Head-fi Review: Diabolically great single DD!
Head-fi Review: Diabolically great single DD!
The rumble in the bass when the bone conduction works properly and the holographic soundstage... I got spooked when I heard a bird chirping behind me and turned back only to find out it was from the song.
Pros:
Truly immersive, spherical soundstage that wraps around you
Exceptionally controlled, addictive bass
Two genuinely useful tuning switches
Can listen for hours without fatigue or discomfort
Outstanding technical performance (imaging, staging, resolution)
Cons:
Bass quantity won't satisfy those seeking maximum rumble
Sources
iBasso D17 (OS/L, AMP/L, Line Out, Volume 95)
Luxury & Precision EA4 (amplifier)
Summary
For context on where I'm coming from: my main priorities are soundstage, imaging, and layered bass—not boosted, just well-textured and controlled. I'm not chasing maximum slam or the most forward vocals. I want to feel like I'm inside the music.
The Pentara checked every box. It's replaced my FiR Audio Radon 6 as my daily driver and effectively retired both my Symphonium Crimson and Unique Melody Asahi. I just don't reach for them anymore.
Sound Signature & Comparisons
vs. FiR Audio Radon 6 (Previous Daily Driver)
The RN6 was my daily for a reason—that Kinetic Bass hits deep, and the soundstage is genuinely wide. But I always felt like the staging was a bit egg-shaped. Plenty of width, not as much depth or height.
The Pentara fixes this. It's the first IEM where I feel like the music actually surrounds me rather than just stretching left to right. The bass doesn't slam as hard as the RN6's Kinetic Bass, but honestly? I don't miss it. The Pentara's low end is so well-controlled and textured that it's become addictive in its own way. Throw on Yosi Horikawa's Fluid and you'll hear what I mean—there's real nuance down there.
vs. Symphonium Audio Crimson
Look, the Crimson is a fantastic value. Fun signature, punches way above its price. But I could never wear it for more than an hour or two before needing a break—partly fatigue, partly comfort.
With the Pentara, that problem doesn't exist. I can keep these in indefinitely. And beyond just comfort, the technical gap is real. Staging, imaging, overall presentation—it's a different league. I haven't touched the Crimson since getting the Pentara.
vs. Unique Melody Asahi
This one's straightforward. I only ever used the Asahi when I wanted something more mid-focused. The Pentara's Switch 1 gives me basically the same thing, so the Asahi became redundant overnight.
I keep the switch set to On most of the time for the extra bass and dynamics. When I'm in the mood for acapella or vocal-heavy tracks, I flip to Switch 1. Works perfectly. The Asahi now belongs to a friend.
Verdict
The Pentara turned out to be exactly what I wanted: the immersive staging the RN6 was missing, the technical chops the Crimson couldn't deliver, and enough versatility to make the Asahi unnecessary. If your priorities line up with mine—soundstage, imaging, textured bass—this one's worth a serious listen.
My first venture into high-quality headphones....in search of an "intimate sound stage" ....Research and assessment of reviews paid off. These place you center-stage...I'm in the band !
Satisfied customer !
First of all, the transaction and communication with Musicteck were absolutely top-notch. Constant updates, clear explanations, real help, an irresistible offer, and shipping to Europe in under five days with no suprise extra charges.
Second: the earphone. I own several full-size headphones across different price ranges, and plenty of IEMs. I even have the MEST MKII second-hand.
This one is special. It has a more mature tuning than its predecessors. It won’t give you an immediate “WOW,” but if you have good music with you, this earphone becomes wonderful when paired with a solid DAP.
Luckily, I have the DX340 with AMP16, and I’m using the Effect Audio Eros II as the cable partner.
It’s correctly incorrect—maybe sitting right in the middle thanks to that soundstage—slightly bright, holographic, and with flawless timbre.
To sum it up: the sound is super-holographic, exciting, and genuinely unique. This also means it won’t be a safe bet for everyone, so I’d recommend borrowing or demoing it before you decide.
High quality like everything from pw audio. Works great and lets me use my 2 pin cables with my Annihilator 2023.
