Aful Cantor - Reviews & Ratings
1 Review (S Tier | 8.5/10)
Summary
Reviewers consider the Aful Cantor to be a headline act that earns a permanent place in careful collections. It reveals new microdetails without turning analytical for the sake of it. Each revisit feels like another small discovery.
Aful Cantor Details
Driver Configuration: 14BA
Tuning Type: Vocal-focused
Brand: AFUL Top AFUL IEMs
Price (Msrp): $800
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Review
8.5
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
The AFUL Cantor delivers a balanced and neutral sound signature, praised for its exceptional upper air, treble extension, and pristine clarity. While the bass offers sufficient dynamics without being thunderous, and female vocals sound natural, some listeners might desire a touch more punch in the upper mids (around 2-3kHz) and find a slight peak in the 4-6kHz region occasionally noticeable. The premium build quality stands out, featuring a unique and stunning "star night" face plate, a thick but comfortable shell with a slender nozzle, and excellent accessories. These include a slightly microphonic but otherwise nice-looking flat two-pin cable and an exceptionally plush case typically found on far more expensive IEMs.
Graph comparisons reveal the Cantor's tuning shares similarities with models like the Moondrop Blessing 2: Dusk and the AFUL Explorer, but it distinguishes itself with superior detail retrieval and dynamics. It competes impressively against significantly pricier offerings like the Elysian Annihilator in technical performance, offering a smoother presentation with slightly less sub-bass focus. The overall sonic presentation is described as sophisticated, refined, and highly engaging, creating a sense of music surrounding the listener. Minor tuning preferences aside – wishing for a bit more upper mid presence and slightly less energy around 4-6kHz and 8kHz – the core sound quality is highly regarded.
Representing strong sonic value despite its price point, the Cantor earns a high ranking for its unique and beautiful design, premium feel, and exceptional technical performance. While acknowledging excellent cheaper options like the AFUL Explorer exist, the Cantor justifies its cost with its detailed, airy presentation and overall package. It's highly recommended for those seeking a neutral, high-performing IEM, though a demo is advised given the investment. Ultimately, the AFUL Cantor is considered a treasure, fulfilling over a year of anticipation with its beautiful aesthetics and uniquely engaging sound.
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
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User Reviews
Average User Scores
Average User Score:
Based on 2 user reviews
8.5Excellent
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You need to be signed in to write your own reviewExcellent overall clarity and imaging, though fit demands can be a deal-breaker
Pros
Tonally balanced signature with superb detail retrievalCons
Requires deep insertion and has a large shell that may challenge fit for someWell-rounded flagship IEM with refined tuning and tech for the money.
Pros
Exceptional clarity and tonal balance that punches above its price bracket.Cons
Requires precise tip fit for best performance and subtle treble can be fatiguing at high volumes.Compare Aful Cantor to popular alternatives
VS
| IEM | alt. Score |
|---|---|
|
Aful Cantor vs. Softears RSV MK II
Softears RSV MK II offers better dynamics.
|
9.2 |
|
Aful Cantor vs. 7th Acoustics Supernova
7th Acoustics Supernova offers better mids.
|
8.5 |
|
Aful Cantor vs. Thieaudio Origin
Thieaudio Origin offers better dynamics.
|
8.5 |
|
Aful Cantor vs. Thieaudio Hype 10
Thieaudio Hype 10 offers better dynamics.
|
8.5 |
|
Aful Cantor vs. Softears Twilight
Softears Twilight offers better mids.
|
8.3 |
|
Aful Cantor vs. Softears RSV
Similar overall performance.
|
8.3 |
|
Aful Cantor vs. SymphonyEars PRE5TIGE
SymphonyEars PRE5TIGE offers better dynamics and soundstage.
|
8.1 |
|
Aful Cantor vs. EPZ 530
EPZ 530 offers better dynamics.
|
8 |
|
Aful Cantor vs. Dita Mecha
Dita Mecha offers better dynamics.
|
7.8 |
|
Aful Cantor vs. ORIVETI OH700VB
ORIVETI OH700VB offers better dynamics.
|
7.8 |
IEM Finder Quiz
newAverage Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A- Overall balance feels confident and refined, rewarding long listening sessions. A reliable all-rounder for everyday listening.
Average Technical Grade
S- It resolves with authority, pairing lightning-fast transients with holographic staging. Ambient cues wrap around with ease.