Firstly I would like to thank Simgot for sending me this sample to review.
*disclaimer: This sample was provided for the purpose of writing a review, no incentive was given to write a favourable review. All opinions expressed are my own subjective findings
Gear Used:
Audio Opus #2 / iFi Pro iDSD > EM2
Tech Specs:
Transducer unit – 10mm high magnetic compound dynamic driver & Knowles balanced armature RAF-32873
Diaphragm – Polymer compound titanium-plated diaphragm
Frequency response – 15Hz-40kHz
Sensitivity – =101dB(at 1000Hz)
Impedance – 10O
Distortion – <1% 101dB(20µpa)
Channel imbalance – <1.5dB(at 1000Hz)
Rated power – 15mW
Cable – 4 cores of SPC braided cable
Packaging, Build Quality and Accessories:
The packaging is typical Simgot styling, a black box with a render of the earphones and a high res sticker on the outside. You get some info about the earphones on the back, slide off the outer sleeve and you get another black box. Take the top off and you’ll find the IEM’s sat neatly in a foam/card insert with the case below. Inside the case you’ll find the accessories. Simgot packaging is always really nicely presented, and the EM2 is no exception, feeling premium yet not over the top.
Build quality is excellent, with well produced plastic housings and a metal faceplate, the cable is a 2-pin extruded similar to what QDC and Unique Melody use. The 2-pin socket is however 0.78 so finding replacement cables will be easy. The stock cable is great though, being a normal braided 4-core cable with pre-moulded soft earhook and good strain relief on all ends (missing some relief on the y-splitter though). The nozzle is metal but that shouldn’t make too much difference to durability provided you look after them a little.
Accessory wise you get the excellent case that Simgot always provide, which is leather and a great size for earphones. You also get S, M and L in 2 different types of tip (one for more pronounced bass, the other for better mid/high frequency response). There are no adaptors included in the box, but to be honest they include a nice case and good tips which is all most people require.
Comfort and Isolation:
The design of the EM2 makes them extremely lightweight and comfortable, fitting snugly in your ear without any discomfort after long listening sessions. I have absolutely no issues with the comfort, the moulded earhooks may however be ever so slightly on the longer side.
Isolation wise these are quite impressive, they drown out a fair bit of outside noise and the dynamic driver vent is facing inwards to they still have a good level of isolation for everyday and travel use.
Sound:
Lows: The EM2 are a 2-way hybrid design, but instead of using a conventional crossover network they are actually using both drivers for the full frequency range, and they are wired in parallel. The dynamic driver is based on the same one used in the EN700 range, which is a superb little driver. These however have a more neutral/bright tuning with a tighter and more controlled low end than the EN700 models. Don’t get me wrong, the EM2 still extends right down into the lowest sub-bass with ease, but there is not an inherent warmth and smoothness overall like the EN700 Pro. There is punch, body and depth; the speed is fairly good and they manage to keep up with complex mixes without congestion. Overall a nice, fairly linear low end response with mild sub-bass emphasis.
Mids: The midrange is well placed, there is a little recession in the lower midrange which leaves certain vocals lacking a little body and richness. Luckily they are not recessed to the point they take a back seat, and everything is detailed and well layered. This slight dip actually helps when it comes to separation and the midrange doesn’t get congested or muddy. Vocals don’t sound thin, they are just not as rich as some slightly warmer sounding earphones. There is a slight lift in the upper midrange which brings out a little more bite in recordings, without sounding harsh or peaky though. Sibilance is handled well and there is no noticeable glare. Vocals and guitars are well layered, and electric guitars have great power and authority.
Highs: Here is where that full range BA comes in, and adds a bit more air and crispness over the EN700 series which are a little more laid back in their presentation. You get better energy and extension on the EM2, but those who are very treble sensitive might find them borderline bright. I feel there is enough body from the lows, and a fairly well balanced midrange that prevents these from sounding overly bright. The treble never looses focus and is always present with good detail and tonality, and the added air up top helps with imaging and soundstaging.
Soundstaging is good, not huge but the separation is excellent. Imaging on the other hand is superb with very good accuracy and also layering. Coherency is a strong point, as there is no crossover you don’t get any real issues and the DD + BA driver blend seamlessly.
Conclusion:
The EM2 are a really enjoyable IEM, with a coherent and detailed sound that has good transparency and every so slightly U shaped sound signature. They have bags of energy and I really enjoy their tuning and presentation, all in a comfortable shell. If you like the EN700 but want a little more bite, clarity and air the EM2 is worth considering.
Sound Perfection Rating: 8/10 (Energetic with great separation and transparency)
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