Audiophilepure

But, this time it’s all about an IEM and, more importantly, an affordable one! Meet the Fiio JD1. Last time I reviewed the FiiO JD3 which introduced their new entry-level dynamic range, followed by the JH3 a few months after. Both stood apart from the FA9 (full-BA) and FH7 (hybrid) by using a sole Beryllium-coated diaphragm, with good measure. Then came the FiiO JH5, another great-sounding-cheap-priced multi-drivers IEM with a new design and top specs.

And today, we are keeping on that trend, as we review another sub $20 USD IEM, the FiiO JD1! Another addition to the Jade audio series, following the FiiO KB3 we previously reviewed – amazing keyboard IMO, go check that review too – to the ever evolving range of the Chinese brand.

Noble’s design philosophy for the Onyx leans towards sophistication, opting for a refined and understated appearance. The choice of aluminium for the body and composite material for the faceplate exudes a sense of elegance, eschewing flashy colour schemes for a more timeless aesthetic.

Despite its subdued demeanour, the Onyx doesn’t skimp on build quality. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, it feels reassuringly solid in the hand, a testament to Noble’s commitment to durability.

https://www.soundandvision.com/content/noble-audio-features-all-silicon-microspeaker-new-wireless-earbuds

Dubbed Cowell, the solid-state tweeter is billed as the world’s smallest micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) microspeaker and said to deliver “exceptional sound quality, phase coherence, and treble extension,” according to Noble.

Tuned by one of the company’s top acoustic designers, the FoKus Triumph earbuds are based on Bluetooth 5.3 and support high-quality streaming through aptX Adaptive, LDAC, and Snapdragon Sound in addition to supporting. The earbuds also support Siri and Google voice assistants and multipoint connectivity in addition to featuring two Qualcomm technologies: TrueWireless Mirroring for seamless swapping and cVc noise-canceling for phone calls.

When comparing the performance of the Viking Ragnar and the new Onyx, both come in similarly sized packaging, albeit with differences in accessories. While the Onyx lacks the Nanuk case included with the Ragnar, both offer a comfortable fit and impressive build quality. However, the Ragnar stands out with its superior materials and construction.

In terms of sound, the Viking Ragnar reigns as the flagship of the Noble Audio lineup, boasting top-of-the-line technical performance. It delivers a more realistic and coherent sound, characterized by better transient response, speed, and imaging. On the other hand, the Onyx offers a more bass-heavy and musical presentation, sacrificing some resolution and transparency in comparison.

Mids overall have a darker sound, where the focus lies on enjoyment rather than technically analysing it. Vocals come across as a little heavier on the bones, with good flesh, but with the darker tonality it sometimes is also missing air and emotional connection. There are tracks where I could relate to the singer’s emotional state, but with the Craft Ears it was a more difficult task.

Treble is calm and won’t be the problem of any conflicts. Treble heads definitely will be craving more, but anyone who has a lower tolerance to sharpness will find pleasing in the way the Omnium portrays highs

The MEST MKII is a 4-way quadbrid inear monitor and it features a combo of Dynamic drivers, Balanced Armatures, Electrostat (EST) and UM’s Silver-Palladium Alloy Piezoelectric (Dual) Bone Conduction drivers. In total we have 10 drivers in the following combination: 1 Dynamic Bass Driver for lows + 4 BA Drivers for mids and highs + 4 EST Drivers  for ultra-highs + 1 Bone Conduction Driver. These hybrids are getting sophisticated!

The E12’s shell is made out of aluminum, which is always a great choice in my opinion. Aluminum is resistant and hard to destroy. By today’s standard I’d say the size of the E12 is medium. It fits my ears perfectly, but smaller sized ears could potentially have problem with fitting these. My girlfriend for example (which is a fan of FiR’s sound) can’t use these due to their size.

Overall the build quality is very good, as we are used to from FiR Audio. But one thing has left me a bit surprised, and that’s the lack of wax protection screens. The Electron 12’s nozzle is fully open and there is no mesh screen whatsoever to protect the internals from debris or ear-wax. Sure, the dynamic driver is not in danger (according to FiR) for that, but as a customer I’d want the extra security knowing that there is protection in place.

The opening for the ATOM venting is also not protected by any means. But this opening is a lot smaller compared to the one on the nozzle. On second thought, this could also be the driver vent. Still, there should be some protection.