A huge thanks to the Audio Geek Brother_Hood of Audiophiles for including me in the tour of EarAcoustic VSA PM Crown. However, needless to mention, all thoughts and opinion below are my own.
About EarAcoustic VSA PM Crown
The EarAcoustic VSA PM Crown is a high end planar magnetic IEM which offers, both, refined audio performance and an elegant, premium appearance. As per its website, it features a custom designed 11.4 mm ribbon planar driver with low impedance (approximately 16 Ω) and high sensitivity (approximately 105 dB SPL/mW). This driver utilizes a flat-plate aluminum ribbon conductor within a multi-magnetic micro-plane structure. In summary, it is a single ribbon planar driver engineered to deliver high resolution, outstanding treble extension, which is also easy to drive.
Priced at $850, at the time or writing, the VSA PM Crown is clearly placed in the premium and flagship tear of planner magnetic IEMs.
Appearance, Fit and Comfort
Now-a-days, boutique IEM brands implement various approaches to ensure their shell and faceplate designs are distinctive and visually appealing. They give a great deal of consideration to not only aesthetics, but also the choice of materials. Such differentiation is crucial for standing out in the highly competitive IEM market. The VSA PM achieves this efficiently with its glittering appearance. It features a premium metallic shell, that exudes luxury and craftsmanship. It has a highly glossy, mirror polished finish that gives it an incredibly glittery, almost jewel-like appearance. The faceplate is coated in a crystalline resin with a diamond-patterned texture and structure of a crown, which catches and refracts light beautifully. Accentuated by its crown motif, the VSA PM Crown feels more like a piece of fine jewelry than an IEM.
Simultaneously, its shape is also highly ergonomic, enabling a comfortable and cozy fit, when paired with a right pair of tips. The material, though metallic, is never a cause of worry while wearing.
The Cable Situation
As pe its website – “The VSA PM Crown’s cable features a high-end hybrid construction combining 5N and 6N OCC copper plated with silver, 4N pure silver, and Furukawa silver–copper alloy plated with silver to balance warmth, detail, and transparency. It uses an air-suspension bracket structure that minimizes signal interference and loss, ensuring ultra-clean signal transmission. Equipped with a 0.78 mm dual-pin interchangeable connector, it allows for flexible cable swapping.”
Eartips
Though the shell is highly ergonomic, facilitating a comfortable wear, its metallic and glass construction adds considerable responsibility on the eartips for holding it tight in the ear for a secure fit and isolation, After a usual round of tip-rolling, I settled for Penon’s own, black liqueur tips. Its slightly grippy texture helped the IEM to stay put and ensured a great seal.
My Listening setup
Sound impression
Overall Sound Signature
The EarAcoustic VSA PM Crown is a V shaped IEM that delivers a tight, clean, and refined bass. While the sub bass reaches deep, the mid bass stays clear and textured. The mids and highs are detailed and natural. It stands out from other planar IEMs for its precision, control, and superior technical performance, offering an engaging yet balanced sound without any hint of discomfort or un-naturalness in any part of the spectrum.
Bass
The EarAcoustic VSA PM Crown delivers a tight, clean bass, with a subtle boost that provides punch to drums and electronic beats without ever overwhelming the mix. Sub bass extends low, while the mid bass remains clear and textured. This gives instruments the required weight without adding any boominess. This balanced sound would suit several genres like rock and electronic music, offering both punch and clarity.
The bass also stands out from other planner magnetic competitors for its precision and definition. Compared to IEMs like the 7Hz Timeless 2, it offers much cleaner separation of instruments and a more refined punchy bass. I would however suggest that it is not designed for bass heads who desire maximum slam from their IEMs. The tuning feels deliberately prioritizing coherence and naturalness over brute force. However a tiny EQ boost could add extra depth for sub bass lovers. Overall, it is a kind of bass that complements the overall sound beautifully, by being tight, refined, and expressive without ever stealing the spotlight.
Mids
Whenever I listened to the EarAcoustic VSA PM Crown, the midrange immediately stood out for its clarity and realism. Even though it has a slightly V shaped tuning, with a slight dip in the lower mids, it never sounded thin or hollow. The mids come across as clean, transparent, and natural, slightly north of neutral in its tuning. Vocals, both male and female, sounded silky and lifelike, with a full size serving of texture and sweetness that felt organic and natural. I especially appreciated how it maintained its balance across a wide variety of songs, even on dry and less dynamic mixes. Everything sounded full and engaging without losing that touch of refinement.
Technically too, the midrange is very well executed. Instruments like the guitar and piano have depth and texture, and the layering in complex tracks are clear and impressive. The smooth transition between the lower mids and bass adds enough richness to prevent the sound from becoming clinical and boring. I find that it manages to deliver detail and separation without ever sounding harsh or fatiguing, something, numerous other planner magnetic IEMs fails to deliver. Overall, the VSA PM’s midrange feels emotionally engaging
Treble
To me, the treble immediately strikes as one of its strongest and most refined qualities. It is bright and energetic, yet incredibly smooth and cohesive. It can be easily classified as one of the most natural sounding trebles I have heard from a planar magnetic IEM. These highs are clean and extended, letting me hear every shimmer of a cymbal without any hint of harshness or fatigue. It is bright enough to bring out air and sparkle in the music, however it never crosses into sharp or sibilant territory. I really enjoyed how it handles busy passages of any track, capturing every subtle decay and nuance.
The thing I love most is how it manages to stay comfortable, even with such a revealing treble. Unlike some aggressive sounding planner IEMs, I tended to listen for hours without feeling tired. It keeps the same level of technical brilliance as higher end IEMs like the Campfire Supermoon but trades some aggressiveness for a more balanced, relaxed presentation. Compared to many other planar IEMs, VSA PM’s treble is simply more controlled, open, and precise. For me, it’s the kind of treble that brings music to life through smooth crispness and details.
Technical performance
EarAcoustic VSA PM Crown’s, technical ability is truly high-end. Everything sounds precise, clean, and effortlessly detailed. The ribbon planar driver gives a sense of refinement and control, that is rare from most of the other planner magnetic IEMs. Every note presents itself ad well defined, from the deepest sub bass to the highest treble. There is an overall cohesion that makes the music sound natural and fluid. It also effortlessly reveals tiny textures and background details that many IEMs just gross over. I think it is also pertinent to mention here that it is also easy to drive, so I don’t necessarily need a powerful amp to enjoy its full potential.
Coming to soundstage and imaging, the VSA PM impressive with its technical performance, depth and layering. While it doesn’t stretch the width as much as some expensive flagships do, it compensates it with a strong sense of depth and spatial accuracy. While the treble is fast, smooth, and highly detailed, the midrange stays organic and textured, and the bass remains tight and well controlled. Everything feels synchronized, like a perfectly orchestrated symphony.
Conclusion
EarAcoustic VSA PM Crown is a premium IEM, that combines luxurious aesthetics with refined and high-end sonic performance. It delivers a detailed and balanced V-shaped sound, marked by tight, clean bass, natural mids, and smooth, extended treble. Priced at $850, it belongs firmly in the flagship planar magnetic category. It is also very easy to drive and sounds good with any source. It’s mirror-polished metallic shell with crown themed faceplate gives it a jewel-like appearance which may not be desirable for everyone. However, the ergonomic design ensures a comfortable and secure fit. Technically, it impresses with precision, tonal balance, coherence and excellent technical abilities, without ever being harsh or fatiguing. For those who have a flavor for Planner Magnetic IEMs and an eye for beauty, VSA PM crown is a perfect premium choice
About EarAcoustic VSA PM Crown
The EarAcoustic VSA PM Crown is a high end planar magnetic IEM which offers, both, refined audio performance and an elegant, premium appearance. As per its website, it features a custom designed 11.4 mm ribbon planar driver with low impedance (approximately 16 Ω) and high sensitivity (approximately 105 dB SPL/mW). This driver utilizes a flat-plate aluminum ribbon conductor within a multi-magnetic micro-plane structure. In summary, it is a single ribbon planar driver engineered to deliver high resolution, outstanding treble extension, which is also easy to drive.
Priced at $850, at the time or writing, the VSA PM Crown is clearly placed in the premium and flagship tear of planner magnetic IEMs.
Appearance, Fit and Comfort
Now-a-days, boutique IEM brands implement various approaches to ensure their shell and faceplate designs are distinctive and visually appealing. They give a great deal of consideration to not only aesthetics, but also the choice of materials. Such differentiation is crucial for standing out in the highly competitive IEM market. The VSA PM achieves this efficiently with its glittering appearance. It features a premium metallic shell, that exudes luxury and craftsmanship. It has a highly glossy, mirror polished finish that gives it an incredibly glittery, almost jewel-like appearance. The faceplate is coated in a crystalline resin with a diamond-patterned texture and structure of a crown, which catches and refracts light beautifully. Accentuated by its crown motif, the VSA PM Crown feels more like a piece of fine jewelry than an IEM.
Simultaneously, its shape is also highly ergonomic, enabling a comfortable and cozy fit, when paired with a right pair of tips. The material, though metallic, is never a cause of worry while wearing.
The Cable Situation
As pe its website – “The VSA PM Crown’s cable features a high-end hybrid construction combining 5N and 6N OCC copper plated with silver, 4N pure silver, and Furukawa silver–copper alloy plated with silver to balance warmth, detail, and transparency. It uses an air-suspension bracket structure that minimizes signal interference and loss, ensuring ultra-clean signal transmission. Equipped with a 0.78 mm dual-pin interchangeable connector, it allows for flexible cable swapping.”
Eartips
Though the shell is highly ergonomic, facilitating a comfortable wear, its metallic and glass construction adds considerable responsibility on the eartips for holding it tight in the ear for a secure fit and isolation, After a usual round of tip-rolling, I settled for Penon’s own, black liqueur tips. Its slightly grippy texture helped the IEM to stay put and ensured a great seal.
My Listening setup
-
DAP- (Apple Music Lossless and on-device FLAC)
- Astell&Kern Kann Ultra
- iBasso DX340
Sound impression
Overall Sound Signature
The EarAcoustic VSA PM Crown is a V shaped IEM that delivers a tight, clean, and refined bass. While the sub bass reaches deep, the mid bass stays clear and textured. The mids and highs are detailed and natural. It stands out from other planar IEMs for its precision, control, and superior technical performance, offering an engaging yet balanced sound without any hint of discomfort or un-naturalness in any part of the spectrum.
Bass
The EarAcoustic VSA PM Crown delivers a tight, clean bass, with a subtle boost that provides punch to drums and electronic beats without ever overwhelming the mix. Sub bass extends low, while the mid bass remains clear and textured. This gives instruments the required weight without adding any boominess. This balanced sound would suit several genres like rock and electronic music, offering both punch and clarity.
The bass also stands out from other planner magnetic competitors for its precision and definition. Compared to IEMs like the 7Hz Timeless 2, it offers much cleaner separation of instruments and a more refined punchy bass. I would however suggest that it is not designed for bass heads who desire maximum slam from their IEMs. The tuning feels deliberately prioritizing coherence and naturalness over brute force. However a tiny EQ boost could add extra depth for sub bass lovers. Overall, it is a kind of bass that complements the overall sound beautifully, by being tight, refined, and expressive without ever stealing the spotlight.
Mids
Whenever I listened to the EarAcoustic VSA PM Crown, the midrange immediately stood out for its clarity and realism. Even though it has a slightly V shaped tuning, with a slight dip in the lower mids, it never sounded thin or hollow. The mids come across as clean, transparent, and natural, slightly north of neutral in its tuning. Vocals, both male and female, sounded silky and lifelike, with a full size serving of texture and sweetness that felt organic and natural. I especially appreciated how it maintained its balance across a wide variety of songs, even on dry and less dynamic mixes. Everything sounded full and engaging without losing that touch of refinement.
Technically too, the midrange is very well executed. Instruments like the guitar and piano have depth and texture, and the layering in complex tracks are clear and impressive. The smooth transition between the lower mids and bass adds enough richness to prevent the sound from becoming clinical and boring. I find that it manages to deliver detail and separation without ever sounding harsh or fatiguing, something, numerous other planner magnetic IEMs fails to deliver. Overall, the VSA PM’s midrange feels emotionally engaging
Treble
To me, the treble immediately strikes as one of its strongest and most refined qualities. It is bright and energetic, yet incredibly smooth and cohesive. It can be easily classified as one of the most natural sounding trebles I have heard from a planar magnetic IEM. These highs are clean and extended, letting me hear every shimmer of a cymbal without any hint of harshness or fatigue. It is bright enough to bring out air and sparkle in the music, however it never crosses into sharp or sibilant territory. I really enjoyed how it handles busy passages of any track, capturing every subtle decay and nuance.
The thing I love most is how it manages to stay comfortable, even with such a revealing treble. Unlike some aggressive sounding planner IEMs, I tended to listen for hours without feeling tired. It keeps the same level of technical brilliance as higher end IEMs like the Campfire Supermoon but trades some aggressiveness for a more balanced, relaxed presentation. Compared to many other planar IEMs, VSA PM’s treble is simply more controlled, open, and precise. For me, it’s the kind of treble that brings music to life through smooth crispness and details.
Technical performance
EarAcoustic VSA PM Crown’s, technical ability is truly high-end. Everything sounds precise, clean, and effortlessly detailed. The ribbon planar driver gives a sense of refinement and control, that is rare from most of the other planner magnetic IEMs. Every note presents itself ad well defined, from the deepest sub bass to the highest treble. There is an overall cohesion that makes the music sound natural and fluid. It also effortlessly reveals tiny textures and background details that many IEMs just gross over. I think it is also pertinent to mention here that it is also easy to drive, so I don’t necessarily need a powerful amp to enjoy its full potential.
Coming to soundstage and imaging, the VSA PM impressive with its technical performance, depth and layering. While it doesn’t stretch the width as much as some expensive flagships do, it compensates it with a strong sense of depth and spatial accuracy. While the treble is fast, smooth, and highly detailed, the midrange stays organic and textured, and the bass remains tight and well controlled. Everything feels synchronized, like a perfectly orchestrated symphony.
Conclusion
EarAcoustic VSA PM Crown is a premium IEM, that combines luxurious aesthetics with refined and high-end sonic performance. It delivers a detailed and balanced V-shaped sound, marked by tight, clean bass, natural mids, and smooth, extended treble. Priced at $850, it belongs firmly in the flagship planar magnetic category. It is also very easy to drive and sounds good with any source. It’s mirror-polished metallic shell with crown themed faceplate gives it a jewel-like appearance which may not be desirable for everyone. However, the ergonomic design ensures a comfortable and secure fit. Technically, it impresses with precision, tonal balance, coherence and excellent technical abilities, without ever being harsh or fatiguing. For those who have a flavor for Planner Magnetic IEMs and an eye for beauty, VSA PM crown is a perfect premium choice