FLC8n

The FLC 8n, does 2 things. First it teaches us how IEMs function by allowing us the opportunity to change its sound and second it gives us a listening experience unlike any other. The extension provided by the FLC 8n is incomparable in my opinion. Probably, just probably the best IEM's out there.

The 8N is tuned similarly to the excellent FLC 8S, but it does noticeably have more bass (particularly midbass) and treble (6-8 kHz, also roughly 16-18kHz upper treble extension is improved as well). See this graph for a comparison: https://cdn.head-fi.org/a/10155933.png

Here's the soundstage comparison to the 8S (using the 6N Silver Upgrade Cable, Clear | Clear | No Filter configuration for both):

- 8S vocals are more forward, however 8N separates instruments and voices much better. On 8S voices feel like they are around your mouth/nose (not very ideal for listening) without DSP effects like surround sound, while the 8N places voices further back while still remaining incredibly clear even without DSP.

- Bass on the 8S is only really perceivable from one location - somewhere around your throat/lower jaws, it pretty much stays there. With the 8N on the other hand, I notice bass coming from in front of me and from the sides, it's much better. Also since bass quantity is considerably improved (especially if using red thumbstack filter), the 8N does soundstage depth a lot better as well.

- The better treble extension (particularly beyond 10 kHz) by their new balanced armatures really helps with instrument positioning. The 8N sounds really wide even without using surround sound DSP, while on the 8S, sounds don't separate as much without it (the differences in separation are rather telling on Shuta Hasunuma's 'Discover Tokyo).

Overall, the FLC 8N sounds somewhat like the 8S with more low & midbass as well as greater mid treble & upper octave extension. Soundstage depth, width and height is significantly improved over the 8S, but vocals are not as forward. If you're looking to buy the 8S, then the 8N would be the best possible purchase. I was expecting a revision of the 8S, but in terms of improvements to instrument placement and positioning, it's really like a new IEM altogether!

In plus:
- new cyan-colored metal case
- more soundstage
- more detailed sound
- already tuned grey-black-gunmetal with bery good sound
In minus:
- no ear hooks on cable
- manual reports silver cable included, but there is normal cupper cable instead
- included tips are weak in blocking outside noise, it's better to use SpinFits.