Just ordered my Performer 5 on sale for $200. Already seen many very positive reviews when they first came out so I wasn't looking for another review but had to see what you had to say about them, Dave. Thanks for the insight and reassurance.
Great video. After much reasearch I went for the Performer 5 complemented with the Hiby FC6 to round out some of the simbalence. ..very excited! And as always, thank you for your work on making such informative videos!
By far the best bang for bucks iem I got the opportunity to own. (they sell now at 180eu and can be found 2nd hand) Comfort of shell is Stellar, the tuning is lively warm and non-fatiguing, you also get opportunity to apply some EQ to bring more aliveness to the presentation. They volume scale nicely and with the easy to power aspect making it an ALL DAY listening experience. I recommend measuring you unit because mine was nothing of aggressive on the 4khz. Thanks for bringing your feedback also on the underrated JQ 4U Pro !!! Not many warm sets to compete with the P5 are known.
Dave, I've had these for a month now, based on your impressions, and thought I'd add to your thoughts First, I drive them off of an iPhone dongle or MB Air headphone jack. I also tried them out of a very old Portaphile amp, good quality, and the sound signature didn't change. 1) Tips: actually the red and blue are identical., but small are narrower bore, with medium and large a larger bore... but not quite wide bore. I suppose you could use a red for right and blue for left. I couldn't use them. The small were too small, and the medium didn't fit right. I just couldn't get a seal so the bass was anemic. I ended up using a Final E medium which are wide bore, which fit great and the bass came alive. 2) Bass: you are so right, it's good most of the time but on bass heavy tracks I think it distorts a little. My guess as to why ... there is only so much you can get from an 8mm standard driver. This to me is the primary weakness of this set... underspec'd, cheapo bass driver. 3) Mids: Didn't like the mids, thought they were slightly muddy and pulled back, so to fix that I took out 1.7 db at 250, and added 1.7db at 2k in macEQ. Cleaned it up and the vocalist stepped forward. You mentioned some BA timbre. Again, as with the bass driver, they didn't use quality mid drivers (Sonion), so this is to expected. They really spec'd the parts for these on the cheap. 4) Treble: I eq'd 8k down 2.1db. I am using slightly wider bore tips than those supplied that you used, so that could be a reason I felt the need to eq those at 8k.. or it could just be my ear. I will say that listening without throttling back the 8k leaves me slightly irritated. It's fine after awhile b/c my brain adjusts, but still I prefer the softening my eq provided. The eqing down of the trebles could possibly also affect my perception of the vocals stepping more forward, just a hunch, b/c as we know changing any area of the frequency spectrum changes perception of all the other areas. Before I tried the Final E tips, and also unsuccessfully tying both style tips from a 2 yr. old set of Simgot MT3, and also Tripowin Olina SE, I was going to sell these on. The Eqing also made a small difference for me, but nowhere near the impact of the right tips. So, now I'm keeping them. I would like to get the Hype2 at some point to choose between the two, or even the KiwiEars Quintet, which i suspect are different enough that I might keep both styles, so that should be a fun adventure.
Thanks for giving us another professional tremendous review like always on another one of the best new IEMs in the market nowadays. Please allow me to ask for your professional comments before I make my final purchasing decision. Wondering if it is worth the extra $250 Canadian to pick Aful Performer 8 instead of 5. I'm not a strong bass head that like the strong punch and boom boom sound, but I still enjoy my music/songs with a smooth mellow bass. I also enjoy my pop and country music with a warm voice. Thanks again for your professional advice !!
Fantastic review Dave...Was waiting to see your take on this. I enjoy them with Moondrop spring tips (gives a more balanced presentation) and Kinera leyding balanced cable with Tempotec V6. The fit is fantastic, reminds me of Dauntless. Except for the occasional BA timbre (rarely imo), I enjoy these IEMs a lot, especially for vocals and rock music - I find the layering is fantastic with these. Also, about the stage, I find the width is great (maybe due to balanced output) but the height is ok. Thanks, Dave.
@@TheHonestAudiophile pls do try with the spring tips and post your impressions, if possible... I have tried the blue/red combination for left/right, so I guess that is not how it works..lol...I will try with stock blue wide bore tips..
@@Hijynx87 Yes, they appear same to me as well. However, the stock tips didn't fit me properly. I'm using spinfit w1 now. They are amazing with a proper sub woofer kind of bass response. Even better than spring tips and that metallic BA timbre at times has gone totally..
Hey Dave, I am a drummer at church looking to buy my own pair of IEMs. I like hearing the different layers and having clear vocals as well as the crisp details of the acoustic with some piano depth. I don’t really want to spend over 250, and recommendations?
I noticed a bit of sibilance on some vocal tracks too which is strange because I’ve read other reviews which say they have no sibilance. But for me it’s definitely there in tracks like Kyma’s “Long after You’re Gone” which I’ve been using as a test track
@@liviuoros77 I’ve had to try many different types of tip because I have small ear canals and I find most silicone tips painful. I got the same sibilance when he sings “sssingin this sssong” in the same place with all the different tips. I didn’t get this sibilance with the Truthear Hexa. I still prefer the tuning of the P5 overall and by a long shot because I mostly listen to electronic music with no vocals anyway but it’s still worth noting. I have heard mind you that the P5 has batch variance and different sets are producing different results which could be why some people don’t have sibilance and some do
I think there was a comment in Z-reviews where he said that he let them play for an extended period of time and the break-in removed any sibilance. I have these IEMs, and I did let them run on a break-in loop for around 20 hours, and I do not notice any sibilance. I just also bought the DUNA Sa6 MKII, and to me, the Performers are an excellent buy.
@@trebep all gear sent to the channel for review is out through a burn-in/break-in period of at least 40 hours before a review. Everyone hears different and there are many factors that play into it. Thanks for the comment.
Dave, I own the P5's and you nailed it. We have different tastes in music so sometimes we have different views but your review of the P5 was spot on! Two things, I was thinking about adding the Kato to my collection. Do you think it would be a significant step back from the P5's in resolution and detail retrieval? 2nd, you know I have to pick up the JU 4Q Pro now.... Thanks for the reviews.
The Kato isn't much if any of step back from the P5 in regards to details and resolution. Look forward to hearing your impressions of the Kato and 4U Pro.
Thank you for the review. Which Iem would you buy for below $320? (I currently have the AKG 371 headphones. I heard the review you made on the AKGs and found that all the shortcomings you pointed out of the AKGs were spot on) I am looking for IEMs, that are accurate, clean, have impact and weight (but not muddy), and with good sound stage/imaging. And something I can enjoy listening to music on, but also can use on stage for critical listening.
Great video Between Performer 5 and Dunu Falcon ultra, which one would you recommend? Was looking at a set for less than 200. Both can be fine under 200 bucks. Would appreciate any other recommendations Thanks again
@@TheHonestAudiophile thanks for the reply So what do you actually recommend for under 200 I want something all-rounder with decent built and design I really appreciate your opinion
Very nice review! Unfortunately I can't decide between the Performer 5 and the Hidizs MP145. It would be important to me that the vocals are very close to the ear and that the whole thing has an intimate sound and everything sounds detailed. It should be operated with my Qudelix 5K, can you perhaps help me with the choice?
@TyrionKannister I reviewed it long time ago and don't recall enough to give fair comparison. Here's a link to my review: th-cam.com/video/PGEXmE7001s/w-d-xo.html
As mentioned before, I haven't heard the FH3 in a long time, since I reviewed it to be exact. I don't have it to do a side by side comparison to confirm but it would seem based on that comment that the P5 isn't as recessed. Again, I can't confirm that and I don't recall what the FH3 sounded like to give a fair comparison.
Haven't heard the Hype 2. That's a tough one as the P5 is more pleasurable to listen but isn't as detailed and resolving. I probably lean EA1000 but P5 would be solid as well.
Thanks Dave for this review, appreciate it. I have already pulled the trigger on this one but was keen to know your views. I agree that the bass could be "confused" on busier tracks. The AFUL or the Seeaudio Yume 2. Your pick ? My next iem ....the XENNS TOP. Thanks
Very interesting comparison, The AFUL has the better sub bass presence and the Yume2 has the better treble presence. Mids are more fairly even. Stage is wider and deeper on the Yume2 but the detail retrieval, resolution imaging is better on the AFUL. Kinda a toss up, depends on what you seek.
Hi Dave, I'm loaded with reviews and I really enjoyed this one, thank you. Right now I', deciding between the P5 and Moondrop Kato, any recommendation is much appreciated.,
Moondrop Kato has more natural tone and timbre, slightly more forward mids and is better resolving. I prefer the Kato because of the better tone and timbre and resolution.
Dave i'd like to hear these. Have you sold them on, if not I'm interested. If I don't get along with them I'll sell them on for the same price, no profit.
Hi! Please help, there is an offer near my place 2nd hand IER M7 for around $280 .. is it better for me to get that over a brand new aful p5? Thank you very much!
Depends on what you are currently using as a source. A DAC/amp dongle may help improve the performance. I wasn't impressed with Apple dongle or Abigail to be honest. A Hiby FC3 or Hidizs S9 Pro Plus would be a better option in my opinion.
Hi Dave! is it true the aful performance 5 has issues with the volume? i heart from other reviewers that the volume is to high i mean when you try to increase the volume this could be very loud for sensitive people. And another question sorry bother, if you have to select between Performer 5 and Mangird Tea2, what would you recommend? If we don't see the price, that is different, thanks! have a good day!
@@TheHonestAudiophile I’m using the Beacn mic. I would plug it in my pc instead but the wire is not long enough. Do you think getting an audio jack extender is the play here?
@nickvictory50 I'm not familiar with the Beacn mic but after browsing the website it doesn't appear to have capabilities to do audio output other than monitoring the microphone. It appears they have a great customer support staff so maybe join their Discord and ask them for assistance. One other option is get a longer USB cable and connect via your PC. Also try the app and see if there are some settings that need enabled.
Elixir has better tone and timbre and a more accurate stage width and depth. They are similar in a lot of aspects but I would reach for the Elixir more often because of the more natural tone and timbre.
I'm currently using olina se and I get holographic soundstage imaging on olina se. Now I want to upgrade to aful p5. Is it also give holographic feel please tell me. I'm from Bangladesh🇧🇩
S12 is more aggressive in presentation, is more detailed and resolving, tone and timbre is slightly more natural. The P5 is less fatiguing and more pleasing to listen to.
Both are exceptionally good. The Bravery has a little more detail retrieval and resolution. The AFUL has a little more note weight in the mids. The Bravery is better extended in the treble but may sound a bit bright and hot to some. Bravery has a wider, deeper stage. I lean to the AFUL for a more pleasing listen but for a more analytical listen I would go with the Bravery.
@@TheHonestAudiophile the mangird tea 2 seems to be a good all rounder iem. Seeming a superior choice than the s12, timeless, kato and even the hyped aful p5. Gotto get my hands on the tea 2 myself. Thanks for the input Dave.
Here is a link to my tier list that shows all the gear I have reviewed: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1nRHnsP_4vLg9DlD9kwJ6gQuEQFqhTR0lnrkxXo3AMG8/edit?usp=sharing
@@deadline7610 Dave was stating that he purchased the Performer 5 for $80 but they listed for $220. I actually bought the JQ Audio, JQ 4U Pro's last December on sale for $169.45. They are normally $239.00. Would have been thrilled to buy them at $80.00. No such luck.
I was really looking forward to the review of the Performer5 and was glad to hear that you like them. These IEMs were at the top of my list. However……you had to ruin it by comparing them to the JQ 4U Pro! 😊 I had never heard of the JQ 4U before but the way you described them, I thought they sounded like my “reference” Thieaudio Legacy 4. And when I compared the frequency graphs of the 4U Pro and the Legacy 4, they are nearly the same - the treble is generally smooth, the mids are the same, but the bass on the 4U is a bit more prominent. So now, I’m abandoning the decision to get the Performer 5 and will get the JQ 4U Pro instead. And I’m also to understand that JQ is part of the Thieaudio company so that works for me! I’m a detail/clarity/resolution junkie (with a hint of bass fun) so I may have found my new budget “reference”. And I enjoyed your review on the 4U as well! 👍🏻
I've been thinking about getting the Thieaudio Legacy 4 to hopefully combine the Kato and 4U Pro tuning and body shape-wise. If the Kato had fit my big ears any better they'd be my daily driver, and if the lower treble on the 4U Pro wasn't so smooth they'd also be my daily driver. As a largely 70s/80s/90s music enthusiast, the dip from 2.5khz to 5khz leaves me disappointed, though the issue is almost nonexistent with darker songs. How do you feel about the Legacy 4 against the 4U Pro? Same sound but better treble maybe?
@@TheHonestAudiophile How would these be to play out of iPhone on the go? or Macbook on the go? Do either of those apple products have low output impedence?
Dave you said in this very review that these expensive Aful men's struggle with bass and even break up with busier music as they simply do not keep up with the source therefore they are NOT a good iem to recommend on this basis yet you do recommend them, guess you are NOT being honest with your viewers then huh.
So I can't recommend a product unless it's a perfect performer? Have you called out every other reviewer on their recommended products? If not, why not? Thanks for watching, commenting and subscribing. Have a wonderful day ❤️
@@TheHonestAudiophile as a matter of fact and in the interest of transparency and honesty I have indeed called out two other "reviewers" for exactly the same thing and unsubscribed from them for having done so, before you pull your high and mighty "I am untouchable" card think about how recommending dodgy, sub par or obviously below par mediocre products reflects on your own integrity or lack there of, yes do have a nice day.
Glad to hear that you're consistent in your viewing and commenting. I look at gear in a different way. Just because gear has a few flaws doesn't mean that it can't be recommended. Nothing is perfect, including you and myself. I don't see the flaws of the P5 to be so egregious that it is unlistenable or undesirable and that is where I draw the line between recommended and not recommended. Please check out the tier list in the description and you'll see that there's a lot of gear I don't recommend. If you believe that you need to unsubscribe or not recommend my channel, that's your choice. I hope this helps to clear up how I determine a recommendation or not.
![BOWKYLION - วิงวอน (ex-change) [Official MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/cLdnZWDaO-w/mqdefault.jpg)
Just ordered my Performer 5 on sale for $200. Already seen many very positive reviews when they first came out so I wasn't looking for another review but had to see what you had to say about them, Dave. Thanks for the insight and reassurance.
My pleasure, you're welcome. Look forward to hearing your impressions.
where were they on sale?
Great video. After much reasearch I went for the Performer 5 complemented with the Hiby FC6 to round out some of the simbalence. ..very excited! And as always, thank you for your work on making such informative videos!
Awesome 👍 Glad you enjoy the P5. I've not heard the FC6.
By far the best bang for bucks iem I got the opportunity to own. (they sell now at 180eu and can be found 2nd hand)
Comfort of shell is Stellar, the tuning is lively warm and non-fatiguing, you also get opportunity to apply some EQ to bring more aliveness to the presentation.
They volume scale nicely and with the easy to power aspect making it an ALL DAY listening experience.
I recommend measuring you unit because mine was nothing of aggressive on the 4khz.
Thanks for bringing your feedback also on the underrated JQ 4U Pro !!!
Not many warm sets to compete with the P5 are known.
Glad you enjoy the AFUL P5. Thanks for the impressions.
Indeed, the JQ 4U Pro is underrated.
I’m using mine right this second. Also $80?! Wow that’s a steal.
These are really interesting and I think you describe them well. I bet with a small tap of EQ to raise 2-3 kHz and reduce 5-8 kHz they'd sound great.
waited a long time for you on this Dave
thank you
i have it in my stable.
My pleasure, you're welcome.
I usually predict your review depending on how enthusiastic you are on the start of the video lol! 😂
Time to change up my introduction 😉
Dave, I've had these for a month now, based on your impressions, and thought I'd add to your thoughts
First, I drive them off of an iPhone dongle or MB Air headphone jack. I also tried them out of a very old Portaphile amp, good quality, and the sound signature didn't change.
1) Tips: actually the red and blue are identical., but small are narrower bore, with medium and large a larger bore... but not quite wide bore. I suppose you could use a red for right and blue for left. I couldn't use them. The small were too small, and the medium didn't fit right. I just couldn't get a seal so the bass was anemic. I ended up using a Final E medium which are wide bore, which fit great and the bass came alive.
2) Bass: you are so right, it's good most of the time but on bass heavy tracks I think it distorts a little. My guess as to why ... there is only so much you can get from an 8mm standard driver. This to me is the primary weakness of this set... underspec'd, cheapo bass driver.
3) Mids: Didn't like the mids, thought they were slightly muddy and pulled back, so to fix that I took out 1.7 db at 250, and added 1.7db at 2k in macEQ. Cleaned it up and the vocalist stepped forward. You mentioned some BA timbre. Again, as with the bass driver, they didn't use quality mid drivers (Sonion), so this is to expected. They really spec'd the parts for these on the cheap.
4) Treble: I eq'd 8k down 2.1db. I am using slightly wider bore tips than those supplied that you used, so that could be a reason I felt the need to eq those at 8k.. or it could just be my ear. I will say that listening without throttling back the 8k leaves me slightly irritated. It's fine after awhile b/c my brain adjusts, but still I prefer the softening my eq provided. The eqing down of the trebles could possibly also affect my perception of the vocals stepping more forward, just a hunch, b/c as we know changing any area of the frequency spectrum changes perception of all the other areas.
Before I tried the Final E tips, and also unsuccessfully tying both style tips from a 2 yr. old set of Simgot MT3, and also Tripowin Olina SE, I was going to sell these on. The Eqing also made a small difference for me, but nowhere near the impact of the right tips. So, now I'm keeping them.
I would like to get the Hype2 at some point to choose between the two, or even the KiwiEars Quintet, which i suspect are different enough that I might keep both styles, so that should be a fun adventure.
Thanks for the thoughts and impressions.
Thank You Dave! I enjoy your reviews! 👍👍👍
Awesome 👍 Glad you enjoy the channel content.
its my all time favourite IEM ...and i heard a lot
Glad you enjoy the P5.
Nice review bro
Thanks for giving us another professional tremendous review like always on another one of the best new IEMs in the market nowadays. Please allow me to ask for your professional comments before I make my final purchasing decision. Wondering if it is worth the extra $250 Canadian to pick Aful Performer 8 instead of 5. I'm not a strong bass head that like the strong punch and boom boom sound, but I still enjoy my music/songs with a smooth mellow bass. I also enjoy my pop and country music with a warm voice. Thanks again for your professional advice !!
Sorry I haven't heard the Performer 8.
Thank you for the kind words, much appreciated. Glad you enjoy the channel content.
Fantastic review Dave...Was waiting to see your take on this. I enjoy them with Moondrop spring tips (gives a more balanced presentation) and Kinera leyding balanced cable with Tempotec V6. The fit is fantastic, reminds me of Dauntless. Except for the occasional BA timbre (rarely imo), I enjoy these IEMs a lot, especially for vocals and rock music - I find the layering is fantastic with these. Also, about the stage, I find the width is great (maybe due to balanced output) but the height is ok. Thanks, Dave.
They are really good for vocal and rock music. I am glad you enjoy the Performer5. Thank you for the impressions and kind words.
@@TheHonestAudiophile pls do try with the spring tips and post your impressions, if possible... I have tried the blue/red combination for left/right, so I guess that is not how it works..lol...I will try with stock blue wide bore tips..
@@pavanakumar270187 aren’t both tips the same bore? Or are my eyes deceiving me?
@@Hijynx87 Yes, they appear same to me as well. However, the stock tips didn't fit me properly. I'm using spinfit w1 now. They are amazing with a proper sub woofer kind of bass response. Even better than spring tips and that metallic BA timbre at times has gone totally..
Hey Dave, I am a drummer at church looking to buy my own pair of IEMs. I like hearing the different layers and having clear vocals as well as the crisp details of the acoustic with some piano depth. I don’t really want to spend over 250, and recommendations?
JQ 4U Pro
Thank you so much!
My pleasure, you're welcome
I noticed a bit of sibilance on some vocal tracks too which is strange because I’ve read other reviews which say they have no sibilance.
But for me it’s definitely there in tracks like Kyma’s “Long after You’re Gone” which I’ve been using as a test track
Thank you for the impressions.
You should try other eartips
@@liviuoros77 I’ve had to try many different types of tip because I have small ear canals and I find most silicone tips painful.
I got the same sibilance when he sings “sssingin this sssong” in the same place with all the different tips.
I didn’t get this sibilance with the Truthear Hexa.
I still prefer the tuning of the P5 overall and by a long shot because I mostly listen to electronic music with no vocals anyway but it’s still worth noting.
I have heard mind you that the P5 has batch variance and different sets are producing different results which could be why some people don’t have sibilance and some do
I think there was a comment in Z-reviews where he said that he let them play for an extended period of time and the break-in removed any sibilance. I have these IEMs, and I did let them run on a break-in loop for around 20 hours, and I do not notice any sibilance. I just also bought the DUNA Sa6 MKII, and to me, the Performers are an excellent buy.
@@trebep all gear sent to the channel for review is out through a burn-in/break-in period of at least 40 hours before a review.
Everyone hears different and there are many factors that play into it.
Thanks for the comment.
Keep on keeping on brother!
Will do!
Dave, I own the P5's and you nailed it. We have different tastes in music so sometimes we have different views but your review of the P5 was spot on! Two things, I was thinking about adding the Kato to my collection. Do you think it would be a significant step back from the P5's in resolution and detail retrieval? 2nd, you know I have to pick up the JU 4Q Pro now.... Thanks for the reviews.
The Kato isn't much if any of step back from the P5 in regards to details and resolution.
Look forward to hearing your impressions of the Kato and 4U Pro.
Hi, have you the 4U Pro?
Could you share your thoughts on them vs Aful Performer 5?
Thanks!
@@Zen.bassoon Comparison to JQ 4U Pro @13:00
@@TheHonestAudiophile I actually listended to your videos a few times already 🤣 Just wanna heard some more thoughts from others
@@Zen.bassoon tip if you want someone specific to respond, you need to place an @ and the username so they'll know who your questioning.
Thank you for the review.
Which Iem would you buy for below $320?
(I currently have the AKG 371 headphones. I heard the review you made on the AKGs and found that all the shortcomings you pointed out of the AKGs were spot on)
I am looking for IEMs, that are accurate, clean, have impact and weight (but not muddy), and with good sound stage/imaging. And something I can enjoy listening to music on, but also can use on stage for critical listening.
Moondrop Blessing 3 would be my recommendation.
Glad you found the K371 review helpful.
Thanks for the kind words, much appreciated.
@@TheHonestAudiophile thank you. I heard some poeple say the bass in the blessing 3 are not impactful, is this untrue?
Blessing 3 has a more neutral bass but in my opinion still has good bass impact.
Great video
Between Performer 5 and Dunu Falcon ultra, which one would you recommend? Was looking at a set for less than 200. Both can be fine under 200 bucks. Would appreciate any other recommendations
Thanks again
Sorry haven't heard the DUNU Falcon Ultra.
@@TheHonestAudiophile thanks for the reply
So what do you actually recommend for under 200
I want something all-rounder with decent built and design
I really appreciate your opinion
Moondrop Kato
Myer Audio CKLVX D41
Very nice review! Unfortunately I can't decide between the Performer 5 and the Hidizs MP145. It would be important to me that the vocals are very close to the ear and that the whole thing has an intimate sound and everything sounds detailed. It should be operated with my Qudelix 5K, can you perhaps help me with the choice?
Sorry the MP145 was too big for my ears so I didn't review it and sent to another reviewer, AWSM Danny.
@@TheHonestAudiophile All right, thank you ^^ May you have experience with the Fiio FH3?
@TyrionKannister I reviewed it long time ago and don't recall enough to give fair comparison. Here's a link to my review:
th-cam.com/video/PGEXmE7001s/w-d-xo.html
@@TheHonestAudiophile On the FH3, the voices and instruments were a bit too far away. Is the P5 more intimate in this aspect?
As mentioned before, I haven't heard the FH3 in a long time, since I reviewed it to be exact. I don't have it to do a side by side comparison to confirm but it would seem based on that comment that the P5 isn't as recessed. Again, I can't confirm that and I don't recall what the FH3 sounded like to give a fair comparison.
Hi would u chose the aful 5 or the simgot ea1000 or the hype 2 mainly for r n b and pop style music thanks
Haven't heard the Hype 2. That's a tough one as the P5 is more pleasurable to listen but isn't as detailed and resolving. I probably lean EA1000 but P5 would be solid as well.
Thanks Dave for this review, appreciate it. I have already pulled the trigger on this one but was keen to know your views. I agree that the bass could be "confused" on busier tracks. The AFUL or the Seeaudio Yume 2. Your pick ?
My next iem ....the XENNS TOP.
Thanks
Very interesting comparison, The AFUL has the better sub bass presence and the Yume2 has the better treble presence. Mids are more fairly even. Stage is wider and deeper on the Yume2 but the detail retrieval, resolution imaging is better on the AFUL. Kinda a toss up, depends on what you seek.
Hi Dave, I'm loaded with reviews and I really enjoyed this one, thank you. Right now I', deciding between the P5 and Moondrop Kato, any recommendation is much appreciated.,
Moondrop Kato has more natural tone and timbre, slightly more forward mids and is better resolving. I prefer the Kato because of the better tone and timbre and resolution.
@@TheHonestAudiophile You're a star!,... thank you!
My pleasure, you're welcome.
Thanks for the kind words.
Thansk for the review. How does it compare to cklux d41? Thanks
Dave i'd like to hear these. Have you sold them on, if not I'm interested. If I don't get along with them I'll sell them on for the same price, no profit.
Shoot me an email and we can discuss.
How similar are the size of these compared to the SeeAudio Bravery (Angel Ears Exclusive Edition)?
Pretty similar, both about same comfort level.
Vs the chopin for treble sensitive folks?
Hi! Please help, there is an offer near my place 2nd hand IER M7 for around $280 .. is it better for me to get that over a brand new aful p5? Thank you very much!
Sorry haven't heard a Sony IER M7.
Aaww, thank you for replying
@@janssensantos4231 my pleasure, you're welcome
Should i spend 60 to 70 $ for a dac for Aful performer 5 . Or use something like Apple Dac or VE Abigail which i already have
Any improvement ?
Depends on what you are currently using as a source. A DAC/amp dongle may help improve the performance. I wasn't impressed with Apple dongle or Abigail to be honest. A Hiby FC3 or Hidizs S9 Pro Plus would be a better option in my opinion.
@@TheHonestAudiophile I mean I wanted to know if they will improve by those dacs. ?
@@fuzail3379 in my opinion the FC3 and S9 Pro Plus are better than the Apple and Abigail dongles so you should hear an improvement.
@@TheHonestAudiophile thanks bro
My pleasure, you're welcome.
Dou you know somthing about that the sound signature of the P5 depends of the batch?
I've not heard anything about it
Hi Dave! is it true the aful performance 5 has issues with the volume? i heart from other reviewers that the volume is to high i mean when you try to increase the volume this could be very loud for sensitive people. And another question sorry bother, if you have to select between Performer 5 and Mangird Tea2, what would you recommend? If we don't see the price, that is different, thanks!
have a good day!
If you max out volume sure, I haven't had issues controlling volume on hte P5. I would pick the Tea 2 over the P5.
@@TheHonestAudiophile thanks Awesome! have a good day
My pleasure, you're welcome
Hello I plugged these in my mic but i hear whatever the mic picks up. Any suggestion?
What mic are you using? Most of the headphone jacks on a mic are for monitoring the mic itself so it will only play what the mic hears.
@@TheHonestAudiophile I’m using the Beacn mic. I would plug it in my pc instead but the wire is not long enough. Do you think getting an audio jack extender is the play here?
@nickvictory50 I'm not familiar with the Beacn mic but after browsing the website it doesn't appear to have capabilities to do audio output other than monitoring the microphone. It appears they have a great customer support staff so maybe join their Discord and ask them for assistance.
One other option is get a longer USB cable and connect via your PC. Also try the app and see if there are some settings that need enabled.
@@TheHonestAudiophile appreciate the quick reply 💯
My pleasure, you're welcome. I hope you are able to get the issue resolved.
looking for something with a huge sound stage any recommendations? thanks
Moondrop Blessing 3
Moondrop Blessing 2
ADV-Sound M5-12D
Final A4000
Where can one get the jq 4u pro? Do you know of any EU shop that has it for sale?
www.linsoul.com/products/jq-4upro
Sorry I am not aware of any EU stores with the JQ 4U Pro in stock. I only know of Linsoul.
Just ordred them today
Awesomeness 😎 Look forward to hearing your impressions.
This or elixir which one you prefer?
Elixir has better tone and timbre and a more accurate stage width and depth. They are similar in a lot of aspects but I would reach for the Elixir more often because of the more natural tone and timbre.
I'm currently using olina se and I get holographic soundstage imaging on olina se.
Now I want to upgrade to aful p5.
Is it also give holographic feel please tell me.
I'm from Bangladesh🇧🇩
I havne't heard the Olina SE so I can't compare directly. The P5 has a good stage that is immersive.
I cant decide between this and S12 pro , can you kindly help me
Sorry haven't heard the S12 Pro.
@@TheHonestAudiophile how about S12?
S12 is more aggressive in presentation, is more detailed and resolving, tone and timbre is slightly more natural. The P5 is less fatiguing and more pleasing to listen to.
Seeaudio bravery AE vs Aful performer 5. Which one will you choose?
Both are exceptionally good. The Bravery has a little more detail retrieval and resolution. The AFUL has a little more note weight in the mids. The Bravery is better extended in the treble but may sound a bit bright and hot to some. Bravery has a wider, deeper stage. I lean to the AFUL for a more pleasing listen but for a more analytical listen I would go with the Bravery.
@@TheHonestAudiophile Thank you for giving detail answer
@@mohamadanas6203 my pleasure, you're welcome
I saw oriveti od200 is it good or should i go for this
Sorry I've not heard the Oriveti OD200
Would these be too similar to the Tea2?
Tea 2 has better detail retrieval, resolution and tone and timbre. P5 has a little more sub bass and treble presence.
@@TheHonestAudiophile the mangird tea 2 seems to be a good all rounder iem. Seeming a superior choice than the s12, timeless, kato and even the hyped aful p5. Gotto get my hands on the tea 2 myself. Thanks for the input Dave.
My pleasure, you're welcome
👍
Hi. I have S12 pro. How does it compares to P5
Sorry I haven't heard the S12 Pro.
@TheHonestAudiophile i thought you listen to everything 😀
Here is a link to my tier list that shows all the gear I have reviewed:
docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1nRHnsP_4vLg9DlD9kwJ6gQuEQFqhTR0lnrkxXo3AMG8/edit?usp=sharing
80 bucks
Damn you got lucky
Like a lot
Yeah it was too good of a deal not to accept the offer
I would not take them for use and for free, since I have long found what I wanted. But it would be interesting to listen to them.
JQ looks better to me… noted
I hope you get the opportunity to hear the JQ 4U Pro.
RLC =(R) resistor (L) Inductor (C) capacitor.
from the review, seems like $80 is about right. but not $220. will stay away. thanks for the review!
My pleasure, you're welcome.
Lol $220 is perfectly fine
WOW, $80 to $220. Glad I purchased the JQ 4U Pro's. I do like them a lot and saved some money too.🙂
JQ 4U Pro are so underrated.
Thanks for sharing.
Did you buy the JQ 4U pro's for $80 ? if so where & when ?
Thanks
@@deadline7610 Dave was stating that he purchased the Performer 5 for $80 but they listed for $220. I actually bought the JQ Audio, JQ 4U Pro's last December on sale for $169.45. They are normally $239.00. Would have been thrilled to buy them at $80.00. No such luck.
@@herb601 in which shop did u buy it?
@@r.h.616 I honestly don't remember. Sorry.
kato or this
Moondrop Kato
I was really looking forward to the review of the Performer5 and was glad to hear that you like them. These IEMs were at the top of my list.
However……you had to ruin it by comparing them to the JQ 4U Pro! 😊
I had never heard of the JQ 4U before but the way you described them, I thought they sounded like my “reference” Thieaudio Legacy 4. And when I compared the frequency graphs of the 4U Pro and the Legacy 4, they are nearly the same - the treble is generally smooth, the mids are the same, but the bass on the 4U is a bit more prominent.
So now, I’m abandoning the decision to get the Performer 5 and will get the JQ 4U Pro instead. And I’m also to understand that JQ is part of the Thieaudio company so that works for me! I’m a detail/clarity/resolution junkie (with a hint of bass fun) so I may have found my new budget “reference”. And I enjoyed your review on the 4U as well! 👍🏻
Awesomeness! I look forward to hearing your impressions of the JQ 4U Pro.
Thank you for the kind words, much appreciated.
I've been thinking about getting the Thieaudio Legacy 4 to hopefully combine the Kato and 4U Pro tuning and body shape-wise. If the Kato had fit my big ears any better they'd be my daily driver, and if the lower treble on the 4U Pro wasn't so smooth they'd also be my daily driver. As a largely 70s/80s/90s music enthusiast, the dip from 2.5khz to 5khz leaves me disappointed, though the issue is almost nonexistent with darker songs. How do you feel about the Legacy 4 against the 4U Pro? Same sound but better treble maybe?
Sorry haven't heard the Legacy 4.
@@TheHonestAudiophile not sure they'd compare to the 4u pro anyways other than the tuning but yes, remains to be seen- or heard 😉
These are extremely source picky despite being easy to drive. They sound completely lifeless on sources with low output impedance
Yes, I have noticed that.
@@TheHonestAudiophile How would these be to play out of iPhone on the go? or Macbook on the go? Do either of those apple products have low output impedence?
Dave you said in this very review that these expensive Aful men's struggle with bass and even break up with busier music as they simply do not keep up with the source therefore they are NOT a good iem to recommend on this basis yet you do recommend them, guess you are NOT being honest with your viewers then huh.
So I can't recommend a product unless it's a perfect performer?
Have you called out every other reviewer on their recommended products? If not, why not?
Thanks for watching, commenting and subscribing. Have a wonderful day ❤️
@@TheHonestAudiophile as a matter of fact and in the interest of transparency and honesty I have indeed called out two other "reviewers" for exactly the same thing and unsubscribed from them for having done so, before you pull your high and mighty "I am untouchable" card think about how recommending dodgy, sub par or obviously below par mediocre products reflects on your own integrity or lack there of, yes do have a nice day.
Glad to hear that you're consistent in your viewing and commenting.
I look at gear in a different way. Just because gear has a few flaws doesn't mean that it can't be recommended. Nothing is perfect, including you and myself. I don't see the flaws of the P5 to be so egregious that it is unlistenable or undesirable and that is where I draw the line between recommended and not recommended. Please check out the tier list in the description and you'll see that there's a lot of gear I don't recommend. If you believe that you need to unsubscribe or not recommend my channel, that's your choice. I hope this helps to clear up how I determine a recommendation or not.