In this review, I’m checking out the NF Audio RA15 IEMs. The RA15 features a single polymer composite diaphragm dynamic driver and 2 sets of tuning filters. It’s priced at $89.

At the time of writing, NF Audio is renaming the brand to NF Acous. I’m not aware of the reason for this change. It may cause some initial confusion but I expect they will start releasing new models soon under the new moniker.

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

NF Audio RA15

Specifications

Driver: 10mm dynamic driver
Sensitivity: 108dB
Impedance: 32Ω
Frequency response: 10Hz – 40kHz

In the Box

• NF Audio RA15 IEMs
• Four pairs of white silicone tips size XS*S*M*L, model MS42.
• Drawstring pouch.
• 5N OFC cable.
• Instruction manual.
• Two pairs of tuning filters

Design

Probably the most noticeable thing about the RA15 design is its small shell size. The metal cast shells are smaller than average and have a triangular shape with rounded edges. There’s a small vent near the base of the removable nozzles and another one near the top edge. Overall construction feels robust and well-made.

The comfort level is good, thanks to the RA15’s smooth rounded surface. Passive noise isolation is less than average but decent enough.

The included SPC cable is twisted and has a clear TPU sheath. It’s light, supple and handles well but I am not fond of the aggressively curved ear hooks and angled 2-pin connector housings which can affect the fit.

Sound

Gear used for testing includes the SMSL RAW-MDA 1, FiiO KA17 and HiFi Walker H20 Pro. The RA15 is easy to drive and doesn’t have any particular source requirements.

The NF Audio RA15 has a balanced sound signature that is slightly on the brighter side of neutral. Using the gold/brass filters gives it a warmer tonality but even then, it still leans towards bright in the presence region.

Bass

Bass is on the lighter side in quantity, even with the gold filter. The mid-bass is reasonably punchy but the sub-bass has a very light rumble, almost akin to a BA bass. Needless to say, this one isn’t for bassheads or for those who like some extra meat on the bone.

The bass is speedy and doesn’t bleed into the mids. While it satisfies on some recordings, it feels lacking on others. The bass is very controlled and has a fast decay, which opens up space for the midrange to come forward.

Midrange

The RA15’s mids have good clarity and detail. Instruments and vocals sound accurate and natural with the gold filter but can sound a bit off with the silver nozzles. The mids are reasonably forward and have a good amount of presence without sounding shouty.

Treble

The treble is where things go a little awry with the RA15. While the 5kHz peak adds clarity and presence, it also adds some sharpness. Cymbals can get splashy and thin, particularly with the silver filters. The upper treble has good extension and is done well for the most part – it’s the lower treble tuning that can cause fatigue and will be the most contentious area for most listeners.

Soundstage & Technicalities

The soundstage is reasonably wide but has limited depth. Detail retrieval is above average and micro-details can be heard clearly. The instrument separation is fairly good, but the imaging and layering are just passable, lacking precision and depth.

Comparisons

ARTTI T10 ($53)

The ARTTI T10 (review here) has a warmer and fuller presentation. It’s has an upfront and engaging sound signature. The T10 has better sub-bass extension and a more authoritative bass response. The mids are intimate and clear with good spacing between instruments. T10’s has better treble extension and doesn’t boost the presence region as much, making it smoother. T10 has a rounder soundstage with more depth and stronger imaging. The planar driver has cleaner transients, giving it superior overall resolution.

Simgot EA500LM ($89)

The Simgot EA500LM (review here) shares a similar tonality but presents a warmer, smoother character. Its bass is more textured and impactful, with a more pronounced sub-bass rumble. While the mids retain a similar forwardness, the upper mids are livelier. It’s also more forgiving on poor recordings and handles sibilance better. The EA500LM offers superior treble extension with added airiness, delivering a wider soundstage and improved instrument separation.

Verdict

The NF Audio RA15 delivers a crisp, neutral-bright tuning with an emphasis on clarity and detail. Its metal shells are well-built and ergonomically designed. However, it has some drawbacks, like the prominent lower-treble peak, which can lead to sharpness and the fatiguing nature of the silver filters. Ultimately, while the RA15 is a solid IEM, it doesn’t do enough to distinguish itself among the crowded sub-$100 category.