SIMGOT EP5 BRUTALLY Honest Review (vs FIIO FT1, HE400SE & more)

Summary

The Simgot EP5 headphones offer a dynamic, bass-heavy sound with an impactful sub-bass boost, making it a fun all-rounder for various music genres. With boosted lower mids to preserve vocal clarity despite the deep bass, they provide a satisfying listening experience for both male and female vocals. However, while the sound is engaging, the treble lacks refinement compared to other models around $100. The build is lightweight and comfortable, but the EP5’s technical performance lags behind alternatives like the Hi-FiMan H00 or EM6L. At a lower price point (around $50), it’s a great value, especially for bass enthusiasts seeking a closed-back design.

Takeaways

• 😀 The SIMG EP5 is a bass-heavy all-rounder headphone priced under $100, with a subbase boost and a sound profile similar to Harman with added bass impact.
• 😀 The EP5 offers a subwoofer-like low-end impact and slam, with an emphasis on fun and engaging bass, but it manages to avoid making the vocals sound too thin or scooped.
• 😀 Despite its bass-heavy tuning, the EP5's midrange, particularly for vocals, is handled well, with a slight bump around 300-500 Hz that provides warmth and weight to both male and female vocals.
• 😀 The low-end boost does, however, cause some dissonance with certain instruments, particularly drums and string instruments, where the scoop can cause the sound to feel a bit unnatural.
• 😀 At mid volume, the EP5 performs adequately, but it struggles with scaling at higher volumes, which could be a downside for those seeking more resolution and detail.
• 😀 The treble extension on the EP5 is decent, but it's not the most detailed or smooth, with a slight metallic quality in symbols that could be bothersome to some listeners.
• 😀 The closed-back design of the EP5 ensures better bass impact and isolation, making it suitable for outdoor use without leakage, though it doesn't offer the spacious soundstage of open-back headphones.
• 😀 The EP5 competes well with other headphones in its price range, but models like the M6L and others offer smoother treble, better technical performance, and better separation.
• 😀 The build quality of the EP5 is solid for the price, with soft ear cups and a comfortable, lightweight design, though it's not as sturdy as higher-end models.
• 😀 The EP5 is best for those who want a subwoofer-like bass experience with good comfort and a closed-back design, though alternatives in the $100 range may offer more neutral or detailed sound for those prioritizing technical performance.
• 😀 Simgot also offers a DSP mic with EQ modes that allow for tuning the vocals, treble, or bass, with a 7.1 button that is more suitable for movies rather than music or gaming.
• 😀 The EP5 provides great value at its price, especially when purchased at a discount (around $50), but those looking for smoother treble and more detailed sound may prefer other options like the EM6L or FD1.

Q & A

What makes the Simgot EP5 stand out in terms of sound?

The Simgot EP5 is distinguished by its bass-heavy sound, featuring a sub-bass boost that provides a subwoofer-like impact. It’s an all-rounder with a fun, engaging sound, ideal for bass lovers.

How does the EP5 handle vocals in its sound profile?

The EP5 maintains a good balance in vocals. Despite the bass boost, the lower mids (around 300-400Hz) are slightly boosted, which adds weight to the vocals, preventing them from sounding thin or congested. Male and female vocals sound natural, with a slight huskiness due to the bass tuning.

Is the treble performance of the EP5 refined?

No, the treble of the EP5 is not highly refined. It's extended but sometimes metallic, particularly when listening to cymbals. Compared to alternatives like the M6L, the treble lacks smoothness and detail.

How does the EP5 perform in technical aspects like detail and separation?

In terms of technical performance, the EP5 is decent for its price range but lacks the level of detail, separation, and refinement found in higher-end options like the Hi-Fi Man H00 or Kiwi Ellipse.

What is the overall build quality and comfort of the EP5 like?

The EP5 has a lightweight, minimalistic design with soft, comfortable ear cups. The build quality is solid for the price, though it's not extremely durable. It offers good comfort for extended listening sessions.

What are the strengths of the EP5 in terms of value?

The EP5 offers great value, especially at a price point of $50-$85. It provides solid bass, comfort, and a closed-back design, making it a good choice for those who prefer dynamic and bass-heavy sound.

How does the EP5 compare to other headphones at this price point, such as the EM6L?

The EP5 offers a more dynamic and bass-heavy sound compared to the EM6L, which is smoother and more refined in terms of treble. The EM6L excels in detail and technical performance, making it a better choice for those prioritizing treble clarity.

What are the EQ modes and DSP features available with the EP5?

The EP5 includes customizable EQ modes and DSP features. The blue mode emphasizes vocals, the green mode boosts treble and upper mids, and the light blue mode enhances bass. It also includes a 7.1 mode, which is more suited for movies than music or gaming.

Should the 7.1 DSP mode be used for gaming or music?

The 7.1 DSP mode is not recommended for music or gaming. It significantly boosts the bass and reduces upper mids, which can bury vocals. It’s more suitable for movies, where the enhanced bass can improve the experience of explosions and other sound effects.

What type of listener is the EP5 best suited for?

The EP5 is ideal for listeners who enjoy bass-heavy, dynamic sound with a fun, engaging listening experience. It’s also suitable for those who prefer a closed-back, portable headphone design, particularly for on-the-go use.