The Truthear Nova review sample was kindly provided free of charge. I didn’t receive monetary or any other kind of compensation and I don’t use affiliate links. The price of the Nova is $149.99, making it the most expensive Nova product thus far. You can buy it from Shenzhen Audio.
Truthear Nova Review
The Nova is Truthear’s newest addition to their product lineup. This hybrid in-ear monitor features 1 dynamic driver and 4 balanced armature drivers on each side, all connected through a three-way crossover. The bass is handled by a specialized 10mm diameter dynamic driver, while the mids and part of the trebles are produced by a composite full-frequency dual balanced armature driver. Additionally, a custom composite double balanced armature driver is responsible for the remaining trebles, enhancing the overall frequency range and matching the sensitivity of the mid-high frequency composite driver.
The Nova incorporates a polyurethane suspension composite liquid crystal dome diaphragm and a dual-cavity internal magnetic circuit dynamic driver with an N52 magnet.
To ensure optimal performance, the Nova utilizes an acoustic waveguide structure with filtering capabilities, achieved through high-precision DLP-3D printed technology, and the RC frequency division. This combination allows the five drivers to excel in their respective acoustic waveguides.
Tuning concept
The NOVA’s tuning involves a slightly lower bass gain compared to the HARMAN IE 2019 curve, while closely resembling the high-frequency amplitude response of the HARMAN OE 2013 with its pronounced HRTF characteristics. As a result, the overall system design, which includes a reduced Q value, delivers a warm, gentle, transparent, and authentic sound experience.
Appearance and fit
Truthear has partnered with HeyGears which manufactures the 3D printed ear-shells using their own skin-friendly, medical-grade high-transparency resin. These ear-shells have a custom-like design that perfectly fits the anatomy of the ear. Despite their slightly bulky appearance, they are lightweight and comfortable, protruding just a bit outside the ear for smaller sizes.
The Nova is an aesthetically pleasing earphones that doesn’t draw excessive attention. It features a black main body complemented by an attractive blue faceplate, which showcases a captivating wavy pattern as its main design element.
Cable
The Nova is equipped with a detachable cable featuring a 2-pin design. This cable is crafted using single crystal copper wires, consisting of 4 strands with 112 cores each. Although the cable has a textile sheathing that may be considered outdated, it offers a soft and lightweight feel. Additionally, it comes with pre-shaped ear-hooks for added convenience. However, it is worth noting that the cable tends to produce some noise, is prone to tangling, and does not support interchangeable 3.5mm plugs.
Accessories
The packaging of the Truthear Nova is adorned with an intricately designed print featuring the beloved female mascot of the brand. Inside the box, you will find a variety of silicone ear-tips in three different sizes, along with short and long double-flange ear-tips, and foam ear-tips equipped with multiple limiters. By using the double-flange ear-tips, the undesirable resonance peak in the high frequencies can be effectively minimized. Additionally, the foam ear-tips cater to diverse preferences by offering adjustable depth insertion. The package also includes a detachable cable and a carrying case made from soft, synthetic leather.
Power requirements and associated gear
The Truthear Nova (14.8Ω/123dB) offers effortless drivability, and for the purpose of this review, I have utilized the Truthear SHIO, the iBasso DC03 Pro, and the Mojo 2.
Listening impressions
Fans of Harman-target audio profile will be delighted with the Truthear Nova, as it closely adheres to the Harman in-ear target curve. This budget-friendly earphone is specifically designed for individuals who appreciate this particular audio profile.
The Nova has a mid-bass focused tuning that works well with a lot of kinds of music but not that well with classical where certain low pitched instruments will sound out of tune, a little unrealistic and too colored. Sub-bass is also well emphasized and extended making the Nova very fun and enjoyable for casual but not that suitable for audiophile critical listening. The bass is big and imposing, dynamic and impactful, this is the kind of low-end that will definitely please gamers and movie watchers. Additionally the bass on the Nova is quite fast and tight but not that well controlled, it isn’t muddy or overly dark and despite its dominance it doesn’t cloud the mid-range while the dynamic driver can handle high listening volumes without distortion.
The Nova showcases a prominent upper mid-range, which is then accompanied by a velvety and somewhat restrained treble. As a result, this particular frequency range takes the spotlight or may cause discomfort, depending on one’s sensitivity to it. The lower mids hold a subtle presence and serve as a supporting element to the dominant upper mid-range, a tuning approach that brings liveliness, precision, and enhances female vocal performance. The resolution is commendable, delivering a crystal-clear and precisely articulated mid-range with a mostly natural tone. However, slight tuning inconsistencies can be detected, with certain instruments lacking equal focus.
More listening impressions
The higher frequencies in the sound are pleasant and forgiving, demonstrating good range and clarity. They are clear and dynamic, without being overly sharp or tiring. The Nova earphones are capable of capturing fine details and providing a comprehensive sound experience. However, there are certain drawbacks in the representation of high-frequency texture, as it can sound slightly artificial and rough. This becomes especially noticeable when listening to instruments like the harpsichord or violin, where the upper tones lack authenticity and realism. The overall effect can be described as metallic and thin, rather than natural.
The Nova presentation creates an intimate atmosphere, with a moderately wide soundstage that makes the listener feel as if they are sitting right next to the stage. While the Nova may not be praised for its depth layering or holography, its positioning accuracy is laudable, allowing you to easily discern individual instruments even in densely populated musical passages.
In the end
In this price range, there is an abundance of earphones that conform to the Harman in-ear target curve. Therefore, it takes something truly exceptional to distinguish itself and rise above the rest. While the Truthear Nova does check off many important criteria, it falls short of surpassing its competitors. However, it does have its own appeal with its unique tuning concept, impressive technical specifications, comfort, lightweight design, exceptional craftsmanship, attractive appearance, and a generous assortment of accessories, all at a reasonable price.
Copyright – Petros Laskis 2024.
+ Follows the Harman target curve + Great sub-bass + Strong bass + Crystalline mid-range + Resolving + Easy and forgiving treble + Precise imaging + Comfortable and lightweight + Beautiful and well made + Accessories - Too much bass - Upper mid-range emphasis - Treble could use more sparkle - Soundstage is not that wide - Artificial and thin treble - A little bulky - Cable is not modular - Stiff competition
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