PMG Audio Apx SE Review

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Technical Performance

The PMG Apx SE, like its predecessor, excels in technical capabilities, with notable strengths in imaging, precise positioning, and overall staging. In terms of soundstage, while the Apx SE offers a commendable width and depth, I found its soundstage to be slightly narrower compared to the original Apx (Amber Edition), though the depth remains identical. This difference makes the Apx SE feel less spacious and airy, especially when compared to the more open and wide presentation of the Amber. However, the SE still maintains an impressive sense of space, ensuring that even during complex musical passages, each element and instrument has its own defined position, avoiding any sense of crowdedness.

The Apx SE’s ability to handle pace, rhythm, and timing (PRaT) is excellent. Its speed and agility allow it to navigate fast, multi-layered tracks with a high level of clarity and coherence, ensuring that even densely packed compositions remain clear and well-organized. The Apx SE retains the fantastic timbre of its predecessor, rendering each note with accuracy and a natural tone, which is essential for a realistic and engaging listening experience.

Where the Apx SE surpasses the original is in note weight—it delivers a more solid and impactful sound, which contributes to its naturalness. This sense of weight and body makes the Apx SE more appealing to those who prefer a fuller, more organic sound.

However, despite these advancements, the original Apx still holds the edge in certain areas, particularly in terms of clarity, soundstage width, and spaciousness. These qualities of the Amber Edition are more noticeable when paired with a high-quality flagship cable, which was lacking in its package. Therefore, the original may still have the upper hand for users who prioritize technical supremacy and are willing to invest in a premium cable to unlock its full potential.

In terms of sensitivity, the Apx SE is incredibly easy to drive, making it compatible with a wide range of devices, from portable DAC/Amps to audio players. The FIBAE technology ensures that it performs consistently across various setups, so amplification is not a concern. The Apx SE is a versatile performer, capable of delivering top-tier sound with virtually any gear.

Sources

The PMG Apx SE incorporates FIBAE technology, ensuring a remarkably consistent sound signature across various sources. While some subtle variations might be detected depending on the source, the overall signature remains true to its intended presentation. This technology significantly reduces the need for precise source matching, though, from personal experience, I have found that the Apx SE performs best with neutral-sounding DAPs.

For optimal performance, I recommend pairing the Apx SE with flagship DAPs such as the A&K SP3000, HIBY R8 II, or the Lotoo PAW Gold Touch. These players, known for their neutrality and detail retrieval, complement the Apx SE’s sophisticated and refined tuning, allowing it to shine in terms of technicality and natural tonality.

While the FIBAE technology ensures that the Apx SE will sound good with a wide range of sources, sticking to high-end DAPs will allow the IEM to perform at its best. Using lower-tier sources may limit its full potential, so it’s best to avoid anything below flagship-grade equipment.

Comparisons

The Noble Audio Viking Ragnar and the PMG Audio Apx SE both stand at the pinnacle of in-ear monitors (IEMs), yet they bring their own unique flavors to the audiophile experience. The PMG Apx SE offers a more luxurious, refined presentation, with premium materials like a Lapis Lazuli-Brass hybrid stone faceplate and hand-painted details, which adds a sense of elegance and sophistication. The included high-quality carrying bag, premium cable, and ear tips elevate the unboxing experience to a more exclusive level.

On the other hand, the Noble Viking Ragnar leans toward a more utilitarian, professional aesthetic. Its crushproof case emphasizes practicality and protection, embodying a more rugged, no-nonsense design ethos. It doesn’t sacrifice elegance entirely, though, with its Damascus-forged faceplate, which is visually stunning yet maintains a colder, industrial appeal.

When comparing the sound signatures, two distinct philosophies emerge. The Viking Ragnar is firmly rooted in neutrality and analytical precision. In contrast, the PMG Apx SE takes a more musical approach, offering a rich, textured sound that leans toward a “hi-fi” philosophy, where immersion and engagement are at the forefront. The Apx SE excels in creating a spacious and enveloping soundstage, with remarkable imaging that transports the listener into a grander sonic landscape. While both IEMs offer top-tier resolution and detail retrieval, the Apx SE sets itself apart with a more expansive soundstage and fuller, more engaging presentation.

Where the Viking Ragnar shines in delivering surgical precision and neutrality, the Apx SE adds warmth, depth, and texture that make the listening experience more captivating and enjoyable. This richer sound makes the Apx SE a better choice for audiophiles who seek more than just technical proficiency and want to be emotionally connected.

Choosing between the two comes down to what you value most in an IEM. If you prioritize neutrality and studio-grade precision, the Viking Ragnar will meet your expectations. However, if you’re looking for a more immersive, musically engaging experience with enhanced texture and a wide soundstage, the Apx SE offers a compelling alternative. In my opinion, the Apx SE surpasses the Ragnar in many key areas, particularly in its ability to create an engaging and enjoyable listening experience. Given its advanced tuning and exceptional refinement, the Apx SE feels like a step above, but as always, personal preference and budget play a significant role.

The Elysian Anni 2023 has quickly gained recognition as one of the standout IEMs in recent times. Its packaging is premium and thoughtfully designed, though it doesn’t quite reach the luxurious heights of the PMG Audio Apx SE. Given the Apx SE’s price level, emphasis on elegance and attention to detail. From an ergonomic standpoint, the Anni 2023’s bulkier design, influenced by its unique internal structure, makes it less comfortable compared to the Apx SE.

When it comes to sound, the Anni 2023 takes a sub-bass-oriented approach, delivering more rumble and impact. However, from a bass quality perspective, the Apx SE pulls ahead. Its bass boasts excellent decay, attack, and speed, making it more refined and controlled. In the mid-range, the Anni 2023 leans towards a more colored sound with an emphasis on the upper mid-range. The Apx SE, on the other hand, offers a more balanced presentation, with its mid-range evenly distributed and naturally rendered.

In terms of technical prowess, the Apx SE firmly stands as the superior IEM. Its soundstage is more expansive, and it offers a better balance, resolution, and cohesiveness. The Apx SE also surpasses the Anni 2023 in clarity and transparency, delivering a more refined, detailed experience. While the Anni 2023 has its strengths, particularly in sub-bass and dynamism, the Apx SE remains in a class of its own, providing a more technically impressive listening experience.

Against the Original Apx Amber

While it may seem nearly impossible to find a pair of the original Apx at this point, you might wonder whether it surpasses the SE version. My answer is a resounding yes, particularly regarding technical performance. The Apx SE undoubtedly offers a more enjoyable and musical experience, but it falls short in spaciousness and coherence compared to the original. Additionally, the clarity of the original is superior.

That said, the original model tends to sound brighter, which may be uncomfortable for genres like metal. In such cases, the SE version becomes the more suitable choice. However, you can mitigate the brightness of the Apx with foam tips and thoughtful source pairing. Overall, while the Apx SE is a remarkable summit-fi IEM, it doesn’t quite reach the extraordinary level of the original unit in my opinion.

Conclusion

PMG Audio, under the leadership of Piotr Granicki, has firmly established itself as a serious contender in the summit-fi IEM category. I still recall how Piotr made waves in the audiophile IEM market with his Harmony 8.2 model, which left a lasting impression. His journey has culminated in the creation of some of the finest IEMs available today, and I eagerly anticipate what he has in store for us with his new premium brand in the future.

The Apx SE embodies the pinnacle of audiophile IEM technology, seamlessly blending exceptional comfort, stunning design, and unparalleled sound quality into one remarkable package. It delivers top-of-the-line performance in terms of tonality, texture, musicality, and soundstage. No matter the genre—be it classical, jazz, pop, or R&B—the Apx SE effortlessly renders each style with a naturalness that makes everything sound just right.

If it weren’t for the incredible performance of the original Apx Amber, I would confidently say that the Apx SE is the best IEM available right now.

Summary

Pros:

• Great fit
• Improved package content and design
• Better cable
• Authentic design with hybrid stone
• Fantastic musicality
• Great timbre
• Fast response
• Very natural and effortless

Cons:

• Not as good as the original Apx in technicalities
• Coherency is less impressive against the original version

Page 1: Intro and About the IEM

Page 2: Fit & Sound