Introduction:
Xears is a German web site that sells IEMs (and now even MP3 players) under the Xears brand. IEMs are also available through the ebay store 4Satisfaction Store.
For someone who has not heard about Xears through the reviews at Head-fi, it's easy to get confused with a plethora of names, shapes and prices (apart from the long list of discontinued models both under the Xears name as well as Playaz Audio). One interesting fact that sets apart Xears IEMs is that they have no concept of fixed price. Web site and eBay store prices don't match at times and it's not that hard to see an IEM sell at €90 and €20 weeks apart. I've come to regard them as something akin to a small-cap stock whose prices fluctuate widely and wildly on a daily basis. As a result, it's tough to assign Value for money rating as you are valuing against a moving target. Luckily, most Xears IEMs can be had for $25-50 shipped at some point in their life.
Brainwavz is MP4Nation's line up of re-branded / re-tuned IEMs, mostly based on Visang R series.
Since I own five Xears IEMs and have the entire M series (Pro Alpha, M1, M2 and M3) available as loaners, I thought it'd be interesting to do a comparison between all the 9 IEMs (and end up with this annoyingly long diatribe). I will order IEMs based on my preference.
General Build Quality
I've read that Xears uses Japanese drivers in Chinese OEM housing. In general, Xears neither have a great cable nor carry a hefty strain relief. Fret not! They are still thicker than the one used on the $200 MSRP Head-Direct RE-252, but that's largely on account of the much cheaper and thinner cable on RE-252. Several of the models use a J-Cord, though newer models seem to be moving towards the more prevalent, easier to wear Y-Cords. I have nothing against J-Cords though as I can usually differentiate easily between Left (Shorter cable) and Right in the dark. All cables are terminated in a straight 3.5mm plug, which is colored based on the scheme used for the IEM design. The housings are made of metal with Left and Right markers on one side and Xears logo on the other. While better than plastic shells, you feel their weight during longer sessions, so it's a small trade-off.
To save costs, there are no visible markings anywhere in the IEM mentioning the Model name. At times, I have to refer to the web site photo to figure out which is which. Cables are slightly microphonic when worn in the usual straight-down position, but can be easily worn over the ear (even J-Cord ones). They have no chin slider. The bundled stock tips are not of the greatest quality, so one may need to acquire some after-market tips. They usually come with 3 sizes of single flanges, any extra tips Thomas may choose to add to the order and a soft storage pouch. Many of the Xears suffer from a case of mild to annoying driver flex.
Brainwavz are better built with braided cables with a plastic sheath terminated with a 45 degree 3.5mm plug. The build quality feels much superior to the average Xears IEM. In my limited experience with them, they tangle easily and retain some memory character. It’s pretty annoying when you are trying to A/B them in quick succession as I need to untangle them first (if I don’t keep them straightened up). They also tend to be microphonic when worn straight down. They too lack the Chin slider / Cord Cinch. But, unlike most budget brands, Brainwavz come with a good hard carry case and 3 sizes of tips. I have the loaner (M2) with the foam tips, but the newer shipments do not come with foam tips or the ear glider as noted in their web site.
General Sound Signature
All Xears have gone through 50 hours of burn-in and about 5-10 hrs of usage, except TD100-I which has 100 hrs of burn-in and about 25 hours of actual usage. I am sure all the Brainwavz would have completed at least 50 hours, if not much more. All of them were tried directly out of Rockboxed Clip+ with volumes ranging in -25 to -27dB. Only M1 required a substantial -21 to output the same SPL.
Though none of the Xears share a particular signature, you are likely to be encountered with good bass, warm mids and treble. Usually, none of the ranges are recessed / forward and are in fine balance. The changes come in the form of sound stage size, warmth, bass quality & quantity, midrange and treble quality.
I am always a little annoyed with critical/attentive listening and analyzing signatures. But, I’ve never been as frustrated as comparing the four Brainwavz. They all share a very similar signature – engaging, warm, smooth mids with good quality and quantity of bass and treble which does not sparkle as much. I would not be shocked if the Brainwavz line-up shares the same driver with tuning, housing and vents making up for the difference. Before you start to worry, there are differences, but they are still too close; reminds me of a quote from the movie “Fight Club†– ‘Everything's a copy of a copy of a copy’. I almost went to the point of plastic wrapping the Brainwavz and placing them on an enclosure made of plastic sheets until I realized that I need to return these IEMs and I’ve been watching too much “Dexter†lately. If you gave me any of the four Brainwavz (SPL matched, of course) and let my brain adapt to the signature (2-3 songs) and later ask me to figure out which one is it, I could go wrong at times.
With amplification, Brainwavz seem to tighten up a bit, but the difference did not make me want to use an amp for this review.
Xears TM2 Pro
Current MSRP: [FONT="]€[/FONT]35 +[FONT="]€[/FONT] 8 shipping from Xears.com
Build Quality: Y-Cord
Sound Signature:
The bass of TM2 has good impact, has slight texture, but is a little uncontrolled. Mids are recessed and very dull. The vocals sound like they have been covered by thicker cloth. Treble is neither recessed nor forward. It is in fine balance with the mids. There's not much by way of sparkle.
Sound stage is a bit narrow. It has decent amount of depth, some height as well, but not enough to make the stage feel spacious in any way. Imaging and portrayal of distance is good with the IEM. It's a pity really since these characteristics would have made it a very decent budget IEM had it not been for the dull color like a washed out painting. When I listen to it long enough, I don’t hate it as much.
Since it has many drawbacks, I thought it fit to compare against the low priced JVC Marshmallows (HA-FX34, Kramer modded). In terms of SQ alone, I don't consider Marshmallows to be any great except for their nice bass. Another of my $11 acquisitions, V-Moda Vibe (Blush - the girly pink one, which I’ll forever be ashamed for and will never be photographed with) has great bass with deeper extension going to the lowest lows in comparison. TM2 sounds a bit inferior when A/B-ing the three.
Ranking: I don’t hate it as much as Hippo Epic-Sparkle, but would rank it a bit below JVC Marshmallows and V-Moda Vibe. Ranking - 33/35
Xears Bullet XB120 Pro
Current MSRP: [FONT="]€[/FONT]20 +[FONT="]€[/FONT]8 shipping from Xears.com
Build Quality: The bullets have a J-Cord. As the name implies, the IEM shells are bullet shaped. The supplied tips are clear silicone unlike the rest of Xears.
Sound Signature:
Bass has decent texture with a bit more quantity and extension than Brainwavz M1, but stays similarly on the softer side without hitting deeper. It lacks the tightness, a bit of speed and quantity in bass compared to M2. Compared to the generally bass heavy Xears, it’s a nice departure though. Mids are forward and slightly on the warmer side and slightly thinner compared to most other Xears . The Mid range is clearer and well rounded compared to TM2, but the notes are not as ‘tight’ or crisp as I’d usually like. The vocals sound clean devoid of sibilance, but are also not as lush. The treble is not ‘recessed’, but are not as emphasized as the midrange. Treble has a bit of sparkle and is a bit more forward when compared to M1.
Sound Stage of the Bullets is narrow in width, good in height with a decent amount of depth. Details while present don't have the bite or crispiness of the more analytical IEMs, again similar to M1, but not as hazy. Timbre is one good thing with the bullets. Imaging is good, but I cannot say it's the best of the lot. On it's own, Bullets are engaging with a good mid-range, ably supported by bass and treble without punching a hole in the pocket.
Ranking: When I had RE2 on loan, I preferred XB120 a bit more. Ranking - 27/35
Xears XTreme XT120Pro
Current MSRP: [FONT="]€[/FONT]40 +[FONT="]€[/FONT]8 shipping from Xears.com
Build Quality: Y-Cord
Sound Signature:
Without the wonderful EQ of Rockbox, I would have probably ranked XT120 somewhere between JVC Marshmallow and RE2, which is the last quartile of my IEM ranking. XT120 suffers from many drawbacks, yet manages to sound well enough for me to consider putting it above the Bullets.
Without the EQ, bass on the XT120 is monstrous enough to cloud everything. Even bass guitars can overshadow the mids. The bass lacks texture, is very muddy, but has good impact and is more like hard hitting bass of Klipsch S4. Mids are a little sucked out, but at the same time is lusher and crisper when compared to XB120. But, there's also some hint of sibilance. Treble is in fine balance with the mids and has good amount of sparkle. While treble does not have the great detail IEMs like RE-ZERO provide, it's still enjoyable. Good enough for me to dabble with EQ-ing using every band available. Even after knocking 19-20dB off till 100Hz, bass still remains hard hitting. Boosting lower mids and reducing a bit in the 5 and 8 Khz regions brings mids slightly more forward.
The sound stage is somewhat below normal in size, but feels slightly more airy. But when pitted against the better Brainwavz M2, XT120 is less engaging as it lacks the serene smoothness. It also gets beaten in the bass department as M2 has better quality bass even if it does not carry as much impact. But, stand-alone, XT120 despite it’s drawbacks sounds more lush and engaging compared to the XB120. Let's say, despite drawbacks, XT120 sounds a bit greater than the sum of it's parts.
Ranking: I rank XT120 (EQ-ed) above XB120, a tier below IEMs like Hippo Pearl, S4. Ranking - 26/35
Brainwavz ProAlpha
Current MSRP: $40 from MP4Nation
Build Quality: ProAlpha shares the same housing as M1, but has a tiny bit of strain relief.
Sound Signature:
Thanks to haraakiri. I am using the LostEarBuds V-Moda compatible tip.
ProAlpha like M2 can be driven much easily straight off the Clip+. Bass of PA while similar in character to the rest of the line-up, has a slightly more bumped up mid/upper bass. It also extends well, but is slightly on the slower side and lacks the tightness of M2. Mids are positioned similar to M1 – slightly backward, but due to the bumped up bass appear a little recessed. Midrange, while not warm as the M2, is warmer compared to M1. Compared to the M2 and M3, midrange is a little less smooth. Treble is slightly more prominent on the PA compared to M1 and M2, but it’s also a little thick and flabby without carrying as much details as M2.
The sound stage is slightly wider than M2, but similarly not deeper. Imaging is pretty similar to the M1 and M2, though at times, I feel that imaging is slightly better with PA. The presentation is sort of a cross between the warmer M2 and the balanced M1.
Ranking: I’d rank Pro Alpha a slight step below M1 and M2. The difference, if I had a point system, won’t be much. Ranking - 19/35
Brainwavz M1
Current MSRP: $40 from MP4Nation
Build Quality: M1 is strangely shaped like a half egg on a pointer. Strain reliefs are lacking near the housing.
Sound Signature:
Thanks to Fah33M. I used M1 with the stock foam tips for this review.
I'd like to think of M1 and M2 as two sides of the coin. M1 requires at least 6-8dB more than M2 to achieve equal loudness. Bass of M1 has some texture, but much lower in quantity compared to the M2. It isn't lacking in bass like RE0, but neither does it extend deep enough to rumble. Mids are slightly recessed and less warm than M2 bordering on neutral tone. It still remains smooth and as detailed as M2 on equal loudness, but does not carry the clarity of M2. Vocals are positioned a bit back, but don’t feel recessed as in the case of ProAlpha. Treble is thinner and has a bit more sparkle than M2.
The sound stage (much like M2) is wider, but not deeper. The imaging and positioning are again good, but not great. M1 tends towards a bit more balanced side of things with the help of thinner notes, a bit more airiness and reduced bass quantity.
Ranking: I’d rank M1 a slight step below M2 though on some days, I prefer the balanced presentation of M1 over M2. Ranking - 18/35
Brainwavz M2
Current MSRP: $60 from MP4Nation
Build Quality: It has proper strain relief, though it seems to have a bad habit of coming off (at least in older batches). I don’t like the ‘bright’ idea of Left and Right etched markings at the back of the metal housing.
Sound Signature:
Thanks to Fah33M. I used the M2 with MEElectronics Bi-Flanges for this review.
Bass of M2 is well textured and has a mid/upper-bass bump. It still manages to remain softer on the ears. It extends well, but not as much as TD100-I. Mids are forward, clear, smooth and totally non-fatiguing. While they are not as warm as any of the Xears, the mids are still on the warmer side. While detailed, mids stay mellow and do not sound as crisp as some of the IEMs. On the positive side, they stay devoid of sibilance which helps the vocals. Treble is a little recessed on the M2 and is thicker than M1 and M3, but not as thick as PA.
Sound Stage of M2 has normal width and height, but not much depth. Imaging is good, but nothing special. It lacks the airiness and crispness in presentation to make it even more engaging. One of the things I like about M2 is the efficiency. I can go down to -38 / -39 on the Rockboxed Clip+ with M2 to listen to music. e-Q5, RE-252 and to a lesser extent, RE-ZERO and some of the Xears come close to that, but I can't go as low as M2 with them.
Ranking: M2 is a step below the Tier-II IEMs like RE0/ZERO and a sub-tier below Hippo VB for me. Ranking - 17/35
Xears Turbo Devices TD100-I
Current MSRP: Discontinued
Build Quality: TD100-I has a J-Cord and looks like inspired by Monster Turbine Pro Copper. Annoying driver flex is present.
Sound Signature:
Bass of TD100, much like most of the Xears is very hearty, thick and extends very well. With no EQ applied, bass covers up the mids a bit. The bass has less impact and much more quality than that of XT120. Compared to M2, TD100 has much more quantity as well as impact with comparable decay. The extension is very good as I can hear up-to 25Hz much like Hippo VB / Crossroads Woody 2. I get used to the bass quantity after a while, but if needed a 5-7dB can be taken off the bass via EQ. The mids sound thicker in comparison to many other IEMs. But on it's own, it should not present any issues when listening to TD100. When bass is EQ-ed down, vocals benefit the most as they move a step forward. Treble is clear, detailed, has sparkle and well extended for my ears. It's a little similar to M3.
The sound stage is decently wide, deep, tall and spacious. The imaging and positioning of TD100 is very good and makes it stand a bit apart from the equally good Brainwavz M1 and M2. The presentation is as airy as M1. For an IEM with as much bass quantity and thickness, TD100 sounds very balanced.
Ranking: TD100-I, while lacking the detailed mids of RE-252 or the smooth presentation of the Brainwavz is still engaging enough to move it a sub-tier above Brainwavz M2. Due to the lack of last mile of clarity without EQ, I’d place it below Hippo VB. Ranking - 16/35
Brainwavz M3
Current MSRP: $90 from MP4Nation, but not found at the site of this review.
Build Quality: M3 has a small ‘arm’, which I thought would be hurting in the outer ear. But surprisingly, it is comfortable. But, Left and Right markings on that arm are not good for a night user like me.
Sound Signature:
Thanks to BF1983. I am using the LostEarBuds UE compatible tips with them.
Bass of M3 yet again follows the path of it's predecessors - smooth, soft and textured. Quantity wise, it's somewhere between M1 and M2; better than M1, but much less than the bumped up M2. Extension is similar to M2. It's still not hard hitting and that's a good thing in my book. Mids of M3 are one of the reasons I like it. It's lush, smooth, slightly warm, clear and forward. It is not as forward or warm as M2 though. Treble is laid-back, but has a bit more sparkle as well as extension compared to M2.
Sound Stage is one definite improvement in M3 from M1 and M2. It sounds much more spacious while remaining as wide as M1 or M2. The imaging and positioning also gets a facelift, much better than M1 and M2.
Ranking: M3 is a step ahead of TD100-I for sure. If I followed a point system, I’d give almost equal marks to Hippo VB and M3 – both good in their own way. Foam modded, Hippo VB is still unique with it’s sub-bass, neutral mids (as most IEMs with great bass tend to be warm) and slightly hot treble.M3 is more engaging in mids and as a result, moves a spot ahead of VB. Ranking - 14/35
Xears Turbo Devices TDII
Current MSRP: [FONT="]€[/FONT]45 +[FONT="]€[/FONT]8 shipping from Xears.com
Build Quality: Y-Cord and far lesser driver flex compared to TD100-I makes it a better upgrade.
Sound Signature:
Bass of TDII, while retaining the thickness and impact of TD100 is lesser in quantity. It also sacrifices a bit of extension compared to it's predecessor, not extending low enough to rumble. But, it’s bass quantity is still significant even compared to M2 and equally quick. Mids in comparison to TD100 are thinner and slightly more forward. While remaining slightly warmer, it’s nowhere near the warmth of TD100-I. As a result of losing thickness, TDII appears much more faster. Due to the slight forwardness, midrange has the clarity which TD100-I lacked a bit. Compared to the lush mids of M3, TDII almost sounds dry, recessed and thinned down; though there's nothing a bit of brain adaptation can't help. On the other hand, it's a bit more detailed than M3. There's slight hint of sibilance where vocal sibilance is present in the recording. Treble is also thinner than on the TD100 and carries lot more air, detail and sparkle.
Sound Stage remains similar to that of TD100. But due to thinner notes, the imaging and presentation appears a bit more spaced out. EQ-ing is generally not required, but Bass can also be reduced if you are coming from bass light IEMs.
Ranking: I had a tough time deciding between the flavoured and engaging M3 and the TDII. I’ll put TDII slightly ahead for my tastes. Again, If I were following a points system, TDII would have the same points as M3 and VB. TDII tops the Tier III, a step below the RE-0/ZERO, PFE and HJE-900. Ranking - 13/35
Conclusion
Among the Brainwavz, I liked M3 the most, followed by M2 (especially if low volume listening is a priority). Xears, while relatively unknown, scores in timbre and imaging across the range for me. Due to their emphasized bass and not so great build quality, Xears are not for everybody though.
Which one is for me?
Small budget and I need an IEM which does mids well and does not sacrifice on bass – Xears Bullet XB120
I need smooth mids which are non-fatiguing and I need some bass as well – Choose any of the Brainwavz depending on your budget.
If you can spend $90 and do not find the any of the others among the long list of choices in $70-100 range appealing, go for M3.
Otherwise, I'd settle with M2.
If you favour a slightly balanced presentation, go for M1.
I need plenty of bass quantity and Mids need to be clear, Treble needs to be good as well and oh! My budget is not huge – Get Xears TD100-II
Xears is a German web site that sells IEMs (and now even MP3 players) under the Xears brand. IEMs are also available through the ebay store 4Satisfaction Store.
For someone who has not heard about Xears through the reviews at Head-fi, it's easy to get confused with a plethora of names, shapes and prices (apart from the long list of discontinued models both under the Xears name as well as Playaz Audio). One interesting fact that sets apart Xears IEMs is that they have no concept of fixed price. Web site and eBay store prices don't match at times and it's not that hard to see an IEM sell at €90 and €20 weeks apart. I've come to regard them as something akin to a small-cap stock whose prices fluctuate widely and wildly on a daily basis. As a result, it's tough to assign Value for money rating as you are valuing against a moving target. Luckily, most Xears IEMs can be had for $25-50 shipped at some point in their life.
Brainwavz is MP4Nation's line up of re-branded / re-tuned IEMs, mostly based on Visang R series.
Since I own five Xears IEMs and have the entire M series (Pro Alpha, M1, M2 and M3) available as loaners, I thought it'd be interesting to do a comparison between all the 9 IEMs (and end up with this annoyingly long diatribe). I will order IEMs based on my preference.
General Build Quality
I've read that Xears uses Japanese drivers in Chinese OEM housing. In general, Xears neither have a great cable nor carry a hefty strain relief. Fret not! They are still thicker than the one used on the $200 MSRP Head-Direct RE-252, but that's largely on account of the much cheaper and thinner cable on RE-252. Several of the models use a J-Cord, though newer models seem to be moving towards the more prevalent, easier to wear Y-Cords. I have nothing against J-Cords though as I can usually differentiate easily between Left (Shorter cable) and Right in the dark. All cables are terminated in a straight 3.5mm plug, which is colored based on the scheme used for the IEM design. The housings are made of metal with Left and Right markers on one side and Xears logo on the other. While better than plastic shells, you feel their weight during longer sessions, so it's a small trade-off.
To save costs, there are no visible markings anywhere in the IEM mentioning the Model name. At times, I have to refer to the web site photo to figure out which is which. Cables are slightly microphonic when worn in the usual straight-down position, but can be easily worn over the ear (even J-Cord ones). They have no chin slider. The bundled stock tips are not of the greatest quality, so one may need to acquire some after-market tips. They usually come with 3 sizes of single flanges, any extra tips Thomas may choose to add to the order and a soft storage pouch. Many of the Xears suffer from a case of mild to annoying driver flex.
Brainwavz are better built with braided cables with a plastic sheath terminated with a 45 degree 3.5mm plug. The build quality feels much superior to the average Xears IEM. In my limited experience with them, they tangle easily and retain some memory character. It’s pretty annoying when you are trying to A/B them in quick succession as I need to untangle them first (if I don’t keep them straightened up). They also tend to be microphonic when worn straight down. They too lack the Chin slider / Cord Cinch. But, unlike most budget brands, Brainwavz come with a good hard carry case and 3 sizes of tips. I have the loaner (M2) with the foam tips, but the newer shipments do not come with foam tips or the ear glider as noted in their web site.
General Sound Signature
All Xears have gone through 50 hours of burn-in and about 5-10 hrs of usage, except TD100-I which has 100 hrs of burn-in and about 25 hours of actual usage. I am sure all the Brainwavz would have completed at least 50 hours, if not much more. All of them were tried directly out of Rockboxed Clip+ with volumes ranging in -25 to -27dB. Only M1 required a substantial -21 to output the same SPL.
Though none of the Xears share a particular signature, you are likely to be encountered with good bass, warm mids and treble. Usually, none of the ranges are recessed / forward and are in fine balance. The changes come in the form of sound stage size, warmth, bass quality & quantity, midrange and treble quality.
I am always a little annoyed with critical/attentive listening and analyzing signatures. But, I’ve never been as frustrated as comparing the four Brainwavz. They all share a very similar signature – engaging, warm, smooth mids with good quality and quantity of bass and treble which does not sparkle as much. I would not be shocked if the Brainwavz line-up shares the same driver with tuning, housing and vents making up for the difference. Before you start to worry, there are differences, but they are still too close; reminds me of a quote from the movie “Fight Club†– ‘Everything's a copy of a copy of a copy’. I almost went to the point of plastic wrapping the Brainwavz and placing them on an enclosure made of plastic sheets until I realized that I need to return these IEMs and I’ve been watching too much “Dexter†lately. If you gave me any of the four Brainwavz (SPL matched, of course) and let my brain adapt to the signature (2-3 songs) and later ask me to figure out which one is it, I could go wrong at times.
With amplification, Brainwavz seem to tighten up a bit, but the difference did not make me want to use an amp for this review.
Xears TM2 Pro
Current MSRP: [FONT="]€[/FONT]35 +[FONT="]€[/FONT] 8 shipping from Xears.com
Build Quality: Y-Cord
Sound Signature:
The bass of TM2 has good impact, has slight texture, but is a little uncontrolled. Mids are recessed and very dull. The vocals sound like they have been covered by thicker cloth. Treble is neither recessed nor forward. It is in fine balance with the mids. There's not much by way of sparkle.
Sound stage is a bit narrow. It has decent amount of depth, some height as well, but not enough to make the stage feel spacious in any way. Imaging and portrayal of distance is good with the IEM. It's a pity really since these characteristics would have made it a very decent budget IEM had it not been for the dull color like a washed out painting. When I listen to it long enough, I don’t hate it as much.
Since it has many drawbacks, I thought it fit to compare against the low priced JVC Marshmallows (HA-FX34, Kramer modded). In terms of SQ alone, I don't consider Marshmallows to be any great except for their nice bass. Another of my $11 acquisitions, V-Moda Vibe (Blush - the girly pink one, which I’ll forever be ashamed for and will never be photographed with) has great bass with deeper extension going to the lowest lows in comparison. TM2 sounds a bit inferior when A/B-ing the three.
Ranking: I don’t hate it as much as Hippo Epic-Sparkle, but would rank it a bit below JVC Marshmallows and V-Moda Vibe. Ranking - 33/35
Xears Bullet XB120 Pro
Current MSRP: [FONT="]€[/FONT]20 +[FONT="]€[/FONT]8 shipping from Xears.com
Build Quality: The bullets have a J-Cord. As the name implies, the IEM shells are bullet shaped. The supplied tips are clear silicone unlike the rest of Xears.
Sound Signature:
Bass has decent texture with a bit more quantity and extension than Brainwavz M1, but stays similarly on the softer side without hitting deeper. It lacks the tightness, a bit of speed and quantity in bass compared to M2. Compared to the generally bass heavy Xears, it’s a nice departure though. Mids are forward and slightly on the warmer side and slightly thinner compared to most other Xears . The Mid range is clearer and well rounded compared to TM2, but the notes are not as ‘tight’ or crisp as I’d usually like. The vocals sound clean devoid of sibilance, but are also not as lush. The treble is not ‘recessed’, but are not as emphasized as the midrange. Treble has a bit of sparkle and is a bit more forward when compared to M1.
Sound Stage of the Bullets is narrow in width, good in height with a decent amount of depth. Details while present don't have the bite or crispiness of the more analytical IEMs, again similar to M1, but not as hazy. Timbre is one good thing with the bullets. Imaging is good, but I cannot say it's the best of the lot. On it's own, Bullets are engaging with a good mid-range, ably supported by bass and treble without punching a hole in the pocket.
Ranking: When I had RE2 on loan, I preferred XB120 a bit more. Ranking - 27/35
Xears XTreme XT120Pro
Current MSRP: [FONT="]€[/FONT]40 +[FONT="]€[/FONT]8 shipping from Xears.com
Build Quality: Y-Cord
Sound Signature:
Without the wonderful EQ of Rockbox, I would have probably ranked XT120 somewhere between JVC Marshmallow and RE2, which is the last quartile of my IEM ranking. XT120 suffers from many drawbacks, yet manages to sound well enough for me to consider putting it above the Bullets.
Without the EQ, bass on the XT120 is monstrous enough to cloud everything. Even bass guitars can overshadow the mids. The bass lacks texture, is very muddy, but has good impact and is more like hard hitting bass of Klipsch S4. Mids are a little sucked out, but at the same time is lusher and crisper when compared to XB120. But, there's also some hint of sibilance. Treble is in fine balance with the mids and has good amount of sparkle. While treble does not have the great detail IEMs like RE-ZERO provide, it's still enjoyable. Good enough for me to dabble with EQ-ing using every band available. Even after knocking 19-20dB off till 100Hz, bass still remains hard hitting. Boosting lower mids and reducing a bit in the 5 and 8 Khz regions brings mids slightly more forward.
The sound stage is somewhat below normal in size, but feels slightly more airy. But when pitted against the better Brainwavz M2, XT120 is less engaging as it lacks the serene smoothness. It also gets beaten in the bass department as M2 has better quality bass even if it does not carry as much impact. But, stand-alone, XT120 despite it’s drawbacks sounds more lush and engaging compared to the XB120. Let's say, despite drawbacks, XT120 sounds a bit greater than the sum of it's parts.
Ranking: I rank XT120 (EQ-ed) above XB120, a tier below IEMs like Hippo Pearl, S4. Ranking - 26/35
Brainwavz ProAlpha
Current MSRP: $40 from MP4Nation
Build Quality: ProAlpha shares the same housing as M1, but has a tiny bit of strain relief.
Sound Signature:
Thanks to haraakiri. I am using the LostEarBuds V-Moda compatible tip.
ProAlpha like M2 can be driven much easily straight off the Clip+. Bass of PA while similar in character to the rest of the line-up, has a slightly more bumped up mid/upper bass. It also extends well, but is slightly on the slower side and lacks the tightness of M2. Mids are positioned similar to M1 – slightly backward, but due to the bumped up bass appear a little recessed. Midrange, while not warm as the M2, is warmer compared to M1. Compared to the M2 and M3, midrange is a little less smooth. Treble is slightly more prominent on the PA compared to M1 and M2, but it’s also a little thick and flabby without carrying as much details as M2.
The sound stage is slightly wider than M2, but similarly not deeper. Imaging is pretty similar to the M1 and M2, though at times, I feel that imaging is slightly better with PA. The presentation is sort of a cross between the warmer M2 and the balanced M1.
Ranking: I’d rank Pro Alpha a slight step below M1 and M2. The difference, if I had a point system, won’t be much. Ranking - 19/35
Brainwavz M1
Current MSRP: $40 from MP4Nation
Build Quality: M1 is strangely shaped like a half egg on a pointer. Strain reliefs are lacking near the housing.
Sound Signature:
Thanks to Fah33M. I used M1 with the stock foam tips for this review.
I'd like to think of M1 and M2 as two sides of the coin. M1 requires at least 6-8dB more than M2 to achieve equal loudness. Bass of M1 has some texture, but much lower in quantity compared to the M2. It isn't lacking in bass like RE0, but neither does it extend deep enough to rumble. Mids are slightly recessed and less warm than M2 bordering on neutral tone. It still remains smooth and as detailed as M2 on equal loudness, but does not carry the clarity of M2. Vocals are positioned a bit back, but don’t feel recessed as in the case of ProAlpha. Treble is thinner and has a bit more sparkle than M2.
The sound stage (much like M2) is wider, but not deeper. The imaging and positioning are again good, but not great. M1 tends towards a bit more balanced side of things with the help of thinner notes, a bit more airiness and reduced bass quantity.
Ranking: I’d rank M1 a slight step below M2 though on some days, I prefer the balanced presentation of M1 over M2. Ranking - 18/35
Brainwavz M2
Current MSRP: $60 from MP4Nation
Build Quality: It has proper strain relief, though it seems to have a bad habit of coming off (at least in older batches). I don’t like the ‘bright’ idea of Left and Right etched markings at the back of the metal housing.
Sound Signature:
Thanks to Fah33M. I used the M2 with MEElectronics Bi-Flanges for this review.
Bass of M2 is well textured and has a mid/upper-bass bump. It still manages to remain softer on the ears. It extends well, but not as much as TD100-I. Mids are forward, clear, smooth and totally non-fatiguing. While they are not as warm as any of the Xears, the mids are still on the warmer side. While detailed, mids stay mellow and do not sound as crisp as some of the IEMs. On the positive side, they stay devoid of sibilance which helps the vocals. Treble is a little recessed on the M2 and is thicker than M1 and M3, but not as thick as PA.
Sound Stage of M2 has normal width and height, but not much depth. Imaging is good, but nothing special. It lacks the airiness and crispness in presentation to make it even more engaging. One of the things I like about M2 is the efficiency. I can go down to -38 / -39 on the Rockboxed Clip+ with M2 to listen to music. e-Q5, RE-252 and to a lesser extent, RE-ZERO and some of the Xears come close to that, but I can't go as low as M2 with them.
Ranking: M2 is a step below the Tier-II IEMs like RE0/ZERO and a sub-tier below Hippo VB for me. Ranking - 17/35
Xears Turbo Devices TD100-I
Current MSRP: Discontinued
Build Quality: TD100-I has a J-Cord and looks like inspired by Monster Turbine Pro Copper. Annoying driver flex is present.
Sound Signature:
Bass of TD100, much like most of the Xears is very hearty, thick and extends very well. With no EQ applied, bass covers up the mids a bit. The bass has less impact and much more quality than that of XT120. Compared to M2, TD100 has much more quantity as well as impact with comparable decay. The extension is very good as I can hear up-to 25Hz much like Hippo VB / Crossroads Woody 2. I get used to the bass quantity after a while, but if needed a 5-7dB can be taken off the bass via EQ. The mids sound thicker in comparison to many other IEMs. But on it's own, it should not present any issues when listening to TD100. When bass is EQ-ed down, vocals benefit the most as they move a step forward. Treble is clear, detailed, has sparkle and well extended for my ears. It's a little similar to M3.
The sound stage is decently wide, deep, tall and spacious. The imaging and positioning of TD100 is very good and makes it stand a bit apart from the equally good Brainwavz M1 and M2. The presentation is as airy as M1. For an IEM with as much bass quantity and thickness, TD100 sounds very balanced.
Ranking: TD100-I, while lacking the detailed mids of RE-252 or the smooth presentation of the Brainwavz is still engaging enough to move it a sub-tier above Brainwavz M2. Due to the lack of last mile of clarity without EQ, I’d place it below Hippo VB. Ranking - 16/35
Brainwavz M3
Current MSRP: $90 from MP4Nation, but not found at the site of this review.
Build Quality: M3 has a small ‘arm’, which I thought would be hurting in the outer ear. But surprisingly, it is comfortable. But, Left and Right markings on that arm are not good for a night user like me.
Sound Signature:
Thanks to BF1983. I am using the LostEarBuds UE compatible tips with them.
Bass of M3 yet again follows the path of it's predecessors - smooth, soft and textured. Quantity wise, it's somewhere between M1 and M2; better than M1, but much less than the bumped up M2. Extension is similar to M2. It's still not hard hitting and that's a good thing in my book. Mids of M3 are one of the reasons I like it. It's lush, smooth, slightly warm, clear and forward. It is not as forward or warm as M2 though. Treble is laid-back, but has a bit more sparkle as well as extension compared to M2.
Sound Stage is one definite improvement in M3 from M1 and M2. It sounds much more spacious while remaining as wide as M1 or M2. The imaging and positioning also gets a facelift, much better than M1 and M2.
Ranking: M3 is a step ahead of TD100-I for sure. If I followed a point system, I’d give almost equal marks to Hippo VB and M3 – both good in their own way. Foam modded, Hippo VB is still unique with it’s sub-bass, neutral mids (as most IEMs with great bass tend to be warm) and slightly hot treble.M3 is more engaging in mids and as a result, moves a spot ahead of VB. Ranking - 14/35
Xears Turbo Devices TDII
Current MSRP: [FONT="]€[/FONT]45 +[FONT="]€[/FONT]8 shipping from Xears.com
Build Quality: Y-Cord and far lesser driver flex compared to TD100-I makes it a better upgrade.
Sound Signature:
Bass of TDII, while retaining the thickness and impact of TD100 is lesser in quantity. It also sacrifices a bit of extension compared to it's predecessor, not extending low enough to rumble. But, it’s bass quantity is still significant even compared to M2 and equally quick. Mids in comparison to TD100 are thinner and slightly more forward. While remaining slightly warmer, it’s nowhere near the warmth of TD100-I. As a result of losing thickness, TDII appears much more faster. Due to the slight forwardness, midrange has the clarity which TD100-I lacked a bit. Compared to the lush mids of M3, TDII almost sounds dry, recessed and thinned down; though there's nothing a bit of brain adaptation can't help. On the other hand, it's a bit more detailed than M3. There's slight hint of sibilance where vocal sibilance is present in the recording. Treble is also thinner than on the TD100 and carries lot more air, detail and sparkle.
Sound Stage remains similar to that of TD100. But due to thinner notes, the imaging and presentation appears a bit more spaced out. EQ-ing is generally not required, but Bass can also be reduced if you are coming from bass light IEMs.
Ranking: I had a tough time deciding between the flavoured and engaging M3 and the TDII. I’ll put TDII slightly ahead for my tastes. Again, If I were following a points system, TDII would have the same points as M3 and VB. TDII tops the Tier III, a step below the RE-0/ZERO, PFE and HJE-900. Ranking - 13/35
Conclusion
Among the Brainwavz, I liked M3 the most, followed by M2 (especially if low volume listening is a priority). Xears, while relatively unknown, scores in timbre and imaging across the range for me. Due to their emphasized bass and not so great build quality, Xears are not for everybody though.
Which one is for me?
Small budget and I need an IEM which does mids well and does not sacrifice on bass – Xears Bullet XB120
I need smooth mids which are non-fatiguing and I need some bass as well – Choose any of the Brainwavz depending on your budget.
If you can spend $90 and do not find the any of the others among the long list of choices in $70-100 range appealing, go for M3.
Otherwise, I'd settle with M2.
If you favour a slightly balanced presentation, go for M1.
I need plenty of bass quantity and Mids need to be clear, Treble needs to be good as well and oh! My budget is not huge – Get Xears TD100-II
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