We can enhance the performance of the original ear tips that come with the IEMs through a simple tweak, eliminating the need for expensive replacements. I utilized a small strip of Blu Tack, wrapping it around both nozzles bores/tubes of my IEMs behind the silicone ear tips' flaps. To ensure effectiveness, I straightened the flaps attached to the nozzles before wrapping the Blu Tack strip and then covered the flaps back. This tweak imparted the IEM with a combined sonic character of both silicone tips and foam tips. The results were noticeable - passive noise isolation improved by nearly 70%, the bass and sub-bass became tighter and more controlled, the treble revealed more details, vocals gained a crisper quality, and the soundstage exhibited an extension. This tweak worked remarkably well for IEMs using only a single BA driver, such as FIIO FA1 and other budget IEMs like those from KZ, CCA, and TRN. You can experiment with different impacts by applying half or full-filled strips of Blu Tack on various shapes and sizes of ear tips' bores. My favorite improvement is achieved by wrapping a half-filled Blu Tack on round-shaped and large bore tips. Feel free to explore and innovate, as there's nothing to lose.
Great advice. Especially for those that are new to this hobby. I’ve been wanting to try some SpiralDots but to date all I can find online are way to expensive or have ridiculous freight charges to Australia. Where did you get yours from?
After so many years years and more than 1000 tips. I got the right ones. The blue and white double Flange tips from amazon.they don't change tone and they fit all. Better than foams and avoid sweat because they long. 5 Pairs of Double Flange Replacement Earbud Tips fit Powerbeats, LG, Symphonized, iFrogz, Mpow, Skullcandy, Panasonic Headphones (Dark Blue)
@@paulosilva8200what's up bro, do you have a link for those eartips?? I recently bought the KBear Neons (bullet type iems) and I want some eartips that work better for that form factor
Informative chat! Silly/newb question: I have a pair of Galaxy buds+ (yes, they are old). I'm looking to replace tips for the main reason that having gone through those provided, I'm left using the smallest they packaged with the buds and I find the sound lacking depth. When I press on the buds the sound deepens and doesn't sound like I'm holding a transistor radio (yes, I'm old) to my ear. However, and here's the silly question, does one need to worry about the size of earbud replacement tips vis-a-vis the charging case? For example, surely a triple flange tip would not allow the buds to fit in the case for charging. Right? Or, do people take off tips for charging? Thanks
That's not a silly question at all. You can't fit longer, multi-flange tips in most cases, but a decent set of single flange aftermarket tips from SpinFit, JVC, Tanchjim or Final Audio could all get you a better seal and better sound it seems. As to which is best, that's a very personal thing and impossible to know without trying them.
Great video. Just got some SpinFit ear tips for my Ibasso IT01 IEM's. They are so much better and I find I can wear them for a lot longer. Thanks again for the tip. :)
It's always a journey finding new eartips. I've found that building a bit of a collection is very helpful as certain earphones suit certain tips better
So... I have a question... I am wondering about tips that are included with IEMs, and whether buying custom tips is actually NEEDED or not. I mean, think of it this way, when I buy a set of wired or wireless in-ear earphones at a place like Walmart for instance, I just show the middle sized tips on if they're not already, and put them in my ears, and I have sound that's plenty good enough for me, but, at the same time, everyone says IEMs are that much better sounding, so because of that I want to try IEMs, YET, they still come with standard tips in most cases, if I'm not mistaken? Then I wonder, is it really required to get custom tips if you're not the audiophile type, but a normal listener? AND THEN there's the question of "is EVERY custom tip from a reputable and recognized custom brand going to be better than standard included tips(assuming they're not from those same custom brands)? I've already seen a different video covering even more styles/models, and brands, from a different TH-cam creator that does as good (or better) a job at certain aspects of the explanation, compared to this creator, but even though they say it can give better sound, they don't say whether it's NECESSARY to have custom tips. I mean, if you were getting CUSTOM fit IEMs, I could understand it, but when I think of "standard" tips for off the shelf IEM designs, I would think that they would custom match the tips so the majority of users would get as good of a listening experience as possible, to whatever model of IEMs you are currently using, although that's a guess that's probably wrong, knowing my guessing track record, and honestly, if they don't, then we'll... maybe they should, eh? If the 3 or 4 major custom tip brands are so much better, then maybe the IEM manufacturers should include some of them for a small upcharge, as I'm sure if they bought the tips by the thousands or whatever, they should be able to get a decent discount on the price, and honestly, if they're that much better, then seriously, that would go a long way to making buying custom tips something that's overall unnecessary for most people unless they were buying replacements... Am I wrong? Can any of my questions be answered? Does anyone even understand my questions? I've only ever used included tips, so I have no firsthand knowledge of custom tips for earbuds or IEMs...
It's not necessary to buy after market tips if you're getting a good fit and good sound from the stock tips. Also, many brands are providing better tip options as standard these days. If you're happy with the standard tips, I'd say to stick with those.
@@PassionforSound thanks for the information... If I was to buy a set of IEMs, (and earbuds too I guess) and like the included tips, and thereafter should ever run out of included spares(if included) for some reason, then would there be a way of getting OEM replacements for those (which would undoubtedly be cheaper) or would that be a good time to get (upgrade to?) Aftermarket tips? Just checking so if I ever needed to I'd have the knowledge in the future... *Edit* The one thing I just thought of in your response that I'm unsure about is this, "good fit"... Maybe you said it in your video, but is "good fit" something easily explained or is the list of what makes a good fit, different between people?
When I say good fit, I just mean it's comfortable in your ear and sounds good. A bad fit will cause discomfort and/or a lack of bass in most cases. As for getting OEM tips, that's not something I'm aware of being available so that's when I'd turn to some good aftermarket options.
What about people like myself who have dealt with the extreme discomfort with something being jammed into your ear canals. Pain, itching, wax discharge, blocked ears. Any advice?
There's a good chance you have a narrow, irregular shaped and/or tightly turning ear canal (I have the same challenge to a small degree). Trying a bunch of tips can sometimes help to find just the right one, but the alternative might be to go custom. I've got a full video about this planned for the nearish future.
That's an interesting question. Both have issues. Going bigger can risk not fitting at all and going smaller can risk not creating a seal. If you've got two that fit similarly, I'd try both for a decent length listen (30 minutes or so) and see which is more comfortable and maintaining a consistent seal while you move around, open and close your mouth (e.g. eat something).
Is there any tips you'd recommend for some Blessing Dusk 2's with a big 6.5mm nozzles that hurt the ears? I've been using the stock small eartips but they're still too big
@@sigmachad96 They aren't ideal but i grabbed some foam tips from Shenzhen audio. They're a big improvement but i still can't wear them for very long periods of time. Here's the copy paste item description from the receipt if you were interested "Moondrop MIS-Tip Sponge Eartips for KXXS/ Spaceship/S8 Earphones(2 pair)"
Hello there!! Thanks for this informative article. I have been eyeing the spiral dots for quite sometime now. And you mentioned that they are soft. Im not limiting myself but i usually prefer firm or stiff tips. May i ask what does the spiral dots do to the sound in general? Now the spinfits, what particular model do you recommend? Btw i like my sound signature as balance or neutral as it can be. Thanks in advance. Looking forward for your response. Thanks again!!
I haven't tried lots of different SpinFit models so I can't really say which is best - sorry. Also, what tips do for each earphone can vary a bit depending on the earphone, but the Spiral Dots generally allow for more treble quantity than a narrower bore tip like the SpinFits. Somehow, the Spiral Dots also slightly improve the quality of the treble by removing a little harshness from some IEMs. Finally, if you like a stiffer ear tip, I'd recommend trying the Azla Xelastec tips.
I have so many ear tips these days... I feel like the Dekoni's are best for the Tin P1, but my opinion on this type of thing changes weekly. I haven't found a use for the Spiral Dots; they seem to make the treble way too hot for my liking, but I wonder if I just haven't found the right iem for them. The only iem I thought they were okay with is the Ikko OH10, but by "okay" I mean they're just as bad as the stock tips. That iem is way too treble forward for me. You should try RHA Dual Density tips. They're only five bucks for a three pack (at least, in the U.S. that is. They are a U.K. company, though, I think).
Thanks for the recommendation - I'll grab a pack. The Spiral Dots seem best suited to slightly warmer IEMs where a slight treble boost (from the wide open bore) can improve the imaging and clarity.
It will depend a lot on the design of the original tips. If the stock tips had the same narrow opening then the Final E Type tips will sound about the same. If the stock tips are wide open then it will be a bit different.
Definitely wider bore generally equates to more treble, but insertion distance is less predictable because every ear canal is a slightly different shape with its own resonances as a result. Best to have a play with each item.and find your preferred combination of tips and insertion depth.
It's more about the combination of your ears and the earphones so I can't really say. I'm a big fan of the Final Audio E-Type tips, Spinfits and JVC Spiral Dots so any of those are worth a go
I had tried many eartips from medium to small to super small...But discomfort still present..I am using blon bl 03...How can i choose earphone tips..Most of the time i use small or super small...Want to hear music for long time but ear starts to ache after sometime..Please reply
Sorry to hear that you're struggling to get a comfortable fit! The BL-03 have an unusual nozzle angle so it's possible that that's playing a part in your troubles. Have you only tried the BLON tips or some aftermarket ones too?
@@PassionforSound My Sony eartips fitted me well but after putting on blon bl 03 and inserted in to my ears. My starts to ache immediately..Like i don't know why this happened..Because i use to wear my Sony XB 55 for long hours ( 4-5 ). Do you have any hack regarding foam eartips...Used so many eartips....After sometime ears fatigue starts like pressure of eartips around the ears....Any type of tips, tricks or hack will be helpful if you make a ( specific video ) on eartips..
I have a video all about ear tips already - try a search for Passion for Sound ear tips. Beyond that, it sounds like the angle of the BLON nozzles might be your issue if you could wear the Sonys for extended periods
Thanks Mark. I actually recorded the main content before little Zander joined the family. If be hard pressed to produce intelligible content beyond 1-2 minutes just yet 😉
Hi Kautsar, I haven't tried the Sonys, but normally this is about finding the right tips. Also do you need noise cancellation and would a wire between the earphones be an issue (i.e. Bluetooth still, but the earpieces are connected to each other)?
I'd try some different sizes that came with the earphones and otherwise invest in a mixed pack of SpinFit tips. They're my go-to tip for anything that doesn't fit perfectly with the stock options.
My right bud2 pro fell out till i got fome now i ues bouth because thay stay in my ear thats all i care about don't want to have one fall out in the ocean!
![If you can't hear this then you're not an audiophile [See description for link to followup video]](/img/n.gif)
We can enhance the performance of the original ear tips that come with the IEMs through a simple tweak, eliminating the need for expensive replacements. I utilized a small strip of Blu Tack, wrapping it around both nozzles bores/tubes of my IEMs behind the silicone ear tips' flaps. To ensure effectiveness, I straightened the flaps attached to the nozzles before wrapping the Blu Tack strip and then covered the flaps back. This tweak imparted the IEM with a combined sonic character of both silicone tips and foam tips.
The results were noticeable - passive noise isolation improved by nearly 70%, the bass and sub-bass became tighter and more controlled, the treble revealed more details, vocals gained a crisper quality, and the soundstage exhibited an extension. This tweak worked remarkably well for IEMs using only a single BA driver, such as FIIO FA1 and other budget IEMs like those from KZ, CCA, and TRN. You can experiment with different impacts by applying half or full-filled strips of Blu Tack on various shapes and sizes of ear tips' bores. My favorite improvement is achieved by wrapping a half-filled Blu Tack on round-shaped and large bore tips. Feel free to explore and innovate, as there's nothing to lose.
Thanks for sharing that idea
Great information on ear tips. I always write off foam tips but after your video I might try some Comply or Dekoni tips.
So glad I could help!
Great advice. Especially for those that are new to this hobby. I’ve been wanting to try some SpiralDots but to date all I can find online are way to expensive or have ridiculous freight charges to Australia. Where did you get yours from?
Hi Paul, I bought mine from Amazon (Australia I think). They are fairly pricey still, but a good addition to the collection
After so many years years and more than 1000 tips. I got the right ones. The blue and white double Flange tips from amazon.they don't change tone and they fit all. Better than foams and avoid sweat because they long. 5 Pairs of Double Flange Replacement Earbud Tips fit Powerbeats, LG, Symphonized, iFrogz, Mpow, Skullcandy, Panasonic Headphones (Dark Blue)
So glad you've found The One 😉 that can be a difficult journey! For me, it's the Spiral Dots most of the time these days
@Passion for Sound the spiral tips are good for iem shape. For bullet type I find the double Flange a better fit.
@@paulosilva8200what's up bro, do you have a link for those eartips?? I recently bought the KBear Neons (bullet type iems) and I want some eartips that work better for that form factor
Just ordered the spin fit small for my Shuoer 09 Tapes. Cables made a huge improvement with these IEM’s 🤙
Yeah, cables are a great upgrade for IEMs. Hope you enjoy the Spinfits!
Informative chat! Silly/newb question: I have a pair of Galaxy buds+ (yes, they are old). I'm looking to replace tips for the main reason that having gone through those provided, I'm left using the smallest they packaged with the buds and I find the sound lacking depth. When I press on the buds the sound deepens and doesn't sound like I'm holding a transistor radio (yes, I'm old) to my ear. However, and here's the silly question, does one need to worry about the size of earbud replacement tips vis-a-vis the charging case? For example, surely a triple flange tip would not allow the buds to fit in the case for charging. Right? Or, do people take off tips for charging? Thanks
That's not a silly question at all. You can't fit longer, multi-flange tips in most cases, but a decent set of single flange aftermarket tips from SpinFit, JVC, Tanchjim or Final Audio could all get you a better seal and better sound it seems. As to which is best, that's a very personal thing and impossible to know without trying them.
Great video. Just got some SpinFit ear tips for my Ibasso IT01 IEM's. They are so much better and I find I can wear them for a lot longer. Thanks again for the tip. :)
Awesome. Glad you're liking the SpinFits. They're always my first option.
Good Advice .. Trying to find the right Ear tips for my Le Blon ! Lost one of the stock ones that it came with :)
It's always a journey finding new eartips. I've found that building a bit of a collection is very helpful as certain earphones suit certain tips better
Moondrop Spring Tips also great choice too btw also what is your opinion about Tanchjim T-APB eartips ?
Yes, the Spring tips didn't exist when I made this video, but they're nice. I haven't tried the Tanchjim tips to comment on those
So... I have a question... I am wondering about tips that are included with IEMs, and whether buying custom tips is actually NEEDED or not. I mean, think of it this way, when I buy a set of wired or wireless in-ear earphones at a place like Walmart for instance, I just show the middle sized tips on if they're not already, and put them in my ears, and I have sound that's plenty good enough for me, but, at the same time, everyone says IEMs are that much better sounding, so because of that I want to try IEMs, YET, they still come with standard tips in most cases, if I'm not mistaken? Then I wonder, is it really required to get custom tips if you're not the audiophile type, but a normal listener? AND THEN there's the question of "is EVERY custom tip from a reputable and recognized custom brand going to be better than standard included tips(assuming they're not from those same custom brands)?
I've already seen a different video covering even more styles/models, and brands, from a different TH-cam creator that does as good (or better) a job at certain aspects of the explanation, compared to this creator, but even though they say it can give better sound, they don't say whether it's NECESSARY to have custom tips. I mean, if you were getting CUSTOM fit IEMs, I could understand it, but when I think of "standard" tips for off the shelf IEM designs, I would think that they would custom match the tips so the majority of users would get as good of a listening experience as possible, to whatever model of IEMs you are currently using, although that's a guess that's probably wrong, knowing my guessing track record, and honestly, if they don't, then we'll... maybe they should, eh? If the 3 or 4 major custom tip brands are so much better, then maybe the IEM manufacturers should include some of them for a small upcharge, as I'm sure if they bought the tips by the thousands or whatever, they should be able to get a decent discount on the price, and honestly, if they're that much better, then seriously, that would go a long way to making buying custom tips something that's overall unnecessary for most people unless they were buying replacements...
Am I wrong? Can any of my questions be answered? Does anyone even understand my questions? I've only ever used included tips, so I have no firsthand knowledge of custom tips for earbuds or IEMs...
It's not necessary to buy after market tips if you're getting a good fit and good sound from the stock tips. Also, many brands are providing better tip options as standard these days. If you're happy with the standard tips, I'd say to stick with those.
@@PassionforSound thanks for the information... If I was to buy a set of IEMs, (and earbuds too I guess) and like the included tips, and thereafter should ever run out of included spares(if included) for some reason, then would there be a way of getting OEM replacements for those (which would undoubtedly be cheaper) or would that be a good time to get (upgrade to?) Aftermarket tips? Just checking so if I ever needed to I'd have the knowledge in the future...
*Edit*
The one thing I just thought of in your response that I'm unsure about is this, "good fit"... Maybe you said it in your video, but is "good fit" something easily explained or is the list of what makes a good fit, different between people?
When I say good fit, I just mean it's comfortable in your ear and sounds good. A bad fit will cause discomfort and/or a lack of bass in most cases.
As for getting OEM tips, that's not something I'm aware of being available so that's when I'd turn to some good aftermarket options.
What about people like myself who have dealt with the extreme discomfort with something being jammed into your ear canals. Pain, itching, wax discharge, blocked ears. Any advice?
There's a good chance you have a narrow, irregular shaped and/or tightly turning ear canal (I have the same challenge to a small degree). Trying a bunch of tips can sometimes help to find just the right one, but the alternative might be to go custom. I've got a full video about this planned for the nearish future.
@@PassionforSound Thank you sir. Much appreciate your quick response. I just subscribed and anxiously await that video. 👍🏻🍷
Thanks for the sub! I'm not sure when I'll get to it exactly, but hope to share it soon...
As a general rule, when in doubt, is it better to go bigger or smaller?
That's an interesting question. Both have issues. Going bigger can risk not fitting at all and going smaller can risk not creating a seal. If you've got two that fit similarly, I'd try both for a decent length listen (30 minutes or so) and see which is more comfortable and maintaining a consistent seal while you move around, open and close your mouth (e.g. eat something).
@@PassionforSound Good help. Thanks a lot. (...read my own q again and it did put a smile on my face 😊)
😂
Is there any tips you'd recommend for some Blessing Dusk 2's with a big 6.5mm nozzles that hurt the ears? I've been using the stock small eartips but they're still too big
That's a tough one. I'm not a fan of large nozzles for that reason. Maybe see what spintfit options there are.
Did you ever find any?
@@sigmachad96 They aren't ideal but i grabbed some foam tips from Shenzhen audio. They're a big improvement but i still can't wear them for very long periods of time.
Here's the copy paste item description from the receipt if you were interested
"Moondrop MIS-Tip Sponge Eartips for KXXS/ Spaceship/S8 Earphones(2 pair)"
Hello there!!
Thanks for this informative article. I have been eyeing the spiral dots for quite sometime now. And you mentioned that they are soft. Im not limiting myself but i usually prefer firm or stiff tips. May i ask what does the spiral dots do to the sound in general?
Now the spinfits, what particular model do you recommend?
Btw i like my sound signature as balance or neutral as it can be.
Thanks in advance. Looking forward for your response. Thanks again!!
I haven't tried lots of different SpinFit models so I can't really say which is best - sorry. Also, what tips do for each earphone can vary a bit depending on the earphone, but the Spiral Dots generally allow for more treble quantity than a narrower bore tip like the SpinFits. Somehow, the Spiral Dots also slightly improve the quality of the treble by removing a little harshness from some IEMs.
Finally, if you like a stiffer ear tip, I'd recommend trying the Azla Xelastec tips.
@@PassionforSound thank u for the response. I will try to widen my options. 😎👍🏻
Thanks for a super informative video. Very useful
So glad I could help!
Ps. I can see it's been 3 yrs now, but congrats on the baby. 😊
I have so many ear tips these days... I feel like the Dekoni's are best for the Tin P1, but my opinion on this type of thing changes weekly. I haven't found a use for the Spiral Dots; they seem to make the treble way too hot for my liking, but I wonder if I just haven't found the right iem for them. The only iem I thought they were okay with is the Ikko OH10, but by "okay" I mean they're just as bad as the stock tips. That iem is way too treble forward for me.
You should try RHA Dual Density tips. They're only five bucks for a three pack (at least, in the U.S. that is. They are a U.K. company, though, I think).
Thanks for the recommendation - I'll grab a pack. The Spiral Dots seem best suited to slightly warmer IEMs where a slight treble boost (from the wide open bore) can improve the imaging and clarity.
I heard that Final Audio E eartips are used to boost bass and reduce treble. Likewise, you can do the same with the Acoustune AET series
It will depend a lot on the design of the original tips. If the stock tips had the same narrow opening then the Final E Type tips will sound about the same. If the stock tips are wide open then it will be a bit different.
So wider bore or longer distance from ear = more treble
And narrower bore or shorter distance from ear = more bass
Correct?
Definitely wider bore generally equates to more treble, but insertion distance is less predictable because every ear canal is a slightly different shape with its own resonances as a result. Best to have a play with each item.and find your preferred combination of tips and insertion depth.
Wider bore also results in spacious sound while narrow bore results in focused sound
good day sir.n what do you think is the best eartip for ikko oh10? thanks!!
It's more about the combination of your ears and the earphones so I can't really say. I'm a big fan of the Final Audio E-Type tips, Spinfits and JVC Spiral Dots so any of those are worth a go
I really needed this... Thanks
My pleasure!
Passion for Sound
Hi, Would you please provide a link to Facebook and Congratulations on the new baby.
I found it :)
Hi Tony, sure thing: facebook.com/PassionforSoundAU/
@@PassionforSound Thanks!
I had tried many eartips from medium to small to super small...But discomfort still present..I am using blon bl 03...How can i choose earphone tips..Most of the time i use small or super small...Want to hear music for long time but ear starts to ache after sometime..Please reply
Sorry to hear that you're struggling to get a comfortable fit! The BL-03 have an unusual nozzle angle so it's possible that that's playing a part in your troubles. Have you only tried the BLON tips or some aftermarket ones too?
@@PassionforSound I tried eartips of my sony xb55 and result was same.. Blon eartips are not comfortable at all
I agree about the BLON tips. I don't know the XB55 at all for their tip quality, but how do you find the Sony comfort as an IEM?
@@PassionforSound My Sony eartips fitted me well but after putting on blon bl 03 and inserted in to my ears. My starts to ache immediately..Like i don't know why this happened..Because i use to wear my Sony XB 55 for long hours ( 4-5 ). Do you have any hack regarding foam eartips...Used so many eartips....After sometime ears fatigue starts like pressure of eartips around the ears....Any type of tips, tricks or hack will be helpful if you make a ( specific video ) on eartips..
I have a video all about ear tips already - try a search for Passion for Sound ear tips. Beyond that, it sounds like the angle of the BLON nozzles might be your issue if you could wear the Sonys for extended periods
Mazel tov!! Surprised you can do a 13 minute review without nodding off.
Thanks Mark. I actually recorded the main content before little Zander joined the family. If be hard pressed to produce intelligible content beyond 1-2 minutes just yet 😉
Which model of Spinfits you use with the moondrop star field!!!
Please reply .
Responded to your other request
Last comment, I promise... I don't even care about sound characteristics, I just want the friggin thingies to stay IN mee ears!
Some great "tips" here, mate (you're allowed to make Dad jokes all the time now). Although they can become a "bore" 😂 Hope the family is doing well.
That's pure gold. Thank you!
Foam tips are the best for me, plastic tips feel like ear plugs and are uncomfortable
I agree that the plastic tips can be quite uncomfortable sometimes
What would you recommend for sony wf 1000xm3 user that always slip from my ears.
Would be very appreciate if you help me🙏
Hi Kautsar, I haven't tried the Sonys, but normally this is about finding the right tips. Also do you need noise cancellation and would a wire between the earphones be an issue (i.e. Bluetooth still, but the earpieces are connected to each other)?
@@PassionforSound the noise cancelaion is ok, but the fits went bad for me. What tips would you recommend for me so my sony tws could stay in my ear?
I'd try some different sizes that came with the earphones and otherwise invest in a mixed pack of SpinFit tips. They're my go-to tip for anything that doesn't fit perfectly with the stock options.
@@PassionforSound can you mention the type of that spinfit you used to?
Boy oh boy, talk about an infinite rabbit hole...................
I feel like I need to quit my job and devote meeSelf ENTIRELY to trying n testing iem tips, 😅
So good thanks!
Glad it was helpful
If I'm allowed a quick joke... in Aussie land here and hear are pronounced equal: hee. 😊
My right bud2 pro fell out till i got fome now i ues bouth because thay stay in my ear thats all i care about don't want to have one fall out in the ocean!
Congratulations!
Thank you!
bro wtf you know you can clean foam tips right?
In my experience, foam tips lose their structure over time and spring back too fast which makes insertion and seal difficult to achieve