Letshuoer S12 vs. S12 Pro: A Detailed Comparison

When it comes to high-quality in-ear monitors (IEMs) that deliver exceptional sound performance, the Letshuoer S12 series has quickly made a name for itself. Known for its planar magnetic drivers, both the S12 and S12 Pro models offer outstanding sound clarity, punchy bass, and detailed treble. Whether you’re a casual listener or an audiophile, these IEMs provide an immersive listening experience that’s hard to beat in their price range. In this comparison, we’ll take a closer look at the differences between the Letshuoer S12 and the upgraded S12 Pro, helping you determine which one best suits your needs and preferences.

1. Letshuoer S12 in-Ear Headphone

The Letshuoer S12 in-ear headphones deliver an impressive sound experience, especially considering their affordable price point. Equipped with a 14.8mm planar magnetic driver, the S12 excels in providing a high level of detail across the frequency range, offering tight and punchy bass, clear mids, and sparkling treble. With an impedance of 16 Ohms and a sensitivity of 102 dB/mW, they are easy to drive, meaning they can be paired with a wide range of devices from smartphones to more advanced DAC/AMP combos. The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable fit, allowing for extended listening sessions without discomfort. The build quality, while lightweight, feels solid and well-crafted, and the stock cable, made from 128 strands of silver-plated monocrystalline copper, ensures low interference and durability.

However, while the S12 offers a fantastic listening experience, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Some users have reported mixed feelings regarding the build quality, especially the durability of the cable and connectors. Additionally, the lack of noise isolation due to the in-ear design may be a downside for those who prefer a more immersive listening experience.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key features:

1. 14.8mm planar magnetic driver for detailed sound.
2. High sensitivity (102 dB/mW) for easy drivability.
3. Ergonomic, molded design for comfort during long listening sessions.
4. Detachable, high-quality 128-strand silver-plated copper cable.
5. Includes multiple ear tip sizes and an IPX3 water resistance rating.

Pros:

1. Excellent sound quality across bass, mids, and treble.
2. Comfortable fit for extended listening.
3. Easy to drive with portable devices.
4. Well-constructed, lightweight chassis.
5. Versatile with interchangeable connectors.

Cons:

1. Not as suitable for bass-heavy music lovers who prefer deeper lows.

2. Letshuoer S12 PRO in Ear Headphone

The Letshuoer S12 Pro in-ear headphones take the excellent performance of the original S12 to the next level with some thoughtful updates. Featuring a custom 14.8mm planar magnetic driver, the S12 Pro offers impressive detail retrieval, deep and punchy bass, and crisp treble, making it an all-around solid performer across various genres. The high sensitivity of 102 dB ensures that the headphones can be easily driven by portable devices like smartphones, DACs, or dongles. A key improvement over the original is the swappable cable system, which includes 2.5mm, 3.5mm, and 4.4mm jacks, offering greater flexibility for users who have multiple devices or high-end audio equipment. The aluminum chassis, crafted with a five-axis CNC machining process, adds durability while maintaining a comfortable, ergonomic fit, with multiple vent holes designed to alleviate ear pressure during extended listening.

However, while the S12 Pro delivers an excellent sound experience, some users may find the build quality of the cable and connectors to be less robust than expected for a product in this price range. Additionally, there is no active noise-canceling, so noise isolation may not be optimal for all users, especially in noisy environments. While the design and comfort are generally praised, a few people still prefer more isolation for a deeper, more immersive listening experience.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key features:

1. Custom 14.8mm planar magnetic driver for high detail retrieval.
2. High sensitivity (102 dB) for easy drivability with a variety of devices.
3. Swappable cable system with 2.5mm, 3.5mm, and 4.4mm connectors.
4. CNC-machined aluminum chassis with a smooth, ergonomic design.
5. Vent holes for balanced pressure and better comfort during long listening sessions.

Pros:

1. Excellent sound quality with clear bass, mids, and treble.
2. Customizable cable system for flexibility with different devices.
3. Comfortable fit for long listening periods.
4. Strong and durable aluminum chassis.
5. High sensitivity ensures optimal performance even with portable devices.

Cons:

1. No active noise cancellation or high isolation.

Letshuoer S12 vs. S12 Pro: A Detailed Comparison

Letshuoer has made a mark in the Hi-Fi earphone world with its S12 series, offering a premium audio experience at a competitive price point. The Letshuoer S12 and its updated version, the S12 Pro, both share the same core technology but come with a few key differences.

Sound Quality

Both the S12 and S12 Pro feature a custom 14.8mm planar magnetic driver, which is known for delivering high detail retrieval, punchy bass, and clear trebles. However, the S12 Pro stands out slightly due to its updated tuning and better driver matching, offering a slightly enhanced soundstage and more refined clarity. The bass response is tight and controlled in both models, but the Pro version offers a bit more punch and a more balanced frequency response across the spectrum. The high sensitivity of 102 dB/mW in both models ensures that they can be easily driven by smartphones, DACs, and portable amps, making them versatile for a wide range of devices.

In summary, while both models sound excellent, the S12 Pro is a more refined version, offering marginal improvements in soundstage and overall tonal balance, making it a better choice for audiophiles seeking ultimate clarity.

Design and Build

Both the S12 and S12 Pro have a sleek and ergonomic design. The S12 Pro improves on the already well-received design of the original S12 with a more polished CNC-machined aluminum chassis. The result is a smooth, lightweight feel with a more refined aesthetic. Both models feature multiple vent holes on the sides of the chassis to alleviate internal ear pressure during long listening sessions, making them comfortable for extended use.

A standout feature in the S12 Pro is the swappable cable system, which allows users to switch between 2.5mm, 3.5mm, and 4.4mm connectors. This makes the Pro version more versatile for users with high-end audio gear or different audio sources. On the other hand, the S12 has a more traditional fixed cable with a standard 3.5mm jack. While both cables are made from high-quality silver-plated monocrystalline copper, the added flexibility of the Pro’s cable system offers greater compatibility and convenience.

Here’s a breakdown of the differences:

Feature	S12	S12 Pro
Driver Type	14.8mm planar magnetic driver	14.8mm planar magnetic driver
Cable	Fixed cable, 3.5mm jack	Swappable cable system (2.5mm/3.5mm/4.4mm)
Chassis Material	CNC aluminum	CNC aluminum, enhanced finish
Ventilation Holes	Yes	Yes
Comfort Design	Ergonomically molded	Ergonomically molded

Comfort and Fit

When it comes to comfort, both the S12 and S12 Pro excel. The ergonomic design, with a molded shape that fits comfortably in the concha, ensures that both models are suitable for long listening sessions without causing discomfort. The matte finish on the earphones adds a layer of resilience against ear wax, making them easy to clean. Both models also feature two vent holes that help balance the pressure in the ear canal, which reduces fatigue over time.

However, the Pro version has a slight edge when it comes to overall comfort, due to the more refined design and improved fit from the CNC-machined chassis. This makes the Pro version feel a bit more premium and snug, offering a slightly better long-term comfort level.

Durability and Build Quality

The durability of both models is solid, with both the S12 and S12 Pro featuring a high-quality CNC aluminum chassis. The Pro version, however, benefits from the more advanced five-axis CNC machining process, which results in a smoother, more polished surface and greater overall robustness. The cable construction is also slightly better on the Pro, with a more advanced silver-plated monocrystalline copper wire and the added flexibility of a swappable jack system.

The only potential downside for both models is that the cable, while sturdy, has received some mixed feedback regarding its long-term durability, particularly with the connectors. While the connectors are functional, some users have noted they might not be as durable as expected for high-end products. The S12 Pro addresses this with its swappable connectors, but durability can still be a concern over time.

FAQ

What is the main difference in sound quality between the Letshuoer S12 and S12 Pro?

Both the Letshuoer S12 and S12 Pro use the same 14.8mm planar magnetic driver, but the S12 Pro offers a slightly more refined sound experience. The S12 Pro has better driver matching and an updated tuning, which results in a more spacious soundstage and improved clarity. The bass is punchier in the Pro version, and the overall tonal balance is more precise, making it a better choice for audiophiles seeking a higher level of detail and refinement in their music.

Are the Letshuoer S12 and S12 Pro easy to drive?

Yes, both the Letshuoer S12 and S12 Pro have high sensitivity (102 dB/mW), making them easy to drive with a wide range of devices, from smartphones to portable DACs and amps. Their sensitivity ensures that you can achieve excellent sound quality without the need for high-end equipment, although they will benefit from higher-quality sources if available.

Can I use the same cable for both the S12 and S12 Pro?

No, the S12 and S12 Pro have different cable systems. The S12 comes with a fixed cable featuring a 3.5mm jack, while the S12 Pro has a swappable cable system with 2.5mm, 3.5mm, and 4.4mm connectors. This added flexibility in the Pro model allows for compatibility with various audio devices and higher-end setups.

How does the comfort compare between the S12 and S12 Pro?

Both the S12 and S12 Pro are designed for long listening sessions, offering excellent comfort with their ergonomic fit. The S12 Pro, however, has a slight edge due to its CNC-machined aluminum chassis, which provides a more polished and snug fit. The refined design of the Pro version helps improve overall comfort during extended use, while the S12 is still very comfortable, particularly with its molded shape and pressure-relieving vent holes.

Does the Letshuoer S12 Pro have better durability than the S12?

Yes, the S12 Pro benefits from a more advanced build process. The chassis is made with a five-axis CNC machining process, which results in a smoother, more durable finish. While both models feature sturdy construction and high-quality aluminum, the Pro version is more robust, with enhanced durability and flexibility, especially with its swappable cable system. However, both models’ cables have received some mixed feedback for their long-term durability, so careful handling is recommended for both.

Conclusion

In summary, both the Letshuoer S12 and S12 Pro offer incredible sound quality, comfort, and build, but the S12 Pro takes things to the next level with its improved design, swappable cable system, and refined audio performance. The S12 is a fantastic choice for those who want exceptional value and quality at a lower price point, while the S12 Pro is ideal for audiophiles seeking a more premium experience with added versatility and better performance.