Wired IEMs sound BETTER than wireless!

This video sponsored by Audirvana: audirvana.com/
Camera: Jana Dagdagan | Editor: John Darko
Three wired IEMs from three manufacturers - iBasso, Campfire and Meze - that sell for roughly the same as class-leading true wireless models but sound significantly better.
Backstory: darko.audio/20...
10 more thoughts: darko.audio/20...
In order of appearance...
iBasso Audio IT01 (US$99):
www.ibasso.com/...
Campfire Audio IO (US$299):
campfireaudio....
Meze Audio Rai Solo (US$249):
mezeaudio.com/...
__________________________________________________________________
A tale of two true-wireless IEMs…
• Sony WF-1000XM3 vs. Ma...
__________________________________________________________________
Also featured in this video…
iBasso Audio DC02 (US$50-75):
darko.audio/20...
Campfire Audio Polaris II (US$499):
campfireaudio....
Master & Dynamic MW07 (US$299):
www.masterdyna...
Sony WF-1000XM3 (US$229):
www.sony.com/e...
__________________________________________________________________
Playlists…
Spotify:
open.spotify.c...
Tidal:
tidal.com/brow...
Qobuz:
open.qobuz.com...
#portableaudio #headfi #audiophile
__________________________________________________________________
Darko.Audio is a web magazine covering new and exciting developments in the audio world and we aren’t afraid of indie rock or techno.
Web: Darko.Audio
Instagram: / darkoaudio
Twitter: / darkoaudio
Facebook: / darkodotaudio

[@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac]

Thanks for doing this John. My motto is why pay more for inferior sound quality with Bluetooth headphones? BTW, the $250 wired FiiO FH5 in-ear is sooooo good!

[@Flavius7]

FH7 EVEN BETTER! Much appreciate your videos, RESPECT!

[@CronTheCob]

Convenience. I will primarily listen wired if I'm on the bus, or at home. But if I'm at work and am moving around, a wire just gets in the way and hinders my performance, so I settle for a wireless connection because I still want music, but I also want to work efficiently. So wireless has it's time and place.

[@k-doggy1762]

I say ditch IEMs altogether and stick to over ears. Wireless headphones like Sennheiser Momentum range have the convenience of Bluetooth and higher sound quality when using wired. IEMs just cannot offer the same compromise.

[@ProtestTheHero04]

@@k-doggy1762 The sound of the Momentum 3 still have nothing on a good iem like the mentioned FiiO FH5 or FH7. I heard them all and went with the FH7. Remember that you have to pay for a DAC/amp and bluetooth receiver when going for stuff like the Momentum 3.

[@leisureavidgentleman8901]

Steve Guttenberg Audiophiliac thanks Steve for the suggestion. I’ll have to take a look at those.

[@rob11s]

Every time I watch a full-length video of yours that was shot on the streets of Berlin, I immediatelly begin to regret not taking German seriously in school and find myself wanting to go there, at least for a run or something. Enjoyed the review/showcase thoroughly.

[@dilbyjones]

Robertas hehe

[@markhunting9058]

I’m not in to IEM’s or headphones for that matter, just love watching your videos. Again fantastic work. Even if I’m not interested in the gear in certain videos I still find myself being sucked in & totally enjoying your way of doing things. A very fresh way of doing it compared to the run of the mill KZbin videos. Keep up the great work.

[@DarkoAudio]

And THAT is exactly what I'm aiming for: to make videos that are of interest, even if the gear isn't.

[@markhunting9058]

I would say you’ve already achieved this & so much more. Keep the videos coming.

[@wyric]

I totally agree about the fit. I have a few pairs of IEMs and found myself listening most, not the best sounding one, but the most comfortable one that fits my ears best.

[@conraddevera]

Same, unless it's a quick session. But for longer period, I go for the comfort more than Sq (not that the Sq is bad for the comfortable ones)

[@pprlng]

I love how John takes us on a little tour everytime it's IEMs time on the channel; and the analogy between the sound and the surrounding is a very cool idea (y) For me, it's Fiio FH1s all the way at the moment, although I have had the FH5s under my radar for quite some time now (the FH7s would be ideal, though they are out of my budget)

[@MultiNine999]

Damn... Jana is killing it with those shots, also John has a remarkable editing skill. Certainly the best way to say “wired is better than wireless”. Hahaha

[@vjzapp]

User of Campfire Solaris and it’s a beast. Very balance and laidback with a very wide holographic soundstage. Layers of details.

[@DarkoAudio]

Agreed!

[@TalesOfGod]

I'm jealous, been considering the Solaris or Andromeda for a while now.

[@kool_thing]

Thanks for posting the playlist in description. Really liked the music in the video.

[@NickHeng]

I'm rocking the Shuoer Tape IEMs (another Chi-Fi product). These have me hooked and I've been using them as my daily drivers for a while now.

[@willyvlyminck201]

Nick Heng I wonder who invented the terrible word Chi-Fi ?

[@cau8365]

I also just got the Shuoer Tape for about a week, it is light, comfortable, and sounds awesome!

[@panacheautomotive4298]

@@willyvlyminck201 The Chinese call it that and love it! They make tons of money off it so no worries.

[@Andyhandle]

Love the review and creative way of communicating and contrasting the sound of each IEM.

[@chintoki]

Wired IEMs sound BETTER than wireless! In other news, the sky is blue.

[@nicholastoo858]

LoLs

[@nathan7265]

Yep. I'm looking for audiophile IEMs flat ish all-genre response. Favorites that you've tried? $145-$2000

[@shamhosein770]

😂👌

[@anonymerzyniker9183]

Technically, the sky is not at all blue.

[@mattialemboluscari8774]

WOAH

[@stevevlahos1]

As always another great video. I enjoy your content because it’s not just your coverage of the gear John but the cinematography and how it’s all put together from the music to what is being shot. Like a great dish properly seasoned and garnished, presented on a plate for one to savor.

[@techinblack]

Absolutely in love with this content. Wired team for ever and ever.

[@phil5743]

The KZ ZS10 pro have turned my audiophile world upside down and I’m now reluctant to spend on anything considered mid to high end. This also applies to the BLON 03 and anything from Tin hi-fi. Exciting times.

[@nonenothing4412]

yeah those things are easy to love because don't require big investment and give you so much .....

[@snozzmcberry2366]

Had my eyes opened to the world of good audio by Tin T2 a month ago ("good audio" here being in the context of $10-20 generic no-name plastic plugs from the local supermarket). I've barely taken the things out, and my T4's will arrive tomorrow. Can't wait. Chi-fi has truly become an extraordinary value proposition. edit: the T4's took a few days longer to arrive, thanks to my beloved local postal service. Long story short, T4 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> ad infinitum > T2. *So* much better. So much richer, cleaner, more life, more body, not just owing to the presence of actual bass, something the T2 is woefully lackluster in, but in the whole frequency range. Everything just sounds *better.* Except, possibly, for music centered around the upper ranges of treble. Those 10kHz+ notes pop & sparkle a bit better in T2.

[@i0001w]

I'v just know about KZ and got the AS12 and I'm waiting for it to see how it perform

[@willyvlyminck201]

Phil Levy Not exciting for US/ EU companies that produce local.

[@ThinkingBetter]

Agree, some of the cheap earbuds from Linsoul are quite awesome for the price. I use the KZ ZSX and Tin Hifi T4. When I go wireless I use the ES100 DAC. Actually I use this DAC often also for wired playback as it allows me tiny EQ tweaks to get the very best audio for my personal preference.

[@carloc8763]

Exceptional video, both visually and content-wise. The most sincere congratulations from Tenerife

[@benjaminqilafku5714]

Oh John, such huge step up in video quality. Neat job Jana.Fond of your posts.

[@lenward474]

Guess that's a true review journey! Much more comfortable and real review as opposed to a desk! Great perceptive video as well as review content! Best videography award!!! Of course the handsome star helps?

[@CT37BN]

Both Shuoer Tape and TFZ No.3 in clear transparent shell really impressed me a lot. Will check out for that Meze Rai Solo.

[@filovirus1]

love the background music. I love my Rai Solo, too :-)

[@elise10lies84]

Wow great soundtrack!!! i recently bought the Sanling ME500… what a great sounding IEM!!!👌🏼

[@JeffJacquesmd]

Subscriber and huge fan of the channel. I started buying true wireless IEMs years ago with the Bragi Dash, I then picked up a number of others and currently use the AirPods Pro and the Galaxy Buds (V2), for phone calls and podcasts. I only use wired IEMs for music, mostly the RHA CL2s, with dollops of the BGVP DM6, the Blon 03, the MoonDrop Kanas Pro and the LH Labs Stella (won in a raffle). Wireless IEMs don't touch the SQ, soundstage, instrument separation and cohesion of wired IEMs. I sometimes use a Bluetooth 5.0 cable for my IEMs and get about 70% out of them. The technology will get better and at some point soon the gap will close significantly. But we aren't there yet

[@robnichols9331]

I really like the emphasis on usability in this review (for example, how tangle free the cables are)

[@treehouse722]

Another beautiful film from team Darko. Excellent job.

[@saschalammers5350]

Thank you John for this brilliant video. The idea of expressing the characteristics of the IEMs through visual language is grandiose.

[@miguelbarrio]

This was amazing John & Jana. Production does matter! Loved the description of the sound by the looks of the video sequence. At the gym, I need Bluetooth - I need to put my chunky phone down (iPhone XS Max). I have found you can get pretty decent sound with IEMs and a Bluetooth adapter such as the Fiio BTR3 (which does just about every codec out there).

[@m_DT]

Another great video, John! I’ve been rocking the IT01s for a couple years now and for the price it doesn’t get much better. Quality is very, very good, and I’ve had great experience with iBasso’s customer service & support. I use the IT01s with a Dragonfly Black at work, and an Oppo HA-2SE when traveling. They sound killer with both DACs, and for the last two years haven’t had the urge to upgrade. Even though I’d really, really, really love to own a pair of Campfire IEMs some day.

[@bryantaylor2946]

Beautifully shot and the truth was spoken. Getting a perfect fit with an IEM is so important for bass performance and comfort is also paramount. Otherwise you'll not be happy - make sure to try before you buy.

[@cryptout]

What a great tone you guys set for this video, of course the last track is truly epic. I went from expensive IEMs to great value Tin hifi and am very satisfied.

[@sarundayo]

Love your channel my dude, but also the camera work! Kudos to the camera man/woman!

[@rotaks1]

This episode is outstanding. One of a kind. The outdoors theme with an audio product review is brilliant. Its a piece of art.

[@DarkoAudio]

That's the idea. To make 'review' videos that sidestep the clichés of a desk and coloured lights. Besides, IEMs are designed to be used outdoors so why not shoot there?

[@grumpyginger7475]

Exactly why I will continue to buy LG phones, as long as they make them with an excellent DAC/AMP combo. I have been using the Sony MDR-EX650AP for years and haven't found anything I like better. On my third pair from Japan.

[@Sampardhanani]

What a quality video John. Really loved your serious opinion here which is a rare thing with reviewers . Its so good i am gonna see it again and again. Keep up the good work . You have a wonderful and talented team behind you . Cheers and best wishes .

[@lorcro2000]

Yeah, they definitely do. However, if you do need to take your good IEM's and make them wireless, you want to try either the FiiO BTR3 (my own daily driver and favorite) or the Earstudio ES100. The Earstudio even has a 2.5 mm balanced output on it. People who keep whining on and on about how bad Bluetooth sounds needs to connect a good pair of wired IEM's to one of those, and then listen. Over AptX HD or LDAC, (so an Android phone version 8 or higher) the sound is amazing. The amp in the BTR3 is also super quiet, low low noise floor, so zero hiss. Alternatively, there's the big daddy of Bluetooth amps, the FiiO Q5s with the optional THX AAA amp. Never heard it, and it's not a small unit to carry, but what a gorgeous piece of machined aluminium and feature set (and it will set you back $500, not $100-ish like the Earstudio, or $70 like the BTR3.) Also, not only can wired IEM's sound better than true wireless, they can do it cheaper. A BTR3 + Advanced Model 3's for $40 a pair will easily beat a pair of Jabra 65T on, well, everything. Sound quality and fit and even battery life. For a grand total of around $100. Also - these units have mic's so they work like headsets.

[@lorcro2000]

@@rvgnix Yeah, the FiiO M5 (which is kinda sorta the BTR5) looks good, and it can transmit Bluetooth as well as receive, and the amp is reportedly even better specced on noise floor, but the touch screen has gotten some flak. But, it's also a DAP, and still pretty darn cheap. And of course all these units also work as wired DAC/amps via USB.

[@dilbyjones]

Don’t forget Qudelix 5!

[@dilbyjones]

Harvey Nix Qudelix 5 totally killer , and I’ve been in this hobby for 3 years

[@MikeBissonthescribe]

I really enjoy these videos - the production quality and vibe are great. I usually don't prefer videos, but I usually watch yours.

[@beachbumis]

I bought my Klipsch S4 IEM many years ago and love them. Great content, thank you!

[@frog5104]

Kz as10 OMG only $40 and amazing sound also I’m waiting for my tin T4 in the mail can’t wait to hear them.

[@BijBijTCG]

You can make IEM's wireless with a detachable cable :) so for on the road is use wireless cable. And when im at work or school i take out the cable

[@thump3r]

i really appreciate this kind of video bc i tell people the same thing for years now and i always get a blank stare like i don't know what i'm talking about. then again i am talking to non audio people... just because you listen to music doesn't automatically make you a audio person.

[@aaronfriedman8201]

Of course you are right depending on the use. There are situations where wired would absolutely be the wrong choice. For example, I do very brisk walking of 4 miles a day. Anything in your ear in this situation can be bad. That is because it amplifies the ear bone noise by cutting of the ear from releasing sound pressure. As you stump your feet the noise level can be unsafe. Wires could also create additional microphonic noise to the ear. In this case wireless NC over the ear are best. I also find that to get the best bluetooth connection LDAC 990kb a dedicated player is much better than a phone. You will also need to equalize to adjust for frequency dilution that the NC has on sound. Phones have to much interference to keep a really stable 990kb connection.

[@Stormfury1403]

The 'JH Audio Layla' has remained my goto for a while now. It can do any genre and because it has 16 drivers, it plays dynamics with ease. It also pairs really well with the Mojo. If you can get your hands on one, I believe it's worth a review. I still try IEMs and I haven't found one I like more, yet.

[@panacheautomotive4298]

Try the Audiosense T800 8 drivers instead of 12 but tuned to perfection and only $300. They are my end game universal. The only thing I want now are a set of Customs either JH Audio or Audio 64.

[@MrLumx]

I have IE80 for 5 years now and still love them.

[@julian73de]

Love the whole "package" of your channel. Übrigens ist dein Deutsch sehr gut ;-)

[@DarkoAudio]

Danke. Mein Deutsch geht immer besser aber es braucht viel Zeit.

[@FatNorthernBigot]

Great video, with an inflammatory title. As an audiophile, I can't disagree, though.

[@peregrinodisastrado]

Big fan of your channel! You should give the blon bl03's a try. Absurdly cheap with an amazing sound. But put on other eartips and cable. The cable included tangles atrociously and the eartips hurt a bit after 2-3 hours of use

[@dilbyjones]

peregrinodisastrado yes!

[@Smittron]

Thanks for this review and please keep making these appealing videos. Out of curiosity I ordered a pair of Campfire IO and am very pleased with them. They're much better than anything I've used. I'm amazed at how much the different tips change both the comfort and sound.

[@MildEightnoon]

I love your videos, not only for the excellent Hi-Fi/Ear-Fi content but also remembering my trip to Berlin. What an amazing city. 💔

[@OpeoAslam]

I recently bought KZ ZS10 Pros and am really enjoying them with my ES100. I enjoyed them enough that I bought a better 16 core cable for it and the increase in detail is amazing. Replaced my old 1More quads with CCA C16s and couldn't be happier with them either. IEMs really do make music more enjoyable to listen to and I'm glad I've invested in them!

[@davidweinberg6711]

Great video John. Thanks as always. I have a pair of ancient (wired :) Shure SE-535s and I've been thinking about upgrading for a while. This video may push me over the edge... When I bought my SE-535s, I also ordered a pair of custom tips to go over the earpiece. It seems that's something to consider for perfect fitting IEMs.

[@chrish7540]

Hi John, I've lived with JH Audio Roxanne Universal IEM's using Moon-Audio Silver Dragon cables since 2013. I must say I haven't really felt the need to upgrade since I got them and they've never stopped working so I keep listening. The JH in the name is Jerry Harvey - he's one of the inventors of the IEM market, he previously founded Ultimate Ears which he sold to Logitech, and I think you'd actually enjoy his rock n roll sensibilities. He kits out a ton of top acts their IEM's on stage and I really like his tuning. If you're really into wired - you might want to check out Jerry's latest work. Regardless of what's on the new on the high end market these are some top flight IEM's he's been making for years. I'd recommend you check out his Universals (or if you're all in go custom) and if you want ultimate performance Drew at Moon-Audio makes compatible upgraded cables with single ended and balanced topologies that include the JH Audio Bass Pod that lets you dial in the bass to specifically what level you want which is another amazing feature that is useful to both the on stage rockstar that wants to squeeze that little bit of extra bass as well as the audiophile that wants to dial in their bass just slightly north of neutral (which is the 0 setting on the pod). I'm really glad you've reached this conclusion on wires because no matter where bluetooth has come so far - I just doesn't sound anywhere near as good as what I'm getting wired with you're previous bluetooth review I thought we'd lost you. Well done on the video.

[@HiFiInsider]

Sony IER-Z1r, Audeze LCD-i4, Westone W80 are my top IEMs.

[@AndrewWardell]

Bought the Rai Solo based on this review (took me years to get one but I got there back in May!) The 4.4mm cable is a bit nicer to live with than the bundled single-ended one. Thanks for the video John :)

[@yangarzon8994]

I love iem... specialy what Linsoul brought. Whole bunch of Chi Fi Brand that are doing very good quality sound iem. Rather get a btu module for wireless needs than listening to real wireless IEM. That said. Very Happy that you brought that subject . Thanks again. I really love all your topic and video

[@KKWongAndrew]

I am using iBasso DC02 with my Xperia One for 2 months. The sound is so good and even better than my LG G6. This is highly recommended when your phone do not have a 3.5mm jack

[@lazarosnikolaidis256]

VERY nice video! In topic, analysis and picture/coverage! Nice job Jana! Really dig the whole attitude towards Hifi/Hi-end, John! Two thumbs up! I listened your argumentation on cabled IEMs with attention. Sure thing, they probably sound better than wireless IEMs, but as you said, we need convenience as we commute. You cannot approach the phone's mic to your face in the train....Most of the times your hands must be free! Comfort and fit is another thing. It's crucial, ask me...I own a pair of Shure SE846s as of 2017 at ~900 euros here in Greece, and only the biggest foam ear-tips suit my small ears while get a nice isolation and bass deepness, but on the other hand it' like someone is trying to open my ears with a damn tool! So they are incredible and enjoying -as long as my ears can stand them! Btw, I noticed that Campfire's cables are far more comfortable, possibly they have MMCX plugs as my 846s. Maybe someone of you knows if they're compatible....I want to replace the awful Shure cable with something more comfortable & better in construction. A silver one maybe. Moon Audio Cables stopped the production of their Silver Dragon and was dissapointed. Fyi, the 846s are connected to my Mojo -a heavenly pair!- and then to my old Samsung S7 running USB Audio Player Pro. A SUPERB app for all Android users. I will be pleased if you comment on above. Thank you.

[@yogiwp_]

Shuoer Tape (daily driver--just amazing), Oriolus Finschi (for chillax), Tin P1 (for aggressive mood), BLON BL03/modded Tin T3 (for different flavors), JVC HA-FW01 (for that woody timbre).

[@mickeyparker]

Wonderful video and use of visuals to describe the different sound characters. I'm using a pair of $40 YinYoo V2's with the eartips from some cheap Sony earbuds which fit my ears perfectly. Yep, the perfect fit is crucial for optimal sound. Smashing video from Jana and John 🥰

[@praxis22]

New phone, OnePlus 7t, (Android) so it lacks a headphone jack. But OnePlus sell a connector for €6 (€9 delivered on Amazon) into which I have plugged my newest addition. The Venture Electronics Bonus. $5 on Ali-express. They are astounding. They have Bass punch, but they Excell at vocals. I've had them two days and listened to Mozart's Requiem mass on them twice yesterday. They're an ear bud, I put some soft foams on them for no fuss insertion. Highly recommend. However, I bought these for general purpose listening to KZbin, etc. For music, I carry around four wired IEM's The Tin HiFi P1, planar magnetic, hard to drive, very much "in your head" but magical with Adele's album 21, I have linsoul HC08 cable on them. The Blon bl03, Kbear 16 core cable,ikko iPlanet foam tips. these are fantastic with rock. Deep Bass. Wide stage. The Shoer tape, an electret/electrostatic, Kbear 16 core cable. When they work they're fantastic. They have a fairly unique presentation. They move instruments about, excellent detail, but live music seems to defeat them. The ikko OH10 a heavy IEM, made of copper with looks to die for. Linsoul Tripowin C8 Cable. These are the complete package. A deep and wide sound stage. A taut controlled Bass that is available only when needed, goes deep but doesn't bleed. A true gem. I also carry a Little Beat B4-X dual mono block Valve amp with replaceable op amps. Balanced output as well as SE, battery powered. All of this is driven by a Hidizs Sonata HD II DAC USB-C to 3.5" it has a lot of power. It replaced the Dragonfly black in my pocket. Can easily drive the P1 at 85% volume. USB Audio Player Pro app.

[@stu3232]

Awesome video mate. Love the tracks used in this one. I just bought a pair of Tin Hifi T4’s for 89 usd. Would guess they would knock those TWM’s out of the park as well.

[@duane9707]

Agree! I actually no longer use wireless IM's. Wired is the way to go. P.S. the camera work and video editing is fantastic!

[@maximilianerhard5196]

Great video. On a similar note, I personally much prefer the sound of my Meze Penta Rai connected to Chord‘s Mojo Poly streaming crappy Bluetooth from my iPhone to the sound I am getting from direct-wiring the IEMs to the iPhone‘s dongle. Here, it seems the lossy Bluetooth signal is more than made up for by the superior DAC and headphone amplification in the Chord. This was certainly surprising to me as I expected the opposite to be true. At least to my ears, the Mojo Poly Bluetooth wins

[@rationalmartian]

No, it actually makes perfect sense. The BTooth connection simply needs to transfer the encoded compressed data across the BTooth connection, where it can be then unencoded and sent to the far superior DAC, which then in turn sends it on to the far superior analogue stage, powered Amplification stage. I use superior as in comparatively to a phone. Though of course the Chord stuff in general is at a pretty decent level even amongst peers. If it is simply a dongle, it is utilising the crappy Apple IPhone inbuilt DAC, which in turn sends it to it's phone powered Amplification stage. Even Apple IPods, supposedly designed virtually solely for listening to music on are pretty damn shitty. Apple have never really given a toss. They rely mainly on image and marketting to move their stuff. The few IPods that were reputed to sound OK, were only like that through serendipity, not design. I recall one old IPod Nano, that is reputed to sound pretty good, as it just happened to use a particularly good Wolfson DAC chip in a particularly good way. It really is telling that the odd anomaly crops up like this, as opposed to the other way around, and having a few unfortunate mishaps. But then that's Apple for ya.

[@tpacalypse]

I've heard the Etymotic ER2XR. They sound so good. Best I've heard so far.

[@HugAFreak]

As you mention fit is everything with IEM's so I use a pair of UE 5 Pro customs which do also support a mic & phone calls!

[@Jrockin629]

My daily driver is the iBasso T01 with the ES100. It's a great compromise for "wireless" and IEM. I work 50% on the phone and no one ever complains. Soon the Qudelix 5K will come out and hopefully spur competition and growth in the niche DAC market.

[@pdcragin33]

+me on the value of the EarStudio. I couple them to IEM with a FIIO short MMCX cable, so as close to a TW experience as one can get. Yet it is STILL evident that TW IEM are far more convenient, so I don’t regret owning both.

[@troydonaldson]

I'm not even an audiophile, I'm more than happy with my Airpods Pro, but I like watching your reviews for the aesthetics and the music.

[@nerduard]

Akg n40 + audioquest dragonfly red. Sounding great but good fit is a must.

[@tremot7143]

Another great video, conveying the sound impressions of these IEMs very clearly. Also, plenty of information for enthousiasts and first-time buyers. Just took a chance on the TIN HiFi T4 and Shuoer Tape, since they seem not be lacking on any front in particular and for the money, why not? Two different flavors for around €200. I do the majority of my listening at home on HEDD Type 05s and Beyerdynamic DT1990s, so I'm use to detail in spades, but for IEMs, I'd rather have an exciting listen than a studio sound. For my type of commute or laying on the couch or in bed, I don't crave the neutrality, nor the isolation of something like Etymotics.

[@tronderikbrekke8792]

I'm very happy with my RHA t20 IEM. Outperforms any true wireless I've heard.

[@conraddevera]

Wish they made the cable replaceable. I want the T20 too (I have the 750 and I love it)

[@panacheautomotive4298]

@@conraddevera the wire is crap and that's just the beginning of the problems. I sill pen the T20i and while it sounds good it's easily beaten by my recently sold KZ Zs10pro. There only reason I sold them is when I showed a friend my Audiosense T800 he begged my to buy Zs10pro.

[@joedavenport3263]

Another brilliant Video. I agree with the wired iem,It’s the only way to fly.

[@renebalza265]

Great content as always, cheers

[@amadeuspaulussen]

I owned the M&D MW07s and liked them quite a bit. But I totally agree that wired IEMs sound much better. Personally I love the FiiO FA7. They are V shaped, fun sounding, great IEMs. :) Thanks for your videos!

[@Isaac_L..]

This video got me convinced to get rid of my WF-100xm3s and pick up some proper IEMs. Even though I didn’t go for any in the video (I got the P1s). Thanks for helping me improve my life.

[@rolandhunziker2275]

Wonderful shots of Berlin! My Shure SE215 are the best value for money Hi-Fi gear I ever bought. Neutral, relaxed sound. Compared them to the more expensive Shure IEM models at the dealer, to my ears they sounded better than the more expensive Shure models SE425 and SE535!

[@senior_ranger]

I like the visuals very much.

[@flyingcumshot]

Thank you, this is exactly what iv'e been wanting to know for a while now.

[@emrelsd]

Shooting the video on the streets of Berlin is a nice touch. Great shots.

[@DarkoAudio]

Thanks! Yeah, I think it looks great.

[@drivefive]

As always: Brillant video! Thanks for your effort and enthousiasm!

[@Nigel-nar53]

My only IEM's are Tin T3's great bang for the bucks. 👍

[@richardhernandez7741]

Most natural sounding wired IEMs - ETYMOTIC. Though the wires are not robust.

[@cine-ish]

The wires fall apart so quickly unfortunately

[@G3rain1]

There's a guy on Head-fi forums who will make you a good custom cable for them for around $40. User name is ClieOS.

[@zed57]

Such a great video, thanks for making it.

[@fairyball3929]

The only I guess... pair of IEMs that I feel comfortable sharing notes about is my Fiio F9 with the 3.5mm single-ended cable, and it's the first time that I've worn IEMs. I've only had these for 3.5 months, but there's a good deal of bass and that treble is smoooooth. The midrange can be a bit much, and sometimes video game soundtracks (Super Paper Mario, Sonic games, etc.) can sound a bit hollow, and I have to take the volume down at around 500hz by 0.5db-1db. Pretty good pair of IEMs for traveling as well. These pair well with the ifi idsd nano, and with the nano through it's IEMatch port, the treble isn't as pronounced, so brighter sounds, and male vocals will end up sounding more relaxed and balanced.

[@vermin4317]

The Sennheiser Momentum TW is considered the best truly wireless iem´s when it comes to audio performance. Would be cool if you checked them out-

[@GBO76]

You have to understand that True Wireless IEM have to include, in each earbud : the speaker + the amplifier + the dac + the battery. In 2019, it's still too much to ask for them to produce a sound to compete with any good wired iem. I've listen to the Sony wf-1000xm3, Sennheiser Momentum, Cambridge Audio Melomania, Lypertek Tevi...NONE of them can match the audio qualities of cheap wired IEM like the Tin Audio T2 or the slightly more expensive CCA C16. And this is not just a question of personal tastes, or because of the compression related to the BT transmission (AAC isn't that bad after all, but SBC is). True Wireless IEM are incredibly usefull, and their sound quality is now more than OK for most users (I do run with Jabra 65t and I'm really enjoying listening music with them). But they are still technically very limited compared to good wired IEM, when it comes to audio.

[@vik4975]

@@GBO76 the sony wf 1000xm3s sound so good. You saying the tin t2s sound better? Welp, im waiting on my t2 order hopefully im satisfied. My first ever iem

[@TheJrosen520]

@@vik4975 No they don't returned mine

[@krzysztofs3t532]

Hi, I'v spend quite a lot of time listening variety of IEM's in this years Audio Video Show in Warsaw. I wantet to buy Fiio FH7, but after listetning I'v lost my confidence, that it will be the right choice for me. I'v listen Meze IEM's - too muddy for me, and then, accidentally I walked to Ikko show desk. They have only two IEMs at the moment. And I was totally blown away after listening Ikko OH10. They were A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! Not too bright, not too muddy, space and soundstage was huuuuge, and the mids, oh man, the mids were like gold with honey :) Now, few weeks later I have my own pair of Ikko OH10. I'm using it with Audioquest Red and with Symbio eartips, and even with the stock cable (which is crap) they sound outstanding and far above its price range. You need to try them :)

[@akhtar10x80]

Yessss! Ikko OH10 are amazing! I own a pair and never want to take them off.

[@knutjarks6766]

The sure SE215 is a great budget IEM. I'd love comparisons of high quality sound low budget monitors - not just iEM but also speakers. Beautiful content as always!

[@Flavius7]

FIIO FH7 and you won't need anything else!👍 Good video!

[@ChristopheChardon]

The Bargain of the century : The BLON BL-03 , a remarquable (on the bassy side) 30 box pair of IEM's. Spacious with refined treble and powerful non leaking base line (too powerful with some recordings)

[@mehmetgurdal]

well its design and accesorries sucks SKC-CNT1 looks better in my opinion, i would love to try the blon with that design.

[@thirdkey9]

I combined my Meze’s reviewed here with the dragonfly cobalt and am extremely pleased with this combination and the experience. For those who appreciate Grados like the 325’s, the Meze’s may be your fit and aligned headphone.

[@housepianist]

Another reviewer said the same thing about these Meze’s having a Grado-like sound signature and among all my iem’s, I own the 325’s so now I’m very intrigued.

[@morganrowe]

Beautifully shot video, kudos 🤙

[@Andrew-qb3oq]

ofcourse they do, I've been using shure in-ears for probably 15 years. I absolutely love MMCX connectors and the like. I will say I've recently starting using bluetooth 5.0 wireless adapters for my MMCX in-ears and I've been pleasantly surprised. Its not wired, but its good enough for most mobile listening applications. The best part is I can still use the same SE535s i've been using for over a decade.

[@Sailingbill1]

Great video! Love the music as well. Nice tour of Berlin!

[@Dpace111]

Wonderful Video John, I just picked up a pair of 'Cardas A8' and they sound absolutely fantastic. Highly recommended.

[@BunnyslippersEUC]

A few weeks a go I went to a hifi show. I demoed 3 IEM's for 90 minutes. I used my Rupert Neve RNHP with HRT Musicstreamer3. And I used my Dragonfly Black and Aune B1S. I tried the Meze Rai Solo. But it sounded a bit sharp to my ears with the Rupert. My Aune in Class A mode sounds warmer+smoother and tamed the highs of the Meze. I tried the Earsonics Blade, a new affordable model, and for the price it sounded good. I also tried the Earsonics Grace. The best sounding IEM of the three. It sounds so effortless. It's very detailed and very expensive.

[@mrheru8627]

Comfort and Freedom = TWS Sound, Details & Purist = Wired iem I love both.... switching back & forth between tws & wired

[@panacheautomotive4298]

When the KZ e10 is re-released I plan in getting them.

[@kokhoongcheah8440]

I went to try IO and Polaris today, they really do sound so different.

[@canalmarcelcarvalho]

I agree 100% in that the fit is extremely important... I say that an IEM is 50% the fit & accessories (cable, tips, case etc) and 50% the sound.

[@Tikichef]

Well done, thx - I like my Moondrop KXXS with a better cabel from Fearless Audo (70 €) and the Dragonfly Cobalt. Really nice and not too expensive! (The new TRN 5BA is good, too and cheaper. I also like the Shuoer H27. Better cable do change the sound, finetuning possible! You see, I am a Chinafindelity guy from Munich. ;)

[@hpol3603]

I have the Sennheiser Momentum true wireless in ear and Apple Airpods gen 2. I use the Momentum when I workout, cables are not good at the gym. I use the Airpods when I’m watching videos at home. The Sennheiser sounds miles better when listening to music. But when you compare it to the TinHifi P1 in ear they cant keep up in terms of natural timbre/tambre and detail across the whole spectrum.

[@danielgeiger7739]

I have both the Etymotic ER4SR and the ER4XR. The noise isolation with the 3 flange tips is amazing. At work they complain that I don't react when I drown out surrounding sound. I use them with a Dragonfly Cobalt, and like the combo quite a bit. The difference between red and cobalt is around 20-25% better (100% = MacBook Pro or iPhone built-in DAC to DF red), listening to FLACs through PureMusic on MB or Flacbox on iPhone. I am rather bass averse (my regular cans are Grado R2s on a Woo WA6 SE), and I am a bit torn between which of the ER4s I like better. Depends a bit on the mood, and whether I feel more punchy with bass on the XR, or more relaxed with flat response of the SR. Re noisy cable, I think this is mostly because of the excellent isolation from environmental sounds, so I don't need to turn up volume much to hear music over external sounds to just hear my music. The downside is that then the faint cable sound is proportionally stronger.

[@pkpnyt4711]

I think the Focal Sphear / Sphear S is fantastic for the price. It is also slightly V-shaped, has outstanding bass (use the foam tips and not the rubber ones) very clear in the highs and can be had for even cheaper than $50 now. The great thing about this is, you can use it to take calls and control your mobile phone while getting a great sound. I've had this for over a year and I've had no issues with it. It's better than the SE215/315 and RE400 and even personally better sounding than some mid-fi headphones.

[@janarthanansubramanian5004]

Agree.... Also I love the RHA CL2 Planar... very underrated.....And then the KZ ZSX.....

[@charda00]

Teddy swims on the intro...lovely👍