https://preview.redd.it/1msoh0sa770c1.jpg?width=2416&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c478864aeecbdc2c082b157fbc0d5720b5f1925e

https://preview.redd.it/u6mnwyra770c1.jpg?width=1778&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fb65d2f72d936033e6f2ef014f9acf153b100551

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