Ziigaat Lush VS Nicehck Rockies

IEM Comparison: Expert & Community Scores Side-by-Side

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Ziigaat Lush and Nicehck Rockies use 1DD+4BA and 1DD+2BA+2EST driver setups respectively. Ziigaat Lush costs $180 while Nicehck Rockies costs $499. Nicehck Rockies is $319 more expensive. Nicehck Rockies holds a decisive 1.2-point edge in reviewer scores (6.8 vs 8). Nicehck Rockies carries a user score of 9. Nicehck Rockies has significantly better bass with a 1.4-point edge, Nicehck Rockies has significantly better mids with a 1.2-point edge, Nicehck Rockies has significantly better treble with a 1.9-point edge, Nicehck Rockies has significantly better dynamics with a 1.6-point edge and Nicehck Rockies has significantly better soundstage with a 1.1-point edge.

Insights

Metric Ziigaat Lush Nicehck Rockies
Bass 7 8.4
Mids 7.5 8.7
Treble 6.5 8.4
Details 6.8 8.1
Soundstage 7 8.1
Imaging 6.8 8.3
Dynamics 6 7.6
Tonality 6.8 8.6
Technicalities 7 8.7

Ziigaat Lush Aggregated Review Score

Average Reviewer Scores

Audio Amigo Tim Tuned Fresh Reviews Z-Reviews Super* Review
Jaytiss Jays Audio
Audionotions Head-Fi.org

Average Reviewer Score:

6.8

Cautiously Favorable


Nicehck Rockies Aggregated Review Score

Average Reviewer Scores

Super* Review
Head-Fi.org Web Search
Fox Told Me So Audionotions Jays Audio Tim Tuned
Jaytiss

Average Reviewer Score:

8

Very Positive


Reviews Comparison

Ziigaat Lush reviewed by Audionotions

Audionotions 8 Reviewer Score
As of 4/21/25, these are my pick for best value in IEMs and also one of the best implementations of the JM21 meta. Everything sounds right. Bass quantity is just right with decent quality - there is a good amount of physicality and it doesn't overwhem. Mids are tasteful - perhaps slightly laid back but not egregiously so. Treble is well extended and very smooth. It won't wow anyone looking for a very large stage but it is on the larger size. Dynamics and transients are pretty good on this set, lending to a pretty good sense of instrument separation and imaging. Personally, I would like a little bit more elevation in the mids to upper mid range to make it a bit more snappy and engaging but as is, the tuning makes for an excellent all-day IEM. One thing to note is that build quality is a bit lacking and the packaging/accessories are fit for a $20 IEM.

Audionotions original ranking

Website (Audionotions)

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Price: $179

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Nicehck Rockies reviewed by Audionotions

2025-09-09
Audionotions 8.5 Reviewer Score
My favorite take on the JM1 meta so far. Bass tuning is well done with adequate weight and punch - it's not standout but it will do the job. Silky smoooooth and rich mids with very good clarity. Treble that leans slightly bright but is never sharp. Very good transient response, especially with things like plucking sounds and the like. Renders strings very well. Some people might find the treble a bit forward but I don't personally find this to be an issue, except on certain tracks. It's an IEM that is hard to fault and one that will handle anything you throw at it well. Very suitable as a one-and-done IEM.

Audionotions original ranking

Website (Audionotions)

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Price: $499

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Ziigaat Lush reviewed by Jaytiss

Jaytiss 7.5 Reviewer Score
B+ Tuning
B Tech
Mid mid focused set, I dig it.

Jaytiss original ranking

Jaytiss Youtube Channel
Mids: A- Treble: B Dynamics: B Soundstage: A-

Nicehck Rockies reviewed by Jaytiss

2025-09-03
Jaytiss 9.4 Reviewer Score
A+ Tuning
S Tech
Trebble so nice. Feels faultless and amazing.
Youtube Video Summary

NiceHCK Rockies lands in the ~$500 bracket with a 1DD+2BA+2EST setup and a surprisingly premium package. The hollow resin shell feels solid, with a metal nozzle, slightly recessed 2-pin, good isolation, and comfy fit. The swappable-termination cable is thick, pliant, and lays flat—no chin slider out of the box, but easy to add—and the excellent case and tip kit push the accessories into “above class” territory.

Tonally, Rockies goes for tight, controlled bass and a natural midrange, capped by upper-treble that’s sparkly yet refined—detailed without getting shouty or brittle. The graph reads largely flat with a tasteful treble lift, translating to a clean, clear presentation that stays engaging rather than fatiguing. It comes across as an “instant classic” tuning: lively, airy, but still grounded.

Compared with brand siblings (DB2 too upper-midsy; F1 Pro/NX8 fine but not special), Rockies feels like the step up. Versus peers, it splits the difference: more air and delicacy than RSV MK2 (which is bassier/darker), less sizzle than sets that chase treble for effect, and broadly similar endgame vibes to “good” units of Mega5-EST—variance there being the rub. Net: a high-value pick at its price, worthy of a Gold Star—not a universal “benchmark,” but a sweet, natural, clear listen that many will prefer, especially with the standout accessories.

Mids: S Treble: S Dynamics: A- Soundstage: S-

Jaytiss original ranking

Jaytiss Youtube Channel

Ziigaat Lush reviewed by Jays Audio

Jays Audio 7 Reviewer Score
A+ Tuning
A- Tech
A cleaner more technical AFUL Explorer with a more open sense of space and airier treble. High volume set. Very smooth and balanced at higher scaling - has a "Lush" and full sound. Mid-volume sounds kinda anemic and too inoffensive, wouldn't rec at lower volumes unless you're using as background music while working, but very immersive with scaling like the Odyssey, but less v and more chill.
Youtube Video Summary

Ziigaat Lush lands as a cleaner, more airy and slightly more technical take on the Explore. The overall tuning is balanced, smooth, and full with a hint of air; vocals sit a touch laid-back in the mix with thicker male timbre, making it an easy, fatigue-free listen. At mid–low volumes it’s a relaxing, non-intrusive “background” set; turn it up and the Lush scales, opening the stage, popping vocals forward, adding extension and low-end impact. Cymbals read clear and lightly airy without sting, though snares can get a bit sharp on certain tracks and ultra-energetic genres won’t be its strong suit.

Technical gains over the Explore are real but modest—this isn’t a technical/value monster at the price. Bass quality is adequate rather than tactile: tighter and less warm than Explore with lower quantity, engaging when loud but bass-light at moderate levels, so not the first pick for sub-bass-centric hip-hop/EDM. Where it shines is at higher volumes with rock, metal, and R&B: natural timbre, good separation, and a smooth, immersive cruise rather than a high-contrast thrill ride.

Against peers, Lush sounds cleaner, more open and better balanced than Letshuoer S08; sets like Supermix 4, Nova, A30, Chopin are more resolving and lively at mid-volumes, while P50 and Cadenza 4 push vocals more forward. Treble-tilted options (Meta, ET142) are sparklier but less natural in timbre. Timeless 2 and Tanchjim Origin share the smooth/neutral vibe yet don’t scale like Lush. Versus its siblings, Odyssey is the more dynamic, V-leaning extrovert; Arcanis is a clear step up in resolution and vocal prowess. At ~$180 the cable/packaging underwhelm and it’s not a slam-dunk value, but as a smooth, immersive, volume-scaling upgrade for Explore/S08 fans, Lush hits its niche; if a chill mid-volume set is all that’s needed, cheaper options like EW300 DSP—or even Explore—make more sense.


Jays Audio original ranking

Jays Audio Youtube Channel

Nicehck Rockies reviewed by Jays Audio

2025-08-28
Jays Audio 8.5 Reviewer Score
S- Tuning
S- Tech
Balanced, clean, airy, with a slight treble emphasis, good EST implementation, great overall package and accesories at the price. Similar to TOP PRO but with ESTs and not as vocal centric. Easy rec if you want something balanced and airy.
Youtube Video Summary

The NiceHCK Rockies have a balanced tuning with standout treble extension from its ESTs. Vocals are tamer with a cut in the upper mids, trading sparkle-forward presence for a smoother, airier presentation; staging feels more open because bass and vocals sit slightly back, while cymbal decay lingers with a pleasing airiness. Technical performance is very good for the price—punching above many $500–$600 peers—and the unboxing/accessories package adds to the overall value.

Low end is grounded and tidy rather than slammy; texture and separation are solid, but this isn’t for bassheads or those wanting vocal-forward excitement (sets like Top Pro or Volare cover that better). The Rockies excel with rock/metal/indie/classical where the extra air, layering, and controlled upper energy shine; they scale best at mid volumes, and tip rolling should avoid options that over-boost or dull the treble—the stock tips already hit a sweet spot. Net: a confident recommendation at ~$500–$600 for listeners prioritizing treble quality, detail, and spaciousness, with the main trade-off being a more restrained bass and laid-back vocal emphasis.


Jays Audio original ranking

Jays Audio Youtube Channel

Ziigaat Lush reviewed by Tim Tuned

Tim Tuned 6 Reviewer Score
B Tuning
A+ Tech
Very niche relaxed tuning Too compressed sounding for me

Tim Tuned original ranking

Tim Tuned Youtube Channel
Bass: A- Mids: A+ Treble: A-

Nicehck Rockies reviewed by Tim Tuned

2025-07-16
Tim Tuned 8.5 Reviewer Score
S- Tuning
S Tech
The Mega5EST but a slight bit more technical and bright

Tim Tuned original ranking

Tim Tuned Youtube Channel
Bass: S Mids: S Treble: A+

Ziigaat Lush reviewed by Super* Review

Super* Review 6* * score rescaled + normalized
Nice take on new-meta tuning. A little bit more relaxed but nice.
Youtube Video Summary

Ziigaat Lush lands at $180 with a hybrid 1DD + 4BA setup and the brand’s familiar accessories: a slim case, silicone tips (S/M/L), and one foam pair. The cable is lightweight but tangly, and the all-plastic shells feel light yet a bit cheap. Fit is stable yet not ideal— the long nozzle can bottom out, tip selection becomes important, and there’s some driver flex. Aesthetics are decent, though the logo and overall build leave room for improvement.

Sonically, this is a “new meta” take: fuller lower mids, relaxed upper mids, and laid-back treble that can read a touch dark. The tonality is warm, smooth, and low-contrast; vocals sit a bit back and busy mixes can feel smoothed over. Treble avoids sharpness but can be inconsistent (sometimes blurred, sometimes a little chunky), and overall incisiveness depends heavily on tip choice. Bass isn’t overblown on the graph, yet comes across stronger in practice because the top end is subdued—impact is fine, definition is average. Imaging isn’t razor-sharp, though the stage can feel surprisingly wide.

Against peers, EPZ P50 sounds more contrasty with tighter bass, crisper treble, better imaging, and much better comfort. Kiwi Ears K4 brings more sparkle and sharper imaging (bass can dominate at times), again with superior fit. A cheaper alt, the AFUL Explorer, offers a similarly laid-back vibe with tighter bass, more consistent/airy treble, and an easier fit. Net: Lush is a pleasant, relaxed alternative for the treble-sensitive, but build and comfort hold it back. Rating: 3/5.


Super* Review original ranking

Super* Review Youtube Channel

Nicehck Rockies reviewed by Super* Review

2025-09-13
Super* Review 6* * score rescaled + normalized
The NiceHCK Rockies is a $500 tribrid (1DD+2BA+2EST) tuned almost identically to the Mega 5 EST but with slightly less bass and a touch more lower treble, yielding tighter bass and clearer separation at the cost of a drier, slightly brittle tone; build is solid, though the stiff, slider-less cable and average fit detract. Overall it’s good, but the warmer Mega 5 EST is preferred, and the Rockies lands at 3/5.
Youtube Video Summary

NiceHCK Rockies lands as a $500 tribrid (1DD+2BA+2EST) that mirrors the Mega5-EST’s tuning with subtle tweaks. The unboxing is generous—three styles of tips (including AET07-style and tacky “medical” silicone), a large puck case, and a swappable 3.5/4.4 screw-lock plug. Build feels premium with a real pietersite stone faceplate; fit is comfortable but shell geometry is generic, so stability depends on tips. The stock cable looks nice but is stiff and, notably, has no chin slider.

Sonically, Rockies follows a tilted diffuse-field / “new meta” balance with slightly less bass and a touch more lower-treble than Mega5-EST—on the order of ~1 dB each way. That shift tightens the low end and improves separation/imaging, making the set feel more technical; however, it also trims warmth and depth, leaving the presentation a bit dry/brittle at times. Bass quality is clean and controlled rather than showy; treble reads clear without obvious harshness on the 711 rig readout, though it can edge lean.

Against peers, Mega5-EST stays the easier, warmer listen with slightly “thuddier” bass, while DUNU’s Brain Dance is the pick for maximum excitement and staging (more clinical up top). Moondrop x Crinacle Dusk (analog use) offers stronger imaging and notably satisfying bass execution at a lower price. Rockies ends up a very good, balanced all-rounder that some will prefer over Mega5-EST for its tidier bass and clarity, but the trade for brightness and dryness is real—final verdict: 3/5.


Super* Review original ranking

Super* Review Youtube Channel

Ziigaat Lush reviewed by Head-Fi.org

Head-Fi.org 8.1 * score rescaled + normalized
25 community members have rated the ZiiGaat Lush at an average of 4.3/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.

URL to full Review

Head-Fi.org original ranking

Nicehck Rockies reviewed by Head-Fi.org

Head-Fi.org 7 * score rescaled + normalized
4 community members have rated the NiceHCK Rockies at an average of 3.8/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Strongly Favorable.

URL to full Review

Head-Fi.org original ranking

Ziigaat Lush (more reviews)

Ziigaat Lush reviewed by Audio Amigo

Audio Amigo 6 * score rescaled + normalized
A more expensive, better executed version of the Cinno. Super neutral tuning, recessed vocals, slightly boosted bass. Good as a studio set or reference set.

Audio Amigo original ranking

Audio Amigo Youtube Channel

Ziigaat Lush reviewed by Fresh Reviews

Fresh Reviews 6* * 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 Channel

Ziigaat Lush reviewed by Z-Reviews

Z-Reviews 6 * score rescaled + normalized

Nicehck Rockies (more reviews)

Nicehck Rockies reviewed by Fox Told Me So

2025-09-26
Fox Told Me So 8.6 Reviewer Score
S Tuning
S- Tech
NiceHCK Rockies is a tribrid (1DD + 2BA + 2EST) that rides the “golden formula” with a twist: output impedance matters—a lot. Driven from low-impedance sources, it delivers its intended tuning; from laptops or interfaces with higher Z-out, bass balloons uncontrollably. All after all, its' impedance curve isn’t flat, with higher impedance in the low frequencies. This means that if your source has a high output impedance, the bass will draw more power than other frequencies.

Tonally, Rockies follows JM1’s safe neutral-ish slope but with leaner mids and brighter treble. Bass is punchy, quick, and well-controlled; mids a touch dark but cleanly separated; and treble opens into airy, effortless EST sparkle with no sharp edges. Stage has decent depth over width, resolution solid for the price, immersive enough without grandeur.

Verdict: not flawless (could use more sub-bass reach, meatier bass, thicker mids, and wider stage), but well-executed overall. A satisfying, balanced tribrid that showcases EST treble gracefully without breaking the bank.

Fox Told Me So original ranking

Fox Told Me So Youtube Channel
Bass: A+ Mids: S- Treble: S- Dynamics: A+ Soundstage: A+ Details: S- Imaging: S

Nicehck Rockies reviewed by Web Search

2025-07-19
uses AI-Search to turn user, reddit and head-fi reviews into clear, concise summaries.
Web Search 7.5 Reviewer Score
S- Tuning
A+ Tech

The NiceHCK Rockies is a five-driver tribrid using 1DD + 2 Knowles BA + 2 Sonion EST in a resin shell with Pietersite stone faceplates. Specs list a detachable 0.78 mm 2-pin cable with swappable 3.5/4.4 mm plug, 9.8 Ω impedance and 121 dB/Vrms sensitivity, indicating easy driveability from portable sources.

Early third-party coverage characterizes the tuning as neutral with a sub-bass lift and smooth, controlled treble, with 5128 measurements available via Crinacle’s public database and a review on Hangout’s channel. These impressions emphasize strong imaging and detail without obvious harshness when recordings are clean.

At an MSRP of $499 (with a short launch price of $469), value hinges on preference for an energetic, U/neutral-with-bass presentation; listeners sensitive to upper energy may find mids a touch lean on certain material, as some impressions note. In short, Rockies trades a warm mid focus for sub-bass reach, treble resolution, and a stable stage that suits modern pop, electronic, and large-scale orchestral.


Bass: A+ Mids: A+ Treble: A Dynamics: A Soundstage: A Details: A Imaging: A

Ziigaat Lush User Review Score

Average User Scores

Average User Score: n/a

Based on 0 user reviews

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Nicehck Rockies User Review Score

Average User Scores

Average User Score:

Based on 2 user reviews

9

Outstanding

Ziigaat Lush Gaming Score

Gaming Score & Grade

  • The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.

Gaming Score

7.1

Gaming Grade

A-

Nicehck Rockies Gaming Score

Gaming Score & Grade

  • The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.

Gaming Score

8.4

Gaming Grade

A+

Ziigaat Lush Scorings

Average Technical & Tuning Grades

Average Tunign Grade

B+
  • A mostly enjoyable signature keeps things listenable despite a handful of quirks. It handles most playlists without major complaints.

Average Technical Grade

A-
  • You get a controlled, composed performance, marrying decent clarity with a still-modest sense of space. A safe technical performer for the price bracket.
Bass A-
The bass hits with conviction, offering both punch and clarity. It reaches low with confidence and control.
Mids A
Expect lifelike vocals and instruments with impressive nuance and realism. You can easily follow harmonies and backups.
Treble B+
Highs sound lively and extended while remaining controlled. Detail retrieval keeps shimmer intact.
Dynamics B
You get confident dynamics that track both macro swings and rhythmic drive. There's life in every crescendo.
Soundstage A-
You hear both the breadth and the altitude of the mix, anchored by accurate positional cues. Immersion improves across genres.
Gaming A-
Good fundamental spatial awareness for most gaming scenarios. Handles basic positioning well but may lack nuance in complex situations.

Nicehck Rockies Scorings

Average Technical & Tuning Grades

Average Tunign Grade

S-
  • A masterfully balanced signature renders music effortlessly realistic and emotionally engaging. Nuanced mixes benefit from its balance.

Average Technical Grade

S-
  • Clarity and detail leap forward, with precise imaging and an expansive stage. Orchestral works feel spacious and layered.
Bass A+
It delivers flagship-worthy bass, rich in both rumble and nuance. Reference tracks showcase its grip.
Mids S-
Expect an immersive mid band where every vocal inflection and texture shines. Complex arrangements stay perfectly composed.
Treble A+
Treble reaches superb heights, offering effortless extension and crystal clarity. Every cymbal crash resolves into fine mist.
Dynamics A
You get outstanding dynamic agility, from subtle nuances to big hits. Impact comes with quick recovery.
Soundstage A+
It crafts a floating sphere of sound where directional cues shimmer with precision. Layering remains stable even when pushed.
Details A+
The tiniest inflections pop into view as if spotlit within the mix. Low-level details feel magnified yet natural.
Imaging A+
Even dense mixes remain locked in place, reinforcing the illusion of physical performers. The stage remains stable regardless of complexity.
Gaming A+
Reliable positional tracking with good environmental awareness. Maintains clarity during busy scenes while conveying atmospheric depth. Good value for serious gaming performance.

Ziigaat Lush User Reviews

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Nicehck Rockies User Reviews

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W WTW3
9.5

A lively rendition of the diffuse field tuning that tilts slightly upward for additional clarity. Tastefully bass-boosted DD, clear and clean BA mids with slightly recessed vocals, and standout EST treble presence make an engaging JM-1 all-rounder.

Tuning: S Tech: S Bass: S Mids: S Treble: S+ Dynamics: S- Soundstage: S Details: S Imaging: S
Pros
Lively, unique take on neutral with bass boost. Excellent detail.
Cons
An ever so slight increase in bass shelf could provide more dynamicism.
Z Zale
8.4

Lively tribrid with engaging low end and airy detail that still sounds cohesive. Strong technical performance for the price without losing musicality.

Tuning: A+ Tech: S- Bass: S- Mids: A+ Treble: A+ Dynamics: S- Soundstage: A+ Details: S- Imaging: S-
Pros
Punchy, fast bass with good texture and sub-bass reach. Smooth-leaning EST treble with high detail and precise imaging; comfortable fit and solid isolation.
Cons
V-shaped balance leaves mids a bit recessed. Treble can lean bright on poor recordings.

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