In this article, I review the NiceHCK NX8 IEMs. The NX8 is the latest model in the NX series line and is a hybrid octa-driver IEM with 1DD+6BA+1PZT. It’s priced at 199 USD.
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 NX8
Table of Contents
Specifications
Frequency response: 20Hz-30kHz
Impedance: 19Ω
Sensitivity: 111dB/mW
Connector: 0.78mm 2-pin
In the Box
- NiceHCK NX8
- Detachable 0.78mm 2-pin SPC cable
- Carrying case
- 6x pairs of silicone eartips
- Cleaning brush
- Spare nozzles
- Velcro cable strap
Design
The NX8 has 3D-printed resin shells and starry patterned faceplates with a purple hue. It has standard 0.78mm 2-pin sockets that sit flush with the shell’s surface. Just in front of the 2-pin socket is a pinhole vent.
The NX8 features detachable nozzles, but unlike the NX7 models, which included different tuning filters, this one only comes with an extra pair of standard filters. These are intended as replacements in case the originals become damaged or clogged with ear wax. Interestingly, the documentation claims the NX8 is compatible with tuning filters from other IEMs, but when I tested the nozzles from NiceHCK’s own NX7 MK4, they didn’t fit.
Regarding comfort, the NiceHCK NX8 feels great in my ears and I can wear them for hours at a time. The passive noise isolation is decent, making the NX8 ideal for commuting or noisy environments.
The stock cable combines OCC and SPC wires, offering high-quality materials, though it’s not the most visually striking. It’s available with either a 3.5mm or 4.4mm termination and feels great in use.
Sound
Gear used for testing includes the FiiO KA17, iBasso DX180 and SMSL RAW-MDA1. The NX8 is an efficient IEM so you can use it with any audio source. It’s not picky about what it’s paired with so feel free to plug it straight into a phone or a high-end DAP/amp.
The NiceHCK NX8 offers a balanced sound with a touch of warmth and a sub-bass lift. It leans towards the ‘New Meta’ tuning, which is generally regarded as neutral and natural, with a subtle sub-bass boost and extended yet smooth treble. The NX8 fits that description – I find it slightly coloured, though not far from neutral. True neutral purists might find it less appealing but those who cherish musicality balanced with clarity are sure to appreciate the tuning.
Bass
The NX8’s bass is lifted to a fun level without being overdone. Sub-bass rumbles are visceral and satisfying, hitting with authority and vigour. The mid-bass has ample impact but remains controlled and agile. Bass notes have a slightly blunted attack, adding realism and weight, while swift decays prevent any smearing in the midrange. This makes the NX8 great for movie soundtracks, hip-hop, R&B and EDM, though the bass is versatile enough to work well with all music genres.
MIdrange
The lower midrange inherits some warmth from the bass, giving it a natural warmth and body. Both male and female vocals have good density yet maintain good articulation. It’s an impressive midrange with good body and note size.
Vocals get a vibrant lift without any hint of shoutiness or nasality. Despite the full-bodied presentation of the mids, vocals and instruments sound neutral rather than warm. There’s excellent separation and spaciousness throughout the mids, enhancing their transparency.
Treble
The NX8’s treble is the best I’ve heard from the NX series thus far. I don’t hear any of the brittleness I used to associate with piezoelectric drivers which is a huge plus for me. It’s a treble tuning that sits somewhere in between smooth and zesty; there’s ample energy but no sharpness or sibliance. Treble notes are crisp and well-defined. They have a good speed and natural sheen.
Soundstage & Technicalities
The NiceHCK NX8 showcases solid technical ability with excellent detail retrieval and has no trouble picking up small micro-details. The soundstage is reasonably wide and well-proportioned, with good instrument separation and ample space, preventing congestion even during busy tracks. Imaging and placement of instruments and vocals are precise.
Comparisons
Kiwi Ears KE4 (199 USD)
These two IEMs have similar tuning, closely following the new meta target response. The KE4’s vocals have a little extra fullness and weight, while the NX8 makes them sound more clear and defined. KE4 has more treble extension to balance its extra warmth but both IEMs have excellent perceived clarity and openness, especially in cymbals and hi-hats.
Regarding soundstage, they perform on par with each other but the NX8 has a slight edge in imaging, possibly due to its PZT driver’s precision. The KE4 and NX8 have subtle differences but both are great performers at their shared 199 USD price point. I could happily live with either as a daily driver.
Moondrop Kadenz (189 USD)
The Kadenz has considerably less bass impact and authority but a clearer midrange. Vocals are more forward but I find they can be a bit shouty at times, whereas the NX8 has a more natural presentation. Both IEMs have good treble extension but the treble is more forward on the Kadenz due to its attenuated bass.
Kadenz has a wider soundstage but the NX8 has superior resolution and instrument separation. The Moondrop is ideal for people who like a neutral-bright tonality while the NX8 is suitable for those who prefer a warmer, smoother presentation.
Verdict
The NiceHCK NX8 is a great IEM and, in my opinion, the best in the NX product series to date. The improvements in the piezoelectric driver’s timbre are particularly impressive; the driver now sounds more natural and smooth, without the metallic edge that was present in earlier models.
With its balanced sound signature, slightly warm tonality, and excellent technical performance, the NX8 stands out in its price range. The sub-bass lift, combined with natural-sounding mids and a refined treble, makes this IEM versatile across various genres. Given its comfort, solid build quality, and sonic performance at this price point, I highly recommend it.
