AAW Nightingale VS Symphonium Helios SE

Youtube Video Summary

Symphonium’s Helios arrives as a four-BA flagship with a spartan unboxing: a solid aluminum, waterproof “hockey-puck” case, multiple tip sets, and a standard 0.78 mm cable. Build is plain but substantial, and the shell is large with a wide nozzle—fit and comfort will be the biggest variable. The stock case’s rough threading and the cable’s lack of ear guides are minor gripes, but the overall presentation feels purposeful rather than flashy.

Tonally, Helios tracks Harman through the low mids, with a sub-bass-focused shelf and almost no mid-bass for maximum cleanliness—bass stays out of the mids and still slams impressively for BA. The midrange is clean and slightly lean (200 Hz dip, relaxed pinna gain) but well balanced. Treble is the showpiece: linear, extended, and airy to the edge of audibility, delivering uncommon “air” for the price. With Azla-style tips that air can verge on abrasive; swapping to the included silicone tips smooths the top end and improves coherence without dulling the sparkle.

Technicalities punch at the front of the kilobuck pack: resolution that hangs with class leaders, incisive imaging with uncanny “backwards” cues, and lively macro/micro-dynamics that give transients real snap. It may trail ultra-high-end sets by a hair in bass texture, but overall performance is compelling enough to edge out many peers. Verdict: an easy recommendation on sound alone, with the caveat to demo for fit—the shell size and nozzle girth will decide whether this brightest kilobuck star truly shines for you.