Thieaudio Origin VS FATfreq Scarlett Mini

Z-Reviews original ranking

The Thieaudio Origin delivers a bass-forward signature with a substantial 12dB sub-bass boost that provides visceral rumble and slam, particularly effective for electronic or hip-hop genres. Despite this emphasis, the neutral midrange avoids bloat, preserving vocal clarity and instrument separation, while the electrostatic drivers contribute a smooth, airy treble free from harshness or sibilance. Its technical performance is strong, offering a wide, holographic stage and precise imaging, though micro-detail retrieval falls slightly short of some competitors in its price tier.

Comfort is divisive due to the large shells, which may cause fatigue or fit issues for those with smaller ears, necessitating careful tip selection for optimal seal. The package includes a high-quality modular cable with swappable terminations (3.5mm/4.4mm) and a distinctive round Alcantara case, though the included ear tips may not suit all users.

The FATfreq Scarlet Mini is a hybrid IEM positioned in the brand’s “Scarlet” line with a 1DD+2BA configuration and a stated focus on sub-bass power and treble extension; retailer specs list a single dynamic driver plus two balanced armatures, while the brand highlights a “hyper tweeter” system that extends to 40 kHz . Frequency-response measurements published by a retailer show an extreme sub-bass shelf below ~200 Hz with restrained upper-mids and a smooth, airy top end—consistent with a U-shaped, sub-bass-emphasized tuning rather than a neutral target . FATfreq and dealers market the model with the “world’s first 30 dB sub-bass shelf” claim; while that’s a marketing line, the published curves support a very elevated low end in practice .

On technicalities, the Scarlet Mini emphasizes slam and macrodynamics over microdetail: the powerful sub-bass delivers texture and weight, but can modestly mask lower-mid articulation on dense mixes, while treble extension from the dedicated HF driver provides adequate air without aggressive bite . Practical specs—105 dB sensitivity and 16 Ω impedance—suggest it’s easy to drive; the included SPC cable and accessory set are typical for the segment, and the U-shaped, bass-heavy tuning targets listeners prioritizing impact over strict neutrality . Street pricing varies by region and cable option, but the official product page lists an MSRP tier around $799 for the base configuration, which frames expectations on value relative to other mid/upper-mid offerings .