Review: Shuoer EJ07M – Shuoer-ly Sizzling & Sensational

The artistic and unique EJ07M, shown in silver with a multi-color acrylic faceplate.
The artistic and unique EJ07M, shown in silver with a multi-color acrylic faceplate.

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The EJ07M are unique in engineering, design, and sound – are they really for the masses?

First, a sincere thank you to Linsoul for allowing Headphonesty to review the Shuoer EJ07M. As is my standard, I did not read any reviews of the EJ07M before my evaluation.
Bottom Line

The Shuoer EJ07M are most certainly for enthusiasts, and there is a great deal to be enthusiastic about. I began to truly appreciate the true nature of the EJ07M after investing substantial time adjusting to their unique sound signature and appreciating the depth of their capabilities. They are like Olympic decathletes, excellent across a broad spectrum of performance, with almost no notable weaknesses.

What We Like 😍
  • Multi-dimensional holographic imaging, detail, and soundstage
  • Unique, lively, and energetic sound signature
  • Excellent fit and finish
  • Comfortable for extended listening
  • Well-rounded with no weaknesses in any frequency range
  • Very flexible across many genres and sources
  • High-quality included accessories, especially the travel case
What We Don't Like 🤢
  • High-dynamic energy and sizzle may not be appreciated by casual listeners who prefer warm sound signatures
  • A balanced cable option would be a nice addition and appropriate for this level of IEM
  • Premium price tag higher than most “mass market” consumers can easily afford

First Impressions

Shuoer and I have never previously met. The newest members of the Shuoer family, the EJ07M IEMs (in-ear monitors), have come to visit and stay a while. (I hope) it’s a pleasure to meet you!

From the first listen, the unique nature and impressive performance of the EJ07M are ear-openingly obvious. How they will do overall is hard to discern, as the sound reproduction itself is unlike anything I’ve heard. I anticipate I’ll need significant listening time to have my ears and brain recalibrate (after a proper conditioning/burn-in period).

The Shuoer EJ07M have a close relative and predecessor whose DNA they carry, the well-regarded EJ07 (whom I have also never met). The letter “M” represents “Mass Production Version.” This new mass produced version IEM has the same exact driver array, while improving the performance in treble and air frequencies. Even more impressive, at a much lower price.

I am bothered by the implication that these are somehow “for the masses” – which they clearly are not due to the cost. That said, those who can afford the EJ07M will be rewarded and pleased.

Despite the fact that this may be a Chinese to English language translation nuance, I am going to do my best to overlook both the naming and the price tag until I arrive at my conclusion. Are the EJ07M worth the hefty price tag given all the competition in the market now?

Our pursuit of the answer begins now. Pull up a seat, and be Shuoer to pay attention! I promise no more jokes, as Shuoer are notably serious about their mission and products.

After a lengthy burn-in period (72-100 hours), I always begin evaluations with the same protocol: experiment with all of the ear tips to find the best fit. In addition, I do not use secondary EQ adjustments while testing.

Company Overview

Shuoer Acoustics was founded in Dongguan, Guangdong in August 2016. Shuoer takes pride in discovering the best possible sonic materials to support the construction of their products and painstakingly tweaking the parameters to refine the tuning for a natural listening experience.

“By abiding to insistent evolution as a constant, that hunger of fine balance and natural tuning, in turn, became the house sound that we are known for: the impulse of emotions. Our quality assurance has only one rule: that our lines of headphones should deliver a soulful, rich and larger than life performance that would reach deep into users’ heart.” – Shuoer
Smooth, high quality material, fit, and finish from every angle.
Smooth, high quality material, fit, and finish from every angle.

Shuoer produces a small range of in-ear monitors (IEMs), from accessible budget-friendly options to more exclusive models.

Technical Specifications

  • Drivers: 7 driver tribrid configuration on each side
    • (1) 10mm carbon nanotube dynamic driver
    • (4) Sonion electret drivers
    • (2) Sonion 2389 balanced armature drivers
  • Impedance: 19 Ohms
  • Sensitivity: 107 dB/mW
  • Frequency Response Range: 20Hz – 30kHz
  • THD: 0.5% ± 0.1%
  • Noise Isolation: Passive
  • Style: In-ear, with earhook cable
  • Color: Multi-color acrylic faceplate with silver body, or gold foil and carbon fiber faceplate with black body
  • Body Material Construction: Stainless Steel SUS316
  • Connector: 2-pin 0.78mm
  • Plug Type: 3.5mm gold-plated right-angle plug
  • Cable Length and Type: 1.25m (4 ft) 100-strand OCC copper cable (Ohno Continuous Cast), interchangeable with pre-shaped ear hooks

Packaging

The box is large for a small pair of IEMs. It is clean, well-constructed, well-presented, and quite nice – befitting a premium product. Like their brand, the packaging is a serious affair. From their videos, almost identical packaging is shared with the other Shuoer models.

There is a tendency for companies to create larger packaging for higher cost IEMs, likely with the misguided belief that we, the buyers, will believe that we are getting more value for our money. The only time this is true is when myriad accessories require all of the space and the unboxing experience is exciting in its own right.

After opening a very sturdy beige cardboard outer box, and then sliding another sturdy white box off yet another inner black box, we get to the precious contents.

Serious packaging for serious IEMs.
Serious packaging for serious IEMs.

The black box flips open from the bottom to reveal a brand explanation and orderly presentation of the EJ07M IEMs, and a wide array of accessories.

If you can’t wait for your pair to arrive and don’t mind the spoiler, click here to watch the official Shuoer unboxing video.

The round metal case is a beauty and deserves praise. It has a finely threaded top that spins smoothly on and off. As packaged, it contains the cable.

Parts and pieces are well organized and laid out for easy access and appreciation.
Parts and pieces are well organized and laid out for easy access and appreciation.

I appreciate the serious and distinctive presentation. It’s harder for me to appreciate having more boxes to store and the creation of more waste. Thankfully, there is not much plastic to be found.

In the box

  • EJ07M IEMs
  • 1 braided 0.78mm 2-pin standard 100-core silver-plated detachable OFC cable
  • 9 pairs (total) of ear tips (6 pair of silicone ear tips (S, M, L), 3 pair of memory foam)
  • Printed EJ07M Album, product certificate, and warranty card
  • Metal case

Cable

Included is a high-purity 1.25m, 100-strand OCC monocrystalline copper cable, featuring a braided structure up until the splitter to help reduce cable noise (of which there is none) and keep the cable lightweight and flexible. It has standard 0.78mm connectors and can be bought in two different 90° gold-plated plug termination options, 3.5mm single-ended or 4.4mm balanced.

The cable is more attractive in person than in the pictures. It feels appropriate to the quality I expect, although it is not in itself an object of beauty. This choice may have been function over form, which is quite acceptable in this category. That said, the cable does not in any fashionable sense match the IEMs or faceplates.

The only obvious plastic is the protective chrome over black splitter, as well as the clear plastic housing for the plug. The sliding cinch glides easily up and down the singular cables that lead to each IEM.

The EJ07M's copper cable, is better looking in person. The gold-plated 3.5mm plug, 2-pin connectors, and cinch clider all function well.
The EJ07M’s copper cable, is better looking in person. The gold-plated 3.5mm plug, 2-pin connectors, and cinch clider all function well.

The ear hooks retain their shape well around the ear and do not exert pressure, remaining comfortable for long listening sessions.

Design

The EJ07M feature uniquely designed artistic faceplates on each side. Available are two different color options. One is a stylish mixed color faceplate (acrylic) with a silver cavity body. The other faceplate is made of pressurized gold foils and carbon fiber paired with a black body. The ergonomic cavities of the EJ07M are made of SUS316 Stainless Steel.

If you’re interested in taking a peak into the build process, watch the production work in detail.

The fit and finish of the EJ07M are outstanding. The chassis is a single machined piece of steel, with the faceplate attached. They fit together tightly and are accurately aligned. The main body has one small hole, presumably to release any cavity pressure. They are dense and solid, though feel light in the ears as a result of fit. I expect that they will be highly durable with proper care.

Even better, Shuoer offers custom-fitted EJ07Ms made specifically for you. This video of the customization process will show you just how you can have a pair that is truly for your ears only.

One small holes is evident in the body, likely to allow for pressure built up in the IEM to release. It may also have an effect on tuning.
One small holes is evident in the body, likely to allow for pressure built up in the IEM to release. It may also have an effect on tuning.

Comfort

The contoured shape of the stainless steel shells are perfectly smooth, do not protrude from the ears, and have a nozzle length and angle that will fit most ears well. The EJ07M are uncommonly comfortable for extended periods. I find no hot spots or pressure on or in my ears. They require no annoying adjustments and do not cause fatigue. As mentioned, the cable is excellent regarding comfort due to its light weight and flexible fit around the ears.

The ear hook is flexible, well-shaped, and so comfortable that I often forget it's there.
The ear hook is flexible, well-shaped, and so comfortable that I often forget it’s there.
As with all IEMs, the right ear tips and seal are crucial to realize the best sound and isolation. It is always worth the time to experiment until you find what’s best for you. Please reference this Ultimate Guide to Selecting the Perfect IEM Ear Tips.

Internals

EJ07M feature the same EST-BA-DD (Electrostatic-Balanced Armature-Direct Driver) tribrid driver array from its predecessor (the EJ07), combining quad Sonion EST drivers and dual BA drivers imported from Denmark, plus a proprietary carbon nanotube dynamic driver.

Sonion is considered a premium brand in audio, and the EST drivers are known for their high-resolution characteristics. The ultralight moving membranes used in electrostatic speakers deliver more accurate transient response than other driver types, resulting in exceptional clarity and detail.

Everything fits together precisely. The collars on the nozzles do an excellent job holding any of the supplied ear tips securely.
Everything fits together precisely. The collars on the nozzles do an excellent job holding any of the supplied ear tips securely.

The 10mm dynamic driver provides depth for lower frequencies, while the two Sonion balanced armature drivers round out the mix to provide high-resolution midrange frequencies.

A sharp eye will catch the Knowles logo on the box cover. Analogous to Sonion in their prowess with electrostatic tweeters, Knowles is generally regarded as a top maker of balanced armature drivers. It appears, however, that none of the drivers inside the EJ07M are actually made by Knowles.

Shuoer EJ07M Sound

The links posted will generally be YouTube or YouTubeMusic links. Please note that the quality of these online files varies drastically and are provided for quick reference. I primarily listen and evaluate from original source CDs or high-quality lossless files when available. You can likely source them through high-quality streaming services. Let me know if you find some new favorites, and please share yours with us at Headphonesty!

For evaluation, I listen to a great variety of music through numerous sources, including:

Compared to the original EJ07, tuning of the EJ07M have been adjusted to specifically improve the performance in the upper midrange and treble frequencies. Shuoer promises an even more highly detailed, accurate, and engaging sound.

With a high sensitivity of 107db and a low impedance of 19 ohms, these IEMs are easy to drive with virtually any source. Passive sound isolation is good with proper-fitting ear tips.

EJ07M come with a large selection of ear tips, including 3 pair of memory foam
EJ07M come with a large selection of ear tips, including 3 pair of memory foam

The EJ07M are unique. They display forward sounding, excited energy, and certainly stand far and away from the average. They almost sizzle, frequently just a hair short of sibilant. It’s unfair to characterize them along dimensions that I might normally. For example, they are not overly warm or bright and harsh, nor are they V-shaped with recessed mids, etc. In addition, to say that they present a wide soundstage is too simple a description, albeit accurate.

The best place to start is the differentiation in sound presentation, not the frequency graph. The holographic, dimensional imaging is immediately apparent and astonishing, as well as the size and placements of sounds. There is a vast amount of perceived space in between sounds. This is truly difficult to explain in words. There is no congestion in the sound, and somehow the EJ07M never sound thin.

Given the above, many of you may still be quite interested in the EJ07M frequency graph. The graph on the back of the box gives a decent, if somewhat blurry, overview. Click here to read our excellent primer, The Audio Frequency Spectrum Explained.

EJ07M Frequency Graph printed on the back of the Shuoer Box
EJ07M Frequency Graph printed on the back of the Shuoer Box

The EJ07M also defy usual conventions in that they cannot easily be described as coherent, fragmented, or disjointed. Every sound presented, as well as frequencies, are quite present and distinct. With too rapid an assessment, it would be easy to conclude that coherence is lacking, especially in comparison to more conventional IEMs without electrostatic drivers. The more time I spend with these, the more I realize that this is not a reliable assessment. This uniqueness is simply a strength.

The EJ07M, I’m convinced, will benefit from listening time or a full conditioning/burn-in protocol. They sounded significantly different before and after; starting off as quite harsh, becoming much smoother over time. In addition, bass quantity and quality improved as well.

Channel separation is clean. Dynamics are outstanding, as highlighted in American composer, songwriter, jazz singer, and pianist Patricia Barber’s epic composition, Nardis, as well as Inch Worm. These are awe-inspiring mixes that audiophiles must listen to, even if it’s not your music preference. The recording is incredible – listening through the EJ07M equally so. The sonic complexity and speed are just as challenging as the dynamic range. Detail retrieval, same. Simply amazing experience.

The EJ07M are flexible and accommodating IEMs for listeners who appreciate a wide variety of music and sound. They competently handle most genres and can make anything sound excellent, almost to a fault. I would not characterize them as “easy listening.” The challenge for some casual listeners is that these will demand your attention with their energetic signature and transmission of high levels of detail.

The 2-pin connection is secure and the nozzle collars hold the ear tips securely.
The 2-pin connection is secure and the nozzle collars hold the ear tips securely.

I do not get the sense that the EJ07M are highly colored, despite the sound being quite different from other IEMs. Timbre generally sounds accurate and true to my ears, smooth and natural.

Throughout the frequency spectrum, transitions seem seamless (homophone!). The drivers are exceptionally well tuned and integrated well. Once you know the sound of a well-tuned Sonion driver, it is sonically distinct from other driver types. In the sound, there is a large amount of energy, sizzle, and something like an auditory shimmer.

The 2 ear tips on the left are the same, shown from both sides. The 2 on the right are the same, shown from both sides as well.
The 2 ear tips on the left are the same, shown from both sides. The 2 on the right are the same, shown from both sides as well.
The EJ07M come with a large and welcome selection of ear tips. I found that the provided foam tips deteriorated sound quality significantly, which is odd, as they usually enhance comfort and do not have this much of a negative impact.

For something matched to the EJ07M’s uniqueness, let’s listen to Wolf Totem by The Hu featuring Jacoby Shaddix of Papa Roach. The Hu is a Mongolian folk-rock and heavy metal band formed in 2016. With traditional Mongolian instrumentation, including the Morin khuur and the Tovshuur, they mix metal with the ancient art of throat singing. In this collaboration, Jacoby Shaddix, founding member and lead singer of the California-based rock band Papa Roach, joins the band on vocals.

Yes, this is a strange melding of worlds. When Jacoby and the Hu’s vocals come in at about :34 seconds and 1:20, it actually took me by surprise – twice! The density, clarity, and presence of the vocals are as unexpected as the unlikely pairing.

There is a great deal of sonic confusion possible with this track, as there are challenges all across the frequency spectrum. The EJ07M meet every challenge to keep up and manage as clean a presentation as possible considering the source.

The array of drivers are very well tuned and integrated, delivering holographic, high-energy sound.
The array of drivers are very well tuned and integrated, delivering holographic, high-energy sound.

Bass

With the direct driver able to focus on its primary strength, bass is complete – sub-bass rumble plus hard-hitting mid-bass, all with the ability to be textured and musical. This is not an easy task for any IEM. There is more than enough bass to satisfy anybody.

For a strong dose of English philosophy and American EDM, plug in, close your eyes, and soak this in. Over the initial rumble of Austin-based production duo Tritonal’s Born Yesterday is a recording of Alan Watts, sharing a discourse on meditation through listening. Just after 1:20, Nashville, Tennessee-based singer-songwriter Brigetta enters the mix. As before with the Hu, I was surprised by the presence of her voice in my consciousness.

Just after 1:50, the heavy beat drops and the mid-bass thump is plentiful and rhythmic. All this said, bass frequencies never sound out of sorts or overpowering. They are fast enough to be clean, yet slow enough to be harmonic and resonant.

Similarly, on Icona Pop’s Off of My Mind, bass is featured in many forms. At 0:53, the powerful beat drops. The snap of the bass presentation of the EJ07M is almost as addictive as this track. Fair warning, you won’t easily get this track off of your mind, either.

The EJ07M are excellent for bass-heavy music, with authoritative and clean bass with little distortion, even under stress.
The EJ07M are excellent for bass-heavy music, with authoritative and clean bass with little distortion, even under stress.

Midrange

Midrange frequencies are fully forward when it’s the primary focus of the recording, and are an affirmation of the balanced armatures’ tuning and blending with the ESTs.

The ergonomic shells, while not small, fit very well and feel secure in the ears
The ergonomic shells, while not small, fit very well and feel secure in the ears

For diversity in music and style, let’s shift to something entirely different in South Korea with Yiruma. His modern solo acoustic piano composition, River Flows in You, is considered a modern masterpiece by fans everywhere across the world.

This recording, from the The Best: Reminiscent 10th Anniversary album, is somewhat gritty in the sense that this does not sound like a sterile studio recording. It sounds live and in-room, capturing all the air between notes, environmental sound, and if you listen closely on the EJ07M, you will hear pedal actuations and reverberations that will not be revealed on lesser IEMs.

Treble

The treble, similar to the mid-range and bass, has excellent timbre and balance, smooth despite its energetic potential. Traveling back into Austrian history, we discover extensive classical musical history, including the prolific Michael Haydn whose works in the mid-late 1700s (18th century) influenced the later compositions of Mozart.

Divertimenti in C Major, Piccolo Concerto Wien, is a beautiful set of compositions with bountiful opportunities to enjoy natural treble frequencies produced by both wind and string instruments. Gorgeous texture and layering in the music are brought to life by the EJ07M, with depth and detail without being overly bright or harsh. Resolution and extension are truly pleasing, with no “ouch” moments to interrupt the joy of music.

Where to Buy

Thank you once again to Linsoul for providing the Shuoer EJ07M for review. If you’d like to purchase a pair, you can buy them directly from Linsoul or Amazon.

Conclusion

The Shuoer EJ07M are most certainly for enthusiasts, and there is a great deal to be enthusiastic about. I began to truly appreciate the true nature of the EJ07M after investing substantial time adjusting to their unique sound signature and appreciating the depth of their capabilities. They are like Olympic decathletes, excellent across a broad spectrum of performance, with almost no notable weaknesses.

The EJ07M are for people who treasure their personal time and value the intimacy, nuance, and dynamics of music. In their time away from the world in full rapture, they long to be lost or found in the sound. If this is you, there is a high probability that you will be fully satisfied with the EJ07M.

If you can acquire these beauties for yourself, there will likely be little need or want for any other IEMs. I expect that most buyers will be thrilled with their choice and satisfied with their investment.
If you can acquire these beauties for yourself, there will likely be little need or want for any other IEMs. I expect that most buyers will be thrilled with their choice and satisfied with their investment.

These are a special purchase and will be an exceptional addition to any collection. If you have not experienced a tribrid of this caliber, are seeking a different experience, and can afford them – don’t hesitate. If you meet the profile above, these are an easily justifiable long-term investment. These outstanding EJ07M have earned two energetic thumbs up from me.

💬 Conversation: 9 comments

  1. We EXPECT to do a top IEM to do everything correct, but the reason many of us are reading reviews is to find out what they do WRONG. Because we will never be annoyed by the 95% they do fantastic but by the 5% they do wrong or different. So what’s the 5% we should think about to see whether we should really consider the EJ07M or that we might hit an allergy?

    Tnx…

    drftr

    1. Joop, thanks so much for your question, it appears that GEO commented below. I find it rare that IEMs do much fantastic, per se. Many fit in the super wide middle. The EJ07M are not only highly technical achievers, they are unique and do not follow the usual formula, especially re: tuning. The 5% to think about, and maybe more than that, is exactly as noted. Unique, tuning, high energy signature that is generally not subtle or relaxing. In other words, not generally amongst the best for easy listening. Can they do that? Of course! Is that where they excel – no. I’m not sure how to address your full last question re: allergy unless we can much better understand your ideal profile and preferences. Happy Listening!

  2. Great review of without doubt the most underated iem on the market. Good to see a review portraying exactly how I feel about the EJ07m. They are unique and versatile. It replays my collection as good as anything that I’ve heard. Also , it’s not cold , or warm or bright/neutral. It’s not Harman tuned or overly analytical. Neither are they “fun”. More organic and extremely musical. Everyone once in a while an iem comes along that doesn’t play the game. The tuning is exceptional. It’s not for everyone but it’s for you they will be in your collection forever.

  3. WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
    -High-dynamic energy and sizzle may not be appreciated by casual listeners who prefer warm sound signatures
    -A balanced cable option would be a nice addition and appropriate for this level of IEM
    -Premium price tag higher than most “mass market” consumers can easily afford

  4. Thank you for the good write up.
    Actually you made me glad I went for Penon Volt.
    A very good IEM with same configuration that seems to took care of the ‘what we don’t like’ notes precisely, point by point.

  5. I think the Knowles branding on the box is probably a print error given that this IEM has zero Knowles drivers.

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