Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

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

  • Non-fatiguing sound signature allows for hours of listening
  • Included cable is of high quality and provides versatility, allowing for the use of 4.4mm, 3.5mm, and 2.5mm terminations, depending on the source
  • Vocals are a standout, offering a natural and engaging presentation
  • Resin shell is both visually appealing and comfortable for long listening sessions

Product Considerations

  • High price may feel steep considering the uneven frequency response and average technical abilities
  • Treble is a bit dark and uneven, which can detract from overall clarity
  • Bass is not particularly distinct, with a flatter sound signature
  • Soundstage depth, imaging, and detail retrieval are only average, limiting its presentation

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Kinera Imperial Nanna: The Skuld falls perfectly between more budget-friendly models and higher-end selection

Takeaway: The Kinera Imperial Skuld is easy to listen to and enjoy. It has good instrument separation and layering, so all elements can be clearly heard.

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

Imperial Skuld

reviews

[{"title":"Kinera Audio IMPERIAL SKULD IEM - Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oknTVAwob4g","source":"MajorHiFi","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"Kinera Imperial Skuld earphones — skalds' songs","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gUingvUFTO4","source":"New Record Day","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"in-Ear Fetish Review \\\\ Kinera Skuld IEM","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bb5sptliKRU","source":"Porta.Fi","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Kinera Skuld IEM Review - 5 Balanced Armatures and Lots of Fun!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=11RnAISLNu8","source":"Porta.Fi","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"Kinera Imperial Skuld Review","link":"https://headfonics.com/kinera-imperial-skuld-review","source":"headfonics.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Kinera Imperial Skuld Review","link":"https://majorhifi.com/kinera-imperial-skuld-review","source":"majorhifi.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Kinera Imperial Skuld Review","link":"https://mobileaudiophile.com/in-ear-earphones-iem-iems-reviews/kinera-imperial-skuld","source":"mobileaudiophile.com","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Drivers: 3 Knowles BA + 2 Kinera custom BA
  • Wearing Style: In-ear
  • Impedance: 23 Ω
  • Sensitivity: 120 ± 2 dB
  • Frequency Response: 5 Hz – 50 kHz
  • Connector (Plug): 0.78 mm 2-pin
  • Cable: 8-core silver-plated copper
  • Termination: 4.4 mm balanced
  • Earbud Weight: 4.6 g (each)
  • Nozzle Size: 5.93 mm
The Kinera Imperial Skuld is a 5-BA driver in-ear monitor featuring a blue-green hand-painted cavity design with gold foil and silver elements on a black base. It utilizes two Kinera customized BA units and three Knowles BA drivers, tuned to deliver a smooth flat frequency response with less than 4dB variation in the 0-8kHz range.
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:

  • Kinera's IEMs have uniquely artistic, hand-painted designs, making each pair a visually distinctive piece.
  • They use a variety of driver technologies (DD, BA, EST, and even bone conduction) often combined in complex hybrid configurations, striving for a specific sonic goal which varies across product lines.

QoA Aviation 3 Knowles  

  • Position: An entry-level hybrid driver in-ear monitor designed for affordable high fidelity.  
  • Description: Features a combination of Knowles balanced armature and dynamic drivers with a meticulously designed cable. Compared to the rest of the lineup, it offers decent performance at a lower price point, ideal for buyers with tight budgets and basic functionality needs.

Kinera Imperial Skuld-5BA  

  • Position: A mid-range professional-grade in-ear monitor focused on precision and detail.  
  • Description: Uses a mix of customized BA units and Knowles drivers with a hand-painted design, ensuring a smooth flat frequency response ideal for critical listening in controlled environments. In comparison to entry-level options, it delivers superior technical refinement with enhanced build quality and deeper soundstage.

Kinera Imperial Baldr 2.0  

  • Position: A high-end, hybrid-driven in-ear monitor aimed at enthusiasts demanding flagship-level rigour.  
  • Description: Integrates multiple driver types—electrostatic, balanced armature, and a dynamic unit—with custom-tuned performance and detachable cables, providing powerful bass, detailed midrange, and open treble. Relative to the lower-priced models, it offers a richer, more nuanced sound signature along with advanced functions.

Kinera Imperial Loki 6  

  • Position: A premium, flagship in-ear monitor with an intricate multi-driver configuration for ultimate performance.  
  • Description: Combines Knowles, Sonion, dynamic, and composite drivers to create a balanced and expansive soundstage with precise frequency division, making it ideal for studio monitoring and demanding listening experiences in varied environments. Against other products in the lineup, it commands a higher price with its innovative driver mix and superior build quality.

Kinera Celest Wyvern Qing 

  • Position: A distinct upper-tier in-ear monitor blending Celest design heritage with innovative acoustic tuning.  
  • Description: Incorporates advanced acoustic engineering and premium materials to deliver a refined, immersive audio performance suitable for critical monitoring in larger, acoustically challenging spaces. When contrasted with Kinera's imperial series, it emphasizes aesthetic elegance and unique tuning characteristics.
See All Products
Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
0
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
791
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
27
Founding Year
2010

Our take on the brand

Kinera is a hifi headphone brand that builds each product around mythology-driven design language, weaving Norse and Chinese lore into concepts and aesthetics through hand-painted artisan resin faceplates where no two units look identical. The brand pioneered EST tribrid tuning with dual Sonion ESTs as a signature and developed proprietary Square Planar Driver (SPD) technology under their Celest line.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

What's your approach to customer support?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
.
Brand Page

Used

Kinera

No items found.
No items found.

What if you spend more?

Product image
HIFIMAN
Svanar
1999
1999
/
13
Reviews
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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Symphonium
Helios - Technical Reference
1099
1099
/
9
Reviews
Symphonium is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones that use FLAT (Filtered Linear Attenuation Tuning) to maintain frequency response consistency across different sources, and PHAT (Phase Harmony Attenuation Technology) to deliver exceptionally smooth treble extension until 20 kHz.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Excellent bass and treble response.
  • Impressive dynamics and imaging.
  • Has excellent treble extension.
  • The Helios delivers an immensely deep-reaching sub-bass, accompanied by exceptionally clean articulate treble, with no overdone mid-bass to muddy things up.

Product Considerations

  • Large angular shell that may be hard to fit.
  • Needs a reasonably powerful source, because many dongles will not be able to run these.
  • Midrange is somewhat mixed and quite pushed back.
  • Some found the stock cable annoying to deal with.
  • There is a lack of mid-bass.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020: Helios has a leaner sound and demands attention, sporting aggressive dynamics, sharper resolution, and BA bass that actually slams.
  • Vs Hidition Viento-B: One can consider the Helios a Viento-B on steroids with more bass, a more balanced midrange, and a more linear, extended treble response.
  • Vs Moondrop S8: The Helios clearly pulls ahead in its impactful dynamics and standout BA bass.
  • Vs Sony IER-M9: The Helios has far better dynamics and a smoother, more airy treble response.
  • Vs Thieaudio Monarch: The Helios has more treble extension and presence in those final octaves, and for technical performance outdoes the Monarch all around, particularly in the staging and imaging presentation.
  • Vs Unique Melody MEST/MK2: The Helios doesn't make compromises, as it sports comparable resolution to the OG MEST and outclasses both IEMs in the dynamics department, and the Helios' treble is a step ahead of the ESTs being used in the MEST IEMs.

Takeaway: The Symphonium Helios is worth consideration for those seeking high-quality sound with great bass and clear highs. It is designed to sound good with diverse musical genres, so listeners can enjoy what they are hearing.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Symphonium is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones that use FLAT (Filtered Linear Attenuation Tuning) to maintain frequency response consistency across different sources, and PHAT (Phase Harmony Attenuation Technology) to deliver exceptionally smooth treble extension until 20 kHz.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Symphonium
Crimson
1699
1699
/
9
Reviews
Symphonium is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones that use FLAT (Filtered Linear Attenuation Tuning) to maintain frequency response consistency across different sources, and PHAT (Phase Harmony Attenuation Technology) to deliver exceptionally smooth treble extension until 20 kHz.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Ergonomically comfortable for long listening sessions, and has significantly improved from the earlier Helios model.
  • The bass is exceptional in quality, it's tasteful, well-controlled and doesn't intrude into the mids or lower mids.
  • The Crimson delivers above and beyond expectations if the fit and power requirements are met, demonstrating quality of drivers over quantity.
  • Dynamics, soundstage, and resolution are at a flagship level, offering an immersive listening experience.
  • The all BA configuration allows the bass to slam hard as some of the best dynamic driver IEMs out there.

Product Considerations

  • The upper treble can be too bright and zingy, potentially causing listening fatigue, particularly on certain tracks and sources.
  • The sealed, ventless design can create pressure buildup in the ear canals, leading to discomfort, especially during flights or long train rides.
  • The Crimson requires a powerful source to perform at its best, and may sound bland if not adequately powered.
  • The short nozzle and specific design may cause fit issues for some users, requiring experimentation with different ear tips for optimal fit and seal.
  • The stock cable's ear hook is practically non-existent and not doing anyone any favors.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the 64 Audio U12t, the Crimson is technically superior, particularly in bass and upper-midrange, but lacks venting for longer listening.
  • Compared to the Elysian Diva, the Crimson has an edge in technical performance—particularly for a sense of sound stage.
  • Compared to the Unique Melody MEST MKIII, the Crimson has much sharper sounding treble, and it has way more energy in the upper treble unlike the MKIII.

Takeaway: The Symphonium Crimson is an IEM that delivers exceptional sound quality and powerful bass despite having only 4 BA drivers, making it great for listeners that want to enjoy a highly detailed and immersive listening experience. For those seeking a unique and high-performing audio experience, the Crimson is worth considering.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Symphonium is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones that use FLAT (Filtered Linear Attenuation Tuning) to maintain frequency response consistency across different sources, and PHAT (Phase Harmony Attenuation Technology) to deliver exceptionally smooth treble extension until 20 kHz.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Softears
RS10 Reference
2099
2099
/
5
Reviews
Softears creates reference-quality in-ear monitors for professional monitoring. The brand features passive driver modules that relieve ear pressure without compromising isolation, and complex 15-component crossover networks more akin to high-end loudspeakers. Known for extreme transparency that can even expose recording flaws, Softears delivers flat-impedance designs engineered for pro interface.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Excellent reference monitor with heavy focus on resolution and detail
  • Clean and articulate midrange presentation
  • Bass is firm and wide, more focused on ultra lows
  • Has an almost flat-impedance curve, enabling a consistent sound across sources with differing output impedance
  • Very detailed, offers surgical precision, separates instruments into layers
  • Offers great detail

Product Considerations

  • Can be unforgiving of bad quality audio or sources
  • Treble does not have much energy or sparkle
  • Dainty stock cable and limited accessories

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to Dunu Glacier, Dunu Glacier has a huge bass difference and more air
  • Compared to the Elysian Diva, the RS-10 can beat the Diva in terms of technicalities, the Diva is an easier listen
  • Compared to the Softears Volume, the tonality is very similar with a few differences, except the RS-10 is just much more detailed
  • Compared to the Oriolus Percivali, vocal presentation from the RS10 is based on accuracy and linearity, the Percivali goes a step further in ornating the vocals with stronger richness and layering

Takeaway: The RS10 Reference is a supremely detailed and largely neutral monitor that is a good fit for studio monitoring. It emphasizes vocals and detail, highlighting all the nuances in your music.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Softears creates reference-quality in-ear monitors for professional monitoring. The brand features passive driver modules that relieve ear pressure without compromising isolation, and complex 15-component crossover networks more akin to high-end loudspeakers. Known for extreme transparency that can even expose recording flaws, Softears delivers flat-impedance designs engineered for pro interface.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Softears
RSV Reference
729
/
Released
2021
A professional-grade reference IEM using 5 balanced armature drivers per side with a multi-way crossover, tuned to deliver natural, balanced, and highly resolving sound. It is part of SoftEars’ Reference Sound Series, offering high accuracy and neutrality for studio or critical listening.
Check Amazon
Softears creates reference-quality in-ear monitors for professional monitoring. The brand features passive driver modules that relieve ear pressure without compromising isolation, and complex 15-component crossover networks more akin to high-end loudspeakers. Known for extreme transparency that can even expose recording flaws, Softears delivers flat-impedance designs engineered for pro interface.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent fit and comfortable for many users, even for extended listening periods
  • Very well-balanced and tuned sound signature, often described as a warm, mature, or safe Harman-ish tuning
  • Smooth treble presentation, avoiding sibilance, sharpness, or fatigue, while still retaining detail
  • Good bass performance for an all-balanced armature set, with nice punch and attack, though primarily focused on sub-bass
  • Very good natural tonality and timbre, avoiding a metallic or unnatural sound often associated with balanced armatures

Product Considerations

  • Soundstage and imaging could be better for the price, described as average and not particularly wide or holographic
  • May lack a 'hook' or standout factor in its sound quality, some find it to be a more laid-back and less engaging sound
  • The shells are quite big, which may be problematic for users with small ears
  • The recessed 2-pin sockets could be designed better with a deeper fit
  • May sound 'boring' at mid-to-low volumes, according to one reviewer

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Moondrop S8: RSV offers a warmer and fuller sound with a more even midrange, while the S8 is leaner and more forward, with the S8 being more engaging overall
  • Vs Dunu SA6: RSV has better bass quality, while the SA6 has a slightly more pronounced treble

Takeaway: The Soft Ears RSV is a comfortable and well-tuned IEM that delivers a balanced and enjoyable listening experience. It is particularly well-suited for those who appreciate a smooth, natural sound with excellent vocal reproduction.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Softears creates reference-quality in-ear monitors for professional monitoring. The brand features passive driver modules that relieve ear pressure without compromising isolation, and complex 15-component crossover networks more akin to high-end loudspeakers. Known for extreme transparency that can even expose recording flaws, Softears delivers flat-impedance designs engineered for pro interface.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Softears
Twilight
930
/
Released
2022
A lightweight (6 g per side) aviation-grade aluminum alloy IEM housing a newly developed 10 mm dynamic driver featuring a DLC dome with FreeEdge PU suspension and a 0.035 mm Daikoku high-tension voice coil. The design includes patented front/rear cavity coupling inherited from Turii, viscoelastic damping, and diffuser patches for resonance suppression. Each pair is individually produced and matched, and comes with U.C. eartips, a 6 N oxygen-free copper cable with thick gold-plated plug pins, and a secure 0.78 mm 4-point connector.
Check Amazon
Softears creates reference-quality in-ear monitors for professional monitoring. The brand features passive driver modules that relieve ear pressure without compromising isolation, and complex 15-component crossover networks more akin to high-end loudspeakers. Known for extreme transparency that can even expose recording flaws, Softears delivers flat-impedance designs engineered for pro interface.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Balanced to warm sound signature with ample bass that is present without overpowering the sound
  • Sublime vocals, clear with even minor voice modulations distinctly audible
  • Exceptional build quality with premium materials like aircraft aluminum alloy, resulting in a durable yet lightweight design
  • Comfortable fit for long listening sessions due to narrow vertical placement in the ear

Product Considerations

  • Treble is slightly rolled off, which can sacrifice some airiness and detail in the highs
  • Below average passive isolation, not suitable for noisy environments
  • Soundstage is average to narrow

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Final A8000: The A8000 has a more natural tonality overall, more air, a wider soundstage, and better separation/layering, while Twilight has more bass with forward vocals and rolled off treble
  • Vs 64 Audio Duo: Twilight offers warmth and engagement in its sound signature, especially noticeable in the midrange, while the Duo provides a sound that is rich in detail and expansive in soundstage
  • Vs Meze Audio Advar: The Advar is better in critical listening and brass instruments, while the Twilight has better 3D imaging

Takeaway: The Softears Twilight is an excellent IEM that offers a very easy, likeable, and musical sound which can be enjoyed for hours. It offers a balanced to warm sound, sublime vocals, and comfortable fit, making it a solid choice for audiophiles looking for a single dynamic driver IEM.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Softears creates reference-quality in-ear monitors for professional monitoring. The brand features passive driver modules that relieve ear pressure without compromising isolation, and complex 15-component crossover networks more akin to high-end loudspeakers. Known for extreme transparency that can even expose recording flaws, Softears delivers flat-impedance designs engineered for pro interface.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Symphonium
Meteor
599
/
Released
2022
A compact balanced armature IEM featuring PHAT™ (Phase Harmony Attenuation Technology) for enhanced treble extension in a small shell, a visceral U-shaped sound signature with punchy bass and extended treble, and built from durable T6 heat-treated AL6061 aluminium. Includes a custom Nightjar Acoustics cable tuned to match its sound profile.
Check Amazon
Symphonium is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones that use FLAT (Filtered Linear Attenuation Tuning) to maintain frequency response consistency across different sources, and PHAT (Phase Harmony Attenuation Technology) to deliver exceptionally smooth treble extension until 20 kHz.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Warm, bassy, and well-extended sound signature with a tasteful, but still aggressive, mid-bass rise
  • Good treble extension that avoids sharpness and adds a nice sense of micro-contrast throughout
  • Offers a 'cohesive' or 'coherent' sound presentation, creating an enveloping experience
  • Significant improvement in size and fit compared to previous Symphonium IEMs like the Helios

Product Considerations

  • Bass may be too prominent for those who prefer more tonal clarity and forward vocals
  • Imaging is described as 'so-so' and not particularly strong in technical performance
  • Some reviewers found the aesthetic or finish of the shell to be a bit 'rough around the edges'
  • Security of fit can be so-so out of the box, potentially requiring aftermarket ear tips for a more secure fit
  • Harder to drive than normal, requiring a decent source

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. Dunu SA6: The Meteor has more bass impact and a warmer sound, while the SA6 has a cleaner midrange
  • Vs. Letshuoer EJ07M: The EJ07M is more technical, with tighter bass, while the Meteor offers a unique 'cohesive' sound
  • Vs. Thieaudio Oracle MKI: The Oracle MKI is more neutral

Takeaway: The Symphonium Meteor is a good IEM for those who enjoy a warm, bassy sound signature with excellent treble. Its improved fit and unique sound presentation make it stand out.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Symphonium is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones that use FLAT (Filtered Linear Attenuation Tuning) to maintain frequency response consistency across different sources, and PHAT (Phase Harmony Attenuation Technology) to deliver exceptionally smooth treble extension until 20 kHz.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Symphonium
Titan
999
/
Released
2024
The Titan is our response to the question, "What Makes a Great Basshead IEM?". Crafted to deliver a thrilling, rumbling bass experience without compromising clarity in the treble, Titan boasts a smooth sound signature with an assertive, enveloping bass presence.
Check Amazon
Symphonium is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones that use FLAT (Filtered Linear Attenuation Tuning) to maintain frequency response consistency across different sources, and PHAT (Phase Harmony Attenuation Technology) to deliver exceptionally smooth treble extension until 20 kHz.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Delivers a 'bassy, clean and smooth' sound signature, making it a well-balanced bassy set
  • The bass is described as explosive, dynamic, well-controlled, textured, and impactful without bleeding into the mids
  • Mids and treble are well-extended and smooth, avoiding harshness or peaks
  • Build quality is generally praised with a sturdy anodized aluminum shell and an attention-grabbing design
  • Easy to drive with clean and bassy sound

Product Considerations

  • Lower treble can be harsh on certain tracks
  • Some reviewers found the fit to be less secure than desired, even with optimal eartips
  • May require tip rolling to achieve the best seal for optimal bass
  • Soundstage described as average to intimate

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs FATfreq Maestro Mini: Vocals are clearer on the Titan and the bass is faster and tighter, but the Maestro Mini has a warmer timbre
  • Vs FATfreq Scarlet Mini: The Titan is preferred over the Scarlet Mini due to the Scarlet Mini being too spicy in the treble
  • Vs Grand Maestro: The Titan is similar, with the main difference being that the Grand Maestro sounds more energetic, has more detail, has more tuning options, and has better drivers, but the Titan is a much better value in terms of low-end
  • Vs Evos: The Titan is a better value, with no atrocious driver flex, and also has better and more balanced bass with a tamer upper mid
  • Vs Sennheiser i900: The i900 is a better IEM overall, but if someone is okay with cutting corners for mindboggling bass, Symphonium Titan is the correct IEM

Takeaway: The Symphonium Titan is a great IEM for bass lovers who still want a balanced sound, and it is a fun listen with all types of music. It can bring back the feeling of listening to bass-heavy music on a big sound system.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Symphonium is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones that use FLAT (Filtered Linear Attenuation Tuning) to maintain frequency response consistency across different sources, and PHAT (Phase Harmony Attenuation Technology) to deliver exceptionally smooth treble extension until 20 kHz.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Ultimate Ears Professional
5 PRO
599
/
Released
A dual-driver custom-fit in-ear monitor tuned for clarity and punch, offering consistent reference sound for performers and engineers with up to –26 dB of noise isolation.
Check Amazon
Ultimate Ears Professional specializes in custom in-ear monitors featuring their proprietary IPX/T2 connector system for touring reliability, 3D laser ear-scanning for digital custom builds, and the flagship UE Premier with 21 balanced-armature drivers per earpiece. The brand offers configurable Ambient ports for adjustable stage isolation, and specialized accessories like Sound Guard spike limiting for professional touring musicians.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Custom molded design offers excellent passive sound isolation, blocking out noise effectively.
  • Accurate low-end without excessive boosting, allowing clarity and space, even in busy mixes.
  • Good fit that provides superb comfort and excellent seal with a good level of isolation.
  • Designed for professionals and made with the same materials and craftsmanship that Ultimate Ears Professional uses for their other products, so they are a 'tool' for musicians.
  • The Linum SuperBax cable is water- and sweatproof, and field-replaceable in seconds.

Product Considerations:

  • The shell design options are limited.
  • If the user picks the 311 collection for the custom plates, it will remain logo-free.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to Lime Ears Psi, the noise blocking is on par, but Lime Ears Psi has more girth and a little more ear canal pressure, as a result, further enhancing the level of isolation.

Takeaway: The Ultimate Ears Professional 5 Pro is a solid, custom-molded in-ear monitor that provides excellent sound quality and isolation, which makes it great for musicians and serious music lovers. There is also a wide range of customization options to suit personal taste.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Ultimate Ears Professional specializes in custom in-ear monitors featuring their proprietary IPX/T2 connector system for touring reliability, 3D laser ear-scanning for digital custom builds, and the flagship UE Premier with 21 balanced-armature drivers per earpiece. The brand offers configurable Ambient ports for adjustable stage isolation, and specialized accessories like Sound Guard spike limiting for professional touring musicians.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

How to buy

Headphones

Search all hifi products

Explore our database of 10,000+ new and 25,000+ used hifi products.