Pros: The tonality is gorgeous, full bodied signature, fluid mids, excellent drum impact, satisfying richness, good treble energy, chiseled and handsome titanium shell, water-resistant and attractive eco-friendly cork case, excellent selection of tips, good cable Cons: Deep insertion can be uncomfortable due to the angles on the chiseled titanium shell, some dips in mids that... Continue Reading →
Effect Audio Cable tour
Introduction One of the most emotive subjects in the current audiophile "scene" is the effect of cables on sound. Some claim that a good cable can make an IEM, headphone or speaker sound better, fuller, more detailed and is generally able to do everything short of cleaning the wax out of your ears after a... Continue Reading →
Stealth Sonics C9 – where rocket science meets rock and roll
Pros: excellent balance of detail and power, fuller and thicker bass presence than U9 with deep sub-bass, extended treble, Klarity Valve eliminates listening fatigue, good set of accessories, tough build and impeccably crafted Cons: large price difference between universal ($999) and custom, trades some resolution for musicality, carry case doesn't scream high end Price: from $1499 upwards,... Continue Reading →
Stealth Sonics U9: bass plus refinement
Pros: Precise accurate bass tuning, tasteful bass uptick, timbral accuracy all around, good stage width and height, high quality stock cable, includes microphone cable (flexibility+), light-weight Cons: Upper mids can be a bit aggressive, aggressive elements of presentation reduce perceived stage, case not very usable from a travel perspective, does not look or feel like... Continue Reading →
WAVAYA Octa: a porcelain dream
Pros: Superlative upper mids, superlative treble, cymbals and violins are voiced wonderfully, drum timbre, excellent instrument separation, good stage depth, nice looks, well-controlled bass with good extension, beautiful leather case, Linum SuperBaX cable has great sound and fantastic ergonomics, less wax build-up with porcelain Cons: touch of warmth can lean a bit away from neutral,... Continue Reading →