Introduction:
If you’ve dabbled in this hobby anytime over the past couple years, two names that you are most likely very familiar with are LetShuoer and Gizaudio. LetShuoer is the brand behind the critically acclaimed S12 Planar IEM and the EJ07 lineup, among other less known in ear monitors, and Gizaudio is the brainchild of Timmy Vangtan, one of the most well loved and respected reviewers in the portable audio world. In conjunction with LetShuoer, the Galileo, a one dynamic driver, and one balanced armature driver hybrid is Timmy’s first IEM collaboration and hopefully not his last!
An interesting fact is that the name, Galileo, as much as the space themed packaging and nebula-like faceplates of this beautiful IEM do suggest a homage to the famed astronomer, comes from a Japanese book series and drama, Detective Galileo.
Where to Buy:
PROS:
- Very pleasant and very versatile tuning
- Very smooth tuning
- The build is solid
- Beautiful shell and great fit/ergonomics
- Zero fatigue
CONS:
- Lacks a little sparkle and air
- Lags a little in technicalities
- Could be a little bit more dynamic
WHO THIS IS FOR:
- Those looking for a long-session IEM that is perfect for relaxing with
- Mids lovers
- Those looking for a smooth and enjoyable listen
- Those new to the IEM looking for a great starting point
WHO THIS ISN’T FOR:
- Those looking for an incisive listen
Build, Fit, Accessories:
What’s in the box: The Galileo comes in a relatively small sized box with artwork that resembles a window peering out into space. In the box are the IEMs themselves and one of the most solid (and sometimes tricky to open) IEM cases to be included with any IEMs I’ve owned or demoed. It’s not a case that one would carry around, but there is quite a lot of space inside with eartips and an IEM cleaning tool attached. The cable included is very solid and among the highest quality cables included with IEMs I’ve handled in this price range – it’s very similar to the one included with the S12.
Build and fit: The build quality of the Galileo is great, almost reminiscent of the resin EJ07 shell – relatively small in size but quite comfortable. Your mileage may vary. Overall, build and fit is great with the one caveat – the included cable does have relatively small earhooks, so that might cause some interference with getting a good seal, however, so a little bit of fiddling around will likely be required if using the stock cable.
Overall Sound:
The LetShuoer x Gizaudio Galileo is a very pleasant IEM to listen to. Never offensive, never too intense. It is a very smooth and relaxed IEM and is very nicely balanced with a slight vocal-centric character. It’s not a very technically strong IEM but it is very easy to listen to for very long sessions.
Bass:
The sub-bass focused bass shelf is neither too much nor too little and is quite pleasant if not lacking a just bit of texture and tactility. While it won’t blow anyone away with punchiness or slam, the quantity is just right and it doesn’t bleed into the midrange, while adding a nice touch of warmth.
Mids:
The midrange is my favorite part of the Galileo. Vocals, especially female vocals, have a nice richness and sweetness to them without being shouty. There is a buttery smooth quality to the sound and yet there is a decent amount of clarity.
Treble:
Treble on the Galileo is a little bit rolled off, which unfortunately is accompanied by a slight lack of air and sparkle. On the other hand, the treble is incredibly smooth. This tuning ensures that the Galileo is never fatiguing and never becomes harsh or sibilant. Things like cymbal strikes and percussion do lack a bit of incisiveness but it’s not offensive.
Technicalities:
This is not the strong point of the Galileo. Resolution, imaging, staging are all about average for IEMs. Overall timbre is natural sounding with the exception of some instruments lacking bite. It does also lack a bit of dynamics and transients are a bit blunted and lacking a bit of crispness. But where the Galileo lacks in technicalities, it more than makes up in smoothness and pleasantness.
Conclusion:
Given that the name and packaging does elicit images of space, it’s hard not to ignore space related analogies despite knowing that the Galileo nomenclature is related, as mentioned before, to a fictional detective. In astronomy related concepts, the Galileo makes me think of the goldilocks zone, that is, the orbital zone around any given star in which conditions would allow for a planet with a pressurized atmosphere to maintain liquid water on the surface. In other words, like a planet within the goldilocks zone, the Galileo is pleasant – it’s buttery smooth and infinitely easy to listen to. While it may not blow anyone away in terms of technicalities, it is a safe bet for anyone looking for a mid-focused IEM with sweet vocals. Timmy’s first IEM collaboration is quite enjoyable and I look forward to seeing what he cooks up next!
