Comparisons
The single dynamic Twilight is an enjoyable IEM in terms of mid-range refinement and timbre. In comparison, the new F5 is not that focused in the mid-range. It rather presents definitive bass and treble. Twilight’s bass is subdued when directly compared to F5’s heavy-hitting and impactful bass. The F5 also has a better and more extending treble with better articulation. They have similar sound-stage performances.
Of course, with its single dynamic driver, the Twilight sounds more cohesive and balanced. Yet, the F5 has a better extension on both sides of the spectrum so it has a better dynamic range in my opinion. I think they are both very good IEMs and it all comes down to your sound preference.
Apart from sound, Custom Art has a much better and more comfortable fit & isolation. It also has a flashier design, and its cable is of higher quality.
These two IEMs couldn’t be more different in terms of sound. The FIBAE 7U has a neutral and analytical presentation. It sounds much lighter in comparison, and thinner with a bright nature. It has good bass with good impact but it can still be considered light against the F5, which has a bassy presentation throughout.
The 7U has better resolution in the mid-range. It also has better speed and transparency, with more apparent micro-details. The F5 has an immersive staging, compared to the focused staging of the 7U, but the imaging of the Custom Art IEM is simply much sharper and more refined.
Conclusion
The new Custom Art tribrid is a very enjoyable, spacious-sounding bassy monitor with an excellent treble with its planar drivers. The FIBAE 5 delivers a warm, musical signature with a good low end, smooth mids, more forward treble and a sparkling top end. It has great dynamics, staging and stereo image, and that combined with the right amount of body, naturalness and detail retrieval make it a musical, fun-sounding monitor.
The amount of extension of both ends, and the definition of mids & treble are all impressive. Yet, the mid-range could be improved with more transparency and refinement. Other than that, CA continues to impress and especially I liked the planar treble presentation.
Page 1: Intro and About the IEM
Page 2: Packaging, Build Quality & Comfort, Cable, Sound
Page 3: More on Sound Quality
