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TinHiFi T5S Mars Review: (Sean’s take)

SeanG

I remember my first days stepping into the world of IEMs, and my first companion was the original TinHiFi T2, from which it all began, and now I’m reviewing the T5S.

Disclaimer: 

TinHiFi sent me the T5S directly, and I’m thankful for that. However, I should note that my review and opinions aren’t influenced by this! The thoughts shared here are solely based on my experience with the product, without any bias from its source!

Introduction:

Ok, so the TinHiFi T5S Mars is a pair of in ear monitors (IEMs) which definitely have a style, comfort, and actually impressive tuning! Designed with great attention to detail and aims to deliver a balanced and enjoyable sound without breaking the bank. And in this review, we’ll take a closer look at what makes the T5S Mars stand out.


Unboxing Experience:

The TinHiFi T5S Mars comes in a pretty sleek and compact cube shaped box with colonization of Mars inspired artwork, and I find it very attractive. Opening the box revealed me the IEMs, which are snugly nestled in foam padding, showcasing their design and unique brushed finish faceplate. When I took a closer look at the accessories section, I saw a very hefty array of items! Those includes the high quality cable, which is half silver and half very dark red. In my opinion, it looks very good and feels high quality. Inside, there is also a white faux leather magnetic case, a cleaning brush, spare filters with an included tweezers for convenient change if needed, and a variety of ear tips for a customized fit.

What’s particularly impressive in my opinions is the attention to details in the packaging, with thoughtful additions like the brush and tweezers with filters for easy maintenance and a selection of ear tips, including foam tips to suit different preferences! Also the premium case adds to the overall value of the package. Overall, the unboxing experience sets a very positive tone for me!

1 / 6

Box includes:


Technical Specs:


Specs:


Driver Configuration: The T5S utilizes a single dynamic driver configuration.

Aluminum Build: Crafted with CNC 5-axis machining from lightweight and sturdy aluminum, the T5S offers durability and a premium feel.

Next-Gen Ultra-linear Diaphragm: Featuring a unique Topping diaphragm made of three nano-materials, a special acoustic design, and a Japanese CCAW lightweight voice coil to minimize diaphragm nonlinear distortion. In addition to an advanced magnetic circuit design to reduce distortion,.

Cable: The included high-quality cable is made out of 28 strands of 0.06mm enameled copper and 54 strands of 0.05mm silver-plated copper. 

Sound Performance: 

So, lets say that sound signature of the TinHiFi T5S Mars can be described as neutral with a little bass boost. This means that the audio reproduction is pretty accurate and balanced across the frequency range, while also slightly boosting the lower frequencies for added depth and impact. I think that this pretty neutral tonality makes sure that each instrument and vocal is presented with clarity and transparency and this allows for an accurate representation of the original recording. And at the same time it is being a bit warm and rich with the low end yet without overpowering the midrange or treble.


Bass: 

The bass of the T5S is pretty balanced, controlled and is offering a satisfying impact and precision. It provides a solid foundation for the music without overpowering other frequency ranges.

However, in more complex tracks with heavy bass content and more elements, there can be a slight tendency for the bass to bleed into the lower mids. This can lead to a bit masking effect… where certain midrange details may not be as pronounced as desired…

Overall I think that while the T5S delivers good bass definition, impact, and richness, it’s really important to note that it can bleed from time to time… And it can be noticeable in scenarios with very complex and layered tracks… Other than that, the bass performance is very good for a single dynamic driver at this price.


Mids: 

The midrange performance of the T5S is where it truly shines. Vocals are presented with a natural and expressive tone, with both male and female vocals sounding full-bodied and emotive. Instruments are rendered with impressive detail and clarity, showcasing the nuances and textures of each note.

One standout feature of the T5S is its note weight and timbre accuracy! Instruments have a lifelike presence, with realism that makes the music come to life! The midrange is well balanced not too recessed nor overly forward.

However, it’s essential to note that the midrange performance can be influenced by the overall mix of the track… In some instances, particularly in busy or layered tracks, the midrange was slightly in the background and its due to the fact that it is slightly bass heavy… But after all, it’s still a single dynamic driver, and it can bleed at times… Nonetheless, the T5S keeps a commendable level of midrange clarity and musicality which makes it a standout performer in its price range!


Highs: 

The treble performance of the T5S offers a pleasant and enjoyable experience which is suited for casual listening rather than critical analysis… While it may not excel in delivering micro details and little nuances at high frequencies, it compensates with a focus on macro level presentation and creates a more laid back and relaxed sound signature, which I find very good for daily use.

The treble on the T5S is smooth and non-fatiguing, avoiding any sharp peaks or harshness that could cause listener fatigue over extended listening sessions. It contributes to the overall musicality of the IEM.

Listeners who prefer a more forgiving and easygoing treble response will appreciate the T5S for its ability to maintain a sense of balance and cohesion across the frequency spectrum. While it may not reveal every little detail in complex tracks, it delivers a satisfying treble performance that complements the overall tonality of the IEM for casual listening enjoyment.

All in all, I really think that the TinHiFi T5S Mars delivers a well rounded sound signature with a focus on musicality and enjoyment! It may not ideal for audiophiles seeking absolute technical perfection… but it surely offers a pleasing sound that may appeal to casual listeners looking for a versatile and good everyday driver.


Sound Technicalities:

Soundstage: 

The T5S brings a soundstage that is good enough to provide a sense of width and depth in the audio presentation, but doesn’t offer the most spacious soundstage in its price range… But I still think that it delivers a good enough level of openness and room for the music to breathe, although it may not excel in creating an expansive sense of space compared to some other earphones in a similar price bracket…

Imaging:

The imaging on the T5S is pretty decent and is offering a reasonable level of accuracy in placing instruments and vocals within the soundstage. While it may not provide the best precision compared to higher end models… it still performs well enough to make it possible to tell the positioning and location of different elements within the mix.

Layering: 

Now to the layering of the T5S. I know that it is driven by a single dynamic driver which does have its limitations in handling complex tracks…. But while it manages to maintain a satisfactory level of distinction between instruments and vocals, more complex compositions may cause the sound to blend together slightly… Despite this, considering the price and the use of a single dynamic driver, I think the layering performance is still pretty good for the price.


Overall Sound Performance: 

So my overall sound impression of TinHiFi T5S Mars is that it offers a great tuning and performance, with a sound signature that leans towards neutral with a little bass boost. The bass is pretty well defined but can sometimes slightly bleed into the lower mids on complex tracks… The midrange is clear, vocals and instruments sound great with good warmth and body which provides a rich and engaging sound! And the treble, while not the most detailed… it surely provides a good casual listening experience with a focus on macro rather than micro details.

The soundstage is decent and it provides a good sense of space but not being the most spacious… Imaging is adequate, and it allows to tell the instrument placement within the stage, although it may not be the most precise… Layering, when considering the use of a single dynamic driver, manages to keep a nice separation between elements but may blend together slightly on complex tracks.

So despite these limitations, I really think that the TinHiFi T5S Mars is offering a balanced and enjoyable tuning and sound, especially when considering its price. I feel like is was designed for casual listeners looking for a versatile everyday driver without compromising too much on audio quality.


Quick Comparisons:

VS EA500:

I would say that the comparison between the T5S and the EA500 reveals interesting differences and trade offs… The EA500 which is priced at $79 and offers superior staging and details compared to the T5S Mars, but also surely presents a wider soundstage and capture finer details in the music. However, the EA500 falls short in terms of warmth and bass presence and it results in a tonality that is less neutral and less lively…

And on the other hand, is the T5S, which despite being priced higher, ($129) definitely gives a better timbre with a more balanced tone! It also gives a better warmth and body to vocals and instruments, and it creates a more lively sound profile. I know that is can not match the EA500 in terms of staging and detail retrieval… But the overall timbre of the T5S makes it a preferred choice for me, as it gives a natural and musical sound.


VS Truthear Nova:

The comparison between the T5S and the Truthear Nova also shows differences and trade offs… This time, the Truthear Nova, priced at $149, and it offers superior separation, imaging, layering and details compared to the T5S Mars… Its hybrid driver configuration with 4 balanced armatures and 1 dynamic driver allows it to achieve better details and clearer separation, especially in complex tracks! The Nova’s midrange may lack some warmth, and it might not satisfy those who prefer a warmth in the lower mids… However, it surely does better at avoiding muddiness and maintaining clarity, and this makes it the winner for me!

On the other hand, the T5S, is priced lower… at $129, may give a better warmth, body, and mid bass presence to vocals and instruments, and giving a richer tonality. However, the T5S Mars may have some muddiness in the lower mids, especially in complex tracks… And for me it is a drawback…


Is the T5S a good value? 

The TinHiFi T5S Mars definitely is a solid option in the single dynamic driver IEM market and it is offering a well balanced and engaging sound that in my opinion surpasses the EA500 (79$)! Its tonality, warmth, and overall musicality make it a preferred choice for listeners who prioritize a natural with a little touch of warmth and rumble. However, when compared to the Truthear Nova (149$) with its hybrid driver configuration and superior separation, imaging, and detail retrieval, the T5S falls slightly behind. Considering all this, the asking price of 129$ for the T5S is just right, with good value, a premium build, and great accessories.


Conclusions:

So after all of this, lets make conclusions… I think that the TinHiFi T5S Mars presents itself as a very interesting option in the range of affordable in ear monitors (IEMs). It offers an elegant design, comfortable fit, and solid build quality.

Now sound wise, the T5S brings a neutral sound signature with a little boost in the bass. The midrange shines with natural vocals and instruments, though the bass may bleed into the lower mids… But I would say that it is acceptable for a single dynamic driver at this price point.

In terms of treble, the T5S keeps a smooth and detailed presentation, with nice balance between energy and accuracy. It surely can’t offer the best micro details compared to higher end IEMs, but it still provides an enjoyable sound which is exactly the type of sound I would want for an everyday use.

Additionally, the T5S comes with a hefty set of accessories, which includes a high quality cable, a variety of ear tips, a durable case and tools to keep them clean. So overall I can easily say that it is a very quality package for the asking price.


Pros:

Cons:

Where to buy:

TinHiFi Official Store

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