Firstly I would like to thank Simgot for sending me this sample for 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:
iBasso DX200 > EM2 Roltion (silicone tips)
https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_oDIcAeH
Tech Specs:
Drivers: 10mm Dynamic + Knowles 33518 BA
Frequency response: 20Hz – 20kHz
Sensitivity: 109dB (@1kHz)
Impedance: 32Ohms
Cable: 1.2m silver plated copper, 2-pin 0.78mm
Packaging, Build Quality and Accessories:
Simgot have really done something different with the EM2 Roltion packaging, with quite an impressive oriental image on the front that really stands out. On the back the box is matte black with gold writing, one you remove this outer sleeve you get a sold matte black box, with gold embossed text, that folds open. The quality of the box is impressive at this price range, everything inside is laid out cleanly and it is all well protected during shipping.
It’s been a while I’ve had a Simgot product, but they haven’t forgotten how to make a lovely pair of IEM’s. The EM2 Roltion share the same housing and cable as the original EM2, but inside they are very different. The housing is plastic with a metal nozzle, they’re very well put together and I can’t see any weaknesses, the cable is soft and supple, with 4 separate SPC wires running the whole length with good strain relief. Memory wire is pre-moulded and fits perfectly for me, the only thing different is that Simgot use their own recessed 2-pin type socket, it’s compatible with standard 2-pin cables however they will never look as slick as the stock one.
Accessory wise Simgot include a blue leather case which is the perfect size for storing the IEM’s when not in use (the same case they included with the EM2) along with 2 sets of silicone eartips in S, M and L – giving either a balanced sound or a slightly brighter more transparent sound signature. I always find the affect of the tips to be subtle and my opinion is to use the earphones with whichever tips you find most comfortable.
Features, Comfort and Isolation:
So Simgot have kept the design of the EM2 Roltion the same as their predecessor however internally there are a number of differences. Simgot have gone to great lengths to make these their best sounding earphones to date, carefully selecting the cable that runs from the pins to the crossover and drivers along with mounting the balanced armature in the nozzle itself (made of copper). Another interesting feature is that Simgot have gone down the route of a nozzle-less balanced armature driver, whilst not a top firing driver like 64 Audio use, this removal of the nozzle will create a different dispersion pattern which will in turn create a more unique high frequency response.
The housing is ergonomically shaped and the cable is comfortable to use, which means the EM2 Roltion are a comfortable IEM to use for prolonged periods of time. I had no issues using these for a few hours at a time once I had settled on the best tips for my ears.
Isolation is good, they have a small vent on the body but this doesn’t seem to affect the overall isolation a great deal, so that’s very impressive. There is more than enough isolation to use these on everyday commutes, including on noisy trains and public transport.
Sound:
Lows: There is a single dynamic driver controlling the low end on the EM2 Roltion, it uses a carbon nanotube coating too for lightness and rigidity. Saying this, the low end is quite thick and powerful on the EM2 Roltion, it isn’t ever overwhelming or overly dominant though and there is an impressive amount of punch and power behind kick drums. The low end isn’t overly snappy, perhaps I’ve become accustomed to BA driver bass a bit more recently, but the low end is dynamic and fun. There’s no lack of extension here, and the bass hits with authority without sounding hollow and wooden. There’s a satisfying fullness to the bass on the EM2 Roltion, with a little bit of sub-bass emphasis that gives the sound a healthy dose of warmth and body.
Midrange: There is a very nice clean separation of the midrange from the bass, allowing it to cut through with clarity and crispness. Arguably the lower midrange could use a tiny bit more body, some vocals can sound a little lean at times. I would also say that in overall quantity the midrange sits a little behind the lows, giving the EM2 Roltion a very mild u-shaped sound signature. What I will praise is that the transitions between lows, mids and highs are all incredibly smooth and that the midrange is packed full of detail. They handle sibilance well and unless the track is bad for it, they won’t be overly fatiguing.
Highs: This is where Simgot say that their new nozzle-less BA driver helps to smooth out the response and prevent brightness due to the wider dispersion pattern. From what I’m hearing I would say they have done a great job with the placement and also tuning of the crossover – there is excellent presence in the treble however it is presented in a wider and smoother fashion than some other hybrid models. I have noticed quite a substantial difference in the soundstaging too which I believe is down to this type of driver implementation, there is more air and space and the highs are allowed to extend effortlessly without sounding too in-your-face. I never found the treble to be obnoxious or the centre of my focus when listening, it wasn’t distracting, it was just naturally there and extends with real ease – that to me is really impressive at this price point.
Soundstaging and Instrument Separation:
The EM2 Roltion have quite a wide soundstage, there is excellent positioning and space within it and I’m quite impressed at how they present the music. It’s well separated, the L/R imaging is accurate and everything is easy to pick apart whilst retaining great coherency overall.
Conclusion:
It’s been a while since I’ve reviewed a new Simgot model and the EM2 Roltion show that they can still make an excellent sounding earphone for a good price. The EM2 Roltion are energetic, punchy, and fun to listen to – excellent bass response that is full, digs deep when needed and yet doesn’t overwhelm; clean and crisp midrange and a treble presentation that is ever present without sounding overly bright or sharp. There’s excellent separation and the soundstage has surprised me on a few occasions, these are a very competent pair of IEM’s for the price.
Sound Perfection Rating: 8/10 (excellent value, fun sound and brilliant build/comfort)