Shuoer S12 vs Salnotes Dioko below.
Here we have 2 recent planar iems in front of me. One is slightly aged (but champ in my 3VS of Planar iems + regarded pretty good for its price) Shuoer S12 $150, other is the fresh released Salnotes Dioko $99 with its sapphire and light reflecting backplate.
Shape: Dioko is very reminiscent of its father Timeless $200. However the cable looks and feels stronger. It is apparent from the photo too. While s12 has 2 lines of multi braided cable, Dioko has 3 but is slimmer. I will decide after AB with their cables.
These were only looks. But real world usage is different. S12 is generally reported as comfortable in the ear. And Dioko too as well as its father Timeless is. Furthermore the outer circle looks smaller. While Timeless is a perfect circle, Dioko is more like elyptic shaped. Even though the intimating sphere shape outer plate, inner casing is not invasive and overall volume is lesser than p1 MAX (thus comfort is higher for #smalleargang)
Sound
Dioko and S12 will be named as D and S in this comparison
D’s on stage live transparency is higher than S. Basses are more controlled at D. Vibrato and it’s resonances are more natural in S.. Extensions are fast in D and live layering separation is better than average in D too. But S has authority and slightly better extensions. However dynamics are having a hard time in D; instruments are struggling for a vivid soundscape in live smooth jazz. S is like built for the clarinet at Limehouse Blues.
Presentation is somewhat laid back at Polyphia – Playing God. D’s guitar separation is lower than S and the drummer’s kicks do not sound strong at D. In S they can vibrate you while layer separating between crossover and the bass guitar.
S12 vs Dioko Conclusions
And at the end of the VS of S and D, it seems that the eternal rule is still valid; You always get what you paid for. Even though there might be small variances in prices, S with a price of $150 is %50 better than D with 99$ price.
D can be considered as a wonderful buttery entry to the planar iem scene. But S is for serious bangers with some power.
Shuoer S12 vs Salnotes Dioko
