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

  • Stunning hand-painted design inspired by Van Gogh’s Starry Night, with each pair being unique due to custom swirls
  • Compact and lightweight shell contributes to a comfortable fit, especially for those with smaller ears
  • Airy treble provides a delicate and carefully dispersed high-frequency response
  • Wide and open soundstage with excellent imaging and layering
  • Excellent instrument separation

Product Considerations

  • Bass can be overly dominant and thick, potentially sounding similar across tracks
  • Mids can sound a bit restricted or recessed
  • Bass performance can vary depending on the amplifier used, requiring specific pairings for optimal tightness
  • The fixed 4.4mm balanced plug may not be ideal for users who prefer unbalanced connections or require different terminations

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Noble Audio Knight: Stronger bass, cleaner, but slightly recessed mids, cleaner highs with stronger dynamics, a larger soundstage, and better imaging can be found, while the Knight offers a neutral, balanced sound
  • Vs Kiwi Ears Astral: They shine in the mids and highs, offering cleaner, sweeter instruments, superior separation, and imaging, while the Astral offers controlled bass
  • Vs Letshuoer Magic 8: A warmer, bass-heavy presentation is offered, with the Magic 8 providing a more neutral, detailed, and articulate sound signature

Takeaway: The Noble Audio Van Gogh IEMs offer a unique listening experience, with a beautiful design and a sound signature that emphasizes a rich, bold bass and clear highs. If one appreciates aesthetic brilliance and enjoys a bass-forward sound that can be refined with the right equipment, these IEMs could be a great fit.

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

Van Gogh

reviews

[{"title":"Noble Audio Van Gogh Review","link":"https://majorhifi.com/noble-audio-van-gogh-review","source":"majorhifi.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"NOBLE AUDIO VAN GOGH REVIEW","link":"https://www.headphoneer.com/noble-audio-van-gogh-review","source":"headphoneer.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Starry-Eared: Finding Emotion in Noble's Van Gogh","link":"https://earphonia.com/cool-audio-gear/noble-audio-van-gogh-iem-review","source":"earphonia.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"NOBLE AUDIO VAN GOGH vs KNIGHT Comparison Review","link":"https://www.headphoneer.com/noble-audio-van-gogh-vs-knight-comparison-review","source":"headphoneer.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

  • 1 × 8 mm dynamic driver (magnesium–aluminium diaphragm, dual-magnetic circuit)
  • 2 × Sonion E-Series balanced armature drivers (mids)
  • 1 × Knowles RAD Series balanced armature driver (ultra-highs)
  • Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
  • Sensitivity: 107 dB
  • Impedance: 29 Ω
  • Shell: Low-profile resin shell
  • Faceplate: Hand-finished swirling custom pattern (Starry Night-inspired)
  • Cable: Detachable 0.78 mm 2-pin, 8-core OCC copper, 4.4 mm balanced plug
  • Accessories: Fit kit (ear tips), branded accessories, Noble signature case
  • Design Goal: Tuned for immersive, emotional, and expressive sound

The Van Gogh is a universal hybrid in-ear monitor featuring an 8 mm dynamic driver (magnesium-aluminium diaphragm with dual-magnetic circuit) plus three balanced armature drivers—two Sonion E-Series for mids and one Knowles RAD Series for highs—in a four-driver hybrid configuration. It’s designed for bold, textured sound with deep bass, layered mids and airy highs, packaged in a hand-finished Starry Night-inspired faceplate and resin shell.
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:

  • Noble’s product line features custom-built balanced armature drivers, meaning they are engineered specifically for their IEMs rather than using off-the-shelf components.
  • They use a unique hybrid driver configurations in their IEMs, such as their "quadbrid" design that incorporates dynamic, balanced armature, electrostatic, and bone conduction drivers within a single product.

Noble FoKus Rex5 

  • Positioning: A wireless in-ear model designed for users seeking personalized sound with high portability.  
  • Description: Features a hybrid five-driver configuration and Audiodo sound personalization that tailors audio based on individual hearing, providing a dynamic and adaptive listening experience. Compared to the wired and over-ear models in the lineup, it offers wireless convenience at a lower price point, making it ideal for budgets and on-the-go use.

Stage 3 

  • Positioning: A wired in-ear monitor built for musicians and performing artists.  
  • Description: Features a 3-driver architecture that combines a 10mm dynamic driver with two balanced armature drivers for rich lows, detailed mids, and sparkling highs. Compared to models like the wireless Rex5 and over-ear Apollo, it focuses on performance in live settings with purpose-built durability and specialized cable options for better stage functionality.

FoKus Apollo 

  • Positioning: An over-ear headphone crafted for audiophiles demanding high-quality sound and versatile connectivity.  
  • Description: Features a hybrid design that pairs a 40mm dynamic driver with a 14.5mm planar magnetic driver, delivering an expansive soundstage with clear mids and punchy bass. Compared to in-ear monitors such as the Rex5 and Stage 3, it offers a more immersive listening experience with premium build elements and extensive connection options.

Viking Ragnar (Universal Fit)

  • Positioning: A flagship wired in-ear monitor featuring robust, high-end construction for professional audio applications.  
  • Description: Features an all-metal design that includes two 10mm dynamic bass drivers, four balanced armature drivers, and four electrostatic drivers, ensuring a balanced and detailed frequency response. Compared to the lower-priced models in the lineup, it delivers premium craftsmanship and performance for studio or critical listening environments.

Viking Prestige Universal 

  • Positioning: A top-tier wired universal in-ear monitor that represents the pinnacle of in-house design and sonic performance.  
  • Description: Features an advanced driver setup combining dual 10mm dynamic drivers, four balanced armature drivers, and four electrostatic drivers, delivering an exceptionally balanced soundstage with meticulous driver matching and premium connectivity. Compared to other products in the lineup, this model is engineered for users seeking the utmost in sonic accuracy and build quality.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
0
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
785
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
29
Founding Year
2013

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.

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
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Brand Page

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Noble

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What if you spend more?

Product image
Noble
Kadence
1599
1599
/
4
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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Kadence aims to achieve a reference sound with the best possible details and balance.
  • Technically very strong, with a neutral and uncolored sound.
  • Excellent micro-detail.
  • The mids have great transparency, resolution, and realistic timbre.
  • The treble is transparent, detailed, and high-resolution, without being aggressive, thick, or thin.

Product Considerations

  • Kadence is not a monitor to impress on first listen.
  • The larger body for its housing may result in a fit that seems a bit stretched out and may not be the most comfortable IEM in its price range.
  • It can slide down ears if proper eartips are not used.
  • Listening to poor quality records can be underwhelming.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sennheiser IE 900: Kadence's soundstage may initially seem underwhelming compared to the IE 900, but it provides transparency and clear stereo positioning.

Takeaway: The Kadence is a neutral IEM that offers accurate sound, high comfort, and durability, making it great for long listening sessions. It presents a spacious soundstage and a great deal of detail in the treble, midrange, and bass.

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Noble
Spartacus
1799
1799
/
4
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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Thunderous lows with thick bass slam, detail, and texture are delivered.
  • Wide, three-dimensional soundstage, with a strong, focused center image.
  • Clarity in the midrange, with a bit of coloration that adds character, especially to male vocals.
  • Treble presentation that's airy and sparkly, with the right amount of detail.
  • Engaging, fun sound signature overall.

Product Considerations

  • People with smaller ears might have a little difficulty getting the right fit because of the large shell.
  • Discomfort can occur after extended wear for some users due to the shell's size or shape pressing against the ear.
  • Some reviews say that the stock cable might be of lower quality than expected for the price range.
  • The sound signature is V-shaped, which may not appeal to everyone.
  • The timbre has a 'cool' characteristic, which might not be the most natural sound.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs 64 Audio Volur, the Spartacus offers faster and more detailed bass, while the Volur has more natural bass, the Volur also has airier treble and clearer, more holographic imaging.

Takeaway: The Noble Audio Spartacus is an IEM with a fun and engaging sound that is great for people who love a lot of bass and big soundstages. It's fast, detailed, and technically impressive, making it a great choice for many music genres.

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Noble
AGIS II
1799
1799
/
1
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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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

What competes at this price?

Noble
Stage 3
600
/
Released
2023
Stage 3 is a universal in-ear monitor featuring three balanced armature drivers per side, tuned for professional monitoring and musical accuracy. It provides clear mids, articulate highs, and controlled bass in a robust, low-profile resin housing with detachable 2-pin cables.
Check Amazon
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

  • Crisp, clear, and highly detailed presentation, managing to retain the emotion of the music
  • Excellent holographic imaging, with strong separation and three-dimensionality in the placement of instruments and voices
  • Natural and accurate bass response
  • Mids provide great detail and timbre, with strong vocal performance, especially in the female and upper male ranges
  • Compact, lightweight, and generally comfortable, with a new modular cable that includes 3.5mm, 2.5mm, and 4.4mm options

Product Considerations

  • Some may find vocals in the 'famously bad' or nasally categories to be too forward in the stereo image
  • Soundstage is not particularly large and is described as moderate
  • Treble rolls off slightly in the upper end, and there is not a ton of upper treble

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Stage 3 is more natural and neutral overall with stronger vocals, Sennheiser IE 600 has more of a warm, lush character and emphasis on bass

Takeaway: The Noble Stage 3 is a versatile IEM that offers a strong balance between technical capabilities and musicality, with accurate, transparent sound. It is suitable for both professional stage use and audiophile listening.

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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
Kinera
Imperial Skuld
550
/
Released
2021
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.
Check Amazon
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.
Expand Details

Our Summary

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.

Video review

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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