Introduction
The Letshuoer S15 is the latest planar magnetic in-ear monitor (IEM) from Chinese audio company Letshuoer. As the successor to the popular S12 and S12 Pro models, the S15 aims to build upon the strengths of its predecessors while improving on any shortcomings. With a price of $329, Letshuoer is positioning the S15 in the mid-fi segment against stiff competition from both dynamic drivers and multi-BA rivals. Does the S15 have what it takes to stand out from the crowd? Read on for my full review.
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.
Letshuoer S15
Specifications
- Driver: 14.8mm planar driver + 6mm passive filtering module
- Material of Faceplate: Anodized aluminum
- Frequency Response: 20Hz~40kHz
- Impedance: 30Ω
- Sensitivity: 106dB
- Audio connectors: 2.5mm, 3.5mm, and 4.4mm interchangeable connectors
- Cable: 1.2 m 216 strands silver-plated monocrystalline copper
Individual ratings
“Punchy, dynamic bass” with “great texture and speed.” It provides impactful yet controlled lows.
The midrange is "smooth" and "lush," which favors musicality over extreme detail and transparency.
The treble is "non-fatiguing" and "polite," which avoids harshness but lacks some sparkle and air.
The S15 provides an "expansive soundstage" and "accurate imaging" with the ability to pinpoint directionality.
Detail retrieval is good but not spectacular. Smooth tuning prioritizes musicality over hyper-detail.
Excellent dynamics and speed, thanks to the planar driver's transient response.
Resolution is good and enough to appreciate most recordings, but not as crisp or etched as analytical IEMs.
The resin shell is very solid and durable, though not as premium-looking as metal. There are no issues with quality.
Comfort is a strong suit thanks to the ergonomic, lightweight design. Noise isolation is about average.
Capable for casual gaming with expansive soundstage and imaging. Not a dedicated gaming IEM but gets the job done.
At $329, the S15 is competitively priced for a planar magnetic IEM with a quality accessory bundle.
Overall Rating
Bottom Line
The Letshuoer S15 brings Letshuoer's planar magnetic technology into smoother, more laidback territory. Audiophiles craving a fatigue-free sound will find much to love. Critical listeners may want more treble energy and sparkle. Overall, the S15 earns a recommendation for its lush, easygoing sound and premium accessories.
Pros
- Warm, smooth, natural tonality is great for long listening.
- quality bass with great texture and speed.
- non-fatiguing treble
- excellent dynamics and speed
- Nice accessory bundle, including modular cable
- Great ergonomics and lightweight
Cons
- Sub-bass rumble could be better.
- Treble lacks some sparkle and air.
- The midrange is not the most transparent.
- Pricing creeps into diminishing returns.
Music Genres
Suitable
- The S15's full, engaging sound works well with most genres.
- Bass-heavy EDM and hip-hop benefit from the dynamic low end.
- Jazz and acoustic shine with the lush midrange.
- The smooth treble prevents harshness, even on aggressive metal tracks.
Not Suitable
- The only tracks that won't pair perfectly are those demanding extreme sub-bass rumble.
- Very treble-focused genres like classical may sound dull on the polite S15.
- The S15 also won't satisfy sub-bass fans wanting monstrous rumbles on EDM or hip-hop.
Equalization Tips
- If more treble energy is desired, try boosting 8–10 kHz by 2–3 dB.
- For more sub-bass rumble, boost around 50 Hz by a few dB.
- Take care not to overdo EQ and cause distortion.
1. Packaging
- Letshuoer S15
- Cable
- EArtips
- multiple terminations
- case
- paperworks
2. Design And Build Quality
The S15 features a resin shell crafted by HeyGears using high-precision 3D printing. The smooth finish gives the IEMs an almost rubbery feel and helps reduce weight. An anodized aluminium alloy faceplate provides a dash of metal flair. The build quality is excellent, with no moulding defects or imperfections. The shells feel very solid in hand.
3. Comfort
Comfort is a strong suit thanks to the rounded, ergonomic shape. The short-nozzle design should fit most ear shapes comfortably. I experienced no hotspots or discomfort, even during long listening sessions. Noise isolation is about average for an IEM of this type.
4. Sound Quality Of The Letshuoer S15
I. Tonality
Tonally, the S15 follows a warm, relaxed U-shaped signature. The low-end receives a moderate boost, providing impactful yet controlled bass. Mids take a laidback approach, with a smooth and lush presentation favouring musicality over hyper-detail. Treble is non-fatiguing with a polite presence that avoids harshness or sibilance.
Overall, the S15 aims more for a natural, coherent sound than an analytical tuning. Those seeking a fun sound with engaging bass will enjoy the S15's tuning. Critical listeners may want more energy and sparkle up top.
II. Frequency Response Graph Of The Letshuoer S15
III. Bass Response
The S15 delivers punchy, dynamic bass that manages to avoid bloat or muddiness. Sub-bass extension provides a satisfying bit of rumble and slam. The mid-bass is elevated to inject warmth and fullness into the sound. The bass texture is excellent, allowing you to hear nuances even on busy tracks. Speed and decay are quick, as expected from a planar driver.
Bassheads may want even more sub-bass rumble, but for a natural tuning, the S15 provides great low-end engagement.
IV. Midrange Performance
The S15's midrange follows the smooth, lush tonality established by the bass. Lower mids have a full-bodied presentation with natural weight and body. Vocals sound rich and intimate. The upper midrange dips slightly for a fatigue-free sound. Overall detail and clarity are good but not outstanding; the S15 favours musicality over hyper-detail.
If you want an extremely transparent or analytical midrange, the S15 won't satisfy. For long, enjoyable listening sessions, the smooth mids hit the spot.
V. Treble Response
Treble takes a polite, non-fatiguing approach. Crispness and detail are present, but the S15 avoids harshness or sibilance even at high volumes. Extension provides adequate air and sparkle but falls short of an explicitly bright sound.
Treble-sensitive listeners will appreciate the smooth, relaxed treble. However, those wanting more shimmer and energy up top may be left wanting more.
5. Technicalities Of The Letshuoer S15
I. Soundstage And Imaging
The S15 provides a nicely expansive soundstage, especially for an IEM with a warmer, more intimate tuning. Width extends comfortably beyond the edges of the head. Depth is good, if not class-leading. Imaging is accurate with the ability to pinpoint directionality and space between instruments.
II. Dynamics And Speed
The S15 delivers excellent dynamics across the spectrum. The planar driver's speed and transient response make the percussion impactful and lively. Decay is natural without lingering too long. From lively tracks to intimate acoustic material, the S15 handles dynamic contrasts with aplomb.
III. Resolution And Detail Retrieval
Detail retrieval is good, if not spectacular. Smooth tuning prioritises musicality over hyper-detail. Minute nuances are present but not pushed forward in the mix like a more analytical IEM. Resolution and clarity are enough to appreciate most recordings without excessive etching or harshness.
6. Gaming Performance
The S15 is a capable gaming IEM thanks to its engaging sound and ability to convey spatial cues. The expansive soundstage provides a nice sense of space. Imaging allows for accurately pinpointing enemy locations via sound. The fun tonality brings action to life without being overly harsh or fatiguing during long sessions. While not a dedicated gaming IEM, the S15 holds its own for casual gaming.
7. Comparisons
Letshuoer S15 VS S12 Pro
Compared to the cheaper S12 Pro, the S15 has a warmer, smoother sound with less emphasis on treble energy. The S12 Pro has more upper-midrange presence for a brighter tonality. The S15 counters with better bass control and a more natural timbre.
Letshuoer S15 VS Tin HiFi P1 Max
Against the Tin HiFi P1 Max, the S15 has more mid-bass punch but less sub-bass extension. The P1 Max has more upper midrange and treble presence, leading to a brighter sound. The S15 has more coherent, natural tuning.
For hybrid IEMs, the S15 provides dynamics and speed that the multi-BA sets can't match. Hybrids often have an advantage in resolution and crispness in exchange.
Dive deeper with more comparisons.
8. FAQs
Q. Who should buy the Letshuoer S15?
Those wanting a smooth, laidback sound for long listening sessions
Fans of warm, musical tunings over analytical ones
Bassheads want powerful yet clean lows.
Non-fatiguing treble lovers
Casual gamers wanting a fun, engaging IEM
Q. Who should avoid the Letshuoer S15?
Critical listeners want extreme resolution and detail.
Those who prefer a bright, crispy sound
Sub-bass fans want massive rumbles.
Trebleheads seek lots of sparkle and air.
Classical music lovers
Q. Is Letshuoer S15 suitable for treble sensitive listeners?
With its relaxed, non-fatiguing treble, the S15 is an excellent choice for treble-sensitive listeners. Harshness and sibilance are non-issues. Those wanting an explicitly dark sound may still find the S15 too bright, but in general, it's quite safe.
Q. Are the resin shells durable?
Yes, while not metal, the resin composite is very solid and durable. The shells are built to last.
Q. How are comfort and noise isolation?
Comfort is excellent thanks to the ergonomic shape and lightweight. Noise isolation is about average for an IEM.
Q. Does the S15 need a powerful amp?
The S15 reaches loud volumes easily and doesn't require heavy amplification. A clean source with moderate power brings the best results.
Q. How do the included accessories perform?
The modular cable and assortment of tips are highlights of the bundle. The tips adjust bass and treble levels somewhat. The case is sturdy, if plain in appearance.
Conclusion
The Letshuoer S15 delivers an enjoyable planar magnetic experience focused on long-term listening over technical analysis. The smooth, warm tonality has natural timbre and an engaging low-end. Soundstage and imaging abilities impress, as does the outstanding accessory bundle. The resin shell may not look premium, but it keeps weight down. Overall, the S15 makes a compelling option in the $300–400 mid-fi segment, appealing most strongly to smooth sound signature fans.
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Overall User Rating
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