Introduction
The 7Hz Timeless is a relatively new release in the planar magnetic IEM market. As one of the most affordable options for getting a taste of planar sound in an IEM form factor, it has generated quite a buzz in audiophile circles. In this review, I aim to provide an in-depth evaluation of the Timeless based on my own experience using them as a daily driver for over a month.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. I have not received any form of compensation or incentive to endorse or promote any specific product mentioned in this review. Please note that the individual ratings provided for each product are given in the context of the product’s price.
7Hz Timeless
Specifications
- Driver: 14.2mm planar driver
- Impedance: 14.8ohm
- Sound pressure level: 104 dB/1 kHz
- Frequency response range: 5–40000 Hz
- THD: <0.2%/1KHZ
- Connector: MMCX
- Nozzle diameter: 5mm
Individual ratings
The bass has good depth, warmth, and impact while avoiding bloat or muddiness. There is a slight boominess due to the slow decay.
The mids are clear and maintain presence, but the upper mids are a bit forward-sounding. The lower mids lack some body.
The treble is energetic with good extension, though the emphasis around 8 kHz can occasionally sound a bit hot. Overall, it avoids harshness.
The soundstage is spacious, with good width and depth. Imaging lacks some precision in placing instruments.
Excellent detail retrieval; it is competing well above its price range. Fine nuances are articulated.
Good macrodynamics, though microdynamics could use more nuance. The transient response is lightning-fast.
Top-notch resolution provides an immersive window into recordings. Clarity is excellent.
Sturdy metal construction, but MMCX connectors are a durability concern.
Comfortable and secure fit for most, but smaller ears may experience discomfort.
Good for casual gameplay, but imaging lacks precision for competitive FPS gaming.
It offers planar technical performance at an affordable $200 price, making it a great value.
Overall Rating
Bottom Line
The 7Hz Timeless brings outstanding technical performance and planar advantages to an affordable price point. Its engaging sound, comfort, and build should satisfy both audiophiles and casual listeners looking for great wired IEMs under $250.
Pros
- fast, detailed planar sound
- Excellent resolution and clarity
- engaging, crisp treble
- Good soundstage depth
- Nice sub-bass extension
- comfortable, secure fit for most
Cons
- Imaging lacks precision.
- The upper mids are slightly forward.
- Slow bass decay
- Microdynamics could be better.
Music Genres
Suitable
- The 7 Hz Timeless works well for most music genres, but it especially shines with genres that benefit from its fun v-shaped tuning. EDM, pop, rock, hip-hop, and orchestral music sound great. The boosted bass and treble bring an engaging energy to these genres.
Not Suitable
- On the other hand, the Timeless may not be ideal for certain vocal-centric or acoustic genres where a neutral or natural midrange is paramount. Its slightly recessed lower mids and emphasized upper mids can make male and female vocals, respectively, sound a touch unnatural, depending on the track. Genres like jazz, classical, and vocal-focused music may benefit from a more midrange-forward IEM.
Equalization Tips
- Here are some suggested EQ settings to tweak the Timeless' sound:
- Reduce 2 kHz by 2 dB to tame the upper midrange peak.
- Add +1 dB at around 300 Hz to increase mid-bass warmth and body.
- Add +2 dB under 100 Hz for more sub-bass rumble.
- Reduce the 8 kHz peak by 1-2 dB to smooth out the lower treble.
1. Packaging
- 7Hz Timeless
- Aluminium carrying case with interior felt lining
- An mmcx cable
- 10 pairs of silicone eartips
- pair of spare nozzle filters
2. Design And Build Quality
The Timeless sports a unique design that is evocative of a vinyl record or CD disc. The circular aluminum alloy shells have a matte black finish and smooth, beveled edges. There is a visible seam where the two shell halves meet, but otherwise the construction feels sturdy with no creaking or loose parts on my unit.
The stock cable is fairly supple and seems durable, though the red and black color scheme may not appeal to everyone. It terminates in a straight 3.5mm plug, but 2.5mm, 4.4mm, and Bluetooth cable options are available. The MMCX connectors provide a solid click when attaching the cables.
3. Comfort
Despite their unconventional shape, I found the Timeless surprisingly comfortable once inserted. The circular faceplates sit flush with the entrance to my ear canals, and the slightly long nozzles allow me to get a good seal. Isolation is about average for an IEM. Those with smaller ears may experience some discomfort from the shells pressing against the antitragus area after longer listening sessions.
4. Sound Quality Of The 7Hz Timeless
I. Tonality
The Timeless has a mildly V-shaped sound signature, with a subtle boost to the bass and lower treble regions. The low end provides a satisfying warmth and fullness without being overbearing. Mids are clear and maintain a good presence. Treble is energetic without getting harsh or sibilant. Overall, the tuning aims for an engaging, musical presentation that works well with a variety of genres.
II. Frequency Response Graph Of The 7Hz Timeless
III. Bass Response
For a planar magnetic driver, the bass delivers pleasing warmth and impact. Sub-bass extension reaches impressively deep, providing a subtle rumble on tracks that call for it. Mid-bass punch is tactile yet controlled, avoiding bloating or muddiness. Texturing is good, allowing bass guitars and kick drums to retain their nuances. The low end as a whole conveys a nice sense of body and dynamism. My only nitpick is that the decay is slightly slow, resulting in a faint boominess.
IV. Midrange Performance
The midrange retains clarity and presence, achieving a nice balance between the lows and highs. Lower mids have sufficient body to give male vocals a natural weight. The upper mids do come across as somewhat forward, adding an exciting crispness to guitars and female vocals. On certain tracks, this can result in a mildly thin tonality, but on the whole, the mids remain well-defined and expressive. Notes have a clean leading edge with minimal grain or harshness.
V. Treble Response
Treble is a touch emphasized, with extra energy between 7-8 kHz lending added sparkle and air. This helps portray finer textures and ambient details. Cymbals and hi-hats have a crisp attack, while decay trails off smoothly. Sibilance is rarely an issue. The extension at the very top is excellent, allowing notes to fully fade out. The treble could perhaps use a decibel or two less emphasis for a more relaxed presentation, but on the whole, it achieves good clarity without excessive sharpness.
5. Technicalities Of The 7Hz Timeless
I. Soundstage And Imaging
The Timeless produces a nicely spacious soundstage with good width and better than average depth for an IEM. Directional cues are easy to follow, though instrument placement seems to lack pinpoint precision compared to sets like the Moondrop Variations. The out-of-headspace is engaging, with a nice sense of ambience surrounding the instruments.
II. Instrument Separation And Detail Retrieval
Being a planar magnetic design, the Timeless delivers excellent separation and clarity across the spectrum. The lows maintain texture and definition even on complex tracks, while the mids and highs articulate fine nuances and micro-details. When listening to orchestral scores, it's easy to pick out each instrument individually. Transients come through quickly, with minimal smearing between notes.
III. Dynamics And Speed
As expected for a planar, transient response, it is lightning-fast. The Timeless handles rapid note changes and complex passages with ease, never sounding congested or blurred. Dynamics have a nice punch on drums and guitars. While macro-dynamics are good, micro-dynamics seem to lack a touch of nuance, especially in the bass region. The overall presentation leans slightly toward clinical over organic.
IV. Resolution
Resolution and clarity are top-notch for the price bracket. The level of fine-detail retrieval competes well with IEMs costing twice as much. The planar driver's inherent speed and low distortion really provide an immersive window into a recording. If your priorities are technical performance and hearing every nuance in your music, the Timeless delivers in spades.
6. Gaming Performance
For gaming usage, Timeless is decent but not ideal. The emphasized treble helps highlight footsteps and other subtle audio cues. However, the imaging is not the most precise for pinpointing enemy locations in FPS titles. The large soundstage does provide good spatial awareness, though. For more casual gameplay, the fun v-shaped tuning works well. Hardcore competitive gamers may want to look at more specialized options.
7. Comparisons
7Hz Timeless VS Tanchjim Hana 2021
The Hana edges out the Timeless in timbre realism and a smoother, more laid-back treble. The Timeless has quicker transients and retrieves more fine detail.
7Hz Timeless VS Dunu Falcon Pro
The Falcon Pro has superior imaging and a more spacious stage. The Timeless has significantly better technicalities and resolution.
8. FAQs
Q. Who Should Buy The 7Hz Timeless?
The Timeless is a great option for:
Audiophiles looking for planar technicalities on a budget
Those who enjoy an exciting v-shaped sound
Bassheads who want great sub-bass extensions
Anyone looking for high clarity and detailed retrieval
Q. Who Shouldn't Buy The 7Hz Timeless?
The Timeless may not be suitable for:
Those looking for a neutral or mid-focused sound
Vocal enthusiasts wanting lush, natural mids
Treble-sensitive listeners who prefer a smooth or dark sound
primary use for classical, jazz, and acoustic genres
Q. Is 7Hz Timeless suitable for treble sensitive listeners?
The Timeless' treble is on the brighter side, so it may not be the best option for treble-sensitive listeners. The emphasized lower treble can occasionally come across as hot or harsh on certain tracks. Those who prefer a dark or laid-back sound may want to consider a different IEM.
Q. Does Timeless need an amp?
An amp is not required but provides more driving power. A decent portable DAC or amp helps the bass and soundstage.
Q. How is the build quality?
Build is very good with metal shells. MMCX connectors are a point of concern for durability.
Q. Is the fit comfortable?
Comfort is quite subjective, but most find the timeless comfortable for 1-2 hours. Those with small ears may experience discomfort.
Q. How do they compare to Moondrop Kato or Aria?
The Timeless has better technical performance, while the Kato and Aria have more natural tunings.
9. Conclusion
The 7Hz Timeless punches well above its price bracket, offering planar levels of technical performance unheard of at $200. It manages good tonal balance with an engaging v-shaped signature. Strong bass depth, vivid mids, and energetic treble come together for a musical presentation. With excellent resolution and speed, it delivers crisp, high-fidelity sound. Some minor tuning and staging caveats aside, the Timeless achieves astonishing performance and should be on any shortlist for those looking to try planar sound on a budget.
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Overall User Rating
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