Level 6: you reach enlightenment and understand that chasing the perfect IEM that costs 10 times more for 10% improvement (diminishing returns hits hard after level 2-3) does not make much sense and enjoy the sets you already have.
Sorry I disagree completely. My last 3 IEMs cost me just over $14,000 but that last 10% is pure magic. I never knew what truly beautiful music was until this last year
@@donaldwolff money well spent I guess.Maybe when I can start earning my own money I'll buy the best stuff.what was the iem that got you feeling that?And also have you tried the Sennheiser he1?it is also Uber expensive but is said to be the best headphone period.
I'm at level 2. I have several pairs of IEMs $200-$300 and a bunch below $150. I will probably buy one more set under $500. Diminishing returns starts to hit hard above $500 in my opinion. Besides the fact that everything I buy is a blind buy, no place to hear these things in person. It always surprises me when someone buys a $1000 plus IEM and is not happy for any number of reasons. I have to rely on all the reviews so I am grateful for all your hard work! Thanks!!
I think most people are blind buy, that's why the IEM Reviewers exist, fortunately I can return IEMs that I bought from AliExpress, including upto USD $500 .
Nice vid. I feel that $200-$1000 is too large a range to be grouped together. Both iems mentioned were around $800. I would rec the Arete/Doscincos/Estrellas ($260-$300) and Mega 5 EST (bass version for me) and Symphonium Meteors, both $600). $200-$500, $500-$1000 makes more sense. But a good guide with a lot of recs. Appreciate you
@@Jaytiss @moonsofJupiter makes a valid point and I completely agree. For what it's worth I truly dig your videos man but for the love of God please change that ending. It's brutal
solid collection u have there bro. Funnily enough, the two IEMs you have at lvl 4 would also be my only 2 top choices at $3000 ~ $4000 as well. I personally own the Anni 2021 and love it everyday for that world-class treble and uber resolution, and have demoed the cp622b, it made my jaw dropped which I thought was impossible after having owned the Anni 2021, the bass as a whole is just so visceral for BA bass, while the mid is both lush & detailed, in fact the most beautiful mid ever for an IEM, and if that's not enough, the cp622b is also the most technical IEM i've ever heard, details is AT THE LEAST on par with my Anni 2021 while having even more pinpointing imaging and wider soundstage, the cp622b pretty much upscale everything in a song to 8k resolution, just so addicting. Perfect complement set to the Anni imo, and I know what i'm gonna save up for next lol.
already at level 3 and i think i can't go further 😂 my journey : level 0 : chu - so good for the starter, then makes me curious sound of iems above $50 level 1 : hexa - ok, already got mindblown here, also start to got proper dac level 2 : s12 pro, ie200, mp145 - "i don't know if songs can sounds like this!"~ at this range maybe enough to be a pause/endgame for majority people level 3 : pilgrim - alright, pause here first until got a chance to hear another iems
I’ll stay on level 1 on sale. I guess I wouldn’t call myself a hobbyist or an an enthusiast but i definitely keep my eyes on the best budget sounds I can find.
Hi, Jay! Nice tips!. I’m new on the hobby, steel forming my collection. Currently have the SM4, P8 and Pilgrim. Looking for iems to complement or upgrade SM4 and P8 from 300-700 dollars. Considering S15 and Origin to add to my collection but I would prefer a more Endgame level instead. Any suggestions? Rgds Mauro.
I'm not into listening to music as a hobby nor as a profession, I listen for enjoyment. Levels do not mean squat to me nor do price points, I purchase what gives me the most listening enjoyment. I understand that there is not a single IEM that will give me or anyone everything they want, thus the need for several IEMs that work best with different genres.
My problem is I started at level 3, two years ago I bought a pair of Fiio FD5's as my first chi-fi IEMs. I had a pair of Shure Se215's before that, but after 5 or 6 years of daily use they broke and I bought the FD5's. Now I want something better than FD5's but I'm wanting to spend no more than $300. Also, no downgrade in Soundstage or cohesiveness that comes with the FD5. I guess this is a call for help...
Plussound, I made a post about it. Only 60 dollars! www.plussoundaudio.com/accessories/general.html?store-page=PLUSSOUND-Leather-Earphone-Stand-p506217389
in terms of actual purchases, I'm firmly at level 3 with my DaVinci and I don't see myself buying anything new anytime soon LOL In terms of "experiencing" IEMs, I have actively tried out tons of IEMs at stores and shows; Last time I checked my impressions spreadsheet, I'm close to 200 IEMs LOL. I do it because it's a fun activity for me, but also so that I don't sound like I'm talking out my ass when I'm giving out recommendations to other people.
No matter where you are, more money can be spent. I have also learned that I don't like how bright standard audiophile tuning is. I am a big fan of the Ziigaat Doscinco, and the Aful Explorer might be my top 2 IEMs currently.
My first IEM's were the Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite. I heard them because of a friend of mine that had them and I just felt the necessity to buy them, they sound amazing
So the legends are true. IEMs is a trap. I got 3 $10-20 ones and is currently looking at the $60 kefine delci, FML. Sad that we don't have places to test IEMs in my country
how is it possible for that Annihilator's huge midbass to not muddy up vocals? I mean there is a reason Thieaudio decided to put most of its bass energy into subbass... how clean are Annihilator's vocals? I think Pilgrim OG overdid that strategy by not beginning its bass rise until 140Hz, but a gentle rise from about 250Hz (like your target curve) soundS right to my ear.... keeps the vocals up front.
CCA CRA (V2) is spectacular. MSRP $15, Ali welcome deal, less than $5. The silent update now tracks very close to Kiwi Ears Cadenza, but clear with surprising detail retrieval. Hacking Hi-Fi has a video review of it and AfterSound has the squigs of both versions. People need to know.
been 3 years since i have been at level 3. very happy where I am and still enjoying cheaper sets like the explorer. will hopefully get the aful cantor soon!
I really enjoyed the video! That was different and refreshing! I am at level 1. I have been in the hobby for almost a year now. I started my journey with the 7Hz Zero 2 and have about 12 budget sets now. It's been a lot of fun!
@@Jaytiss Agreed! I also have one of the sets you recommended and that is the EPZ Q1 Pro. I love that one 😍 it's excellent and I got it for around $25.00 dollars. I would also like to mention the Ziigaat Nuo another budget banger and also one of my favorites.
Hydro is a beast.Solid punchy tight bass great separation great soundstage but bad fitting..,(small ears) Very good for EQ freaks too needs a warm source though
@@Jaytiss yes I like it too but unfortunately it doesn t fit me well they could make the shell better it's a pity.I may try to make custom shells it's worth it in my opinion I also will put a 250 -300 mesh in end of the nozzle to sweeten it..
Great little breakdown, even if I don't *exactly* agree with some of the specifics I think you've made the best "levels" for someone new to the hobby that anyone has yet! Also, as a Storm owner, levels 2-3 are where diminishing returns go to die; 4-5 are for people that either have unlimited means or this is basically their only major hobby (I fall into the latter for sure). I think that it's worth reiterating that 2-3 is where you start getting true specialization as well; 1-2 is the best place to learn what you like the most or want less of, then stepping up a notch you can dial in your preferences. Level 1 is for sure aimed at as wide an audience as possible, and that's great! It means everyone can get something good to great at a reasonable price!
@@Sonofholhorsethere's no right or wrong, some people are rich enough buying a supercar for millions of dollars and won't hurt their wallet , it's affordability mate and also passion involved with this hobby, I found many friends and family members are not interested with good IEM at all , like what you like , be happy 🎉🎉.................
@@Jaytiss i am kinda stuck in here.. i spent around 290 USD on budget stuff in span of 3-5yrs... 😅😅. Dumb me.. now i know whats neutral to my ears.. have an approximate target curve.. so i will take time and get iem with good driver...
KZ Castor is a good start at Lv0 and it's often less than $10. Lv10 - I can buy all the IEMs on Lv5. Yes, please say hi to the reviewer with a face. Where's Waldo?
Level 6: you reach enlightenment and understand that chasing the perfect IEM that costs 10 times more for 10% improvement (diminishing returns hits hard after level 2-3) does not make much sense and enjoy the sets you already have.
I like that. XD
@@Jaytissguess I'm at level 6
lol nice. XD
Sorry I disagree completely. My last 3 IEMs cost me just over $14,000 but that last 10% is pure magic. I never knew what truly beautiful music was until this last year
@@donaldwolff money well spent I guess.Maybe when I can start earning my own money I'll buy the best stuff.what was the iem that got you feeling that?And also have you tried the Sennheiser he1?it is also Uber expensive but is said to be the best headphone period.
I'm at level "BROKE". :(
LOL XD
Same here. 🙈
Stuck at level 2 for years. Can't defeat the last boss aka my better half.
lol Smart
Same here, trying to be a responsible dad
@@giannisapostolopoulos9217 Trying to be a responsible cat dad and stray dogs feeder.
After owning elysian annihilator, now Im lack of sleep cuz I always want to listen to music with it 😂
So good.
Beware of Tinitus issue, it's what I'm having trouble with now .less volume mate....
I'm at level 2. I have several pairs of IEMs $200-$300 and a bunch below $150. I will probably buy one more set under $500. Diminishing returns starts to hit hard above $500 in my opinion. Besides the fact that everything I buy is a blind buy, no place to hear these things in person. It always surprises me when someone buys a $1000 plus IEM and is not happy for any number of reasons. I have to rely on all the reviews so I am grateful for all your hard work! Thanks!!
After a point it's just different signature. the 1000 dollars sets aren't always better.
I think most people are blind buy, that's why the IEM Reviewers exist, fortunately I can return IEMs that I bought from AliExpress, including upto USD $500 .
Nice vid. I feel that $200-$1000 is too large a range to be grouped together. Both iems mentioned were around $800. I would rec the Arete/Doscincos/Estrellas ($260-$300) and Mega 5 EST (bass version for me) and Symphonium Meteors, both $600). $200-$500, $500-$1000 makes more sense. But a good guide with a lot of recs. Appreciate you
I aggree you can get some value in that 300-1000 level. It was just kinda saying where I think. Maybe there is a level 2.5! XD
@@Jaytiss
@moonsofJupiter makes a valid point and I completely agree. For what it's worth I truly dig your videos man but for the love of God please change that ending. It's brutal
We'll think about it.
Go home is annoying Jaytiss, I'm older than you but , it sounds like something.............😂😂.......@@Jaytiss
Edc pro is great for its price, nice recommendation
It sure is!
I keep buying different level 2/2.5 sets. Great video! Where can we find those beautiful stands?
Here! Only 60 a pop! Kinda expensive but fun. www.plussoundaudio.com/accessories/general.html?store-page=PLUSSOUND-Leather-Earphone-Stand-p506217389
solid collection u have there bro. Funnily enough, the two IEMs you have at lvl 4 would also be my only 2 top choices at $3000 ~ $4000 as well. I personally own the Anni 2021 and love it everyday for that world-class treble and uber resolution, and have demoed the cp622b, it made my jaw dropped which I thought was impossible after having owned the Anni 2021, the bass as a whole is just so visceral for BA bass, while the mid is both lush & detailed, in fact the most beautiful mid ever for an IEM, and if that's not enough, the cp622b is also the most technical IEM i've ever heard, details is AT THE LEAST on par with my Anni 2021 while having even more pinpointing imaging and wider soundstage, the cp622b pretty much upscale everything in a song to 8k resolution, just so addicting. Perfect complement set to the Anni imo, and I know what i'm gonna save up for next lol.
Canpur so good.
already at level 3 and i think i can't go further 😂
my journey :
level 0 : chu - so good for the starter, then makes me curious sound of iems above $50
level 1 : hexa - ok, already got mindblown here, also start to got proper dac
level 2 : s12 pro, ie200, mp145 - "i don't know if songs can sounds like this!"~ at this range maybe enough to be a pause/endgame for majority people
level 3 : pilgrim - alright, pause here first until got a chance to hear another iems
Thanks for sharing. I think that's the thing, after a point enough is enough. Just enjoy the music.
I’ll stay on level 1 on sale. I guess I wouldn’t call myself a hobbyist or an an enthusiast but i definitely keep my eyes on the best budget sounds I can find.
Very fair. Truthear Pure Coukd be good.
Hi, Jay! Nice tips!. I’m new on the hobby, steel forming my collection. Currently have the SM4, P8 and Pilgrim. Looking for iems to complement or upgrade SM4 and P8 from 300-700 dollars. Considering S15 and Origin to add to my collection but I would prefer a more Endgame level instead. Any suggestions? Rgds Mauro.
I’d go to a show before spending big. Check out everything there then decide. If not try my ranking list to help guide you what I think.
11:00 actually pretty big fan of (other) Jay's genre/upgrade guide
👍❤️
I'm not into listening to music as a hobby nor as a profession, I listen for enjoyment. Levels do not mean squat to me nor do price points, I purchase what gives me the most listening enjoyment. I understand that there is not a single IEM that will give me or anyone everything they want, thus the need for several IEMs that work best with different genres.
That’s fair. Levels are meant to express it’s ok to love whatever you want. You are level 99.
I love my blon 03, mh755 and explorer. Permanently stuck at whichever level I'm now.
😅
From explorer to the Annihilator, you got yourself a damn good collection mate.
Ogg thank you.
And bankruptcy
My problem is I started at level 3, two years ago I bought a pair of Fiio FD5's as my first chi-fi IEMs. I had a pair of Shure Se215's before that, but after 5 or 6 years of daily use they broke and I bought the FD5's. Now I want something better than FD5's but I'm wanting to spend no more than $300. Also, no downgrade in Soundstage or cohesiveness that comes with the FD5. I guess this is a call for help...
😅❤️
Hey where did u get those awesome stands from?
Plussound, I made a post about it. Only 60 dollars! www.plussoundaudio.com/accessories/general.html?store-page=PLUSSOUND-Leather-Earphone-Stand-p506217389
in terms of actual purchases, I'm firmly at level 3 with my DaVinci and I don't see myself buying anything new anytime soon LOL
In terms of "experiencing" IEMs, I have actively tried out tons of IEMs at stores and shows; Last time I checked my impressions spreadsheet, I'm close to 200 IEMs LOL. I do it because it's a fun activity for me, but also so that I don't sound like I'm talking out my ass when I'm giving out recommendations to other people.
Davinci is wicked nice.
The Dunu DaVinci is a nice set but I went with the Blessing 3. Wouldn't mind picking up the Dunu DaVinci either.
@@Ron-zr6se I'm one of those weird people that still preferred the old Blessing 2 to the 3 🤣
No matter where you are, more money can be spent. I have also learned that I don't like how bright standard audiophile tuning is. I am a big fan of the Ziigaat Doscinco, and the Aful Explorer might be my top 2 IEMs currently.
It’s so good. It’s about the tuning more than the price.
Doscinco is awesome!
My first IEM's were the Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite. I heard them because of a friend of mine that had them and I just felt the necessity to buy them, they sound amazing
That’s a solid pick.
Level 1 imo: QKZ x HBB
I've heard so many good things.
So the legends are true. IEMs is a trap. I got 3 $10-20 ones and is currently looking at the $60 kefine delci, FML. Sad that we don't have places to test IEMs in my country
Yeah that's too bad. Try to make friends in the hobby or something. It's not easy, but it's a good option if you can.
level 10, make your own iem :D
❤️😂😍. Love it.
@@Jaytiss I do enjoy your reviews of IEMs way above my wallet!
Is it preferred to jump from level 0 to level 3?
Depends. But I say demo stuff first. Better that way.
@@Jaytiss it's difficult if there is no local physical audio store. I only rely on online shops
Yeah very tough. Try to make friends. You might be suprised how nice sone guys are.
@@Jaytiss btw my 1st iem is the 7hz zero then I jumped to the moondrop dusk? Did I've done well? Haha
Recently got the EDC Pro for $7 just to try what an IEM is, and its pretty good and enjoyable! Already looking at level 1/level 2 right now!
Solid starting point!
how is it possible for that Annihilator's huge midbass to not muddy up vocals? I mean there is a reason Thieaudio decided to put most of its bass energy into subbass... how clean are Annihilator's vocals? I think Pilgrim OG overdid that strategy by not beginning its bass rise until 140Hz, but a gentle rise from about 250Hz (like your target curve) soundS right to my ear.... keeps the vocals up front.
It's weird, you think it would. but to me it is just super detailed and nice.
CCA CRA (V2) is spectacular. MSRP $15, Ali welcome deal, less than $5. The silent update now tracks very close to Kiwi Ears Cadenza, but clear with surprising detail retrieval.
Hacking Hi-Fi has a video review of it and AfterSound has the squigs of both versions.
People need to know.
Thanks for sharing!
been 3 years since i have been at level 3. very happy where I am and still enjoying cheaper sets like the explorer. will hopefully get the aful cantor soon!
Cantor is a fun set. ❤️🙏
I really enjoyed the video! That was different and refreshing! I am at level 1. I have been in the hobby for almost a year now. I started my journey with the 7Hz Zero 2 and have about 12 budget sets now. It's been a lot of fun!
Some great sets out there in the budget space.
@@Jaytiss Agreed! I also have one of the sets you recommended and that is the EPZ Q1 Pro. I love that one 😍 it's excellent and I got it for around $25.00 dollars. I would also like to mention the Ziigaat Nuo another budget banger and also one of my favorites.
I'm on level cra-cra.
lol nice!
@@Jaytiss don't know about smart but I'll go with it 🤣
XD
I had to keep telling myself "the sexy, sultry Jaytiss voice isn't real and can't hurt me"
It's a good mic. XD
The audiophile story is also the origin story of never ending DLCs.
lol exactly, you can never get them all! After a while it just becomes wasteful.
I’m on the mest mk2 level but I also had the senn ie600 and I would argue that for a lot less those were amazing
Nice, I need to hear the mest mk2.
Why the hell this guys announces the earphones like an UFC announcer whenever a fighter appears?
🤷
the presentation style devolving (evolving?) with each level got me 🤣
Great video! I'm on my own Island Level Tangzu Xuan Wu Gate 😝
Smart group.
Hydro is a beast.Solid punchy tight bass great separation great soundstage but bad fitting..,(small ears) Very good for EQ freaks too needs a warm source though
I like CCA Hydro. If you like midbass, it's a treasure.
@@Jaytiss yes I like it too but unfortunately it doesn t fit me well they could make the shell better it's a pity.I may try to make custom shells it's worth it in my opinion I also will put a 250 -300 mesh in end of the nozzle to sweeten it..
Great little breakdown, even if I don't *exactly* agree with some of the specifics I think you've made the best "levels" for someone new to the hobby that anyone has yet! Also, as a Storm owner, levels 2-3 are where diminishing returns go to die; 4-5 are for people that either have unlimited means or this is basically their only major hobby (I fall into the latter for sure). I think that it's worth reiterating that 2-3 is where you start getting true specialization as well; 1-2 is the best place to learn what you like the most or want less of, then stepping up a notch you can dial in your preferences. Level 1 is for sure aimed at as wide an audience as possible, and that's great! It means everyone can get something good to great at a reasonable price!
Great comment. Thanks for sharing. I think the levels are just silly. People like games or leveling up, it's just silly fun.
@@Jaytiss Anyone that takes this hobby too seriously is doing it wrong!
@@Sonofholhorsethere's no right or wrong, some people are rich enough buying a supercar for millions of dollars and won't hurt their wallet , it's affordability mate and also passion involved with this hobby, I found many friends and family members are not interested with good IEM at all , like what you like , be happy 🎉🎉.................
I'm in level 2-3 with qoa adonis new
Nice, I've heard good things.
what are those iem stands😮
From Plus Sound. About 60 dollars!
@@Jaytiss Thank you! Made in the USA, nice.
Nice vid!
Level 7: you cant find the perfect iem and decided to fuck it and do it yourself.
lol nice!
Great video
Thank you!
Level zero...
We all start somewhere.
@@Jaytiss i am kinda stuck in here.. i spent around 290 USD on budget stuff in span of 3-5yrs... 😅😅. Dumb me.. now i know whats neutral to my ears.. have an approximate target curve.. so i will take time and get iem with good driver...
Truthear nova is 140$ so it's already a level 2
Yeah it’s a little off . 😂❤️. Nova ruins it!
KZ Castor is a good start at Lv0 and it's often less than $10.
Lv10 - I can buy all the IEMs on Lv5.
Yes, please say hi to the reviewer with a face. Where's Waldo?
Hey I’ll have a name tag!!!