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Technical Performance & Synergy
The Project Ace is technically a solid IEM, particularly excelling in imaging and resolution. Note weight could be improved, and the mid-range lacks some fullness, likely due to the bass, which doesn’t have great texture or mid-bass impact. Despite this, the overall resolution is good, with the mid-range offering nice transparency, especially in vocals.
The soundstage is decent, providing a surprising amount of width, although depth is not as impressive. Imaging is strong, with good left/right balance, focus, and separation. The resolution and transparency of Project Ace are commendable, and it offers a coherent performance, which is one of its strengths.
Pairing the Project Ace with warm sources can help enhance musicality and fullness, providing more body and an organic sound. It’s very easy to drive, so finding a suitable source should not be an issue.
Comparisons
In terms of packaging and accessories, the HiBy Project Ace offers a more premium experience with additional accessories compared to the Meze Alba. Both IEMs boast good build quality with metal shells, ensuring durability and a premium feel. However, when it comes to fit and comfort, the Meze Alba stands out with its ergonomic design, providing a superior fit compared to the more angular and less ergonomic shape of the HiBy Project Ace.
Sound-wise, the Alba sounds more dynamic, and musical and it is overall the smoother IEM with better coherency. Its bass performance has better texture and resolution, especially in the mid-bass area. They both have good soundstage, whilst the Hiby offering feels a bit larger.
In the treble range, Meze is smoother with a less aggressive approach, whilst the Hiby Project Ace sounds a bit aggressive. Meze Alba punches above the price range in my opinion, so my choice would be that one.
The Performer 5 to me is still one of the best IEMs for the money. Once again, Hiby wins in the packaging department and it also is more impressive in terms of material quality. However, the P5 fits better with a semi-custom shell design.
In sound, the P5 is warmer, with a more full-bodied approach with better musicality. It also sounds more cohesive and puts up a better bass performance with better texture and impact. Project Ace presents better vocals with great realism, with a more balanced mid-range. AFUL is a bit more v-shaped, so the mid-range takes a step back. Treble performance is better in the AFUL though, with a crisper, sharper, more controlled and better extending treble range. Hiby sounds wider in terms of soundstage, with a vast approach. AFUL is more dynamic, whilst Hiby stays linear.
Conclusion
With the Project Ace, Hiby shows that they’re not in this business with their DAPs only. With their material expertise, they seem to create a very impressive-looking entry-level IEM, which looks and feels great. Not only that, but Hiby has created a very enjoyable IEM in vocals. It also has a wide soundstage and strong imaging.
Some aspects could be improved such as mid-bass texture, instrument timbre, lower to mid treble boost, and overall coherency. Apart from the sound, the fit and ergonomics should definitely be improved. Nevertheless, the Project Ace represents a good alternative for those who listen to vocals, since this linear approach would suit them the most.
Summary
Pros:
– Impressive Design
– Great Material Quality
– Nice Packaging & Accessories
– Linear Sound
– Good Vocals
– Decent Sound Stage
Cons:
- Bass Texture
- Instrument Timbre
- Lower/Mid Treble Boost
- Awkward Fit
Page 1 – Intro, Packaging, Design, Build, Fit
Page 2 – Sound Quality
