In this review, I’m taking a look at the Astrotec Archimedes hybrid dual-driver IEM. The Archimedes has a planar magnetic driver combined with a ceramic piezoelectric driver. It’s priced at 129 USD.

Disclaimer: This sample was provided by Linsoul for an honest review. All observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product.

Astrotec Archimedes

Specifications

➤ Driver: 14.8mm Planar magnetic driver (14 magnets on both sides, high magnetic flux design, 2 micron ultra-thin composite diaphragm), PZT driver (9-layer ceramic core)
➤ Sensitivity: 106 dB SPL/mW
➤ Impedance: 16 Ω
➤ Frequency response range: 5 Hz – 25,000 Hz
➤ Housing material: High-precision CNC machined metal housing
➤ Included cable: Transparent sheath silver-plated braided cable
➤ Connector: 0.78mm 2Pin

Inside the Box

• Astrotec Archimedes IEM
• Detachable 0.78mm 2-pin silver-plated copper modular cable
• 3.5mm and 4.4mm cable terminations
• 6 pairs of silicone eartips
• Cleaning tool

Design

The Astrotec Archimedes has an unassuming, low-key exterior that belies its complex construction. Archimedes has a CNC-machined metal housing and austenitic stainless steel faceplates. The shells have a smooth grey matte finish and the faceplates have a polished reflective surface. There are 2 pinhole vents—one near the 2-pin sockets and another near the base of the nozzle.

The shells have a bit of heft, giving them a premium feel. They’re comfortable too, thanks to the all-rounded surface and contoured shape. Noise isolation is slightly above average, so Archimedes is good for distraction-free listening wherever you go.

The silver-plated cable has a clear sheath with a smooth, sleek feel. All the hardware, including the chin slider, is made from aluminium with a matte finish. It’s a modular cable too, so you can easily switch between the included 3.5mm and 4.4mm plugs depending on what you’re plugging into. Overall, it’s a nice cable and feels just right for the price.

Sound

Sources used for testing include the SMSL RAW-MDA1, HiBy R6 III 2025 and the FiiO KA17. The Astrotec Archimedes is easy to drive, so you won’t need to worry about power requirements.

It’s been a minute since I heard a tuning like this. It actually reminds me of the old Astrotec earbuds—models like the Lyra Nature and Lyra Mini. Those had a strong focus on clarity and detail, with elevated upper mids and upper treble. The Archimedes is cut from the same cloth—and yes, it’s bright. There’s a lot of treble energy going on here, and it’s definitely going to be the most contentious part of its sound.

Bass

The mid-bass has satisfying weight and punch, but the sub-bass rolls off early and lacks authority. Kick drums hit with a bit of extra thump due to their softened leading edge, though this comes at the cost of definition and texture.

Midrange

The Archimedes’ midrange is bright and thin, with vocals and instruments lacking weight and body. A narrow, elevated 2kHz peak causes shoutiness and discomfort, then falls off sharply, which contributes to some instruments sounding dissonant or disconnected. Additionally, the attenuated 3–4kHz presence region makes vocals feel recessed and distant.

Treble

The treble tuning is uneven: a deep cut at 9kHz robs transparency and air, while the strong lift at 10kHz and above adds brittleness and sharpness. Despite the forward, aggressive treble, micro-detail retrieval is below average—you get fatigue without the benefits.

Soundstage & Technicalities

The soundstage is wide but lacks forward depth and layering. Due to poor resolution, music often sounds convoluted and lacks separation. Detail retrieval is surprisingly below average, despite the bright tuning.

Verdict

The Astrotec Archimedes feels like a misfire. Its tuning is unusual and inconsistent, combining a harsh, fatiguing treble with underwhelming detail retrieval and a lack of air. I’m not sure what it’s aiming for, but whatever the goal was, it doesn’t come together in a coherent or enjoyable way. Even fans of brighter, more energetic sound signatures are likely to be disappointed. Astrotec needs to rethink this one from the ground up.