As mentioned at the 4:50 mark this review is regarding the stock version. I will not mod a loaned product. I have not heard any of the modded variants. Please keep that in mind while watching this video. Thanks!
Your channel name resonates throughout your review... all I can say is Thank You & Well Done! I made similar comments along the same lines as your accurate and legitimate findings in the so-called audiophile blog sites and I was excommunicated... Friendly and open they were not. I really appreciate the unwavering candor & unflinching truthfulness of your reviews... BZ & keep it coming!
Sad that some in the community don't allow or appreciate alternative views and opinons that are honest and subjective. Sorry that you have experienced such treatment. Honesty is the Best Policy.
Hi. I’m sorry you had to deal with such unopened minded people. You’ll find your niche. Don’t let a few people get you down. They will find out you’re correct.
@@deltazero6 yes it does I’m fairly new to the hobby/you tube reviews just looking for a couple new sets but the community can be quite vocal. You need to just stick to your guns and not take anything personally people don’t know you or what kind of day you’ve had and you don’t know them or what kind of day they’ve had just do what you can in your best attitude be positive and upbeat and you’ll be fine.
Thanks! Always enjoy your reviews. cup of coffee on me. Nice take on the stock Olina, I agree with you. I've double dampered mine and then just adapted to the upper mid forwardness and miss the spaciousness when I try another IEM
This may be the first review that sounds like it is about the pairs I had/have. He hyped it until people like myself felt disappointed and then his fanboys defended him claiming it needs a mod. I even bought a second pair because I returned the first pair to try the mod. Still liked the T3+ better.
I agree with you on soundstage, but actually find the stock Olina’s tuning pretty well balanced and a little high in the presence region. As you eluded to, there are very simple mods that can be done to tame the upper mids and treble.
Yes. They come with extra nozzle filters. All I did was add the extra set, with the mesh 90 degrees out of phase with the factory mesh. More like a setup/adjustment than a "mod". No more effort than sizing for correct tips.
@@jb678901 I tried this mod as well. It does a good job taming the frequencies I mentioned, but in the end it felt a bit dull and I reverted to the stock single filter. I also hear swapping for the Tanya filter has good effects.
I totally agree that the stock Olina was too bright. I am sorry that was your experience, and agree with your review of that version of it. I did the original double mesh mod ( or ShortBus / Michael Bruce ) where you put two of the stock filters on the nozzle. I tend to us the Spinfit CP100+ as my first choice ear tips. For me that mod and tips gave me a great experience, it tamped down the treble peaks, eliminated any sibilance, and shored up the bass. The modded Olina is on par with the S12 or even the Mangrid Tea, and those are really my favorites currently. I stopped listening to the T3+ after I modded the Olina, and the Olina was far more comfortable, but I found the T3+ ran a bit large for my ears.
Bit too bright, but with mod this IEM is perfect for classic rock music. There’s enough mids and energy to make me enjoy Pink Floyd, Genesis, Dire Straits and other. Just perfect at this price range
I find it interesting how differently people hear. I bought the Olinas and the T3plus at the same time. For my hearing it wasn't even close. The T3 was on its way back within a few hours. I'm 49 as it pertains to age and hearing. I also wonder how much QC comes into play with the Chifi brands.
Without the mod, I see the T3+ as better. After I did the double mesh mod, it wasn't even close, the Olina became the best DD in my collection, and was the best for timber save maybe the Mangird Tea. It was competing with IEMs at 3x the price after a mod that cost me nothing, since the Olina came with the filters.
It could also be variables with how loud people listen. You aren’t that much older than Dave so if you don’t have hearing damage a lot of this stuff comes down to personal preference. I love my Olina but I wouldn’t listen to anything harsh like metal. At a reasonable volume level I like the brighter nature of the treble for a lot of the music I’m into. The stock tips are some of the worst I’ve ever tried. None of the wider bore tips would even fit in my ears and stay so I definitely had to go aftermarket.
@@jdk_360 Your right. It could be a lot of factors. Including my mood. Sometimes I'll go a month with this iem and the next month with another. I also go through phases when I won't listen to any kind of headphone and only my stereo system. Then I'll go through phases with different speakers. That's what makes the hobby fun. Much to the chagrin of my wife.
Hello, I appreciate your explanation about the details of the Olina, I was just thinking of buying them because I have seen some reviews where they classify it as incredible IEMS. but after listening to you I wonder, what would be a better option to listen to Classical music such as Teleman or Guitars or Jazz.? I would really appreciate your valuable opinion.
So glad you did that little comparison at the end. Olina vs T3 plus are on my mind lately. I just pulled the trigger on the T3 plus. I also took a long look at the Dunu Titan S. While it's probably a better IEM I really wanted a tad bit more bass. I think from what I gather T3 provides just enough without going overboard. Hopefully I'm right about that assessment.
I have t3+ and Olina. After replacing Olina’s filter with one Tanya filter, the Olina is better than T3+. Bass on Olina is tighter, soundstage is wider, and overall Olina sounds more detailed compared to T3+. Wooster the mod, Olina was too bright, with the mod it’s very enjoyable. I actually prefer modded Olina a little more than my Dunu SA6
Good day Mr Robot, i am exactly at the same spot where you once were about the Titan S vs TO Plus vs Olina, i listen female vocal jazz, orchestral and indie, so what's your take on this situation? (If you would be so kind to answer)
@@ozzieblackcherry0707 hi. I have the T3 Plus by now and the Titan S. Of those two I use the Titan S. I just think you can similar production from cheaper IEMs as well. Like Chu for female vocals and 7hz Zero. Titan S has vocals down good and nice technical performance with a little rumble to it. So you may like Titan S. Although I'm pretty sure Olina is great too. I just don't own it.
It's a funny old world the subjective opinion can differ so much I have the titans and the T3 plus and much prefer the Olinas over both in fact I've passed the titans on I think it may well be down to library choices for classic rock and old school funk the Olinas are excellent
I'm in the same ball park with you, but the mids and treble seem ok to me. One, have a little bit of hearing loss in that range (54 years old and 23 years of loudness in the Army will do that) and Two, I'm using foam tips. Could not get any of the tips provided to seal just right. The foam may be calming that down just a little as well. The Bass is just about there, like you said, just a bit more.
I bought it, finaly... i thought it would be useless, a disapointment. But many reviewers were telling that just by adding a second filter and using better eartips would solve many flaws (reaching Oxygen Level, that i do not own) I really don't regreat my purchase. I much prefer them than the Dauntless, a mater of preferencies i guess.
Hello. Just started watching your videos enjoy them What is your iem that you use everyday or the one you can’t live without Thank you for your reviews
@@sherrypeterson2797 I purchased it in September of 2021. Yes I believe it is the best IEM I have heard and is worthy of the price tag. Yes I bought it brand new direct from CTM with my own funds.
Thank you. For your honesty. Thought you were going to say you bought it used for a great price lol. It’s probably the last one I’ll buy I’ve been looking at it just wasn’t sure. Thanks for your help have a great night
Actually I have to disagree with your review. I'm using it daily and it's fantastic. Mids are very good to my ears and doesn't come across shouty at all. I specifically love it's 3d stage presentation. You can trim peaks with eq (though I dont use it on olina) but you can't give an IEM this stage presentation with eq
Hello Dave do you still recommend the jadeaudio eA1 ? I just bought the time hifi t2. What are the main differences between those two ? I modded the Olina I enjoy it a lot more than the aria 💪 we all hear different Let's go Dave 🥊
T2 is more neutral, more accurate tone and timbre, slightly better detail retrieval and resolution. EA1 is a solid option for it's price point. Between the two, I'd pick the T2.
I love your honest and informative reviews. I had Olina and I didn't like her either. I agree completely with the opinion in the review. But I've heard that the modified Olina sounds like Hana 2021 with just another replaceable filter stuck on.
I like my Olina's and have not been disappointed ( I did mod with an extra set of filter-nozzles). However, and for the money, I prefer the slightly more expensive Shuoer S12's ($140) as daily drivers. I pair my S12's with KZAZ09 Pro's ($26, discounted) bluetooth earloops for wireless use. Fantastic combo, IMO. That being said, for at or under $100, I do not believe much can compare to the Olina's. My other sub-$100 choices, based on personal experience and in order for descending preference: T3+, Heart Mirror (with vent mod), and TKZK Wave. Disclaimer: I do not own the Titan S...no experience with this one.
2 years later-- if everyone knew that the market was about to drop a million insanely good budget sets soon after this release, doubt it would have been so hyped. Tripowin $35 Picoolo graphs like modded OLINA, coincidence? As a basshead I think it sounds great despite its subdued bass. Can't tell ya if it sounds like OLINA, never would have bought a $100 set that needed modding just to be listenable and back then - no bass, no go. I have EQD since I've started listening to music and now mod most of my sets. That being said, they are all significantly
@the Honest Audiophile Dave I see you have recommended the T3+ and the Dunu Titans S over the Olina's in there price point. What would be your choice if I wanted to move to the next level of IEM's over the Olina's, ie next price level. I like my Olina's but would like to move to the next level for pretty much all the reasons you addressed. Sorry if this question has already been asked. Thanks
Great review as always ☕️ Yup a dryer and brighter version of my Aria ( the Aria is slightly better IMHO) . All my IEM’s in my stable bring something to the party …that Olina bring a citrusy chip dip..weird..but it’s something 🤷🏻♂️
@@TheHonestAudiophile Goid morning Dave☕️☕️ There’s something for everyone..I find that on older recordings ,much like HBB’s ,playlist they’re good..but they’re ok. As for the citrusy dip..works well with a plain taco chip….. Btw, I did the “modd” ..I don’t think my ears picked the up any difference at the volume I listen at. Anyway , thanks for the review..sorry for not getting back sooner. Btw, at least it wasn’t an anchovy and pineapple 🍕
Hi dave, since the double filter is done with accessories that are in the box, maybe you could have a try. Some iems have several nozzles, this one has several filters. PS, just got them, spinfit CP 100
Well the Dioko didn't fit me well and the Olina did so I'd have to lean towards the Olina. Here's a link to my Dioko review: ua-cam.com/video/4HvXpJNMGJM/v-deo.html
good review...do review Moondrop Variations pleaseeeeeee.....it punches way above its price tag, as stated by many ...I wanna hear an honest opinion before pulling the trigger...one other request is to review IE600..thanks
@@TheHonestAudiophile thats fine, but does any portion of the channel money dedicated to buying review gears or does it wholly depends on gears sent by vendors or anyone else?
@@shahkhan110 the funds provided to the channel are all used to provide gear for review. Manufacturers and vendors provide a lot of gear for review. Some subscribers and friends have loaned gear. I have funded all the reference gear products with my personal bank account, ie. Rosson RAD-0, Mytek Liberty DAC II, HeadAmp GS-X Mini, CTM Da Vinci X, Fearless Audio Roland, Mr.Speakers Ether C, Audeze LCD 2 Closed, Schiit Audio Vidar, Tor Audio Roger, Martin Logan Motion 15, Wharfedale D310, Meze Empyrean and a lot more Money doesn't grow on trees. As of today I am getting $11.15 a month from Patreon and roughly $125-150 a month from UA-cam monetization. So as you can see, it takes a while to save up and purchase gear with that income stream. I do what I can to get gear in a timely manner. Also not all gear is available where I live.
Dave great review as always ☕️ As for the Olina’s, same here ( #363) …I find them to be a dryer & brighter version of my Aria’s….which are cheaper btw. But not all the IEM’s in my stable are all the same..they each bring something different to the party ..the Olina’s bring a citrusy chip dip…it’s something.🤷🏻♂️
@@TheHonestAudiophile I actually tried 2 filters, this did correct the aggressive mids, but then they sounded congested and the details wend out the window.
@@mikeinglett3994 I have to eat my words on what I said earlier. Mike Inglett, you are so right. I found every stick on filter I had, and low and behold, when I found the right combination the Olinas all of a sudden these things went from my worst to one of my best. Certainly in the same camp as my Thieaudio Elixers. Not quite but dang close considering the Olinas are $100 less expensive than the Elixers. Thank you for making me think and be open minded for a change.
I have these iems and really enjoy them. I did add the second filter though which takes the treble a little bit and adds a touch of bass. The way you’re describing it Dave it almost sounds like you didn’t have a good seal. It has the best 3D sound of any iem I’ve heard.
So the cheaper T3 plus is better than Olina...Thanks Dave so far your recommendation synced with my taste some said Olina beats Kato in some departments (doubted)but you said it's not even close T3 plus..phew saved me
I have both and do not regret either purchase. Frankly, if I had to buy one on a tighter budget I would go T3+. For a little more, the Olina with the extra factory-filter set is slightly preferred. For a little more, the Shuoer S12 is my personal end-game for IEM's.
@@jb678901 that's a good impression for how close these are at that price point. Thanks. I've been looking at the Shouer because I wanted something like the Timeless but for less. People say the S12 in some cases is better. I keep seeing people love it.
I'm not much of a source for Pro gaming. I am a casual gamer on PS4 Pro and I play sports and sim racing games mostly. These are the IEM I prefer to use for gaming. Tin Hifi T2 Moondrop Kato Fearless Audio Roland CTM Da Vinci X
I had some issues with the tips in the beginning. Didn't love the tuning, but they are nice at lower volumes. With EQ they are enjoyable. The biggest issue for me is the isolation which is, with two vents per shell, non existent. I do like their timbre, though. And the resolution for the price is very good.
The double mesh mod helps with that, and "only good at low volume" was my initial complaint too. I would agree that isolation isn't good with the stock tips, and I switched mine to Spinfit CP100+, which seal well for me, even when they are shallow like that.
Odd considering he put it at the top of his A tier and downplayed the treble from day one. I've only heard him praise it and claim it's the absolute best value. The only disappointment I heard from him about the Olina was he couldn't completely copy the frequency response of the pair he claims the driver is from. Idk.....
@@haziee3108 and that is the very problem with the Olina, a fantastic driver in the wrong shell. While the double filter mod helps some, I find very slight eq corrections in the problem areas much more effective. It doesn’t take much.
Not sure they picked the right enclosure for that DD. Should have made a dome like metal structure like a BLON or Urbanfun. I bet the acoustics of it would have improved.
As mentioned at the 4:50 mark this review is regarding the stock version. I will not mod a loaned product. I have not heard any of the modded variants. Please keep that in mind while watching this video. Thanks!
No offense, but if it needs some modification(s) to "help the sound," that's not a great starting point... just sayin'
Your channel name resonates throughout your review... all I can say is Thank You & Well Done!
I made similar comments along the same lines as your accurate and legitimate findings in the so-called audiophile blog sites and I was excommunicated... Friendly and open they were not.
I really appreciate the unwavering candor & unflinching truthfulness of your reviews... BZ & keep it coming!
Sad that some in the community don't allow or appreciate alternative views and opinons that are honest and subjective. Sorry that you have experienced such treatment. Honesty is the Best Policy.
Hi. I’m sorry you had to deal with such unopened minded people. You’ll find your niche. Don’t let a few people get you down. They will find out you’re correct.
@@sherrypeterson2797 no worries, thanks much for the kind words and genuine encouragement. This "hobby" certainly has some interesting & vocal fans...
@@deltazero6 yes it does I’m fairly new to the hobby/you tube reviews just looking for a couple new sets but the community can be quite vocal. You need to just stick to your guns and not take anything personally people don’t know you or what kind of day you’ve had and you don’t know them or what kind of day they’ve had just do what you can in your best attitude be positive and upbeat and you’ll be fine.
Hi Dave, Thanks for this awesome review and also the comparison with t3+ and Titan S👍🙂
My pleasure! You're welcome.
Thanks! Always enjoy your reviews. cup of coffee on me. Nice take on the stock Olina, I agree with you. I've double dampered mine and then just adapted to the upper mid forwardness and miss the spaciousness when I try another IEM
Thanks for the impressions. Thanks for the gift, much appreciated. Glad you enjoy the channel content.
Thanks for your honest review. It doesn’t matter what most people think. It’s normal that we have different perceptions. Keep up the good work!
My questions are answered! Thanks Dave.
This may be the first review that sounds like it is about the pairs I had/have. He hyped it until people like myself felt disappointed and then his fanboys defended him claiming it needs a mod. I even bought a second pair because I returned the first pair to try the mod. Still liked the T3+ better.
I agree with you on soundstage, but actually find the stock Olina’s tuning pretty well balanced and a little high in the presence region. As you eluded to, there are very simple mods that can be done to tame the upper mids and treble.
Thanks for your impressions.
Yes. They come with extra nozzle filters. All I did was add the extra set, with the mesh 90 degrees out of phase with the factory mesh. More like a setup/adjustment than a "mod". No more effort than sizing for correct tips.
@@jb678901 I tried this mod as well. It does a good job taming the frequencies I mentioned, but in the end it felt a bit dull and I reverted to the stock single filter. I also hear swapping for the Tanya filter has good effects.
I totally agree that the stock Olina was too bright. I am sorry that was your experience, and agree with your review of that version of it. I did the original double mesh mod ( or ShortBus / Michael Bruce ) where you put two of the stock filters on the nozzle. I tend to us the Spinfit CP100+ as my first choice ear tips. For me that mod and tips gave me a great experience, it tamped down the treble peaks, eliminated any sibilance, and shored up the bass. The modded Olina is on par with the S12 or even the Mangrid Tea, and those are really my favorites currently. I stopped listening to the T3+ after I modded the Olina, and the Olina was far more comfortable, but I found the T3+ ran a bit large for my ears.
Totally agree. Perfectly stated...in my very similar experience.
Bit too bright, but with mod this IEM is perfect for classic rock music. There’s enough mids and energy to make me enjoy Pink Floyd, Genesis, Dire Straits and other. Just perfect at this price range
I find it interesting how differently people hear. I bought the Olinas and the T3plus at the same time. For my hearing it wasn't even close. The T3 was on its way back within a few hours. I'm 49 as it pertains to age and hearing. I also wonder how much QC comes into play with the Chifi brands.
Glad you enjoy the Olina. You are right everyone hears differently.
Without the mod, I see the T3+ as better. After I did the double mesh mod, it wasn't even close, the Olina became the best DD in my collection, and was the best for timber save maybe the Mangird Tea. It was competing with IEMs at 3x the price after a mod that cost me nothing, since the Olina came with the filters.
I've had the same experience with the Mele. Then right after that I bought the DQ6S. I was shocked the KZ actually sounded better than the Mele.
It could also be variables with how loud people listen. You aren’t that much older than Dave so if you don’t have hearing damage a lot of this stuff comes down to personal preference. I love my Olina but I wouldn’t listen to anything harsh like metal. At a reasonable volume level I like the brighter nature of the treble for a lot of the music I’m into. The stock tips are some of the worst I’ve ever tried. None of the wider bore tips would even fit in my ears and stay so I definitely had to go aftermarket.
@@jdk_360 Your right. It could be a lot of factors. Including my mood. Sometimes I'll go a month with this iem and the next month with another. I also go through phases when I won't listen to any kind of headphone and only my stereo system. Then I'll go through phases with different speakers. That's what makes the hobby fun. Much to the chagrin of my wife.
Personally love mine but those complaints are very valid, the Olina is a pretty aggressive listen in general.
Hello, I appreciate your explanation about the details of the Olina, I was just thinking of buying them because I have seen some reviews where they classify it as incredible IEMS. but after listening to you I wonder, what would be a better option to listen to Classical music such as Teleman or Guitars or Jazz.? I would really appreciate your valuable opinion.
DUNU Titan S, Tin Hifi T3 Plus, Moondrop Kato.
So glad you did that little comparison at the end. Olina vs T3 plus are on my mind lately. I just pulled the trigger on the T3 plus. I also took a long look at the Dunu Titan S. While it's probably a better IEM I really wanted a tad bit more bass. I think from what I gather T3 provides just enough without going overboard. Hopefully I'm right about that assessment.
Look forward to hearing your impressions of the T3 Plus.
@@TheHonestAudiophile thanks. I should have it by Thursday.
I have t3+ and Olina. After replacing Olina’s filter with one Tanya filter, the Olina is better than T3+. Bass on Olina is tighter, soundstage is wider, and overall Olina sounds more detailed compared to T3+. Wooster the mod, Olina was too bright, with the mod it’s very enjoyable. I actually prefer modded Olina a little more than my Dunu SA6
Good day Mr Robot, i am exactly at the same spot where you once were about the Titan S vs TO Plus vs Olina, i listen female vocal jazz, orchestral and indie, so what's your take on this situation? (If you would be so kind to answer)
@@ozzieblackcherry0707 hi. I have the T3 Plus by now and the Titan S. Of those two I use the Titan S. I just think you can similar production from cheaper IEMs as well. Like Chu for female vocals and 7hz Zero. Titan S has vocals down good and nice technical performance with a little rumble to it. So you may like Titan S. Although I'm pretty sure Olina is great too. I just don't own it.
It's a funny old world the subjective opinion can differ so much I have the titans and the T3 plus and much prefer the Olinas over both in fact I've passed the titans on I think it may well be down to library choices for classic rock and old school funk the Olinas are excellent
Olina é melhor que aTitan, T3+ e Ária?
Pq vc acha o Olina superior ao Titan?
¡Gracias! Nice review! Some many questions!
Glad it was helpful! You are welcome. Thank you for the kind donation.
I'm in the same ball park with you, but the mids and treble seem ok to me. One, have a little bit of hearing loss in that range (54 years old and 23 years of loudness in the Army will do that) and Two, I'm using foam tips. Could not get any of the tips provided to seal just right. The foam may be calming that down just a little as well. The Bass is just about there, like you said, just a bit more.
thanks for the review, now olina is removed in my option lists. i'm currently still saving up for titan s and enjoying my t2 :-)
Glad you found the review helpful. T2 rocks! Look forward to hearing your impressions of the Titan S.
I bought it, finaly... i thought it would be useless, a disapointment. But many reviewers were telling that just by adding a second filter and using better eartips would solve many flaws (reaching Oxygen Level, that i do not own)
I really don't regreat my purchase. I much prefer them than the Dauntless, a mater of preferencies i guess.
@@laurentt1192 glad that you’re happy!
Hello. Just started watching your videos enjoy them What is your iem that you use everyday or the one you can’t live without Thank you for your reviews
Awesomeness 😎 Glad you enjoy the channel. The IEM I use everyday and compare all others to is the CTM Da Vinci X.
How long have you had it? Have you modified it in any way. And it’s worth the 3000 dollars
@@sherrypeterson2797 I purchased it in September of 2021. Yes I believe it is the best IEM I have heard and is worthy of the price tag. Yes I bought it brand new direct from CTM with my own funds.
Thank you. For your honesty. Thought you were going to say you bought it used for a great price lol. It’s probably the last one I’ll buy I’ve been looking at it just wasn’t sure. Thanks for your help have a great night
@@sherrypeterson2797 my pleasure, you're welcome. Look forward to hearing your impressions if you do happen to purchase the Da Vinci X.
Thanks Dave! 👍
My pleasure, you're welcome
Actually I have to disagree with your review. I'm using it daily and it's fantastic. Mids are very good to my ears and doesn't come across shouty at all. I specifically love it's 3d stage presentation.
You can trim peaks with eq (though I dont use it on olina) but you can't give an IEM this stage presentation with eq
Glad you enjoy the Olina. Everyone hears differently.
What else have you used though?
Hello Dave do you still recommend the jadeaudio eA1 ? I just bought the time hifi t2. What are the main differences between those two ? I modded the Olina I enjoy it a lot more than the aria 💪 we all hear different
Let's go Dave 🥊
T2 is more neutral, more accurate tone and timbre, slightly better detail retrieval and resolution.
EA1 is a solid option for it's price point. Between the two, I'd pick the T2.
I love your honest and informative reviews. I had Olina and I didn't like her either. I agree completely with the opinion in the review. But I've heard that the modified Olina sounds like Hana 2021 with just another replaceable filter stuck on.
Awesomeness. I have heard the original Hana but not the Hana 21, interesting.
Thanks for the kind words, greatly appreciated.
I like my Olina's and have not been disappointed ( I did mod with an extra set of filter-nozzles). However, and for the money, I prefer the slightly more expensive Shuoer S12's ($140) as daily drivers. I pair my S12's with KZAZ09 Pro's ($26, discounted) bluetooth earloops for wireless use. Fantastic combo, IMO. That being said, for at or under $100, I do not believe much can compare to the Olina's. My other sub-$100 choices, based on personal experience and in order for descending preference: T3+, Heart Mirror (with vent mod), and TKZK Wave.
Disclaimer: I do not own the Titan S...no experience with this one.
Thanks for your impressions. Glad you enjoy the Olina.
S12's are a crazy good value with the coupon code / VIP code for $135-140.
@@TOM7952 Yup. The S12's pretty much ended my IEM binge-buying spree.
Nice. I love the Heart Mirror too. It's treble is very nice for me. I'm getting the T3 plus next. Excited to see it brought up here so much.
@@MR.ROBOTVOLTRON Can't go wrong with either of these IEM's, IMHO.
2 years later-- if everyone knew
that the market was about to drop a million insanely good budget sets soon after this release, doubt it would have been so hyped. Tripowin $35 Picoolo graphs like modded OLINA, coincidence? As a basshead I think it sounds great despite its subdued bass. Can't tell ya if it sounds like OLINA, never would have bought a $100 set that needed modding just to be listenable and back then - no bass, no go. I have EQD since I've started listening to music and now mod most of my sets. That being said, they are all significantly
@the Honest Audiophile Dave I see you have recommended the T3+ and the Dunu Titans S over the Olina's in there price point. What would be your choice if I wanted to move to the next level of IEM's over the Olina's, ie next price level. I like my Olina's but would like to move to the next level for pretty much all the reasons you addressed. Sorry if this question has already been asked. Thanks
Moondrop Kato
Great review as always ☕️
Yup a dryer and brighter version of my Aria ( the Aria is slightly better IMHO) .
All my IEM’s in my stable bring something to the party …that Olina bring a citrusy chip dip..weird..but it’s something 🤷🏻♂️
Interesting analogy, citrus chip dip 🤔
@@TheHonestAudiophile Goid morning Dave☕️☕️
There’s something for everyone..I find that on older recordings ,much like HBB’s ,playlist they’re good..but they’re ok.
As for the citrusy dip..works well with a plain taco chip…..
Btw, I did the “modd” ..I don’t think my ears picked the up any difference at the volume I listen at.
Anyway , thanks for the review..sorry for not getting back sooner.
Btw, at least it wasn’t an anchovy and pineapple 🍕
Hi dave, since the double filter is done with accessories that are in the box, maybe you could have a try. Some iems have several nozzles, this one has several filters.
PS, just got them, spinfit CP 100
Olina have been returned to the lender. I no longer have them in my possession.
Then you have missed something good😉
Magistral!! Gracias!!
My pleasure, you're welcome.
Is Olina comparable to 7hz salnotes dioko??
Which will be a better choice? ❤❤❤
Well the Dioko didn't fit me well and the Olina did so I'd have to lean towards the Olina. Here's a link to my Dioko review:
ua-cam.com/video/4HvXpJNMGJM/v-deo.html
good review...do review Moondrop Variations pleaseeeeeee.....it punches way above its price tag, as stated by many ...I wanna hear an honest opinion before pulling the trigger...one other request is to review IE600..thanks
It would be nice to review both the IE600 and Variantions. If one is provided to the channel I will gladly review it. Thanks for the suggestions.
@@TheHonestAudiophile thats fine, but does any portion of the channel money dedicated to buying review gears or does it wholly depends on gears sent by vendors or anyone else?
@@shahkhan110 the funds provided to the channel are all used to provide gear for review. Manufacturers and vendors provide a lot of gear for review. Some subscribers and friends have loaned gear.
I have funded all the reference gear products with my personal bank account, ie. Rosson RAD-0, Mytek Liberty DAC II, HeadAmp GS-X Mini, CTM Da Vinci X, Fearless Audio Roland, Mr.Speakers Ether C, Audeze LCD 2 Closed, Schiit Audio Vidar, Tor Audio Roger, Martin Logan Motion 15, Wharfedale D310, Meze Empyrean and a lot more
Money doesn't grow on trees.
As of today I am getting $11.15 a month from Patreon and roughly $125-150 a month from UA-cam monetization. So as you can see, it takes a while to save up and purchase gear with that income stream.
I do what I can to get gear in a timely manner. Also not all gear is available where I live.
I like the design!
I bought the Olin’s when they first came out and I was let down too. I modded them but they were not that much better.
Dave great review as always ☕️
As for the Olina’s, same here ( #363) …I find them to be a dryer & brighter version of my Aria’s….which are cheaper btw.
But not all the IEM’s in my stable are all the same..they each bring something different to the party ..the Olina’s bring a citrusy chip dip…it’s something.🤷🏻♂️
Thanks for the impressions.
@@TheHonestAudiophile I actually tried 2 filters, this did correct the aggressive mids, but then they sounded congested and the details wend out the window.
@@fiddlix it takes a certain combo of filters to get it sounding right.
@@mikeinglett3994 I have to eat my words on what I said earlier. Mike Inglett, you are so right. I found every stick on filter I had, and low and behold, when I found the right combination the Olinas all of a sudden these things went from my worst to one of my best. Certainly in the same camp as my Thieaudio Elixers. Not quite but dang close considering the Olinas are $100 less expensive than the Elixers. Thank you for making me think and be open minded for a change.
is Kato still the better choice under $250?
Kato is for sure a better choice over the stock Olina in my opinion.
Absolutely a better choice. The KATOs are one of my daily drivers.
Short nozzle suck, I believe this is the KZ zsn pro in another shell ?
Nice review. NyVo mod and Shortbus mod are both a big improvement.
Thanks for sharing.
I have these iems and really enjoy them. I did add the second filter though which takes the treble a little bit and adds a touch of bass. The way you’re describing it Dave it almost sounds like you didn’t have a good seal. It has the best 3D sound of any iem I’ve heard.
Thanks for sharing!
S12 is a pretty better choice?
Not even a competition, S12 blows the doors off the Olina.
@@TheHonestAudiophile thank you!
My pleasure, you're welcome.
Please tell me if as neutral and being almost middle aged man, I am undecided between the Mele and the Tin 2
T2 is neutral and the Mele is bass and mids boosted.
So the cheaper T3 plus is better than Olina...Thanks Dave so far your recommendation synced with my taste
some said Olina beats Kato in some departments (doubted)but you said it's not even close T3 plus..phew saved me
Keep in mind my impressions are based on stock so those claims might be of one of the modded Olina versions, I can't confirm.
I have both and do not regret either purchase. Frankly, if I had to buy one on a tighter budget I would go T3+. For a little more, the Olina with the extra factory-filter set is slightly preferred. For a little more, the Shuoer S12 is my personal end-game for IEM's.
@@jb678901 Thanks for the impressions
@@jb678901 that's a good impression for how close these are at that price point. Thanks. I've been looking at the Shouer because I wanted something like the Timeless but for less. People say the S12 in some cases is better. I keep seeing people love it.
I can just tell that double filters mids + azla xelastec (ans some burning in) on them make Olina a superb iem! New favourite with shuoer S12.
Thank u
My pleasure, you're welcome.
best iem for professional gaming and general use?
I'm not much of a source for Pro gaming. I am a casual gamer on PS4 Pro and I play sports and sim racing games mostly.
These are the IEM I prefer to use for gaming.
Tin Hifi T2
Moondrop Kato
Fearless Audio Roland
CTM Da Vinci X
Sir T3 plus or Tforce Yuan Li ? ❤️
Sorry haven't heard TForce Yuan Li.
please compare tanchjim oxygen vs Moondrop Kato
Sorry haven't heard the Tanchjim Oxygen.
Is it worth buying if one already owns the Kato?
Not unless you really want to hear it. The Kato is superior in every possible way.
Thank you
My pleasure, you're welcome.
I had some issues with the tips in the beginning. Didn't love the tuning, but they are nice at lower volumes. With EQ they are enjoyable. The biggest issue for me is the isolation which is, with two vents per shell, non existent. I do like their timbre, though. And the resolution for the price is very good.
Thanks for the impressions. Yeah isolation is bad on the Olina.
The double mesh mod helps with that, and "only good at low volume" was my initial complaint too. I would agree that isolation isn't good with the stock tips, and I switched mine to Spinfit CP100+, which seal well for me, even when they are shallow like that.
@@JohnClarkW The mod makes it congested and impedes on the details. I do like it with the EQ, though.
There is a lot of harshness complains with this iem. Looks like It's really an issue.
What iem has good soundstage and depth?
Budget?
@@TheHonestAudiophile Midrange
@@TheHonestAudiophile yes
How much is the budget?
Olina or yume?
Yume hands down, not even close.
Only worked for me with Double filter, without is harsh, modded is a incridible energetic set
Thanks for the impressions.
Even HBB himself has been subtly pointing out that he wasn't all that happy with how the Olina turned out.
That is what I have heard too. Not only from HBB but another reviewer as well.
really, ive seen nothing but him hyping it to valhalla everytime he talks about it
Odd considering he put it at the top of his A tier and downplayed the treble from day one. I've only heard him praise it and claim it's the absolute best value. The only disappointment I heard from him about the Olina was he couldn't completely copy the frequency response of the pair he claims the driver is from. Idk.....
@@haziee3108 and that is the very problem with the Olina, a fantastic driver in the wrong shell. While the double filter mod helps some, I find very slight eq corrections in the problem areas much more effective. It doesn’t take much.
Not sure they picked the right enclosure for that DD. Should have made a dome like metal structure like a BLON or Urbanfun. I bet the acoustics of it would have improved.