Disclaimer
The HiBy x F.Audio Project Ace was sent to me for review, but there were no expectations for a positive or a negative review. All thoughts and impressions shared here are based on my unbiased experience with the product.
Introduction
The HiBy x F.Audio Project Ace, priced at $250, represents a notable collaboration between HiBy and F.Audio. With its elegant metal construction and minimalist design, it immediately sets a tone of refined craftsmanship. Upon unboxing, the standout features are the premium carrying case and the robust modular cable. The case impresses with what appears to be either genuine leather or high-quality faux leather, complete with a magnetic lid for added sophistication. The modular cable feels high-quality with a durable, copper-like finish, adding to the overall sense of refinement. My initial impressions painted a picture of an IEM designed with both aesthetics and user experience in mind.
Design and Comfort
The design is a perfect blend of form and function. The metal housing feels robust yet lightweight enough for prolonged use, and the nozzle size is well-judged, promoting a secure and comfortable fit. Isolation is good enough, as these IEMs block out ambient noise effectively without causing pressure buildup, thanks to strategically placed air vents. This makes long listening sessions fatigue-free.
The packaging is refined yet straightforward, complementing the IEM’s minimalist design ethos. HiBy has included a modular cable that supports both 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm connections and you can purchase the Project Ace with a USB-C terminator as an optional accessory. The cable itself feels high-quality, with a durable copper-like finish. However, the interchangeable terminations pose a minor usability issue: the 4-pin connection is exposed, which requires attention when changing the terminators, and the terminators themselves are on the larger side.
Sound Performance
The HiBy x F.Audio Project Ace delivers a natural and engaging sound signature with an emphasis on clarity and detail, particularly highlighted by the peak around the 5.5 kHz region. However, there are some quirks that may divide listeners.
Bass
The bass is tight and precise, favoring accuracy over impact. It has a refined sub-bass presence that adds weight when needed but never overshadows the rest of the frequency range. While this tuning may not satisfy those craving a bass-heavy experience, it excels in genres like jazz and acoustic music, where texture and detail are paramount.
Mids
Vocals are another standout feature, rendered with a relaxed yet engaging presentation that highlights both male and female voices beautifully. Instruments are well-separated, and the natural timbre enhances the realism of acoustic performances. However, the restrained nature of the high mids might feel a bit subdued or boring for listeners who prefer more energetic and forward vocals.
Treble
The treble extends well, delivering plenty of sparkle and air. A peak around 5.5 kHz – 6 kHz adds excitement to cymbals and percussive elements, but it can occasionally verge on being sharp, particularly for treble-sensitive ears. Foam tips are recommended to tame this brightness and provide a more balanced listening experience. Thankfully, the treble manages to stay free from sibilance, even if it leans bright overall.
Technical Performance
Soundstage is moderately wide, offering a sense of intimacy rather than a vast, out-of-head experience. There is decent depth, with enough layering to provide a clear picture of the music’s complexity, but it falls short of creating a fully holographic field. Instrument separation is solid, though complex passages may introduce some congestion. Despite these minor limitations, the single dynamic driver performs admirably, capturing intricate details and reproducing acoustic instruments with remarkable accuracy.
Ease of Driving
The HiBy x F.Audio Project Ace benefits from higher-end equipment, revealing its full potential with proper amplification. When driven by setups like the Topping G5 DAC/amp, the IEM showcases improved clarity, a more controlled bass response, and overall better resolution. This scalability is a huge plus for audiophiles with a collection of high-quality sources. Experimenting with different ear tips and sources can alter the sound signature, making it a versatile IEM.
Personal Comment
For $250, the HiBy x F.Audio Project Ace presents a compelling mix of premium build quality, good comfort, and a detailed, natural sound signature. While it may not cater to bassheads or those who prefer a darker sound, it shines for listeners who value clarity and a lifelike midrange presentation. If you’re after an engaging, natural, and well-crafted IEM with decent technical chops, the HiBy x F.Audio Project Ace is well worth your attention. Don’t forget to take a look at Nealz’s and Mahir’s opinions before making any decisions.
Pros:
- Premium build and design
- Natural, clear sound signature
- Great for vocals and acoustic genres
- Scales well with high-end equipment
- Comfortable fit with good isolation
Cons:
- High mids might feel too relaxed for some
- Treble can be fatiguing for sensitive ears
- Modular cable design is robust but not very intuitive
- Not ideal for bassheads or fans of darker tuning
