Skip to content

Category: Wall of Fame Under $500

Soft Ears Volume Review – Turn it UP!

The greatest accolade I can appoint the Volume is that it made me forget I was listening to a $285 earphone. It’s balanced, beautiful and technically accomplished across the board.

Cayin RU6 Review – Oldschool Cool

Enthusiasts will be sure to enjoy the RU6’s wide stage and analogue-like note presentation that grant it one of the sweetest and most euphonic sounds I’ve encountered from a portable source yet.

Drop + JVC HA-FWX1 Review – Golden Hour

If you don’t mind a laid-back midrange or a relative lack of treble extension, the FWX1’s highly textured notes and rich instrument timbre permit a sublime listening experience with classical, jazz and acoustic.

Fiio FD5 Review – Brazen

The FD5 is one of the strongest buys in its price class, especially for those wanting an earphone that is well-built, tastefully coloured and customisable on top.

Master & Dynamic MW08 Review – Gleam

The technical performance of its sound and the refinement of its all around feature set feel akin to industry leaders from Apple and Sennheiser while its luxury elevates the package intro truly prestigious territory.

SMSL SU-9 Review – Epiphany

The SU-9 is for those wanting a balanced DAC with a pure sound, excellent staging and strong resolving power without spending a small fortune to get it.

Fiio EM5 Review – Reincarnation

The EM5 is an especially resolving earbud with a comfortable, well-built shell and great, albeit fixed, modular cable that permits enjoyment from any source.