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Softears RSV (Reference Sound Five)Image © Amazon

Softears RSV (Reference Sound Five)

72/ 100
Good
HearWiki score

Buyability: how good it is, what it costs, and whether it is still sold new.

From reviews 78/ 100Priced about right
$730
typical price, USD
Discontinued
Manufacturer pageBuy now onAmazon

At a glance

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

Score breakdowngood overall

Sound8.2
Value6.5

A wired reference-series IEM using five balanced-armature drivers. Softears designed it as a reference-sound model with an easier driving requirement than its more complex reference designs.

The HearWiki takeAI-condensed

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.

What works

  • Very smooth and inoffensive tuning that is easy to enjoy
  • Natural timbre and good tonal balance across the spectrum
  • Good resolution with an organic, non-fatiguing presentation
  • Comfortable and engaging for extended listening sessions

What doesn't

  • Imaging performance is a notable weak point
  • Technical resolution trails some competitors at this price
  • Not a strictly accurate reference tuning despite the name

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

Specifications

Audio - Softears RSV (Reference Sound Five)
Driver5BA
Driver typebalanced-armature
Driver configuration5BA
Drivers per side5
Impedance8 Ω

What the reviews said

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

headfonics.com

87

The reviewer finds the RSV’s tuning very easy to listen to and emotionally engaging, with a smooth, euphonic character. The displayed rating is strong overall, and the set is framed as a pleasing listen rather than a purely technical reference champion.

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crinacle.com

The RSV is praised for excellent tonal balance, strong timbre, and good resolution, while imaging is called its weaker point. The overall view is that it is a more natural and pleasant alternative to more explicitly detailed but less organic competitors.

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headfonia.com

The review presents the RSV as a new Softears model with five balanced armature drivers per side and generally favorable sound qualities. The published snippet does not expose a formal numeric score, so the verdict can only be summarized from the editorial conclusion visible in search results.

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headphones.com

The reviewer describes the RSV as a very safe, broadly enjoyable IEM that is easy to like. It is praised more for being inoffensive and pleasant than for standout technical performance, which is said to trail some competitors at the price.

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twister6.com

The reviewer says the RSV may not be the most accurate reference tuning or the most technically accomplished IEM in its class, but it stands out for its very pleasing tonality. The emphasis is on musical enjoyment and a highly agreeable presentation.

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Alternatives in the $360–$1,460 range

Other wired iems models at a comparable price, ordered by HearWiki score.

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Where it sits in our rankings

The data-driven guides this model qualifies for.