Westone is a long-established IEM brand known for its realistic and well-balanced sound signatures in addition to its time-proven, no-nonsense ergonomics. The MACH 50 is a midrange, 5 driver release in the MACH series. (To compare the MACH 50 to the MACH 60, click here.) How well does it perform?
What’s in the Box?
Look and Feel
Sometimes, a simplistic design can be the most effective. Like the other Westone models, the MACH 50 is the most comfortable and least obtrusive IEM I have used in a while, and it offers a fantastic seal. Although the shells seem unremarkable when compared to the flashy IEMs available today, Westone has maintained the traditional shape and dimensions of its product. It simply functions as intended, and it is gratifying to see a company that prioritizes fit and comfort over visual appeal.
Design
With an impedance of 32 Ohms and a sensitivity of 110dB, the MACH 50 is easy to drive and can be comfortably powered from your phone without a DAC/Amp. But for the purposes of this review, I paired the MACH 50 with the Dragonfly Cobalt.
The MACH 50 sports the Linum Estrone Superbax cable. It is quite a bit thinner than the MACH 80’s and 70’s 224 strand silver-plated copper cable. But like all the MACH models, the MACH 50 use a T2 connection, which many argue, is a more solid alternative to the sometimes temperamental 2-pin and MMCX connectors.
Sound Impressions
Soundstage
One of Westone’s most skillful attributes is its soundscape. The MACH 50 can reveal instruments at great heights and depths, and you’ll hear nuanced degrees in placement above, behind and in front of the ear. Although the stereo field is not vastly wide, there is a sense of space between instruments. So, it feels like a realistic and intimate performance that’s at the same time colorful and all-encompassing.
Low-End
Though not particularly bass-heavy, the low-end lends warmth and punch to the mix. Still, overall, the bass feels tight and clean. The sub-bass frequencies don’t resonate deep enough to reach visceral levels, but the sheer speed of the bass makes you want to move. Listening to cellos is this range, there was more smoothness than texture, bringing a fluidity to the performance. And double basses felt natural and uncolored, avoiding any bloat or saturation.
Mids
The MACH 50 hits a nice balance here by lending body to the lower midrange while also keeping the upper-mids lively and engaged. So, you have a mix that is at once slightly warm and dynamic at the same time. Vocals sit out in intimate fashion, guitars glisten and snares really snap. At the same time, the presentation sounds entirely natural and life-like. Also noteworthy is the clean layering in this range. Even in the busiest of mixes, no element is lost.
Highs
While the highs have a solid extension, the peaks are, for the most part, gentle and forgiving on the ears. The level of detail in this range is exceptional, meticulously exposing the more hidden characteristics of strings and brass instruments. Vocals have a spacious feel, and the overall timbre is smooth without obscuring any of the subtle vocal modulations or breath.
Summary
The MACH 50’s vivid soundstage, naturalness, fast speed, warmth and vibrant vocals are all elements that define its sound signature. Certainly, these IEMs are an immersive and emotionally engaging listen. And in terms of skill alone, there’s probably not a significant amount separating the MACH 50 from some of Westone’s higher priced models. So, if you’re looking for a Westone IEM under $1000, the MACH 50 proves to be a worthy choice.
You can buy the Westone MACH 50 at Audio 46.
Specifications
- Driver configuration: 5 balanced armature drivers (1 Bass, 2 Midrange, 2 Treble)
- Impedance: 32 Ohms
- Sensitivity: 110 dB SPL @ 1mW
- Frequency response: 10Hz – 20kHz
- Noise isolation: up to 25 dB
- Cable: Linum Estrone Superbax
- Connector type: T2 (MMCX compatible)
- Weight: 7.2 grams (without cable)
