In this review, I’m checking out the Sivga M200 earbuds. The M200 features a 15.4mm dynamic driver and an inline microphone. It’s priced at $49.

Although not as popular in the enthusiast crowd as in-ear monitors (IEMs) earbuds are still a popular choice for many people. There are also groups of hardcore earbuds fans who are every bit as passionate as their headphone/IEM counterparts.

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

Sivga M200

Specifications

• Driver Units Φ 15.4mm
• Impedance 32Ω
• Frequency Response 20 – 20KHz
• Sensitivity 114dB
• Microphone Sensitivity -42dB
• Weight 24g
• Price $49

What’s In the Box

• Sivga M200 earbuds
• Zipper carrying case
• 2x pairs of donut foam eartips
• 1x pair of silicone earhooks
• Shirt clip

Design

The main body of the M200 is made from aviation-grade aluminium alloy while the front mesh cover is made from stainless steel. Don’t worry though: despite the rugged materials used, the earbuds weigh just 24g.

The high-purity silver-plated copper cable is non-detachable but is of good quality and handles well. All of the components such as the plug, Y-split and even the microphone are made from the same champagne-coloured aluminium alloy as the earbuds. There’s a chin slider too that improves the cable’s handling even more.

The cable can be worn down in the traditional style or over-ear. Whether or not you use the included silicone ear hooks is entirely optional. I find the M200 to be a very comfortable earbud. The M200 feels stable in my ears, especially with the foam covers on (feel free to wear them nude if that’s your thing though).

Sound

Gear used for testing includes the xDuoo Link2 Bal, Yulong Aurora and Shanling UP5.

The Sivga M200 has a warm presentation with a focus on the mid-bass and lower midrange. The star of the show here is the midrange which has an inviting, natural quality. You get the typical expansive soundstage that earbuds are known for along with a stable centre image and nice density.

Bass

The mid-bass is boosted, giving the M200 fairly meaty, punchy lows. Meanwhile, the sub-bass is somewhat rolled off and while the extension is good, it produces a fairly light rumble. Needless to say, bassheads may be left wanting unless it’s mid-bass impact that you crave. However, the tone of the bass is pleasing, as is the balance it strikes with the mids and treble.

Midrange

There’s ample warmth in the mids without making them too thick. Some of this is carried over from the upper bass but there’s minimal bass bleed in the middle bands. Vocals are rich and full-bodied. Instruments sound clean and textured but most importantly, they sound natural. Vocal and acoustic music is where the M200 performs its best thanks to the excellent midrange performance.

Treble

The treble might seem unremarkable but it plays a key role in forming the M200’s organic timbre. It’s never strident or sharp but it brings clarity to the overall sound and delivers ample detail retrieval. While it’s never harsh, I never found it to be lacking in energy either.

Soundstage and Technicalities

You can’t really talk about earbuds without discussing soundstage and the M200 delivers it in spades. It’s expansive and wide and sounds often reach far outside of the headspace. So don’t be surprised if you find yourself spinning around looking for a sound before you realize it’s coming from the earbuds. In addition to the size of the stage, the M200 creates a stable centre image. Vocals and instruments have good density and the imaging is good to boot.

Verdict

The Sivga M200 is sure to surprise you with its natural tone, large soundstage and strong imaging. It has great audio quality for the price along with robust metal shells and a good cable. It might be especially tempting for anyone who wants an inline microphone as well. If you’re an earbuds fan or just curious to try something different, this one is a no-brainer.