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.
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
Sakura Custom IEM
reviews
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Drivers: 8 drivers (details not further specified)
- Switch: Analog bass toggle (flat / bass-boosted)
- Fit Options: Universal or Custom Fit
- Included Accessories:
- 4-core Silver-Plated Copper (SPC) cable with 3.5 mm plug
- FATfreq hard case
- S/M/L silicone eartips
- IEM cleaning tool
- Warranty: 1-Year Limited Warranty
Description
The Sakura utilizes 8 drivers to offer top-tier clarity and precision, allowing individual instruments and vocals to shine in their own space while preserving their natural timbre. Sakura features an analog bass toggle switch that allows for an on-the-go transition between studio reference and bass-boosted tunings, allowing for versatility on stage and in the studio.
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:
- FATfreq is recognized for its distinct "basshead" sound signature, delivering powerful and impactful bass responses, particularly in the sub-bass region, without sacrificing clarity in the mids and highs.
- They offer customizable sound profiles through interchangeable NOAH modules and tuning switches, allowing users to tailor the IEM's sound to their preferences.
- FATfreq IEMs often feature high driver counts and tribrid configurations, combining dynamic drivers, balanced armatures, and electrostatic tweeters to achieve a detailed and balanced sound.
Select products
Select product comparisons
Reference Pro SE Universals
- Positioning: A compact, studio-grade IEM reimagined with enhanced vocal clarity.
- Description: Offers an extra tweeter designed to bring out vocal transparency and detailed transient response in a balanced tonal presentation. Compared to the Musician Pro and Quantum models, it emphasizes clean studio reproduction over extended bass or planar dynamics, making it ideal for users focused on vocal performance and moderate budgets.
Musician Pro SE Universals
- Positioning: A bass-optimized IEM tuned for energetic performance and low-end impact.
- Description: Offers a uniquely tuned three-way crossover with an extra low-frequency driver that deepens bass without bleeding into mid registers. In comparison to the Reference Pro SE, it prioritizes vigorous bass output, while Quantum and flagship models deliver additional precision and modular control.
FATfreq x Effect Audio: Quantum
- Positioning: A high-performance IEM featuring innovative planar driver and modular tuning technology.
- Description: Offers a planar magnetic driver paired with detachable Noah modules and a premium Ares S II cable to ensure speed, accuracy, and fatigue-free clarity. Unlike the Reference and Musician models that focus on one tonal aspect, it provides enhanced customizability and balanced resolution.
Hayabusa Universals
- Positioning: A versatile flagship IEM designed for both live and studio applications with dual tuning options.
- Description: Offers dual-mode tuning via an analog bass toggle and incorporates additional super tweeter modules to enhance vocal detail and instrumental separation. Compared to the entry-level Reference and Musician series, it bridges the gap with creative tuning flexibility, while remaining more accessible than the ultra-premium Grand Maestro.
GRAND Maestro Universals
- Positioning: The ultimate high-end monitor featuring state-of-the-art customization and advanced acoustic technology.
- Description: Offers customizable NOAH modules, precisely engineered bass chambers, and a built-in vocal boost switch to deliver exceptional detail and tailored frequency response. In contrast to all other models in the lineup, it delivers superior build quality, expansive soundstage, and cutting-edge technology.
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Avg. Product Price
$1,001-$2,500
Used For Sale
0
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
830
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
31
Founding Year
2016
Our take on the brand
FATfreq is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones that using Basscannon technology that delivers extreme sub-bass levels (20-30 dB below 200-250 Hz) without midrange bleed, along with NOAH swappable bass-chamber modules that let users tune sub-bass power versus control while reducing ear fatigue.
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FATfreq
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What if you spend more?
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FATfreq
GRAND Maestro Custom IEM
3336
3336
/
6
Reviews
FATfreq is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones that using Basscannon technology that delivers extreme sub-bass levels (20-30 dB below 200-250 Hz) without midrange bleed, along with NOAH swappable bass-chamber modules that let users tune sub-bass power versus control while reducing ear fatigue.
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Product Strengths
- Highly adaptable sound signature through NOAH modules and vocal switches, enabling four distinct tuning profiles
- Excellent treble delivers clarity without sibilance or fatigue
- Technically excels in imaging precision and creates an immersive, three-dimensional soundstage that positions instruments with remarkable specificity
- One review stated that it is one of those sets that can do it all
Product Considerations
- Large shell size may challenge those with smaller ears
- Demands power-hungry sources, often requiring high-gain amplification to reach full potential
- Tip selection is very important to the fit, the shells are fairly big and flat, and the design makes the tips a make-or-break element of the fit
- Switch placement may be an issue, the vocal switch is positioned in such a way that the switch can be easily activated when inserting or removing the IEM
- Can sound a little sharp for some when using the blue module
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Custom Art Omnium: Somewhat equally performing IEMs, Grand Maestro is bassier and has a wider soundstage
- Vs. Empire Ears ETOILE: Grand Maestro Anniversary is more engaging, the GMA has more of a clear W-shaped tuning, and the GMA wins on imaging
Takeaway: The GRAND Maestro Custom IEM is a versatile IEM with customizable tuning options, allowing users to tailor the sound to their preferences and different music genres. Its excellent technical capabilities, particularly in imaging and soundstage, create an immersive listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
FATfreq is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones that using Basscannon technology that delivers extreme sub-bass levels (20-30 dB below 200-250 Hz) without midrange bleed, along with NOAH swappable bass-chamber modules that let users tune sub-bass power versus control while reducing ear fatigue.
Product Page
Product Page
FATfreq
GRAND Maestro Universals
3002
3002
/
5
Reviews
FATfreq is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones that using Basscannon technology that delivers extreme sub-bass levels (20-30 dB below 200-250 Hz) without midrange bleed, along with NOAH swappable bass-chamber modules that let users tune sub-bass power versus control while reducing ear fatigue.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Offers four distinct tuning profiles through its NOAH modules and vocal switches, ranging from bass-forward to mid-centric.
- The treble, managed by electrostatic drivers, delivers clarity without sibilance or fatigue.
- Excels in imaging precision and creates an immersive, three-dimensional soundstage with remarkable instrument placement.
- The 'Grand Origin' cable included with the Anniversary Edition uses a mix of copper, silver, gold and palladium that looks and sounds incredible.
- The bass is textured, warm, and has an organic quality that is lush and very musical.
Product Considerations
- Large shell size may challenge those with smaller ears.
- Demands power-hungry sources, often requiring high-gain amplification to reach full potential.
- The position of the vocal switch makes it easy to accidentally toggle it.
- To unlock all four possible tunings, the second NOAH module must be purchased separately.
- The shells are fairly big and flat, and the design makes the tips a 'make or break' element of the fit.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The GRAND Maestro Universals are bassier than the Aroma Audio Jewels, but the Jewels have a slight edge in midrange, GRAND Maestro Universals have better imaging and wider soundstage, while the Jewels are more resolving.
- GRAND Maestro Universals have more versatile tuning profile options than the Flipears Aurora XXIV.
- The Volk Audio ETOILE has a more reserved, reference-like tuning, while the GRAND Maestro Anniversary has a clear W-shaped tuning.
Takeaway: The GRAND Maestro Universals offer very customizable sound through its module system and switch, and it images well with a fantastic soundstage. This is a top-tier IEM that could be worth the money if you enjoy its unique design.
Video review
Our take on the brand
FATfreq is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones that using Basscannon technology that delivers extreme sub-bass levels (20-30 dB below 200-250 Hz) without midrange bleed, along with NOAH swappable bass-chamber modules that let users tune sub-bass power versus control while reducing ear fatigue.
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Empire Ears
Legend Evo (Universal)
3099
3099
/
12
Reviews
Empire Ears is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones featuring their proprietary Weapon IX 9mm rare-earth magnet "subwoofers" with bass-reflex systems. The company hand-builds synX crossover networks without PCBs, assigning more individual audio bands per driver than any other IEM crossover. They also developed EIVEC electrostatic control to integrate EST drivers with dynamic and balanced armature drivers.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Excellent technical performance and detail retrieval, considered several cuts above other IEMs
- Outstanding imaging performance, with precise soundstage and instrument separation
- The bass response is a highlight, delivering a punchy sub-bass with texture and articulation
- Offers a warmer tonal balance that is easy to get into with a mostly 'neutral' sound
- Bone conduction enhances low-frequency extension, reverb, and detail
Product Considerations
- Large chassis that may be uncomfortable for some users, particularly those with smaller ears
- The subdued treble range may not provide enough energy and sparkle for some listeners
- Stock cable is lackluster in terms of usability due to its plasticky feel, rigidity, and microphonic feedback
- Driver flex (a harmless crinkling sound upon insertion) is present
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Legend Evo delivers a stronger bass impact, depth, and extension than the Legend X
- Legend Evo produces better constructed highs than the Legend X
- Legend Evo shows better clarity than the Legend X, and has more detail
- The Legend X can sound veiled concerning the Legend Evo
- The Legend Evo feels a touch smoother than the Empire Ears ODIN
Takeaway: The Legend Evo is a top-tier IEM with innovative bone conduction technology that creates a unique and immersive listening experience with enhanced bass. It is a great option for those seeking flagship-level performance with a warm, bass-focused sound signature.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Empire Ears is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones featuring their proprietary Weapon IX 9mm rare-earth magnet "subwoofers" with bass-reflex systems. The company hand-builds synX crossover networks without PCBs, assigning more individual audio bands per driver than any other IEM crossover. They also developed EIVEC electrostatic control to integrate EST drivers with dynamic and balanced armature drivers.
Product Page
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Noble
Viking Ragnar (Universal Fit)
4000
4000
/
9
Reviews
Noble is a hifi audio brand built around founder Dr. John "Wizard" Moulton, an audiologist renowned for hand-carving custom earphones from exotic materials like wood, carbon fiber, and aluminum instead of standard acrylic, with each ear requiring up to 30 hours to complete. The brand distinguishes itself by using bone conduction drivers across multiple models and bringing rare metallurgical techniques like Japanese Mokume-Gane and titanium Damascus to earphone faceplates.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent detail retrieval, resolving with the best over-ear headphones, challenging the brain to take it all in.
- Wide soundstage with precise imaging, creating an immersive, holographic 3D image.
- Easy to drive, delivering speed and impact even with low-power sources.
- High level of craftsmanship and build quality, using premium materials like CNC-machined aluminum and Damascus steel faceplates.
- Comes with the Magnus cable, a high-quality 8-core cable constructed with graphene, monocrystalline silver, and copper-silver alloy.
Product Considerations
- Treble can become a bit hot and fatiguing over long periods, but can be mitigated by using foam ear tips.
- Bass presence is more nominal and cohesive, not dominant or overpowering like some bass-head IEMs.
- Fit may be an issue for some due to the larger-than-average size of the IEM.
- Could be fatiguing over time due to sensory overload from extreme detail.
- Some reviewers found that the upper mids/lower treble frequency range could use a little boost.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Offers a stronger balance of detail, performance, and musicality, a fuller, richer midrange, and better texture and timbre, when compared to the Empire Ears Odin—Odin has stronger holographic separation, an intense sense of vocal performance, and more potential for fatigue.
Takeaway: The Noble Viking Ragnar is a top-tier IEM, offering incredible detail and a wide soundstage for an immersive listening experience. Its build quality and design are exceptional, making it a great choice for those who want some of the best IEMs in the market.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Noble is a hifi audio brand built around founder Dr. John "Wizard" Moulton, an audiologist renowned for hand-carving custom earphones from exotic materials like wood, carbon fiber, and aluminum instead of standard acrylic, with each ear requiring up to 30 hours to complete. The brand distinguishes itself by using bone conduction drivers across multiple models and bringing rare metallurgical techniques like Japanese Mokume-Gane and titanium Damascus to earphone faceplates.
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What competes at this price?
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FATfreq
Maestro SE Universals
2085
/
Released
2024
To perform your best, hearing high-resolution mixes is not enough - you have to feel it pumping in your veins. Packed with Tribrid technology, Maestro SE utilizes a combination of Dynamic, Balanced armature, and electrostatic drivers for best-in-class airiness on the highs and ultra-highs, supported with a powerful yet controlled low-end for ultimate head-thumping goodness!
FATfreq is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones that using Basscannon technology that delivers extreme sub-bass levels (20-30 dB below 200-250 Hz) without midrange bleed, along with NOAH swappable bass-chamber modules that let users tune sub-bass power versus control while reducing ear fatigue.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers an intense, brash, and enjoyable 'subwoofer madness' bass experience without overly compromising the midrange and treble
- Maintains balanced sound, ensuring vocals (especially female vocals) remain present and clear even with strong bass presence
- Offers solid imaging, instrument and vocal separation, and enough soundstage to avoid sounding claustrophobic
- Reproduces treble in a subtle, gentle, and smooth manner thanks to the EST drivers used, avoiding harshness and accentuating details with sufficient air
- Fits ears very well and isolates noise effectively due to its deep insertion and larger body
Product Considerations
- Can sound muddy on busy tracks
- The size might be uncomfortable for some users after a few hours of listening
- Requires quite a bit of power compared to other IEMs
- Detail sounded a touch on the softer side compared with other IEMs in the same price
- The stock cable is not good
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Maestro Mini: Offers upgraded resolution and smoothness throughout compared to the Mini, especially in bass texture and resolution
- Vs IER-Z1R: Has more rumble, unlike the IER-Z1R, capturing spine-chilling bass experiences
- Vs U12T: The soundstage is better and bigger than U12T
- Vs U12T: Imaging, separation and general clarity are a bit better than U12T
Takeaway: The Maestro SE Universals are a top choice for bass enthusiasts who want excellent bass without sacrificing clarity in the mids and highs. With great imaging and a comfortable fit, they provide an immersive and enjoyable listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
FATfreq is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones that using Basscannon technology that delivers extreme sub-bass levels (20-30 dB below 200-250 Hz) without midrange bleed, along with NOAH swappable bass-chamber modules that let users tune sub-bass power versus control while reducing ear fatigue.
Product Page
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FATfreq
Hayabusa Custom IEM
1835
/
Released
2023
Signature Series Flagship Hayabusa utilizes an additional 2 super tweeter modules to give your vocals that extra headspace or 'air', allowing you to enjoy fullness and accuracy on vocal-centric tracks while maintaining instrumental separation and resolution of your music. Hayabusa features an analog bass toggle switch that allows for an on-the-go transition between studio reference and bass-boosted tunings, allowing for versatility on stage and in the studio.
FATfreq is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones that using Basscannon technology that delivers extreme sub-bass levels (20-30 dB below 200-250 Hz) without midrange bleed, along with NOAH swappable bass-chamber modules that let users tune sub-bass power versus control while reducing ear fatigue.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Video review
Our take on the brand
FATfreq is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones that using Basscannon technology that delivers extreme sub-bass levels (20-30 dB below 200-250 Hz) without midrange bleed, along with NOAH swappable bass-chamber modules that let users tune sub-bass power versus control while reducing ear fatigue.
Product Page
Product Page
FATfreq
Maestro Custom IEM
2001
/
Released
2021
Designed for discerning professionals on stage and in the studio, Maestro provides an unparalleled balance of precision and musicality with incredible headroom. Proprietary Hybrid technology reproduces exceptional bass control while maintaining phase-accurate clarity and detail to 25,000 Hz.
FATfreq is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones that using Basscannon technology that delivers extreme sub-bass levels (20-30 dB below 200-250 Hz) without midrange bleed, along with NOAH swappable bass-chamber modules that let users tune sub-bass power versus control while reducing ear fatigue.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Video review
Our take on the brand
FATfreq is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones that using Basscannon technology that delivers extreme sub-bass levels (20-30 dB below 200-250 Hz) without midrange bleed, along with NOAH swappable bass-chamber modules that let users tune sub-bass power versus control while reducing ear fatigue.
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Campfire Audio
Astrolith
2199
/
Released
2024
The latest from the acoustics team at Campfire Audio, Astrolith represents the tip-of-the-spear for IEMs using a pure planar magnetic architecture. Further expanding on Campfire's lineage of planar earphones, Astrolith incorporates two new drivers wrapped in our PPR and AAOI tuning elements. Combining the inherent advantages of planar magnetic drivers with decades of acoustic engineering experiences brings about an incredible new horizon in the realm of planar magnetic IEMs.
Campfire Audio is a hifi headphone brand known for their Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber (TAEC) for balanced armatures and Solid Body Design that mounts drivers into a single 3D-printed "engine block" to improve tuning and reliability. The brand has pioneered several unique approaches, such as crossoverless dual-planar architecture, beryllium-PVD dynamic diaphragms, and 3D-printed ceramic acoustic structures. Their Andromeda model long held a reputation as a benchmark reference for hifi IEM performance.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Impressive technical performance, clarity, detail retrieval, and resolution due to its planar magnetic drivers.
- Features a new, comfortable, and ergonomic shell design that's also lightweight and durable.
- Includes two upgraded Time Stream Metal cables, providing both 3.5mm and 4.4mm terminations.
- Delivers a strong, extended bass response, with texture and speed, plus a nimble, airy top-end.
- Exhibits a spacious, wide, and holographic soundstage with good imaging and instrument separation.
Product Considerations
- Lower sensitivity might require a dedicated DAP or amplifier for optimal performance, and can sound anemic when paired with just a phone.
- Can be sensitive to source pairings, warmer DACs might wash out the mids and some pairings may bring out sibilance.
- Stock tips might not provide the best seal for everyone, and the stock tip selection is poor.
- Silicone eartips can make the treble sound harsh.
- The mirror-finished stainless steel faceplate is prone to fingerprints and smudges.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Campfire Audio Bonneville: Astrolith has superior mids, clarity, detail and transparency, and better treble extension, articulation, and overall resolution.
- Vs 64 Audio Volür: Astrolith offers bigger bass and a more exciting presentation, as well as faster and more resolving sound, but Volür is more accurate overall.
- Vs. Oriolus Monachaa: Astrolith has a faster and more controlled bass with better texture, a more natural and realistic midrange with a fabulous timbre.
- Vs. Elysian Acoustic Labs Annihilator: Astrolith delivers a more robust and organic mid-range with realistic and natural timbre and more defined lower mids.
Takeaway: The Astrolith is a technically impressive IEM with a comfortable design that delivers a powerful and detailed sound. It could be a great pick for listeners who want high-end sound that can play all kinds of music well.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Campfire Audio is a hifi headphone brand known for their Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber (TAEC) for balanced armatures and Solid Body Design that mounts drivers into a single 3D-printed "engine block" to improve tuning and reliability. The brand has pioneered several unique approaches, such as crossoverless dual-planar architecture, beryllium-PVD dynamic diaphragms, and 3D-printed ceramic acoustic structures. Their Andromeda model long held a reputation as a benchmark reference for hifi IEM performance.
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HIFIMAN
Svanar
1999
/
Released
2023
SVANAR — HiFiMAN's Flagship Single Dynamic Driver IEM with Over-Ear Detail.
HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Captures the sound of the original Svanar, with a balanced tuning emphasizing bass and treble while maintaining the mids
- Incredible imaging performance, offering a wide, well-rounded, three-dimensional soundstage with excellent positioning and separation—highly competitive, even compared to non-TWS IEMs under $1000
- Has an R2R DAC which permits unreachable technical performance
- Very light and comfortable
- Excellent connectivity and usability
Product Considerations
- LDAC connectivity issues with invasive intermittence and noise cutting
- ANC and Transparency mode aren’t very useful and lack dynamic, delivering leaner dynamic, less musicality
- Plastic build might not be most durable if dropped
- High-frequencies are quite sensible to the source, making it one of the least forgiving TWS
- Hiss is also present
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Svanar Wireless is punchier, with better bass detail and imaging, and a wider soundstage, while the Final ZE8000 has a warmer, more neutral sound
- The Svanar Wireless has stronger imaging performance, a wider soundstage, and a better balance between separation and cohesion
- The Svanar Wireless is superior in technicalities and tonal balance, as well as timbre and tone naturalness, and ultimately musicality
- The Svanar Wireless' soundstage is taller and wider but not as deep, since clarity isn’t as sharp and clean, silence being more "noisy"
- The Svanar Wireless has better sound and performs better technically
- The Sony TWS has bloated bass that overwhelms everything else; in comparison, the soundstage and treble performance of the Svanar Wireless is miles ahead, presenting a much more detailed, natural, and sophisticated kind of sound
Takeaway: The Svanar Wireless sounds impressive for wireless earbuds, and it has great connectivity and features. For those seeking high-end wireless sound, these are worth considering.
Video review
Our take on the brand
HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
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