Simgot EM6L Review
“Phoenix”
Intro
Hello, today I am reviewing one of Simgot Audio‘s latest hybrid iems to grace the market, the “Simgot EM6L”. The EM6L was released around the 3rd quarter of 2023 and so once again I am pulling in the rear with a post-hype review. As I said, the EM6L is a hybrid iem with a 1DD +4BA driver configuration with an MSRP of $109. Now, I have seen some sales from time to time as well, but it has held its value nicely. As one would expect from a Simgot product. Simgot has become pretty famous of late within the audio community for developing some wonderful single DD and single DD + passive radiator (PR) sets. There has been nothing crafted by this company within the last two years that hasn’t been enveloped in an outpouring of praise. For the most part anyways.
Special brand
I actually just completed a review of their budget ($40) single dynamic driver set, the Simgot EW200 (EW200 Review) which was extremely positive. Really a fantastic budget iem which is well worth the money and a personal recommendation. Prior to that review I also reviewed the Simgot EA500 (EA500 Review) last year as well and again I gave it very high marks. Surely one of the best single DDs in its price point. At the moment I am in the process of listening to the Simgot EA1000 as well as the Simgot EA500LM (follow up to the EA500) and will publish those reviews soon. Again, both of those sets are top class in their price segments. Friends, Simgot is a company which doesn’t set out to just make a dollar. This is a brand who seeks to artistically craft iems which are surely poised to become statement pieces. Folks, one thing which differentiates Simgot from other brands is that they put to market “completed” products. From the packaging/unboxing, the design/build, to the sound quality, this is a brand that doesn’t take shortcuts. Every angle of their iems are carefully envisioned, executed, and accomplished with purpose and focused intent. I am completely comfortable speaking of this brand so highly. Call it hype, call it whatever you want folks. I’m okay with that.
Price bracket busters
Still, the EM6L has a pretty large uphill climb folks. There is a vast amount of quality iems ‘at’ or ‘around’ $100. Heck, there are fantastic sets under $100 that compete very well for our hobbyist dollar. One thing going against them is that Simgot isn’t known for their hybrid iems. Yes they’ve created some sets with added Passive Radiator’s but I’m referring to sets which make use of balanced armature drivers. On top of that, Simgot went through a spell of a couple years that we hadn’t heard much from the brand. They had some releases which didn’t seem to gain much attention. Then, out of nowhere they came out with true price bracket killers, one after the other. So, I honestly am not concerned with this talented brand’s ability to properly tune a hybrid set. That said, the price point I’m focused on is $75 to roughly $125. The EM6L has to find a way to be “set-apart”. I’m actually ready to go on this one folks. Let’s check out the Simgot EM6L…
Non-Affiliated Purchasing links
Disclaimer:
I received the Simgot EM6L from Simgot in exchange for a full review and feature at Mobileaudiophile.com. I have not received any payment or any other form of compensation for this review. This set is a sample iem. Simgot has not requested to pre-read any review and doesn’t have any control over “what” or “when” anything gets published to mobileaudiophile.com. All thoughts within this review are my own though please take note that I will always have my own biases. This is impossible to get around. I try to be as objective as my subjective self can be, but this is an opinion piece folks. Thank you to Simgot and thanks for reading.
EM6L Pros
-Design is simple but classy, very nice looking
-Subjectively, this set is very comfortable
-Very nice, smooth, and easy-going sound signature
-Very cohesive sound between drivers
-Good extension into the lowest of lows (sub-bass)
-Nice and full sounding bass, rich, full
-Midrange is smooth with nice note body
-Vocals are very pleasing, both male and female have good weight
-Nothing offensive about this sound to my ears
-Very forgiving treble region
-Even with less emphasized treble, details are still nice
-A very nice hybrid iem at its price
EM6L Cons
-Build quality doesn’t stack up against even lesser priced Simgot sets
-This easy going sound won’t be for everyone
-Bass isn’t the most defined or agile
-Slightly lacks dynamics across the mix
-Could use a bit more treble energy for some folks’ tastes
-I’d love that last little bit of upper-mid shimmer
-Resolution isn’t great, details suffer from smoother presence
-Complicated tracks may sound a bit more congested
Gear used for testing
–iBasso DX240 with Amp8 MK2
Packaging / Accessories
Unboxing
As always, Simgot provides a nice-looking box. It is all black with an artistic rendering of a Phoenix (made of fire) rising above mountains. It is a cool look. I know that about 10% of you care about any of this but Simgot puts care into every aspect of their design. From the box to the contents of that box, and to the earphones themselves. Nothing is ever done nonchalant with this brand. I absolutely love and respect this. They make sure every aspect of the product follows the theme they have designated, and the box and packaging follow this standard.
Once you open the box, lift the first layer and you’ll see the EM6L sitting pretty in some rigid foam cut-outs. Next to the earphones you’ll find the case within a box labeled “accessories”. You’ll also find the eartips and cable as well. I feel for just over $100 the package is fine. Nothing which will blow your mind or anything but fitting of the cost. Perhaps, one would expect a few more tips but honestly, Simgot once again did a fine job of adding a nice unboxing experience, albeit slightly short lived. Nice Simgot.
Eartips
Simgot provides three sets (S, M, L) of silicone eartips. These tips are of good quality and are a good set to have in your collection whether you use them with the EM6L or any other earphone. The included tips are actually mildly similar to the KBear 07 tips. Except the color is different and they have a slightly flimsier outside flange. They have roughly the same semi-wide bore, the same harder and more rigid stem, and are basically the same size. Again, the flange is a hint looser and flimsier, but they seal really well for me. These are nice tips that work well paired with the EM6L. Now, I’m sure some folks will have another type which subjectively fits their preferences a bit better, and I get that. Honestly, I didn’t have to tip roll a whole lot because I enjoyed what I was hearing out of these tips attached to the EM6L. It would have been nice to see some other style tips at $109, like a set of wide-bore shallow fit tips, but for what you are getting… I have zero complaints.
Carrying case
The carrying case is an average faux-leather zipper case that is actually a nice size for me. Like I’ve said a hundred times before, I don’t usually use a carrying case. I actually prefer pouches instead as they fit in my jean pockets easier. However, this case is of a good size for my uses. It is just big enough to comfortably hold a dongle dac and my earphones while also being able to sit in my pockets nicely. Of course, this is a good case to simply throw in a bag and not have to worry about hurting your precious earphones. It is a semi hard case, and the zipper actually works very well. It doesn’t get all stopped up and stuck like so many that I’ve received. The carrying case is a nice addition.
Cable
Simgot saw added in a decent cable for the purchase price of the EM6L. I have zero idea how many cores it has or it’s exact specs. I can tell you that the included cable is a QDC style 2-pin cable made of “high purity” (Simgot’s words) silver plated OFC copper wire and terminates in a 3.5 single ended jack. The cable fits the EM6L aesthetically. It’s nice enough. It works. I find the included cable sounds just fine in comparison to the many other cables I chose to also try out with this set. The included cable is semi beefy and doesn’t spring all over the place when it’s wound up. it’s slightly more rigid and from what I can remember it wasn’t microphonic to a fault either.
Cable swap
As always, I did swap cables for use with balanced sources. I actually decided upon the Kinera Leyding modular cable. I like the Leyding because the colors fit so perfectly attached to this set. It really is a nice match. Also, the Leyding seems to bring some added dynwmics to my ears. Of course, I’m probably dreaming that up. It probably has more to do with adding more juice listening on balanced. In the end the included cable is perfectly fine. The cable also looks nice with the EM6L. I do wish that there was an option for 4.4 at purchase.
Build / Design / Internals / Fit
Build Quality
Okay, you will all have to just hear me out here. Folks, have you seen some of the builds in recent Simgot iems? They’re next level! Look at the EA1000, EA500, EW200 even! Look at their other set, they are absolutely gorgeous! Top class build quality. Now we look at the EM6L and it probably isn’t to that standard. Simgot went with a resin shell and an aluminum alloy faceplate. It truly isn’t a bad build at all. In fact, if I never saw their other sets build quality, I may have more glowing word choices here. The EM6L uses a resin that is harder, thick, and they have a durable feeling in hand. The faceplates are a nice touch with a seamless placement covering the shells. Really it isn’t bad at all. However, I just got done reviewing the $40 EW200 and they are built like tanks folks. So, the resin is a bit of a departure from what we are used to. That’s it. It throws me off a bit. Still, Simgot created the same build quality we always see at this price and under and so it isn’t a bad thing at all.
Design
Now, I do like the look of this set. I like the colorway and I like the way the logo is presented on the faceplates. It is just a nice look for an iem of this cost. I like the darker theme and the more minimalist approach to the design. The EM6L has this mirror brown/dark gray tint on the faceplates that is really sharp looking. Simgot used an aluminum faceplate with a dark base color. You’ll notice the Simgot logo on the left earphone and a Phoenix (I’m assuming) on the right imprinted in a lighter shade which is a nice contrast. There isn’t anything which actually jumps out at me as premium per se, but the design is simply cool looking. I love that Simgot never seeks to bring something overly flashy or steampunk or weird to the table. They always keep it classy. Always simple but elegant and I can respect that.
3D-Printed Resin Housing&CNC Processed Faceplate
Simgot Promotional
Crafted to perfection, the finely textured resin housing serves as the cornerstone for unparalleled sound purity. Eliminating standing waves, it ensures every note resonates with flawless clarity. Adding to its allure, the CNC processed faceplate brings a touch of elegance and sophistication. Its mirror-like finish exudes a sense of refined artistry, making your audio journey an immersive experience.
Internals
Housed within the chassis of the EM6L is one customized 8mm high-polymer diaphragm dynamic driver in a dual cavity which handles the lows and a portion of the midrange. Simgot also added in four balanced armature drivers. One set of two handles the mid to highs and the other set handles the upper treble. They also made use of a crossover with what Simgot refers to as “Meticulously set crossover points for precise tuning techniques”. This certainly isn’t a setup we haven’t seen before but it is the first time in quite a while that Simgot has put to market this type of driver configuration. From my meager estimation I feel that Simgot included some quality drivers with respect to the price point and driver count.
Fit / isolation
This is one area that you don’t know how nice it is until you live with it for a while. I’m talking about fit and comfort. Of course, I am only talking about “my” fit and comfort with the EM6L so it may not be the same for you. Anyways, the fit is ridiculously good in my ears. This is one of those iems that seems to perfectly hug every curve of my ear with a perfect seal every time, no fiddling at all. Certainly, for me this is a huge “Pro” and something that really does add a better overall experience when listening to my music. Now, this should mean very little to you. Of course, we are all created with subtle differences and so obviously the fit may not be the same for you. Another area that is certainly above average is isolation, for whatever reason. It isn’t like this set isn’t vented or anything, but I get pretty darn nice isolation with this set in my ears. It certainly isn’t like ANC or anything but for passive isolation from outside noises…it’s pretty darn nice.
Drivability
The Simgot EM6L was crafted and created so that people like you and I could use this set with mobile sources and be able to drive this set fairly easily. With an impedance of 26 ohms (give or take) and a sensitivity of 119 db’s (give or take) the EM6L is really very easy to drive.
Mobile Listening
I have been testing each 2-pin set I get with the Fiio UTWS5 recently just because it only outputs roughly 38 db’s @32 ohms and so it is a good test source for lower powered devices. Ya the UTWS5 was way more than enough. I never even had to go above 50/100, and I listen on the louder side. However, that is just an around the house chore type source. Moving up to the IFi Go Blu which is about six times more powerful on balanced I was immediately impressed how well the EM6L seemed to scale. Perhaps it was the more accurate source, but this is on Bluetooth. The EM6L refined even further using the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus, but the pairing wasn’t perfect. The S9 Pro Plus is a hint warmer and so is the EM6L and so it wasn’t perfect. Nice, but not perfect for a mobile use. The dongle dac that stole the show and has been stealing my heart lately is the device I still have yet to review but will soon, the Aful Snowy Night. What a pair folks. The synergy just hit my palette in the sweetest of ways. The EM6L is a hair picky on source tonality so keep that in mind.
More juice, better source
I own two Daps that I consistently use for my reviews and those are the iBasso DX240 with Amp8 MK2 installed (ES9038Pro chip) and the Shanling M6 Ultra (AK4493SEQ flagship chip). The iBasso is a bit more neutral than the Shanling which has that velvet tonality. I found the EM6L came across cleaner and more open sounding with the DX240. I primarily listened on 4.4 balanced with medium gain enabled. Though I think low gain is plenty on devices with this much power. Let me just say that the M6 Ultra does sound very nice and I love the pair and listened quite a bit with these two together. However, the DX240 just meshed a bit better and it does make sense. One more thing, using more juice did seem to tighten the overall sound and add some more macro-dynamic expression to my music. Of course, the debate is, does this improvement come from more power or is it just a better and more audibly superior source. I tend to think it’s the latter in this situation but that is not always the case. Also, both daps have very low output impedance and almost 1W of power under the hood.
What do you need
All you truly need is a decent Dongle Dac. Preferably a closer to neutral sounding device. Unless of course you love a warmly weighted and thicker sound, in which case, use a warmer device. For me, I like to offset tonalities if I can. I’m not you though. As far as power requirements, you don’t need anything crazy powerful folks. I think a simple phone with a 3.5 single ended jack would drive this set fine.
Sound Impressions
One thing I was expecting (based on my time with Simgot products) was a set with a very clean delivery, close to neutral, punchy, hard edged, and very resolute sound. To my surprise, this set wasnt really anything like those descriptors. No sir. The EM6L is instead warm leaning with subtle hints of neutrality, smooth, lusher weighted, spritzes of brightness with a non-offensive sound. Honestly… it threw me for a loop. It shows that Simgot isn’t afraid to change things up a bit. They’ll add in some different tuning styles every now and again. Simgot professes to have tuned this set to the 2019 Harman curve and for all intents and purposes I would certainly agree. It has all the earmarks of a Harman set, but with a richer sound to it than something like the Moondrop Aria for example. This is a set with lush mids instead of thinner style harman mids. Much has to do with the elevation in the low-end beefing up the midrange (to a degree) and a less pronounced treble region.
I’m getting ahead of myself though. If I were to use five descriptors for the Simgot EM6L they would be; relaxed, lush, fun, balanced and musical. I’d call this set a very slight V-shaped sound, and even maybe a slight L-shaped sound as well. Depending on your source device. I wouldn’t argue with anyone about either. The treble is elevated and so I hesitate to call the EM6L ‘L-shaped’, but the warmth is certainly there, almost calling the frequency graph a liar. Again…to a degree.
Condensed sound between the 20’s
This section is here to make things a bit easier for those of you that don’t like to read the books I write. It’s a condensed look, if you will. The Simgot EM6L has a very robust and dense bass which carries a significant emphasis highlighted mainly in the sub-bass but having almost equal parts mid-bass. It can thump folks. Of course, it isn’t the most defined bass. This is a more fun sounding bass with a pretty soft textured attack and a longer decay. Not really natural but more colored than other Simgot sets.
The midrange is lush from the bass spillover into the midrange. Notes are thicker and heavier as a result. This is a very polite midrange which isn’t as energetic as previous Simgot releases. Warmer in the low-mids and slightly more vibrant in the upper-mids. I enjoy the thicker male vocals and the creamier female vocals without a chance for shout, glare or sibilance.
The treble region has a nice emphasis which is tailored to this tuning very well, very cohesive and it is a relaxed treble, clean enough and slightly thinner than the other regions. Not the most open sounding or airy either, but completely non-offensive with average extension and decent details. Unless you are listening to bass dominant tracks.
I didn’t expect a wider soundstage but that is what I hear. Despite that, I do perceive slightly lacking depth for layering. Also, separation of elements within a stage isn’t the EM6L’s strong suit. Above average width though. Imaging is about average I’d say. Not bad at all but not world changing either. The EM6L boasts musicality over technicalities and smooth over crisp.
If this is all the further you read
If this is the longest you can take my mindless babble, just know that this is a set that is smooth in texture and balanced very well across the mix with a slightly more profuse bass. The sound has no sharp edges, no peaks, no sibilance, it’s easy on the ears and musical. Folks, after a couple days the EM6L really grew on me to the point that I couldn’t wait to listen. Still, going from an ultra-resolute set like the Simgot EW200 to this set did confuse my joy for a little while. It takes a minute to realize, but the beauty of a tuning like this is that… it’s all butter friends. It’s all easy, nothing dry, analytical, cold or sharp about it. Truly a great set for any collection if you’d like something different, something emotionally full and something leaning in the direction of lush musicality. I really like the sound, folks.
Bass Region
As I said, the bass is emphasized and thick. This is a warm bass with a full expression. Almost to the point of blurring the bass a bit. You won’t have that ultra defined low-end like so many Simgot iems. Also, the bass doesn’t necessarily veil anything either, which is not the norm for a bass heavy profile. Also, I say bass heavy but that really isn’t the case. We have equal parts lower treble to bass shelf but for whatever reason the sound simply comes across warm dominant. The bass is atmospheric in nature. It’s organically tilted with a more convex and bowed personality. Soft at the edges but dense in fundamental tone. I always liken a bass like this to a hammer wrapped in a sock. It won’t come across with crystalline definition or with a solidified snap at the crest of notes. Of course, there are times that defy what I’m saying here. I know us reviewers like to speak in absolutes but on some tracks the bass is more detailed than others.
Sub-bass
The sub bass has that low resonance and deeper energy when called upon as the sub-bass does take the brunt of the low-end emphasis. Granted, the difference between mid-bass and sub-bass isn’t night and day. Listening to the EM6L is a fun experience on tracks that require a little bit more depth or extension to the bass region. Listening to “Weedkiller” by Ashnikko I can easily feel the rumble of the bassline. The bonus is that it isn’t to the point of blatantly covering over the rest of the track. Then again, “Highway Bright” by Blake Mills I do hear a bit of masking happening, of course I also feel this is by the design pertaining to the recording. The point is, it really depends on what type of bass we are talking about and what the intent of the artist was. However, regardless of how defined the sub-bass is, it rumbles on every track. Bass guitars are full sounding and can be very sonorous and guttural in their vibrational haptic feedback.
Mid-bass
Turning to the mid-bass, it is just like I’ve described. A hammer wrapped in a sock. There is density and weight to the boom and slam but it has a soft buffer on the attack edge and then a slightly slower decay. I won’t call it slow because these are only perceived through the lens of my understanding folks. Let’s just say that it’s more atmospheric, that much is definitely true. “Overdrive” by Post Malone begins with a few successive kick drum booms followed by a mellow bass guitar riff which rolls by in tandem to the drums. There is only slight blurring, whereas a set like the EA500 would define and separate a bit better. Having said that, I love the sound. It’s very satisfying for casual listening. No this isn’t the most ductile and agile bass, but it is a full and bulbous version of a colored sound. Guilty pleasure type for me.
Mid bass cont…
“Hold Me Like a Grudge” by Fallout Boy is another track with kick drum exclamation point style beats along with a growling bass guitar. I love that I can easily feel and hear the attitude of this track. It’s meant to be felt, folks, and the EM6L doesn’t disappoint with its thick boom and structured solidity. It’s simply fun. The kick drum is warmer and with that fuzzy density and hollow cavernous thump. “Billie Jean” by Weezer (Michael Jackson cover) begins with multiple hard kick drum booms and on the EM6L you can feel and hear the authority of the EM6L down low as well as hear the decay. That’s why this is a fantastic track to get a good sense for decay, edge hardness and definition as well as note density. It is one of the better tracks to get a great sense of this region. Also, the kick drums start right away, and you aren’t waiting and waiting. Anyways, yes, the mid-bass is boosted. No, it isn’t the most defined or separated. Yes, it is very satisfying and no, it isn’t overly saturated in the mix…for me anyways. Others may not feel the same.
Downsides to the Bass Region
The most obvious issue of this bass region is that it is not very clean. It isn’t very defined or detailed and transients don’t come across ultra swift. I couldn’t even say this is for bassheads because I don’t feel it is emphasized enough to label the EM6L that. The EM6L doesn’t perfectly depict multiple bass lines at once and anything congested down low will come across as a bass fest and that bass will mask the rest of the mix at times. The low-end also encroaches upon the midrange a bit which can be a great thing and can also be a not-so-great thing depending on your preferences. This isn’t that hard edged, tight, and punchy bass like we are used to from Simgot, but it is very fun and engaging.
Midrange
Within the midrange you can copy everything I said about the note edge of the low-end and paste it here. Midrange notes are hazier in definition and not that Simgot clean-lined, fine-lined, & glass-like sound. It’s emotionally weighted and thicker than it isn’t. Emotional, atmospheric, and more charmingly full sounding. Not super thick either. Just past the point of coming across lean-lush. Let’s put it this way, I wouldn’t say the midrange is syrup thick but it’s maybe leaning in that direction. I really enjoy vocals on this set as a change of pace from many other sets of recent times. They are only slightly recessed, if you want to call them that. I wouldn’t necessarily call them pushed back or distant and definitely not attenuated. There is a fullness and coloration to this region, especially in the lower midrange that adds a nice feel to my music. I like what Simgot was going for and it’s perfect for casual enjoyment of midrange vocals.
Lower-Midrange
Male vocals have that bold feel to them from the spillover of the bass into the mids. It isn’t so much to cause a veil and males come across defined enough yet with an organic fullness. Basically, men sound like men. There is a richness to males and an authoritative body within a felt-like note outline. Again, not the most defined but, who ever said perfect definition was how music needs to be heard? I actually feel male vocals come across a bit more authentic when they have a weightier and semi-thicker sound at times. Now that I’ve said all of that, I do feel like I’m getting carried away a bit. I don’t want you to think that the low-mids are just a veiled and hazy mess. They are not that. The EM6L actually comes across clean for the tuning. There’s a slight lack of vibrance or dynamics in this region but it clearly makes up for it with body and density.
“Cover Me Up” by Jason Isbell is actually very clean sounding as his voice is a bit higher in pitch and the track is very simple. Yet in a track like “Coco” by Foy Vance I hear a deeper voice anchored by that thick note weight. I like the way males sound on this set. More forward and fuller. The only real issue is that I don’t hear that precise snap and separation from a tighter decay. Again, not bad at all though.
Upper-Midrange
This takes us to female vocals and instruments which reside in the upper midrange. To start, females actually have a lift of vibrance to them from the roughly 10db gradual pinna rise into the lower treble. It’s a soft ascent, very well-tuned to keep coherence of the whole mix. Females come across a bit thinner than males and instruments in this region have a bit more pep. Listening to “Always Remember Us This Way” by Lady Gaga is a beautiful thing on this set. Her voice has a real sweet, luxurious and plush sound. Furthermore, her voice also has some pepperings of shimmer which to me sounds authentic. Or at least what I envision her voice should sound like.
Lauren Daigle sings “Still Rolling Stones” and the EM6L really does her voice justice. What it lacks in overall clarity and resolution, it makes up for with a naturally conveyed inflection to her voice. She can sound gritty and coarse at times, feathery and soft in other moments and she can sound profuse in power and resounding too. The EM6L depicts her voice very well in each of these attributes. All the while the instruments around her in this faster rolling track come across in a fun way. Perhaps missing some of the dynamics I’m used to, but fun, nonetheless.
Instruments
I don’t like describing instruments because they can sound entirely different from recording to recording. It is an impossible thing to get right. I can tell you some obvious qualities that the EM6L has and how it helps or takes away from some instruments though. Strings generally sound slightly blunted but with very nice secondary harmonics. You lose some of the details like finger slides and snappy plucks on guitar strings. Violin can sound anywhere from silvery to melodic and even edgy as you move closer to the upper-mids. Not as vibrant as I’d like all the time, but those instances are few and far in between. Percussion has good body and weight but without the tight snap on attack. Again, harmonics stick around a bit and don’t come across splashy at all. Snares hit with a hard “pang” with weight behind them. Piano is melodic and musical. Okay, I’ll stop there, I can do this forever but just picture the sound of any instrument and add some warmth, some weight and take away a tad of the vibrance. I don’t hear anything obviously bad at all. This is a nice sounding set folks.
Downsides to the Midrange
Thinking of some of the issues that some of you may run into I would first say that the midrange is not what we normally hear from this talented company (Simgot). I’m used to fantastic resolution and crystal-clear vocals with a naturally weighted delivery and good air between elements of the stage. The EM6L suffers some of that in the name of musicality and atmospheric presence. Obviously to some this is exactly what they are after and to others this is an issue, or a “downside”. Details aren’t brought to the surface as easily on the EM6L and separation of instruments and voices are a bit more compressed too. This set is also not the most vibrant in energy either and some folks will certainly say that it lacks proper dynamics. Or at least what they feel “proper dynamics” are supposed to sound like. As for me, I do like a set tuned closer to something like the Simgot EA1000 or like some of Simgot’s other iems. Still, I can get with this sound, and I do find it very charming in its own way. The Simgot EM6L is meant for casual and non-offensive listening folks.
Treble Region
The treble region is all about ease folks. If you are looking for a set that will compliment a lazy Sunday, chillin’ on a couch, wishing only to get lost in your music, I may just have the set for you. The treble tuning helps in many regards to make this a possibility. Simgot decided to craft an earphone in the EM6L that is smooth from the lowest of lows to the highest of highs. I hear some slight sparkle up top but for the most part, the treble is pretty reserved. It’s safe and easy. Of course, many will complain that the EM6L lacks that dynamic brilliance that adds energy and fun to the mix. I would simply say that maybe the EM6L is not for you. Certainly not for treble heads either. The treble is most definitely emphasized and creates a treble region that is reasonably open sounding, but also a bit thinner with a soft edge to the note delivery across the treble. The treble actually has a nice lift, but it comes across as a light glow instead of a brilliant shine. Not overly vivacious or lustrous. To counter that, it isn’t overly mellow or dark either. Somewhere in the middle. I happen to like a treble in which I never need to worry about peaks and sharpness and still is able to pick up some finer details too.
A safer treble
However, this also isn’t a treble that is going to have that ultra satisfying “bite” and “punch”. Not all the time anyways. There is some less energetic crispness and sparkle but more often than not the EM6L’s treble will sound smoother than it isn’t. Those who enjoy a bit more pep and brilliance will likely not be 100% satisfied here. Most Simgot iems have a more pinpoint and defined treble region with more radiance and luminosity. It isn’t that the EM6L doesn’t have these qualities, they are just not as prominent to my ears. On the flipside, this will be right up the alley of quite a few people too. So no, you won’t have the sharp bite of a tinsley treble note, and you won’t have the airy sound of a wide open, tight or ultra separated treble region. This is a lifted treble that comes across mellow, if that makes sense. It has air and openness to a slight degree, but the smooth note structure makes the sound a hint more compressed and less separated. Don’t get me wrong, the treble isn’t bad by any stretch and details can emerge fairly nicely so long as you aren’t listening to a very complicated track or a bass heavy jam.
A bit more smoothed over
Listening to Billy Strings in the track “Ice Bridges” I hear an ever-so-slight melting together of sounds. Not bad at all but not defined like some sets. The rapid-fire banjos come and go very fast along with the rest of the melody and the EM6L doesn’t delineate each instrument as well as some sets tuned to be more analytical & technical. I wouldn’t call it bad either, but it just comes across a bit more smoothed over rather than precise. Of course, the EM6L does make for a non-offensive and easy listen which requires tracks like this to level out with more flattened dynamics. The EM6L will be great if this is your preference and I know many folks who adore an easy listen over a sharper and more intense treble delivery. Furthermore, when I listen to a track like Gaz Coombes “Don’t Say It’s Over” the EM6L does a fantastic job of rendering the sparkling synth notes and sounds surprisingly great. This is an easier track, less congested, and the EM6L treble notes sound very nice and clean, even against the harder bass drums. Perhaps a bit thin, but nice all the same.
Downsides to the Treble Region
Folks, I’m about to speak on downsides. I really hesitate to call anything a “downside” though. I feel Simgot hit the target they were shooting for and to that point… there isn’t anything bad about it, they hit the mark they were going for. So, I do hesitate to always call something an issue when that is exactly what a thing was crafted to be. These “downsides” are just subjective issues one may find. I have to review to everyone’s taste as best I can. With that said, the treble up top may be a downside for you if you want a more sparkly, extended, brilliant and energetic treble. Also, folks who enjoy a more detailed and separated sound may not completely love the EM6L. If you fall into that camp, then the entire treble region is likely a “downside” to you. We’re all different folks. Now, if you enjoy an ever-so-slightly “rolled-off” and tamer upper treble, a smooth sounding and altogether tonally pleasing sound… then you’ll probably dig the treble presentation.
Personally
Personally, my perfect preference would be to have a bit more energy, more bite on attack, more shine or a more vibrant and bodied sound. This isn’t 100% set in stone for me as I change by the week. Generally, I like a bit more vivaciousness of a treble region. So, if those are my preferences, then how in the world did I enjoy the treble of the EM6L so much? I always say that I can understand and enjoy all sound signatures, which has helped me as a reviewer and I believe it is helping now, in that I can easily see why folks would enjoy this type of sound. It really is refined, but in an unrefined, analog and atmospheric way. The EM6L prefers musicality over pin-point precision. However, detail retrieval isn’t abysmal, and the treble is lifted enough to uplift certain areas of the mix too.
Technicalities
Soundstage
The soundstage is of a good size to my ears. You would think that it would come across a bit more compressed left to right but instead I hear a wide sounding stage. Certainly, above average. Height is average or slightly better too. However, depth is sitting right at average for the price point I feel. I don’t hear that layered front to back spatiality that I would like. It is more of a 2D sounding set but with a pretty wide and outstretched psycho-acoustic rendering of a stage. I don’t want to come across as though I hear a “wall of sound” either. Yes, the depth isn’t super holographic or 3D, but it is still decent enough to not call the stage flattened from my perspective.
Separation / Imaging
Separation is not the calling card of the Simgot EM6L. It stands to reason too. This is all about the tuning here. Simgot went for a smooth and more buttery sound across the mix. They decided upon a musical sound that puts a melodic and atmospheric replay on a pedestal. Folks, there are a litany of sets tuned to be refined and more analytical, better separation, Imaging etc. Heck, even Simgot’s other sets lean that direction. Also, not everyone wants that. I know I sometimes prefer a musical and smooth replay. The EM6L is pretty precise and controlled but transients are not the most kempt and quick, with a prolonged sustain which adds an element of emotion and mellifluousness rather than pinpoint accuracy. So no, the separation will not blow your mind. Of course, complicated tracks are what really gives the EM6L a harder time, or more low-end heavy tracks. Imaging follows this trend as well. Instruments and voices are placed decently, but the sound is a bit smoother on the edges with more blended note edges which simply makes it a hint more difficult to create the distinctions between them all. I say that but I’d also say that not every track suffers this fate. More simple tracks are actually spot on for the EM6L.
Detail Retrieval
I feel I could echo the last section here because the same elements seem to affect the Simgot EM6L mostly the same way. Of course, I also feel that the EM6L actually does a decent job of illuminating some of the micro-details. Not to the point that I would say the EM6L is a detail-oriented set, but for what it is and for what it was tuned to be… the EM6L isn’t bad. Some tracks are easier than others to pick apart the subtleties. Again, more congested passages of music or real complicated tracks that offer more moving parts will come across less detailed. Also, bassier songs which feature more low-end activity will mask over some of those details as well. However, I’ve heard others say that the EM6L has abysmal detail retrieval… I don’t agree with that. There are plenty of tracks where I can distinctly make out some finer pieces of my music. I truly feel the prowess of the EM6L’s detail retrieval abilities are completely dependent on what track you are listening to. Let’s put it this way, like ANY musical iem in a more V-shaped signature, the EM6L won’t be a detail king. It just won’t. Does that make it bad? Abso-freakin’-lutely NOT. No sir. Also, I wouldn’t want this set to lose all of its charm over some pesky… details. Besides, detail retrieval is not the barometer which decides how “good” or how “bad” an iem is or isn’t. This is a preference game friends. We should start remembering that. Also, I’d say that the EM6L is average on detail retrieval. I suppose I could’ve simply said that. Lol.
Comparisons
Note: Due to the length of this review, I will keep all comparisons very general and more concise than usual. I will still do my best to help the reader understand what I believe the differences are so to help with understanding the set that I’m reviewing. None of my comparisons are a duel to the death or a battle to find out which is better. That is pointless to me, and I don’t think it helps you to make a good decision. We all have biases, and my bias isn’t going to help you in a comparison situation. This is not an in-depth comparison.
Truthear Hexa ($79)
The Truthear Hexa literally started a storm of hype that rolled through the community like a brush fire. I reviewed the Hexa (Hexa Review) at some point in 23’ and I was and still am a fan of its particular style of tuning. The Hexa is a four-driver hybrid iem (1DD+3BA) that is a great set for listening to music as it’s intended and it’s a fantastic palette cleanser type set. Most certainly the Hexa will not appeal to a huge amount of folks precisely due to its tuning. That said, if you enjoy a balanced neutral type of replay, then you won’t find much better than the Hexa under $100.
Differences
Starting with the price, the Hexa is about $30 cheaper which is pretty substantial in comparison. However, with the hype which surrounded Truthear’s hybrid set I felt this was a decent comparison. As far as the build, both sets are made of plastic, though I’d say the EM6L actually feels a bit more robust. Of course, the EM6L also has an aluminum faceplate. I also feel it looks much better as well. Still, the Hexa has nothing to be ashamed of for the price. The EM6L is a bit larger too, as the Hexa is very narrow in comparison. I find both sets have about the same quality of accessories except I do feel the EM6L has the better cable and more elegant and cool unboxing.
Sound Differences
These two are going to end up in “preference battle” territory as they are very differently tuned. The Hexa is almost flat neutral and close to flat in dynamics but ultra clean, balanced and very detailed. The EM6L is certainly warmer, much more V-shaped with thicker & lusher note weight and a much smoother and dynamically expressive sound throughout. The bass on the EM6L is much deeper, fuller, warmer and more atmospheric while the Hexa is snappier, more defined albeit quite a bit thinner in comparison. The EM6L’s midrange has a fuller and pleasing vocal experience for both male and females while the Hexa has a much more detailed and separated midrange yet still manages a melodic experience. Hexa has a much more resolute midrange, but less musical as well. The treble of the EM6L sounds more pronounced and smoother but less detailed. Detail retrieval is much better on the Hexa but musicality takes a big hit for it as the Hexa has an analytical dryness. EM6L has the more moist and organic sound as a whole as well. The EM6L has a wider and more full stage yet also a hint more intimate but imaging goes to the Hexa.
My final thoughts on this comparison
Honestly, this comparison will come down to what your preferences are. If you enjoy a drier sounding, more technically savvy and extremely well-balanced set that may lack some dynamism/musicality but makes up for it with its cleanliness and great resolution, then the Hexa may make much more sense to you, especially at the lower price. If you enjoy a more musical and weighted sound, bigger & rounder low-end, better timbre, and with good representation throughout the mix, but also… completely non-offensive in all regards, I’d say the EM6L would be more up your alley. Both are fantastic iems for what they were tuned to be, but they are very different. Plain and simple. I honestly enjoy both sets for different reasons and each is able to make a case against the other iems in thier respective price points.
Letshuoer X-Gizaudio Galileo ($109)
This is one iem that I have thoroughly enjoyed. The set I’m referring to is the Letshuoer X-Gizaudio Galileo which is a 1DD and 1BA Hybrid consisting of one 10mm liquid silicone dynamic driver and one Sonion balanced armature driver. This set was actually a collaboration between Letshuoer and the popular YouTube reviewer from Gizaudio, Timmy Vangtan. There are many great things to say about this iem and it truly is a very well completed set which one could own for a good price ($109).
Differences
First off, the build of both sets is decent for the price, but I still feel that the EM6L is built a bit better. Granted the Galileo is an all-resin build, but something just doesn’t feel as durable about it. This is purely subjective and only my opinion. Not that the Galileo is built poorly either, just not quite the EM6L. As far as looks goes, the Galileo is much prettier to look at. The beautiful swirling blues, whites, and orange colors are just gorgeous. Of course, the EM6L is a very sharp looking iem. I like them both here actually. The accessories are comparable as well, cables are comparable, the Galileo probably has the better carrying case and cable though. The EM6L is a slight bit smaller but both sets are average size in my opinion. The EM6L is a hair easier to drive too.
Sound Differences
When comparing these two sets and looking at their frequency graphs, you’d think they were very similar sounding. To me, the biggest difference is that the EM6L is a bit warmer in tonality than the more neutral sounding Galileo. Neither set is the most dynamic and energetic and each set has a very pleasing sound.
Each 3rd of the mix
To my ears, the EM6L has a warmer, fuller and more dense bass region by a small margin. Both sets have a nice haptic sub-bass. The Galileo has a more vibrant attack and sounds punchier down low. More energetic. The EM6L simply has a bit more rumble with a less tight decay. The Galileo also sounds a bit more forward in the midrange which comes across neutral and with lesser note weight than the EM6L. I feel both sets actually have very compelling midrange performances for vocals but in slightly different ways. The EM6L has smooth textures, milky, more atmospheric while the Galileo is smooth in its own right but not to the same degree. However, it’s also more elated and uplifted in tonal color with slightly more revealing note definition. The treble on the Galileo and the EM6L are both reserved, easier on the ears. Both have an emphasis but won’t cause fatigue. Both sets have a wave-like smoothness and a less crisp and less transparent treble region. The EM6L sounds as though it roll-off a hint early and the treble does have a warmer hue, but this is not a large difference. Technically, each set is not a detail-monster, and neither is really better than the next. Perhaps the EM6L has a slight edge in the treble region while the Galileo seems to have a more spacious and detailed midrange. The EM6L has a slightly grander and less intimate stage as well.
My final thoughts on this comparison
This is a tough one folks. For me anyways. I can get lost in each set and each set presents music in their own slightly altered way. Dynamically these are both about the same. Maybe the Galileo seems a hint more edgy due to the more neutral hue, but neither are necessarily rambunctious in their replay. Both sets offer a smoother take, both are musical over technical, and both are non-offensive to the core. I do feel that the EM6L is even less likely to offend out of the two of them. For me though, I have grown accustomed to the EM6L’s creamy smooth sound and I do like them a bit better. Of course, this can change by the day.
Is it worth the asking price?
Looking at the Simgot EM6L and trying to decide if it is worth the asking price I would first have to consider “who” the EM6L is for. This is a question which could go one of three ways on every set I review. Still, the EM6L does a lot very well and is a very tonally pleasing iem that really stands tall against the other sets in its price point. It won’t be for everyone though. Not everyone wants a smooth and warm delivery. Some folks want more expressive dynamics and a more lustrous and energetic sound, or even a more analytical sound, a brighter sound… the list could go on forever. The point being that not everyone will be a fan. That said, I’m certainly a fan. This is a set which slightly grew on me and once it did, I could see the magic in Simgot’s tuning here. Harman tuned but warm, thicker and denser in note body but also smooth, nothing edgy or coarse. It’s simply pleasing with an effortless, casual and composed signature.
The Why…
The reason why the Simgot EM6L is worth the $109 that Simgot is asking for is because it is a very sharp looking iem and has fantastic comfort. Non-offensive and fatigue-free is the EM6L Phoenix’s calling card. However, the sound is where the EM6L should draw some folks in. The EM6L is the “definition” of chill. This is a set that has no strain on the brain yet with a fun rendition of a relaxed and strain free sound. Still, each area of the mix is represented very well. This set is for fans of a dense and smooth delivery that leans musical over anything else with a rumbly & deep bass, liquid, warm & luscious mids, as well as an emphasized yet totally forgiving treble. Coincidentally, this is exactly why I feel the EM6L is worth every dime. It is what Simgot crafted it to be and from my interpretation… Simgot doesn’t make many accidents. Not from my perspective. I see purpose behind every move they make, and I feel they nailed their target here for a $100 hybrid iem. Is the Simgot EM6L worth the $109 Simgot is asking? Yes, it is.
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 Simgot EM6L ratings below, that would be $75-$125 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. $75-$125 US is a vast amount of iems and so seeing a 9 should probably be pretty special. My ratings are never the same and each set of ratings tells a different story. Each time you read one of my ratings it will be unique to that review. Basically, I create a Rating that makes sense to me and hopefully to the reader. Also, I don’t like ratings… At all!
Aesthetic
–Build Quality: 7.7 Not bad, but not the norm for Simgot.
–Look: 9.0 Very nice looking set.
–Accessories: 8.9 Nice package for the price.
–Overall: 9.8
Sound Rating
–Timbre: 9.3 Fantastic timbre.
–Bass: 9.1 Warm, full, deep & fun.
–Midrange: 8.9 Thick n’ lush, nice vocals.
–Treble: 7.7 Smooth and non-offensive.
–Technicalities: 6.4 EM6L isn’t worried about technicalities.
–Musicality: 9.4 Nice musical signature.
–Overall: 8.4
Ratings Summary
This is one of those sets that I really wasn’t looking forward to rating, at all. It isn’t the easiest thing to rate on individual categories and expect those ratings to tell the story of such a polished-unpolished set. Rating things 0-10 isn’t really the best way to explain… anything actually. Especially something like the Simgot EM6L which takes a bit more nuance to explain. As for the ratings above, I chose any set, in any driver configuration, between the prices of $75 and $125. Let that sink in. Think of how many iems are littered in that range. I chose $75 to $125 for the purpose of giving the consumer a $50 window. However, in that $50 window is a ton of great sets. I won’t list them all, but I’ve spent a lot of time with quite a few of them. Certainly, enough to feel comfortable enough to “rate” the EM6L against them. Despite this, let’s not kid ourselves though, this is the most subjective and least verifiable thing in this review. Still, to keep things 💯… I list them all out and I actually go through each category for each one. Some I have on hand and some from memory so please take these ratings like a grain of salt, it’s all just my subjective and biased opinion.
Explain yourself!
Honestly, I don’t think there is much explaining that needs to be done other than the “bass” category. You may be wondering why I gave the EM6L a very lofty rating of “9.1”. I get it too. The EM6L bass is not the cleanest, most separated, tightest or most agile bass out there. In fact, if I was basing my rating on those attributes, I would have put the EM6L bass closer to a “6.0”. I based the entire rating off how nice and big this bass sound to my ears. There is something wholesome about it. It brings me back to my childhood with the Geto Boys blaring in my headphones. I told you I was biased. Does the EM6L deserve a “9.1”? Eh, probably not. I wouldn’t be mad if all of you wrote me about that. I get it. The bass is a guilty pleasure for me and for that it is special. Now, I’ve actually deducted points in ratings for the exact same reason so, grains of salt. Also, “technicalities” may be a pinch too low. A “6.4”, just above average. The stage is big and wide. However, the separation and imaging and slower transients keep this score where it’s at for me. I feel I’m right about that. You may disagree. Of course, just like I said in the details section, I don’t feel that the EM6L gets a fair shake because not all tracks are a congested mess. In fact, the great majority of songs I find details and even separation very good. Maybe a “6.4” is too low. Oh well, it’s locked in. The rest of the ratings are also locked. Again, just DM me like everyone else if you disagree.
Conclusion
To conclude my full written review of the Simgot EM6L I want to again thank the very kind and very generous people of Simgot. You know who you are. Without you I couldn’t review these nice sets so thank you. Also, I just have to give credit where credit is due. The folks of Simgot have never even once asked me to speak a certain way about their products. What does this tell me? It tells me that they BELIEVE IN THEIR PRODUCTS! They aren’t worried about what my final verdict is. Granted, I think this set is fantastic and I love listening to it. However, Simgot hasn’t asked to pre-read a review or anything of the sort. I can respect this. So once more, thank you, Simgot. Oh, and please pat the people who tuned and created this set on the back. I love that Simgot isn’t scared to do something different.
Different Perspectives
Also, friends, this set is $109 give or take, maybe $99 on sale in some places. That is a ton of money. I know some of you are loaded and it doesn’t mean anything but to 99% of the world, $100 is a lot of money. This purchase has to matter and make sense and getting it wrong is a horrible turn of events. In this vein, please do yourself a favor and read some of the thoughts from my fellow reviewers about the Simgot EM6L. It can only help folks, here are just a few to get started:
–Mahir’s Review at Mobileaudiophile.com
–Pietro’s review at Mobileaudiophile.com (by the way, the beauty of our website is that we have multiple different opinions from all around the world, moving on)
–Akros (YouTube) (much respect!)
Okay that’s enough for now. I’m sure you’ll have a good clue as to how this set sounds after you promise to check other thoughts. Friends, we simply are very much different. We perceive music differently, often. We have different gear, different libraries of music, different preferences, different hearing abilities too. So many variables. So just humor me and do some homework so that you get this right. Or be like me and just blind buy. Lol. Just kidding. With that, I think I’m done. The EM6L is a very musical iem with a cozy signature that is great for long sessions, and I do recommend this set if you are looking for a hybrid iem with a smooth and pleasing sound and no harshness. Please take care, stay safe and always… God Bless!
