At $69, the HIDIZS MK10 ArcSonics impresses AndyAudioVault through its construction, comfort, efficiency, and midrange performance. After testing all three tuning nozzles, he chose the red nozzle and based his remaining sound impressions on it.
Built for Comfort and a Secure Seal
The metal MK10 weighs around 14g per side without cable or ear tips. AndyAudioVault reports wearing it for two to three hours without discomfort while achieving a good seal.
He is especially impressed with the build and finishing. Placed beside his $1,500 steel flagship IEM, he felt the $69 MK10 represented a real bargain in finishing.
Two silicone ear-tip types are included. He prefers the darker set for its balance of comfort and seal. The included silver-plated copper cable is offered with either 3.5mm or 4.4mm balanced termination.
Easy Driving, Different Source Pairings
With 32-ohm impedance and 113dB sensitivity, AndyAudioVault describes the MK10 as very easy to drive. Using a Venture Electronics Devastator through 4.4mm balanced output, he was already highly satisfied with its authority and frequency extension.
Moving to the more powerful Time Ear BTE9 brought little difference to his ears, supporting his view that the MK10 is highly efficient. With his Hiby R8 II, he preferred the balance of technicality and musicality, describing the pairing as organic, natural, and analog sounding.
Three Distinct Tuning Choices
AndyAudioVault finds the silver nozzle brightest and most technical, but also too energetic and less organic for his preference. He describes the black nozzle as emphasizing lower frequencies and potentially appealing to bass-focused listeners.
The red nozzle is his favorite because he hears it as balanced and linear. His subsequent sound comments—including his upper-frequency assessment—are based on the red nozzle, his preferred tips, and his listening source.
Midrange Made for Rock and Metal
With that setup, AndyAudioVault hears natural and organic tonality with what he calls “fairly good” technicalities. The midrange impresses him most, sounding neutral, natural, uncolored, and accurate with both vocals and instruments.
He finds the MK10 versatile across classical, jazz, electronic, rock, and metal, but considers rock and metal its particular strength. Guitars and snare drums contribute to a presentation he experiences as immersive, engaging, and vibrant.
The upper frequencies sound non-offensive, balanced, and fairly technical to him. Listeners wanting additional extension can use the silver nozzle.
In the bass, his red-nozzle setup emphasizes mid-bass more than sub-bass. He notes some roll-off at the lowest frequencies, meaning listeners seeking thick bass for electronic music may find it less suitable.
Overall Assessment
AndyAudioVault considers the MK10 an impressive HIDIZS release at $69. In his experience, its excellent build, comfort, efficiency, versatility, and natural midrange make it easy to recommend for rock and metal. Those prioritizing thick sub-bass may prefer a different presentation.
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