Though released two years ago by Shanling, the ME600 still holds a strong reputation. Right from first glance, its outer packaging is minimalist. The phrase Sound First printed prominently tells you that, much like the ME600, this model prioritizes audio quality above all else. It boasts distinctive styling: sharp lines blended with a futuristic aesthetic, presenting itself as a true performance-focused piece of gear.
Unboxing reveals the IEM itself. It adopts a black-and-gold contrasting colour scheme. The faceplate is finely finished with premium texture, and the metal housing exudes sophistication. As light shifts across its surface, it resembles wispy smoke or a gentle flowing stream — full of poetic charm.
The stock cable terminates in an angled 3.5mm plug, which sits neatly against devices and I find quite convenient.
It comes with an interchangeable 4.4mm plug, 14 pairs of ear tips, and two swappable nozzles. The accessory bundle is incredibly generous. The included carry case has good build quality. While its aesthetic does not perfectly match the grounded, elegant look of the earpieces, it remains practical.
Listening Impressions
My source was the ONIX XM2, my daily-use player. For an IEM priced under 2000 RMB, this 2DD+3BA configuration delivers standout strengths and is a formidable vocal-focused set. I love Mao Buyi’s clean, crisp and unrushed timbre. In the track Borrow, sibilance is nearly absent. Vocals are not overly forward, with well-defined positioning and no cluttered imaging. Mid-bass performance is excellent; it has solid depth without sounding harsh, with perfectly controlled weight.
Female vocals sound stunning at first listen. Faye Wong’s Wish fills the space with serene breath, rich emotion that strikes straight to the soul. Its delicate presentation unfolds gently, just like the earpiece itself, whispering softly. Truly, Sound First pulls you fully into the music. The overall atmosphere is immersive. Emotion is rendered sincerely and subtly, with a smooth natural timbre, wide soundstage and abundant fine details.
Treble is not bright but unfolds naturally, well suited for instrumental music with relaxed, gradual extension.
With the stock default nozzle, treble is somewhat restrained. Switching to the bright nozzle lifts extension and brightness, making instrumental harmonics far more noticeable. The red nozzle boosts bass response, while the black one delivers balanced tuning. The balanced nozzle is recommended if you mostly listen to pop and vocals.
I paired it with Tangzu brass ear tips. The imaging becomes more solid, bass layering improves, treble details grow clearer, and the whole presentation feels airier and more transparent.
It handles power requirements very well. Even entry-level USB DAC dongles can produce satisfying sound. I tested it with the JCALLY Galaxy SONATA, which drives the ME600 effortlessly. The Galaxy SONATA tonal signature matches the ME600 perfectly — both are smooth and easy on the ears. The pairing creates deeper depth, smoother contour, and brings out the IEM’s vocal strengths to the fullest.
Comfort surpasses many typical IEMs. It fits snugly into the ear with minimal foreign-body sensation and very low microphonics. After one or two hours of listening, there is no ear soreness or swelling. This ergonomic design is exceptionally user-friendly for an in-ear monitor.
Who is the ME600 for? Listeners who enjoy pop and atmospheric music, or prefer a balanced sound signature without extreme treble, paired with firm bass. It offers tremendous tweakability. To own such a capable vocal powerhouse for under 2000 RMB is simply fantastic.
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