Genuine Amber Earpieces
Apx sports 11 drivers per side which are comprised of 1 Rectangular Planar driver, 1 10mm dynamic driver, 8BA drivers, and 1 Round Planar driver. The drivers are tuned with a true 7-way passive crossover with the well-known FIBAE (Flat Impedance Technology) that’s been developed since the Custom Art days. Along with all drivers developed and designed proprietarily, PMG also mentions Apx to be using other proprietary tuning systems such as GSO, POD, UPS, and 3D.
Each of these technologies is further described below. More details can be found on the official PMG website:
- Geometrical Sound Outlet: The parallel wall structure in the nozzles
- Pressure Optimizing Design: PMG’s pressure-relieving technology for the drivers and acoustic filters
- Ultra Planar Speakers: Proprietary planar subwoofers and tweeters to allow maximum frequency range of Apx. The subwoofer planar speaker supports the dynamic driver while the planar tweeters support the BA drivers.
- 3D: Precision printed housing and calculated waveguides. This ensures Apx from producing unnecessary vibrations hence leading to higher sonic accuracy.
While most ultra-flagship IEMs (or any IEMs that use this many drivers, or multiple planar drivers) usually have massive earpieces, Apx is surprisingly small and compact. It’s also surprisingly light, making the usability and fitting experience just as easy and comfortable as a small budget earphone you would get anywhere. The earpieces are made of resin body with a dark amber color with gold, glossy particles spread throughout the body. The Apx’s faceplate is quite special, as the faceplates are made of genuine amber, giving a holographic look, and also looks individually different by each earpiece. Well, talk the talk, the sound will tell the truth in the end – which we’ll find out soon!
The mystique resin body and genuine amber faceplate create a gorgeous look for the Apx. As for the usability and convenience, the Apx is certainly the #1, though if you ask if the earpieces have the “grandeur” of an ultra high-end flagship IEM, not so much. The looks are still gorgeous but don’t have much finesse in the looks. Well, this might actually be a strong benefit for husbands who have to hide their “big purchase” or prioritize good sound with perfect comfort, Apx would be the best. When it comes to convenience, this is the most comfortable and lightest flagship IEM I have ever encountered. It would be a blessing for the outdoor users.
The Omega Cable & Modular Plugs
To do justice for its flagship Apx IEM, PMG included a self-developed premium cable called the Omega, which is also sold for €800 or $870. Omega is comprised of Silver-Copper Alloy with Graphene core wire and has a 4-braid structure. All components and y-split are made of lightweight matte black metal to keep the cable light and easy to use. The wires are very pliable and don’t cause any microphonics either. Omega also offers a modular plug system, allowing you to easily swap between 2.5, 3.5, and 4.4mm connectors (a personal thank you to PMG for not neglecting the 2.5mm users).
In terms of sound, Omega is evidently tuned to match and perform well with Apx, to the point that it wouldn’t be necessary to get another upgrade cable – unless you’d like to go even further in opening up Apx’s potential. Nonetheless, the Omega cable has considered all three essential criteria needed to accompany Apx – convenience, comfort, and performance. It’s nice. I believe that’s enough explanation and introduction of Apx and its accessories. Let’s now talk about the real stuff, the real purpose – the sound.
Next Page: Let’s Now Talk about the Sound.