AFUL Performer 8 Review

Technical Performance

I have to say, the P8 has some impressive technical abilities, particularly when it comes to staging. The presentation is wide and deep, with a 3D feel that really draws you in. While it’s not quite on par with high-end gear, it’s hard to find anything else in this price range that offers such a spacious stage. Overall, the sound stage is excellent.

In terms of timbre, I can’t say it’s the absolute best in its price bracket, but it’s definitely not bad. The mids are well-balanced with good tonality, and the instrument timbre is quite pleasant. It could be better, but given the price point, it’s impressively well-balanced in terms of tonality.

One thing that really stands out about the Performer 8 is its impressive neutrality and balance. At this price range, you often see presentations that are too warm, too thin, or too V-shaped. But the P8 manages to avoid all of these pitfalls. Some might argue that it lacks a distinctive character, but I think it’s simply because it’s so well-balanced and true to the music.

The overall sound balance could have been improved with a more defined mid-bass and less emphasis on the upper-mid and lower-treble sections. While it may not be reasonable to expect even better performance for the price, it would have been ideal. As the flagship model of AFUL Audio, I have higher expectations compared to the P5, rightfully so.

One of the major advantages of the P8 is its ability to provide excellent resolution and transparency. The instrument separation is particularly noteworthy with very good layering and micro-detail accuracy. Overall, this feature contributes significantly to the overall quality of the output, making the P8 a great choice for those who prioritize a high-quality audio experience.

Comparisons

With identical designs, identical package contents and identical comfort, both P5 and P8 are great options for audiophiles who look for great value. However, the Performer 8 seems to be even more linear and natural, with better PRaT and micro detail. Its bass is a bit more controlled with better decay and accuracy. It doesn’t miss much texture while doing that either.

The biggest difference however is the mid-range definition, in which the P8 excels more. Also, the P8 to me has a bit better resolution and transparency. Yet, you need to have an adequate source to fully experience the upgrades of the P8. I recommend a good R2R DAP to match with the P8, such as the HIBY RS2.

The Softears Studio 4 is a more professional-oriented unit, with a very neutral and dry sound presentation. Its bass is more subdued and flat versus the rumbling dynamic driver of the P8. They both have a similar mid-bass quantity, but the S4 is more balanced in that regard. The P8 has great sub-bass but lacks mid-bass a bit, whilst the S4 has an equal amount in both sections.

The Performer 8 is the more airy-sounding IEM, with brighter highs and a more spacious mid-range. It’s more musical than the S4 as well, which stays dry, neutral, and flat no matter what you throw at it. However, it has a linear and seamless transition between the frequencies. When you combine that with its neutrality, you get a more truthful monitor, but the Performer 8 is the more enjoyable unit for sure. I enjoy both but I think Studio 4 is much closer to that neutral studio sound that actually lets you do some monitoring.

Other than sound, the Studio 4 has a crush-proof case which is higher quality, and it fits better to my ears with a lower profile. Design-wise of course the P8 is more assertive.

Conclusion

After the Performer 5, AFUL Audio once again impresses with the new Performer 8. It’s a great choice for any audiophile out there. If you’re relatively new to this hobby, you can get either model depending on your budget and experience a true balanced/coherent sound.

In this particular price range, the market is very competitive. However, the Performer 8 stands out as an excellent option. I am impressed by the resolution, balance, and cohesiveness. It performs better than its price would suggest, and it is now listed on our Best UIEM list where you can find all our recommended buys.

Pros:

• Nice build quality and design
• Good fit
• Balanced, coherent sound
• Good staging and technical performance

Cons:

• Mid-bass could’ve been more definitive
• Upper mids and lower treble sound shouty at times