Softears - Studio4

I felt this about Studio 4. It is sparkly and present but not harsh, which I feel is the case with Aful P8.

1. Hekse (best overall) 2. Softear Studio 4 (best sounding iem for my music) 3. He6se V2 (more dynamic than Hekse but nostalgic as comfortable. Less spacious and open) 4. Aful Explorer (like a lesser Studio 4 for commuting. Very easy listening) 5. HD6XX (comfortable and the baseline benchmark but not my go to) 6. Aful P8 (most boring sounding. Used to like it but not these days. Might be a good gaming iem but I don’t game anymore) 7. EW300 (it’s meh. Use for monitoring)

Of the ones you posted my favorite is the Dusk. Another one of my favorites is the Studio4. Those I would recommend

The softears studio 4's have the best midrange under $600 imo

Softears studio 4, i picked up the U4S recently and still the studio 4 has better vocals compared to U4S, especially female vocals are so good.

Funny that they sound boomy to me because now I'm more used to studio 4 which has that modest BA bass sound

Could try something with EST and very smooth extension if you want minimal masking like HBB Punch which is basically a KE4 with ESTs, though you're going to want to eq the bass down on punch if you want technical. Or you can try something bright like the Braindance. Also harman tuning overall like Volare/Variations would be good as they have a midbass tuck which leaves a clean impression and wider stage, or a bass-light airy harman like Studio4. Lower mids and 3k scoop can also open up the stage a lot, make everything sound very wide and enveloping and leave a very technical impression/much more layering/better perceived detail retrieval like SA6 mk2 (or ultra if you can find one) which are tuned rly similarly to Anole VX. EPZ P50 could be a good more affordable choice it's still a tribrid, with microplanars handling the treble.

# Review Of The SIMGOT DEW4X ​ https://preview.redd.it/vlgx02774qvc1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=5bea61502b8c196b29464664c70eddded31198ae ​ **Introduction** Simgot is a Chinese audio company that has been making waves in the industry with its impressive releases since last year. They have captured the hearts of not just me, but many audiophiles in our community with their exceptional sound quality and attention to detail. What's more, Simgot is also renowned for its unparalleled customer service, which is a rare and valuable trait in today's market. Along with Kinera and Kiwi Ears, Simgot is celebrated as one of the friendliest and most understanding companies out there. In recent times, new companies like Kiwi Ears, AFUL, and others have been delving into the technology of DAC/AMPs. Nevertheless, Simgot has been in this market for quite some time and has released the third iteration of its dongle DAC, following DEW0 and DEW1, known as the DEW4X. Fortunately, I was able to get my hands on one. Before proceeding, I'd like to clarify a few points. ​ https://preview.redd.it/x1209o664qvc1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=0134d44dc57fa217d6043ae27ee748e19f7d8cfa ​ **Disclaimer** \*Since this unit tour was organised by the kind people at SIMGOT, I am grateful to them. And as I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this [link](http://www.simgot.com/en/products/detail/33.html). \*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone. \*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to this device as “DEW4X” \*Finally, I will only evaluate the DEW4X based on their performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically. ​ **Specification** The Dual CS43198 DAC chipset in DEW4X supports native DSD256 and 32-bit/384kHz PCM. As a more user-friendly device, the DEW4X supports type-C and lightning data transmission in addition to 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced. The device has two volume rocker controls on the side, and one beside the type c port, it includes an indicator light that changes colour according to the format sampling feeding, from blue to green. The user can also switch between low and high gain by pressing both volume buttons at the same time. To activate UAC 1.0 before powering on the device, press and hold the volume up button until the indicator light flashes after connecting it; once it does, release it to support UAC 1.0 mode. The DEW4X includes a type-c to c OTG cable and a USB C to A adapter. Regarding technical aspects, the data in the table is listed below for your convenience and comprehension. |Output|3.5mm|4.4mm| |:-|:-|:-| |Output Power |2x70 mW |2x150 mW | |Distortion|0.00025% |<0.0002% | |SNR|125 dB |130 dB | |Dynamic|125 dB |130 dB | |Noise floor |1 uVrms |1.5 uVrms| ​ https://preview.redd.it/5wz90gs44qvc1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=3447409cf5976f68df94435570fbebef8f58c976 ​ **Design And Aesthetics** To give you a detailed description, I must say that upon close inspection, the device seems to be smaller than the Moondrop Dawn Pro, and may even be more compact, with dimensions of 12.6 mm \* 41.7mm \* 24mm. The device is CNC machined, which gives it a very practical and functional look. The oxidized black shade with black and purple cross design, along with the purple etched DEW4X, adds a distinct and premium look to the device. The construction seems ultra-fine and has a sleek form factor that makes it stand out from the rest. The cable is also noteworthy, as it is constructed with high-purity OFC wire that is wrapped in a sturdy shielding layer. ​ https://preview.redd.it/cqqskji34qvc1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=8ea28a756e62047566ec6bfa31438622d5b3d245 ​ **Usage** During my time using the device, I was pleasantly surprised by how convenient and user-friendly it was compared to the Allegro I had previously reviewed. Although I hadn’t reviewed or used the DAWN Pro for an extended period, I found the DEW4X and Allegro to be more compact and intriguing than the DAWN Pro. The DEW4X has a multi-level volume control that can be adjusted independently of the volume control on the source it is connected to. I even took it outside and found it easy to carry in my pocket, though the slightly sharp edges made it a bit challenging to remove from my pants pocket. However, this did not cause any significant inconvenience. ​ https://preview.redd.it/wfplosl24qvc1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=cdcc81e478437b838dbcc4e415223689bfd2803b ​ **Sound Impressions** ​ **IEMs** ​ Thieaudio Prestige LTD Prestige LTD is the very reason I am now able to find the truth in my musical dreams; I have never heard another IEM that ploughs your ears with faith in each note, no matter how those notes should sound and nurtures your senses with dynamics and presentation as if I were hearing reality. Previously, I owned the Monarch MKII, which established what one would expect, but once the prestige's magic began to flourish, I knew I could explore so much more with it, especially when it came to the air and presence of each nuance the notes were able to grasp over and tingled my senses. To summarise the prestige's response sounds as if the Monarch MKII were given steroids and enhanced the upper frequencies in all directions with better authoritative flow in the lower response. The response is neutral with sub bass boost, similar to the Monarch MKII, with the exception that the notes are airier and more revealing than any other IEM before this era. However, the thinner notes and excessive clarity provide obnoxious features that expose bad mixing and recordings, which were highly obvious when heard on my V6 but smoothed out on my WM1A, indicating source dependence. ​ https://preview.redd.it/fa4jjv714qvc1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=b76d3b36bc48239f378b80e80099112b6e2d4310 It was an amazing experience to listen to LTD with DEW4X. The response from the IEMs was outstanding as it brought out a more crisp quality and refinement in the notes. The presentation sounded more engaging and precise, especially with the attack of notes that seemed to be delivered with great accuracy and clarity. However, while listening to the overall response, it seemed like the pairing got a little congested, where the vocals blended better with the instruments, creating a harmonious and enjoyable musical response. The bass sounded more prominent and centered, producing an authoritative approach that made the whole response sound vigorous and fuller. Overall, the listening experience was truly immersive and satisfying with the perfect balance of all the elements. ​ Symphonium Crimson I have come across the Crimson IEMs and I have to say that they are a cut above my best-sounding IEM, the Prestige LTD. The Crimson provides an incredibly enjoyable experience, surpassing any other IEMs I have heard, whether they are top-of-the-line or not. The Crimson’s presentation is expressive yet smooth, with a balanced and warm response that accurately reproduces the quality of the notes while providing a playful presentation of the vocals and instruments. The newer BA IEMs can sound less metallic or artificial, but Symphoniom has gone above and beyond in this regard. I have previously thought that the Helios offered better detail retrieval than the Thieaudio Monarch MKII, but I preferred the Monarch MKII’s pleasing tonality, which became my favourite at the time. However, the Crimson has now generously offered everything I wanted and more, including the weight and impact of the bass, and the musicality in the presentation of the vocals and instruments in the upper frequencies while retaining a pleasing tonality. ​ https://preview.redd.it/qj2yeyyz3qvc1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=8a92fffdab1a5b47cb27c26b57a60e424f2e2215 ​ As I was listening to music on the Crimson with DEW4X, I couldn't help but notice the transparent response and enhancement over all frequencies. The sound was clearer and more expressive than ever before, with every detail feeling stronger and more potent in the mix. This allowed for better clarity overall, making it easier to hear every note and nuance in the music. However, while the bass and treble did feel a little more linear and clearer, it also made the music sound less organic and natural. The tonality faced a leaner presentation of the notes, which might not be preferable for those who prefer a warmer, more natural sound. ​ Softears Studio 4 The Studio 4 has one of the most precise and targeted tunings that I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing. The Harman target is followed objectively, but the resulting sound is much more than just a flat response. Instead, it offers a fuller and more present upper treble response, which is a delight to the ear. I must say that this tuning has become one of my favourites, particularly because it places less emphasis on the mid-bass and more on the sub-bass, yet it still manages to maintain a pleasing tonal warmth in the overall mix. What struck me most about the Studio 4 is the quality and timbre of the mid-range notes. They sound properly rounded and natural, allowing the notes to blend seamlessly. This is especially impressive considering that Studio 4 is an all-BA set, which often tends to sound fatiguing with a less full response. The Studio 4, on the other hand, delivers a non-fatiguing and safe overall sound, while also maintaining a fuller response that places the details precisely where they should be. I have experienced many other IEMs in the same price range, but most of them tend to sound more balanced or mid-centric, with some focusing on crisp and detailed notes. Unfortunately, this often leads to metallic or artificial characteristics being introduced, which can be distracting. Thankfully, Studio 4 does not suffer from any of these issues, and it is a pleasure to listen to. ​ https://preview.redd.it/xifx8zry3qvc1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=2e62dc3260fa108150a9c58341b023f21e5a01cd ​ As I paired Studio 4 with DEW4X, I noticed a significant improvement in the clarity and resolution of the audio response. The soundstage was more focused and closer, which added depth to the overall response. In my opinion, this made the audio quality sound much better. The details in the vocals and instruments were expressed sincerely, allowing for a more immersive listening experience. The treble had a more open feel without sounding too airy, while the mid-range was slightly recessed, making the vocals sound more defined. The high octaves were particularly well-expressed, surpassing any of my other audio sources. The bass was light, but it still had a prominent presence without feeling too overpowering. Overall, the audio response was more monitoring-specific, which helped to highlight small nuances in the mix. ​ Thor Mjolnir MKII Mjolnir is a very bassy set that has a lot of sub-bass emphasis. The treble and upper mid-range are also very forward in the mix. The upper treble has great extension as well. The bass is very punchy and boomy while acting fast. Mjolnir is a great V-shape-sounding IEM with a different approach to explosive bass that has better technicalities, especially in this price range. The stage is great with a nice surrounding stage and depth where the separation of each element sounds distant enough to procure space to breathe and distinguish themselves. The attack and decay of the driver capability are really quick and perform great. The vocals may feel lean and sparkly, but the warmth or the fuller experience is something that these lack. The bass response does vary from source to source whether I listen to a warm source or a neutral one, the bass becomes either overwhelming authoritative or both. ​ https://preview.redd.it/liho0qvx3qvc1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=1381aa847c4741998d470501fa7c5c9541a59f23 ​ As I was listening to the Mjolnir with DEW4X, I noticed that the response was more refined and tightly controlled, resulting in a less scattered soundstage. This helped to tone down the treble sparkle and instead emphasized the robust characteristics of the notes. Additionally, the upper mid-range was less emphasized, allowing for a greater presence of the lower mid-range. This helped to correct the tonal balance from my perspective and gave the music a more natural and pleasing sound. As for the bass, I noticed that even the strongest impacts sounded light and well-rounded, resulting in a warm and inviting sound. Overall, the sound signature was less lively but better balanced, providing a more enjoyable listening experience. ​ Tin Hifi P1 Max II Based on my recollection, the previous version of the P1 MAX II, the P1 Max, had a warm and neutral sound that produced a pleasing response with rounded notes and a safe response. However, the P1 Max II takes that safe tuning and adds more detailed aspects to the sound. Compared to its predecessor, the P1 Max II has a more balanced response with an emphasised mid-range. This results in a more engaging and lively sound. In today's world of Planar IEMs, many companies have started using this technology and released successful products. This has led to a highly competitive market, with each company striving to excel in their technology and tuning on planar drivers. Despite this, I believe that the P1 Max II stands out as a unique and intriguing IEM in the market. ​ https://preview.redd.it/wqo617jw3qvc1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=d5265ccd4efee6cfaad2227339241a8c39c3a01c ​ As I was enjoying listening to my P1 Max II with DEW4X, I couldn’t help but notice the astounding clarity and lifelike quality of the sound. The notes were crystal clear, with a crispness that I had never experienced before with any of my other audio sources. The resolvability of the notes was simply remarkable; every single note was easily distinguishable, and the overall sound was a delight to the ears. The overall balance of the sound was impressive, with the treble response being particularly noteworthy. It was more pronounced and noticeable in the mix, yet it seamlessly blended with the rest of the audio. The bass was punchy and impactful, yet it felt lighter and more refined than ever before. Overall, my listening experience was incredibly immersive, and I couldn’t be more delighted with the clarity and precision of the sound. ​ Kiwi Ears X Crinacle Singolo The Singolo's tuning tends toward a natural warm tone that becomes increasingly pleasurable to listen to with each second. The bass response is optimized to sound larger, bodied, and genuine. Whatever I said, it wouldn't have mattered if the technology that the corporation was pleased to deliver to us wasn't effective.But, after giving it a good amount of time to understand and find logic, the only thing I was able to understand was that the driver used is of high quality, as is the use of the K.A.A.R.S technology, which is the implementation of acoustic tuning from the back of the driver to accentuate the air pressure, allowing for a dip around 200Hz-400Hz without affecting the natural tone that resides in that region.The whole response sounds genuine, lively, and right in every manner conceivable.The only issue I have is with the treble, yet it is what makes the Singolo sound great. ​ https://preview.redd.it/1c8vl6fv3qvc1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=962ecd532d84375f62a326be4868a762d25e0b69 ​ While listening to the Singolo with DEW4X, the response appears cleaner and tonally leaner, while the notes sound closer, bringing the details and resolution to a higher level. The control over the vocals improves the overall tone of the response. The instruments also sound more engaged, with an overall open and energetic tone. Another component to consider is the treble, which sounds more polished and linear. Overall, the response sounds more lively and balanced in terms of detail, positioning, and staging. Arrti R1 The comparison drawn here is quite similar to a recent experience I had with the Tin Hifi T5S. Both the R1 and T5S have a dark, warm bass response, with a particular emphasis on the sub-bass and forward mid-range. However, the R1’s bass is much heavier than the T5S, and it also has a better elevation in the upper treble, allowing for a more extensive treble response. The mid-range on the R1 is not too forward, which is a positive trait. The R1’s bass has a tucked lower mid-range, which gives it a more powerful sound, but it is less warm than the T5S. The T5S has less boom and more punch in the bass region. ​ https://preview.redd.it/fxq24x4u3qvc1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=46bb5e230f90a1bcde7fd3259453c1fe4088d8a6 ​ As I was listening to P1 Max II with DEW4X, I noticed that the audio response was incredibly clear and vivid. The notes were crystal-clear and precise, without any sharpness to them. The level of detail in the notes was significantly higher than anything I've heard from other audio sources. What impressed me the most, however, was the way that the treble response was so noticeable in the mix. The sterile response of the equipment allowed the treble to shine through, while still maintaining a punchy, impactful bass response that felt lighter and more dynamic. Overall, the sound quality was breathtaking, and I can't wait to experience it again. ​ Arrti R2 According to my understanding, the R2 aims to produce a neutral sound with a boost in sub-bass frequencies. This specific sound signature results in a warmer and more pleasant tonal quality compared to similar products, such as the EPZ G10. Recently, EPZ has also made a significant impact on the audio community by showcasing that new brands can deliver excellent sound quality. ARTTI is another brand that has been gaining popularity among audiophiles. When comparing the R2 to the EPZ G10, I find its tonal accuracy and cohesiveness to be superior. Furthermore, the R1, its older unit, has undergone significant improvements in tuning across the frequency range, making it a much better option overall. ​ https://preview.redd.it/94djzuds3qvc1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=515f9979d968da8468b6840aa30502a96b99c2ea ​ After testing the R2 with the DEW4X, I was impressed by the level of precision exhibited in the notes' attack and the subtle nuances that were brought out by the device. The DEW4X is an incredibly clean and accurate source, which helped to bring out the finer details of each note and provided a level of clarity that is often missing in other DAPs. What stood out to me about the DEW4X was the device's ability to reproduce the speed of each note accurately. This meant that the transience of the music was much better, resulting in a more detailed and clear mix. Additionally, I found that the R2's presentation was well-balanced, with no particular frequency or region being emphasized over the others. Overall, I was very impressed with the DEW4X's performance, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a clean, detailed, and accurate source for their music. ​ Arrti T10 The T10 earphone follows a response that is more neutral with a sub-bass boost that emphasizes details and clarity while maintaining a tonal balance. From my experience with full-range Planar IEMs, they are known for their fast transient response, accuracy, and clear response which makes it one of the most resolving drivers in this segment. The T10 is no exception and is a great product considering the price at which it is being offered. However, what makes it unique from other full-range Planar IEMs is the exceptional balance between safe tuning and expressive details. The emphasis in the lower treble allows for a leaner, clearer response but the slightly laid-back upper mid-range around 3k makes it non-offensive sounding. This reminds me of the response like the U12t. In summary, the T10 offers an impressive combination of detailed and clear sound while maintaining a safe tuning that makes it a great choice for music lovers who value balance and clarity. ​ https://preview.redd.it/qptdgadr3qvc1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=1b134887343b730616eef1e2635de6a14efd028d ​ As I was listening to the T10 with DEW4X, I noticed a significant improvement in sound quality. The response became more delicate and nuanced, with a richer, more vibrant tonality on female vocals. The instruments also sounded more distinct and vivid, with a newfound lightness and openness. The mid-range was particularly refreshing to listen to, with a clear, well-defined sound that was easy on the ears. The treble was less prominent, but still present, adding a subtle sparkle to the overall sound. The bass was also impressive, with good impact and rumble that never became overwhelming, even on bass-heavy tracks. All in all, the T10 with DEW4X is an outstanding audio experience that delivers exceptional sound quality across the entire frequency range. ​ Kefine Delci When it comes to sound quality, this single dd IEM blew me away, and I feel they are the most well-tuned “balanced” sounding IEM under $100. I mean, I don't see anything wrong with it and I can't put them down. As previously stated, the response leans toward a tonally rich, revealing, and balanced sound profile. To believe that in this highly saturated category, an IEM that does not need to excel in sounding very precise or very target-specific, I am quite pleased with Kefine for delivering essentially an IEM that everyone will like. I mean lately, I also got the chance to evaluate the rose technics Quietsea which also follows a balanced sound with warmth in the bottom to mid region while sounding a bit spicy in the high area however the quality of the tuning Kefine produces makes the sound interesting and engaging. ​ https://preview.redd.it/7k89cx3q3qvc1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=5c66c311c1a0dddf6c9d5e1a217d1e5c160c5d12 ​ While listening to Delci coupled with DEW4X, the clarity and forwardness felt greater than any of my other sources, but DEW4X also maintained a coherent and tonal agreeable response. The clarity is attributable to the fact that the stage is narrower and more intimate, yet the whole reaction remains defined and separated. The notes sound polished, making the overall response more fascinating. The combo makes perfect sense to listen to. ​ **Tracks** Millet - Anytime Anywhere Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo Uru - Kamihitoe Kujira Yumemi - Kenka Majiko - Kokoronashi Anly - Sukinishinayo Kohama Lam - A Few Sentimental Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders Valentino Khan - Satellite Kai Wachi - Happier By Now Jawns - Erotica ISOxo - how2fly Kai Wachi - Happier By Now Weeknd - Popular YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High) Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid Middle Kids - Bend FLETCHER - Leads Me On Loathe - Aggressive Evolution The Weeknd - Save Your Tears Sigrid - Burning Bridges AURORA - Black Water Lilies AURORA - Runaway X Ambassadors - Renegades Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold Us Gotye - Somebody That I Used To Know Jay-Z - Run This Town Lady Gaga - Poker Face Lady Gaga - Just Dance Ladytron - Ghost Travis - Love Will Come Through LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix) Hoobastank - The Reason Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care Tool - 7empest Tool - Vicarious A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song Zack Hemsey - Vengeance Elton John - I’m Still Standing The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin Micheal Sembello - Maniac Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun ​ **Conclusion** Upon extensive testing and analysis, I am pleased to report that the DEW4X is an awe-inspiring product that offers incredible value for the price. I experimented with multiple in-ear monitors and found that none of them had any negative impact on sound quality. On the contrary, the DEW4X enhanced the sound quality by providing a stunningly clear, detailed and precise output. I was particularly impressed by its forward clarity, which brought out the best in any IEMs I paired it with. Overall, I am convinced that the DEW4X is the best dongle DAC in its price range, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an outstanding sound experience. ​ https://preview.redd.it/6e5zvpko3qvc1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=6323127b375d575693e8e5479186f63d54659569

I think Pilgrim is the best for detail and clarity here. I loved them but the nozzle is way too big for my ears. Studio 4 is the safest and smoothest, and with the lushest vocals, but they don’t have venting so be aware of that if you’re sensitive. P8 has rather recessed midrange, I like that but it leads to a sense of distance and less clarity that some don’t like. Fit is great and venting is great as well. Don’t have experience with dusk. For my money, if I had large ear canals, I’d go with the Pilgrim, really endgame tech for not much. P8 is the most comfortable for me.

Hard disagree with (1), Softears Studio 4 is such a set, Kiwi Ear Orchestra Lite is also a pretty damn good one too. Hard agree with (6).

Most music is mixed without subwoofers, they are used more for general listening. Someone mentioned the Softears Studio 4, I think it's great if you want to use IEMs to produce music, the sub-bass is flat and not elevated, and people say the vocal doesn't sound thin like on the Variations, the Mega5EST would be somewhat similar to it but with subwoofer bass, and is better for general listening, so you can choose either one that suits your needs.

Hexa, mega5est, ej07m kinda lava batch 1, studio 4, cadenza 4, Dusk x Crinacle.

Definitely Dusk over Volume S for bass. I prefer Studio 4 over both though. If your budget is $450 maybe you can consider the Kiwi Ears Hbb Punch too.

Mega5EST would probably be the best tuned IEM in that price range if you don't care about detail. Studio 4 is worth mentioning as well if you want something upper mids/female vocals focused and has a decently punchy sub bass (though it lacks some mid bass).

The Studio 4 is the most "shouty" of the bunch and it's BA bass is rather lean in the mid bass (albeit still good for BA bass). My vote would be on the Pilgrim since it is (to me) the most detailed but it's hard to go wrong with your other choices too. If comfort is a factor though the P8 and Dusk are better.

The Performer8 is the best performer (pun intended) for orchestral music, but considering anime OSTs can often incorporate numerous other genres, you may want to consider something that's more of an all 'rounder. The P8 is the king of clarity and detail under $500. It's still one of the best IEMs in its price range for that use case. The Studio4, which is also a stellar set, is a little more mid-forward and will be more suitable for tracks with vocals and midrange instruments (strings, guitars, etc.). The Origin is one of the few sets I passed on so I can't comment on its performance as I don't like to recommend IEMs I haven't tested myself, but if you were considering the Dusk, I'd also look at the Elysian Pilgrim. It may be the best of both worlds; it has slightly more emphasized bass than the Studio4, but it is well-controlled and will add some additional energy and dynamics to OST tracks with electronic and percussive instruments. The Dusk is still a good option. This is one of the few cases where I would argue for using it in its analog tuning. The default DSP tuning wouldn't be suitable for your preferences anyways; and you could still use the DSP cable for those times when you wanted additional tunings available, or to experiment with other genres. People forget the analog tuning of the Dusk was still a very solid effort. It often gets criticized in relative comparisons to its DSP tuning, as the DSP tuning catered to a wide range of listeners, but if you remove those relative comparisons it can still stand on its own against other IEMs on the market.

Most of these are far too V or U-shaped for critical listening work. The P8 is probably closest, but is still far from neutral. The Studio 4, which was mentioned in passing, is a set I’ve personally used for light mixing work. The Pilgrim would also work in a pinch, but would benefit from a low shelf filter to bring the sub bass extension down a bit so you’re not compensating in your mixes. I ran in-ears as my stage monitors for many years, and some of the older models from Shure, Westone, Sennheiser, and other brands are much more neutral. Most IEMs in the hobby now are fairly bass boosted, and so I still run headphones for most of my critical listening work (LCD-2/LCD-X, HD 490s, HD 600, etc.). One caveat is that FatFreq does make a reference series that might be worth checking out. And they’re fairly cheap compared to the rest of their lineup. I might start there instead.

Moondrop blessing 2/blessing 3, softears studio 4 are good starting points. The blessing 2 is just like a better Hexa, with slightly less bass and more treble, and the blessing 3 is a slightly better blessing 2. The studio 4 seems to be considered an overall good iem with no flaws whatsoever, and is neutral tuned. And yes, the monarch mk3 are not neutral tuned, doesn't mean other iems are as well (?)

Hmmm im not a basshead. I like a balanced sound. So i tried the teas and the p7. In the end i returned and sell them. Teas were too warm with too much bass. Tried eq but didnt work for me. Teas have nice soundstage and the bass is high quality. The p7 was not bad but i dont like the presentation in general and stayed with my fermats. I bought the studio4 instead...

I've listened to both Studio 4 and Tanchjim Origin in the past. I currently don't have them anymore but I'm gonna make this comparisons based on my memory so please take this with a grain of salt. Bass Pretty good bass on the Studio 4. At times I wish the bass could have more thump. Tanchjim Origin on the other hand has very good quality bass, but somehow it felt like you can barely hear them. A couple of db higher would've been perfect. Mids Both have amazing mids. Vocals and instruments sound really amazing on both. Everything sounds neutral and accurate. To put into rating I'd give Studio 4 9/10 and Tanchjim Origin 8.8/10 for the mids. High The high is very smooth on the Studio 4. There's no sibilance or harshness whatsoever. You can listen to them for hours without fatigue. Sometimes it feels boring/less exciting due to the lack of air and sparkles on the high region. Tanchjim Origin has beautiful sparkly high and exciting treble but still smooth. Though on certain tracks it can get borderline sibilance, but not on the level that will pierce your ears. Just be aware of that. Imaging/Soundstage Imaging capability is great on both of them, probably on par with each other. Soundstage on the Studio 4 is not too closed in, but not that huge either. Tanchjim Origin has very huge soundstage. Listening to tracks that are able to demonstrate wide soundstage is such a wonderful experience on the Origin. Comfort/isolation. Super comfortable and great noise isolation on the Studio 4. Once you put them in your ears you can barely hear any outside noises. There's ear pressure build up due to the unvented design on the Studio 4 so get yourself a pair of Tangzu Sancai eartips to solve this issue. The Origin is quite comfortable I'd say, but not as comfortable as the Studio 4 due to its ergonomic design. The noise isolation is also very poor on the Origin. There's also a little sound leakage due to the open back-ish design. Though the sound leakage is just minimal and won't bother people around you. Overall I personally prefer the Origin over the Studio 4. Studio 4 is surely an amazing IEM but sometimes they feel kinda boring due to the lack of excitement factors. Maybe if you're a dead neutral lover person you'll appreciate the Studio 4 more.

My top picks are the Pilgrim and Studio 4, the best for technical performancers up to $700-800, upgrade is the Cantor(talking pure resolving). The Pilgrim's darker, but the Studio 4 is brighter. I consider them the King and Queen. One step above all other sets around that price IMO.

Based on my listening experience, For the best price-to-performance, I'd suggest The Pilgrims and the Studio4; they're difficult to surpass given they compete technically against IEMs costing twice as much. Others I highly recommend the Volume S/Arcanis/HBB Punch. Any of these would likely be an improvement over the Tea Pro.

Interesting list and review. I'm using a SoftEars Studio4 for gaming (and music) now and I'm pretty happy with it.

I can say basically the same thing about my SoftEars Studio 4.

SoftEars Studio 4 is amazing!!

King of Neutral is Softears Studio4