By Nick Smith, 22nd May 2024
Minimalists say less is more… so will spending less on earphones make us happier?
But price isn’t the only factor.
More IEM drivers = better, right? Minimalists disagree, yet hybrids have become the norm.
I bring this up because I was sent a pair of JIALAI Carats in exchange for my thoughts, which as $66 single-DDs are minimal in both ways.
My single-DD IEM addiction is long behind me so it’s been ages since I tried one, and visually the Carats are an instant reminder of my old A8000s.
Many of my audio friends insist on keeping at least one single-DD earphone in their collection at all times, such is their unique allure.
So how much can we expect from a single driver under a hundred bucks?
Packaging
The USD $66 JIALAI Carats arrive in a very small, shiny cardboard box that looks quite flashy.
Inside are the earphones, a small PU carry case that’s decently sized for a pocket, a user manual, three sets of silicone eartips in 3 sizes, and the stock cable.
Unfortunately the black OFC stock cable is quite basic, and available only with a 3.5mm plug. That’s reasonable considering the Carat’s modest price, but I still prefer seeing 4.4mm options made available.
Ergonomics
The Carats’ aluminium alloy shells are fully vented, and finished so beautifully as to give no indication of their modest price. They really do look premium.
By contrast the nozzles are fairly matte and look a little out of place, they’re also quite short which may make obtaining a tight seal more difficult.
As for the fit, that’s a very personal thing so I can only tell you how they work for me – splendidly. They’re incredibly light & tiny, and the nozzles are just long enough to avoid being an issue.
I find the Carats’ exceptionally comfortable even for long listening sessions, though they scratch easily.
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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