Driveability
The M has a rated mechanical impedance of 32 ohms with a sensitivity rating of 107dB/mW @ 1kHz. The M bears standard efficiency ratings, with a standard dongle/DAC amp providing adequate amplification on an unbalanced SE.
However, balanced outs on ‘true’ dongle/DAC amps (My Truthears Nova) result in an observable leap in performance. The PM1 driver sounds tauter and stiffer: a result of a higher damping factor, where a low impedance output paired with driving power results in a more disciplined control over the driver.
While power is not necessary for day-to-day usage, I would strongly consider using a dedicated source with a capable output stage.
Comparisons
ODA Amarantine
Introduction
ODA (One Dot Audio) is a relative unknown in the industry. Born in the techno-hub of China, Shenzhen, ODA is an ambitious brand looking to cement itself as a key player in a marketplace that is bursting with new releases every few weeks. Jason, the creative mind behind the ODA moniker, believes in tuning or engineering IEMs built for purpose, and by purpose, I mean virtually any genre one throws at it.
Today, we’re reviewing what is currently their most expensive IEM, the Amarantine. Featuring 5 balanced armatures and a paltry 8-ohm mechanical impedance rating, the Amarantine is a balanced-armature purist. The Amarantine is priced at 399 USD and isn’t too far off the M. Let’s see how they fare against one another, mano e mano.
Sound
The Amarantine exclusively relies on an array of 5 balanced armatures, so ‘bass’ texturing lacks the physicality and visceral speed that dynamic drivers have. However, the Amarantine has a deep and bulbous bass response that travels deeply down into the 50hZ region. Thick, luscious but detailed. The macrodynamic slam and micro-detail retrieval on the M is two steps ahead, with a more engaging mid-bass punch, sub-bass elevation and the sensation of displaced air.
Midrange performance on the Amarantine and the M bears some stark resemblances, with a steep elevation in the upper-mids. The Amarantine has a smoother, more consistent presentation that could be described as velvety yet forward, with timbral performance being the star of the show. The M is much more assertive in the upper middle range, where sparkle and air are presented in a hyperbolic and grandiose manner. The downside to this is the dilution of the lower midrange, thinning the entire presentation and an increased frequency in sibilance.
However, the M’s treble section is incredibly resolving, displaying the rapid ability to respond to sudden changes in amplitude, with lightning-fast transients. In comparison, the Amarantine’s slower PRAT lacks the speed and sparkle that makes synths and wind instruments zing.
Lateral soundstage width and headroom on the Amarantine is more expansive, with better L-R channel separation. The M has a novel in-your-head presentation, where music is presented inwardly for a more intimate albeit engaging presentation. The separation between instruments and voicings is fairly similar, with above-average layering and imaging. On this front, it’s a tie.
Conclusive Remarks
Project M is Dita Audio’s grounded approach to crafting a wallet-friendly IEM that eschews the Dita Audio house sound. Price notwithstanding, the M is a labour of love rivalling its costlier predecessors, in its innovative design, gorgeous accessories package and masterful sonic performance. The M is a taste of the audiophile high-life, without breaking the 1000 USD ceiling.
With arguably the most successful interpretation of a U-shaped sound signature, from its fully realised bass response and treble sparkle, the M is a cowboy in an infinite sea of harman-response tuned IEMs.
Creative destruction is the process of revolutionising what is old, leaving the past behind. In an industry plagued by conformity and non-change, I hope the M is the firecracker that bucks the curse of stagnation.
Specifications
