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Sen-Fi's 2023 IEM Tier List

Before the year ends I created this tier list for fun and wanted to categorize the IEMs I reviewed, auditioned, and owned. DISCLAIMER: Anything on this tier list is subjective. You can refer below to how I logically categorize some of the IEMs on this list This list is not the "one true tier list" or the "gospel". Geez, I'm not that much of an expert and what's good for you may not be good for others, vice versa. I'm basically doing this for fun, I currently have an issue on my right ear so I won't be doing some reviews for a while. Everything on the list is tried and tested, I won't include anything I haven't tested. I won't put description on every IEMs on the list unless I have to justify it. Just have fun reading my tier list, no need to be too serious. Sen-Fi 2023 Tier List GOD Tier  (not in my official Tier List. These are basically revered being in God Tier because of their paramount price, only a selected few can own it, and it ha...

TANGZU PRINCESS CHANGLE: Majestic Sound, Elegant, Design


Today, we are going to dive further to TANGZU's latest budget offering, the TANGZU Changle, along with their own line of eartips called the Sancai. As a relatively new company, TANGZU is making remarkable strides this year with its impressive new releases. Catering to audiophiles of all budgets, they aim to provide top-notch audio experiences without breaking the bank. Let's explore these products further and see how they stack up in the competitive audio market.

PACKAGING

The Changle graces us with its sophisticated and tastefully designed box artwork, showcasing a departure from the usual anime waifu aesthetics commonly found in the chi-fi scene. TANGZU sets itself apart by not conforming to such trend, opting for a more refined approach. Even within their budget range, TANGZU demonstrates their commitment to excellence, evident in the meticulous attention to detail put into their products. This dedication to quality makes TANGZU a brand that stands out among its competitors and worth keeping an eye on.

Anyways, here's what is inside the box:

  • Changle in-ear-monitor
  • 6 pair of eartips
While the packaging of the Changle is visually appealing, it's worth noting that the inclusions are barebones.

BONUS: TANG SANCAI (Balanced) Eartips (You can skip this part)


The Sancai is TANGZU's approach to their own line of eartips. These eartips feature a rough and textured surface, akin to a wall-like texture. This texture has a tight and secure fit, ensuring that the eartips remain snug throughout your entire listening session with your in-ear monitor. At first, it felt uncomfortable since its very grippy and rough. With use over time, the Sancai eartips provide a remarkably comfortable experience. These eartips are specifically designed to enhance the upper frequencies, particularly the upper mids. By doing so, they contribute to a more pronounced and detailed reproduction of vocals and instruments in that frequency range. 

COMPARISONS
TRI Clarion - The TRI Clarion eartips stand out as an excellent option for those seeking quality eartips at an affordable price. Their uniquely designed nozzles makes the fit easier to wear initially. The Sancai may require a few hours to get accustomed to due to its better grip, but its cushion effect provides added comfort. Notably, both eartips are designed to enhance higher frequencies.

DUNU S&S - The S&S eartips excel in providing a secure grip on the ear, but they might become uncomfortable during prolonged use. Additionally, their narrow insertion limits compatibility with some in-ear monitors. In contrast, the Sancai eartips offer a unique yet incredible cushion effect, ensuring comfort and a universal fit for a wider range of in-ear monitors.

Both eartips are available in sets of three and are reasonably priced at around $10. Ultimately, choosing between them becomes a matter of preference, as each excels in its own way and serves its purpose admirably.

Ortofon - Undoubtedly, Ortofon eartips offer unparalleled comfort and softness. The first time I tried them, I was amazed by how perfectly they fit in the ear. However, despite their positive qualities, a couple of negatives overshadow the positives. Firstly, they are challenging to find in my country, requiring purchase from local resellers, which makes them a bit more expensive for just one pair. Secondly, they tend to be fragile and easily tear; even a slight pressure from sharp nails can result in noticeable cuts on the eartips in no time.

Symbio eartips - I never found the Symbio eartips the best pair to my ears. They offer better isolation, better response from the lower frequencies, but the hybrid ear tips just isn't the best fit.

--- END OF SANCAI EARTIPS REVIEW, PLEASE CONTINUE, THANK YOU IF YOU READ MY SHORT REVIEW OF SANCAI EARTIPS ---

SOUND

It is important to mention that the Changle can be difficult to drive. While it may suffice for casual listeners using smartphones as their audio source, it is worth noting that the overall experience might be underwhelming. 

The Changle has a rich and warm sound which follows the Harman target profile, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a natural, balanced, and euphonic sound. 

BASS
The Changle places emphasis on the sub-bass frequencies rather than the mid-bass, resulting in a satisfying and impactful rumble. This emphasis on the sub-bass may impact the resolution of the overall sound. The slow attack and decay of the bass response can compromise its resolution.

MIDS
The vocals are recessed, charactrized with a natural and warm tonality. Vocals are rich especially male vocals, female vocals exude an intimate and emotional quality. When it comes to instruments, the suffers in terms of transparency and clarity, with the exception for acoustic guitars, which sound exceptional on this pair.

TREBLE
The treble response of the Changle leans towards safer approach.  It is not heavily emphasized and, as a result, may lack some airiness and definition, it may not provide the level of sparkle or intricate detail that treble-heads seeking a more pronounced and precise treble might desire. On a positive note, this approach ensures a smoother and less fatiguing listening.

TECHNICALITIES 
The Changle has some technical aspects that may turn away many listeners, mainly due to its cramped soundstage and veiled imaging. This becomes particularly evident when playing complex tracks. The Changle is also hard to drive so you'll have to turn the volume all the way up to listen at the most comfortable level. 

TEST TRACKS

I have made these test tracks available on Spotify, but please note that I personally use the lossless versions of these tracks from my sources.


CONCLUSION


Pros:
  • Warm U-shaped sound
  • Sturdy metal shells with a good ornamental design
  • Non-fatiguing treble
  • Very affordable
Cons:
  • Hard to drive
  • Average technicalities
  • Microphonics
  • Non-detachable cable
For those seeking a warm and relaxing earphone without breaking the bank, the Changle is an excellent and affordable choice. Pairing it with the Sancai eartips enhances comfort and subtly improves the upper frequencies, particularly if you feel that the Changle's default sound is veiled. However, due to its hard to drive characteristic, people who will blindly buy these without a proper source might find the experience lacking. While the price is definitely for the masses, the overall experience leave much to be desired.

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