At a time when the audio market is flooded with countless options, starting a new audio company requires boldness and innovation. If you want to stand out, you need to either offer something superior or come up with something truly unique. The ooopusX OP.24 in-ear monitors (IMs) from company X aim to do just that. Priced at just $49, these IMs offer a unique design and sound experience. Let’s dive into their features, performance, and overall value.
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A Futuristic Design and Innovative Features
The OP.24 has a sleek, futuristic look that immediately catches the eye. The company has incorporated multiple drivers to handle different frequency ranges, ensuring a balanced and clear sound. The OP.24 uses dual dynamic drivers (a 10mm and an 8mm coaxial dynamic driver) to manage the low end, while four balanced armature drivers are used for the mids and treble. This setup ensures that the lows, mids, and highs are kept separate, allowing for a more precise and clear sound profile.
What truly sets these IMs apart, however, is the dial located on the earpiece. This tunable switch is not a common feature in the industry, making the OP.24 stand out in a crowded market. Unlike other IMs that require a tool or an external switch, the OP.24’s dial allows users to easily switch between two different listening modes. By turning the dial, you can switch from a 15-ohm impedance to 27 ohms, and each setting offers a different sound profile. This simple feature adds a level of convenience and customization that sets the OP.24 apart.
Design and Accessories
While the OP.24 doesn’t come with a case, which might be a downside for some, it does come with two types of silicone ear tips. These ear tips, particularly the clear ones, are a pleasant surprise. While inexpensive, they actually improve sound quality and should be tested to find the best fit for your listening preferences.
The braided cable, which has a transparent look, connects to the IMs via the two-pin connection—arguably the most common connection for in-ear monitors. The cable terminates in a standard 3.5mm jack, but if you require a quarter-inch or a 4.4mm balanced adapter, you’ll need to purchase those separately.
Amplifier Compatibility
One of the standout features of the OP.24 is that it doesn’t require an external amplifier to function well. These IMs provide excellent volume and clarity even without an amp. However, using them with an amplifier does provide enhanced sound quality. When used in the 27-ohm mode and connected to an amplifier, the OP.24 delivers more body and depth in the sound, improving the overall listening experience.
Sound Performance: Mode 1 vs Mode 2
The OP.24 offers two distinct listening modes, each with its own unique sound characteristics.
- Mode 1 (15 ohms): This mode emphasizes brightness, particularly in the treble. It provides a more detailed sound, but with a slight dip in the bass. The treble is prominent, making the overall sound brighter and more energetic.
- Mode 2 (27 ohms): In this mode, the bass becomes more prominent, offering more punch and aggression. The treble is dialed back slightly, which makes the overall sound more natural and less harsh. While mode 2 has more bass and less treble brightness, it still avoids becoming too overwhelming or harsh.
Neither mode gets too harsh or sibilant, making both modes quite enjoyable. However, if you prefer a brighter treble, Mode 1 would be more to your liking. Mode 2 offers a more balanced and natural sound, with slightly more warmth in the bass.
Soundstage and Imaging
The soundstage on the OP.24 is not the widest, but it’s still impressive given the relatively dynamic tuning of the IMs. It creates the feeling of being in a larger room, which is a pleasant surprise for a product at this price point. The imaging is solid, providing a sense of directionality and clarity, though it may not be as expansive as more premium options.
Value for Money
For just $49, the OP.24 offers an incredible value. Despite lacking a case, it delivers excellent sound customization with the tunable switch, decent accessories, and a well-constructed design. The fact that they work well with various devices, including desktops, gaming consoles, and Bluetooth adapters, further adds to their appeal.
Article Summary
The OP.24 is a solid offering from a new company looking to make its mark in a competitive audio market. The inclusion of a tunable dial is a unique and convenient feature that makes these IMs stand out. The sound is well-balanced, and the two modes provide versatility for different listening preferences. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on features or performance, the OP.24 is worth considering. At the end of the day, the OP.24 is an excellent value, especially given the price tag. It provides good sound quality, a unique feature set, and a solid overall experience. Highly recommended for those looking for an affordable and customizable in-ear monitor.
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