Celest Wyvern Abyss Review
Intro
Hello, today I have one of the latest budget oriented iems from Celest Audio named the Celest Wyvern Abyss. Friends, I don’t know if you’ve been paying attention but the Wyvern series from Celest has been what some would consider “A pretty darn profitable venture” for the brand. Of course, what does Kinera/Celest/QOA do that isn’t profitable? Don’t answer that. Anyways, I have personally been pretty impressed by this series thus far although the only review I’ve conducted over one of the Wyvern series sets was the Celest Wyvern Pro (Wyvern Pro Review). However, I remember thinking “what a fun and underappreciated set this is”. The kicker is that the Wyvern Pro was promoted as being a gaming iem first when it should’ve been a music iem first that’s good for gaming too. That’s neither here nor there, but the Abyss does take from the Wyvern Pro’s foundation and it seems to have built upon that template. Granted, at this point I’ve only spent a total of about 30 minutes with the Abyss in my ears. However, I like what they’ve done, that’s it. Already it seems like a solid choice for anyone who only has $25 to $30 to spend and enjoys a Harman-esque sound.
Nailed it!
Folks, Celest has been making hit after hit of late. The budget wing of the Kinera brand seems to pull from all of those years of experience. Dedicated to those who don’t have money falling out of their pants pockets. Time after time they’ve successfully crafted unique and artistically crafted products which have hit most every price point under $200. The cool part is that they’ve done so convincingly well. I’ve reviewed a number of their products and have enjoyed them all. I reviewed the Celest Wyvern Pro (Wyvern Pro Review) awhile back and like I said, it’s very good. Also, the Pandamon (Pandamon Review), the Pandamon 2.0 (Pandamon 2.0 Review), the Celest Phoenixcall (Phoenixcall Review), as well as the Celest Relentless (Relentless Review). Granted, that is not some huge tally of sets. But guess what, they are five out of five for me… up to this point anyways. 5 for 5 in my recommendations is dope. Folks, I can’t tell you how many sets I turn away because I don’t like them and the fact that Celest has hit so often for my preferences is nice to see.
It’s all in the name
Always one of the coolest attachments to a Kinera, Queen of Audio, or a Celest set is that they’re named after… something. They have an identity, a correlated theme which is supposed to embody their products. Their build, design, and tuning are always centered around each set’s indibidual theme. That theme could be the Wyvern which is a Chinese mythological god. Or the Kinera Hodur for instance which is another good story centered around a god who is the son of Odin, with a long and drawn-out story and the theme fits the earphones. The Celest Relentless is the story of Lass who under a very unfortunate situation becomes transformed into a bird named, you guessed it… Relentless. Each set holds these storylines, these plots, which form the foundation of how Celest, Kinera, or QOA goes about the construction, design, the artwork, the accessories and finally the actual sound of these sets. Who in thee world couldn’t get behind that. It’s certainly better than giving a set a nondescript and pointless name, like a number name. They operate a bit differently as the quality, care, and passion they seem to provide each product is beyond obvious.
Competition
Of course, there are a number of iems in and around the Wyvern Abyss’s price point. I figure between $20 and $40 is a good bracket for them. This is a hugely competitive area to play in. It’s especially difficult when the Abyss has sets like the Simgot EW200 (EW200 Review), 7hz Crinacle Zero 2, EPZ Q1 Pro (Q1 Pro Review), CCA Trio (Trio Review), Kiwi Ears Dolce and on, and on, and on. There are so many more to list, yet I feel you get the point. So, where does the Wyvern Abyss fit? Who is it for and is it worth the $25 to $30 that Celest is asking for it? These are questions I hope to answer in the review ahead. So, I think I’m ready, the Celest Wyvern Abyss everyone…
Non-Affiliated Purchasing Link:
Disclaimer:
I received the Celest Wyvern Abyss from HiFiGo as a review sample and in exchange I will conduct a full review and feature at Mobileaudiophile.com. I have not received any payment or any other form of compensation for this review. This set is a review sample iem. HiFiGo has not requested to pre-read any review and doesn’t have any control over “what” or “when” anything gets published to mobileaudiophile.com. All thoughts within this review are my own, though please take note that I will always have my own biases. This is impossible to get around. I try to be as objective as my subjective self can be, but this is an opinion piece folks. Thank you to the very kind people of BASN and thanks for reading.
Abyss Pros
-Build Quality is flat out great for the price
-One of the best designs at any price, anywhere
-Very comfortable, similar to other of the Wyvern series
-Very warm, engaging sound, a full sound
-Good note weight
-More organic sounding than most at this price (similar to Wyvern Pro)
-Heavy bass, nicely textured for $30
-Mids have good presence, musicality first
-Non-fatiguing treble, some sparkle, good extension
-Soundstage isn’t bad at all
Abyss Cons
-Not the usual Celest/Kinera accessories & unboxing
-Bass may be too much for some
-Detail Retrieval isn’t the Abyss’s forte
-Nothing else for the price
Gear used for testing
–iBasso DX240 with Amp8 MK2
Packaging & Accessories
Unboxing
Well, they can’t all be winners, I guess. It’s just that I was looking forward to seeing a usual Celest unboxing. Then I remembered this set costs $25 to $30 and it’s highly likely that they put all of their money and effort into the earphones themselves. At any rate, it isn’t the most lavish, but I forgive them. Also, I don’t really care at all. So, there’s that. Okay, so the box that arrived at my doorstep is very small in size. Similar in size to any $25 KZ set. It’s small. The box does have a sleeve, and on that sleeve is a picture of the Abyss. A darker shot which falls in line with the overall theme. You have some specs on the back as well, nothing out of the ordinary. Take off the sleeve and you’ll see a cool cardboard print out of the theme of the Abyss with a picture characterizing the Wyvern. Under that you’ll see a few baggies. One of those baggies includes the gorgeous Abyss earphones. The other baggies hold the cable as well as the eartips. There is some reading material inside which explains the story of Wyvern too. However, all in all there isn’t much. Still, the packaging will be very good for a newcomer to the hobby.
Eartips
Celest provides some decent tips with the Abyss. They give you three pairs (S, M, L) of gray silicone tips. These tips have a wide bore, they’re shallow fit and they do have a reasonably firm flange. They seem nice for the Abyss. Now, I do feel that the wide bore is helpful with this set. Of course, I wouldn’t want to restrict the nozzle any more than you have to with how this set was tuned. For me anyways. I did end up swapping to the Fiio bass tips just because I found that the included tips simply didn’t seal very well in my ears. By the way, Fiio old school “Bass” tips are basically differently colored KBear 07 tips. I had to figit and play around with the included tips for too long. After a while I got them to seal up but the hassle of getting there pushed me to the 07’s. My default tips. The included tips aren’t a bad set, good for when you need them.
Cable
The included cable is not my favorite. I suppose for the price it isn’t bad, I guess. I would’ve liked to have seen a slightly better cable, but functionality wise it is perfectly fine. Guys, I’m just a hair bit of a cable snob. I’m not going to lie. Listen, these cables, even at these low budget prices… can at least color match. The included cable is actually of decent quality and is the same cable we’ve seen with a few other sets over the last few years. To be exact it’s a 2-pin, twisted instead of braided, gray cable, 4-core, 24-strand, oxygen-free-copper cable and it terminates with a 3.5 single ended jack. This cable is simple, it’s lite, it’s not microphonic to a detrimental degree. It’s just not the nicest thing to look at when you have one of thee nicest looking iems that under $30 can get you. I instead went with a fat pitch-black fabric Faaeal 4.4 balanced cable 6N OCC copper cable which quite literally costs about $10-$12. It’s cheap but it looks amazing with the Abyss, and it actually sounds better than the included cable. At least to me it does. I think a lot has to do with the extra power afforded to balanced connections but that’s neither here nor there. Basically, this set should have come with a fat black cable such as this and it would have been perfect. However, I’m not complaining because the included cable does its job just fine. So basically, don’t listen to this moderate cable snob.
Build / Design / Internals / Fit
Build Quality
Let’s talk about the build because it isn’t everyday you see a set so well-crafted within this price point. Made purely of 3D printed medical grade resin and one of the most gorgeous designs at any price point. There isn’t a rough edge in this set folks. It’s flawless and really a testament to Celest/Kinera and how much pride they put into the final product. Friends, this set is ergonomic in its build with the perfect shape for my ears. The nozzle is average size at around 6mm in width and average length as well. Not too deep fitting and not too shallow. Just a nicely made set. Very durable feeling in hand as well. I see one vent near the back of the Abyss and so some folks may have a suction problem though I never have. Just something to think about. Really a nicely made set and at this price I’m really impressed.
Design
Oh, that design. I am easily hooked folks, I cannot lie. Yes, the sound has to be there first and foremost, but I can get sucked in by a well-designed set fairly easily. I respect it. Especially for a budget set. For a brand to go the extra mile on an ultra-budget price tag is saying something. I should also remind you that they did the exact same with the Wyvern Pro as well. Just a gorgeously designed set. Celest is one brand who pulls out all the stops and truly tries to wow with their iem designs. Excluding the 1st Pandamon. I don’t know what happened there. Still, the Abyss exemplifies the theme with which it’s supposed to embody. Dragons’ scales on dragon wings. Celest absolutely nailed this look! It’s dark, yet gorgeous with its subtle, yet not-so-subtle bright blue & purple hues which catch the eye with a certain candescent multi-color glow which changes as you move it in the light. It’ll go from blues to purples and always with the pitch-black background. The design on the faceplates does resemble something of a wing, to a degree. Or like dragon scales on a wing of sorts. Whatever it is, it’s dope. I haven’t been this impressed with a design of any budget set in a long time. Maybe the TRN Conch, Simgot EW200 and EPZ Q1 Pro do pretty well but I think this set sort of takes the cake for design language.
Internals
Not much to report on here. So, the Wyvern Abyss takes from the success of the Wyvern Pro and carries the exact same driver inside. To be exact that’s a 10mm dynamic driver with an LCP (Liquid-Crystal-Polymer) diaphragm. Really that’s about it other than the fact that Celest states that it does have an upgraded acoustic housing or acoustic cavity. I cannot say this is for sure other than both the Wyvern Pro and Wyvern Abyss have darn near identical graphs, but the Abyss does sound better. So, take that for what you will. Nice driver though.
Fit / Isolation
I’ve already spoken about this, but the fit for me is really great. Granted I’m a horrible person to speak on this because almost all iems fit my ears great. It’s a good problem to have. For whatever reason I hear others complain about sets that I never have a problem with. I suppose some folks who routinely get suction in their ears when putting in some earphones may also have issues with this set. Personally, I don’t have that problem at all. Also, Isolation is better than most sets at this price. The Abyss has rather good passive noise isolation. Well, to the degree that a vented earphone can have passive noise control.
Drivability
The Celest Wyvern Abyss is rated with an impedance of 32 ohms and a sensitivity of 105 db’s and comes across fairly sensitive. I would expect no less. Celest is all about selling budget gear, which usually caters to those who may not have the most powerful gear too. Of course that’s a gross generalization, but it checks out. The Abyss is easy to drive in just about anything I’ve tried it with. Even from the Fiio UTWS5, my iPad, etc. Basically, even not-so-powerful sources end up giving this set some good headroom in volume. So, you really don’t need some ultra powerful device powering this set. A wise choice by Celest. Well, or any brand selling budget gear. It should be easy to drive. Furthermore, it should also sound very good on low powered sources. Thankfully, Celest didn’t let you down.
Mobile Listening
Out and about I usually use my Ifi Go Blu as it is my constant friend while hitting the market, going on walks, working around my house, cutting the grass and so on. I found that it obviously had way more than enough power. Now, I did use the Faaeal balanced cable. As I said earlier… for my balanced sources. The IFi Go Blu has a boatload of power behind it, plenty for any sensitive set. Also, tonalities meshed well between the two. My critical listening involves many different dongle dacs. Thankfully, I work my day job in a place which lets me listen darn near all day long if I want to and… I do. This allows me to really get good hours with these sets. Which also allows me to really get to know each earphone or audio device. On the same token, it allows me to test many different devices. After testing a bunch of devices, for me, I love the EPZ TP50 with this set. They just match each other so well. I also love the Moondrop Dawn 4.4, Simgot Dew4x, Hidizs S8 Pro Robin, Aful SnowyNight too. They all sound great with the Abyss. I don’t think that the Abyss requires a certain tonal color to your device (warm, cool, bright etc.) as it hovers near warm/neutral and hits a nice synergy with most devices. However, something just hits different with the EPZ TP50 for me. Maybe it’s all in my head but I used that set attached to the Abyss for… Days!
More juice
I do feel that more power does help to bring the Abyss to a better place sonically. Kind of. It’s not some night and day difference folks. I really don’t feel you need something with a full watt of power juicing your listening session. I feel the spectrum tightens up to a marginal degree. Bass becomes a bit denser, faster, more dynamic. The midrange seems to be a hair better controlled too. Nothing earth shattering but, they are good changes nonetheless. I used the Shanling M6 Ultra for most of my dap listening as it just hit a sweet spot for me. I also used my iBasso DX240 with Amp8 MK2 a little, and the Fiio Q15 a little too and they both sounded great, no complaints at all. However, the warm M6 Ultra really gave this set some added authority in certain regions as well as very good resolving ability and was by far my most joyful listening experience of any device I have on hand.
What do you need?
All you really need is a source which works for you. That could mean phone, dongle dac, dap, whatever. Any should do. Most ‘any set’ should scale (at least a little bit) with power, but even more so to the sonic ability and capabilities of your source, so bare that in mind because the Abyss seems to scale nicely. Of course, a better source will in turn help your earphones sound better. However, I feel you really only need (at most) a decent dongle dac. You can get dongle dacs very cheap anymore. Something like the EPZ TP20 Pro, Moondrop Dawn 4.4 and about a hundred other fairly cheaper dongle dacs will really help your Abyss come alive. If you cannot afford that than a simple phone should do the trick quite well.
Sound Impressions
The Celest Wyvern Abyss is taken from the exact same mold as its predecessor, the Celest Wyvern Pro. Looking at the graph you’d almost think they were the same set. I mean, they are certainly close, don’t get me wrong. However, the Abyss does sound like an upgrade for me. In a few key areas actually. Despite that, this isn’t a comparison review. The Abyss is a fun sounding set. Born from the Harman curve with some subtle differences, yet close enough to lump it in I’d think. So, it’s a V-shaped set which does have an element of macro-dynamics brought on from the larger sub-bass as well as the energy in the upper mids. I find the Abyss is warm/neutral with a smooth sound… almost across the board. Again, I hear a boosted sub-bass and a boosted upper midrange/lower treble which makes for a dynamic sound and a very fun sound that never goes overboard. Nicely emphasized in strategic places for a nicely controlled sound which is also… Fun. Something you don’t see all the time in budget sets. So yes, I hear a smooth sound that carries some decent note weight. Without question, it is not thin sounding. There is some boost in the mid-bass which spills over into the midrange and does add a little bit of warmth and weight to midrange notes. Honestly, this is a well-tuned set. I think Celest drew on the success of the Wyvern Pro and simply refined that sound a bit.
Condensed Sound Between the 20’s
Beginning with the bass, it runs deep, it’s well extended too. The mid-bass has some good impact and can slam, yet without becoming a burden to the overall sound. Certainly not basshead, and never a detriment to other frequencies, at least for my tastes. The midrange has a hint of a recession towards the low-mids and moves forward as you go up into the upper midrange. You have a slightly warmer and fuller low-mids and more shimmery and elevated upper midrange. The Abyss has more of an organic hue to the sound yet certainly colored in certain areas, so it isn’t perfectly natural. Not completely unnatural either. The treble has some decent energy and extension into the upper treble. This is not some treble heads dream though, as the Abyss offers just enough treble energy to uplift the overall sound a bit and add some sparkle here and there. To be honest this set has a nice dynamic balance with some minimal subjective gripes overall. Really, it’s a nice set for $29. Let’s check out each 3rd of the mix shall we…
Bass Region
For a budget iem price under $30 I find the bass to be very engaging, dynamic even. You have these deep lows with good extension in the lowest of those lows as well as a healthy punch and slam. I say healthy because it isn’t sloppy for the price. It’s rather clean for a larger and more ample sized bass. With that said, I wouldn’t expect something ultra snappy and detailed, and I wouldn’t expect something with lightning-fast transients either. However, there is an engagement factor as there’s nice density down low and so every haptic boom which comes through has a solid foundation. It isn’t weak and willow. You hear nothing soft on this set folks. I don’t think it steps into basshead territory, but I could probably say without skipping a beat that the low-end has a very satisfying emphasis for people who enjoy a nicely laid out low-end with good authority. The Abyss has a nicely carved out presence for the price (you’ll see “for the price” a lot).
Sub-bass
The sub-bass is the type which digs pretty deep and can rumble with a good vibratory drone when called upon. The Abyss’s 10 mm Dynamic Driver is doing a nice job at creating what I feel is the cornerstone to this tuning. Certainly, there’s some upper mid energy to counter to which the Abyss’s low-end is perfectly able to do so. But I feel one of the focal points of this set is the sub-bass. That said, the sub levels of the bass aren’t the type to muddy the mid-bass in my estimation. I’m sure others feel differently, but it simply isn’t an unkempt sub-bass that is too bulbous to get out of its own way. Rather… It’s kinda… Kempt. “Mancey” by Andrew Bird centers the song around some pretty meaty and resonant sub-bass bass guitar growls, which need some low droning and juddering energy that can attack and decay at a decent clip while keeping that concrete solidity and also keeping some decent timbre too. The Abyss does all of that. Or “Where Are Your Kids Tonight?” by CMAT. Another track that excels in the Abyss as the rest of the Melody is nicely separated from the meaty and haptic sub-bass. It’s emphasized, it’s authoritative and it’s fun.
Mid-bass
The Wyvern Pro wasn’t exactly lacking mid-bass punch, but it didn’t express itself with it either, or some instruments felt lacking a hair. Or maybe just not as vibrant in their presence. Not with the Abyss. The Abyss has a clean yet hardy punch for a set costing under $30. This isn’t a muddy sound at all but instead the Abyss carries the type of mid-bass energy that bolsters instruments, adds weight, creates an impactful vibrance to bass drops, kick drums and adds body to bass guitars. It does all of this without mucking up the spectrum. Transients come and go with a more natural speed as the attack is marginally soft while the decay sounds somewhat atmospheric. Not slow with lagging harmonics and not ultra snappy either. In this sense it’s organic to my ears. Also, with a budget set housing a 10mm DD, which does have a healthy 10db bass shelf, it’d stand to reason that it isn’t the speediest of bass deliveries. That said, it is a nice one. The Turnpike Troubadours have a track “Three More Days” which has a hearty bass guitar when listening through the Abyss. It’s full, it’s edgy, it’s guttural and it’s not so overbearing that it masks the rest of the mix. Also “Am I Dreaming” by Metro Boomin on his Across the Spiderverse album just gets dirty on the Abyss. In a good way. Note outlines are clean and never too pervasive that they create a mishmash of bass energy. Really a clean sound down low for a larger bass emphasis.
Downsides to the Bass Region
The downsides here would be the emphasis. Obviously, those who don’t enjoy a larger bass shelf are probably not going to enjoy the sound down low on the Abyss. On the flip, also bassheads will likely not be thrilled. At least not enough to pony up the money to own this set. Beyond that, there are very small subjective and entirely picky nitpicks in the way the attack is kind of on the softer side, slightly wider in presence at times, not as concise as more expensive sets. In the same breath, did I expect anything different? No, I didn’t. Honestly, I’m impressed by the output here and I can enjoy the bass region for what it is. It’s a good bass folks. Heavy, meaty, authoritative but also clean enough to not sound blurred, or one noted. Not bad.
Midrange
Listening to the Abyss I found it to be pretty impressive in the midrange. Well, at least as impressive as a midrange can sound for a $30 V-shaped… err…Harman-ish style set can sound. I do hear a bit of a recession which should be expected, but by all means, it isn’t one which is so pushed back into the sound field that instruments or voices sound out of place. I think we’re “mostly done” with those out-of-date tunings. Especially coming from brands such as Celest/Kinera. In truth, I hear a very engaging, pleasant, and a very compelling midrange for the price which won’t cause any undue irritation through any wild peaks.
Nice for the price
The midrange also has nice note weight. Skewed to the leaner side of lush, but density within those notes is nice. Typically, Harman sets don’t exactly have that warmth and weight of the more enthralling and warmly weighted tunings. However, on the Abyss, the bass pushes just a touch into this region adding that warmth to a set which already has nice mass to its notes. It isn’t weak, dry, papery, or anemic sounding. To add to that, this midrange isn’t boring either. This set has some life to it, some macro-dynamic expression, some buoyancy, some energy. And it all comes from the upper-mids to lower treble bringing levity to the sound. I feel the midrange on the Celest Abyss is right dab smack in the middle of a very nice game of tug-o-war between the bass and the upper-mid/lower treble regions and it really does help this set in all the right ways. By the way, when I say energy and buoyancy, I’m silly saying that it isn’t some flat and deadpan listen with the murkiness of veil shrouding over the entirety of the mids like so many sets have plenty of. Celest tuned this set very well. Certainly not perfect and it certainly has some issues which I hope to speak on so that you’ll understand me, but still nice for the price.
Lower-midrange
Looking at the lower-mids I’d have to say that this region is probably the weakest point to this set for me. As if that’s a bad thing. Honestly, they sound pretty good. This is the area where the only slight recession resides, and most will hardly even notice. I say that because the low-mids still have that warmth and subtle weight which does give this region some presence, or a richer occupancy within the sound field. It isn’t the most vibrant and luminous, but males come across decent to good. Some tracks are better than others in my opinion. Tracks like Chris Stapleton in “Tennessee Whiskey” don’t really have that energy against the rest of the mix in less energetic portions of the song. However, as his voice raises in pitch it also comes across more forward and out front. Timbre isn’t bad either. Celest kept this tuning more towards the organic side of things. Less analytically engaging and more musically engaging. I could use a hint more magnitude forwardness to a minimal degree but really I feel males and lower-midrange instruments sound fine.
Upper-Midrange
Now, the upper-mids you’ll begin to see some more forward style energy add some dynamism to the sound. In the midst of that dynamism the Abyss also provides a nice note body. So, it isn’t thin and bright, or too glaring. Females have just enough shimmer to glitter bomb some female voices, so-to-speak. Okay that was a horrible analogy. Basically, females have some levity to their voices, they are uplifted rather than dull. There’s a sprightliness to the sound. Percussion snaps on attack, piano has some resounding qualities, strings have that bite to them. This region brings to the table some much needed energy in my opinion. For instance, Kacey Musgraves in the track “Deeper Well” has an almost engaging feel to it as the note body is a very nice semi-rich sound, and the density is there to bring upon a more emotional quality to the song. Yet more energetic tracks like “High” by Caitlyn Smith adds a bit more vivaciousness when listening with the Abyss. I do hear some congestion in the chorus (which is expected) but separation of instruments & vocals is very nice outside of that. Now, timbre isn’t always perfect but mostly the Abyss’s upper-mids come across as energetic enough which does skew the timbre a hair less organic. Not bad though and not completely artificial sounding. Females sound very nice for a $30 set.
Musical
Beyond that, details within the midrange are average with average separation of instruments. You really shouldn’t expect the Abyss to be some sort of detail monster with this tuning at this price. I feel the Abyss leans more musical than anything, putting more emphasis on feeling and creating a mood in my music rather than illuminating every last detail. I suppose it all comes down to what you prefer.
Downsides to the Midrange
I would say that the midrange isn’t as transparent, crisp, snappy, separated and pristine style clean as some would like. This is not an analytically tuned iem. Transients don’t come and go with the speediest of decay. That said, I don’t think anyone was claiming they would. This set is musicality first in my opinion and it simply isn’t tuned to bring out all of the minutia and subtle little details. Now that I’ve said that I’d also say the Abyss isn’t bad in this regard either. You just have to know what you’re getting. Also, the Abyss has good note weight, but it isn’t some ultra rich sounding set either. Those who adore a warm to dark sound with a syrupy style note delivery will not be happy with this set. I’d also say that the upper midrange may be a bit much for some, maybe a bit too much of a pinna rise bringing upon too much glare. Personally, I don’t find this set to be shouty, but we all have different thresholds in this regard. The lower-mids may be a hair too recessed for vocal lovers or mid-centric types and the upper mids may be a hair too artificial for some. Again, I really don’t consider this set to be artificial but organic timbre lovers may not be totally happy with this area. Truthfully, I find the midrange to be a nice rendition of semi-lush and musical with nice timbre for a $30 set and easily one of the more engaging iems within this price point.
Treble Region
The treble region is pretty nice in that it fits a certain segment of the Audio population very nicely. Those who would rather not turn the volume down due to sensitivity in this region. Now, don’t expect some treble-heads paradise or anything, but the highs on this set do provide a slight lift to the spectrum. Celest made sure to counter the bass region’s emphasis by boosting the treble just enough to form a nice dynamic balance. I wouldn’t call the Abyss’s treble rolled-off as there is some decent extension but to those who enjoy a more vivacious sound up top will likely declare this set rolled-off a bit too early. In my opinion this is a smoother treble, not as crunchy and crisp as some would like, but there are adequate amounts of transparency I suppose. Enough to illuminate the mix just enough to provide some levity to the overall sound of this set. Good for a $30 iem as it offers a treble region that isn’t fatiguing or taxing to my ears. I could use a little more bite, a bit more of a treble punch, a hint more vibrancy and it would’ve been nice to hear a bit more air to the sound, but note weight is good and like I mentioned, extension is pretty nice as well.
Just enough
Obviously, there are some sets within the price point which are tuned to really enhance this region and some of those sets do stand out quite well with a very transparent and clean-lined sound, even sparkly. The Abyss isn’t exactly that. Still, to achieve the charm that this set does provide, I feel that Celest tuned the treble to have just enough of a lift. Nothing forced and no ear gouging peaks, nothing shrill sounding either. It’s just enough to add some low-level vibrance for me and to provide at least average resolution. Of course, I have zero idea what “average” actually means, but it sounds good. Let’s put it this way, the sound isn’t dark, veiled or congested in any way. To add to that, the treble also isn’t very sparkly with less effulgent brilliance than some would like. That’s not to say there is no sparkle either. Again, just enough to add a slight hint of shimmer and air.
Downsides to the Treble Region
I think the issues located in the Abyss’s treble region have already been spelled out. Again, this set is not for treble heads. Not even for those who moderately enjoy some treble brilliance. However, there’s something to be said of a smooth and non-offensive treble and the way that style of tuning impacts the rest of the mix. It’s easy going, usually better body to notes, more of a relaxed listen. At any rate, not everyone will be too thrilled with the tuning here. Despite that, I do feel the highs on the Abyss have good control with a realistic body up top and just enough of a treble bite and crispness to give some dimension to instruments. What can I say folks, it’s relaxed and easy going and I know there are many who are fans of that.
Technicalities
Soundstage
When listening to the Celest Wyvern Abyss I found that the soundstage is pretty nice for what it is. While I don’t feel the width is anything other than average, I don’t hear anything congested or cramped. There’s nothing which would indicate that the sound field is compromised… or odd sounding. The sound field in general is a bit more intimate and up close to the listener. Regardless, I also feel there is adequate space too. I find nothing to be an issue here. There is average width I’d say, average height, and decent depth to the sound. Not enough depth to call this set a “budget layering king” or anything, but there’s depth. Nothing that will blow anyone’s mind but spacious enough to provide a somewhat open sound and not a sound field which feels constrained. Basically, the soundstage is pretty good.
Separation / Imaging
Now separation of instruments and vocals isn’t exactly the Abyss’s strong suit, but it is good. The sound is pretty clean and there is space between instruments in my opinion. That said, there are some instances when the sound does begin to cramp. Those instances being when I listen to a very complicated or congested tracks. Beyond those tracks I feel that the Abyss does a nice job separating the elements. Yes, the note weight is a bit more robust, and yes resolution isn’t perfect. However, I do generally hear a clean sound and just enough space to create a nice psycho-acoustic image. Definitely not bad for a $30 set which features a bass boost and non-offensive treble. Imaging is also pretty darn good for me. The Wyvern Pro had nice imaging, and this set does follow suit to a degree. Originally this series was meant for gaming first and so that DNA has stuck. I really don’t hear many issues as far as imaging is concerned. Perhaps on bass heavy tracks you may hear a hint of confusion of the sound field and of course with congested tracks, but for the most part the Abyss sounds great.
Detail Retrieval
Honestly, the detail retrieval on the Celest Abyss is better than I expected and a slight step up from the Wyvern Pro. My opinion of course, you may feel different. Note definition is fairly easy to distinguish, separation isn’t bad at all, the sound has a relative balance to it, I don’t hear a veil either, and so long as the bass isn’t booming out of control then the detail illumination is pretty nice. But seriously folks, remember that this is a $30 set and Celest wasn’t trying to create some marvel of detail retrieval. This is supposed to be a fun set, a good first iem, a solid tuning with a lot of good musicality. This was not tuned to extract all of the subtleties in your music. So, I’d say it’s a nice accident that the Abyss is actually decent in this regard. Also, nothing with Celest is by accident, they do good work.
Comparisons
EPZ Q1 Pro ($35)
I reviewed the EPZ Q1 Pro late last year I believe (Q1 Pro Review), and I declared it one of the best budget sets I’ve heard up to that point. Truly a special set that is still my first recommendation under $40. I hate to set up this comparison in this fashion as I’m not trying to establish which is the better set, but instead I want to explain the set I’m reviewing from a different angle. The Q1 Pro is actually tuned very close to the Wyvern Abyss. Very close graph, close in almost all regards actually. But I’m getting ahead of myself. Anyways, the Q1 Pro is a single DD with a 10 mm LCP diaphragm, gorgeous from any angle, can take on some more expensive sets fairly easily and is pretty widely acclaimed as an absolute beast at its price.
Differences
To begin, both sets are built using all resin, but the Abyss is simply built a bit sturdier (for lack of a better word). Personally, I also feel the Abyss is the better-looking set too. However, both are stunners. The Q1 Pro has a slight bit better unboxing, better cable, both have good tips, and the Q1 Pro comes with a carrying pouch. The Abyss and the Q1 Pro are roughly about the same size. Though the Abyss is a hair less teardrop shaped, and narrower I’d say. Oddly enough, both sets use a 10mm LCP DD and both sets should be considered at their relative price points for any prospective buyers. Of course, the Q1 Pro is a few bucks more in price, but these two sets really compete well against each other.
Sound Differences
As I go back and forth between these two sets, I have found the Abyss to come across warmer than the Q1 Pro. The Q1 Pro sounds a bit more natural to my ears as well. Of course, there is no quantitative way to declare anything “more natural” so take that for what it is. However, the Abyss has a smoother sound whereas the Q1 Pro is more snappy, quicker transients, better in detail retrieval in my opinion. Remember, these are slight differences folks. The bass is more bulbous, full and heavy on the Abyss with a more atmospheric decay while the Q1 Pro has better definition in this area. Q1 Pro simply comes across a hint more agile but less emphasized, even though the graph may tell you different. I find the midrange to sound a hint more forward on the Q1 Pro, but also slightly less rich in note weight. Details are a hint better on the Q1 Pro while the Abyss sounds a bit more musical to my ears. The treble sounds more energetic on the Q1 Pro, more transparent, crisper, more crunch, and brighter by a small margin. However, both sets have decent-to-good extension into the upper treble. Most certainly those folks who want a more relaxed & smooth treble will find the Abyss more appealing. I find both sets have a nice stage, both sets are nice for detail retrieval (the Q1 Pro is a hair better), while the Q1 Pro has better instrument separation, and both have fairly good imaging for their prices.
Final thoughts on this comparison
Looking back at my comparison it looks like a one-sided victory for the Q1 Pro. Now, I kind of agree with that. However, the Abyss is cheaper, built better, looks better and sounds similar to the Q1 Pro, albeit warmer, bassier, and not as airy. I’d even say the Abyss is the creamier and more musical set. Granted, I feel that most folks would choose the Q1 Pro as it’ll likely fit more people’s preferences along with the fact that it is more of an all-rounder type set. Anyways, both are fantastic iems under $40 both should be highly considered under $40.
Is it worth the asking price?
This is a simple answer friends! Without question the Celest Wyvern Abyss is worth the $25 to $29 that HiFiGo is asking for. Without question! This is a blind buy type set for anyone wanting to check out an iem for the first time or simply for those folks who like to collect iems. Shoot, some folks may just like things which look dope. Either way, yes, the Abyss is worth every last penny.
The Why…
Because the Celest Wyvern Abyss is built like an absolute stud! Not only is it built well, but it looks better than most sets under $150. This design is really great. I’d stack it up against almost any set purely for aesthetic. It’s creative, it follows the theme perfectly and it looks real fly in the ear. Beyond the looks, this set also sounds very good for the price. From my perspective I don’t think you’ll find many which can easily compete against it. So long as the sound signature seems like something which would suit you, I really don’t think you can go wrong. Anyways, the bass is heavy, but not too heavy. It’s well defined, clean enough and adds some very nice haptic rumble to any track. The midrange has a nicely musical presentation which shows off some upper mid shimmer on female vocalists & a nice technical performance for a V-shaped / Harmon set with thicker note weight. The stage is laid out nice, nothing congested, good separation, nice detail retrieval. Really, it’s a good set and I have had a great time reviewing it.
Deserves the flowers
The Celest Wyvern Abyss is certainly in the conversation for one of the best to carry this specific type of sound signature within the budget space. Without a doubt it is not going to fit everyone’s listening style or favored sound profile. That’s just the nature of the hobby. I am giving this set its flowers though…because it deserves it. Celest deserves it. Is it the best budget iem? Um, the best doesn’t exist. The best only becomes a reality for each individual person or hobbyist. We are all so very different friends. So, for this very particular type of sound I feel comfortable declaring the Abyss “one of the best that you can buy under $40”. Is there a better musicality-first iem under $40? Probably, maybe. Again, it’s up to the consumer to fall in line with this sound signature. I say all of that to postulate that a budget set like the Abyss has the opportunity to be one of the most lauded bassy, fun, and musical sets within the price point. Now, whether that shows true or whether folks don’t see this set as I do is the real determining factor. Despite that, the Celest Wyvern Abyss is most certainly worth the $29 that Celest is asking.
Ratings (0-10)
Note: all ratings are based upon my subjective judgment. These ratings are garnered against either similarly priced sets or with similar driver implementations or styles with the unique parameters of my choosing. In the case of the Celest Wyvern Abyss ratings below, that would be $20-$40 iems with any driver configuration. Please remember that “ratings” don’t tell the whole story. This leaves out nuance and a number of other qualities which make an iem what it is. A “5-6” is roughly average and please take into consideration the “lot” of iems these ratings are gathered against. $20-$40 US hybrid iems is an enormous sized scope of iems, and it’s also extremely competitive. It should mean something pretty special to see a rating above a “9.0”. My ratings are never the same and each set of ratings tells a different story. Each time you read one of my ratings will be unique to that review. Basically, I create a Rating that makes sense to me.
Aesthetic
–Build Quality: 9.2 Built very well.
–Look: 9.9 One of the best out there.
–Fit/Comfort: 9.5 Fit and comfort is great for me.
–Accessories: 7.8 Decent tips, cable.
–Overall: 9.3🔥🔥
Sound Rating
–Timbre: 9.1 Very nice timbre.
–Bass: 9.4 Big, extended, deep, it slams.
–Midrange: 9.0 Musical, engaging.
–Treble: 7.4 Non-fatiguing, smooth, safe.
–Technicalities: 7.9 Technically good for the sound sig.
–Musicality: 9.5 Very musical sound.
–Overall: 8.7🔥🔥🔥
Ratings Summary:
I feel that the ratings above don’t truly indicate just how nice the Wyvern Abyss is. This is another rating session that doesn’t seem to show up in individual categories quite as well as simply judging the Abyss as a whole. As in, if I were to simply put the Abyss in my ears, listen, and rate… It’d have a much higher score. The Abyss puts it all together well. I suppose there is something to the old adage “Jack of all trades, master of none”. However, when I look at the Abyss as a whole, as a complete package within its price point, I would think it’s closer to 9.0+ in “Overall Sound”. I certainly feel it’s one of the better sets in its price point for simple musicality. However, individual ratings aren’t really as high compared to the 12 other sets I have laid out before me. As always, I averaged the scores and an “8.7” is what you get. Still, no matter the rating, the Abyss is really a nice purchase if the sound signature agrees with you.
Explain Yourself!
I don’t feel there’s anything to explain. Not really anyways. I could always add in the “Bass” rating into this argument as that region is simply one which invites mild anger. I don’t know why. The fact of the matter is, I believe a “9.4” qualifies for this set. It isn’t the fastest, snappiest, most guttural or deep but it is a little of all of those things. For me it came down to how emphasized the bass is in relation to how clean it is. Between $20 to $40 that’s a 9.4 for me. I could also see “Musicality” being a problem for some and that’s just because there isn’t any qualified way to measure it. Musicality is left up to the ear of the beholder. Everything else checks out. In my opinion anyways but feel free to message me or comment below if you have any questions or complaints. An “8.7” isn’t high enough for me with this set but sometimes this is just how it pans out.
Conclusion
To conclude my full written review of the Celest Wyvern Abyss, I want to first thank HiFiGo for providing this set in exchange for a full feature at Mobileaudiophile.com. HiFiGo is one of those audio stores which have been a mainstay in my review life, and they’ve always been very good to me. Not just because of samples either. It’s more than that. I get samples from many places. What I like is the help they provide and how easy it is to deal with the reps. Just sweet people. I also want to thank you, the reader. Without you our website would not be going today. It’s because of your clicks that we are still going, and I promise each member of our team will continue to do our absolute best to review in a way that is helpful to the consumer.
Different Perspectives
One more thing, please check out other thoughts of the Celest Wyvern Abyss. It will do you so much good to be educated in how many people feel about this set. I am only one-man folks. So do yourself a favor and read, watch, or listen to other reviews of the Abyss. With that, I think I’m finished. Please take good care, each and every one of you. Stay as safe as possible and always… God Bless!
