Imagine an IEM that delivers a tuning mastered for sound production, such as recording or tracking that can also be enjoyed as a pair of high-quality Hi-Fi earphones. Introducing LE-M1, the In-Ear Monitors designed and made for sound engineers and audiophiles alike.
Acoustically-tuned by recording engineers, LE-M1 boasts its neutral and uncolored sound quality. Sensitive enough to pick up little nuances from the music or recording, it is perfect for those who need to discern subtle audio cues, especially in an outdoor environment.
LE-M1 achieves a no-compromise design standard by featuring a single ⌀10mm, high quality carbon nanotube (CNT) dynamic driver, producing excellent bandwidth (10Hz – 40kHz) and ultra-low full-frequency distortion. This results in audio clarity and accurate, detailed imaging.
The 0.78mm 2-pin standard detachable cable allows for effortless cable swaps.
The brass-plated inner resonance chamber defines the sleek shape of LE-M1 that is lightweight and comfortable to wear. Effective noise-isolation blocks out the background distractions and prevents sound leakage.
CNC milled from Aerospace Grade Aluminum, LE-M1 is meticulously sandblasted and finished in premium anodised black. The semi-matte metal housing is elegant and unobtrusive, suitable for all occasions.
IEM users beware of noise floor, even for low sensitivity models like the Solaris 2020 (94 dB SPL @ 1kHz: 6.54 mVrms). It seems this is not an uncommon issue for even the most highly regarded portable DACs including the Chord Mojo, so not really a fault, just a mismatch. It sounds great with Focal Clears, but my only use case for the RU6 is with IEMs on the go.
The Grand Maestro is an incredible IEM in many ways.
The vocal boost tuning switch changes it from a mostly balanced mids/vocals recessed sound signature, to a mids/vocals forward powerhouse. The difference is anything but subtle.
The tuning modules modify the sub bass frequency by a few decibels. Changing the sub bass opens up the head stage and allows the other frequencies to “shine” through.
This is not a dedicated bass head iem. The bass is excellent, but it doesn’t overpower. This is an IEM capable of presenting music clearly and concisely throughout the frequency range.
Grand Maestro has the best head stage I have experienced on any IEM to date. Width, height, and depth are excellent on all three axis, and, instruments, vocalists, sound effects, etc. present from all 3 dimensions of the stage.
Thus IEM is worthy of consideration.
Pros:
* Excellent sound with the Subtonic Storm.
* Delivers enough power to drive one of the most demanding IEMs in existence.
* Solid construction
* Compact form factor
* Responsive UI
* Beautiful design
Cons:
* The buttons are very easy to press by mistake, especially with the case on.
* Battery life is not very good. They advertise 5 hours in class A balanced and I'd say that's accurate.
* Can't be used as a Bluetooth DAC
* Latency in USB DAC mode (this is common to all Android DAPs)
* Gets very hot during extended listens in class A mode.
* Audio stream compatibility (with Plex). I tried watching a movie from my Plex server on this DAP and found that it had frequent stuttering and no audio. I eventually found out that audio streams with two channels would play fine, but any more than that could not.
Full review here: https://wolfhawkaudioreviews.com/2023/05/19/hiby-r6-pro-ii/
