Softears Volume S VS Xenns Tea Pro

The Xenns Tea Pro impresses most with its exceptional build quality and aesthetics. The metallic shell feels substantial and premium in the ear, featuring a comfortable wing design and a nice metal nozzle. While slightly larger than its predecessors like the Tea and Tea2, the Pro's shell represents an upgrade in feel and technology, boasting a prettier faceplate. The included cable is thick, braided, and features a swappable termination (4.4mm or 3.5mm), contributing to an overall solid package that feels like a significant step up from previous models.

Sonically, the Tea Pro offers a bassy but clean signature with strong, impactful low end. However, it presents some key drawbacks: the bass can feel slightly boomy or distorted rather than pristine, and the overall presentation leans dark and rich. This comes at the expense of upper treble sparkle, air, and micro-details, resulting in a narrow soundstage and less impressive instrument separation than expected at its price point. While extremely pleasant and engaging for music listening, it feels slightly muffled and lacks the clarity and detail retrieval of many competitors.

When stacked against rivals like the Dunu Da Vinci, Kiwi Ears Quintet, EM10, DUNU DaVinci, Hype 4, or CCA CA4, the Tea Pro often falls short sonically. Competitors generally offer better air, treble extension, cleaner bass, or superior detail. Its own predecessor, the Tea2, is considered more neutral and relaxed. Consequently, while the Tea Pro is a contender with its fantastic build and fun tuning, it might be skippable for those prioritizing pure sound quality. It earns a recommendation for newcomers or those valuing premium construction, but audiophiles seeking the best sound may find better options elsewhere.

Jaytiss original ranking

The Softears Volume S delivers a fantastic hybrid sound in its low impedance mode, characterized as a warm neutral tuning with a lush note weight, good bass punch without bloat, and a slight upper-midrange emphasis that makes vocals pop. This signature translates exceptionally well across both music listening and competitive gaming, offering great separation, layering, and phenomenal imaging for precise positional awareness. While engaging and non-fatiguing, gunfire and intense effects in games like Apex Legends can sometimes feel on the verge of shouty or slightly occlusive during chaotic, high-level scenarios, lacking that last bit of air and resolution in the upper mids.

Gaming performance shines across multiple titles. The Volume S provides outstanding depth perception and accurate imaging for Apex Legends slides and light footsteps, excels in Valorant with its separation and verticality, handles the chaos of Call of Duty exceptionally well, and proves to be a top recommendation for Fragpunk due to its loud, precise, and easily trackable footsteps. The smaller resin chassis offers great comfort and ergonomics, especially for those struggling with fit, though it doesn't feel quite as premium as some metal competitors in its price range.

Significant drawbacks include the utterly dismissed high impedance mode tuning, deemed "absolute garbage" and a headache for gaming, and the fragile tuning mechanism itself, prone to easy damage. The included shoelace-style cable is functional with a removable termination but not a favorite, and the unboxing experience, while decent with a pleather case, extra termination, and two sets of silicone tips, is fairly typical for the price. Ultimately, the Softears Volume S stands as a killer all-around IEM when locked into its excellent low impedance mode, highly recommended for its crossover appeal despite the useless tuning switch and build quibbles.

Fresh Reviews original ranking

Build & presentation scream premium: a matte metal alloy shell with lush green-blue fade and gold script, plus a black-silver sparkle faceplate that looks like wearable art. Ergonomics are excellent despite a slightly wider nozzle and a bit of heft, allowing long sessions without discomfort. The package impresses with a gallery-style unboxing, matching carrying case, and a silver cable with interchangeable 3.5/4.4 terminations. Under the hood: 2 dynamic drivers + 6 BAs at ~$360.

Tonally it’s a balanced, warmer-leaning set with elevated sub-bass depth, clean attack/decay, and more treble extension and sparkle than comparable sets. The stage sits a touch more intimate, but separation and layering are immaculate, and imaging locks in with precision. Mids don’t pop as forward as some peers, yet overall resolution stays high with “oodles of detail,” giving music a rich, cohesive presentation that still feels highly detailed.

For competitive play the performance is A-tier: in Apex, Valorant, and especially Call of Duty, imaging and depth perception are master-class. Gunfire comes through cleaner with less reverb; airstrikes and mortar noise get pushed back so crucial cues like footsteps, slides, and shield pops cut through. The more intimate stage aids crosshair placement and micro-positioning, while separation stays clear even in chaotic fights. Verdict: a high A- on the Wall-Hack Certified list—an excellent pick for gamers wanting warmth, sub-bass authority, and elite imaging without sacrificing musical enjoyment.

Fresh Reviews original ranking

The Softears Volume S emerges as a standout vocal specialist under $500, often described as a "mini studio 4“ due to similar frequency graphs. However, it trades some treble detail for superior scaling and a heightened focus on the mid-range, particularly vocals, while adding a touch more mid-bass oomph. This treble reduction allows the music to breathe, creating a more immersive and musical experience that pulls the listener deeper into the sound compared to the Studio 4, without sacrificing a sense of space or leaving the bass and treble feeling inadequate. Though not bass-heavy or treble-head oriented, the low-end provides enough thump and the highs enough air to avoid sounding lean or dark, resulting in a presentation that's slightly less technical and balanced than the Studio 4 but excels in vocal delivery and engagement.

A key feature is the tuning switch which boosts upper mids and treble while lowering the bass, effectively transforming the sound into a cleaner, more technical version of Harman 2019, even surpassing the Studio 4 in detail retrieval in this mode. However, this boosted configuration can sound shouty, lean, and overly clinical for many preferences, lacking the thickness of the stock tuning and scaling less effectively at higher volumes. The stock tuning, preferred for its vocal prowess, truly comes alive with increased volume. The included clear tips are recommended for a slight treble lift and comfort, and the bundled USBC adapter adds a subtle amount of sub-bass rumble, though the low-end remains clean and controlled, reminiscent of leaner sets like the Pilgrim, not providing heavy slam.

While the Studio 4 remains a solid, well-balanced all-rounder, especially on sale around $350, and alternatives like the EM10 (more detailed), Supermix 4 (better value), the Volume S carves its niche with exceptional vocal performance at higher volumes using the stock tuning. Its main drawbacks involve the confusing switch design (requiring opposite positions on each earpiece for the same tuning with no clear indicators) and the pricing debate; using non-branded drivers suggests a more appropriate price point would be $200-$250 rather than $300. Despite these quirks and marketing claims about the passive radiator's role (its actual impact being debatable), the Volume S delivers a great sounding, flexible IEM offering distinct sonic profiles based on volume level and switch position.

Jays Audio original ranking

The Xenns Tea Pro stands as the most refined and well-rounded iteration of the Tea series to date, offering strong competition in the $300 IEM market. While it loses some of the unique "sauce" found in earlier models, it delivers significant improvements, particularly sounding like a "better Da Vinci" with its bass presentation. The Pro features a similar heaviness and thickness to the notes but adds more upper mids, treble extension, and overall better resolution. For roughly $60 more than the Da Vinci, the Pro offers upgraded drivers from Knowles, contributing to better timbre, a bump in technical performance, and equally good accessories.

Compared to the original Tea and Tea 2, the Pro emerges as the better all-rounder but lacks their distinct character. The original Tea remains superior for its highly addicting vocals, bite, and holographic staging, while the Pro offers more balanced, fuller, smoother, and more versatile vocals alongside superior bass in slam, texture, impact, resolution, and rumble due to its new dual dynamic drivers. Treble extension, overall resolution, and a more open stage also see noticeable improvements over both predecessors. Technical performance-wise, the Pro is highly competitive with other $200+ IEMs, offering better resolution, imaging, transience, attack, and separation than the Da Vinci, along with a more natural sound.

Positioned under $400, the Tea Pro fits as a balanced choice between neutral and exciting tunings. Against the clean, neutral Pilgrim or Dusk, the Pro provides a bassier, heavier, fuller sound with more forward vocals and better note weight. Compared to the exciting Estrella, the Pro is more balanced, thicker, and slams harder, while the Estrella offers more dynamic contrast and crispier treble. Versus the similarly priced Hype 4, the Pro delivers harder slam, deeper bass, and sharper vocals with more bite, though the Hype 4 is slightly quicker, smoother, and more balanced. Essentially, the Tea Pro excels as a versatile, resolving set with satisfying bass and well-tuned vocals, making it the best pick for most listeners despite losing some quirks of earlier models.

Jays Audio original ranking

The Softears Volume S offers a dramatic transformation through its impedance switch, requiring a tiny screwdriver to toggle between low (9.8 ohm) and high (31.2 ohm) modes. The low impedance mode is described as painfully clinical, bland, and annoyingly sterile across all tested amplifiers. It’s reminiscent of the disliked original Volume model, lacking any enjoyable tuning despite EQ attempts. This mode only suits listeners craving absolute neutrality, offering little musical engagement.

Switching to the high impedance mode completely revolutionizes the experience. It becomes relaxed, unoffensive, and remarkably smooth, with notes possessing a lingering, church-like resonance that adds emotional depth. This mode presents music with a spacious, uplifting quality and a subtle chest-felt pressure during resonant passages. However, it demands quality amplification to shine and benefits from tip-rolling; the included sticky liquid silicone tips enhance the signature, though alternatives like Azla SednaEarfit can tweak the response. Comfort and build are excellent, though the fabric cable exhibits some microphonics.

Priced around $300, the Volume S earns a cautious recommendation primarily for its stellar high-impedance performance. It requires tinkering with tips and sources to reach its potential and faces stiff competition in its price bracket. While not an outright class leader, it’s a significant upgrade over the original Volume. The package includes a luxurious case, multiple tips, and a branded USB-C adapter, reflecting Softears' typical attention to detail. Just keep it locked in high-impedance mode.

Z-Reviews original ranking

Xenns Tea Pro lands with the familiar “Tea” swagger: a baby-blue, sparkled shell that looks subdued but premium, a modular 3.5/4.4 cable that clicks together more cleanly than most, and the infamous ultra-soft pouch (yes, the “chinchilla” one). Build is hefty yet comfortable, with a tiny ear “shelf” that doesn’t poke and giant L/R markers that actually help. Inside is an 8-driver stack—2 dynamic + 6 balanced armatures—priced around $360, right in the historic Tea lane. Wide-bore tips can make the upper range shouty, but switch to foams or X-Elastic and the tuning snaps into place: smooth, powerful, and deeply satisfying.

Sonically it’s the sports car that rides like a chaise lounge: speed and detail on tap, but with the warmth dialed up ~20% so long sessions feel luxurious. Bass reaches low with a tactile rumble that sneaks up in tracks, mids are rich and present, and treble is tastefully shaved to avoid glare—energy without edge. The stage isn’t stadium-wide; instead it’s an immersive “pressed-in” bubble that places the orchestra around the head with excellent instrument presence and macro-dynamics. It carries the Tea/T2 lineage forward by focusing less on sterile “detail points” and more on excitement and physicality—music shoved into the ear in the most pleasurable way. Verdict: an unabashed 10/10 crowd-pleaser in its bracket and a default recommendation—pop on the 4.4 plug, use the right tips, and let it cook.

Z-Reviews original ranking

The Softears Volume S delivers a distinctly colored sound signature with significant boosts in two key areas: the bass and the upper mid-range. Its bass profile is uniquely elevated up to around 300Hz, resulting in a physical, heavy, yet well-defined low end that impresses with substantial note weight and attack, appealing even to bass enthusiasts. Vocals cut through clearly due to the upper mid-range boost, but this tuning comes with a trade-off: a noticeable sense of hollowness and a narrower soundstage that can feel congested on certain tracks, creating a love-hate relationship with its presentation.

The treble offers a safe, natural, and polite character, providing adequate detail without excessive brightness or roll-off, though it may lack sparkle for some listeners. Technically, the Volume S performs at a level comparable to the Moondrop Blessing 3, excelling particularly in the incisive attack and substantial weight behind each note. When compared to competitors, the Volume S edges out the Tea Pro in bass quality, separation, and natural timbre, though the Tea Pro offers a wider stage. Against the Blessing 3, the Volume S trades openness and cleanliness for a more fun, bass-forward and impactful experience. It also presents a more balanced signature than the brighter, more treble-focused Kiwi Ears Astral.

Ultimately earning an A-minus rating, the Volume S is highly recommended for those seeking exceptional bass quality and a fun, colored tuning. However, it might not suit listeners prioritizing a wide soundstage, a neutral signature, or a bright, sparkly treble with forward micro-details; these listeners are advised to audition first.

Tim Tuned original ranking

Xenns Tea Pro lands as an easy pick around $300 thanks to a natural, versatile tuning that blends tasteful fun with everyday usability. A gentle bass boost adds heft, slam, and definition without muddying the mids, while a touch of upper-mid lift keeps vocals clear—even on bass-heavy tracks—without tipping into thin or clinical territory. Treble stays smooth regardless of shallow or deep fit, supporting lifelike timbre and realistic decay that favors long, fatigue-free listening. Detail comes across as “natural detail” rather than etched; micro-nuances don’t jump out, but nothing feels missing or dulled either.

Against the Top Pro, bass through mids on the Top Pro can sound a bit tighter and more transparent, but its treble risks feeling overcooked and a touch “BA-like,” trading naturalness for extra sparkle and perceived detail. Tea Pro keeps the highs non-fatiguing and tonally convincing, making it the safer everyday choice. The “dream combo” would marry Top Pro’s bass-to-upper-mids with Tea Pro’s treble, but as it stands, Tea Pro remains a well-balanced, easy recommendation for its class—natural yet fun, clean vocals, and a bonus metal shell that seals the deal for all-day use.

Tim Tuned original ranking

The Softears Volume S at $320 sets a new tonal benchmark for IEMs in its price range. It arrives in solid packaging featuring a zippered carry case (a bit large but functional), protective earpiece pockets that might feel overkill for some, and two excellent sets of ear tips – including Softears' own highly-regarded Ultra Clear tips. Build quality is generally fantastic, highlighted by a resin shell, a comfortable paracord-style cable with a low-profile, user-swappable termination system, and recessed 2-pin connectors. While the aesthetics might feel a bit old-school to some, the fit is comfortable and stable due to its semi-custom shape and longer nozzle, making it secure enough for sleeping. A small screwdriver-adjustable tuning switch offers a secondary, brighter Harmon-like sound signature, though the default tuning is preferred.

The default sound signature is a warm-tilted neutral, delivering exceptional natural timbre and tasteful bass boost. This bass stands out for its exceptional physicality – punchy and impactful without being overbearing – alongside articulate sub-bass that’s easy to follow. Combined with well-defined transients, particularly in the upper-midrange, it creates a satisfyingly rich and dense presentation. While spatial effects and imaging are competent but not standout, the overall tonality and bass quality are remarkably refined. Comparisons show it offers a better tonal balance and bass control than the bassier Dunu DaVinci, significantly more body and richness than the brighter, thinner Moondrop Blessing 3, and trades blows with the Moondrop Dusk – the Volume S providing superior density and mid-bass presence versus the Dusk's more open, spacious presentation.

Ultimately, the Softears Volume S earns a full five-star rating. It might not be the absolute most technically dazzling IEM, but its fantastic tonal balance, unique bass physicality, and overall refinement make it a compelling choice. For $320, it delivers a sound signature that feels just right – rich, satisfying, and universally appealing – challenging more expensive offerings and establishing itself as a top contender in its class.

Super* Review original ranking

Xenns Tea Pro lands as a confident mid-tier contender with a 2DD+6BA setup around $350–360, going head-to-head with sets like DaVinci, Estrella, and Dusk. Sub-bass has real grunt—808 drops, the 38 Hz hit on Big Boi’s “Kill Jill,” and early-2000s hip-hop cues slam with authority yet stay controlled. Electric-bass lines have clean pluck and release, avoiding mid-bass bloom, so the low end never muddies male or female vocals; the tuning plots close to a favored target without sounding sterile.

The midrange keeps vocals center and natural—no husky haze from mid-bass, no shout from upper-mids—and treble carries harmonics without tizzy edge, handling tricky voices (think Neil Young, Elton John, Jim Croce) with ease. Fans of the Moondrop Variations’ leaner, drier 3 kHz-pushed profile may find the Tea Pro richer and less “etched,” but that extra body reads as musical rather than bloated. Crucially, the BAs avoid that metallic tinge, giving cymbals and keys a clean, pleasing sheen.

On balance, this is the kind of tuning that competes directly with its peers—and depending on priorities, arguably beats them. With punchy sub-bass, stable mids, smooth but detailed top end, and zero fatiguing quirks, the Tea Pro sits between a firm “would buy” and a potential “shameless hype” slot—prime material for renewed top-five shortlists now that the market has cooled.

Bad Guy Good Audio original ranking