In this feature, Nihal reviews the SIMGOT EM10, which is the company’s flagship tribrid single dynamic, piezoelectric ceramic, and 8 BA driver universal IEM. It is priced at $439.99.
Disclaimer: This sample was sent to me in exchange for my honest opinion. Headfonics is an independent website with no affiliate links or services. I thank the team at Linsoul and SIMGOT for giving me this opportunity.
Click here to read more about SIMGOT products we have previously reviewed on Headfonics.
Note that this article follows our latest scoring guidelines which you can read in more detail here.
SIMGOT has become one of the most active brands in the audiophile community, consistently offering impressive budget IEMs that are gaining significant attention.
Last year, they made a notable impact with the release of the EA1000 and EA2000 and continued their momentum with the well-received budget EA500LM earlier this year.
Now, Simgot is stepping up its game with a new flagship hybrid IEM called EM10, which is codenamed “DREAM”.
Priced at $439.99, the SIMGOT EM10 has a multi-driver mix of dynamic, balanced armature, and piezoelectric, a combination usually reserved for higher-end gear.
As the most expensive IEM in their lineup, surpassing the $300 EA2000, I explore how well it performs and competes with some of the community’s favorite IEMs such as the PILGRIM and the Project M in my full review below.
Features
The EM10 is a tribrid 10-driver universal IEM with a single dynamic driver, eight balanced armature drivers, and one piezoelectric ceramic driver using a 4-way RC crossover.
The 8mm dynamic driver handles the low frequencies, while the balanced armature and the piezoelectric drivers handle the mids, highs, and ultra-high frequencies.
The EM10 is rated at 41.6Ω ±15% for impedance with an SPL of 120 dB/Vrms (@1kHz) and though easy enough to drive it does seem to improve when you up the capabilities of your attached source or amplifier. In short, this IEM can scale with good power.
Design
I am normally accustomed to SIMGOT’s solid metal designs for their IEMs. However, with the EM10, they have switched to resin shells. This change has significantly reduced the weight, enhancing comfort.
While this new design is refreshing, some may find it underwhelming if they prefer the sturdiness of metal builds. Given the high price of the IEM, I expected better construction from SIMGOT, especially considering the praise their previous models, the EA1000 and EA2000, received.
The IEM features a distinctive design theme, with one side sporting a silver faceplate and the other a matte black finish. Each shell is engraved with the codename “DREAM” in a subtle copper font, adding a unique touch to the overall aesthetic.
Comfort & Isolation
SIMGOT has done a decent job on the ergonomic design of the EM10 by meticulously crafting its shell. The process of developing these shells involved multiple iterations of resin 3D printing, wearer feedback, and 3D reconstruction, ultimately achieving an optimal ergonomic fit.
The shells are a bit larger than usual to accommodate the 10 drivers on each side, yet they remain quite lightweight. The corners are expertly finished to eliminate sharp edges or pressure points, enhancing comfort. I find these IEMs ideal for extended use.
The IEM nozzles are relatively large with a long stem. With good-fitting ear tips, the fit is quite secure. They fit almost flush, protruding just slightly from the ear. Even while moving, these IEMs stay securely in place and do not fall out or loosen.
The IEMs offer average noise isolation. Each shell features a vent to alleviate pressure buildup, enhancing comfort during use. Additionally, I’ve not encountered any instances of driver flex with these IEMs.
Ear Tips
The IEMs come with three pairs of narrow-bore and wide-bore silicone ear tips in three different sizes; small, medium, and large. These ear tips were also included with some earlier models.
Considering the higher price, I expected a better selection of ear tips. The narrow-bore tips restrict airflow and soundstage, enhancing the bass. The wide-bore tips maintain some airflow and open up the soundstage.
While the provided tips are functional, I don’t consider them an ideal match for the IEMs. I prefer using aftermarket ear tips with them.
The SpinFit W1 ear tips and the Azla SednaFit Light ear tips work well with the IEM. I preferred the Azla tips as they open up the sound on the IEM more than the others.
Stock Cable
The EM10 comes with a high-quality oxygen-free copper silver-plated wire with a 0.78mm 2-pin interchangeable design. The braiding on the cable is very even, and the build is overall satisfactory.
The cable features a modular design with 4.4mm balanced and 3.5mm single-ended plugs. Its connector has a convenient, easy-to-use plugging mechanism for effortless detachment and attachment.
Visually, the cable sports an attractive white-pearl finish with a smooth sleeve. A delicate strand of golden thread runs through the cable, giving it a sleek and premium appearance.
Furthermore, the cable is flexible and lightweight, making it easy to roll up and store when not in use.
Packaging & Accessories
SIMGOT consistently delivers a satisfying experience. The unboxing ritual of the SIMGOT EM10 is truly grand and overwhelming. The IEM’s large box builds anticipation about its contents.
When you open it, you’re greeted by a distinctive packaging style, with smaller boxes stacked one on top of the other. The consistent use of golden and black colors creates a visually striking contrast.
Inside, there are several smaller boxes containing various accessories. These include the IEMs neatly nestled in foam cutouts within their compartment, a silver carry case, a modular cable housed in a separate cutout, and an instruction manual.
The carry case, which is silver in color, has just enough space to carry the IEMs. It has a few little slots to hold the cable adapters.
SIMGOT has included this case with their recent releases, but for the EM10, I had hoped for a more substantial upgrade in the carry case. Overall, while the presentation is exceptional, the quality of the accessories is just average.
Sound Impressions
The following sound impressions of the SIMGOT EM10 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 the Azla SednaFit Light ear tips, size M.
Summary
The EM10 marks a notable departure from SIMGOT’s usual sound signature. Known for their preference for bright tuning in models like the E500LM and EA1000, the EM10 introduces a warmer sound profile.
The tuning emphasizes the sub-bass combined with a warm midrange coloration. The EM10 strikes a nice balance between musicality and technical excellence. Even with the complex high-count driver configuration, the IEM achieves a nice, coherent sound.
Bass
The EM10 stands out notably for its bass performance. It boasts a robust sub-bass with considerable depth, delivering a satisfying impact that should resonate well with bass enthusiasts.
While there’s a decent level of mid-bass, it lacks a solid punch and the necessary forcefulness from the mid-bass region. Overall, the bass doesn’t overwhelm the higher frequency range much, maintaining a balanced presence.
Although the bass quantity is satisfactory, there’s room for improvement in texture. The bass leans towards warmth rather than precise clarity, which detracts slightly from its overall refinement.
Midrange
To begin with, the midrange on the EM10 has a warm, natural tonality. Unlike the previous releases, the midrange has a very different character here. It misses the forwardness and crispness that the likes of the EA1000 offer. While not entirely transparent and clean, the midrange on the EM10 offers a good level of detailing.
The lower midrange is notably lush and rich, thanks to the thick notes it produces. Instruments in the midrange carry substantial note weight and exhibit full and detailed. The upper midrange has a good level of energy with no hint of sharpness.
The vocals have a decent body. The female vocals sound rich and forward, while the male vocals have a nice, dense nature.
There are no instances of sibilance, and the vocals extend well. It’s worth noting that the vocals are not at the forefront and tend to be less prominent in their presence when several instruments are playing.
Treble
SIMGOT usually tunes the upper frequencies to be energetic and bright, but this isn’t the case with the EM10. The treble on the EM10 exhibits a decent level of energy and is well-controlled, extending nicely without harshness or excessive brightness.
While the treble could benefit from more refinement and clarity, it is generally safe and non-fatiguing for most listeners.
The notes are clear and easily discernible, but they might lack a bit of sparkle and zing. Treble enthusiasts might find it somewhat lacking, as it could seem to miss some of the crispiness and energy they prefer.
The piezoelectric driver performs well, delivering an engaging treble. It’s commendable that the tuning effectively eliminates the usual metallic timbre often associated with piezo drivers.
The instruments in the upper-frequency region, such as cymbals and hi-hats sound natural without any unwanted boost. The treble does not take center stage in the overall scheme of things.
Staging & Dynamics
In terms of technical aspects, the EM10 has a good balance between its tonal coloration and technical capabilities.
The soundstage has an average width and a decent depth. Despite its intimate nature, it provides a decent sense of spaciousness that creates a nice listening experience.
EM10 does a good job in terms of bringing forth the details. The resolution on EM10 certainly has scope for improvement. Although the details are well-rendered, the overall transparency or clarity could be better.
The IEM does well at handling the layering and separation of instruments. Even on complex tracks, each instrument has enough room to be distinctly heard, allowing details to come through clearly.
This clarity is impressive given its bass-heavy, warm tuning. In terms of imaging, the IEM does well too.
Click on page 2 below for my recommended pairings and selected comparisons.
