LETSHOUER has been around for years, and this is the first time I will be reviewing a product from them. I had heard of the Tape and the Tape Pro before when I was still new to the audiophile scene and LETSHOUER is still SHOUER. Unfortunately, both of them never received any positive reviews due to their audacious and unusual tuning that turned off most audio-enthusiasts. How will the S12 fare this time? We shall see.
DISCLAIMER : This is a review unit on tour, and I would like to thank Mr. Edz Cuizon, my fellow reviewer, for lending me this pair. I am not affiliated with LETSHOUER and received no monetary compensation during or after this review. As usual, this will be an honest and unbiased review.
The LETSHOUER S12 is a $150, 14.8mm planar IEM housed in an aluminum alloy shell. It's very light, sleek, and simple. I personally like the minimal design and its comfortability.
PACKAGING
The packaging looks awesome, it is simple and is included with good accessories.
- S12 driver
- 0.78mm cable
- earphone case
- 3 pairs of gray silicone tips
- 3 pairs of transparent silicone tips
- 3 pairs of black foam tips
- brand card
- warranty card
Pros :
- Decent U-shaped sound
- Easy to drive
- Looks robust, especially with the included cable
- Comfortable to wear
Cons :
- Average technicalities
- Not the most detailed IEM in the market
SOUND
The S12 leans on a U-shaped sound signature. The sound may not be the most detailed and resolving pair for critical listening, but it's got a place for those who want a fun pair of IEMs. The best genres for this pair are EDM, pop, and modern rock.
BASS : Bass is boosted and has an energetic, dynamic sound. It's got a punchy and satisfying mid-bass where most of the bass is focused on. Sub-bass is not the deepest out there, but it's sufficient enough to be balanced and does not bleed to other frequencies. It's got an overall good impact and energy, which I can assure you some bassheads may like the S12.
MIDS : Mids are not dramatically dipped; they're evidently warm, rich, and lush to the ears. I have a good overall experience with both male and female vocals. It doesn't have the most forward midrange for critical listening, and you may want to look for another pair if you want a midcentric experience.
TREBLE : I have no issues with the treble, but it does not have the most detailed treble. It doesn't have that much air and brilliance but it's still there, which makes this an enjoyable IEM rather than a detailed and critical pair. If you are treble-sensitive, I can recommend these pairs to you if you want an IEM that leans on a darker treble presence than a sparkly and shimmering treble. Again, if you are a critical listener, the treble will definitely lack in terms of sparkle and details.
SOUNDSTAGE AND IMAGING : Soundstage is somehow good; it's got decent width and is not two-dimensional, but it's not the widest I've ever heard. In this case, I can still manage to pin-point some of the instruments and details; it's not just the best and may be more resolving if it had more stage. Imaging is average, not the most resolving and precise separation, but it's not the worst.
COMPARISON
Muse Hifi Power: Another new planar IEM on the market, as well as the first planar-IEM I reviewed. The Hi-Fi Power is more energetic and aggressive than the S12. The Power is a winner when it comes to soundstage and imaging, but the S12 is more resolving to audiences with warmer preferences. The form factor of the S12 is less bulkier than the Muse Hi-Fi Power. The S12 feels more "sophisticated", mimimalist, and generous with its packaging.
TangZu Wu Zetian : S12 has more bass quantity and impact than the Zetian Wu, the Zetian Wu is leaning on a neutral sound than S12. Mids are fuller and forward and has better resolution. Treble has more sparkle and air in the Zetian Wu. Basically, Zetian Wu is more versed on the side of technicalities, and tonality while the S12 is better for certain consumers.
FINAL RATING
In conclusion, the LETSHOUER S12 is one of the most resolving planar IEM for those who can afford less than pricier IEMs. It still has its flaws when it comes to technicalities, and there may be other options to consider within the sub-$200 price range. The competition is very hot in this price range, but I can still recommend S12 and I bet it would still be appreciated, especially for those who want a balanced sound preference. However, I may not recommend this as the top option for those who want a more neutral and critical pair. The more I listen to planar IEMs within this price range, the more I realize that it's no different or unique compared to IEMs within the sub-$200 range that use BA, DD, and piezo drivers. It's all up to your preferences on which you want to buy for your next upgrade. If you are still using a budget IEM, then I suggest S12, which would definitely be an upgrade.
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