Skip to main content

Westone UM1; Enjoy the sound

 We reaching a newer level, since now I am going to review a classic or vintage pair of in ear monitors. This will be my first time by the way when it comes to reviewing classic or vintage sets so my thoughts or impressions may vary. 

This is the Westone UM1, a studio grade in ear monitor. This brand is what i considered a hidden gem, due to its tuning in its time. By the way this a mod version since its original shell is already replaced.

This is a loaner unit from my audiophile friend hence that i cant really give the accessory perspective but i will focus purely on the sound.

Image from Headfonics

Review Proper 


The Westone UM1 is one of those in-ear monitors that can make you question your hearing, as it is very source-reliant. This means that if your audio source is bad, the sound output will also be bad. But in the long run you will get use to it.

For my setup in this review, I am using two dongles, DAP, and windows sonic for headphone, for the ear tips i am using the stock ear tips.


Sound characteristics 

This is somewhat uncolored neutral, which means that this leans on being flat but usually it becomes mild U shape. this impressions depends on the audio source your using.

Bass and Sub-bass

This sounds flat but still has some ample amount of punch. this reminds me of some Harman kind of tuning since the low end is more on the audible side or just for the sake of having a bass. Mid-bass is the star here, since it makes the vocals and some instruments have some sort of body to it. There is also some sort of roll-off Especially on bass heavy tracks. 

Mids. and Vocals

in some modern tracks this might sound nasal but if your listening to pop and classical songs  it gets the job done. The overall presentation is clear with a natural form of forwardness but for me this is somewhat lacking.

Treble

its impressive since i didn't encounter any forms of  sibilance, peak and harshness. 

Kiso tech side

Honestly this is average since the stage is small and its depth and clarity is small, details is decent,


Sound isolation

Honestly for me ,finding the right ear tips can  improve the seal and isolation. also this goes very deep in the ear canal making it good for stage use and commute.


Comfort

Honestly it's very light and comfortable


Conclusion

For me this is a basic sounding in ear monitors but if your going to use this as a back up set for stage use this can be an option.


Final Rating

6.5/10


Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Hidizs AP80 Pro Max: One Release The Spyce.

  Disclaimers This unit that I currently have was provided by HIDIZS, and I was chosen to be part of the Philippines tour for the HIDIZS AP80 Pro Max. This gave Me The opportunity to test this device thoroughly; without this opportunity, I would not have had the chance to try out this product, so I am very thankful to HIDIZS. ​I did not receive any form of incentive for this review, and all opinions are my own. ​We all have different ways of hearing sound, so your mileage may vary. Introduction The Hidizs AP80 Pro Max is the latest addition to the series of their DAP releases. Having personal experience with their products, the AP80 Pro Max is a must-have if you're just starting in the hobby. Due to its form factor, it can also pretty much fit in your pockets or bags. Form factor and Size  ​As you can see in the picture, it's too cute for its size. Since it's very compact yet powerful, it's almost like it's not a DAP anymore. When I first unboxed it, I thought it ...

Hidizs AP30: Neverness to Greatness

So, Hidizs decided to release a new product. They've been on a streak lately, especially since I previously reviewed their MyLin, which is a special edition of the MS2 Pro, and my experience with it was quite enjoyable.   This time, we're looking at the newest entry from Hidizs, the AP30. It's an entry-level DAP that brings flagship-inspired features at an affordable price. For me, based on the specs alone, it's already shaping up to be a competitive performer against other products in this price segment. So, will the AP30 claim victory as the retro music boy, or will it surprise me with its performance? Let's find out as I dive into my full assessment and see if this compact DAP truly lives up to its claims.     Disclaimers   I’m not a professional reviewer, just an anime fan and audio hobbyist sharing my personal experiences. Audio is subjective, and your experience may vary depending on your source, ear anatomy, and preferences. This review unit was provided by H...

Kz Libra X: STRANGER THAN HEAVEN

 While catching up on some anime, I suddenly remembered the pile of review backlogs waiting for me. So here we are.   This time, we’re looking at an interesting collaboration between Angel Ears and KZ. Collaborations involving Angel Ears aren’t exactly uncommon. They’ve partnered with several brands over the years and have become one of the more recognisable names when it comes to tuning collaborations. KZ lately tends to make a variety of options in the in-ear monitor category, but the main focus of their brand right now is gaming and sound improvements. Compared to their earlier releases, KZ has made noticeable improvements, and honestly, they seem to be finding their footing again in the budget IEM scene. Now, the real question is: will this collaboration prove to be a genuinely competitive piece of gear, or is it simply another product riding the wave of hype? Let’s find out as I dive into my full assessment and share my thoughts. Disclaimers This review is no...