TinHiFi, a Chinese brand, understands the budget IEM market very well and delivers standout designs while focusing on value. TinHiFi P1 made its debut in 2019 and was equipped with planar drivers. It quickly became a household name. The brand also introduced the T2, T3, T4 IEMs, as well as the T1 and T2 IEMs. In 2020, the P2 was introduced.
TinHiFi now plans to build on its momentum with the P1 Max. The name suggests that the IEMs are a different variant of the P1. However, the P1 Max features larger planar drivers, 0.78mm 2-pin connectors instead of MMCX, as well as a new design that looks quite nice.
TinHiFi did not change the value of the P1 Max, which was launched at $189. Only $129 on HiFiGoThese are some of the most affordable planar options available today. Amazon will also carry the P1 Max. Need to Spend $169(Opens in new tab. You get a standard two year warranty with the P1Max, as with all IEMs.
TinHiFi’s unique designs are well-known. Although most of TinHiFi’s products feature shells made from stainless steel, the P1 Max is made out resin. They still feature a stainless steel wire mesh on the outside, and the design looks good — if not as unique as the first-gen P1. TinHiFi has been able to reduce weight by using resin, which is evident in everyday use. The P1 Max is a snug fit. The nozzle doesn’t extend too far and the shell rests on the outer ear. It doesn’t exert any pressure.
The P1 Max’s build quality is excellent, and they are as solid as their metal-shelled brothers. The box contains six pairs of silicone tips, two memory tips and a braided cable that has good memory retention. It ends in a single-ended, 3.5mm plug. P1 Max uses a 2-pin connector rather than MMCX. This is not a major issue, but it’s something I do appreciate. The P1 Max’s bundled cable is sufficient for most users.
Good isolation is also possible, although they are not as good as the Best wireless earbudsThe P1 Max is great at cutting out ambient noise. Although they can cut out low-hum sounds like an air conditioner, I was still able to hear the clattering of my keyboard through the IEMs.
The TinHiFi P1 Max’s biggest selling point is its sound quality. There is much to love about this product. TinHiFi did an excellent job tuning the audio. The IEMs are 14.2mm thick. The result is a bright sound with great dynamic range and excellent detail retrieval. The P1 Max’s sensitivity is very low at 98dB. To unlock its full potential, you need to pair it with a good DAC. The P1 Max was used with Fiio’s BTR5 KA3Once the BTR7 became available, I switched to it.
The sound signature of the instrument is crisp and clear, with the emphasis on the bass. Planar drivers are known for delivering a smooth low-end that’s engaging and fast. You get good extension to your sub-bass and decent rumble giving low-end frequencies great presence.
The P1 Max is a great midrange player. It delivers a crisp, clear sound with lots and energy. Good tonality is evident in female vocals, with no harshness. The treble area has a bit of exuberance, and occasionally the IEMs seem bright. You get highs that are engaging for the most part.
What makes the P1 Max stand apart from other models? Fiio FD3The soundstage is what makes the difference in everyday use. The LETSHUOER S12These IEMs are an excellent alternative, as they also have planar drivers and a lively tone. Having used both, I am now more inclined to the P1 Max. Their sound is just a bit brighter.
The P1 Max IEMs for less than $150 are a great choice. These IEMs have an excellent sound signature due to their large planar drivers, good tuning, as well as the ability to work across many genres. The box contains all the accessories that you will need. They are also very durable and well-designed. They are an incredible deal for $129.