Initial Thoughts: iBasso 3T-154 IEM
iBasso’s new 3T-154 in-ear monitors for 2024 stand out with their high-tech drivers, 3T Tesla technology, and beryllium-plated diaphragm. Here’s my review of the sound quality and performance:
Type: Dynamic (15.4mm)
Frequency Response: 7Hz-41kHz
Sensitivity: 116dB +/-2dB
Impedance: 16 Ohms
Noise Attenuation: -26dB
Bass:
The bass frequencies are detailed and provide tactile feedback, particularly notable in Tool’s “Sober,” where the bass guitar notes are prominent. I’ve heard similar clarity in every recording without digital interference. However, in genres like symphonic rock, achieving sufficient bass requires pressing the earphones into my ears, which is a drawback worth mentioning. The performance in dubstep shows the 154’s potential, but it still feels like it needs more power, likely due to the Tesla drivers and eartips.
Midrange:
The midrange frequencies are analytically impressive, particularly in capturing the nuances of opera-trained vocals. However, in Tool’s “Sober,” the midrange vocals are somewhat recessed, negatively impacting the overall experience. The tonality is excellent, allowing all nuances to be distinguishable.
Treble:
The treble extensions are ultra-realistic and forward, creating a voluminous soundstage. With the HiBy R4, transparency in smooth jazz increased, making the high frequencies more audible and detailed. However, the expected slam in symphonic rock wasn’t fully delivered, indicating an area for improvement. The high frequencies are impressive as they do not distort.
Overall, in my review of the iBasso 3T-154, I found the performance to be powerful and detailed, though some areas require more adjustments and power. Tests with the Cayin N8ii and different eartips show that these shortcomings are largely addressed.
The Cayin Effect
With the Cayin N8ii and 4.4mm BAL connection, the sound became more grounded and intense. The soundstage seemed narrower at first, but I experienced the opposite with different tracks. However, with live recordings, the bass guitar is particularly satisfying. You don’t “feel” bass guitars every day like this.
I previously mentioned that in Tool’s “Sober,” the bass guitar starts more refined and continues that way, and the 4.4mm seems to tame the 3T. The song delivers slam within the flow when needed. Since I only used one eartip, there could be a bottleneck, possibly the eartip. More clarity is achieved when listening with the Cayin N8ii. Yes, flagship-level power brought the 3T in line, but despite all its speed, it doesn’t deliver a punchy slam.
Pros
- Balanced presentation, high musicality
- Very large soundstage, can compete with over-ear headphones
- Natural sound
- Mostly wide and deep soundstage
- Fast with high 3D imaging
Cons
- Fit! You’ll need large ears to fit them in your concha properly
- The noticeable difference made by the BAL connection
- Lack of slam, unexpected from its size but understandable for those familiar with Tesla drivers
- The housing seems amateurishly joined in the middle
- Nozzles are tightly squeezed, and impossible to switch.
iBasso 3T-154 Review Conclusions
The iBasso 3T-154 in-ear monitors stand out with their high-tech drivers and beryllium-plated diaphragm, delivering a strong performance like the Kiwi Ears Cadenza, the legendary BE budget iem. My initial approach reveal a powerful and detailed sound presentation, though some areas need more adjustments and power. Tests with the Cayin N8ii and different eartips significantly improved these shortcomings. These earphones offer balanced presentation, high musicality, and a wide soundstage, but have some fitting and slam issues. Further works are necessary to fully evaluate their potential.