Cable Comparisons
I tested the Neo3s with a number of cables to gauge how effectively they respond to cable rolling.
NiceHCK BlackSoul (USD $50)
BlackSoul increases midbass to create more satisfying note weight with a darker background.
Unfortunately the stage feels narrower than with the stock cable, and treble has been rendered darker so I don’t care for this pairing.
Penon Vocal (USD $69)
Vocal emphasises the lower midrange to create a warmer, smoother sound.
Imaging feels a bit sharper, but dynamics seem better with the stock cable who’s stage is also a little wider and treble emphasised more, so I’m not impressed with this pairing.
NiceHCK FirstTouch (USD $89)
In this decent pairing the Neo3’s dynamics improve, the background feels a little blacker with slightly more defined imaging and resolution improves a little.
Unfortunately treble feels darker which I don’t particularly care for, creating a tonality that’s more relaxed and less v-shaped. Sub bass also feels slightly more powerful.
Penon ASOS (USD $169)
The ASOS creates the widest stage of any of the cables tested, though stage depth feels similar. Tonality seems a little smoothed out and more refined, with better note weight and dynamics.
Resolution is also higher in this impressive pairing that makes the Neo3s feel more spacious & detailed.
Effect Audio Ares S 4 Wire (USD $179)
Midbass feels deeper and more impactful, and imaging is a bit sharper with treble slightly elevated against a darker background.
Dynamics have also improved, but overall the pairing feels merely decent as the magnitude of each change is quite modest.
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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