A Mermaid’s siren?
PROS:
Exceptional build
Lovely mids
Rich and lush overall sound
Very high level of detail retrieval
Imaging and depth
Proper timbre
Decent inclusions
Scales well with proper amping
Relatively very easy to drive
CONS:
Cable lacks option to be modular for its price point
Upper frequencies can be fatiguing and hot on some tracks
Medium-sized shells can be uncomfortable for small ears
Tuning nozzles are rather gimmicky
INTRODUCTION:
Established in 2009, Hidizs has been a prominent player in the audio industry for a considerable period of time, having released highly-regarded earphones, digital audio players, and USB DACs that have garnered the attention of the audio community. Tamson, the founder and CEO, is a passionate audiophile and was once a frontman for an underground rock band during his college years. His vision is to deliver music in its purest form, as intended by the creators. In summary, for a concise overview of Hidizs' history, you can follow this link.
While my interaction with Hidizs is limited, I do own one of their products, the AP80 Pro, and can vouch for its quality. As my first digital audio player, it still holds a special place in my collection, even though my wife uses it more often now. I still use it as a reference when reviewing audio gear. For those in the market for their first DAP, I highly recommend the AP80 Pro as it provides exceptional value for its price point.
Initially, I held a low opinion of Hidizs' earphones and in-ear monitors. However, I had the chance to try and evaluate their product, and this is the first time I've listened to them. It's worth noting that this is not an entry-level IEM, but rather a midrange one. Let's delve into it, shall we?
FOREWORD:
The gear on hand has undergone at least 20+ hours of use before it was assessed.
No EQ is ever applied in my reviews.
For the sake of convenience, I try my best to use a stock setup. Not everyone has access to personal ear tips or cables. If personal ear tips, cables, or accessories are used, you will be notified.
As I try to be objective, my claims inevitably will be subjective and biased to my personal preference. I cannot stress more that you should take this with a grain of salt for we have different perceptions to sound and what we hear.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Hidizs Mermaid Series
Model: MS5
Configuration: 4BA + 1DD Hybrid
BA Drivers: Denmark Sonion (High frequency E50DT composite unit, Mid-high frequency unit 2389, Low frequency unit 17A003)
Dynamic Driver: 10mm Liquid silicone (Hidizs custom dynamic driver with Kevlar fiber and liquid silicone technology)
Frequency response: 20hz-40khz
Sensitivity: 104db
Impedance: 5.3 ohms
Cable: High purity 6N single crystal copper silver-plated wire
Connector: 0.78mm 2-pin
Plug: 3.5mm gold plated plug
PACKAGING:
The MS5's packaging comes in a medium-sized box, which displays a print of the product on the front. In my opinion, this classic approach is refreshing, as many IEMs today lack the upfront appearance of the product. Seeing a preview of what you're buying is reminiscent of a nostalgic feeling.
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| Inclusions |
The back of the box contains the necessary information for blind buyers, including three frequency graphs that correspond to the tuning nozzles.
Upon lifting the outer box, the MS5 IEMs immediately greet you, accompanied by a palette of ear tips in S, M, and L sizes with three different kinds available: Vocal, Balanced, and Bass. The palette also includes the Treble (silver), Bass (red), and pre-installed Balanced (bronze) tuning nozzles, which are easily swapped by screening them on and off. It's important to remember the color coding of the filters since the palette can only hold two kinds at a time. The package also includes a carry case that looks authentic and has added weight and sturdiness, but may be prone to smudging and getting dirty over time. Inside the case is the thickest cable ever made for a set of earphones, and at the bottom, you'll find some paperwork and a user manual. If you're new to tuning filters, the documentation provided will come in handy.
SOUND IMPRESSIONS:
Throughout the entirety of this review, the MS5 was primarily used with the Hidizs XO dongle that came with it on this tour. I also used the Hiby RS2 dap and Centrance Dacport HD. I opted for the stock wide-bore vocal tips and stock cable. I used my offline FLACS and Qobuz subscription for referencing.
Let’s get started then. First off with facets of technicalities.
The sound stage of the MS5 is average and lacks extra space or headroom, even for an IEM. Despite not being cramped or narrow, the elements are not in-your-face type, but rather intimately desirable. However, with proper amplification or more power, such as my Centrance Dacport that feeds it 750mw on each channel, the sound stage tends to extend a bit, proving good scalability.
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| The thickest IEM cable known to man |
The drivers' speed is exceptionally quick and doesn't sound cushioned or muted, resulting in an extremely accurate note definition that isn't overdone like planar drivers. Furthermore, the tail ends of instruments and vocals are highly authentic and true to life, showcasing impressive natural decays.
The MS5 delivers an impressive level of detail, making it possibly the most resolving earphone in its price range. The only other earphone that comes close is the Seeaudio Bravery Red edition, which we will compare to the MS5 later on.
The layering and separation in the MS5 are remarkable, as each element has its own distinct space on the stage, despite the average size of the sound stage. The IEMs handle complex and densely mixed tracks with ease, without any signs of congestion, muddiness, or smearing. Everything is cleanly separated and exhibits high-fidelity precision.
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| The tuning nozzles are somewhat gimmicky for me. |
The MS5's imaging capability is the ultimate aspect of technicality that it can boast. I have experienced this level of imaging on top-of-the-line (TOTL) IEMs, specifically the ADV M5 6D. Despite having an intimate sound stage, the MS5 delivers accurate depth of imaging that presents each element in a holographic manner. This remarkable feat is even more emphasized on live albums, making it the most appealing trait of the MS5.
BASS
The MS5's bass offers excellent transparency and leans towards neutrality. While there is a slight boost in the bass, it does not bleed into neighboring frequencies and maintains a tight, punchy character with a natural decay. The sub-bass has a quick roll-off, and while some may desire more, it was not a priority for me. However, if your playlist consists of bass-heavy tracks, the MS5 may not be the best fit. Personally, I prefer the prominent mid-bass presence over the sub-bass region. For those who desire more bass, don't worry, the MS5 comes with tuning nozzles. However, there is a catch, which we will discuss later.
MIDRANGE
Mid-centric listeners will be delighted with the MS5's exceptional midrange performance. Female vocals, in particular, are captivatingly presented. The midrange is slightly emphasized, and as I listened to various tracks, I noticed a sense of forwardness. The mids are rich and thick, which enhances the overall sound quality. The orchestral tracks are particularly delightful, as the strings and brass sections are incredibly realistic and engaging. Additionally, MS5's natural-sounding hybrid configuration does not exhibit any BA timbre or thinness, making it one of the most natural-sounding hybrid IEMs I've come across. Although we have elevation here at 3Khz as per the graph, the upper midrange still did not come across hot or piercing to my ears but might be fatiguing to sensitive folks.
TREBLE
The upper frequencies on the MS5 are full of life and energy, with a sharpness and roughness that is satisfying to the ears of treble heads. The sound of bells, triangles, cymbals, and hi-hats are particularly enjoyable. Treble enthusiasts will surely be pleased with what the MS5 has to offer. However, as per the frequency response graph, there are noticeable peaks around 5-6khz and an elevation at 8khz, which can be a bit too much for some listeners. Personally, I sometimes find the treble a bit overwhelming and have to lower my volume to avoid fatigue. It is important to consider this before making a purchase. Using foam tips or a warmer source may help alleviate this issue. It is also worth noting that the MS5 paired with the Hidizs XO is more prone to sibilance compared to the Hiby RS2 and Centrance Dacport. It is recommended to experiment with different setups to find the best synergy for your personal preferences.
TUNING NOZZLES
We have now come to another trend in the audio industry, which is the ability to tune our in-ear monitors according to our preferences. While some may view this as a nuisance, it's something that the MS5 has embraced by offering customizable tuning nozzles.
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| FR graph courtesy of Baskingshark. As you can see, the difference between the tuning nozzles are very minuscule. |
In my personal opinion, the tuning nozzles are not as impactful as some might think. While some reviewers with a keen sense of hearing might be able to discern the differences between the nozzles, I personally did not notice a significant change in sound. The MS5 comes with three nozzles - gold for a balanced sound profile, silver for emphasizing treble, and red for more bass.
While the tuning nozzles provide an option for customization, in my experience, the differences were not significant enough to warrant much attention. I found that the silver nozzle slightly increased the treble, while the gold nozzle provided a more balanced sound. However, the red nozzle's impact was hard for me to discern, and it seemed to push the midrange back in favor of the bass. Overall, I didn't find myself using the tuning nozzles much during my time with the MS5.
In summary, instead of relying on the tuning nozzles, I would suggest experimenting with different ear tips or finding audio sources that can provide the desired sound signature for a better listening experience.
FIT & ISOLATION:
The MS5 has a medium-sized form factor, but don't let that fool you. They're surprisingly comfortable and getting a good seal is a breeze. However, after a marathon 2-hour listening session, things can start to get a little uncomfortable. And the culprit? The cable, of course. That darn thick and hefty cable can start to weigh on you after a while. It's not too bad, but it's definitely noticeable. One thing to keep in mind is that the MS5 does stick out a bit from your ears, so if you like to nap with your IEMs, be careful not to lay on your side and squish them.
COMPARISONS:
vs Seeaudio Bravery Red edition
Before we get started, let it be known that I don’t have this unit with me anymore, but fret not, I have spent an ample amount of time with it so I still have it in my memory. Take this with a grain of salt though.
Bravery offers a brighter and leaner sound profile, with more emphasis on BA timbre, which can sound thin and unnatural at times. While the technicalities are comparable to the MS5, the imaging falls behind, with the MS5 offering superior performance in this aspect. In terms of soundstage, Bravery is narrower and lacks the "holographic" quality that MS5 possesses. Despite being similarly priced, MS5 is a more captivating and enjoyable set, offering better note weight and a greater sense of fun.
vs Simgot EA500
While there is a significant price difference between EA500 and MS5, it is worth mentioning that both have tunable nozzles. However, the tuning nozzles on EA500 have a more noticeable impact on the sound compared to MS5, rendering the latter's tuning nozzles gimmicky in comparison.
In terms of sound, both the MS5 and EA500 offer a bright and neutral sound signature, with some hotness in the upper frequencies. However, the EA500 is a bit more tolerable in this aspect, making it a better choice for those with sensitivity concerns. While the technical abilities of the EA500 are not as advanced as the MS5, they are still competitive. However, the MS5 has an edge in timbre, note definition, and vocal presentation. The EA500 has a stronger sub-bass presence that adds a unique flavor to its sound, whereas the MS5 has more transparent lows and a significant sub-bass roll-off.
vs Bqeyz Autumn
Moving on, we have another contender in the tuning game, and this time it comes with magnetic filters. The magnetic filters on the Autumn are much easier to swap than the nozzles on the MS5, which is a point in its favor. Additionally, the effect on sound when switching between profiles is much more pronounced on the Autumn, which outshines the MS5's tuning nozzles.
I can't emphasize enough how much I adore Autumn's expansive sound stage. It surpasses that of any other IEMs I own. But I do have to admit that its note definition and attack are not as sharp as MS5. While Autumn prides itself on its sound stage, MS5 boasts exceptional imaging and detail. MS5 offers a cleaner and more refined sound overall. Nevertheless, Autumn still has a slight edge in timbre and maybe a more suitable option for those with sensitive ears. Autumn also has a stronger sub-bass presence, whereas MS5 exhibits an evident roll-off in the lows for a more polished and mature presentation. In terms of technicalities alone, MS5 emerges as the clear winner, but both IEMs provide an equally engaging and musical experience.
SOURCES USED:
Hiby RS2 DAP
Hidizs XO dongle
LG V30 quad dac with Centrance Dacport via Hiby music app
Oppo A94 with Hidizs XO via Hiby music app
Macbook pro 2011 with Hidizs XO via Foobar
Qobuz Studio
TEST TRACKS:
Here are some tracks I usually listen to when reviewing:
That’s the way of the World by EWF
Africa by TOTO
The Girl in the Other Room by Diana Kral
Balmorhea album All is wild, All is Silent
Sila by Sud
Smooth Escape by D’Sound
Never too Much by Luther Vandross
P.Y.T by Michael Jackson
Ain’t no Sunshine by Eva Cassidy
Shoot to Thrill by AC/DC
Another one bites the Dust by Queen
Good times bad times by Edie Brickell
Alice in Wonderland by Bill Evans
Ain’t it Fun by Paramore
Redefine by Incubus
Far Away by Nickelback
Lovesong by Adele
Lingus by Snarky Puppy
Harvest for the World by Vanessa Williams
Love Bites by Def Leppard
No Such Thing by John Mayer
As by Stevie Wonder
Whip Appeal by Babyface
Ain’t Nobody by Chaka Khan
Futures by Prep
Landslide by Fleetwood Mac
Every Summertime by NIKI
SADE tracks
AC/DC tracks
Queen tracks
And many more… I always listen to High resolution format, being the least quality 16bit/44khz FLACS be it offline or online.
VERDICT:
Initially, I wasn't too convinced when MS5 arrived at my doorstep. The tuning wasn't particularly unique or new to my ears. However, as I spent more time listening to it, MS5 slowly but surely began to grow on me.
To avoid repeating myself, let me reiterate that the tuning nozzles on the MS5 are not particularly effective and have little influence on the sound. However, despite this shortcoming, the MS5 is still a remarkable and noteworthy IEM. Instead of frequently swapping between nozzles, I suggest experimenting with different tips and source pairings to find the best sound. Perhaps Hidizs should consider this when designing future IEMs with tuning capabilities. That being said, it remains to be seen if this trend will persist in the future. Allow me to add, the MS5 is already excellent on its own right without the tuning nozzles and I found my preferred sound signature with the balance nozzle.
The most impressive and irresistible feature of the MS5 is undoubtedly its natural timbre, especially for a hybrid setup. The imaging and detail retrieval are superb, making for a fantastic balance of tonality and technicalities. The tuning leans towards neutrality without any artificial thinness that often accompanies other neutral sets. Additionally, the holographic sound presentation is a delightful bonus, providing a lifelike experience akin to listening to live performances or speakers. Overall, the MS5's combination of natural timbre, superb imaging and detail retrieval, and holographic sound presentation make it an exceptional choice for audiophiles and even musicians. The MS5 offers impressive performance for its price, making it a worthwhile investment for your hard-earned money. If I were to have this in my collection, I would be investing a lot of time enjoying it.
I would like to thank Eiji Romero for facilitating this tour and to Zoie for being generous to me and to my co-reviewers.
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