HIDIZS ST2 Nebula – the new great option for audio fans with a smartphones missing a dedicated analog audio output and for those, who don’t like cumbersome desk setups with the external DAC/AMPs. All-in-one, universal solution that combines everything – high-quality IEMs, type-C DAC/AMP and even HD mic with phone control button. Time to test whether such bundle does the trick of delighting a demanding user, performing good in both – audio and everyday general use.
... ...
HIDIZS made a move to present something that can go easy on every person, no matter which smartphone/laptop/pc/tablet and OS he uses, no matter the music genre he or she likes and no matter what size and shape of the ears he/she has. Nebula should fit and satisfy any. Type-C brings the possibility to connect to most of the modern devices, custom shape is the most versatile, H-2019 curve and dynamic diaphragm combination makes music smooth and crosses out high peaks. Plus the ability to use mic and watch videos with zero-latency… It is only left to try out and find whether everything declared goes flawlessly.
... ...
ES9281AC PRO used in HIDIZS type-C DAC is the flagship SoC with integrated USB. It is not that common among its rivals and let’s say – above the line. Although, what matters more than the chip itself – is the integration and circuitry around the chip that can either disclose SoC potential or place it below the worst products. HIDIZS team has large experience of building compact audio products that allows them to go the first way – build a tiny DAC/AMP that sounds like a DAP or even some desktop devices.
... ...
Sound quality:
Since IEMs are tuned accordingly to H-2019 curve, they produce smooth sound with no accents or unexpected peaks. This is a slight V-shaped tuning with rich but slightly congested lows, dynamic and tight mid bass, natural and mellow mids and balanced treble. Amount of details and resolution are not overwhelming but IEMs still sound clear and have well defined instrument spacing and their layering. Nothing gets lost in the mix, each small detail is present. Stage depth and width are moderate but not too tight.
DAC/AMP SoC on its own is unexpectedly powerful for the bundled pair of IEMs – even 30% volume is quite a lot. I even tried HIDIZS MP143 planars to pair with it and IEMs felt decent with this level of power output. Didn’t notice any obvious coloration or accents in comparison to HIDIZS AP80 player – quite close.
... ...
Conclusion:
HIDIZS ST2 Nebula is good, convenient and universal bundle of IEMs and type-C DAC/AMP designed to be used with most of type-C equipped devices, no matter indoors or on the go. IEMs are both – comfortably tuned and ergonomically fit while DAC is cross-compatible between different OS, devices and IEMs, as well as powerful enough to drive even more demanding planars. Therefore, buying such bundle we get 2 devices at once that can be used independently. But I like the synergy it produces as a bundle and the intention of HIDIZS to create the balance between the connectivity, sound quality and convenience of everyday use of this combo. I would leave my planars and DAP for more dedicated listening while ST2 Nebula bundle can join my smartphone when I leave home.
BUY NOW: HIDIZS ST2 PRO Nebula
To view the full article, please click here.
Leave a comment
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.