Ziigaat Arcanis VS Softears RSV MK II
IEM Comparison: Expert & Community Scores Side-by-Side
Ziigaat Arcanis and Softears RSV MK II use 2DD+5BA and 5BA driver setups respectively. Ziigaat Arcanis costs $399 while Softears RSV MK II costs $700. Softears RSV MK II is $301 more expensive. Softears RSV MK II holds a clear 0.7-point edge in reviewer scores (7.5 vs 8.2). Ziigaat Arcanis carries a user score of 8.5. Softears RSV MK II has slightly better mids with a 0.3-point edge, Softears RSV MK II has better treble with a 0.9-point edge and Softears RSV MK II has significantly better dynamics with a 1.3-point edge.
Insights
| Metric | Ziigaat Arcanis | Softears RSV MK II |
|---|---|---|
| Bass | 7.5 | 8.1 |
| Mids | 8 | 8.3 |
| Treble | 7 | 7.9 |
| Details | 7.5 | 7.9 |
| Soundstage | 7.5 | 7.7 |
| Imaging | 7.5 | 8 |
| Dynamics | 7 | 8.3 |
| Tonality | 8 | 8.4 |
| Technicalities | 8 | 7.9 |
Ziigaat Arcanis Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
7.5Strongly Favorable
Softears RSV MK II Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
8.2Very Positive
Reviews Comparison
Ziigaat Arcanis reviewed by Jaytiss
8.4
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
The Ziigaat Arcanis, priced at $400 as the brand's most expensive standalone IEM, presents a mixed bag outside of its core sound. Build quality is decent but unremarkable, featuring comfortable shells with a well-fitting nozzle, though the aesthetic is described as slightly "weird." The included cable feels distinctly mid-tier and underwhelming for the price, while the case shows noticeable fraying almost immediately, contributing to an absolutely horrific unboxing experience deemed unacceptable at this cost.
Sonically, the Arcanis is a deeply divisive set with an extremely dark tilt and a significant dip around 6kHz. Initial impressions can be harsh or disappointing, but extended listening reveals its strengths: pure, clean sound free of sibilance or harshness, quality bass, clean highs, and beautiful vocals. This unique tuning philosophy creates a smooth, sophisticated, and non-fatiguing presentation. While the $230 Odyssey is praised as a fantastic value and the second-best in Ziigaat's lineup, the Arcanis is considered sonically superior, offering a more refined experience – albeit only marginally better for some. It competes favorably against sets like the Mega5EST and Dunu DaVinci, and surprisingly challenges far pricier offerings like the $1,800 Apostle in tonal beauty, though the Apostle has more "show." The $320 Volume S is a close competitor with a different, brighter tonality, making the Arcanis's value proposition relative.
Ultimately, the Arcanis shines as a beautifully dark, serious, and smooth IEM that excels at high volumes without becoming offensive. It delivers great detail without fatigue, standing out in a market saturated with energetic tunings. Despite the subpar accessories and unboxing befitting a much cheaper product, its unique and effective sound signature makes it a highly recommended pick under $400 for those seeking a refined, non-sibilant listen, though the Odyssey remains the smarter choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
Softears RSV MK II reviewed by Jaytiss
2025-09-03
9.2
Reviewer Score
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
Ziigaat Arcanis reviewed by Jays Audio
8
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
The Ziigaat Arcanis positions itself as a potential new vocal benchmark under $500, offering a clean yet full sound signature. A slight boost from 6 to 15kHz makes the upper mids and early treble pop out, adding extra dynamics without becoming sharp or fatiguing. Essentially, the Arcanis is a smoother, more resolving, and more spacious evolution of the original Mangird TEs, retaining their essence but with greater refinement. Vocals, the main attraction, are exceptionally clear, natural, resolving, and open, featuring the "special sauce" – a distinct bite to consonants that enhances dynamics and emotional impact. This is achieved through a careful balance: a cut at 3-6k reduces sharpness and fatigue, while a gradual rise from 800Hz to 2kHz pushes vocals slightly forward for clarity, and the 6-15k boost provides essential extension and openness.
Technical performance is impressive, with a notably open stage, pinpoint imaging, and excellent micro-details, making it great for gaming, OSTs, and classical. The bass is quick, well-textured, resolving, and controlled, offering good slam without bleeding. However, it lacks the deep sub-bass extension for genres like hip-hop or EDM, where sets like the Estrella or Dusk outperform. Scaling is crucial: busy pop or EDM tracks sound best at mid-volumes (around 60-65 dB) to prevent the treble bite from becoming overwhelming, while slower ballads and acoustics truly shine and open up at higher volumes (around 80 dB+), revealing micro-nuances and emotional depth.
Comparisons highlight the Arcanis's strengths. It's more technical and spacious than the Volume S (warmer, better for male vocals) and Studio 4 (fuller, more neutral), offering superior treble air and detail. It outpaces the RS5 in technicalities and value, though the RS5 has fuller male vocals. Against the Oracle MK1, the Arcanis boasts better treble extension, micro-details, dynamics, and that crucial vocal bite. While bright-neutral sets like the Dusk or Meta have more bass and treble emphasis, the Arcanis feels more natural and musical, especially in vocals and bass texture. Compared to Ziigaat's own Odyssey, the Arcanis is cleaner, more technical, more vocal-focused, and airier, while the Odyssey is bassier, darker, and scales better for hip-hop/rock. Despite its strengths, the accessories and cable feel unacceptably basic for the $400 price point. Ultimately, the Arcanis is highly recommended for higher-volume listening on vocal-focused tracks, but other options might be better all-rounders for mid-volume pop or bass-heavy genres.
Jays Audio Youtube Channel
Softears RSV MK II reviewed by Jays Audio
2025-08-28
8
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
Softears RSV MK2 shifts from the OG’s vocal-centric tilt into a bass-forward all-rounder. The sub-bass and mid-bass hit with real slam and weight, giving drums and bass guitars a satisfying, dynamic punch. Upper mids (3–6 kHz) are tamed to avoid shout, while a gentle 1–2 kHz rise keeps vocals open and natural—slightly less pushed than the original but still clear. Treble is smooth with decent air; not super sparkly and there’s no EST “sauce,” but it stays clean and non-fatiguing.
As a package, MK2’s standout is the low-end texture—thunderous yet controlled—making it one of the more engaging bassy sets under four figures. Technical performance is solid for the tier, though some rivals at lower prices bring more raw detail and EST extension. Build and accessories get a tasteful, modern refresh. For best balance, the stock tips work well; bass-boosting or treble-opening tips can shift it toward a more V-shape at the expense of overall smoothness.
On genre fit, MK2 shines with hip-hop, pop, EDM, and R&B, where its punch and warmth bring rhythms to life; for orchestral or leaner acoustic picks, the bass can edge forward depending on the mix. It scales to mid–high volumes nicely (around the 70–80 dB zone) without turning sharp. Compared with the OG RSV—now likely affected by a silent retune in recent units—the MK2 is the safer buy: less shout, more authority down low, and a broader all-rounder appeal. Recommended, especially if found below full MSRP, for listeners craving tasteful bass with natural mids and relaxed, smooth treble.
Jays Audio Youtube Channel
Ziigaat Arcanis reviewed by Super* Review
6*
* score normalized
Youtube Video Summary
The Ziigaat Arcanis offers a warm, somewhat thick sound signature with a noticeable bass boost and a lean lower midrange. This is balanced by a relaxed upper midrange and lower treble, contributing to its overall smooth character. While it provides decent extension, the Arcanis can occasionally present vocals with a slightly wet or near-sibilant edge, especially depending on ear tip choice and fit depth. Its transient response is sharper than the Yanyin Canon Pro, giving it better definition and crisper imaging, though the bass physicality is only middling.
Physically, the Arcanis features lightweight plastic shells with a distinctive dark black and green aesthetic. However, the build quality feels somewhat cheap for the $400 price point, especially paired with the included thin, glossy cable. The shells are notably long, leading to a fit that can feel deep and occasionally aggressive in the ear canal, exacerbated by the stock ear tips. Users may experience noticeable driver flex or squish when inserting them. Comfort is generally acceptable for upright listening but becomes problematic when lying on your side.
Ultimately, the Arcanis earns a three-star rating. While it delivers a generally inoffensive, warm sound with decent technicalities like transient bite and imaging, it lacks standout qualities or strong definition at its price. The physical experience, particularly the fit and perceived build quality, further holds it back from being a compelling recommendation. It ends up feeling like a competent but unremarkable offering in its tier.
Super* Review original ranking
Super* Review Youtube ChannelSoftears RSV MK II reviewed by Super* Review
2025-09-09
8*
* score normalized
Youtube Video Summary
Softears RSV MK II brings back the all-BA ethos at $700 with five armatures and a promise of “re-engineered BA bass.” Build and accessories feel premium (sleek shells, plush case), while the cable choice is quirky—4.4 mm only with a 3.5 mm pigtail. Fit is outstandingly secure and custom-like but on the larger side with a longer nozzle, so comfort depends on ear size. Softears’ Ultra Clear tips work well; the new metal-ring variant adds little beyond novelty.
On the graph, bass looks like gigabass, yet in ear it settles into a warm, weighty foundation without steamrolling the mids. The midrange follows a “new-meta neutral” tilt—fuller than Harman with forward upper-mids—while treble lands clean and sparkly without fatigue. Imaging is tidy rather than cavernous; separation and delineation are convincing, with the top end executed better than the bottom. BA bass here is among the more physical and satisfying of its kind, though tactility can be track-dependent and turn a bit tubby on very bass-heavy mixes.
Against peers, Symphonium Meteor sounds warmer and more “special” but less all-round; DUNU SA6 MK2 is more colored with janglier treble and the least convincing bass; 7th Acoustics Supernova trades warmth for vivid, bright-tilted imaging; Softears Studio 4 is lighter on bass and airier; and the old Moondrop S8 stays the lively, vocal-centric counterpoint. Net take: a supremely competent, character-light all-rounder that favors bass weight over panoramic staging. Verdict: 4/5 stars—a welcome throwback done right, and notably cheaper than the original RSV launch price.
Super* Review original ranking
Super* Review Youtube ChannelZiigaat Arcanis reviewed by Web Search
8
Reviewer Score
The Ziigaat Arcanis offers a bright-neutral sound profile, leaning heavily on technical prowess over bass impact. Its dual dynamic drivers in an isobaric configuration deliver tight, textured sub-bass rumble but lack mid-bass slam, making them better suited for analytical listening than bass-heavy genres. Vocals and midrange instruments shine with exceptional clarity and natural timbre, though an upper-mid lift can induce fatigue on sibilant tracks or at higher volumes.
Technical performance is the Arcanis’ standout trait, with pinpoint imaging and a holographic soundstage that excels in gaming and complex orchestral pieces. However, its treble polarizes listeners: some praise its airy extension, while others find it harsh with metallic tinge. Comfort is excellent for long sessions, but driver flex during fit adjustments and sparse accessories (basic cable, minimal tips) undermine its $399 positioning.
Softears RSV MK II reviewed by Web Search
2025-08-28
8
Reviewer Score
The Softears RSV MK II refines the original RSV with an all-5BA design and a 4-way crossover, targeting a stable “reference sound” while improving driver control and airflow management. It’s easy to drive at 122 dB/Vrms, 7 Ω, and the build mixes medical-grade resin with CNC-milled aluminum and forged carbon for a robust, low-resonance shell; MSRP is $699.
On paper, the tuning remains neutral with a bass lift: dual Knowles CI22955 woofers aim to give BA-bass more texture and weight, an improved ED driver anchors clean mids, and a SWFK unit handles upper treble for a smoother, less fatiguing top end. Softears’ LRC network and dual pressure-relief approach target consistent FR and reduced ear pressure, which should aid long listening sessions and imaging stability.
Subjectively, this positions the RSV MK II as a coherent, midrange-centric set with tight, controlled low-end rather than maximal slam, and a smooth treble that trades sparkle for fatigue-free listening. Soundstage is moderately wide with tidy imaging; technicalities are competitive for the class but won’t chase ultra-etched detail specialists. Given the tuning goals and efficient drive requirements, value will appeal most to listeners prioritizing tonal accuracy and midrange timbre over sheer sub-bass impact or treble air.
Ziigaat Arcanis (more reviews)
Ziigaat Arcanis reviewed by Audionotions
7.5
Reviewer Score
Ziigaat Arcanis reviewed by Z-Reviews
7.2
* score normalized
Youtube Video Summary
The Ziigaat Arcanis, priced at $379, immediately raises eyebrows with its cheap packaging and accessories. The included 3.5mm cable is deemed insufficient, especially for the low 12-ohm impedance, and the IEM shells themselves have an unfortunate mold-like appearance. The basic case and lack of balanced cable option feel mismatched for the price tag. Simply put, the unboxing experience and stock accessories scream budget, not near $400.
Getting great sound out of the Arcanis requires significant aftermarket investment. The stock cable must be swapped for a high-quality, low-impedance cable (like Effect Audio) and the stock tips replaced with Velvet tips to fix staging compression and treble issues. Pairing with a powerful, capable amplifier is also essential. Once these costly upgrades are made, the 2DD + 5BA configuration truly shines, delivering excellent clarity, a unique "gooey" texture, and surprisingly good detail retrieval. However, the soundstage is notably intimate, with everything happening "behind the eyeballs", lacking the width found in competitors.
Ultimately, the Arcanis offers genuinely excellent sound quality that justifies a $400 tag – but only after spending significantly more on cables, tips, and amplification. The stock experience feels like a $300 product hampered by the included accessories and questionable shell design. It's a frustratingly high-maintenance IEM; you absolutely can achieve top-tier performance, but the effort and extra cost required make the overall value proposition hard to swallow at full price.
Z-Reviews Youtube Channel
Ziigaat Arcanis reviewed by
Fresh Reviews
7*
* The score of this reviewer influences only the Gaming Score
Youtube Video Summary
The Ziigaat Arcanis and Lush IEMs offer distinct flavors at their price points, both featuring resin builds with eye-catching faceplates—sparkly green for the Arcanis and silver-black for the Lush. Fit is familiar to other Ziigaat models, and accessories include a basic cable, ear tips, and carrying pouch. Sonically, the Arcanis delivers a holographic, punchy presentation with emphasized sub-bass and upper mids, making footsteps, slides, and distant gunfire pop with urgency. The Lush leans darker and smoother, relaxing upper mids to tame gunfire harshness while maintaining clean bass and excellent separation.
For gaming, performance varies by title. In Valorant and CS2, the Lush shines with precise imaging and a smoother, fatigue-free experience—gunfire feels controlled without sacrificing detail. The Arcanis excels in COD, where its aggressive tuning highlights critical cues like footsteps and slides with greater potency. However, in Apex Legends, the Lush’s relaxed profile struggles with subtle audio cues (e.g., light taps or shield cells), earning a B rating. The Arcanis fares better (B+) with superior depth reads and emphasis on environmental sounds, though complex fights can overwhelm its separation compared to top-tier sets like the Mangird Tea Pro.
Ultimately, the Arcanis is a versatile all-rounder, slightly favored for both music and most gaming scenarios. The Lush carves a niche for smooth, non-fatiguing sessions in Valorant/CS2, filling a unique spot in Ziigaat’s lineup. Both IEMs offer exceptional resolution and layering for their prices, but the choice hinges on preference: the Arcanis for its energetic clarity, or the Lush for its refined, relaxed signature.
Fresh Reviews original ranking
Fresh Reviews Youtube ChannelSoftears RSV MK II (more reviews)
Softears RSV MK II reviewed by Fox Told Me So
2025-09-26
7.8
Reviewer Score
On the graph, it diverges from JM-1 or Harman, choosing its own path. Sub-200 Hz is elevated, giving the bass notable weight and warmth, but also risking congestion. A dip between 200–600 Hz thins mids and robs some body from vocals and instruments, though it does clean up edges. Then comes a surprising 14 kHz BA-driven peak, adding air, shimmer, and openness—rare for an all-BA set!
In practice, bass hits with real presence for BA, punchy and convincing though not as deep as DD. Mids lean slightly thin, a bit lack of density, making instruments less woody. Treble is airy and crisp thanks to that 14k lift, but may edge bright for sensitive listeners. Stage favors forward bass and a sense of openness, though not massive in depth.
Verdict: It’s bassy, airy, and a touch thin in the middle—a distinct tuning philosophy that stands apart from the crowd.
Youtube Video Summary
RSV MK II presents a three-way 5BA design with a bold carbon-fiber faceplate and oversized “V,” pairing clean aesthetics with comfortable fit. The tuning shows a heavy 20–200 Hz lift that delivers dense, punchy bass, followed by a 200–600 Hz dip that trims muddiness but also thins vocals and instruments. Up top, a pronounced ~14 kHz peak adds air and sparkle, while a dip near 6 kHz doesn’t fully suppress sibilance given the overall upper-energy; treble can read bright for sensitive listeners.
On music, bass cues sit forward with convincing impact for an all-BA set, though sub-bass doesn’t reach especially deep and can mask lower-set vocals. Mids skew neutral-cool with sharp outlines and lighter body—male voices, in particular, can sound slightly elevated in pitch—while the energized treble brings crisp overtone detail and stage openness. The result is a bass-driven, EDM-friendly presentation that favors thump and shimmer over warmth and weight.
Owner-type notes: the bass emphasis can overshadow parts of the midrange and shift instrument focus (e.g., bass lines becoming more prominent than guitars). Versus similarly priced peers mentioned—Rockus and Mega 5 EST—RSV MK II feels the brightest with the heaviest bass placement, trading natural vocal density for excitement and slam. A compelling pick for listeners chasing impact and sparkle, less so for vocal-centric libraries that demand fullness and timbral gravity.
Fox Told Me So original ranking
Fox Told Me So Youtube Channel
Ziigaat Arcanis Details
Driver Configuration: 2DD+5BA
Tuning Type: Neutral, Bright
Brand: ZiiGaat Top ZiiGaat IEMs
Price (Msrp): $399
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Softears RSV MK II Details
Driver Configuration: 5BA
Tuning Type: Neutral with Bass Boost
Brand: Softears Top Softears IEMs
Price (Msrp): $700
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Ziigaat Arcanis User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score:
Based on 1 user reviews
8.5Excellent
Softears RSV MK II User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score: n/a
Based on 0 user reviews
No user reviews yet. Be the first one who writes a review!
Ziigaat Arcanis Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
8.4Gaming Grade
A+Softears RSV MK II Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
7.6Gaming Grade
AZiigaat Arcanis Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A+- Well-executed tonal character. No major flaws with good technical control. Smooth presentation works with multiple genres.
Average Technical Grade
A+- Very competent with articulate presentation. Well-defined layers and precise imaging. Soundstage is immersive and handles dynamics well.
Softears RSV MK II Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A+- Refined execution with coherent frequency integration. Natural timbre reproduction and engaging presentation. Strong versatility.
Average Technical Grade
A- Good technical performance. Clear separation and decent detail retrieval across various tracks. Soundstage shows reasonable width and depth.
Ziigaat Arcanis User Reviews
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You need to be signed in to write your own reviewA refined smooth-neutral IEM offering exceptional vocal transparency and fatigue-free listening, though let down by underwhelming accessories
Pros
Natural midrange with excellent vocal clarity, smooth non-fatiguing treble extension, and tight technical bass with good textureCons
Subpar accessories including basic cable and minimal ear tips, noticeable driver flex when adjusting fit, lacks balanced cable optionSoftears RSV MK II User Reviews
"This is an example review"
Pros
- Example pro 1
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Cons
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