In this article, I’m reviewing the Simgot EA1000 Fermat IEMs. The EA1000 features a single dynamic driver and SPGD (Sputter Deposition Purple-Gold Diaphragm) technology. It’s priced at $219.
Disclaimer: This sample was provided by Simgot for an honest review. All observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product.
Simgot EA1000 Fermat
Specifications
Driver: Dynamic + Passive Radiator
Impedance: 16 ohms
Sensitivity: 127 db/mW
Frequency response range: 10 – 50000Hz
In the Box
- Simgot EA1000 IEMs
- Detachable 0.78mm 2-pin SPC Litz cable
- 3 sets of tuning filters
- 6x pairs of silicone eartips
- Carrying case
- Bag of spare filter o-rings
Design
The EA1000 has stainless steel housings, similar to several other Simgot IEM models. What sets these apart is the passive radiator visible on the inner shells. According to Simgot, this passive radiator improves bass texture and ambient dispersion and generates subtle vibrations and reflections for improved overall bass response.
The white faceplates have a delicate gold pattern and the Simgot logo covered by a glass panel. Combined with the polished stainless steel shells, the faceplates give the EA1000 an elegant and sophisticated appearance.
An additional 2 pinhole vents on the inner side of the housings prevent pressure build-up. The nozzles are detachable filters and simply screw into place. For the connectors, Simgot has chosen the standard 0.78mm 2-pin format.
The included SPC Litz cable not only handles well but it’s beautiful too. The aluminium foil shielding glistens in the light, along with the polished silver components and gold chin slider.
Sound
Gear used for testing includes the SMSL DO300EX, HiBy R3 II and xDuoo XD05 BAL2. The EA1000 is easy to drive and doesn’t require any special source.
EA1000 comes to the table with a large soundstage and a satisfying but tame bass. On the first listen, you’ll notice the clarity, the speedy transients and the shimmering, crispy highs. It has a balanced sound signature with forward mids and striking treble extension.
Bass
The EA1000 has a slight boost in the bass, lending it an agile characteristic that keeps bass notes tight and controlled. The inclusion of the passive radiator proves advantageous, imparting a notable depth and authority to what might otherwise be perceived as a lighter bass rendition.
The bass showcases commendable layering and speed, delivering ample sub-bass rumble when the music calls for it. Nevertheless, in genres like hip-hop and electronic music, there are moments where a touch more low-end power would be appreciated. While the bass quality remains excellent, those with a penchant for deeper bass tones might want to explore alternative options.
Midrange
The EA1000’s midrange embodies a blend of ethereal lightness and density. Its transparent, nuanced nature allows for an expansive and spacious sound, unveiling intricate details with finesse. Despite this airy quality, the vocals take centre stage, almost intimately drawing the listener into their world.
The midrange excels in clarity and articulation, presenting a lifelike tonality that’s vivid and engaging. While its portrayal of vocals is captivating, male vocal depth could use a touch more richness for a more resonant and immersive experience.
Treble
The treble of the EA1000 stands out for its ethereal, crystalline quality, imparting a profound impact on the overall audio presentation. It serves as a linchpin, expanding the soundstage and meticulously revealing intricate details with precision. What truly sets it apart is its adeptness at delivering musical nuances while maintaining a velvety smoothness, ensuring a fatigue-free character.
Furthermore, the EA1000’s treble extension is remarkable, effortlessly reaching into the ether. This extension is instrumental in enriching the overall clarity and capturing the most subtle textural layers within the music. Cymbals shine with a natural, shimmering brilliance, introducing a layer of luminosity and resonance with their distinctive, lingering tones.
Soundstage & Technicalities
The EA1000 delivers an expansive soundstage, creating a roomy and spacious feel that surrounds you with music. Despite this airy vibe, it maintains a solid, dense quality that keeps the sound full-bodied.
When it comes to positioning, it’s spot-on. You can pinpoint where each instrument sits within this broad soundstage, making the music feel more realistic and engaging. Plus, it separates instruments cleanly, letting you hear each part clearly without them getting muddled together.
Comparisons
Moondrop KATO
The Moondrop KATO (review here) has single dynamic drivers. Right away, we can see similarities in the graph. This is the reason why KATO has been on my best IEMs list since I reviewed it. It sounds a lot like the EA1000 but it costs even less.
That’s not the end of the comparison though. KATO has slightly more sub-bass emphasis and less lift in the presence region. This results in KATO having a subtly darker tone with less articulate vocals. Moreover, some instruments like strings and brass are less sonorous on KATO.
KATO has less treble extension and denser treble notes, resulting in a less expansive soundstage. In terms of resolution and detail retrieval, the EA1000 performs slightly better.
Kiwi Ears Quintet
The Kiwi Ears Quintet (review here) has 4 types of drivers (a DLC dynamic driver, 2 balanced armature drivers, a planar magnetic driver, and a piezoelectric bone conductor) and has the same $219 price tag as the EA1000.
Quintet has more bass boost, mostly in the sub-bass region but then it has significantly less mid-bass. Furthermore, its lower midrange is more recessed, giving it leaner male vocals and less note depth.
Quintet’s leaner midrange is offset somewhat by less upper midrange lift but it still has a brighter overall tonality than the EA1000, despite its elevated sub-bass. Quintet’s stage position is more neutral, so vocals are a little less intimate.
In terms of resolution, I’d put the Quintet slightly ahead but the EA1000 has a more natural tone, due to its warmer lower midrange.
Verdict
In conclusion, the Simgot EA1000 Fermat is an outstanding IEM that impresses you as soon as you open the box. It looks great, has excellent build quality and delivers a high-fidelity yet grounded and natural sound. This one is a no-brainer for anyone buying an IEM around the $200 mark and gets our recommended award, in addition to a spot on our best IEMs list.