A Near Horizon

Ratings

Pros

• Excellent midrange, rich, analogue, juicy, with a great physical and corporeal base, and very well-tuned upper midrange for clarity, strength, presence, brightness and transparency.
• Superior technical quality and fast bass.
• Outstanding and extensive high range in terms of frequency response curve, this time from two custom composite flat drivers.
• Great technical performance in bass and treble.
• Very good laterality and stereo feel.
• Construction and design typical of the brand, but totally ergonomic and insulated from external noise.
• High-quality, oversized zippered case that protects the product very well.
• Includes a modular cable with two interchangeable plugs: 3.5mm SE and 4.4mm BAL.

Cons

• The cable could be even better for the price.
• The design of the interior of the zippered case is not very practical when it comes to placing the IEMS inside. In addition, it is too large to carry around.
• Perhaps it lacks some technical performance in the midrange to show microdetail more fully.
• The bass is more technical than deep, dark, or physical.
• The initial explosion of treble reveals the flat character of the high end and may be incisive for some.

Purchase Link

https://www.linsoul.com/products/ziigaat-horizon

Link to the Store

https://www.linsoul.com/

Introduction

And we’ll end the year with another of the most prolific brands: ZiiGaat. Their latest IEMs this season are the Horizon, a tri-hybrid model that incorporates a 10mm biodynamic dynamic driver, two Knowles 30262-163 balanced armature drivers with custom porting, and two custom composite flat drivers. The 10mm biodynamic driver provides deep, surrounding bass, while the two custom Knowles balanced armature drivers add smooth mids with analogue texture. The treble is carefully balanced to enhance realism and maintain natural tonal consistency. The dual custom flat drivers extend the treble with a linear response between 20 and 36 kHz, creating an open and spacious soundstage that reveals new details in the music without harshness or fatigue.
Previous attempts by the IEM industry to improve high-frequency response have always resulted in harsh, strident sound in that range. However, ZiiGaat has achieved an almost completely linear high-frequency extension that deviates no more than 4 dB across the entire frequency range from 20 to 35 kHz by designing custom flat drivers for the upper high frequencies. This allows you to appreciate the wide soundstage and the air that brings music to life, without unnatural harshness or stridency.
The Horizon speakers have been tuned to deliver a natural and comfortable listening experience. Compared to our other models, the Horizon speakers feature a smoother transition across the entire frequency spectrum, providing a more complete musical experience. The sub-bass is precise, but the bass roll-off is smoother, allowing for greater bass presence to link with the lower midrange. The mids are flat, but thanks to a more relaxed crossover with the bass, instruments and vocals retain a little more warmth. The treble has been carefully calculated to balance the overall tonal curve; the upper treble is smoother to match the treble extension.
Each unit is constructed with 3D-printed medical-grade resin housings, providing exceptional durability and lightness, and hand-moulded front plates, giving them a unique aesthetic. The controllers are carefully paired and tested to ensure perfect synchronisation and optimal channel consistency.
The set comes standard with an interchangeable 0.78mm two-pin connector cable. It is made of ultra-pure silver-plated oxygen-free copper. Premium silver-plated copper cables ensure noise-free signal transmission for maximum sound quality. The interchangeable cable design also optimises the IEM’s lifespan and allows for a customised user experience.
This is what the brand says about the Horizon; now let’s see my opinion and other features of this new tri-hybrid model.

Specifications

• Driver Type: 1DD (10 mm biological diaphragm) + 2BA (Knowles 30262-163) + 2 Planar (custom composite dual planar drivers).
• Frequency Response: 20Hz-35kHz.
• Sensitivity: 102dB.
• Impedance: 24Ω.
• THD: 0.55%.
• Jack Connector: Interchangeable 3.5mm SE and 4.4mm BAL.
• Capsule Connection Type: 2Pin 0.78mm.
• Cable Length: 1.2m.
• Starting Price: 329$.

Packaging

The ZiiGaat Horizon comes in the brand’s classic box, measuring 169x141x65mm. On the front is a real photo of the capsules. Against a blue background that gradually darkens to black, the model name stands out in large letters. At the top is the brand logo and at the bottom, the model name and description. All text is in white. The content of the footer is repeated on the back, but now at the top. In the centre is the brand logo, other details, and the importers. On one side of the box are the model specifications and icons for the standards it complies with. On the other side, we find the model description, a QR code and another EAN13. When the outer cardboard is removed, a completely black box can be seen with the brand logo in the centre, in silver ink. The box opens like a book and the lid is protected by a black foam base. The capsules are in a foam mould lined with black cardboard at the top. Underneath is another box, also made of black cardboard, which contains the rest of the accessories. The complete contents are as follows:

• The two ZiiGaat Horizon earphones.
• A set of transparent crystal silicone tips in sizes SxMxL.
• A set of grey crystal silicone tips in sizes SxMxL.
• A pair of foam tips.
• One cable with interchangeable 3.5mm SE and 4.4mm BAL plugs with 2Pin 0.78mm interface.
• One large light brown leather case with zip.
• One sheet with 4 protective filters for the nozzles.
• One warranty card.
• One instruction manual.

The contents are the same as other premium models from the brand, so my comments remain unchanged. The zippered case, which looks like genuine leather, is worth mentioning. The interior is made of long-pile velvet and has a removable base that allows the earbuds to be stored separately from the cable. On the other side, there is a mesh pocket for storing ear tips or the other plug. It is a large, high-quality case. Perhaps the positioning of the earbuds in the base is not the most natural, but the base can be removed to make more room and even to store an extra cable. For my taste, it is too large. But others may think it is very suitable for the price. The cable has interchangeable plugs and four strands of oxygen-free copper plated with ultra-pure silver. It’s not bad, but it’s still the same cable for all models. It includes two sets of crystal-type silicone tips, which is quite good, and a single pair of foam tips, which is more of a token gesture. The case is large, the tips are adequate and the cable is the same for all models, but for the price of this model it is balanced, with no further accessories.

Construction and Design

The resemblance between the capsules of the brand’s latest models remains. In fact, the outer face of the Horizon resembles that of the Crescent. On this occasion, the pattern on the outer face is tricoloured: it starts at the top with a black section dotted with silver stars, continues with a white and grey central area with sparkles and a heart shape, and ends with a turquoise blue vertex. In a way, it is reminiscent of frozen mountains on a blue lake under a starry sky. The outer face is once again shaped like the African continent. In the centre is the brand’s logo in silver. The rest of the capsule is black, with a relatively thick edge and a hole covered with a metal grille. The connection interface is fully integrated into the surface of the body. The inner surface is ergonomic and has two small protrusions on the edge. In the centre, in gold lettering, is the model name and, next to it, the text “L250481” for the left capsule and “R250481” for the right capsule. The nozzles are metal, 4.3mm long, with a base diameter of 5.5mm and a crown diameter of 6.2mm. They are protected by a metal grille.
It is the same cable as the Luna and Crescent models. It consists of four intertwined strands covered in black PVC. The plugs can be removed using a pressure mechanism. The cable terminal is female and consists of a metal cylinder with three rings and two thick grooves. Near the edge there is a white triangle that serves as a reference for adjusting the other part. The base is made of black plastic and has four small gold-plated holes. The connector piece is a cylinder of the same dark metallic colour, with four flat parts around it to make it easier to grip. One of these parts features the brand logo, also in white ink. Next to the edge is another white ink triangle that must be aligned with the other end. Once the two halves are joined, the triangle on the piece containing the cable is hidden under the plug cover. The two plugs are gold-plated and have a custom-made translucent, off-white plastic cover. The divider piece repeats the construction pattern of the plug cover, but is approximately half the length. The covers of the two-pin interface connectors have the same construction. The 0.78mm connectors are gold-plated and mounted on two black plastic bases with a blue or red dot on the short side to indicate the channel and polarity. Both cables have transparent guides on the ear.
The pin is a metal disc with two holes through which the cables for each channel are inserted. It works perfectly and serves to maintain the fit very effectively, as the disc is difficult to move and remains relatively fixed.
I repeat the description as there are no changes. The shape and construction of the Horizon is classic for resin IEMS, with that characteristic pattern on the outer surface that varies depending on the brand and the creativity of the designers. It is an effective design, although it does not bring anything new to the table, but it is well-proven and effective.
The cable is of the same type and has interchangeable connectors, but the assembly is only pressure-fitted. The conductors are soft and manageable. The manufacturer states that they are made of oxygen-free copper plated with ultra-pure silver. I still think there are better quality cables in other models of similar price.
It is clear that ZiiGaat does not want to innovate in design, shape or accessories. They are all of adequate quality and it seems that the difference lies in the sound depending on the configuration of the drivers. Although it is also true that the profiles move within similar parameters.

Adjustment and Ergonomics

If the design and size of the capsules are the same as in previous models, I will copy the content of this section. The capsules are not the largest, even though they are relatively thick. The nozzles are short but well oriented, as is usually the case with this type of 3D-printed resin IEMS. The insertion is shallow and allows me to use my large homemade foam-filled silicone tips. This gives me a complete, occlusive fit with minimal movement and great isolation. Both the shape and design of the inner surface fit my morphology very well, and I don’t feel any discomfort even after hours of use. The softness of the protrusions on the edges of the inner surface barely touches my ears, and the comfort remains unchanged with prolonged use. It is a basic design, but with details that allow for excellent ergonomics.
The Horizon model includes the same silicone tips as the Luna and Crescent models: two sets of adhesive crystal-type silicone tips. I tried filling the larger tips with foam again, as I usually do, and thanks to this new, more adhesive material, a longer-lasting fit is achieved, as the tips adhere to the skin as if they were stuck on. This increases the level of comfort and isolation.

Sound

Profile

Ziggaat continues to track the highs and lows of a profile derived from the META curve. The frequency response is very similar to that of the Crescent model, but I think the Horizon has cleaner bass, with a little more foundation in the lower midrange, more energy in the upper midrange and lower treble. Then, the planars do the rest in the treble, achieving that brightness that sets them apart from both BA and dynamic drivers and maintaining an intrinsic luminosity that is sometimes reviled and sometimes revered. The brightness of the planars is there, but it is true that it is evolving.
It is a profile with a sub-bass raised to 9 dB, but controlled in its energy level. The mids are flat up to 1000 Hz, followed by a 9 dB plateau-shaped horn gain up to the early highs, which fall into a control valley that slopes slightly towards the air zone. This is the classic lowercase w profile that seeks balance with a solid foundation, balanced mids with sparkle, and smoother highs with good overall energy.
However, the most surprising thing about this tri-hybrid is its slightly warm and, above all, analogue sound. All the drivers, especially those dedicated to the midrange, are tuned to achieve a natural, creamy and melodious sound, similar to that of analogue equipment.

Bass

The lower range leans towards the sub-bass, which rises to 9 dB. However, this curve is relatively misleading, as in reality the bass is not so powerful, but rather more technical, effective, precise, dry and fast. The texture is very light, almost silky; the punch has medium physicality, and although it is very powerful, it maintains balance with the rest of the frequencies so as not to overwhelm them. As is often the case in technical environments, the persistence and decay of the bass is very low. In general, I do not perceive the area as too dark, which, combined with the low elasticity of the bass and its smooth texture, creates a medium volumetric impression. However, the very low frequency pure tone test seems to indicate otherwise. The first audible note is deep, dark, with little vibratory character, heavy, with physical presence and oppression, which exceeds the auditory sensation. This same character is maintained as the hertz increase, and I feel that there is a good sense of weight, darkness, and depth in this test. The crossover filters work correctly, as there is no interference with the BA midrange drivers.
In the dirty, complex, unfiltered bass test, that darker, deeper character that I finally found in the Horizon reappears. It seems that when pushed to the limit, it brings out the best in the bass it carries within: a darker, more warrior-like heart. However, when not pushed, the bass is much more polite and demonstrates less power than its frequency response would suggest. It is clear that this is an almost dual low range, very technical, but also very capable. That is why this difficult bass test is resolved so precisely, both in terms of sound and performance. The most complex lines are drawn with great fidelity, without distortion, and are executed with great speed. Thanks to the low roughness of its texture, the tones are perceived as very pure and their vibration does not interfere with the rest of the frequencies. The entire sub-bass range can be clearly distinguished in the composite lines, and all the layers of the magmatic bass can be easily appreciated, giving an idea of the precision, speed and dryness of the Horizon’s lower range.
Without a doubt, this is an area that will satisfy even the most demanding bass lovers.

Mids

I feel that it is in the midrange where the analogue and musical warmth that characterises Horizon’s sound is most noticeable. Starting with the male vocals, these emerge from the outset with a physical foundation and body that gives them full volume and composition. They have a good presence in the mix, excellent balance, and convey a warm, analogue feel that creates a smooth and subtly prominent impression, with very good depth and fullness right up to the high frequencies. Without a doubt, this is the type of lower midrange that I like to enjoy: it has weight, body, sufficient clarity, energy from the fundamentals, closeness of male voices and very good separation, which does not relegate the instruments to a less important plane.
The tone is not dark, despite its evident warm and analogue component, but it is clear that the high frequencies are neither bright nor excited. A creamy and pleasant musical smoothness prevails, with transparency and clarity. It is true that the sound has a dense base that never feels oppressive, giving it energy from the outset, but it does not create the impression of a wall of sound. Instead, it approaches from a cleaner perspective, thanks to the level of definition and the greater finesse of the thickness of the notes coming from the BA drivers.
In the upper frequencies, the sound is more concrete, fast, efficient and clear. In this range, there is greater brightness, clarity, transparency and separation, faster transients and finer, more decisive, defined and marked notes. The analogue feel is not lost because the brightness is not excited or exaggerated, but it is true that the notes gain in precision, concreteness and dryness, something that can be noticed in the almost non-existent residue of harmonics and in the speed of the transients, which generate a very dynamic impression and achieve a dark background and a separation that is clearly perceived in the silences. I find no trace of splattered upper mids, and the reproduction remains very pleasant and musical. Even with my sharpest test tracks, the Horizons remain quite silky and smooth, maintaining that almost tube-like impression predicted by the brand’s previous information.
In summary, the Horizon has a large midrange designed for those seeking a relaxed yet well-defined sound. A sound that is present and prominent, but without being dense; transparent and clean, but without sounding bright or speckled. A great combination of balance, efficiency, resolution and transparency.

Treble

Achieving analogue sound quality comes at a cost, but ZiiGaat tries to compensate for this by using drivers that have always been controversial for treble due to their energy contribution across the high range: planar drivers. And, in this case, no less than two, although it is understood that they are in a micro configuration and size, even though this is not actually specified. The cost is based on lowering the tuning of the treble to a controllable level. However, the virtue of the chosen transducers allows the high end to not feel muffled and the sound to not come across as dark, withdrawn, or overly nuanced. Quite the contrary. It is clear that these are not IEMS for treble-heads, but the Horizon does not fall short in brightness, sparkle or luminosity, from a perspective that seeks to respect the analogue virtue of its sound.
The treble starts from below, from that control zone, but has a slight upward tendency that makes the upper notes more sparkling and bright. This can negatively affect more sensitive ears, but on the other hand, it amplifies the feeling of air and volatility in the treble, as well as the amplitude of the harmonics, giving them a more gaseous and ethereal impression in the final flashes and preventing them from being extremely dry.
In short, there is a good level of energy, but controlled, within that subtly bright curve, which does not present a harsh aspect despite the nature of the planars.

Soundstage, Separation

The soundstage is wide and spacious, with good depth and height, although it stands out for its lateral stereo sensation and horizontal expansion. There is a slight gaseous sensation of volatility, driven by the planar treble. The impression of volume is present, but slightly limited, which reduces the depth extension in favour of horizontality.
The level of separation, sound clarity and sense of transparency give a good impression of the positioning of elements within the image, avoiding the perception of negative density. The sound is full, but well differentiated both horizontally and in depth, and is adept at creating layers and separating instruments and voices.
However, it is not as effective in the micro-detail of the central zone. The analogue nature of the Horizon makes it difficult to extract minor information from the background or mid-range, especially in the central range. The micro-detail can be sensed, but it is not clearly or obviously exposed; it seems to lack a degree of resolution in the background to sound more analytical and descriptive.

Comparisons

ZiiGaat Crescent

When one of the main alternatives is at home: the ZiiGaat Crescent has a very similar frequency response and the same level of packaging and accessories. In addition, the shape and size of the capsule are identical; only the external pattern changes.
Price of the Horizon $329. Price of the Crescent $279.
Horizon driver type: 1DD + 2BA + 2 planar. 1 x 10mm biological diaphragm + 2 x Knowles 30262-163 drivers + 2 x custom composite dual planar drivers.
Crescent driver type: 2 DD + 2 BA. 1 DD with 10 mm PET diaphragm, 1 DD with 10 mm LCP diaphragm and 1 Knowles 30262-163 BA for midrange. 1 Knowles 33518 BA for treble.
Crescent sensitivity: 102 dB. Horizon sensitivity: 102 dB.
Crescent THD: 0.63%. Horizon THD: 0.55%.
Crescent impedance: 12 Ω. Horizon impedance: 24 Ω.
Profile: as can be seen in the FR, the profile is the same for both, although it seems that the Crescent has a subtle lift on the mid-bass and a slightly more sunken first half of the mids. It also has less horn gain, but slightly more energy in the treble.
The sensitivity is the same, but I think the Crescents are slightly easier to drive.
Bass: the Crescents have more punch, impact, darkness, density, depth, volume and weight. In contrast, the Horizon’s bass is more technical, fast and precise, and has less decay.
In the very low frequency pure tone test, the performance of both IEMS is very similar; the sound is very similar and I can hardly distinguish any differences in tone, timbre, execution, colour, density and darkness. The biggest difference is in the power: I see more energy as the hertz increase in the Crescents.
In the dirty, complex and unfiltered bass test, it is noticeable that the Crescent bass is more overwhelming, dense, dark and deep. They create a more magmatic blanket, with more layers of bass and more volume. This density also generates thicker and smoother lines. The Horizon are more technical, with slightly finer lines, somewhat more relaxed, cleaner, less dense and less voluminous. They are also more precise and dry, although the Crescent’s performance in this regard is also spectacular. The Crescent’s bass, due to its weight and complexity, is closer to the taste of bassheads.
Mids: There is noticeably more clarity and presence in the Horizon’s midrange. The ‘two is better than one’ tactic is repeated here. While the Crescents have two bass drivers and handle the low end, in this case the Horizon’s two BA drivers (which are the same model) make the midrange fuller. It also seems that the fact that the Horizon’s bass is cleaner and less dense frees up its sound overall.
The Crescents are perceived as being slightly further away in the first half of the midrange and seem to have less resolution and presence than the Horizon.
The Horizon’s upper mids are also clearer and sharper; in person, they are closer and brighter. It is noticeable that the Crescents have a higher degree of darkness, while the Horizons have larger, closer, more present, complex and richer mids.
High frequencies: the Crescent’s high frequencies are more nuanced than those of the Horizon, which have more energy and are brighter, crisper, higher and even finer. It is a flat timbre against a BA timbre, but I prefer the Horizon’s sharper, crisper timbre. The Crescent sounds softer and more restrained to me.
Soundstage and separation: the soundstage is wider on the Horizon, it feels more present and closer, but less deep. It is clearer, more transparent and brighter, and seems to create a more open space than the Crescents, which are denser, darker and less separated.
Technically, I find the Horizons richer, while the Crescents are equally capable in micro-detail, although in this and macro-detail there is a little more resolution and definition in the Horizons.

NiceHCK Rockies

The NiceHCK Rockies are the most ambitious IEMs the brand has ever released. They are a hybrid model sponsored by Crinacle and sold directly in their store. In addition, Crinacle guarantees the excellent tuning of this model with respect to the META curve. They are obviously more expensive than the Horizon, but they are also tri-hybrids, although they use Sonion EST drivers for the treble. It should be noted that NiceHCK does not specify the specific model of Knowles or Sonion drivers it uses.
The Rockies’ packaging is premium, but very large. It includes a good handful of tips, a superior modular cable, and a good quality round leather case.
Ergonomically, both IEMs are very comfortable, but the Horizon’s slightly more streamlined and better moulded design makes them more comfortable. The Rockies are rounder and slightly chunkier.
Price of the Horizon $329. Price of the Rockies $499.
Horizon driver type: 1 DD (10 mm biological diaphragm) + 2 BA (Knowles 30262-163) + 2 planar (custom composite dual planar drivers).
Rockies driver type: 1 beryllium-plated 10 mm DD + 2 Knowles BA + 2 Sonion EST.
Rockies sensitivity: 121 dB. Horizon sensitivity: 102 dB.
Rockies impedance: 9.8 Ω. Horizon impedance: 24 Ω.
Profile: The Rockies have a very similar frequency response (FR), but with less energy in the bass, about 2 dB lower, although they maintain the same shape. The Horizon has a little more energy in the midrange, both in the lower and upper midrange, and also more intensity in the early treble. However, the Rockies have a little more overall energy from 5 kHz upwards, with a very similar shape.
Although NiceHCK states that the sensitivity of the Rockies is 121 dB, the truth is that they need more power to operate than the Horizon.
Price of the Horizon $329. Price of the Rockies $499.
Horizon driver type: 1 DD (10 mm biological diaphragm) + 2 BA (Knowles 30262-163) + 2 planar (custom composite dual planar drivers).
Rockies driver type: 1 beryllium-plated 10 mm DD + 2 Knowles BA + 2 Sonion EST.
Rockies sensitivity: 121 dB. Horizon sensitivity: 102 dB.
Rockies impedance: 9.8 Ω. Horizon impedance: 24 Ω.
Profile: The Rockies have a very similar frequency response (FR), but with less energy in the bass, about 2 dB lower, although they maintain the same shape. The Horizon has a little more energy in the midrange, both in the lower and upper midrange, and also more intensity in the early treble. However, the Rockies have a little more overall energy from 5 kHz upwards, with a very similar shape.
Although NiceHCK states that the sensitivity of the Rockies is 121 dB, the truth is that they need more power to operate than the Horizon.
Bass: The bass on both IEMS is very technical, but the Rockies seem to have a little more darkness and elasticity. In the very low frequency pure tone test, there is less wave/vibration behaviour in the Rockies; there is a little more darkness and naturalness in their performance. On the other hand, the Horizon generates a little more weight with each beat, and you can feel that higher level of energy.
In the dirty, complex, unfiltered bass test, the Rockies give a greater impression of darkness, as well as a little more texture and depth. The Horizon are a little thinner, drier and more technical. The Horizon are more precise, but the Rockies are more realistic and natural. I really like both, but I prefer the higher energy level of the Horizon, although I love the colour, depth, texture and naturalness of the Rockies.
Mids: They are quite similar in the first half of both IEMS; however, I believe the Horizon has a more mid-focused approach than the Rockies. In that first half, the Horizon has a bit more bass and physicality, and the higher energy index in the upper mids makes male vocals stand out more in the mix than in the Rockies. The NiceHCK seem lighter and thinner to me in this first half.
In the upper midrange, the Rockies seem to have a little more cleanliness and transparency, like a spark and clarity. The Horizon have that analogue quality that softens female vocals, while the Rockies have a more technical and refined upper midrange.
High frequencies: You can notice that initial sparkle in the Horizon, which makes them a bit harsher in this regard. The Rockies have managed to tone that down and, thanks to the ESTs, they achieve a good balance between presence, energy and sonority while maintaining a high technical level.
Soundstage, separation: The Horizon’s soundstage is a little denser and more forward. It has very good laterality, but I think the Rockies are a little cleaner and more transparent. They are also slightly finer, which gives them a little more volume and a gaseous, expansive feel. This effect also provides a greater sense of separation and a better three-dimensional effect.
In terms of detail, the Rockies are slightly more technical and improve the background microdetail, its visibility and its level of resolution compared to the Horizon. There is not much difference, but I notice a little more definition in the background.

Conclusion

ZiiGaat’s approach to the META curve is being carried out from several perspectives. And each of them does so with a different mix of drivers. In my opinion, this group would consist of the Crescent, Odyssey 2, Lush and current Horizon models. In my opinion, the Horizon models are the most polarised. With a base very similar to that of the Crescent models, the Horizon are characterised by very clean and technical bass, with a good dose of presence, but without losing balance or completely standing out in the mix, thanks to the 10 mm dynamic driver with a biological diaphragm. In the midrange, there is an emphasis in the upper range and a very good foundation in the first half (the two Knowles 30262-163 drivers are excellent). Finally, in the treble range, there is a controlled and sustained energy generated by the custom composite dual flat drivers. The associated driver assemblies generate a balance that allows you to enjoy each frequency range individually as well as together.
On the other hand, and without setting a precedent, I agree with the brand’s intention to seek an analogue sound in its midrange, which, in my opinion, is the most notable aspect, because it fits very well with what I expect from the midrange of IEMS: a physical, corporeal and present base, combined with just the right amount of clarity, transparency and brightness, without sibilance. The Horizon comes very close to these preferences.
However, this analogue aspect limits the extraction of micro-detail: the Horizon is more musical and analogue than analytical in the midrange. This contrasts with the low and high ranges, where the technical performance is superior. Overall, it is an interesting combination that I find very versatile and one of the IEMs I turn to most when I am looking for what I like best in each range.

Sources Used During the Analysis

• Aune X8 XVIII Magic DAC + OpAmp Sparkos Labs SS3602 + Aune ND7.
• Burson Audio Playmate 2.
• Hidizs AP80 PRO MAX.
• iFi GO bar Kensei.
• NiceHCK Octave.
• EPZ TP50.
• TRI Third Eye TK1.