In this feature, Nihal reviews the Alpha Omega Ra, which is a new universal tribrid multi-driver IEM featuring a mix of dynamic, BA, and electrostatic drivers. It is priced at $590.
Disclaimer: This sample was sent to me in exchange for my honest opinion. Headfonics is an independent website with no affiliate links or status. I thank the team at Alpha Omega for their support.
Click here to read more about the Alpha Omega gear we have previously assessed on Headfonics.
This post follows our current scoring guidelines which you can read in more detail here.
Though not quite an ‘old’ brand, Alpha Omega has shown good potential with its recent IEM releases and catering to a broad range of audiophile tastes and budgets.
They were established in 2021 with a broad range of audio tuning, OEM collaborations, and reshelling and repair, which is uncommon today.
I first encountered Alpha Omega when Marcus reviewed their flagship Omegon MK2, a custom quad BA and dual EST driver custom in-ear monitor with multiple tuning options.
Their latest offering is called the hybrid ultra-driver Ra in-ear monitor and this time it’s a universal fitting format priced at $590.
The driver setup on Ra is quite competitive for this price point, mixing dynamic with BA and EST drivers. The shell design, which takes advantage of the brand’s CIEM expertise and ability to tune its IEMs well, makes Ra a promising offering.
Tech Highlights
The Alpha Omega Ra universal IEM has a tribrid multi-driver configuration. There are a total of 7 drivers with a 4-way passive crossover. This includes a 10mm dynamic driver, 4 Sonion BA drivers, and 2 Sonion EST drivers.
The beryllium-plated 10mm dynamic driver takes care of the lower frequencies, dual BA drivers for the lower mids and a second dual driver BA set for the upper mids frequencies. The final 2 EST drivers cover the higher treble frequencies.
One important feature the makers have implemented is the proprietary air venting system. It allows maximum airflow for the dynamic driver to noticeably extend deeper and sound more powerful without any unwanted excessive pressure build-up.
Additionally, Ra has a 4-tube system with four distinct pathways (tubes) connecting the drivers to the nozzles. This configuration is often seen in higher-end or custom-made IEMs and is intended to provide more precise sound tuning and separation.
The Alpha Omega Ra has an impedance rating of 28Ω @1kHz with an SPL of 105 dB/Vrms which may seem reasonable on paper but from my experience of electrostatic drivers in IEMs, I was not surprised that the Ra requires plenty of juice to sound optimal.
Design
Alpha Omega Ra uses resin materials with very strong and durable shell molds. The shells are medium in size, hand-painted, and from afar they look like marbles.
The shape of the housing is inspired by CIEM designs so you get that quasi-custom curving for a superior fit. I find the shell design quite different from most resin shells with bends and corners on Ra feeling very smooth.
Despite the Ra being a universal IEM, the design is not fixed in stone. The aesthetics have a degree of customization with a range of options provided by Alpha Omega.
The unit I have with me is painted in a mix of pink and gold with a shiny texture and is considered the default design as well as being the version that takes the least time to build.
Comfort & Isolation
Alpha Omega Ra has a design inspired by CIEMs, so the fit is not an issue. The shells may appear big but have a very comfortable fit and a relatively flush fitting.
What stands out to me is its avoidance of touching or applying pressure to the ear fold and concha, which enhances comfort during extended use. Moreover, the Ra’s lightweight build further contributes to its overall comfort.
Notably, there’s a large vent port adjacent to the 2-pin connectors, apparently serving to release any pressure buildup in the ear canal. This enhances comfort during prolonged listening sessions. Additionally, I haven’t experienced any instances of driver flex with these IEMs.
The Ra performs quite well for isolation, effectively blocking out a significant level of external noise. Pairing it with well-fitted ear tips further improves isolation levels, ensuring an immersive listening experience.
Stock Cable
The initial orders of Ra had a different cable than the current sample I have here though Alpha Omega has provided details and a picture for your reference.
The earlier cable was quite supple, and the quality seemed just normal. After some feedback, they changed the cable to a different one with a firmer physical character and better sonic performance.
The Ra now comes with a 4-core gold-plated 26AWG Litz copper cable. The feedback on the new cable suggests a softer feel for handling and should not tangle when coiled. For the price of these IEMs, the older cable was already good enough so hopefully, the newer version will keep fans happy.
Packaging & Accessories
The Ra’s unboxing experience is nothing exceptional. The package is basic and minimal, utilizing the space effectively. The outer cover has the brand logo and color scheme matching the color of the iem.
Upon opening the box, we get the RA drivers, a 4.4mm stock cable, three sets of ear tips in different sizes, and a black carrying case.
The carrying case is well-built and has enough space to carry both the Ra and the cable. Its interior boasts a velvet lining with adequate padding, enhancing its visual appeal and protective qualities.
Sound Impressions
The following sound impressions of the Alpha Omega Ra were completed using a mixture of my main source, Lotoo’s Paw Gold Touch, and occasionally the Earmen Angel DAC/amp. I paired the IEMs with stock cable and Azla SednaFit Light ear tips, size L.
Summary
When Clement sent me the Ra I did not have very high expectations. However, the driver configuration and some good technical aspects on paper had me intrigued from the beginning. To my surprise, I connected quite easily with the tuning and sound signature.
The Ra has a V-shaped signature with a tuning that is a decent amalgamation of fun, musical, and technical aspects.
There is a very good emphasis and presence on the lower end that adds to the fun factor. The mids and upper frequencies have been tuned quite well, adding to the musical character.
Bass
The standout feature of Ra lies in its impressive bass performance. The bass presentation sets this iem apart from most of the IEMs in its price segment.
This bass definition is defined by very decent layering and great texture. The well-layered bass notes ensure clarity and separation, even when multiple instruments contribute to the bassline simultaneously.
The Ra achieves exceptional sub-bass extension alongside a well-controlled midbass, striking a nice balance that prevents unnecessary thickness or muddiness. This precision contributes to a refined and articulate bass definition, enhancing the listening experience.
The quantity of bass is almost basshead level and does not get overwhelming in longer sessions. The implementation of an air vent technique enhances bass impact by facilitating increased airflow, thus optimizing the performance of the dynamic driver.
For the price of this IEM, the bass quality is exceptionally good.
Midrange
Despite being a bass-heavy IEM, Ra’s mids do not sound ompromised. The Ra offers exceptional mid-clarity with a hint of warmth and a slightly forward presentation imaging-wise.
Lower mids benefit from the upper bass extension, adding to the thickness and lushness. Vocals are rendered with excellent texture, adding depth and richness to the overall sound signature.
There is good energy throughout the mids but no distracting sharp overtones or excessive energy in the upper mids, resulting in a smooth and balanced sound signature.
Treble
The Ra also exhibits a decent amount of energy in the upper frequencies with good extension and detail but may be found lacking from a treblehead’s perspective.
It avoids any overbearing sharpness or unwanted peaks while presenting a good amount of energy. This energy, however, feels lacking in the upper treble region. The level of micro details and air presence seems to take a hit sometimes.
Staging & Dynamics
The soundstage on Ra is on the intimate side, though not something I would describe as narrow and with decent depth. The spaciousness and stage presentation on Ra are more about a front and back of head experience than a spherical one around the head.
The layering and separation of instruments on Ra are very well handled. It does good justice to busy tracks so instruments do not feel congested with good breathing space.
The resolution on Ra is above average, with decent clarity and detail in sound. The imaging is notably precise, presenting a lifelike rendition with accurate instrument placement.
Click on page 2 below for my recommended pairings and selected comparisons.
