Disclaimer:
Good morning, readers! Today we will see together the latest news from Simgot, namely the Simgot EW300 in standard and DSP versions. I think the time has finally come for an heir to the EW200; these in shape definitely recall that model. The Simgot EW300 has maintained the dimensions of the EW200 but inside the driver configuration has completely changed.
To date, I have to say that Simgot is proving capable of producing IEMs with a high quality/price ratio without ever making mistakes in the final result.
I’m not an audiophile; I’m just a guy that likes to test out different IEMs and DACs and spends a lot of time listening to music.
So I’m not going to use super technical words to review it, but I will do my best to describe it.
Tech Specs:
- Driver configuration: 1 dynamic driver + 1 planar magnetic driver + 1 piezoelectric ceramic driver
- Dynamic driver: 10mm ceramic composite diaphragm dual-chamber dynamic driver
- Planar magnetic driver: 6mm annular magnetic driver
- Impedance: 28Ω±15%(@1 kHz)
- Sensitivity: 121dB/Vrms (@1kHz, silver steel tube&red silicone ring); 119dB/Vrms (@1kHz, golden copper tube&purple silicone ring)
- Frequency response range: 8Hz-40kHz
- Effective frequency response: 20Hz-20kHz
- Connector: 0.78mm 2Pin
- Cable material: high-purity silver-plated OFC
- Plug: 3.5mm (without microphone) or DSP (with microphone)
Packaging:
The packages are distinguished by the colors they have; in my case, I am missing the HBB version. The silver box is the Simgot EW300 DSP version, while the black one has the standard version.
The content of the two packages is exactly identical and only the cable changes. The accessories are always very complete:
- Hard case
- Classic or DSP cable
- Extra tuning filters
- Tuning sponge
- Nozzle gaskets
- Tips type 07
- manuals and QC
The cable is the usual one already seen in other models; as for the DSP cable, they decided to move the chip not on the connector but in the middle of the cable, reducing the bulk on the Type C of the phone. An excellent choice to minimize the risk of breaking something by putting the phone in your pocket. The tips are the usual 07 model, which in my opinion is excellent but there are better choices for this model. Included we also find tuning sponges, nozzle gaskets, and a nozzle for gaming. By providing you with the tuning sponges, Simgot is very happy if you do DIY tests. The range of accessories is very rich in any case.
Design/Build quality:
The design is reminiscent of the one already seen on the EW200; starting from this base, they have slightly elaborated the aesthetics of the Simgot EW300, which in fact sports faceplates with symbols, respectively a cross and a heart. The finish of the standard ones is mirror chrome like the EW200, while the DSP version is painted matte black, except for the part on the symbols, which is glossy black. To be honest, the finish of the black ones has a more premium look to my eyes but it could be subject to chipping of the paint over time. There are pros and cons for both versions.
In terms of quality, I don’t see a difference in the choice of materials, but the shell is obtained from CNC machining of a block of high density. alloy. I honestly believe that the alloy is really high density because you can feel the weight. It doesn’t have a light shell like the Kefine Delci. It’s not a problem because they are absolutely not heavy and annoying. If the dimensions are the same, however, the nozzle has become interchangeable and allows modifications. On the shell, we can see two ventilation holes located in the front and rear parts of the drivers.
Initial sound impression:
Simgot does not disappoint expectations; lately they hit every new release and this is yet another confirmation that they know how to make IEMs that sound good. With the new hybrid configuration with 1DD, 1 Planar, and 1PTZ at a price of 70 USD, it is a real miracle. There are not many manufacturers capable of a similar price and a similar configuration. Perhaps the only company that can compete with them is Celest.
As soon as you put them in your ears, you can notice their musicality, energy, and perfect balance between the frequencies. Unlike usual, they have contained themselves on the high frequencies, pushing the lows a little more. The result is a sound signature that tends to be natural with a touch of warmth that adds thickness to the notes.
Equipment used for testing the above:
Device:
- OSX
- Poco M4 Pro
Software:
- Amazon Music UHD 24bit 96kHz
DAC:
- Simgot DEW4X (great synergy)
- Fosi DS2 2024 (really good)
- Hidizs S9 Pro Plus (not really impressive)
- Fiio KA17 (better bass)
- Fosi SK02 (more brillance)
- Simgot DSP (stage, sound, and mids improvement)
Comfort & Fit:
As for comfort, the Simgot EW300 is identical to the EW200. The mold is the same and has the same characteristics. Even when performing tip rolling, the tips that are most comfortable for me are the same ones I had previously used on the EW200.
Tips Rolling?
Honestly, the stock tips are more than enough but if you have other models at home of tips to try, it is free. I decided to mount the SS20 as on the EW200 and honestly, they seem perfect to me. I also tested the EPZ M100 and the Divinus Velevet but those that help the stage the most are the SS20. If you want even more defined bass, the M100 is certainly excellent. As for the Divinus Velvet, they did not seem particularly suitable to me.
Tuning Nozzles:
At first glance, the difference seems only in the color; the internal filters have a very slight difference in the mesh. The stock one should be the tuning intended by Simgot as “Golden 2023,” which is a variant of the gold one, which is the “gaming nozzle,” which is nothing more than “H2019.” They look very similar to my ears; the difference is that one marks the V-shape factor more. The preferred one is without a doubt the silver one. If you want to hear some extra difference, you have to play with the tuning sponges. Maybe since putting 3 pairs of sponges with the same density, it would have been nice to have different types.
Standard or DSP Version?
It is not easy to give an answer that is valid for everyone. In my opinion, you have to take into account various aspects to understand which variant is best suited for us. I personally believe I would have purchased the standard version for the simple reason that I have plenty of dongles and I don’t feel the real need to own an IEM with integrated DSP, but if I considered use on the move instead of static use (desk or sitting on the sofa), then the DSP would be extremely convenient for more “free” use. Those who do not own dongles, for example, with 10 USD more, should not worry about buying one to make the most of the Simgot EW300. There are many different situations so there is no correct answer.
In my case, I decided to try them with a balanced cable and surprisingly, although they are able to play very loudly even with a 3.5mm output, with the balanced cable they seem to unlock some hidden dynamics. Personally, I would have liked to see the possibility of choosing the cable with a 4.4mm terminal. If you have the possibility, mount a balanced cable and enjoy!
In terms of sound performance, we are very close. Using the standard version with one ear and the DSP version with the other, I clearly hear more bass in the standard version, and I also notice a slight smoothing of the treble extension. Where the DSP seems to make the The most noticeable difference is the emphasis on the mids, which appear to be more energetic and refined.
Nothing really different to tell the truth; they are not two completely different sounds; in fact, their similarity makes the purchase choice freer. The DSP lacks an app to manage it; it would have been an added value.
*Test performed from the same source, using the same eartips and adjusting the volume to the same levels.
Final sound impression:
I used them alternately for about 2 weeks to try to capture their differences at their best.
During the “macro lens photoshoot,” I noticed that the differences are not limited to the cable but there is also a very slight physical difference. Removing the nozzles and looking at the front driver part, we notice a different-sized filter but also a slightly different-shaped driver.
However, the version with DSP has a sort of treatment that makes it smoother along the entire spectrum, with particular focus on the mids.
If I really had to make a decision on which one to choose, the DSP version would be the one that retains more detail and raises the quality of the mids to the level that Simgot has accustomed us to.
For a $70 set, the sound quality is really very high; it could easily be a set that goes well over $100.
Bass
Simgot has finally brought back the bass. The Simgot EW300 has decidedly marked bass, the resolution of the same has a very good texture, and the subbass extends correctly. The sensation of depth contributes to a correct image and structure of the soundstage. On the standard version, the presentation is a bit more “wild,” while on the DSP version, it is softer and more refined.
Mids
As for the mids, the DSP representation wins over the Standard one. The DSP somehow brings a result that seems more in line with what we are used to with Simgot. You can hear more details, more energy, and above all, they seem positioned more forward than the standard version. The Simgot EW300 Standard seems at times slightly veiled in comparison. The difference is not huge if seen graphically but overall the difference is audible.
Treble
The Simgot EW300 trebles are extended but do not cause any fatigue. Fortunately, they managed to contain themselves compared to the latest releases, which many have seemed too bright and sometimes too shouty. Simgot has managed to maintain a high level of detail with a good presence of macro and micro details. Despite several hours of listening, I have not noticed annoying peaks except on some tracks and only by raising the volume beyond levels considered safe. If the previous Simgots were too much for you, you finally have an alternative just for you.
Soundstage and Imaging
Honestly, even here, the Simgot EW300 has proven to be excellent (70 USD) and can compete with much more expensive products. The soundstage develops very well in width and depth, an above-average result for the price range. As for the image, it is more refined on the DSP version but they are both excellent. Simgot has always been capable of 100% refined IEMs and this is one of them. You can perceive the directionality of the sounds; the placement and distinction are precise and clean.
Comparison:
Comparisons are extremely complex in this case because we are dealing with a hybrid IEM with the price of a single DD. Even among the most expensive hybrids, there are not many that stand out like these EW300.
vs Simgot EW200
I can say with absolute certainty that we can all consider them an upgrade. The Simgot EW200 is still a reference for single-drive IEMs in that price range. For a slightly higher price, you can now even take home a tri-brid IEM. The EW300 is warmer, the bass is more present and the whole mix is a bit more in line with the tuning that is in fashion today. The Ew300 shows off superior technicality and a more advanced staging ability but it loses a bit of energy that the EW200 had in abundance. They are not exactly the same thing but that is also right. Maybe the tuning could have followed the EW200 more.
vs Simgot EA500LM
I don’t think there is any competition between them; they are two products with different properties. The EA500LM driver is very accurate, precise, and sharp, but if you are looking for a 360-degree versatile IEM, then the EW300 is more suitable. They are two different concepts and as such, you cannot take one as a substitute for the other.
There would be comparisons to be made with other hybrids from other brands, such as Celest but currently the EW300 is superior to many products heard today. With such an aggressive price, there is little room for the competition to enter for a slice of the market.
Conclusion:
I think Simgot has once again nailed the recipe for the almost perfect IEM, although I have to admit that the mids could have been slightly better in terms of transparency and energy. As noted by someone, there is a slight veiling on the mids that is less noticeable on the DSP version. What has always distinguished Simgot has been modified a bit for a more commercial tuning but is still excellent. But in all honesty, there are very few flaws for the price paid. In my opinion, the DSP version sounds better but I like to change dongles often so I will probably use the standard balanced version more. But if you don’t have a dongle, the DSP version is the one that gives you more performance for a small difference of 10 USD.
9.5/10
Pros:
- Shell quality
- Good packaging
- Removable 0.78 cable
- Really nice aesthetics
- H2019, natural, slightly warm
- Clear and luscious voices, sparkly treble
- Bass and subbass are definitely boosted.
- Good details and layering
- Note thickness and silky
- Wide Soundstage for the price
- DSP Version got slightly better performance.
- Easy to drive
Cons:
- Tips need to be upgraded.
- Fingerprint magnet & scratch on silver chrome finish
- Mids slightly veiled sometimes
