Wired IEMs
Softears RSV (Reference Sound Five)
72Good
$730
Full review dataSoftears RSV (Reference Sound Five) vs Yanyin Canon Pro: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the Yanyin Canon Pro comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 81. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: Yanyin Canon Pro - Great overall at around $400.
Wired IEMs
Yanyin Canon Pro
81Great
$400
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Yanyin Canon Pro leads on 4 of 4 measures.
- Softears RSV (Reference Sound Five)
- Yanyin Canon Pro
HearWiki score
72
81
Sound
8.2
8.5
Value
6.5
7.5
Price (USD)
$730
$400
Generation & platform
The scores rank quality. This is the other question: is the newer one actually newer technology, or the same platform in a new shell?
Same generation
The Yanyin Canon Pro is 4 years newer, but it is the same generation of hardware: nothing in the radio, the codecs or the noise cancelling separates them. Nothing separates them on convenience features either, so the choice comes down to tuning and price. For 4 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.
- RSV (Reference Sound Five)2021
- Canon Pro20254 yr newer
Specifications
RSV (Reference Sound Five)Canon Pro
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $730
- $400
- HearWiki score
- 72
- 81
- Released
- 2021
- 2025
- Availability
- Discontinued
- Sold new
- Driver
- 5BA
- 1DD + 6BA hybrid
- Driver type
- balanced-armature
- hybrid
- Driver configuration
- 5BA
- 1DD + 6BA
- Driver size
- -
- 10 mm
- Drivers per side
- 5
- 7
- Impedance
- 8 Ω
- 18 Ω
What reviewers said
Softears RSV (Reference Sound Five)
The Softears RSV is a five-driver balanced-armature IEM that prioritizes a smooth, natural, and engaging listening experience over raw technicalities. Its tuning is widely described as safe and euphonic, making it an easy recommendation for those who value musicality and long-term comfort, though its imaging and peak technical performance lag some rivals in its price bracket. It serves as a refined, tonally pleasant alternative rather than an analytical or reference-focused monitor.
- Pro:Very smooth and inoffensive tuning that is easy to enjoy
- Pro:Natural timbre and good tonal balance across the spectrum
- Pro:Good resolution with an organic, non-fatiguing presentation
- Con:Imaging performance is a notable weak point
- Con:Technical resolution trails some competitors at this price
- Con:Not a strictly accurate reference tuning despite the name
Yanyin Canon Pro
The Yanyin Canon Pro is a hybrid in-ear monitor that pairs a dynamic driver with six balanced armatures, offering a bass-forward yet controlled sound with a relaxed, non-fatiguing character. It excels in detail retrieval, imaging, and staging, with a tuning switch for bass adjustment, making it a versatile choice for listeners who prioritize smoothness and depth over aggressive treble energy. Its polished, well-rounded performance justifies its premium price for those seeking a refined, source-friendly IEM.
- Pro:Powerful yet controlled bass with switchable tuning
- Pro:Excellent detail retrieval and separation
- Pro:Spacious soundstage with precise imaging
- Con:Treble may be too soft for those wanting extra sparkle
- Con:Price is on the higher side for its class
- Con:Bass switch adds complexity without radical changes
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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