Earacoustic Vsa Max : You slowly fall in love with it.
Since I couldn't really get my hands on their iems from the SPA lineup. When I saw they are gonna release a new series called “VSA” or “Vocal Sweetness Amplified”. I was mad excited about it and then I finally got my hands on one. And its the Vsa max, A single dynamic driver iem coming at the price of $150 and after spending some time with it. It has turned into one of my absolute favorites. So, what does this have to offer to be one of my favorites? Keep reading to find out!
Since I couldn't really get my hands on their iems from the SPA lineup. When I saw they are gonna release a new series called “VSA” or “Vocal Sweetness Amplified”. I was mad excited about it and then I finally got my hands on one. And its the Vsa max, A single dynamic driver iem coming at the price of $150 and after spending some time with it. It has turned into one of my absolute favorites. So, what does this have to offer to be one of my favorites? Keep reading to find out!
Disclaimer
The Vsa Max was sent out to by Earacoustics themselves in return for my honest and unbiased review. There were no monetary transactions between us nor any copy checking was done before posting this review. Everything that I have said in this article are my subjective thoughts on this iem.
And after reading this, if you intend to purchase this iem. Check out their website or their Aliexpress store.
Tested with
Cayin N7
Cayin C9
Cayin RU7
Onix Alpha XI1
Trn TK1
Specification
Driver config: Single 11.4mm Titanium Diaphragm
Impedance: 32 Ohms
Sensitivity: 110 db
Frequency response: 5Hz - 40kHz
Cable material: 408 core Leeds oxygen free copper and silver plated wire mixed weave
Cable Length: 1.20m
Plug type: 4.4mm + 3.5mm (Interchangeable)
Connector type: 2 pin, 0.78mm
The Vsa Max was sent out to by Earacoustics themselves in return for my honest and unbiased review. There were no monetary transactions between us nor any copy checking was done before posting this review. Everything that I have said in this article are my subjective thoughts on this iem.
And after reading this, if you intend to purchase this iem. Check out their website or their Aliexpress store.
Tested with
Cayin N7
Cayin C9
Cayin RU7
Onix Alpha XI1
Trn TK1
Specification
Driver config: Single 11.4mm Titanium Diaphragm
Impedance: 32 Ohms
Sensitivity: 110 db
Frequency response: 5Hz - 40kHz
Cable material: 408 core Leeds oxygen free copper and silver plated wire mixed weave
Cable Length: 1.20m
Plug type: 4.4mm + 3.5mm (Interchangeable)
Connector type: 2 pin, 0.78mm
What’s in the box?
Iem themselves
OFC & Silver plated mixed cable
4.4mm & 3.5mm jack
3 pairs of – eartips
3 pairs of – eartips
Carrying case
Unboxing experience
The unboxing experience of the Vsa max or any Earacoustic iem is something totally different and I love it! The square box kinda does remind me of the box of the Sony Z1R but then again it's different in its own way. Lifting up the top layer of the square box reveals a segment which has VSA written along with its full form underneath it. Opening up the box reveals the 2 sets of eartips as well as a booklet which has the specs about the VSA lineup iems , graph and the after sales terms as well the QC passing info. Underneath that layer are the Driver itself and after removing 2 more segments. You’ll be greeted with a random colored Earacoustic carrying case which houses the cable and plugs. For the price of $150, this sort of presentation and unboxing experience is truly something to praise in my opinion.
Iem themselves
OFC & Silver plated mixed cable
4.4mm & 3.5mm jack
3 pairs of – eartips
3 pairs of – eartips
Carrying case
Unboxing experience
The unboxing experience of the Vsa max or any Earacoustic iem is something totally different and I love it! The square box kinda does remind me of the box of the Sony Z1R but then again it's different in its own way. Lifting up the top layer of the square box reveals a segment which has VSA written along with its full form underneath it. Opening up the box reveals the 2 sets of eartips as well as a booklet which has the specs about the VSA lineup iems , graph and the after sales terms as well the QC passing info. Underneath that layer are the Driver itself and after removing 2 more segments. You’ll be greeted with a random colored Earacoustic carrying case which houses the cable and plugs. For the price of $150, this sort of presentation and unboxing experience is truly something to praise in my opinion.
Build & Design
The Vsa max looks and feels absolutely solid, thanks to its “aviation-grade aluminum-magnesium alloy”. I think for the price this is as solid and sturdy an iem get for the price and it should handle some tiny accidental drops with ease ( Yes, i have dropped mine multiple time hehe :3 ) . Design wise it had to be something shiny and blingy as it's from Earacoustics, right? **** yes! The faceplate has tiny rounded glitters covered by resin , which reflects light quite a lot and it's bound to catch your eye. They didn't stop there, the shell itself has been CNC milled to curvy groves all round it and I think this gives more character to the look of it. While I’m not a fan of such shiny stuff, I don't mind this at all.
The Vsa max looks and feels absolutely solid, thanks to its “aviation-grade aluminum-magnesium alloy”. I think for the price this is as solid and sturdy an iem get for the price and it should handle some tiny accidental drops with ease ( Yes, i have dropped mine multiple time hehe :3 ) . Design wise it had to be something shiny and blingy as it's from Earacoustics, right? **** yes! The faceplate has tiny rounded glitters covered by resin , which reflects light quite a lot and it's bound to catch your eye. They didn't stop there, the shell itself has been CNC milled to curvy groves all round it and I think this gives more character to the look of it. While I’m not a fan of such shiny stuff, I don't mind this at all.
Fit & Comfort
I'd say the fit of the vsa max is average to above average. The fins and universal custom shape doesn't help much but it's not one of those which bother the back of the ear. And since its made out of metal, it's a bit on the heavier side. Expected to be not so comfy over prolonged periods of usage but it surely proved me wrong. I was able to easily spent hours with it in my ears.
I'd say the fit of the vsa max is average to above average. The fins and universal custom shape doesn't help much but it's not one of those which bother the back of the ear. And since its made out of metal, it's a bit on the heavier side. Expected to be not so comfy over prolonged periods of usage but it surely proved me wrong. I was able to easily spent hours with it in my ears.
Sound
As much as it stands out of the crowd by its looks, the more it tries to blend in and hide itself sonically. It sounds very safe and very easy going. Although it looks like a V shape, the whole exciting factor is just not there. But surprisingly I still like this a lot. I think whoever tuned this, knew exactly what he/she was doing. It kinda reminds me of some of the Sennheiser headphones, there is no exciting factor to the sound but then again the more you listen to it. The more you start to appreciate it and the same goes for the vsa max.
As much as it stands out of the crowd by its looks, the more it tries to blend in and hide itself sonically. It sounds very safe and very easy going. Although it looks like a V shape, the whole exciting factor is just not there. But surprisingly I still like this a lot. I think whoever tuned this, knew exactly what he/she was doing. It kinda reminds me of some of the Sennheiser headphones, there is no exciting factor to the sound but then again the more you listen to it. The more you start to appreciate it and the same goes for the vsa max.
Bass
To start with, the sub-bass on it is just a chef’s kiss. You can hear the rumbles very easily and they shine throughout the music effortlessly. They have this authority to them which I really like. The rumbles go deep and the decay on those is a bit slow. So, it ends up having a constant presence and I don't think it's a bad thing at all. Also do note that this is not targeted towards basshead and for that it does its job very well, so don't expect insane earth shaking sub-bass. But more of a balanced approach towards it.
Since this iem is more focused on the Sub-bass, the mid-bass doesn't seem to shine much. But its punch is still quite satisfying to say the least. While these are not the hardest hitting slams out there but moreover they are on the softer side and it still is very enjoyable. They have a good body to the mid-bass , no bloat or bleeding. Just pure quality stuff going on here and I'm a fan of it!
Mid-range
Male vocals have that warmth to them making them sound smooth and lushy. While their presentation is a bit forward in the mix, I think this just makes it better. Noteweight on them are simply spot on. I think unless you like recessed male vocals you’re bound to like what these have to offer.
I was absolutely speechless when I started listening to female vocals with this. They are extremely lively and up your face but it wasn't bothering at all. They sound very smoothened out but not to the point where you won't be able to pick the texture of the voice. It has a fantastic balance between it.
Well mastered instrumentals sound so good, I started to feel sleepy after just one track. For most of the part they are not totally up your face but then again there are times when they may sound a bit too forward. Other than that they too have that smoothness and texture like the female vocals. And more importantly I found no hint of metallic-ness in them.
To start with, the sub-bass on it is just a chef’s kiss. You can hear the rumbles very easily and they shine throughout the music effortlessly. They have this authority to them which I really like. The rumbles go deep and the decay on those is a bit slow. So, it ends up having a constant presence and I don't think it's a bad thing at all. Also do note that this is not targeted towards basshead and for that it does its job very well, so don't expect insane earth shaking sub-bass. But more of a balanced approach towards it.
Since this iem is more focused on the Sub-bass, the mid-bass doesn't seem to shine much. But its punch is still quite satisfying to say the least. While these are not the hardest hitting slams out there but moreover they are on the softer side and it still is very enjoyable. They have a good body to the mid-bass , no bloat or bleeding. Just pure quality stuff going on here and I'm a fan of it!
Mid-range
Male vocals have that warmth to them making them sound smooth and lushy. While their presentation is a bit forward in the mix, I think this just makes it better. Noteweight on them are simply spot on. I think unless you like recessed male vocals you’re bound to like what these have to offer.
I was absolutely speechless when I started listening to female vocals with this. They are extremely lively and up your face but it wasn't bothering at all. They sound very smoothened out but not to the point where you won't be able to pick the texture of the voice. It has a fantastic balance between it.
Well mastered instrumentals sound so good, I started to feel sleepy after just one track. For most of the part they are not totally up your face but then again there are times when they may sound a bit too forward. Other than that they too have that smoothness and texture like the female vocals. And more importantly I found no hint of metallic-ness in them.
Treble
This has one of the most refined treble sections in this price range. People who are sensitive and want a safer sound, look no further as the vsa max delivers exactly that. It does have the Sparkle and the details you would want in your music while maintaining a flow smoothness all around. Absolutely phenomenal, how they have managed to make it sound so controlled and yet so airy and lively. Also I found zero cases of it showcasing any sorts of sibilance at all.
Technicalities
This doesn't even try to stand out with its sound, how can you expect to even try excelling in technical performance. Yes it doesn't but, is it good? Yes, for the price it's above and beyond for anyone who’s not a sucker for peak technical performance.
Soundstage & Imaging
Soundstage on these are very good, you get a 3d sense of space around you. While the depth and height are pretty good, I have to give props to how good its depth is. There is no way it will feel congested to you but more likely you’ll be surprised at how good it's portraying. Imaging wise, they are very precise. I was easily able to pick up the sound elements even the tiny vague ones in the background. Also I tried playing Delta force with these on and I think this does a pretty good job if you are into gaming as well.
This has one of the most refined treble sections in this price range. People who are sensitive and want a safer sound, look no further as the vsa max delivers exactly that. It does have the Sparkle and the details you would want in your music while maintaining a flow smoothness all around. Absolutely phenomenal, how they have managed to make it sound so controlled and yet so airy and lively. Also I found zero cases of it showcasing any sorts of sibilance at all.
Technicalities
This doesn't even try to stand out with its sound, how can you expect to even try excelling in technical performance. Yes it doesn't but, is it good? Yes, for the price it's above and beyond for anyone who’s not a sucker for peak technical performance.
Soundstage & Imaging
Soundstage on these are very good, you get a 3d sense of space around you. While the depth and height are pretty good, I have to give props to how good its depth is. There is no way it will feel congested to you but more likely you’ll be surprised at how good it's portraying. Imaging wise, they are very precise. I was easily able to pick up the sound elements even the tiny vague ones in the background. Also I tried playing Delta force with these on and I think this does a pretty good job if you are into gaming as well.
Dynamics & Transient response
Surprisingly the dynamics on these are great, the transition from the lows to the highs are quite smooth and quick. To the point it's so good, it kept me wondering how they have done it? That aside I think you’ll be very happy with the way it handles the dynamics so effortlessly. Then coming on to transient response, as a single DD handling everything out. I didnt expect it to be super quick, it's above average for the price and manages to easily keep up with whatever is thrown at it. So, yeah not as quick as the planar but quick enough!
Detail retrieval & Layering
The amount of details that iem can portray are average to above average for the price. I would not complain at all about it, this is simply not targeted to be that. I think that this is plenty for someone who’s not looking specifically for maximum details they can get for the price. Layering wise, this is still pretty decent I’d say. Not the most precise layering out there but more than enough to understand and enjoy the music.
Power requirement & Pairing
To drive these single dynamic driver iems, you wouldn't need some fancy amp or something. They are quite easy to drive off, even my Tri Tk1 drives them with ease and still has a lot more head room to spare. Pairing wise, I can't really suggest going in one single direction with this iem. It's more likely in which way do you want its sound to lean towards. I tried using warmer to neutral brightish sounding dac/amps and it sounded pretty damn nice. The choice is totally up to you!
Surprisingly the dynamics on these are great, the transition from the lows to the highs are quite smooth and quick. To the point it's so good, it kept me wondering how they have done it? That aside I think you’ll be very happy with the way it handles the dynamics so effortlessly. Then coming on to transient response, as a single DD handling everything out. I didnt expect it to be super quick, it's above average for the price and manages to easily keep up with whatever is thrown at it. So, yeah not as quick as the planar but quick enough!
Detail retrieval & Layering
The amount of details that iem can portray are average to above average for the price. I would not complain at all about it, this is simply not targeted to be that. I think that this is plenty for someone who’s not looking specifically for maximum details they can get for the price. Layering wise, this is still pretty decent I’d say. Not the most precise layering out there but more than enough to understand and enjoy the music.
Power requirement & Pairing
To drive these single dynamic driver iems, you wouldn't need some fancy amp or something. They are quite easy to drive off, even my Tri Tk1 drives them with ease and still has a lot more head room to spare. Pairing wise, I can't really suggest going in one single direction with this iem. It's more likely in which way do you want its sound to lean towards. I tried using warmer to neutral brightish sounding dac/amps and it sounded pretty damn nice. The choice is totally up to you!
Cable & Tip Rolling
My favorite part about this iem, more likely about Earacoustics. The cables they provide are absolutely fantastic and aesthetically very pleasing. I like the way it has a 2 core braiding and no memory to the cable at all. Even though it's quite thick and bulky, the softness and the things I mentioned before about it are just a chef's kiss in my book. Sonically, as a stock cable this is simply more than enough. And the eartips they have provided are decent aswell, one pair ( wide bore medium size ) has been already put on to the iems and 6 more pairs ( 3 wide bores and 3 narrow bores ). Just pick the one you like the most. There is no such urgent need of tip rolling here.
My favorite part about this iem, more likely about Earacoustics. The cables they provide are absolutely fantastic and aesthetically very pleasing. I like the way it has a 2 core braiding and no memory to the cable at all. Even though it's quite thick and bulky, the softness and the things I mentioned before about it are just a chef's kiss in my book. Sonically, as a stock cable this is simply more than enough. And the eartips they have provided are decent aswell, one pair ( wide bore medium size ) has been already put on to the iems and 6 more pairs ( 3 wide bores and 3 narrow bores ). Just pick the one you like the most. There is no such urgent need of tip rolling here.
Conclusion
So, to conclude everything up. Is this iem the one for you? Well, if you are someone who wants greats packaging , excellent accessories and something that has great bass , excellent forward mid-range and sparkly yet very smooth treble section or in short a safer musical tuning. Something that does everything well and doesn't really miss out on anything much all while being around the price of $150. This is surely the one!
So, to conclude everything up. Is this iem the one for you? Well, if you are someone who wants greats packaging , excellent accessories and something that has great bass , excellent forward mid-range and sparkly yet very smooth treble section or in short a safer musical tuning. Something that does everything well and doesn't really miss out on anything much all while being around the price of $150. This is surely the one!