Hidizs MK12 Turris Titanium Edition Review 

Intro 

Hello, this review and feature covers the latest from the audio Hidizs, named the “Hidizs MK12 Turris Titanium Edition” ($299). For review purposes I will use the name “MK12 TE”. I actually reviewed the MK12 OG (MK12 Review) just a short while ago and folks… I couldn’t have been more impressed with an iem! Especially at the price that Hidizs is offering. The biggest selling factor of the original MK12 was that Hidizs had chosen to use a 91% pure magnesium single dynamic driver inside of its gorgeous shells. The result of that choice had the entire audio community waiting for reviews, thoughts, and it seemed to be a near universal praise for the original MK12. However, just like a few of Hidiz’s more flagship level iems, they decided to create a special edition set for the MK12. Obviously, this is the set I’m reviewing today. The Special Edition MK12 makes very few changes, but the changes they did make were substantial. Substantial enough to come across both more sonically refined and better designed. I was very thrilled to learn I was going to be able to feature the MK12 TE as there are only #499 being made worldwide and so it is certainly a collector’s edition and definitely an honor to do so. With that said, I greatly thank Hidizs for approaching me to feature this special edition iem. 

Hidizs

There’s nothing that I can say here that I haven’t already said about Hidizs. However, I’ve gained nothing but respect for this brand’s continuous effort to craft and create audio products which are truly price to performance products. Folks, I have reviewed a number of Hidizs products over the years and the constant theme has been just that… P2P. Whether you are talking about unboxing experience, build quality, design, or whether you are talking about the actual tuning of their products, what you’ll get is quality, every time. I’ll list out some of the reviews that I’ve conducted over recent years if you’d like to check out some other Hidizs products:

MM2, MS5, MS3, MP145, MS1, S9 Pro Plus, SD2, S8 Pro, MP143, ST2, MK12

So as you can plainly see, Hidizs doesn’t just make solid products which are built well, but they are actually getting better folks. This is a brand who pays attention to the audio landscape making relevant products as they actually listen to their fan base. Without question the set I’m reviewing today has been at least partially created from the constant thoughts from the community. 

Competition 

Now, just as I said in the original MK12 review, the MK12 TE is truly up against a mountain of very high quality single dynamic driver earphones. In fact, one of the toughest competitors to the MK12 TE is its predecessor, the OG MK12. However, when you have sets like the Simgot EA1000 (EA1000 Review), the Tanchjim Origin (Origin Review), the Dunu Falcon Ultra, the Penon Vortex, the Sivga Que UTG (Que UTG Review), the Letshuoer DX1 (DX1 Review), the NF Acous NA20 (NA20 Review), Hiby Yacht 10 (Yacht 10 Review), the Fiio FD15 (FD15 Review), to even less expensive sets which certainly challenge the MK12 TE in the Dunu Kima 2 (Kima 2 Review). The funny thing is that I only listed some of the better single DD iems. This doesn’t even take into account hybrids, planars, or sets with different driver configurations. The point is that the MK12 TE definitely has an uphill climb right out the gate. However, I have a sneaky suspicion that Hidizs isn’t worried in the slightest. This is a very solid iem friends and I’m happy to report on it right now. So, I think I’m ready to get into it folks. Without further ado, the Hidizs MK12 Turris Titanium Edition… 

Non-Affiliated Purchasing Links:

–Hidizs

MK12 TE Pros

-Even better build quality (titanium) then the previous MK12 

-Design is very unique

-Extremely comfortable for me

-Shines with some juice. Scales well with power

-Tight transients whilst holding that organic sound

-Very pleasing organic timbre

-Smooth throughout, easy listening 

-Good dynamics 

-Bass is punchy, nice extension, and stays in its lane

-The midrange is wonderful for vocalists, natural, very clean 

-Treble is non-offensive yet very clean, well defined

-Imaging and layering of the sound field are certainly Pros

-Wide and immersive soundstage. Also, Intimate and close, yet very full

MK12 TE Cons

-No carrying case

-I’d like to see a modular cable for the MK12

-Not a guilty pleasure big bass set for the bass-bois amongst us

-Also, those treble heads probably aren’t going to love this set

-MK12 may be too large for smaller ears 

-There honestly isn’t anything else I could add here

Gear used for testing 

–Shanling UP6

–Shanling UA6 

–Ifi Go Blu 

–Hidizs S9 Pro Plus  

–Shanling H0 

–Fiio JM21 

–Hiby R3 Pro II

–Hiby R6 Pro II 2025 

–Shanling M1 Plus

–IBasso DX240 with Amp8 MK2 

–Shanling M6 Ultra 

–Fiio Q15

-Many not listed

Packaging / Accessories 

Unboxing 

Once again Hidizs provides a nice unboxing experience. No doubt the MK12 TE’s unboxing is nice. Which should be the case with a special edition set. Anyways, I will not ruin the unboxing for you and will lightly explain what you’ll see. So, the MK12 TE arrived at my home in a medium sized box with a nice graphic of the MK12 TE imprinted on the cover along with some specs on the back. Take off the box cover and right away you’ll see the beautiful titanium MK12’s sitting very pretty in foam cutouts on the left side of the box. You’ll also notice a nifty little Hidizs commemorative badge along with the eartips, the cables and the carrying pouch. Like I said, I won’t ruin it for you. Too many people have messaged me asking that I don’t do that. Lol. Anyways, not a bad unboxing experience for sure.  

Eartips

So, Hidizs provides up to nine pairs of eartips over three different styles in the box that comes with the MK12. Each style of eartips provided was added with purpose. That purpose is to help you further dial in the sound to your liking. As we all know, eartips do a tremendous job at times of changing up the sound in a non-destructive and passive way and is most certainly one of the best and easiest ways to do so. So, the first set of three (S, M, L) eartips Hidizs labels their “Vocal” tips. These tips are made of a white silicone and come with a wide bore, they’re shallow fit, and they have a semi-rigid flange. Without question they do help with the upper frequencies. The next set of three (S, M, L) eartips are Hidizs’s “Balanced” tips. Now, the balanced tips are easily my favorite of the packaging. They are basically a slightly less rigid KBear 07 eartip. Now, these tips are also made of white silicone yet come with a black stem, a semi-wide bore, and a fairly firm flange. Lastly, Hidizs provides three pairs (S, M, L) of their “Bass” tips. These tips are a dark gray silicone and are very firm, very rigid, and very nice. However, these tips also have a narrow bore to dial back some of those high frequencies ultimately propping up the low-end a little bit. So, no doubt Hidizs added thoughtful eartips within the packaging and each style is of good quality and should be helpful for the consumer. 

What did I use? 

Real quick, I should note that in my critical listening I used KBear 07 eartips. One of the pairs which comes with the MK12 TE is very similar to KBear 07’s but simply less rigid, less stiff. For my ears I actually need a set of tips with a very rigid and firm flange. 

Carrying Pouch

The carrying pouch added into the package is actually the exact same pouch provided with most of Hidizs iems. I suppose for $199 I’d like to see an actual carrying case, but it doesn’t really bother me at all. I say that because I actually love this carrying pouch and use it all the time. I’ve received this same pouch for multiple Hidizs iems and trust me, I always have it in my front pocket for one set or another. So, it wasn’t a bad thing to receive one more. The bonus of this pouch is that you can slide it into a pocket, and you won’t look ridiculous with it there. Also, this pouch is actually made very well, folks. It’s made entirely of black leather, very soft, great with a nice snap to open & close. The opening mechanism is done by pinching the sheet metal ends together to open and releasing them to close. Honestly, I don’t mind this pouch, but I know that some are going to complain that Hidizs didn’t provide an actual hard case. Again, not a big deal. 

Tuning Nozzles

Once again Hidizs added in the exact same tuning nozzles as we got in the original MK12. Many of my words will be copied from my previous review of the MK12 yet I’ll cover any differences in sound. Anyways, you get three sets of tuning nozzles within the packaging. They come in a nice little plastic case, and they will be sitting comfortably in foam cut-outs inside. I won’t go very long in this section, but I at least want to briefly explain my thoughts in each of the sets of tuning nozzles. So, tuning nozzles have been around for a very long time and are another great non-destructive way to dial in the sound to your liking. The nozzles that Hidizs provides are screw-on nozzles with the male threads on the nozzles and the female side on the earphones themselves. I should caution you that you should only take these on or off over a large surface where if you drop them, they won’t get lost. At any rate, Hidizs uses tuning mesh inside of the nozzles to attenuate (dampen) or to boost certain frequencies like the bass & treble for instance. In the package Hidizs labels their nozzles “Silent Silver” (high-frequency), “Rose Gold” (balanced), & “Enchanting Red” (Bass). Once again each of these nozzles will affect some area or another of the spectrum. I honestly like each of these nozzles and don’t feel any of them disrails the sound. Each has a slightly different flavor. However, do not expect sweeping changes folks. Tuning nozzles don’t really change the sound to any great degree. They more or less sway the sound in a certain direction. Again, they slightly alter the sound. 

Silent Silver 

The silver nozzle named Silent Silver can be used to boost the higher frequency (treble) as this nozzle actually doesn’t have any tuning mesh inside. Honestly, I found that this nozzle adds more sparkle up top and more precision than the silver nozzle on the OG MK12. It isn’t a huge jump in brilliance from the balanced nozzle either. Just more acute and pinpoint in its dynamics. Only slightly more energy in those upper regions too. Having said that, the silver nozzle can sound a touch peaky at times too for those sensitive to it. It’s also the most detailed and most airy sounding nozzle as well. For whatever reason, the Silver nozzle presents the spectrum much nicer on the MK12 TE, in my opinion. It seems there’s a more realistic balance of the spectrum whilst at the same time coming across even more sparkly, more brilliant, yet also better controlled. 

Rose Gold

The Rose Gold filter is my favorite by a small margin. Really, the balanced nozzle does exactly as it proclaims that it does by coming across very nicely balanced between the frequencies. Almost all of my critical listening was with the Rose Gold nozzle. To be quite honest, it isn’t worlds apart from the silver nozzle, but I do notice some differences. Like, the bass isn’t as textured as the silver nozzle, but it also has more weight to the lows. It’s slightly less exact in its note contour than the silver nozzle but more warm, earthy, and musical. I happen to feel the Rose Gold nozzle is much more technically on-point with the MK12 TE than on the MK12 OG. Yes, you still have that slight warmth, but the details emerge easier. Something about that titanium shell and how the sound bounces off the acoustic cavity. I love the Rose Gold nozzle. 

Enchanting Red

Lastly, Enchanting Red is the nozzle which is supposed to boost the bass frequency by damping the highs just a little bit while seemingly boosting the lows. Enough to make the bass come across more boosted and definitely beefier. However, this nozzle also makes the bass sound a bit less defined and less precise from the other nozzles. Again, by a very small margin. Not just the bass changed with this nozzle. The sound is warmer, richer, more velvet, less energy in the highs and a slightly more relaxed sound altogether. However, once again, for actual “critical listening” I mainly used the balanced nozzle. Having said that, I actually really grew to enjoy this nozzle on the MK12 TE. I hear better note definition with the MK12 TE using this nozzle than the MK12 OG. The TE version almost sounds more open, more engaging. No doubt, this is easily my second favorite and one I reach for quite a lot. Still, critical listening has to go with the Rose Gold for me. 

Cable

Hidizs also provides the same cable that they handed out with the Hidizs MK12 OG as well as the Hidizs MP143 Salt along with a couple others. It’s a nice enough wire that is fitting enough for this price point. I would definitely say that the included cable is not up to the standards “aesthetically” as some other cables in the price point, but I also feel that Hidizs decided to go with this cable for a more functional purpose. That is… it’s very light. You see, the MK12 TE are very light (under 10 grams) and you don’t usually want a super fat and heavy cable pulling on them all the time. Granted, I never have an issue with cables pulling earphones out, but it makes sense I suppose. At any rate, with this packaging Hidizs actually provides two of the same cable. They give you a 3.5 single ended version and a 4.4 balanced version. Which is nice, though I’d like to see a modular cable with such a prestigious earphone. Anyways, the cable provided is a white 2-pin cable made of high purity oxygen-free copper. Again, Hidizs adds in two of the exact same cables but just in different connections (3.5 & 4.4). It’s actually not a bad looking cable at all and does pair nicely with the MK12. 

What did I use? 

So, I want to explain myself because I don’t want any of you thinking that the included cable is not good enough for use with the MK12 TE. I actually didn’t use either of the included cables because (as always) my curiosity got the better of me and I decided to try a bunch of cables out. Friends, without question the best cable that I’ve used with the Hidizs MK12 Turris Titanium Edition was the Simgot LC7 cable. I just love the aesthetic of the LC7 with the MK12 TE, but I love the sound even more. The pairing was simply awesome. Another cable that I used quite a lot for this review was a 4.4 balanced FSIjiangyi pure copper cable. I feel the majority of my listening was done using the LC7, but both 3rd party cables are very nice. However, the included cables are more than fine for use with the MK12 TE. 

Build / Design / Internals / Fit 

Build Quality 

Folks, I thought the OG MK12 was built well, and I still do. It’s a beast of an iem and built like a lite tank. However, the MK12 TE is a whole other animal as its shell/faceplates are made out of actual titanium. Just so you are aware, it is the titanium material which is the real upgrade for the OG MK12. I cannot begin to tell you how nice this set feels in hand and how lightweight this set is (under 10 grams). Hidizs is known for their nice build quality and the MK12 TE doesn’t buck the trend. It’s built very well. Personally, I like this build for comfort first. After reviewing so many iems it comes down to “what’s comfortable?” I’d say that the MK12 TE is in that pool of comfy sets, and a lot has to do with the particular shape and the weight of the MK12 TE. Coming in at under 10 grams is very light for an all-alloy material. Titanium is clearly one of the best materials to use for earphones and one of the most sought-after alloys in general. Lightweight and very strong. At any rate, the MK12 TE is what I would call fairly large in size, so anyone with smaller ears may want to take note. Though the shape of the MK12 TE seems to fit the curvature of my ear very well. The nozzle width is roughly about standard at 6mm while the length is what I’d call about average. I notice two small vents. One for each cavity. There’s one near the front and one towards the rear of the MK12 TE. 

Design 

Now we get to the design/aesthetic of the Hidizs MK12 Turris Titanium Edition. Friends, this set is one of the most awesome looking iems that I’ve come across. The coloration of the heated titanium is absolutely gorgeous. Something I’ve always loved about certain alloys. I used to be a welder when I was younger, and I’d always create stuff using rare materials and I always thought the different rainbow colorations of anodizing titanium is so cool. It is such an amazing science folks. Depending on the thickness of the Titanium you will get different variations of colors. In the case of the MK12 TE you’ll see slight blues, some purple hues, some orange, but the major color is an almost dark bronze color. It looks absolutely beautiful. I couldn’t be happier with the way this set looks and Hidizs should be very proud. Such a dope looking set. 

Internals

Okay, so one of the most awesome aspects of this set isn’t the build, the design, or the unboxing, but it’s actually within the driver and the driver material chosen for the MK12 Turris Titanium Edition. I was overjoyed when I was contacted by Hidizs amazing reps that I’d be reviewing the second set with a pure magnesium driver. The first of course being the OG MK12. By the way, that’s 91% Magnesium alloy. Brands are always shooting for the lightest, stiffest, most rigid materials with the best elasticity and magnesium alloy is one of the most sought after on the market for these properties. Of course, one doesn’t just go to the local store and pick up magnesium alloy. It has to be crafted with an intricate process of casting, rolling, extrusion, and forging. The magnesium needs to be extracted folks. Please hear me. The reason you don’t see these drivers often is because they’re very hard to make. Just like pure beryllium. It isn’t easy. So, know what you are getting with the MK12 TE. To be exact, the MK12 TE has an enormous 12mm large 91% magnesium diaphragm dynamic driver with up to 1.5 Tesla magnetic flux! Friends, this set is special. Hidizs went all out on this one. The MK12 TE has a fantastic driver, and it shows up in my listening sessions every time I hit play.

Fit / Comfort 

As I’ve said, the MK12 Turris Titanium Edition has a medium sized build that is good for most any ear size. I certainly don’t feel that smaller ears will have a problem with this set. For me the fit is just about perfect. One thing I didn’t mention is how well the weight distribution is when you actually wear the MK12 TE. You’d think an all-alloy set would be quite heavy, but the MK12 TE weighs under 10 grams in total. It really is a very lightweight set for what it is. The bonus is that the weight is dispersed very nicely with a nozzle that seems to be at a very nice angle for the human ear. Again, for me the MK12 TE couldn’t be more comfortable but of course I am not you. You may have alien ears, I don’t know. I’d assume the MK12 TEwould work for just about everyone, but I have been wrong many times in life. Still, for this guy the MK12 TE fits very well. 

Drivability / Pairings 

Output Power (Sensitivity) 

During my use with the Hidizs MK12 Turris Titanium Edition I found that it is exactly the same as the original MK12. You can basically copy/paste my thoughts from that review as far as drivability and sonic pairings are concerned. Once again, the MK12 TE is rated with an impedance of right around 32 ohms as well as a sensitivity of 111 db’s. Friends, what this means is that the MK12 TE is a very easy set to drive. Just like the OG MK12 the MK12 TE played very well off of any device I used. For instance, I tested with my iPad on 3.5 se, two old Android phones in 3.5 se, one Samsung and one LG. I used the very weak KZ AN01, the KZ AZ20, and I always use my three, super weak 3.5 single ended no name tiny dongle dacs that I bought just for this purpose. In truth, I don’t know how much weaker I can get and every one of them played the MK12 TE very well, to good volume, good dynamics too. 

More juice

However, do not let that fool you. It’s nice that a set is sensitive enough for most any source, but man… give this set some juice and it’ll reward you. Actually, give it some more output power and a clean source and the MK12 TE will absolutely sing ladies and gentlemen. Something about these big 12mm magnesium drivers and good, clean, and strong power. It just shines. Without question the MK12 TE sounds much more refined across the board. Bass becomes tighter and denser, the mids come forward a hair, but also more delicately detailed, and the treble adds some sparkle and dynamic energy. If you can…at the very least, give the MK12 TE a good dongle dac with solid output power and a 4.4 balanced port and flip it to high gain. Something with at least a good 100-150 mW of power on 32 ohms. No doubt I have much more powerful devices than that and found out quickly that just like the OG MK12; the MK12 TE certainly rewards you for better and more powerful sources. 

Tonal Pairings 

Now, just like the OG MK12, the MK12 TE shares the same tonal signature, though the TE is simply more refined throughout. However, nothing changed in its ability to pair with most any source tonality very well. This is another set that carries that warm/neutral tonality sweet spot. I find that anything warm/neutral will generally sound good on just about any source device out there and the MK12 TE is one of those sets. I listened to the MK12 TE on every source device that I own (that’s a lot) and there was never a time when I didn’t enjoy what I heard. This set is not picky at all! Not even slightly. Now, I do feel that warm/neutral source devices to neutral devices sounded the best. Coincidentally, that’s just about every device that has come to market over the last few years. With that said, I really wouldn’t worry too much about finding perfect synergy because synergy can be had with most any source device. This set isn’t picky folks. 

Not picky

Once again, because this is a Hidizs review I naturally busted out my Hidizs S9 Pro Plus for this review and just as I imagined the MK12 TE paired so wonderfully. Of course, I could say the same about most any dongle dac in my collection. My favorite dongle dac pairing came from the Shanling UA6. First off, I freaking love the UA6 and paired with the MK12 TE it created such a nice and even tonal pairing. Out of my daps, it was the Shanling M6 Ultra and Hiby R6 Pro II 2025 which shined the brightest for me. Both hover right around warm/neutral. However, the neutral iBasso DX240 sounding awesome. I simply didn’t like the silver nozzle with the DX240. The others were great. Another few daps which worked wonderfully were the Shanling M1 Plus, the Hiby R3 Pro II and the Fiio JM21. Each one replayed great, which was awesome to see since each one has a slightly different tonality. I suppose the point is that the MK12 TE is not at all picky, not in the slightest. Honestly, I feel that I can tell you to simply plug and play with whatever device that you have. 

Sound Impressions 

*Note: Prior to jumping into my sound impressions, I first have to mention a few things. First off, I did let the MK12 TE burn-in for right around three full days. I honestly didn’t notice any grand change. Not that the MK12 TE needed a change. I listen to flac or better files which are stored on my devices and rarely stream my music (not against it either). The Android music player of my choosing is always UAPP (USB Audio Player Pro) and at times I use Hiby Music Player. I did tip roll and decided to use KBear 07 eartips. Also, I mainly listened to the MK12 TE using the Simgot LC7 cable or the FSIjiangyi 4.4 balanced cable for all critical listening. Once again, for almost all critical listening I used the balanced nozzle. Lastly, I gave this set some juice folks! Feed the MK12 TE’s massive 12mm driver some juice… and you’ll hear this set come alive. 

What’s it sound like? 

Folks, I was so unbelievably surprised to even hear that I was receiving this set. Quite literally, I got a message from one of Hidizs awesome contacts in the morning asking me about the Hidizs MK12 Turris Titanium Edition, and in the evening, it was at my home. I didn’t even know this set existed and so I didn’t have any time to prepare. Lol. For the record… I’m okay with that. In fact, this was such an enormous surprise for a few reasons. First off, I was bewildered that Hidizs was already trying to upgrade one of the best single DD iems that my ears have heard under $300 in the original Hidizs MK12 Turris. I couldn’t believe it. Next, I was even more blown away that Hidizs actually succeeded (somehow) in delivering an arguably “upgraded” MK12! I’m sure if you’ve read mine or almost any review of the MK12 Turris you’d understand just how good that set is. Well, as good as the MK12 may be… the MK12 Turris Titanium Edition is slightly better in my opinion. More refined in its smooth texture and ever-so-slightly better clarity. Of course, this is all highly debatable and depending on what your preferences are you may be able to swing both sides of that argument. Truthfully, they are basically the same set with slightly different tonal characteristics but the same general sound. 

Not a comparison review… 

In all truth, it is very strange writing a review of a variant of a set that I just completed not too long ago. Most reviewers would be tempted to write a review basically just finding the difference between the two variants, understandably so. Trust me, I was and still am very tempted to do just that. However, a little nudging in me said “No, do it right, complete a full review based solely off of the sound that I hear with this set”. Not just a comparison review. Granted, I will definitely speak on some differences between the two. The more I thought of it the more it made sense. Also, the MK12 Turris Titanium Edition is truly one of the most special single dynamic driver earphones that my ears have heard under $500, if not more. Yes folks, it’s that good. The caveat is that (like anything) you have to enjoy its sound signature. You have to be a fan of its wonderfully silky smooth, somewhat bassy, juicy midrange, cleanly layered and moderately dynamic presentation. I can assure you all right now that I am most certainly a huge fan of this set. Okay, enough blabbering from me. Let’s get on with it… 

Signature Sound 

The MK12 TE comes across with effortless musicality yet also has such a wonderful technical foundation. It’s all about balance, balance, balance with a huge engagement factor which pulls emotion from most any track and resolves intricate details in the process. However, I’m getting ahead of myself. First let me explain the signature. In my mind the Hidizs MK12 Turris Titanium Edition comes across as warm/neutral to my ears and has what I’d call a “balanced U-shaped” sound signature. I say U-shaped because just like the OG MK12, the MK12 TE definitely has a healthy bass boost (perhaps even more in the mid-bass), a very nice treble emphasis, and also a non-recessed midrange. However, that non-recessed midrange also isn’t so forward to the point that the mids are the focus. I’ll speak on that later. Anyways, again, balance, balance, balance. There’s a nice dynamic balance as there is no one area of the mix which truly dominates the spectrum and in the same breath no one area is left out. Each 3rd of the mix has seemingly equal representation and each area of the mix contributes to the expressive overall macro-dynamic vibrance and semi-rich and buttery cadence. One other point is that the new MK12 TE has what I’d call cleaner harmonics and less profuse resonances than its predecessor. In fact, simply calling it “cleaner” is one of the best ways that I can find to explain the difference between the two sets. Take the OG MK12, clean every note edge, add a hair of extra meat to notes, a teeny bit of extra mid-bass, and add a better detail retrieval capability and you have the MK12 TE. It’s a little more involved than that, but I’d say it explains the differences well enough. 

It sounds good

The MK12 TE most certainly has a very full sound, very big, with this velvety smooth fluidity and clean resonant sound with optimal energy. That energy, that macro-dynamic vibrance is also very concise, very well controlled. You’ll hear rounded notes carried along with fairly rigid note density and a mostly clean note outline from the sub-bass through to the upper treble. What endeared my ears right out of the box was of course the MK12 TE’s balance. However, I’d also say in its measured tonality, that awesome organic timbre, and its multi-layered approach to my music library. I should add that this balance exists in different measures with each nozzle filter. As I said in the beginning of this section; I’m writing based solely off of the Rose Gold balanced nozzle as I feel it is the perfect middle ground between the red and silver nozzles. With any nozzle it has that nice balance and note control. What do I mean by “note control”. I mean the MK12 TE has a fantastic ability to reproduce the spectrum, and my music library with solid clarity, articulation, precision, and nuance. Nothing sloppy, flabby, oversaturated, or blurred. Instead, I hear tight and clean-lined transients with solid punch helping instruments and voices cut-through a busy mix with a rhythmical and rich sound. Basically, it sounds very good. 

Not your average “musical” sound… 

The MK12 TE (and the OG MK12) has an unabashed musicality that doesn’t seem to perfectly follow traditional “musicality-first” norms. I say that because the MK12 TE produces notes which start and stop (attack – decay) on a dime. Very little overlapping notes, nothing that I’d call muddy, nothing veiled, no grain, no random sonic fuzz floating around the edges of notes. It’s clean across the board. Usually “musical” sets traditionally carrying that smooth, warm, and creamy-rich sound typically won’t resolve the subtle details quite as well as “less musical/more analytical” iems. I am more than happy to report that the MK12 TE absolutely bucks that trend. It’s both technically adept and melodically engaging with clean musicality dripping through its beautiful alloy nozzles. Of course, we can easily get into the weeds when trying to define what “musicality” is or what musicality is supposed to sound like. I suppose it could mean something different for everyone. 

Golden ratio

The MK12 TE also has a very solid technical foundation for a smoother sound. We’ve been seeing this more and more of late as so many iems are beginning to carry that musicality-first sound. That said, the MK12 and MK12 TE really do exemplify this type of clean musicality as Hidizs has truly found the golden ratio tuning with these sets. Words which come to mind are unblemished, silken, fun, mature, exuberant, and disciplined. All of those descriptors would usually counter each other, they’d contrast, and they typically wouldn’t marry together. However, I have found that both the new and old MK12 embody those words along with many others. At any rate, this “golden ratio” truly is a testament to the level of skill and sonic understanding that Hidizs has carefully implemented into each and every iem they’ve created over the last few years. The culmination of that expertise looks to have been implanted squarely into the Turritopsis Dohrnii shells of the MK12 series of iems. Most notably into the brand-new upgraded Titanium Edition. 

Bass Region 

The low end of the MK12 TE is very much similar to the OG MK12 in that it is nicely boosted with plenty of low-end muscle helping drums to feel alive and full and bass guitars to sound deeply pitched and guttural. In truth, going back and forth between the two for what felt like hours helped me to establish that the MK12 TE most certainly is the bassier version by the slightest margin. Particularly in the mid-bass where I can not-so-easily hear just a tad more oomph, more body, more gravelly fullness. I should quickly note that just like the OG, the new MK12 TE is not emphasized to basshead levels. It’s lifted enough to be fun, yet not so booming that all control is lost. Basically, it’s a hefty enough bass but also very well defined. Now, one thing which charmed me to no end was the profuse dark vibrance of the MK12 TE’s bass region. This bass is anything but boring folks. It’s a fun, semi-fast, and absolutely liquid bass. There’s an unmistakable density to every track that I play through them. To my ears, just like the OG MK12, the MK12 TE carries a weighted attack and a natural decay without loads of lingering harmonics mudding the sonic waters. So, to speak. I like that the decay through sustain isn’t so lightning fast that bass notes sound clipped, yet I love the powerful, hard-lined, and snappy attack punch. Nothing weak here, nothing at all pillowy, nothing at all too aggressive, too intense, or too bulbous either. To my ears, the bass region quenches that need for a hard-edged, and gratifying slam. I routinely feel satiated with this one. It’s a very nice bass. 

Sub-Bass 

Once again, the sublevels of the low-end come across both deep in pitch, juddering in weight, and droning in haptic feel. Having said that, I don’t want this one to get away from me because the bass is most definitely not too emphasized. Like I said earlier, there is a balance. Hidizs really knocked this one out of the park. What I want in a sub-bass is deep density, vivid and wetted richness, yet I want it tight enough to never clog up the space between notes. I don’t want the sub-bass to make the mid-bass sound murky or one-noted. It’s a delicate balance for sure. Listening to the “Baby Queen” by the Gorillaz is so satisfying. Clean dark vibrance! Just above moderate in weight. I feel the vibrational reverb bouncing off the titanium walls of the MK12 TE in a visceral fashion. Not quite to the level of a true basshead set, but very physical in a kinetic way. Having said that, the MK12 TE’s sublevel is also easily able to keep up with some complicated tracks as that magnesium driver is ultra skilled with very sharp stop-and-go dynamic thrust as each note seems to attack and recover at efficient and snappy enough speeds when a track calls for it. For instance, the track “Pulsating Reality” by MantisMash perfectly shows off the MK12 TE’s ability to render fairly complicated notes with full haptic weight while never sounding like a mishmash of bass. 

Mid-Bass 

The mid-bass has actually gotten a slight bump of emphasis from the previous version as it sounds like a more rich and rounded mid-bass. However, I don’t find the mid-bass to necessarily be lifted above the sublevels. In fact, to my ears the mid and sub bass seem to coexist in a very even-handed way, but also in a very tangible way. The mid-bass has that savory style liquid richness, as well as some fairly nice texture too. It booms with some good authority and without mudding-up the mix. The truth is that the MK12 TE’s mid-bass is what I’d consider having quality in its quantity. It isn’t one of those fast, snappy, or ultra zippy style bass replays, but it is very agile and very well equipped to take on just about any track. The kicker is that the MK12 TE also has that meaty slam too. Folks, this bass is simply awesome to my ears. Just like the OG MK12, the MK12 TE also has that fast twitch reflex ability to recover and cleanly display even complicated and congested notes, similar to other more “peppy” driver types (planar, balanced armature, etc.). I’m telling you, it’s that magnesium driver coupled with the clean resonances of the titanium shell. You get far less harmonic distortion and unwanted vibrations, and the sound simply comes through clean!  Beyond the cleanliness, I also find the mid-bass boom to be very satisfying in a guilty pleasure way as well. I could list a hundred tracks where the dense weight and authority of the MK12 TE’s mid-bass was absolutely stellar for a under $300 single DD. Really, the mid-bass has very nice texture, it’s well defined, it’s clean, and it’ll move your feet when a track calls for it. Hidizs did a very nice job. 

Downsides to the Bass Region 

The biggest drawback of a bass like this would be for those who enjoy a much more slimmed down emphasis. Those who want a more snappy and less full low-end with even less bass intrusion will likely not totally enjoy the MK12 TE. There are plenty of folks who also desire a perfectly clean and untouched midrange. Something I didn’t add was that the MK12 TE’s bass region does spill over a hair I to the mids adding some warmth and some note weight. I feel they did it in a tasteful way, but that’s just me. I know plenty of people who detest any bass interweaving into the midrange. Beyond those preferential issues, I don’t find many other problems to speak of. Hidizs did a wonderful job. 

Midrange

That midrange! My word Hidizs… nice work! So, the MK12 TE’s midrange comes across with a more natural hue, tonally. It’s an organically tuned region which provides an engaging impression with its slightly warmed energy and semi-rich in note body. To my ears the midrange hovers around warm to warm/neutral with a silky style cadence, yet also with better than average precision, pretty tight transients, skillfully tempered vibrance, and a charm which is unmistakable. Nothing in the MK12 TE’s tuning is overdone, overcooked, or too rambunctious. No area of the mix is saturated or too far boosted. As I’ve said many times already; there is a definite balance across the board. Nevertheless, the midrange does provide those nicely expressive and engaging macro-dynamics whilst never sounding offensive, or glaring. The mids are effortlessly honeyed in its tonal disposition as well as nicely detailed, vivid, and perfectly measured in its vibrance. Similar to the OG MK12, but this set has just a touch more buttery smoothness. Notes have what I’d call a semi-rich body, nice note weight and rigidity, solid surface textures, and they come across with a certain level of soothing warmth. Nevertheless, that warmth and weight never seem to come across sluggish or veiled. Something about that titanium acoustic cavity that trims off all the sonic fat, so to speak. There’s a certain taintless-luminance, a non-intensive radiance, and a distinct prominence which seems to add depth to the sound field and roundness to midrange notes which are ostensibly free of note clogging resonances. Great for a single dynamic driver under $300 and wonderful for vocalists of all kinds. 

Intimate? 

Also, to my ears the midrange sits in that perfect spot within the sound field. Certainly, the midrange exists around the anterior (forward) portion of the stage. Yet I do not feel it’s too close. Certainly, more intimate, but not anywhere near congested. Like everything with this set… It’s tastefully done. I’ll say it again… everything is tastefully done on this set. I suppose what I’m trying to say is that the midrange has what I’d consider a reasonable prominence within the mix. Nothing comes across boxy or too intimate to my ears. In truth, what I hear is a very cleanly layered midrange with solid depth of field and clear localization of instruments leading to a very immersive sound. I can only speak for myself, but the midrange really did grab me folks. Of course, the same thing happened with the OG MK12 too. Coincidentally, the emphasis within the midrange didn’t change with this new model. The only real difference is that the Titanium Edition has a more polished sound, it’s cleaner, and that cleanliness seems to pronounce midrange notes a hair more. I definitely wouldn’t consider the MK12 TE’s tuning as “mid-centric”, but I would say that the midrange is very enchanting and is certainly a very skilled region on this balanced set. 

Lower-Midrange 

One of my favorite aspects of this set is its ability to portray male vocalists. Males have that super clean yet rich note delivery which you don’t usually hear in a low-mid presentation. Of course, if any area of the midrange would be considered somewhat recessed then the low-mids would be it. However, I honestly feel that the low-mids come through with excellent presence, very lucid, with very nice transparency for a warmer sound. Males like Dermot Kennedy in the track “An Evening I Will Never Forget” show off perfectly how this rich sound can feel embossed against the backdrop of the melody. His edgy and powerful voice feels very prominent and bold, very masculine even with the obvious vulnerable sentiment of the song. Or Chris Stapleton in “Tennessee Whiskey”. Folks, his voice absolutely cuts through everything and the MK12 TE presents it perfectly. With Chris’s vocals, they can come across a hair too abrasive in some of his more resounding moments in a number of tracks. I adore that the MK12 TE never exaggerates those slightly abrasive inflections, but instead displays them accurately, very fluid, moist in delivery. Or baritones like Avi Kaplan in the track “First Place I Go” shows off the MK12 TE’s amazing ability to display that deep pitched resonance of Avi’s voice whilst still keeping a clean note edge and organic timbre. Folks, I adore male vocalists on this set. So much that I neglected to speak on a few other things. I can tell you that instrumentation follows the same trajectory. Plenty of toned-down energy, good dynamics, very clean sounding and they come across very resolute. 

Upper-Midrange 

The upper midrange is the region where I decided the MK12 TE is without question an upgrade from the OG. Granted, it isn’t some earth-shattering difference at all, but it’s a definite refinement over the OG, nonetheless. From the subtle sparkle which crests every upper-mid note to the liquid style delivery of every instrument or vocalist, the MK12 TE’s upper-mids are engrossing. Seemingly every female vocalist comes across with even more of a predominant and salient feel to their sound. The MK12 TE has just a hair more of a rounded feel to its notes with cleaner and more vivid transients. It’s actually not easy to explain. Just know this… females sound so very nice. Now, the upper-mids are certainly more forward than the lower midrange, but they are also tuned in a masterful way which never seeks to offend. Timbre is right on point as the MK12 TE carries that very natural and organic tone yet with just enough of a vibrant accentuation to its notes.

Females

There are a multitude of tracks which show off the MK12 TE’s awesome penchant for female vocalists. Odd tracks which most people haven’t heard of like “Rookie Dreaming” by Courtney Marie Andrews. Her voice cuts through jutting forward with that quality timbre to every cleanly layered instrument distinctly playing in the background. Every inflection, every vocal intonation, every accentuation of her voice is outward, resounding in its embossed clarity as though the woman is singing right in front of me. Or “Crowded Table” by The Highwomen. Folks, this track is utterly infectious listening with the MK12 TE. I don’t even necessarily like the song (it’s not bad), but the tone, timbre, dynamics, micro-dynamics, note separation, smoothness, vibrance, clean harmonics, rounded notes and totally non-offensive nature of the MK12 TE creates such a full-bodied, richly layered, and all-encompassing enchanting sound. From feather soft and delicate to clangorous and resounding the MK12 TE presents both females and instrumentation in hi-res, hi-def, and high quality for a single DD in this range. The only true competitor in my opinion comes from its predecessor… the OG MK12. Females sound absolutely delectable folks. The upper-mids come through with wonderful macro-layering of the sound field and the 3D holographic spaciousness of the MK12 TE only adds to the allure of this range. In fact, vocalists of all kinds come through very-very well. 

Downsides to the Midrange 

What am I supposed to say here? It is like pulling teeth trying to come up with actual downsides to this midrange. Not because there aren’t any. We all know that no set is perfect. It’s like pulling teeth because the midrange is so well put together for what it is. I do want to say once again that you have to enjoy this type of presentation. There will be those hobbyists who much rather would have an analytically based sound. I could offer up many other iems which are even more transient tight, even more precise, snappier, and more clinical in their delivery. I still feel that the MK12 TE is a musicality-first iem and surely not everyone desires that. In truth, the MK12 TE’s midrange is very well done, very well-tuned, and clearly one of its best attributes. 

Real quick… 

Honestly folks, Hidizs simply nailed the sound of this midrange. I don’t know how else to say it. Of course, I have to remember to declare that this is only my opinion and nobody else’s. You may feel differently. Friends, at this moment right now I am sitting at my desk, in my office, with the Shanling UA6 attached to the Fiio JM21, the MK12 TE in my ears, and I have absolutely no will to get any work done. I’m running through track after track (as I do) while soaking in the delicious clean resonant warmth, meaty presence, and unsullied articulation of the MK12 Turris Titanium Edition’s expertly tuned midrange. It’s simply great. 

Treble Region 

Looking at the treble region, I’d say the Hidizs MK12 Turris Titanium Edition is even more shimmery and exact in its treble delivery than its illustrious predecessor. Just a touch more air to the sound, more of a spacious feeling with similar brilliance. That is; semi-brilliant, not too boosted, but also not dark or too warm either. Now, the treble is also another very smooth region, and just like the rest of the mix (bass & mids) it too comes with a smoothly rendered cadence and a liquid note delivery. Having said that, most treble notes are fairly precise with adequate treble bite for a single dynamic driver earphone. Obviously, much of that depends on the track you are listening to, but we reviewers usually speak in generalities. However, do not expect a treble-head worthy effort here. In fact, don’t expect a treble which is going to blow your mind with loads of perfectly etched notes and EST level treble bite & punch. To me the treble region of the MK12 TE does a wonderful job of fitting perfectly with the tonal characteristics of this tuning and as a single DD, that is usually all we should expect of it. It fits. A very well-tuned part to a beautiful whole. The treble walks the same line as every region that I’ve spoken of already; that is, it’s balanced and does a very nice job contrasting the bass and the midrange without coming across oversaturated or over emphasized. No forced resolution here folks. Hidizs did a nice job giving the treble just enough shimmer and nice note defining crispness as well. No doubt the treble is a hair better detailed over the previous MK12, as well as better layering of instruments up top, but the differences are mostly negligible within the treble. 

Realistic Timbre

Now, depending on what nozzle you choose, that treble intensity will either sound a bit less lifted and non-offensive (red nozzle), or it will come across airier, and even more dialed-in technically (silver nozzle). Again, I happen to enjoy the Rose Gold nozzle and so that’s what I’m speaking of today. Plus, the Rose Gold nozzle carries the most lifelike timbre to my ears. In truth, the MK12 TE with the Rose Gold nozzles actually does have a tad more air and openness than the previous MK12. I simply adore the emphasis within this set’s treble region, I adore the treble detail and clean-lined note articulation, and I also adore the smoothly rendered & rhythmic inflections. But, in my opinion, the treble’s real superpower isn’t in its technical capabilities (though they are very good), but rather in its organic & realistic timbre. To have a realistic treble timbre, it cannot be rolled-off, it cannot be too spicy, it can’t be metallic, it can’t sound forced, and it can’t be dark, among many other things that it can’t be. I think many attributes contribute to this nice timbre. Stuff like; a black background, clean-lined notes, nice layering, just enough crispness, nice tone color, natural transients etc. That’s what I hear in the MK12 TE’s treble replay using the Rose Gold nozzle. 

Examples

This is also a fairly speedy treble along with a technically capable treble which can take on more complicated tracks very well for a musicality-first single DD iem. Listening to Billy Strings track “Malfunction Junction” it is very easy to hear how well every fast and rapid mandolin note is perfectly articulated. Or that super distinct fiddle which compliments the mandolin. The MK12 TE’s treble delivery is spot on separating each and every note. The layering of high frequency notes shows off the MK12 TE’s ability to replay a very complex arrangement of treble sounds, and it does so easily. Another track is “Bishop School” by Yusef Lateef which has this crazy mixture of eastern music and jazz as the treble play is a composition composed of many different instruments. However, the MK12 TE does a wonderful job of cleanly replaying the flute and percussive instruments. I use this track (among many-many others) to test treble play and the MK12 TE really does an excellent job for only having a single dynamic driver. Of course, it has a crazy talented magnesium DD, but it’s a single DD nonetheless. I guess the moral of the story is that for a musically rich and slightly tame top-end to the MK12 TE’s spectrum, it is quite a testament to the skill of this set that it resolves this region as well as it does. 

Fitting

Folks, I’m not going to sit here and tell you that the treble region (or any region for that matter) is the greatest thing since sliced bread, but I will tell you that it is very fitting for this tuning and melts into the signature very-very well. This is what Hidizs does though. They are excellent builders, excellent designers, and excellent tuners of iems. Perhaps some of the best in the business. Anyways, the treble region of the MK12 TE is a perfect example of a brand knowing when to say when. I love it so much that Hidizs didn’t feel compelled to stretch the treble emphasis even further or more brilliantly vivacious. Again, there’s nothing forced here folks. No forced and phony resolution which so many brands make the mistake of doing. The greatest thing is that Hidizs didn’t need to for the MK12 TE to sound highly capable in the technical department. That driver is so good folks as I hear plenty of treble bite, nice note contours, solid layering of treble sounds (which isn’t the easiest thing to discern) and excellent upper treble extension. Yet once again, that upper treble isn’t overtly lifted to bring on the illusion of good extension, it just has… good extension. Really just a well-done set across the spectrum, and the treble is certainly an important part of that. I’ll say it again; it’s a very well-tuned part to a wonderful whole. 

Downsides to the Treble Region 

One issue that I can identify would be for those treble heads amongst us. Those people will not be satisfied with what Hidizs created here. Yes, it’s a talented range, and yes, the treble is highly capable technically and tonally, but it isn’t treble-boi worthy. No offense to those “treble-bois”, but I am very glad it isn’t up to their ultra shimmery and ultra bright standards. Hidizs tuned this treble to sound good in concert with the rest of the spectrum. Also, on the flip side of that coin, those who enjoy a much darker/warmer and rolled-off treble experience will definitely feel that the MK12 TE is too boosted. I mean, no doubt the treble on this set carries a certain warmth to it, but it has what I’d call an ever-so-slightly “toned-down brilliance”. Still, those who enjoy a much less crispy and rolled-off sound will not be impressed. 

Technicalities 

Soundstage 

I told you in the MK12 OG review that the soundstage was a highlight of that set. Well, the Titanium Edition is most certainly an upgrade and not surprisingly the soundstage is slightly better. Meaning, I perceive a slightly wider, fuller, and a deeper stage than the OG MK12. Which is saying something. Of course, when talking about stage size it is all a subjectively measured venture. These are just my thoughts. Having said that, I still feel the stage sits in a more intimate setting where the sound field is slightly closer than some other sets. It’s still very vast in size from left to right, fairly tall in height and again, there’s some good depth for layering which really does bring on a holographic feel to my music. All things considered, the stage is certainly another bright spot. 

Separation / Imaging 

As far as instrument separation goes, the MK12 TE does a great job of distinctly separating instruments and voices. As I’ve said throughout this review; the Hidizs MK12 Turris Titanium Edition has a pretty tight transient response, certainly not slow or laggy. Also, there’s a decent amount of air to the sound as well as a solid balance tonally. Basically, there’s never a huge concern with anything coming across muddy. Though you will have some masking taking place at times from the bass region. Though for the most part the MK12 TE has a very clean sound, and it shows in its above average instrument separation. Obviously, the MK12 TE won’t come across as distinct and transparent as most analytically tuned iems, but for a musicality-first set, it’s pretty darn good. What’s even better is the MK12 TE’s ability to place instruments within the imaginary stage and to do so very coherently. Whether left to right or front to back I hear some very solid layering abilities from the MK12 TE. Really just an overall solid set with the technical stuff. 

Detail Retrieval 

Another quality aspect of the MK12 TE is its penchant for drawing out subtle details without sounding dry, thin, or too clinical. I think it comes down to very high-quality drivers, obviously the tuning, but also because of that titanium acoustic cavity. Everything simply comes through cleanly, well illuminated, and more distinct than almost any single DD tuned in this way under $300. To a minor degree the MK12 TE certainly does marginally better in this department then the MK12 OG. Granted, that set is very good too. I just feel that when I A/B compare the the MK12 TE simply has a more layered, clean-lined, sound with even better micro-dynamics leading to seemingly better micro-details. I’m not saying the MK12 TE is a “detail beast”, and I’m not saying to throw away your analytically inclined iems, but I am saying it’s pretty darn good. 

Final thoughts on the Hidizs MK12 Turris Titanium Edition 

Friends, I decided to not complete a huge comparison section as I really wanted to put a spotlight on this set. Also, this whole review has many small comparisons with the OG MK12. However, I honestly feel that the MK12 TE is one of, if not thee, best single DD under $300 for anyone who enjoys a rich musicality that doesn’t skimp on cleanliness. No doubt there are many highly qualified single DD’s around the price point, but I can’t think of another which sounds quite like the MK12 TE. However, I have to relay that there most certainly are some fantastic single DD iems at or even under the price of the MK12 TE as well. I mean, the set we’ve been comparing all review, the predecessor to the MK12 TE, the Hidizs Turris MK12 (MK12 Review) is without question one of the best single DD’s that I’ve heard under that price. However, we have sets like the Simgot EA1000 (EA1000 Review), the Sivga Que UTG (Que UTG Review), the Letshuoer DX1 (DX1 Review), the Dunu Falcon Ultra, the Penon Vortex, Fiio FD15 (FD15 Review), Tanchjim Origin (Origin Review), Tanchjim Fission, NFAcous NA20 (NA20 Review), the Dunu Kima 2 (Kima 2 Review), and on, and on, and on. There is no end. I didn’t even touch the bona-fide studs under $100. No doubt we are dealing with incremental improvements as you go up in price. However, I truly feel that the Hidizs MK12 Turris Titanium Edition is a step above the competition according to my particular taste. Hidizs has once again outdid themselves. Something I’ve said so many times in the past. They deserve a round of applause. 

A small piece of my heart…

Friends, I can enjoy many different sound signatures, many different styles of tuning. I even go back and forth by the day about what sound signature and tonal qualities I enjoy most. Having said that, the Hidizs MK12 Turris Titanium Edition is one which will always have a small piece of this dude’s heart. How quickly this set was able to make my “tops in class” list for single DD’s under $300 is quite impressive. Yes, I know, it’s all subjective, and who knows, maybe next week I hear something even better. That wouldn’t surprise me. What has surprised me was how quickly Hidizs was able to top a set (OG MK12) that I thought had one of the best single DD presentations under $300. I’d say it’s still a honeymoon phase, but between the OG MK12 and the MK12 TE, I think I’ve grown more than acclimated to the MK12 series. Believe me friends, I don’t like stating such a thing in a review. But hey, I’m just being my authentic self and stating what I feel to be my truth. That is… the MK12 TE is absolutely fantastic and worth every last penny of the cost to own it. 

The Why… 

Why is it worth the cost of $269? Side note: you can get this set for $229 early. Anyways, it’s worth every last penny because when you see this set and twirl it in your hands, and feel that durable and corrosion resistant titanium, and watch as the colors begin to twirl and move it’s easy to see the craftsmanship which went into this set. With every new angle the light refracts new shades, new hues, different color patterns. By the way, my pictures do absolutely zero justice to this set. Anyways, just knowing what it takes to create and form titanium is nothing short of impressive. Then you look at how intricately the faceplates are laid out. How much time was spent in simply getting the faceplates right?!! Yes, I know other sets are made from pure titanium, but not this intricate at $269. Do you have any clue what it takes to actually deal with titanium? You can gall and embrittle it so easily. Also, to get the perfect shade the titanium needs to get to the perfect temperature and there’s time requirements and heat treatments. Very much prone to deformation, oxidation, and many other things us hobbyists never have to think about. Truly a wonderful job. Next, the MK12 Turris Titanium Edition has a golden ratio providing 91% pure magnesium dynamic driver which is an absolute game changer! The boldness that it takes to make the decision to go with a pure magnesium driver is very cool to see. I cannot wait to hear this driver paired with other drivers. However, as a single DD this magnesium driver is flat out wonderful folks. The dynamism, the wonderful timbre, the technical ability. Just awesome for the cost. 

That sound! 

That all said, it’s always the tuning which makes or breaks any iem. This is a piece of audio gear after all. Thankfully, Hidizs truly has some of the best in the business. I’m convinced of that. That bass is very nice. It’s tight, goes deep, goes hard, yet it’s very well defined, nothing sluggish, nothing veiled, no mud and the bass is wonderfully balanced with solid punch. Then there’s the midrange. My word it is sweet as can be folks. Like silk, like velvet, it glides, like a wave in the sea. However, it’s also extremely clean. Is it because of the driver, the housing material? I’m telling you, the vocals of both male and females come across beautifully. Also, that timbre is simply great. Highly detailed yet very much musical across the board. The mids are wonderful. Forward yet not boxy, never shouty, always creamy. Also, the treble has such a nice contrasting emphasis and tonal coloration. Adding just enough brilliance, just enough bite, just enough crispness, and nice extension. Each 3rd of the mix replays like a set which should cost a lot more money. Again, highly detailed, distinct note separation. It can take on complicated tracks. Imaging is pretty much spot-on as well. Lastly, the sound field comes across with fantastic depth, very much holographic with nice spatial dimensionality and the MK12 Turris Titanium Edition presents a multi-layered listening experience. 

Easy Rec

Friends, I realize that this review has pretty much been a praise fest from beginning to end. I tried to point out possible issues and I tried to think of drawbacks to this set. However, I’m simply so happy with what Hidizs created. This set is legitimately a better MK12 Turris. When I was asked to check this set out, I knew it was going to be good, but I figured it would simply be the MK12 in a different colorway. I thought “Cool, this will be easy, I can pretty much copy/paste my MK12 Review!… Um…wrong! I didn’t expect such improvements. I didn’t write about it, but I have spent literal hours going back and forth between the two sets. At first, I thought it was just cleaner sounding. No doubt it is. Then I actually listened closely. I went through hundreds of tracks. Slowly but surely, you can see the MK12 TE pulling away. A certain level of mastery, sonic intricacy and overall proficiency began to separate the two. No doubt incremental, but there is a distinction, nonetheless. At any rate, I have to say this again because if I don’t then you’ll be upset with me for praising this iem the way I have. That is; the MK12 TE has to fit your particular taste as well. This hobby is the most ridiculously subjective and personal hobbies on planet earth when it comes to enjoyment and gratification. So, read my words a few times and read someone else’s too. Having said all of that, and maybe too much for some of you, I have to declare that I absolutely recommend the Hidizs MK12 Turris Titanium Edition. 

Conclusion 

To conclude my full review of the Hidizs MK12 Turris Titanium Edition, I have to thank the awesome folks over at Hidizs for providing the MK12 TE for review. It’s been nothing but a joy to write about this set and it’s always a pleasure to have contacts who are understanding and down to earth. That’s Hidizs and that is the good folks that I deal with. You know who you are. Always professional, always easy to get a hold of, and always knowledgeable. They are never pushy, and they never ask anything of me other than my truth with their products. Of course, their products are always awesome so there isn’t much to worry about. At any rate, thank you Hidizs. I also need to thank you, the reader, for taking your time to read my words. I know, I write long reviews that take time to get through. If you’ve actually made it this far, thank you. Shoot, for just clicking the link I thank you. You are our currency at Mobileaudiophile.com and we all greatly appreciate your trust. 

Other Perspectives 

I say it in every review, without fail. Please try to gain other perspectives while seeking out your iems. Especially for a set like this. Yes, I’ve given you nothing but glowing words about the MK12 TE, but that is my opinion. Not everyone shares my same opinion. In fact, many times I am very much different than other reviewers. Please take the time to watch, read, or listen to other thoughts concerning this set. It will only help you before you go and hit that “buy now” button on your favorite audio shop website. This hobby is so diverse, and what I enjoy may be average to the next guy. Friends, we are all on different paths, we don’t all share likes and dislikes, and we haven’t all been down the same journey through audio. For some, dropping $269 on an iem is nothing. For others, it’s a ton of money that takes a long time to save up for. We are different folks. So please, do your due diligence and check out other thoughts. With that, I’m done folks. So, please take good care, stay as safe as possible and always…God Bless!!