The Other Truthear Nova | Simgot SuperMix 4

Summary

The Super Mix 4 is an IEM that combines a unique quad-driver configuration, including dynamic, balanced armature, planar, and piezoelectric drivers. Tuned to the Harman 2019 target, it features a V-shaped sound with emphasized bass and treble, offering a punchy yet clean low-end and sharp, sparkling highs. The piezoelectric tweeter gives the treble a distinctive character, although it may sound unnatural to some. Recommended for those who enjoy V-shaped sound signatures or are curious about piezoelectric tweeters, it may not suit those who dislike these characteristics or require a balanced connection, as it only offers a 3.5mm single-ended cable.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Super Mix 4 is an in-ear monitor (IEM) with a unique quad-brid configuration, featuring a dynamic driver (DD), a balanced armature (BA), a planar driver, and a piezoelectric (PEO) tweeter.
• 😀 The Super Mix 4 is priced at $150 USD and is said to deliver excellent performance for its price, often exceeding expectations within its price range.
• 😀 It follows the Harman 2019 target tuning, making it one of the most Harman-compliant IEMs on the market, which is favored by many for its balanced sound profile.
• 😀 The IEM features a V-shaped sound signature, with an emphasis on bass and treble, making it exciting and energetic for those who enjoy these characteristics.
• 😀 The Super Mix 4's bass response is emphasized but remains clean, offering punch without bleeding into the mids, a key strength of the Harman tuning.
• 😀 One of the unique elements of the Super Mix 4 is its use of a piezoelectric tweeter, which delivers a sharp, sparkly, and incisive treble response.
• 😀 While the treble is praised for its power and clarity, some listeners might find it a bit unnatural or 'zingy,' a characteristic often associated with piezoelectric drivers.
• 😀 Compared to other Harman-compliant IEMs, such as the Truthier Nova, the Super Mix 4 offers a distinct treble presentation due to its piezoelectric tweeter.
• 😀 The Super Mix 4 is recommended for those who enjoy a V-shaped signature, want to experience the sound of piezoelectric tweeters, or need an alternative to the Nova.
• 😀 The Super Mix 4 is not recommended for those who dislike V-shaped sound profiles or have a preference for balanced or neutral sound signatures.
• 😀 The IEM comes with a single-ended 3.5mm cable, which may be a downside for users who require a balanced connection for their audio equipment.

Q & A

What is the SuperMix 4 and what makes it stand out in the market?

The SuperMix 4 is an in-ear monitor (IEM) priced at $150 USD, featuring a unique quad-driver configuration that includes a dynamic driver (DD), balanced armature (BA), planar, and a piezoelectric tweeter. This combination of drivers offers a distinctive sound signature and sets it apart from other IEMs in its price range.

What is the sound signature of the SuperMix 4?

The SuperMix 4 has a V-shaped sound signature, which emphasizes bass and treble while thinning out the mids. This results in a forward, aggressive vocal presentation and a punchy bass response with clean, sharp treble.

How does the SuperMix 4's treble compare to other IEMs?

The treble of the SuperMix 4 is unique due to the use of a piezoelectric tweeter. It is described as sharp, sparkly, and incisive, which some listeners find exciting. However, others may find it unnatural or overly zingy, a characteristic specific to piezoelectric tweeters.

What type of drivers does the SuperMix 4 use?

The SuperMix 4 uses a quad-driver setup, consisting of a dynamic driver (DD), a balanced armature (BA), a planar driver, and a piezoelectric tweeter. This combination delivers a varied and distinctive sound experience.

What is the significance of the Harman 2019 target tuning in the SuperMix 4?

The SuperMix 4 is tuned to the Harman 2019 target, which is a widely accepted tuning curve in the audio world that emphasizes bass and treble frequencies. This tuning ensures a balanced sound for most genres, although the V-shaped signature can make the mids sound thin or shouty to some listeners.

Does the SuperMix 4 have any notable strengths in terms of sound performance?

Yes, the SuperMix 4 has several strengths, including its clean, punchy bass response and a treble that stands out due to the piezoelectric tweeter. The bass is well-defined without bleeding into the mids, and the treble is sharp and energetic, making the SuperMix 4 an exciting option for those who enjoy enhanced bass and treble.

What are the weaknesses or drawbacks of the SuperMix 4?

Some potential drawbacks include the thinness of the mids, which can make vocals sound shouty or detached. Additionally, the use of a piezoelectric tweeter might not appeal to everyone due to its sharp, zingy character. The SuperMix 4 also only comes with a 3.5mm single-ended cable, which could be limiting for users with balanced amplifiers.

Who would benefit most from purchasing the SuperMix 4?

The SuperMix 4 would be ideal for those who enjoy a V-shaped sound signature with an emphasis on bass and treble. It’s also a good choice for listeners curious about piezoelectric tweeters or who want a Harman-targeted IEM at an affordable price point. It can also serve as an alternative to the TruthEar Nova for those seeking something slightly different.

Who should avoid buying the SuperMix 4?

If you dislike V-shaped sound signatures, thin mids, or the sound of piezoelectric tweeters, the SuperMix 4 may not be the right fit for you. Additionally, if you require a balanced connection for your audio equipment, the SuperMix 4's 3.5mm single-ended cable may be a limiting factor.

Can I try the SuperMix 4 before buying it?

Yes, if you are in Singapore, you can visit Hangout Audio's physical store located at 29B M Street, level 3 in Chinatown to try out the SuperMix 4. For those outside of Singapore, the IEM is available for purchase online with free global shipping for orders over $30.