Tanchjim Origin
Intro
Hello, today I am reviewing the latest mid-tier flagship single DD from Tanchjim Audio dubbed the Tanchjim Origin. I am happy to get my thoughts out about this set. For a few reasons actually and one which I’ll explain here. I am excited because I’m a huge fan of Tanchjim’s single dynamic driver expertise. I’ve really enjoyed Tanchjim’s ultra-budget single DD’s like the Tanchjim Zero, Tanchjim Tanya, and the Tanchjim One which all seem to punch above their price. I also frequently spend good and quality time with Tanchjim’s more expensive, but also very impressive single DD, the Tanchjim Hana 21’. What a good set the Hana is, truly a gem at its price. However, only one of their iems reached legend status and that iem is the Tanchjim Oxygen. For many years the Oxygen was regarded the best single dynamic driver iem under the price of $300. Over the course of the last year or so I do believe it (Oxygen) has been eclipsed by the likes of the Simgot EA1000. But that’s up for debate. Regardless, the Oxygen hailed supreme for many years at the lofty spot of best in class & best single DD under $300. Comfortably perched on its throne. Dynasties don’t last forever my friends. In comes the Tanchjim Origin.
Origin
First off, how cool of a name is “origin”? I love it! At any rate, Tanchjim went back to the drawing board to try to repeat former glory with this latest Origin by upgrading many key internal features but keeping the clean design aesthetic and solid build. It cannot be easy trying to replicate and advance past the special sauce that was, and still is, the Tanchjim Oxygen. Funny story, I actually owned the Oxygen at one point and sold it, why… Because I was dumb. That was years ago now. Guess what, the Oxygen is still very much relevant and I’m still kicking myself. Fast forward to this moment right now. I have a set in my ears (Origin) that quite honestly gives me all the vibes that the Oxygen once did. The point is… Tanchjim knows exactly what they are doing. The Origin is a certain step up from that set (if my memory serves me well) in an incremental but noticeable way. Cleaner, more balanced tonally, technically better and the fit is much much better. That’s just the noticeable stuff folks.
Lets get into it
Okay, no more mindless babble from me. Let’s get into this thing. I will do my best to explain the build, look (just look at my pictures), Internals, and set out to explain each 3rd of the mix. Also, I’ll try to compare the Origin to a few other single DD’s in the Simgot EA1000 (tough task for the Origin), and the Shanling MG600 (much more expensive). Of course, I don’t know how useful it is to compare against only single DD’s as I do think the Origin competes against any and all driver configurations within the price point. I will also try to answer the question if the Origin is even worth the asking price of $259. With all that said, I’m ready to jump into this review friends. The Tanchjim Origin everyone…
Purchase Links:
Origin Pros
-Exceptional build quality
-Absolutely gorgeous design
-One of the more comfortable shell designs
-Unboxing / Accessories
-Clean, resolute and wonderfully natural timbre
-Very well balanced across the mix
-Tight, expedient, and textured low-end
-Oh the midrange! Vocals, vocals, vocals!
-Treble is open, airy and extended nicely
-Soundstage is wide, tall and deep
-Imaging / Layering of sounds is very nice for a single DD
-Details retrieval is also very nice
Origin Cons
-Warm, dark, thick lovers will want to keep looking
-There is some shout on the right tracks if you are sensitive to it
-Fingerprints and smudges show up easily on shells & faceplates
-The Origin shell can develop hairline scratches over time (con?)
-Not exactly a “fun” sound per se
-Bass bois won’t get excited over the Origin
-Tuning nozzles affect almost no change in the sound
Gear used for testing
–iBasso DX240 with Amp8 MK2
Packaging / Accessories
Unboxing
One thing you can surely expect from a Tanchjim product is a great unboxing. I always enjoy the packaging, even if it’s a short term shot of serotonin. Tanchjim’s unboxing experiences feel clinically clean and minimalistic with a very whitewashed and Apple-esque aesthetic. The Origin comes packaged in an almost square white/gray box. There’s a clean shot of the Origin on the front of the outer sleeve which covers the actual box. On the back of the sleeve is a Tanchjim frequency response as well as some other specs. Slip off the sleeve and you are met with a simple gray box featuring the company logo on the front-center. Open the box and you’ll see a cardboard envelope which holds the manual as well as some quick tips. Under the envelope is the gorgeous Origin sitting pretty in foam cutouts and in between them sits a steel slab which houses the tuning nozzles. Next to the earphones is a white partition, pull that away and you’ll see the awesome carrying case. Inside the case is the cable. Lift off the earphone foam piece and you are met with two cardboard trays which carry the eartips. I realize I go through this pretty quick, but I am impressed with the overall feel of the unboxing. It feels premium, luxury and a step up from the norm.
Eartips
I adore the eartips which come with the Origin. I really do. They provide six sets of T-APB tips in total. Known for their pressure relief properties. The first type are very soft and pliable white silicone tips (S, M, L) with plenty of ear hugging cushion. These are very nice feeling tips. Very comfortable from usual silicone tips. Anyways, they have a narrower bore and do well to add some warmth to the sound. Maybe a slight boost in bass quantity and a taming of the upper midrange energy. Again, to a slight degree. The next type is also a soft and cushioned white silicone tip (S, M, L) but with a wide-bore. They have the same super comfortable feel and pliable softness. I really like these APB tips. For my listening I went between the narrow bore set provided as well as my go-to KBear 07 tips at times. However, I feel the included tips are really great and nice to have on hand. I’d actually like to purchase more of them.
Carrying case
Tanchjim also provides a very elegant carrying case that looks more premium than almost all cases I’ve ever received. It is a very good-sized white fabric covered case that is solid in its structure. It opens from the top with a strong magnetic flap. Inside it has a soft lining to keep your iems safe and more adept to “not” get all scratched up. Which by the way is something that the Origin is prone to have… Scratches. So, anything which helps fight against that is a bonus. I used the word “elegant” to describe this case and I’m not sure there is a better word for it. It is very nice looking. I have found that it is also large enough to hold your earphones, cable, extra tips, tuning nozzles too. However, this is not a case to put into your pocket, it’s simply too big in my opinion. Unless you like huge bulges in your pants. We won’t talk about that though. The point is the case provided is perfect to throw into a bag or backpack. It’s a very nice addition.
Cable
The cable that Tanchjim added in is not my favorite. It simply doesn’t add a visual appeal to the overall aesthetic in my opinion. It is a thin cable, very lightweight and not microphonic. So, in those terms, it’s great. The included cable is a 2-pin, 3.5 single ended high-purity OFC copper cable with silver plating. Great for stage use as it isn’t burdened by weight or pulling on your ears. Very comfortable too. However, it just doesn’t cut it when paired with the Origin. Not even slightly. The Origin deserves something at least mildly thick, with some beef to it. The Origin needs a dope looking cable. This is too beautiful an iem for a thin little thing. This is one reason why I instead chose to use the ultra-elegant, beautiful and very nice white FSIjiangyi 4.4 mm balanced SPC cable. I feel the look is awesome with this set and the sound pairs nicely as well. I thought about using a pure copper cable too but feel the FSIjiangyi SPC cable is such a nice pairing. I’m sure there are a hundred other cables on the market which would also pair well. At the end of the day, if all you have is the included cable, it’s fine. It sounds nice and is comfortable. Not a bad addition but in my opinion simply doesn’t boost the overall appeal.
Build / Design / Internals / Fit
Build Quality
This is a very nice build. I mean, extremely nice. Both in physical build and durability. Like all of Tanchjim’s iems, the Origin is crafted with structural integrity in mind. The Origin is an all-metal build, from the shells to the faceplates. Tanchjim added a high polished shell (fingerprint magnet) that is small in stature but also very durable in hand & in the ears. The build is definitely top notch on this set. The faceplates are also metal, but they have more of a matte, brushed steel look & feel to them. The finish has a slightly rougher feel. However, because of this texture, I found that they smudge very easily. Anytime the oil on your hands touches them you’ll get a dark gray smudge. Which by the way is not easy to wipe off. I have gotten to the point that I try to never touch the faceplates. Anyways, the build is better than solid, it’s almost perfect. The size is nice, good for smaller ears, not bulky. Very similar in shape and size to the Tanchjim Oxygen and Tanchjim Hana. The nozzles aren’t too long nor too short, just above medium length I’d say. Surely a departure from the ultra-short Oxygen nozzles. I find it is a much better fitment. My opinion of course. This is a body style which has worked for generations now, and I don’t see Tanchjim giving up on it anytime soon. I’m okay with that. You’ll also notice a recessed female 2-pin socket so be aware of this if you are choosing a replacement cable.
Internal cavity
For the internal cavity design, Tanchjim used a wave guide FEA “simulation optimized geometry” which enhances the treble as well as overall sound quality. They also went with a dual cavity design. The back cavity has a larger back vent that you’ll notice is next to the 2-pin sockets. Also, there is small front vent next to the nozzle in the front cavity. Folks, this is about as premium build as it gets. Seriously giving the Simgot EA1000 a run for its money as far as the quality of the build is concerned.
Tuning Nozzles
Friends, I am going to be brief with my explanation of the tuning nozzles. The reason being is that I don’t see the validity in adding tuning nozzles which basically do nothing. Or almost nothing. I honestly cannot hear a difference which is entirely confounding. They even graph identical. I have a hard time calling it a gimmick just because this is a Tanchjim product, but it is a strange thing. It is said that Tanchjim actually added different internal density and materials inside each nozzle which slightly alters the sound. I still don’t hear much of a difference, if any. Very strange that they went this route. One positive is that you can use the nozzles to do your own modding by swapping the mesh filters, altering the sound yourself. I don’t know friends, just giving them the benefit of the doubt. Who knows, maybe some of you can hear a difference. Of course, if I’m being honest, I haven’t exactly listened for hours trying to distinguish any changes either.
Tell me about em’
You’ll notice a printed letter on the nozzle itself distinguishing what type of tuning you will receive with each respective nozzle. That is an “S” for standard tuning, a “L” for light tuning, and a “D” for dynamic. I don’t have any idea what “light” is. Maybe they mean treble boosted or brighter? Also, “dynamic” is a hair ridiculous since they don’t actually add any dynamism. I don’t know, I’m not at all complaining as it is better to have extra nozzles than it isn’t, but saying you are getting three different renditions of the sound signature is a bit of a farce. It is what it is friends. Maybe Tanchjim just wanted to jump on the tuning nozzle train. No problem, no harm… just don’t expect some huge changes. One solid thing is that Tanchjim advertised the nozzle mesh to actually help with any condensation as each has a waterproof layer on it. On top of that is the actual steel mesh. For the record, I used the standard nozzle for review purposes. Please comment if you’ve had a different experience than I have concerning the nozzles. Maybe I’m missing something.
Internals
Tanchjim set out to provide very low distortion levels with their newly adopted and newly crafted dynamic driver. It had to be an upgrade from the Oxygen. Which isn’t the easiest task. So, Tanchjim went with a 10 mm 5th gen. composite Diaphragm, DMT dynamic driver with dual magnets and sits in a dual cavity. The Origin’s driver is said to have a high magnetic flux and the levels of distortion are very low. This provides a THD+N of less than 0.056%, which of you pay attention is a pretty low level. You can tell when listening too. This is a very nice driver.
Fit / Isolation
The Origin is extremely comfortable for me. If any of you have used the Hana or Oxygen, then you’ll know how the Origin fits. For me it’s like a perfect glove. They slide right in, seat nicely in my ears and seal very well. Just make sure to get tips which work for your own ear anatomy. I find isolation is average. There is that larger back vent which lets in some outside noise. However, once you have music playing that all goes away. At any rate, the comfort is top notch and wonderful for long sessions. I honestly have zero issues with the fit. Now, I don’t know how that translates for you, but I assume that most ears will find the Origin pretty comfortable.
Drivability
Sensitivity & Scalability
The Tanchjim Origin is rated with an impedance of 16 ohms and a sensitivity of 126 db’s. Basically, this is an easy set to drive from most any source. You should have zero problems bringing the Origin to volume off of a simple phone jack. That said, the Origin does seem to desire some juice. No doubt it helps to have a good amp adding some extra output.
Source tonality
On top of that, the Origin is also a sort of chameleon (to a degree), in that it mimics the source tonality and changes slightly with your source tonality. This is nothing new. However, I do feel most people would enjoy a warmer source as the Origin does have an energetic upper midrange which can offer some fatigue over time and on the right tracks. Of course I don’t feel that it is necessary. Just something to keep in mind when choosing a source. This isn’t a requirement either. Just because your source is a hint cooler in tonal color doesn’t mean the Origin won’t sound nice. It comes down to what you enjoy.
What I used
Now, the Fiio Q15 is a neutral dac/amp that truly sounds amazing with the Origin attached. Of course that is also a very talented dac/amp too. I also enjoyed the iBasso DX240 (more analytical / neutral) just as much as the warm and velvet Shanling M6 Ultra. It’s a chameleon folks. In truth, I would say that the Origin certainly scales with power (as most sets do), but it also really scales to the quality of source you have. So, the better source… the better listening experience. Yes, I know, you’d think this would be common knowledge and common sense. I actually listened with a number of source devices during my critical and casual listening. I realize I only list a handful for review purposes but that is only because these are the devices I used the most. For more mobile situations I actually spent an entire day with the Origin and the IFi Go Blu and boy is it a nice pairing using the 4.4 balanced output. I found that a wired connection using the Aful SnowyNight and the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus were both nice sources to use with the Origin as they both lean a hint warm against the neutrality of the Origin. However, like I said this isn’t always true because the neutral Fiio Q15 really brought the Origin to a new level. It’s resolute, powerful, and really drives the Origin to audio nirvana.
What do you need
I would have at least a nice dongle dac that has some healthy output though the Origin can be driven easily with even a 3.5 phone jack. That doesn’t mean you should. The Aful SnowyNight I mentioned is only a $69 device, the Moondrop Dawn 4.4 is also a great pairing with the Origin and that you can find pretty cheap anymore. You may prefer a warmer source to offset the sound of the Origin, but this isn’t necessary. Obviously the better the source then the better experience so keep that in mind.
Condensed Sound Impressions
The Tanchjim Origin comes across as neutral, but with the slightest additional warmth. Perhaps, neutral with a bass slightly north of neutral. It has a nicely balanced sound as well without any one area of the mix claiming a huge amount of dominance. Possibly the upper midrange/lower treble area has a slight claim towards my focus when listening, but for the most part I hear very good balance. As a whole the Origin comes across pretty clean as resolution is very nice. The sound is airy and very well controlled. The timbre is absolutely lovely leaning more towards what natural sounds like to my ears. For the most part, this is an uncolored and unsullied sound and I really enjoy it. The transient attack through sustain comes and goes in a tight and rapid way without any real lingering decay to any notes between the 20’s.
Condensed Sound Between The 20’s
This portion of my review features a simplified and smaller version of some of the highlights of the Tanchjim Origin’s sound quality. Beginning with the bass, this is not a bulbous and very heavy bass. The Origin’s low-end comes and goes quick, it’s impactful, never one-noted and very well defined. Just not emphasized with “fun” in mind. I hear a mature low-end that honors quality over quantity. The midrange is not very recessed but actually it is nicely forward making vocals stand-out for both male and females. In fact, I’d say the midrange is probably the crown jewel of the Tanchjim Origin. Of course, the timbre has something to say about that. Never muddy, well detailed, airy, well separated with nice lean-lush note density and always musical. The treble is well extended, it’s also detailed nicely, there’s some treble bite & body and I love the way the treble fits into the rest of the mix. Just a very concise, precise, and mildly brilliant sounding treble. The stage is above average with that feeling of air in my music. I also hear some good depth too. Separation is generally very good for a single DD and imaging is as well. The name of the game is control and charisma here folks. This is a talented set. Obviously, there are subjective gripes that I could see some folks having but for the most part… the Origin is legit.
Bass Region
The low-end of the Tanchjim Origin can be characterized as tight and punchy with pretty nice extension in the sub levels of the bass. This is a low-end with nice definition for a single dynamic driver and nice speed for a single dynamic driver. Not to the point of BA or Planar speed, but deft, agile, dexterous, and ductile. There is good texture throughout the bass region, it’s palpable, tactile and substantive. Certainly, this is a “quality-trumps-quantity” type of low-end tuning. It’s tough to hear exactly where the greatest emphasis is down low, but I would probably say that the mid-bass is the dominant region here. Boy is it hard to tell too. I hear a bass that hovers right around moderate in quantity and so this will not be a bass that brings the bassheads out of the woodwork. I do find that the low-end is just enough to play well with most genres except those hard gangster rap bass drops, EDM, and really anything that requires some thicker, heavier and more robust bass.
Natural
If anything, the best way for me to describe the quantity is… natural. It’s a natural level. It won’t color the rest of the mix to an extent which comes across muddy or intrusive. The bass hits quickly, it’s concise, hard edged and distinctly separated while being well able to keep up with most complicated bass tracks. Within reason. You cannot have this type of undulating and malleable tightly wound bass if the quantity is of the heavier variety. Unless maybe you spend a whole lot more. That’s just me speculating though. This also means that the Origin doesn’t have a lagging decay. Which also means that it isn’t the most atmospheric of all low-end replays… which some may not enjoy. However, when I pan-out and look at the bass as a whole, it’s clear that this is a special low-end.
Sub-bass
The sub-bass has a slightly less dominance of the low-end, but it still comes across as well extended and pretty deep. However, just because extension is good doesn’t mean that your eyeballs are rattling in the back of your head. That said, I do “feel” most sub-bass notes, as I get good haptic vibratory feedback. Such as in the track “Mancey” by Andrew Bird. I can feel as well as hear the full and droning bass guitar notes which reach pretty deep in pitch. The positive thing is that the bass doesn’t drown out the finger snaps & guitar which jam right alongside the bass. Very nicely separated and the placement of the instruments is layered and compartmentalized. That’s the beauty of this region on the Origin. It’s a skilled sub-bass that doesn’t muddy the range and isn’t so emphasized that you lose leading edge impact or definition in the mid-bass, all the while still providing a visceral experience. Again, bass-bois won’t drool over this as it is a mature sound. I think I’m drooling.
Mid-bass
The mid-bass has some impact. It has a stealthy, tight, and localized slam that makes a hard impact, resonates quickly and dissipates. This is a mid-bass with phenomenal control and pretty nice speed. Again, for a single DD. Nothing really seems to trip it up. Now, there is some bleed into the midrange, but in the most tasteful way as it isn’t so elevated that you’re hearing anything muddy, bloated, or veiled. I’m telling you; this is a full-sized bass that simply isn’t so convex and meaty that it claims any dominance. It’s a snappy type of full-sized bass and certainly not fun-sized. Kick drums have that hollow boom and tacky leading edge at the crest of the note, but the boom comes across as moderate rather than booming per se. “Move Along” by the All American Rejects begins with some seriously thundering kick drums. I really like the density I’m hearing. A very compacted density that stays in its own lane. They simply aren’t gargantuan in their note body. It’s mature, clean and precise. Very well defined. Nothing fuzzy, soft or hollow about it. “Stereo Colour Sound” by Sampha is another track which shows off the Origin’s ability to create a round and controlled bass note that has clean edges leaving room for other instruments to be heard and understood.
Downsides to the Bass Region
Obviously, the biggest drawback is that the Origin simply doesn’t have the most bulbous and big bass region. Of course, that is only a downside for those who yearn for a bigger bass section. I get it too. I could maybe use a hair more in low-end thump myself. However, I’m more apt to not change anything. I’d hate to screw up the very nice sound of this set over a couple db’s. Also, there are certainly those folks who desire a more atmospheric bass that has slightly more lag in decay. Without question there are plenty of hobbyists who want that strung out reverb. Perhaps, some notes can feel a hint cut-off. Granted this is rarely an issue. Definitely isn’t an issue for me. For the most part the transient attack through sustain is natural sounding in my opinion.
Midrange
The midrange is the Tanchjim Origin’s bread and butter. This is a good one folks. There is this refined musicality that edges on analytical yet all I can think of is how musical it sounds. The midrange is also very well detailed folks. To a degree that I’ve only heard a few times with dynamic drivers. Note weight is semi lush, lean-lush, or richly condensed, whatever makes the most sense to you. Yet it always keeps its composure which translates into a nicely natural sound to my ears. For the most part anyways. There are moments in the upper midrange that are a hair more edgy. But by-and-large the timbre is wonderful.
Vocalists thrive with the Origin in my ears. The midrange is positioned very nicely against the rest of the mix as it politely emphasizes vocals and instruments. I also hear a well textured midrange which can run either crisp or smooth depending on the track. You have slightly more girth and warmth in the low-mids and slightly more shimmer and an elevated upper midrange which all comes together very cohesive and entirely nice to the ear. Truly a very nice sound. Possibly a hint to bright in the upper midrange for some but not for me. Let’s put it this way, if you can handle the Simgot EA1000, then you certainly handle the Origin.
Lower-midrange
I hear a nicely done low-mids region with a slight bit of carry-over from the bass region bringing subtle warmth to male vocals and instruments. That said, it isn’t the type of warmth which veils, or flattens out the sound, or softens the sound. Instead, the Origin keeps that defined note edge with fantastic clarity and resolution. I love the dirty, gritty and sensational vocals of Chris Cornell as lead vocalist for Audioslave in the track “I Am the Highway”. So often his voice can derail into an edgy and fuzzy mess. It’s hard to spot at times though, because his voice is naturally so gritty and so abrasive. The Origin has an uncanny ability to come across very naturally. I don’t just mean natural in timbre either, but in the structure of a note as well. Also, in “Pain, Sweet, Pain” by Zach Bryan the Origin places Zach’s vocals nicely forward, but not so spotlit and accentuated that he sounds overbearing. The lower midrange is generally slightly forward, propping up male vocals with good note weight, good timbre, and great for distinguishing instruments.
Upper-Midrange
Females come across slightly more shimmery due to the pinna rise in this region which is great for those who enjoy a female who sounds, feminine. They’re more uplifted and slightly more energetic from the rest of the midrange. Grace Potter sings “Little Hitchhiker” and she has the air of being very melodic and harmonious as the acoustic guitars delicately strum behind her vocals. Everything is separated with fantastic instrument placement in the sound field. The Origin really does well with female voices. The tuning has that sweet sound to it that just resonates with females. Olivia Rodrigo‘s voice in “Lacy” sounds whispery sweet with a natural body to her voice and also very nice as she uses her head voice. The tonality of the Origin just fits proving that it truly excels in vocal centric tracks. Especially female voices. Now, this is not a warmly weighted and milky female vocal delivery, and it is likely to be a bit much for warm/dark lovers. I know there will be those in the community who will veiw the Origin as shouty. I don’t feel this way but I’m sure some will complain about that. Which is understandable. However, if you have a lot of female vocal tracks then you should like what the Origin can provide.
Instrumentation
The bonus is that all instruments come across very organic. They sound real to me. Nothing sounds as though it’s too colored or off in any way. Piano in this region comes across tuneful and resounding. Strings have that pointed energy that is satisfying. At the same time the origin picks up every last detail with ease. Finger slides, plucks, harmonics, it all comes through clearly and cleanly. Violin has that controlled edginess and they can be silvery too. Woodwinds sound wonderful, for the most part. Again, I could repeat this for almost all instruments in this region. I obviously won’t go into detail on every instrument but just know that nothing sounds out of tune or oversaturated. Instruments are a tough thing to describe because they can vary so much, and each track can present them differently. So, in general I am quite pleased.
Downsides to the Midrange
The biggest drawback of the midrange would be for those types who truly enjoy a warmer and thicker sound. I know plenty of people who won’t jive with the Origin. They won’t desire the pinna rise, they’ll feel it’s too sharp at times and not emotional enough. We are all so different and some will find the Origin shouty. I would disagree but of course we would both be correct. Honestly the midrange is very well done on this set. It’s very detailed, resolute, note body is dense enough, timbre is authentically organic, notes are well separated, it’s open sounding, airy, and for all of its analytical tendancies… It still comes across with very nice musicality for me. Of course, musicality is in the ear of the beholder so take that with a grain of salt. In fact, take it for a grain of salt when anyone says anything is musical. There is no quantifiable way to gage such a thing. However, in the case of the Origin I think most will agree. Not all… but most.
Treble Region
The treble region of the Tanchjim Origin can be described as smooth-over-crisp, energetic enough but never over-saturated or too much for my ears. Enough smoothness to not come across metallic, knife-edged or too crisp. Yet, it’s also crisp enough to sound defined at the note edges. The Origin isn’t so smoothened that I’m lacking some of the more subtle micro-details in the region. It also isn’t so smooth that elements of the stage sound blended or flattened. There is some roundness there, some distinctive qualities and even some bite to treble notes. Once again, this is another area that features very nice control for a single dynamic driver. Obviously, this is not to the level of a good and well-tuned balanced armature, and definitely not to the level of some well-tuned EST drivers, among others of course. Single dynamic drivers certainly have their strengths but sometimes the treble can slightly lack compared to those other drivers or driver configurations. That said, the Origin has proven to be very solid in the treble region and really does a nice job of fitting the overall tuning while not causing any offense to my ears.
Smoothly defined
One thing which is nice to hear is the micro-detail retrieval in this range. I can hear the subtle tonality swings and even low volume micro-dynamic shifts as the Origin is very capable and very agile for the price and for what it is. Not saying it’s some treble master either but it does come across nicely detailed, very lithesome and pretty graceful. The Origin’s treble also has nice resolution along with a great balance across the mix and tighter treble transients with good separation as well. It just makes for a nicely studious note presence that isn’t just a flat plane of sound. Treble notes have some body. Nothing sounds washed out in treble sheen, nothing sounds metallic, and nothing sounds too dull either. I suppose treble heads will have a thing or two to say about that, but I feel the Origin does a nice job of tackling those details, doing so cleanly, with good definition and flexibility while not sounding over energetic, like forced details. You won’t hear that crunchy and too energetically abrasive sound. This is where the slight smoothness kind of rubs those edges down. Most would assume that you’d have a less defined sound being that it does have that smoother nature, but nothing could be further from the truth.
Well done
Extension into the upper treble is well done too. I hear plenty of info past 8k, and that info doesn’t sound at all splashy or glazed over with over ambitious luminous luster. Again, the timbre holds up. The tonality stays the course. Secondary harmonics of cymbal strikes feel complete and sound like what I would consider natural to be. I don’t have cymbals in front of me to compare against in real life, but I cannot imagine the Origin is very far off. I think it’s fair to say that none of you should expect EST type ultra defined treble notes that keep that glass lined edge. The Origin isn’t perfect in that regard as they still come across with that layering of smoothness. However, as far as single dynamic drivers go, you’d be hard pressed to find much better treble in light of how the rest of the mix plays out. In my opinion the treble simply completes this set and rounds them out beautifully.
Examples
Listening to Billy Strings in his track “Secrets” shows that the Origin can fairly easily take on some complicated notes as the banjo, guitar, violin, and mandolin all come together very cleanly. The Origin doesn’t have the issue of notes blending together. There is some snap to treble notes and very nice presence up top on this track. Another track which I regularly describe in my reviews is a track I don’t listen to for the joy of it but for the treble activity. That track is “Bishop School” by Yusef Lateef. There is a cacophony of different instruments with main verse changes and undulating mixtures of different treble instruments. I like how the Origin never feels tripped up while holding that natural hue the entire time. Nothing sounds off on this set and the timbre is simply wonderful.
Downsides to the Treble Region
When trying to come up with actual issues up top, I am having a hard time coming up with legitimate subjective gripes that some may have. To be honest I think most issues relating to the treble revolve around the fact that the Origin doesn’t have multiple drivers with dedicated treble sections. I think it sounds great though. You have that soft brilliance up top with just enough air, openness and overall treble energy to add some levity to the rest of the frequency. Again, it completes the sound in my opinion. Other than that, I suppose that the treble could be even more emphasized for folks who desire that ultra bright take on the treble region. That is a preferential issue though. Also preferential is anyone who desires much less treble energy. Without question there are those who want that warm, dark, rolled-off treble. We are so very different in what we prefer and so there will always be those who simply don’t enjoy what the Origin has to offer. I’m not one of those people.
Technicalities
Soundstage
The soundstage is quite nice. The Origin has good width that hangs past my ears. I think we have to remember that the Origin is an in-ear monitor and so you can only get so wide, so tall, and so deep. With that said, some iems are better than others. There’s certain psycho-acoustic magic which happens at times, and it seems that the Tanchjim Origin has a little bit of that magic involved with its makeup. Without question the Origin is better than the average in ear within the Audioverse. Of course, “average” is a loose term folks. All in the ear of the beholder. In my opinion I feel that the Origin has an airy, open and well extended sound which plays into the sound seeming grander in all directions. There are a bunch of variables, but I don’t want to waste the digital ink explaining them. The best part in my opinion is that I don’t hear a flat plane of sound, or a flat wall of sound in front of me. There’s depth, there’s layering of sounds, there’s a nicely holographic stage that really does add to my music. Is it tops in class? Probably not, but it’s above average.
Separation / Imaging
Separation is another area where the Tanchjim Origin has found some success. Again, we have great control over the spectrum. Notes are lean but dense, clean, and transients are tight while the spectrum as a whole has a great balance. This helps in the Origin’s pursuit to separate different elements of an imaginary soundstage. It is hard not to be impressed as the sound is simply very resolute which almost brings each note into focus a bit better than other sets. Imaging is outstanding which is pretty much par for the course with the Origin. No doubt you will be able to perfectly position all instruments and voices with precision. The only hang up is in extremely complicated tracks or horribly recorded tracks. Both separation and imaging are fantastic.
Detail Retrieval
Detail retrieval is another area that seems to go against the thinking that single DD’s aren’t the most detail friendly driver types. The Origin is very detailed. It has so much going for it. Again, clean sound, well separated, balanced sound across the mix, no one area masking another, good resolution, tight transient behavior. Each of these attributes helps the Origin to illuminate even very fine details. I will say this though, the Origin is not going to compete favorably in this area against some very good hybrids or planars. It will do much better than most but will certainly not beat the best. If that makes sense. We cannot forget that the Origin is a single dynamic driver iem. However, the beauty is that the Origin does so well in every technical aspect that it can do well in. At the exact same time it has a musical sound and extremely organic timbre (my version of organic). That’s the area that those other driver types can generally lack. This is obviously not always the case, generally. Hence, why I feel the Origin is so well tuned. Let’s put it this way, for a single DD the Origin is flat out special.
Comparisons
Note: These comparisons will be very generalized as I won’t go into crazy depth. I already write too long of reviews… Lol. Just simple comparisons from my perspective over many hours of gladly going back and forth between them. These comparisons are also “not” a duel to the death. I’m not trying to crown one set better than the other. I do this to hopefully better explain the set I’m reviewing. Now, I’m not always successful at this, but I try.
Simgot EA1000 “Fermat” ($219)
Okay, folks the Simgot EA1000 is one of those sets which seems to come around every five years and simply own its price point. That makes this a bit awkward because less than a year after the EA1000’s release we get the Tanchjim Origin. Anyways, I have yet to review the EA1000 but have spent so many hours with them in my ears and cannot say enough wonderful things about them. The Simgot EA1000 is a single DD with an extra passive radiator (PR). To be exact that is a 10mm with a 2nd gen. DMDC architecture as well as a 6mm composite passive radiator. I don’t really consider the PR a working driver, but it does help with the tuning. I still consider the EA1000 a single DD. Others may disagree. Whatever. Anyways, the EA1000 is a true contender and a tough set to put the Origin against. That said, I honestly love them both. They are different in how they approach their respective tunings and I’ll do my best to explain the differences. Many would probably consider both to be side grades to each other but I do think that they are different enough to warrant preferences being the deciding factor.
Differences
Looking at the build, the EA1000 and the Origin are absolutely built exceptionally. Both sets are as premium as it gets. The Origin is all metal (as you know) and the Simgot EA1000 has a stainless-steel shell and a gorgeous glass faceplate. As far as design, again, how could I choose which is better? Truly they are both as handsome as they come at the price. The EA1000 is a bit more elegant, and the Origin is bolder. Both fantastic. The EA1000 has the better cable, the Origin has a much better case, both sets have decent tips (Origin edges it out), and both have tuning nozzles. Granted, the EA1000’s tuning nozzles actually work. I would say the EA1000 is slightly easier to drive.
Sound Differences
These sets are tuned a slight bit differently from each other. The EA1000 is more of a Harman tuned V-shape to U-shape with a neutral sound, more energetic, more dynamic. The Origin is neutral with the slightest spritzes of warmth and a slightly more poised sound with better note control and more of a balance across the mix. The EA1000 reminds me of a downed electric line sputtering and zapping everywhere, just energy everywhere. The Origin is a hint more organized, streamlined, with more structure to notes. This takes nothing away from the EA1000 because it is more dynamic, more energetic, while the Origin is a hint blander in comparison. Actually “bland” is an awful word. I think “poised” and “structured” says it better. The Origin has less vibrance then the EA1000 but also has cleaner note edges than the EA1000 too. Pick your poison although you cannot lose either way. Both are truly special sets.
Between the 20’s
The bass in the EA1000 is deeper by the slightest margin but both have good control and a tighter sound. Neither are soft at all. The Origin has slightly less impact as well, but I find the Origin also has a slight better bass definition, it’s faster to my ears, naturally weighted while the EA1000 sounds a hint boosted. The midrange of the Origin is closer, more melodic and better for vocals in my opinion. I also would say that details are better on the Origin in this region. The EA1000 simply has more dynamism and is slightly more colored in the upper midrange that can get shouty at times whereas the Origin usually keeps a tighter rein on shoutiness. Timbre wins on the Origin sounding more lifelike to me. The Origin alos has thicker note weight by a tiny margin and comes across more organic. The treble of the EA1000 is a hint more boosted and vivacious to the less energetic but also more refined Origin. The EA1000 has a better chance of treble sharpness and fatigue whereas the Origin is bright but never really crosses that line. Both have fantastic treble regions for single DD’s and both are extended well with good detail retrieval. Remember these are the slightest differences, I cannot stress this enough. This is hours of going back and forth.
Technicalities
I feel that the two of these sets are both technically astute and very clean across the mix. However, the Origin does detail retrieval a bit better due to the clarity, transient swiftness and better balance. Again, take nothing away from the EA1000 because it illuminates the minutiae very well too. Imaging is great on both sets though separation is a hair easier to delineate on the Origin. Also, the Origin has a larger stage with depth that is easier to hear for me.
Final thoughts
I hate these comparisons. Mostly because I forget to actually critically listen as I get lost in he joy at times. I truly love both iems. I feel both have their reasons to be thought of as the “better” set. Personally, I enjoy the Origin’s display a bit better but that is probably the honeymoon talking. Also, the 2nd I put the EA1000 in my ears that thought shifts to its favor so… This probably didn’t help you at all and for that I apologize. Maybe the EA1000 was the wrong set to compare for me. Anyways, the deciding factor for you may be the more dynamic sound of the EA1000 or the more balanced and kempt sound of the Origin. The Origin simply feels less cluttered, less sprightly energy particles floating around the sound field at the edge of notes. The Origin is a hint more glass lined at the contour of its notes. Listening over long periods will likely be a bit more fatiguing on the EA1000 as well. However, the EA1000 seems a bit more fun. I love em’ both.
Shanling MG600 ($599)
The Shanling MG600 is one of those sleeper sets from late 2022 that simply blew me away for a time being (MG600 Review). The MG600 is a single 10mm dynamic driver with an aluminum-magnesium diaphragm and is one of Shanling series where they practice using more unique driver materials. A cool concept and a cool set. Yes, the MG600 is quite a bit more in price than the Origin, however this doesn’t mean it’s better. Also, I don’t know if this is the best comparison, but it’s a good yard stick tool for the Origin.
Differences
First off, $600 against $260…that’s a difference. Past the price I am considering these the same price for this comparison. As far as the build, the MG600 has one of the most gorgeous and premium builds ever. The Shells are crafted from stabilized maple wood with a semi-open back faceplate. The Origin is just as I’ve stated all review, it’s built like an absolute tank. However, the MG600 is simply prettier. Nuff said. I love both designs and both builds but the MG600 looks like it costs a lot more, which should be expected. The MG600 has a much better modular cable, and the packaging is much more elaborate. Again, this should be expected.
Sound Differences
To begin the MG600 comes across warmer and definitely more V-shaped with brighter treble and more authoritative bass. Certainly a more fun V-shaped sound if V-shaped energetic big bass is what you consider fun. The Origin has a much better balance across the mix, better detailed and better control over the mix. The MG600 is only slightly easier to drive and both sets will pay off beautifully with a more powerful and more talented source.
Between the 20’s
The MG600 simply has that meaty bass but it is kept within tight reigns for its size. A very clean bass. The Origin has better bass definition and is better contoured. The Origin midrange is more forward, better for vocals of both males and females. However, the MG600 has the richer note weight of the two. MG600 has a more forward upper midrange which can get shouty. The MG600 has the better extended and more brilliant treble which can offer some fatigue for some folks. The Origin is all control and so it’s treble simply follows suit of the rest of the mix. Clean, defined, structured, while never losing control. The MG600 has very nice details in this region though the treble is also more brightly colored which focuses on more forced details rather than the natural sound and detail retrieval of the Origin.
Technicalities
Technically speaking the Origin wins out almost across the board. That balance and cleanliness does so much for technicalities. Detail retrieval is better, separation is slightly better as the MG600 can mask a bit with the bass emphasis as well as upper mid emphasis. The imaging on the Origin and the MG600 is very good. The stage is slightly wider in the Origin. Now, depth probably goes to the MG600 but that is up for debate. The MG600 is very clean for what it is but the Origin is tuned better for them.
Final thoughts
Guys, this is an easy one if you are looking at which one is better for the price. I would say that if you have the money and want the most gorgeous iem out there (debatable) with a fun sounding V-shape and pretty clean for what it is than the MG600 may be the way to go. Believe me it has its redeeming qualities that doesn’t show up in a comparison. You’d have to actually listen to know. The Origin is much less expensive and out duels the MG600 in many key metrics. The Origin has a much more organic and natural tuning but the MG600 is probably a bit more fun. Again, I love both sets but if it was my money (which it is) than I’d choose the Origin every day of the week.
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 Tanchjim Origin ratings below, that would be $200-$300 single dynamic driver earphones. 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. $200-$300 US single DD’s is a smaller scope of iems although it is extremely competitive, and so seeing a Rating above a “9.0” better mean something very special. My ratings are never the same and each set of ratings tells a different story. Each time you read one of my ratings will be unique to that review. Basically, I create a Rating that makes sense to me.
Aesthetic
–Build Quality: 9.5 Built exceptionally well.
–Look: 9.5 One of my favorite designs.
–Fit/Comfort 9.4 Wonderful fit, time tested.
–Accessories 8.4 Very nice unboxing.
–Overall: 9.1🔥🔥
Sound Rating
–Timbre: 9.7 Within the top class in timbre.
–Bass: 9.2 Clean, defined, precise, impactful, tight.
–Midrange: 9.6 The mids are great, vocals are nice.
–Treble: 9.2 Treble is clean, precise, non-offensive.
–Technicalities: 9.4 Technically a very fine set.
–Musicality: 8.9 Nice musicality against the competition.
–Overall: 9.3🔥🔥
Ratings Summary:
Not much to explain here folks. All of these ratings are completely subjective and only can be garnered against what I’ve spent a ton of time with. Sets like the EA1000, BQEYZ Wind, BQEYZ Winter (both BQEYZ sets are +BC Driver), Dunu Falcom Ultra, Tanchjim Oxygen, Fiio FD5, Penon Vortex, Aune Jasper etc. etc. There’s many more single DD’s not mentioned which compete in the $200 to $300 price point which I cannot drum up at this moment, but these are the heavier hitters in my mind. I haven’t heard the Orivetti OD200 and a few others. So, it’s a decent scope of sets but it is pretty small by the hobby’s standards. Obviously, there are sets that I haven’t heard as well, so try to understand that. At any rate, friends… I went conservative on these ratings. From my perspective remember. Timbre might as well be a “9.9”, stuff like that. I gave it a “9.7”. Is there another single DD between $200 to $300 that has better timbre? I gave the Origin a “9.2” in bass basically based on its quality and not its quantity. The midrange is another that might as well be a “9.9” in my opinion. I take away points for my own reasons but all in all the Origin is a fantastic set and I don’t think there is anything I’d change about these ratings. I feel a “9.3” overall sound rating is justified. Some sets are more musical, some are more fun, some more dynamic. However, I do feel that the Origin seems to bring it all together very nice.
Is it worth the asking price?
As much as I love the Origin (I feel I’ve established that in this review), when answering the question “Is it worth the asking price?”, it is always a nuanced answer, especially when the set is a single DD costing more than $200. We all know that there are many single DD’s that are really special for far cheaper. I suppose it all comes down to your budget and what you value as… “worth it”. I cannot answer that for you. I would say that in the realm of single dynamic driver earphones which cost above $200 that for sure the Origin is worth it. However, maybe you could be more than happy with a Tripowin Olina, Simgot EA500, Simgot EA500LM, EPZ Q5, and the list goes on. Each of those sets are under $100. So yes, this is a nuanced question. That all said, in light of the current landscape of plus $200 single DDs which have begun cropping up of late, I couldn’t with a right mind say that the Tanchjim Origin isn’t well worth the asking price. It is a very well-tuned iem. Nevertheless, it is your money and there are also some fantastic iems for much less with only incremental differences from this latest Tanchjim product. Still, folks pay a lot for incremental differences. This is the only hobby where an inch might as well be a mile.
The Why…
Because the Tanchjim Origin is an exceptionally built iem with one of the best designs I’ve seen. It is strikingly gorgeous, and if I may be frank… the Origin is flat-out dope! Let’s not get things twisted, this set looks as premium as premium gets apart from encasing it in diamonds and gold. It is very well done. That’s my opinion though, you may not agree. The sound is the best reason though. It’s the sound which brings us together. Coincidentally, it’s also the sound (the music) that any of us are here in the 1st place. You have a clean sounding low-end with tight transients, dense enough body, visceral and energetic impact as well as perfectly fitting against the rest of the mix. The midrange is wonderful for vocals of all kinds. Its timbre is natural throughout with speedy enough note decay, good separation and a very well laid out sound field with good imaging and layering. The treble is non-offensive but still luminous and somewhat brilliant too. The treble also has good body to notes as it doesn’t sound dry, papery or too analytical. All in all, the Tanchjim Origin is a very nice mix of technically proficient and musical. The stage is big for an in-ear (above average), and the sound is well detailed. However, the best part of the Origin’s sound is in how it all comes together. A very well-done single DD iem. If it fits your tuning preferences than you’ll probably agree that the Origin is worth the asking price.
Conclusion
To conclude my full written review of the Tanchjim Origin I want to thank you for reading and I do hope it has helped you in making a purchasing decision. I waited to proclaim that in my opinion the Origin is certainly one of the best single DD’s that money can buy under $300. Depending on how it fits you, you might say it is the best. Personally, I haven’t heard one better. That’s with my love affair and affinity for the Simgot EA1000. This is certainly a rec from me. However, I can see how others may not enjoy it as much and that is the beauty of the hobby folks.
Other perspectives
Please do yourself a favor and read, listen to, or watch other reviews of the Tanchjim Origin. Don’t simply take my word for it. I can only represent my subjective opinion and others may not see things the way that I do. In fact, I know others don’t always agree with me. So, I hope you do your homework a bit and learn as much as you can. I’m not the last word on audio and simply a fan who likes to talk about it. Please take good care, stay as safe as you can and always… God Bless.
