I am very picky with my IEMs, I strongly prefer single driver configurations. After a lot of research I landed on the S12, for the single, large planar magnetic drivers. The price is incredibly fair for its category. These sound 90% as good as the 7Hz timeless II’s for 60% of the price.
They have a surprisingly wide soundstage and great imaging for IEMs, thanks to the large planar drivers. They perform amazingly when listening to live music, you can really pick out each instrument and their placement in the recording. They do this with the natural, coherent sound of a single driver design. This trait also allows for excellent performance in movies and video games for a very immersive experience.
The sound profile is mostly neutral, but slightly bright. The mids are full and smooth, though a touch recessed. The treble is bright and airy, without becoming harsh. The bass has great extension and reaches far into the sub bass range. The bass isn’t overly punchy or aggressive, but maintains a solid presence and plenty of definition. These are not bass head IEMs, they’re balanced with a light “V” tuning. These do not get fatiguing over long sessions, but still sound fun and sparkly.
If I have one complaint, it’s fitment. While these have 3 sizes and 3 styles of tips for great tip fitment, the case is large. To fit a huge 14.8mm driver, these cases are big. They are shaped well to fit in an ear cavity, but I find they still push against my ear in some places. I have relatively large ears and deep canals, to get the tips inserted deep enough, they push against the cartilage. This gets uncomfortable during a long session. This may not impact you, but it’s something to consider.
Overall, these earbuds rock! The sound, the tuning, the materials and the storage case. Everything is premium and thoughtful. In its class (single driver planars), these can’t be beat for the money. I absolutely recommend these!
