Introduction:
Post-COVID, a collective of audio enthusiasts and engineers birthed See Audio. Their latest offering, the See Audio Neko IEM, boasts 6 Balanced Armature drivers per side and includes the highly sought-after Effect Audio Cadmus cable. Join us as we delve into this review to uncover whether its $700 price tag is justified.
Design and Build Quality:
Crafted from skin-friendly resin, the Neko IEM Shell showcases an adorable blue faceplate adorned with flower patterns. The inner shell, tinted in blue, allows a clear view of driver arrangements and electronic components. The metal IEM nozzle and the inclusion of the Effect Audio Cadmus 4W Cable add a significant aesthetic and functional bonus.
Comfort and Fit:
The Neko's shell is notably smaller and lighter than the average IEM, akin to the ergonomic TinHiFi T3 Plus. Its snug fit, absent of pressure or fatigue, makes it ideal for extended use.
Sound Quality:
Testing with a Macbook > Questyle M15 DAC > Cadmus Cable > IEM with stock eartips setup, the Neko delivers a warm sound with an energetic touch. Controlled bass, mesmerizing midrange, and smooth, detailed treble characterize its sonic profile. The soundstage, though intimate, boasts ample height and depth.
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Bass: The Neko's bass, well-controlled yet with ample sub-bass rumble and powerful mid-bass, surpasses the performance of comparable all-BA sets.
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Midrange: The warm and lush midrange of the Neko, with texture, body, and precise center positioning, caters to both male and female vocals. It avoids sharpness in the upper midrange, providing an enchanting listening experience.
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Treble: The treble is smooth, nuanced, and effortlessly detailed, displaying excellent separation and layering capabilities without any sharpness or harshness in the upper regions.
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Soundstage & Imaging: While the soundstage is intimate, expectations for its price point could lean towards more expansiveness. Imaging, though decent, could benefit from more precision.
Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Warm and lush sound | Soundstage could be wider and more holographic |
| Adorable faceplate design with comfortable fitting | Ideal selling price should be around $500 |
| Includes Effect Audio Cadmus cable | |
| Safe tuning, easy to listen and drive |
Conclusion:
For those seeking a technically robust all-BA set with controlled bass, mesmerizing midrange, and smooth, detailed treble, the See Audio Neko IEM, especially if found on sale around $500, is a compelling option. Special thanks to Mr. Pulkit for providing us with the See Audio Neko IEM for this review. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions, and stay tuned for our next review.
