I remember my first Sennheiser IEM back in 2015 when I was in late high school. The CX 400-IIs. I wasn't in the hobby back then, and me and my friends simply called them in-ears or earbuds instead of IEMs, but I remember being quite amazed by them. The only Senns I own now are the discontinued HD630VBs, but I still keep track of Sennheiser for nostalgia feels. Informative review as always. Wonderful job!
Having this iem for 2 years , never use this for mixing & mastering just for listen music from my phone. But a couple month ago i start using this IEm for mixing & mastering , quite suprise with this IEM capability. Never use my Headphone since than 😁
These are really great value. I recently bought the IE300 and love them, great bass, lovely tone. It has a great version of a v-shaped sound while recognizably a Sennheiser.
I've got them on the way, but I have to say I'm getting really tired of the obsession with the Harman curve. It's a great way to kill diversity and creativity in headphone and earphone design
I find the IE series less discussed about and underrated to an extent. Probably due to the ocean of "ChiFi" IEMs? The proprietary cable ("recessed" mmcx?) also does not help as it limits aftermarket cable swapping. Have an IE 40 Pro and found the sound to be clean and detailed while also being really comfy. Though a tad bright, a tip roll would do the trick. Cannot tell a physical difference between the IE 100 Pro and my IE 40 Pro. I wish this series gets talk about more often.
I agree. The new range from Sennheiser are brilliant, but I think you're right that they're swamped by the ChiFi wave. ☹️ As far as I can tell, each step up in the range brings refinements to the drivers and housings, but I don't know exactly what this means for the step from IE40 to IE100.
@@PassionforSound no please don't speak up. There are already way too many people producing way too many decibels with their vocal chords. I prefer calm voices 👍🏼.
Just found this review and I’m watching it with my ie100 bt… I have them about 2 months.. for the price I find them great as IEMs but mostly paired with the BT module. But as satisfied I am with the sound the connectivity etc.. I found that the BT module has a HUGE design flaw. It is almost impossible to remove by hand the rubber protector in order to charge the module! In my case the rubber piece started to peel off because in every time I want to charge it I have to use some kind of tool. I never thought this would be a possibility…. :( :(
@@PassionforSound for me if I put it all the way in the port as it should is very difficult. I keep the edge a little off. I remain in my opinion that it's a design flaw.
@@PassionforSound it's a pity because it's a great iem and the BT adapter works great! For the money of course! A slight issue I also have is that it sometimes a somehow loud "pat" sound is reproduced from L or R channel but it's not very often.
Not for monitoring but just listening and enjoying the music, from Hip-Hop to Vocals/Jazz to Instrumentals/Classical - these or Ikko OH10 Obsidian? Gotta say I am Sennheiser user - wired and wireless headphones. I heard a lot positive on Obsidian.
Hello 🙂, I just heard them from the sound demo, but to me it seems that they have wall of sound, which from the demo that can sound clearer and have that wow factor but in the real life it can be too much, is that correct? Lower treble and upper bass and bass are maybe too full???
I don't think it's a good idea to trust sound demos. The recording process and your playback chain have far too much influence on the end sound that you hear and can enhance or degrade the sound of either device without you knowing. I can't really tell you much more than what I've said in this review. I think the IE100s are a solid IEM at the price.
First of all: Love your channel and your calm and informative presentation Secondly: Perhaps somebody could lend me their expertise: Just got the Moondrop Starfields and for roughly 2/3 of my library I love them, especially for rather relaxed and smooth, emotional, vocal centric tracks. But for more enganging and bass dependent electronic music they aren't doing it for me at all, the lack of quality and quantity of bass makes those sound hollow to me. Does someone have suggestions as an addition to the Starfields around the 80-130 US dollar mark? Was thinking about the ibasso it00
So glad you're enjoying the channel! As for recommendations, maybe see if you can get the Ikko OH10 on special during Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales - they're a great IEM.
I could never get IEMs to fit me properly, ended up only very bright sounds and have to use my hands to hold both buds in position to hear bass. Tried different ear buds, from brands to types and foam etc. so I only have a bunch of cheap KZs, upgraded cables and the best among the 7 I have is the Tinhifi T2.
@@PassionforSound, tried different sizes, silicons, memory foams, branded, cheap, double tips, triple tips and haven’t found anything that works for me, maybe I just don’t have the ears for it md this is why I just buy the cheap ones. Friend loan me his mid and high end ones like UM, Final Audio and another I can’t remember and still didn’t work for me.
The Mojo 2 will be better than the wireless connection for sure, but my general sound quality comments in this video were either with Mojo 2 or TT2 as source so that's about the limit of what you'll get.
You might get better sound quality, but you'll have a wire running down your body somewhere instead of just from ear-to-ear - depends on your priorities
That's true, but it's still more cables to wrangle and as someone who owns both BT receiver devices and wireless earphones like the IE100 Pro, I'd choose the wireless if I'm doing anything vaguely active. Again, it's all personal preference though.
I disagree having tried these wired and wireless. The difference isn't subtle. Going wireless brings great versatility, but it's definitely a trade-off
@@PassionforSound that doesn't surprise me. You have much better critical listening skills than the average audiophile. Why do some mid range DAC Amps have Bluetooth receivers? Because it's good enough for most audiophiles.
I agree that the convenience of Bluetooth is definitely preferable sometimes. I just like to make sure people understand the decisions they're making (i.e. not trying to say any particular choice is right or wrong)
@@PassionforSound After conducting further research, it seems that the Bluetooth Connector (as Sennheiser calls the module) is incompatible with the IE 200, so I just ordered both the 100 (with both the Bluetooth and 3.5mm cable) and the IE 200, as well as a balanced cable that hopefully will fit both in-ear monitors. And, in case you were wondering, yes, I'm the Vegan Vicar. I have several TH-cam channels, but only one video as of now, which I've uploaded to both this channel and the Vegan Vicar channel. You're welcome to subscribe and watch it, Lachlan. 😁
They're a bit of a mixed bag. Some are amazing, some are pretty dreadful and that goes for sound, comfort and build quality. I would say you need to check the reviews on them before buying, but there are some excellent options.
Appreciate the information, great breakdown. It's like you're good at this is or something, it's weird. I find your lack of hyperbole disturbing. This whole balanced approach thing to reviews with perspective, thoughtfulness, and nuance is lost on uncultured filth such as myself. Consider inserting some snap zooms, wub-wubs, and a catch phrase or two. I really wish, and I know this isn't going to happen, that these audio companies would get away from calling everything "Pro". The designation is now meaningless due to its over use. I'd love to see someone like Senny tag a device name with its intended use, like IE100 - Reference or "RC" for "reference class" or IE 100 - "Mix & Master" or "MM". Hopefully Sennheiser reads my comment and steals my idea. I'd love to see a hypothetical IE 120 - "Bass Cannon". Just be honest with us regarding the intention of the device.
Love the classification idea! I'll be sure to ramp up the hype on future videos too 😉 As for the Pro designation, I completely agree! That said, I actually think this is one of the few times that it kind of makes sense because they've actually designed this for Pro use (remembering that the Bluetooth module is an optional add-on). As you say though, the trouble is that EVERYONE is using it. Maybe my next review should be a Pro review?
@@PassionforSound Hi Lachlan, this IEM follows the Sennheiser naming convention as the IE100/400/500 carry the PRO moniker but the IE300/800/S/900 do not. In my experience, the Pro series is less bassy than the standard IE series. The IE800/900 can turn into bass monsters with a bit of tweaking.
Based on the marketing, the cable on this one is also specifically designed for durability and is available in a mono configuration for single-ear use in live monitoring setups.
@@PassionforSound i was wondering, if i upgrade to ie 600 or 900, will i notice a significant upgrade? I listen mostly to rock/punk rock and i find the kick drums to be a bit thin here. Its not bad, just not great. Or do i upgrade to another iem completely?
For now, yes. I heard recently that there is a lossless codec on the horizon, but all my research points to the fact that LDAC and aptX HD are still lossy
I'm not sure that I agree. The price difference between the IE100 and IE500 means that those considering the IE100 are likely not looking at the IE500 too. Also, I can only compare what I have on hand. The channel doesn't make enough money for me to buy every possible option to review.
@@PassionforSound Mate, I agree with you. In all areas other than the bass, the SE215s are outclassed by both the IE100 and the ZS10 Pro. The ZS10 Pro can get just a tad sibilant.
I remember my first Sennheiser IEM back in 2015 when I was in late high school. The CX 400-IIs. I wasn't in the hobby back then, and me and my friends simply called them in-ears or earbuds instead of IEMs, but I remember being quite amazed by them.
The only Senns I own now are the discontinued HD630VBs, but I still keep track of Sennheiser for nostalgia feels. Informative review as always. Wonderful job!
Glad you enjoyed the review! I remember some of my first decent earphones were Sennheisers too, but they were earbuds, not IEMs 🙂
Having this iem for 2 years , never use this for mixing & mastering just for listen music from my phone. But a couple month ago i start using this IEm for mixing & mastering , quite suprise with this IEM capability. Never use my Headphone since than 😁
That's great! Thanks for sharing your experiences
A great review as to be expected from this gentleman. Thank you Lachlan, this sound like a good iem.
I really like them, especially at the price! Glad you enjoyed the review!
These are really great value. I recently bought the IE300 and love them, great bass, lovely tone. It has a great version of a v-shaped sound while recognizably a Sennheiser.
Their new IEM range seem to all be right on the mark
Do i need to buy usb dac to hear the good sound
It will provide better sound if you want to hear these IEMs at their very best.
Tin has released the T3 plus for $69 US. It quite closely follows the Harman curve. It would be interesting to see that reviewed as well.
I've got them on the way, but I have to say I'm getting really tired of the obsession with the Harman curve. It's a great way to kill diversity and creativity in headphone and earphone design
I've seen some E2 reviews recently. I'm eagerly awaiting your review.
It's queued and ready to drop after the Black Friday madness is over.
@@PassionforSound so probably a week to go.
Thank you for the review.
My pleasure
I find the IE series less discussed about and underrated to an extent. Probably due to the ocean of "ChiFi" IEMs? The proprietary cable ("recessed" mmcx?) also does not help as it limits aftermarket cable swapping. Have an IE 40 Pro and found the sound to be clean and detailed while also being really comfy. Though a tad bright, a tip roll would do the trick. Cannot tell a physical difference between the IE 100 Pro and my IE 40 Pro. I wish this series gets talk about more often.
I agree. The new range from Sennheiser are brilliant, but I think you're right that they're swamped by the ChiFi wave. ☹️
As far as I can tell, each step up in the range brings refinements to the drivers and housings, but I don't know exactly what this means for the step from IE40 to IE100.
Hi, I have a question. Can the IE 100 Pro be used for workouts and running?
It's not water proof AFAIK, but no other reason to not use it and the wireless module makes it super convenient.
Very informative, thanks. And you could also consider making ASMR videos, your voice is very relaxing.
Glad you liked the review and my voice. I've had others suggest ASMR too (and others still who tell me to speak up 😉)
@@PassionforSound no please don't speak up. There are already way too many people producing way too many decibels with their vocal chords. I prefer calm voices 👍🏼.
Thanks for the vote of confidence! 🙂🙂
Just found this review and I’m watching it with my ie100 bt… I have them about 2 months.. for the price I find them great as IEMs but mostly paired with the BT module. But as satisfied I am with the sound the connectivity etc.. I found that the BT module has a HUGE design flaw. It is almost impossible to remove by hand the rubber protector in order to charge the module! In my case the rubber piece started to peel off because in every time I want to charge it I have to use some kind of tool. I never thought this would be a possibility…. :( :(
Oh gee. That's not good! I was able to open it with just my fingernail, but not everyone has the same nails
@@PassionforSound for me if I put it all the way in the port as it should is very difficult.
I keep the edge a little off.
I remain in my opinion that it's a design flaw.
Sorry to hear you've struggled with it!
@@PassionforSound it's a pity because it's a great iem and the BT adapter works great! For the money of course!
A slight issue I also have is that it sometimes a somehow loud "pat" sound is reproduced from L or R channel but it's not very often.
I haven't noticed that, but I didn't use them a lot with the BT module
Not for monitoring but just listening and enjoying the music, from Hip-Hop to Vocals/Jazz to Instrumentals/Classical - these or Ikko OH10 Obsidian? Gotta say I am Sennheiser user - wired and wireless headphones. I heard a lot positive on Obsidian.
I'd take the Obsidian for pure enjoyment. They're wonderful
It's called Fidelity+ MMCX cable connector
Thanks for the info!
Hello 🙂, I just heard them from the sound demo, but to me it seems that they have wall of sound, which from the demo that can sound clearer and have that wow factor but in the real life it can be too much, is that correct? Lower treble and upper bass and bass are maybe too full???
I don't think it's a good idea to trust sound demos. The recording process and your playback chain have far too much influence on the end sound that you hear and can enhance or degrade the sound of either device without you knowing. I can't really tell you much more than what I've said in this review. I think the IE100s are a solid IEM at the price.
First of all: Love your channel and your calm and informative presentation
Secondly: Perhaps somebody could lend me their expertise:
Just got the Moondrop Starfields and for roughly 2/3 of my library I love them, especially for rather relaxed and smooth, emotional, vocal centric tracks. But for more enganging and bass dependent electronic music they aren't doing it for me at all, the lack of quality and quantity of bass makes those sound hollow to me.
Does someone have suggestions as an addition to the Starfields around the 80-130 US dollar mark? Was thinking about the ibasso it00
So glad you're enjoying the channel!
As for recommendations, maybe see if you can get the Ikko OH10 on special during Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales - they're a great IEM.
@@PassionforSound Thank you for your answer, I'll look into them. Have a nice day
You too 🙂
I could never get IEMs to fit me properly, ended up only very bright sounds and have to use my hands to hold both buds in position to hear bass. Tried different ear buds, from brands to types and foam etc. so I only have a bunch of cheap KZs, upgraded cables and the best among the 7 I have is the Tinhifi T2.
That's a shame about the fit. Do large or small tips come closer to giving you a decent fit?
@@PassionforSound, tried different sizes, silicons, memory foams, branded, cheap, double tips, triple tips and haven’t found anything that works for me, maybe I just don’t have the ears for it md this is why I just buy the cheap ones. Friend loan me his mid and high end ones like UM, Final Audio and another I can’t remember and still didn’t work for me.
thank for the review. do you think mojo 2, could improve their sound? thanks!
The Mojo 2 will be better than the wireless connection for sure, but my general sound quality comments in this video were either with Mojo 2 or TT2 as source so that's about the limit of what you'll get.
Paying an extra $50 for wireless Bluetooth is ok but it might be better value to pay an extra $100 for Shandling or Qudelix.
You might get better sound quality, but you'll have a wire running down your body somewhere instead of just from ear-to-ear - depends on your priorities
@@PassionforSound it wouldn't be too inconvenient to clip it to your shirt.
That's true, but it's still more cables to wrangle and as someone who owns both BT receiver devices and wireless earphones like the IE100 Pro, I'd choose the wireless if I'm doing anything vaguely active. Again, it's all personal preference though.
Even though AptX is lossy it has a compression of 4 to 1 compared to CD and most people wouldn't hear the difference on most music.
I disagree having tried these wired and wireless. The difference isn't subtle. Going wireless brings great versatility, but it's definitely a trade-off
@@PassionforSound sure. It's probably the Bluetooth device rather than the AptX codec.
I'm yet to hear even a quality LDAC device match a decent wired setup.
@@PassionforSound that doesn't surprise me. You have much better critical listening skills than the average audiophile. Why do some mid range DAC Amps have Bluetooth receivers? Because it's good enough for most audiophiles.
I agree that the convenience of Bluetooth is definitely preferable sometimes. I just like to make sure people understand the decisions they're making (i.e. not trying to say any particular choice is right or wrong)
Is the Bluetooth module compatible with the IE 200?
I'm not sure. I don't have an IE200 to try. Sorry.
@@PassionforSound
After conducting further research, it seems that the Bluetooth Connector (as Sennheiser calls the module) is incompatible with the IE 200, so I just ordered both the 100 (with both the Bluetooth and 3.5mm cable) and the IE 200, as well as a balanced cable that hopefully will fit both in-ear monitors.
And, in case you were wondering, yes, I'm the Vegan Vicar. I have several TH-cam channels, but only one video as of now, which I've uploaded to both this channel and the Vegan Vicar channel. You're welcome to subscribe and watch it, Lachlan. 😁
I did wonder that when you had the little emoji/icons in your username.
Hope you enjoy the IE100s and 200s!
What is the maximum power or voltage of the Bluetooth device.
I'm not sure that I saw that listed anywhere. Also, because of the unique connections, it will only work with the IE100s at this stage I think
Sennheiser IE100 Pro vs KZ AST?
I haven't tried the AST - sorry
Hi, want to know is Chinese IEM's any good? cos seen a few that looks pretty and i want to get them but don't know if they are just cheap rubbish.
They're a bit of a mixed bag. Some are amazing, some are pretty dreadful and that goes for sound, comfort and build quality.
I would say you need to check the reviews on them before buying, but there are some excellent options.
Appreciate the information, great breakdown. It's like you're good at this is or something, it's weird. I find your lack of hyperbole disturbing. This whole balanced approach thing to reviews with perspective, thoughtfulness, and nuance is lost on uncultured filth such as myself. Consider inserting some snap zooms, wub-wubs, and a catch phrase or two.
I really wish, and I know this isn't going to happen, that these audio companies would get away from calling everything "Pro". The designation is now meaningless due to its over use. I'd love to see someone like Senny tag a device name with its intended use, like IE100 - Reference or "RC" for "reference class" or IE 100 - "Mix & Master" or "MM". Hopefully Sennheiser reads my comment and steals my idea. I'd love to see a hypothetical IE 120 - "Bass Cannon". Just be honest with us regarding the intention of the device.
Love the classification idea! I'll be sure to ramp up the hype on future videos too 😉
As for the Pro designation, I completely agree! That said, I actually think this is one of the few times that it kind of makes sense because they've actually designed this for Pro use (remembering that the Bluetooth module is an optional add-on). As you say though, the trouble is that EVERYONE is using it. Maybe my next review should be a Pro review?
@@PassionforSound Hi Lachlan, this IEM follows the Sennheiser naming convention as the IE100/400/500 carry the PRO moniker but the IE300/800/S/900 do not.
In my experience, the Pro series is less bassy than the standard IE series. The IE800/900 can turn into bass monsters with a bit of tweaking.
Based on the marketing, the cable on this one is also specifically designed for durability and is available in a mono configuration for single-ear use in live monitoring setups.
That could even pull more of us customers if things were properly labeled like that, I sure hope they steal that idea.
It's pretty good, but they can get a bit fatiguing
I agree. It doesn't quite have the refinement of the higher models
@@PassionforSound i was wondering, if i upgrade to ie 600 or 900, will i notice a significant upgrade? I listen mostly to rock/punk rock and i find the kick drums to be a bit thin here. Its not bad, just not great. Or do i upgrade to another iem completely?
The IE600 and IE900 are miles better. You'll definitely hear a difference if you have a decent source device for them.
How do these compare with the ie 300?
I haven't heard the IE300 yet
You meant to say every Bluetooth codec is lossy.
For now, yes. I heard recently that there is a lossless codec on the horizon, but all my research points to the fact that LDAC and aptX HD are still lossy
@@PassionforSound Maybe even this year from LDAC. One might want to hold off on a purchase till it's arrival :)
Its not fair to valuate models without the flagship.. In dis case ie500 pro.. Yup it can use the bluetooth frm dis to ie500 pro.. Peace!
I'm not sure that I agree. The price difference between the IE100 and IE500 means that those considering the IE100 are likely not looking at the IE500 too. Also, I can only compare what I have on hand. The channel doesn't make enough money for me to buy every possible option to review.
Hmm the famous Shure SE215s - even the KZ ZS10 Pros' walk all over them.
I compared the SE215 here in this video and don't agree that they're better. The IE100 has a much more balanced sound. I can't speak to the ZS10 Pro.
@@PassionforSound Mate, I agree with you. In all areas other than the bass, the SE215s are outclassed by both the IE100 and the ZS10 Pro. The ZS10 Pro can get just a tad sibilant.