Today we review the new TOTL PMG Audio Apx SE IEM, priced at $6.000 USD.
Disclaimer: The Audio Apx SE was sent to us in exchange for our honest opinion. We are not linked to PMG Audio in any way.
PMG Audio
PMG Audio is a new premium brand created by Piotr Granicki, who is also the founder and CEO of Custom Art. Custom Art has been offering high-quality and reasonably priced C-IEMs and IEMs in the audiophile domain since its inception in May 2012. The brand has grown over the years, and Piotr’s new venture is set to continue this legacy. You can have a look at our Custom-Art reviews here.
Piotr has decided to embark on a new venture with the establishment of PMG (Piotr Marek Granicki) Audio, a luxurious and high-end brand. The aim is to produce exclusive and unique audio products with a touch of eccentricity.
With over a decade of hands-on experience in tuning and building IEMs, we promise to deliver the best sound we can achieve.
To start things off, PMG created the most sophisticated and premium IEM they can offer, the Apx. I reviewed this very special IEM in February. You can check that review below:
Apx SE
The original Apx was simply Piotr’s ultimate IEM. Based on the feedback of that super high-end unit, and following its success, he decided to create a new version. The ”Amber Edition” Apx had some minor details to be worked on, and Piotr did just that.
The new Apx SE (Stone Edition) comes in an eye-catching combination of real Lapis Lazuli-Brass hybrid stone, hand-painted blue-gold housing complemented by tri-brid cable with dual shielding. The high-frequency BA drivers also redeveloped, combining with changes in crossover to both high BA and the round Planar Speaker reduced region between 4-10kHz while improving and extending 10-20kHz output.
The PMG Audio Apx SE’s driver configuration is indeed a marvel of modern audio engineering. The combination of a Rectangular Planar Speaker and a 10mm PEEK diaphragm Dynamic Driver ensures deep, controlled low frequencies, while the 8 custom-designed Balanced Armatures cover the lower-midrange to high frequencies with precision and balance. The inclusion of a small round planar speaker for the highs completes the package, delivering extended treble with a natural tonality. These elements are masterfully integrated through a 7-way passive crossover network, ensuring seamless transitions between the frequency ranges.
The Apx SE also incorporates key technologies from the Custom Art brand:
- FIBAE (Flat Impedance Balanced Armature Earphone): A design that maintains consistent impedance across different sources, improving versatility.
- GSO (Geometrical Sound Outlet): A technology that optimizes sound dispersion within the ear canal for better clarity and imaging.
- PSO (Pressure Optimizing Design): Reduces unwanted pressure buildup in the ear canal, resulting in a more comfortable listening experience.
- UPS (Ultra Planar Speakers): Enhances the performance of planar drivers, ensuring detailed, accurate highs.
These technologies, along with the custom-built drivers, elevate the Apx SE’s sound performance, making it a truly one-of-a-kind product. With only 100 sets available worldwide, its rarity adds to the exclusivity of owning a pair. While the Amber Edition remains the rarest with just 25 units produced, the Apx SE is a significant follow-up that blends both innovation and craftsmanship.
Next, let’s dive into the sound quality, packaging, and overall user experience.
Packaging
The Apx SE’s packaging is a significant step up from the original version, addressing several critiques from its predecessor. The standout feature is the premium leather bag, which not only looks luxurious but is also highly practical for carrying the IEMs safely. This is a marked improvement over the original’s more generic presentation.
I criticized the packaging of the original Apx for having a zipper case identical to those used in Custom Art products, and the limited ear tip selections. Additionally, the stock cable left much to be desired in terms of both feel and aesthetics.
With the Apx SE, all those issues have been rectified. The inclusion of a unique blue case adds a personal touch, the stock cable has been upgraded to a much higher quality, offering both superior aesthetics and performance. Furthermore, the ear tip selections have been expanded, ensuring a better fit for a variety of users.
Design & Build Quality
The PMG Audio Apx SE immediately stands out with its thoughtfully crafted design, blending sleek lines and high-end materials to deliver both visual and tactile appeal. Its minimalist aesthetic, paired with premium finishing, results in a product that effortlessly complements any setting—whether it’s placed on a desk, displayed on a shelf, or used while travelling. The Apx SE radiates a sense of sophistication and luxury.
The most eye-catching element is undoubtedly the faceplate, featuring hand-painted gold and blue accents that come to life under the right lighting. This detail will certainly appeal to enthusiasts who value aesthetics, as it lends natural and organic beauty to the IEMs.
The shell of the Apx SE is equally striking, with a stunning blue gradient design, hand-painted to match the faceplates perfectly. The craftsmanship is impeccable—everything from the smooth, rounded chassis to the precision in the canal construction is executed to a high standard. The faceplate closure is seamless, without any visible flaws.
The Apx SE comes equipped with an upgraded cable that complements its premium status. This time, PMG Audio has chosen a Gold Plated Silver+Silver+Silver Copper Alloy cable, featuring Silver Alloy and Copper dual shielding. The colour scheme aligns perfectly with the IEM’s design, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. Compared to the original Apx, the new stock cable is far more assertive and refined in both look and feel, elevating the user experience significantly.
In terms of usability and ergonomics, the cable strikes a balance between form and function. It’s relatively flexible and lightweight, making it easy to handle during use. While the thicker build does slightly reduce maneuverability, it feels like a fair trade-off given the increased durability and superior feel over the original Apx’s cable. Overall, the improved cable adds a premium touch without compromising too much on usability.
The review continues on the second page. Click here or use the jumps below.
Page 2: Fit & Sound
Page 3: More on Sound, Sources, Comparisons, Conclusion
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