UCOTECH ES-P3

UCOTECH ES-P3 review featured

In this article, I review the UCOTECH ES-P3 earbuds. The ES-P3 features full-metal housings, MMCX connectors and a large 15.4mm double-dome dynamic driver. It’s priced at 269 USD.

Founded in 2007, UCOTECH is a Korean brand with earbuds deeply rooted in its history, beginning with the launch of the ES103. As the company grows, they are eager to showcase their high-quality audio products to a broader audience.

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

UCOTECH ES-P3
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UCOTECH ES-P3

Specifications

Cavity: Full Metal Housing
Driver: 15.4mm double-dome dynamic driver
Frequency response: 20 ~ 40,000Hz
Impedance: 165Ω
Sensitivity: 100dB/mW
Cable type: MMCX detachable 4.4mm balanced
Cable info: OCC 6N 4-core silver-plated

In the Box
  • UCOTECH ES-P3 earbuds
  • Detachable SPC MMCX cable
  • Silicone rings
  • Silicone rings with stabilizers
  • Foam covers
  • Zipper carrying case
UCOTECH ES-P3 design

Design

The ES-P3 earbuds are made from aluminium and stainless steel, giving them a premium feel in the hand. The stem of the earbuds combined with the metal MMCX connectors make for a rather lengthy neck – for context, it’s about 11mm longer than the neck on the FiiO FF5.

Internally, the ES-P3 boasts a 15.4mm double-dome dynamic driver and UCOTECH’s U-Turbo system that enhances the flow of air within the enclosure where the “midrange and bass are enriched, and high notes are softened.”

ES-P3 stock SPC cable

The stock 4-core silver-plated OCC cable is nice. It looks and feels like a high-end custom IEM cable. It’s got some serious girth but it handles beautifully and never feels cumbersome. All of the cable components are metal, including the chin slider.

ES-P3 earbuds

Sound

Gear used for testing includes the iBasso DX180, Cayin RU6 and SMSL DO300EX. With a 165Ω impedance and 100dB sensitivity, the ES-P3 demands a more powerful source than typical earbuds or IEMs. I recommend using at least a dongle DAC with 120mW or more of output power.

The first thing that stood out with the ES-P3 is its excellent clarity. It delivers a neutral-bright sound with a focus on the upper midrange and lower treble. Vocals shine with impressive timbre and presence. The instrument separation is strong, and low distortion contributes to its overall resolution. Like most earbuds, the ES-P3 offers a wide, open soundstage, yet it retains impressive note density and solidity.

However, there’s a noticeable issue—a significant 5kHz peak that makes certain instruments, like brass and the upper registers of pianos, sound harsh and fatiguing. While this peak isn’t always a problem, on tracks like Ludovico Einaudi’s Indaco, it causes serious discomfort. Yet, I can listen to Soen’s entire Tellurian album without any issues.

The bass is fast and controlled, with no signs of bloat or muddiness. While there’s not much impact, that’s typical of earbuds like these. Sub-bass is also minimal, with lower notes often going almost unnoticed. Needless to say, these aren’t tuned for those seeking deep, hard-hitting lows but will appeal more to fans of the midrange.

The treble is smooth and inoffensive, offering a crisp and shimmery quality that complements the bass and midrange without introducing sharpness. While it’s not the most resolving or precise, it adds air and spaciousness to the sound. The trade-off, however, is a lack of micro-detail retrieval in favour of overall smoothness.

ES-P3 rear shells

Verdict

The UCOTECH ES-P3 has a premium build and an excellent stock cable. Its clean, pristine sound signature works well with a wide range of music, though the sharp 5kHz peak can occasionally be problematic. Still, if you enjoy tight bass and articulate, accurate vocals within a spacious soundstage, this could be a great fit for you.

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