Letshuoer S12 PRO

Disclaimer: Thanks to Letshuoer for supplying this unit; however, it's crucial to note that my review remains unbiased and impartial.

Summary:
To summarize the review, this is a170USD 14.8mm planar driver iem with good accessory package for the price. In terms of sound tonality this has a V shape signature, its clean with top end energy and sparkle, and good low dnd. This is the evolution/ refined version of the original S12, with smoother upper midrange and slight boost in the sub bass region

Sound signature: V shape

Overview
Letshuoer S12 pro is a planar iem with a 14.8mm planar magnetic driver. It has impedence of 16ohms and sensitivity of 102db. This comes in at 170USD.
Letshuoer as a brand is good, they have a good track record, so far each of their recent releases got a lot of hype. S12 pro is my first letshuoer I have owned and extensively used. Other than this s12 pro, I have tried the limited Z12gold, previous planar s12 and their triple dynamic driver set, DZ4. Coming to the S12 pro, I had high expectations and it fulfilled it.

Packaging/ Box Contents:
The packaging is tastefully done price considered. Included accessories are pretty good.
Cable: its a 2pin cable with interchangeable terminations 2.5/3.5/4.4mm.
3 sets of eartips, a set of foam and two sets of silicone. Quality is good.
The iems itself
Papers


Build and Design
Let’s start with S12 pro’s build, spoiler: its solid.The shells are made of CNC machined aluminum. The shells have nice weight to them, feels fairly substantial in the hands. The shells are small sized. This has the classic semi custom iem shape. The face plate design is plain, with a protrusion under the 2pin connector. Fingerprints were not an issue due to its matte finish but not so confident about scratches though. The 2 pin connector is flush type. The nozzle is width is medium but the length seems a bit short in my case, as the insertion was not as deep. Score: 4/5



Fit and Comfort
Moving on to the fit and comfort section, it is great. The shells sit nice and flush in my regular sized ears. Fortunately due to the lipped nozzle the eartips sit securely. Fit stability is ok, because of the shorter nozzle length the insertion is not as deep. Breathability is good. It is quite comfortable for longr listening sessions. In terms of passive noise isolation its under performing in my case due the shorter nozzle length. Score: 4.75/5

Cable
Talking about the cable it is one of the best if not the best in this price, I can nof say for sure but looks very similar to their letshuoer x Zreviews Chimera cable. This 392 strands of silver plated copper wire with 4 core construction. The pvc coating seems good. This uses a 0.78mm 2pin connector and has swappable terminations. Connectors and the Y split are made of aluminum.There is no audible microphonics. Cable memory is basic, but a bit more softer cable would have been great. The preformed earhooks are ok, they blend in with the color of the cable and did not cause any skin irritation. Cable weight and thickness is standard. In terms of looks this goes nicely with the blue color of the iems. Score: 5/5

Tested With
Source: cayin ru7, fiio btr5, apple type c dongle
Eartips: spinfit w1 (best pairing), spinfit sp145, Divinus velvet, Final E, stock foam, stock silicone.
Cable: stock
Music: Tested with versatile genre of music

Sound tonality
Bass
Let’s talk about S12 pro’s bass performance, spoiler: its great.
The bass is handled by its single full range planar driver. This has the classic planar bass characteristics which I personally enjoy with electronic and rock music. Transition from sub bass to mid bass is fairly linear with a very mild elevation from the mid bass. Sub bass hit has good slam and rumble. Mid bas is tactile. Overall speed is fast. Bass note separation is good and bass texture is decent. I quite enjoyed its speed and tactility including with its definition. Score: 4.75/5



Mids
To summarize the mids performance its clean and neutral.
Transition from mid bass to the mids is mostly linear. Male vocals sound thick and lush,I did not find any mushiness. Female vocals are clean and crisp. Although I would say male vocals have better body than female vocals. There is a good sense of air present in the female vocals and carried over to the instruments section. Talking about the instruments it retains decent level of detail without being too analytical. The upper mid range is smooth unlike several planars, including its predecessor, S12. I must say the balance between detail and smoothness is amazing in the mids, specially the female vocals. Score: 4/5

Highs
Going over to the treble section of the S12 pro, as a whole it is musical, fast and detailed.
Treble section is elevated significantly from neutral giving it V shape signature.. This is not the most analytical type of treble but rather musical. Details are crisp. I personally find this V tuning quite tasteful and it goes quite well with my library. S12 pro’s treble is quite accurate/ transparent without being offensive or aggressive in any way. Note weight is decent. This has good resolving capabilities. I enjoyed its sense of air/ spaciousness with live tracks. It has amazing speed and energy. Detail retrieval is above average. In certain circumstances its treble sounds a bit thin. As mentioned already sibilance or harshness is not an issue here, so this will be good choice for treble sensitive listeners who still want good details. Score: 4/5


technicalities (score: 4.5/5)
Soundstage: above average, it’s fairly wide, has reasonable forward backward depth. It does not reach far out the headspace.
Imaging: above average
Dynamics: good
Sound separation: solid
Resolution: good

Comparison with the original S12
I will keep this short as there is not much to it, basically this is a refined version of the original S12. This comes in a prettier color, modular cable and improved sound. Sub bass is slightly elevated and the upper mids is tamer, thus it’s quite a bit smoother. This was a complain against the s12 that a lot of people including me found it a bit fatiguing and I am glad that they fixed it.



Conclusion
If you are looking for a good budget friendly planar set, this is a good option in its price range. Personally I have not tried ghee hidiz mp145 yet so I do not know how it compares. If you are looking to upgrade from the original s12, this is not it. Thanks to Letshuoer for providing this unit.

Disclaimer:​

The Letshuoer S12 Pro was sent to me as a review sample from Ivy from LETSHUOER, for which I thank!


You might be thinking that I’m a little late, in fact, you’re right.


I am very happy to have had the opportunity to try another planar IEM like the Letshuoer S12 Pro, and I will make a comparison with the other planar models I own.


The price has dropped significantly given the imminent release of the new model, but I think it’s still worth talking about.


However, the review will still be 100% honest and, in no way biased.


I’m not an audiophile; I’m just a guy that likes to test out different IEMs and DACs and spends a lot of time listening to music.


So I’m not going to use super-technical words to review it, but I will do my best to describe it.

Tech Specs:​

• Sensitivity 102db
• Distortion 0.5% ±0.1%
• Impedance 16Ω±1Ω
• Connector 0.78 dual pin
• Jack 2.5mm / 3.5mm / 4.4mm swappable
• Chassis material Aluminum alloy
• Machining process CNC
• Driver Planar magnetic 14.8mm
• Frequency response 20-20kHz
• Cable 392-strands monocrystalline copper

Packaging:​

The box of the Letshuoer S12 Pro is quite simple but very robust. All in thick cardboard protects and presents the product correctly.


The range of accessories is surprising:

• Modular cable with 3 adapters: 2.5mm / 3.5mm / 4.4mm
• 3 sets of 6 tips each: 1 Memory foam, 1 standard and 1 transparent ear tips.
• Faux leather carrying case
• Manuals, warranty and quality control

We find 3 types of tips for a total of 18 tips of very good quality, so you will hardly need to buy them separately. The modular cable is incredibly comfortable, I had never tried one thinking they were too delicate but I have to admit that this included one has excellent quality! The interchangeable jacks are definitively convenient. They can switch between connectors in less than 3 seconds and change sources just as quickly.


The cable is just a little too stiff but otherwise I love it!

Design/Build quality:​

As with the DZ4, the S12 Pro also has excellent build quality; there is a lot of attention to detail in the product and in its presentation. The shell is made of CNC-machined aluminum with a purple/blue color and some shiny, rounded edges. The shape is definitely more compact than I would have expected. Inside, we find a huge 14.8mm planar driver, probably the largest possible. The nozzle is of normal size, perhaps a little shorter than it should be. On the body, we find two holes for ventilation and pressure relief, one near the pin and the other on the inside of the headset.

Ventings and pin connectors
“LETSHUOER S12 PRO’s chassis design is a continuation of the predecessor. Multiple vent holes on both sides are effective in alleviating negative pressure build up within the ear canal, and thus protecting the hearing. The independent rear acoustic chamber design makes channel matching to be more consistent. In terms of sound performance, the structural design of the front and rear acoustic chamber effectively discharges the pressure inside the chassis, thereby attaining a more natural sound.”


The only problem encountered with the Letshuoer S12 Pro is due to the rigidity of the cable and the bend that the cable has around the ear, which in my case pushes the headphones outwards. I am therefore forced to use the included tips similar to the Kbear 07 in large size. The other tips in the set, having a smaller hole, sacrifice the soundstage, while the foam ones take away detail but are recommended if the highs bother you.

Comfort/Fit:​

As mentioned previously, the Letshuoer S12 Pro cable is a little stiff and forces you to position it in the ear a little, but if you find the correct position, they are very light, and you don’t even feel like you are wearing them. The shape of the shell does not bother me at all, as it is much smaller than expected. The Hidizs MP145, for example, is much larger and heavier. As for the isolation from external noise, it is not as total as on other IEMs, but they still isolate reasonably well. With Divinus Tips, you can improve a lot.

Initial sound impression:​

When you experience the sound of the planar driver you will find it hard to go back! The Letshuoer S12 pro also puts a large and detailed soundstage in front of you. No frequency overpowers the others so clearly as to make them secondary. I immediately felt the difference with the Hidizs MP145 where I will dedicate a detailed comparison later.

Final sound impression:​

Equipment used for testing above.


Device:

• iMac
• Redmi Note 7 Snapdragon
• Poco M4 Pro Mediatek

Software:

• Foobar2000 24bit 192khz (iMac)
• Amazon music UHD 24bit 96khz (Both)
• Tidal Hifi Plus

DAC:

• Less Da1 (AK)
• Less Da2 (AK)
• F.audio KS01 (ESS)
• EPZ TP20 3.5 mm (Dual Cirrus)
• Hidizs S9 Pro Plus (ESS): Most Used
• EPZ TP30 (ESS)

My impressions are given using mostly the original accessories.


Unlike many other planar drivers that require a lot of power, Letshuoer has managed to make them easily to drive, even with DACs with 3.5mm output. You can easily use the phone directly, given its only 16 ohms and 102 db sensitivity. However, if you want to squeeze 100%, using a balanced output is always recommended.


They sounded good right out of the box, But I still did about 60 hours of burn-in.


The Letshuoer S12 Pro has exactly the speed and low distortion typical of planar drivers. The resolution is very high, the image is extremely sharp and precise, rich in macro and micro details, and perhaps you can slightly feel (sometimes) the famous cold note of the planar drivers, but only a slight sensation.


The sound is neither cold nor warm but well balanced to give the correct tone. Once you’ve tried some planars, and I don’t mean that rubbish of the KZ PR2 V2, which doesn’t even seem like a similar driver compared to these,

Tips Rolling?​

Out of curiosity I wanted to try different tips from those included. In my case I used the Divinus velvet ones which have a slightly elongated shape and significantly improve the angle compared to the ones included. The insertion is probably also decidedly deeper and I must say you can feel the difference.


The improvements range from superior comfort to even fuller bass but also the soundstage opens up considerably. I recommend you experiment with all the tips you have at home on every IEM you own.


Personally I think the tips included don’t do it justice in some cases.

Divinus tips + S12 ProShape and shadowsReally compact shellGood angleBreathing holeFaceplateCompact and ergonomicNormal size nozzleFilters1 Focus labeling2 Focus on venting3 Focus on nozzle

Bass​

The bass is fast, precise, detailed. Their consistency is consistent enough to make you perceive a vague sensation of enveloping without overpowering the other frequencies. The Sub-bass is also well represented and is only noticeable if the track really requires it.

Mids​

Even with regards to medium frequencies the Letshourer S12 Pro does an excellent job. Here too we have crystal clarity that allows us to capture all the nuances of the voices and musical instruments. The shade is correct, it appears slightly warm. There is also a certain airiness and brilliance.

Treble​

High frequencies are well represented by planar drivers. The S12 Pro works very well; the highs are bright, and the tonality is correct. In my case, I think they are slightly borderline and could be tiring after about an hour. This occurs faster if you like to listen to loud music. Good amount of macro and micro details.

Soundstage and Imaging​

The Letshuoer S12 Pro soundstage is wide, but not as wide as I would have expected. To describe it a little more precisely, the sound is not excessively expanded but maintains a natural shape that is more than enough to allow you to hear the direction each sound is coming from.


Obviously you could certainly ask for more from a planar driver. The image is very clear and full of detail, you will have no problem identifying each instrument, layering here is pretty rich.


It could have been done better? Probably for an Planar IEM from a year ago this result was excellent, indeed it is still excellent. As with all technology, just one month’s can make a huge difference.

Comparison:​

Vs Hifiman He400Se




The Hifiman He400Se, for being over ear headphones and considering their price, are certainly entry level ones to definitely take into consideration. Being openback they may not appeal to everyone, personally I find that there is a lot of dispersion outside the headphones which doesn’t happen with IEMs. As for the sound they are much warmer but quiet across the entire sound spectrum. I will do a detailed review later.


vs Hidizs MP145




The Hidizs MP145 is decidedly more recent than the Letshuoer S12 Pro, and the solutions adopted by the latter make it particularly different from all the other IEMs currently on the market. Their particular construction and pressure damping system can be felt, especially with regard to low frequencies, which discharge their pressure externally and not inside the ear canal. The result is a sound that cuddles you and a bass that envelops you in a truly remarkable soundstage.


Keep in mind that the size of the MP145 is important; the nozzle is considered by several users to be large. The Letshuoer S12 Pro is practically the opposite and therefore suitable for everyone.


It must be admitted that a very light driver flex is felt, similar to what happens on the He400se.

Conclusion:​

In every aspect, the Letshuoer S12 Pro planars that were introduced over a year ago are superb. On the planar driver side, the market is getting more competitive, prices are dropping, and the level is rising each month. These days, you can purchase sets for just more than 100 euros that were unimaginable only a few years ago. I’ll say it again: once you go planar, there’s no turning back. You get speed, clarity, clear images, and spacious soundstages. The S12 Pro is brighter and has a few more details than the MP145, which stays in the comfort zone. They’re totally different!


I personally slightly prefer the Hidizs MP145, but a italian friend of mine who is equally expert in the audio sector clearly prefers the Letshuoer S12 Pro. That said, it really depends on personal taste, but both are excellent pairs, and given the price, the S12 Pro deserves a place in my reference collection. Honestly, the S12 Pro and the MP145 complement each other, so if you have the opportunity, both should be tried.


There are also numerous S12 fans out there but unfortunately I haven’t had the opportunity to try the previous version and compare them with the Pro.


I’m extremely curious about the new S15 that will be released soon. I think 2024 we will see a lot of planars!

Where to buy?​

LETSHUOER S12 PRO- Magnetic planar earphones Hi-Fi planar in ear monitors for audiopiles and music lovers

General Information:​

LETSHUOER S12 PRO utilizes a custom 14.8mm large-diaphragm driver with great details retrieval, punchy bass and clear trebles. 102db high sensitivity means that it can be easily driven to volume, be it a cell phone or dongle DACs, LETSHUOER S12 PRO will sound optimal pairing with most source/amps. LETSHUOER S12 PRO comes with a stock cable that is constructed with silver-plated monocrystalline copper, and four 98-strand cores are then weaved together. It is terminated in standard 0.78mm dual pin connectors, and the other end is a swappable jack with 2.5mm / 3.5mm /4.4mm jacks. This system will work with a great amount of source gears and IEMs. Magnetic planar earphones Hi-Fi planar in ear monitors for audiophiles and music lovers.

What's inside the box?
LETSHUOER S12 PRO IEMs.
Three pairs of black-colored memory foam ear tips.
Three pairs of black-colored narrow-bored ear tips.
Three pairs of transparent, balanced-bored ear tips.
Faux-leather case
Modular cable
A 3.5mm termination plug adapter.
A 4.4mm termination plug adapter.
A 2.5mm termination plug adapter.
Supporting documents such as an instruction manual, QC certification, warranty card, and contact card.
A product catalogue booklet.

Packaging is medium in size and inside is a everything I could need for an IEM. I found the shells to be well made and all metal build, they are on the smaller side so fit should not be a problem. I found the comfort and isolation to be very good.

Sound Impressions:
Bass:
The S12 Pro presents with a with a speedy and detailed attack, it sounds almost dynamic, impact is well defined but not very powerful, both the Sub and Mid-Bass have decent weight, and texture, although Mid is more prominent. The Bass in general has an almost neutral feeling at times to the overall bass performance but there is no mistake Bass has a good punch albeit with a rapid decay.

Mids:
Midrange is very clear and forward centered. Vocals have decent body, but male vocals have more weight to them.
The Mids themselves are very well defined and mildly there is a hint of warmth, with a fine texture and pleasant details. I found them not shouty and no harshness.

Treble:
The highs are crisp and detailed without over extending. They have a nice amount of openness and balance.
No harshness up here and just a perfect example of good tuning. Treble sensitive should be able to tolerate this well.

Soundstage:
Stage is wide open, and you can pinpoint things easily even on busy songs, it has good depth and height as well. The separation of each instrument is clearly noticeable. The technicalities in general are much better than most in this price range.

Afterthoughts:
The Lestshuoer S12 Pro is an instant classic and favorite. An enjoyable and very competent IEM most people should try for sure. It is well made and comfortable with excellent accessories.