EarSonics S-96R

 

EarSonics – Homepage

EarSonics Direct Purchase – Purchase S-96R

A Little Technical Stuff:

Specs

•  Sensitivity: 128dB / mW
• Frequency response: 10Hz – 25kHz
• DCR: 40 ohms
• Drivers: 4 transducers + 2 super-tweeter with HQ filter / HQ 3-way impedance-correcting filter

   -MRSP: Universal fit 1399,00€

EarSonics is a company that I am most certainly familiar with. I have written about the company in the past six EarSonics reviews; I have selected two of them Earsonics Grace and EarSonics Elements.

My last review of EarSonics was back in November 2023, and I was thrilled to reconnect and discover that the brand is still going strong. After a couple of discussions, they told me, “Be patient, something exciting is on the way.” Well, that excitement has arrived in the form of the EarSonics S-96R.

I’ve had a long-standing relationship with EarSonics, and typically my reviews lean towards their audiophile line rather than the professional one. The pro line caters to musicians and studio professionals, while the audiophile line represents their premium offerings intended for dedicated music listening, hence my usual focus. The EM96R is the flagship model in the pro line and I don’t own it.  I personally own the EM10, EarSonics’ top-tier model in the custom audiophile line. With the S-96R, we see a new leading universal fit model aimed at audiophiles, drawing its essence from the professional line.

I still enjoy the Elements IEMs at €399.00, which feature two balanced armatures and one dynamic driver. They strike a good balance between quality and quantity of bass. The mids are subdued in the frequency response, with no upper-mid fatigue, allowing for comfortable long listening sessions. The treble shines with clarity and sparkle, maintaining brightness without crossing into harshness or fatigue.

Now, let’s dive into the review at hand. I must say, the S-96R is shaping up to be a remarkable listening experience. I recently reviewed the Volk Audio Etoile, and one of my takeaways was that it embodied many of the sound characteristics of high-quality studio near-field monitors, putting the listener right in the front row. I find myself having a similar experience with the S-96R.

A heartfelt thank you to EarSonics for our wonderful partnership! I’m truly grateful for the chance to borrow this IEM for review and, most importantly, to experience its incredible sound.

A Little Marketing Hype, straight from their site, no edits:

PHILOSOPHY

The S-96R is for the most discerning music lovers. At home or on the go, it combines all three essential features in EarSonics’ experience in headphone design. Sound quality directly inherited from our top-of-the-range PRO model, a design designed for neat ergonomics as well as a new standard in terms of reproduction of the high spectrum.

DESIGN

Exclusive super-tweeters

EarSonics’ first universal in-ear to include exclusive dual super-tweeter technology. Thanks to the latter, the S-96R delivers a high-frequency response that extends up to 25 kHz without the need for active components.

ELECTRONICS

3 WAY / 4 DRIVERS + 2 ST

The sound signature of the S-96R is reminiscent of that of a pair of high-definition studio monitors. A near-perfect frequency response and absolute phase adherence are the hallmarks that best characterize the S-96R. The addition of supertweeters offers a wide stereo image with an exceptional air feel.

SUPER-TWEETER

The addition of the exclusive dual super-tweeter technology offers a new experience in terms of extension and rendering in the high frequencies. The result is a wide sound image without the use of phase shift devices (used by other manufacturers) that destroy the sound coherence of the in-ear.

TRUEWAVE

Our TRUWAVE™ technology corrects phase misalignments caused by the cut-off points of the various low, mid and treble channels of the in-ear. The result is an in-ear with a perfect phase curve for exceptional accuracy.

CORRECTOR

Our impedance-correcting filter technology provides spectral balance maintenance at all levels of sound listening.

ARCH-BD

The use of a large driver architecture in the composition of the in-ear electronics offers a high level of headroom and preserves the transcription of transients at all listening levels from any distortion.

WHAT’S IN THE BOX:

•  S-96R
• 1 HI-RES 4C Cable + 1 HI-RES 8C Symmetrical Cable
• 2 Pairs of Memory Foam Tips
• 2 Pairs of Sillicone Monoflange Tips
• 2 Pairs of Silicone
• Bi-Flange Tips
• 1 CleaningTool
• 1 Carrying Boxes
• User Manual

 

Unboxing and Accessories

I tend to lean toward being critical or even a bit harsh at times, especially when I sense a company is taking the easy route or chasing after a quick cash grab. Having gotten to know EarSonics over the years, I understand that they prioritize substance over flashy marketing or elaborate unboxing experiences. While I have occasionally pointed out their underwhelming unboxings and limited accessory offerings, EarSonics remains true to its identity, focusing unapologetically on delivering sound quality.

Typically, their pricing reflects this philosophy, there are no unnecessary frills or gimmicks, just a fair price for outstanding audio performance. I appreciate this straightforward approach since I’m primarily interested in sound quality. However, I also admire other brands that create a “WOW” moment during unboxing; it’s nice to feel a little special!

When the item arrives, it comes in a simple black box, adorned with a small logo in one corner. Inside, you’ll find a thank-you card from CEO Franck Lopez and a first look at the IEM itself. Once you remove the note, you’ll notice the standard gray zipper storage case. As for the included accessories, I’ve detailed those above.

I have consistently struggled to achieve a proper seal with their stock ear tips. Once again, I ran into this issue and quickly dove into my tip-rolling journey, ultimately settling on the Spinfit CP100+.

I also want to highlight that for the price point, you receive both a HI-RES 4C Cable in 3.5mm and a HI-RES 8C Symmetrical Cable in 4.4mm. Kudos to them for including both options this time around! While they may not feel like the most premium cables, I can’t find fault with the sound they produce.

As is my habit during reviews, I usually don’t do much cable rolling; I prefer to describe the sound based on the stock setup with the included cables. I’m not particularly into cable rolling anyway, but I know many enthusiasts enjoy that part of the hobby.  I strive to do the same with ear tips, but if I can’t achieve a good seal, it’s challenging to accurately convey what I’m hearing. As was stated above, a bit of tip-rolling was necessary.

I’ll let the photos showcase the rest of the unboxing experience and the accessories.

Build Quality and Fit:

The S-96R boasts a sleek all-acrylic shell that comes in a translucent smoky gray hue, adorned with a subtle design motif on the faceplate. On the underside, you’ll find the blue ES initials on the left and a “96” on the right. While the design is understated, the build quality is impressive; there are no sharp edges where the faceplate meets the shell. The medium-length stem features a triple-bore design, a key aspect where the TRUWAVE™ technology steps in to correct phase misalignments between the low, mid, and treble channels.

When it comes to comfort, the fit of the S-96R is exceptional for my ears. With six drivers on each side, it might seem like size could affect comfort, but thankfully, it hits the mark. The ergonomic design ensures a pleasant fit, and in comparison to the three-driver Elements(center), you can see the S-96R is flatter on the back, allowing it to sit more comfortably. For context, the EarSonics Grace(left), which also has a pronounced bump on the back, is pictured alongside it. Although the S-96R is indeed thick, it fits snugly in the ear and, being lightweight, makes for long listening sessions without any fatigue.

Review Setup:

I crafted the review using a few key sources: the Pixel 10 Pro, paired with an Astell & Kern HC5 dongle, and the Astell & Kern PD10. For my sample music, I explored a range of formats, including 320 kbps, FLAC, and 24-bit audio, as well as streaming services like Tidal, Spotify Lossless, and Qobuz.

 

Moving on to the sound section….

Now, let’s dive into the part of the review you’ve likely been eagerly anticipating: the sound! I eagerly swapped the included 3.5mm cable for the 4.4mm balanced cable and plugged it into my PD10 DAP, expecting a magical experience with music flowing like rainbows and unicorns, maybe even some Skittles flying out of its, never mind, you get the idea. However, that wasn’t quite the case. As I listened, I found myself grappling with the sound signature. Initially, I was somewhat taken a back by the mids, which  sounded a little overly forward or shouty, possibly clashing with my listening preferences. I didn’t ask EarSonics up front about the intended signature, tonality, or any other aspects of the sound. It took me by surprise, expecting more of an old school EarSonics house sound. However, those worries quickly vanished after only a couple of immersive listening sessions.

In hindsight, using my EarSonics Elements as my warm-up probably wasn’t the best idea. These are two distinctly different signatures.

Over the course of my years of my audiophile journey, my preferences certainly evolved, but I’ve never been fond of a forward or overly bright sound. The S-96R wasn’t bright, but it was direct, a little in my face. I have heard so many IEMs in the past 15-20 years that I figured my initial reaction of the S-96R would morph, and it did.

As my mind shifted gears and I started to listen more critically, I began to grasp the form of what was to come. I understand that the Super Tweeters probably need some time to settle in Contrary to BA drivers which don’t necessarily experience a benefit to seasoning. So, I decided to let them run in for a couple of hours, before I returned to relax and enjoyed some music. The evening certainly took a turn for the better. I may have exaggerated my initial experience a bit to heighten the drama, it really wasn’t as bad as I initially made it out to be. We’ve all had those moments when we listen to something fresh out of the box and think, “Hmm, this could use some work.”

Upon listening the next morning, I noticed that the STs had begun to settle down a bit; the sound was no longer as direct or overwhelming. I am also becoming more accustomed to the sound signature, which affects my perception of it. In the audiophile realm, we refer to that as brain burn-in.

If I were to summarize the S-96R in a few key phrases, I would emphasize its remarkable clarity. Its precision in staging, depth, and width is distinctly noticeable, varying with the quality of the recording. So far, my listening experience closely resembles that of enjoying a high-end pair of studio monitors. The soundstage places you right in the middle of the action, featuring a mid-centric tuning. The mid-bass is subtly elevated above neutral, while the overall signature remains well balanced. It’s not aimed at bass-heads; rather, the sub-bass won’t shake your teeth loose, but the bass delivers a satisfying presence. Very easily driven, and the amount of space and air around the notes is Top Tier, even at a low volume.

The bass performance of the S-96R is genuinely impressive and skillfully designed. As someone who prefers dynamic driver (DD) bass over balanced armature (BA) bass, I must say that EarSonics has continually amazed me with their ability to fine-tune BA bass. The mid-bass is well-controlled, prioritizing quality over sheer volume, but it delivers just the right amount for my ears; there’s no overlap into the midrange. The bass notes are present in the mix and easily discernible without overshadowing the other frequencies. The BA bass is both impactful and lively, in contrast to some BA basses that can sound flat. You can feel the clarity and fullness accompanying each bass note. I typically evaluate bass on tracks like Marcus Miller’s “Detroit,” where it’s the focal point. The S-96R captures his slapping technique and plucking with remarkable precision, delivering an impressive listening experience.

The mids on the S-96R are remarkably well balanced, exhibiting a beautiful harmony in which the center and upper mids extend further than the lower mids. The mid-range is where the true magic of the S-96R unfolds.

To truly appreciate its capabilities, I’ve been diving into tracks by one of my all-time favorite groups, Four80East. Their music is a rich tapestry of various instruments and diverse tonalities, allowing the S-96R to shine. The way it captures the air and space surrounding each note is next level, creating a vivid soundscape that draws you in.

It always brings a smile to my face when I hear fellow audiophiles exclaim, “I’m hearing things in the music that I’ve never noticed before.” While I can’t claim to be discovering completely new sounds, I do find that the more subtle details are delivered with a clarity that makes them stand out. The S-96R excels at uncovering subtle nuances, digging deep to reveal intricate layers in the music, all while maintaining a listening experience that never feels overwhelming or fatiguing.

The treble exhibits impressive extension, providing a non-fatiguing listening experience that seamlessly integrates into the overall sonic signature. While it may not dominate the sound profile, its presence is noticeable and contributes significantly to the overall balance. Much like the sub-bass, the treble enhances musicality without drawing excessive attention to itself. It retains clarity and definition, ensuring it never becomes harsh or sibilant, maintaining a smooth, pleasant auditory experience.

The staging is meticulously arranged, with each instrument occupying its own distinct space on the stage. At times, certain instruments give the impression of being slightly set back, creating a sense of depth, while others project a more immediate presence, as if positioned right at the forefront. This careful orchestration of placement not only enhances the visual appeal but also enriches the overall auditory experience, allowing listeners to appreciate the intricate layers of sound.

The staging, airiness, clarity, and overall definition are top-notch, earning a solid “10” from me. I am thoroughly impressed that, despite exploring various genres, I never experienced any congestion. Whether I was listening to Alice in Chains, Snarky Puppy, Infected Mushroom, or various movie soundtracks, every piece of music came through effortlessly, with no unnecessary embellishments.

It’s worth noting that the S-96R delivers noticeably better performance with high-quality tracks. Unfortunately, poorly produced tracks will reveal their flaws since the reproduction is quite genuine and lacks significant coloration.

This IEM might not be the best choice for you if you’re a sub-bass enthusiast or a bass-head overall. There are certainly better alternatives out there in the expansive market today that cater to those preferences.

You might want to consider owning this IEM if:

+ You appreciate an incredible sense of space, with a well-defined airiness around the instruments.

+ You seek a sound signature that is detailed, balanced, and spacious.

+ You prefer a natural sound with minimal coloration, complemented by a slight elevation in the mid-bass.

+ You enjoy the sound quality reminiscent of studio near-field monitors.

 In Closing

 The S-96R has truly won me over. This unit was loaned, so now I need to click on the links I provided to purchase my own. SOLD!!! I’m really pleased to see that some of the classic tech companies are still releasing products.

The unboxing experience with EarSonics covers all the essentials without any unnecessary frills or pretentiousness; it’s truly all about the sound. This time, they included two cables, which was a nice touch: a HI-RES 4C Cable and a HI-RES 8C, with one in 3.5mm and the other in a balanced 4.4mm configuration. However, I still struggle to find ear tips from their stock options that create a proper seal.

Every time I do an EarSonics review, I find myself wishing for a flared nozzle. It would make finding ear tips that fit securely much easier.

As a fan of DD bass compared to BA bass, I must say that EarSonics has consistently impressed me with their expertly tuned BA bass. The mid-bass is well-controlled, focusing on quality rather than sheer quantity. It delivers just the right amount for my tastes without encroaching on the mid-range frequencies. Keep in mind, this isn’t a bass-head IEM.

The mids and staging on the S-96R truly shine, making it the standout feature of the experience. The spaciousness and quality of the staging capture your attention right from the first listen. With no upper-mid fatigue to worry about, you can enjoy long listening sessions without any discomfort. The separation and clarity between instruments and notes are exceptional, creating a sense of airiness that’s hard to beat.

The treble presents itself with a sparkling quality that adds a subtle brightness without becoming overwhelming. Although it may not be the most dominant aspect of the sound profile, its clarity and presence are significant in achieving a well-balanced audio experience. This ensures that the overall sound remains engaging without causing listener fatigue.

In conclusion, reviewing the S-96R was a truly rewarding experience. Given its price point and the exceptional quality of its sound signature, it’s an easy choice for anyone in the market. EarSonics has certainly hit the mark with the S-96R, making it a standout option for audiophiles.

I want to emphasize, as I always do, that this review is based on my personal experience. The only objective elements are the actual items included in the unboxing and the technology inside the IEMs. After all, I’m just one person with my own opinions, and the only area where I consider myself an expert is in my own perspective. I am truly thankful every time I finish a review and others take the time to read it.