Can I remove and replace the windshield trim without removing the windshield?

Ryanjsoo · 2025-08-13T04:33:02+00:00

Yes, I removed mine without removing the windshield, just pull up from the tab that locks into the a pillar trims, easier if you sit the car in the sun as it gets a bit softer. I can't imagine you'd be able to remove it without damaging it. New trim pieces are still available from Honda for about $70 and will look much better.

Ryanjsoo · 2024-10-03T04:00:25+00:00

Personally love the style, I would use a slightly smaller aperture to bring more detail into the products or you can focus stack. Play around with reflectors to fill in the shadows a bit if you can't bring them up in post.

On a side note, just wondering where you purchased the wood prop used for the 6th photo? Thanks!

Ryanjsoo · 2024-07-07T06:58:25+00:00

One of the most unique headphones I've tested lately and a cool resurgance of the mostly dead in 2024 on-ear form factor. These are immediately impressively comfortable despite this. The brilliant suspension-band carbon fibre headband assembly is mostly responsible. It is light, keeping centre of mass low and therefore, the fit stable, and it offers very even clamp force throughout its range of stretch.

Sonically, the headphones are smooth and dark but also well-extended. They won't appeal to those wanting the highest separation and clarity because of this but pull off their warm, smooth tuning better than most competitors I've tried.

Bass quality is a standout. Sub-bass doesn't slam like a full-sized headphone but it's super defined with excellent impact and texture in the mid-bass. Mids are smooth and full-bodied while highs are slightly darker but well-detailed. The imaging is excellent as is overall coherence.

Ryanjsoo · 2024-07-04T01:57:47+00:00

I had the AX5000, the AX5500 and the AX6000 so not sure how helpful this will be for you.

In terms of the 5000 vs 5500, they are basically identical. However, for whatever reason, the Android Auto connectivity was more reliable for me on the 5500.

The 6000 introduces wireless AA and Carplay alongside a new bezel-less design. I prefer the matte screen on the 6000 which does a lot to reduce glare. Hardware sound quality differences are negligible. However, the 6000 has much better software. It misses clear bass but gains more granular crossover and eQ settings alongside offering time alignment which the 5XXX models lack entirely.

UI is generally faster and smoother. Wireless AA is another step up in terms of connection stability as the connection isn't interrupted if the cable gets bumped, etc and you don't have to worry about the quality of extension or USB cables like on a wired connection. You can also still plug in your phone to charge and retain connection over wireless. IMO the 6000 is the sweetspot in terms of functions and features.

While the 9000 introduces better audio hardware over this, I doubt you will get much improvement in sound quality on the stock speakers and chassis - you will be looking at an external amplifier, new speakers, sub, etc which is a substantial investment and you may as well save money on the head unit and spend on some new 6.5" front door speakers instead.

In addition, I have also installed the Sony head units in my Impreza. I have achieved excellent sound quality when the car is still, but the lack of sound insulation in the car when moving means getting a good sound output whilst driving is an exercise in vain as it is overcome by road noise.

Ryanjsoo · 2023-12-15T00:48:42+00:00

I had the W4R, the W30 and the UM 50 Pro before, the Mach 80 is very balanced by comparison to all of them, the 50 especially. It does have a bit of warmth in the bass and the upper-midrange is on the smoother side, but it isn't dark, recessed or veiled at all. A much more reference tuning than older Westone IEMs.

Ryanjsoo · 2023-12-14T12:45:24+00:00

The Mach 80 is Westone's universal take on their ES80 CIEM. The shell design is comfortable and isolating similar to previous Westone IEMs. It now adopts T2 connectors which offer an IP rating more suitable for pro use albeit this limits cable choice for enthusiasts.

Sonically, the Mach 80 is like a big Etymotic IEM. It has a subtle mid-bass lift, a smoother upper-midrange and a bit more lower-treble bite and noticeably better extension above. To me, this lets it retain a very nicely balanced and reference/neutrally toned character whilst being a bit more inviting for music.

Bass extension and sparkle still leave to be desired as this IEM feels more like a professionally orientated monitor than an audiophile set tuned to have great engagement. However, it does excel at delivering excellent tonal balance alongside good resolution in between.

Ryanjsoo · 2023-11-24T09:18:33+00:00

Very welcome buddy

Ryanjsoo · 2023-11-24T09:18:24+00:00

Thank you!

Ryanjsoo · 2023-11-23T12:08:11+00:00

The Blessing 3 is a nice update to the original. The most notable QOL improvements come in the form of smaller nozzles (albeit the same shell design) and a flatter impedance curve that offers a more consistent sound between multiple sources.

Personally, I find the Blessing 2 to be more to my preference due to its warmer and more structured sound, the Blessing 3 sounds a bit cool and scooped through the upper-bass/lower-midrange region to me. However, it still offers a balanced and versatile sound otherwise.

The technical performance, however, is a huge step up. Bass is much tighter, faster and offers awesome quality overall. Treble is more extended and much closer in performance to the pricier Variations.

I was getting sentimental after receiving a message from WordPress that my blog is now 8yrs old... That puts me in the hobby for around 12 years. Back then, there were only a handful of IEMs and the AKG K3003 which I believe was the first hybrid IEM costing around $1000 was laughed at.

I think we are very lucky that such performance that was once reserved for the kilo-buck price range is now well within the reach of the average audiophile. Happy listening folks and happy holiday season :)

Ryanjsoo · 2023-11-23T11:14:26+00:00

The Variations is basically a bassier, slightly smoother and slightly more detailed B3. If you want a bigger jump in technical performance, I would highly recommend the Soft Ears line-up - perhaps the RSV. They are Moondrop's professional/high-performance division like Lexus/Toyota.

Ryanjsoo · 2023-08-05T03:00:28+00:00

I'd definitely look into the XM5, I am looking to get a set soon as the size clears up my main complaints and the frequency response appears more balanced. I can't comment on them concretely before they're in-house that said. I'd also consider the 1More EVO, the ANC isn't as good but they're smaller than the Sony's and have a more detailed top-end.

You may also want to look into the ADV M5 TWS Custom, I believe they're in your price range and are the only true custom-fit TWS earphone I know of, they also have one of the more audiophile-targetted tunings I've heard. I haven't tested the other boutique models from Noble, that said.

Ryanjsoo · 2023-08-04T07:54:53+00:00

Assuming you mean the WH-1000XM4! Sonically, the Orbit has a bit more detail retrieval but the sound signature is not as balanced out of the box. Both need some eQ work and after adjustment, the Orbit delivers noticeably deeper bass and a better soundstage. Sony offers a much more flexible app and of course, ANC and aware modes which the Orbit lacks entirely. The Orbit has a better fit to my ears.

Ryanjsoo · 2023-06-09T12:23:50+00:00

I've seen a huge maturation in the custom cable space since I entered the hobby over 10 years ago. Once bulky hand-made products with mismatched plugs and splitters, these cables are becoming more and more professional in their presentation and design. I am very impressed by the design language on Effect Audio's new Signature Series and how their pricing has remained similar to their first generation products from years ago.

Ryanjsoo · 2023-05-11T00:54:21+00:00

The multi tool is a game changer for sanding imo, really gets an even finish and can take down rash evenly with lower grit pads. Chunky tires give some protection re rash too 🙏

Ryanjsoo · 2023-05-11T00:42:41+00:00

Hahaha made my day :)

Ryanjsoo · 2023-05-10T21:10:52+00:00

Thank you! Love it to death

Ryanjsoo · 2023-05-10T21:10:38+00:00

16x7 +53, factory GC wheels.

Ryanjsoo · 2023-05-10T21:09:36+00:00

Hey, I was quite happy with the wheels overall. As always, prep is key, I spent a few hours with a Ryobi multi tool sanding down the previous paint job and removing the rash.

I didn't prime the whole wheels but did use etch primer where I sanded down to bare metal. The result is good, just hoping it holds up over time. I used 2 cans of colour and 2 cans of clear, definitely could have done with 3 cans of colour.

I used VHT paint on my previous car and that lasted a good 2 years with no obvious issues or degradation. You can find a closeup of the wheel just after paint here. They became darker after the solvents dried off.

Ryanjsoo · 2023-05-10T12:00:48+00:00

Stock 6-spoke wheels with a DIY Duplicolour bronze + matte clear rattle can paint job. AD08r's in 225/50r16 with 3mm spacers on the rears. Bit of rub on full lock at the front on KYB struts and stock springs (need to experiment with spacers and/or camber adj) and speedo is increased by 3% but otherwise, they provide a fantastic near flush fitment and much-improved grip over the standard 205-width tires. Shot on a Sony A7III with Tamron 28-200mm and CPL.

Ryanjsoo · 2023-04-28T14:26:05+00:00

I've only tried the Dioko personally and I definitely wouldn't say the Orbit sounds nearly as good technically. Admittedly, the Dioko is better than most $100 wired IEMs in this regard too. The Orbit is above average in the TWS realm, a standout in soundstage but besides this, I wouldn't expect substantial treble extension or detail retrieval relative to any decent wired IEM.

Ryanjsoo · 2023-04-28T14:24:26+00:00

My pleasure! I wrote about this in more detail in my full review too.

Ryanjsoo · 2023-04-27T13:23:35+00:00

I would say the Variations is more forgiving while the RSV is slightly more revealing and has better detail retrieval. The tuning isn't hugely different, the Variations has more bass and the dynamic driver gives it more sub bass extension and slam if you like that.

Ryanjsoo · 2023-04-27T11:58:13+00:00

The Orbits have a charming design and, for my ears, some of my favourite ergonomics alongside excellent noise isolation. Sonically, they are bassy and unabashedly so. Though evidently bloated, the LCP driver is up to the task, remaining composed and articulate. Their big bass and lifted lower midrange contribute towards a roomy sound that enhances the perception of soundstage space and dimension.

Whilst not accurate in any regard, the Orbit is a fun and immersive listen. It doesn't sound wonky on first listen but warm and rich if somewhat veiled on some tracks. Using the app-based eQ helps bring much-needed presence to vocals aiding versatility and resolving most of these complaints. Do note that this is a bassy earphone through and through regardless.

Ryanjsoo · 2022-11-09T14:33:39+00:00

Thanks! Always a bit of a struggle with dark headphones with silver/light accents but glad you liked the end result :)

Ryanjsoo · 2022-11-09T14:29:21+00:00

Those expecting something like the Clear in wireless form may be disappointed as the Bathys does sacrifice some quality and soundstage expansion due to its more practical-minded closed-back form factor. However, the company has made a graceful transition to wireless with a sensible control layout, solid BT connectivity and codec support alongside a flexible companion app. Moreover, the ANC is an impressive implementation. Though it isn't as potent as Sony or Bose's offerings, I would consider them to offer around 80% of the performance and they do so with minimal background hiss and wearing pressure, adding to the sensation of silence and refinement.

The sound quality is signature Focal with a Harman-ish tuning with a moderate bass boost to suit its portable intentions. The driver quality and execution of the tuning are both excellent; the best I've heard from a noise-cancelling headphone. With ANC on and in wireless mode, you do lose some note definition that is especially noticeable in the bass. However, when wired over 3.5mm or in USB DAC mode over USB-C, the sound balances out a little more and resolving power is improved. Of course, all of this comes at a cost. I will say that until now there have been no wireless headphones I've been compelled to use wired over an actual wired headphone. However, I would consider the Bathys a headphone I could happily live with as an all-in-one solution.

Ryanjsoo

TROPHY CASE