Myer-Audio CKLVX D62 Review
Intro
Hello everyone, this review and feature covers the latest from the good folks over at Myer Audio named the Myer-Audio CKLVX D62. The D62 happens to be the next in line following the surprise hit named the CKLVX D41, among other notable sets. The D62 is a 2DD/6BA hybrid earphone which comes in with an MSRP of around $236. Myer-Audio has really put out some talented gear of late and I’m glad to be able to check out this latest D62. I’ve actually never had the opportunity to check out any of Myer-Audio’s previous iems but I’m thrilled to have my opportunity now. This is a brand with some team members gaining over 20+ years’ experience building iems and thus far it has shown to be true from the general consensus from both casual hobbyists as well as reviewers too.
Competition
I really don’t have to report this, but folks, this price point is absolutely flooded with excellent iems. I suppose that goes without saying anymore. It truly is the price point mecca of competition. There’s hybrid sets like the Kiwi Ears KE4 (KE4 Review), QOA Aviation (Aviation Review), QOA Adonis New (Adonis New Review), Juzear 61T Butterfly (Butterfly Review), Juzear 81T Dragonfly, Aful Performer 5+2, Aful Performer 5, Letshuoer Cadenza 4 (Cadenza 4 Review), Pula Anvil 114 etc. Even the single DD sets in this range like the Simgot EA1000 (EA1000 Review), Tanchjim Origin (Origin Review), Dunu Falcon Ultra, etc. Beyond those sets, you have two of my favorite iems in this price point in the Binary Dynaquattro (Dynaquattro Review), Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite (Orchestra Lite Review), and the amazing Letshuoer S12 2024 Edition (S12 2024 Review). By the way, I know I left off about a hundred others, but I think you get the point. The price point is ridiculously difficult to compete in and almost impossible to crown one set as the… “best in class” …for anything. There are different flavors and different tunings, different designs too, and each is meant for different types of listeners. We are all different. That’s the approach I take in every review folks. First, do I enjoy it? Who’s it for? How does it stack up? And one other little tidbit I’ve gathered along the way; never judge a set too early. It’s a terrible mistake that too many people make. That’s usually my approach and I’ll do the same with this set. At any rate, I will do my best to figure out where the CKLVX D62 fits within the enormous audio zeitgeist within this price point. I’m ready to get into it, the Myer-Audio CKLVX D62 everyone…
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D62 Pros
-Build Quality is great (stabilized wood)
-That design is very nice in my opinion
-Nice unboxing, great modular cable, amazing carrying case
-Nice bass response, deep, impactful and never sloppy
-Midrange has solid energy, good texture, detailed nicely
-Treble is well extended, not shrill, clean, detailed, bright but not offensive
-Stage has good width and good depth
-Detail Retrieval is very nice
-Imaging is quite good
D62 Cons
-Modular adapters are very difficult to remove
-Can get shouty every once in awhile
-Modular cable adapters are ridiculously difficult to take on/off
Gear used for testing
–iBasso DX240 with Amp8 MK2
Packaging / Accessories
Unboxing
The D62 arrived at my home in a medium sized box (what’s medium?), all black sleeve covering the actual box itself. The sleeve cover has nothing but “blacker” swirly lines down the left side and “CK-D62” imprinted in the center. They also added in a cursive “High Performance In-Ear Monitor” on the bottom left side. I think it’s freaking dope! Myer Audio you cracked the code. You don’t need to add more on your package! You don’t need to extravagantly adorn your packaging in flash and striking colors! No sir! Keep it classy, act like you’ve been there! Well done. I know, I realize I’m speaking about the cover graphics & art, but I like it. When reviewing I look for that stuff, the subtle things, the stuff most people give not even a second of thought to. I like the “correct” presentation. Myer did that. Looks dope. Anyways, take off the sleeve and you’ll see a regular black box. Take off the box top and you are greeted with the D62 attached to the cable in foam cut-outs with the gorgeous carrying case sitting pretty right next to them. It’s simple, elegant, and easy. Inside of the case are the eartips and the modular cable adapters (3.5/4.4) and that’s it. Nothing more, nothing less. Nice work Myer-Audio!
Eartips
So, Myer-Audio included seven pairs of eartips in total across three different styles of tips. First, they provide you with one pair of medium sized slow rise foam tips. Of course, I never use foam tips (unless absolutely mandatory) so I tossed those aside. Next, they give us what Myer Audio refers to as “Group A” which I’m assuming are the black silicone eartips (S, M L) with a narrow bore and they are a bit longer than the other tips. They aren’t the most rigid on the flange, but they work. These tips will increase the low-end a hair. Not bad at all. Lastly, they provide some white silicone eartips (S, M, L) with a turquoise stem. It appears that the stem is the type which has the ability to move to the shape of the ear like Spinfits. Maybe a nicely made knock-off. Still nice tips. However, I also felt the flange is a hair too flimsy for me. So, I actually had to resort to the KBear 07 tips and the Divinus Velvet tips (non-wide bore). Mostly the Velvets. Both of these tips helped to add some rigidity to the low-end while propping up the midrange adding some structure to the sound. Obviously, you may disagree. Anyways Myer added in some nice tips which I’m sure will work for 9/10 hobbyists, just not me.
Carrying case
Okay, now we get to one of my favorite pieces to this unboxing. That is… the case. This case is absolutely striking. It’s a circular case with a very nice zipper; all leather with the nicely done stitching. It’s a tan colored case and it’s gorgeous. Inside is a felt type of covering to protect your precious D62’s from getting battered and beaten. I’d say there is just enough room for your D62’s and the cable. Maybe a set of tips or two. So, it isn’t the largest case, but also, it’s good enough. Anyways, the case is beautifully made and really adds to the aesthetic of this set. Shoot, it really adds to the unboxing. I don’t even really use cases either. Truly a gorgeous case.
Cable
Now we get to the 2nd awesome part of the unboxing. Yes, that’s the cable. Myer-Audio added in a slick looking silver modular cable which really makes the D62’s look great. We are told that the cable is completely hand-made, hand-woven, and it looks as such. To be exact the cable actually uses 4-strands of high purity copper which is plated in silver. The insulation covering is shiny silver with a metallic quality to it. Really nice looking. This is a fatter cable too which is nice. It certainly doesn’t look cheap. However, the best part about this cable is the fact that it’s a modular cable. The D62 packaging adds in both a 3.5 single ended 90-degree adapter as well as a. 4.4 balanced 90-degree adapter. One thing I need to mention is that these adapters will take all of you might and patience to get off. I really mean this. I’m telling you they are ridiculously tight. Your fingers will be straining to get the adapters off. Beyond that it’s an awesome cable and I’m more than happy that I don’t have to purchase another cable for this set. Really a great addition for a stick cable.
Build / Design / Internals / Fit
Build Quality
Folks, there’s only so many ways to craft the build of an iem. I mean, there’s a few different ways. You have all resin 3D printed sets all the way down to $35 anymore. You have alloy iems all the way down to $20 too. It isn’t about the material, but more about the ability to create something which “feels” solid, premium, and handsome too. Now, the D62 is actually crafted wonderfully with a very premium feel to them. Now, the Shells are made by way of 3D printed resin while the faceplates are actually made using stabilized wood. Myer indicates that the two halves are spliced together by hand and a topcoat of resin covers everything to make a seamless feel to the build. This takes time folks. This is not something which can be rushed. Each coat has a cure time, and each piece must be put in in a precise manner so as to not have any aberrations, like uneven joints, knife-edges, sharp points, bubbles, and the list goes on. Folks, these shells are put together with care and you truly can feel it when in hand. Please don’t get me wrong, many brands can do this and have done this. Many of them. However, this doesn’t mean it’s something to simply gloss over when the thing I’m holding in my hand is built very well. I really mean it, nice work Myer-Audio, you made a solid iem that feels premium and is also very ergonomic. As far as venting, you have one back vent. The nozzles are medium or average in length and have a 6.2 mm width.
Design
I am a sucker for a good design. I just am. Give me a design that is slick looking, and it’ll cover a host of issues for at least a short time. I’m just being honest. I’m a sucker for something pretty. Always have been. I think the D62 are flat out slick. I adore the design choice of keeping them simple. They have a fully black resin shell which is capped with an almost blood red, reddish/brown marbleized and stabilized wooden faceplate. At first you wouldn’t think these are the most striking colors. Most people want blue, all black, green, even purples, but the maroonish, reddish, marble wood look is just gorgeous. I love the color choice. It’s funny because nowhere else in life would I ever choose these colors, for anything. Who wants maroon, red, reddish/brown? I’ll answer that for you… nobody. So, to have the artistic foresight to capture the look that Myer-Audio wanted and to use such a “meh” color speaks volumes to how well they can actually design a set of earphones. Also, because they look freaking awesome this way. I love the color choice. Somehow, it’s bold, it’s classy, very debonair, stoic even. Lastly, they put an elegantly imposed “CKLVX” in cursive writing at the bottom of the faceplate. That’s class folks. Thank you, Myer-Audio, for not putting that square in the middle of the faceplates. Every brand out there needs to take a look at these and learn something. Get rid of the center pinned logos… Other brands! Anyways, again, nice work Myer-Audio.
Internals
Like I said, the D62 is an 8-driver hybrid style earphone consisting of two dynamic drivers as well as six balanced armature drivers. The two DDs are one 10mm dynamic driver and one 8mm dynamic driver. I cannot speak to the material used because I have no way of knowing. So, I am sorry for that, and I’ll update this review when I do find out. Does it really matter though? Nevertheless, the 10mm DD is responsible for the sub-bass portion while the 8mm handles the mid to high bass regions. Friends, I love two DD sets that are solely responsible for the bass. It’s a good way to go and it shows when you listen. Myer-Audio also decided upon six balanced armature drivers to complete the spectrum of sound. To be honest, I also have zero idea about what type of BA’s they used. They called them “custom independent moving-iron units” for each BA. I do like that they didn’t use two-BA arrays (two back-to-back BAs stuck together). They are all independent. Myer-Audio also specifies that the drivers gather the sound through four sound tubes which are meticulously and carefully to provide a coherent mix of drivers without any interference from each other. I wish I had more for you, but I do not. I can say this, obviously Myer-Audio used some very good drivers with this set and acoustic cavity.
Fit / Comfort
As I said in the “Build Quality” section, the D62 is a nicely ergonomic set for the size. This is a larger iem, no doubt about it. However, the size is not so much of a matter, at least to my ears. Of course, the D62 has to be quite large to fit all of the drivers inside and they have to be arranged in a coherent way as well. Yet at the end of the day the D62 is very well fitting. I have no idea if they will fit your ears, but I assume the D62 will sit nicely in most ears. So long as you find eartips which seal very well then you should be good to go. I’ve had zero issues wearing this set for hours on end. I should also add that the passive isolation of the D62 is better than average. Which, I suppose having only one back vent helps in this regard. However, having only one back vent may be an issue for people who are sensitive to driver flex. I haven’t had any issues, but I know some folks who get it all the time with many different iems.
Drivability / Pairings
Output
The Myer-Audio CKLVX D62 have an impedance of right around 29 ohms and a sensitivity of about 110 db’s. What this means is that they are fairly sensitive and can be powered adequately by most sources. I would include smartphones which have a 3.5 single ended jack. Using my iPad, I had no issues at all, and the sound was actually decent. I have a few weaker no name dongle dacs as well which are likely around 50mw max output that powered this set just fine. Having said that, the D62 most certainly scales very well with power. In fact, I’d say using at least 75-100 mw@32 will work nicely. I used all of my dongle dacs on high gain and my 1-watt daps on medium gain which truly helped this set to shine in my opinion. The treble calms down a bit and the bass does tighten up with more power output applied to your listening session. Without question the D62 does scale well. Of course, I’d probably say the same for 90% of the iems I review. In my critical listening I used a balanced 4.4 connection with my sources almost exclusively, except when using the weaker sources, I described earlier. I should also add that part of that “scaling” also has to do with the fact that my stronger sources also feature better dac chips, better circuitry and are simply better sources. So, what part of that “scaling” is introduced from more raw power output and what part comes from simply using better sources… I don’t know. I do know that power does seem to help bring the D62 to its best fidelity.
Source tonality
As far as what source tonality I feel works best, well, for me I simply feel you need something which won’t add too much luster to the tip end. The D62 does have some treble emphasis which when paired with a “colder” source can exaggerate these higher notes, at times. That said, I don’t feel any one tonal coloration is better than another. I used my warmer, more velvet Shanling M6 Ultra which I probably enjoyed the most. However, I also truly love how well the neutral Fiio Q15 was able to pair with this set. Like I said, just so long as your source doesn’t increase the top end too much. For instance, the Fiio KA3 did just that. For whatever reason, when I paired the two I had extra treble output which added some shrillness and worser sibilance to my session on some tracks. So, I’d stay away from colder and more analytical type sources. Beyond that, I feel the D62 pairs well with many different source tonalities. My favorites were the neutral Shanling H0, the neutral/energetic iBasso DX240, the warm/neutral Fiio Q15, the neutral EPZ TP35/EPZ TP50, Aful SnowyNight, and my absolute favorite, the warmer sounding Shanling M6 Ultra. I could include a few more which were great too like the Simgot Dew4x, the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus too. Oh, the ultra-cheap and warmer EPZ TP20 Pro really pairs well with the D62 also, so keep that in mind. The point is, don’t get caught up in coloration of your sources too much with this set. No doubt some sets do require you to really dial in the pairing synergy, but the D62 does well with many.
What do you need?
Like I said, just make sure you don’t have a bright source. I don’t feel that bright helps, but instead I feel it makes things worse. Also, try to use a decent Dongle Dac at the least. If you only have a smartphone and you absolutely cannot afford anything more than please don’t fret because the D62 still sounds fine and can be powered easily. Yes, more power does seem to help quite a lot but you can still have a very nice listening session with a simple 3.5 single ended jack on a smartphone. Or, save up for something like the EPZ TP20 Pro which can be had for $39 right now on Aliexpress. I’m telling you, they sound really fantastic together. Regardless, the D62 pairs well with a wide variety of source tonalities but will certainly reward you for using a “better” and more powerful source.
Sound Impressions
I would first describe the sound of the Myer-Audio CKLVX D62 as “energetic”. More like controlled energy. There is certainly a good bass presence, but the upper mid through treble is emphasized a hair more which does tilt the scales towards the brighter, and closer to neutral as a whole. Maybe “neutral with a sub-bass lift”. The D62 does have a very good balance across the spectrum for what I would call a more “U-shaped” sound. Or a “slight V-shaped signature”. The mids have very good clarity and presence against the rest of the mix and don’t come across overly recessed. In my mind it’s a U-shaped sound, but I wouldn’t argue V-shaped either. Macro-dynamics are more expressive, enthralling, and they have a certain vibrance that shines through quite well. The kicker is that the D62 doesn’t come across fatiguing for me, even after long sessions. I like that notes aren’t too thin. Even though transparency is very good, notes don’t have a dry texture, and the sound holds onto some semblance of a musical approach. In fact, I would characterize the sound as euphonic, melodic, and the note weight as “lean-lush”. That would imply that the notes are concise, compact, and with good density. Like lean muscle mass there’s no extra hanging fat. Nothing grainy, soft, or hazy. Notes also don’t come across with a wide presence, never too bulky, sluggish, or too warm, and there’s no veil whatsoever. I’d describe the tuning as mature with a dash of fun. The D62 is slightly more mid-focused than anything else, but there’s still a balance across the mix. Timbre is nice as well. Not perfectly organic but very nice for a hybrid and very easy to listen to. However…
Not for everyone…but great for many…
There are definitely those who are sensitive to any bright leaning sound and those folks may want to look at something like the Kiwi Ears KE4 or the Juzear 61T Butterfly, for instance. Or, like me, you enjoy that extra snap on percussion, the abrasiveness on strings, the clash and extension on cymbals, the crispness, or the crunch like you’ll get with the D62. Or you just enjoy the extra vibrance and engagement you get from an energetic sound. I find the sound really well tuned for what Myer-Audio was shooting for. Still, I must warn you that the D62 will not be for everyone and the competition in the +$200 range is fierce which may push you towards some other sets. With all of that said, and the warnings out of the way, I must say that… I feel the D62 will fit most people very well. Also, when I say energetic and vibrant, I don’t mean out of control or too emphasized. This is not some crazy bright set folks. What I mean is that the D62 simply just leans that way. Again, there is a very good dynamic balance. The D62 is going to make some folks very happy.
Note: in the next section I provide a quick synopsis of the sound between the 20’s, more of a condensed look at the sound, if you will. I don’t know why I add this section in my reviews but some of you (two or three) have expressed thanks for adding it.
Condensed Sound Between the 20’s
The bass region is what I would call “just-above-moderate” in emphasis with a sub-bass lean. Nice haptic energy, good texture, nice speed, impactful, punchy enough too. The bass has good definition yet doesn’t add a whole lot of bullish congestion, or overly weighted warmth either. Nothing sloppy at all, or one noted. Looking at the midrange I hear a dynamic sound, vivacious, solid lean-lush note weight with enough warmth carried over from the bass to have note fullness, while still coming across very clean and relatively transparent. The mids are forward, engaging, with a chiseled presence. Perhaps a hint too sharp on some tracks for some people but mostly keeping very good control with solid note structure. There’s good air to the mids, separation, good imaging, and some harmonious shimmer which glitters the upper-mids very well. Next, the treble is vigorous, lively, spirited, even zesty at times. Yet with good body, crispness, and bite and well extended without coming across splashy. Some may not value a more brilliant sound up top, but those who can appreciate this type of treble tuning will likely welcome what Myer-Audio was able to accomplish here. For the most part the frequency keeps a nice coherence between drivers with good cadence and control. I’d say two parts analytical and one part musical as a whole. Or, harmoniously technical, euphonic, silvery yet clinical, crisp at the edges yet smooth in body. To sum it up in a condensed fashion; Myer-Audio did a very good job with the D62. Great for those who enjoy a detailed sound yet don’t want to miss out on musicality.
Bass Region
The low-end of the Myer-Audio CKLVX D62 has a substantial amount of actual emphasis that comes across in a fairly concentrated note delivery. Basically, it’s a clean bass, good note definition, nicely detailed without sounding thin or frail. It runs heavy yet in a condensed and compact form. Most certainly not sloppy or muddy, and not what I would ever consider as bloated. I’d say the D62 has a balanced yet heavy weight and authority down low with appropriate amounts of rumble and slam for most genres. It’s definitely not a basshead iem. Let’s just get that out of the way. This is not the type of bass that’s going to mask over the rest of the mix or cast any type of veil either. In fact, the bass barely colors the mix at all and actually helps the midrange retain a fairly spotless presentation. In my opinion the bass is really a very good supporting actor (up for debate) while the midrange (kind of) takes center stage. Having said that, I can assuredly say that the low-end on the D62 is well tuned and fits the overall scheme of the tuning very well.
For the amount of actual emphasis this is a tighter bass with a nice attack followed by a relatively quick decay (depending on the track). I have enjoyed listening to bass heavy tracks with this set. It’ll give you that hearty & meaty slam when a track calls for it and it can be very satisfying. Both dynamic drivers working in tandem to control different portions of the low-end is a fantastic way to go. Also,
Sub-bass
The lowest of lows has good extension. At least enough of an extension to reach deep and provide some physicality to the sound as a whole. The sub-bass keeps tighter reigns on resonances, and I don’t hear any real decay lag with harmonics. Honestly, it’s a very tout sound that doesn’t overstay its welcome while also not feeling overwhelming and not too bulbous either. There certainly are sets which are tuned with a deeper and more palpable rumble, but the D62 has just enough guttural depth to provide the listener with something to bob their head to. You can feel the sub-bass with perceived tactility, and it does so with a clean note edge. Songs like “Groove” by Ray Wylie Hubbard are able to really dig deep. Of course, any set sounds deep on this track. However, the D62 doesn’t lose the note edge, it stays crisp, defined and yet still solid and dense. Nothing feathery, but commanding. Not softened on attack, but rigid. Songs like “Heavy is the Ocean” by Bush runs deep, it drones heavily too. The thing I’m trying to get across is that with this deep and heavy drone; the D62 stays defined and concise. The note presence doesn’t proliferate, widen, or flatten in a heavy bass track which usually would congest notes. The D62 sub-bass instead comes across with rounded notes, vibrant presence, and dimension.
Mid-bass
The mid-bass is less intense than the sub-bass, but this is by design. However, please take the words “less & intense” with a grain of salt because the mid-bass still GETS It. I hear plenty of fullness as the 8mm DD goes to work sculpting out those hollowed yet ample kick drums, the meat of a bass guitar, the snap of a solid bass drop, the authority for bass vocalists and certain harmonics etc. This is not a muddy mid-bass. You will not feel like you are hearing some congested mess of weighted warmth blurring any note lines. Again, it’s clean folks. Myer-Audio knew exactly what they were doing when they added just enough lift in this region to come across rich or substantial, yet also tempered enough to remain distinct, compressed and not too warm. Also, this is a speedier bass with a less resonant full but rather conclusive transient response. In my opinion. I don’t want this praise to get out of hand though because many sets have been tuned in this manner. However, it should still be stated that the D62 does it well. Take a song like “After the Fire” by Cody Jinks where you have really well controlled kick drums with no extra fat (so to speak) followed by a full bass guitar that doesn’t seem to mask over anything else. Andrew Bird‘s track “Underlands” has a nice bass guitar and the D62 maneuvers and sways with a droning weight in a very ductile and agile manner. All the while maintaining that clean note outline. It’s pretty nice folks.
Downsides to the Bass Region
The downside of this bass region in particular would be for those hobbyists who much more prefer a bass centered sound. Those people who like the emphasis to land squarely in the bass region may not be completely enamored with the D62. There are many iems of late tuned with a very convex bass shelf which can hammer really hard. Myer-Audio took a more balanced approach here and they did so while still entertaining a very solid and meaty bass. It’s just not aggressive in its emphasis and the upper portions of the spectrum are emphasized more. There are those who really don’t enjoy a transient tight bass. Not at the D62 is some ultra precise set in this region, but this region is very well sculpted. It’s a very high-quality bass region in my opinion. It can take on fast bass tracks and it can do so with rounded notes while exhorting some actual guttural vitality into the sound. It feels energetic because it’s tight for the size and that concise note delivery makes each note (depending on the track) feel denser. Of course, it isn’t perfect and there are a ton of sets which have great low-end replays in the price point. It’s still very nice though.
Midrange
This is not a heavily recessed midrange and I’m almost to the point of calling the D62 mid-forward. It is a different take than we’ve heard recently with some +$200 iems. You have weightier than Harman style mids that still retain some level of transparency in this region. I feel the midrange is cleaner than it isn’t. The bass region only slightly feathers into the midrange which adds just a smidgen of warmth and weighty presence to the midrange. Especially in the lower mids. Detail retrieval is quite good here too as micro-details can be spotted fairly well while macro-dynamics are just expressive enough to not sound boring. Of course, sets like the meta tuned KE4 will give you those warmly weighted and robust notes while the D62 has a more pristine take. I hear very good energy in this region especially as you make your way up into the upper-mids. To my ears the midrange is neutral across the board yet lean a hair brighter in those upper-midrange notes, more shimmery, slightly dryer but very vibrant. Again, nice macro-dynamics. The midrange carries some crispness at the crest of notes when a track calls for it yet remains smooth enough to come across musical and melodic. Timbre is not perfect, but good. Obviously, having a brighter lean will cause the mids to come across a hint less natural in note weight, but all in all the timbre is very nice with good coherency. Also, I really don’t hear any sibilance, at least none that has bothered me enough to make a note of it. The pinna rise is not a steep rise but a gradual climb which I feel tapers notes which would otherwise be too glaring.
Lower-midrange
Male vocalists are mostly rendered with a solid yet thinner presence than I’d usually enjoy, yet here I am digging what Myer-Audio has done with the D62. Now, the lower midrange is not as forward as the upper-mids but notes hold onto nice poise for male vocalists to sound etched out and solid enough in consistency. Again, the bass region doesn’t really bleed to the point of smoothing out this region but rather leaves the midrange almost untouched. Notes in the low-mids do have a level of smoothness without dulling those crisp inflections in a male voice, or with the pluck of a guitar string, the initial snap on a snare, the abrasive edge with a violin. Now, these low-mids won’t appeal to everyone. Many people rather enjoy a warmer region here, I get that. However, I cannot lie and write that I haven’t been wrapped up in male vocalists at times with the D62 in my ears. “Cover Me Up” by Morgan Wallen still holds onto the emotion of the track while the natural edginess in the inflections of his southern drawl isn’t exaggerated or intensified. This is great for me because so many sets do just that. This set is so clean in this region. Songs like “Sapling” by Foy Vance are almost perfect with the D62. Just ridiculously well separated notes with centered vocals that sound so gratifying to my ears. Just the right amount of underlying mass to his voice and just the right amount of crispness. Really a nice sound. Again, not perfect but pretty darn nice for how it was tuned.
Upper-Midrange
The upper-mids are certainly more forward in the mix and really seem to be the focal point of this set. Famales sound effervescent with this very highlighted glow to them which never sounds harsh to my ears. Females like Rachael Price in the band Lake Street Dive sound so alive and so well contoured in the track “Walking Uphill”. So clean! The tunefulness of her voice is captivating. Not every set can pull off a luminous sound without coming across grating or sharp. The D62 does this very well folks. I think a lot has to do with the fact that the D62 doesn’t sound dry, there’s moisture there, it isn’t papery, too thin, or analytical in its flow. The D62 has some spherical note intonations which add dimension to the sound. They come across as holographic, rounded, and never like a papery flat plain of sound in front of me. Female voices are so mellifluous in their presentation in almost every track.
Upper-mids cont…
So, females sound great to my ears, but also instrumentation as well. It’s hard to explain but the D62 doesn’t come across as edgy and bright. Like I said… it glows. There’s a difference. Some sets are bright, but the D62’s upper-mids are luminant, yet that brightness doesn’t seem to drown out the rest of the spectrum. No doubt this is an acquired taste, I get that. I realize that not everyone desires this style of shimmer but the control of the D62 here is something special from my standpoint. Not earth shattering but very good for the price. Who knows, maybe I’m a prisoner of the moment but I really enjoy female vocalists with their forward, shimmery, but yet liquid style sound. Instruments too. I won’t go into each instrument as each track can present them differently, but just imagine your favorite song, favorite instrument, and now imagine that instrument a hair brighter, with a holographic glow.
Downsides to the Midrange
Of course there are downsides of this midrange. What you really have are preferential downsides, subjective person-to-person downsides where the slight thinning of the midrange spectrum may not align with those who enjoy warm, smooth, weighted, or traditionally musical. Any set tuned without that warmth will be considered at least marginally polarizing to some people. We are all so different in what we perceive as “good”. Perhaps the midrange is a bit too analytical, or not robust enough for you. I get that and couldn’t argue with you even if I wanted to. This is a hobby where everyone is always right 100% of the time. I can only try to describe what I hear so that you don’t spend $239 on something you ultimately don’t enjoy. The D62 can be bright, and if you are sensitive to it, they can also be glaring. I hate to say that because I feel the control is so damn good for every note. But the truth is that the D62’s midrange may be too crisp for you, maybe not smooth enough. However, I can say for sure that this is a transparent sound with very good detail retrieval, great instrument separation, holographic, nice depth to the sound, and imaging is very good too. Take my words for a grain of salt but I feel the D62 can hang with any set in its price point.
Treble Region
This brings us to the treble region. The D62 has an uncanny ability to come across both smooth yet still crisp, bright but not sharp and nicely extended into the upper treble which adds a lot of air to the overall sound. This is a quality treble as notes have subtle levels of treble bite to them, highly detailed too and never really does the treble sound shrill or splashy to me. No doubt the treble on the D62 is emphasized. However, that emphasis is in strategic places. Definitely there is a bloom of brilliance, but that brilliance stays well away from a typical Harman style brilliance, for instance. Certainly not for treble heads though. I don’t foresee treble-bois singing the praises of the D62 from the rooftops anytime soon. However, fans of quality treble should enjoy the highs on this set. Actually, I think the treble has the right amount of treble luster and the right amount of treble sheen to add the correct amount of levity and lift across the spectrum. Yet not so much that it comes across unnatural. There’s none of that prevalent “forced-resolution” that we so often hear in the hobby. In fact, I’d even go so far as to say that the treble is non-offensive and non-fatiguing. Maybe if you are ridiculously sensitive to treble or you are a total dark lover. Perhaps then you may feel it’s too much. Still, I think the tuning of the treble is very well done. Again, it’s smooth yet crisp, it has treble bite, and some treble crunch. Notes have distinctive lines which draw each note outline, and they have substance to them. Also, it’s hard to find a brighter sounding set that never comes across as fatiguing.
A nice “part” to a great “whole”
The treble has body as well. This isn’t some dry fest that presents frail and weak notes. I really don’t hear that. Billy Strings plays “Be Your Man” which is littered in treble activity. I noticed that the D62 partitions off each and every banjo note, every acoustic guitar slides and plucks. Keep in mind that his songs play fast, even in the slow songs. How’ s that for mental gymnastics? Anyways, the D62 keeps up with ease and does so with what I would call rounded notes for the price point. Obviously, this isn’t some amazing Sonion EST treble and so we do have to temper our expectations a little bit. However, I’m speaking from the standpoint of its price point and in my mind the D62 can quite literally hang with any set in this region. That I’ve heard anyways. Another track is one that I use for testing, yet I never really listen to for any other purpose. That track is “Magnetic Fields, Pt. 1” by Jean Michel Jarre. Treble comes at you in spades and hits you with all levels of treble pitch. The D62 handles this song exemplary with every pinch of detail displayed very well. Each note has its own space with very little overlap. I could go on and on with tracks that are in my “Treble” playlist but these two capture what I’m trying to get across. No, the D62 isn’t perfect and yes, there are sets which specialize in treble activity within the price range that likely can do so better. However, the D62 puts each frequency together very well, very symphonious, and the treble is a huge part of that. Really a nice “part” to a great “whole”.
Quality extension
Extension is another reasonably bright area for the D62’s highs. The D62 has some far reaching and stage stretching type of treble up top which comes across neither splashy nor tizzy. There is so much information past 10k that can easily get lost on a less extended treble. However, so often we hear sets which have wonderful extension come across very unnaturally. You’ll hear those crashy and splashy secondary harmonics of something like a cymbal strike. They come across more like a mishmash of treble tizz than they sound like an authentic harmonic trail. Not that the D62 is perfectly authentic either. I’m not saying that. I am saying that cymbals or hi hats don’t sound as though I’m sizzling eggs in a frying pan when the D62 is in my ears. Actually, Myer-Audio did a fine job of adding extension and emphasis out past 10k in a convincing manner that fits the overall tuning of the D62 very well.
Downsides to the Treble Region
I’d say fans of a warm or dark treble will certainly not enjoy the brighter and more brilliant sound of the D62’s treble region. Those folks who only want a treble region which subtly holds up the right side of the spectrum with a smooth and early roll-off. I totally understand these people because sometimes that is exactly what I want too. I don’t always desire a boosted treble, or even a marginally boosted treble region. Sometimes I want dark, weighted, and overtly non-offensive. So, I get those people, and I can tell you right now that the D62 is not that. This treble stretches the stage, adds air, adds openness, causes separation of notes to occur, adds some vibrance, shimmer, and controlled energy. Again, not perfect. Despite that, it’s pretty darn good for the cost of ownership.
Technicalities
Soundstage
Without question the soundstage is above average for this price point. No question about it. “Hook” by Blues Traveler begins wide, outstretched, past my ears, and tall too. I can hear depth to the sound. Depending on the track I can easily position elements of the stage in both the foreground and the background. There’s good depth. I won’t go crazy here, but the stage does sound holographic and stereoscopically rounded or better said… 3D. Within reason of course. I’m not saying the D62 is going to float images around your head and make them come to life, but I am saying that the stage has width, height, and depth that is above average of what I usually hear at this cost. It won’t change your life, but it may put a smile on your face.
Separation / Imaging
Separation of elements within the imaginary stage inside of my head seem psycho-acoustically separated pretty darn nice. There are some tracks which are simply too congested which will mishmash together and not sound very well separated. Also, really bass heavy tracks will mask some of that separation too. There’re even some treble heavy tracks which can do the same or poorly recorded tracks. So no the D62 doesn’t keep perfect separation. In the same breath I don’t think any kilo-buck sets have “perfect” separation. However, the D62 has absolutely nothing to be ashamed of. It does very well in this regard. The sound is open, airy, tight transients, lean yet dense notes, detailed, transparent, and a bunch of other descriptors which would indicate that the D62 has all the trappings of a set which can distinguish one instrument from another. Imaging follows suit to the tee. Yes, Imaging is also well accomplished as instruments and vocalists share the stage very well while sounding distinct from each other and each having its own place amongst that imaginary stage I was talking about.
Detail Retrieval
What do you think I’m going to say here? If you’ve read any of this review than you already know that I feel that detail retrieval is a strong suit of the CKLVX D62. I can hear most every subtle thing. Finger slides, breath in mics, lip smacks, subtle harmonics, the tight little low volume shifts of sound which can so easily be lost within a song. Again, just like separation and imaging, details can suffer depending on the track, but this should go without saying. However, I feel I must. Of course, bass heavy songs, complicated and fast-moving songs, poorly recorded songs, etc. are all culprits of poor detail retrieval. We know this. It’s the songs that you would listen to for those details (acoustic, folk, classical, classic rock etc.) that the D62 thrives with. I wouldn’t call it “best in class” though. I feel that distinction is reserved for a more analytical sound. Remember, the D62 still has quite a lot of musicality to it. Still, for what it is the D62 is a very well detailed set.
Comparisons
Kiwi Ears KE4 ($200)
The first comparison that I bring to you is a set which is very much “unlike” the D62. I reviewed the KE4 recently (KE4 Review) and I gotta tell you folks; it is one of the loveliest iems that money can buy at this price point. The KE4 is a musicality rich hybrid iem which consists of two dynamic drivers and two balanced armature drivers and plays in a warm and luxuriously smooth fashion. I mean “wonderful” for what it was tuned to be. I reach for the KE4 on a very consistent basis. Tuned with what the Audioverse labels as “New Meta” tuning, the KE4 is one of the least expensive sets to carry the moniker. It’s great from top to bottom but the kicker is that you actually have to enjoy the sound signature. Also, it’s almost a polar opposite of the D62. So, whether this is a good comparison or not is up for debate, but I couldn’t resist.
Differences
To begin, both sets are on the large side of the scale as far as physical size is concerned. They both feature multiple drivers and so naturally they have to have the size to accommodate those drivers. Although the D62 has quite a few more than the KE4. I do like both designs but I have to go with the D62 between the two of them. I mean, it has stabilized wood on the faceplates. Nuff said. Also, the D62 is a bit more expensive too at $239. Something to consider. The D62 has the better unboxing, better eartips, better case, better cable too.
Sound Differences
The KE4 and the D62 are quite different. So much so that they usually would serve two totally different types of listeners. For starters, the KE4 is much warmer with a very rich and even keeled sound to the neutral and energetic D62. I’d say the D62 carries a lot more crispness to the predominantly smooth KE4. The KE4 bass has more fullness and weight, but the D62’s bass is much cleaner, better defined, faster, and punchier. Midrange cleanliness goes to the D62 as the low-end barely scrapes into the mids while the KE4 has that hefty, lush sound and also a more forward sounding midrange. Even though the D62 is also fairly forward in presence its midrange carries vibrance, shimmer and much more detailed than the KE4. Treble for both sets is very well extended. However, the D62’s treble is more concise, transparent, with more bite and brilliance by a substantial margin. The KE4 has a very nice treble too yet it’s less pronounced, warmer, smoother overall too. Detail retrieval goes to the D62, so does separation and imaging. Also, the stage size is wider, more holographic and airier in the D62. Overall, the D62 simply has more energy, but with that energy comes a greater risk of shout, glare, and fatigue. The KE4 is wholly smooth and creamy across the board with wonderful organic timbre.
Final thoughts on this comparison
Again, this is one of the more obvious “preference battles” that I’ve completed. Two totally different animals and yet two of my absolute favorite iems around the price point. The KE4 is a smooth lover’s dream with very nice warm dynamics and in that warmth, it comes across much cleaner than you’d ever expect. Truly a wonderful set. Despite that, the D62 is better in many different areas. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that the D62 is the better set or the better buy. It all comes down to what you enjoy. Listening to the D62 side by side with the KE4 is two different worlds yet equally enthralling and engaging. However, I have to think that the D62 is probably the better set here. Simply more refined by a slight degree even though both sets serve a totally different type of listener. Personally, I love both sets and regularly listen to both depending on my mood.
Binary Dynaquattro ($230)
The Binary Dynaquattro is truly one of the best iems my ears have heard at +$200. I reviewed the Dynaquattro (Dynaquattro Review) a couple months ago and never wanted my critical listening to stop. This set is a three dynamic driver earphone with one passive radiator and the timbre is some of the best you can get for the money. Truly a special iem that I reach for constantly.
Differences
To begin, both sets are rather large, both have many drivers which need a larger housing. I feel the D62 is clearly the better designed set as it simply is gorgeous. The Dynaquattro has that steampunk gears and cogs faceplate theme, and a 3D printed premium resin which is dope, but it isn’t the D62. For me, the gorgeous D62’s stabilized wood faceplates and glossy shine with the resin shells simply take the lead in this category. Between the two the D62 has the better unboxing but both are very nice. Both have nice cases, both have nice modular cables (D62 is better) both have quality unboxing experiences. Neither set runs away with the win here but the D62 does have what I’d consider a better unboxing. Both sets offer a premium look at what the +$200 price point has to offer.
Sound Differences
First off, the Dynaquattro needs and desires a ton of power. This set thrives on big power. The D62 is easy to drive. Keep that in mind. The Dynaquattro comes across more V-shaped with a larger bass bump, a more energetic upper-mid/lower treble area too. Simply more V-shaped. Both sets lean neutral, for the most part. The low-end of the Dynaquattro hits deeper, more rumble too yet softer in attack and slower in decay by a tiny margin. The D62 is more like fast twitch muscle fibers to the beefier muscle of the Dynaquattro. The D62 has a leaner note weight throughout the midrange yet is better detailed, better separation, more air to the sound. The timbre of the Dynaquattro is second to none though and truly outshines just about every set in that regard. The D62 sounds slightly more transparent, cleaner, but both sets offer more expressive and vivacious macro-dynamics. The treble of the D62 has more bite, more crunch, better extended to my ears and is more detailed while also coming across less fatiguing to my ears. Not that the Dynaquattro is overly offensive either. Just less offense on the D62. Overall, the D62 does illuminate subtle details a hair better, better note separation, more open sounding. Yet both sets image the stage very well. I feel the D62 also has a more open and wide stage but both sets offer nice depth of stage. The D62 has easier to discern layering too. I feel that both sets present their own version of my music, and both do so very well.
Final thoughts on this comparison
I don’t like comparing sets. I really don’t. They are so vague almost all the time. This set is better here, that set is better there. How does this help you? Folks, both sets offer sound that lands them near the top in class for their respective tunings and price. Simple as that. Both are phenomenal and I truly enjoy them both. Now, if it was me and I was spending my money on either set, I’d say that the D62 is probably the better set. However, the Dynaquattro costs less and is pretty darn phenomenal in its own right. Also, these are just my interpretations and opinions and there’s a very good chance that every word I say comes from a “prisoner of the moment” place. I just got this set (CKLVX D62). This review came out quicker than I usually complete a review and so there may be a newness bias. However, if you want something a hair more V-shaped, very well balanced with some deep bass, warm/neutral midrange and a solid treble with some of the best timbre that +$200 can buy while coming in less expensive than the D62, then I’d say the Dynaquattro is the way to go. Despite that, the D62 is better technically across the board, has solid timbre in its own right, very energetic and fun too.
Is it worth the asking price?
This is the question which I figure will be the toughest to answer. Not that I don’t think the D62 is worth the money, because it certainly is. Let’s put it this way, I’d have zero issues spending the $236 to own it. The biggest issue for the D62 isn’t how well it’s worth the money. The greatest issue for the D62 is how many amazing sets are priced around it. For instance, the two sets I compared here today (KE4, Dynaquattro) are priced less. You have the Aful Performer 5+2, Pula Anvil 114, the Juzear Butterfly 61T and Juzear Dragonfly 81T and many many more. I won’t bore you by listing all the great sets out, but I do have to consider that the CKLVX D62 will likely not be the 1st choice for some folks. That’s a given. However, I could most certainly see some people who would absolutely adore the D62 and skip over all of those other sets to own this one. Without question. So, I suppose I should’ve labeled this section “Is it better than other iems in its price point?” rather than “Is it worth the asking price?”. Honestly, $236 will get you one special iem out of the CKLVX D62 and I thi k it is worth every last penny.
The Why…
Because look at how premium the CKLVX D62 is built. Truly gorgeous from front to back. The stabilized wood with the wood grain, the gloss resin covering, it is simply a stud of a set. Also, the D62 is accessorized to the nines, with a very good unboxing, great modular cable, and a classy little case. However, the sound is what helps the D62 to excel in my opinion. Yes, there are a ton of good to great iems within the price point, but there aren’t many tuned exactly the way the D62 is tuned. I feel this set has a nice mix of technical and musical. It’s got a deep and penetrative bass region, the bass is fast, tight, well defined, yet still has good density and is of a very high quality. Next, the midrange is clean as a midrange can be while still coming across musically gifted. The mids are highly transparent, very well detailed, with great separation, layering, and imaging is a huge plus too. This is a nicely energetic set that never seems to offend or cause to fatigue which is a testament to the tuners at Myer-Audio. The treble is brilliant yet controlled and easy to listen to. I hear nice crispness, nice crunch while still keeping a rather smooth demeanor. Add to that, extension into the upper treble is great and you don’t hear any splashy notes. The stage is fairly deep, wide and tall and the sound as a whole is flat-out refreshing.
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 Myer-Audio CKLVX D62 ratings below, that would be $195-$275 iems of 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. $195-$275 US is a fairly large sized scope of iems. So, It should be a nice surprise 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 A nice ergonomic build.
–Look: 9.6 Love the look of this set with its wood grain
–Fit/Comfort: 9.6 Fit and comfort is fantastic for me.
–Accessories: 9.3 Nice unboxing, far above average.
–Overall: 9.4🔥🔥
Sound Rating
–Timbre: 8.9 Bright-natural, clean.
–Bass: 9.3 Speedy, well defined, punchy, extended.
–Midrange: 9.2 Transparent, melodic, energetic, harmonious
–Treble: 9.5 Highly skilled, well detailed, extended.
–Technicalities: 9.2 Very nice for all technicalities.
–Musicality: 8.9 Very mellifluous per the tuning.
–Overall: 9.2🔥🔥🔥
Ratings Summary:
I honestly don’t feel there is much need for me to blabber on anymore in this section, but I suppose there is some explaining which needs to be done. I gave the D62 a sound rating of “9.2” overall… against any and all iems between the prices of $195 and $275. That is a huge price bracket and the number of great sets within that price point is extremely large. However, I can only compare against what I have in my possession or those sets that I know and understand like the back of my hand. Now, I have quite a few in my collection and so I do feel good about the numbers I posted above. Still, It is imperative that I communicate to you that I haven’t heard every set in the price range and so please take this rating with a grain of salt. Ratings are bogus anyways. They leave out every little last bit of nuance, explain almost nothing, they are so ridiculously subjective, and they can only be compared against sets which a person has actually heard. So, there are quite a few limitations. Thus, I wouldn’t give any credence to any rating from anybody.
Explain Yourself!!
Okay, so I gave the D62 a very high “Bass” rating of “9.3”. That’s super high folks. From me it is anyways, especially with how many iems litter this range. Having said that, I think that a “9.3” is legit. It is very well defined, clean, dense, authoritative without coming across muddy and doesn’t cause veil or smoothen out the mix too badly. It’s a high-quality bass folks. I understand if you don’t agree, but I went back-to-back with about 15 iems over two bass tracks. Do you know how long that takes? My wife and kids went to a movie and Dad got to do what Dad likes to do. There were three iems that I have higher than the D62 and that’s only because their quantity is a tad more. That’s it. You may feel that quantity is the most important aspect of bass and therefore you may give the D62 a much lower score and I totally get that. Also, you wouldn’t be wrong. It’s all subjective folks. Different strokes for different folks. This is why I reluctantly rate anything.
Good treble?
I think the only other rating which might raise some eyebrows is the “Treble” rating. How could I give the D62 treble a rating of “9.5” when not even treble heads would consider it amazing? Great question. I think the answer is that most treble heads love a set with a treble focus. The D62 isn’t that. The D62 is very well balanced. The treble is not the focus at all. I told you in this review that the treble is actually non-offensive, not too bright. It’s quality treble, simple as that. It doesn’t need to be boosted to the stars to be good. Also, please remember (once again) that I haven’t heard every set in this range and please remember that I am not you. I don’t necessarily hear like you, I don’t have the same likes and dislikes, possibly different sources, different tracks. There’re too many variables. This is why I say over and over again ad nauseum that you should overlook my ratings, keep scrolling, and take them for a grain of salt.
Final thoughts on this set before I conclude
I think the main detractor against the Myer-Audio CKLVX D62 is the fact that it is right dab-smack in the middle of a crazy talented price point. Coincidentally, that’s the problem for every other set in this price point. Folks, please hear me, as honest as I can be, the D62 is a fantastic iem. Fantastic. It is a bona-fide stud every single way that you turn it. Five years ago, this set would’ve cost almost kilo-buck level for what you get structurally, design-wise, and sonically. I cannot help but sing the praises of this brand.
Enough to be distinct
However, it is a tough spot to be in. Other brands are under bidding your attention (lower price tag) and selling their sets for cheaper and they are just as good (in their own way). I truly feel what sets the D62 apart is the tuning itself. I’m not saying it’s better than any other set, but what I am saying is that it is distinct enough for how it was tuned that it does separate itself from the pack just enough. That’s what this hobby has come to, and it’s a great place for the hobbyist. There’s a set for everyone. If you like warm, rich, & bassy you have an amazing set in something like the KE4. If you want a straight analytical style iem, there’re definitely sets which will hit the nail on the head for you. Really, every sound signature is represented in this price point with great iems. If anything, it’s the iems with copy-cat tunings which will be hurt the most. Thankfully for the D62 and Myer-Audio they had the presence in mind to change things up just enough to be distinct. My opinion of course.
Rec’d
Now that I’ve said that I cannot leave this review without giving my recommendation of the D62. It is 100% worth the money if you enjoy this type of sound signature and a fine set for those who want to upgrade from the sub $100 class to something more refined. The Myer-Audio CKLVX D62 certainly fits that bill. Great job Myer-Audio! Now I have to check out other sets from this brand.
Conclusion
To conclude my full written review of the Myer-Audio CKLVX D62 I have to give out a huge thanks to HiFiGo for providing this set. HiFiGo asks nothing out of me but to feature these sets and give an honest portrayal of my time with them and I couldn’t be happier with them. I have never once been pressured to say anything even remotely positive or to cast their iems in a positive light. For that I Thank HiFiGo. They have always been very easy to work with which is great. Also, I’ve purchased from their online store for years. Always they have everything that I need, and they are a constant resource for me and so many others. So again, thank you HiFiGo. Also, thank you for taking the time to actually read my words. Mobileaudiophile.com truly thanks you. It’s you that we do this for and it’s you who keeps the doors open (so to speak). Thank you so much.
Other perspectives
Now that you’ve read this review, I hope you will click some more links and check out other reviews of the Myer-Audio CKLVX D62. This is such a subjective and personal hobby folks. No two people are exactly alike. Heck, no two reviewers are exactly alike. We all have different tastes, different likes and dislikes, different gear, different music libraries, and we all haven’t been down the same journey through audio. Get other thoughts and ideas about this set before plopping down the money for it. So, I do hope you take the time to read other thoughts. There are so many amazing reviewers who also want to help and may make it easier for you to find the perfect product to spend your hard-earned money. With that, I’m done! I hope each of you are doing well and good. Take care, stay as safe as possible and always… God Bless!
