Review Of The Blon BL03 II
Introduction
It was a pleasant surprise to learn that Blon, after a long wait, had decided to launch the successor to its legendary and cult-leading BL03. This iconic headphone was widely acclaimed as the best affordable set in the audiophile community at the time by many audiophiles. As a Chinese electroacoustic company, Blon has a rich history of releasing a diverse range of products, including IEMs, headphones, and portable DAC/AMPs. Notably, their recent releases include the Z300 and Z200. I was fortunate enough to get my hands on these new Bl03s, and before delving into my review, I’d like to clarify a few points.
Disclaimer
*Since this unit tour was organised by the kindly people at Linsoul, I am grateful to them. As I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to these IEMs as “Blon or Blons.”
*I am using different ear-tips for convenience and better versatility.
*Finally, I will only evaluate the Blons based on its performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.
*Please understand that all opinions expressed in this review are my personal perspective and are not intended to offend anyone’s beliefs or experiences. Therefore, I kindly request a respectful and thoughtful approach to this review, even if it differs from your viewpoint.
Specification
The Blons have the same dynamic driver configuration as before, except the dynamic drivers have been upgraded. They now use a second-generation 10mm dual-chamber carbon diaphragm driver. The shells retain the same design and proportions as their predecessor, but the two-pin connection is now retracted and flush within the body.
Both the OG Blons and the new Blons have the same size nozzle and length. I noticed that I needed to use eartips one size larger than usual on other IEMs, but I was able to get a secure and comfortable fit even when I dozed off at night. Comfort was great.
The same Zinc alloy (Kirsite) metal body that gives the OG Blons a built-like tank impression also has an enhanced 1.2mm step design and an extended sound tube. The shells come in two different colors: one with a silver polished body and the other with a black matte body.
The cable has also been upgraded. It’s much better quality and heavier, which helps keep the IEM organized better. The cable has two-pin connectors and a 3.5mm straight plug, and it’s about 1.2 meters long.
Other accessories included are various types and sizes of eartips and the iconic jute-like pouch.
Moving on to the technical specifications, the impedance is 32 Ohms, and the sensitivity is 116dB. The frequency response range is from 20Hz to 20kHz.
Sound
So, I was contemplating what I wanted to write about the successor to the original Blon Bl03 when I didn’t have the OG Blon Bl03 with me. And here’s where I believe this comparison doesn’t need to be made to the OG Blons. Instead, I think we should compare it to the current saturated market of IEMs available today. Of course, Blons should be compared to the OG Blon Bl03, but I don’t think they should be compared to the OG Blons themselves. I believe that OG Blon Bl03 owners might have anticipated how it sounds, and I’ll address that as well, but please take it with a grain of salt because I only had the OG Blon Bl03 for a day when I compared them to the Blons. Now, let’s return to the review. I believe the new driver in the Blons has significantly improved in terms of clarity and balance. During my testing, I found that the response was much clearer due to the increased presentation of treble and upper midrange, while still maintaining the dynamic sound signature of the OG Blons. Now, when compared to today’s market offerings, I can relate these Tripowin x 0biDi Vivace. To be completely honest, between the two, there wasn’t much difference in their tuning (as evident from the graph), but I did feel that the clarity, dynamics, and resolution were superior in the Blons, while the Vivace excelled in certain technical aspects. Let’s delve deeper into the sound to uncover more details.
Treble
Alright, it’s not entirely accurate to say that I won’t be able to relate to or compare this new Blon BL03 to my memories of the original Blon BL03 or my time with them last year. I think that’s how subjective opinions work. I’ll try not to get bogged down in a discussion about how the older version sounded or how superior it is.
However, when it comes to the treble region, I believe the response produces a good amount of presence in the mix, especially the upper treble. It’s not overly emphasized, which gives it a crisp and sharp sound. This is what I liked about the original Blon BL03 when it was released. It’s not that the response is particularly relevant in the mix, but I think the tuning is more mature and balanced in terms of synergy and dynamics. This allows for a well-extended upper treble and clarity that sounds natural, airy, and spacious.
In my opinion, the sense of air and space is created by the elevated 12-15kHz region. This helps the notes maintain their tone and timbre without sounding detritious or off. The overall tuning also contributes to a silky smooth and rich sound while maintaining clarity and liveliness. I also feel that the lower treble sounds the same but with better vibrancy and forwardness for vocals and instruments in the mix. The notes retain good noteweight and balance, mainly due to how the upper midrange helps reduce the harshness and sibilance in the treble region.
Now, if I were to compare it to its predecessor, it’s a significant improvement. However, when it comes to comparing it to IEMs in this price range, I don’t think it’s surprising or unique. It effectively competes with other IEMs in this price segment. Listening to tracks like “Gypsy” by Fleetwood Mac, I’m struck by its refreshing tone. It doesn’t diminish the airiness and openness of the track, especially in the vocals. The female vocals have a good presence and forwardness, sounding fuller and more complete. However, I feel a lack of vibrance, which I often experience when listening through other IEMs. I believe this is because the sound is refined and balanced, lacking grainy or sharpness in the treble region.
The cymbals and other instruments sound just right, producing enough sparkle and shimmer in the mix to be stimulating and engaging, not boring. Consequently, the overall presentation of the treble region is smooth, natural, and clear.
Mid Range
Now, when listening to these, I was generally pleased with the midrange tuning, especially the balance between the 2.5k and 4.5k frequencies, which reduces the sibilance and peakiness even though the upper midrange is elevated to a supposedly uncomfortable region. Overall, the midrange is exceptionally well-done in terms of tone and timbre, delivering that same natural and cohesive response that Blon lovers adore, with better control over the notes, resulting in improved clarity and note impression. The upper midrange is the most energetic and forward-sounding region in the mix, helping to bring the vocals and instruments forward while attempting to maintain their distinctiveness.
Another reason I fell in love with the original Blon BL03 was its blendful, rich, and cohesive sound, and I’m happy to say that it retains that quality with a touch more magic, sounding harmonious and melodic. The male vocals have a girth and weight to the notes that thankfully sounds natural and tonally rich and favorable. However, when it comes to the female vocals, the openness in the notes doesn’t come across well, even though I find it better than its predecessor. When compared to other IEMs in the same segment, it’s easily recognizable. It’s not that the female vocals sound wrong or unimpressive; I believe they’re far from sounding dull or boring. However, the upper octaves, especially when the female vocals scale, tend to limit and almost sound caged.
But again, it’s not a stage monster, and people know why they bought and will continue to buy this IEM. The instruments sound rich, precise, and natural-sounding, regardless of the instrument.
Now, let’s talk about the lower midrange. It’s well-subdued, enough to sound dense and substantial to add warmth to the upper frequencies without overpowering them. The presence of the lower midrange makes the vocals and instruments sound heavy and mumbled in the right amount. Listening to tracks like “Shadow is the Light” by The Sixth Lie is an absolute delight. The combination of fast-paced drums and guitars effortlessly pushes the vocals forward, creating a dynamic and exciting sound. While the production may not be the cleanest, the rich and fuller soundscape makes it an enjoyable and engaging listen without any offensive elements. The instrumental section that follows the build-up adds a dramatic touch, making me headbang along. Overall, the midrange region of the sound is well-presented, with a wholesome, tonally rich, and dynamic sound.
Bass
Oh, how sad I was when I heard that the new Blon BL03 might not sound like the OG Blon BL03. The first thought that came to my mind was, “Man! Even Blon is going to change the DNA that I fell in love with.” I knew I might not love it the same way I did the OG Blon BL03.
When I first listened to it, I was so relieved. My respect for Blon was raised even further. Now, I know this is just my personal experience and preference, and I understand that there were many people who didn’t appreciate the OG Blon BL03’s bass. But rest assured, this one doesn’t take away that bass magic or sound the same. All thanks to better drivers.
Technically, I believe the bass is a bit less prominent in the mix compared to the OG Blon BL03. The bass emphasis is in the sub bass region, which is the same but feels more rumbly and punchy. It’s more like thumps rather than punch. This is because the mid bass is well-present in the mix, which brings those slams and meaty impacts that help the response sound natural.
To be honest, the bass I fell in love with was not because of how fast and accurate the notes were. The bass notes aren’t well-detailed or greatly textured because they have a natural decay and are prominent in the mix.
As for comparing it to other IEMs around this price range, it doesn’t bring better quality, but it’s well-controlled in terms of how it’s tuned.
The Blons, being true to their roots, do bring decent details and texture, which makes it sound better while sounding engaged and forward. Listening to tracks like “Are You the Only One Now?” by Zeal & Ardor sounds absolutely blissful. The resonances are how the drums and bass sound during and after the build-up. The toms have great weight and tone, while the bass sounds clean and not too slamming. This is what makes this track so great because the vocals have a main stage in the mix. Also listening to “how2fly” by Isoxo, the bass notes are consistent and well-controlled, giving the track a deep and impactful sound without losing control of the individual notes. In comparison to the old Blon BL03, it does sound better resolved. When the drops hit, the impact is hard and powerful, but fortunately, it doesn’t affect the overall quality of the track or its frequency spectrum. Overall, the bass region is presented as thumping, rumbly, and authoritative.
Technical Performance
Now, let’s talk about the technical aspects. The Blons aren’t exactly the best in terms of overall approach, and the same can be said for other IEMs in their price range. To be honest, I personally believe that the Blons are noticeably better than the original Blon BL03, although it’s not a significant improvement. However, they have made significant strides in terms of resolution details and imaging. When compared to other IEMs in this price range, the Blons stand out as the best in their segment. In fact, when I compared them to the Vivace, the IEM I mentioned earlier, the Blons outperformed it. Let’s delve deeper into the details.
Soundstage, Sound Imaging & Separation
When comparing the Blons to the Vivace, the Blons sound more spacious and airy, while the Vivace sounds roomier. However, the Blons have better imaging, which is sharper and clearer than the Vivace. The Vivace, on the other hand, is better at distinguishing between notes, while the Blons are better at recognizing the source of the sound. Overall, the Blons sound wide enough to be spacious and clean. The imaging is clear and sharp, and the separation is good enough to pinpoint the source of the sound.
Speed & Resolution
The resolution is great for the price, as the macro details are easily discernible. However, the micro details aren’t well-presented in the mix. The attack of notes is paced well, but it seems that the decay is natural or slightly loose, which adds a sense of realism. Fortunately, this doesn’t result in messy or uneven responses.
Sound Impressions
Sources
Sony WM1A - While listening to Blons with the WM1A, the response sounded spacious and less dense, with a lot of air that helped produce clearer upper frequencies, especially the lower treble and upper midrange. The female vocals sounded much more open and lively, which eliminated my desire for a different sound. Now, the treble sounded more extended and expansive, while the notes felt less forwarded and more balanced, maintaining the smooth and natural response. The midrange sounded forwarded, but the notes were lighter and less weighty, creating a sense of airiness. The bass felt less authoritative and more grounded, yet it still had the same impact and dynamic quality, with a slight emphasis in the background. In my opinion, this pairing helped every element spread out and create a holographic-like overall mix.
FiiO M15S - While listening to Blons with the M15S, the response sounded more energetic and forward-leaning, which helped create a rich and dynamic sound. The bass was more authoritative and impactful, while the midrange was livelier and more forward-sounding. The treble was more prominent in the mix, maintaining its smooth and clear sound, but the response felt less spacious and airy.
Tracks
Millet - Anytime Anywhere
Anri - I can’t stop the loneliness
Kohana Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Uru - Kimino Shiawasewo
Uru - Kamihitoe
Kujira Yumemi - Kenka
Majiko - Kokoronashi
Anly - Sukinishinayo
Kohama Lam - A Few Sentimental
Kohana Lam - Loving Me, Loving You
Miliyah - Kono Yumega Samerumade
Rokudenashi - The Flame Of Love
Yu-Peng Chen - A New Day with Hope
Yu-Peng Chen - Another Hopeful Tomorrow
Yu-Peng Chen - For Riddles, for Wonders
Valentino Khan - Satellite
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Jawns - Erotica
ISOxo - how2fly
Kai Wachi - Happier By Now
Weeknd - Popular
YUNGBLUD - When We Die(Can We Still Get High)
Bring to Horizon - Kool-Aid
Middle Kids - Bend
FLETCHER - Leads Me On
Loathe - Aggressive Evolution
The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
Sigrid - Burning Bridges
AURORA - Black Water Lilies
AURORA - Runaway
X Ambassadors - Renegades
Lupe Fiasco - Words I Never Said
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can’t Hold Us
Gotye - Somebody That I Used To Know
Jay-Z - Run This Town
Lady Gaga - Poker Face
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Ladytron - Ghost
Travis - Love Will Come Through
LINKIN PARK - Somewhere I Belong
DJ Shadow - Six Days (Remix)
Hoobastank - The Reason
Ricky Martin - I Don’t Care
Tool - 7empest
Tool - Vicarious
A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song
Zack Hemsey - Vengeance
Elton John - I’m Still Standing
The Moody Blues - Nights In White Satin
Micheal Sembello - Maniac
Guns N’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine
A.R. Rahman - Kun Faya Kun
Conclusion
Hail to the Blon’s new testaments! These IEMs are simply too good to be true. I firmly believe that Blon has addressed most of the criticisms of their previous BL03 and significantly improved upon them, resulting in the release of a superior successor. Therefore, it’s a no-brainer to purchase these. I can easily recommend them to anyone. For newcomers to the Blon family, these are an opportunity to experience the reason why the BL03s were adored and regarded as the pinnacle of their time. You can witness the improvements firsthand and determine if they meet your expectations. All I can say is that the BL03s have noticeably enhanced their sound quality and have been meticulously designed to appeal to both new and existing Blon enthusiasts.