NICEHCK 10th Anniversary Earbuds Review: Can a $12 Open-Back Actually Sound This Good?
NICEHCK’s 10th-anniversary model builds on the economical open-back YD30 design, with updated hardware and more carefully developed tuning. I tried the Tranquil Deep Sea Blue 3.5mm version. A capable DAC lets it show the spacious presentation that makes open earbuds appealing.
Packaging and Contents
The illustrated paper blister pack keeps things simple. Inside are the fixed-cable earphones, manual, warranty card, and one pair of black foam covers. There isn’t a leather pouch or strap. The accessories make it clear that the budget has gone toward the essentials.
Design
The 10th Anniversary Edition follows the open-back style of the YD30, YDSmall, and Traceless, with a little vintage Walkman nostalgia. Transparent shells reveal the drivers inside. The 10th-anniversary side lettering may divide opinions, but the fit is comfortable. Unlike sealed in-ears, these don’t press inside the ear canal, making them easy to wear at work or while resting. The light 15.4mm bodies should sit securely in most adult ears.
Sound Performance
- Bass: The open construction limits deep sub-bass, but mid-bass has enough punch to anchor the music. Small vibrations through the plastic shell add a pleasing physical sense of impact.
- Mids: Vocals are the highlight: forward, warm, and natural. Male voices and spoken YouTube content remain clear. That warmth can make female vocals a little husky.
- Treble: Smooth treble avoids sharp peaks. Listeners who want lots of extension may miss some reach, but the restrained tuning suits long sessions.
- Resolution: At around $12, detail is better than I’d expected. Instruments remain distinct in busy tracks instead of turning into the blur I associate with cheap bundled earbuds.
- Soundstage: The open design gives the sound room to spread around the listener, rather than seeming trapped inside the head. It is an airy presentation that feels different from the more enclosed character of an in-ear model. That openness is one of the main reasons to choose this kind of earbud.
Pros
- Great Value: Excellent balance and sound quality that punches well above the $12 entry price.
- Vocals & Soundstage: Mid-range emphasis provides clear vocals and an expansive, open atmosphere.
- Comfort: Lightweight units ensure very low ear fatigue during extended sessions.
Cons
- Physical Limitations: Typical open-back issues, including weak sub-bass and minimal noise isolation.
- Fixed Cable: The cable cannot be replaced, so it requires careful handling to avoid breakage.
- Resolution Limits: Complex tracks with high information density may suffer from minor separation issues.
Usage Guide
I use separate rubber donut-shaped tips to address the loss of bass that comes with an open earbud. The idea is to improve contact between the shell and the ear while leaving less material in the way of the sound. In my setup, that combination helps give the low end a firmer, more convincing impact. It doesn’t remove the structural limits of an open design, but it is a useful way to make the fit work better for the bass I want.
Since I have several portable DACs, I chose the 3.5mm model to take advantage of high-quality analog signal transmission. This configuration is better suited for entry-level audiophiles looking to maximize sound quality with dedicated equipment.
For general users without dedicated audio gear, I recommend the USB-C version. It includes a built-in DAC for high-resolution audio and offers the convenience of DSP tuning via apps, allowing you to adjust the sound to your preference without needing extra hardware.
Verdict
These aren’t a replacement for substantially more expensive earphones, but that is not the role I would give them. At this modest price, they are easy to use as everyday earbuds without feeling precious about them. The spacious stage and natural tone work across classical music and pop rather than locking the sound into a narrow genre preference. The appeal is getting that versatility in a simple, comfortable open design. For a regular pair to reach for casually, I think they make a very convincing case.
NICEHCK 10th Anniversary Earbuds Purchase Link
