Softears RSV VS Ice Labs Prismatica

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Softears RSV brings a 5BA recipe with a shell that’s handsome but larger than average, featuring a recessed 2-pin that can fuss with some cables. Comfort is generally fine, yet the size and wide body may test smaller ears. Sonically it’s a neutral-leaning tuning with clean mids and polite highs, but the presentation trades off texture, sub-bass weight, and upper-air sparkle. Stage feels spacious, extension is more average, and while the technicalities are solid, the current crop of mid-fi monitors has pushed beyond what this 2021 design delivers.

Stacked against today’s options, RSV gets pressure from several directions: Elysian Pilgrim hits harder down low with greater perceived clarity; Supernova offers a more natural tonality and better sub-bass; HiSenior Mega5 EST graphs similarly but adds a touch more air; even value picks like a “super mix”/EM10-style V-tune bring fun, slam, and engagement. RSV remains easy to pair and its upper-mids are tastefully set, yet vocals can feel a bit soft—more “fun and cozy” than pristine. At typical new pricing around the mid-$500s it’s tough to champion; catch it closer to $350–$400 (or a good used deal) and it becomes a very enjoyable pick for those who prize smooth mids over maximum bass grip and airy bite.

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Softears RSV breaks the usual BA timbre stigma with a natural, cohesive presentation that avoids the metallic edge often blamed on poor crossovers. Its tuning lifts the upper-mids/early treble just enough to throw vocals into center stage, creating a lively contrast against an otherwise balanced base. At higher volumes the treble feels smooth and correct—cymbal hits sound “right” without glare—while the midrange stays clean, forward, and free of bleed.

Technically, it’s above average but not a show-off: speed, separation, and imaging are tight, yet sets like SA6 Ultra or U12t resolve a touch sharper. Bass carries typical BA traits—quick, textured, but without dynamic-driver slam—though U12t still edges it for bass texture. Where RSV shines is vocal immersion and timbre, arguably among the best under $1,000; just note its source sensitivity at loud listening—pair it with a clean, capable source to avoid distortion. Not a pick for bassheads, but for vocal lovers chasing a smooth, lifelike top end, RSV feels special.

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Softears RSV presents as a premium, well-finished all-BA set with five balanced armatures, a secure, slightly deeper fit and above-average isolation. The package feels thoughtful—nice case, multiple tips, cleaning tools—while the shells have a tasteful, dark flake aesthetic. Ergonomically it fills the ear a bit more than comparable models like Moondrop’s S8, but comfort and stability are standouts.

Tonally, RSV opts for a warm, laid-back Harman tilt: elevated sub-bass with restrained mid-bass, even mids with a touch more body than typical Harman, and an upper-mid presence that’s assertive yet not shouty. The treble is notably smooth and controlled—never sharp or sibilant—contributing to an unfatiguing, polished listen. For an all-BA design, the bass is punchy and clean, staying out of the midrange; the main trade-off is a stage that can feel narrower versus more expansive peers.

Against benchmarks, RSV comes across as the “gentleman’s” alternative to the more energetic Moondrop S8 and the livelier, deeper-reaching ThieAudio Monarch, while showing more consistent bass body and smoother treble than DUNU SA6. At roughly $730, it emphasizes balance and refinement over fireworks, earning a solid four-star verdict: extremely competent tuning and execution for those prioritizing maturity, comfort, and smoothness over maximum excitement.

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Softears RSV delivers a rare combo for a full-BA set: organic timbre without the plasticky edge. The bass carries sufficient weight with a mid-bass emphasis—tight and tasteful rather than earth-shaking, and understandably shy of a DD’s thump. Midrange separation from the bass is clean yet never thin; male vocals keep their body, while female vocals and instruments sound natural, relaxed, and true-to-life. Treble sits neutral and tame—enough sparkle to animate vocals and instruments, but not tuned to spotlight microdetail. Detail retrieval is above average for the price, though not a detail monster, and staging plus imaging sit comfortably slightly outside the head with competent placement. The overall takeaway is a beautiful all-rounder that prioritizes realism and balance over fireworks.

Against peers, RSV squares up closely with Thieaudio Oracle: choose Oracle for more dynamic bass, pick RSV for more organic mids and vocals. Versus sets like Moondrop Variations, RSV trades a touch of separation/analytical edge for fuller lower mids and a more lifelike tonal weight. It won’t chase the widest stages or the sharpest micro-etch, but the tuning and timbre are so dialed that technical trade-offs fade into the background. As the most affordable Softears model, RSV feels like a love letter to musicality: realistic tone, versatile tuning, and a presentation that simply sounds right across genres.