Softears RS10 Transparent - Reference Sound, Revealed
The Softears RS10 brings the complexity of a studio reference monitor into a clear, sculpted in-ear design. Developed as part of the Reference Sound series, these wired earphones combine ten balanced armature drivers in each earpiece with a sophisticated five-way crossover. Their tuning focuses on revealing the structure of a recording: the relationship between instruments, the texture of a voice and the reverberation surrounding a performance. A substantial low-frequency foundation supports this detailed presentation, giving the RS10 a sense of depth while keeping the midrange clear and articulate.
Ten Drivers Working as One
Each earpiece contains ten active balanced armature drivers, including Softears’ customised D-MID-B technology. Developed with the VDSF target response in mind, this driver helps shape a natural midrange with low distortion. The multi-driver arrangement distributes reproduction across dedicated frequency regions, while the crossover brings their outputs together into a coherent presentation. A separate passive pressure-management element complements the active drivers, helping manage internal air pressure and refine bass behaviour. It is an acoustic component rather than an additional electrically driven sound source.
Five-Way Crossover with Precise Control
The RS10’s crossover uses 15 components arranged in two modules, combining band-pass and low-pass filtering with a fourth-order LC filter. This design addresses frequency response, phase behaviour and impedance together, helping the drivers integrate smoothly across the audible range. The compact modular layout also limits unwanted interaction between circuit components. Particular attention is given to the upper midrange, where vocal presence and instrumental harmonics strongly influence the perceived realism of a recording.
An unusually consistent impedance curve is another practical advantage. It reduces the tonal changes that can occur when multi-driver earphones are connected to sources with different output impedances. This makes the RS10 a useful option for listeners who move between portable players, headphone amplifiers and studio equipment.
Detailed Sound with Convincing Depth
The RS10 combines a clear, relatively neutral midrange with extended bass and controlled treble. Low notes retain weight without dominating vocals, while fine instrumental textures remain easy to follow within complex arrangements. Its presentation suits attentive listening, from tracing individual parts in an orchestral recording to examining vocal layering in a studio production. The emphasis on separation and clarity also makes it a capable tool for monitoring and evaluating recordings.
The specified frequency range is 20 Hz–40 kHz, with an effective frequency response of 20 Hz–20 kHz measured using an IEC 60318-4 ear simulator. Nominal impedance is 25 ohms at 1 kHz, and sensitivity is rated at 100 dB for a 100 mV input at the same frequency. A capable audio source with sufficient output headroom helps support dynamic passages and comfortable volume adjustment.
Transparent Resin Shells and Passive Isolation
Its transparent shells make the acoustic engineering part of the visual identity. The polished resin reveals the driver arrangement, acoustic tubing and crossover components, complemented by understated branding. Carefully contoured housings and an over-ear cable route provide a secure universal fit, while the elongated nozzles work with the supplied silicone tips to establish an effective seal.
With appropriately fitted tips, the enclosed design provides passive isolation from surrounding noise. Three tip sizes allow the fit to be adjusted to the listener, supporting consistent bass reproduction and everyday comfort. The transparent finish gives the RS10 a distinctive appearance without concealing the intricate construction inside.
Detachable Cable for Everyday Flexibility
The supplied cable connects through standard 0.78 mm two-pin sockets, allowing straightforward replacement and compatibility with suitable aftermarket IEM cables. Its copper-based conductors and flexible construction provide a practical connection for portable and desktop listening, while the 3.5 mm stereo plug works with compatible headphone outputs. Devices without an analogue headphone socket require a suitable DAC or adapter.
The removable connection also makes the earphones easier to maintain over time: the cable can be replaced independently of the earpieces. A protective carrying case keeps the monitors and accessories together between listening sessions.
In the box:
- Softears RS10 in-ear monitors,
- detachable audio cable with 0.78 mm two-pin connectors and a 3.5 mm stereo plug,
- silicone ear tips in small, medium and large sizes,
- protective carrying case,
- user manual.
