Impedance : 20 Ohms @ 1kHz
Connector : 0.78mm 2-Pin
Plug : Type-C (You also have 3.5mm with and without Mic variants that you can choose from)
Microphone : With Mic
Sensitivity : 127dB/Vrms @ 1kHz
THD : <0.1% THD @ 1kHz
Frequency Response : 20Hz-20kHz
Earphone Material : ABS
Cable Material : High-Purity Oxygen-Free Copper plated with Silver
Total Price
Introduction
Hello, everyone! Today we’re looking at NiceHCK’s new model, Tears (or Yuandao Tears), which is shaking things up in the budget segment. NiceHCK is generally known for its cables and affordable earbuds, but with Tears, they’re promising budget acoustics in the $30 range. Let’s see if these “tears” are shed from joy or disappointment.
The product in my hands was provided by Nicehck for an independent review. We thank them for accepting our principles of honesty.
Design & Build
The Tears feature a fully ABS plastic body. While the material quality is acceptable for the price, it doesn’t give that ultra-premium feel when you hold it in your hand. Shells are small but fit and isolation are ehh, average. The real deal lies beneath the design: its semi-open (open-back) structure and the acoustic labyrinth chamber inside. Its ergonomics are quite successful; it sits lightly on the ear and doesn’t tire you out during long listening sessions. The NiceHCK 07 tips included in the box are a real treat for this price range. What’s more, there are 5 sizes of tips. This is fantastic for the price. Is that it? No, a leather carrying pouch and leather cable organizer are also included in the box. This is an extremely generous package for such an inexpensive pair of headphones.
In addition to black and white colors, you also have options with or without a microphone and either a 3.5mm jack or Type-C (DSP). You’re essentially purchasing a combination of these options.
Technology
On the technical side, the NiceHCK has been well-engineered. Inside, a 10mm dual-magnet, dual-chamber dynamic driver does the job. It boasts an extreme sensitivity of 127 dB/Vrms, meaning it drives effortlessly with almost anything. Additionally, the Type-C version includes a DSP chip with 32-bit/384kHz DAC support and EQ support via the app, which is a game changer for the budget segment. At least that’s what Nicehck claims.
Having app support on such a headphone is great. For $30, you’re not just getting hardware but software too. I appreciate that.
Another nice thing is that they’ve used a real acoustic chamber system for the dynamic driver they’ve employed. Seriously, what else could they have done for $30?
Synergy
Frankly, a 3.5mm Tears pairing with a $10 dongle performs better than the Type-C version. Still, if it were me, I would choose the Type-C version considering practicality, application support, and total cost.
Nicehck Tears’ Sound
NiceHCK Tears offers a slightly V-shaped but extremely balanced signature overall. This tone, which is slightly warmer and smoother than the target blend, is a safe haven for those who want to avoid the ear-piercing brightness of the budget segment.
Bass
Controlled and deep, sufficient for this price point. The sub-bass extension is quite rumbly; however, the clean and fast response in the mid-bass region can lead to a lack of “visceral punch” for some users. The bass doesn’t bleed into the mids; there’s a clean transition. Musical and sufficient.
Mid
The slight pullback in the lower mids opens up the soundstage but can make male vocals feel a bit lacking in body. However, the controlled energy in the upper mids brings vocals forward. Female vocals are airy and clear but not shrill. Beyond that, the mids are surprisingly transparent, and instruments are easily distinguishable.
Treble
The high frequencies are secure but airy. There is brightness but no sibilance. There is a slight sense of dispersion at the very top, but overall, the resolution is good and not contrary to the natural range.
Technique
Surprisingly good soundstage. By good, I mean good—this is only $30, and for $30, the soundstage is good. Overall, the separation is sufficient. The resolution and detail retrieval are quite adequate for this price. Considering the overall tonal accuracy, we can say that it has no real shortcomings in this regard.
Last Words
The Nicehck Tears is a very feature-packed IEM for $30, whether you consider its sound, accessories, Type-C DSP option, or app support. It could be a great entry point for someone new to this hobby and would make someone looking for affordable solutions very happy.
