In this article, I’m looking at the Hidizs MM2 earphones. The MM2 is a hybrid dual-driver IEM with 1 dynamic and 1 magnetostatic driver. It features 3 sets of tuning valves for 3 different sound profiles. The price is $81.

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

Hidizs MM2

Specifications

• Frequency response 20Hz-40kHz
• Sensitivity 104±1dB@1kHz
• Impedance 18Ω＠1kHz
• Tuning valve: 3 pairs (treble, balance, bass)
• Drivers: 10.2mm dynamic driver + 6mm Magneto-static Balanced Membrane
• Price: $81

What’s In the Box

• 1 × MM2 earphones
• 1 × Single-ended 3.5mm earphone cable
• 1 × Leather carrying box
• 3 pairs × Eartips
• 3 pairs × Tuning valve (treble, balanced, bass)
• 1 × User manual
• 1 × Warranty card

Design

The MM2 shell body is made of eco-friendly resin and has aluminium alloy faceplates. The faceplates are faceted and have a matte finish. You probably noticed the circular vents on the faceplates, which are the tuning valves. There are 3 sets of valves (Bass, Balanced and Treble) and they’re straightforward to change by simply unscrewing and screwing in the new set.

The build quality feels good and the earphones are very comfortable in my ears even for long listening sessions. The included oxygen-free cable handles well and doesn’t suffer from microphonics. All of the cable components are aluminium except for the plastic 2-pin connector housings.

Tuning Valves

The gold and silver filters sound similar to each other and have a V-shaped signature. The red filter has a much thicker, darker sound and is W-shaped. I found the red valves sounded bloated and muddy so I spent most of my time with the gold and silver filters. The sound described below is using the gold/balanced valves.

Sound

Gear used for testing includes the SMSL D-6 DAC with the Feliks Audio Echo, the Cayin RU6 and Shanling M5s.

With the gold valves in place, the MM2 has a V-shaped signature. It has an elevated bass, recessed mids and a

Bass

MM2 has some big bass. It could even be called a basshead IEM. Both the mid-bass and sub-bass are elevated and delivered with gusto. It’s not the fastest bass and there’s some bleeding into the midrange but it’s a relatively fast and quite fun bass.

The kick drum in The Pineapple Thief’s “Threatening War” packs a real punch on the MM2. If you turn up the volume it’s similar to feeling the bass in your chest like you’re at a concert. It’s not a completely dominant bass but it’s not for the faint of heart; you’ll need some fortitude to withstand the thump of this IEM.

Midrange

The midrange shows good clarity and overall resolution. Lower midrange notes are rounder and smoother but things start to heat up in the upper midrange. Acoustic guitars sound really nice with a spacious, airy feel and vocals are articulate and detailed.

There’s plenty of definition and crisp attack on percussion instruments but the upper mids have a tendency to get a bit shouty at higher volume. The detail in the mids is above average though and across the board, the clarity and separation are slightly above-average for a bassy IEM.

Treble

The MM2’s treble is a mixed bag; it’s simultaneously crisp yet lacks extension and air. Treble notes sound a little truncated and get cut off abruptly. Furthermore, the boosted 7-8kHz region has a tendency for sharpness and the treble doesn’t have the most accurate or pleasing timbre.

Katatonia’s “Leech” sound harsh in the chorus, with cymbals and high-hats sounding splashy and vocals showing sibilance. However, throughout the verse and breakdowns, the ride cymbal sounds fine but it and other percussion instruments lack a natural sheen and decay.

Soundstage and Technicalities

The soundstage is fairly large considering the amount of bass provided. Imaging is pretty strong too, thanks to a stable centre image and good depth within the stage. Instrument separation is good but deteriorates when there are a lot of crash cymbals present.

Verdict

The Hidizs MM2 is an interesting addition to the sub $100 category. It has some flaws but hints at the promise of what a hybrid DD + magnetostatic configuration might achieve in the budget arena. Where the MM2 really shines is in its instrument separation and imaging, both being slightly above-average for something in this price range.

But perhaps, the greatest appeal of the MM2 will be the modding possibilities; the tuning valve system shows lots of potential and seems to be more versatile than the more common nozzle filter systems.