In this article, I review the NiceHCK NX7 MK4 IEM. The NX7 MK4 features a hybrid 6-driver configuration with 4BA + 2DD + 1PZT drivers and 3 tuning filters. It’s priced at $109.
Disclaimer: This sample was provided by NiceHCK for an honest review. All observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product.
NiceHCK NX7 MK4
Specifications
Driver unit: 4BA+10mm Beryllium Plated Composite Dual Dynamic+Seven Layers PZT Driver, Hybrid 7 Units
Sensitivity: Gold Filter 112dB/mW, Red Filter 113dB/mW, Black Filter 110dB/mW
Frequency: 20-28000Hz
Impedance: 39Ω
Design
The NiceHCK NX7 MK4 retains the familiar shell shape of its predecessor, the NX7 MK3, but now comes with stunning stabilized wood faceplates, replacing the previous aluminium ones. The main body of the shells is clear plastic that gives you a clear view of the internal components.
NX7 MK4 adopts QDC-type 2-pin sockets. The nozzles are removable tuning filters and NX7 MK4 comes with 3 sets: Gold (Balanced), Red (Mid-high) and Black (Heavy bass).
When it comes to comfort, the NX7 MK4 is great, just like the previous versions. The shell bodies are narrow so they’re good for lying down. Passive noise isolation is slightly below average.
Included with the IEMs is a twisted silver-plated copper (SPC) cable with a smooth clear TPU sheath. The cable handles well and has minimal microphonics.
Sound
Gear used for testing includes the Colorfly CDA-M2, HiBy R3 II and SMSL DO300EX. The NX7 MK4 is reasonably easy to drive and doesn’t have any special source requirements.
The following is a description of the sound using the Gold balanced filter, which I found to be the most natural and pleasing.
NX7 MK4 has a U-shaped sound signature with a lightly elevated bass, forward vocals and some added treble energy. It’s the most mature NX7 model I’ve heard to date, as each iteration has gone through a process of refinement in the series’ journey. The lows are warm with a slightly darker tone compared to the crisp mids and treble.
Bass
The bass is punchy and has a satisfying depth. It’s not tuned for bassheads but the quantity is enough to give the sound musicality and a warm foundation. Without a doubt, the best aspect of this bass is its tone and texture.
The sub-bass notes can rumble with authority when needed, demonstrating excellent extension. The mid-bass is punchy yet reserved, leaving ample space for the lower mids to flourish without feeling like the bass has been compromised.
Midrange
The mids are the best of the NX7 series thus far. There’s an organic naturalness to the midrange coupled with good clarity and separation. Vocals are fairly forward and intimate with good note weight and density.
The mids are rich and have a pleasing analog quality without being oversaturated or muddy. Both male and female vocals have good presence and forwardness, free from shoutiness or sibilance.
Treble
The treble in this version of the NX7 is the most even among all iterations. It’s smoother and more refined, though there is still a hint of PZT timbre in some cymbals and hi-hats. The treble is crisp with good definition, featuring a rapid decay that slightly cuts the sheen short. While the treble notes are precise and controlled, there is a lack of sparkle and sweetness in the highs, a common characteristic of PZT drivers.
Soundstage & Technicalities
The soundstage is narrow and deep, providing an elongated sense of space that places instruments and vocals in a distinct, front-to-back arrangement. Some sounds reach towards the edges of the headspace, but most of the sound resides centrally. Fortunately, the quality of the tuning and drivers prevents congestion, offering good instrument separation and imaging. Detail retrieval is fairly good for this price range.
Verdict
The NiceHCK NX7 MK4 continues the series’ tradition of improving upon the previous iterations. This is the most balanced-sounding model to date and it not only delivers punchy bass and forward mids but it renders smoother treble notes without sacrificing clarity. Although it doesn’t stand out from the crowd when it comes to audio quality, it holds up well compared to its peers. Additionally, the new stabilized wood faceplates look amazing.