NF Audio, now rebranded as NFACOUS, has been making waves in the IEM market, and their latest model, NA2: Metal, aims to lift up the brand’s reputation. Given the success of the NM2 model, expectations for NA2: Metal are naturally high. Can it meet these expectations? Let’s find out.,
Disclaimer
This IEM was sent by NFACOUS to AG Türkiye and will be part of a nationwide tour after my testing. Thanks to both for the opportunity.
SOUND ANALYSIS
Bass
The bass presentation in NA2: Metal is tight and well-controlled, leaning towards a more analytical rather than a punchy or bloated character. Sub-bass extension is there, but it doesn’t dominate the mix. Tracks like We Can Make the World Stop highlight how the bass stays articulate even at higher volumes, never bleeding into the mids. However, for those who love a deep, rumbling low end, this IEM might feel a bit reserved.
Moving into metal territory, Metallica – Turn the Page showcases excellent bass layering, with bass guitar and kick drums being precise rather than overwhelming. While the impact is clean, the bass doesn’t bring the kind of chest-thumping thump that some listeners may desire. This is a trade-off between technical accuracy and raw power.
Midrange
The midrange is crisp, clear, and highly detailed, with vocals and instrument separation being standout qualities. Vocals in The Revivalists – All My Friends come through with great clarity, and the slight lift in the upper mids gives them a forward presence.
However, James Hetfield’s vocals in Enter Sandman felt a bit recessed compared to other instruments, leading to a slightly lean vocal presentation. This might be due to the mastering of the track, but it’s worth noting that not all tracks exhibit this. For instance, Avenged Sevenfold – Hail to the King didn’t have this issue, suggesting that the balance depends on the recording and source.
When it comes to guitars, Die, Die My Darling delivers a mix of analytical and musical qualities, making power chords, rhythm sections, and melodic solos stand out with great detail. If you like hearing every nuance in your metal tracks, NA2: Metal delivers.
Treble
Treble extension is airy and detailed, with a natural sparkle that avoids excessive sharpness. Cymbals and high hats in Metallica tracks sound well-placed and realistic, without becoming sibilant.
One of the highlights of this IEM is its soundstage height and width, which give the treble room to breathe. Listening to My Chemical Romance – The Black Parade, I could easily pinpoint the Queen-like harmonies and layered guitar work, thanks to the impressive treble separation.
However, if you’re sensitive to upper treble, NA2: Metal may feel a bit too revealing, especially in metal and rock recordings with aggressive high-end mixing. For those who enjoy a brighter, airy presentation, this will be a welcome trait.
PROS & CONS
✅ Pros:
• Excellent instrument separation and clarity
• Tight, controlled bass that avoids bloat
• Expansive soundstage with height and width
• Great treble extension with realistic decay
• Upper mids provide a clean, articulate vocal presentation
❌ Cons:
• Lacks the deep, powerful bass impact that some metal listeners prefer
• Vocals can sound slightly recessed in certain tracks
• Treble might be too bright for those sensitive to upper frequencies
CONCLUSION of NFACOUS NA2: Metal REViEW
NFACOUS NA2: Metal delivers an articulate, detailed, and technically proficient sound, making it a solid choice for metal and rock fans who appreciate clarity over raw bass power.
The soundstage is immersive, allowing layered guitar riffs, punchy drum fills, and intricate vocal harmonies to shine. If you’re looking for a bass-heavy, thumping IEM, this may not be the best pick—but if you prefer a refined, airy presentation with excellent separation, it’s hard to go wrong with NFACOUS NA2: Metal.
For metalheads who love dissecting each instrument in a mix, this IEM does a fantastic job without overwhelming the ears with unnecessary warmth or muddiness. A worthy addition to NFACOUS’s lineup, after NM20.