AFUL Performer 8S: New IEM Brings Two Bass Profiles

The AFUL Performer 8S was officially launched today (15), bringing what the company describes as an “evolution of the Performer 5 and Performer 8.” The announcement was made through AFUL’s official profiles on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter). The main highlight is the presence of two bass profiles on the 8S, combined with a “warm” sound signature and a wider soundstage. Check out the details below and see whether it is worth buying.

Two bass profiles through a passive radiator

Instead of using an interchangeable nozzle [1], AFUL decided to introduce a different approach by employing a passive radiator that communicates directly with the body (housing, shell) of the in-ear monitor (IEM).

The user can use a small included accessory to block the air outlet of the passive radiator, thus changing the bass behavior. According to the manufacturer, closing the air duct results in a “solid,” “full-bodied,” and “hard-hitting” bass. Leaving the air passage open makes the low frequencies sound “deeper” and “smoother.”

[1] The nozzle is the sound output spout of an in-ear monitor.

3D-printed ducts to prevent unwanted resonances

Through AFUL’s patented micro-resonance control technology called “RESInators,” 3D-printed ducts with different lengths and shapes were developed to allow the “correction of non-ideal driver behavior across the entire frequency range,” delivering “clarity over a wide frequency band,” according to the company.

Use of an RLC crossover

By using an RLC crossover [2], AFUL made adjustments to refine the operation of each driver, enabling the “elimination of resonance peaks” and achieving “smooth, detailed treble with electrostatic-like (EST) characteristics, as well as wide extension,” according to the developer.

[2] An RLC crossover uses resistors, capacitors, and inductors to divide the signal transmission among different drivers.

Sound differences between the Performer 8S and the Performer 8

According to AFUL, the Performer 8S has a more “intense” sound than the Performer 8, featuring bass with greater impact and texture, as well as denser mids. However, the soundstage of the “8” is more intimate and compact when compared to the “8S.”

Overall, according to the manufacturer, the Performer 8 delivers a more balanced sound that is easy to listen to for hours without causing listening fatigue, while the Performer 8S offers a warmer presentation with greater dynamics.

AFUL Performer 8S – Specifications

• Impedance: 26Ω ±20%
• Sensitivity: 108dB @ 1kHz
• Frequency response: 10Hz ~ 35kHz
• Connector type: 0.78mm 2-pin
• Plug: 3.5mm or 4.4mm

Launch, price, and availability

The AFUL Performer 8S is now available for US$ 389.99 on AliExpress.