Hidizs MP143 “Salt” Review
Intro
Hello everyone, I have with me today the latest Kickstarter (early bird $79) planar earphone from the audio brand Hidizs named the Hidizs MP143 Salt. I was very excited to finally try out this set as Hidizs previous planar set, the Hidizs MP145, was one of my most enjoyed sets within its price point. Truly a legend status iem. Now, the MP143 isn’t really a “successor” in my mind as the price is listed at roughly around half the price of the MP145. The MP143 is simply another very well-tuned planar magnetic earphone, yet it costs quite a bit less. Definitely a good representation of this series of sets though, but not the heir apparent to the MP145. I do feel that the MP143 certainly has that same awesome DNA. I reviewed the MP145 last year (MP145 Review) and truly found it to be one of the best that you can get at its price. My question is if the MP143 will provide the same price to performance as the MP145, but yet just less expensive. We shall see.
Hidizs
Now, Hidizs has truly come a very long way in the earphones department. They’ve really provided the market with some fantastic iems. I’ve personally reviewed a number of them by now and each has its own flavor, its own style and each set has some distinguishing characteristics which separates them from the pack. Hidizs never does anything without purposeful intent and the motive of making money and providing good price to performance. Guess what, everyone wins. Of course, Hidizs began as a dap, dac/amp company which became a fantastic earphone maker. Again, each dac/amp, dongle dac, or dap has its own flavor and distinctions. I promise you people, not every brand does this.
All Positive
Honestly, I haven’t completed a review from this brand that didn’t end positively. Of the earphones I’ve really liked the Hidizs MS1 (MS1 Review), Hidizs MM2 (MM2 Review), Hidizs MS3 (MS3 Review), Hidizs MP145 (MP145 Review), and the Hidizs MS5 (MS5 Review). However, I’ve owned many more Hidizs sets in the past and enjoyed them all for different reasons. Of the Audio devices I’ve featured it’s a similar story. Those devices are the Hidizs SD2 (SD2 Review), the Hidizs S8 Pro Robin (S8 Review), and the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus (S9 Pro Plus Review). Again, I’ve also owned a number of Hidizs devices, and all are relatively great. Always a fresh look with clean lines and a fresh aesthetic that is also very well-tuned to whatever target that Hidizs was going for.
WDC
I think it should be noted about the collaboration effort between Hidizs and the WDC (Whale & Dolphin Conservation). For a couple years now Hidizs created a wonderful partnership where so much of every purchase goes to this cause through the WDC. In fact, everything about this product has some sort of a theme about protecting our oceans. From the plastic-free packaging to the design of these earphones etc. you’ll see the influence of whales, the ocean tides, waves, all the imagery. It’s all in honor of the sea and bringing awareness of our seas to the Hifi public. I realize it doesn’t seem like much, but every bit helps and it’s good to see at least some cause brought forth and honored from this crazy hobby that we love. Now, the name “Salt” was actually coined due to a certain humpback whale affectionately named… “Salt”. So, the name itself is a nod to this famously well-known whale. I think that’s pretty cool.
It’s in the DNA
The Hidizs MP143 comes at a good time in audio for the consumer but a tough time for any brand. I feel that no review should start without stating this fact. Even at the Kickstarter price of $79, the Hidizs MP143 is surrounded by fantastic iems which may steal some attention away from it. That said, one thing the MP143 has going for it is the fact that it carries the MP145 DNA and it does so convincingly well. There are quite a few similarities between the two, and there’s some differences that I hope to spell out for you all. However, Hidizs has a lot going for it and all of the good vibes are in the corner of the MP143 Salt. Let’s jump into this review folks. Without further ado, the Hidizs MP143 everyone…
Non-Affiliated Purchasing Links:
Disclaimer:
I received the Hidizs MP143 Salt from Hidizs 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. Hidizs 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 Hidizs and thanks for reading.
MP143 Pros 🔥
-Build Quality is obviously amazing for the price
-Design is obviously amazing for the price
-Nice and light cable which sounds nice with the MP143
-Working nozzle filters
-Well balanced sound
-Deep and very well controlled low-end
-Authoritative bass
-Midrange is detailed, clean, with great timbre for a planar set
-Highs are sparkly enough and bring nice levity
-Detail Retrieval
-Separation of instruments and vocals
-Soundstage is nice
MP143 Cons 🥶
-Size may be too large for smaller ears
-Look may not be for everyone
-Fit may give some… Fits
-Maybe too much bass emphasis for some
-Slight midrange recession
Gear used for testing
–Ifi Go Blu
–EPZ TP50
–Simgot Dew4x
–Aful SnowyNight
–Fiio Q15
–iBasso DX240 with Amp8 MK2
–Shanling M6 Ultra
Packaging / Accessories
Unboxing
The MP143 came in a small black box with a picture of the MP143 adorned on its cover, some specs on the back as well. It’s a nice graphic of the iem. Open the box and you are met with the stunning MP143 earphones sitting in foam/cardboard cutouts. Just gorgeous. Pick up that level and underneath you’ll see the carrying pouch and the cable and tips. To be honest, this isn’t the most luxurious unboxing, but it does the trick. Also, what more do you want for $79 when Hidizs puts so much effort, R&D and time into the earphones themselves. Shoot, for $79 I’m surprised they even hand out a cable, pouch, and tips. Not bad.
Eartips
Of the included eartips I found that neither really worked for my ears. For whatever reason. I actually opted for the Dunu S&S tips which worked for me in the MP145 as well. At any rate, the included tips are 2 sets of 3 pairs and 6 pairs altogether. The first set (S, M, L) is a dark gray silicone eartips with a narrow bore, fairly rigid flange and a slightly longer eartip too. Hidizs refers to these tips as their “Balanced” tips. The next set (S, M, L) is a white silicone eartip with a slightly wider bore (semi-wide) which Hidizs calls their “Vocal” tips. These tips are more shallow, flimsier as well and so it stands to reason they’d accentuate the vocal midrange areas a bit more. Both sets are decent enough but through my constant pursuit of finding the best audio possible for me I found that the Dunu S&S worked absolutely perfectly with this set. Besides the S&S tips I also used the Letshuoer blue wide-bore tips. Both sets worked nicely for different reasons. You may feel differently of course. Anyways, the packaging comes with some nice tips that’ll be good for certain situations for sure.
Carrying Pouch
I actually like what Hidizs did here. I love a good carrying pouch. Probably more so than even a hard case. Of course, I’m probably in the minority there but I like a smaller pouch which can fit in the front pocket of my jeans. At any rate, the pouch given within the packaging is a very nice black colored and faux leather bag with a very nice open and close metal snap on it. You’ll notice Hidizs is imposed on the front as well. I don’t actually have a ton to say about it but it’s a nice pouch. You don’t always receive actual nice pouches. I’ll definitely use this one. Now, Hidizs also provided a pouch for the Hidizs MP145 as well and it too was a nice sized and nicely crafted pouch which I actually used. Anyways, I realize most of you would like an actual hard case but I’m sure Hidizs was trying to keep cost low in any way they could while still offering something nice as well.
Cable
This brings us to the cable. Hidizs provides a nice looking and very comfortable cable that actually works very well with this set. Part of the problem is that the actual build of these iems is not the usual. They are big folks, and the 2-ping connectors are high on the body putting them high on the ear. Or at least higher than most earphones. It does make finding other cables to use with this set a bit of an issue. However, the cable provided works fantastic! It is a 2-pin 0.78 very nicely twisted high purity oxygen free copper cable with a 3.5 single ended gold-plated jack. Usually, I’d want a big fat cable but with this set I found a thicker cable kind of moves them in my ear a hint more. Also, the thinner and lighter cable from Hidizs actually looks very nice. The cable can be purchased in either 3.5 single ended or 4.4 balanced. I did swap cables from time to time, but I found myself going back to the cable that is included in the packaging. I’m sure I’ll find one better over time but for right now I’m happy with what Hidizs provides.
Build / Design / Internals / Fit
Build Quality
What can I say folks? This set is built like a champ, through and through. Take a look at the build of the amazing MP145 and look back at the MP143 and what you’ll notice is that there really isn’t much of a difference as far as actual quality of build is concerned. I’m telling you folks right now, the MP143 is very likely the best built iem around $100. Made completely of aluminum alloy from the front to the back with intricately carved lines across the faceplates by way of CNC machining. You’ll notice the MP143 is pretty darn large, and I believe this is one of the main reasons the soundstage is so vast on this set and the MP145. Truly a beautiful build.
Tuning Nozzles
Like I stated, the Hidizs MP143 comes with three different sets of tuning nozzles to slightly alter how the MP143 is perceived. These filters are the type which screw “over” the nozzle. Meaning, the nozzles are actually caps with female threads that screw onto male threads. I prefer this style as they are easier to handle and not drop rather than tiny little nozzles that get lost fairly easily if not careful. So, the nozzles are labeled “Rose Gold” or “Balanced”, “Quiet Silver” or “High Frequency”, and “Charm Red” or “Bass”. Each nozzle does precisely what their names suggest.
Bass Nozzle (Charm Red)
The bass nozzle more-so lowers the lower treble through mid-treble region effectively causing the bass to sound a bit more pronounced. With this filter you don’t have as much air to the sound, heavier note weight by a small margin as well. At the same time the bass does have quite a bit more of a forward presence. Obviously, with the Charm Red nozzle you won’t catch as many details, and you do have a slightly warmer sound altogether. Still, I noticed a big uptick in actual bass presence.
High Frequency (High-Silver)
Once again, this nozzle does exactly as its name implies and ever-so-slightly boosts the upper regions. This is not some huge leap in treble activity, but you can hear some differences there. Basically, I wouldn’t expect mind bending changes, but the upper regions do come through a hair airier, and a very minor lift in overall levity to the sound. To be honest, the sound of this and the Rose Gold filter are very similar to my ears. Only very subtle changes.
Balanced Nozzle (Rose Gold)
Now we get to my favorite nozzle of the three, that is the balanced nozzle. I do feel the balanced nozzle has probably the best balance overall. This is the nozzle I’ve spent the most time with and the nozzle which I used for most of my critical listening. It has slightly more bass amplitude than the Quiet Silver nozzle but in all, they sound very similar and there’s very little real-world difference between the two except for minor changes.
Design
The Hidizs MP143 takes a beautiful page out of the Hidizs MP145’s book with a very similar build and shape. Again, the MP143 is made entirely out of gorgeous aluminum and comes in three distinct colorways. Those being, silver, blue and gun black. Obviously the set I have is the silver version. Just a gorgeous iem in every way you twist or turn it. The care and craftsmanship that went into dialing in the CNC machined parameters is just awesome. The design carries some lines in its faceplate supposedly to mimic that of waves in the sea. Just another nod to the theme of this set. Really a beautiful iem in my opinion with one of the most unique designs in all of audio.
Internals
Hidizs decided upon a 14.3 mm planar magnetic driver housed within the large aluminum shells. These drivers are said to have nano thin diaphragm’s along with a full symmetrical magnetic circuit. That circuit is composed of two fully symmetrical 7+7 N52H magnets which achieve around 1 tesla at the magnetic gap.
Fit
Now we come to the fit which will not be great for everyone. Just by the size alone there will be those who have a hard time with the fit. As for myself, once I achieve a seal then I have zero issues with the fit at all. Thankfully the MP143 is even lighter than the MP145 which also does help for comfort. Honestly, this is an area which may be different for everyone. Isolation is about average as well. Once a seal is made you shouldn’t have a ton of outside noise creeping in and when music starts playing those noises go away quickly.
Drivability
The Hidizs MP143 is rated with an impedance of 17 ohms and a sensitivity of 103dbs. I find the MP143 to be pretty sensitive and easy to listen to even less powerful sources. Now, just because it’s sensitive for a planar set doesn’t mean that giving the MP143 some juice won’t make your listening session better, because from my sessions I feel the MP143 really desires more power. Just like its older brother the MP145. Yet still, a lesser powered device can provide a good listening session, you just won’t be getting the utmost benefit out of the MP143. Really, it is like any planar set. Give it some power and it’ll shine. Same goes for the MP143. Also, you may want to watch what tonality type source you feed the MP143. I chose more dynamic sources, closer to neutral as well. I do feel the MP143 varies quite a bit with what source you choose. More so than most sets if I’m being honest.
Mobile Listening
One of my greatest joys is listening to my music on some hi-res mobile listening devices. What I mean when I say, “mobile listening” is really “dongle dacs”, “Bluetooth dac/amps” etc. I suppose daps are also “mobile” too. At any rate, something that can easily fit in your pocket and be… well… mobile. Anyways, I used a number of dongle dacs during my time with this set but I love the synergy with the EPZ TP50 & the Aful SnowyNight. Both devices carry roughly the same tonal characteristics. Both are closer to neutral, fairly dynamic and both have a ton of power on hand. Using 4.4 balanced and high gain on both really created a great sound. The tonality of the Simgot Dew4x also worked wonders as well. Again, high gain, 4.4 balanced. For my Bluetooth listening I used both the Qudelix 5k and the Ifi Go Blu. For both devices I used the balanced connection and for both I had almost no issues. Tonalities are a hair different between the two and I do like the IFi Go Blu a bit more as a pairing, but I’d be happy with both.
More juice
When listening with more powerful devices I went with the iBasso DX240 with Amp8 MK2 attached, the Shanling M6 Ultra, and the Fiio Q15. Each device replayed the MP143 very nicely. I do prefer the Fiio Q15 and its more neutral but also highly dynamic sound signature a hair more than the warmer Shanling M6 Ultra. I didn’t like the DX240 as much and I only say that because there was the slightest bit of planar timbre with that pairing. Not bad by any stretch but this is not uncommon with ES dac chips when paired with planars. Shoot, even with the slight planar timbre it’s still dynamic as can be and sounds very well-tuned.
What do you need?
I feel that if you are picking up the $79 Kickstarter Hidizs MP143 then you should at least have a nice dongle dac with some decent power under the hood. You want to stretch these drivers as much as you can because the entire spectrum tightens up, cleans up and generally sounds more authentic and visceral. So, I’d say at least a decent Dongle Dac. It doesn’t have to cost $10k. Just pick up a less expensive device like the EPZ TP20 Pro (which created a nice synergy) or the Moondrop Dawn 4.4 and you’ll be in business. You may want to try a more neutral sounding source, and it would be good if that source provided a dynamic sound with good energy. The MP143 will thank you for it.
Sound Impressions
The Hidizs MP143 takes a giant page out of the MP145’s book and does a variation of the 2019’ Harman target yet with some variables that haven’t gone unnoticed by my ears. The sound is warm/neutral to flat warm depending on your nozzle filter. As I said, I mainly used the Rose Gold nozzles during critical listening as it was my favorite sound profile. To my ears I hear a slight bassy U-shaped tonal character with splashes of energy in the upper regions. The MP143 has a wonderfully coherent mix of smoothness meets crisp. It has very fast transients, yet not to the point that instruments generally sound unauthentic. The sound is very good for a set which comes in at under $100 and can compete with sets that are above its price point in my eyes. That of course has the caveat that the person listening enjoys this type of sound. Of course. I hear fantastic detail retrieval and like I said, very nice transients with a hard lined attack and a snappy decay which helps the MP143 to really shine in faster and more complicated tracks. Very similar to its older sibling the MP145. The sound overall comes across with a slight recession in the lower midrange, a lean-lush note weight/body, and a slightly more mellow presentation. This isn’t some ultra energetic sounding set. To add to that, I don’t hear any real problems such as upper mid glare, shoutiness, or any real sibilance. Add to that the MP143 has wonderful resolution, and you have yourself a winner my friend.
Condensed Sound Between the 20’s
Note: bbefore I begin going into the sound I should preface that I did burn the MP143 in for roughly around 75 hours. Somewhere around four days give or take. I do feel this helped, same as I’ve felt on most planar sets I’ve listened to. It’s a nice set out of the box but giving the drivers some run-in, burn-in or listen-in does seem to be a help. Also, I used the Rose Gold nozzle for most of the critical listening on this set. I find it the most balanced. In this short section I simply give a condensed account of each area of the mix. Maybe a couple highlights of those areas anyways.
Bass
Beginning with the bass, it is deep, it rumbles (esp w/the bass nozzle) and the bass has a very snappy attack. Nothing soft, weak or brittle sounding. There is good density for a planar set. More so than the MP145 in that it was tuned with a pinch more emphasis in this region. Mainly that emphasis focuses a bit more in the sub-bass.
Mids
The midrange is actually very nice with a slightly richer sound in this region than the MP145. I didn’t say better! Anyways, it’s a warm/neutral midrange with the tiniest recession but also good presence in the mix. I don’t feel the mids are pushed too far back in the sound field. There is nice energy in this region especially in the upper treble which does offer some shimmer though for the most part it does have a slightly more mellow vibe. Very nice though.
Treble
The treble has fantastic separation, good body, nice dynamics and has great clarity. I hear some treble bite and some nice crispness at times. Especially when I feed this set some good power and a better source. The treble is nicely extended with a natural feel to it. Good resolution, even layering happening which says alot about these drivers.
Technicalities
Technically the MP143 is very good. Better than most under $100 sets. Detail retrieval is great, separation of instruments is well done, Imaging is pretty nice and there is some layering happening too. All in all, the MP143 is a very solid option at its price and even more so at the Kickstarter price of $79. Truly a contender if you enjoy the sound signature.
Again, it’s a form of Harman, but not really. It’s lusher than Harman, less glaring, without sibilance, beefier bass region too. Much more forward mid-bass, meatier and the pinna rise begins a hint earlier too along with better general treble extension.
Bass Region
The low-end is not for those who dislike a lifted bass. No flat bass lovers here. There is some spill over into the mids, there is some weight provided to the whole of the mix too. However, the thing which endears me the most about this bass is it’s quick hitting and dense nature. For a planar that is. There is a certain control exhibited out of planars that is hard to replicate with other drivers all the time. To that point, the MP143 attacks, decays and recovers extremely well yet the emphasis is such that the bass feels almost atmospheric, to a degree. It’s a very clean bass. To be honest, the actual quality of the low-end is very similar to the MP145 in many respects. The only difference is the actual quantity seems to be a hair more bulbous and heavier. Tuned a degree… more fun. Faster bass passages are really no trouble whatsoever. I don’t hear the dryness or papery style note inflection that I hear on some other planars. Granted, there are other great planar bass replays, but it was good to hear in this set. Basically, the MP143 hits n’ gits, has a deep and low bodied rumble and has a nice resonant response when called upon. There is some dip into the midrange as the bass shelf flattens out past 300 HZ which does provide some nice warmth to the sound. It’s nice folks.
Sub-bass
Being that the MP143 is a planar iem, it is usually a worry that the sub-bass wouldn’t have that resonant and textured rumble such as a good dynamic driver can usually provide. Well, I gotta say, just like the MP145, the MP143 is able to reach convincingly low in pitch coming across with a low drone and a haptic style rumble. Better said, it’s a sub-bass that you can feel. Now, the MP143 is sub-bass heavy, both on the graph and to the ear. Listening to “Heavy is the Ocean” by Bush (off their latest album) is a joy to hear because the rumble to begin this track is so dirty, deep, and guttural. It’s heavy folks! It’s mean! To say it another way, the MP143 is able to pull off what I envision the makers of this track wanted. The artist’s intent we call it. Of course, there are dynamic driver sets which do this routinely and with relative ease but hearing this region do so well from a planar and almost reach the DD level of bass depth, resonance, and density while also coming across superior in terms of speed and agility is so good to hear.
Mid-bass
The mid-bass is slightly less emphasized but also it doesn’t feel muddy at all from the rise in the sub-bass. I don’t feel definition is stolen from the sub-bass at all. In fact, note definition in the mid-bass is clean, it performs all transients in a rapid order and doesn’t come across pillowy, weak, or frail. Perhaps a hint softened in dynamics. That said, there’s still good texture to the mid-bass, which is evident with bass guitar, kick drums and good ole’ bass drops. Resolution is pretty good too although again, the MP143 does have a slightly softer attack. This is where I feel the MP145 out classes the newer MP143. Not by much however, although there are a couple of planars sets within its price point (Letshuoer S08, Artti T10) that do come across more punchy and more refined in this region. Full disclosure. Not taking anything away from the MP143. It hits hard, it can slam and the MP143 does so at a torrid pace if need be. In “Move Along” by The All-American Rejects, the kick drums begin the track right away and the MP143 does not let down. I hear a nicely tacky attack and hollow boom that is very satisfying to me. Also, Waxahatchee has a track called “The Wolves” which features a hearty bass guitar, and I can tell you that the MP143 honors that heavy handed riff with the fullness it needs. Hip hop bass drops are the same. You hear well controlled and textured bass that isn’t ever out of control or muddy.
Downsides to the Bass Region
The obvious 1st bass issue would be the quantity. Of course. I think we all know a handful or more of people who don’t enjoy any bass entering into their pristine mid-section. Also, I totally get it. Ya know, I love every single sound signature. I really do. I can find great joy in just about any of them. And so, I understand the perspective that too much bass almost adds too much personality to the midrange, too much coloration, too much softening the fine lines and glass lined note edges. I get it. There certainly are some sets that I say the same thing about. However, when you have a planar set like the MP143 which can quite literally make its bass dance in that quantity… I personally give it a pass. Meaning, yes, it’s dense, yes it’s thicker, yes it’s warmer, but folks… the agility and ductile style stop and go fast twitch muscle response is so cool. Beyond that there will always be those who simply don’t enjoy planar bass. Simple as that. They don’t like that it isn’t a DD and that it doesn’t have the same resonance and depth. Again, I get it. I do feel that the difference between the MP143 and a DD is ridiculously small. But I get it. Also, some will also say that the MP143 doesn’t have the punch, or the direct snap at attack that a set like… say… the Letshuoer S08 has. Also, I agree with them. Yet also, those are two different sets, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. However, at the end of the day you’d be hard pressed to find any set which comes across flat-out-better under $100.
Midrange
The midrange on the Hidizs MP143 is all about its linear style warmth and richness that emboldens its midrange presence… simply by way of its note density and resolution. I hear a warm midrange which has a lean-lush style note weight. Similar to lean muscle mass as the notes are solid enough, they have mass to them and a textured and tactile edge. Now, there is a slight recession. However, that recession is not to the degree that I’d call them pushed back in the sound field. In fact, I’m half tempted to simply call this set a bass heavy U-shaped iem. It’s so close to that for me. I spend hours upon hours simply asking myself these ridiculous questions and I feel that the MP143 actually has a nicely positioned and well executed midrange that’s fast, textured, decently detailed, in spite of a slightly laid back energy. Really a nice sounding midrange for vocalists. I hear a more organic sounding midrange without the usual skew of planar timbre (depending on the source, tips etc.). Hidizs really did a nice job of restricting the amount of metallic and edgy planar notes. Like I said earlier, certain ES dac chip source devices have accentuated that timbre to a very slight degree. Other than that, the mids are very natural sounding. No annoying level of sibilance, no shout, no crazy pinna glare. Not bad at all.
Lower-midrange
So the lower midrange does take some of the warmth cast from the bass region and uses some of that warmth to plump up this area of the mix. What we have is a low-end intrusion which doesn’t seem like an intrusion at all but instead a gift. I happen to like the extra note weight. Granted, it isn’t so much that I’d call the lower midrange straight up “thick”. I’d call it what I have been calling it… “lean-lush”. It’s leaner in profile but also dense enough in actual perceived note mass. You have some very nice texture in this region which also helps to add some dimension to each note. This is also the area which is probably the most recessed. If you want to call it that. In my opinion male vocalists sound pretty nice. “Oceans of Emotions” by The Teskey Brothers has such a nice timbre and smooth inflection on the MP143. There is a richness which can be heard every single note out of the lead singer’s mouth. Really a nice sound which is complimented by some warmth. It gives males a certain authority to their voices. Now, strings in this area could use some edge to them but harmonics are great. Piano in this region has a full body and is very tuneful and clean. I don’t feel like I miss out on any details and separation is great. However, for the worst region on this set, it’s pretty darn nice to me.
Upper-Midrange
Now, females do have some shimmer to them. At least with the Rose Gold or Quiet Silver nozzles. Females do have that juicy style note delivery yet with nicely etched out note edges. Maybe not as moist as a good dynamic driver but very nice regardless. For instance, the MP143 is great for Adele or Lauren Daigle. Good for any female really. Lead singers such as Madison Beer in the track “Nothing Matters but You” really has a nicely toned-down luminance to her voice, almost euphonic to a degree. There’s emotion to her voice which is very well highlighted on the MP143. Not every set is tuned in this manner. It’s almost partially Harman but not as shouty, not as thin, and slightly plumper. I like how Hidizs tuned this set right to the brink of glare but stopped short and this track displays that well. You have about a 12 dB pinna rise which is also aided by some extra body to notes. Her voice is lovely, especially for a planar set. The natural timbre really does help to create an authentic sounding playback. Zara Larsson in “Soundtrack” has another slightly edgy voice which I would’ve thought would sound even edgier or more metallic on the MP143. This did not happen to my ears. She has a very melodic twinge to the sound of her voice with the MP143. I also enjoy how well separated her voice is from the surrounding Melody. The MP143 holds onto the more emotional
Instruments
Yet there’s also dimension to each note. Instruments seem to display this well. Such as violin which has that fullness that you want but also that silvery way about it which does have enough of a bite to give it that slightly edgy sound. Acoustic guitar has a home on this set, just so melodic. Every pluck, finger slide and resulting harmonics come across very nice. Just crisp enough, just smooth enough. Percussion has just enough snap on attack. Snares pang with some vibrance. The fundamental tone of a cymbal strike shows off a fullness as well, not paper, dry, or matte attenuated to my ears, and generally not splashy in their harmonics as you head towards the treble either. Perhaps there is a slight lack of vivacious energy. However, I do feel there’s just enough. Sax also comes across very nice. I could go on, but you get the deal when it comes to instrumentation. I’m sure some folks would desire more sparkly energy, or more sheen from the treble but the MP143 does such a nice job of bringing a rhythmic and soulful sound mixed very well with the technical side of things.
Downsides to the Midrange
Of course, if you enjoy a more analytically rendered midrange with less rich notes but rather even crisper and even better-defined notes with an even snappier and tighter transient response then the MP143 is not going to be for you. Without question there are sets within the range that have just that. I know plenty of hobbyists who adore an almost bright midrange with tons of energy akin to the Simgot EA500 for instance. On the other hand, some hobbyists would rather their money go to a set with an even warmer, and milkier midrange similar to a set like the Aful Explorer for example. You could say that the MP143 isn’t quite as detailed as some other planar sets or even iems featuring good balanced armature drivers like the Truthear Hexa. However, I feel the MP143 is very nicely detailed, and you really don’t miss much. Beyond those issues, the MP143 can exhibit some planar timbre depending on the source.
Real quick…
There are so many differences between all of us and how we perceive our music and what fits our individual tastes. I call these “downsides” but really, they are simply other people’s “possible” likes and dislikes, which may be different from the set I’m reviewing. I don’t hear anything at all that is downright bad, or off about the MP143. Nothing at all. Just different tastes. Many reviewers will proclaim that something is “bad” or an “issue” but make no mistake that those “issues” are only from that single person’s perspective. To be honest, I think the worst offense of the MP143’s midrange is that it’s a hair laid back in energy. Slightly softened attack which can lose a little bit of luster and crispness for instruments such as snares, cymbals etc. Yet I honestly don’t find that an issue with this price point. It’s simply not as dynamic in its presentation as some sets. I will say that after a little while I began to thoroughly enjoy this midrange. One reason that I haven’t really spoken about is the way the sound interacts with the soundstage on this set. There is this euphoric type of dimension which is very nice to hear for the price. I hear good layering of sounds and good separation and when you couple those attributes with good note density… It’s a good combination.
Treble Region
This brings us to the treble region which I feel is quite nice. Certainly not for treble heads, so bare that in mind. The treble has very good clarity and good resolution with a very fast transient attack through decay which will quickly recover most any treble notes. I hear a nice emphasis that strays from anything shouty. So not entirely boosted nor is it overtly brilliant, but just enough of a lift in the treble to slightly uplift the rest of the mix which contrasts against the bass region well enough to create some level of balance tonally. One may call it laid back, but I most certainly don’t think that’s the case. There’s some sparkle and shine up top. I also hear some crispness to the sound with solid energy that adds some moderate sharpness. Maybe jsut enough so as not to disrupt the beauty of the overall tuning. Definitely not enough brilliance and air to thin out the rest of the mix. Having said that, the treble does carry some air and openness along with fairly nice extension into the upper treble where harmonics don’t simply fade away but instead provide good info up top.
Well defined
Details shine forth rather easily too. I hear nicely defined notes which walk a fine line of smooth and crisp providing good body but also good bite to treble notes as well. Lately I’ve reviewed many sets with laid back treble as it seems to be a running theme of late. I could see some folks declaring the MP143 to be a hint laid back, but I feel it just has a less intense but still solid treble. Note body is rounded, full enough, never dry and never plastic, while coming across with decent note hardness. There’s definition there, not quite glass like but definitely not soft. Notes have more of a clean outline at the edges and even a decent bite at the crest of a note as well. Nothing grainy and without any fuzz or metallic tizz floating around in the sound field or around note surfaces. No sir, resolution is quite good for $79 considering the type of tuning that Hidizs went with. Not quite up to the MP145’s level but close.
Quick
The MP143’s treble is also very quick as those planar drivers are doing what planar drivers do. They move quickly with nimbleness & dexterity, almost like these drivers are scissor cutting the extra harmonics on some tracks hitting every note articulation, with very good cadence, pacing and coherence. Yet every rise and fall crescendo on the MP143 creates a nice dynamic contrast, not just flat, dull or boring. Again, it’s quick with great micro-dynamics as the MP143 navigates all the subtle volume shifts relatively easily. All those little pieces to my music that are rarely thought about have their own representation. The micro stuff. This all goes into the speed of this set. There’s less fat around the edges as the MP143 does a good job at maneuvering all the little modulations within my music very well. Take the track “Eye of the Untold Her “ by Lindsey Stirling. There are so many ballad style crescendos, volume shifts, and all the melodic abrasiveness that a violin can impart and the MP143 handles this track with nice timbre, good crispness, detailed too while sounding well separated against the rest of the melody and other instruments.
Some can do it better?
Now, having said that I should also state that there are certainly sets within the price point tuned even more so for bringing out the subtleties and nanoscale details. My words of praise over this $79 planar set’s treble region are all in light of the fact that the MP143 is a more bassy set, more fun, with a lusher approach. I suppose that is what makes it nice. However, beyond those things there is also good layering within the treble region and without creating any treble tizz or treble mudd, so to speak. No sounds really melt together if that makes sense. However, it is true that there are definitely sets that prioritize this region more, which would make them much more inclined to attract treble heads whereas the MP143 is definitely not a treble heads dream.
Downsides to the Treble Region
I’d first say that the MP143 is not the MP145. It just isn’t. There’s a reason the MP145 is more expensive. Granted it’s incrementally more talented in this region but it’s more talented, nonetheless. I feel this will be a point of contention for some who are expecting the magic of the MP145 to be improved upon even more on this set. Don’t get me wrong, I think the MP143 is fantastic for the price. So, treble heads or even moderate treble lovers will likely not find a home here. There are other sets for that. The MP143 is for folks who want a strong treble that holds up its end of the mix while also doing so with nice definition, note contour, bite and enough brilliance. I could definitely see some people wanting more of a lift though. Either that or less bass energy. One or the other. Still, I maintain that the MP143 does a solid job here and it has nothing to be ashamed of.
Technicalities
Soundstage
The stage on the MP143 is quite good. I hear very good width to this stage which is in my opinion definitely above average. This is one area that I feel benefits from having a larger acoustic cavity or housing. I also feel that the alloy being used helps quite a bit as well. There’s a wide feel, but probably average in height. Not super colossal, but big. Enough room for instruments to play around in, separation made a bit easier, layering, and even some depth to a smaller degree. Planars generally aren’t known for their ability to portray good depth of field all that well but the MP143 most certainly isn’t a flat plane of sound in front of me. The stage is somewhat immersive. Now, don’t expect the exact same big stage of the Hidizs MP145 as the MP143 is slightly less enormous. Still big though, still very nice for a set under $100.
Separation / Imaging
Separation of elements within an imaginary psycho-acoustically rendered stage is actually great. The only caveat is heavy bass tracks with persistent bass. Of course, those tracks nobody is listening for separation. They’re listening for the bass. Any other track and you’ll hear very nice instrument separation with very nice clarity. Imaging is pretty nice too. I don’t have any issue with placing left to right instruments and front to back is pretty nice too. Again, good layering of sounds which all helps to make for a good listening experience. I don’t feel that the MP143 separates elements within a stage as well as the MP145 and I feel like imaging lags behind its older brother as well.
Detail Retrieval
Detail retrieval is above average for a set tuned with such a bass presence. It is much better than it should be and a lot of that has to do with the actual speed of the drivers. However, there are plenty of sets tuned to illuminate the small stuff a bit better. That’s not to take anything away from this set though. I miss almost nothing in my music but there are moments where the sound field can become somewhat masked over from the low-end. Also, note weight is pretty lush and so that body does take up some room while leaving less space to clearly make out subtle details. However, I do think that detail retrieval is very well done on the MP143.
Comparisons
Letshuoer S08 ($99)
The Letshuoer S08 (S08 Review) is one of those sets that I simply fell in love with. Letshuoer is another brand like Hidizs who has perfected their planar sets and to be honest, it’s just a different flavor. The S08 features a 13mm planar magnetic driver that really covers the spectrum well. The S08 definitely is in consideration for one of the best sets money can buy under $100. So how does it stack up against the MP143?
Differences
First off, the S08 is much smaller than the MP143. However, it doesn’t fit better. I’ve heard plenty of folks complain about the actual fit of the S08. Granted, the MP143 may not be much better. So just something to think about. Both sets are built well but c’mon, let’s not kid ourselves, the MP143 is most certainly the better built set. On top of that it’s also the better-looking set from my subjective opinion. Both are nice but the MP143 is on another level in my eyes. Both sets have decent to good accessories but the S08 does come with a slightly better cable. Perhaps that is part of the price difference. Also, the S08 comes with a hard zipper case, so there’s that too. Granted, I like the pouch better but that’s neither here nor there. Also, the MP143 obviously has the ability to switch up the sound with its tuning nozzles while the S08 does not have that ability. Something to think about.
Sound Differences
So, both the S08 and the MP143 come across a bit warmer than neutral, both have a lusher note body, both have a nice balance of musical and technical, although the MP143 does have slightly more crispness to its sound whereas the S08 is all smooth with subtle bite and edge. The S08 is even more L-shaped than the MP143. I do hear a slight bit more warmth with the S08 whereas the MP143 w/the Rose Gold nozzle has just a tad more vivacious energy at times, mostly in the upper mids.
Bass
The MP143 definitely has a deeper and larger sub-bass emphasis with deeper lows however when it comes to the bass the S08 has the more punchy, rigid, and vibrant style bass with seemingly more weight to it. Not quite as deep, but heavier, make sense? The MP143 is a hair faster, yet not as hard edged on attack. I find the MP143 can take on more complicated tracks in this area as well. Having said all of that, if you choose the “Bass” nozzle on the MP143 then you will hair a weightier and deeper bass region with a heavier presence. For me personally, I like the Rose Gold/Balanced nozzle and so the emphasis is just fine.
Mids
The midrange on both sets sounds forward enough and not overly recessed but the S08 comes across a hint more forward and richer. Both sets are great for vocals though the musicality of the S08 is a bit better in this regard for me. However, technically the MP143 stands as the better set to my ears. Detail retrieval shines through easier with better separation of elements on the stage and slightly better imaging in my mind. I hear more vibrance and crispness in the MP143 midrange though both sets have very nice planar midranges.
Treble
The MP143 has just a hair more brilliance and openness with better separation in the highs. I find it to have a bit more crunch and bite, better for details, and slightly better extension into the upper treble. I honestly feel that both sets have a treble region that fits the tonal character of each set very well and I wouldn’t change either. Of course, you can very easily add in the Quiet Silver nozzle and gain even more treble bite and crunch on the MP143.
Technicalities
Like I’ve already stated, the MP143 is simply better in this regard. It’s not as thick in note weight and not as heavy handed in density and note mass than the S08. Also, the MP143 does have more openness and air to the sound creating better separation of instruments. Beyond that, transients are a bit quicker and tighter too along with a slightly wider soundstage. The S08 may be a hair deeper but I’d still say there is not some huge chasm of difference between the two.
Final thoughts on this comparison
Honestly, both sets are very nice for the price. Both have their own special sauce so-to-speak. I do find the S08 to have a more emotional draw to it, more musically inclined, more fun even. Despite that, the MP143 is the more technically savvy iem with seemingly better clarity, detail retrieval and technicalities in general. Honest folks, these two are #1 and #1A for me. Both are great and both are worthy of their price tags.
Hidizs MP145 ($149)
This brings us to the lauded and loved legend of a set named the Hidizs MP145 (MP145 Review). The Hidizs MP145 is a true champion of its price point and it’s not really a fair fight between the two. I only add in this comparison for comparison’s sake. Maybe it’ll help the reader understand the MP143 better. So, the MP145 is a planar magnetic iem with a huge 14.5 mm planar driver and an even larger aluminum housing. Just a beast in all regards. By the way, in this comparison I’m only comparing the Rose Gold nozzles of both sets so do keep that in mind. This review would be 2000 words longer if I compared every nozzle. Nobody wants that. Plus, I think most people jive with the Rose Gold nozzles the most.
Differences
The MP145 is definitely a bit larger (though both are laelrge iems) and the fit may be shakier due to that. I feel they are both crafted and built with the same care and precision. Both gorgeous, both are structurally engineered wonderfully. I couldn’t say which is better built. Perhaps I’d say the MP145 is the better-looking set due to the more intricate and larger back vent but honestly, both iems are striking to look at. I would say that the accessories are obviously better on the MP145, with a better cable, both have a carrying pouch (I like the newer MP143’s pouch better) and both have decent to good tips. Both sets have similar tuning nozzles, so no real change there. Obviously, the price difference is big and should be taken into consideration as the MP145 is about twice the price of the newer MP143.
Sound Differences
I won’t be long on this comparison because basically everything the MP143 does, the MP145 does a little better. It’s just the truth. The MP143 does have a warmer and thicker quality to the sound, richer note weight, slightly more planar timbre too. It’s not bad by any stretch but I didn’t hear any of that at all with the MP145.
Bass
I would say that the bass on the MP143 is heavier weighted, thicker, deeper too by a small degree. The MP145’s bass is able to handle quicker bass passages and comes across more resolving, harder edged, less softened.
Mids
The midrange of the MP143 is certainly more full, warm, rich, which gives males even more body and also helps females to come across juicer too. Honestly, the MP143 is mostly the more organic sounding set. That is until you hear some planar timbre creep up. Mostly this only occurs with certain sources for me as others I really did not hear it, and I was looking for it. However, I’d say the MP143 is a hair more organic to the ear… most of the time. The MP145 simply has a lightning-fast transient response, very well detailed, better resolve with each and every note, more holographic, airier and more open along with cleaner notes, not as soft in attack. Beyond that, the MP145 simply has more energy. Where some folks may complain about the MP143’s less intense or vibrant midrange, I don’t think you’d hear that about the MP145. Also, the MP145 has better note separation, and better layering abilities along with easier detail retrieval in this region.
Treble
The treble on the MP145 has a touch of extra brilliance over its younger sibling which extracts more details, better resolution as well. However, it does a couple more fun things as well like adds better bite to treble notes, some more treble punch and snap. I hear better note body on the MP143, however. Extension is pretty nice on both sets considering the tuning of both sets though the MP145 jsut has that last little bit of control to its notes that cannot go unnoticed. However, I don’t want my words to cast any shade on the very well done MP143.
Technicalities
I think we all know where this is going. Basically, the MP145 is better pretty much across the board. Better details, better focus of those details, cleaner and tighter transients, more glass lined note edges, less softened, better separation, more air to the sound. To add to that, the soundstage is phenomenal on the MP145 in all directions whereas the MP143 is almost there. It’s very good for its price but the older and more expensive MP145 is larger in that sense.
Final thoughts on this comparison
So, the one thing which the MP143 has going for it is that it does come across a bit more emotionally charged with a richer sound. You can see the trend as the MP143 is simply thicker across the board. This does a couple things positively and a couple things negatively depending on where you align your listening preferences. However, everything else is really a testament to just how special the Hidizs MP145 is. Truly it is the set within its price point which should be looked at first in my opinion. Especially if you are planar hunting. However, the MP143 is no slouch at all and a special buy at the price. It will go down as one of thee absolute best entry level planars on the market. I know this comparison wasn’t the fairest, but I do hope it helped at least a little bit. I suppose if you already have the MP145 then it may not make sense to pick up the MP143. Unless of course you are a collector, at which point… collect away!
Is it worth the asking price?
Um, this is without question worth the asking price. I almost don’t even want to dignify this question with an answer. 1000% the MP143 is worth the measly $79 (not measly, sorry I get carried away) it takes to own it. Look at what you are getting. Now, I could see some folks not wanting this set for a couple reasons only. That is, they don’t like the tuning, too laid back in the midrange, not as crisp as they’d like, too much bass emphasis. And two, the fit is not good for them. Those are the two reasons. Okay three, if you simply cannot afford this set then that’s an obvious reason not to purchase it. However, besides those reasons, I find the MP143 to be a very well done “under $100” entrant into the market. Of course, there are so many iems under $100 that really do contend, not just planar sets. I could list them all out, but I simply don’t have the bandwidth to write them all down here right now. You know the major players. Anyways, it’s a tough market for any set. The MP143 has one huge advantage though and I think Hidizs will reap the benefits of that advantage very quickly. That is, it is the younger sibling of the legendary Hidizs MP145. The name alone will sell thousands of units. Still, beyond the name, beyond the “MP series” prestige, the MP143 actually has the goods to stand on its own two feet and disrupt the under $100 gatekeepers. Rather easily actually. Of course, you have to enjoy this sound signature. If you don’t then we aren’t even having this one-sided conversation.
The Why…
Because the Hidizs MP143 is clearly the best built iem under $100. I don’t think anyone can argue that. Maybe the Simgot EA500LM gives it a little fight but the MP143 is the king in that regard. The build is insane at this price. Hidizs hit an absolute gold mine with the build and design. Truly an accomplishment. Again, another reason is the actual look and aesthetic of this set. The carved lines, the odd shape, the beautiful aluminum, c’mon folks. Some will buy this set for the design alone. The MP143 also comes with some decent accessories, a nice cable, nice pouch etc. Also, the MP143 has working tuning nozzles which do actually change the sound. They are easy to screw on and off and help to tune things to three different variations of the MP143’s tuning.
Why, it’s the sound…
However, as always, it’s the sound that brings the money. In this case it’s the deep and extended lows with the tight note agility. It slams down low, hits hard, heavily emphasized too. Yet light on its feet and able to tackle any complicated bass track. The mids are well detailed, clean, forward enough but the best part is that they have a very nice and lean-lush note weight that helps this set to have a well-balanced musical and technically inclined sound. The mids are also nicely separated and reasonably airy with good layering and texture of notes. Also, the MP143 has nice treble in that there is some brilliance, some snap, some bite and some nice note body along with relatively good extension into the upper treble. All technicalities are well done as well. You have easy to distinguish details, its resolution is nice enough, you have good transients that come and go quickly as well as a solid soundstage with nice width and even some depth. It’s just a solid set folks, easily worth the asking price. In fact, $79 is a steal if you ask me.
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 Hidizs MP143 ratings below, that would be $55-$115 planar driver iems. 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. $55-$115 US planar magnetic iems is not a huge scope of sets, and it’s also extremely competitive. It shouldn’t be too unreal to see a rating above a “9.0”, in my opinion. 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: 9.9 Built extremely well.
–Look: 9.9 Best design at the price?
–Fit/Comfort: 7.7 Good for me, not for everyone though.
–Accessories: 8.9 Very nice unboxing experience.
–Overall: 9.1🔥🔥🔥
Sound Rating
–Timbre: 9.4 Organic for an under $100 planar.
–Bass: 9.4 Big, extended, impactful, speedy.
–Midrange: 9.5 Musical, engaging, good note body, clean.
–Treble: 8.9 Non-fatiguing, crisp, resolute.
–Technicalities: 9.4 Very nice techncially.
–Musicality: 9.1 Very musical.
–Overall: 9.3🔥🔥🔥
Ratings Summary:
Did I ever tell any of you that ratings are a big joke? Why am I doing these? Now, I suppose that they may help some folks to some small degree but in reality, I don’t feel anyone should be making any purchase or even putting any stock in any man’s (or woman’s) ratings. They are opinions, folks. Before I argue against myself, I should add that I have the KZ X-HBB PR2 (PR2 Review), (it’s listed above $55 in some places), the KZ PR3 (PR3 Review), the Celest Pandamon (Pandamon Review), Celest Pandamon 2.0 (Pandamon 2.0 Review), the Kiwi Ears Melody, the Letshuoer S08 (S08 Review), Letshuoer S12, and the Moondrop Stellaris. I realize I’m missing a bunch of good ones, stop yelling at me! I have to actually be able to compare them or these ratings really mean nothing. So anyways, out of this lot of sets I draw my conclusions. Yes, there’s the Artti T10, the Tinhifi Dudu, Nicehck F1 Pro, etc. There’s a bunch more around this price. So, I was able to go through each rating attribute quickly going from earphone to earphone and rating per my subjective judgment. You may agree or disagree but hey… that’s what makes this hobby great.
Explain Yourself!!
I thought I’d have more areas where I could find some disagreement with myself per what I feel others may say, but not really. Definitely the “Bass” rating. Some sets are even tighter in this region yet not as full. The MP143 really has a bass that’s a “jack of all trades, master of none” style. I honestly feel the “9.4” is warranted. It isn’t the best, but it is definitely one of the best out of the group. Next would be the “Musicality” rating which means whatever the person doing thru rating wants it to mean because musicality is an overused word which has no real bearings as to how one establishes how “musical” something is. It’s what I feel musical is. So, feel free to call me names over that one, I get it. “Technicalities” may be another rating that brings on some ire from the peanut gallery. Listen folks, I put on a song, I listen with each set in a row, and I jot down my subjective opinion as to how well each set does between 0 and 10. Anyways, I honestly feel the MP143 is the 3rd best in general Technicalities against all of those sets. Only worse by a tiny margin too. So, you may disagree, and guess what… you aren’t wrong. Everyone is right in this game because everything is determined from the ear of the beholder. At any rate, I feel a “9.3” is about what I’d think the MP143 Salt should be rated at in overall sound. Which is tied with the Letshuoer S08 for the best rating out of those sets yet beating it the S08 by a few 100ths of a percent. All my opinion of course.
Conclusion
To conclude my full written review of the Hidizs MP143, I want to thank the good people of Hidizs as they provided the Hidizs MP143 in exchange for a review and feature at Mobileaudiophile.com. Not only that but they also stay up to snuff on everything, always. Never have I been offered payment, asked to skew my words or asked to pre-read any reviews. That would be the last time I engage with them if it were so, but they have never done anything against the Integrity of an honestly subjective review. This tells me a few things. For one, they believe wholeheartedly in their product and aren’t worried about reviewers’ opinions but instead will stand on the outcome. This says it all folks. Next, they will learn from opinions put out into the Audioverse and make their products better. I should also state that awareness for a good cause means their hearts are in the right place. I just feel it’s okay to give the brand some props every once in a while. Also, Hidizs… Nice work on the MP143.
Thank you!
I also should thank the people with whom all of these long reviews are written. That’s you, the reader. Thank you for clicking on any link at our website, it is of the utmost of importance to mobileaudiophile.com. Also, thank you for actually making it this far in this long review. It means the world and from an algorithm standpoint it helps immensely. So, thank you very much, I do hope this review has helped you.
Other perspectives
Now that I’ve thanked you for checking out my review, I also hope that you’d check out some others. There are so many good reviewers out there folks. Just solid people who really do a good job breaking down these products. I hope you’ll listen to, watch, or read dither reviews and perspectives so that you can gain an even better understanding of what you are getting with the Hidizs MP143. Folks, we are all very much different. The guy sitting right next to me may have a completely different opinion than I do. Yes, I really enjoy the Hidizs MP143, but the next guy may not. Or maybe he loves it too. It’s just more info to help you make an informed purchasing decision. I am not the last word on audio, and I do have my own subjective likes and dislikes, so does the next guy. So please click on some more links. Okay, with that all said I think I’ve covered it all. Please take good care, each and every one of you. Stay as safe as possible and always… God Bless!
