Disclaimer: I received the Earsonics S-EM6 V2 from a fellow audiophile for reviewing. This review is not affiliated to Earsonics. The price of the S-EM6 V2 is close to 1000€ at this time.
INTRO
Earsonics, the French IEM manufacturer, has a great reputation among many audiophiles. Our readers should also be quite familiar with Earsonics (see Velvet). It probably wouldn’t be wrong to say that the company has its own fan base. We can say that they have no concerns about giving an absolute reference or flattest sound, but they’re rather interested in creating earphones with relatively colorful and distinctive characters. That approach has pleased many fans of Earsonics.
One of the best monitors is their S-EM9. At the same time, I can say that the ES-2 and ES-3 models I reviewed last year are quite good. Especially the ES-3 is a mini version of the S-EM9 with a high price / performance ratio. Lieven also reviewed their new ES5 model lately, and he was impressed.
The company released the EM10 (Custom Fit) model and Lieven will be reviewing that one very soon. Earsonics have a range of products appealing to different price levels, while maintaining its own fan mass. As a result, we can easily express that it is a successful company with its authenticity and different philosophy.
S-EM6 V2
The original S-EM6 has a different place for me, because it was probably the first high-end monitor I listened to. I remember when I was listening to it at the first audiophile meeting I attended and I was blown away. If I listen to it again right now, of course, with all my years of experience it could be different. But I remember that I liked the S-EM6 very much and listened to it for a long time. The original S-EM6 was quite warm, organic and had a distinctive low end. The forgiving and delightful character offered a very pleasant experience. But the fuller and musical character, of course, could also lead to unpleasant synergies in false matches.
Earsonics S-EM6 V2
I said in the introduction that Earsonics is not interested in sounding reference, but I have to say that this model is an exception. In the new model, Earsonics surprisingly followed a different philosophy and produced an IEM that shifted to the neutral side. Designed entirely from scratch, the Earsonics S-EM6 V2 was aimed to ditch the colorful attitude, be analytical, and achieve the target frequency curve created for this purpose. In doing so, the TOTL model S-EM9 is claimed to be inspired.
The sound approach of the S-EM6 V2 is based on the “target frequency” with neutrality and source respect without any colouring.
There are obviously 6 BA drivers which are evenly distributed to the frequencies ( 2 x 2 x 2 ). It has a sensitivity of 112dB and impedance value of 30ohm. The IEMs come with a classic 2-pin detachable cable, 4-pairs of comply and silicone tips, 1 cleaning tool and carrying case. There is no shortage of content and I can say that the carrying case is very useful.
DESIGN – BUILD
Earsonics’ weakest point for years was the material quality. The plastic material used in the popular Velvet models, and in the SM64 model before that, was certainly not worth the price. Lately it is obvious that the company offers IEMs with a more solid impression. But they can still get better if you ask me.
There are companies that stand out in the market with their quality of material or have improved at least. Although Earsonics has made some improvements in building quality, it has not taken a serious & big step in this matter. Of course, since the company stands in a somewhat different place from the others in terms of sound, the fans might not look at the quality of the build too much while choosing Earsonics again.
Earsonics S-EM6 V2
Nevertheless, there is no criticism from me about the build quality of the Earsonics S-EM6 V2. The shell is made of a combination of two plastic parts, but it gives a monolithic impression. The integration of the nozzle section with the shell is also a plus. Although it does not have a special element in its design, I don’t have a problem with the looks; as I like simple and unobtrusive designs. It has a very professional look. The only problem is the dark brown color under light. Obviously it could’ve been better if it looked dead black but it’s kind of nitpicking here.
FIT
Fit is also very ear-friendly. This is one of the most significant changes from the previous version. The shell is now much smaller and can fit good to any type of ear easily. I can say that isolation is also really good for a universal monitor. This, of course, will also depend on the tips you use. I listened to it with double flange tips. I think you won’t have a significant problem in terms of fit, design and material. I can only bring up the shortness of the nozzles, but this is also eliminated with the double flange tips that come in the box.
