The Tinhifi C5 is a hybrid dual-driver earphone with a unique driver configuration. It has 1SPD (square planar driver) and 1BA. In this review, I’ll be taking the Tinhifi C5 through its paces. It’s priced at $79.
Disclaimer: This sample was provided by HiFiGo for an honest review. All observations and opinions here are my own based on my experience with the product.
Tinhifi C5
Specifications
- Impedance: 9Ω±15%.
- Driver Configuration: 10*10 SPD Planar Driver+ Customised Balanced Armature Driver.
- Frequency Response: 5mW.
- Sensitivity: 101±3dB.
- Frequency Response: 10Hz-20kHz.
- Weight: 4.41 grams(single earpiece).
What’s in the Box
- Tinhifi C5 IEMs
- Detachable 0.78mm 2-pin silver-plated copper cable
- Mesh pouch
- 5x pairs of silicone eartips
- 1x pair of foam eartips
Design
The C5 in-ear monitors (IEMs) feature a sleek, curved design crafted from aviation-grade aluminium alloy. With no sharp edges or straight lines to be found, these IEMs are incredibly comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
Unlike other products that feature prominent branding on their shells, the C5 opts for a minimalist approach, with only small L and R markings to denote the left and right sides. Additionally, the inner side of each shell features two pinhole vents, one of which is located near the base of the elliptical-shaped nozzles.
The included cable is made from braided silver-plated copper and features 0.78mm 2-pin connectors. This lightweight and supple cable offers excellent handling, making it a great choice for everyday use.
Sound
Bass
The bass of the Tinhifi C5 is tight, concise, and has good extension. The SPD driver is capable of producing some compelling deep rumble, which adds depth to the overall sound. The mid-bass has a nice thump and weight to it, but its fast decay ensures that there’s no lingering resonance or smearing.
However, it is worth noting that sometimes the bass can get pushed back in the mix under the glare of the dominant upper midrange, which can affect the overall balance of the sound.
Midrange
The midrange tuning of the Tinhifi C5 is neutral with a boost in the upper ranges. However, the note size is slightly thin, especially in the upper mids. The 2kHz-4kHz area is the most dominant region and sometimes sounds shouty.
The upper registers of a piano can sound piercing, and instruments like trumpets can sound uncomfortably bright and upfront, which negatively affects the overall resolution. While it’s nice to have clarity in the midrange, when it’s pushed too far, it affects the overall presentation. The peaky upper midrange doesn’t lend itself to a coherent sound signature.
Treble
The C5’s treble is crisp and fairly even, with most of the focus placed on the lower treble as it falls off abruptly above 10kHz. Although the quality of the treble itself is quite good, it’s overshadowed by the upper midrange lift. As a result, the treble loses some of its air and extension, and it doesn’t sound as prominent as it could have been.
Soundstage and Technical Performance
C5 has a decent soundstage. It’s not especially wide but it has natural, rounded dimensions. Stereo imaging is average and gives you an idea of instrument positioning but isn’t pinpoint precise. C5 handles instrument separation quite well but the overall resolution deteriorates when there’s a lot of activity in the upper midrange.
Verdict
To summarize, the Tinhifi C5 IEM can be considered a decent entry-level option for those who prioritize a neutral midrange and tight bass response. However, the midrange’s peaky upper region can lead to shoutiness and some listener fatigue.
Moreover, the upper midrange boost overshadows the treble, leading to a reduction in its air and extension. The C5’s soundstage is satisfactory with adequate instrument separation, but the resolution suffers when the upper midrange is busy. Overall, the Tinhifi C5 IEM is decent but hardly compelling enough to justify the price.