SIMGOT EA500 LM Review
SIMGOT EA500 LM Review
Introduction:
SIMGOT was founded in 2013 by a team of audio engineers who were passionate about creating IEMs that could deliver accurate and natural sound. Since then, the company has grown to become one of the most respected brands in the audiophile community. SIMGOT IEMs are typically made with high-quality materials, such as metal shells and premium cables. They often use multiple drivers, such as Balanced Armature (BA) drivers and dynamic drivers.
The SIMGOT EA500 LM that I will now review for you features a dual-magnetic circuit and dual-cavity driver system (DMDC) derived from the EA1000 for improved dynamic range, transient response, and wider frequency range. The 2nd gen lithium-magnesium diaphragm is lightweight and rigid for detailed sound with a natural and rich tone. The In-Ear Monitor comes with three detachable nozzles for different tuning styles, and the metal cavity with mirror plating is both durable and stylish. Finally, a silver-plated OFC cable provides clear sound and can be detached for upgrades.
Disclaimer:
I would like to thank SIMGOT for providing the EA500 LM In-Ear Monitor for review purposes. I am not affiliated with SIMGOT beyond this review and these words reflect my true and unaltered opinions about the product.
Price & Availability:
The actual price of the SIMGOT EA500 LM In-Ear Monitor is 89.99 US$. More information’s can be found under the link below;
Package & Accessories:
The SIMGOT EA500 LM boasts an eye-catching box design. The lid features colorful and detailed drawings that create a mystical and cosmic atmosphere. Two hands spread open, surrounded by circular objects and rays of light, shine against a dark background. The vibrant circular objects emit different hues under varying light angles. The visuals on the lid are reminiscent of galaxies, typographic posters, and astronomical posters.
Inside the box of the EA500 LM are the following contents/accessories;
- 1 x pair of SIMGOT EA500 LM In-Ear Monitors
- 1 x Detachable Cable with 2-Pin Connectors
- 3 x pairs Sound Tuning Tube Filters (Silver Red Ring, Gold Copper, Silver Blue Ring)
- 6 x pairs of Silicone Ear Tips
- 1 x Spare Rings for Tube Filters (Red and Black)
- 1 x Storage Case
- 1 x Print Material
Design & Build Quality:
The SIMGOT EA500 LM is a stylish in-ear monitor (IEM) with a polished metal housing that boasts a mirror-like finish. This housing is crafted from a high-density alloy through a precise casting process, followed by CNC machining for a touch of elegance. This meticulous approach results in a remarkably sturdy and durable build. The interior of the housing features subtle ridges that help control standing waves, minimizing unwanted resonances and ensuring a clear soundstage. The mirror-plated finish adds a touch of sophistication, transforming the IEMs into miniature works of art.
Inside the heart of the monitors is a 10mm 2Gen Dual-Magnet & Dual-Cavity Dynamic Driver that features a 2nd Gen Lithium-Magnesium Dome Diaphragm. The 2nd gen lithium-magnesium dome diaphragm combines a flexible suspension system, offering both lightness and stiffness.
The left faceplate displays the “LM” branding, while the right one features the SIMGOT logo on the top.
The inner surface features a removable sound nozzle system that allows for sound signature customization. Three different nozzles are included, offering users the ability to fine-tune the sound to their preferences. The L/R markings and a venting port positioned strategically enhance bass extension and add a touch of airiness to the sound.
The EA500 LM utilizes standard 0.78mm diameter 2-pin female connectors located on the top of each monitor housing. These connectors ensure a secure and reliable connection with the included cable.
The rear surface sport the EA500 LM branding on both earpieces.
The SIMGOT EA500 LM comes with a detachable cable that features high-purity silver-plated OFC wire for improved signal transmission.
The 0.78mm diameter 2-pin male connectors are protected by transparent plastic housings with color indicators (blue for left and red for right).
The cable boasts a black metal Y-splitter and a gold-colored chin slider for comfortable wear.
The cable is equipped with a 3.5mm headphone plug housed in a black metal casing with the SIMGOT branding. A transparent strain relief adds a touch of durability.
The SIMGOT EA500 LM delivers exceptional build quality. Every element, from the robust metal shells to the intricately crafted cable, exudes a sense of quality. However, the glossy surface is prone to fingerprints.
Fit, Comfort & Isolation:
The SIMGOT EA500 LM is designed for a secure and comfortable fit. The smooth curves and contoured edges conform to the ear canal, minimizing the stethoscope effect (cable noise rubbing against clothing). This, combined with the passive noise isolation of the design, effectively reduces ambient noise, making them ideal for use in noisy environments like buses or trains.
Technical Specifications:
- Model : EA500 LM
- Driver : 2nd Gen DMDC 10mm Dual-Magnetic Dual Cavity Dynamic Driver
- Diaphragm : 2nd gen lithium-magnesium dome diaphragm
- Frequency response : 10Hz-50kHz
- Effect frequency : 20Hz- 20kHz
- Impedance : 21Ω±15%
- Sensitivity : 123dB/Vrms
- Frequency response : 10Hz-50kHz
- Connector : 0.78mm 2-pin
- Cable : High Purity Silver Plated OFC wire cable
Drivability & Pairing:
The SIMGOT EA500 LM is a relatively easy-to-drive in-ear monitor (IEM) with an impedance of 21Ω and a sensitivity of 123dB. These specifications make it compatible with a wide range of audio sources, including smartphones, tablets, DAPs (Digital Audio Players), and USB DAC dongles (Digital-to-Analog Converter dongles).
Equipment’s used for this review:
- IEM’s : SIMGOT EA500 LM
- DAP&DAC’s : iBasso DX260, FiiO M11 Plus ESS, SIMGOT DEW4X
Albums & tracks used for this review:
- Norah Jones – Come Away With Me (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Adele – My Little Love (Deezer HiFi)
- Sarah McLachlan – Angel (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
- Sertap Erener – Aşk (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Edith Piaf – Non Je Ne Regrette Rien (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Diana Krall – So Wonderful (DSF)
- Aretha Franklin – I Say A Little Payer (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Michael Jackson – Billie Jean (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- George Michael – Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
- David Bowie – Heroes (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
- Elton John – Rocket Man ((Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Barry White – Just The Way You Are (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
- Isaac Hayes – Walk On By (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Sting – Englishman in New York – (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
- Eric Clapton – Wonderful Tonight (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Dave Gahan – Kingdom (Tidal Hi-Fi)
- Radiohead – Live in Berlin “ Album” (Deezer HiFi)
- U2 – Sunday Bloody Sunday (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Muse – Hysteria (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Red Hot Chili Peppers – Nobody Weird Like Me (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
- Michael Jackson – Billie Jean (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Bear McCreary’s – Valkyries (Deezer HiFi)
- Bro Safari, UFO! – Drama (Deezer HiFi)
- Armin Van Buuren – Vini Vici (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Daft Punk – Doin’ it Right (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Lorde – Royals (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
- Massive Attack – Angel (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
- Toutant – Rebirth (Deezer HiFi)
- Gogo Penguin – Raven (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
- Gogo Penguin – Murmuration (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
- Portishead – It Could Be Sweet (Spotify)
- Max Richter – On the Nature of Daylight (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Charly Antolini – Duwadjuwandadu (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
- Tchaikovsky – Symphony No. 5 (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Ferit Odman – Look, Stop & Listen (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
- Chopin – Nocturn No. 20 In C-Sharp Minor (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Clair de Lune – Claude Debussy (Spotify)
- Fazıl Say – Nazım Oratoryosu (Live) (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Vivaldi – Le QuarttroStagioni “The Four Season” (Deezer HiFi)
- Otto Liebert& Luna Negra – The River (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
- Lunatic Soul – The Passage (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Deftones – My Own Summer (Shove it) (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Metallica – Dyers Eve (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Metallica – Sad but True (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Opeth – Windowpane (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Megadeth – Sweating Bullets (Tidal Hi-Fi)
- Rush’s – Tom Sawyer (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Slayer – Angel of Death (Spotify)
- Liquid Tension Experiment 2 – Acid Rain (Spotify)
- Yosi Horikawa – Bubbles (Spotify)
The Sound:
The SIMGOT EA500 LM delivers a fun and engaging sound signature for the price. It offers clear mids and airy treble, complemented by a well-defined, punchy bass. This bass presence adds excitement to various genres without overwhelming the overall sound. While it might not be ideal for listeners who strictly prefer a neutral, the overall sound profile provides a satisfying listening experience for a wider range of music. Additionally, those sensitive to treble might find extended listening sessions more comfortable due to the balanced presentation.
Testing Methods & Equipment’s:
This review is based on 50 hours of burn-in using the stock cable and silicone ear tips included in the package. My sound impressions bellow is mainly based on using the “Gold Copper Nozzle & Red Silicone Ring, corresponding to the H- 2019 Target Curve. I used the SIMGOT DEW4X (DAC/AMP Dongle), iBasso DX260 and FiiO M11 Plus ESS (Digital Audio Player) as my main sources.
Bass:
The EA500 LM offers a decent bass response. Right from the start, it delivers a satisfying punch evident in tracks like Daft Punk’s “Doin’ it Right” and Lorde’s “Royals”. Sub-bass frequencies extend deep and clear, adding a rumbling foundation without muddying the overall mix. This characteristic caters well to genres like pop and rock music. The midbass region is produced with a good level of speed and control without to show any remarkable lags like a midbass hump or muddiness. This area is reproduced with a nice sense of warmth and fullness when I listen to instruments such like bass/electro guitars, pianos and snare drums.
Midrange:
The midrange is where the EA500 LM demonstrates its potential for vocal-centric listening. Vocals take center stage with exceptional clarity, allowing listeners to appreciate every detail in singers’ voices. This is particularly evident in tracks like Norah Jones’ “Don’t Know Why” and David Bowie’s “Heroes”.
Instruments are also well-represented, sounding natural and detailed whether it’s the intricate melody of a saxophone or the strum of an acoustic guitar (like Gogo Penguin’s “Raven” which emphasizes bass speed and midbass frequencies). While a few reviews mentioned the mids being slightly overshadowed by the powerful bass and bright treble, most users found them well-balanced and enjoyable. It’s important to note that this potential masking effect might be more noticeable depending on the listener’s sensitivity and the specific genre being played.
Treble:
The EA500 LM’s treble response leans towards the brighter side, offering a distinct characteristic that shapes the overall listening experience. This results in energetic and airy highs, bringing out a wealth of detail in the upper registers. This characteristic shines in songs with prominent cymbals or high piano notes, like Metallica’s “Dyers Eve. The crispness extends to instruments like hi-hats and flutes, adding a layer of brilliance and definition.
However, it’s important to consider that this brighter treble can be a double-edged sword. While some listeners enjoy the detail and energy it brings, others with a heightened sensitivity to treble frequencies might find it fatiguing during extended listening sessions. The level of fatigue can also depend on the genre being played. Tracks with a strong emphasis on cymbals or electronic highs might be more prone to causing listener discomfort.
Soundstage & Imaging:
The soundstage on the SIMGOT EA500 LM feels spacious and well-separated, creating a remarkable sense of depth for a IEM at this price level. Instruments have their own distinct place in the soundscape, and vocals are well-positioned front and center. This relative wide soundstage is particularly noticeable in tracks with a variety of instruments, like Charly Antolini’s “Duwadjuwandadu” which emphasizes instruments within the midrange.
Conclusion:
The SIMGOT EA500 LM is a robust In-Ear Monitor that offers a clear, engaging sound with a well-balanced emphasis on clear mids, airy treble, and punchy bass. This makes it suitable for a wide range of music genres, and the multiple detachable nozzles allow for further customization. Even listeners sensitive to treble may find the EA500 LM comfortable due to its balanced sound presentation. While it might not be ideal for those who prefer a perfectly neutral sound signature, the overall sound profile is sure to satisfy a wide range of music lovers. Furthermore, the EA500 LM offers solid value for your money.
Pros & Cons:
- + Overall Clarity, Balance and Precision
- + Excellent level of Resolution across the Sound Spectrum
- + Decent Soundstage Atmosphere
- + 3 Types of Sound Tuning Tubes
- + Rich Set of Accessories
- + Good Fit & Comfort
- + Very well made Monitors and Cable
- + Performance at this Price level
- – Not an ideal choice for Bassheads
- – Upper Midrange sounds a bit bright with the H-2019 Sound Tube Filter
- – No Modular Headphone Plug Design
Thank you for the Read!
