The Risk-taker
PROS:
Exquisite and robust shells
Bright-neutral sound profile (subjective)
Tuning options; comes with 2 nozzles
Imaging, layering, and separation
Driver speed monster
CONS:
Ear tips are of one kind only
Mediocre cable inclusion
Can be fatiguing to listen after prolonged usage especially for sensitives (subjective)
a sucker for smudges, scratches, and finger prints
INTRODUCTION:
Until recently, I was unfamiliar with Simgot (兴戈), but when I heard the name mentioned in passing, and later read AndyEF's review of the EM2 Roltion, my interest in their products was piqued. Despite not having heard of them before, I was intrigued by their offerings.
Simgot, founded in 2015 with the slogan "大兴干戈" which implies their commitment to delivering ultimate products and perfect service, is a company that believes in the fusion of old and new technologies. Their philosophy revolves around the accumulation of knowledge and expertise from the past, and the innovative strides made in the present.
During my conversation with Simgot's representative, I was given a summary of their progress and product releases, which felt like a history class. LOL. Here's what I learned:
In 2016, the Tongque(铜雀) series was launched, and the first product made the brand famous.
In 2017, the Luoshen(洛神) series was launched, establishing the domestic HiFi brand market position.
In August 2017, the Tongque series EN700 PRO with red and blue color version was launched, leading the trend of color matching.
In December 2017, the Luoshen series was launched, and the EM1 was positioning it as a benchmark for earphones.
In 2018, the headphone ET1000 and Luoshen EM2 were launched.
In 2019, the EK series was launched, officially entering the earphone customization market.
In 2021, our first audio decoding line - DEW1 (type c interface) was launched. EN1000 King Wonder and Luoshen's new product EM2 Roltion were launched.
On June 9, 2022, EA2000 will be launched, code-named Boson, called the ecstasy of [dynamic driver enthusiasts].
On October 28, 2022, EA500 was launched. Returning to the concept of lowering the threshold for enjoying good sound, and creating a dynamic earphone with an entry price and an acoustic level, which is known as the TOP1 product in the market.
Obviously, we are reviewing the EA500 today, and without further delay, lend me your ears and hearken!!
FOREWORD:
The gear on hand has undergone at least 50 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:
Brand: Simgot
Model: EA500
Transducer: 10mm Dynamic driver with dual-magnetic-circuit & dual cavity structure
Diaphragm: 4th generation DLC composite diaphragm
Impedance: 16 ohms
Sensitivity: Red nozzle = 123db; Black nozzle = 124db
Frequency response: 20hz-20khz
Cable: high purity silver plated OFC
Connector: 0.78 2 pin
PACKAGING:
Packaging can be an important aspect of the overall purchasing experience, and Simgot doesn't disappoint in this regard. The Simgot EA500 comes in a sleek and minimalist black box with an image reminiscent of an aurora landscape at the center. At the back are some useful information consisting of 2 frequency graphs for the 2 tuning nozzles. More of this later on as we dive deeper. Naturally, the EA500's specifications are indicated here, as well as a brief explanation of the earphones' features.
The box inside can only slide in one direction, specifically to the left. Upon doing so, you will encounter a wise adage from Blaise Pascal: "Don't try to add more years to your life. Better add more life to your years." If you were to flip over this piece of cardboard paper, awaiting you like pieces of shiny treasure, the EA500 themselves.
So, you know how the EA500 comes with a box of goodies, right? Well, inside that box labeled “Accessories”, you'll find the cable and a basic carrying case, along with some tuning nozzles and extra rings in black and red. But get this, the box labeled "ear tips" only has three pairs of tips - small, medium, and large - and they're all the same type! I mean, I get that they probably had to cut some costs somewhere but come on...I was hoping for a bit more variety in the tips department, you know?
Nevertheless, the packaging is pretty simple yet classy and I really like it for something that costs less than $100.
SOUND IMPRESSIONS:
Let me begin by informing you about the setup that I've utilized for most of this review, before diving into the exciting details. You're probably familiar with the EA500's two tuning options, and after careful consideration, I chose to go with my personal preference - the "black" nozzles. To enhance my experience further, I opted for third-party ear tips, the JVC Spiral Dots. Later on in this write-up, we'll delve deeper into a condensed comparison between these "black" nozzles versus their "red" counterparts.
The technical capabilities of EA500 exceed what one would expect for its price. The sound stage is average, with enough room to accommodate the natural spacing of an IEM. However, the added depth is a standout feature that even high-caliber IEMs rarely possess. It's worth noting that elements from my tracks are more noticeable than usual and linger at the back of my head. As a result, listening to these feels like a semi-holographic experience and provides immense auditory pleasure.
To delve into more intriguing details, the imaging of EA500 is impeccable, making it effortless to distinguish different components in your music. I put a track by TOOL called "Chocolate Chip Trip" to the test and was impressed with how smoothly and accurately each instrument's panning across the stage was rendered without any muddiness or awkward transitions. The entire soundstage flowed seamlessly with precision.
The EA500 boasts exceptional precision and separation, creating a harmonious layering of instruments. With my band constantly adding to our repertoire, I have put the EA500 through its paces. Dissecting songs has never been easier - subtle nuances in the background are effortlessly revealed. Even amidst complex and rapid passages, micro and macro details remain crystal clear.
The DLC drivers of the 4th generation are incredibly fast and efficient, offering seamless transitions with minimal distortion - an impressive feat considering their affordable price range. The speed is so exceptional that it could be mistaken for balanced armature drivers, which gives rise to a sharp and clear sound profile while minimizing any muddiness or smudging in audio quality.
Lastly, the EA500 maintains a natural and true-to-life tonality and timbre. Instruments are easily distinguishable, even between similar tones such as a banjo and mandolin, or a flute and piccolo. While the overall presentation leans towards the brighter side and has some added sizzle, the EA500 still manages to stay within the bounds of realism.
On to the breakdown of frequencies…
BASS
Upon initial usage, the EA500 earphones exhibited an overpowering bass that was not to my preference. However, after subjecting them to a week of daily use, the bass gradually subdued, resulting in a sub-bass that exhibits a quick roll-off, which may not be appealing to bass enthusiasts. The fourth-generation DLC drivers employed in the EA500 are highly efficient, producing a sound that is both rigid and precise. This accuracy ensures that neighboring frequencies are not disrupted. The mid-bass is commendable, exhibiting a desirable tightness and punch, with a slightly elevated quantity that is under good control and enjoyable across a broad range of genres.
MIDRANGE
The midrange of EA500 leans towards the brighter side, lacking in lushness and richness that might appeal to some listeners. Though the vocals may seem less engaging due to its slight thinness, they maintain their fidelity. The midrange is balanced, neither too forward nor recessed, but sometimes takes a backseat depending on the track. However, instrumental tracks shine through due to the added depth in the soundstage, resulting in a presentation that is not overly in-your-face. The upper mids are crisp and well-defined, delivering a lot of details to be heard, but can be fatiguing to sensitive individuals, particularly around the 2-3k kHz range. In essence, the midrange of EA500 prioritizes clarity and precision over warmth and richness.
TREBLE
Initially, the treble can be a bit too sharp and piercing, but with some experimentation and swapping out the ear tips, I was able to get the sound just right for my taste. The midrange is clean and lively, and the overall sound signature is very crisp with some added sparkle. Looking at the frequency graph, we see that there's a boost around 6k, 10k, and 18k hertz, which makes the EA500 a brighter set of earphones. If you're sensitive to high frequencies, you might need to play around with the tips or consider using foam ones to soften the sound a bit. On the flip side, the EA500 is fantastic at reproducing details and nuances in music. Bells, cymbals, hihats, and vocals all sound very airy and spacious. Just make sure to do your research and know your frequency sensitivities before diving in for a blind purchase.
TUNING NOZZLES:
Allow me to provide a brief comparison between the two nozzles provided with EA500, although it is advisable for individuals to experiment and discover their personal preference. It is worth noting that EA500 is customizable in various ways, and the audio community has shared impressions and recommendations regarding preferred nozzles, including those not originally designed for use with EA500, such as Moondrop Kato's.
At first, I favored the red nozzles when I first received the EA500 and gave the black nozzle a try shortly after. However, to my dismay, the black nozzle produced unpleasant sibilance. Nonetheless, after a significant amount of burn-in time, I was pleasantly surprised to find that I actually preferred the black nozzles. Now, let's move on to the comparison.
The red nozzle follows the Harman target (H-2016) and the black nozzle represents Simgot’s house sound signature. The red nozzle's sound profile has a moderate U-shape that did not appeal to my taste. It has a decent amount of bass (although it's clean and fast), a slightly recessed midrange, and a tamer treble. This sound signature leans towards casual listening, but as a musician who values details and wants to discern every element in my tracks, I ended up preferring the black nozzle. The black nozzle is more suitable for analytical listening, which suits my needs. It has leaner bass, a more forward midrange, and a borderline-sibilant treble that I think sensitive listeners should avoid.
COMPARISONS:
Vs Dunu Titan S
The Titan S offers a mild and warmer sound profile, with smoother note definition and less impactful bass, and a slightly broader sound stage. However, the treble is less transparent and airy compared to the EA500. Both IEMs have similar neutrality and balance throughout the frequency range, but the separation and layering are slightly less pronounced in the Titan S. In contrast, the EA500 delivers a more dynamic and energetic sound profile, with a more aggressive presentation than the Titan S. The midrange is almost identical in quality and quantity for both IEMs, but the timbre is more natural on the Titan S.
In the end, choosing the Titan S will provide a milder option and a safer choice for those who are sensitive to sound, while the EA500 offers more agility and vibrant high frequencies, albeit with a tendency towards occasional hotness in the upper midrange to treble.
Vs Bqeyz Autumn (normal magnetic filters)
In case you are not aware, Autumn offers 3 tunings to suit your preference making it a worthy comparison to EA500 but with a $120 price difference.
Clearly, Autumn provides a wider sound stage, which has always been my preferred in-ear monitor for its extra stage. Compared to EA500, Autumn's treble is more reserved. The vocals on Autumn are more engaging and immersive. The mid bass on Autumn is more emphasized and shares the same punchiness as EA500. The midrange on Autumn is slightly more forward and has more weight and body.
Once more, EA500 proves to be the brighter option with its energetic upper frequencies. Nevertheless, Autumn still prevails in timbre, providing a touch of warmth and lushness, mainly in the midrange. However, EA500 surpasses in detail, particularly in the high frequencies, and slightly edges out in terms of separation and layering.
FIT & ISOLATION:
The EA500 IEMs feature a small to medium-sized shell that is slightly heavier than resin-based IEMs, making them noticeable but still comfortable to wear for extended periods. Despite the large nozzles, they do not penetrate too deeply into the ear canal, but they still provide a snug fit. Wearing them for extended periods did not cause any physical discomfort to my ears. While isolation is average, they require a slightly higher volume level for outdoor listening to achieve a more immersive listening experience.
SOURCES USED:
Hiby RS2
Ovidius B1
Questyle QP2R
LG V30 quad dac with Centrance Dacport via Hiby music app
Oppo A94 with Centrance Dacport via Hiby music app
Oppo A94 with Ifi Hipdac v2 via Hiby music app
Macbook pro 2011 with Centrance Dacport via Foobar
Macbook pro 2011 with Ifi Hipdac v2 via Foobar
Tidal Masters
Qobuz Studio
Apple Music
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:
To be honest, I cannot help but confidently recommend the EA500 to those looking to spend under $100 for exceptional sound quality. Without a doubt, the EA500 sets a new standard for what IEMs in this price range should deliver, and I can personally vouch for it.
Of course, the competition is fierce, with the Dunu Titan S nipping at the heels of the EA500's capabilities. However, if you are someone who delights in technicalities and prefers a neutral-bright sound, you can hardly go wrong with the EA500.
I do advise those who are sensitive to audition the IEMs first before making a purchase. And if you do end up buying them impulsively, make sure to burn them in seriously for the best results.
On the plus side, the EA500 offers two sound profiles – the RED nozzle for a more colorful, U-shaped sound and the BLACK nozzle for a more analytical sound tailored to discerning listeners.
Additionally, I have heard from consumers that the nozzles of the Moondrop KATO or the recently-released Hidizs MS5 can also be used with the EA500. As you can see, there are plenty of options available for modifying the EA500, and tuning options seem to be becoming increasingly popular now that the "planar wars" have come to an end.
Regarding the title of this review, Simgot took a considerable risk with the EA500, particularly with regards to the hotness and sibilance in these bright and vivid-sounding IEMs. However, the gamble paid off, and it was worth it.
Lastly, I would like to extend my gratitude to Fia from Simgot for providing me with the opportunity to review the EA500.
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