We have another budget in-ear monitor to review and this time it's the SIMGOT EW100P. This is the budget offering by the company SIMGOT. It's the first time I heard of this company and they released a lot of IEMs this year ranging from the budget tier to the mid-entry level. Will it be a good competitor? Let's see!
PACKAGING
From the packaging it's got minimal inclusions but you get what you pay for.
- EW100P earphones
- 2-pin 3.5mm cable
- Silicone ear tips S/M/L
- Manual
BUILD QUALITY
The build quality of the earphones is commendable, with a compact 10mm LCP driver housed in an ergonomic shell. The small size ensures a comfortable fit. However, I found the cables to be flimsy and unsatisfactory. If possible, it would be advisable to consider replacing them. One notable aspect is that the drivers do not use a QDC 2-pin connector, which is unusual in this price range; especially the budget Chi-fi market is saturated with these connectors.
SOUND
The EW100P has a somewhat balanced U-shaped sound signature. If you are looking for a good all-around budget in-ear monitor, the EW100P is your safe bet.
BASS
The bass in the EW100P earphones delivers a satisfying kick and occasional thumps, but it doesn't offer deep-reaching bass. It primarily focuses on mid-bass rather than sub-bass, so if you desire more power in that department, you might be disappointed. Nevertheless, the bass impact is still noticeable and doesn't compromise the overall sound quality of the in-ear monitor.
MIDS
The vocals exhibit a slight recessed quality and lack the desired level of texture, resulting in an unengaging and unresolving experience for listeners. Moreover, the upper mids possess heightened presence and brightness when compared to the lower midrange. Regrettably, there is nothing particularly noteworthy to highlight in the midrange.
TREBLE
The treble has noticeable emphasis and elevation. This boost in brightness serves to provide a satisfactory level of detail and clarity. Notably, there is a lack of harshness or sibilance, making it a favorable choice for individuals sensitive to treble frequencies who can enjoy extended listening sessions without fatigue.
TECHNICALITIES
In terms of technical performance, the Simgot EW100P can be described as neither impressive nor horrendous. The soundstage it offers is average, presenting a two-dimensional stage without any notable expansiveness or depth. Similarly, the imaging capabilities of this audio device can be considered average, without delivering exceptional precision or accuracy in sound placement. Realistically, it would be prudent not to set overly high expectations for the technical capabilities of these budget IEMs. That's why I admire the sound signature they picked for the EW100P
COMPARISON:
As the Simgot EW100P is a budget earphone, I believe a comparison would be helpful for my peers and beginners in the audio hobby.
1. Tangzu Wan'er - the Wan'er stands out as one of my top choices within the sub-$20 budget category, primarily because of its pleasing warm U-shaped sound signature. When it comes to build quality, the EW100P takes the lead with its sturdy enclosed shells, which provide added durability. On the other hand, my Wan'er model experienced a loose faceplate over time due to regular usage. In terms of sound characteristics, the Wan'er leans towards a warmer tone, while the EW100P showcases superior technical performance. However, it's important to note that the disparities between the two are not significantly groundbreaking. The EW100P uses an LCP driver, the Wan'er uses a single-DD driver.
2. Tanchjim Zero - In comparison to the EW100P, the Zeroes can be perceived as lacking excitement and sounding rather dull. However, the Zero model has carved out its own niche market within the budget segment, thanks to its distinctively neutral sound signature. Both Zero and the EW100 have fixed cable, so if you want a removable cable, purchase the EW100P instead.
3. Astrotec Vesna -Despite being released in 2022, the Vesna IEMs can still hold their own in the rapidly evolving Chi-fi market, making them a hidden gem worth considering. In my opinion, the Vesna stands as a dark-horse contender among other brands. While both the Vesna and EW100P utilize LCP drivers, the EW100P offers a more enjoyable and lively sound signature, catering to those who prefer a vibrant audio experience. On the other hand, the Vesna boasts a midcentric sound profile that places greater emphasis on the midrange frequencies. It's worth noting that both models have two versions, but the removable cable variant of the Vesna, known as the Evo, comes at a significantly higher price point and is said to exhibit a distinct sound approach according to some users. Haven't tried it so who knows?
4. KZ EDXS - KZ's latest budget offering showcases a V-shaped sound signature, characterized by a heavier emphasis on bass and treble, but with a slightly recessed midrange. In comparison, the EW100P provides a more euphonic tonality, offering a smoother and more pleasing audio experience when compared to the more aggressive KZ EDXS. If you prefer a more energetic and assertive sound, the EDXS could be considered as a compelling alternative to the EW100P.
Pros:
- Good U-shaped signature based on the Harman tuning
- Good build quality
- Lightweight and decent form factor for comfort
Cons:
- Bad cables
- Average technicalities
- Unresolving vocals
The Simgot EW100P competes in the sub-$20 segment, and it stands out by delivering excellent sound quality within its price range. Its adoption of the Harman sound signature makes it a solid choice, as it ensures a pleasurable listening experience for the majority of users. Personally, the only downside I found with this model is the included cables. However, if you have replacement cables and tips, then this becomes a worthwhile purchase.
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