This review dives deep into the Softears Volume S earphones, offering a detailed analysis of their sound signature and performance. We explore their frequency response, highlighting a pronounced emphasis on the upper mids and treble, resulting in a bright and exceptionally detailed soundstage. This detailed examination compares the Volume S to the popular Zen Pro, contrasting their bass response and overall sonic character. We analyze the earphone's suitability for various music genres, discussing its strengths and weaknesses across different listening experiences.Beyond the sonic characteristics, this review also investigates the technical specifications of the Volume S, addressing the manufacturer's claims regarding its driver configuration. We discuss the implications of the discrepancies found and assess the overall value proposition of these earphones, considering their price point and competitive standing within the market. The review concludes with a final verdict, considering both the audio quality and the manufacturer's transparency.
Pros And Cons
- Very good set
- One of the better ones in its price range
- Competitive with the Zen Pro
- Upper mids and treble are excellent
- Sounds pretty good
- Bass guitar sounds excellent
- Vocals sound great
- Harmonics and overtones sound excellent
- Low frequency is not substantial
- Doesn't have the energy for 808s or bass-heavy music
- 808s sound too polite
- Kick drum is not as emphatic as preferred
- Cable failed
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Sound Signature and Frequency Response
The Softears Volume S exhibits a frequency response graph that particularly emphasizes the upper mids and treble, aligning well with my personal preference. This tuning creates a bright and detailed sound, though it may not suit listeners who prefer a more substantial bass response. The lower frequencies are present but less prominent compared to my target or a headphone like the Zen Pro. The overall sound is well-balanced, but the lack of a punchy low end is noticeable.
For listeners prioritizing a powerful bass presence, the Zen Pro might be a better choice. However, if you find the Zen Pro too bass-heavy, the Volume S provides a refined and detailed alternative. The upper midrange and treble clarity are exceptional, making it ideal for genres where detail and precision are crucial.
Performance with Different Music Genres
The Volume S shines with genres that emphasize detailed instrument separation and clear vocals. The upper mids and treble clarity allow for a precise and nuanced listening experience. However, the comparatively less impactful low-end might make this less ideal for genres heavily reliant on impactful sub-bass, like some electronic music or hip-hop.
Genres such as acoustic music, alternative rock, and certain pop styles are particularly well-suited to the Volume S’s sound profile. The clarity and detail in the midrange and treble are highlighted by instruments such as acoustic guitars and vocals. Bass guitars, despite the less powerful low-end, still maintain a decent presence and clarity.
Driver Technology and Transparency
The Softears Volume S utilizes a unique dynamic driver with a stacked 6mm diaphragm, described as potentially gimmicky but ultimately effective in achieving a well-balanced sound. However, the manufacturer's lack of transparency regarding the specific driver model used is a concern. This lack of information prevents a clear understanding of the technology and hampers informed comparisons with other models that may use similar drivers.
Greater transparency from the manufacturer about driver specifications would significantly benefit consumers. This would allow for better comparisons with similar headphones, improving customer understanding and brand recognition. Using consistent driver naming conventions across product lines could establish a brand identity and build trust with potential customers.
Overall Impression and Value
The Softears Volume S offers a compelling listening experience, excelling in the midrange and treble frequencies. While the low-end response is less powerful than some competitors, the overall sound quality is excellent, especially for genres that prioritize detail and clarity. The value proposition is strong considering the sound quality, making it a competitive option within its price range.
Despite the initial claim of two dynamic drivers, it's revealed that the Volume S employs a single dynamic driver with a modified design. While the misrepresentation is disappointing, the overall performance and build quality justify its price point. The sound quality, particularly the impressive clarity in the midrange and treble, still makes this a worthy option to consider.
Conclusion
The Softears Volume S delivers a high-quality audio experience, particularly excelling in the mids and treble. The less prominent bass may not appeal to all, but the exceptional clarity and detail more than compensate for some listeners. Its value at $320 is competitive, offering excellent sound without the exaggerated bass response of some alternatives. While the inaccurate advertising regarding the drivers is unfortunate, the overall quality of the earphones makes it a worthy purchase for many audiophiles.
Compared to the Zen Pro, the Volume S offers a more balanced sound with less emphasis on bass. This makes it a preferred option for those who find the Zen Pro's bass too overpowering. Despite the marketing error concerning the driver configuration, the Volume S stands as a strong contender in its price category, offering a refined and detailed listening experience that surpasses many of its competitors in the clarity of the midrange and treble frequencies.