I was writing a full review and suddenly realized that nobody really cares what I think.
So, instead of elaborating on it, I would just like to provide a quick summary of my side-by-side comparison of 3 IEMs. If you would like to know more or have questions about my methodology, please leave a comment below!
Fit:
S8> Variations >>>Dark Saber
Strength of the shell:
S8>>>Variations>Dark Saber
-But I would want to add on this and say Dark Saber’s shell is not really “fragile” as other short reviews described in the past. It’s like SE846 shell if you know what I mean. It could definitely last for years without a problem if you handle it with care.
Weight:
Dark Saber> Variations>>S8
Sound (Bass):
Variations>>Dark Saber >= S8
Sound (Mid):
S8= Dark Saber >> Variations
Sound (High):
S8 >= Dark Saber >= Variations
Detail retrieval (mainly mid-range):
Dark Saber>= S8 > Variations
Sound Stage and separation:
Dark Saber>> S8> Variations
Label:
- >=: Every so slightly better if not the same
- >: a noticeable difference, but not huge
- >>: a major difference
- >>>: a whole other level
The shell size is just so much larger than the S8. Just think of it as a slightly larger-sized blessing 2. If you were fine with B2’s fit, then I think you’d be okay.
It’s not that Dark Saber’s fit is terrible. The S8 just has that “custom-like” perfect fit for my ears.