Hidizs has earned a reputation for producing impressive price-to-performance gear. After reviewing models like the MS3, MS5, and Martha, I now have the Hidizs ST2 Pro—a USB-C iem DAC—in my hands. My initial impressions suggest that this could be a strong contender in the midrange category. But how well does it truly perform? To find out, I tested the ST2 across various sources and music genres to uncover its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s what I discovered.
Sound Performance
Bass
The Hidizs ST2 Pro, paired with the HiBy R4, delivers a darker, punchy bass presentation. While sub-bass doesn’t reach great depths, the mid-bass is tight and controlled. This darker tone enhances rhythm and creates an energetic vibe, particularly with electronic genres. Drum’n bass tracks, for instance, reveal a firm and impactful foundation, while rock and orchestral pieces sometimes leave the bass feeling slightly recessed. Nevertheless, the detail in the mid-bass remains satisfying.
Midrange
The midrange is balanced and detailed, with vocals standing out cleanly and naturally. Rock tracks and vocal-centric pieces benefit from the Hidizs ST2 Pro‘s clear and accurate tonality. With the HiBy R4, guitar riffs and orchestral textures sound rich and full-bodied. However, the ST2 Pro’s darker tonal quality can occasionally limit the sense of openness in certain pieces, slightly narrowing the soundstage. While the instrument separation and stage width are generally solid, upper mids can lose some energy, causing a subtle dip in engagement during complex passages.
Treble
Treble performance is both a strength and a limitation for the ST2. While there’s enough detail and energy in dynamic sections, the upper treble can feel subdued in busier tracks, making the experience a bit less exciting during extended listening sessions. That said, guitar solos stand out with greater vibrancy and presence, adding some much-needed spark. Overall, the treble presentation feels controlled and safe rather than adventurous, and this cautious approach becomes more evident with the HiBy R4.
Track Impressions
On The Qemists – Anger, the ST2 impressed with its crisp and energetic drum’n bass presentation. The rhythm and pace were immediately engaging, although the bass depth remained modest. For electronic genres, the ST2’s tempo and energy transfer are undeniably satisfying.
With My Chemical Romance – Cemetery Drive, the soundstage felt expansive and immersive, showcasing a strong 3D imaging capability. Similarly, on Famous Last Words, the clean guitar riffs and well-separated vocals stood out. However, the treble, while present, lacked some sparkle in denser sections. The guitar solo managed to pick up the energy and rounded off the track with more excitement.
Source Comparisons
The ST2’s performance varied notably across different sources:
• iPad Pro 15” 2024: With Dance of the Aristocrats with Primuz Chamber Orchestra, the stage felt wide, and the dynamics were impressive. The progressive rock atmosphere and orchestral contributions were well-preserved, offering a tonally rich and immersive experience.
• LG V30+: On the same track, the ST2 sounded more energetic and forward, with a brighter and livelier tonal balance. However, technical precision felt a step behind the iPad Pro.
• MacBook Air M1: This combination provided the richest and most encompassing playback. The ST2 moved beyond the usual MacBook tone, delivering fuller dynamics and excellent positional accuracy. It was the best source overall in terms of detail and soundstage depth.
• HiBy R4: The sound took on a darker and punchier character, with bass becoming weightier but less deep. While detail retrieval was impressive, higher frequencies felt slightly lighter, creating a more relaxed but somewhat limited tonality for natural instruments.
vs Tanchjim One
There’s a clear distinction between the sound signatures of the Tanchjim One and the Hidizs ST2 Pro. The Tanchjim One leans towards a more neutral and analytical sound, making it a great choice for those who prioritize clarity and detail. Its mid and upper frequencies are well-separated, and the treble is bright and lively, creating a clean and precise stage, especially for acoustic and vocal-heavy tracks.
On the other hand, the Hidizs ST2 Pro offers a warmer tonal balance, delivering a darker, punchier bass that shines in electronic genres. While its treble remains controlled and less prominent, it compensates with a wider, more immersive soundstage and fuller dynamic transitions. The Tanchjim One excels in technical precision and sharpness, whereas the Hidizs ST2 Pro brings a richer, more engaging warmth. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to your musical preferences and listening habits.
Pros
• Wide soundstage and immersive presentation
• Nice price-to-performance ratio
• Strong rhythm and energy for electronic genres
• Tonal versatility across different sources
• Compact and portable design
Cons
• Treble can sound subdued in busy passages
• Bass could have more depth
• Dark tonality may not suit natural instruments
Conclusion of Hidizs ST2 Pro Review
The Hidizs ST2 Pro stands out as a solid, portable DAC in its price range, offering a well-rounded soundstage, dynamic rhythms, and tonal adaptability across various sources. While its upper frequencies lack some sparkle and its darker tonal balance might not be ideal for acoustic tracks, the ST2 Pro’s strengths in electronic and energetic genres make it a compelling option for those seeking an affordable, reliable ESS dac.
