Captivating designs and clever functionality are just a few of the aspects I discovered with Hidizs.
Asian manufacturers are creating some remarkable consumer technology, so many options that it’s challenging to stay updated with them all. This is why I was curious when Hidizs contacted me and offered me the opportunity to try out their products.
What I encountered were high-quality items that were a lot of enjoyment to use, though they had their quirks, like most things. Overall, I’ve been quite impressed with what Hidizs provided; their compact yet feature-rich DAP, the AP80 PRO-X, and their product that, as of this writing, is available for pre-order, the MK12 Turris IEMs. Let’s discuss them!
Turris: Evolved sound
Hidizs named its world’s first 12mm 91% pure Magnesium diaphragm IEM after a jellyfish — specifically, the Turritopsis dohrnii. Theoretically, the turritopsis is immortal due to its ability to regenerate endlessly, allowing it to adapt to death in a literal sense. It’s a captivating species; go Google it (after you finish this).
Representing millions of years of evolution, Hidizs selected the jellyfish as a symbol of the sonic advancement of this affordable, entry-level audiophile-grade pair of IEMs. They are highly versatile, an evolution in design with their M-shaped dome Magnesium diaphragm, and visually striking. Upon opening the meticulously packaged box, you’re greeted by the two IEM units that feel substantial in hand, yet are exceptionally comfortable in-ear.
After taking out the units and the top layer of packaging, the next level contains nine pairs of ear tips. Three sets, each with unique sonic characteristics. One set accentuates vocal ranges, the next provides a balanced sound, and one set caters to a bass-forward experience.
The “versatility” doesn’t stop there. You also find two pairs of tuning filters in the box. The default pair already on the MK12s is Rose Gold for balanced listening. They represent what Hidizs refers to as their “signature style.” Then there’s the Silent Silver, which enhances smoothness in the high frequencies, and their Enchanting Red filter, which boosts low-frequency sounds.
I enjoyed the Enchanting Red filters the most, but found myself torn between the vocal and the bass-enhancing ear tips. The difference between them was subtle, but I spent more time with the red filter paired with the bass ear tips. I didn’t notice any compromise in clarity or detail in the treble, but I did experience greater depth and energy in the lows, especially the sub-bass.
Completing the kit is your selection of a 2-pin high-purity oxygen-free copper cable, ending in either a 3.5mm or 4.4mm balanced connection. If you have the choice and equipment to support it, I always suggest opting for the 2.5mm or 4.4mm balanced cable.
This jellyfish has some backbone
All of the accessories you receive for under $200 are excellent, but how the MK12 sounds is the most crucial “feature.” The standout aspect of a pair of IEMs’ sound signature is its capacity to make you “feel” like the music is “inside your head.” The Hidizs MK12 Turris excels at placing you center stage. The listening experience is wonderfully immersive for IEMs in this price range, and I’ve encountered some that cost over twice as much and didn’t perform as well.
One of the first tracks I listened to was Charles Mingus’ “Moanin’” and the MK12 did not disappoint. The upper mids revealed details I hadn’t caught in this highly energetic Jazz piece. Some off-mic vocal riffs, the fingering of a saxophone’s keys, and other ambient sonic nuances that create the feeling of being in the studio while the band records.
I can certainly say that upper mids stand out with these IEMs. That lift in the upper mids also added more weight to the guitars in System of a Down’s “Toxicity.” It’s already one of my go-to metal hype tracks, and if you’re looking to headbang, you’ll want to slam your head through drywall with the Turris in your ears.
But how do the lows fare? Tight. Controlled. Deep and dark, thanks to the filter and ear tip combination I’ve chosen. Acoustic and orchestral tracks convey weight in their basslines, and the instrumentation has texture and impact. Tracks mastered with deep bass like The Roots’ “Do You Want More?!?!!” and Skrillex’s “Supersonic” resonate beautifully with the added benefit of comfortable listening.
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