I. Introduction
Symphonium Audio, a distinguished audio company based in Singapore, is on a mission to redefine the in-ear monitor (IEM) experience for discerning audiophiles and audio enthusiasts. With a steadfast commitment to delivering premium quality, their IEMs are meticulously crafted to provide an immersive audio journey. Symphonium Audio's dedication to precision engineering and attention to detail sets them apart, ensuring music lovers experience a balanced and natural sound signature – ideal for both critical listening and studio use.
Recently, Symphonium Audio unveiled their latest creation, the Symphonium Meteor in-ear monitors, featuring an impressive 4 balanced armature driver configuration. In this review, we delve into the sonic landscape of the Symphonium Meteor, exploring how it performs and stands out in comparison to its competitors. Join us on this auditory adventure as we unravel the magic woven by Symphonium Audio's engineering prowess.
II. Design and Build Quality
The Symphonium Meteor IEM showcases an exquisite design and impeccable build quality, attesting to Symphonium Audio's dedication to sonic excellence. Constructed from lightweight aluminum, the shell emanates a sense of sophistication.
The faceplate, adorned with a captivating red matte textured finish, introduces a tactile element to the design. A streak of light patterns on both sides, coupled with the subtle yet distinctive Meteor branding, adds a touch of elegance. The inner shell, boasting a black textured feel, complements the outer design seamlessly.
The cables, a vital component of any IEM, are a testament to meticulous craftsmanship. Featuring a robust build and terminating in a 4.4mm audio jack, they not only enhance the overall durability but also contribute to a reliable and uninterrupted listening experience.
In essence, the Symphonium Meteor's build quality is nothing short of solid and robust, ensuring its suitability for daily use. This IEM becomes not just an audio device but a statement of craftsmanship, inviting users to immerse themselves in a world where design meets sonic prowess.
III. Comfort and Fit
Step into a realm of unparalleled comfort with the Symphonium Meteor, where the marriage of compact design and ergonomic brilliance takes center stage. The shell size, thoughtfully crafted, is a testament to Symphonium Audio's commitment to providing a comfortable listening experience.
Designed with both music enthusiasts and gamers in mind, the compact and ergonomic shell ensures an ideal fit for prolonged music sessions or intense gaming marathons. The form factor aligns seamlessly with the contours of your ears, promising a snug and fatigue-free experience.
While the provided silicon eartips offer a baseline comfort level, their quality is deemed average. However, fear not – the Symphonium Meteor invites personalization. Experimentation with third-party eartips opens the door to a realm of tailored comfort. Finding the perfect fit becomes a journey of self-discovery, enhancing the overall listening experience.
IV. Sound Quality
Embark on an auditory journey with the Symphonium Meteor, a testament to the harmonious fusion of engineering precision and sonic finesse. Tested with the Sony NW ZX707 and Questyle M15, this IEM demands exploration, urging users to experiment with multiple eartips to harness its true potential, especially considering its medium nozzle length.
Utilizing SpinFit W1 eartips, the Meteor proves its versatility, effortlessly responding to various sources. Surprisingly easy to drive, this IEM doesn't demand a powerhouse; a portable balanced DAC and amplifier suffice. The stock cable, crafted with lightweight pure copper cores, seamlessly complements the overall experience. For those seeking an extra touch, hybrid cables with a blend of copper and silver cores add a sparkling flair to the treble.
Bass: Prepare to be astonished by the Symphonium Meteor's bass response, rivaling even dynamic driver IEMs. The clean, fast, textured, and powerful bass performance unveils a realm of sonic clarity. Bass decay is swift yet satisfying, revealing natural and realistic tonality. Symphonium Audio's meticulous research shines through, translating audiophile needs into a balanced armature masterpiece that delivers a physical and tactile bass punch.
Midrange: In the heart of any IEM lies its midrange, the soul of the music. Symphonium Meteor's midrange performance stands out with its full-bodied, smooth, and perfectly placed notes. Offering a buttery sensation during vocals, it maintains control across diverse tracks, never succumbing to harshness. The warm tonality ensures clarity and separation, even in complex harmonies involving multiple singers.
Treble: The Symphonium Meteor achieves an exceptional treble extension, unveiling detailed, sparkly, and musical tones. Its effortless delivery of micro details adds layers of information to tracks. The treble response, airy and immersive, reveals nuances previously unheard in IEMs within its price range. The absence of harshness ensures a smooth auditory experience, while the sparkles and crispness add a layer of musicality.
Soundstage & Imaging: Immerse yourself in a spacious soundstage that positions you in the heart of the music arrangement. The imaging is nothing short of precise and accurate, creating a holographic sound presentation that captivates, making you feel truly engrossed in the musical realm.
The Symphonium Meteor is more than an IEM; it's an invitation to experience music in its purest, most detailed form. A masterpiece that transcends the ordinary, providing audiophiles with a symphony of sound that lingers in the mind long after the music stops.
V. Value and Competition
Priced at Rs.56,490 in India, the Symphonium Meteor enters the arena where it faces formidable competitors, each with its unique sonic charm. In this sonic showdown, personal preference takes center stage when making the crucial decision.
Symphonium Meteor vs. Sennheiser IE 600: The battlefield between Symphonium Meteor and Sennheiser IE 600 reveals a striking difference in spaciousness and treble detailing. Meteor emerges as the victor with its expansive and detailed sound. While IE 600 boasts superior midrange texture, the Meteor shines in the bass and treble realms. Symphonium Meteor's treble prowess and clarity make it the choice for those seeking an all-rounder IEM, while IE 600 caters to those desiring a midrange-forward, intimate sound.
Symphonium Meteor vs. Dunu SA6: In the clash of technical titans, Dunu SA6 and Symphonium Meteor showcase their strengths. SA6 takes a step further in technicalities, yet Meteor's bass performance steals the spotlight. SA6 leans towards a sterile, analytical sound, while Meteor strikes a balance between musicality and technical finesse. Choosing between them boils down to the listener's preference for bass weight and the desired level of technical detail.
Symphonium Meteor vs. XENNS Mangird Top: The showdown between Symphonium Meteor and XENNS Mangird Top introduces a major shift in sound thickness and warmth. Mangird Top, with its thicker and warmer sound, competes with the Meteor's clear victory in soundstage and spaciousness. Meteor's borderline sound thickness ensures fatigue-free listening, offering a unique balance. The choice between the two becomes a matter of personal preference, urging listeners to experience both and select based on their individual taste.
In this realm of auditory excellence, Symphonium Meteor stands tall, offering a versatile and immersive listening experience. The decision-making process becomes an exploration of personal sound preferences, inviting audiophiles to dive into the sonic intricacies of each contender and discover the one that resonates with their unique musical soul.
VI. Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| All-rounder IEM | Medium nozzle size |
| Powerful and clean bass | Eartip rolling may be required |
| Buttery full-bodied midrange | |
| Detailed and smooth treble | |
| Wide soundstage | |
| Well-built IEM shell and cable |
VII. Conclusion
For those navigating the vast landscape of in-ear monitors (IEMs), the Symphonium Meteor emerges as a beacon of sonic excellence, beckoning both mid-fi and high-end enthusiasts into a realm of U-shaped sound tuning.
For Mid-Fi Enthusiasts: If you currently enjoy IEMs like the Moondrop Blessing series, FiiO FD5, or others under the Rs.35k range, and are yearning for an upgrade, the Symphonium Meteor stands as an irresistible choice. Its U-shaped sound tuning promises a transformative listening experience, making it a seamless transition for those seeking elevated audio pleasure.
For High-End Users: Even if you find yourself in the elite league of ThieAudio Monarch series IEM users or regularly explore IEMs priced above Rs.100k, the Symphonium Meteor is not to be overlooked. Its versatility as a daily driver and the end-game quality it delivers make it a worthy contender in the upper echelons of audio perfection.
Symphonium Audio's meticulous craftsmanship shines through in the Meteor, combining robust build quality with an immersive soundstage. The recommendation echoes strongly – consider the Symphonium Meteor as a top-tier IEM that transcends boundaries.
Closing Thoughts: In my opinion, the Symphonium Meteor is not merely an IEM; it's an end-game companion for many users. Its well-built design and exceptional sound quality underscore Symphonium Audio's commitment to audiophile satisfaction. I wholeheartedly recommend the Symphonium Meteor to all readers, urging you to experience its sonic brilliance firsthand.
Should you seek assistance or have queries related to the Symphonium Meteor, our doors are open. Feel free to reach out through comments or WhatsApp, as we're dedicated to enhancing your audio journey. If you haven't already, consider following our WhatsApp channel for updates on personal audiophile products, reviews, and unboxing clips.
Once again, a heartfelt thank you for joining us on this auditory exploration. Happy listening!
