I’m pretty new to this hobby and would love some advice on what to try next.

Current Collection:

IEMs

Moondrop May > ZiiGaat Arcanis > Kiwi ears Etude > QDC Frontier > Tangzu Waner 2 Red Lion> Dita Project M > TRN TA3 > Kiwi ears Cadenza > TFZ Athena

DACs

TRN Black Pearl > iBasso DC07 pro > Onix Alpa > Hidizs S9 Pro Plus

Right now, I’ve realized I’m less focused on chasing a single “endgame” IEM and more interested in experiencing different sound signatures and what makes each one unique.

I mainly listen to vocals, ballads, and podcasts, so I tend to appreciate clarity, natural timbre, and engaging mids—but I’m open to trying something different if it brings a new perspective.

What would you recommend as my next purchase?

This is my second and probably final pair of iems. Last year, a friend of mine got me a chu 2 and the sound of that just couldnt really compare to a lot of the bluetooth earbuds i’ve tried. I later found out abt this subreddit and looked at the purchasing rankings and just wanted to get a pair of explorers. I havent had the chance to give it a full review yet as I literally just got it but this is the setup so far:

Eartips: Azlya sednaearfit max asmr

Iem: Aful Explorer

Cable: Nicehck S77

Case: Just from the explorer box

I got it second hand at e-earphone osaka nipponbashi(great service and insane selection of everything audio). I wasn’t planning on getting a cable, but since it was second hand, the original cable had a 4.4mm headphone jack and was also broken so i also picked up the cable. Total price of 11,393 yen or around 70 usd. Note that this doesn’t include the eartips as I already had those beforehand.

In this review, I want to discuss the performance of IEMs like the Campfire Audio Andromeda 10, Moritz Audio Enzo, Kiwi Ears HBB Punch, and Ziigaat Arcanis, as well as critical listening headphones with a mix mastering focus like the Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro MKII, all paired with the Questyle M15i DAC/Amp.

(A desktop amp is necessary to fully drive Headphones, but knowing you can take them out and use them at high quality while traveling is quite a nice experience.)

Disclaimer: This review takes approximately 10 or 15 minutes to read. This review is written only for audiophiles with a deep interest in the subject. Each test product is the result of 20 years of experience and passion, created by transcribing audio recordings made during listening sessions with a mobile phone over several weeks. All photos, including the product description, are my own and the product of hours of meticulous work. Thank you for your respect and the time you took to read this.

Let's continue where we left off...

First Impressions, Architecture and Sound Philosophy

Before starting this review, I can say that I've used many finger sized DAC/Amps with various different DAC chips. However, I rarely come across one that produces such high quality sound. The Questyle M15i has a sound quality good enough to shatter your preconceptions. Its power is incredible. This device reshapes your expectations of what portable audio should feel like. It has a technically live sound approach that feels like it was born in a studio, but it's hard to express until you live with it. At the heart of the M15i is the ESS ES9281AC DAC chip. 

The ESS chip here doesn't resemble the typical ESS implementation that people often describe as clinical or overly sharp. The M15i softens that cliché glare without sacrificing resolution. You get an incredibly clean, yet never tiring, presentation. It's precise, but not mechanical. It's analytical, but never cold. On first listen, the tonal balance appears neutral, with a slight tendency towards a natural warmth.

The bass frequencies are tight and controlled, never artificially boosted, yet always present with authority when the recording requires it. The sub bass extension is excellent, and what stands out most is the texture rather than the sheer quantity. You don't just hear the bass notes, you feel their structure and damping.

The mid frequencies are where the M15i begins to show its technical performance. The vocals are perfectly positioned, neither too far forward nor too far back. There's a subtle density in the mid frequencies that gives instruments body without making them sound thick. Acoustic recordings, in particular, benefit from this balance. Guitars resonate with a realistic tone, and vocal layering becomes effortlessly distinguishable. I can say that I was quite impressed with the cleanliness of the sound from the vocals when connected to my iPhone. Treble performance is another highlight.

The treble character of the ES9281AC is presented in the M15i in an extremely refined and extended way. There's plenty of air, excellent separation, and a sense of openness that enhances spatial cues. The cymbals shimmer with realism, not bouncing. High frequency details are present, but never draw attention; they simply exist, naturally integrating into the whole.

The soundstage is surprisingly wide for a device of this size. The breadth extends further than you'd expect from a dongle, but more importantly, depth and layering are handled convincingly. Instruments are positioned differently in space, and the black background allows even the smallest details to emerge effortlessly. The processing is precise, sometimes almost surgically precise, but never feels artificial. I can't hide my astonishment.

One of the defining characteristics of the M15i is its dynamic behavior. This is where the current mode amplification truly shines. Microdynamics subtle changes in sound and intensity in a performance are processed with extraordinary clarity. You begin to notice a vocalist's breathing, slight pressure changes in a stringed instrument, micro transitions in percussion instruments. However, the macrodynamics make a confident impact. When a piece is raised, the M15i scales effortlessly and makes an impact without stumbling. Physically, the device is compact, robust, and purpose built. It feels more like a precision instrument than a consumer device.

In terms of output, the M15i offers both a 3.5mm single ended and a 4.4mm balanced connection. The balanced output is where the device truly showcases its capabilities, it delivers higher power and better channel separation. It has enough headroom to smoothly drive demanding IEM’s and even some efficient headphones. Its ability to effortlessly power my Beyerdynamic DT1990 Pro MKII allows me to take those headphones out of the house and listen to them. Another important point for me is the background noise level. With ultra sensitive IEM’s (like my 8.5 ohm Campfire Audio Andromeda 10, for example), many adapters exhibit crackling or noticeable background noise. The M15i manages to remain impressively quiet. Of course, recording quality and source are very important here. But the final output from the M15i is quite clean. This makes it an excellent candidate for high sensitivity IEMs. When connected to an iPhone 14 Pro Max, the experience is top notch. At the very least, it's significantly better than all other DAC Amps in the $100 price range. You can't miss the difference. It's so obvious. The device consumes power efficiently and manages its thermal performance very well. I can honestly say I've never witnessed it getting uncomfortably hot, even during long listening sessions.

I want to compare the Questyle M15i with another premium DAC/Amplifier I own, the Campfire Relay. I'll also directly compare it with other portable DACs/Amplifiers in my bag, such as the ddHiFi Eye3 and the Tanchjim Luna. These aren't superficial comparisons. Each one reveals a different aspect of the M15i's identity, and together we'll try to show much more clearly how special this device is.

Where the M15i Sets the Boundaries:

(To ensure a fair comparison, comparisons were made using the Campfire Audio Andromeda 10 IEM and the dd HiFi MFi09S Lightning to USB C OTG Cable.)

1- Questyle M15i vs. Campfire Relay DAC Amplifier Comparison

Switching between the M15i and Campfire Relay on an iPhone 14 Pro Max immediately reveals two very different philosophies. The Relay, with its AKM4493SEQ chip, offers a silky and inviting sound. It has a softer, slightly warmer tone and seems designed to make almost everything feel a little more enjoyable and relaxing. This character alone can be quite pleasant, especially for long listening sessions or poorly mastered tracks. However, when you switch to the M15i, the difference becomes quite noticeable. The Relay is powerful, but the M15i is slightly more powerful.

The M15i offers a more analytical sound experience than the Relay. Bass response is the first significant differentiating factor. While Relay offers a softer, rounder low frequency range, the M15i tightens everything up. The sub bass still goes deep, but more importantly, it carries texture. Instead of just feeling their presence, you start to hear layers of bass lines.

The mid frequency performance is where things get even more interesting. Relay presents vocals with a slightly romantic color, highlighting them with a gentle warmth. On the other hand, the M15i positions vocals quite accurately within the mix. It doesn't artificially boost them.

them, but it somehow feels more realistic. There's a clarity, a sense of breath and articulation in the vocal edges, and Relay softens these.

The treble is perhaps the most defining factor. Relay slightly softens the upper frequencies, preventing harshness; this can be pleasant, but it also limits perceived detail. The M15i goes even further, offering more air and sparkle without causing fatigue. Cymbals sound more realistic, reverbs spread further into space, and micro details are easier to perceive.

Technically, the difference widens even further. The M15i's soundstage is larger, but more importantly, it's better organized. Imaging is sharper, and instrument separation is significantly improved. Dynamics also support the M15i; it responds faster and more powerfully to changes in the music.

What's clear is that Relay prioritizes silky musicality, while the M15i balances musicality with technical excellence. If Relay focuses on emotion, the M15i aims to deliver clarity without sacrificing soul.

2- Questyle M15i vs ddHiFi Eye3 DAC Amp

The ddHiFi Eye3 enters the comparison with its clean output and minimal coloration. It aims for neutrality, but its dual CS43198 implementation differs significantly from the M15i's approach.

On first listen, the Eye3 can sound impressively transparent. It doesn't impose a strong signature, and that can be appealing. However, as you spend more time between the Eye3 and the M15i, you begin to realize that the Eye3's neutrality comes at the expense of interaction. The M15i manages to be equally accurate, but far more impactful. This is where the Analog vs. Analytic battle begins.

Bass performance clearly reveals this difference. The Eye3 delivers a linear and smooth bass. The M15i offers a more tactile low frequency. You feel the impact, but you also feel the subtle variations in each note.

In the mid frequencies, the Eye3 can fall a little behind. Instruments are well defined, but they lack the organic density that makes them realistic. The M15i adds enough fullness to bring instruments to life without coloring them unnaturally. The vocals, in particular, benefit from this approach, sounding more dimensional and emotionally compelling.

The Eye3's treble is clean but a little too controlled. It avoids harshness but also limits extension. The M15i goes higher, offering more air and openness. This difference becomes particularly noticeable in complex tracks where spatial cues and high frequency details play a crucial role.

Where the M15i truly shines is in dynamics and layering. The Eye3 presents music on a relatively flat plane. The M15i adds depth. Instruments are positioned not only to the left and right, but also forward and backward.

The Eye3 is technically capable, but the M15i feels more lively.

3- Questyle M15i vs Tanchjim Luna DAC Amp

The Tanchjim Luna has the same chip setup (2xCS43198) as the Eye3 but with a slightly more energetic and brighter sound approach. It immediately stands out with its clarity and prominent presentation. It can feel exciting and extremely detailed in short listening sessions. However, extended listening reveals that the M15i takes a more refined approach.

Luna's bass is tonal and fast, but lacks the depth and authority of the M15i. This is where power comes in. The M15i achieves both by maintaining control and delivering a fuller, more robust low frequency. This makes a significant difference in genres of music that rely on sub bass presence.

The mid frequencies are where Luna's prominent nature becomes a double edged sword. Vocals are pushed closer to the listener, which can increase clarity but also reduce naturalness. The M15i pulls back slightly, creating a more realistic perspective. Vocals feel integrated into the mix rather than sitting on top of it.

The treble is Luna's most polarizing aspect. It offers strong extension and a distinct brightness, but can become tiring over time, especially with brighter recordings. The M15i achieves a similar level of detail without the sharpness. It's smoother, more controlled, and consequently more versatile across different genres. 

A soundstage comparison reveals another significant difference. The Luna feels wide but somewhat shallow. The M15i adds depth and layering, creating a more immersive environment. Imaging is also more precise on the M15i, allowing for more accurate instrument identification. 

Dynamics further reinforce the M15i's superiority. The Luna is energetic but lacks the subtle control of the M15i. Microdynamic shifts are less pronounced, and macrodynamic oscillations feel less impactful. The Luna is exciting, instantaneous, and captivating. The M15i, on the other hand, is more balanced, refined, and consequently more satisfying over longer listening sessions.

Chain Synergy, IEM Pairings, and Unexpected Power

Questyle M15i + TempoTec V3 Blaze in Portable Mode

Using the TempoTec V3 Blaze solely as a digital transport device and feeding it to the Questyle M15i via USB creates a far more serious chain than its size suggests. Built around the AK4493SEQ DAC architecture, the V3 Blaze, when used alone, already has a smooth, highly distinct, analytical character, but also, by the nature of the AKM chip, a slightly silky sound. However, when you skip its internal amplification and let the M15i kick in, the whole presentation takes on a different dimension. (I love doing this!)

What immediately stands out is how the M15i adds structure and control to the Blaze's naturally musical output. You have to reduce the volume from the 30s to the 15s due to the increased power. The AK4493SEQ is known for its signature fluidity and natural tonality. Sending a detailed and clean audio signal via USB that's incomparable to an iPhone, the V3 maintains this integrity while now gaining even more precision. The bass becomes tighter, more layered, and noticeably faster. The softness that could sometimes emerge in the Blaze's internal amplifier stage is replaced by a more disciplined, textured response.

The synergy in the mid frequencies makes this pairing truly addictive. While the Blaze provides a slightly organic, almost analog warmth, especially in vocals, the M15i covers this with a more analytical clarity and separation. Vocals gain both emotional weight and technical definition. You hear more nuance in expression, more subtlety in layering, but nothing feels overprocessed.

Treble performance benefits significantly from the M15i's subtlety. The Blaze alone is smooth, but can feel somewhat silky and soft in the upper frequencies. With the M15i, extension improves, airiness increases, and spatial cues become more pronounced. Importantly, this added energy never becomes aggressive. It simply widens the window even further. You might need to listen to the same part of a very well recorded track over and over again to notice all of this. Determining this by hearing takes quite a bit of time.

The soundstage expands in every direction. The width increases, but more importantly, the depth becomes more convincing. Imaging sharpens and instrument placement becomes more holographic. The chain feels more like a compact desktop system than a portable setup.

This combination isn't about changing the identity of the Blaze, it's about elevating it further in terms of power and sharpness. The M15i acts as a precision amplifier that unlocks the full potential of the incoming signal, significantly improving technical performance while preserving musicality.

(In this section, the TempoTec V3 Blaze DAP was used as the source because it provides cleaner sound output compared to the iPhone.)

Questyle M15i + Campfire Audio Andromeda 10 IEM ($1800)

The Andromeda 10 is a famously precise, detail revealing, and unforgiving IEM when paired with noisy or poorly controlled sources. I'm truly impressed by its precision and sound quality. This is exactly where the M15i proves its engineering prowess to me.

The first thing you'll notice is a completely black background. (This also varies depending on the IEM cable. I want to mention that I got the darkest background sound with Japanese Brise Audio cables.) There's no annoying hissing or interference here, just silence. This alone elevates the Andromeda experience and allows its ability to capture micro details to shine without distraction.

The bass becomes more disciplined compared to warmer sources. Due to the Andromeda's fully balanced armature architecture, it can sometimes feel a little heavy in the low frequencies, but the M15i enhances and accentuates this without reducing the amount. Sub bass gains definition and mid bass becomes more prominent.

The mid frequencies are breathtaking. Andromeda is already excellent in this area, but the M15i further improves its layering capabilities. Vocals feel more separate, more dimensional. There's a sense of air between elements, which makes navigating complex tracks easier. The treble is extended, airy, and incredibly refined.

The result is an experience that is extremely high res but not tiring.

The soundstage becomes wide and holographic. Imaging is pinpoint accurate and depth layering is outstanding. This match feels almost at the reference level in his presentation.

Questyle M15i + Moritz Audio Enzo IEM ($1400)

The Enzo offers a different flavor with a fuller, more musical density and a slightly warmer tonality. When paired with the M15i, it transforms into something exceptionally balanced.

Bass performance is powerful but controlled. The M15i prevents the Enzo from becoming excessively thick, enhancing clarity while maintaining impact. Sub bass remains tremendous, but now carries more texture.

Mid frequencies become richer without losing clarity. The Enzo's natural warmth is preserved, but the M15i offers better separation. Instruments no longer blend together, coexisting within clear boundaries.

Trebles gain clarity and extension. The Enzo's softer high frequencies benefit from the M15i's ability to reveal details without forcing brightness. The result is a clearer and more decisive presentation.

The overall effect is synergy. The M15i doesn't change the Enzo's identity, it refines it, transforming its warmth into a delicate warmth. Enzo, like the Andromeda 10, is a reference sound..

Questyle M15i + Kiwi Ears HBB Punch IEM

The HBB Punch is built on fun and powerful bass, energetic presentation, and an engaging sound signature. With the M15i, this fun is brought under control and becomes more technically impressive.

The bass hits hard, but now with better layering. Instead of a single wall of low frequency energy, you begin to hear gradual transitions within the bass lines. The M15i adds discipline without eliminating impact. 

The mid frequencies, which can sometimes lag behind in the Punch, gain presence. Vocals stand out enough to allow for greater connection with the listener without disrupting the overall setting.

The treble becomes cleaner and more refined. The M15i softens any potential harshness while maintaining energy. This makes the Punch more versatile across different music genres.

This pairing transforms a fun headset into a device that delivers a more mature performance without losing its identity.

Questyle M15i + Ziigaat Arcanis IEM

Arcanis is a detail oriented IEM that excels on clean, resolution focused sources. With the M15i, it reaches an almost analytical, yet still musical level of performance.

With dual isobaric dynamic drivers, the bass is tight, fast, and extremely controlled. There's no excess, just precision. I love this texture.

The mid frequencies are incredibly transparent. Every layer, every instrument, every subtle nuance is presented clearly. The M15i's current mode amplification allows the Arcanis to fully express its resolution capabilities.

The treble is extended and airy, with excellent micro detail capture. This pairing highlights the technical strengths of the Arcanis without causing fatigue.

The soundstage and imaging are exceptional. This combination is for listeners who want to both analyze and enjoy the music.

Driving Power: TempoTec V3 Blaze + Questyle M15i + Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro MKII

This is where expectations are completely overturned. On paper, it wouldn't be expected that a small, portable DAC/amplifier like the M15i could drive a detail packed headset like the DT 1990 Pro MKII so smoothly. But in practice, it not only drives it, but also controls it. (This is partly due to Beyerdynamic's new 30ohm Tesla.45 driver, which is easier to drive than its predecessor.)

Since the DT1990 Pro MKII comes with a 3.5mm plug (with an additional 6.35mm plug), we power these headphones via the 3.5mm output of the M15i. This alone provides enough space to powerfully bring the DT 1990 Pro MKII to life. (I can imagine what happens when you get an additional cable with a 4.4mm socket) 3.5mm power and volume are never an issue, but more importantly, control is never lost. The driver responds with speed, precision, and full dynamic range. 

Compared to several DAPs, the difference is immediately apparent. With the M15i, the V3 Blaze offers tighter bass, cleaner transitions, and a more stable stereo image. The analytical structure of the DT 1990 is preserved, but it also gains a sense of fluidity that some DAPs cannot provide. Detail capture is exceptional. The M15i doesn't mask or soften the resolution character of the DT 1990 Pro MKII; rather, it enhances it while maintaining its calmness. The treble remains extended and descriptive, but never piercing. (Beyerdynamic is known for its 8kHz treble range, which can be a bit harsh for some listeners.)

Using the TempoTec V3 Blaze as the player, feeding it into the M15i, and running the DT 1990 Pro MKII, you get sound far beyond what a portable chain should offer.

The presentation is clean, powerful, and offers incredible resolution. The bass is tight and effective, the mid frequencies are transparent and well layered, and the treble ends with excellent control. The DT 1990 Pro MKII retains its reference level detail, but feels more musical and less clinical.

Even when using the M15i single ended output, it never feels strained. It confidently runs the DT 1990 Pro MKII and maintains clarity even in complex passages. This system has become one of my favorite portable systems because it offers a truly top tier experience in a form factor that fits in your pocket.

Final Impression :

The Questyle M15i has become one of the rare portable devices that truly delivers "complete sound quality" when traveling or walking outdoors. It offers balanced, controlled, and incredibly impressive audio. Its current-mode amplification provides a sense of effortlessness rarely found in this form factor. Even when paired with sensitive IEMs (Andromeda 10) or demanding headphones (over-ear headphones), it remains balanced and precise.

Questyle M15i Official Shop >> https://questyleshop.com/products/questyle-m15i?variant=53178352664736

Pros

Exceptional clarity and resolution without harshness

Current mode amplification provides outstanding dynamics

Very low noise floor, ideal for sensitive IEMs

Balanced and natural tuning with excellent extension

Strong output power for both IEMs and headphones

Physical controls improve real world usability

Excellent synergy across a wide range of gear

Cons

Premium pricing compared to typical dongles

Can reveal flaws in poorly recorded tracks

Not for those prefer heavily warm signatures like R2R

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Disclaimer: I would like to thank Questyle for providing the M15i Dac/Amp for review purposes. I am not affiliated with Questyle beyond this review and these words reflect my true and unaltered opinions about the product.

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- All Photographed taken by me (ADR) from Instagram: u/electroaudioworld

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Used photo Gear : Sony A7 III + Sigma 24–70mm F/2.8 DG DN II Art Lens

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FiiO JM21 with leather case (updated version with 4gb/64gb/3100mAh)

Dunu Koto Ito ***need tips suggestions!***

Tozo Golden X1 earbuds

KZ AM16 Bass Edition with KBEAR ST12 cable

Definitely not a great IEM by any stretch of the imagination but god damn, they have been through hell and back.

Still love listening to slower singer songwriter stuff on them though

After my Seeaudio Neos catastrophically failed, I dug out my old Moondrop S8 from my drawer, that I've set aside 5 years ago after I got my Neos, to use as my replacement.

After a night, I remembered why I fell in love with the S8. Crystal clear vocals (especially for female singers), highs that aren't piercing and a low end that feels snappy. My only gripes being that I do miss how much deeper the bass goes on my Neos, and there being a bit of thinness in male vocals.

Will I look for a replacement for my Neos? Who knows. Like meeting an old friend you haven't seen in a while but it's like they've never left your side, for now, I'm content again with the S8.

Bonjour mes amis !

I won't list the specs, just go and take a look at the product page on Penon Audio.

This post is a follow up to my unboxing.

Disclaimer(s) :

• Basshead.
• Treble sensitive bearded princess.
• Mid bass supremacy, slam all day.
• Metal head.
• Used to long listening sessions.
• Warm signatures for the win.
• While I did pay for this IEM, I was offered a VIP early bird deal by Penon Audio. This was appreciated, but did not skew my review at all.
• English is not my first language.
• W shape is the right shape.
• I tend to have a "stream of thoughts" approach while reviewing, hence the seemingly random IEMs used in A/B testing, and the haphazard gaming analysis. My bad.
• Did I mention  ... bass ?
• Take all reviews -and especially this one- with the biggest grain of salt possible, we all got different ears and different sensibilities.

Other infos :

Sources :

• M21 (FLAC) and Android phone (Tidal) used to test digital music.
• Wavelet used for EQ in both cases.
• AT-LP3XBT turntable + Fosi box x5 + FiiO K7 for analog music.
• I reviewed the "Gaming" version, not the audiophile one (cf. my unboxing)
• PS portal and Steam Deck for gaming.

Accessories used :

• Tips : Azla Origin for the first a/b testing, but I ended up switching to tang sancai noble brass edition. The Onyx finally "made sense" to me with those.
• Cable : Tripowin Noire (4.4 for a/b listening to avoid volume bias, 3.5 otherwise).
• DAC / adapters : There is an Ab13x usb audio chip in the adapter (not on the product page, so FYI). I avoided using my Moondrop Dawn Pro 2 / Echo B while listening to music on my phone, and plugged the Onyx on the adapter you get in the "Gaming" package.

Impressions :

• I had to tip roll A LOT (10+ tips tried before I had a 'pleasant' experience). I'm an eartip diva, but that took a bit more testing and finagling than what I'm used to.
• They respond to EQ surprisingly well.
• They're easy enough to drive, I had no problem with the sources I used.
• The high frequencies are handled by a dedicated DD, which was new for me. More on that down the line.
• The overall sound is a little bit "dry" to my hears without EQ (so a perfect tone for you non-bass-loving muggles, I suppose).
• The signature in a few words, a "TLDR before the actual review" if you will : Gentle U shaped. Not fatiguing for treble sensitive persons, and with a slight bass boost, but nothing too boomy.

On to the meat of the analysis.

Frequencies :

Bass : With the graph on the product page, I definitely expected a warmer sound with a bass floor that high (it wasn't), and I was a bit worried about a bass bleed into the mids (there wasn't). Even if I was wrong on both accounts, bass quality is here. Lacking on the quantity for my taste, but well defined. Decay is on point for me on really busy tracks, and I'm not (too much) frustrated on the mid bass. An honest 3.5 out of 5 on the Davie504 scale.

Mids : From what I listened to, the mids aren't that recessed, nor are they overshadowed by the lower treble (it does make sense looking at the graph here, the pinna gain is not that steep). But, let's be clear, this is not a vocal forward iem. I can feel it struggling on rendering female voices in an organic way. Pushing the 800 to 1200hz frequencies a bit with a parametric EQ (making it ever so slightly W shaped) helped a lot on that front. Same analysis on saturated guitars, I had to EQ a bit to make them “pop” in the mix.

Trebles : Judging trebles is hard for me. But in a few words : good presentation, and again, "non fatiguing". I'll copy paste the first impressions I wrote under my unboxing post : "On the trebles though, I'm kind of stumped. I'm a treble sensitive person. I usually EQ the hell out of that kind of treble gain to avoid discomfort, pain, or even plain headache after listening for a while. Not here. I can feel that those are frequencies I usually do not listen to at that volume, but it doesn't bother me as much."

Other sound stuff :

Soundstage : average / medium-sized. Satisfiying for my kind of music. I honestly thought that gaming IEMs needed to have the widest possible soundstage, but it was probably a misconception on my part.

Resolution (detail retrieval, transient response) : the instrument separation is good, very good even, especially at this price point. Good transient response too, nice decay from what I could hear. I tend to really push my IEMs on this (Wintersun, Ne Obliviscaris...), and the Onyx honestly surprised me.

A/B testing :

Aful Performer 5+2 : First time using those without EQ in a good long while. God those trebles are shouty. I felt that the overall technical presentation of the p5+2 was slightly better, and the soundstage a tad wider. Once both were EQ-ed to my taste, it's a coin toss though. The P7 is a really good set, but out of the box, for me, Onyx all day.

Kefine Klean : I wanted to throw a "neutral" IEM in the mix. These ones are, admittedly, good at everything, but "master of none". The one takeaway I had from this comparison is that the Onyx's mids can lack some forwardness. Again, it is to be expected from the graph / sound signature, but swtiching from one to the other really emphasized this. After all is said and done though, sorry, neutral is way too vanilla for me. I don't do kink-less, I do thick. And, to me, the Onyx is curvy enough, at least compared to this one.

TSMR X (my actual daily / favorite IEM) : this is not a fair fight. To me, the X wins in every category without EQ. Once EQ-ed, since I can get a proper mid bass presence on the Onyx, and that I -for once- do not have to completely castrate the trebles, things start to get interesting. The Onyx still lags behind in the mids section, and the bass on the X are on another level altogether, but for a third of the price (the X being in a forever-discount for some weird reason), you definitely do not get a third of the experience. So, the X wins, hands down. But the Onyx, once EQ-ed, did not get ridiculed.

TSMR Armor : Heresy. I won't.

Artti T10 : Since I was so pleasantly surprised with their transient response, I wanted to put them in front of a planar. Because why the F not.
While it was a good idea on paper (or so I thought), the analytical side and faster-er transient response of a planar IEM were too drastic of a difference. A U shaped DD IEM is too warm, and too “colored” to really A/B with the T10. I do stand by my first impression though, the Onyx definitely has a more-than-average resolution for these kind of drivers, in this price bracket.

CVJ Night Elf : I had no real pair with a dedicated DD handling the high frequencies (apart from some really cheap single DDs), so I ordered this one to help me better understand the "feel" I initially got on the Onyx regarding the trebles.
<A week later>
I had a very busy week, and could not fit a single listening session for several days, so I fired up my M21 with the Night Elf and immediately tried a very “aggressive” track, treble-wise (Anamanaguchi - Endless Fantasy). It took me a minute or two, but the initial uneasiness I had faded away before the track was over. I listened to a few more songs to gauge the bass, mids, speed, soundstage (very good soundstage compared to the Vivian !), and left quite satisfied with the IEM itself. It does seem like dedicated DDs for higher frequencies sound better to me (or more palatable at least). On to the Onyx.
I re-discovered their sound with ‘rested’ ears, and … this is a very good IEM. The texture, the details... This is the definition, to me, of an easy-to-listen and easy-to-enjoy earphone. A 30 bucks vs 130 bucks A/B comparison was -again- unfair, but I think it solidified my overall impressions on the Onyx.

Gaming (Imaging):

To use a French idiom, I felt "like a chicken with a knife" doing this (ie. having no F-ing clue about what I was doing). So I went with what I knew :

• Metal (Doom the Dark Ages)
• Frenchness & busy tracks (Expedition 33).
• … GRIME 2 IS OUT ? LET'S GOOOO !

GRIME 2 :
The ambient music fits perfectly with the overall tonality of the Onyx. The different sound effects have a lot of “weight”, be it attacking enemies, getting hit, or melding into the save points. The audio positioning is really well done, and well transcribed.  It makes for a really good experience. I 100% recommend IEMs for this game !

Expedition 33 :
The title screen track is beautifully rendered. The battle tracks hit just right. I would have loved a bit more slam on the battle's hit sound effects, but a lot of care has been put on the sound design balance, and I can respect that. The spatial rendering of the sounds while exploring is on point. I wonder if a good closed back headphone wouldn't be better here though, as some micro details seem lost in the mix sometimes (music + voices + sound effects …).

Doom :
Metal, explosions everywhere. Fun, but not exactly useful for a review. I cut the experience short because I had an idea :

Dead Space (remake) :
Well. That was fun.The bips of the machines, the random noises, the voices position during dialogs, the hull creaking, the scratches against the floor and walls, this is an immersive experience alright. Very “balanced”, nothing stood out too much., I forgot I had earphones after a while, I was just “in” the game. I guess that's the main goal of these kinds of earphones, so it's clearly a win on imaging quality here.

#Bonus tests

Since I figured the best test(s) for spatial audio would be … dedicated spatial audio tests, I tried :

• The virtual barbershop : Impressive results. Sligthly more precise (to my hears) than a pair of Simgot EW300 that I wipped out to A/B the video.
• Valorant Directional Footstep sounds : the left / right perception is on point. The distance imaging seems accurate too. The depth perception though, (further in front, or further back), I seem to have trouble with. 
• Various DTS / THX test files : I tried a few without any valuable notes or takeaway on my part, except for “I do hear stuff around me”

Final thoughts :

This is a weird, quite unique set from my experience. I honestly grew to like it a lot during this review.

I did not get this set to listen to music, I got this set to play on my PS Portal and my Steam Deck, and it does seem like a good gaming set, with good imaging.

But...

...for some listening sessions, I actually forgot that I had a non-EQed, non-basshead set blasting some In Flames, some Landmvrks or some Architects in my ears. I just enjoyed the music, I got accustomed to the signature. This has to be the magic of the 6mm DD driver used for high frequencies, since this is something that had never happened to me before. I always had to tone down anything that came over 4khz if I listened to music for more than 15 minutes.

So these will definitely be my everyday gaming IEMs, and I'll probably use them to cleanse my 50-80hz obsessed palate from time to time.

Overall conclusion: I do not have a lot of gear in the 100-150 range, but, from my limited experience in this bracket, this is an easy recommendation from me.

Thank you for reading this far ! Merci les amis ;p

I'm obviously open to any suggestion, correction, adjustement or question(s) that you might have, fire away <3

PS : someone who read my review in advance asked for my switches configuration on the X, and it is (unsurprisingly) 1-2-0. Since this is my prefered sound, I saw no reason to use a 0-0-0 or 1-2-3 configuration.

PPS : if it was not obvious enough, the first picture is obviously a perfectly staged picture, and not at all an AI meme I struggled for an hour to get right. Who would waste time to do something this dumb ? (I'll remove it if it goes against rule #8, no problem)

Maybe you know, maybe don't know but this 10€ in ear headphones seems like very legit for it's price. It has co-axial dual driver and people love the sound.

if there are any wonder about this in-ear, I would be greatfull to be explain and review due to hype.

Was taking off the eartips when the metal nozzle just popped right out, taking the acoustic tubes with them.

I'm both sad and kinda amused that this happened. Either the glue and/or the resin around the metal nozzle degraded/failed.

Thankfully I still have ~~an equally old~~ Moondrop S8 on hand as a back-up pair.

have the momentum tw4 and i really enjoy them lets how they turn out

do such qdc cables exist? preferably, i want a 4-core cable of which the connectors are straight just like the standard 2-pins but work with my KZ iems.

if no such exist i guess an alternative solution could be one with a different color thats not transparent (eg. black)

would prefer an image as a response of your iems with this type of cables, thanks!

Hello everyone again. For this occasion, I start with a bias that I don't always have, and that is that I have to review a model from a recent brand whose catalog is based today on only 2 models, of which I already owned and reviewed the most expensive one (Martilo) back in the day. I was delighted with what they achieved at the price they launched it, in my opinion even surpassing a model from another brand that was even more expensive, like the HBB Punch. In this case, we have the other release from this brand, Punch Audio, launched at the end of last year, a model called Portazo that, with a similar configuration to its brother Martilo, tries to earn a spot at a smaller price and design.

In my opinion, they have gone all out offering both quantity and quality, proving that you don't need to sacrifice general resolution to feel the physical impact of the music. If you are looking for a purely clinical sound, you are in the wrong place. We have a set designed expressly for fun, which seems to be the goal (for now) of this recent brand, and it manages to provide an excessive energy that is frankly addictive.

What I like / What I don't like

• Blunt and clean sub-bass extension that provides a fast impact without ruining the general mix.
• Surprisingly clean and articulate treble thanks to the micro-planar drivers.
• Ultralight resin construction that allows for long listening sessions without generating physical fatigue.
• Modular cable, which is appreciated, although it is not better than the one on its big brother.
• Male vocals can feel somewhat recessed in tracks with high instrumental density.
• The nozzle is quite short, forcing you to look for eartips that help achieve a better seal so as not to lose part of this model's charm.

Specifications

• Driver: One Liquid Silicone LCP dynamic and two micro-planars.
• Impedance: 10 ohms.
• Sensitivity: 102 dB/Vrms.
• Response range: 10 Hz to 35 kHz.
• Shell: High-quality resin.
• Connector: 0.78mm 2-pin.
• Cable: Modular four-core braided OFC.
• Weight: 4.3 grams per earbud.
• Price: 189$.
• Accessories: Synthetic leather case and six pairs of eartips.

My Sources

FiiO K9: My main desktop equipment connected to my PC for critical cleanliness and power tests.

FiiO KA15: Portable DAC dongle for daily use when leaving home due to its amount of quick adjustments, its integrated equalizer, multimedia buttons to handle from the pocket...

Questyle M15i: Reference portable amplifier/DAC to search for a more organic and musical texture, when I am at home but not necessarily at the PC.

Unboxing and build

Starting as always with the product content beyond its sound, upon opening the box you find the shells accompanied by a modular cable that is somewhat thinner and more fragile than the one included with the Martilo. They include interchangeable 3.5mm and 4.4mm balanced connectors, a synthetic leather case, six pairs of assorted eartips between silicone and foam, and 4 replacement filters. By the way, looking closer at this cable to compare it with other models, it would resemble the modular cable included with the latest Ziigaat models more than the Martilo's. The advantage is that being thinner makes it more manageable and comfortable despite being less resistant to the touch and sight.

The body is made from Resin and is an extremely lightweight 4.3 grams. It has a vibrant and visually appealing green background pattern on the faceplate and features the bright Shiny Silver Logo. Some people don't like having the logo on the shell, something that was avoided on the Martilo by placing it on the side near the nozzle. This time you can see it large right on the shell, and for me, it gives it a touch of a better finish than if it had nothing. In my experience, the fit is extremely comfortable, but the 5.9mm nozzle is quite short because, unlike the Martilo, the shape of the IEM itself before the nozzle begins is completely flat, which by design brings them less close to the inner ear. I don't understand the reason for this choice. To get the perfect seal, I had to resort to the Divinus Velvet/Penon Liqueur Orange, which manage to texturize and masterfully control the low frequencies without taking them to something too extreme, and alternate with the Azla Sedna Origin, which open up the soundstage by providing much-needed air to the treble while fixing the shell to the ear perfectly. Still, the construction exudes superior care, with no rough edges and superior venting that effectively prevents pressure build-up in the eardrum.

Sound

Now moving on to the sound, I have to say something right off the bat and it is positive. I expected a bigger downgrade compared to the Martilo and the HBB Punch due to the price difference, but I find myself with a much cheaper model that competes very closely with them, which speaks to the good work the brand has done with the internal construction and tuning of the Portazo. The focus on low frequencies is instantly evident. We have a smooth V-shaped tuning where the bass dictates the rhythm with brutal authority. The sub-bass is very deep and has superb extension thanks to the LCP driver. Unlike basic headphones that only look for a thumping blow, here the mid-bass impact is surprisingly clear. It provides organic warmth without masking the rest of the frequencies. The impact is fast. I forget at times that this is a dynamic driver.

I don't usually stray from my usual genres, but I had to try some that would suit this model, and one of them is Hip Hop with the track FE!N - Travis Scott. This track perfectly tests whether the LCP driver can handle massive pressure without distorting at all. The constant sub-bass hits slam into your head with blunt physical violence, but the fast transitions between low notes stay under strict control, proving that the high amount of energy doesn't turn into an inaudible mass. That was my fear and hence my surprise. It fully immerses you in the dark atmosphere of the main theme.

Analyzing the mid frequencies, we notice the toll of that lower-end punch. There is a dip in the lower mids that causes male voices to sound somewhat thin, losing body in dense recordings. However, the magic of the micro-planars saves the situation quite a bit when reaching the upper mids. A very well-controlled peak provides transparency, making delicate female voices shine with absolute cleanliness. In my opinion, the instruments maintain a correct weight, projecting presence without feeling trapped behind a dark wall.

A track that reflects what I'm saying well is LUNCH by Billie Eilish. The warmth provided by the lower zone makes the synthesizers that mark the rhythm of this track sound incredibly thick and very musical to the ear. Although her whispered and close-up vocals could have easily been lost in such a dense mix, the precise boost in the upper mids manages to rescue them, projecting her vocal register with intimacy and separating her breaths from that heavy and habitual rhythmic wall that accompanies her constantly in this and many of her great songs for this type of IEM.

Finally, the high frequencies are the surprise of this model. It is what I fear most when I put on headphones focused on low frequencies. Far from being buried by the chaos below, the treble exhibits a very refined character. The upper extension provides just the right space so the music doesn't feel suffocating, scaling to high volumes without damaging your ears when you turn it up. It is a controlled presentation that provides the exact spark to percussion details. It is not the most precise and detailed set on the market, but it proves that you can enjoy low frequencies without giving up top-quality treble. Without having the extension and smoothness that, for example, the ESTs of the HBB Punch give you, here you have more quantity of treble to better counteract the high bass load.

Let's talk about Von dutch - Charli xcx. In this track, the highest electronic notes and synthetic cymbals decay naturally thanks to the micro-planar technology. In spite of a very aggressive compression, the high zone is still quite energetic and can cut through the general level of saturation with great precision so that you can still follow fast percussion detail without having to suffer ear damage from increasing the volume.

Soundstage, Instrumental Separation and Imaging

Let's talk about the soundstage, a vital technical section where this hybrid set shows its cards with total honesty. The spatial presentation is markedly intimate, just like with the HBB Punch, which, if they lacked anything despite their driver configuration, was having a stage that was a bit reserved for my taste and expectations. These Portazo bring you closer to the musical core of the track instead of placing you in the back rows of a concert. The soundstage feels notably wider than it is deep, projecting the stereo panorama with great ease toward the acoustic sides, but I would say they suffer from a certain lack of immersive tridimensionality toward the front horizon. Despite this intimacy caused by a warm tonal tuning, the design manages to offer a sufficient sense of acoustic space.

Instrumental separation is exactly where the micro-planar drivers show their true potential. Despite the heavy wall raised by the low frequencies, the general resolution and spaciousness are surprisingly well above the average for their range. Macro and micro details manifest with extraordinary clarity, allowing the listener to easily isolate multiple complex rhythmic layers without forcing auditory concentration. In my experience, it is a fascinating technical performance that does not fall behind its big brother and, I insist once more, I am surprised how close it stays given the price difference.

The imaging could easily be described as functional and direct. It fulfills its basic duty of locating the main elements in the classic stereo stage, guiding the sound from one side to the other with acceptable fluidity. It won't offer that surgical accuracy typical of analytical monitors, but it guarantees fantastic immersion to enjoy your entire music library without losing the directional nuances that enrich any modern track. After all, let's not forget that this and other models I've mentioned focus more on fun and head-banging to your songs than on precisely locating every element of the music, cinema, or video games, so it's not a priority here and Punch Audio knows it.

Comparisons

Punch Audio Martilo: The star model of the brand. It was actually thanks to the good things it gave me at the time that I wanted to try the Portazo, which is why I'm doing the review now. These Martilos offer an aggressive attitude, but with much more polished bass transient control, helping male voices not get drowned out. In my opinion, the general transition is smoother and fully justifies it remaining the absolute king in musical coherence.

Kiwi Ears HBB Punch: Stepping up the budget from the Martilo, this model features EST drivers that change the technical rules. They aren't going to slam your skull with the sub-bass violence of the Portazo, but their electrostatics provide an air, extension, and micro-detail in the treble that is objectively superior. They don't sound as clean and fast as the Martilo, nor are they as all-round for all genres. But in my experience, that hyper-realistic resolution justifies it being in this second position.

Punch Audio Portazo: Punch Audio Portazo: Our hero takes a hit, sliding to third place when up against the pricier foes. It remains the unbeatable option for 189$. It loses in extension/resolution compared to the HBB Punch's ESTs and in control compared to the Martilo, but its hybrid system gives immense fun, wonderful resin construction, and the best performance-fun-cost ratio on the market, staying not far behind those two models.

FATfreq x HBB Deuce The company is known for making headphones that sound really dark. This one does not sound good at all. The sound quality is bad. They do not make them very well. The bass is very strong. It sounds messy and overpowers the treble. This makes the music sound bad. The FATfreq x HBB Deuce does not sound as good as the Portazos micro-planars. They are more precise and faster. I do not think it is worth paying money for the FATfreq x HBB Deuce because it sounds too muddy. The way it sounds is not very good. That is why I don’t like it!!

Global Ranking Link

You can check my full ranking of all the IEMs reviewed so far on my profile (Reddit doesn't allow me to post the Drive link here)

Final thoughts

In short, and without rambling much more before the typical user who hates excessive reviews shows up, the Punch Audio Portazo are a demonstration of very well-refined brute force, a set that knows exactly which audience it is targeting and executes its job with unusual mastery for only 189 $. If you're the type who analyzes every note with a magnifying glass looking for a flat and boring sound, run away from here. But if what you want is to feel the hit of the bass thumping in your chest without losing a single detail of the music, these earphones are the best you can buy right now. Thanks to their advanced internal drivers and how little they weigh, you have brute power and total comfort in one package. There is nothing else quite like them. They're incredibly comfortable, practically addictive, and arrive with all the essentials included. I wholeheartedly recommend them.

Non-affiliated purchase link: Linsoul

Disclaimer: This unit was sent by Linsoul for review. My opinions are completely independent and have not been influenced by the brand or the store, maintaining objectivity based on my tests and personal listening sessions with my reference equipment.

I own many KZ iems - all of which work fine - but NONE have impressed me as much as the GK Kunten. This post isn't to humble-brag (the three cost me around $60, btw), but to share my experience, which completely refutes claims that GK has poor build quality or that the Kunten cable is "trash" (it has no memory effect, which I love, I really don't like thick, heavy cables)

I've been using these three units for a year now: one for gaming, one for movies, and one for my phone, and they're all still like NEW. They all sound the same, INSANE. They're all from the original first batch (white cable).

"But Why?" They're a Steal! The over-hyped and recommended here Castor Bass (I also have ALL versions) sound far worse and costs twice as much or more here. Don't even get me started on the TRUTHEAR x Crinacle ZERO RED, BLUE the moondrop chu 2 ( this is rusted bad) or the KEFINE KLEAN, etc ok. now down-vote this to hell guys. xo