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HearWiki

GoldPlanar GL12

18/ 100
Weak
HearWiki score

Poor value

$200
typical price, USD
Discontinued
Buy now onAmazon

At a glance

Brand
GoldPlanar
Type
Wired IEMs
Fit
-
Connection
Wired
Noise cancelling
No
Released
2021

Score breakdownweak overall

Sound3.8

The GoldPlanar GL12 are semi-open planar-magnetic in-ear monitors with a 12.5mm driver, offering full bass but recessed midrange and treble, and are noted for their dull, muted sound presentation.

The HearWiki takeAI-condensed

The GoldPlanar GL12 is a lightweight planar magnetic IEM with a warm, bass-forward tuning that some will appreciate for its smoothness. While it is easy to drive and feels solidly built, its heavily recessed midrange and treble create a dark sound that lacks energy and detail. For its price, it faces tough competition and may not satisfy listeners seeking a balanced or lively signature.

What works

  • Strong bass impact and satisfying low-end punch
  • Very lightweight and comfortable to wear
  • Easy to drive with high sensitivity
  • Solid build quality for the price

What doesn't

  • Mids and treble are significantly recessed, creating a dark sound
  • Limited detail retrieval and soft transient response
  • Imaging is weak, affecting spatial accuracy
  • Overall value is questionable compared to rivals

Paraphrased from published reviews & specs - not an original hands-on test. Our AI disclosure.

Specifications

Audio - GoldPlanar GL12
Driver12.5 mm planar magnetic
Driver typeplanar
Driver size12.5 mm
Drivers per side1
Frequency response20 Hz - 50 kHz
Impedance20 Ω
Sensitivity108 dB/mW

What the reviews said

3 source(s) feeding this product's score.

headfonics.com

The GL12 was characterized as unusually dark, with a deep recess in the mids and highs and a tuning that prioritizes smoothness over roughness or energy. The reviewer considered it an odd entry in the planar IEM category rather than a broadly competitive one.

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headphonesty.com

The GL12 delivers satisfying bass and a simple, practical design, but its recessed mids and treble, soft transient response, and weak imaging keep it from standing out. The reviewer also felt the cable and overall value were underwhelming for the asking price.

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primeaudio.org

This review found the GL12 easy to drive with strong bass impact and good build quality, but also described the mids as veiled and the overall presentation as dark and lacking detail retrieval. The reviewer judged it as a competent planar IEM that does not fully justify its price.

Read the full review

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Alternatives in the $100–$400 range

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Where it sits in our rankings

The data-driven guides this model qualifies for.