The Cheapest Planar IEM on the Market: Dioco IEM Review

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Sound Signature
   • 2.1 Bass
   • 2.2 Mid-Range
   • 2.3 Treble
3. Technical Performance
   • 3.1 Details
   • 3.2 Soundstage
   • 3.3 Imaging
4. Comparisons
   • 4.1 S12 and Timeless
   • 4.2 Hook X
   • 4.3 Arya
   • 4.4 Dunu Titan S
5. Final Thoughts

Dioco IEM Review: The Cheapest Planar IEM on the Market

In this review, we will take an in-depth look at the Dioco IEM, a critical collaboration planar IEM that boasts being the cheapest on the market at just $99. While the affordable price tag may raise eyebrows, we will analyze the sound quality, technical performance, and compare it to other popular IEMs to determine whether the Dioco lives up to the hype.

Introduction

The Dioco IEM has gained attention in the audio community for its affordability and planar magnetic driver technology. Priced at $99, it offers an appealing option for those seeking a budget-friendly planar IEM. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into the sound signature, technical performance, and comparisons to provide a thorough assessment of the Dioco's capabilities.

Sound Signature

Bass

When it comes to bass, the Dioco IEM strikes a balance between power and neutrality. While not the most forward or powerful bass on the market, it delivers a clean and well-separated bass response. The sub-bass focus adds depth and richness to the lower mid-range, resulting in an enjoyable listening experience. However, those seeking a heavily emphasized mid-bass for genres like EDM and hip-hop may find the Dioco slightly lacking in terms of impact.

Mid-Range

The mid-range of the Dioco IEM exhibits a clean and natural sound. The lower mids are well-separated and devoid of any bass bleed or bloat, a characteristic common among critical collaboration IEMs. However, the upper mids take a more restrained approach, lacking the forwardness found in other models like the Moondrop Arya or Dunu Titan S. While this neutral presentation may appeal to those seeking a relaxing and balanced sound, it may feel a bit too safe for those craving a more engaging and lively experience.

Treble

The treble performance of the Dioco IEM falls in line with other IEMs in its price range. While it manages to avoid common issues such as fatigue or sibilance, the treble can feel slightly uneven at times. Female vocals and instruments residing in the treble range may not sound as natural as desired, exhibiting a hint of unevenness. However, it is important to note that achieving stellar treble performance at a budget-friendly price point remains a challenge for most IEMs.

Technical Performance

Details

Considering its price point, the Dioco IEM impresses with its level of detail retrieval. It competes favorably with similarly priced models, such as the Starfield, providing a commendable level of clarity and resolution. While it may not match the performance of higher-end planar IEMs, the Dioco manages to deliver a satisfying listening experience for its affordable price.

Soundstage

The soundstage of the Dioco IEM offers a wide presentation, although it leans more towards width than height. While not achieving a grandiose and holographic feel, the soundstage provides an average width that enhances overall immersion. It may not leave a lasting impression, but it certainly does not disappoint.

Imaging

In terms of imaging, the Dioco IEM displays above-average instrumental placement but falls short of pinpoint accuracy. There are occasional instances of slight edge overlaps, preventing a truly precise and three-dimensional soundstage. Given its price point, the Dioco's imaging performance is commendable and offers a satisfactory listening experience.

Comparisons

S12 and Timeless

When comparing the Dioco IEM with the S12 and Timeless models, the differences in sound signature become apparent. The S12 and Timeless lean towards a v-shaped signature, with a greater emphasis on bass presence and a livelier upper mid-range. In contrast, the Dioco maintains a more balanced and neutral tuning, with clean lower mids and a restrained upper mid-range. While the S12 and Timeless provide a more engaging and energetic sound, the Dioco offers a cleaner and more hi-fi experience.

Hook X

Compared to the Hook X, the Dioco exhibits a different tuning approach. The Hook X boasts a more pronounced mid-bass and warmth in the lower mid-range, resulting in a heavier and thumpier sound. The Dioco, on the other hand, focuses on cleaner and more neutral lower mids, allowing vocals and instruments to shine with accurate tonality. While the Hook X offers a more impactful experience in the low-end, the Dioco's neutral presentation appeals to those seeking a more faithful reproduction of their music.

Arya

In comparison to the Arya, the Dioco showcases a distinct difference in bass response. The Arya relies on a more prominent mid-bass, providing a thumpier and more slam-oriented sound. In contrast, the Dioco places greater emphasis on sub-bass frequencies, resulting in a cleaner and more refined bass experience. The upper mid-range of the Arya is more energetic and forward, creating a livelier vocal presentation compared to the slightly tamer upper mids of the Dioco. Detail retrieval is marginally better on the Dioco, making it an appealing choice for those craving accuracy and resolution without sacrificing affordability.

Dunu Titan S

The Dunu Titan S and Dioco share a common tuning philosophy, aiming for a more neutral sound signature. However, the Dioco achieves a better balance, delivering a cleaner and more faithful mid-range. The Titan S, while maintaining a neutral signature, exhibits slightly more mid-bass presence, adding an extra layer of warmth to male vocals and instruments in the lower mid-range. The upper mid-range and treble of both models are comparable, with neither surpassing the other in terms of detail retrieval or evenness. Overall, the Dioco edges slightly ahead in terms of neutrality and detail, making it a strong contender in the sub-$100 price range.

Final Thoughts

The Dioco IEM, priced at $99, stands out as an excellent option for budget-conscious audiophiles who desire a planar IEM. Its neutral tuning, clean mid-range, and impressive detail retrieval make it a worthy competitor in its price range. While it may not cater to those seeking a more energetic presentation or heavily emphasized bass, the Dioco offers a hi-fi experience that punches above its weight class. If you are in search of a clean, resolving, and affordable IEM, the Dioco is highly recommended as an excellent entry-level option.

Highlights

• The Dioco IEM is the cheapest planar IEM on the market, priced at just $99.
• It delivers a balanced sound signature with a clean and well-separated bass response.
• The mid-range is natural and devoid of any bass bleed or bloat.
• The treble performance is decent, although it may exhibit a slight unevenness.
• The Dioco IEM impresses with its level of detail retrieval for its price range.
• It provides a wide soundstage, although it leans more towards width than height.
• The imaging performance is above average, offering commendable instrumental placement.
• When compared to other IEMs, such as the S12, Timeless, Hook X, Arya, and Titan S, the Dioco holds its own with its unique tuning and technical capabilities.
• The Dioco IEM is an excellent option for audiophiles on a budget, offering a hi-fi experience that surpasses its price tag.

FAQ

Q: Is the Dioco IEM suitable for bass-heavy genres such as EDM and hip-hop? A: While the Dioco offers a clean and impactful bass response, it may not satisfy those seeking a heavily emphasized mid-bass for genres like EDM and hip-hop. Its sub-bass focus delivers depth and richness, but the mid-bass presence is more restrained compared to other models.

Q: Can the Dioco IEM be considered a neutral-sounding IEM? A: Yes, the Dioco IEM leans towards a neutral sound signature, with a balanced and clean mid-range. While it may not have the forwardness or energy of other IEMs, it offers a hi-fi experience that accurately reproduces vocals and instruments.

Q: How does the Dioco IEM compare to other IEMs in its price range? A: When compared to similarly priced models, such as the S12, Timeless, Hook X, Arya, and Titan S, the Dioco holds its own with its unique tuning and technical performance. It offers a more balanced and cleaner sound compared to its competitors, making it an appealing choice for audiophiles on a budget.

Q: Is the Dioco IEM a good entry-level option for audiophiles? A: Yes, the Dioco IEM is highly recommended as an excellent entry-level option for audiophiles. Its affordability, clean sound signature, and impressive detail retrieval make it a standout choice for those seeking a budget-friendly planar IEM.

Resources:

• Giz Audio