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DUNU TITAN 1 Earphones – Expert Review and Video

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DUNU TITAN 1 Review

The DUNU Titan 1 is also featured in our Best in-ear headphones to buy in 2015 – Expert Reviews 

DUNU TITAN 1 - Hifiheadphones.co.uk

Introduction

The DUNU TITAN 1 earphone is a lightweight and stylish medium priced IEM with some innovative design features. The DUNU brand appeared about three years ago with a small range of IEMs that instantly impressed. Cleverly built housings and a compelling grip on balanced yet engaging sound instantly caught our attention. DUNU have actually been building earphones and acoustic equipment for other brands since 1994, which goes a long way to explaining this Chinese manufacturers depth of knowledge and design skill. TITAN 1 are a great example of this new brands dedication to moving earphone design forward. Containing a 13mm Titanium coated driver with an angled nozzle surrounded by innovatively placed venting – which may well be the first design of its kind. We’re expecting to see similar designs in the future, as we’ll confirm later on in this review the results for an earphone at this price are sonically spectacular.

Build quality

From the moment you touch the metal driver housing it becomes apparent that the TITAN 1 has been engineered incredibly well. In terms of a sturdy build metal is a no brainer but if implemented badly an earphone can either be far too heavy – leading to fit problems – or if too thin, actually less durable than plastic. DUNU have this balance just right. The shiny and beautifully finished conical earpieces are ringed by metallic red and blue markers for left and right. With high quality 2 ply silicone tips on the nozzle side and well though out strain relief on the other, it’s very hard to pick any fault with practicality or looks here. The top portion of the cable has a soft rubberised coating which is not particularly microphonic when moving around. The Y splitter is attractive and practical with more metal and a wonderfully clever toggle (should you wish to wear them cable up) that caps the splitter like a bottle top when out of use. The remainder of the cable has a very tight nylon weave cover leading to a small and handy cable tidy and eventually a metal capped gold plated right angle jack unit. The strain relief here and at the Y slitter looks and feels sturdy without becoming obstructive.

Fit and Isolation

Fit, as always, is very much down to the users ears. Having said that, the conical housings and angled nozzle sat inside the ear snugly, feeling comfortable and anchored whilst protruding very little. I would not be surprised if this were the case for the vast majority of users. The angled nozzle prevents you from rotating the housings in the ear but the lengthy strain relief means the cable is happy curving round over the top of the ear or dangling down. Unfortunately the clever venting (we will get round to talking about how impressive that is later) does mean there is a little more leakage of sound, in and out, than traditionally expected. We found the supplied silicone ear tips provide an excellent seal and are comfortable too.

Sound

The TITAN 1 has a balanced type EQ which doesn’t purposely favour top or bottom end. There is a sense of the typical gentle smile curve with lightly recessed mids, a bit of bass punch and thump and some lovely air and silver to the top end.

Lows

Despite giving the feel that they can reach really low this isn’t overplayed, bass roll off is really well managed. Bass is deep but textured and subtle, there really isn’t much flab to speak of. Free of mud and cardboard tones as they transition to the lower mids, it’s all clean and well defined at the bottom. It’s a good balance which compliments contemporary music whilst gently stroking acoustic instruments and older dynamic recordings.

Mids

The mids are simply superb. Vocals and instruments in this region feel realistic and natural, there’s warmth but it’s handled with care. The outcome is a really pleasant and engaging vibe that defines the characteristics of this quick and nimble earphone.

Highs

There is plenty of energy in the highs but it rolls off comfortably, you couldn’t really describe the TITAN 1 as bright but that Titanium driver is performing a bit of magic here. There’s good air and space and just enough metallic brightness to deliver a fresh realistic feel with a bit more fine detail than you would normally expect from a dynamic driver.

Soundstage, Imaging and Separation

Soundstage is surprisingly wide and a bit further back than most in ears. This gives a bit of an upside down U shape to the image adding a taller broader scale than expected.

Sound Conclusions

The TITAN 1 have weight and authority but also enough bright power to sound refreshing and airy. Imaging better than more expensive earphones, they could still have a darker background and better detail retrieval but the combination of the Titanium driver and the completely individual venting system seems to be performing a minor sonic miracle. This venting is the subject of much discussion online, some believe the sound escaping here is vibrating the surface of the outer ear mirroring the way the ear receives normal room sound. The superb EQ and natural yet fun presentation prevents you from noticing the finer shortcomings. Sound-wise they conjure an exciting, easy going and vibrant presentation which is hard to criticise.

Accessories and Packaging

Packaged in a sturdy and attractive box, DUNU include some interesting information about themselves and their manufacturing ideas. Accessories are generous with three pairs of narrow bored silicone ear tips with red cores and three pairs of wide bored tips with blue cores and three pairs of what look like Sony hybrid tip clones. There’s also a 3.5mm to 6.3mm jack adaptor, a useful shirt clip and a smart hard case to keep it all in.

Conclusion

The TITAN 1 are shockingly good for their price. They’re a superb example of how far medium priced headphones can be pushed by an innovative manufacturer with big ideas. Although they don’t scale the heady heights of today’s crop of high end IEMs, they more than hold their own in the under £100 category. With their good looks, a beautifully implemented Titanium driver and totally individual take on venting, the TITAN 1 finds a natural, exciting and fluid sound which may make them the very best buy for anyone shopping at this price point.

The DUNU Titan 1 is also featured in our Best in-ear headphones to buy in 2015 – Expert Reviews 

Best in-ear headphones to buy in 2015 – Expert Reviews – See more at: http://www.hifiheadphones.co.uk/reviews/best-in-ear-headphones-2015-review-2015/#sthash.SkMK3Ygf.dpuf

Price: £89.99

Final Audio Heaven VIII Earphones Review

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Final Audio Heaven VIII – Pacific Rim Bling

Pros

Audio quality is superb
Build quality to match

Cons

Non-removeable cable
No angled jack

 

Hifiheadphones Quick Verdict

This is one of the most desireable IEMs we have ever tested here,truly stunning!

Check out our Best In Ear Headphones 2015 Review to see if the Heaven VIII’s are in the list!!

Intro

Just as Dante’s inferno has many levels, so too must Final Audio’s Heaven series; each ascending to a new higher level of auditory eternity. Given that the entry-level Heaven II is no mere cherub in the sound quality stakes, what can be expected from the glitzy Heaven VIII, and how might it differ from its shadowy brother, the Heaven VII?

 

Key Features

As with most fine things, the Final Audio Heaven VIII stands on its own merits and distractions are kept at a minimum in the box; spare eartips are included along with a protective case only. Final Audio’s BAM (balanced air movement) technology gives the single balanced armature design an extended lower frequency response when compared with other similar designs; leading to both a very cohesive and natural sound.

 

First Impressions

The golden good looks of the Final Audio Heaven VIII are a clear clue as to the sound and the build quality. The flat ribbon cable is non-removeable but is strong with good strain reliefs at each end, and the 3.5mm jack will fit into recessed headphone sockets, such as that found on the excellent Chord Hugo DAC/amp.

Final Audio’s presentation makes the Heaven VIII no less desireable; a sumptuous case with furry lining ensures the Heaven VIII arrives relaxed and ready to perform at its best. In the box, a quality foam-lined metal case ensures the Heaven VIII can be transported in a pocket without risk of damage.

 

Sound Quality

Unlike the more neutral Final Audio Heaven VII, the Heaven VIII is tuned with a richer and more vibrant frequency response for a lusher sound. Like all of the Heaven range, there’s virtually no stridence or discomfort for sensitive ears, but detail is reproduced with no compromise. Bass is fully represented (thanks to Final Audio’s ‘BAM’ technology) without getting too big for its boots, midrange is crystal clear and uncluttered, with treble as smooth as silk, yet superbly detailed.

 

A special effort is required to keep any dignity the wearer might want to hang on to; the temptation to start dancing is great with the Heaven VIII! Soundstage too is incredible; for IEMs, the Heaven VIII comes close to full-size headphones. Imaging and separation is razor sharp also, instuments leap out and reverb decays really give an idea of real space.

 

Summary

Final Audio has earned itself a fanbase the world over, thanks to the wonderful IEMs and full size headphones it produces; the Heaven VIII is a shining example (literally) of the sort of talent they have at the company. All models other than the more neutral ones are so musical and enjoyable, they need to be tried to be believed!
Score 9.5/10

Check out our Best In Ear Headphones 2015 Review to see if the Heaven VIII’s are in the list!!

Best In Ear Headphones 2015 – Review

 

 

Best in-ear headphones to buy in 2015 – Expert Reviews

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Best In Ear Headphones Of 2015

Our audio gurus have collected the best in ear headphones from under £50 to over £500 in 2015 and reviewed them all to help you choose. From established brands like Shure and Sennheiser, to new kids on the block like DUNU and FIDUE, below you can check out our best rated headphones from the year so far.

Scroll down for in depth reviews of our favourite in-ear headphones this year so far.

Shop: Visit our in-ear earphones store

More Info: Best portable on-ear headphones review

 

Best In Ear Headphones Under £50

DUNU DN-12 Trident

We had to keep reminding ourselves that the DUNU DN-12 in-ears cost less than £50. The packaging is nicely finished and when you get inside you find a good quality leatherette bag, plenty of different eartips, a cable clip and even a Karabina belt clip.

The headphones themselves are extremely well built. The driver housing is made from titanium which feels great and has a good amount of weight. The cable feels tough and isn’t flimsy, this ends in a smartly designed angled jack connection – you even get a cable tidy designed by DUNU included

Bass is deep and punchy without being boomy, midrange is slightly recessed with high frequencies well balanced; there’s a slight roll-off for those who like a warmer sound signature.

Hifiheadphones verdict:

Punchy with tight bass and crisp detail, the DUNU DN-12 looks and sounds incredible for the price. A real budget winner!

Our full review can be found here: DUNU DN-12 Trident In  Ear Headphone Review

DUNU DN-12 Trident In-Ear Isolating Headphone Review – See more at: http://www.hifiheadphones.co.uk/reviews/dunu-dn-12-trident-in-ear-isolating-earphones-review/#sthash.k4fb5q4C.dpuf
DUNU DN-12 Trident In Ear Isolating Earphones – Review – See more at: http://www.hifiheadphones.co.uk/reviews/dunu-dn-12-trident-in-ear-isolating-earphones-review/#sthash.k4fb5q4C.dpuf
DUNU DN-12 Trident In Ear Isolating Earphones – Review – See more at: http://www.hifiheadphones.co.uk/reviews/dunu-dn-12-trident-in-ear-isolating-earphones-review/#sthash.k4fb5q4C.dpuf

 

SoundMAGIC E10S

From the start it is hard to believe that the E10S is under £40. The packaging is smart and of a very high quality – once opened you find plenty of spare ear tips and an attractive hard case. Holding the earphones you can feel how well made they are and the innovative switch on the jack plug will let you set the earphones to work with any smartphone – you would not expect technology like this on such a modestly priced earphone.

The E10S comes with ‘Smart Switch’  (Hense the added S to the Model Number) making it compatible with all smartphones, the E10S incorporates this ingenious user adjustable switch enabling control of Apple as well as Android smartphones. Owners of multiple smartphones can easily swap between devices to control call answer and end functions without compromise, and to top it all it comes in a choice of colours.

For those who don’t need the microphone the SoundMAGIC E10 is also available without microphone for £10 less.

And for those with a little more to spend, consider the new SoundMAGIC E50.  The E50 is a very similar design, but with improved driver (giving more detailed sound) and Comply tips supplied as standard.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

If you have £40 to spend on some new earphones then go for the SoundMAGIC E10 – if you need an in-line microphone then go for the E10S.  Easy! These earphones are our default recommendation at this price point.

Our full review can be found here:  SoundMAGIC E10S In Ear Headphone Review

 

Shure SE112

Shure’s addition to the sub £50 earphone range is very impressive. They are very well built with a tough cable and solid speaker housing. The sound rolls off slightly at the top which takes away any harsh frequencies and the bottom end has plenty of punch!

The Shure SE112 are a great alternative to the award winning SoundMAGIC E10 – especially if you prefer a mellower presentation.

For a more professional in-ear monitor design we also recommend the Shure SE215 – tight bass, crisp mids and great soundstage.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

The Shure SE112 has punchy bass and smooth top end detail. They are very comfortable with great isolation and they are tougher than most. IF you ned a built in Mic you Shure have now produced the Shure SE 112M+ for all smartphone options.

Our full review can be found here: Shure SE112 In Ear Headphone Review

 

Best In Ear Headphones Under £100

Sennheiser Momentum In Ear

When it comes to the sound, the Momentum In-Ear compares well with its full-size Momentum sibling. Detail is high without sibilance or discomfort; harmonics are brought out for a very real sense of musicality.

Soundstage is surprisingly broad for an in-ear model and imaging is coherent and sharp. Overall, the sound is fairly typical of Sennheiser’s recent offerings; in terms of full size headphones at least. When compared to older lines such as the soon to be axed CX300, the sound is drastically improved and shows that this old dog still has some new tricks!

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

Momentum in-ear – For the asking price, the Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear is incredible value; giving great sound as well as swish styling and all in a very rugged and classy looking case.

Our full review can be found here: Sennheiser Momentum In Ear Headphone Review


DUNU Titan 1

This is a very special earphone that challenges the big brands with both finish and sound quality.  We think the DUNU Titan 1 is arguably the best in ear headphone available under £100.

An ideal solution for fans of the wide sound of open-backed headphones, but who require more isolation. The bass is tight and solid, providing thumping drive when needed.

Soundstage is greatly enhanced by the innovative vented design.  One theory is that the energy coming through the holes in the earphone housing (not through the eartip) is felt by the concha, or bowl of the ear. Just as in real life, when sound energy is focused by the ear into the ear canal, it creates a light sensation on that part of the ear which the Titan 1 design mimics with great success.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

Yet another triumph from DUNU-Topsound. Bright crisp and clear with big bass. These shiny little IEMs are comfy as well as crisp and airy sounding, The finish and materials are high end making this earphone a solid choice for those looking for something special.

Our full review can be found here: DUNU TITAN 1 In Ear Headphone Review

 

Best In Ear Headphones Under £150

Final Audio Design Heaven IV

Heaven IV achieves the truest possible expression of live concert hall sound.With the incorporated balancing air movement mechanism the earphone body design has evolved into an uncomplicated, slender structure.

Final Audio Design’s special BAM (Balancing Air Movement) mechanism, optimises air movement inside the housing, has pushed the evolution of earphone body design to the next level with a simpler structure and slimmer body. The result is a balanced, natural sound that reduces unwanted sibilant high-frequency sounds.

The Heaven IV is handmade by Japanese sound engineers with a full-focus on ideal sound with no compromises.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

Final Audio Design have managed to create an earphone that not only looks great, but sounds it too! You get a refined sound with clear and textured detail as well as deep, tight bass. The flat cable design has also been well thought through, it is very durable and eliminates tangles and microphonics.

 

Best In Ear Headphones Under £300

Fidue A83 Hybrid

Fidue is another of those makers who are peppering the market with all sorts of models at various pricepoints, and the A83 occupies their top spot just now. Despite sharing its name with a minor road up in Scotland, the Fidue A83 is warm, fast and hardly ever congested. The Fidue A83 can however bring you to ‘The Mull of Kintyre’ as well if you really want to go that far.

The left and right sides are denoted by the blue and red housings of the Fidue A83; they simply beg to be worn and seem to offer a fun experience just by looks alone. Supplied tips are what can be expected for a model in this price category; there’s a good range along with the nearly ubiquitous free Complyfoam tips and the accompanying carry case is a chunky ‘Pelican’ style along with a hard foam winder/storage insert that will certainly protect the earphones.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

Great sound quality, superb cabling- this  hybrid driver earphone has come from nowhere to capture the hearts of audiophile listeners in 2015.

Our full review can be found here: Fidue A83 Hybrid In Ear Review

 

Best In Ear Headphones Over £500

DITA Audio Truth Edition

Machined from solid aluminium, the capsules are designed to avoid adding their own colouration to the sound, and are weighted to lean into the ear for greater comfort and a better seal. They aren’t heavy but just weighty enough to let you know they mean business, and the cable is reassuringly stout.

The Answer Truth Edition is a dynamically driven IEM with a single 10mm driver; Dita Audio wanted to go for the simplest design in order to deliver the purest audio. Since balanced armature technology requires crossovers, multiple drivers and all the related gubbins, Dita went for the less complicated dynamic route. And why not? We’ve all been shown the power and finesse of the dynamic principle through Sennheiser’s excellent IE800s.

Soundstage and imaging are first class, and the use of a headphone amp can really add the cherry to the cake in terms of realism.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

The Truth Edition is not cheap, but then the best things in life often aren’t, these are incredible earphones with a crazy over engineered cable. Aluminium monsters that are powerful yet precise.

Also available is the Dita Audio Answer IEM, using the same driver and housing as the Dita Truth Edition but with a simpler cable option.

Our full review can be found here: DITA Audio Truth Edition In Ear Headphone Review


Final Audio Design Heaven VIII

This is a very special earphone that pushes the boundaries of in-ear headphone design.

The FAD Heaven VIII is tuned with a rich and vibrant frequency response for a lusher sound. Like all of the Heaven range, there’s virtually no stridence or discomfort for sensitive ears, but detail is reproduced with no compromise.

Bass is fully represented (thanks to Final Audio’s ‘BAM’ technology) without getting too big for its boots; midrange is crystal clear and uncluttered, with treble as smooth as silk, yet superbly detailed.

A special effort is required to keep any dignity the wearer might want to hang on to; the temptation to start dancing is great with the Heaven VIII! Soundstage too is incredible; for IEMs, the Heaven VIII comes close to full-size headphones. Imaging and separation are razor sharp also, instruments leap out and reverb decays really give an idea of real space.

Also check out the Heaven VIII’s little brother the Heaven VII.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

Final Audio has earned itself a fanbase the world over, thanks to the wonderful IEMs and full size headphones it produces; the Heaven VIII is a shining example (literally) of the sort of talent they have.  Both stunning to look at and even prettier to hear, these handcrafted beauties are among the best earphones you will ever be able to buy.

Our full review can be found here: Final Audio Design VIII – Review


Sennheiser IE800

The IE800 are Sennheisers new flagship audiophile earphones. Featuring a linear-phase driver system that achieves distortion-free audio even at high sound pressure levels. Surely Sennheisers most innovative portable music solution, the IE800 meets the demands of portable audio with truly superb sound and comfort.

The extra wide band transducer system, with a diameter of just 7mm is the smallest wide-band driver system currently available in dynamic earphones. Innovative vent holes in the housing of the IE800 direct the air flow resulting in minimal distortion levels. Sennheiser’s revolutionary dampened two chamber absorbers eliminate the masking of low volume frequencies by absorbing the energy from the louder low-frequency sounds.
Build quality is amazing, scratch-resistant ceramic housing, stainless steel air vents and Kevlar coated audio cable, the IE800 is built to last. Two special meshes protect the IE800 against residue and contamination.

The package includes 5 pairs silicone eartips in different sizes, premium leather carrying case, a cleaning tool and instruction manual.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

Brimming with ground-breaking technologies the IE800 are the ultimate IEM for bass lovers. Big warm and powerful sounding, beautifully engineered with an ergonomic and attractive design, these are very special IEMs.

 

John from the sales team gives you a visual rundown of our top 10 best in ear headphones of 2015:

DUNU Titan 1 Earphone Review

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DUNU Titan 1 Review – Probing Deep Space

Pros

  • Good solid stainless steel construction
  • Good quality metal 90 degree jack
  • Sounds crisp, fun and wide
  • Branded pocket sized hard case

Cons

  • Can be worn down only, not over ear.

Hifiheadphone Verdict

An ideal solution for fans of the wide sound of open-backed headphones, but who require more isolation. The bass is tight and solid, providing thumping drive when needed. Details are excellent for a half open in ear headphone.

Intro

Prolific in-ear maker Dunu-Topsound is back with more bad news for other manufacturers; the Titan 1. Perhaps taking inspiration from several similar designs which give a wider sound through porting, the Dunu Titan 1 headphones come with eartips which seal, and to great effect!

Key Features

Eleven holes on each capsule housing allow any internal sound reflections to escape, making the audio feel clear, light and fast. A titanium coated diaphragm greatly improves treble on this open style in ear while a range of eartips provide a decent seal to give you deep insightful bass, plus the branded hard case will provide protection while also being a practical pocket size.

First Impressions

DUNU’s designs are varied, and this one is a first for me – the impression when holding them is of luxury bathroom equipment. Maybe it’s the solid stainless steel construction, or the smattering of tiny holes in the housing making it look like a shower head. They could have named this model ‘Triton 1’. But there is nothing wet about these earphones, they just scream excellence.

Sound Quality

The Titan 1 seals very well in the ear, due to the design there’s a limit to how deep in the ears the Titan 1 can be inserted. Bass is very well balanced and puts a weighty feel under everything, the midrange is clear and cohesive and treble is crisp and clean without causing problems with sibilance. There does appear to be a gap or dip between the low-mid and bass regions; this is not a problem where clarity in the midrange is concerned but might be missed by some.

Soundstage is greatly enhanced by the design. One theory is that the energy coming through the holes in the housing (not through the eartip) is felt by the concha, or bowl of the ear. Just as in real life, when sound energy is focused by the ear into the ear canal, it creates a light sensation on that part of the ear which the Titan 1 design mimics with great success.

Summary

Yet another triumph from DUNU-Topsound – the Titan 1 gives a very convincing spacious presentation while also isolating the wearer from outside noise. They have a fun sound signature which has a slight bass enhancement, without losing the detail or sparkle in your music tracks, so they never seem to lose their balance.

Score 9/10

SoundMAGIC E30 Pro-Fit In Ear Headphones

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The SoundMAGIC E30 Pro-Fit In Ear Headphones

 

What happens after Christmas and New Year, we all start to feel the need to hit the gym, but this can be such a tiresome chore, slogging away on the running machine for hour after hour, or bursting your lungs spinning away mile after mile on an exercise bike.

Well why not take you music with you to keep the spirits up and keep your ears entertained.It’s no fun listening to the sound of the pounding muscles around you when you could be listening to your favourite tracks.
The SoundMAGIC E30 offers well balanced, accurate sound at a price that is hard to beat . They have an an in-ear monitor (IEM) design, which is normally reserved for much more expensive earphones (i.e. see earphones from Shure, Sennheiser, etc).

 

The cabling is designed to run up and over the ears to the back of the neck, which means the ear buds stay very securely in your ear, and the wires stay out of your way. This fit system works very well for sports, on stage in-ear monitoring or any situation where you are active.
The SoundMAGIC E30 is robustly built, with well made cables and good strain relief to protect the cabling from being damage. They come supplied plenty of different size ear tips to ensure you get a good in-ear fit. You could even get the Comply T-400 Foam Tips which would give you the best possible comfort and noise isolation.

Hifiheadphones verdict:

Sound quality with the SoundMAGIC E30 is exceptional considering the reduced price point and compares well with earphones costing two, three even four times as much. The sound is well balanced for an earphone at this price point, with well defined bass and a high level of accuracy through the mids and highs.

 

Tiesto Clublife Headphones by Audiofly

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The Audiofly Tiesto Clublife Range – Now in Stock

Tiësto is a DJ and Musician who has transcended musical genres to create the global “Tiësto” brand and now he has his own headphones. His achievements include: a Grammy nomination, numerous MTV awards, performing at the opening ceremony of the 2004 Athens Olympic Games to an audience of billions, he even has a wax statue at Madame Tussauds!

With over 18 million friends on Facebook, 3 million followers on Twitter, over 500 million views (and 1.5 million subscribers) on YouTube, Tiësto is truly a universal phenomenon. Voted ‘The Greatest DJ Of All Time’ by Mixmag and the #1 DJ by Rolling Stone Magazine, Tiësto has worked with superstars such as Kanye West, Coldplay, Katy Perry, Nelly Furtado, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Goldfrapp and many more.

By partnering with Audiofly, Tiësto has drawn on a company whose expertise in product design and audio engineering sits atop the industry. The results of this partnership are pretty amazing.

The Clublife Headphone Range

Paradise – £29.99

Every track is a journey of emotions, packed with the ear candy you crave. Paradise boasts a full, balanced sound to capture the feel of the club and take you there everyday.

Maximal – £59.99

Engulfing and larger than life, Maximal is your sonic entourage. Be transported and experience detailed layers of texture, effortless precision and a punchy bass for that explosive drop.

Adagio – £149.99

Powered by dual driver technology, Adagio is your VIP access to a place where extraordinary things happen. Immerse your senses in an eternity pool of mindblowing sound, where stunning detail meets heart-pounding exhilaration.

 

 

LINDY HF-100 Headphones Review – Low Cost, High Value.

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 LINDY HF-100 Hi-Fi Headphones Review – Low Cost – High Value.

Verdict

In return for money spent, the sound quality that the Lindy HF-100 Premium Hi-Fi Headphone puts out is no less than stunning. When guessing what these headphones cost, we overshot like England penalty-takers; we never guessed that this sound would be available for well under £100. If you want to keep someone convivial, buy them these headphones and you will have a friend for life; albeit a very preoccupied one. Perfect for use at home or on the move, but an amp or dedicated music player is required. At 60ohms impedance/100dB sensitivity these will not be sufficiently powered by a phone alone for example.

Pros

  • Ridiculously Good Value
  • Comfortable
  • Travel Case
  • Alternative earpads
  • Removeable cable
  • A taste of audiophilia for under £100!

Cons

  • Not suitable for use straight from a phone
  • Cable runs to both left and right earcups

Intro

Headphones for £100 and under have been a mixed bag generally; at this price point, designs have been compromised in some way in order to keep down costs and the more substanial the headphones looked, the more substandard they sounded. So with all this baggage the Lindy HF-100 had its work cut out and impressed us despite it all.

Key Features

Being a full size headphone, the Lindy HF-100 includes the expected accessories such as jack adaptor and storage case but with a nice pair of alternative earpads too – these are a little firmer than the earpads which are fitted to the headphones when new and will change the sound signature, try these if the original pads do not suit you.

First Impressions

The Lindy HF-100 is a low-cost full size headphone from the Lindy brand, a name perhaps linked with a plethora of gadgets, connectors and peripherals. Our surprise at how good these headphones sound may have been partly due to them being new on the headphone scene, but now that they have come out again for this review I have only the cost in mind, and we’re still delighted.

Sound Quality

The Lindy HF-100 Premium Hi-Fi Headphone has a fun sound; very engaging, and with a decent bass. Not woolly and voluminous, but well controlled and balanced. They respond very well to EQ, the bass boost on my FiiO E12 not being lost on them. Midrange is clear and spacious, with a good amount of detail. Higher up in the midrange the sound is a little uncompromising in terms of stiffness – there is no peak here to cause the listener discomfort but the HF-100 can seem a little starchy and unyielding where a more expensive headphone would be smooth, for example the SoundMAGIC HP-150. With good quality recordings this is a minor detail, but low bitrates and poor recordings may get fatiguing to listen to after a while.

Summary

As with everything you get what you pay for. Although I should make that ‘most things’ as there are exceptions to this rule; not least the Lindy HF-100. A while ago, I would have expected to achieve a sound like this if I were to spend £150 or over. But not any more.

Score 8.5

 

 

Brainwavz S5 IEM Headphones Review – It’s A No Brainer?

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Verdict

I once thought that when it comes to budget earphone reviews, a jaded attitude would eventually begin to creep in. Surely there’s a limit to how many of these in-ear headphones one can try before it all gets a bit dull! However, I’m glad to find that I can still get bucket loads of enjoyment out of trying earphones such as this. The Brainwavz S5 are bags of fun with a warm and friendly presentation and they have loads of room with a generous soundstage. For the asking price the Brainwavz S5 is a fantastic sounding headphone; being new does not make it average, as we’ve seen with recent debutants such as DUNU-Topsound and Fidue. There are a couple of minor gripes such as the ‘left’ and ‘right’ markers being tiny and the y-split strain relief on the cable – it looks like a section borrowed from a bridge.

Pros

  • Generous supply of tips including Complyfoam
  • Good solid jack adapter
  • Hard case
  • Involving sound

Cons

  • Left and right markers hard to see
  • Straight jack
  • Cable split strain relief has become a feature

Brainwavz is another relatively new company in the personal audio market. However they are currently making big wavz of their own, and if the Brainwavz S5 is anything to go by a few more products from them can certainly float in this direction!

Key Features

Features are basic with no controls or buttons on the Brainwavz S5 itself, but there are some nice touches like the alternative eartips which give a slightly different sound, together with a pair of Complyfoam tips. A hard case is included which is great for cable longevity, and a rather nice jack adapter.

First Impressions

Initially there were no expectations, having no experience with this brand before. Packaging and presentation are fine for a product in this price range, but the sheer number of similar products diluted our enthusiasm. Initially there was disappointment with the black eartips – the bass was boomy and took up a lot of space in the presentation. But then the translucent eartips were tried.. See the next section – Sound Quality!

These earphones actually caused pain in the eyes as it was so hard looking for ‘left’ and ‘right’. For this review, a folded post-it note was stapled around the cable on the left so this needn’t be repeated. Black characters on a black background need to be several millimeteres in height before they’re legible.

Sound Quality

With my preferred translucent eartips, the presentation is perfect for my tastes. A warm weighty bass underpinning some very spacious mids and present but not overbearing highs. The bass impact stays down low while harmonics higher up give it a gloriously chunky feel which I’m a big fan of. It stays in its place and gives the midrange plenty of chance to show off its own detail. The midrange is slightly recessed, but not as recessed in my opinion as with the black tips. Higher up, things are on the smooth side but by no means dark. Soundstage is good for an in-ear of this type with separation fairly good – there is a bit of a cluttery feel to the percussion in The Bangles’ ‘Walk Like an Egyptian’ but the Brainwavs S5 copes well, considering all that’s going on in that track.

Summary

A very competent and great-sounding offering which begs the question – what are the higher-priced items from Brainwavs going to be like? I found the Brainwavz S5 to be amazing on older instrumental and pop recordings, but there may be a danger with more modern music featuring sub bass and similar with the bass being a bit much.  But then again, fans of those genres will likely be looking for just that type of sound.

Score – 8.5/10

Hifiheadphones Newsletter September 2014

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PORTABLE ON-EAR SHOWDOWN

Here’s the big one! We’re
offering 10% off three of the best portable on-ears out there. Check out
our review for details and choose the one best for you.

BEYERDYNAMIC T51i REVIEW – PREMIUM PORTABLE PERFECTION

German headphone company Beyerdynamic’s latest
offering, the T51i, features iDevice compatibility for trouble-free calls
as well as superior sound quality.

 

FiiO E18 PORTABLE SMARTPHONE AMP/DAC – REVIEW

We are impressed with the sound quality and
power which the E18 provides; together with the mobile DAC functinality and
everything else, nothing gives better value for money.

NEW PIONEER EARPHONES HAVE ARRIVED!

The new range of Pioneer earphones are becoming
the go to Beats alternative. If you like your bass but don’t want to
compromise on detail then look no further!

 

FULL DUNU RANGE NOW AVAILABLE!

DUNU earphones are the new guys in town – the
forums are raving about them and now we have their full range of in-ears.
They are tough to beat for the price!

XIAOMI PISTON 2 GIVEAWAY!!

Enter our competition to win one of four Xiaomi
Piston 2 Earphones. Our review and details to enter are on our website –
click below for all the details you’ll need to get going!

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Hifiheadphones Newsletter September 2014

 

 

Audiofly Performance Series In-Ear Monitors and Snugs Ear Docks

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How do the Audiofly performance series with Snugs sleeves sound? As you would expect, the whole range has superb detail retrieval and very impressive instrument separation, calm but with crisp highs. Bass is deep and textured but sits accurately in the mix. A great combination of beautifully designed products. – See more at: http://www.hifiheadphones.co.uk/reviews/?p=3109&preview=true#sthash.HJBdHl8v.dpuf

Audiofly Performance Series In-Ear Monitors

 

Australian earphone manufacturer Audiofly, have recently released thier range of four beautifully designed Professional In Ear Monitors. Taking on Shure and Westone in this growing Professional monitoring corner of the market is a big job, but the Performance Series IEMs are more than up to the task. The Performance series have been designed to be used by touring musicians or music lovers who demand the very best sound in a tiny package. They all feature multi driver arrangements, with the top two models also sporting a super tough replaceable version of the cable and leather carry case.

 

Snugs Ear Docks

The Snugs story began like a lot of product innovations, out of dissatisfaction with what was available on the market and a feeling that there must be a better way to do this. Snugs wanted earphones to fit perfectly and never fall out, ever! To shut the noisy modern world and feel like wearing a soft pair of gloves. By creating soft silicone custom fitted sleeves for their favourite brands, as used by musicians and TV presenters, they’ve really nailed it!

 

How do the Audiofly performance series with Snugs sleeves sound? As you would expect, the whole range has superb detail retrieval and very impressive instrument separation, calm but with crisp highs. Bass is deep and textured but sits accurately in the mix. A great combination of beautifully designed products.

 

Snugs Sound Revolution featuring The New Union

 Audiofly Performance Series In-Ear Monitors and Snugs Ear Docks

 

 

 

 

 

Westone UM Pro 10 Review

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Westone UM Pro 10

Since their recent introduction, the Um Pro series from Westone have proved to be an excellent balanced armature based range of IEMs, but how does the single BA design of the UM Pro 10 stand up? In its favour is the relative simplicity of the design which does not require crossovers, but some might find the frequency response a little too accurate.

Score – 8/10

Pros

  • Small and comfortable in the ear
    Isolation
    Soundstage and speed
    Accessories
  • Cons
    Requires a good seal for the best sound signature
    May be fatiguing to sensitive ears

Summary

Balanced armature drivers by their nature are accurate and fast, but some prefer the warmth of more traditional dynamic drivers. More costly models might have a multitude of balanced armature drivers to more fully represent the frequency spectrum, but crossovers are required to split audio information among these drivers which can complicate matters.

Can the single BA driver win out against the costlier and chunkier competition?

Key Features

Westone are always generous with accessories and the UM Pro 10 is no exception; a pelican style case for the IEMs themselves, 5 pairs of rubber eartips at different sizes, and 5 pairs of silicone tips. The cable is removeable and of a twisted design which is coated behind the ears for extra stability. A tool for cleaning nozzles and tips is also included.

First Impressions

Being more used to IEMs with muliple drivers, my first thought is that these are small! However thay are not fiddly and are easy to get into place; the size of the capsules is not an issue. Once in, they’re comfortable and sit nice and still.

Sound Quality

Predictably, the balanced armature makes short work of replicating higher frequencies accurately, but the real interest is at the low end where single BA IEMs are concerned. Provided a decent seal can be achieved, the bass is in good balance with the rest of the presentation, although bassheads will be wanting more.

The sound is simple and clear, and the presentation has a lot of space which I like. Separation and imaging are superb. Those who are more sensitive to high frequencies may wish to tread carefully, but I have a treble-shy ear and have just enjoyed the UM Pro 10 over the course of half an hour with no ill effects – I don’t listen at very high volume levels however.

Hifiheadphones Verdict

If you fancy the idea of a single balanced armature earphone, but don’t fancy the protruding capsules of the Etymotic designs then the UM Pro 10 is worth a close look. Sometimes the best designs are the simplest and I really think there is something to be said for single-driver IEMs. Makers may be able to tune the sound signature a little more with multiple drivers, but this risks muddying the sound with possible phase/imaging issues as the audio from these different drivers reaches our ears at different times.

In short – choose the simple life and get the UM Pro 10!

 

 

Pioneer SE-MX9 Review

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Pioneer SE-MX9 – Review – Superior Club Sound

Thanks to certain headphone brands’ marketing campaigns of late, the perception by users and manufacturers alike is that people want a heavy bass in the sound as well as something that looks good on the street. And the response from Pioneer is the Pioneer SE-MX9, a good solid headphone with a bass response which, although it’s heightened, doesn’t dominate the presentation.

Pros

Solid build, yet light
Comfortable
Various options for cable

Cons

Ear pads may be an awkward size for some
Pouch offers little protection
Isolation could be better

Summary

When looking at headphones produced by large long-established companies it is easy to expect a product which is the result of committee meetings rather than the vision of a gifted and talented individual or team, and although the SE-MX9 headphones do appear to have had some influence from Pioneer’s marketing division I think they offer as much excitement as any equivalent from a specialist headphone maker.

Key Features

Features and accessories are basic with no frills – a curly 2m cable (3m extended) is included to give the option of listening at home, as well as the iPhone cable with volume/track control. The usual flight adapter and 6.3mm jack adapter is also present. A travel pouch is included; although the earcups fold flat the filled pouch still has some size to it, and the pouch will afford little protection should any knocks or bangs be encountered in transit. Admittedly however, it should take quite some impact to damage these headphones.

 

First Impressions

Of course, the first thing that springs to mind is the similarity to the almost ubiquitous ‘b’ headphones for which the young and under informed are clamouring. However any similarity ends when they are donned; this is the sound I was expecting when I first tried that other brand! Boosted bass frequencies needn’t affect the midrange you’ll be glad to hear.

Sound Quality

I’ve been checking around for a genre which the SE-MX9 doesn’t get on with, and all I can offer is anything which might have heightened bass already. Given that those who might want to listen to dance music etc. will not have a problem with this, I think Pioneer have got it about right. The midrange is very clear and revealing; decays are very enjoyable and the sense of space is very real. High frequencies are bright without being strident, and the soundstage is impressive for a closed-back portable.

Hifiheadphone Verdict

These are one of those headphones I like more and more the longer I wear them – power combined with clarity makes everything sound fun and engaging without clutter or fuss. Build quality is great and the ear pads suit me as I can wear glasses or sunglasses without discomfort. Whether the average 17 year old can be convinced to forgo the fashion boost offered by that other brand remains to be seen, but if they had the chance to hear the different brands side by side these Pioneers would be the clear winner.

 

 

 

 

SoundMAGIC HP150 Review

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SoundMAGIC HP150

It’s amazing that with the SoundMAGIC HP150 headphones, SoundMAGIC have yet again shown how they can raise the bar.

The market for full-size headphones costing £200 and below provides more shining examples of incredible sound quality. And helping all this along is SoundMAGIC, which has impressed all and sundry with its offerings of all types and sizes.

Perhaps most notable is the HP100 released in 2012 – a full sized and very comfortable closed back, offering a well balanced sound and good isolation. Summer is no stranger to super sequels however, so will we be jumping for joy in the aisles, or blubbing into our popcorn?

Pros

  • Superb Comfort
    Pristine Sound
    Solid Build
    Plain Good Looks

Cons

  • Unique cable connection shared only by the HP100 Headphones
    Some sound leakage

 

Summary

The HP150 headphones remain loyal to the previous HP100 design in terms of headband, padding, drivers and accessories. The most noticeable change is the driver housing; the previous ‘Tron’ style has been superseded by a matt black rubber coating which matches the rest of the HP150’s look.

Key Features

Features are only what’s to be expected from a headphone in this price range – just good sound and the usual accessories. There’s a 3m extension cable for Hi-Fi listening which is a bonus, as well as flight adapter and 6.3mm adapter. The case has undergone an improvement in that it affords greater protection; there’s more space for padding so that the headphones are safer in transit.

First Impressions

As mentioned above, the HP150 headphone is the sleeker, sexier descendant of the HP100. The shiny parts on the earcups and yoke joints are gone, and matt black is now the uniform colour.

The cable has undergone a slight change too, the previous model was shipped with a coiled 1.2m cable. This has been straightened, and together with the 3m extension cable should provide a bit of slack in most tight situations.

Sound Quality

The best bit of the HP150 headphone is of course the sound – heads are scratched and price lables are rechecked – are we sure there’s no mistake? The HP150 sounds like a headphone three times the price! They are well balanced with a little drop in the midrange, but it’s nothing which gets missed. Think of them as giving a little boost to both ends of the frequency spectrum.

Bass is fully representative of what’s there without getting its own ideas, and treble has a brightness which doesn’t cross into strident territory – even for those like myself with a sensitivity to these frequencies.

The soundstage of the HP150 is very impressive for a closed-back headphone. I wouldn’t say that the HP150 has the feel of an open-backed equivalent, but the breadth of the presentation is certainly comparable. Imaging and separation are pristine with details standing up to be counted wherever they are.

SoundMAGIC has stated that the drivers in the HP150 are the same as the HP100 – the change in earcup material has been balanced with padding within the earcup so that the sound is as close to that of the HP100 as possible.

With possible burn-in still to go on the HP150, the bass appears to be a tiny bit higher in volume against the rest of the presentation but with the same qualities. Treble seems to be a little bit smoother but not at the expense of detail. Midrange appears unchanged.

 

Hifiheadphones Verdict

Even with newly-introduced headphones getting better and cheaper year after year, the models put out by SoundMAGIC seem to thumb their noses at the competition. The HP150 headphone is quick, light and nimble; jester-like in its ability to handle any genre with fun and merriment.

If you have £200 and a need for closed-back full size headphones, a few minutes’ delay is a tragedy. Do your ears a favour and resist no longer!

You can now check out our unboxing video of the Soundmagic HP 150 on our youtube channel.

 

 

 

Dita Audio The Answer IEM Earphones – Truth Edition – Review

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Dita Audio The Answer IEM Earphones – Truth Edition – See more at: http://www.hifiheadphones.co.uk/dita-audio-the-answer-iem-earphones-truth-edition.html#sthash.UQLlq1VS.dpuf
Dita Audio The Answer IEM Earphones – Truth Edition – See more at: http://www.hifiheadphones.co.uk/dita-audio-the-answer-iem-earphones-truth-edition.html#sthash.UQLlq1VS.dpuf

Dita Audio The Answer IEM Earphones – Truth Edition – Review

Summary

The Answer Truth Edition is a dynamically driven IEM with a single 10mm driver; Dita Audio wanted to go for the simplest design in order to deliver the purest audio, according to their literature. Since balanced armature technology requires crossovers, multiple drivers and all the related gubbins, Dita went for the less complicated dynamic route. And why not? We’ve all been shown the power and finesse of the dynamic principle through Sennheiser’s excellent IE800s – they can be every bit as detailed and impactful as any well put together BA based driver.

Price – £599.95

HifiHeadphones rating – 9/10

Dita Audio The Answer IEM Earphones – Truth Edition

New company Dita has made a splash lately with two significant IEMs; ‘The Answer’ and ‘The Answer (Truth edition)’ – the cable being ‘The Truth’. ..and I thought telling lies could get complicated!

If you forgot what the question was, it’s something like ‘what’s the best IEM man can come up with’? I reckon this response is fitting.

A benevolent deity has bestowed a pair of each model upon us and we have dutifully had a go; for this review I have stuck to the pricier ‘Truth Edition’ but for a quick impression of the non-Truth Dita, please scroll down to the ‘verdict’ part.

Pros

  • Well built with solid capsules
  • Weighted to lean into the ear – unlikely to fall out
  • Stout strong cable
  • Good range of eartips which can fine tune frequency response
  • Good extras – 2 quality travel cases included

Cons

  • Cable can be a little stiff but not too bad
  • Some might prefer a removeable cable

Key Features

The cable on the ‘Truth Edition’ is what gives the IEM its name; it is a Van Den Hul cable with whom Dita cooperated in order to get the best signal to the driver. The cable covering has a little window on it so the quality can be seen – it is certainly substantial. Other than that, there are no features other than the end product – the sound. Much like record players, the less you get on them as extras and gadgets, the better the sound will generally be. This is Dita’s philosophy.

First Impressions

The build quality is the first thing to be noticed. These are not heavy or unweildy IEMs, but the impression I have is that they were designed to be used in a war of some kind, or by very careless people. The build quality is very solid.

Sound Quality

The Answer (Truth Edition) lives up to expectations for a premium IEM; detail is exceptional and there is plenty of space in the presentation whether things are busy or not; there’s an effortless quality. Harmonics are not lost on these IEMs, everything is reproduced, and faithfully.

Not to say that these Answer/Truths are neutral; they have a sound which is on the fun side but it is done with real adroitness. There’s an analogue quality which reminds me of the Sennheiser IE800.

Soundstage is generous and imaging is great; it all just hangs together and as per the marketing/literature, the strengths of the single dynamic driver design are right here.

When comparing the two, the IE800 is just a little less forward which suits me. So if you feel that the IE800 is a bit laid back for you, try and dally with the ‘Truth’!

Verdict

Given the quality of Dita’s answers, we should be upping the quality of our questions. ‘How much money have I got?’ might be one such question. The ‘Answer/Truth Edition’ is not cheap, but the best things often aren’t. Given the price, the phrase ‘to be economical with the truth’ may not be so accurate, but there are savings to be made by choosing the ‘Non-Truth’ version which is the same but for a little less detail and a slightly smoother presentation. A very close match for the IE800, and only two thirds of the price at £399.

DUNU DN-12 Earphones Review

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DUNU DN-12 Trident In-Ear Isolating Headphone Review

Summary

The DUNU DN-12 Trident is the entry level in-ear headphone from this exciting brand. DUNU is making waves in the headphone world and I can see why – if they put this amount of work into their low priced headphones then I can only imagine what their high end models are like!

Price – £34.99

HifiHeadphones Rating – 10/10

DUNU DN-12 Trident In Ear Isolating Earphones

DUNU DN-12 Trident In Ear Isolating Earphones
DUNU DN-12 Trident In Ear Isolating Earphones
UNU DN-12 Trident In Ear Isolating Earphone

Pros

  • Value for money
  • Tough cable
  • Punchy, tight bass and crisp detail
  • Titanium driver housing

Cons

  • Bassheads might want more

Key Features

  • Deep Bass, Clear Mids and Lucid Highs
  • Broad Dynamic Frequency ULTRA Driver Unit
  • Mirror Finished Solid Titanium Housing
  • Extensive Accessory Bundle

First Impressions

I had to keep reminding myself that these in-ears were under £50. The packaging is nicely finished and when you get inside you find a good quality leatherette bag, plenty of different eartips, a cable clip and even a carabina. The headphones themselves are extremely well built. The driver housing is made from titanium which feels great and has a good amount of weight. The cable feels tough and isn’t flimsy, this ends in a smartly designed angled jack connection – you even get a cable tidy designed by DUNU included.

DUNU have thought about even the finest details with their entry level earphone so you are totally impressed before you even listen to them!

 

Sound Quality

When I first listened to the DN-12’s I felt that there was a fair amount of bass and that there could be more treble… Then I remembered that they are £35!

Compared to other earphones in their price range they sound more refined with a good amount of bass that doesn’t bleed into the rest of the mix, the mids come through nicely with enough crack and the highs give a great sense of space. The soundstage is very impressive as you feel that you are right in the mix with a wide presentation. I really can’t think of anything negative to say about these great little in-ears!

HifiHeadphones Verdict

Not long ago I would have said that the SoundMAGIC E10 was easily the best in ear for under £40 – now they certainly have stiff competition! The DUNU DN-12 may not have as much weight in the low end as the E10, but for me this is for the best. These earphones feel and sound like something that should be worth somewhere in the £50 region, as not only can they compete with some higher priced models, they have put a lot of effort in the finer details – this for me helps put them at the top of their game