Simgot EW200 “Maze”
Intro
What’s up friends, I have with me today the “Simgot EW200”, which is Simgot’s latest mid-budget iem coming in at roughly $42. I realize that I’m a bit late to the party with this review. Scratch that, I’m really late to this Simgot party. Still, I am considering this a “better late than never” situation. I’m actually just going to be upfront with you all, I really like what Simgot has been doing. Also, I’m not the only one. Literally, I can search “Simgot EW200 Reviews” and there is an avalanche of reviews with a tidal wave of praise. In fact, pretty much any Simgot review over the past year and a half will be like a Simgot parade of affection. Also, yes… they deserve it. I actually reviewed the Simgot EA500 last year (EA500 Review) and I absolutely adore that set. It was only my second time listening to a creation from the brand and I was hooked. How in the world do they create iems this good under $100? Shoot, under $75!
Simgot
The audio brand “Simgot” has become a very unique outfit. Every last detail seems to be well thought out, from my vantage point anyways. The very name “Simgot” means “Simple & Elegant” which when I look at their earphones and audio devices, I don’t think I could come up with a more descriptively correct word. Yes, each and every device they’ve created has been what the name implies, simple and elegant. Even though not every design is all that simple. Still, it’s the sentiment which counts. Looking at their website we don’t get much of a history and so I won’t be able to rattle off founding facts or any kind of origin story. I will however be able to say with complete confidence that Simgot is able to artistically craft some of the best iems within their price points. So it seems. But also, each end product is completed in such a way that the only descriptive word allotted to their products could & should be… Elegant.
The Simgot EW200 has been out on the market for roughly about six months and sells for the low cost of only $40. It’s a single DD with a beautiful look and a tank-like build and I am more than happy to give my interpretations of this budget category earphone. So, without further ado, the Simgot EW200…
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Disclaimer:
I received the Simgot EW200 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.
EW200 Pros
-Next level price to performance
-Build Quality is near tops in class
-The design is gorgeous
-Very comfortable (subjective)
-Great balance across the mix
-Very dynamically charged presentation
-Very clean sound across the board at this price
-Punchy & agile bass
-Midrange is a nice rendition of warm/neutral and very clean
-Treble is extended and airy
-Nicely detailed
-Very good imaging
EW200 Cons
-Bass heads will not be fans
-Upper mids can get a slight bit hot
-Note weight isn’t very lush for those who enjoy a richer midrange
-Treble can be too spicy for some
Gear used for testing
–iBasso DX240 with Amp8 MK2
Packaging / Accessories
Unboxing
It is hard not to be impressed with a Simgot unboxing. I think it’s just the thoughtful presentation they have with all of their sets which impresses me. There is a tasteful classiness to it. The smaller sized black box that arrived at my door has a sweet looking design on the front. There’s a cool looking sleeve which covers the black box with the theme of the EW200 displayed on it. In gold print you see the name “Maze” in large digital looking letters and under that is “EW200 High Performance”. Surrounding them are these glossy black patterns which resemble a Maze covering the whole of the box. I know that none of us care that much about the unboxing, but it does speak volumes about where a brand’s attention is at. If they have great attention to detail on the box it comes in, then it’s very likely they would have put some time into the design & tuning too.
Nice package
Once you take off the sleeve and open the actual box, you’ll see the gorgeous EW200 looking all fly in the foam cutouts. Next to the earphones is a box labeled “accessories” which has… you guessed it… accessories. Inside is a soft microfiber type bag for carrying the EW200. You also will see the cable and eartips in this box as well. Very nice Simgot! For the price, this set is already ahead of the curve as far as budget iems goes. It is simply a nice package, and this really truly speaks volumes about the company as a whole. Think about it, folks! If they put care and effort and thought into the simple unboxing of a $40 earphone, how much more are they putting into the earphones themselves? Now, they have to get the rest right but at least it is a brand which seeks to provide the best experience possible. Nice work Simgot!
Eartips
Simgot includes three pairs (S, M, L) of eartips in the package. The included tips are some white silicone tips with a nicely firm outer flange, stiff stem and a narrow bore. These tips are perfectly fine for use with the EW200. It has a slightly brighter or vibrant sounding neutral leaning playback and so a narrow bore does help to pad down some of the brighter hues. I say that but then I go and do something opposite of that. I actually use the KBear 07 tips with this set as they simply fit my ears better. The 07’s have a semi-wide bore which doesn’t really add any spiciness to the upper-mid to treble region, but they will add some punch in the mid-bass. I suppose we shouldn’t be surprised to only see a few sets of eartips. This is a $40 iem after all.
Cable
The cable provided by Simgot is a very nice cable for the price of this set. I don’t know if you’ve seen some of the cables put into some of these earphone packages, but the Simgot got this one right. It is a lite cable, as in, it isn’t heavy. The cable itself is a 2-pon, 3.5 single ended silver-plated OFC copper cable with a white and yellow braid. Very nice looking and very usable. Again, Simgot understands the importance of a cable to us hobbyists. Granted, there are better cables in the price point (Rose Technics QuietSea etc.) but let’s not get bogged down by miniscule differences. The point is, the included cable is user friendly, not microphonic to a disastrous degree, and it sounds good with the EW200. Also, it looks nice paired with the EW200.
For balanced sources
Now, I did swap out the included cable for another very nice cable for use with my balanced sources. This should come as no surprise. I used the KBear ST16 “Crystal” white/blue cable. It looks absolutely great with the EW200. I love the mirror silver finish of the EW200 contrasted by the white and baby blue of the ST16. I am a visual creature folks, and I have to find good pairings aesthetically. This one is a good pair for a few reasons. First it looks sweet, second it feels nice to wear without any fatigue. Lastly, the sound pairing is very nice. I didn’t find the EW200 very cable sensitive at all as far as tonality goes… It’s a good match.
Carrying pouch
I’ll keep this short, Simgot provides a small microfiber carrying pouch in the packaging which is a nice pouch for its purpose. It doubles as a cleaner for fingerprints on the EW200 so, just be ready for that. Anyways, I like pouches actually better then carrying hard cases because I can put them in a pocket much easier and it doesn’t look completely stupid like a hard case does. I can fit the earphones & cable as well as a dongle dac and I do that with ease.
Build / Design / Internals / Fit
Build Quality
This is an easy paragraph to write. I mean, look at the EW200! Folks, this is a $40 iem! This set is built like a tank! The EW200 is an alloy set with a smaller shell and a flat faceplate. The body of the EW200 is crafted to seat perfectly in the ear. Made by way of casting and precision cutting the EW200 doesn’t have any flaws and is exquisite in its final build appearance. I honestly see no issues whatsoever friends. This set has a dual cavity structure, and you can see the two venting holes in each cavity to balance pressure internally. There is one small vent near the top and one small vent closer to the ear. This is a recessed 2-pin design, so keep that in mind when looking for replacement cables. All in all, great build quality for this iem. When we are seeing $40 iems with perfectly sculpted full alloy builds at prices under $50 I’d say we are in a great time for personal audio. Someone pat the designers of this set on the back please!
Design
One thing that will always hook me is a good design. I know some of you don’t care at all and so just skip this little blurb from me. I feel the Simgot EW200 is one of the best designed sets that we have seen from this price bracket. Obviously there have been some dope looking sets, without question. However, the sheer appeal & charm of this full metal iem is a perfect blend of masculine and effeminate design. The EW200 has a certain refinement to it, an elegance to it. I know that careful thought was put into the creation of this earphone. You simply cannot create something this simple yet ornate and it not come from the mind of a skilled person. I think that’s rad. Simgot has done this with all of their recent iems folks. I have a number of them with me and each has its own distinctly artistic style. Yet all of their sets have a sort of opulence or high-quality stateliness to them. This set is certainly no different.
【𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐌𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐁𝐨𝐝𝐲, 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐖𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠】
The EW200 earphones feature an exquisite mirror-finished silver all-metal body, crafted with high-density alloy casting and precision machining. This ensures durability, suppresses standing waves, and enhances sound quality. The over-ear-wearing style provides stability, and comfort, and reduces the stethoscope effect. With its meticulous design and attention to detail, the EW200 delivers both an exceptional audio experience and a visually striking appearance.
Internals
Looking inside the shells (no I didn’t crack them open, it’s figurative), Simgot chose to use an N52 dual magnetic circuit within a dual-cavity acoustic cavity. Inside this housing they used a 10mm dynamic driver with a SCP (Silicone Crystal) diaphragm. Basically, this is a combining of LCP and DLC diaphragms to get the best out of both. Through what Simgot refers to as “Special material blending” they were able to harness the strengths of each material. It has been said that DLC diaphragms do have some slight glare in the high frequencies and so this method does tamp that down for a smoother result. Simgot incorporated three layers of tuning filters to exact the perfect mixture of Harman 2016 and Simgot’s house sound. Just know this, the driver is very good and the well dreamed up housing works wonders for the sound.
【𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐒𝐂𝐏 𝐃𝐢𝐚𝐩𝐡𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐦】
Simgot Promotional
The EW200 utilizes a revolutionary diaphragm material – the SCP Diaphragm. This diaphragm incorporates a special polymer film as a substrate that is coated with a hybrid silicon layer through a dual-sided sputtering deposition. Combining the strengths of DLC and LCP diaphragms, it maintains the high-density mid-range performance of LCP diaphragms and the extended, exquisite high-frequency response of DLC diaphragms, resulting in a luxurious and smooth sound with rich layering and spaciousness.
【𝐒𝐨𝐩𝐡𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲】
The EW200 is a compact earphone with a sophisticated multi-layer tuning system for precise sound control. It utilizes various tuning methods and incorporates three layers of tuning filters to optimize performance. Through advanced finite element simulation technology, the EW200 achieves a wide dynamic range and detailed sound reproduction. It blends the H-2016 and SIMGOT-Classic target curves for a balanced sound signature with accurate positioning, rich details, and an expansive soundstage.
Fit / Isolation
The fit pretty nice for me. I don’t have to fiddle very much to get a good fit. I would say that Simgot made a set that will fit in most hobbyists’ ears without issue. Obviously, make sure to have the right eartips for a good deal and you should be fine. I actually really like the fit, no wear fatigue either as the EW200 are smaller in stature and not very heavy once seated properly. Isolation is about average. I don’t feel the EW200 are any worse or better than your average iem in the market. I can tell you that the isolation isn’t bad. So, there’s that.
Drivability
This brings us to “Drivability”. The Simgot EW200 is really an easy set to drive from most any source. Scratch that, this set is very sensitive. I didn’t find them too finicky on any source I have, that’s for sure. Even using them for a short period attached to the Fiio UTWS5 (50mw per 32 ohms) was an easy task and sounded great. The EW200 is rated at a low 16 ohms and a sensitivity of 126 db’s. If you didn’t know, that means this set is sensitive and easy to drive.
Mobile Listening
You just read I used the UTWS5 and that was good. However, it isn’t the most spectacular source to use. I did do quite a bit of listening with the IFi Go Blu on 4.4 balanced. Obviously, the Go Blu has a ton of power, especially on balanced output, so driving them was a breeze. What I found awesome was the synergy of the neutral/warm dac chip of the Go Blu, CS43131. I found brighter or more neutral analytical sources were a bit too glaring at times. Like the Fiio KA3. So, I went with the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus quite a lot as well. It is another warmer but yet energetic sounding dongle dac which really blended tonalities nicely with the EW200. The Moondrop Dawn 4.4 was another great pairing. In fact, so long as I didn’t have a brighter and analytical source, whether it be neutral, neutral/warm or warm, I was fine and the EW200 paired well.
More juice, better quality source
Moving into the better-quality sources I have the Shanling M6 Ultra (AK4493SEQ dac chip) and the iBasso DX240 (ES9038Pro dac chip). Both devices output a ton of power. I used medium gain and never needed to go over 25/100 on the volume scale. I think low gain would be way more than enough. Once again, it pays to make sure that you are pairing the EW200 with a source which contrasts the slightly bright or vibrant tonality of it. That would be the Shanling M6 Ultra for me. I do feel the EW200 scales with power, to a point. You can’t just keep overpowering this set. Still, a little more juice does help to tighten the frequencies on this set. It is difficult to know if it’s the added power which helps the most or what I feel is really going on; the EW200 is simply being replayed on a better and more refined source. I think that is the deal folks. The EW200 will mimic the quality of what your source is. Thankfully I don’t have any garbage sources anymore.
What do you need
If I were you, I would try to find a nice dongle dac. It doesn’t have to be $150. You can find some fantastic options under $70, shoot under $50 there are some good sounding dongles. Anyways, try to find a decent Dongle Dac with decent power and enjoy. If you don’t have that and cannot afford anything more than this set, I would venture to say you’d be perfectly fine using a mobile phone. This is a very easy set to drive.
Sound Impressions
Listening mostly with the Shanling M6 Ultra which has that lush velvet timbre or with the iBasso DX240 which is a little closer to neutral, I feel like I got similar results from the EW200. I hear a close to neutral sound that is lovely for such a low priced iem. I knew it the second I put this set in my ears and turned on the first song “Show Me How To Live” by Audioslave off their 2002 self-titled album. Right away the clarity and dynamics just jumped out at me. There is solidity, or a density to the dynamic structure of the notes, yet in a thin and concise note body. Those drums have elasticity to them and the rebound from the drum blast has realistic harmonics. The crest of each note at attack has a compact crispness, the electric guitar growled nicely as well. Chris Cornell‘s vocals are dirty sounding, but in a good way, as they should sound. That was my first song.
This is one of those sets with effortless clean resolution and does so in a slightly vibrant, yet naturally skewed manner. There’s no grain or little particles of fuzz floating around the sound field. Source obviously comes into play but for the most part… It’s clean. For $40 it’s one of the few times you’ll read me saying that a set punches above its price. Of course, you have to be down for the sound signature, but even then… It’s kinda hard to brush off the talent of this set.
Pint sized look Between the 20’s
Okay, back to the sound. It’s a U-shaped tuning to almost a W-shape in my mind. I hear a slightly boosted low-end which is always in control. The lows have a punchy texture and has depth to it. There is a forward sounding midrange that is also well textured, transparent and well defined. Possibly a hint leaner than some would like but there is still density to notes here. The EW200 had a brighter treble that was composed darn near all the time. The treble extends well into the air region and there is plenty of tactile bite as well. The soundstage is wide and even has decent depth. Technically I feel the Simgot EW200 reaches levels of the more expensive EA500 which to me is wild! In fact, (not really a fact) the EW200 rides parallel to the older sibling in many regards. They don’t have the exact tonal properties, but they are both clearly fantastic in the respective approach to each set’s tuning.
If this is all the further you read
If this is the farthest you make it because you know I’m a long-winded mess of a reviewer, then please understand this…the Simgot EW200 is the definition of “price-to-performance”. There should be a case study composed by every brand on planet earth to see “how” and “why” the Simgot EW200 is superior in so many aspects in the budget segment. Just know that you’ll be getting arguably (I’m not arguing) one of the best iems under $75 and certainly in the conversation under $50. Actually, let me just say it now… The Simgot EW200 is in my personal top three under $50. It’s the type of neutral that comes with a glass lined articulation of my music. It has a note edge within the midrange that comes with no edge particles. No grain. No electric sounding metallic fuzz or odd timbre. Yet it’s crisp and still has some edge to it. Not completely smooth like some sets with more congested dynamics. It’s just… Nice. Now, the EW200 can get shouty, so keep that in mind. Granted I don’t see it as anything close to a problem, but I know plenty of warm/dark fans who’ll disagree. Also, note weight isn’t exactly rich so also, keep that in mind. Let’s look at each 3rd of the mix, shall we?
Bass Region
Okay friends, the bass region of the Simgot EW200 is not the type that’ll make a basshead cry tears of joy. However, it’ll put a smile on the face of a fan of good bass. This is a more mature sounding low-end that doesn’t intend to surprise the listener with a boomy thump or gravely deep boned sub-bass. This is a punchy and controlled bass that puts quality above all else. There’s a depth to the bass that’s spurred on by the cleanliness which forces the sound to come across layered and able to mimic what the track is asking of it. Normally I would say something along the lines of… “Remember, I’m talking about $40 bass here so keep your expectations in check”. However, I can’t even say that folks. Because this isn’t a $40 bass. It just isn’t! The tactility and texture of this region brings new life to my music with a lean density that is quick and doesn’t lag, at all. Transients are more exact, yet the timbre doesn’t take a hit which is alluring to say the least.
Sub-bass
The lowest of lows on the EW200 comes across as decently extended and should carry most genres fairly well. The idea of this sub-bass presentation is not one of authoritative rumble because in that respect this set is a bit lean. No sir, this sub-bass is about speed and lean muscle fluidity. Nothing warm and creamy about it. I liken this sub-bass to a lightning-fast middleweight who can pack a punch. There is a nice extension as well with note edge integrity throughout.
I say that but there are some people who will not be okay with the lack of emphasis here. This isn’t the most guttural sounding sub region. “Groove” by Ray Wylie Hubbard can present as much droning growl as any set can handle and the EW200 seems to accentuate every modulation to the rumble. It just isn’t ultra deep in pitch, but it is well extended and makes a nice showing. This is a slightly emphasized audiophile type rendition of a song I know all too well. I use this track just for this purpose, to see how deep these iems can take it and how much resonant haptic vibration they give off. The EW200 does rumble, but it’s a controlled and precise rumble. It isn’t necessarily weak either, it just isn’t a big bass replay. There is texture and fine line definition to most any track which can present such a thing. The EW200 sub-bass seems to be able to take on the speediest of tracks with relative ease and replays exactly what is asked of it.
Mid-bass
The mid-bass follows suit to a degree. This mid-bass is more punchy than boomy. It slams when a recording slams. For instance, “2040” by Lil Durk is recorded with some weight to the bass drop. Therefore, the EW200 has some weight to the bass drop. Nothing plastic about this density, nothing pillowy about the body of the mid-bass and nothing hollow either. Again, lean density, agile, and textured as the bass has very nice ductility that stays solid no matter what. Or take the track “Undoer” by Geese. The bass does well to never encroach upon the midrange. The mid bass seems to roll-off just at the moment of good cleanliness giving off a detailed response to the drums of this track and the constant bass guitar leaving the rest of the melody separated and very clean.
So, as you may have guessed, cleanliness is also a highlight of this mid-bass. It comes across with good clarity and a more vibrant presence. However, bass guitar could use some more fullness as they do come across generally a bit less growling than some more boosted sets. Also, kick drums don’t have the most hollow-deep boom, although the harmonics are fantastic in my opinion. Just some things to keep in mind. There’s always a give and take with every tuning. Especially single dynamic drivers. Even more especially with budget single DD’s. Still, I maintain that this is a bass that punches well, clean as a whistle and very satisfying to anyone who isn’t a basshead.
Downsides to the Bass Region
The downsides here are all related to what your preferences are. If you are a bass-boi then you will likely not enjoy the EW200 down low. That’s a downside. If you love that meaty and bulbous sounding bass drop that overtakes your senses as well as the rest of the mix bringing warmth and a bit more thunder then, you probably want to keep looking. That’s the only real issue that I see. The bass isn’t big and so any issue which relates to a lesser powerful bass will be an issue in your listening if that is what you listen for. I think I said that right. Anyways, for me the bass is fantastic and certainly one of the highlights. I feel it has just enough emphasis and density to help this leaner presentation come across lifelike and fulfilling. Also, the layering in the low-end as well as the macro-detail illumination is really nice for a set costing so little.
Midrange
The midrange is exactly like a million reviews have stated prior to my super late review. They are sweet folks. Yeah, they are a little thin in note weight but what’s wrong with thin? I don’t think it makes the sound more natural if the sound is “thicker”. I actually feel that voices in real life are a bit thinner rather than they are thickly weighted. There isn’t always weighty warmth when a person sings in front of me. I hear neutral, naturally weighted voices, for the most part anyways. Also, who said that “natural” is better? In fact, the more I think about it the more questions I have for the gatekeepers to this ridiculously awesome hobby. The mids are sweet folks and they are musical in a neutrally tuned way. I could end this section with that and be perfectly content that I explained them exactly correctly to my humble perspective. They are not super lush or thickly weighted and they don’t come across ultra rich. No, they do not. Also, I wouldn’t want them to. It would screw up everything great about this lovely set. That said, they aren’t thin either. Maybe a hint brighter than perfectly natural, or vibrant. But again, what is “natural”? What is “organic”?
Nice midrange performance
The midrange comes across slightly warmer in the lower half and a bit more elated and vibrant, even shimmery in the upper half. The tonality is great throughout for my listening and the midrange can get a bit hot on rare occasions. Still, the EW200 is tuned to walk that fine line. Is the midrange of the EW200 perfect? The answer to that is a hard… Nope. Something I could say for almost any set in this hobby. What the EW200 does well is present a midrange that is exciting yet can also come across soothing. It doesn’t cast a shade of veil; it isn’t tinny or metallic and it is nicely detailed. Separation is better than most single DD’s and imaging is better than most. So yes, to be able to have all these technical luxuries you must also have a slightly leaner presentation or pay a lot more money. Having said that, the EW200 also has a sort of density which is nice within the thinner framework. I believe the quality of the driver has alot to do with how nice this set sounds because transients are quicker while cruising along most any track with good and quality timbre. I’ve always called it “lean-lush” … for lack of better words.
Lower-midrange
The low-mids are not presented with a whole lot of warmth from the bass which can either be a good thing or a very bad thing. Depending on what you prefer. However, there is more warmth than the upper half of the mids, but also the lower midrange is slightly more recessed than the upper half too. I say recessed but what I really mean as they aren’t as energetic and forward sounding as the upper half. The “presence” of lower male vocals is still very well displayed. For instance, I don’t find any issue with Dermot Kennedy in the track “Rome”. Yes, a bit lean but still masculine, bodied, and basically not an analytically weak sound. Males sound like males. Cody Jinks in “Colorado” requires a set which isn’t papery dry. His voice is very bold & deeper in pitch. The EW200 does his voice and the rest of the melody sweet justice with this lean-lush approach. I do find every vocalist in this lower half of the mids to have some crispness to them. Strings have good energy, percussion as well, has some vibrant snap to it, some sprightly energy. Not everything is smooth or buttery. I like this because there is a sense of definition and cleanliness. I think males sound great.
W/O going overboard
Noah Guthrie does an awesome job on the track “Blue Wall” and the EW200 does an equally wonderful job presenting his voice. It is a simple track that shows off Noah’s powerful vocal delivery. The EW200 actually takes the listener right to the cusp of being too energetic. However, the control of the driver and the approach to the tuning is very nice, keeping the sound very melodic and lively without going overboard. I love the slight piano to the left which follows his vocals. Truly a nice sounding set for many different types of male singers.
Upper-Midrange
Females on the other hand have slightly more of a brighter hue, depending on the track of course. Don’t be confused though. When I say “brighter hue”, I don’t mean overly & overtly shouty or glaring. Not that the EW200 can’t come across a bit glaring on the right track. I feel the glare goes right to the brink of too much and stops. I want you all to be well understood of what I’m saying. If you are sensitive to pinna glare in the upper-mids/lower treble, then you will probably not enjoy this set too much. However, for the most part the EW200 has a pleasant sounding upper-mid delivery. For the most part, I hear good control of this brighter tilting upper-mid / lower-treble area. Though it is still vibrant and energetic. Simgot made sure to tune a wide slope pinna gain which rises gradually, around 10-11 dB gain. This is not a steep rise, but it is noticeable. Again, I have almost zero issue with it and in fact I feel this “right to the brink” nature of the upper mids helps tremendously for the EW200 to be sweetly analytical and detailed while not losing all of its musicality.
Quality of the driver…
The upper mids have fantastic transparency with a crisp note definition. I noticed this on darn near every track I played. In my opinion, female vocals sound really good on the EW200. Clean, resolving, svelte but also resounding… quality of the driver folks. The EW200 can afford to be a bit more energetic because the driver can handle it without breaking apart, sounding nasally, grainy, fuzzy and any other descriptor which describes something that simply isn’t that great.
Upper-mids cont…
Caitlyn Smith in the track “High” is a perfect example of a female coming across energetic. This track displays the softer side of her voice but also the more ballad delivery to her amazing voice. Her voice is very pleasant to the ear as the verse kicks in, but becomes powerful within the chorus section. I really like the way the EW200 is able to navigate these different types of energies. Never piercing or metallic to me. The EW200 does a wonderful job at this price! Her voice is clean lined folks. Again, it isn’t grainy or coarse while keeping a crisp edge to it. The chorus gets pretty congested for this recording and the EW200 doesn’t really get tripped up at all. Even though there is a lot of higher frequency craziness happening all at once. This is a track I always use for reviews and most sets will not reflect it perfectly. I enjoy listening to it with the EW200 in my ears. So, just be aware that this isn’t a thickly weighted version of a good vocal delivery. It is well resolved, finely tuned, open and airy sound with good space and a more natural timbre, but it isn’t that velvet smooth sound.
Instruments
I’ll keep this short. Basically, take any instrument and add a hint of vibrancy to it. The sound seems authentic with some spice of vivacity with the EW200 in my ears. Strings generally sound abrasive when they need to, edgy, or very melodic, and also fantastic for acoustic tracks. Electric guitar may be a hair too energetic in very loud and complicated electric guitar passages of music, but also, most sets do. Violin is probably what you’d expect, perhaps a hint thin but tonally very nice. Again, there is an edgy quality that has this very nice lean-lush weight to it. Double bass has some nice harmonics too. Percussion has a brisk style snap to the attack and a tight decay time. I find it satisfying. Is it “natural”? “Who cares” is my answer. It sounds nice. Some snare drum pangs come across like a defined exclamation point! Like in the track “Billie Jean” by Weezer (Michael Jackson cover). It’s a hard lined “pang” that really feels good to my ears. I could keep going but instruments are always going to be generalizations folks. There are too many recordings to simply label something as good, or not good, according to any one set. Too many songs and too many different recordings and different qualities to those recordings to generalize in a blanket way. Basically, instruments come across energetic, sprightly, and spirited, with great separation and great imaging for a $40 iem and they are a pinch brighter. However, they have excellent control and “generally” come across highly resolute for a single DD.
Downsides to the Midrange
The mids will certainly have some issues to some of you. Any warm/dark lovers out there will probably want to keep looking. You are not likely to enjoy the presentation all too much. The EW200 is most certainly neutral/bright throughout the midrange as a whole. This will not be for everyone. There is some glare in the upper midrange on some tracks and higher volumes will expound upon this. Of course, the EW200 manages these areas a bit better than most similarly tuned budget sets but, it’s worth noting. Lastly, the EW200 is not a heavy noted or rich affair. It is not the type of sound that comes across particularly juicy or super smooth. Yes, the EW200 has its moments, and a lot depends on what you are listening to but for the most part the EW200 is on the leaner side of the aisle. Crisp over smooth, clean edges, fine lines, brisk, resolving. These downsides seem to be a lot but make no mistake, the EW200 is a fantastic midrange set. Very detailed, and technically adept for what it is, with very capable drivers and an organically neutral/bright sound.
Treble Region
Moving on to the treble. Folks, how do I say this without it sounding more like a hype tribute. Ya know what, I just have to speak my truth. The treble may be the best part about this set. I’ve said a lot of great words thus far and I do believe that the treble is probably one of the best parts about this tuning. The EW200 treble has a very nice bite on attack. There is a refined sort of edge and snappiness to this set up top. It isn’t completely perfect, and it is a budget level treble, but I do feel that this set presents the treble region better than $40 should suggest. The separation of instrumentation and control over the top of the spectrum is very well done. Yes, I put a “very” in there. For the price that is, and for the fact that this is a single DD. This is a treble which is certainly emphasized in a tasteful way and a purposeful way. Also, this is a treble which can handle complicated tracks with speedy transient attack and decay. Also, the treble does a great job of lifting the entire frequency with an airy and open feeling throughout.
Talented treble
The one thing which stands out is the detail retrieval of the The EW200 in the treble region. It is fairly easy to pick up on the subtleties within a track. Again, transients are pretty tight, even in the treble. Also, the treble has a crispness to it while also being pretty resolving. This all helps to bring some of the micro-details to the surface. Also, I’d say that the extension into the upper treble is better than many in the price point. I don’t hear anything splashy coming from the secondary harmonics of stuff like cymbals for example. Everything stays in good control. This extension also does well to create a wider stage and sort-of extend the overall sound.
Examples
Listening to Billy Strings and the breakneck speed of his five-string banjo, mandolin, and fiddle play fires along at very fast rates and it does take a capable treble region to properly weigh out each instrument. Take the track “In the Morning Light” off his “Renewal” album. The EW200 makes each note come across with a solid note body for a budget treble. Each note is displayed pretty well with a nice levity to the sound while not coming across as smeared treble. Or “Way Back When” by The String Cheese Incident. It’s another track which highlights some quicker treble that the EW200 takes in great stride and doesn’t skip a beat. What I notice the most is the tight transient activity, and the timing is very nice. I like to hear the notes at their attack crest as the EW200 has a satisfying note edge. There is compacted energy afforded to each note which is spaced fairly well in the treble region, though not perfect.
Downsides to the Treble Region
Obviously, not everyone enjoys a treble which comes across this boosted. While I tend to really enjoy it, I’m sure that many of you want a more relaxed treble. So, I would say that if this type of signature applies to your preferences, then I’m sure you’ll enjoy what the EW200 is able to achieve up top. I still wouldn’t call this a “treble head’s delight”. I’m sure some folks would like even more crunch and snap and a bit more vibrancy up top. Also, the EW200 does have some more glaring and peaky moments. In all truth those moments are not a usual thing, and it isn’t something I would label as a hard “con”, but it is a downside and something to be aware of.
Technicalities
Soundstage
The stage size is certainly above average. Well, I should say that the actual sound field is wider than average with okay depth for layering the musical presentation in my mind. That said, everything sounds more forward and intimate than it is pushed back. It sounds as though I’m right up in front of the stage. However, that stage fills my mind space. It’s big with very expressive macro-dynamic energy which just helps the entire presentation to feel full and pretty immersive. I don’t think it beats all iems in the price point as there are a few which come to mind that sound more massive, but we are still talking about iems and so we should temper our expectations a bit. For a budget in-ear monitor I feel the EW200 has a big and full, but also intimate sound. I love it and feel it is great for enjoying an engulfing sound.
Separation / Imaging
Speaking of the separation and imaging of the Simgot EW200, I’d say that they are two attributes that are relatively well accomplished on this set. Depending on the track, the separation of elements on an imaginary stage is fairly well spaced out. Obviously, in more congested tracks or recordings which aren’t perfect you won’t be able to make as good of a distinction on this set. Of course, that applies to most sets. I feel that in general the EW200 does a very nice job in this area. What we have is actual layering and some depth within the field of sound and very nice left to right spacing as well. Imaging follows suit and doesn’t skip a beat. I really enjoy the spatial recognition of this budget set and feel it is one of the better within the price point.
Details
Detail retrieval is one of the EW200’s strong suits. This set comes with a crystal clear and transparent sound, a great balance across the mix, and emphasized and clean treble region, faster transients and a very nice stage size. All of these attributes help the EW200 to be a contender in the technicalities department against most any set in the price point. Of course, detailed retrieval is pretty nice. Especially for a budget single DD. I honestly don’t feel anyone is going to be missing out on much with the EW200. Again, perhaps in more complicated tracks things may seem a bit more compact and congested. The EW200 does the technical stuff very nicely folks.
Comparisons
TRN Conch ($35)
Oh, the TRN Conch! How you have swept through the Audioverse, while taking no prisoners. One reviewer after another came to your defense. Truly the Conch is a force at this low price of $35. This is another set which has a 10mm DLC dual magnetic single DD within its dual cavity structure. Again, we have an all-alloy design and a beautiful one at that. I haven’t even had a chance to review this one, though it may not be needed (I think enough folks have reviewed it by now). Truly a contender under $50 with the accessories to make this thing interesting. Oh, the Conch also comes with three tuning nozzles for under $40. This budget arena is getting silly folks.
Differences
First off, the price is about the same between the two, but the Conch comes with much better accessories. Usable ones at that. Both cables are nice, but the Conch has a modular cable which is bonkers at $30-$35. Both are built using an all-metal design, both are gorgeous, both are small in the ear, both priced under $50 and both sets offer better sound quality than most sets in their price point. Yes, the EW200 is a couple bucks more but let’s see how these two pair against one another in the sound department.
Sound Differences
Between the two, I think the EW200 has the more controlled sound across the board. Both have a neutral lean in their sound signatures. Both have a good balance as well. However, I feel the Conch is simply not as refined. Really folks. I like them both but, in my opinion, the EW200 is the better set soundwise. I usually never say these things in comparisons but I feel people will actually question which is better and so it is more helpful for me to be as direct as possible.
The EW200 has more of a punch down low, better definition too. Though both sets have a nice bass replay. I like the spaciousness of the EW200 midrange which has a denser feel to notes. Neither are particularly thick sounding. The EW200 has a better transient response and better detail retrieval in this area. The Conch has a slight bit more grain present as well. The treble is where I see the biggest difference though. Also, please don’t get me wrong, both sets are fantastic for the price. Anyways, the Conch treble is just a bit too wishy-washy. Forgive my technical terminology. There is a tad less control over the treble. I hear more of a splashy treble on the Conch whereas the EW200 is pin-point and exact with much better bite and snap. It really isn’t some huge chasm between the two but there is a difference, nonetheless. The stage is bigger on the EW200 and technically it’s superior.
Further thoughts on this comparison
Folks, I went a hair harder than I ever would in a comparison. Again, I do so just because I know that people in the hobby looking at this price point will fight themselves over which to buy. As far as pure sound quality is concerned, I do feel the EW200 is the better iem for the money. However, this is a big “however”. One thing the Conch has going for it; the package and accessories may just put some folks over the top with this one. You get a very nice modular cable in the TRN Redchain. TRN also offers a nice aluminum carrying case and seven sets of tips. Also, the Conch has three sets of tuning nozzles which do what they are supposed to do. I realize this looks like a blodd bath in the sound department but both iems are very nice sounding. Still, for my money I would purchase the Simgot EW200.
Kiwi Ears Cadenza ($35)
The Kiwi Ears Cadenza is another huge hit in the price segment which really opened people’s eyes (I feel) to how good $35 can get you in the iem market. I reviewed this set last year (Cadenza Review) and was blown away by how well it replayed my music for the cost. It’s another single DD but with a 10mm Beryllium Coated Dynamic Driver. The Cadenza is one of those sets that will appeal to a very wide group of people. Probably more-so than even the EW200 as it does have a more laid-back tuning. This doesn’t make it better though, that’s for sure. Let’s compare the two.
Differences
To start, the Cadenza is an all-resin iem while the EW200 is all alloy. Both are built pretty great but the EW200 is superior here. Resin versus metal is an easy choice for durability. I find both sets look amazing! The Cadenza is absolutely gorgeous in any color you choose with its swirling pattern. Mine has electric blue against the black base color which is amazing. However, the EW200 is beautiful in its own right. It is more business-like, more elegant and is every bit as nice looking. I do feel that the EW200 provides a much better cable as well as an actual carrying pouch whereas the Cadenza has no carrying case or pouch. Both are rather small in size, and fit is great on both. However, I feel the Cadenza fits me a bit better and simply sits in my ear more naturally.
Sound Differences
To begin, the Kiwi Ears Cadenza has a more laid back and easy going vibe. The EW200 has a more energetic disposition with tighter transients across the board and is the better set technically. Again… across the board. Also, the EW200 has bigger and fuller macro-dynamics. However, I feel that tonally the Cadenza is a hair better if you are into a warmer and more organic sound. The bass on the Cadenza comes across beefier and with more rumble and oomph. The EW200 is much more defined with better layering in the bass and has a faster speed of attack and decay. The Cadenza is a bit softer in its note definition while the EW200 is more exact. The EW200 has a harder and more direct punch too. The midrange of the Cadenza is warmer, smoother, easier to take over long periods while the EW200 has that fast & clean bite to it. Separation and airiness is much more apparent in the EW200’s midrange. Both sets can get some glare up top but the EW200 is the more refined midrange. The treble is much more vibrant, precise, detailed, and extended on the EW200. It has an airier sound, better separated and more energetic as a whole. The Cadenza has a more laid back sound again in this region. Smoother, less offensive. Again, technicalities goes to the EW200 almost across the board besides the stage size is pretty close. Perhaps depth is better on the EW200, but that’s up for debate.
Further thoughts on this comparison
Again, this is another preference battle. You will either prefer one or the other just based on sound signature. Do you like a warm, emotional & musical sound signature? Or would you rather have a dynamic, analytical-Harman style clean sound with slightly above average musicality? The Cadenza is a fantastic iem for the price. There’s no doubt why so many have fallen in love over it. The timbre and tonality is very good and when you add in the popular tuning you know you have a good iem. Still, for me I don’t think this is really a match, personally. I like the EW200 quite a bit more. It is the more audiophile, mature, clean, resolving and technically superior iem. I do pop the Cadenza in my ears every now and again but the EW200 is too good to be ignored in comparison. I’m sure many will disagree and I would have no qualms with that. Both are fantastic for what they are.
Simgot EA500 ($79)
This is a natural comparison for this review. The Simgot EA500 is one which I reviewed last year at some point (EA500 Review) and I was incredibly impressed. Truly one of the best iems that exist under $100 and one which would make any collection a better collection. The EA500 is another single DD. A 4th generation 10mm DLC to be exact, with a dual cavity structure and a build quality that is very impressive. Not only the build though, but the look is also absolutely gorgeous too. This is another all alloy iem that looks as though it should be much more expensive. Coincidentally, it also sounds like it should be much more expensive. This will be a huge mountain to climb for the EW200, but I think this set is up to the task.
Differences
First, the EW200 comes in about $40 less in price as the EA500 is still marked at around $79 on Linsoul at least. The build is about the same, both sets are beautifully crafted, all metal, mirror finish, dual cavity. However, the EA500 does have a trick up its sleeve with two sets of tuning nozzles. Granted they hardly make a difference but it’s a difference, nonetheless. The EA500 is ever so slightly bigger in stature. I find the accessories are a bit better on the EA500 (naturally), but both sets offer great value. Of the two I do feel that the less expensive EW200 offers a bit better of the two.
Sound Differences
I spent quite a while between the two sets, and I would say that the EW200 is the more analytical sounding of the two. Whereas the EA500 has the more dynamically expressive sound. More V-shaped, harder slam but less haptic rumble than the EW200. The EA500’s bass region is a tad slower to my ears, more atmospheric and less cleanly defined. Certainly, the EW200 offers the more transient swift low-end of the two. The midrange of both these sets is actually fairly different in that the EW200 has a thinner note weight, less juicy and more vibrant front the low-mids to the upper-mids. The EA500 sounds more organic and truer to life in my opinion. While the EA500 is more musical and emotional, rich, lush compared with the EW200, which is more detailed, snappy and precise. The treble of the EW200 has more of that shimmery emphasis in comparison with the nicely emphasized but less detailed and exact EA500. I actually feel the EW200 has the more refined treble region. The soundstage of both sets is very similar. Perhaps a touch more width in the EA500, both equal in height, but the depth of the EW200 is a hint better. Technically the EW200 is superior as far as spaciousness and it has a better handle at micro-dynamics and micro-details.
Further thoughts on this comparison
Folks, I cannot tell you how special these two sets are. They complement each other very well. Of the two, I have to say that I do enjoy the EA500’s musicality a bit more but man do I like the EW200! What a special iem! The fact that I’m even debating which is better is a huge nod to the EW200. Yes, the EW200 is a bit thinner in note profile, and slightly more glaring at times but it is also very clean, cleaner then the twice as expensive EA500. Of course, this will come down to your wallet and your preferences. Do you want musical over technical, or technical over musical. Both are great. Personally, I feel the EA500 is a bit better of an iem. It’s warmer (to a degree), more spacious, more dynamic, macro-dynamics are more expressive, and it is more musical. But it’s also twice the price. This should be expected. Now, is it twice as good? That’s up to you to decide. I do not feel it is twice as good. In fact, I think the EA500 just edges past the EW200 in overall quality of its replay.
Is it worth the asking price?
This shouldn’t even be a question that deserves an answer. Or better said, I don’t even want to dignify the question with a response. Folks, the fact that the EW200 is only $40 in price is a blessing to the community. It is superior to almost any set at or around its price point in a number of ways. If the tuning agrees with you that is. Without question there will be those who disagree and dislike the EW200, and I get that. Not everyone wants the neutral/bright sound of this set. However, if you do feel that the EW200 aligns with your listening preference then I truly don’t believe you can do wrong here.
The Why…
The first reason why is the very low price out of pocket to own the EW200. This is an iem that is built like Fort Knox and is as elegant as it is bold in both design language as well as tuning. The look alone is a reason to pick it up. Okay, that may be going a bit far, but you get the sentiment. This is a great looking set folks. Pair a dope looking cable with it and you are in business. Nobody else will be rockin’ a more fly looking set anywhere around you. However, there will always only be one true reason why anyone should purchase anything in the audio game, and that’s because of the sound quality. The EW200 sounds more expensive than it is. Flat out. It’s clean across the board and each area of the mix is as talented as the last. Bass to treble is highly resolving, mostly non-fatiguing, very well detailed, spacious, energetic and very expressive in its macro-dynamic fullness. Yes, it has flaws but name a set that doesn’t. Do I thinj the Simgot EW200 is worth the $40 asking price? Without a doubt in mind, yes.
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 EW200 ratings below, that would be $30-$50 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. $30-$50 US is a decent sized scope 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.
Aesthetic
–Build Quality: 9.9 Built well but nothing out of the ordinary.
–Look: 9.7 Very nice-looking set.
–Accessories: 8.9 Nice package for the price.
–Overall: 9.8
Sound Rating
–Timbre: 9.5 Fantastic timbre.
–Bass: 8.8 The bass is tight, punchy.
–Midrange: 9.5 A bit thinner but great.
–Treble: 9.8 Treble is awesome in this set.
–Technicalities: 9.6 Technically a great set.
–Musicality: 8.1 Musicality is good for what it is.
–Overall: 9.2🔥🔥🔥
Ratings Summary:
Really nothing to summarize here. I feel the ratings are pretty fair if I’m considering every set within the $30 to $50 range. I chose this range thinking of the consumer who cannot spend a dime over $50. It makes sense to me, and I’ve certainly been there. Friends, in this range I don’t feel you will find many sets Rating above a “9.2” overall. Possibly just the EPZ Q5 or the CCA Rhapsody, in my personal opinion. Of course, those are also different animals too. I wouldn’t say one is better than the other as they are different. I can’t think of another one besides those. No doubt there are some fantastic iems. Sets like the Reecho SG-01 Ova, Kiwi Ears Cadenza (Cadenza Review), previously mentioned CCA Rhapsody (Rhapsody Review), Rose Technics QuietSea (QuietSea Review), BGVP P05 (P05 Review), also mentioned EPZ Q5 (Q5 Review), Fiio FD11, Fiio FH11. I’m not going list them all, but you get the idea as there are about 50 more worth considering as tough competition. There are also some sets I haven’t tried like the Artti R2 which have garnered some praise, or the Pula Pa01 etc. The point is, there are a sea of great sets in this price point and to be one of the best, you have to be good.
A couple discrepancies
The only possible place I could see an issue as far as ratings are concerned is “Midrange” rating of “9.5”. Some will consider this too thin sounding or possibly too much in the pinna gain for their ears. I could see that, and I’d get it if you thought that was too high. Also, maybe the “Musicality” rating of an “8.1”. Some folks would argue that is too low I think and again, understandable. All the rest I’m good with.
Conclusion
To conclude my full written review of the Simgot EW200, I thank Simgot and Betty from Simgot for sending this unit out to me. Simgot asks nothing of me but to review and be honest. Obviously, it makes it much easier when they know how good their products are, but still, they ask nothing from me, and I will always be thankful for that. Also, I don’t have the most money in the world so receiving review samples is very helpful to me so that I can continue doing what I love.
Other thoughts…
Please take in other thoughts about this set. Everyone is different folks. We all have different likes and dislikes, different music libraries, different hearing abilities even. So, it’s a good idea to check out as many as possible. I hope you all take good care, stay safe and always… God bless!
