Cable Comparisons
I tested the Neo1s with a number of budget cables to gauge how effectively they respond to cable rolling.
NiceHCK Blacksoul (USD $50)
In this fairly impressive pairing BlackSoul makes the Neo1s sound flatter and smoother, with a slightly wider soundstage that’s also a touch deeper.
I also hear a slightly more detailed midrange which I didn’t expect, note weight is a bit more prevalent and even bass has slightly more impact. Treble feels a tad muted which is typical for BlackSoul, but doesn’t negatively impact the pairing for my taste.
ISN S4 (USD $55)
The S4 has always been great for boosting sub bass, and I do hear a slight uptick in that department with the Neo1s. The soundstage is also a little wider, and overall the presentation is brighter which helps make imaging feel a touch clearer.
However overall I don’t feel the improvements to technicalities are worth the S4 imparting a thinner & cooler tonality that I don’t really care for.
Penon Vocal (USD $69)
Vocal performs in accordance with its’ name by bringing the midrange forward, adding more gravitas & note weight to vocals and increasing their resolution.
Dynamics are also slightly improved, the background is a little blacker and there’s a slight uptick in midbass in this decent cable pairing.
Simgot LC7 (USD $69)
LC7 improves Neo1 dynamics substantially, widens the stage, improves note weight, delivers a blacker background & increases midrange resolution.
This cable does impart a metallic tonality I don’t particularly like, but the technical improvements feel dramatic enough to be worth it.
Page 1 – Introduction, Packaging & Ergonomics
Page 2 – Sound Impressions & Technical Performance
Page 3 – IEM Comparisons
Page 4 – Cable Comparisons
Page 5 – Conclusion
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