I’ve been looking at a few more premium IEMs as a Christmas present for myself. This was on my list, but after everything you said about the sound, I am probably looking elsewhere now. Love your review style, you manage to hit that line between “detailed” and “engaging”.
Another great content Dave, nice review and comparison of the Variations, I'm still have my eye on the Xenns Mangird Top hopefully I will get it the road, and have a great, wonderful, blessed, positive, productive and safe week
Another great review, Dave. The Kato and the S12 have been sharing daily-driving duties for me for months now, and I'm very happy with them. As I said in response to your review of the Top a while ago, I think I'll be saving up for that one!
I have a Kato. Was going for the variations and was a little in doubt about it. Started looking for more revews on the internet about the mangird top and with your review, it sealed the deal for me on these Green beauties.
@@TheHonestAudiophile you can be shure i will! I cant afford or access many of the iems that comes in the market. So your kind of content is extremely needed for ppl like me who lacks the access and need to maximize the efficiency on their purchases.
Ok, so my mangird tops Just arrived. They are fenomenal! Detailed, wide soundstage, Bass mildly elevated gets that hit when needed, mids até Very natural yet bodied due to the Bass, treble is Very detailed and a little toned down. Its fun, beautiful and doesnt gets fatiguing. Guess i reached my endgame. Thanks for helping me decide with your content.
I’m writing as I’m watching..yes, your comparison to the KATO is spot on … Yes, I’ve got both ..but the last one you mentioned peeked my curiosity…… Will keep an eye out. Take care .
So glad to see your review on the Variation. I have been watching reviews for it for about 8 months trying to decide if I should pull the trigger. It gets a ton of hype and is on many folks list of IEMs to buy. However, I've been reading their are variations (ha ha) that are being seen lately, so I wasn't sure. It still sounds like a nice IEM but given your comparisons to the Kato (which I have) and the TOP (which is also on my list), I think I'll go for the TOP. As usual thank you for such a thoughtful review
Finally a variations review! Congrats on getting your hands on a pair. I was a bit surprised not to see the blessings mentioned in this video since they're the in-between for the Kato and Variations. Great video regardless. Thanks
Kato is better comparison sonically in my opinion. Blessing 2 is brighter, wider stage, has thinner note weight and way less bass impact but isn't boredom inducing.
I agree with the comment regarding note weight and midbass. As I also own the Xenns Up I've found that I enjoy that IEMs' slam while i greatly prefer the Variations' sub bass. For some odd reason though I really enjoy the mids even as thin as they are, I'm chalking it up to inexperience with better sets that fully capture the mids as I only really own the Variations and Xenns Up. I really enjoy how they sound but I'd love to give the Xenns Top a try but the lowest I've ever seen those IEMs are around 450 and since I only paid for $325 each for my Vari and Up I honestly can't be bothered to run towards a Top since I'm broke. Maybe I'll see if there's anyone interested in trading but that's just wishful thinking on my part I think lol
@@TheHonestAudiophile It's honestly criminal that I've never run into your channel during my whole IEM search craze, subbed and I'll be here now to see your reviews :)
I have the variations (and too many other IEMs of all prices), and completely agree with this review, many thanks for this. I kept the variations because it reminds me of a subwoofer + tweeter speaker system (those with the satellites that we don't see that often nowadays), and in some cases that can be an enjoyable experience. Because its bass is focussed mostly on the sub-bass region, the subwoofer effect is very noticeable - nice for movies and EDM that make use of frequencies below 200hz, but not great for everything else. Also, a curious IEM because a number of reviewers (including Crinacle) gave it an S rank - it is definitely lower in my list, for the reasons you mentioned: thinness, lacking mid-bass, only average treble and resolution for the price.
Given the latest "hot" entries. What are the top picks for under $350? I'd like to spend around $150-200 ... I feel it's the sweet spot for IEM market. I'm very curious about IE 200 & 300, and Kato and its competition. I currently got the Truth Ear Zero and although the resolution is nothing crazy, the way it does bass and has no bleed is great. These are a fun and punchy IEM for $50. I have Edition XS over ears and the IEM delivers nearly as engaging an experience. I can get spine tingles in vocals with the Zeros that not even the XS can deliver.
Xenns Mangird Tea 2 JQ 4U Pro ThieAudio Elixir Here is a link to my tier list: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1nRHnsP_4vLg9DlD9kwJ6gQuEQFqhTR0lnrkxXo3AMG8/edit?usp=drivesdk
Nice review Dave. I love my Xenns Top. They play everything in my library well and are so comfortable to wear. That being said, I do think they sound a bit rounded and polished. Which isn't a bad thing, but to me they aren't the most natural sounding set. I guess you can't have it all!
No, I wouldn't describe the sound signature as bright or sibilant. The treble is rounded off just before things get peaky. You still get clarity and details without the pain. Hope that helps.
Top has more bass impact and more extended in sub bass and treble. The Top has more detail retrieval and resolution. The tone and timbre is slightly better on Top. Overall the Top is an upgrade but is a little more fun leaning than Kato.
I was very eager to hear your opinion on these, as I've been eyeballing the Xenns Top for a while now. I recently sold my Variations as I had the same experience as you; they sound very clinical and boring. Personally, I listen to music to have fun, and the Variations just weren't that for me... So based off that, I think the Xenns Top may be the right choice for me. Thank you for the videos:)
Hi! 😊, when the Kato is 98 percent of the variations in technical aspects, there is really no need for people already having er2se or p1max to bother with this set, right? Tuning and technicalities (but mainly technicalities).
Very timely review, as I've been contemplating an upgrade from my beloved KATOs. Variations originally made the shortlist, along with the Xenns Top (largely based on your review) and Thieaudio Excalibur, but don't think they'll make it to the final round. Have you listened to the Excaliburs and, if you have, could you share your impressions? Thank you!
The headphone jack connector can connected in two orientations to the cable... Moondrop themselves says to align the "arrow" from the cable with the "two bars" from the plug, but I found that rotating 180 degrees make the midbass more impactful... have you tried both ways?
@@TheHonestAudiophile thanks for the review, i was hesitating between xenns top and variations, but i found used variations for around 350$. Xenns Top was 492$ so it was a big difference in price. Nevertheless I will try to test the Xenns Top whenever I can
It seems the "correct" cable connector position has the + and - for each channel inverted, so out of phase. If you flip the connector 180° it has now the correct phase and the bass sounds better. Fortunately this is easy to do with the provided cable. My variations doesn't have much of a bass tuck, it is flat on the midbass, and I really like it. True, not the most engaging but a really reference sound IMHO.
I haven't heard the Variations since I reviewed them. I don't recall a whole lot but the the Variations don't have as much punch and slam in the bass as the Hype 4 so I would think the Hype 4 is better for trance/EDM music. BUT I wasn't able to do a side-by-side comparison, this is off memory.
When you hold variations in your hands, you think "damned, it's heavy, so quality is here....." Error. Half of the IEM weight is the stainless face plate, and that's cheap to produce.
Hi, I have the same impressions before I used them with final E tips.The bundled eartips suck big time....plz change tips and try again with a good dongle...these are beasts
Sorry I appreciate your review. But I couldn’t disagree with you more. I own the Kato, Starfield, Aria, Aria Snow Edition and the Variations. The Variations is still king among them.
They all have similar nozzle width. Kato review: ua-cam.com/video/wxBCHO996Ck/v-deo.html Tea 2 review: ua-cam.com/video/OI94iTC4SbA/v-deo.html Tea 2 has a bit more bass impact, especially in sub area, mids are slightly fuller and the treble is not as expressive, detail retrieval and resolution are slightly better. Kato is more spacious, slighly more elevated in mids and treble. Tea 2 for a little more everyday, laidback listen and Kato for the more neutral, analytical leaning listen.
@@TheHonestAudiophile i'd love to try the xenns top but I'm really treble sensitive and timmy said that the top arent for people like me. The heyday also was way too peaky for me. What a shame The mangird tea are just boring lol
The Heyday is more peaky then the Top by a good bit. BUT the Top does have a little bit of sizzle that could be too much for some. Variations is kinda in between the Tea2 and Top as far as elevated treble but still boring to my ears.
I JUST REALIZED THAT WHENEVER I WATCHED THE LATEST VID, I NORMALLY JUST CLICKED NEXT VID WITHOUT NOTICING IT'S ANOTHER VID FROM PREVIOUS MONTH/S. DOES THIS MATTER? WELL NOT FOR ME 🤭🥰 I ONLY LOVE THE HONEST REVIEW WHICH IS COOL! AND OH, THAT CLEAN LOOK IS ALWAYS LOVELY! CHEERS!
If you hit the notification bell you will be made aware whenever a new Honest Audiophile video is uploaded. Glad you enjoy the channel content. Thank you for watching, commenting and subscribing.
@@TheHonestAudiophile BEEN AN AVID FAN OF YOUR CHANNEL DAVE, SO YEAH I LOVE WATCHING YOUR REVIEWS AND OF COURSE I'M ONE OF THOSE EARLY BIRDS WHO IS NOTIFIED 🤗 STAY SAFE ALWAYS!
it's true the mid-bass is like missing with no extension which matches Dan's Audio Reviews same with my experience @ ua-cam.com/video/s2_MjtHL0Sk/v-deo.html, the vocal is too centric and unnatural
If youre still looking for an answer to this question, yes it a big improvement, of course it is lol I own both. The Monarch MK2 is the equivalent of getting a really really great office chair for a desk. When you first sit in an amazing ergonomic office chair, it feels very uneventful. But then you learn to appreciate that your back isn't hurting after 6 hours of sitting in it, no matter your posture. The Monarch MK2 is exactly this feeling, just with audio. You're not going to listen for 5 min and go WOW as the Kato is a very good IEM. However, thats because the Monarch MK2 is just amazing with how resolving everything you play on it is, with so much clarity and resolution along with great bass. The reason it comes off as "uneventful" is because it sound so unbelievably natural and clear, it's like hearing things how you would in real life (except obviously the imaging isn't as good as hearing something behind you in real life, but you get the point). It is also very very treble extended, so you just hear basically everything on every recording, its incredible The drawback with Monarch Mk2 is they are extremely big. The Kato is a pretty small IEM. Some will say the Blessing 2 is big, but I personally disagree; it's just medium sized and shaped very ergonomically. The Monarch MK2 is just too big, and will absolutely be noticable right away (Super Reviews demonstrates this in his video very well). For me though, that feeling of having a giant IEM doesn't bother me very much, and in fact I actually see it as a feature as it's extra noise isolating. I can wear it for 4+ hours without any issue (I havent tried longer). My recommendation to you, or anyone really, is to demo them if you can, or buy from a place with a great return policy (headphones dot com gives you a year to try them out and only charges a restocking fee, I feel that's extremely fair for an IEM like this) The Kato is a great IEM, very warm and neutral-ish sounding. But it's just not the resolution or balance of the Monarch MK2, nor is it nearly as dynamic. Just don't be surprised if you try a Monarch Mk2 and you want another IEM as a side grade for a different flavor to partner with it, because that definitely will happen lol
@Freddie Plaza You basically just solidified exactly how I thought they would be, lol. I was already considering getting the FatFreq Mini to satisfy my basshead needs, lmao 🤣. I have pretty big ears anyway, lol. I always have to use the biggest tips available. What do you run them with? I am considering getting the Fiio BTR7. I have the Questyle M12 for my Kato. I'm just going to use them with my Galaxy smartphone until I can get a gaming pc, then I will get a desktop amp/dac.
I knew you wouldn't love them. They really needed that bass & not just the subbass espeically because there's not that much "audiophile" music with more subbass than bass. These might do great for 4k bluray movies as movies actually have subbass maybe you should try the edge of tomorrow intro (1080p bluray dts track).
Yeah they are good for that sort of stuff for sure. Unfortunately the bass tuck and thin note weight just didn't sit right for me. Thank you for the comment.
Variations owner here, expected the same. Stock tuning of Variations only works for some genres like electronic for me. If you look at the people who highyl rate the Variations like Timmy from Gizaudio, they are often into (K-)Pop which I guess fits well tonality-wise. For most other genres I EQ the Variations to make it more neutral (reduce sub-bass, increase lower mids).
This new phenomenon of a mid-bass tuck angers me .. I think they're more or less taking an inspiration from the Variations.. And while a Mid-bass tuck helps in the clarity department, it makes things sound not natural. I totally relate to what you're trying to express. I totally love companies who are still bringing in a decent amount of mid-bass while not mudding up the lower mids.. Tin audio is one of them.. They've done a good job with the T2 , T2 plus, C2 Mech Warrior.... even the T3+ to some extent. The Dunu Titan s is another example.. I just don't understand why someone likes zero to negative mid bass
Yup! The mid/up bass tuck is very noticeable with the Variations. Xenns, Tin Hifi and Dunu do a good job of filling that in but keeping it clean and clear at the same time. Thank you for the comment.
Simple, this is not for you. I have Variations and I really love the sound signature, even when I had the S12 Pro, Dioko and Cadenza. And you know what, I really don't like Tin Hifi products.
Definitely it's about personal preference.. I clearly stated that 'I' don't like this tuning.. For me mid-bass is VERY important part of the frequency range and this idea that the slightest of mid-bass will spoil everything is personally irritating to me. There can be a healthy balance as far as I'm concerned... And the Dunu Titan S is the perfect example. The bass tuck is definitely not for me!
Of course it's a matter of personal preference. But what makes me don't understand why you should be angry with this phenomenon. If you don't like it, just ignore it and buy what suits your ear. Companies don't make things that require you to buy their products and they don't bankrupt them when you don't buy them. When an audiophile who understands his personal taste buys an expensive iem, then he doesn't care whether it's the iem with the best sound or the highest rating on the reviewer's ranking list, it doesn't matter. Because in the end the iem will only be installed in his ears, not other people's ears.
You're saying why should I be angry, when you're also being irritated at me being angry?😂😂 Dude... I'm being angry with respect to MY tastes?! If something doesn't abide by MY tastes, then i have every right to be pissed right?😅 I mean all i or anyone else would care about is their OWN tastes! Lol.. All I'm doing is stating out loud what i like or hate in the comment section as i sensed Dave too liked a bit of meat in the Mid-bass ...like me. Not allowed to do that eh?! When I could ignore the product if it doesn't suit me, even you could ignore my comment lol!
Could you EQ it for better mids ? I wanted the EJ07m and the Mangird Top but I got the Variations for 400$ Do you think thats a good price or should I get the top for 600$ Heard that the EJ07m is not that good in the subbass and it is less detailed Thanks in advance
I've not heard the EJ07m. I don't eq so I am not sure how they would take to eq. I personally would take the Top over the Variations as the video states in the comparison.
I don't EQ so I can listen and hear the gear in stock form. I use EQ when I'm mixing and monitoring for my church. I'm not against EQ I just prefer to hear gear as stock as possible.
Hey dave, I was so tempted on the Xenns top but saw a deal on the original letshuoer EJ07. I got it last night and it is the only iem to ever bring tears to my eyes.. by that I mean tears of joy. I hope you can review them someday (I looked but couldnt see if you have reviewed them or not)
To be clear, I like the Variations a lot, they're an excellent IEM. As for the bass and mids, they are thinner than what I consider to be natural and accurate. A natural sound is a little warm in reality.
@baboya Did you watch the entire video? I think the Variations are a quality IEM. In fact I quite like them but I prefer the Kato. I just find the Variations to be a tad boring. Look at my rankings list (read ranking grade tab first) and you'll see I give a high grade to the Variations, it isn't elite tier as some put it in my honest opinion. docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1nRHnsP_4vLg9DlD9kwJ6gQuEQFqhTR0lnrkxXo3AMG8/edit?usp=drivesdk
@@TheHonestAudiophile you know that age is a factor on ear's capablility to Hear. Right? Its the truth 100% you can google it or ask your doctor. I am stating facts on my own words and if youre not open to be criticized specially on technicalities of this hobby and as you know this hobby is preference based also, right? You should quit! I tried both variations and kato and imo its again very very different. And thats it. Not a place to be onion skin in this flatform.
@kyupalngyoutube I don't disagree that age impacts ear capabilities. I am not ashamed to state that I am 47 years young. My ears have lost a touch over my years of life. BUT my ears are not diminished so bad that I can't tell the differences; if they were I would not be reviewing. I know that besides ears and age a lot of other factors play into hearing differences in an IEM or between IEM; ie. what gear is used as a source, what music is listened to as a reference, personal experience with audio equipment, personal experience around live instruments and vocalists, etc. Everyone hears differently. I am glad you enjoy the Variations and you should as they are a good IEM. Thank you for commenting.
@@KyupalNgUA-camI've been trying to decide between the Kato or paying more for Variations, and reading your comment I think I might go with Kato since I'm 46 years old and so my old ears might prefer the Kato's. Thanks!
Always an honest review. Im liking your soft sweater as you are looking most huggable.
Thank you 💖
Glad you suggested the Kato's to me. Since I love critical listening, it simply works for me. Look at the money you've save me!🙂💰
I'm glad you enjoy the Kato.
You're welcome, my pleasure.
Your comparsion pushed me from the edge, sometime next month a Xenns Top will arrive at my house. Thanks man, love your reviews!
You are welcome, my pleasure. I look forward to hearing your impressions of the Top.
Glad you enjoy the channel content.
How are you finding the xenns top? What it worth the price?
Love your review, very accurate description and very honest.
Thanks.
I’ve been looking at a few more premium IEMs as a Christmas present for myself. This was on my list, but after everything you said about the sound, I am probably looking elsewhere now.
Love your review style, you manage to hit that line between “detailed” and “engaging”.
Glad you enjoy the channel content. Thanks for the kind words, much appreciated.
Another great content Dave, nice review and comparison of the Variations, I'm still have my eye on the Xenns Mangird Top hopefully I will get it the road, and have a great, wonderful, blessed, positive, productive and safe week
Thank you very much.
Look forward to hearing your impressions of the Top when you have the opportunity to purchase or hear them.
Another great review, Dave. The Kato and the S12 have been sharing daily-driving duties for me for months now, and I'm very happy with them. As I said in response to your review of the Top a while ago, I think I'll be saving up for that one!
Awesome! Look forward to your Top impressions after you purchase them.
Can't go wrong with the S12 and Kato, glad you enjoy them.
I already have the s12. Is it worth to get the Kato? I'm really considering them in the last days. What are you using more?
Kato has more natural tone and timbre, not as energetic and dynamic as the S12. Personally I use the Kato and Tin Hifi P1 Max more.
Been looking forward to this!
I've been waiting for this for so long. Im happy i got kato
Awesome! Glad you enjoy the Kato, a fantastic IEM.
Great review and love the chapters! Your impression match what I thought when I saw the FR, glad I passed 😕
Thanks for watching! Thanks for the feedback about the chapters. Thank you for the kind words.
Sadly they just don't live up to the hype for me.
I have a Kato. Was going for the variations and was a little in doubt about it. Started looking for more revews on the internet about the mangird top and with your review, it sealed the deal for me on these Green beauties.
Glad you found the review helpful. I look forward to hearing your impressions.
@@TheHonestAudiophile you can be shure i will! I cant afford or access many of the iems that comes in the market. So your kind of content is extremely needed for ppl like me who lacks the access and need to maximize the efficiency on their purchases.
Ok, so my mangird tops Just arrived. They are fenomenal! Detailed, wide soundstage, Bass mildly elevated gets that hit when needed, mids até Very natural yet bodied due to the Bass, treble is Very detailed and a little toned down. Its fun, beautiful and doesnt gets fatiguing. Guess i reached my endgame. Thanks for helping me decide with your content.
@xeabel Awesomeness 😎 I'm glad you enjoy the Top. Thanks for the impressions. Glad to help, you're welcome.
I’m writing as I’m watching..yes, your comparison to the KATO is spot on …
Yes, I’ve got both ..but the last one you mentioned peeked my curiosity……
Will keep an eye out.
Take care .
Awesomeness! Thank you for the comment.
Look forward to your impressions of the Top if you get the opportunity.
So glad to see your review on the Variation. I have been watching reviews for it for about 8 months trying to decide if I should pull the trigger. It gets a ton of hype and is on many folks list of IEMs to buy. However, I've been reading their are variations (ha ha) that are being seen lately, so I wasn't sure. It still sounds like a nice IEM but given your comparisons to the Kato (which I have) and the TOP (which is also on my list), I think I'll go for the TOP. As usual thank you for such a thoughtful review
My pleasure, you're welcome. I look forward to hearing your impressions of the Top.
Finally a variations review! Congrats on getting your hands on a pair. I was a bit surprised not to see the blessings mentioned in this video since they're the in-between for the Kato and Variations. Great video regardless. Thanks
Kato is better comparison sonically in my opinion.
Blessing 2 is brighter, wider stage, has thinner note weight and way less bass impact but isn't boredom inducing.
Same, i'm not a fan of the tucked mid bass (Variations, Thieaudio Monarch etc...) Some people are scared of mid bass for some reason...
I agree with the comment regarding note weight and midbass. As I also own the Xenns Up I've found that I enjoy that IEMs' slam while i greatly prefer the Variations' sub bass. For some odd reason though I really enjoy the mids even as thin as they are, I'm chalking it up to inexperience with better sets that fully capture the mids as I only really own the Variations and Xenns Up.
I really enjoy how they sound but I'd love to give the Xenns Top a try but the lowest I've ever seen those IEMs are around 450 and since I only paid for $325 each for my Vari and Up I honestly can't be bothered to run towards a Top since I'm broke. Maybe I'll see if there's anyone interested in trading but that's just wishful thinking on my part I think lol
Thanks for the impressions. Hope you get opportunity to hear the Top at some point.
@@TheHonestAudiophile It's honestly criminal that I've never run into your channel during my whole IEM search craze, subbed and I'll be here now to see your reviews :)
@kenjikodai Glad you enjoy the channel content and find it helpful. Thanks for subscribing.
I have the variations (and too many other IEMs of all prices), and completely agree with this review, many thanks for this. I kept the variations because it reminds me of a subwoofer + tweeter speaker system (those with the satellites that we don't see that often nowadays), and in some cases that can be an enjoyable experience. Because its bass is focussed mostly on the sub-bass region, the subwoofer effect is very noticeable - nice for movies and EDM that make use of frequencies below 200hz, but not great for everything else. Also, a curious IEM because a number of reviewers (including Crinacle) gave it an S rank - it is definitely lower in my list, for the reasons you mentioned: thinness, lacking mid-bass, only average treble and resolution for the price.
Thank you for the impressions. The Variations don't meet the hype in my opinion.
Given the latest "hot" entries. What are the top picks for under $350? I'd like to spend around $150-200 ... I feel it's the sweet spot for IEM market. I'm very curious about IE 200 & 300, and Kato and its competition. I currently got the Truth Ear Zero and although the resolution is nothing crazy, the way it does bass and has no bleed is great. These are a fun and punchy IEM for $50. I have Edition XS over ears and the IEM delivers nearly as engaging an experience. I can get spine tingles in vocals with the Zeros that not even the XS can deliver.
Xenns Mangird Tea 2
JQ 4U Pro
ThieAudio Elixir
Here is a link to my tier list:
docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1nRHnsP_4vLg9DlD9kwJ6gQuEQFqhTR0lnrkxXo3AMG8/edit?usp=drivesdk
@@TheHonestAudiophileomg , this is exactly what I was looking for . Thank you so much . Love your videos btw. Keep up the good work , mate .
@@m.k5667 My pleasure, you're welcome. Glad you found the video and content helpful.
Nice review Dave. I love my Xenns Top. They play everything in my library well and are so comfortable to wear. That being said, I do think they sound a bit rounded and polished. Which isn't a bad thing, but to me they aren't the most natural sounding set. I guess you can't have it all!
Glad you enjoy the Top.
Yes, they're not a true reference set but they're so good and fun.
Do you think they are sibilant?
No, I wouldn't describe the sound signature as bright or sibilant. The treble is rounded off just before things get peaky. You still get clarity and details without the pain. Hope that helps.
Hello sir dave, as Ive seen KATO did fight well againt a mere triple the price variations. How about KATO vs the TOP. Im curious as a KATO owner.
Top has more bass impact and more extended in sub bass and treble. The Top has more detail retrieval and resolution. The tone and timbre is slightly better on Top. Overall the Top is an upgrade but is a little more fun leaning than Kato.
I was very eager to hear your opinion on these, as I've been eyeballing the Xenns Top for a while now. I recently sold my Variations as I had the same experience as you; they sound very clinical and boring. Personally, I listen to music to have fun, and the Variations just weren't that for me... So based off that, I think the Xenns Top may be the right choice for me. Thank you for the videos:)
Glad I could help! Thank you for your impressions of the Variations. Look forward to hearing your impressions of the Top.
I believe the DD in the Variations is actually from the Aria. Which isn't a bad driver at all.
yes it isnt bad at all but its merely cheap to have for a $520 set. I wish they put better dd driver that change everything for sure.
Hi! 😊, when the Kato is 98 percent of the variations in technical aspects, there is really no need for people already having er2se or p1max to bother with this set, right? Tuning and technicalities (but mainly technicalities).
In my opinion, yes.
I'll go for Xenns Top then, thanks Dave 👌
Look forward to hearing your impressions of the Top.
You're welcome, my pleasure.
Have you received the xenns top? How is it so far?
Very timely review, as I've been contemplating an upgrade from my beloved KATOs. Variations originally made the shortlist, along with the Xenns Top (largely based on your review) and Thieaudio Excalibur, but don't think they'll make it to the final round. Have you listened to the Excaliburs and, if you have, could you share your impressions? Thank you!
Sorry haven't heard the Excalibur.
Glad you found the video helpful.
Look forward to hearing your impressions of your next purchase.
The headphone jack connector can connected in two orientations to the cable... Moondrop themselves says to align the "arrow" from the cable with the "two bars" from the plug, but I found that rotating 180 degrees make the midbass more impactful... have you tried both ways?
I don't risk damaging gear by connecting wires backwards, especially when it is loaned to me.
@the Honest Audiophile fair enough, you can also test it with your own cables, by reversing the two pin connectors on both ears
It isn't my set so I won't be doing any such experiments. Thank you for the comment.
@@TheHonestAudiophile thanks for the review, i was hesitating between xenns top and variations, but i found used variations for around 350$. Xenns Top was 492$ so it was a big difference in price. Nevertheless I will try to test the Xenns Top whenever I can
It seems the "correct" cable connector position has the + and - for each channel inverted, so out of phase. If you flip the connector 180° it has now the correct phase and the bass sounds better.
Fortunately this is easy to do with the provided cable.
My variations doesn't have much of a bass tuck, it is flat on the midbass, and I really like it. True, not the most engaging but a really reference sound IMHO.
I hope someday chifi brand make $200 EST driver
Compare moondrop variations vs hype 4 .for trance music /edm.?
I haven't heard the Variations since I reviewed them. I don't recall a whole lot but the the Variations don't have as much punch and slam in the bass as the Hype 4 so I would think the Hype 4 is better for trance/EDM music.
BUT I wasn't able to do a side-by-side comparison, this is off memory.
When you hold variations in your hands, you think "damned, it's heavy, so quality is here....."
Error. Half of the IEM weight is the stainless face plate, and that's cheap to produce.
What is your prefered well balanced iem? I just want 1 iem pair and i listen to every music genre. I can spend about around 200 to 500$
Softears Studio 4.
Hi, I have the same impressions before I used them with final E tips.The bundled eartips suck big time....plz change tips and try again with a good dongle...these are beasts
Glad you enjoy the Variations. As I stated, they are a good IEM. I am glad you have found a tip you enjoy.
Do you prefer the Bravery AE to the Variations ?
I'd rather listen to the Bravery for musical enjoyment. The Variations for critical listening.
How does this sound with moondrop spring tips?
good to hear this feedback in your review, so I know that our tastes are really opposite... I'll keep in mind when watching next videos from you
Glad you found the review helpful. Thank you for watching and commenting.
Sorry I appreciate your review. But I couldn’t disagree with you more. I own the Kato, Starfield, Aria, Aria Snow Edition and the Variations. The Variations is still king among them.
Glad you enjoy the Variations. They're a very good IEM as I stated in the video just not for me.
You should review the sa6 mk2s
If a SA6 MK2 is lent to the channel or the funds become available, I'll gladly give them a listen and review.
Does the Top have the same humongous nozzles (width) as the Tea2? And between Kato and Tea2 what’s your pick?
They all have similar nozzle width.
Kato review: ua-cam.com/video/wxBCHO996Ck/v-deo.html
Tea 2 review:
ua-cam.com/video/OI94iTC4SbA/v-deo.html
Tea 2 has a bit more bass impact, especially in sub area, mids are slightly fuller and the treble is not as expressive, detail retrieval and resolution are slightly better. Kato is more spacious, slighly more elevated in mids and treble. Tea 2 for a little more everyday, laidback listen and Kato for the more neutral, analytical leaning listen.
Ok no reason to upgrade my new Kato
Awesome 👍😎 Glad you enjoy the Kato.
hey dave, may i know if is it worth it if i upgrade to Mangird Top if i already has Tinhifi P1 Max?
Totally different presentations but they'd compliment each other well. The Top has more details and resolution.
@@TheHonestAudiophile Thank you for your reply. im looking forward to get the Top! 🙏🏻
Awesome 👍 Look forward to hearing your impressions.
Sold my mangird tea and heyday for the variations. I hope theyre good ! Any tips for cleaning them ?
Look forward to hearing your impressions of the Variations.
@@TheHonestAudiophile i'd love to try the xenns top but I'm really treble sensitive and timmy said that the top arent for people like me. The heyday also was way too peaky for me. What a shame
The mangird tea are just boring lol
The Heyday is more peaky then the Top by a good bit. BUT the Top does have a little bit of sizzle that could be too much for some. Variations is kinda in between the Tea2 and Top as far as elevated treble but still boring to my ears.
which one would you recommend for metal? this or oracle mk2 or xenns top? thank you.
Xenns Top is amazeballs for the little bit of metal I listen to.
I JUST REALIZED THAT WHENEVER I WATCHED THE LATEST VID, I NORMALLY JUST CLICKED NEXT VID WITHOUT NOTICING IT'S ANOTHER VID FROM PREVIOUS MONTH/S. DOES THIS MATTER? WELL NOT FOR ME 🤭🥰 I ONLY LOVE THE HONEST REVIEW WHICH IS COOL! AND OH, THAT CLEAN LOOK IS ALWAYS LOVELY! CHEERS!
If you hit the notification bell you will be made aware whenever a new Honest Audiophile video is uploaded.
Glad you enjoy the channel content.
Thank you for watching, commenting and subscribing.
@@TheHonestAudiophile BEEN AN AVID FAN OF YOUR CHANNEL DAVE, SO YEAH I LOVE WATCHING YOUR REVIEWS AND OF COURSE I'M ONE OF THOSE EARLY BIRDS WHO IS NOTIFIED 🤗 STAY SAFE ALWAYS!
Awesome 👍😎
it's true the mid-bass is like missing with no extension which matches Dan's Audio Reviews same with my experience
@ ua-cam.com/video/s2_MjtHL0Sk/v-deo.html, the vocal is too centric and unnatural
Own both the Variations and Kato and I am satisfied with both IEM’s 😊
Awesome 👍😎
@@TheHonestAudiophile However, I wouldn't mind something from another maker. What would you recommend?
Check out my rankings list
docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1nRHnsP_4vLg9DlD9kwJ6gQuEQFqhTR0lnrkxXo3AMG8/edit?usp=drivesdk
I have the Kato, I'm considering getting the Monarch Mk2 as my endgame. Is the Monarch a big improvement over the Kato?
Sorry haven't heard the Monarch 2.
If youre still looking for an answer to this question, yes it a big improvement, of course it is lol
I own both. The Monarch MK2 is the equivalent of getting a really really great office chair for a desk. When you first sit in an amazing ergonomic office chair, it feels very uneventful. But then you learn to appreciate that your back isn't hurting after 6 hours of sitting in it, no matter your posture.
The Monarch MK2 is exactly this feeling, just with audio. You're not going to listen for 5 min and go WOW as the Kato is a very good IEM. However, thats because the Monarch MK2 is just amazing with how resolving everything you play on it is, with so much clarity and resolution along with great bass. The reason it comes off as "uneventful" is because it sound so unbelievably natural and clear, it's like hearing things how you would in real life (except obviously the imaging isn't as good as hearing something behind you in real life, but you get the point). It is also very very treble extended, so you just hear basically everything on every recording, its incredible
The drawback with Monarch Mk2 is they are extremely big. The Kato is a pretty small IEM. Some will say the Blessing 2 is big, but I personally disagree; it's just medium sized and shaped very ergonomically. The Monarch MK2 is just too big, and will absolutely be noticable right away (Super Reviews demonstrates this in his video very well). For me though, that feeling of having a giant IEM doesn't bother me very much, and in fact I actually see it as a feature as it's extra noise isolating. I can wear it for 4+ hours without any issue (I havent tried longer). My recommendation to you, or anyone really, is to demo them if you can, or buy from a place with a great return policy (headphones dot com gives you a year to try them out and only charges a restocking fee, I feel that's extremely fair for an IEM like this)
The Kato is a great IEM, very warm and neutral-ish sounding. But it's just not the resolution or balance of the Monarch MK2, nor is it nearly as dynamic. Just don't be surprised if you try a Monarch Mk2 and you want another IEM as a side grade for a different flavor to partner with it, because that definitely will happen lol
@Freddie Plaza You basically just solidified exactly how I thought they would be, lol. I was already considering getting the FatFreq Mini to satisfy my basshead needs, lmao 🤣. I have pretty big ears anyway, lol. I always have to use the biggest tips available. What do you run them with? I am considering getting the Fiio BTR7. I have the Questyle M12 for my Kato. I'm just going to use them with my Galaxy smartphone until I can get a gaming pc, then I will get a desktop amp/dac.
Hi Dave, can you get someone to get you symphonium audio meteor for review ?
It's on my wishlist but no offers as of yet.
There's seems to be a lot of QC problems with the Variations and lot of unit (insert obvious joke here). So I won't recommend it.
I knew you wouldn't love them. They really needed that bass & not just the subbass espeically because there's not that much "audiophile" music with more subbass than bass. These might do great for 4k bluray movies as movies actually have subbass maybe you should try the edge of tomorrow intro (1080p bluray dts track).
Yeah they are good for that sort of stuff for sure.
Unfortunately the bass tuck and thin note weight just didn't sit right for me.
Thank you for the comment.
Variations owner here, expected the same. Stock tuning of Variations only works for some genres like electronic for me. If you look at the people who highyl rate the Variations like Timmy from Gizaudio, they are often into (K-)Pop which I guess fits well tonality-wise.
For most other genres I EQ the Variations to make it more neutral (reduce sub-bass, increase lower mids).
This new phenomenon of a mid-bass tuck angers me ..
I think they're more or less taking an inspiration from the Variations..
And while a Mid-bass tuck helps in the clarity department, it makes things sound not natural.
I totally relate to what you're trying to express.
I totally love companies who are still bringing in a decent amount of mid-bass while not mudding up the lower mids..
Tin audio is one of them..
They've done a good job with the T2 , T2 plus, C2 Mech Warrior.... even the T3+ to some extent.
The Dunu Titan s is another example..
I just don't understand why someone likes zero to negative mid bass
Yup! The mid/up bass tuck is very noticeable with the Variations.
Xenns, Tin Hifi and Dunu do a good job of filling that in but keeping it clean and clear at the same time.
Thank you for the comment.
Simple, this is not for you. I have Variations and I really love the sound signature, even when I had the S12 Pro, Dioko and Cadenza. And you know what, I really don't like Tin Hifi products.
Definitely it's about personal preference..
I clearly stated that 'I' don't like this tuning..
For me mid-bass is VERY important part of the frequency range and this idea that the slightest of mid-bass will spoil everything is personally irritating to me.
There can be a healthy balance as far as I'm concerned...
And the Dunu Titan S is the perfect example.
The bass tuck is definitely not for me!
Of course it's a matter of personal preference. But what makes me don't understand why you should be angry with this phenomenon. If you don't like it, just ignore it and buy what suits your ear. Companies don't make things that require you to buy their products and they don't bankrupt them when you don't buy them. When an audiophile who understands his personal taste buys an expensive iem, then he doesn't care whether it's the iem with the best sound or the highest rating on the reviewer's ranking list, it doesn't matter. Because in the end the iem will only be installed in his ears, not other people's ears.
You're saying why should I be angry, when you're also being irritated at me being angry?😂😂
Dude...
I'm being angry with respect to MY tastes?!
If something doesn't abide by MY tastes, then i have every right to be pissed right?😅
I mean all i or anyone else would care about is their OWN tastes! Lol..
All I'm doing is stating out loud what i like or hate in the comment section as i sensed Dave too liked a bit of meat in the Mid-bass ...like me.
Not allowed to do that eh?!
When I could ignore the product if it doesn't suit me, even you could ignore my comment lol!
Could you EQ it for better mids ? I wanted the EJ07m and the Mangird Top but I got the Variations for 400$
Do you think thats a good price or should I get the top for 600$
Heard that the EJ07m is not that good in the subbass and it is less detailed
Thanks in advance
I've not heard the EJ07m. I don't eq so I am not sure how they would take to eq. I personally would take the Top over the Variations as the video states in the comparison.
@@TheHonestAudiophile could I ask why you dont eq ?
@@TheHonestAudiophile so you would take the top for 200$ more
I don't EQ so I can listen and hear the gear in stock form.
I use EQ when I'm mixing and monitoring for my church. I'm not against EQ I just prefer to hear gear as stock as possible.
That's what I said in the video.
Thank god someone has said it how it is the variations was a massive waste of money 520 pounds not well spent
Thanks for watching and commenting.
Hey dave, I was so tempted on the Xenns top but saw a deal on the original letshuoer EJ07.
I got it last night and it is the only iem to ever bring tears to my eyes.. by that I mean tears of joy. I hope you can review them someday (I looked but couldnt see if you have reviewed them or not)
I've not heard the EJ07.
Glad you enjoy them. Thank you for sharing your experience.
@@TheHonestAudiophile sure thing man, bless 🙏
I prefer Tinhifi t2 🙂
Tin Hifi T2 is amazeballs value. I love it and highly recommend the T2.
The ear hooks are garbage haha they’re okay but definitely not for me.
Awesome 👍😎
Symphonium Meteor vs Xenns Top plsss
the stock cable is not good haha
@Rho Arima If a Symphonium Meteor is provided or the funds become available, I'll gladly listen, review and compare.
@@TheHonestAudiophile they do review units, worth emailing them
You just dont like them cuz you like mudy sound. But its ok its your preference. I wath some of your reviews and i think you just like warm sound.
To be clear, I like the Variations a lot, they're an excellent IEM. As for the bass and mids, they are thinner than what I consider to be natural and accurate. A natural sound is a little warm in reality.
@@TheHonestAudiophile ok . Thx
Sometimes i like very clear mid and sometimes warm bass . It depends how i feel.
Bruh said he preferred the KATO lmao no
@baboya Did you watch the entire video? I think the Variations are a quality IEM. In fact I quite like them but I prefer the Kato. I just find the Variations to be a tad boring. Look at my rankings list (read ranking grade tab first) and you'll see I give a high grade to the Variations, it isn't elite tier as some put it in my honest opinion.
docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1nRHnsP_4vLg9DlD9kwJ6gQuEQFqhTR0lnrkxXo3AMG8/edit?usp=drivesdk
Now i doubt this guy's ear. Because of his age and his choice of words. And comparing it with kato? Hahaha wth i tried both and its heaven and hell
Absolutely no reason to criticize my age and ears because we disagree on how a product sounds or what I compare them to.
@@TheHonestAudiophile you know that age is a factor on ear's capablility to Hear. Right? Its the truth 100% you can google it or ask your doctor. I am stating facts on my own words and if youre not open to be criticized specially on technicalities of this hobby and as you know this hobby is preference based also, right? You should quit! I tried both variations and kato and imo its again very very different. And thats it. Not a place to be onion skin in this flatform.
@kyupalngyoutube I don't disagree that age impacts ear capabilities. I am not ashamed to state that I am 47 years young.
My ears have lost a touch over my years of life. BUT my ears are not diminished so bad that I can't tell the differences; if they were I would not be reviewing. I know that besides ears and age a lot of other factors play into hearing differences in an IEM or between IEM; ie. what gear is used as a source, what music is listened to as a reference, personal experience with audio equipment, personal experience around live instruments and vocalists, etc. Everyone hears differently. I am glad you enjoy the Variations and you should as they are a good IEM. Thank you for commenting.
@@KyupalNgUA-camI've been trying to decide between the Kato or paying more for Variations, and reading your comment I think I might go with Kato since I'm 46 years old and so my old ears might prefer the Kato's. Thanks!