Penon OS849

Sound Analysis (Compared to Stock Cable)

Lows

The sub-bass is slighted extended with an increase in quantity. The rumble is kept at the same pace and the depth is improved. The mid-bass has similar slam but there is more weight to it. The overall bass operates more authoritatively. Decay is quicker and bass is as clean. Bass note takes on a heavier approach and this makes the sound more impactful. Transition from the lows to mids is improved. The bass texture rendered is similar.

Mids

The midrange still maintains its transparency. The lowers mids have slightly more body and the upper mids are controlled smoothly with a high level of control. The cable is good for iems with shouty upper mids as it helps to tame it down. The midrange operates in a smoother manner. The details retrieval slightly improves together with the resolution.

Highs

The treble extension is maintained and smoothened out. Air and sparkle is retained but the cable adds more body to the treble. I find it very textured. There is no sibilance and harshness. The amount of air is around the same. Treble articulation and definition is being kept and overall, treble sounds more matured with a very tight control.

Soundstage

There is slightly more width in the stage and the depth is maintained. The increase in width helps to improve the positioning of vocals and instruments to avoid congestion. Imaging increases a little bit.

Conclusion

The Penon OS849 is able to deliver with a smooth and organic performance. The lows is particularly boosted and the top end is being controlled with finesse. This cable suits brighter sounding iems as it is able to add smoothness to the highs. The suppleness of the cable provides good usability to the user. Coupled with the craftsmanship, the OS849 is easily one of the recommended cables below 100 USD.