Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- One of the best dynamics under $1000 with excellent contrast
- Very good extension, clarity, layering, and separation in the treble range
- The DD drivers are tuned to deliver excellent control and precision
- The bass has the best balance of speed, body, and weight, giving it an unparalleled dynamic range
- Demonstrates excellent detail and resolution, inheriting the legacy of the FIBAE lineup
Product Considerations
- The stock cable looks ordinary and is not as premium as some other cables
- The mid-range presentation changes with filters, and each filter satisfies one set of listeners
- The soundstage is on the narrower side, perhaps as a result of the lacking air presence in the upper treble
- Can be overly energetic from 5-8 kHz
- Filters need a bit more work, are not easy to put in, and they need a bit of refinement
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. FIBAE i5: The Hybrid 3 Pro has a more capable treble range
- Vs. FIBAE i5: The Hybrid 3 Pro has a bit more rapid sub-bass
- Vs. FIBAE 5: The dynamics of the Hybrid 3 Pro bass DD is exceptionally good
- Vs. Effect Audio Gaea: The H3 Pro sonics and vocals are better
Takeaway: The Custom Art Hybrid 3 Pro is an excellent IEM for those seeking top-notch dynamics and detail retrieval at its price point. With its capable driver setup and customizable sound via tuning filters, it offers a versatile listening experience.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
Hybrid 3 Pro
reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Drivers: 3 total – 1 Dynamic Driver, 2 Balanced Armatures
- Crossover: 3-way crossover
- Frequency Response: 10 Hz – 20 kHz
- Sensitivity: 110 dB @ 1 kHz, 0.1 V
- Impedance: 15 Ω @ 1 kHz
- Isolation: Up to −26 dB
- Cable: Detachable 2-pin 0.78 mm cable, 3.5 mm termination
- Shell: Universal-fit acrylic shell
Description
Hybrid 3 Pro is Custom Art’s triple-driver hybrid in-ear monitor designed to deliver a natural, highly musical presentation. It combines the physicality of a dynamic driver with the precision of balanced armatures, offering deep low end, clear mids, and refined treble suitable for both professionals and audiophiles.
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Custom Art specializes in both custom-fit and universal in-ear monitors.
- They utilize FIBAE (Flat Impedance Balanced Armature Earphone) technology, which minimizes the impact of source output impedance on the sound.
- Custom Art frequently incorporates hybrid driver configurations, combining dynamic, balanced armature, and planar magnetic drivers in their IEMs.
- The brand offers tuning filters with some of their IEMs, giving users the ability to fine-tune the bass response and overall sound signature.
Select products
Select product comparisons
FIBAE 5 UNIVERSAL FIT
- Positioning: A balanced all-round model with a universal fit for ease of use.
- Description: Offers a tri-brid design combining a 10mm dynamic sub-low driver, dual balanced armature mids, and planar high drivers with a 3D-printed waveguide to ensure clear sound and controlled pressure. Compared to the acrylic FIBAE 5 and the more driver-intensive FIBAE 7 series, it presents a cost-efficient option for small setups and standard functionality without additional custom features.
FIBAE 5
- Positioning: The entry-level design in acrylic form emphasizes customizable aesthetics and solid all-round performance.
- Description: Features a tri-brid configuration with a 10mm dynamic driver for sub-low frequencies, dual BA mids, and planar high components enhanced by a pressure optimizing design and 3D-printed waveguide. In contrast to the universal-fit variant and the more premium FIBAE 7 models, it strikes a balance between tuning flexibility, build customizability, and an affordable price point for users with modest sonic goals.
FIBAE 7 UNLIMITED UNIVERSAL FIT
- Positioning: A higher-tier universal fit version that builds on advanced driver configurations for improved dynamics.
- Description: Incorporates dual sub-low, single low-mid, dual mid-high, and proprietary high and super high drivers paired with top-firing balanced armature units to deliver expanded headroom and enhanced transient response. When compared to the acrylic FIBAE 7 Unlimited and the FIBAE 5 models, it provides similar performance in a universal-fit design that caters to buyers seeking premium sound with standard ear tips and faster turnaround.
FIBAE 7 UNLIMITED
- Positioning: A premium acrylic model aimed at users who value high-end customization and refined sound quality.
- Description: Uses a multi-driver layout with dual sub-low, single low-mid, dual mid-high, and unique proprietary high and super high drivers to achieve increased dynamics and superior transient response through an updated crossover design. Relative to its universal-fit version and the FIBAE 5 series, it delivers advanced performance and customization options.
HYBRID 3 PRO UNIVERSAL FIT
- Positioning: The flagship universal-fit unit that combines dynamic and planar technologies in a groundbreaking hybrid design for versatile performance.
- Description: Uses a single low dynamic driver, a single mid dynamic driver, and a single high planar driver alongside a 3-way crossover and tunable bass response to offer a clear and adaptable listening experience. Compared to the FIBAE 5 and FIBAE 7 series, it integrates hybrid technology and added functionality like wireless Bluetooth options.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
0
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
826
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
6
Founding Year
2012
Our take on the brand
Custom Art is a hifi audio brand best known for pioneering Flat Impedance Balanced Armature Earphone technology, which maintains consistent tuning regardless of source output impedance, and their Pressure Optimizing Design that uses acoustic networks to manage pressure and shape frequency response. The brand stands out for unusual design choices like dual planar magnetic tweeters in tribrid configurations, user-adjustable bass via on-shell filter sockets, and being among the few custom IEM makers offering silicone shells alongside traditional acrylic options.
Look inside the brand
Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
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What's your approach to customer support?
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
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From our interview with
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Brand Page
Used
Custom Art
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
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Custom Art
FIBAE 5
1210
1210
/
10
Reviews
Custom Art is a hifi audio brand best known for pioneering Flat Impedance Balanced Armature Earphone technology, which maintains consistent tuning regardless of source output impedance, and their Pressure Optimizing Design that uses acoustic networks to manage pressure and shape frequency response. The brand stands out for unusual design choices like dual planar magnetic tweeters in tribrid configurations, user-adjustable bass via on-shell filter sockets, and being among the few custom IEM makers offering silicone shells alongside traditional acrylic options.
Expand Details
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Very well-tuned IEM with no significant flaws, exhibiting excellent detail and clarity.
- Features a unique driver setup (1DD, 2BA, 2 Planar) that is tuned exceptionally well.
- Offers a well-rounded low-end with well-extended sub-bass, present mid-bass, and upper-bass.
- Soundstage is big, expanded in the X-axis, with good depth.
- Excellent treble extension without issues of sparkle or spikes, avoids dullness or shoutiness.
- Flat impedance technology ensures consistent sound signature across different sources.
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers note the cable is not up to the asking price of the IEM, describing it as a 'run of the mill kind of cable'.
- Lacks mid-bass punch according to one review, although another claims it is 'engaging and thumpy'.
- One review indicates that the bass, while plentiful, lacks substantial 'slam and weight'.
- The stock cable is terminated with a 2.5mm balanced jack, which is becoming less common than 4.4mm.
- The filters included are very small and easily lost.
- Timbre may have a lightweight, artificial quality due to the emphasis on upper-treble.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Sony IER-Z1R: The FIBAE 5 has better balance and tonality, especially in female vocals, and superior treble extension compared to the Z1R's V-shaped, bassy signature.
- Vs. Unique Melody MEST Mark II: FIBAE 5 is more natural in the midrange with better tonality and timbre, while the MEST Mark II is more clarity-oriented.
- Vs. Technics TZ700: The FIBAE 5 has deeper sub-bass, a more focused body, and better treble extension compared to the TZ700, which can feel slightly rigid in the midrange.
- Vs. Symphonium Helios: The FIBAE 5 has a bass-shelf customization to help balance out the sparkly treble.
- Vs. Symphonium Helios: The FIBAE 5 may be worth getting ears on by virtue of how unique it sounds.
Takeaway: The FIBAE 5 is a unique and capable IEM with a well-balanced sound and excellent detail retrieval, making it a worthwhile option for audiophiles seeking a distinct listening experience. With its customizable bass and extended treble, it delivers an engaging and comfortable sound signature suitable for long listening sessions.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Custom Art is a hifi audio brand best known for pioneering Flat Impedance Balanced Armature Earphone technology, which maintains consistent tuning regardless of source output impedance, and their Pressure Optimizing Design that uses acoustic networks to manage pressure and shape frequency response. The brand stands out for unusual design choices like dual planar magnetic tweeters in tribrid configurations, user-adjustable bass via on-shell filter sockets, and being among the few custom IEM makers offering silicone shells alongside traditional acrylic options.
Product Page
Product Page
Custom Art
FIBAE 5 universal fit
2197
2197
/
5
Reviews
Custom Art is a hifi audio brand best known for pioneering Flat Impedance Balanced Armature Earphone technology, which maintains consistent tuning regardless of source output impedance, and their Pressure Optimizing Design that uses acoustic networks to manage pressure and shape frequency response. The brand stands out for unusual design choices like dual planar magnetic tweeters in tribrid configurations, user-adjustable bass via on-shell filter sockets, and being among the few custom IEM makers offering silicone shells alongside traditional acrylic options.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptionally balanced, delivers some of the best details with deeper punchier bass
- Due to the flat impedance technology, Fibae IEMs are not demanding when it comes to sources
- The FIBAE 5 shells weigh ~5.5 g each to make for a low density and minimize any potential of being physically fatiguing
- Sounds quite open for a sense of staging
- Offers a vastly different tuning compared to the rest of the market
Product Considerations
- Lacks mid-bass punch
- Transients have a very lightweight, artificial quality to them
- Installing the acoustic filter isn’t exactly easy
- The bass might sound more tame than the graphs suggest
- Vocal rendition is fine, albeit does not come off as natural as one might have wanted
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The FIBAE 7 Unlimited is a far more balanced and analytical set, better suited for music monitoring than the FIBAE 5
- The bass hits even weaker with less details than the FIBAE 5, and the treble response could be smoother, compared to the ThieAudio Monarch MKII
- The FIBAE 5 offers more mid-bass for bass guitars, and the bass shelf customization helps balance out the sparkly treble, compared to the Symphonium Helios
Takeaway: The FIBAE 5 is an exceptionally balanced IEM with great detail and deeper bass, making it a rediscovery after the FIBAE 4. With excellent control over note aggression, this IEM is an easy recommendation for those who are not bass heads and appreciate detailed, transparent notes.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Custom Art is a hifi audio brand best known for pioneering Flat Impedance Balanced Armature Earphone technology, which maintains consistent tuning regardless of source output impedance, and their Pressure Optimizing Design that uses acoustic networks to manage pressure and shape frequency response. The brand stands out for unusual design choices like dual planar magnetic tweeters in tribrid configurations, user-adjustable bass via on-shell filter sockets, and being among the few custom IEM makers offering silicone shells alongside traditional acrylic options.
Product Page
Product Page
Custom Art
FIBAE 7 Unlimited
1650
1650
/
3
Reviews
Custom Art is a hifi audio brand best known for pioneering Flat Impedance Balanced Armature Earphone technology, which maintains consistent tuning regardless of source output impedance, and their Pressure Optimizing Design that uses acoustic networks to manage pressure and shape frequency response. The brand stands out for unusual design choices like dual planar magnetic tweeters in tribrid configurations, user-adjustable bass via on-shell filter sockets, and being among the few custom IEM makers offering silicone shells alongside traditional acrylic options.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Balanced and expansive tuning
- Creative design
- Excellent fit
- Very comfortable for long listening sessions due to its design and fit
- Smooth, natural tonality, with a spacious and expansive soundstage
Product Considerations
- Original tuning fans might miss the vocal intimacy
- The included zipper case is considered rather large
- Not the most technical IEM encountered, the F7U can show slight limitations by delivering a less-than-airy rendering in its midrange
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- FIBAE 7 Unlimited has more sub-bass, less vocal-forward mids, and improved high-frequency presence
Takeaway: The FIBAE 7 Unlimited is a well-built IEM that is comfortable, has a balanced sound, and is great for long listening sessions. It is a refined upgrade from its predecessor, making it a top choice in Custom Art's lineup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Custom Art is a hifi audio brand best known for pioneering Flat Impedance Balanced Armature Earphone technology, which maintains consistent tuning regardless of source output impedance, and their Pressure Optimizing Design that uses acoustic networks to manage pressure and shape frequency response. The brand stands out for unusual design choices like dual planar magnetic tweeters in tribrid configurations, user-adjustable bass via on-shell filter sockets, and being among the few custom IEM makers offering silicone shells alongside traditional acrylic options.
Product Page
Product Page
Custom Art
FIBAE 7 Unlimited universal fit
1650
1650
/
3
Reviews
Custom Art is a hifi audio brand best known for pioneering Flat Impedance Balanced Armature Earphone technology, which maintains consistent tuning regardless of source output impedance, and their Pressure Optimizing Design that uses acoustic networks to manage pressure and shape frequency response. The brand stands out for unusual design choices like dual planar magnetic tweeters in tribrid configurations, user-adjustable bass via on-shell filter sockets, and being among the few custom IEM makers offering silicone shells alongside traditional acrylic options.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- More expansive and emotive sound compared to the original FIBAE 7, correcting issues with vocal forwardness and balancing highs
- Smooth, natural tonality and an expansive soundstage
- The updated crossover improves dynamics and transient response, with increased sensitivity, making it easier to drive
- Beautiful build quality with smooth seams and no imperfections in the shell or faceplate
- Very comfortable for long listening sessions due to its balanced sound signature and CIEM design
Product Considerations
- Fans of the original FIBAE 7's tuning might miss the vocal intimacy
- The included zipper case is rather large
- FIBAE 7U can show slight limitations with recordings that have heavy involvement in the mid-range, delivering a less-than-airy rendering in its mid-range
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs OG FIBAE 7: FIBAE 7 Unlimited has more body and bass response, less upper mid lift, and smoother treble
Takeaway: The FIBAE 7 Unlimited is a well-built and comfortable IEM that provides a balanced and smooth sound signature, making it great for long listening sessions. It is a worthwhile upgrade from the original FIBAE 7, with improved bass and a more refined sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Custom Art is a hifi audio brand best known for pioneering Flat Impedance Balanced Armature Earphone technology, which maintains consistent tuning regardless of source output impedance, and their Pressure Optimizing Design that uses acoustic networks to manage pressure and shape frequency response. The brand stands out for unusual design choices like dual planar magnetic tweeters in tribrid configurations, user-adjustable bass via on-shell filter sockets, and being among the few custom IEM makers offering silicone shells alongside traditional acrylic options.
Product Page
Product Page
What competes at this price?
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Custom Art
Hybrid 3 Pro universal fit
770
/
Released
Hybrid 3 Pro is a triple-driver hybrid in-ear monitor that blends the strengths of different driver types for a natural and engaging sound. Designed for both professional and audiophile use, it combines deep dynamic bass, balanced midrange, and detailed treble.
Custom Art is a hifi audio brand best known for pioneering Flat Impedance Balanced Armature Earphone technology, which maintains consistent tuning regardless of source output impedance, and their Pressure Optimizing Design that uses acoustic networks to manage pressure and shape frequency response. The brand stands out for unusual design choices like dual planar magnetic tweeters in tribrid configurations, user-adjustable bass via on-shell filter sockets, and being among the few custom IEM makers offering silicone shells alongside traditional acrylic options.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Superb dynamics, among the best under $1000, with excellent contrast
- Very capable treble range with very good extension, clarity, layering, and separation, thanks to the planar driver
- Bass has excellent control and synergy, with the best balance of speed, body, and weight
- Excellent technical capabilities, delivering excellent control and precision, with resolution and clarity
- Excellent build quality, with well-made canals and a soft, rounded chassis
Product Considerations
- The stock cable looks ordinary, and reviewers suggest upgrading to the 8w upgrade cable
- The mid-range presentation may be thin, dry, and not so smooth sounding for some listeners with the stock brown filter, but this can be changed with filters
- Upper mids can be fatiguing, and the highs are otherwise on the darker side
- Soundstage can be on the narrow side
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Custom Art FIBAE 5, the Hybrid 3 Pro is a sub-bass beast compared to the FIBAE 5, which is more V-shaped with added mid-bass and treble presence
- Compared to the DUNU ZEN PRO, the Custom Art Hybrid 3 Pro is more specialized and better suited for multiple genres, although not as safe as an all-rounder
Takeaway: The Custom Art Hybrid 3 Pro universal fit IEM delivers fantastic dynamics and a balanced sound signature with excellent clarity and detail. The optional tuning filters and excellent technical capabilities make it a versatile choice for audiophiles.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Custom Art is a hifi audio brand best known for pioneering Flat Impedance Balanced Armature Earphone technology, which maintains consistent tuning regardless of source output impedance, and their Pressure Optimizing Design that uses acoustic networks to manage pressure and shape frequency response. The brand stands out for unusual design choices like dual planar magnetic tweeters in tribrid configurations, user-adjustable bass via on-shell filter sockets, and being among the few custom IEM makers offering silicone shells alongside traditional acrylic options.
Product Page
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Thieaudio
Monarch MKIII
999
/
Released
2023
At their times, the original Monarch and the Monarch MKII set new standards for best-in-class performance in the global IEM industry. Not only did it redefine the price-to-performance bracket, but it forever changed how IEM manufacturers engineer and tune IEM's. Keeping with the times, the Monarch has undergone another revision to revamp its technical and tonal performance.
Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Offers excellent midrange resolution, highlighting subtle details in instruments
- Features a safe yet exciting U-shaped tuning suitable for all genres
- Presents a dynamic and exciting sound signature, clear vocal performances, and a resolving staging performance
- The included cable is of high quality and features interchangeable plugs
- Has great audio reproduction accuracy and consistent audio delivery
Product Considerations
- The upper treble may be a little exaggerated for some listeners
- The shell is larger than average for a universal IEM, which may cause fit issues for some
- Stock ear tips are just okay
- Bass resolution could be better
- Does not have an integrated microphone, so a standalone mic is needed to take calls
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Monarch MKII: The MKIII has increased richness in its midrange and an upper treble exaggeration, offering a slightly U-shaped signature compared to the MkII's balanced profile
- Vs. Symphonium Helios: MkIII's midbass body contrasts Helios' dipped lower mids, MkIII has better overall resolution, but a more exaggerated treble
- Vs. 64 Audio U4s: The MkIII is better tuned compared to the U4s, with the U4s having a thicker midrange and weightier timbre
- Vs. MOONDROP x Crinacle DUSK: The THIEAUDIO have a more detailed treble range
- Vs. MOONDROP Blessing 3: The THIEAUDIO have a more elevated bass range
- Vs. TRUTHEAR x Crinacle ZERO: RED: The THIEAUDIO do a better job blocking out external noise and leak less audio
Takeaway: The Monarch MKIII is a well-tuned IEM that is great for all kinds of music and has excellent technical performance. If one is looking for a high-end IEM with a versatile sound, this could be a great choice.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier
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Sennheiser
IE 600
899
/
Released
2022
Simply beautiful sound, and the lengths Sennheiser will go to achieve it — that is the story of the IE 600. These in-ear devices not only reproduce the detail and emotion of a recording, they transcend it. Because each earphone is a masterpiece. From the hand-finished amorphous metal housing to high-end audio components developed and made by Sennheiser, everything is manufactured to the strictest tolerances.
Sennheiser pioneered the world's first open-back headphones with the HD 414 in 1968, which became the bestselling full-size headphone of all time, and later developed the HD 25, evolving from 1980s broadcast use to become the industry standard in DJ booths worldwide. The brand is known for unique engineering approaches, such as integrating high-voltage amplifiers directly into earcups with Carrara marble chassis in the HE 1, developing proprietary ring-radiator transducers and absorber technology to eliminate resonances, and creating the long-running MD 421 microphone that has remained in production since 1960.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Agreeable, natural sonic signature
- Sounds very good, feels tough, and comes with most of the accessories needed
- Precision-milled housings follow the company’s IE 900, IE 200, and IE 300 models, shape wise, and therefore comfort wise
- A well-engineered product that sounds excellent
- Measured performance closely aligns with a headphone preference curve, so it sounds excellent
Product Considerations
- Basic silicone eartips that don’t fit everyone
- The MMCX connector is an atypical version that will not work with most other cables
- The texture of the AMLOY-ZR01 finish is not everyone's favorite to wear
- Treble is a bit subdued with cymbals resolving reasonably well, but way behind the IE 900
- Stock tips that come with Sennheiser's earphones are poorly designed; the silicone lacks rigidity to the point of which it more often than not collapses against the ear when one inserts the IEMs, thus making a proper seal very difficult to achieve
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs IE 900: The easier-to-drive IE 900 have a tighter, less thumpy low end and a leaner midrange, which results in better separation between the two, and also in better midrange resolution and clarity
- Vs IE 900: The IE 900 also have a much superior (perceived) treble extension and resolution, and a much wider soundstage
- Vs Final E5000: The final E5000 offer fuller voices, more bass, but less treble than the IE 600, and a narrower stage
- Vs Meze ADVAR: The ADVAR's sound is taller than the IE 600, the latter has more width, and imaging is tight and well-produced in both IEMs, with the IE 600 edging out the ADVAR by the slightest of margins
Takeaway: The IE 600 is a great set of earphones that will appeal to listeners owing to their punchy tonality and is pretty much unparalleled in their class. With the IE 600, listeners get undistorted audio and great isolation, and durable materials that will always sound good.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Sennheiser pioneered the world's first open-back headphones with the HD 414 in 1968, which became the bestselling full-size headphone of all time, and later developed the HD 25, evolving from 1980s broadcast use to become the industry standard in DJ booths worldwide. The brand is known for unique engineering approaches, such as integrating high-voltage amplifiers directly into earcups with Carrara marble chassis in the HE 1, developing proprietary ring-radiator transducers and absorber technology to eliminate resonances, and creating the long-running MD 421 microphone that has remained in production since 1960.
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Westone Audio
MACH 60
846
/
Released
2022
Its six-driver system delivers a balanced, natural soundstage with crisp highs and detailed mids and lows. Whether you're in the studio or on stage, the MACH 60
Westone Audio specializes in in-ear monitors designed by and for musicians, offering universal-fit and custom models engineered for accuracy, comfort, and stage-ready reliability. The MACH series delivers their popular custom-quality sound in a universal fit, the AM Pro X line preserves on-stage ambience for performers, and the Pro X series uses efficient sound channels for cleaner, more balanced frequency response. Praised by musical icons for decades, Westone emphasizes uncompromising performance for both professionals and discerning listeners.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Very comfortable, suitable for long listening sessions and wearing in bed, due to its small size, lightweight design, and ergonomic shape
- Delivers a neutral and natural sound presentation, making it appropriate for stage and studio monitoring
- Excellent sound isolation, effectively blocking out external noise
- Good detail retrieval and resolution, presenting information accurately
Product Considerations
- May sound a bit boring or dull if one is looking for a more dynamic and engaging sound with more bass and treble emphasis
- The plastic build quality may not feel as premium as some other IEMs
- Requires a bit more power to drive it to sound best
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Mach 60 has a more neutral presentation, while ADV M512D is more elevated in the mids and treble and has more bass impact
- Mach 60 is more neutral and natural, while Unique Melody MEST delivers excellent detail and resolution
Takeaway: The Westone Mach 60 is a comfortable and well-built in-ear monitor that delivers a neutral and natural sound, great for musicians and audiophiles looking for an accurate representation of their music. It is a great tool as a stage monitor and comfortable for long listening sessions.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Westone Audio specializes in in-ear monitors designed by and for musicians, offering universal-fit and custom models engineered for accuracy, comfort, and stage-ready reliability. The MACH series delivers their popular custom-quality sound in a universal fit, the AM Pro X line preserves on-stage ambience for performers, and the Pro X series uses efficient sound channels for cleaner, more balanced frequency response. Praised by musical icons for decades, Westone emphasizes uncompromising performance for both professionals and discerning listeners.
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FIIO
FH9
558
/
Released
2021
FiiO's new flagship hybrid IEMs, the FH9, is the result of two years' worth of intense research on how to fully take advantage of the strengths of hybrid IEMs and push the boundaries of what they can sound like. This 1 dynamic 6 BA driver design (7 in total) features a 2nd generation 13.6mm DLC diaphragm dynamic bass driver fully capable of extending to the lowest frequencies with ample punch. Mid and high frequencies are handled by a custom 6 Knowles BA setup that accurately reproduces every last musical detail.
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Convincingly balanced sound performance with a slight bass emphasis
- A wide and deep soundstage
- High-quality build, using a titanium housing, making it feel robust
- Good clarity and sparkle in the highs, with a natural and airy treble that feels relaxed
- Comes with a decorative, braided balanced cable made of silver wire, with interchangeable ends
Product Considerations
- A larger earbud which may affect the fit for some users
- A slight emphasis in the bass area and a sober sound, which may be a matter of taste
- Semi-open design is less isolating
- High frequencies might be too elevated for some
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs FiiO FH5s: Better bass texture, transparency, resolution, and treble definition, and sounds more cohesive and balanced
- Vs FiiO FH7: Better design, a better carrying case, more accessories, better build quality, better refinement, more resolution, transparency, treble definition, dynamism, and a wider and deeper soundstage
- Vs Kinera Norn: Better mid-range definition, tonality, and transparency, the Norn has a more V-shaped sound signature with splashy and aggressive treble
Takeaway: The FiiO FH9 is a well-crafted IEM with a balanced sound signature and customizable options, making it enjoyable for a wide range of listeners. It has excellent detail retrieval and a wide soundstage that immerses the listener in the music.
Video review
Our take on the brand
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
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