FLC Technology - DD21, DD31, DD41
New Single Dynamic Driver IEMs - Impressions
Sharing here some
impressions on the new announced models from FLC Technology using only single
dynamic drivers with a much different design than their previous 8 hybrids
series. They were announced by the end of last year (2018) but surprisingly
haven't reached the international market yet, even from some known China based
distributors. The new models go from DD21, 31, 41, 61 and 71.
Of course they all
arrived with no retail package, just in small plastic bags with the usual FLC
type of ear tips and a small card stating the specifications of each model. In
fact, I'm not sure if these are even the final versions in design or build
quality (and do hope they are not), but at least in terms of sound quality
there should be no changes. As such, I won't comment much on build quality and
design aspects being these demo units, but should focus more in their sound
characteristics.
By a current price
conversion, the prices should go from around U$ 70~80 for the DD21, 110~120 for
the DD31, and ~200+ for the upper DD41. Quite a competitive price for each
model yet relatively affordable compared to the previous 8 series.
As can be seen the three
models differ a bit in their specifications. The frequency response is the most
standard to be found on an earphone, just 20Hz~20kHz, and the usual cable
length. The sensitivity is just below the 100dB mark and while the impedance is
mostly normal they do require a bit extra volume to sound comfortable enough.
More interesting are the
drivers implemented in each model. The 2 lower options, DD21 and D31, have
8.6mm drivers. Not sure if it's the exact same driver but differently tuned,
though. However, the 8S and 8D and 8N also utilize a 8.6mm drivers for their
dynamic part, and while the newer 'D' and 'N' might have a different driver
than the original 'S' version, it wouldn't be surprising if the DD 21 and 31
share those exact ones. Actually, the bass presentation is similar on both and
do share strong similarities with the 8S and 8N.
For the DD41, the driver
is supposed to be a larger 10mm driver, which sounds different than the 8
series and better than the 21 or 31 here.
The design is identical
on the 3 DD models. A small round disc shaped shell with a bit angled nozzle.
They're meant for over-ear wearing, although can be used with the cable down if
someone insists. They only differ in the faceplate color/design. The nozzle has
not much of length so the fit is very shallow and the half in-ear like form
factor lowers the isolation to below average, and there also a few vents on the
inner part.
A good thing is that all
are still using the same detachable cable connection of 2-pin 0.78 plugs like
the 8N (and not as tight as the 8S). The cables here are different. The 21 uses
a simpler cable which consists of 2 strands stick together (something found on
much cheaper earphones), rather thick and not very easy to handle, a bit
springy but not noisy. The 31 and 41 use a thinner cable but way much more
comfortable than the 21, and won't mind saying they're more friendly than the
8s and 8n cables, regardless having the upper models a 'better' wire. They are
compact, soft and easy to wear around the ears. The connection is very decent
to the earpieces sockets too. Again, this might change on the retail version
(if there're any).
Comfort wise, they all
are around average, lightweight with a low profile fit but not the easiest to
get a seal with.
Sound Impressions
As for what sound
matters, the 3 models approach a different presentation but share more or less a
lively signature. The DD21 and DD31 have a similar sound quality level so could
be compared together, while the DD41 goes noticeable higher. Let's say that for
their price the 21 and 31 score an average rate, while the 41 is a much better
deal, at least in sound quality alone, competing with the better options around
the $200 price mark.
Portable players used, the
iBasso DX120, Aune M1s and small Lotoo Pico. Earphones for comparison, final
E4000, iBasso IT01, Dunu Falcon and own FLC 8s and 8n among others.
Starting from the D21,
it has a more v-shaped sound but with a narrow presentation. It is not that the
midrange is distant per se but rather about being the lows and highs boosted
and forward giving a more aggressive sound. The bass is not particularly large
in amount and also has its limitations in extension and layering. Mid-bass,
while more elevated, maintains a good balance with the sub-bass, and upper-bass
doesn't blend much into the midrange. Aside from being less forward, the
midrange is not thin sounding if a bit dry. However, it sounds rather closed
and lacks separation and air with an average resolution. Treble is not really
sharp or hot though shares a similar limitation in the upper extension, having
more emphasis on the lower treble.
The DD31 at its higher
price goes also a bit better sound quality. It technically sounds more coherent
and natural than the 21. It does also require a higher volume level over the
DD21; about 10 steps more out of the DX120. Sound is darker and smoother in
comparison with a more even bass response and bit more control. While extension
is not really further it does sound less congested and more effortless. Mids
are thicker and fuller; detail is not really higher, but being less v-shaped it
has more presence. Treble is more laid-back and smoothest here among the three.
In comparison, the iBasso IT01 has more powerful bass and thinner midrange with
more sparkly and energetic treble, but also wider stage and higher resolution
with better extension on both ends.
As mentioned, the DD41
is the real deal among these 3 FLC models. A larger 10mm dynamic driver with a
much better sound quality that seems more competent on its ~$200 price tag.
Build quality and design aside, it could easily compete with the Falcon-C, ADV
GT3 or B400, and wouldn't fall too far from the own FLC 8s. The signature is more
of a wide u-shaped sound with more extended lows and highs but by sounding
wider and more open it leaves a good place for the midrange. Bass is strong and
well controlled, tight with good sub to mid-bass balance. Speed is good (not as
fast as the GT3 and Falcon-C) with a slower natural decay and very good
dynamics. The midrange is clear, no bass bleed whatsoever, with a rich and
sweeter texture. There is clean instrument separation and weight on them, and
vocals sound rather natural. Overall it's thicker and fuller than the Falcon-C
or GT3, and more airy and spacious than the B400. Treble has good balance and
extends nicely, not peaky while not reserved either, and with the open design
it sounds more open with a wider stage than average. If a final retail design
and overall build quality would be improved to match its suggested price tag,
then the DD41 could be a very strong offer from FLC without resorting to their
multiple tuning system or hybrid setup, but simply with a good sounding single
driver.