Of course, Linsoul faces some rather stiff competition, including models from the very brands it helped establish. That’s an interesting position to be in when you’re effectively competing against yourself. Does the Avant have enough to stand out from the crowd, or has Linsoul simply added another contender to an already overcrowded segment? Let’s get into it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
About My Preferences:<\/strong> This review is a subjective assessment and is therefore influenced by my personal preferences. While I try to mitigate these biases as much as possible during the review process, I\u2019d be lying if I claimed they could be eliminated entirely. With that in mind, here are a few things readers should know:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Testing equipment and standards can be found here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Linsoul clearly wanted the Avant to feel like a premium IEM. Its all-aluminum construction, sturdy shells, and luxurious feel in the hand reinforce that impression.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The top of the Avant\u2019s shells houses its 0.78 mm 2-pin connectors, which feel securely mounted. I was able to connect and remove the cables easily, suggesting that the pins and sockets are properly sized and fit together securely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Avant\u2019s nozzles are relatively short and somewhat wide, but they also feel sturdy. Ergonomics might have benefited from slightly longer nozzles, although I found the overall comfort acceptable. The nozzles feature replaceable mesh filters to prevent debris from entering the shells, and Linsoul includes spares in the box.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Avant\u2019s cable is attractive, soft to the touch, and quite ergonomic, producing minimal microphonics when moving around. It has a slight tendency to tangle due to some surface friction, although the problem is less severe than it might be with a thinner cable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Unfortunately, the modular cable inherits the friction-fit connector used by Kiwi Ears and ZiiGaat. The connector is bulky and prone to accidental disconnection, particularly when attempting to remove the 4.4 mm termination from a tight headphone jack. At $369, Linsoul should have opted for a more secure locking mechanism, such as the threaded collar used by DUNU\u2019s compact Q-Lock connectors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Inside the box, you\u2019ll find:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Avant comes with just about everything you need for a good listening experience right out of the box. A capable semi-hard carrying case, several pairs of silicone ear tips, and a pair of foam ear tips should help most listeners achieve a proper seal without purchasing additional accessories. Linsoul also includes two pairs of replacement nozzle filters, making it easy to swap them out if earwax or debris becomes an issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Curiously, the Avant doesn’t include a microfiber cleaning cloth, despite its fingerprint-prone aluminum finish. That would have been a welcome addition, especially for those of us who prefer to keep our IEMs looking pristine. Polished finishes can be notoriously unforgiving, and the Avant seems particularly enthusiastic about collecting fingerprints.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Avant delivers tight, controlled bass with excellent texture but occasionally lacks physical impact. Richly mastered tracks like Geoxor\u2019s \u201cHellscape\u201d produce deep, satisfying rumble, while drier EDM productions such as Distant Matter\u2019s \u201cDrunk Wishing (Hairitage Remix)\u201d sound surprisingly polite. On Breaking Benjamin\u2019s \u201cDown,\u201d kick drums are well-defined but lack the tactile weight and lingering decay that bassier IEMs provide. The Avant prioritizes precision over sheer force, which works better with some recordings than others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The midrange gives vocals and instruments convincing body, particularly bass guitars and drop-D riffs. On Manchester Orchestra\u2019s \u201cNever Really Been Another Way Out,\u201d the Avant captures the recording\u2019s dense wall of sound beautifully, although its relatively subdued upper mids can make complex passages feel slightly congested. More modern productions benefit from this tonal balance. My Chemical Romance\u2019s \u201cSummertime\u201d sounds energetic and detailed, with subtle vocal textures and guitar nuances emerging naturally from the mix.<\/p>\n\n\n\n My initial impression of the Avant\u2019s preproduction version at CanJam SoCal was that its treble sounded overly bright and sharp, but Linsoul has made meaningful improvements before launch. The upper frequencies now extend cleanly beyond 12 kHz, with impressive detail and minimal grain. On Red Hot Chili Peppers\u2019 \u201cSnow (Hey Oh),\u201d cymbals and hi-hats retain their metallic character without becoming harsh, while the tambourine accents remain delicate and distinct. This is among the better MEMS implementations I\u2019ve heard, demonstrating the technology\u2019s resolving capabilities without the excessive sharpness that can undermine some competing designs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Comparisons are selected solely based on what I find interesting. If you\u2019d like to see additional comparisons, feel free to make a request in the comments below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Tea Pro is a cult-classic hybrid IEM featuring metal shells and a detachable modular cable. At $359, it costs $10 less than the Avant and is frequently discounted to around $315. The Tea Pro is slightly smaller than the Avant and features a somewhat longer nozzle, providing a deeper fit and better passive isolation in my ears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sonically, the Tea Pro delivers fuller bass, a slightly cooler lower midrange, and brighter upper treble. Its low end has greater weight and extension, while the Avant offers tighter sub-bass control and a warmer, more textured midrange. That additional warmth can occasionally make the Avant sound somewhat dense, whereas the Tea Pro maintains a cleaner tonal balance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Tea Pro also creates a wider, airier soundstage, particularly on tracks like M83\u2019s \u201cMidnight City,\u201d although its upper treble sounds slightly grainier and less refined than the Avant\u2019s.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ultimately, the difference in enjoyment is smaller than I expected. The Avant has the edge in control and tonal richness, but the Tea Pro delivers the energy and excitement I prefer for EDM. I expect to revisit the Avant, but it hasn\u2019t displaced the Tea Pro in my collection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Tea Pro SE<\/a> is a limited-edition upgrade of the original Tea Pro, priced at $449 ($80 more than the Avant). Both IEMs feature all-metal shells and attractive stock cables, although the Avant\u2019s modular connector is comparatively bulky and less secure. The Tea Pro SE includes a more extensive accessory package, but both offer a satisfying experience right out of the box.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sonically, the Tea Pro SE has a warmer, more linear presentation, with softer bass impact and less mid-bass emphasis than the Avant. Its more subdued treble sacrifices some sparkle and air, while its reference-oriented tuning delivers less dynamic contrast. The Avant sounds more transparent and less congested, although its more varied frequency response comes at the expense of some cohesion. The Tea Pro SE counters with a more expressive midrange, doing a better job of resolving subtle vocal inflections and harmonies on Bring Me The Horizon\u2019s \u201cmedicine.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Both are technically capable IEMs, but I find the Avant considerably more engaging. Its combination of dynamic energy, tonal contrast, and resolving ability aligns more closely with my preferences, making it my choice over the Tea Pro SE. At $80 less, it also makes a stronger case for value, provided you can live with that frustrating modular cable connector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Hisenior Mega7 is a reference-style hybrid IEM featuring resin shells and metal nozzles. At $450<\/a>, it costs approximately $80 more than the Avant and includes a more extensive accessory package, most notably a matching USB-C DAC. Its longer, slightly slimmer nozzles allow for deeper insertion and better passive isolation, while the smaller, lighter shells make the Mega7 more comfortable during extended listening sessions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sonically, the Mega7 offers a smoother, cooler, and more relaxed presentation. Its bass is less pronounced than the Avant\u2019s, although extension and control remain competitive. The Mega7 has a leaner lower midrange and more forward upper mids, while the Avant delivers greater energy across both the lower and upper treble. The Mega7\u2019s occasional upper-treble peaks add some sparkle to an otherwise subdued presentation. Both IEMs offer excellent resolution, but the Mega7 sounds more transparent and composed during complex, densely layered passages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n These are two very different IEMs, and listeners seeking a more neutral, reference-oriented presentation will likely gravitate toward the Mega7 despite its higher price. The Avant offers greater low-frequency impact and a more engaging character without sacrificing much technical performance. My preference, however, is for the Mega7. It delivers the relaxed, reference-grade sound I’m looking for without adding excessive warmth or density to the midrange, something the Avant occasionally struggles with on warmly mastered recordings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The DUNU DN242<\/a> is a resin-shell tribrid IEM featuring two micro-planar drivers, four balanced armatures, and two dynamic drivers. At $349, it costs $20 less than the Avant and includes a generous accessory package, with a wider selection of ear tips and a sturdier, if less attractive, cable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sonically, the DN242 has a more U-shaped presentation, with slightly less sub-bass, reduced mid-bass emphasis, and a similarly warm lower midrange. Its upper mids are more forward, while the substantially brighter treble gives it a sharper, occasionally sizzling character. Both IEMs offer comparable levels of detail, but the Avant is considerably more forgiving during extended listening sessions. Rock and alternative music work well with either model, although the Avant gives drop-D guitars and bass lines greater richness and weight. Its fuller low end also makes it the better choice for EDM, even if neither IEM is particularly exceptional with electronic music.<\/p>\n\n\n\n My preference is for the warmer, fuller, and less fatiguing Avant. Although it costs slightly more, I find its more refined tuning and solid aluminum construction worth the additional $20. The DN242 remains a capable alternative for listeners who prefer a brighter, more aggressive presentation, but the Avant strikes a better balance between technical performance and long-term listening enjoyment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The NiceHCK NX8 Ti is an upgraded, limited-edition version of the original NX8. At $399<\/a>, it costs $30 more than the Avant and features detachable metal nozzles, resin shells, and titanium faceplates. Its cable is chunky, to say the least, and lacks the softness and flexibility of the Avant\u2019s. However, the NX8 Ti\u2019s smaller, lighter shells provide better ergonomics, particularly during extended listening sessions or while walking around.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sonically, the NX8 Ti has a more subdued bass response, a cooler lower midrange, and slightly more forward upper mids. Both IEMs have similar lower-treble energy, but the NX8 Ti exhibits a few more pronounced upper-treble peaks, giving it a slightly sharper edge. Neither sounds particularly harsh, although the NX8 Ti has more noticeable bite. Its leaner tonal balance also makes it less engaging on tracks where bass contributes significantly to the music\u2019s impact and dynamics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The NX8 Ti is certainly a technically capable IEM, but it lacks the excitement and versatility of the Avant. Linsoul\u2019s warmer tuning, solid aluminum construction, and $30 lower price make it the more compelling choice for me. The NX8 Ti will appeal to listeners who prefer a leaner presentation, but I think most will find the Avant a better overall value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
Related Reading:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
![\"linsoul-avant-iems-outer-shell\"](\"https:\/\/www.ecoustics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/linsoul-avant-iems-outer-shell.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nKey Specifications:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
Build<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"linsoul-avant-iem-inputs\"](\"https:\/\/www.ecoustics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/linsoul-avant-iem-inputs.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"linsoul-avant-iem-nozzles\"](\"https:\/\/www.ecoustics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/linsoul-avant-iem-nozzles.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"linsoul-avant-iem-cable\"](\"https:\/\/www.ecoustics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/linsoul-avant-iem-cable.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAccessories<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"linsoul-avant-iem-accessories\"](\"https:\/\/www.ecoustics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/linsoul-avant-iem-accessories.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n
Listening<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Comparisons<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Xenns Tea Pro<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"xenns-tea-pro-iems-outer-shells\"](\"https:\/\/www.ecoustics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/xenns-tea-pro-iems-outer-shells.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"xenns-adapter\"](\"https:\/\/www.ecoustics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/xenns-adapter.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"xenns-iem-cable\"](\"https:\/\/www.ecoustics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/xenns-iem-cable.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nXenns Tea Pro SE<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"xenns-tea-pro-se-iems-wired\"](\"https:\/\/www.ecoustics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/xenns-tea-pro-se-iems-wired.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nHiSenior Mega7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"hisenior-mega7-iem-with-dap\"](\"https:\/\/www.ecoustics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/hisenior-mega7-iem-with-dap.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDUNU DN242<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"dunu-dn242-iems-out-shells\"](\"https:\/\/www.ecoustics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/dunu-dn242-iems-out-shells.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNiceHCK NX8 Ti<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"nichck-nx8-ti-iems-wired\"](\"https:\/\/www.ecoustics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/nichck-nx8-ti-iems-wired.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nPunch Audio Martilo<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"punch-audio-martilo-iems\"](\"https:\/\/www.ecoustics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/punch-audio-martilo-iems.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
![\"kiwi-ears-astral-iems-atop-case\"](\"https:\/\/www.ecoustics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/kiwi-ears-astral-iems-atop-case.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"linsoul-avant-iems-with-tips\"](\"https:\/\/www.ecoustics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/linsoul-avant-iems-with-tips.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n