and the chin slider simply slides down on its own without holding its place.

Fit-wise, the SR10 is incredibly comfortable. It ships with "liquid silicone gel tips" which run very large (I highly recommend sizing down), but they provide an absolutely amazing, super isolated seal once you find the right fit.

Gear Used for Review

Given its 18 ohms impedance and 115 dB sensitivity, the SR10 is remarkably easy to drive. I strictly used the 3.5mm termination for my testing because it reaches perfect volume and quality levels straight out of a regular laptop.​

DAC/Dongle: Gustard H16/X16 stack, Muse M5 Ultra

Device: iBasso DX320 or with my MacBook Pro

Music: Apple Music lossless

Sound Impressions

The SR10 is a heavily bass-oriented IEM that somehow manages to deliver top-tier micro-details without compromise.

• Bass: The sub-bass rumble is guttural and absolutely amazing. While the actual bass slam or thump is on the softer, more mellow side, the enveloping nature of the low-end is highly addictive.
• Mids: The midrange is definitely colored and perhaps not the absolute cleanest, but it remains very capable.
• Treble: Despite the heavy bass, the top-end details and nuances are fantastic. The treble is highly detailed without being peaky, shouty, or sibilant, making it great for long listening sessions.
• Technicalities: Layering and separation are superb, preventing the sound from becoming muddled even on busy tracks. The soundstage is wider than usual, and the left-to-right imaging is highly accurate.

Song Impressions

https://music.apple.com/in/album/no-crime-feat-jess-ball/1498799743?i=1498799744

• "No Crime (feat. Jess Ball)" by Asketa & Natan Chaim: The DJ glitch synths and guttural bass line are perfectly enveloping on the SR10. The vocals remain clean and slightly forward, cutting right through the heavy sub-bass, while the hi-hats and snares are crisp. The wide staging and layering really shine here.

https://music.apple.com/in/album/no-one-feat-b-i/1465212910?i=1465212911

• "No One (feat. B.I)" by Lee Hi: The bass guitar is picked up flawlessly with great rumble. Both the female vocals and male rap sections are crystal clear and never drowned out by the low-end. The clarity of the background instruments, especially the trumpets, adds an entirely new level of nuance to the track.

Conclusion

The SoundRhyme SR10 earns a solid 4 / 5 rating from me as a complete package. The missing star is entirely due to the physical nitpicks: the typo on the carry case, the problematic cable, and the delicate faceplate stones falling off. If we are talking purely about the sound signature, it is an incredible, near 5/5 experience. If you want massive bass paired with excellent, non-fatiguing micro-details, the SR10 is an outstanding choice.

 

Pros: 

• Beautiful metal shells with a premium, jewelry-like stone finish.
• Incredibly comfortable fit with excellent isolation when using the included liquid silicone gel tips.
• Guttural, enveloping sub-bass rumble that bass heads will absolutely love.
• Fantastic micro-details and clear vocals without any harshness or sibilance.
• Excellent instrument layering and a surprisingly wide soundstage.
• Very easy to drive straight from a regular laptop or phone.

Cons: 

• The decorative stones on the faceplate are delicate and prone to falling off.
• The stock cable holds memory, flares out awkwardly, and features a useless chin slider that slips down.
• The bass slam and thump are a bit on the softer side.
• The midrange is quite colored and not the absolute cleanest.

Today, we are taking a look at a rather interesting set, the SoundRhyme SR10. Priced at $499 over on the Penon website, this one is positioned in a highly competitive bracket. Let's dive in and see what it brings to the table.

Disclaimer: 

This unit was graciously provided to me by the Audio Geek Group and SoundRhyme. As always, all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own with zero biases.

Video Review:

https://youtu.be/Ol6VeBGKw-o

Design and Build

The SR10 features a beautiful blue metallic shell that feels premium and cold to the touch. It is adorned with a stunning stone finish that gives it a jewelry-like aesthetic. However, there is a catch: the stones tend to drop or fall off with use, so you will need to handle the earpieces with extra care. 

The included carry case is a nice blue faux leather with velvet padding and a removable separator. Oddly, there is a glaring typo on the lid, reading "Souud Rhyme" instead of "Sound Rhyme".

As for the cable, it is a modular braided cable with 3.5mm and 4.4mm terminations. Honestly, the cable is not the best as it holds a lot of memory, flares out uncomfortably around the ear, and the chin slider simply slides down on its own without holding its place.

Fit-wise, the SR10 is incredibly comfortable. It ships with "liquid silicone gel tips" which run very large (I highly recommend sizing down), but they provide an absolutely amazing, super isolated seal once you find the right fit.

Gear Used for Review

Given its 18 ohms impedance and 115 dB sensitivity, the SR10 is remarkably easy to drive. I strictly used the 3.5mm termination for my testing because it reaches perfect volume and quality levels straight out of a regular laptop.​

DAC/Dongle: Gustard H16/X16 stack, Muse M5 Ultra

Device: iBasso DX320 or with my MacBook Pro

Music: Apple Music lossless

Sound Impressions

The SR10 is a heavily bass-oriented IEM that somehow manages to deliver top-tier micro-details without compromise.

• Bass: The sub-bass rumble is guttural and absolutely amazing. While the actual bass slam or thump is on the softer, more mellow side, the enveloping nature of the low-end is highly addictive.
• Mids: The midrange is definitely colored and perhaps not the absolute cleanest, but it remains very capable.
• Treble: Despite the heavy bass, the top-end details and nuances are fantastic. The treble is highly detailed without being peaky, shouty, or sibilant, making it great for long listening sessions.
• Technicalities: Layering and separation are superb, preventing the sound from becoming muddled even on busy tracks. The soundstage is wider than usual, and the left-to-right imaging is highly accurate.

Song Impressions

https://music.apple.com/in/album/no-crime-feat-jess-ball/1498799743?i=1498799744

• "No Crime (feat. Jess Ball)" by Asketa & Natan Chaim: The DJ glitch synths and guttural bass line are perfectly enveloping on the SR10. The vocals remain clean and slightly forward, cutting right through the heavy sub-bass, while the hi-hats and snares are crisp. The wide staging and layering really shine here.

https://music.apple.com/in/album/no-one-feat-b-i/1465212910?i=1465212911

• "No One (feat. B.I)" by Lee Hi: The bass guitar is picked up flawlessly with great rumble. Both the female vocals and male rap sections are crystal clear and never drowned out by the low-end. The clarity of the background instruments, especially the trumpets, adds an entirely new level of nuance to the track.

Conclusion

The SoundRhyme SR10 earns a solid 4 / 5 rating from me as a complete package. The missing star is entirely due to the physical nitpicks: the typo on the carry case, the problematic cable, and the delicate faceplate stones falling off. If we are talking purely about the sound signature, it is an incredible, near 5/5 experience. If you want massive bass paired with excellent, non-fatiguing micro-details, the SR10 is an outstanding choice.

 

 

Pros: 

• Beautiful metal shells with a premium, jewelry-like stone finish.
• Incredibly comfortable fit with excellent isolation when using the included liquid silicone gel tips.
• Guttural, enveloping sub-bass rumble that bass heads will absolutely love.
• Fantastic micro-details and clear vocals without any harshness or sibilance.
• Excellent instrument layering and a surprisingly wide soundstage.
• Very easy to drive straight from a regular laptop or phone.

Cons: 

• The decorative stones on the faceplate are delicate and prone to falling off.
• The stock cable holds memory, flares out awkwardly, and features a useless chin slider that slips down.
• The bass slam and thump are a bit on the softer side.
• The midrange is quite colored and not the absolute cleanest.

Today, we are taking a look at a rather interesting set, the SoundRhyme SR10. Priced at $499 over on the Penon website, this one is positioned in a highly competitive bracket. Let's dive in and see what it brings to the table.

Disclaimer: 

This unit was graciously provided to me by the Audio Geek Group and SoundRhyme. As always, all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own with zero biases.

Video Review:

https://youtu.be/Ol6VeBGKw-o

Design and Build

The SR10 features a beautiful blue metallic shell that feels premium and cold to the touch. It is adorned with a stunning stone finish that gives it a jewelry-like aesthetic. However, there is a catch: the stones tend to drop or fall off with use, so you will need to handle the earpieces with extra care. 

The included carry case is a nice blue faux leather with velvet padding and a removable separator. Oddly, there is a glaring typo on the lid, reading "Souud Rhyme" instead of "Sound Rhyme".

As for the cable, it is a modular braided cable with 3.5mm and 4.4mm terminations. Honestly, the cable is not the best as it holds a lot of memory, flares out uncomfortably around the ear, and the chin slider simply slides down on its own without holding its place.

Fit-wise, the SR10 is incredibly comfortable. It ships with "liquid silicone gel tips" which run very large (I highly recommend sizing down), but they provide an absolutely amazing, super isolated seal once you find the right fit.

Gear Used for Review

Given its 18 ohms impedance and 115 dB sensitivity, the SR10 is remarkably easy to drive. I strictly used the 3.5mm termination for my testing because it reaches perfect volume and quality levels straight out of a regular laptop.​

DAC/Dongle: Gustard H16/X16 stack, Muse M5 Ultra

Device: iBasso DX320 or with my MacBook Pro

Music: Apple Music lossless

Sound Impressions

The SR10 is a heavily bass-oriented IEM that somehow manages to deliver top-tier micro-details without compromise.

• Bass: The sub-bass rumble is guttural and absolutely amazing. While the actual bass slam or thump is on the softer, more mellow side, the enveloping nature of the low-end is highly addictive.
• Mids: The midrange is definitely colored and perhaps not the absolute cleanest, but it remains very capable.
• Treble: Despite the heavy bass, the top-end details and nuances are fantastic. The treble is highly detailed without being peaky, shouty, or sibilant, making it great for long listening sessions.
• Technicalities: Layering and separation are superb, preventing the sound from becoming muddled even on busy tracks. The soundstage is wider than usual, and the left-to-right imaging is highly accurate.

Song Impressions

https://music.apple.com/in/album/no-crime-feat-jess-ball/1498799743?i=1498799744

• "No Crime (feat. Jess Ball)" by Asketa & Natan Chaim: The DJ glitch synths and guttural bass line are perfectly enveloping on the SR10. The vocals remain clean and slightly forward, cutting right through the heavy sub-bass, while the hi-hats and snares are crisp. The wide staging and layering really shine here.

https://music.apple.com/in/album/no-one-feat-b-i/1465212910?i=1465212911

• "No One (feat. B.I)" by Lee Hi: The bass guitar is picked up flawlessly with great rumble. Both the female vocals and male rap sections are crystal clear and never drowned out by the low-end. The clarity of the background instruments, especially the trumpets, adds an entirely new level of nuance to the track.

Conclusion

The SoundRhyme SR10 earns a solid 4 / 5 rating from me as a complete package. The missing star is entirely due to the physical nitpicks: the typo on the carry case, the problematic cable, and the delicate faceplate stones falling off. If we are talking purely about the sound signature, it is an incredible, near 5/5 experience. If you want massive bass paired with excellent, non-fatiguing micro-details, the SR10 is an outstanding choice.

 

 

Pros: 

• Absolute bass head approved
• Excellent bass texture and quantity
• Awesome sub-bass rumble
• Good soundstage width
• Very comfortable to wear for long sessions

Cons: 

• Top-level micro details take a slight back seat
• Instruments can lightly mix up on busy tracks
• Requires a significant amount of power to truly sound its best

Today we are diving into the Symphonium Titan, an IEM that has praised for its low-end prowess. If you are looking for neutrality, look away now as this one is purely for the bass heads. Under the hood, the Titan features a hybrid configuration consisting of one dynamic driver and three balanced armature drivers. 

Disclaimer:

I received this unit on loan from a good friend to test out. All thoughts, impressions, and opinions are entirely my own with zero biases. I also did not have any of the stock accessories for this review. Instead, I paired the Titan directly with the Eros cable from Effect Audio and the Tangzu wide bore eartips, which resulted in fantastic overall synergy.

Design, Fit and Comfort

Symphonium has done a fantastic job with the shell design here. The Titan has a tank-like build crafted from aluminum, complemented by a premium forged carbon composite faceplate with luxurious looking accents. The Titan is also very comfy to wear. I had zero issues with ear fatigue or physical discomfort during my listening sessions.

My gear used for the review

DAC/Dongle: Gustard H16/X16 stack, Muse M5 Ultra

Device: iBasso DX320 or with my MacBook Pro

Music: Apple Music lossless

Sound Impressions

The Titan knows exactly what it is, and it makes no apologies for it. You are not picking up the Titan for critical, analytical listening. You are picking it up to have fun with BASS.

• Bass: The bass is the absolute star of the show here. It is thoroughly bass head approved. The texture and sheer quantity of the low-end are excellent, and the sub-bass rumble is simply awesome. It delivers a physical, enveloping sensation that is highly addictive.
• Mids and Vocals: Despite the massive bass presence, the mids remain surprisingly clean. Vocals manage to stay present and forward, cutting through the low-end warmth without getting completely overshadowed. Only thing is that you really need a super powerful amp to drive it to clean sound. If you use warm sources and low power AMPs, then you will surely be disappointed and think that the Titan is veiled (which is obviously not)
• Treble: The top-level details are slightly less prominent. The treble is definitely smoothened out to accommodate that massive bass shelf. But let us be honest, you are not here for the surgical treble details when you pick up the Titan.
• Technicalities & Power Requirements: The staging is genuinely good, offering a nice, wide sense of space. However, when things get extremely busy, the instruments can lightly mix up.

 

The Titan is exceptionally power-hungry. You need to feed it a lot of power from a highly capable source to really get the best results and tighten up that low-end.

Song Impressions

https://music.apple.com/in/album/enemy-from-arcane-league-of-legends/1591640884?i=1591640885

"Enemy" by Imagine Dragons: The bass on this track is absolutely amazing and literally shakes my core. Despite the colossal amount of bass, the vocals remain impressively clean and feel great. The hi-hats and higher-frequency instruments sit just a little bit low and feel smoothened out. The overall staging on this track felt pretty wide and immersive.

https://music.apple.com/in/album/tauba-tauba-from-bad-newz/1754562143?i=1754562159

"Tauba Tauba" by Karan Aujla: The bass line here is super thick and enveloping. The male vocals felt fantastic and sat nicely forward in the mix. The guitars and backend instruments complemented the overall rhythm incredibly well. I had absolutely no issues or nitpicks while listening to this song; I was just sitting back and thoroughly enjoying the Titan.

Conclusion:

The Symphonium Titan is a masterclass in fun, bass-heavy tuning. It delivers some of the best bass texture and sub-bass rumble available, all wrapped in a highly comfortable and striking shell. It loses half a point simply because the instruments can lightly mix up on highly complex tracks, and the heavy power requirements mean you cannot just plug this into any weak dongle and expect greatness. If you have the power to drive it and a love for bass, the Titan is an absolute monster.