AFUL - Performer 5+2 / Performer 7

That would also be a good pick, I have the Aful P5+2 and it is a great set! I would say the P5+2 and CK2V are on the same level of details and they even use a very similar driver set up. The CK2V may edge the P5+2 out in detail by a smidge, but that is primarily because it has a cleaner bass separation. If you want a more dynamic and analytical sound, where there is a much bigger contrast between bass and treble go with the CK2V. If you want a bit more of a musical set, go with the P5+2. Also if you get the P5+2, do yourself a favor and get some kiwi ear flex eartips with them. The P5+2 doesn't have any filter on the nozzle and these tips will help keep wax from getting on/in the acoustic tubing.

Honestly, I can't really give you a definitive reference as I don't have much in terms of iems with exorbitant amounts of contrast or dynamics. That is why I am selling pretty much all my iems, as I have played it very safe and gone for more neutral-ish or safe tuned sets. Probably the most dynamic sets I have are the Kinera Relentless, BGVP NS10 Pro, and Aful P5+2, but I would even consider those on the safer side of dynamic tunings. I just gotta watch some reviews the same way I figured out all these more neutral/safe tuned sets. Right now my two top contenders are the Myer Audio SLIIVO SLA3 and Myer Audio CKLVX CK2V. Both are under $200, so not too big of a risk to try what are supposedly more dynamic sets. I'm sure there are more out there, so I'm doing research while I post my iems for sale. I'll prob go with the SLA3 as it is basically the CK2V at half the price with extremely minor EQing. It's just missing the micro planars for the most part for that extra treble air past the 13/14k region. So if I really love that contrast I could upgrade from the SLA3 to the CK2V later.

Ya, I love my Aful P5+2, but I also might sell it and replace it with the Myer Audio CK2V. As much as I want to try another planar, I'm really leaning towards the Explorer and Odyssey for this one. From what I've heard, the Odyssey is basically just a higher end Explorer, so will just depend on if I feel like shelling out the extra cash for it!

I jumped on the P5+2. I love it. I don't see myself upgrading for a long time.

bought the Aful P7 and i think i should have gone for the Tea pro.

amazingly, i use them with the tips that came with my AZ80, sound amazing.

I hate KZ, but i was told to try the PRX, and they synergize amazingly well with my Retro Nano So i have the cheapo setup which is the retro nano with KZ PRX and the expensive setup which is the Aful P7 with the BTR17. really amazing what you can get for 50 bucks today.

i got the Aful 5+2 and now im wondering if i should have gotten the dusk or the Elysian. they are a bit too neutral for me.

I currently have my Aful P5+2 on my AZ20, works great after the circumcision mod.

Ive owned a Moondrop Blessing 2, the EM6L has toyota build quality next to that piece of junk. Also the reason i picked up the Aful P7 instead of the dusk. moondrop sounds great, they just dont last long.

I WHOLE HEARTEDLY AGREE WITH YOUR POINTS: https://preview.redd.it/vwxf7i53neye1.jpeg?width=2377&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9aafdf70e38f01e9e6e88692e4c7f79caca103d8 This is MY collection...and I'm very early in the journey. I don't have the budget, knowledge or experience to blind buy a 500USD+ set of in ears that may or may not fit my ears or my preferences. While my journey doesn't completely fit OP's blueprint...I have/had the same thought process regarding purchasing IEMs. Not pictured are the Moondrop Chu 2 and 7Hz Sonus. I started with the Chu 2, 7Hz Zero 2 and Kiwi Ears Cadenza. From listening, watching and reading reviews...I was able to learn about all the terms, labels, and vocabulary to describe what I like or don't like. I threw money at the Wyvern Abyss...I mean...LOOK AT THEM😂. The Kz Castor Bass was a curiosity buy...want to hear if a set touting bass response was really that bassy. My next steps were the NiceHCK F1 Pros, Kiwi Ears Canta and the 7Hz Sonus. The F1 Pros and the Sonu were on sale at the time of purchase...good value and able to narrow things down more for myself. I knew I liked the planar sound...I have a set of open ear planar cans. The F1s felt disappointing (until I tip rolled) The Sonus was about much for my taste (in the mids) The Cantas were quite nice for me. By this point...I had a good grasp of what I was looking for and the direction (s) I want to go in. AFUL Performer 5+2 is currently my go-to...for all around listening. Sourced from R2R DAC lined out into a desktop tube amp. It's like a warm blanket on crisp bright and snowy winter day. I picked up the Hexa because I wanted to hear the hype...and yes...they definitely fulfill the hype and then some. I've EQed my IEMs... especially the planar. They can mimic the sound...but it's only a part of the equation. I now rotate through 3-4 sets at my desktop listening station. The cheapo ones all have 3.5mm out for around the house or for bed. If they break...ill decide if I want to replace. Tip rolling is a journey of itself. Some tips can dramatically change an IEM and rescue it from the bottom of the pile. My Planars now sport foam tips...easing off the treble was huge. Anyway...long post...if you got this far thanks for sticking with my diarrhea of words. TLDR: I agree with the OP

The pricing on the P5+2 is RIDICULOUSLY good!!! I got mine a few months back and I love them. Don't regret spending close to MSRP for them at all. They are my go-to all rounder. My current "end-game" set 😂😂

Kiwi Ears Canta (around 100usd) Punch Audio Martilo (300ish usd) AFUL P5+2...have a mini planar in there...(a little over 200usd) Simgot ET142 .... planar with pzt driver (around 200) I have all those...and I love em. That's my regular rotation

I’m also a bit of a newbie to the hobby. I got the AFUL performer P7s recently and they’re really great

I just got the AFUL performer 5+2 and can’t recommend them enough. Upgraded from simgot em6l if that helps you

The mids are really nice on the Performer 5+2. I also really like the detailed upper midrange and treble, and the textured bass.

I can not stand the Harman tuning even though this tuning is very popular with many people. My tuning preference is very similar to the HBB tuning. I prefer the HBB tuning's 8 dB rise for the simulated pinna gain in the upper midrange since the Harman tuning's 10 to 11 dB rise for the simulated pinna gain in the upper midrange is too sibilant for me. I also don't like how the Harman tuning decreases the lower midrange. Right now my two favorite IEMs under $300 are the Aful Performer 7 and the Dunu DaVinci. The Performer 7 simply is an improved version of the Performer 5 across the board. I still love my Performer 5 IEMs. At first I didn't like the DaVinci's powerful sub bass relative to the mid bass, but I found some eartips which fixed this issue such that the sub bass is in balance with the mid bass. I have some other favorite IEMs at lower price points. I was very surprised by how much I like the Kima 2 which Dunu sent to me. I knew that the Kima 2 uses single dynamic drivers, yet when I listened to the Kima 2 I could have sworn that there must also be BA drivers in the mix since the macro and micro details are very well defined. For example, the Kima 2 performs much better than the Thieaudio Legacy 2. It also dawned on me that the Kima 2 is tuned very similarly to the original Moondrop Starfield which was my first IEM, yet the Kima 2's technical performance is so much nicer to listen to in comparison to the OG Starfield. There always a very slight veil to the sound when I listened to the OG Starfield, and the Kima 2 totally rips any veil away. On the budget side, I really like the Simgot EW200 after I easily added some self adhesive mesh filters to shift the overall tuning from Harman to HBB. The transition after adding the mesh filters was splendid. The thing is that after adding the mesh filters to adjust the tuning, I was able to really appreciate the quality of the EW200's dynamic drivers. I hope that the above helps you with your research.

I think that the Performer 5+2 (the P7) is very worth it for $185. The P7 is one of my two favorite IEMs. I mostly listen to classic rock and EDM, jazz, and bossa nova. The P7 is quite good in terms of the things which you desire. I particularly enjoy female focals. I also really enjoy the clean bass and the very clean macro and micro details throughout the midrange and the treble. Aful managed to achieve these things while making sure that the P7 has a natural overall sound signature.

My two favorite IEMs are the Aful Performer 5+2 and the Dunu DaVinci. Perhaps ask if either of these IEMs work well for metal.

I am glad that you offered your suggestions since you listen to metal. I don't listen to metal. I do really like the Performer 7's clean and clear macro and micro details. I also like the Kiwi Ears Quintet for the same reason. Thank you for suggesting some IEMs which I have not listened to.

The May is a single DD IEM. Planar IEMs provide the most resolution and technical performance, but this is at the expense of having a more natural overall sound signature. I suggest that you upgrade path, at this point, would be to consider multi-driver IEMs which improve the technical performance throughout the entire midrange and treble regions, and which also have a more natural overall sound signature. Single DD IEMs have the most natural overall sound signatures. This is what you presently are used to hearing with the May. Jumping to any planar IEMs which have a very technical sound signature might not float your boat since you may be losing too much of an overall natural sound signature. This is why I suggest that your next step up might be a multi-driver IEM. Metal music is not my thing even though I am impressed with the sheer speed and complexity in really busy portions of metal tracks. One of my favorite multi-driver IEM is the Aful Performer 5+2 since this IEM provides very nice technical performance and clean technical details throughout the entire midrange and the treble, while still retaining a rather natural overall sound signature. This is merely a suggestion for you. I hope that others here who love metal music will jump in to ask you questions and to offer suggestions. I really like your photo of your audio gear!

You are welcome. You might want to consider the Aful Performer 5+2 which has very detailed mids and treble yet with less pinna gain, and the sub bass is not boosted relative to the mid bass.

I have considered planar IEMs. Planars are harder to drive. I also prefer IEMs which have a more natural overall sound signature. Right now my favorite IEM is the Performer 5+2. A musician stated that the Performer 8 is more tonally correct for classical instruments, yet of course the Performer 8 has noticeably different overall tuning in comparison to the Performer 5+2. Tuning also means a lot to me. I guess I am curious about overall tunings which make some IEMs noticeably more suitable for classical music.

I like the same genres that you like, but I don't listen to quite as much classical as you do. I am hoping to enjoy listening to more classical music. I can't imagine listening to classical music with no bass since I do enjoy listening to Anna Lapwood performing on concert hall organs. The only fairly moderately priced single DD IEMs which I like when listening to classical and to Hans Zimmer stage performances is the Kima 2. I also am really enjoying listening to my Aful Performer 7 IEMs while listening to classical music even though I would like a touch of more natural overall tuning. The Tea Pro and the Orchestra Lite are outside of my budget. I have so wanted to try both of these IEMs. The Orchestra Lite are supposed to be very nice for classical and orchestral music. I suppose that it is since it is an all-BA IEM which very slightly relaxes the bass and very slightly relaxes the upper treble or air region. I think that it would be interesting for the OP to do some tip rolling in order to see if the OP lands on an ideal set of eartips for use on the Tea Pro.

I think that the same acoustic resonance technology is used in the Aful P7. I noted that Mark was using medium bore eartips on his Explorers. The stock medium bore eartips which came with the P7 made the P7's bass sound slightly less tactile than when I switched to wide bore eartips. I think that the acoustic resonance system couples better to the inner ears if you use wider bore eartips.

The Dunu DaVinci is tuned very similarly to the Tea Pro. Both have a 6 kHz dip in the upper midrange to remove harshness in female vocals and to make the upper midrange sound a bit more relaxing. I have the DaVinci and the Performer 7 and both of these IEMs are endgame IEMs for me. The DaVinci has more bass than the P7. The P7 has a slightly early rise for the simulated pinna gain. I listen to the DaVinci when I want more bass and a more relaxing upper midrange. I listen to the P7 when I want a somewhat more energetic upper midrange. I pick one or the other to listen to depending on my mood and the genres which I want to listen to. So for me, the DaVinci and the P7 are somewhat yin and yang IEMs to each other. I like being able to pick up a pair of IEMs to listen to depending mostly on my mood. I have never looked at the iemrankings website until hearing about this website from your post, so I don't know what to make of this website. I can say that the P7 and the DaVinci are on a similar level but with differences. The Tea Pro is potentially the third endgame that I want since I think that its tuning will fit between the DaVinci and the P7. Although the P7 is really good and punches above its price, I find it hard to believe that the P7 is better than the Tea Pro.

I love my Aful P5. I love my Aful P7 even more. The P7's bass is tighter and punchier (in the sense of having a cleaner initial attack). The P7 also improves everything else. The P7 is just as comfortable as the P5 since the shells are the same yet do extend slightly more upwards. Or in other words, Aful didn't mess with the shape and fit of the P5's shells other than somewhat extending the height of the shells. I never sleep with IEMs. Even so, I realize that comfort and fit would be a priority. I really like the Kefine Klean since I really like its overall sound signature and since I also really like its technical performance which exceeds many other IEMs in its price range. The Klean does have pretty thin shells. I can see the Klean as being very comfortable IEMs to listen to while falling asleep, yet this is not my thing.

The P7 is on the market.

Aful p5+2, myer audio ck2v, kiwi ears ke4, epz p50, ziigaat odyssey. The 200$ish range has a lot of hidden gems based on my experience, so check them out. For EDM I think you need a good textured bass, great instrument separation, and good treble extension, but that's my preference, so I can hear the details from what the producer intended.

before 10 days there was on sale the Aful performer 5+2 at 202$ . Super great iem.

I really enjoy my Aful performer 5+2 for gaming, super comfortable, and the sounds are very accurate.. I just use a beyerdyamic USB mic tucked behind my monitor for multiplayer, setup works perfectly.. I have a dac/headphones amp aswell, the topping mx3s to run the iems. Also use my beyerdyamic dt 770 prox a fair bit

I have an Aful Explorer purchased from AliExpress for $78 a few months ago and have the Performer 5+2 on the way now, purchased for $154 in the most recent Ali sale. The Amazon prices aren’t quite that good, so I’m glad I got them when and where I did. I’m looking for a good deal on the MagicOne but $111 is not it. It’s been as low as $58 in AliExpress sales in the past, so gonna wait and see if that price comes around again.

Right? I got it for less than its predecessor, the Performer 5, is currently selling for.

It’ll depend a lot on the things you like in your music. The DaVinci and DosCinco are more forward with female vocals than the Performer 7 or the S08. S08 is a bit more forward than the P7. P7 is the most neutral of the bunch. Best bass is going to depend on what you’re specifically looking for. Sub bass rumble is probably best on the DosCinco, while the S08 has my favorite mid-bass punch. The DaVinci is nice, but can be a bit soft. The P7 sounds amazingly tight and accurate, but is lacking in intensity compared to the other three, which are much bassier. Cymbals your thing? The Performer 7 is airy and detailed and wonderful. The DaVinci is a close 2nd, but isn’t as smooth as the P7. I would say, if you want dynamic sound that makes those genres sound as exciting as possible, try and get the DosCinco on sale. It’s probably the best fit for Hip/Hop-Rap and Metal overall. The Performer 7 might be too neutral for your tastes, but it’s in my opinion, probably the most detailed and resolving of the bunch. The S08 is great as well, and might be the best value overall, but if you have the budget for the DosCinco and the DaVinci, then I would go for one of those. I personally prefer the DosCinco over the DaVinci, especially on sale. But if you’re sensitive to pressure issues or driver flex, I encountered driver flex on the DosCinco, but not on the DaVinci.

I think your preferences would be far better served by something like the KiwiEars KE4, or the also new Ziigaat Odyssey. As your preference with Fan3 would indicate you like that later JM1 style upper mids Pina Gain. An out of left field alternative would be the AFUL Performer 5. Or possibly the Performer 5+2 (or Performer 7 as some people call it). Personally the Performer 5 is a little brighter, which leans more towards the Fan3, but the 5+2 has a little more clinical detail up top. And way out in super right field, is the KiwiEars Airoso, it might be a little too U shaped for proper monitor use. But it is very clean in the upper mids and treble, and has excellent detail. There really isnt anything i have found that the Airoso cant play well. And for the current sub-$100 price, it punches WAY above its price target. Not that you came here looking for advice, buuuuttt...its interesting to get some alternative perspectives. https://audioamigo.squig.link/?share=Ziigaat_Lush,Ziigaat_Cinno,Ziigaat_Odyssey,Penon_Fan_3_BC_Off,Kiwi_Ears_KE4,AFUL_Performer_5,Kiwi_Ears_Airioso

AFUL Performer 5 or Performer 5+2. They can play anything, and are generally unoffensive in their tuning, and provide a premium sound experience.

So, as someone who games, and has similar music tastes inside their playlist. I am going to narrow this down to two options. The Arete, or the Performer 5+2. And there are two big reasons why i would choose these over the other options. Pina Gain. Extension past 10k. So the Pina Gain, or the upsweep from the lower mids to upper mids, is really critical for vocal forward presentation of audio. Its also where the human ear is really attenuated, and so a lot of sound queues in video games will be in that region. So when you look at a "gamer" set like the Arete, you will see that Pina Gain region starts a little earlier, and is a little more emphasized. This will help to hear and position the sounds a little easier. The Performer 5+2 also has a very good Pina Gain that tracks almost identically to the Arete. The second is extension past 10k. This gets more into the psychoacustics of how your brain will perceive and pick up sounds. How reverberations interact with your inner ear. And on some sets that lack this extension beyond 10k, some sounds, like symbol crashes, or brass hitting the floor, or grenade clanks, can kinda get lost in the mix. Because your brain isnt really properly interpreting that reverb reflection from the audio engine. So it ends up sounding kinda flat, and 2 dimensional, rather than positional and wide. And again, we can see both the Performer 5+2 and the Arete share in this trait. Now on the Grit, this Pina Gain carries similar to the others, but its gets a little TOO exaggerated for my liking beyond 2k, and can really make vocals seem very forward, and "out of the mix." Now, admittedly, i have only listened to the Grit once, and dont own them. So i have not gamed on them with any way, so i cant speak to that directly. But the extreme vocal forward nature of the Grit left me in a shallow Uncanny Valley where it would have taken some brain burn in to really come to grips with the sound signature. And in relation to the exdtension past 10k, the Grit, despite its very high pina gain and upper mids, rerally falls off a cliff at 10k. And it was the lack of extension in this area where i kinda lost love with the Grit in my limited listening session. I didnt feel that percussive instruments really rang out with the same level of size and space that other sets did. The BCD did help to fill some of that in. But one of the big issue i had with the Grit, and why i had a limited time listening to it, was because i had to play with about 8 different sets of tips, until i got a set that allowed me to insert it deep enough to get the shell into full contact with my ear. If it wasnt, it had a very boingy bongy sound signature to it, especially with cable microphonics. They were very musical, and i can see where some people might find the appeal. But to me the Grit is an IEM for IEM snobs. Much in the same way coffee snobs need to have their coffee extracted from cat shit and roasted. One alternative i would like to posit to you in this selection, is the OG Performer 5. Its bass level isnt quite as impactful as the Performer 5+2 with its single DD, and it isnt as technically analytical as the 5+2, but it also lacks a certain dryness heard in the 5+2 due to the micro planar top. But what the Performer 5 DOES have, is a great Pina Gain, and an a nice treble extension past 10k that really does a good job of giving it a lighter airier feel, and good sound stage. And, best of all, it can be picked up on sale for well under $200. Sometimes going for as little as $160. And, as crazy as it sounds...i actually prefer the Performer 5 over the Performer 5+2. And its the one IEM that spends the most time in my ears when i am gaming or at my computer. Followed very closely by the Arete. And a toss up in 3rd between the KE4 and the 5+2. https://soundcheck39.squig.link/?share=Apevoix_Grit,Aful_Performer_5+2,Aful_Performer_5,ZiiGaat_Arete https://audioamigo.squig.link/?share=Apevoix_Grit,AFUL_Performer_7,Ziigaat_Arete,AFUL_Performer_5

Had a couple of people DM me asking for some recommendations on anything good to look at during the Prime Deal Days. So instead of copying and pasting the same text a bunch of times. Figured I would just make a post, and farm some of those fake internet points, so I can tell my imaginary friends people on the internet think I'm cool. So, couple things first, NONE of these product links are affiliate links. I am no ones bitch. No one pays me to say this. All recommendations I make, are on products I OWN! I am not graph sniffing and guessing. Same as above applies...I dont get free shit. So this is LITERALLY my money doing the talking. Biggest thing to remember is this...DONT BUY INTO FOMO!!! You DONT need new IEM's! OK?! Buy within your means! Dont see a sales sticker and think its a good deal. A LOT of products on Amazon jump in price, only to be put on "sale". Always double check an Amazon price tracking site to make sure its an actual good deal, and not just some marketing bullshit. Hell, they had a 20% off "Flash Sale" on the Astral when the sale started. The flash sale ended, and an hour later, it was $24% off. How many people got suckered into the Flash Sale, and didnt even realize they could have saved an extra $15? Answer: Too Many. The best rule when buying is this: if it isn't discounted 20% or more. It's not a deal. 10-15% coupons and deals happen ALL YEAR ROUND! So dont get suckered in by a big red SALE tag, and click buy. Look at the discount percentage. Under 20%, shit. Over 20%, is probably a good buy, but remember to double check that price tracker first to make sure it isnt a swindle. And last but not least, and this goes back to the FOMO, there are still a BUNCH of sales to come before the end of the year. Prime Day, 11/11, Black Friday, Boxing Day, etc. etc. So there will be PLENTY more opportunities to buy things later this year for as good, nearly as good, or maybe even better prices. So dont feel like you will miss out. There will always be another sale. There may be some gems out there, but dont panic buy. With all that said...lets get to it. ----- Easily the biggest deal on Amazon right now, **Kiwi Ears Astral - 24% off - $227.24** https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F37H5F71/ Simply put, its the best IEM value at under $250. Period. I would say its 95% of the Tea Pro. A slightly more bright/neutral option to the Tea Pros warm/neutral presentation. The Tea Pro does extract a little more texture and nuance, but at this price, you are talking about a $130 difference. Its also a more neutral and tonality to something like the Hype2, which can come off almost feeling V Shaped, with its more authoritative bass impact. Overall, the Astral is a great set. This is the lowest price its ever been. Absolute quality set for people who like a variety of music. https://audioamigo.squig.link/?share=Kiwi_Ears_Astral,Xenns_Mangird_Tea_Pro,Thieaudio_Hype_2 ----- Second best deal, IMHO, **Pula PA02 - 32% off - $128.52** Want a AFUL Performer 5? Cant afford $175? Well, this is your answer. The PA02 trades blows with the performer 5, and i kinda like the P5 more than the P5+2. The PA02 has a little more sub bass emphasis, and extends a little further than the P5 as well. Which makes it a nice option right in between the P5 and P5+2. The musicality and warmth of the P5, with the airiness of the P5+2, but without the all resin nozzles, or the micro planar glare some people dont like on the P5+2. Honestly, this is an absolute steal of an IEM for this price. Im tempted to buy another pair, because...damn, under $150 for this kind of performance is crazy. Yes, the cable could be better. Yes the tips could be more premium. But for this price. Who cares. You will have plenty left over if you want to upgrade later. https://atechreviews.squig.link/?share=Harman_2019_Target,PULA_PA02,AFUL_Performer_5 ----- At the lowest price i have seen it in a while, **ZiiGaat Odyssey - 25% off - $171.75** https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DHZ755GD/ The Odyssey really doesnt need an introduction or an explanation. Its a softened interpretation of the JM-1 "meta tune", and pulls down the upper mids, and softens up the sub bass a little, and rolls off the treble past 15k. Its gives a much more balanced tonality than the KE4, with less sub bass slam, and that makes for fuller feeling mids. Again, great all arounder for any genre of music. One of the better sets under $200. https://audioamigo.squig.link/?share=Ziigaat_Odyssey,Kiwi_Ears_KE4 ----- Honorable Mention goes to the ** ZiiGaat x Hangout.Audio: Odyssey 2 - 20% Off - $199.20** https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FLK2NRPY/ This is a borderline deal for me, and normally i wouldnt include it. But this set is new enough that to be on ANY sale, is a bargain. To be on a 20% off sale, almost unheard of. This is a great set at $200. Metal shell. Great modular cable. Excellent tips selection. And a quality carrying case. This is even MORE "meta tuning" than the Odyssey. But if you thought that the Crinear Daybreak had too much upper mids, and was too vocal forward. Or the Odyssey or KE4 had too much treble extension, but not enough vocal presence, than this would be a perfect choice for you. And with the all metal shell, it should hold up well long term as well. https://atechreviews.squig.link/?share=ZiiGaat_x_Hangout_Audio_Odyssey_2,ZiiGaat_Odyssey,CrinEar_Daybreak,Kiwi_Ears_KE4 ----- Many peoples best IEM of 2024 **AFUL Performer 5+2 - 20% - 191.99** Again, another IEM that needs little introduction. Much beloved by everyone. Amazing detail and texture, easy on the ears (some people do find the upper treble extension from the micro planars a little bright, be warned), hard to find better technicalities and detail retrieval under $200. AFUL has a very unique approach to tuning that i find super refreshing, and doesnt really adhere to any target curve but their own. Great vocal emphasis, tight bass presentation. Can place most any genre well. Superb fit and finish. Great cable. The only downside is the tips, and thats because of the smooth resin nozzle. I much prefer the Spinfint W1 on the 5+2, not only do i think they sound better, but they fit snug on the nozzle. At this price, adding the W1 is easy to stomach. The P5+2 hasnt gone on sale but a couple of times. Usually only 10-15%. Cant talk about the P5+2 without its older brother **AFUL Performer 5 - 20% off - $175.99** Often unfairly overshadowed by the 5+2, the Performer 5 is, to me, the more musical of the Performer series. It is not quite as exacting as the P5+2 in the technicalities. And the bass is not near as tactile as the double DD 5+2, but that slightly slower bass response makes the bass feel just that little but more rich and creamy. It also brings the vocals a little more forward by having a slightly higher upper mids rise in the Pina Gain region, and the treble carries a more flatter that the P5, but not quite as far. So you lose some of that air and sparkle, for a little more presence, and playfulness. And the comfort...top notch. One of the easiest sets to disappear in my ears. Like the 5+2, highly recommend some SpinFits. CP145 pairs well with the P5, along with the W1 and Neo. Likewise, you can just buy the PA02, because it is just too good of a deal. My ears like the P5 better. $35 better??? That's tough. https://audioamigo.squig.link/?share=AFUL_Performer_5,AFUL_Performer_7 ----- **ZiiGaat Lush - ~20% off - 136.04/143.20** (Depending on colorway) This is a super flat, super neutral IEM, with jsut enough tweak upwards at either end to make things a little mroe lively. Very much Meta Tuned, but a very reserved approach top it. Great for studio monitoring, and mixing. If bigger V or U shaped sets arent your thing. This is a good alternative. Much better than the graphs would have you believe. https://audioamigo.squig.link/?share=Ziigaat_Odyssey,Ziigaat_Lush ----- Honorable Mention goes to the **DUNU X Koto Ito - 20% off - $171.99** Full disclosure, I DO NOT OWN the Ito, but i have spent some time listening to it. And I think its the best basshead IEM under $200. If the price point of the Punch Audio Martillo is a little steep, this is a fantastic alternative. I think it gets about 80% of the way to the Martillo. Obviously it isnt as resolving, or as tactful int he bass. But it offers a level of competency at this price point that little else can in the basshead segment. It does well with vocals, balances sound in an engaging V shaped presentation, and was an impressive surprise. Like the Odyssey 2, 10% off for an IEM this new is almost unheard of. Which makes it a great deal. https://atechreviews.squig.link/?share=DUNU_x_KOTO_ITO,Punch_Audio_Martilo ----- If you love your Bunny, but want something better, **Tanchjim Fission - 20% off - $103.99** This is a fantastic set for $100. If you have the Bunny, but want more of everything, this is it. Amazing driver, comes with a modular cable, and plenty of tips and tuning accessories (maybe too many). The most important inclusion in the set, however, is the USB adapter on the modular cable, that you can connect to the Tanchjim App to get full DSP functionality with. Giving you a ton of tuning options and preferences. This is basically an Origin for $100, with DSP. Great build quality, great looking IEM. https://atechreviews.squig.link/?share=Harman_2019_Target,Tanchjim_Fission_(Nozzle_S_Switch_Default),Tanchjim_Fission_DSP_(Popular),Tanchjim_Origin_Nozzle_L ----- Just pretend it doesnt have Zeos face on it, **Juzear Defiant - 20% off - $79.99** How do you make the best IEM at $100 better? You make it less than $100. Great all arounder. Fantastic sound signature. A set that is right at home with something like the PA02 tonality wise. Obviously the PA02 has better quality drivers in it, and does a much better job at bass tactility, and overall detail. But for $80...a freaking STEAL! Absolute banger of a first IEM. Only downside is that the cable, while nice, does not wear well (it gets plasticy), and the BA configuration can cause some pressure build up. Some people have it worse than others with this set. I am sensitive to pressure build up, and id didnt bother me too much. But some people hate it. https://atechreviews.squig.link/?share=Harman_2019_Target,PULA_PA02,Juzear_x_Z_Reviews_Defiant ----- **Tangzu Xuan Nv - 20% off - $63.20** This is such a rad little set. Dual DD. Warm tuning. Good vocal representation. Soft DD treble presentation with no harshness. Great air and extension. Comes with a nice set of Tang Sencai Wide Bore and Standard tips. Overall a fantastic little IEM with a cool design, that i think gets overlooked way too much as a first time buyers IEM. And a nice upgrade for someone coming from the Wan'er. At $60, i think it represents a good value. I would buy this over the EW300, any day. https://audioamigo.squig.link/?share=Tangzu_x_HBB_Xuan_Nv,Simgot_EW300_STD_Gold,Tangzu_Wan_Er_S.G. ----- And now for something you have likely NEVER heard of **Jialai Carat - 50% Off Coupon - $29.99** (after coupon at checkout) This is a cool ass little IEM. 10mm Titanium metalized DLC diaphragm. All metal CNC shell. Super small! If you have tiny ears, this will fit. Guaranteed. Good little accessories package and tip selection. Cable isnt bad either. So what the hell is a "Jialai"...no idea. But they are a sub brand of NiceHCK, and this is their first IEM release under the brand name. I think this IEM is actually worth every penny of a $50 price tag. I think it is a FANTASTIC alternative to the Kefine Klean, and is actually better built, and has a better driver. I dont expect this IEM to stick around long term. I feel like it might go the way of Soratune, because it jsut never got off the ground in terms of market recognition. But I'm telling you about it, and for $30...what have you got to lose? https://cqtek.squig.link/?share=JIALAI_Carat,Kefine_Klean_Silver ----- Some non-IEM things... **AZLA SendaEarFit Crystal - 20% off - $25.60** https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09B78F5C1/ These come onsale only a couple times a year. Great matte liquid silicone ear tips. One of my favorites. Lots of other AZLA tips are onsla,e so be sure to click around. **Kiwi Ears Flex Tips - 30% Off - $10.49** https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CXXC8BQ3/ This is a soft silicone ear tip, with a flex joint barrel like a SpinFit. Great for IEM's like the KE4 or Astral that like a deeper fit, and have a little treble zing at the top. These help to tame that a bit, and unlike the Spinfits, these can get a deep fit without really gripping onto your inner ear, and the flex joint angles them nicely into your ear canal. Its a shape these tips dont get more praise. They are fantastic. And this price makes them accessable enough to be worth trying. ----- And finally, i wanted to end on a "Deal not a deal" like i was talking about above. The Ziigaat Luna. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F99M49W8/ This IEM is labeled at "25% off" at $285. And it shows the MSRP of $379. The Luna has never sold for 379 on the street. Its been between $325, and $350. So, at best, youre only looking at 15% off of actual street pricing for the IEM, which isnt fantastic. Yes it is the first time it has been below $300. Which is great. But its not the best deal you could get, despite what they are trying to sell you. And this is where the price checkers really come in handy. Hope this helped some of you find some deals. And if anyone else finds something they think is of good value, post it up for everyone else to see. And remember, you dont need it jsut because its there. Shop smart people.

100%. I've owned both. The only reason I don't have the Hype 4 anymore is because someone offered me an insane trade deal for them for some Campfire Supermoons, which I wanted to get for my dad. I went through a few replacements out of curiosity, as those were my out & about sets. I really disliked the Tea Pro & the Aful 5+2. I thought the Davinci were OK, but not up to par - I was going to go back to the Hype 4, but I was offered a fantastic deal on some Moondrop Variations & went for those instead. I own some very high end bass heavy sets - Fatfreq Maestro SE CIEM / Campfire Astrolith / Sony IER-Z1R. The Hype 4 cannot compete with these, but you can't expect them to at that price (these are all 1500-3000 sets) - but they are really bloody good for the budget & that goes beyond bass. Those are three pairs out of about 15 mostly TOTL sets of IEMs & overheads that I own. I've worked in bass music for almost 30 years although it's now more of a serious hobby. I am pretty spoilt & the cheapest two sets I will recommend to absolutely anyone are the Hype 4 & the Moondrop Variations (not a bass centric set). I wouldn't recommend the Davinci, but I think it's ok. Definitely better than the Tea Pro & the Aful 5+2, but the Hype 4 rule supreme.

When I read the stuff written in here for people such as yourself, I always think it is TERRIBLE information & I think a lot of that comes from (a) lack of real experience with audio / (b) people who can't afford more expensive gear & use the old diminishing returns thing without genuinely having spent significant time with more expensive sets. I've been professionally involved in audio & music for 30 years. I never though I'd say IEMs could be better than headphones - but in some cases, they absolutely can. These two 'rules' I often hear are are total & utter bullshit & I don't believe these are generally subjective opinions, I think this is simply how it is - 'Above $300 is diminishing returns' Firstly I can't think of an IEM I'd genuinely recommend for less than 450 - the Thieaudio Hype 4. I've just been through three of the most hyped 300-350 sets (I got rid of my Hype 4 as someone offered me a ridiculously good trade offer for some Campfire Audio Supermoon - the IEM I wanted to but for my Dad - and I wanted to try something else as a replacement); Xenns Tea Pro, Dunu Davinci & Aful 5+2. I didn't love any of them (I hated 2), and I thought the jump between even the best one (Davinci) & the Hype 4 was HUGE. These are my 'beater' pair as my main six sets are 1600-3000 & I don't want to take them out into the humid climate where I live - and again, that gap between these & the Hype 4 is huge. For me, I'd have to say that diminishing returns GENERALLY begins at around 1300. BUT then you have the Campfire Astrolith are $2200 & you just won't find anything better that does this particular thing at anything less. Of course you can be a dumbass & spend $3000 on a pair that is dogshit. ---- The other 'rule' that I think is absolute bollocks is - Speakers > Headphones > IEMs ESPECIALLY the Headphones > IEMs part. This 'rule' is years old & IEMs have come a very long way in the last few years. Certain IEMs can do things that headphones cannot & vice versa. As far as I'm concerned, they're now on an even keel. Speakers... I think the sheer expense & amount of room required to get something that sounds even as good as a TOTL IEM or headphone is wild. Of course if you have unlimited money & can throw 100k++ and have a room in your house acoustically treated, it's going to sound unbelievable. But that's out of reach for most.

I previously owned the 5 & thought they were excellent value. I recently got the 5+2 as my beaters & my musical preferences often involve heavy snares. I don't have silibance issues (Final A8000 are an all time top 5 IEM for me & people seem to have serious silibance issues with those), and this is beyond just that anyway... but those more prominent highs are absolutely horrendous. It's like a a nail being smashed by a hammer right beside my ear... it also comes through very unrefined so it's just a very heavy, nondescript noise which sounds terrible. I was really disappointed & managed to get rid of them quickly. I'm seeing a lot of them popping up on local 2nd hand listings now & it's a race to the bottom with sellers. They can be had for sub $100 2nd hand where I am now, so I don't seem to be alone in not being a fan. It's a shame they didn't just do what they do with the 5 with more weight on the lower end given the 2 DD's. It's the only time in 50+ IEMs I have ever had to push the treble deep into minus on my Mojo 2 - I usually push it up a bit. Still sounds bad. Much better off spending a little more & getting the Giz/Dunu Davinci, which are my beaters now... traded the Aful 5+2 + equivalent $100 cash - glad I got them early & moved quickly.

I previously owned the 5 & thought they were excellent value. I recently got the 5+2 as my beaters & my musical preferences often involve heavy snares. I don't have silibance issues (Final A8000 are an all time top 5 IEM for me & people seem to have serious silibance issues with those), and this is beyond just that anyway... but those more prominent highs are absolutely horrendous. It's like a a nail being smashed by a hammer right beside my ear... it also comes through very unrefined so it's just a very heavy, nondescript noise which sounds terrible. I was really disappointed & managed to get rid of them quickly. I'm seeing a lot of them popping up on local 2nd hand listings now & it's a race to the bottom with sellers. They can be had for sub $100 2nd hand where I am now, so I don't seem to be alone in not being a fan. It's a shame they didn't just do what they do with the 5 with more weight on the lower end given the 2 DD's. It's the only time in 50+ IEMs I have ever had to push the treble deep into minus on my Mojo 2 - I usually push it up a bit. Still sounds bad. Much better off spending a little more & getting the Giz/Dunu Davinci, which are my beaters now... traded the Aful 5+2 + equivalent $100 cash - glad I got them early & moved quickly.

You should really listen to the 5+2 before you buy them. The more prominent treble is absolutely horrendous. I don't suffer from silibance at all & snares sound both painful & lack any real definition.... it's just like a generic, sharp noise. Was very disappointed as I thought the P5 were really good for the cash a couple of years back when they came out.

For me, they were beyond repair with tips. It's literally the only time I've had to re-tune the treble deep into minus with the DSP on my Mojo 2.... and I've used around 50 IEMs with it. One of my most used IEMs is the Final A8000, which get a lot of flak for being heavily silibant - they're not - they're just extraordinarily natural/life-like & that's how drums sound in real life (ex drummer here). I exchanged them plus a little cash for the Dunu Davinci as my out & about IEM - much better, but they're solely for going out.

Depends on your ear shape. Aful 5+2 is still a much more comfy iem for smaller ears

personally i have owned the ew300 and i upgraded to the performer 5+2 and i really enjoy it really recomend

I only have the Aful P5+2 "A lot of bass" isn't what I would describe it. The bass is nice but not very prominent. It's clean and can be punchy

People call it an all rounder IEM, really good for most genres. But it doesn't give the cinematic feeling bassy headphones provide, the wide sounding lingering bass is toned down for P5+2. Even if it's my most used earphone I still use other headphones for watching action/fantasy movies.

Tea pro, top pro, dusk, aful performer 7, 3001bd or anything around this price point. Your money but I never saw a point of buying many of cheap iems because there’s nothing special between them. 

Wonder bow this will compare to my s12 2024. The vocal details beats the Performer 5+2 and a general all round iem once I tipped rolled

The letshuoer s12 2024 is one of my favourite iems and the planar doesn't sound fake to me. The Aful Performer 5+2 is my current end game and the sound for me is pretty much there, that for me there is no need to spend any more because of diminishing returns. As always it's personal preference but it's not indicative of planar and hybrid technology for alot of people. 

love mine, these are pretty much flawless sound, build and fit. I just wanted to ask if anyone else experienced a pretty tight fit between the iem's and the 2 pin connector. It's not crazy tight, that I cant remove them but it's definitely tighter than my other iem's.

So, I clearly have a bit of a thing for Aful products! Their company philosophy is basically to provide the highest quality product for the lowest price possible, and in my opinion they do an excellent job. And while that makes me sound like a total shill, I’ve never spoken with Aful and all these sets were purchased with my own money. Another thing I’ve got a thing for is ranking stuff. So the album is arranged in order of my favorite set first. I’ll give a brief summery of my impressions here: 1. Performer 8- The best micro detail and tonality under $500. One of my favorite IEMs ever, they have a vocal forward sound with a touch of warmth. 2. Performer 5+2- Soft “v” sound, excellent for genres that rely on lots of subbass. Impactful midbass, and best soundstage on an Aful set. 3. Cantor- A bright neutral sound. Easily the best resolution with a unique, deep soundstage that allows for an “out-of-head” sound sensation. 4. Performer 5- An excellent option for those that may find the P5+2 a touch bright. I typically prefer BA treble myself. 5. Explorer- One of the best bassy, new meta tuned options around $100. 6. MagicOne- Well, it is magic to get that kind of range from one BA! A little overpriced at launch, but an excellent deal for $70 if you’re looking for a neutral set under $100. I’ll also say Aful makes some of the most comfortable IEMs on the market. If anyone wants to know anything else about the fam let me know!

I think you’d love the P7. It’s a soft v with excellent male and female vocals, and a nice upgrade over the explorer if you’d like a bit more treble and air (I do).

My favorite daily driver is the P8, but the P7 is the best value here. Both have their uses. P8 for classical, jazz, indie rock. P7 for rap, harder rock, EDM for sure.

I think I experience what your describing as the timbre of the micro planar drivers. The air and treble do indeed take on a digital characteriatic I find common with these types of tweeters. P7 is actually my favorite implementation so far, but I would have been much happier with BA or EST treble (though the price would likely shoot up $200 with ESTs). It still ranks second due to its overall sound signature. The treble is much improved on both the P8 and Cantor. And tanchjim at T apb t300 tips help me with unvented sets.

What surprised me the most when I upgraded to Aful P5+2 was the treble. It's just enjoyable, controlled, but very present. Everything is smooth and the separation is way better than my TinHifi T2 or my old Shure se215

I have several, but my favorite for just listening is an Aful Explorer. I have a Performer 5+2 that has better technicalities and soundstage, and is brighter than the Explorer, and while it is better for critical listening, the Explorer is just more relaxed for me. The Explorer is just a warm, lush, and relaxed sound. They’re very different IEMs and I like having both to choose from. The Performer is a different beast than the Explorer, not just some step up from it. The Performer is an excellent IEM. I don’t want to leave an impression that it’s not. It’s just a different class of IEM that shouldn’t be compared. I still really like my Letshuoer S08, a planar built and tuned to be warm with a tamed treble. It does not have a typical planar tuning of bright with a planar “veil”, or timbre, or metallic sound some people don’t like. They did a great job getting rid of it. It still has all the other characteristics of a planar with rapid response fast attack and transients, by with a good bass and subbass, albeit with a rapid recovery.

Don’t get me wrong, the bass in the Performer is very good, great quality and resolution, it can even give you a little ear rumble, but the bass on the Explorer is fuller. Maybe it’s not with the precision and resolution, but the quantity is there, and when you do get that ear rumble, it elicits that reflexive body feeling of a deeper core feeling to it. I’m not a basshead, but if the bottom octave isn’t as full, I notice it. It may come from decades of speakers that were set up to be full range, as in truly full range to the low 20’s, and even almost infrasonic, like that largest pipe on an organ that can hit you at 16Hz (ok, it wasn’t really, but it sort of felt that way in the room after adding a sub to the speakers and crossing over really low to not mess with the lowest octaves the speakers could deliver). A basshead experience isn’t the same as it’s not really “musical”. Maybe the Punch is, but I’ve never listened to it. The Explorer is just musical enough to satisfy that for me. The Performer is excellent but almost too resolving to me, which would make a real critical listener think I’m just a plebe to think that way. Maybe I’d like Tea Pro’s, maybe not.

With your description the Explorer fits the bill. Does well at higher volumes, warm, lush, rich, and great for 5-6 hour listening session with no fatigue. Also no discomfort as the shell is nicely shaped and sized with a smaller than average nozzle. The S08 is great, I get a lot of enjoyment out of it. But my go to daily is my Explorer. I don’t have the Odyssey to give you a fair comparison. I do find that I really like my Performer 5+2, which I expected would be my go to, but I still reach for the Explorer for that relaxed feel when I want to cruise away on the music. Yeah, stupid, the 5+2 is a beauty with such solid performance, better technicals, better soundstage, imaging is a little better on the Explorer, but that’s just my ears and likely not to others, still I can’t break my Explorer addiction.

You can consider the Odyssey at $200 or my primary recommendation would be the Performer 5+2, which is above tour $200 budget at ~$230, but can be found on sale with some patience for close to $200. Both are excellent choices, however, the ie200 is a very capable IEM which I wouldn’t be disappointed in getting. The others I mentioned are a step up, but not a day and night type of difference. Once you hit a certain price point, the law of diminishing returns does kick in and you’re paying more for incremental improvements.

I love that Explorer. It’s a very warm, lush, relaxed IEM. But the details are not terrific, which is ok if you want relaxed, not if you want layered, critical listening style of music and listening. The treble is also tamed, which as treble sensitive means I can listen for hours but at the expense of upper air. It also is best st medium to higher volumes. For that type of listening I use a Performer 5+2. Another option might be the Odyssey. But both are $200 or a bit over. The Explorer is about $100. Another possibility a bit out if jest field would be an Letshuoer S08, a planar eith unique characteristics of being warmer, a tamed treble, not sibilant or piercing as most planars are. Mids are very nice. It does not have that planar “veil” or metallic timber some folks dislike on planars. It is tip sensitive, I like the Spinfit W1’s, other the Penon Liqueur Orange on them. They also come with a decent modular cable and hard case to protect it . A nice package for .~$80, closer to the Hexa. However, my HD600’s are over 20 years old (kinda upper end back then) and no IEM captures the sound of an open back headphones, and for the HD600’s, those mids… Don’t chase the headphones with IEMs. They’re very different animals and treat them as such. Just find an IEM enjoyable and don’t compare them. Their use cases are also a lot different, so enjoy each for their strengths.

Thanks, I really like my Galaxy buds 2 pro, and am yet to find a wired Iem with similar tuning but better resolution. For example comparing the bass and note weight - Galaxy buds 2 pro > Aful performer 7, but performer 7 has better overall resolution and Air. I have been looking at some of the Iems you mentioned ( Xenns Tea pro, Top pro is over Budget) , which wired Iem would give me the best of Galaxy buds 2 pro tuning and resolution and Air of Performer 7. Is Kiwi Ears 4 what I could be looking for. Ones I am considering are ZiiGaat Cresent, Dunu DaVinci, Xenns Tea pro, maybe Pula Anvil ?

another under rated one are the apeviox grit, they are just over like $150 but given youve got a budget around $360, id say either the Arul 5+2 or the tea pro both incredible for the money

I just got the AFUL Performer 5+2 yesterday, though I think they might have come out in 24. Either way the best IEMs I’ve tried to date. Blowing my mind

I started down the IEM rabbit hole with ew200’s, about eight months later bought the artti t10s… then finally really splurged with the AFUL Performer 5+2… then upgraded my dac from the Fiio KA11 to the ifi Go Link Max. At least for me every step along this road has been met with improvements in sound tonality sound stage imaging etc. is it worth it? There’s definitely going to be diminishing returns and I think I’ve hit that point where any further improvements are not worth the cost. I’m pretty satisfied and will likely stick with these unless something breaks, but I definitely noticed significant differences as I’ve moved up the “chain”.

I didn’t like supermix 4 at all, i would say nova is a lot better - watch this video to get your answer https://youtu.be/34xo1FCWdKI?si=wRcn0ej6gkFI63X4 If listen to pop, kpop and female vocals then only go with nova. Heyday is good brightish neutral option. Imo get the ew300 hbb as a fun all rounder plus hayday or xuan nv as neutral options this way you will be covered. If you want to buy only one iem that is an all rounder then have a look at pula pa02 or save up and get the Aful performer 5+2 trust me hype is real on the Performer 5+2 it's excellent. https://youtu.be/Rsr27Qpvgk4?si=Pgy812_lII1Tx2Ho If you have any questions or want to ask questions about any other iems you can message anytime would love to help you out.

Ew300 dsp and hbb sound very similar dsp one has ease of use that's it. I recommend them over ea500lm. Ea500lm is too bright. Explorer is bassy and laid back good for long listening sessions. Haven't tried the p50, but if you have the budget man get the Performer 5+2, it's excellent. Watch my review you will get the answer why I like it so much.

I liked mine so much i got the perfomer 5+2s. They’re both wonderful to listen to. Consider pairing with one of the CX31993 dongles.

good IEM, not that good value, some other $230-260 IEMs are much more detailed, if it was $150 max I could recommend it, it's like maybe SuperMix4 if it didn't have QC issues

I had a pair of these on order but I canceled the order and got the performer 5+2. I have no regrets. I only listen to music on mine, no gaming. I listen to rock, metal, modern jazz and a bit of progressive trance. Nothing that requires boomy bass. But all those genres benefit from fast, responsive bass, lush mids, and crisp highs. The Tea Pros curve emphasizes bass and low mids. I’m sure the tea pros are great but I don’t find the performers lacking in the slightest, and they’re $100 cheaper. If I was using these for gaming, I’d probably have stuck with the Tea rather than switching to Aful.

Aful Performer 5 + 2. Absolutely love my pair

I had them for a couple of weeks and I largely agree, they are an everymans endgame at a low price. If there is a flaw it's that it does everything so overall well that it might not stand out in a larger collection. My take is that it is a straight upgrade over the Performer 5 in terms of sound, which I didn't find with the 5+2, that one is more a sidegrade, though still good just slightly different tuning. I also noticed it's a bit more source and cable sensitive vs your average hybrid; Using a good source and upgrading the cable make it sound a bit more composed especially in the highs. It is a bit bassy for my taste but nothing that actually causes a problem. Still, people should look at the graphs, because if you know for sure that you like rolled-off highs this is not the IEM for you; It is pretty safe in the highs but still extended so the treble does stand out. Unfortunately I didn't keep it. Why? Basically because it sits between two other IEMs in my collection and there was no need to fill the gap. Great for those who don't have a lot of IEMs though and are looking to step into higher-performance hybrids. More expensive hybrids become harder to justify because the gap is not large in terms of sound but in terms of price it can be. For example the Tea Pro is very similar it just has more drivers, but overall the Odyssey is 90% the way there for $100+ less.

I had them for a couple of weeks and I largely agree, they are an everymans endgame at a low price. If there is a flaw it's that it does everything so overall well that it might not stand out in a larger collection. My take is that it is a straight upgrade over the Performer 5 in terms of sound, which I didn't find with the 5+2, that one is more a sidegrade, though still good just slightly different tuning. I also noticed it's a bit more source and cable sensitive vs your average hybrid; Using a good source and upgrading the cable make it sound a bit more composed especially in the highs. It is a bit bassy for my taste but nothing that actually causes a problem. Still, people should look at the graphs, because if you know for sure that you like rolled-off highs this is not the IEM for you; It is pretty safe in the highs but still extended so the treble does stand out. Unfortunately I didn't keep it. Why? Basically because it sits between two other IEMs in my collection and there was no need to fill the gap. Great for those who don't have a lot of IEMs though and are looking to step into higher-performance hybrids. More expensive hybrids become harder to justify because the gap is not large in terms of sound but in terms of price it can be. For example the Tea Pro is very similar it just has more drivers, but overall the Odyssey is 90% the way there for $100+ less.

I just bought the Aful performer 5+2. Sounds great with edm and bassy music but lacking in acoustic and vocal detail. Should I return and spend an extra $100 on these?

Aful preformer 7 is leagues above both of those and it’s currently on sale.

Pressure can be a pain for the Orchestra Lite on longer gaming sessions plus imo they r a bit too big and heavy. I am testing the OL and Aful 5+2 right now and leaning toward the Aful. For the OL definitely get different tips. Waiting on the Hype 4 and I will make my decision on which to keep!

They sounds great and i game a lot as well mainly fps. Definitely would pick Aful over OL due to comfort and size. If u can def try both since sound can be very subjective but I believe most people would agree the Ol is not very comfortable!

My only regret is the few hundreds I spent before my first "nice" one. I didn't learn much from them, and I now just hang them on a wall as decoration. If I could go back in time I'd spend 200-300 and get something like an aful performer 5+2 and be done with it all. I own the dunu davinci and FOR ME they are exactly the type of sound and detail I want for my whole collection of music. I've also learned iems can be uncomfortable but if you power through the first week they just work and don't bother you anymore.

Had the same problem on the lower treble, turns out it was a fit problem for me. Eartip placement (how deep u put the eartip in) and deep insertion plays a crucial part for this iem. I agree it can either be really bad or reaallyyy goooood

The tangzu sancai worked best for me and i tried a bunch. More on the way. Will order some newbee foam eartips after reading your post. Thanks for sharing !

Try not to push the eartip into the earphone too deep, and also use this method : https://youtube.com/shorts/oyy1WkOUAf4?si=kwgQPOvBuizlotw5 when inserting the iem into your ear to get that deep insertion.

P5+2 user, demoed cincotres. Bass : cincotres > p5+2. Vocal : p5+2 = cincotres. Technicalities : p5+2 > cincotres P5+2 can be a bit boring as it sounds neutral bright/slight w shape but it shine on technicalities. Cincotres is more fun.

Check out reviews of the Juzear X Zreviews Defiant and see if it'll tick your boxes. They're a superb set for the price and have sweet, sweet bass with a little careful EQ. So - Juzear Defiant. One thought, however - if you can hold off on buying and up your budget to circa $250 on a good day, you could bag the Aful Performer 5+2. Spectacular all round, easy to tune for exactly your library.

You don’t have to go to $500 to hear a difference. From chu 2, just go up to performer 5+2 and your ears will unlock a whole different world you have never heard before even if they’re the same song. Then you will def say the chu 2s are that muffling/no where near lively and can bring that much details as the upper price iems.

Sold both of them within 2 weeks😆 My head fi signature: Headphones: Fiio FT1, PSB M4U, Corsair HS70, Grado SR60X (rebought). IEM’s: Cambridge Audio Melomania 1+, NiceHCK Himalaya, Hidizs MP145, Artti T10, Aoshida E20, Aful 5+2, Tripowin X HBB Kailua, QOA Adonis New, HifiMan RE2000S Pro, Faaeal Iris 2.0, Faaeal Anchestor, Aful Explorer, Hiby digital XOE, TRN Shell(!), 7Hz Five, Kz EDC Pro, QKZ MDR, Kbear Rosefinch, Yincrow X6. DAC/Amplifier: Fiio Q3 MQA, Ifi hip dac 3, BGVP T01s , Olaf dual Bocheng chip dongle, NONAME 4.4mm dongle with Apple C101 chip, Aqua Nexum. Tested but send back: Inawaken Dawn-MS,  Fiio Q11, iBasso DX180, Joyodio Shine, Fiio Q3, Kz X Libra, Fiio JD3, Sony WF-C500, JBL Tune 130NC, Sennheiser HD 650, Simgot EW200, HiFiMan Sundara, Philips Fidelio X3, Philips Fidelio X2HR, Dali IO4, QOA Vesper (DOA), BeyerDynamic DT 900 Pro X, CCA Trio, Beyerdynamic DT 990 32Ohm, HiFiMan Deva Pro wired, Moondrop Kato, Moondrop Blessing 3, Truthear X Crinacle: Red, Tangzu X HBB XuanNV, 7Hz Timeless, Simgot Supermix 4, Tangzu Wan’er SG, Austrian Audio HI-X15, XSL X-One MK4, Sony WH-1000XM5, ThieAudio Hype 2, Owned but sold: SMSL C200, Fiio JM21, Hiby R4, 7Hz Timeless AE, Tripowin X 0DiBi: Vivace, Simgot EW-300, Denon AH-D5200, Artti R1, Aful Performer8, Jabra 75T Active Elite, TRN Conch, Ikko oh300, Fiio FP3, HiFiMan HE400SE Bilateral (China edition), Kefine Delci, iBasso SR2, Koss PortaPro, Ziigaat Nuo, Ziigaat X HBB Arcadia, Ziigaat Doscinco, Ziigaat X Jay Audio Estrella, Ziigaat Odyssey, Ziigaat Cinno, Ziigaat Cincotres, Grado SR60X(rebought), Kiiboom Evoke, Kiwi Ears Quartet, 7Hz Legato, 7Hz Salnotes Zero, 7Hz Sonus, 7Hz Timeless II, Etymotic ER2XR, Fatfreq X HBB Deuce, Blon BL-03 II, Kiwi Ears Crinacle Singolo, Faaeal Poppy, Qkz Cl8, Faaeal Rosemary, Sennheiser ie200, Fiio FH7S, Fiio JD7, Fiio FF3S, Fiio FF5, Fiio FD3, Hidisz MS3, Hidizs Mermaid MS2, Kiwi Ears Cadenza, Qkz X HBB, Meze 99 Neo, Moondrop Chu 2, Grado SR325X, HiFiMan RE800 Silver, HiFiMan RE400i, Kiwi Ears X HBB Punch, 1more Penta P50, Artti T10 Pro, Kz ZEX, Kz ZVX, Kz PR1 balanced edition, Kz X HBB PR2 (first batch), Kz PR3, Kz Castor bass edition, Moondrop Chu, Kz Krila, Kz ZEX Pro, Kz LingLong, Kz DQ6, Kz ZS10 Pro X and Denon AH-C620R (Worst IEM ever, possible AE imitation). Sources: Tidal, Ipad Pro M4 13’, iPhone 16 PM Wishlist: Ziigaat Lush, Ziigaat Arcanis, Fiio M21 (on pre order).

Have you tried EQ or tip rolling sir? Sometimes some small changes can make a world of different. I have an aful performer 7 and a melody wing Venus, not bass head iem, but I find the bass so much better on the melody wings, as it's got a faster attack then my P7. The P7 is a duel DD set, yet I find the sing DD melody wings superior because of the attack frequency. So you can get better strong bass, but the attack and decay also matter. Also with my p7s, I need small dunu s and s tip to get the best out of them, the MWV needed the black core tips that came with them.

https://preview.redd.it/ricrax244h2e1.jpg?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e135cd0f86f31a8e0f9d80e40d8ccd04423d82c8 This is not going to be a technical thought review bc quite frankly I don't care and you can watch youtubers to get that. These are just my feelings and user experience alone. TLDR; **Overall Impressions -** These are maybe the best IEMs I've ever heard with a couple caveats; you NEED the right ear tips and a bit of EQ otherwise it could be one of the worst IEMs. It sucks that these are the requirements **for me** in order to love these, but it is what it is. **IEMs I've tried in the past:** Thieaudio Origin, Thieaudio Hype 4, Mega5EST, Supermix4, Davinci, and more... **Ear tips dilemma:** Let's talk about ear tips real quick because its important. When I first listened to this IEM it felt brutal. The lower treble was killing me. It wasn't necessarily sibilant, but it was piercing my ears. Some people call it a treble "crunch". I don't mind treble normally (my everyday headphones are the Arya's which are Treble heavy). I tried the stock tips, azla's, divinus wide velvet, cp100, w1, and a few other ear tips and none of them were able to take the crunch away. I was ready to return it until I decided to try out some random foam ear tips I had lying around (I think these are New Bee foam - they're pretty average honestly and nothing special). AND HOLY MOLY it took that excessive crunch away, boosted the bass while maintaining very clear mids. And I normally HATE foam ear tips as it usually changes the sound too much for me... but for these it's a must. Trust me, I was just as surprised. My recommendation for anyone who might be even a tiny bit treble sensitive... try foam ear tips. **Bass (7/10 without EQ : 9.5/10 with EQ):** Bass is clean but a bit lean for me. I'm definitely a basshead at this point and have to add EQ to make this hit my bass needs. I have an RME ADI and add +6 to the bass shelf and it hits HARD and doesn't bleed into the mids and treble which is wild for an IEM to be able to do. The bass here doesn't feel like it has impact close to your eyes/ears. It feels a bit more distant. This is GOOD and BAD. It's good because it creates this feeling of a very wide soundstage with incredible imaging. It's bad bc sometimes you want the bass to just smack you (if you're a basshead like me) and it doesn't do that unless you add some serious EQ. **Mids (9/10):** Wonderful. I literally have no complaints here. These are maybe as good as my Focal Clears in terms of mids and that's a pretty good bar to hit. The only thing is tonally they may not be as good. They don't sound as natural, but I'm also comparing an $800+ headphone which isn't fair. But they definitely are forward in the best of ways. **Treble (5/10 with most ear tips 9.5/10 with foam ear tips):** I touched on this a bit in the ear tip section, but once you have the right ear tips, the treble as absolutely fantastic. Lower and upper treble is present and because this IEM has incredible depth and soundstage, it feels like music floats around you. But it floats around you WITH extremely clear presentation. It's pretty wild honestly. The treble makes everything stand out beautifully and rival much more expensive IEMs **Soundstage/Imaging (and a bit on gaming w/ these) (9.5/10):** These have got to be the best **gaming** IEMs ever. The soundstage is very wide. Maybe its not the tallest ever, but its SUPER wide. That combined with an excellent treble presence and great imaging technicalities, hearing footsteps has been a godsend. I'm very curious how others feel gaming with these and can't wait for more reviewers to talk about it from that perspective. Anyway, I write these sometimes because its fun to talk about different products. I do love this IEM now that I have the right ear tips and a bit of EQ. This particular IEM showed me that it doesn't matter if you spend $1,000+ on an IEM. It showed me that value isn't always about money. I just wish this IEM worked with all of my other ear tips and w/out having to EQ. Hope this helps anyone looking to buy this!

I have both of those IEMs in front of me. You're in for a wild ride. I just made a post about the Performer 5+2 [https://www.reddit.com/r/iems/comments/1gxaoeh/aful\_performer\_52\_my\_thoughts/?utm\_source=share&utm\_medium=web3x&utm\_name=web3xcss&utm\_term=1&utm\_content=share\_button](https://www.reddit.com/r/iems/comments/1gxaoeh/aful_performer_52_my_thoughts/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web3x&utm_name=web3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button) Happy to talk about the tea pros also

You can get the Aful Performer 5+2 for less than the Kadenz when it's on sale, and it wipes the floor with it in nearly every department (vocals might be marginally better on the Kadenz, but substantially worse everywhere else).

Just will say this here because I really don’t see it recommended for gaming as much as it should be. But the Aful performer 5+2, no EQ, sound great for PUBG. And that game can have some pretty harsh highs so I was surprised how well they work at a competitive level of gaming.

Aful performer 5+2 for modern metal and black metal. Like I kid you not, this set floors every other set under $500

I see, I don't personally have any experience with Pula or Myer Audio iems yet, so I can't speak on that. I will say QC on all chifi isn't amazing tbh, I got the Aful P5+2 and although it is my favorite set by far (even over the Xenn Tea Pro) it came with a channel imbalance. I measured it to confirm and my right side is quieter than my left, but I only kept it as my dac has channel balance compensation, and since I can measure the decibels on each I can slide it to the right until they are balanced.

I love my Aful Explorer and I reeeeally want to get my hands on Performer 5+2. Beautiful IEMs with a warm, rich sound signature that I adore. I know people love V shaped, but I gotta have my full bodied mids.

I’m considering them based on what I love about Explorer (warm, rich, mids) and what i feel is missing in Explorer (not huge on the rolloff around 15k hz). Mainly trying to find something that doesn’t make a violin section sound thin—it needs body and richness for me.

I really like the aful performer 5+2 if you can strech the budget 230$ aprox

To paraphrase Gale Boetticher from breaking bad: That last 3% is where the real artistry happens and what separates a master chemist from a competent cook. Basically, past the ~$250 IEMs, I would say that the more expensive sets are mostly for enthusiasts who care for the most subtle details. I have the AFUL 5+2 and I can’t imagine pushing further beyond, mostly because I’m not made of money. But I can tell you there’s a HUGE difference between the ultra cheap KZ EDX PRO X and a lesser difference between the zero:red and them.

I mean sure, but at the end of any day subjective experience is paramount. I'm not trading Abyss Diana for a Kiwi Ears KE4 since the Diana smashes the shit sound wise to my preferences (and it better for like 15X the cost). Kilobuck iems are the same. Elysian Annihilator 2023 (I know people say 2021 is better but havent tried them) was the most resolving and full sound IEM, Ive ever had. The Performer 5+2 and Odyssey I have dont compare.

Tea Pro is my best buy from my last bought 5 iems and I think I can walkaway with it quite few years time. No.1 - Tea Pro No.2 - Performer 5+2 No.3 - Tanchjim Origin No.4 - GizAudio Chopin No.5 - Supermix 4

Aful 5+2, Timeless 2, Tanchjim Origin, SoftEars Volume S, EPZ P50. Above 400 you have Kiwi Ears Punch as the obvious choice, as long as you like bass. But truly do not underestimate a good source, don't neglect it. Tubes are becoming more normal for portable use now so I would strongly recommend the iBasso Nunchaku and try to stretch your budget a little.

I just bought this pair in a store in Osaka. What attracted me among many others was the presence of the mids despite the generous bass, which makes them pleasant for all types of music. I specifically wanted closed ones for taking public transport and so I immediately changed the cable for a less absurd 3.5mm. I also quickly changed the tips for the original large/mid and indeed the high-pitched flickering has calmed down. Very good pair, I recommend. As a sidenote they have a 17ohms +-20% impedance and high seisitivity and are in result not sensible to the source's quality, which is nice. a simple usb-c dac will do just fine

As somebody who has auditioned all the aful iems, owns aful 5, and owns xenns top pro and tea pro, here is my ranking (topdown): 1)Xenns Top Pro (Very good bass and subbass, fantastic technical seperation, clarity and soundstage. V shaped) 2)Xenns Tea Pro (Fantastic bass and subbass, great technical seperation, good clairity and soundstage. Warm tonality. V shaped) 3)Aful 5 + 2 (Bass is quite good, subbass is average. Decent technical seperation, average soundstage. Warm tonality with slight V shape). 4)Aful 5 (Bass is relatively good, subbass is not very present. Average technical seperation and soundstage. Warm tonality with slight v shape that is lesser than 5+ 2.) Conclusion: If you already have the tea pro, getting the aful 5+2 is considered a downgrade imo as it is nowhere in terms of bass and technical seperation compared to the Tea Pro. I suggest considering the Top Pro, Aful Cantor and Aful Dawn X. I am very satisfied with my 2 xenns, and the cantor and dawn are on my wishlist.

As somebody who has auditioned all the aful iems, owns aful 5, and owns xenns top pro and tea pro, here is my ranking (topdown): 1)Xenns Top Pro (Very good bass and subbass, fantastic technical seperation, clarity and soundstage. V shaped) 2)Xenns Tea Pro (Fantastic bass and subbass, great technical seperation, good clairity and soundstage. Warm tonality. V shaped) 3)Aful 5 + 2 (Bass is quite good, subbass is average. Decent technical seperation, average soundstage. Warm tonality with slight V shape). 4)Aful 5 (Bass is relatively good, subbass is not very present. Average technical seperation and soundstage. Warm tonality with slight v shape that is lesser than 5+ 2.) Conclusion: If you already have the tea pro, getting the aful 5+2 is considered a downgrade imo as it is nowhere in terms of bass and technical seperation compared to the Tea Pro. I suggest considering the Top Pro, Aful Cantor and Aful Dawn X. I am very satisfied with my 2 xenns, and the cantor and dawn are on my wishlist.

Letshour S12 pro good for footsteps with a decent dac. Better than the hexa ( have both). I really love the aful p 2+5 (and regret not paying up for it initially) and its superb for valorant as it doesn’t give directionally miscue in valorant in game sounds which other iems tend to do (inc s12 pro)

Ok. I’ve tried s12 pro and aful p 2+5 , the footsteps naturally sound better on s12 but the overall sound quality and directional audio sound better on aful. You can also lower the vandal sound frequency using equalizer

Whatever you do STEP AWAY FROM MOONDROP Shit QC and honestly fallen off from grace. Get the senns and be happy with them If you're not set on these two, consider the Oddyssey or the second version, Aful P5+2, maybe the Daybreaks, or just get an Artti T10 Pro and never look back

Thank you.Ive had chance to test 5+2 and Davinci today.In the end walked away with 5+2.

Found Davinci to be bit muddy and intimate.Reminds me a lot my old pair of earphones. 5+2 have more clarity and separation to my ears and still plenty of bass.Maybe came bit bright on some occasions,changed tips for Spinfit and they sound even better now.Soo far really happy them.Secondly it was about fit and comfort.

https://preview.redd.it/601ndtckl8ff1.jpeg?width=1044&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5e575306348d55b95be6f83523fefe3482aafa0d I usually don’t blind buy IEMs but I just did this one cause I really want to hear it as soon as possible myself and let the hype die in my own head. When I blind buy from amazon I usually just carefully take only the IEMs OUT and use my own cables, tips etc. So, that I can return them if needed, as new as possible. Honestly, I’m just curious how these stack up against the Aful performer 5+2. Because, that is still one of my travel daily drivers; despite having a few much more expensive sets

In my opinion P5+2 is noticeably better than daybreak. Specially has much wider soundstage and overall balance

Really? I love the P7. If you haven’t already, try a 4.4mm cable and maybe tip roll a little. I buy and sell IEMs on occasion, but the P7 stays with me. Good luck.

Dang that’s a solid collection, I want to try the bajie and the isn ebc. I do have the penon fan 3 though, but barely used it. Still gotta tip roll that one, and I think the btr7 might be too high output impedance for that. Been enjoying my tea pros and performer 7 quite a bit more, and with my new Cayin ru6…..holy smokes! Never tried an r2r until now.

Absolutely digging the Aful Performer 7s...hifigo has them on sale right now for around $200. Slapped some Dunu S&S on these bad boys and took them to the next level.

The Performer 5+2 is REALLY good for $230 USD.

This is my experience as well. Foam just doesn’t work for my use case… I have to insert and remove an iem throughout my 12 hour shifts.. soreness ensues… But for anyone looking for additional confirmation, this is the case. Foam fixed the problems. This iem is about as detailed (from memory) as the performer 8 but with the bass that was missing for many users. Bravo.

I am in the same boat! Using baroque tips today to see how they pan out. I HATE foam but I will try as you say this corrects the issue. I am not treble sensitive as I rock the Dita Project M with ZERO issues at any volume. If I use the 5+2 at a medium volume I don’t get the harshness but I want to JAM and sometimes that means turning it up , which at this point I can not do. I agree with the technical aspects you touch on, just needs tips to fix its problems. Pretty incredible iem for the price if I can get the tips right.

Get the Aful P5+2 and eq to your hearts content. For the wireless aspect pick up a set of Fiio UTWS5 2025. You won’t regret it

I have the dusk, hype 4, ie600, Aful 5+2 and I can EQ any one of these to sound like the other. Fit is most important. EQ really can do the rest. As for me, dusk is more comfortable than hype 4 as well.

I own the pro, hype 4, and p7. Of the theee, the p7 is most comfortable to my ear canal. It is the only one of the three that requires EQ for me, BUT with EQ, the p7 is beyond what I thought would’ve been possible in a unit that’s so inexpensive. If you’re not going to EQ, the hype 4 and pro are literally a 50/50. Fit is for me the most important thing since I can EQ.

If I were you, and I’ve bought 2 sets of hype 4, I’d get them second hand at $250 and get a Qudelix Bluetooth dac/amp and you’ve got a powerhouse of a set up. At that same price you can also get a new P7 and EQ it lol. It’s a stellar iem for the price. Either way, you’ll be impressed. I personally would get the tea pro just for the fact that it’s got a metal chassis( if you’re opposed to used gear)

Claude helped: # IEM Tier Comparison: Top 3 Models by Price & Ratings ## **S-TIER (Flagship Performance)** ### **Top 3 by Lowest Price:** 1. **Xenns Mangird Tea Pro** - $359 2. **Moondrop Meteor** - $499-549 3. **Kiwi Ears Etude** - ~$200-300 (estimated) ### **Top 3 by Consumer Ratings:** #### **1. Xenns Mangird Tea Pro ($359)** • **Pros:** - "Excellent choice for balanced yet engaging IEM" - Deep, controlled bass with lush mids and smooth treble - Exceptional comfort and passive noise isolation - Natural timbre and texture • **Cons:** Cable is stiff and inflexible • **Best For:** Vocal lovers, balanced tuning enthusiasts #### **2. Moondrop Meteor ($499-549)** • **Pros:** - "One of the company's best-tuned tribrid IEMs" - Impressive treble extension with zero sibilance - Users report it "sounds better than $2000+ IEMs" - Innovative 7-driver configuration (1DD+2BA+4Planar) • **Cons:** Large size may not fit smaller ears, lighter bass response • **Best For:** Technical performance seekers, treble enthusiasts #### **3. Kiwi Ears Etude** • **Pros:** - Innovative KVT (Kiwi Vibration Transducer) technology - Unique tactile bass enhancement - Beryllium-plated dynamic driver • **Cons:** KVT vibration feature requires adaptation, polarizing • **Best For:** Bass enthusiasts seeking unique tactile experience --- ## **A-TIER (Exceptional Value)** ### **Top 3 by Lowest Price:** 1. **AFUL Performer 5+2** - $239 2. **Kiwi Ears KE4** - ~$200-250 3. **Moondrop Illustrious** - ~$250-300 ### **Top 3 by Consumer Ratings:** #### **1. Kiwi Ears KE4 (~$200-250)** • **Pros:** - "Can confidently compete with IEMs under $400" - Excellent tonal balance with natural, engaging sound - Great for competitive gaming (FPS positioning) - Comfortable 2DD+2BA hybrid design • **Cons:** May need higher power sources, tuning might be "safe" for some • **Best For:** Gamers, neutral sound preference, all-rounders #### **2. AFUL Performer 5+2 ($239)** • **Pros:** - "Offers a lot of value" and "handles all kinds of music well" - Blends fun with technicalities - Tribrid design (2DD+4BA+1 Micro Planar) - Versatile across genres • **Cons:** Cable not modular, basic eartips • **Best For:** Genre versatility, technical performance on budget #### **3. Moondrop Illustrious** • **Pros:** - Solid technical performance in price range - Moondrop's refined tuning approach • **Cons:** Mixed reception, less standout features • **Best For:** Moondrop fans, balanced signature seekers --- ## **B-TIER (Solid Performers)** ### **Top 3 by Lowest Price:** 1. **Tripowin Vivace** - ~$80-120 2. **ArpegEar Hane** - $129 3. **Tangzu Wu Zetian Legend** - $259 ### **Top 3 by Consumer Ratings:** #### **1. Tangzu Wu Zetian Legend ($259)** • **Pros:** - "Highest detail" captures finest recording nuances - Dual planar drivers (14.2mm + 6mm) - Excellent treble control without harshness - Beautiful abalone-like faceplate design • **Cons:** May be too analytical for some, dust filter issues • **Best For:** Detail retrieval enthusiasts, planar driver fans #### **2. ArpegEar Hane ($129)** • **Pros:** - "Strong first impression" for brand debut - Clear and engaging sound signature - Tuning switches for customization - Comfortable fit and stylish design • **Cons:** Limited brand recognition, fewer reviews available • **Best For:** Customization lovers, newcomers to IEMs #### **3. Tripowin Vivace (~$80-120)** • **Pros:** - "Vivacious" bass performance with good separation - Competent tuning, inoffensive signature - Comfortable ergonomic design - Good value for entry-level • **Cons:** Average soundstage, basic treble detail, stiff cable • **Best For:** Budget-conscious buyers, casual listeners --- ## **Key Takeaways:** • **Best S-Tier Value:** Xenns Tea Pro offers flagship performance at mid-tier pricing • **Best A-Tier Pick:** KE4 dominates with versatility and gaming performance • **Best B-Tier Technical:** Zetian Wu Legend punches above its weight class • **Price Sweet Spot:** A-tier offers the best performance-per-dollar ratio

Performer 5 + 2 is arguably the safest option out of these. I think the tuning is pretty universally applicable across genres, is not fatiguing to listen to and still exciting enough at the same time. I think the price to performance isn’t quite as good as it was on release with how far the Odyssey undercuts it on price, but I also prefer the Performer line, so I‘d rather downgrade to the Performer 5 if I had to save some money. Still a perfectly good IEM with reasonable value and pleasant sound. Plus you don’t get anywhere near the inconsistency in quality that certain other brands seem to have.

Demoed Monarch mk2,3. Mega5est, Aful7. Gotta say that the Mega5 with the Jm1 tuning is a game changer.

On the budget/cheap end my favorite is the Artti R1. My current favorite energetic all rounders would be ziigaat Doscinco, and Binary Dynaquattro. Theyre not peaky at all, but i wouldnt say they’re relaxed. Theyre just a really nice smooth energetic tuning. Id prob go FIIO FD15, or Dunu falcon ultra for single DD relaxed tuning. I wouldn’t say Kato/Kadenz because it can be a little energetic up top, and no Dunu Kima because it has sub-bass roll that would leave me wanting more. Hybrid/tribrid wise id probably go Aful P7, or Ziigaat Arete. Havent tried Cincotres, but it’s a different flavor of doscinco. The Ziigaat Arcadia and Odyssey seem good too but idk much about them. In this top end of the price range there’s also BGVP NS10 Pro, CKLVX D62, Juzear 81T, and Pula Anvil. However, every reviewers ive seen has pretty much preferred the Aful P7 more over these. For the most part i think these sets might have a bit more bass impact because of their bigger DDs, but they say P7 is quicker and more technical.

I highly recommend the 5+2. I really like a flat signature (like the hexa’s) but the soft V shape of the 5+2 makes them an excellent all-rounder. Besides, the micro planar tweeters are pretty good for female voices/guitar strings and the mid bass is a lot more present than my Hexas. If you are considering getting them I’d say go for it

I really like them for classical; the 5+2 handle the highs amazingly (again, I think the micro planars have something to do with it), a little sparkly but not scratchy at all. I found them sibilant in one or two tracks but I think those are outliers. Coming from the Hexas I think they have everything I was missing from them, and I already loved my Hexas. As a plus, I found more comfortable; the nozzle is smaller and it makes a big difference for long sessions. If, like me, you have small ear canals it is something to consider

Currently, I feel like it's hard to beat the Aful Performer 7 in it's price range. If it's outside of your budget, and you're a fan of bass, the Explorer is a nice set.

Of course, this will be specific to your preference and music genres, but I think the Performer 5+2 would fit. I really like the 61T, but it lacks the warmth the P7 has, and I have experienced significant pressure buildup. The DaVinci and Odyssey may also be what you're looking for, I haven't had any opportunity to try those yet. The Estrella is a great set for certain genres, I do feel the sub bass can sound a little bloated with certain music, and I prefer the treble extension of the P7. To be honest, someone can make a case for any of the sets you mentioned. I highly doubt you'd be disappointed with any of them.

100%, the Performer 5+2 is my favorite set out of 80ish iems.

>But as soon as you get in range of the price of the Fiio FT1, I haven't heard an iem that can compete with it for under $500. Full disclaimer, I love and recommend the FT1s often. I agree they're one of the best budget headphones the hobby has ever seen and it's unlikely to be unseated for a very long time. I've posted this [image](https://imgur.com/a/bokeh-ft1-duGXiR5) a few times, because I've often had to back up the claim that I'm running the FT1 alongside much more expensive closed back sets, like the ZMF Bokeh, Focal Radiance and Azurys, etc. I've even started recommending it as a budget production/mixing headphone over options like the MDR-M1. The FT1 takes EQ surprisingly well and makes a great budget option for beginning engineers. But, I would argue the premise that IEMs provide better bang for your buck hasn't changed. The FT1 has subverted expectations where the headphone market is concerned, but it hasn't disrupted the budget IEM segment, not by a long shot. The Letshuoer S08, for instance, doesn't just compete with but outperforms the FT1; it presents the same neutral/slightly warm-tilted tuning, but with superior technical performance and much more overhead for EQ. The Simgot EM6L, not as popular now as its been outshined by recency bias, is still a phenomenal value for its price. And IEMs in a similar price range to the FT1, like the Meze Alba, Performer 5+2, or Ziigaat Odyssey, are more competent than the FT1 out of the box and align well with the "all 'rounder" tuning that has made the FT1 so popular. And under $500? The recent Xenns Top Pro is $499, and walks circles around the FT1, being one of the best midfi IEMs the market has seen in years and easily Xenns best release, competing with some of my kilobuck sets, both in tuning and technical performance. The FT1 is a fantastic budget headphone, without question. It has disrupted the budget market and is the easy recommendation for someone looking to spend $300 or less for an over ear set. However, I'd still recommend several IEMs over the FT1 if format didn't matter and someone was looking to get the best bang for their buck.

Performer 7s actually have excellent treble details for me, and they are not bass heavy at all.

Thanks for the honest review. I ended up returning mine to Amazon, they just didn't do anything special for me and I found I just wasn't wanting to listen to them over cheaper IEMs like the Ziigaat Odyssey and Aful P5+2 or my Kiwi Ears Punch

I would also recommend the Performer 5+2.

I don't like the performer as much as tea pro but I didn't mess with eq. Stock there is some harsh metallic sounds that were not appealing to me. I'm sure if you eqd them they would be great like others say. The performers are easier to wear for long periods of time and lighter though but also would mention they don't have the build quality of the tea pros.

I love the bass on preformer 7 and tea pro. Hype 4 decent also.

Cadenza 4 is probably the closest to the reds based on their graph. I'll add the Aful P5+2 too, it sounded fairly neutral to my ears. Not as bassy as the explorer and the P5.

It fits differently compared to the cheaper afuls I've tried. Explorer, Magicone, P5. Can't get a deep fit with the P7 but the other 3 fits me deep nicely. Not sure if it's the slightly wider nozzle or the contours of the shell not being compatible with my ears.

Dunu Davinci for me. It's the most immersive for me so far. Sounds like intruments are actually placed in 3d space. Can also listen at high volumes without it being sibilant. I also had Aful P5, P7, magicone, explorer, SM4, Deuce, Delci. Really like the rumble of the Deuce too. Have a lot of aful for their fit. Others feel "flat" to me. Like they do have some height to them but for very specific moments in some tracks only.

In every way possible. The Hype 4 are fantastic value for money - that rings true with pretty much all of Thieaudio's stuff. They use top tier parts & their margins are actually very low VS others. The DD's & BA's in the Hype 4 are top end - the same ones they use in their top end IEMS (and they primarily make more premium IEMS). I don't believe that Xenns & Dunu are using drivers of the same level of quality & this affects every single part of the sound. I've owned all of them (plus the Aful 5+2). Most of my IEMS are on the very high end: 1600-3000 for my main six pairs - I don't take these out with me as I don't want to damage them. I wanted one IEM sub 500 to be able to take out. I got the Hype 4 & was blown away - the bass is incredible, miss are very good & treble excellent. They sound far more expensive than they are - I'd have been happy had I paid 700. I got rid of my Hype 4 as someone offered me a ridiculous trade deal for Campfire Supermoon - the IEM I wanted to buy for my dad as it suits his library/taste perfectly. I probably should have just got the Hype 4 again - but I think everyone interested in audio is curious to see how other, newer IEMs sound. I went through the Aful 5+2 (terrible - horrible, abrasive upper highs) - then Gizaudio DaVinci (definitely the best out of this bunch, but I just knew the Hype 4 were so much better & then finally what I thought would be a safe choice - the Tea Pro. I thought the DaVinci were significantly better. I have no recency bias, nor am I influenced by reviews - the Hype 4 smash all of these in every way. You could absolutely say (and it's been said by others) that this could easily be a 700 USD IEM & that absolutely cannot be said about the others.

This isn’t going to be a technical breakdown talking about graphs or fancy terminology. I don’t fully understand those yet (though I can piece some things together). Instead, this is just a random write-down and review from someone who enjoys music, and appreciates the experience, and wants to share my impressions that might help others starting out. It’s a long one, since I’ve gone through a LOT of IEMs in a short time. Firstly, I listen to all sorts of music. Classic, rap, rock, punk, pop but mostly vocal ballads and pop. I can probably also say I'm not "treble sensitive" (never tested whether I am or not) but as long as the IEM fit comfortably, didn't have a problem with fatigue. For reference, I’m using a JDS Atom 2 stack. Whether that matters much, you can decide for yourself. I started with a HyperX Cloud headset for gaming and music. Then I bought into the open-back headphone hype and got a Sennheiser HD6XX. Loved the sound, but big-head problems made them super uncomfortable after a while. That’s when I decided to try IEMs. My first real IEM was the Oriolus Finschi. Bought it on a whim, no research. Turned out great: comfy, clear vocals, decent instrument separation, and even worked well for tactical FPS games. I used them for years until the plastic wrapping on the shell started peeling. And so my budget IEM collection starts. Also if you're asking why buy so many, I just have a bad habit of making a collection. Now a quick review of these for anyone who also don't understand the graphs and want a general idea. Budget IEMs I’ve tried (ranked best to worst for me). **Kefine Delci AE:** These became my favorite as they had clear vocals and instruments with good separation and resolution, similar to the Oriolus Finschi but just a bit more lively. They sounded slightly brighter/livelier than neutral (I’ll put the Finschi and Hexa as the neutral-sounding baseline). These were fun and enjoyable—everything sounded clear and lively without being piercing. Even the bass was clear and sharp, not boomy, which I liked. **Letshouer S08:** This was my favorite until the Delci AE arrived. They were just pleasing to listen to—fun but also relaxing. Definitely a step down in clarity from the Delci AE, and probably less clear than the Simgot EA500LM, but still more enjoyable to listen to than the EA500LM. The bass wasn’t too much either; it was clear and sharp. It felt *fast*—like you could feel that it came out quickly and clearly. I’m guessing that’s the “speed of planar” people keep talking about? **Aful Explorer:** This one I didn’t like much stock, but once I applied EQ through Peace, they got significantly better. Stock, they were too dark and heavy sounding—everything was a bit muffled and muddy sounding. After EQ, they definitely improved. They were still dark sounding, but less so. Darker than the S08, but brightened enough for me to enjoy them. Vocals still felt clear, just not as clear as the Delci AE, maybe about the same as the S08. The Explorer had more of a boomy bass compared to the sharp, clear bass of the IEMs mentioned above. **Simgot EA500LM:** These had very clear vocals, which made me enjoy them for vocal ballads and pop tracks. But the background instruments weren’t as clear or well separated, and the soundstage seemed small and recessed compared to the vocals. This made vocals stand out but instruments felt like they all came from the same area, which wasn’t great for classical music. These probably had the most bass out of all the budget IEMs I got. It was boomy—the opposite of the sharp bass of the Delci AE and S08. With the Delci AE and S08 I could hear when the bass started and stopped, but here it just boomed and sort of rolled off instead of “stopping.” **Truthear Hexa:** Mediocre for me—nothing really stood out. It had clear vocals, instruments, and bass, but not to the point that it was clearer than the IEMs above. Very neutral and "boring". **Dunu Kima 2:** These had really good vocals, probably on par with the Delci AE. However, I found the background instruments very recessed, even more so than the EA500LM, making them unclear. The difference between forward, clear vocals and recessed background instruments felt weird to me. Otherwise, I think I would have really liked these—especially since this IEM comes with the best accessories by far. It’s like Dunu added the Kima 2 IEMs to their accessory set, instead of the other way around. **Letshouer S12 Pro:** Personally, I don’t understand the hype behind these. They sounded a bit unnatural and artificial—not relaxing or fun for me. They were bright, and I couldn’t EQ them properly. Toning down the brightness made them muddy. They were decent in clarity and had sharp, fast bass, but the overall tonality was just too bright and artificial for me. Still, I would pick these over the next two, just because they were clearer in both vocals and instruments which I value highly. **Kefine Klean:** These were okay, just average all around. Similar to the Truthear Hexa, but toned down evenly in all categories. Average clarity, separation, bass. Nothing wowed me, and they were a bit boring. Personally, I’d save up for the Delci AE or S08. **Simgot EW300:** Very slightly less clarity than the Klean, but a bit more bass and a livelier sound signature. If you listen to more rock or EDM, you would probably enjoy the EW300 more than the Klean. Just to quickly add: I also got the Moondrop Starfield 1 when they were popular back then, but they were heavy, uncomfortable, and mediocre. I didn’t use them for long and honestly can’t remember them well enough to describe beyond that. Currently, I’ve upgraded to mid-level IEMs and rotate between the Aful Explorer 5+2, Kiwi Ears Astral, Aether, and Ziigaat Odyssey. I found that the mid-level IEMs are definitely better than all the entry-level ones—I can clearly hear a difference when swapping back to the Delci AE or S08 in terms of clarity, resolution, and soundstage. However, the upgrade isn’t *huge*, so whether that’s worth the extra price depends on you. Maybe if people enjoyed reading this long post, I can do another crappy review for the mid-level IEMs I’ve collected.

The P7 is another name for the Aful Performer 5+2.

That is really unfortunate, that happened with me with my first set of my AFUL P7 and had it return to its seller. Luckly my current right now hasn't experienced that problem so far.

IMO, the best technical perfomance under 300 you can get is from, Planars IEMs altho they need more power to shine, with the Aether, Shozy P20 and F1 Pro the best bang for your buck and with the rest of ur money get a KA15 or Dawn Pro portable dac. After that the Juzear 61t and the Perfomer5+2 are on a deal right now for spring sale, which makes them my 2nd best choices

Tuning wise will be an upgrade, but not technically, KE4 is not a detail oriented IEM. The Juzear61t and/or Performer 5+2 are the next upgrade worthy from the quartet, with honorable mention of the F1 Pro and/or Shozy P20 planars for the same price that the quartet(you wil need 4.4mm cable+dac to fully squeeze their potentia). Still i would avoid them and go for the 300ish Volume S or Pilgrim so you can actually notice the improvement.

ive really been enjoying the performer 5+2! its a big upgrade to compared to my previous set. theyre pretty crisp and not too heavy on the bass.

I haven't done a direct comparison but the P7 is really really good. Without having both in front of me I'd say the Defiant is a little bassier and more dynamic while the P7 is much better balanced and better technically. For what it's worth I rated the Defiant 4☆ and the P7 4.5☆.

For sure. P7 is my de facto recommendation under $250 and the Defiant under $100.

Fit is always subjective of course. I have big ears so I have trouble with small shells but no issues with large ones. Both the P7 and Defiant are probably average in shell and nozzle size. The P7 might be a bit more comfortable for me.

I just bought the Thieaudio Origins last week and absolutely love them. They have a completely full range bass feel and the bone conduction adds a little something to it that I have a hard time explaining. I can definitely tell it’s there as it feels different than my other IEMs. The others in my collection are Aful Performer 5+2, Truthear Zero Red, Oriveti Lowmaster, Moondrop Variations, Sennhesier IE200. For bassy music the Thieaudio is my go to.

I have been using Aful Performer 5+2 for a few months. Slipknot sounds really good compared to Artti T10 because of the better separation and darker tuning. As for Korn, it's simpler overall, but requires good lows. Aful Performer does a great job here as well.

Yes, it's worth it. I'm using it for a few months and pretty happy with these.

The problem with Harman tuning is that it may be too bright and exhausting for some people. The warm tuning is more relaxing and fun. I do not own Explorer, but I have Performer 5+2 with a similar tuning. And I love how it sounds!

2024 was an exciting year for me and all fellow audiophiles. So many great IEMs with unimaginable value. Here are 8 of my favorite sets from my ~15 sets collection. Right to left, top to bottom: ISN EBC80, HiSenior Mega5EST Bass + (custom design), Tangzu Zhu Bajie, Kiwi Ears Punch, Xenns Mangird Tea Pro, DUNU DaVinci, Ziigaat Estrella, AFUL Performer 5+2 Honorable mention: AFUL Explorer (best first IEM IMO), Ziigaat Arete (best gaming IEM IMO), Simgot Supermix 4 (best all-rounder IMO). I'm excited for what 2025 will bring us. Hopefully better sets with lower prices.

Personally, I have never had an eartip slip off my perforer 5+2. And I tip roll all the time. Just my two cents. Definitely some of the most detailed and technical iems at their price point. 

If you’re not too convinced with Ziigaat (even though I’d highly recommend the Odyssey, they are great for vocals; but that might not necessarily what you’re looking for) then the Performer 5+2 is a very good option. I have the Odyssey, Performer 5+2 and the Deuce. I really love the Deuce, but that’s just for listening to music, not gaming. Your instinct might be right where the huge bass impact might be over shadowing the micro details a bit. For detail retrieval, the Performer is a solid choice! They are quite balanced (so don’t expect a big bass impact, but I guess you weren’t), but I’d recommend this set any day!

So I listened to the song (actually enjoyed that a lot!) and with the Odyssey the drums “disappear” into the mix a bit more than with the 5+2. With the 5+2 you can hear the different instruments better (better separation) and the Odyssey makes it sound a bit more “musical” (more coherent); I hope this explanation makes sense!

That's all up to you and what you are willing to spend. I have Kiwi ears Cadenza and Aful Perfomer 5+2. They are vastly different. I could never EQ the cadenzas to sound like the Aful. I paid 2万５千円 (250Aud)for my Afuls, and that basically is as far as I am willing to spend right now. I EQ them ever so slightly and lower the preamp so I can get better headroom. Using the EQ too much doesn't allow as many genres to be played.

Agree that tips make a huge difference here. Hate them with the included tips and SpinFit W1, but I wanted to love them, and saw some mention the SpinFit CP100, which totally changed them for me. They are narrow bore and keep the shells a little more outside of my ear. My favorite pair I have now, easily.

No mostly less expensive than this, this was my splurge. I’ve had the Explorer (still love these), the Nova, Supermix 4, Performer 5, S12 Pro, T10, IE200, Hexa, EA500 LM, and a host of the popular budgets, like the Cadenza, Wan’er, Zero 2 (still use these with a Bluetooth adapter), and EW200. Before switching tips I was about to return them and just stop at the Explorer.

Aful 5+2 has impactful bass and is clear in the mids and highs. The Explorer has more bass, but is a little less resolving in the mids and treble. They are both great, but I would Explorer if you really want that bass impact, and P5+2 if you want an all-rounder with pretty good bass.

Just get the aful 5+2. Skip both these iems. But if you really must, get the s08 planar instead. Easier to drive, different sounding enough from the klean, and you'll get a more audible upgrade in terms of techs at least.

+1 In this price bracket, I’ve tried the Tea Pro, the Mantilo, the Performer 7, and the Hype 4. Tea Pro takes the cake for bass quality, clarity, and gaming performance.

Dont listen too much other opinions as its just their opinion and nothing else. The same way everybody likes for example Performer 5+2 i really hate its tuning. Without EQ thats real waste of money. But thats my opinion. You see what im talking about ? The most noticeable thing should be clarity and tuning. If you like sound better on Daybreak than your cheaper IEMs then its not waste of money by any means.

I have it but idk tbh. I dont like its tuning because its not true laid back since treble follows 5128 DF target. Performer 7 have similiar tuning but nobody says that p7 is laid back, i also have it. Imo, one its EQd explorer sounds very nice with much details but i dont think that stock is better than supermix4. P7 tuning is also meh, lacks eargain but with little eq its very very good

Nice collection! I love the comfort and sound of my P7 too.

There aren't that many once you've ruled out Etymotic. Honestly at that 'lower than Studio 4' price range you might as well go for the Studio 4. Aful Performer 5+2 / 8: Relaxed pinna gain at 2-4kHz means reduced vocal bite; speech and 'breathiness' is sacrificed slightly for a more relaxed, pleasant presentation. Not neutral. Anecdotally, I've heard the Performer 8, the soundstage is wide but centre image is weak. Moondrop Dusk: crinacle's house sound = big bass shelf. No go for neutrality. Moondrop Blessing 3: Upper-mids/lower treble emphasized (4-6kHz) beyond neutral. Supermix 4: Harman, i.e not neutral (bass and upper-mids emphasized) Thieaudio: U-shaped is their house sound from the Hype 2 all the way to the Valhalla. Extra bass and spicy treble. Not neutral. I would add that the Hexas aren't neutral either, they have too much bass for it, it's simply masked by the fact that its bass is sloped, not a shelf. All the 'Meta' IEMs out so far also fail in the neutral bass department by having too much of it. This includes the KE4, Volume S, Mega5EST and even CrinEar's 'Reference', if his chart is to go by. Graphs are worth looking at for reference. So you only really have the Studio 4 left. That, or an IER-M7 if you could get it for cheap.

I don't know how these IEM manufactures interpret "basshead" as someone who loves to hear big explosions that will overpower every other instrument and vocal, instead of punchier, cleaner, hard hitting bass, that won't bleed into other frequencies. It sounds so simple, yet impossible for them to understand. I am currently satisfied with the bass I get on Blon bl03 and performer 5.

You mean the 5+2? I haven't tried it, but I have the 5. The 5s are not bad but at the moment IEMs around 150 beat them. To be honest the Odyssey recomendation is from the YouTuber Jays Audio. He has a ranking list of IEMs and their prices.

It just fits my music, the hype4 is the cheapest one in my favorites so it is my carry around but honestly Ill take a lower cost set if I'm going to do something dirty or sweaty. My B list is something like Estrella Performer 5 n5005 Ie200

Completely agree with your assessment. Muddy, bloated, rolled off treble. If you like this, you like the dark sound signature and there's nothing wrong with that. There is no energy in the music. Switched to the EDC pros and they are superior to me at half the price. And stuff like exporer and performer 5 just blow them out of the water. Reminder for me to stay away from HBB stuff if this is the type of sound he prefers

Not entirely sure, but some otherwise good IEMs are just bad for distinguishing direction. Channel matching is certainly one thing, but rarely big enough to be the reason. Not just tuning either it seems. IEMs like B2 Dusk, Timeless and Performer 5 if I remember correctly were rather bad for gaming compared to Zero Red, Vivace or EM6L which are perfectly good. Looping the same gaming recordings with the first ones I struggle hearing directions that already know in advance while with the others it's obvious.

I was recently wowed by a performer 5 I got on sale for $150 even though I own other sets ranging from $400-1000 along with headphones such as the 560s and 6xx. Goes to show that price is meaningless and it’s more about how much satisfaction you get out of it. Not saying my $1000 set, the monarch mkiii, isn’t superior, it definitely is, but it’s not like leaps and bounds unless you A/B test them

headphones (open back) 1. HD600 (ZMF suede pads), all day comfort for my ears and head, will keep until the end of time. 2. SR80e (modded), tight punchy bass with good enough mids and restrained enough treble. preferred their bass more than ananda stealth & edition xs. 3. Porta Pro (yaxi pads), less comfortable than HD600, but doesn’t trap heat and sounds really good (after flattening the bass with eq). headphones (closed back) 1. FT1, mids feel a bit too light, but no major complaints. my eq profile does look very similar to SR7000, so I might get that later on. 2. T50RP Mk.I (modded), warm-dark sound with thick mids, and suspension strap just makes me reach for it most out of all my closed backs. only downside is it traps a crap ton of heat (non perforated leather pads). 3. K371 (brainwavz microsuede), sounds thin, kind of peaky in the treble, but no complaints other than that. IEMs 1. Performer 5, listening to it feels quite effortless, and it fits my ears perfectly. 2. KXXS, sound feels natural, but feels less detailed than P5. fit is looser than P5 to me. 3. Hexa, a bit too much treble for me to enjoy, least comfortable compared to my other IEMs

Nah, I thought so too, but using the performer 5 after having the wyvern and waner, it's a night and day difference in positioning of audio.