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Myer Audio Sliivo SL224 Review ​

*Note: I already published my Sliivo SL224 review months ago at Head-fi during a technical downtime at Mobileaudiophile.com. I am simply publishing this review in its rightful place here at MBA. What it was meant for. Still a fantastic iem that competes extremely well under $300. This set has been a consistent iem that I reach for and I’m glad to prop it up once again. Thank you for reading. 

Intro​

Hello, this review and feature covers the latest from the audio brand Myer Audio named the Myer Audio Sliivo SL224. The SL224 actually comes in with an MSRP of around $269, which is a very nice price for this set. I was thrilled to be learning I was going to be able to check this set out with its stack of drivers that it comes equipped with. The SL224 is actually a tribrid set consisting of two dynamic drivers, two balanced armature drivers, and four micro-planar drivers, but more on that later. In my opinion, Myer-Audio is one of those newcomer brands which seemingly has yet to miss the mark. Now, I’ve only featured one other set from the company (Myer Audio CKLVX D62 Review) and so I’m not exactly the most knowledgeable on this brand either. However, judging from public opinion, they seem to be very well liked and respected. At this point I’m still waiting on the SL224 to arrive at my home as tracking says about two more days. However, like all reviews I try to finish the intro before I hear it. I’m greatly looking forward to this set.

Myer Audio​

I say all of this because Myer Audio seems to have hit the ground running in their short time as a brand. When you have huge successes such as the Myer Audio SL41 Mk2 and follow that up with sets like the CKLVX D62, or the wildly popular CKLVX D41, the sliivo SLA3, as well as the SLT6, and of course the set I’m reviewing today, the Sliivo SL224. Each one is very well made, well packaged, and well-tuned… from what I can see. I can tell you that I fell in love with the CKLVX D62 and gave it a very high rated review along with a definite recommendation. Now, at this point Myer Audio remains somewhat niche in their presence within the market and certainly aren’t a household name. They were established in Shenzhen China and have been around for only a couple years. No doubt they are a budding young brand. However, it is becoming clearer by the day that Myer Audio has some highly capable and intelligent people running the show. For what it’s worth, I want to try out everything they have.

Well, I just received the brand new Sliivo SL224 and boy-oh-boy is it a solid set! I mean, from the first listen I was struck with its awesome unboxing, accessories, it’s beautiful design and build and of course it’s very well-tuned sound. No doubt this is going to be a joy to write about. So, it looks like I’ll see you all in about two to three weeks. Off to the burn-in station the SL224 goes. And with that, I’m ready to dive into this review. So, without further ado, the Myer Audio Sliivo SL224…

Non-Affiliated Purchasing Links:​

–HiFiGo
–Shopee

Gear used for testing ​

–Shanling UP6
–Shanling UA6
–Ifi Go Blu
–Hidizs S9 Pro Plus
–Shanling H0
–Fiio JM21
–Hiby R3 Pro II
–Hiby R6 Pro II 2025
–Shanling M1 Plus
–IBasso DX240 with Amp8 MK2
–Shanling M6 Ultra
–Fiio Q15
-Many not listed

Packaging / Accessories​

Unboxing​

As always, I will lightly describe the packaging and some of the contents of that packaging without giving everything away. I know some of you actually enjoy unboxing stuff like I do and so I won’t totally ruin it. However, if you want, just skip this section. Anyways, the SL224 arrived at my home in a medium sized black/blue cardboard box which comes with an outer sleeve that features a picture of the SL224 on the cover along with the name “Sliivo SL224”. Usually, the backside of these packages will have some specs and such, but not the SL224. There’s actually nothing on the back. Open the box and you’ll see the SL224 attached to its beautiful cable sitting in foam cut-outs and the carrying case right next to it and it too is stuffed inside of a foam cut-out. In the package you’ll receive the eartips, obviously the case and cable too. You also receive a 3.5, 4.4, and type-c cable adapter for the modular cable as well. It isn’t the most luxurious unboxing I’ve ever received, but the contents are more than nice for the cost.

Eartips​

So, Myer Audio provided seven pairs of eartips in total within the packaging over three different styles of tips. The first style is a pair of medium sized slow-rise foam eartips. These tips are of very good quality, though I don’t ever use foamies unless I absolutely have too. The next style of tips are three pairs (S, M, L) of white silicone narrow bore eartips with a firm flange, firm stem, and they’re a longer style eartip, able to reach deeper into the ear. In truth, these tips are fantastic, if and when you need them. I don’t need these tips for the SL224. Next, Myer Audio added in three pairs (S, M, L) of white silicone tips with a light blue inner stem. These tips are very much like Spinfits in that the inner stem almost has a slight knuckle to it so that they can bend to the angle of your inner ear better. I really like these tips. The only issue that I have is they are also narrow bore. No doubt I will definitely use them on some set, but not the SL224. In my opinion the SL224 comes alive even more with either semi-wide to wide bore. I actually went through a crazy number of tips trying to find what suited me the best. What I landed on were some gray silicone wide bore tips that came with the Celest Wyvern Black Remaster of all places. They are very rigid wide-bore shallow fit eartips which bring out the best in the SL224. Of course, that’s my opinion. You may feel different. I also used Dunu S&S tips quite a bit, but I felt that the shallow fit of the Celest tips dialed in the midrange nicely and adds some extra punch to the bass region.

Carrying Case​

Myer Audio also provided a nice cylindrical style zipper case as well within the packaging. Once again, a very nice addition folks. The case is a faux leather style blue colored case, beautiful zipper, nice stitching along the top and bottom too. It’s a very stylish case. Certainly, better than 75% of the cases you’ll receive within the price point. It has an engraved “Sliivo” on the top of the case at dead center. It’s just nice folks. I like nice! I like brands that try. It’s nice to see a brand trying to build a fan base and using their actual product as the sales pitch. Imagine that! It’s a dope little case. However, it is little. This is not the world’s largest case. It’s large enough to fit the cable, the earphones, and perhaps some extra tips and maybe the modular adapters. I don’t think I could fit an extra dongle dac or anything. Not bad though.

Cable​

My favorite accessory. Myer Audio always seems to get the little things right. However, the “little things” I’m referring to is actually kind of a big deal and it’s nice to see that I won’t have to cable swap with this set. The cable is awesome friends. Looking at this set, you already know it needs a fatty-fat cable on it. This is one of those sets which needs a thicc boi! Well, Myer Audio delivered with a gorgeous gray cable, pure monocrystalline copper with silver plating and a beautiful braid (by hand). Oh yeah, to top it off… It’s modular. This package actually comes with a 3.5 single ended, 4.4 balanced, as well as a type-c dac connector too. I’m serious folks, Myer Audio delivered! Honestly, that’s as it should be at this cost. We should expect modular cables in this day and age. Of course, I only ever use the 4.4 connection, but that’s beside the point. Anyways, it’s very good to see here. The cable itself is a 2-pin with one of the better threaded (screw-on) connectors in the market at these costs. I adore the color of the cable and how well its grayish-silver outer PVC layer matches with the beauty of the SL224 shells. The aesthetic appeal is off the charts. At any rate, nice work Myer Audio, I really am enjoying this cable.

Type-C​

Before I jump out of the “cable” section, I should better clarify about the type-c adapter provided in the packaging. Many iems are beginning to be shipped with these type-c dac/amp adapters which provides a very convenient solution for portable use. The type-c provided with the SL224’s cable is perfectly capable of bringing upon a very clean and fairly dynamic presentation. Great for portable use. However, I have to say that I will always prefer the 4.4 balanced adapter and my favorite dap for my listening sessions. Still, I wanted you all to know that Myer Audio does add into the packaging a great alternative if you do not have a good source for this set. Which is always a nice thing to see.

Build / Design / Internals / Fit ​

Build Quality ​

Now, the build of the Myer Audio Sliivo SL224 is actually pretty nice. The shells are crafted by way of 3D printing in a very ergonomically friendly manner. Of course, this set was made fairly large to accommodate all six drivers. Some folks may view the Shells as being a hair too large for their ears. Besides that, the build is fantastic in my opinion. Myer Audio did a nice job of creating an earphone which sits perfectly in my ear, so comfortable. Also, very lightweight too. For what it’s worth, not all resin builds are created equal folks. Please believe me on that. Myer Audio crafted the SL224 to feel dense in body, they feel durable, substantial. Nothing chinsy or cheap here folks. At any rate, the build is very nice. Having said that, I can find you a $20 all resin build. Basically, the novelty that once was all-resin iems is not what it once was. Now it’s all about design and internal acoustic cavity structures and how intricate that 3D printing can get. Many brands simply 3D print the driver tubes in place as the Shells are being made. Anyways, the SL224’s build is through the roof nice, it’s smooth everywhere, a sleek shape too. The nozzles are about average length as well as average width (6mm).

Design / Aesthetic ​

This is one area where Myer Audio really did go above and beyond the usual call of duty. That is, they actually used shellfish scales to cover the faceplate design. I feel the look is simply stunning. Easily one of the best looking and most artistically striking iems anywhere near its price point. I love the contrast in colors that they used. So, you have the pitch-black shell housing, and the faceplates are this beautiful mix of colors including green, blue, sometimes yellows, and any other hue which makes its presence felt as you move this set in the light. Colors refract wonderfully with every movement. It’s not that we haven’t seen cool and trippy looking designs in the past as we certainly have. There’s been a multitude of awesomely designed iems. But it’s a whole other thing when the brand goes through the trouble of actually acquiring shellfish shells to use as the faceplates. They look so dope! Myer Audio also coats those shells in clear resin materials as well. Around those shellfish shells is a very nice silver border possibly made of aluminum (best guess). The point is that the Myer Audio Sliivo SL224 is certainly one of the better looking iems in the price point. It only gets better when you attach that slick looking cable.

Internals​

As I said earlier, the Myer Audio Sliivo SL224 is an eight driver tribrid iem consisting of two dynamic drivers, two balanced armature drivers, and four micro-planar drivers. To be exact, the first DD is a 6mm driver with a titanium-plated diaphragm. The next DD is a 10mm driver with a composite bio diaphragm. Both DD’s are used to cover the low-end. Next, the two balanced armature drivers cover the midrange and the four micro-planars cover the treble region. Now, I have zero idea where the crossover is set in each area of the mix, but Myer-Audio does indicate their crossover precisely controls how the spectrum is split up.

Fit / Comfort ​

As far as the fit is concerned, I feel once I got tips which sealed the SL224 fit better than most any iem in my ears. Something about the angle that they made the nozzles. This set fits perfect folks. Now, just because they fit me doesn’t mean they’ll fit you. Still, I am very impressed by the smooth and easy comfort that the SL224 has with me.

Drivability / Pairings ​

Output Power​

The Myer Audio Sliivo SL224 is rated for right around 36 ohms impedance as well as a sensitivity of about 108 db’s. Basically, the SL224 is a fairly sensitive iem. Like most iems actually. I don’t think you’ll have any issue driving this set from a weak source. I say that because I tried to drive the SL224 with all of my weaker sources and it sounds very nice. For review purposes I used two no-name 3.5 se Amazon dongle dacs, my iPad (on 3.5 se), the KZ AN01 (Bluetooth earhook adapters), as well as the KZ AZ20 (also a Bluetooth earhook adapter). Folks, I had zero issues and each source brought the SL224 to volume fairly easily. Having said that, without a doubt this set achieves better results with more power and when using better sources. Once I went to a legit “good” dongle dac like the Shanling UA6 (on high gain) the SL224 really did have a more vibrant character and top-class dynamics. It became fairly obvious to me that more juice certainly does help the SL224 to sound its best. I’m not talking about some huge desktop power either. I’m talking; get a good dongle dac, at the least. In all honesty, it’s been quite some time since I’ve heard an iem which doesn’t sound better, tighter, cleaner, more dynamic with more power. Granted these are small micro-differences at times, but they are changes, nonetheless. The SL224 is one of those sets which seems primed to be pushed.

Sonic pairing​

To my ears the SL224 comes across as neutral with a sub-bass lift which means, a touch of warmth. This is a set which falls right into the goldilocks zone for tonality. What I mean by that is that I don’t hear any real issues with pairing the SL224 sonically. Let’s put it this way; a warm source isn’t going to muddy the mix or cause veil. I mean, even the super warm devices. Also, a colder/brighter source isn’t going to all of a sudden turn the SL224 into some shrieking bright and fatiguing set. I can tell you I haven’t heard that and I have bright sources. The only sources which sound somewhat less appealing are those older ESS Sabre dac chips with the spicy treble and slightly more electric quality, less organic. However, that should be expected. Perhaps brighter sources might not sound quite as good as well. Though I have yet to hear anything which sounds straight-up bad. Honestly, I adore the SL224 through the warm/neutral Hiby R6 Pro II 2025, the neutral Fiio Q15, or even the warmer Shanling M6 Ultra and a number of other devices. My point is that I don’t think you should worry too much about your sources. Plug n’ play!

Sound Impressions ​

*Note: I want to preface the sound portion of this review with a few tidbits of info which may or may not be helpful to you. First off, I burned this set in for roughly about four days. I simply play tones, sweeps, melodies, white noise, and pink noise on a loop for days. I do think that the SL224 comes across a hair more dynamic, tighter in transients, and smoother overall. Of course, I’m not ruling out brain-burn either. Just telling you my truth people. Next, I used the gray, wide-bore eartips that I got in the Celest Wyvern Black Remaster packaging. They work perfectly folks. That shallow fit and wide bore truly brings out the midrange and adds some perceived air to the sound without coming across offensive. Also, I listen mainly to flac or better files which are stored on my devices and rarely stream any music. I used the cable that came with the SL224 as well.

What’s it sound like? ​

Folks, Myer Audio has arisen to a special place in their ability to tune a set of earphones. That “special place” is certainly achieved on the new SL224. Seriously, for a set costing under $300 to have good cohesiveness, timbre quality, transient tightness, 3D spatial cues, note density, overall balance of the spectrum, as well as controlled and clean dynamism is pretty great. If I were to try to label the SL224 with a sound signature, I’d say it sounds more U-shaped to W-shaped. Probably more the latter. We get into the weeds a little bit naming these signatures, but I can tell you that the midrange is not recessed in the slightest. In fact, I’d say the midrange is the bread and butter of the tuning. However, Myer Audio also made sure to provide a fairly deep, and guttural enough sublevel response, as well as one of the better treble displays that I’ve heard in a set under $300. Tonally, the SL224 comes across as mostly neutral. Yet that neutrality has a very tasteful veer towards the bright side of the scale, along with just enough bass region warmth to counter that vibrant display. In fact, the entire tuning is tastefully done. To add to that, nothing about the signature is over-done, overcooked, nothing oversaturated across the mix either. I really enjoy the SL224’s nice mixture of smooth musicality and crisp bite. Every area of the mix is accounted for in a mature and clean manner folks, and I like it.

Balance​

I tussle whether I want to call the musicality/analytical split “50/50 or 45/55”. I love the fact that the SL224 carries this spectrum-wide smoothness, while at the same time keeping tight transients, plenty of crispness, as well as a very non-abrasive edge detail, and enough subtle warmth to even everything out. Having said that, this is not a tuning for the bassheads or the exciting V-shaped lovers. While there is some very good and vibrant energy, that energy is kept in balance, it’s served in a proportional manner. Nothing forced in this tuning. You won’t hear any over emphasized or forced resolution up top. Also, you won’t hear a bass replay which masks and there’s not even a hint of veil. I get all of the emotionality from my music, the melodic tunefulness that a song needs to feel engaging. Yet I also get enough note defining edge to bring my music into focus, nothing fuzzy, grainy, or blurred. The SL224 has very nice resolution. I hear a vast number of details. I mean; details emerge with ease friends. The sound is both rich and airy… at the same time. The Sliivo SL224 comes across euphonious and symphonically gifted with a penchant for clean lines, semi-rich note weight, and better transparency than many similarly priced iems.

Similar? ​

In my opinion, the Myer Audio Sliivo SL224 is tuned very close to some other highly notable and well adored iems. Very much similar to the Letshuoer Cadenza 4, yet slightly more bass depth and weight. Better spatial dimensionality, better note contour, more precise and better presence for vocalists. Or, similar to the EPZ P50 yet better cohesiveness across the spectrum, slightly less abrasive, better fluidity, and it simply has a bigger sound, more refined, with more exact imaging. There are quite a few similarly tuned sets, however I feel that the SL224 puts it all together a bit better than most. Myer Audio really did a fantastic job with their vision of this set.

Timbre / Cohesiveness ​

I usually only think about cohesiveness when the sound “isn’t” cohesive. One high quality aspect of the SL224 is that Myer Audio was able to fluently blend three different driver types and eight drivers in total to sound about as amalgamated and fused-together as a tribrid set can sound. Which is saying something when you have a set that is both melodic, as well as technically gifted mixing DD’s, BA’s, and Micro Planars. Those two monikers (Melodic & Technically gifted) usually don’t marry together synchronously. However, with the SL224, the dynamic drivers mesh very well with the speed of the BA’s and the highly skilled micro planars. Of course, the entire presentation has a certain taut quality to it. Notes & the cadence of those notes generally comes across transient-swift and nicely defined, yet without losing that sweet frictionless fluidity, smooth rhythmicity, as well as more organic inflections & tone-color. Furthermore, you won’t hear any lagging harmonics and nothing that I’d call congested either… frequency-wide. I don’t hear anything disjointed, no metallic BA timbre, no planar timbre, nothing too edgy, and nothing sounds “off” timbre-wise. Still, in my opinion the SL224 isn’t quite as warm/earthy as something which would be deemed perfectly “organic”. Again, that is entirely my opinion. Now, there’s no doubt that “natural” or “organic” is all in the ear of the beholder, very much a subjective reality. Yet without question the SL224 is right in that pocket of sweet organic tone. In the same breath, the SL224 also carries nice note separation, its open sounding, it has those clean note outlines, it’s highly detailed and that analytical quality to its sound simply veers it away from a perfectly natural “timbre king” style. Basically, the SL224 is almost too technically gifted to be considered perfectly natural, and I’m okay with that.

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Bass Region​

The low-end of the Myer Audio Sliivo SL224 is one of my favorite aspects of the sound. What you get from the low-end is a very tight, very punchy sound with quick transient attack and a natural decay. This is a very well-defined bass that hits its mark every time, no matter whether the track is fast, complicated, or intricately layered. The low-end also has pretty decent slam for a moderate emphasis. Enough meat to supply adequate fullness to a bass guitar and enough fast-twitch oomph to playback a tight kick-drum. Like I said earlier, the lows are covered by two dynamic drivers, and those dual DD’s truly do a remarkable job of coexisting in a very cohesive and also highly skilled manner. From my perspective, the bass region carries a very taut, very highly textured, hard-edged, and agile note delivery which meanders through most tracks with some very potent lean-density with no extra hanging fat, no lingering harmonics or euphonic resonances, and with enough gusto for most genres. Now, this is not a basshead worthy low-end. Yet it certainly is a very high-quality bass region tuned to balance the spectrum. Definitely not the focus, until it is the focus, and when you hear it… you’ll understand what I’m saying. What we have here is a clean mannered bass which keeps to itself, very nice sublevel extension, and it’ll never muddy the mix or create any kind of veil. Truth is, the bass shelf maxes out at around 7 db’s, and so it isn’t overpowering in the slightest. To add to that, the mid-bass rolls-off fairly quickly before it flattens out before 150 hz. So, it will never, ever sound muddy. This is a very well-defined bass, not even close to one-noted, yet the bass also offers a very dynamic presentation. For a less intensely emphasized low-end, it sure does sound very-very good.

Bass lite?​

I should make a quick note; this is not a bass for anyone who desires a bass heavy approach. If anything, I consider the SL224’s low-end to be “bass-lite”. This is not a bass with a ton of meaty slam, and it won’t cast warmth across the spectrum. There is not a heavy emphasis here. Myer Audio tuned this set for cleanliness folks. I do enjoy the sublevel extension and deep pitch ability of this set, but perhaps I could use a hair more mid-bass boom. Now, having said that, I do feel that the SL224 gives me good enough muscle down low for my music library, and the quality and precision of this bass is truly awesome. So awesome that I say it’s one of my favorite aspects of this set. Also, the SL224 does rise to the occasion in bass heavy tracks. Make no mistake, the bass isn’t weak, but it also isn’t emphasized to the point of it being a focus. If that makes sense. It does rise to the occasion when called upon. No doubt, the SL224’s emphasis is not going to be loved by everyone, but those who enjoy a true quality low-end will certainly appreciate how Myer Audio tuned the SL224’s bass region. At any rate, let’s check out more of what the SL224 has to offer down low.

Sub-Bass​

The sublevels of the bass region are without question the bread and butter of the bass region on the SL224. Myer Audio made sure to keep all of the muscle tied-up within the sublevels and what comes of it is a very tightly wound, very condensed, very concise bass capable of guttural drones, juddering rumble, and haptic feedback. Listening to “Paradigm” by The Head and the Heart will convey to you what I’m saying better than I ever could. It hits that rolling bassline with a tight note edge and a dense note body whilst never masking the rest of the melody as the lead singer’s vocals follow through untouched by the weighted & rumbly foundation. His vocals contrast the guttural deep pitched bass, embossed against the backdrop of the sublevel tremoring bassline, rather than masking or blending. Another track is “The Hardest Part” by Washed Out which comes across so very clean on this set. I adore how well defined the bass region is. This track begins with a heavy weight chillwave synth bassline which sounds bulbous on most any set and the SL224 didn’t disappoint. I could feel the sublevel juddering drone very easily. Every undulating up and down dynamic swing in this bassline is handled perfectly by the SL224 with a fuzz free, grain free, and perfectly clean note outline.

Mid-Bass​

Like I said, the mid-bass isn’t the most emphasized portion of the mix and once again… it won’t be for everyone. I can tell you that I do enjoy a fairly heavy-handed mid-bass. However, I’d much-much rather have a quality and clean bass which can handle anything I throw at it. That said, I could definitely use about four to five db’s of extra emphasis in this region. Though, the SL224 will surprise me at times and come across with some meaty boom. Always in a track which displays such a thing. The mid-bass is not emphasized to the point that its warmth extends across the mix. It has to be called upon to feel its weight. So, to speak on the better qualities of this mid-bass region, I’d point directly to the track “Hysteria” by Muse. There’s about twenty other in my “Bass Playlist” which tell me the exact same thing. That is; the Myer Audio Sliivo SL224 can take anything that you throw at it and resolve it all very well down low. Every dirty layer of its 16th-note rhythm, animato distortion, and sawtooth synth powerfully displayed at rapid fire speed is replayed through the SL224 in an effortless way. Friends, this bass is what we call “quality over quantity”.

Downsides to the Bass Region ​

The largest issue with this beautiful bass replay is that it simply won’t be loved and enjoyed by anyone who is an avid basshead, or even those who simply enjoy a bigger, fuller, or more robust bass. I feel like I’ve gotten this point across and the warning has been given. However, I almost hate to even say it because of the skill level of the SL224’s bass. I have to tell you this while rolling my eyes folks. Most certainly the low-end’s biggest and only real “downside” is that it isn’t emphasized to the point of being a focus. That’s it. Okay, maybe those who enjoy a much more atmospheric and less tight bass (yes, they exist) who enjoy that lingering harmonic resonance of an earthy & analog low-end may not enjoy this replay as well. Other than that, I can’t find much more fault here.

Midrange​

The midrange shares the spotlight with the treble as the loveliest region of the SL224’s frequency. In my humble opinion. The midrange is characterized by its extremely clean and smooth delivery full of details, expressive macro-dynamics, and easy to discern micro-dynamics. However, the cadence, the delivery, the embodiment of the midrange is rhythmic, it has this very clean fluid style sound. No this midrange doesn’t have full and weighted notes and I’d definitely describe its midrange notes as being on the leaner side of the aisle. However, the cleanliness, prominence, and distinct clarity help every midrange note to stand out and almost sound denser. I’ve heard a few other sets like this, where the clean-lined precision, mixed with a black background, mixed with a rounded note body, mixed with a holographic stage almost helps the sound to… “pop”. Basically, even though the midrange has a leaner note body; they don’t sound thin, or papery, or dry, or clinical. And while they don’t sound warm, they also don’t sound cold or tinny. There’s a moistness to the sound and there’s a definite musicality to this midrange folks. It’s very engaging actually. Fantastic for vocalists and instrumentation.

Timbre​

The midrange is also one which is certainly forward, but not so much that anything sounds boxy, or odd. There’s no weird timbre. In fact, the timbre is almost spot-on realistic. The only thing keeping the SL224 from sounding perfectly organic is its faster and tighter transients. Other than that, the actual tone of this range is very natural. Now, those who enjoy that thick, weighted, and warm sound (I do from time to time) will likely not completely love the SL224. However, if you enjoy crystal clear vocals which sound like they are on a pedestal, and if you enjoy a prominent midrange which never fatigues, then I may have the set for you. Really, the timbre on this set is absolutely awesome.

Technical Beast​

I should also add that the midrange is effortlessly detailed friends. I mean airy, open, very discernable note separation, razor sharp transients. Every last little inflection sounds clearly contoured. Every percussive beat has a snap, every string has a well-defined edge, every last piano key sounds tuneful and harmonious and every harmonic can be heard (albeit somewhat cut-off). No doubt about it, the Sliivo SL224 can stand next to the best this range has to offer with detail retrieval. The only “better” detailed sets will be ridiculously tuned with forced resolution and sound nowhere near as authentic as the SL224. I also find that the midrange has near perfect imaging and the SL224 provides a very multi-layered approach with great depth of field. I guess what I’m trying to say is that the SL224 is a technical beast. Despite that last sentence, the SL224 is almost sneaky in its abilities. You usually don’t hear such timbre on a set which carries such nice retrieval of details.

Lower-Midrange​

The lower-mids are definitely one area where you will either enjoy them, or not. I know so many people who need that bass warmth to add weight to the sound. In fact, I love many sets which have that structured and controlled bleed into the midrange. However, the SL224 doesn’t do that. In truth, the SL224 instead relies on its clean approach to accentuate this region. Males for instance sound nicely highlighted with a certain crispness to them. Instruments too. However, males also generally sound fairly smooth too. I’ve actually been nothing but impressed by male vocalists. No, they don’t have the authoritative body that some may want to hear, but males do have that nice density and a certain rigid quality to them which clearly punctuates every last inflection. Tracks like “Travelin’ Soldier” by the accopella group Home Free are absolutely awesome folks. My word the sound is so bold, so clear, so clean and so vivid with the SL224 in my ears. Every singer in this track comes across so well accentuated that it almost feels like they’re next to me. Okay, I may have gone a hair too far with that, but you get the idea. Instrumentation walks the same line, albeit a hair behind the voices (depending on the recording). It’s rare that I say I adore male vocals which don’t have that weighted warmth and fullness, but this is certainly one of those rare times.

Upper-Midrange​

Now, the upper-mids are without question even more forward, more sparkly, more shimmery, and female vocalists come across even more embossed and bold. The pinna rise is not heavily emphasized with a long and gradual uphill climb to its peak which helps this set to never feel peaky, glaring, or shouty. Myer Audio had the presence of mind and understanding to not make a steep sudden rise. I’m telling you folks, the tuning is really spectacular for this “style” of tuning. Females sound so gorgeous friends. Listen to the track “I Don’t Like The World Without You” by Caitlyn Smith. Her voice cuts right through everything without sounding aggressive. Every intonation, every change of pitch, every last articulation of her voice is melodic, it’s mellifluous, and it all comes across with wonderful clarity and resolution. Also, I don’t find the upper-mids to be thin at all. Like I said earlier, the midrange has a certain moist quality to it and you can hear that in every female artist. Notes have that rounded feel to them. There’s depth to the notes in this region. There’s body, there’s lean density, there’s solid contour, yet everything comes across smooth, balanced, even, and harmonious. I love females on this set. I love instruments on this set too. Also, whether it be a feather soft female voice, or a resounding symphonic display; the SL224 captures the emotion in that song, every time.

Downsides to the Midrange​

Just like the bass, I hate to say anything here. However, nothing is perfect and most certainly there are issues which will arise for someone. One of those issues may be the lack of real warmth and traditionally weighted note body. Let’s put it this way; there’s no real bass bleed and so you won’t have any of that organic warmth spilling over into this region. The SL224 doesn’t have an earthy sound. Like I said, transients move along speedily, they’re tight, with a fast-twitch response. So, the midrange is not going to come across naturally, in the traditional “mostly agreed upon” way. If I were to reach for another downside, I could say that some warm and dark lovers may have some issues with the pinna rise. Maybe they will feel there is too much shout. Now, I honestly feel those people would need to be the most sensitive people on earth, but they may exist. Beyond those things, I don’t see any other issues, especially at $269.

Treble Region ​

Now we get to one of the better qualities of this set. That being the awesome treble replay. Truly an airy, very open sound which has plenty of sparkle and just enough brilliance without going over the top. I adore the way the SL224 precisely separates every note, every instrument, every voice, and then places them perfectly throughout the stage with awesome spatiality. It’s a layered sound up top folks, brought on by not one, not two, but four micro planars. Here’s the kicker; Myer Audio tuned this treble in a very natural way with fantastic timbre and fantastic note integrity. In other words, the SL224’s treble is tuned using planar drivers, yet it doesn’t have weird timbre. Who’da thunk it? It’s a very highly skilled treble region which cohesively maintains those rapid-fire fast transients leading to very good detail retrieval and a keen ability to take on any track no matter how complicated it may be at this cost. The treble is one which will not cause fatigue, it won’t go over the top and sound piercing, or make you want to turn the volume down. As I said, the emphasis is not boosted to the stars here. There’s almost a linear path from the upper-mids through to the upper treble and the sound has such a sweet and melodic quality to it within this region.

Treble Punch! ​

The SL224’s treble also carries that satisfying treble bite. There’s that seductive edge to treble notes which helps to distinctly define those notes all the while remaining smoothly rendered as a whole. I like how the treble is crisp, without being “too crisp”. It has that edge, without sounding abrasive. There’s that nice transient treble punch on attack, while holding tight to that natural tone. I really enjoy how well Myer Audio was able to bring these four planar drivers together in such a timbre friendly way while also doing so with just enough dynamic energy. Nothing sounds wonky, uneven, or disjointed, and nothing sounds tizzy or metallic either. As honest as I can be, the treble sounds almost like a good EST driver, in a sense. Perhaps not as exact as a good EST, but very close and great for the cost. I think four micro planars splitting up this region was a great choice.

Speed​

Another aspect of the treble which brings a smile to my face is the speed of this region. I like when I happen upon one of those super intricate tracks which have those more complicated treble displays. Tracks like “Sons of Winter and Stars” by Wintersun. I mean, every last subtle chime and tinsley treble moment is caught in fine clarity with the SL224. Other tracks like “Evil Twin” by the wildly talented Lindsey Stirling focuses on her violin play and the SL224 seems made for such instruments. I adore the silvery and edgy sound which never goes abrasive but keeps every note intact, separated, and with solid timbre quality. Every in & out, up & down, undulant and rippling note is precisely accounted for with the SL224. You’ll hear every last texture to each note with this set along with such a nicely layered crispness etching the borders of each note. Really well done. Nothing is missed, nothing sounds blended, nothing sounds splashy, nothing seems to be too complicated, that I’ve heard anyways. Friends, I have a long list of treble tracks in my treble playlist and the SL224 really doesn’t have an issue with any of them. While I’d say that more expensive sets with even better drivers may define each sound better and with even more of a precise attack through decay, I cannot help but be impressed at what the SL224 can do up top.

Extension​

I also really do like the extension up top folks. However, any set can sound well extended, it’s the good quality treble sets which actually keep a somewhat natural timbre while sounding extended. This is the hard part. Coincidentally, it’s usually one of the most difficult tasks for a planar. That is, to sound natural. So often that is the big rebuke against planars. As real as I can be, the Myer Audio Sliivo SL224 holds some very well-articulated and clean treble with that good extension up top without coming across splashy or a mishmash of treble tizz. Usually, we note cymbals for examples of upper treble reach. However, it’s really the secondary harmonics, or the overtones of a cymbal strike which reach out past 8-10k. I like that the SL224 carries out the sound of a cymbal or a hi-hat with what I consider a good note body and then decays with just enough of a trail. Like I’ve said, transients are by-and-large pretty tidy on the SL224, but I don’t feel that the harmonics on most cymbal strikes are clipped or cut off. Violin is another instrument that the SL224 clearly replays very nicely into the upper treble. Another track is “Magnetic Fields Pt. 1” by Jean Michel Jarre which shows off his crazy ability to create trippy weird music with his electronic synthesizers, electronic organ and so forth. However, it’s how the SL224 takes every last tightly tailored note and exactly replays those notes with clean-lined precision. Spectogram analysis shows quite a bit of upper treble reverb and echo on this track. Nothing sounds odd to my ears. The SL224 does a great job of reaching out and coherently replaying quite a lot of info past 10k. No doubt this helps to create a psycho-acoustic sound field stretching, adding width to the overall stage.

Downsides to the Treble Region ​

I’d say that anyone who enjoys a darker treble will probably not have a good time with the SL224 in their ears. Plenty of folks much more desire a set which has that ultra non-offensive style treble with a cool roll-off and nothing even approaching anything bright or brilliant. Now, I happen to find the SL224 barely bright and just brilliant enough to carry authentic sounding treble with what I’d call good energy up top. You see, Myer Audio didn’t have to load this set with super bright forced resolution to draw out details or to come across energetic or lively. What they did was they used solid drivers and a smart tuning. No doubt the treble region is one of the areas of focus on this set, but it’s so well balanced across the mix that it never sounds overwhelming to my ears. However, there will most definitely be plenty of folks who feel that the emphasis is a problem. Before I leave this section, I just want to state that even pure treble heads may just enjoy this set. I can tell you it’s a quality treble for the cost and does a good job of adding that cherry in the top style treble with plenty of controlled vibrance, clean sparkle, while never truly coming across fatiguing. At least for me.

Technicalities​

Soundstage​

I gotta tell you all, the Myer Audio Sliivo SL224 really does have a great stage. I’d like to say it’s one of its better qualities. No question the stage has above average width, probably above average height (debatable), but also very solid depth. In fact, to my ears the depth really helps to layer the sound field nicely. It adds such a nice holographic feel to my music. I have so many tracks which are actually recorded well and feature that discernable front to back positioning. Not all tracks are recorded the same, but the Sliivo SL224 easily represents each recording very well. This set has a lot of good air, good front to back depth, and it has that deep pitched sublevel rumble along with solid macro-dynamics. These qualities just make the sound come across bigger, seemingly better dimensioned, more chasmic when a recording presents such a thing. Honestly, with in-ear monitors the stage is never going to sound so out of this world large or stadium-like. You can only get so vast. However, it’s nice to have a set which gives you that 3D image of the sound field which just adds a nice element to your listening sessions.

Separation / Imaging ​

Another great quality of the Myer Audio Sliivo SL224 is its keen ability to separate elements of an imaginary stage in a very distinct and lucid way. As I’ve said, the SL224 has that nice balance of the spectrum, great left to right width and front to back depth, no masking, tight transients, along with plenty of note separating air and openness while also coming across with a high level of resolution. Add to that every note is well articulated, transparency is high, black enough background etc. It has all the trappings of a set which can coherently & evidently distinguish each note well. For the most part. Imaging follows suit to the tee folks. There was never a moment that I felt I couldn’t easily place instruments and vocals within a stage. Nothing floating around in my head. All is where it should be. Imaging on any iem at any price is something which is considered good, or not good. No gray area there. Also, a set can only get “so good”. The iem either replays what a track asks of it, or it doesn’t. I can tell you that the SL224 seems to be able to place instruments very well. Very impressive.

Detail Retrieval ​

You’d probably guess that I’m about to say that the Sliivo SL224 is most certainly a detail-oriented set. Oddly enough you’d be 100% right. For all the reasons that the SL224 is able to separate elements of the stage that I listed above, are the exact reasons as to why it is able to draw out every last bit of minutiae within my music. This tuning has such a clean and revealing nature and there’s simply nothing to consistently mask any sounds. Nothing is so forward, nothing is so peaky, nothing is so booming, and nothing creates a veil. Every last little breath, every lip smack, every hollering fan in your favorite live track, every harmonic, string pull, finger slide… they all show up with relative ease. It’s very easy to pick out subtle details with this set friends. The bonus with the SL224 is that Myer Audio didn’t have to tune the SL224 so analytically based. Remember, this set has a very musically inclined sound too. This isn’t just a clinical or dry sound. There’s a ton of smoothness with this set, fluidity, and it definitely carries a rhythmic style sound on top of being a technically gifted set. It’s not an easy balance to create.

Comparisons​

Dunu X-Gizaudio DaVinci / Myer Audio Sliivo SL224 / Myer Audio CKLVX D62​

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Myer Audio CKLVX D62 ($200)​

I figured it would only make sense to add in the Myer Audio CKLVX D62 as a comparison tool against the Sliivo SL224. Anyways, I reviewed the D62 earlier this year (D62 Review) and had a great time doing so. It’s another high-quality tuning. Now, the D62 comes with a total of eight drivers. To be exact that’s two dynamic drivers and six balanced armature drivers. In my opinion the D62 is a set which simply didn’t get the fanfare it might have deserved, as it was definitely met with some naysayers. However, those who enjoy the D62 generally greatly enjoy the D62. Let’s check out some differences.

Non-Sound Stuff

First off, both sets are ultimately crafted and created under the Myer Audio umbrella| and both sets offer a nice unboxing experience. I honestly couldn’t choose which set has a better unboxing either as both offer similar accessories. Both have a very nice modular cable, solid eartips and both have a cylindrical carrying case. Myer Audio knows how to put together a nice unboxing folks. So, both sets are made out of a resin base material. Both built relatively too. I do think that the SL224 has an edge in build quality though. What’s cool is that both iems have very unique faceplates. The D62 has a stabilized wood faceplate and the SL224 has its beautiful shellfish faceplates. I happen to think they both look dope, but the SL224 is pretty much unparalleled in its beauty. I find the fit and ergonomics of the newer SL224 to be better for me. It just hugs my ears better. Beyond cosmetics, the SL224 has an MSRP of around $269 while the D62 is around $236. So, keep that in mind.

Sound Differences​

All in all, these two sets aren’t worlds apart tuning-wise. They are actually quite similar in many ways. I think the defining difference is that the SL224 is more refined across the board. To my ears, the SL224 simply has better musicality, and it’s more engaging. The D62 does have a strong analytical foundation and comes across a hair dryer, less rich sounding. Also, the SL224 has a much less fatiguing sound, less shout, less glare. While the D62 can exhibit some glare from time to time. The SL224 has a slightly warmer take on the spectrum while the D62 leans a hair brighter.

Each 3rd of the mix​

Most certainly the SL224 reaches deeper into the sub-bass with a more robust rumble along with a tighter and better-defined bass altogether. However, neither set is a big bass thumper. Both sets have a more snappy and punchy bass. Both sets also have a more forward midrange. That said, the SL224 most certainly comes across less edgy, smoother, more melodic, with a more rhythmic quality. It’s better at drawing out the emotion in a track. Of course, both sets have a highly detailed midrange, excellent separation, and spot-on imaging. The D62 will fall more in line with folks who desire a more analytical sound. Also, the D62 definitely gets brighter and slightly more fatiguing towards the pinna rise whereas the SL224 has a more measured, balanced, and engaging approach. Now, the treble of both sets is great. But the SL224’s micro planars are without a doubt more skilled. They have better clean note bite, treble punch, they’re smoother, and extension into the upper treble is better, all the while it is also much less offensive and peaky. No doubt the D62 has a very well done treble for fans of a brighter and highly detailed treble. Though the SL224 has all the same details and is just as transparent without the need to oversaturate this region. Again, detail retrieval of both sets is top notch. Maybe the D62 has a slight edge, but I’m not going on record with that. Both are awesome. Imaging is also great on both, but the SL224 has a more layered sound. Separation is close. Maybe the slightly more analytical and dryer sounding D62 has an edge, but both are fantastic. When it comes to the stage, the SL224 wins hands-down. More holographic, better depth, wider too.

Final thoughts on this comparison ​

I’ll just come right out with it, the Myer Audio Sliivo SL224 is the better set for me. I’m saying that but I actually really like the D62. However, the tuning on the SL224 is simply better across the board friends. Now, if you are a bright head and love being pushed right to the brink of comfort (there are many who love this) then the D62 may just be your jam. Having said that, the SL224 is truly a top five set at its price point in my opinion and the D62 is not. Yes, the SL224 is more costly, but I think the price increase is more than justified.

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Dunu X-Gizaudio DaVinci ($299)​

This brings us to one of my absolute favorite iems under $300 in the Dunu X-Gizaudio DaVinci. I featured the DaVinci about a year ago (DaVinci Review) and was completely enamored with its wonderfully organic and musical sound. At any rate, the DaVinci is a six-driver hybrid iem consisting of two dynamic drivers and four balanced armature drivers and is one of the better tuned meta style warm/musical sets anywhere near the price of $300. If you are in the market for a set which carries these characteristics, then you may want to check out mine (link above) or someone else’s review of this set. With all that said, these two iems are very different. I conduct comparisons not to crown one set better than the other, but rather to help explain the set I’m featuring. Hopefully I can do that as we head into some of the differences.

Non-Sound Stuff​

First off, the SL224 has a very good unboxing experience, but it’s got nothing on the DaVinci. Dunu dressed this set to the nines with all good accessories and one of the most gorgeous box art and unboxing’s within its price point. Please don’t think I’m saying the SL224’s is not good either because I feel it’s unboxing is great as well. However, the Dunu modular cable is seemingly a hair better and the eartips which come packaged are probably a hair better too. Now, the build is about equal as both sets offer a resin build. Both feel and look very durable and very well made. As far as design goes, I don’t know which I like better, though I tend to lean SL224. The DaVinci was made with a stabilized maple wood faceplate and as we know the SL224 is made using shellfish. Now, the DaVinci’s MSRP is about $30 more and so that is something to consider.

Sound Differences ​

Now, these two sets are very different tonality wise. The DaVinci is certainly warmer, even smoother, less precise, while the SL224 has good musicality but it’s also much better technically. That’s not to say the DaVinci isn’t technically a solid set or that the SL224 lacks musicality. However, one is certainly better than the other in both disciplines. I find the DaVinci definitely has the more organic, earthy, and atmospheric sound. While the SL224 has much tighter transients, more transparent, better resolution throughout and there’s more crispness to its sound. The DaVinci veers warmer than anything else while the SL224 leans a hair brighter, more energetic. To my ears the SL224 has more expressive and vibrant dynamics, as well as easier to discern micro-dynamics. The DaVinci has that super rich, creamy, and totally inoffensive sound. While I don’t feel the SL224 is offensive at all, the DaVinci doesn’t have an offensive bone in its body.

Each 3rd of the mix​

Beginning with the bass, the DaVinci has a much more guttural and bullish low-end, more authoritative, more of a focus of this set. Yet it’s also much slower, closer to one-noted at times and less defined. The SL224 has a much cleaner low-end of higher quality, more mature. The midrange of both sets sits forward, great for vocalists, and both sets represent this area of the mix wonderfully. Just two different styles. Do you like creamy and rich, or semi-rich and highly detailed? Neither offer fatigue but both sound flat-out great for their respective styles. Now, the treble is the biggest disparity between the two as the SL224 is brighter, more clean-lined, more transparent, better note bite, better extended, and simply more energetic. The DaVinci has a very nice treble, yet it simply isn’t as resolute and is much smoother, more musical, less crisp, easier in the ears. As far as details goes the SL224 is an easy winner. Same for separation as well. However, both sets have very nice imaging though the SL224 really has no chance of masking from the bass while the DaVinci does at times, helping the SL224 to sound a bit better imaged. Both sets have a holographic style sound field, and both have a wider stage. That said, the SL224 certainly sounds more chasmic and it has better layering too.

Final thoughts on this comparison ​

Friends, I couldn’t be more split between these two. My comparison probably reads that the SL224 is the better set but hold on a minute. There are qualities of the DaVinci which the SL224 simply cannot match. That bullish bass, the smoothness, the richness, the musically inclined sound. In the same breath the SL224 hits right back as it can do things the DaVinci simply cannot do. Much better detailed, cleaner, much better transparency, higher resolution. In truth, these two iems contrast each other very well and are perfect sets for any collection depending on your mood. That’s how it is for me. I love them both for different reasons. Both high quality iems for their respective target sound and both are built very well, designed beautifully, and both sets have awesome accessories. More importantly, both sets offer great price to performance.

Final thoughts on the Myer Audio Sliivo SL224 ​

Well folks, what can I say? Once again, I chose to review a banger of a set which undoubtedly will capture the hearts of many listeners. The Myer Audio Sliivo SL224 is without question one of the most skilled and well-tuned iems that I’ve come across under $300 with this particular target sound. Friends, from the moment I put the SL224 into my ears I knew that I was definitely going to review this set and even more, so I was definitely going to love this set. That said, I feel that the SL224’s biggest issue hasn’t got anything to do with how great it is. I feel its greatest issue is with the iems price around it. Think of the $200 to $300 price point! My word this range is loaded with fantastic iems. I could list off sets for a very long time. Just going through possible comparisons for this review was daunting, to say the least. There’s so many! However, in the beginning of this review (somewhere) I said that the SL224 is (in my opinion) a top five set within its range. Folks, I have many of those solid sets. I own them. I went through and listened for a long time between them all. Just for fun. I kept coming back to the same conclusion; the Sliivo SL224 is one of the best iems within this bracket. The tuning is simply awesome. Now, will you feel the same way? I of course cannot answer that. This is why I say that “per its target” the SL224 is one of the best… in my humble opinion. My opinion is not yours and I understand that. This is why my reviews are so crazy long trying to explain what I hear. To hopefully help you to decide if it is right for you or not. Still, in my opinion Myer Audio crafted and created one helluva iem and it is definitely not one to miss out on.

Why I like this set…​

Because the SL224 is accessorized extremely well. From the tips, to the carrying case, to the awesome modular cable, they are all awesome. The tips actually make sense for the set (go figure). I love what Myer Audio did here. Also, that cable is absolutely gorgeous. A little bit ago I remarked that the DaVinci cable was a hair better. Well, now that I’m holding them both I’m starting to consider it a wash. That’s saying something. Also, the build and design is almost second to none folks. Let me ask you, who in the world would think to use Shellfish as a faceplate design? Who does that?! I know who… Myer Audio! The look is simply stellar. The fit is stellar too. I really cannot speak highly enough about this set in relation to its cost. But man, the sound is where the SL224 seems to separate itself from the pack. I’m not saying it’s worlds above any other set. I’d even say that the tuning isn’t even one of my favorite styles of tuning. However, I’m definitely saying that the SL224 is very clearly a well-tuned iem per the target that Myer Audio was shooting for. Does this mean that it will be universally praised? Absolutely not. I think there are many people within the hobby who won’t “enjoy” this set. Though I’d hope that those people could at least conclude that the SL224 is a solidly tuned iem in regard to its tuning. On the flip side, there are many more who I feel will find the Sliivo SL224 to be a spectacular purchase.

Just right! ​

The SL224 has that hard, tight, and versatile low-end that meanders through any bassline no matter the complexity. No it isn’t the most emphasized or bulbous, but it punches hard with a clean attack and a natural decay. Let’s put it this way; the low-end has enough gusto to play nice with most any genre. Also, the midrange is very melodic, with a very fluid rhythmic quality and a moist semi-rich note body which is just as musical as it is technically astute. Also, the timbre in this range is great for such a precise transient style. Very close to natural. Vocalists shine on this set, forward yet no to a fault. Instruments have all the shimmer and clean edged crispness they need, and the SL224 does a very nice job of creating a seemingly 3D sound field. Really a very nice midrange which never seeks to offend, nothing abrasive, nothing metallic or glaring. It’s clean. Then it has a treble which is highly skilled, highly detailed, great treble timbre, nice exactness to every note, all the while it holds onto a certain clean-lined smoothness. I love that the treble isn’t too emphasized as well. Almost as though it’s just right. Again, the SL224 has nice detail retrieval, it’s open sounding, great note separation, clearly stellar imaging capabilities, and the sound comes across as multi-layered and close to holographic in a very psycho-acoustic way.

Detractors​

Having said that, the SL224 will have its detractors. Not everyone desires a set which doesn’t have that meaty boom. Many folks much more desire a bass region which does spill over into the mids in a measured fashion. I can tell you that I prefer that. I usually don’t go for crystal clear low-mids and I usually want a more authoritative and robust male vocal. Also, those folks who want an even darker sound and who detest any brightness at all will also likely feel that I’m out of my mind for praising the SL224 so much. I get it too. It’s all debatable folks. This hobby is 100% about subjective thoughts, subjective ideals, and it’s our subjective standards which is the true deciding factor of how good anything is in this hobby… subjectively. So of course, this set is not going to be adored by everyone. Like any set. However, as I said earlier, I’m sure that many more people will hear exactly what I hear. At any rate, I cannot leave this section without proclaiming that I most certainly recommend the Myer Audio Sliivo SL224. Easy rec at $269.

7 Months Later

Remember, this is an older review originally published way back in September of 2025. Mobileaudiophile.com was going through site maintenance and I wasn’t able to upload and publish. So, I simply published to Head-fi and forgot about it. Well, I figured that now is as good a time as any to bring this one back and rightfully publish this review where it was supposed to go. That is, to MBA. The good thing is that I get to do a quick update on this set after spending 7 MONTHS with the SL224 in my rotation. Basically, nothing’s changed, other than the SL224 sounding much punchier and it has a more grippy bass now. Don’t ever let anyone tell you that earphones can’t change their sound to slight degrees over time. They certainly can, of course. Anyways, the SL224 seems to have only gotten better for me with an even more cohesive sound. No doubt I’ve brought this set everywhere with me (along with about 20 others). Over time I’ve changed tips, passively modified this set, brought it back to its original form, and logged a ton of time with the SL224 in my ears. I know that the hobby has already forgotten about the SL224 but for an under $300 iem I’d say that it is truly one of the unsung iems which should get a whole lot more attention. That all said, the Myer Audio Sliivo SL224 is still a very solid iem and should be on your short list if the signature sounds like it fits your preferences. 

Genres

As with any and all reviews, I try to provide at least some overview of how each iem sounds with certain genres per my subjective preferences. That’s all that I can do. It is up to you to decipher what that means to you. Truth is, we “reviewers” get a hair too black and white when it comes to what we “subjectively” deem is good or bad when speaking on genres and how a certain set will sound with those genres. It’s almost funny. But it isn’t. To be honest, in every last genre that I tell you will sound great with the SL224, there are going to be some tracks which aren’t so great. On the flip, with worser genres for the SL224 I guarantee that I can find some amazing tracks in those genres. I always say, don’t take my words as a grain of salt, but definitely question them. Which you should be doing all the time. Actually, question every last reviewer that you read, watch, or listen to. I wish I could scream this from the mountain tops at you all with a long abounding echo. I’d say “Reviewers barely know what they are talking about and really don’t ever speak for you!!!…. EVER!!!” LOL. I wouldn’t add the “LOL” at the end. Lol. Anyways, here are “my” thoughts on what “I” hear as far as genres go with the Sliivo SL224. 

Better Genres With the SL224 

I’d almost say that the SL224 is an all-rounder style, it’s close too. The one thing which keeps this set from all-rounder status is the slight lack of sublevel weight and mid-bass authority. I hate to say that because the bass is awesome. However, to start, I generally love Metal with this set. The speed is nice, punch is tangible, awesome separation too, metal is typically great. I said “typically” as some of the brighter riffs can get a hair bright but mostly amazing with this set. Any type of Rock music, Classic Rock (100%), Progressive stuff, Alternative too, it all sounds awesome. The SL224 has that big and spacious stage, clean lines, solid note separation, and again that punchy dense rhythm simply works. Anything intimately Acoustic or any Vocal centered genres. Stuff like Singer-Songwriter, Folk too, they all sound fantastic for me. Voices are so well captured, present, semi-rich but focused weight and clarity, and crisp, without coming across edgy. Ooh, any Pop music. Seriously, it works. That leads to Country music as well. I won’t go any further (you get the gist), but I do want to point out that Jazz usually always comes across well on the SL224 too. It has the timbral clarity, those nice sparkly cymbals, and clean articulation of complex passages. Really nice. 

Worser genres on the SL224 

I’d say that true heavy bass EDM fans are not going to find the SL224 perfect for them. I don’t quite feel that way because of the speed of the lows and the bass is heavy enough for me, but I totally understand anyone who wouldn’t be good with this set in that regard. The same goes for heavy bass Hip-Hop or Rap. Again, those bass drops have density and punch with a nice force to them, but they certainly aren’t basshead, and they aren’t the focus of this tuning. So, probably not perfect. Honestly, those are two examples that I feel wouldn’t work perfect for me. Granted, I have so many Hip-Hop tracks that come across amazing. So, try to read between the lines on this one. Audio is a gray world folks, there’s nothing black or white about it. It’s all subjective my friends. I hope this helps, but it probably doesn’t.

Conclusion​

To conclude my full review and feature of the Myer Audio Sliivo SL224, I first have to thank the people of Myer Audio for providing the SL224 in exchange for a full review of this product. Thank you very much. As always, this review features my authentic veiw of this product. I only review what I enjoy, or what I feel that a large sect of the community will enjoy, whether I like it or not. It was instantly apparent to me that this was most definitely a set that I would enjoy going through the process with. Myer Audio did a great job. However, I would never have the opportunity to review such a set without them, so thank you. I also thank you, the reader for taking your precious time to read any of the words that I’ve written today. I cannot thank you enough. It is you who matters most and it’s you who helps our website thrive. So, thank you.

Other Perspectives ​

As always, I end my review by asking you to please go and check out other perspectives regarding this set. I say this because each and every one of us is different friends. We all have our own individual likes and dislikes. It doesn’t matter how experienced a reviewer is or how “golden” his ears are; but if it doesn’t align with each of our particular tastes, then his golden ears don’t matter very much. The point is that we are all different and that goes for reviewers. Just because I enjoy the Myer Audio Sliivo SL224 doesn’t mean the next guy will. And guess what… we are both correct. This is a hobby where everyone is always right 100% of the time concerning sound quality. Anyways, we don’t all hear the same, we have different music libraries, we possibly enjoy different genres, we don’t all have the same gear to replay our music, and also, not everyone has been down the same road in audio. We are on different paths, different levels, and we are simply different. So, take some time to take in other perspectives as I feel it will only help you in your journey. Okay, with that I’m definitely done everyone. So, take good care, stay as safe as possible and always… God Bless!!

SL224 Pros

-My word this is a nicely done all-resin set

-The design is flat-out beautiful 

-All accessories are good accessories 

-That modular cable is awesome

-Very nicely tuned mix of fun and maturity

-Very nice balance of smooth musicality and crispness 

-Fantastic bass speed, agility, depth, and texture, w/ a resolving & controlled haptic rumble

-Very clean midrange, fantastic presence, great for vocalists, exceptional clarity

-Snappy treble with nice treble bite. I love the semi brilliant yet non-fatiguing style, extremely transparent and resolute

-Highly detailed listen

-Imaging is spot-on

-Multi-layered experience

SL224 Cons

-The SL224 may be a hair large for some people

-Slightly dry sound character

-Some folks may desire a warmer, more bass heavy sound, not for bassheads

-Treble may be a hair too energetic for some folks as well, especially hotter mixes up top