AFUL Performer 5 vs. Performer 5+2: A Comprehensive Comparison

AFUL Acoustics, known for its commitment to innovation and audio fidelity, recently introduced the Performer 5+2/Performer 7, a significant evolution over the popular Performer 5. Both IEMs offer a balanced tonality with smooth sound reproduction and an impressive design. However, the Performer 5+2 comes packed with enhancements that elevate its sound quality, comfort, and overall listening experience. Let’s dive into a detailed comparison of these two IEMs to understand why the Performer 5+2 stands as a notable upgrade.

Faceplate Design and Build Quality

AFUL takes pride in creating visually appealing and ergonomic IEM designs. Both the Performer 5 and the Performer 5+2 use advanced 3D printing technology for high-precision acoustic structuring, but they differ in faceplate design and aesthetics.

The Performer 5 features a sleek, lightweight design with uniquely textured face covers that give it a distinctive look. Its EnvisionTEC High-Precision 3D Printed Acoustic Tube Structure allows for a lightweight and durable build, while the ergonomic fit ensures comfort for prolonged use. This design prioritizes both aesthetic appeal and practicality, making it a comfortable choice for long listening sessions.

The Performer 5+2, however, has taken the design a step further with an even more refined faceplate that boasts improved ergonomics. The new faceplate is designed to better conform to the natural contours of the ear, resulting in a more secure and comfortable fit. This enhanced design not only improves passive noise isolation but also minimizes ear fatigue over time. The updated look of the Performer 5+2 conveys a more premium feel, making it visually and physically superior to the Performer 5. 

Driver Configuration

The driver configuration is where the Performer 5+2 sets itself apart as a true upgrade. While both IEMs aim for a balanced and smooth tonality, the driver setups in each model deliver different audio experiences.

Performer 5:
The Performer 5 employs a five-driver hybrid setup, featuring one dynamic driver to handle the lower frequencies and four balanced armature (BA) drivers—two for the mid-range and two for the highs. This setup provides a clean, balanced sound with a distinct separation between the lows, mids, and highs. AFUL’s in-house RLC Network Frequency Division Correction Technology further enhances this configuration, allowing each driver to function within its optimal range, reducing frequency overlap and ensuring smooth transitions across frequencies.

Performer 5+2:
The Performer 5+2 raises the bar with a seven-driver configuration: two dynamic drivers, four balanced armatures, and a micro planar driver dedicated to treble. The addition of a second dynamic driver enriches the bass, adding depth and precision to sub-bass frequencies while preserving the mid-bass punch. This dual dynamic driver setup brings a more impactful bass response without sacrificing clarity. The micro planar driver is an especially noteworthy addition, enhancing treble resolution with impressive detail and airiness. This results in better instrument separation, allowing for an intricate and layered soundstage. Compared to the Performer 5, the Performer 5+2 exhibits a more refined and expansive frequency response, making it ideal for listeners who appreciate fine details and spatial imaging.

Sound Quality

Sound quality is where the Performer 5+2 shines as a true successor, building upon the already commendable performance of the Performer 5 with notable improvements in clarity, bass depth, and treble detail.

Bass:
The Performer 5 delivers a tight and well-controlled bass, thanks to its single dynamic driver and the high-damping air-pressure balance system. Bass notes are impactful, yet restrained, offering a clean low-end that complements rather than overwhelms the mids and highs.

With its dual dynamic drivers, the Performer 5+2 brings a more robust and textured bass response. The addition of the second dynamic driver enhances bass depth, providing a stronger presence in sub-bass regions while maintaining control in mid-bass frequencies. This results in a more immersive low-end that remains articulate, giving genres like electronic and hip-hop a fuller, more engaging sound.

Mids:
The Performer 5 provides smooth and slightly forward mids, with two BA drivers dedicated to reproducing vocals and midrange instruments. This configuration works well for vocals, presenting them with clarity and a natural tone, though the resolution may fall short for some audiophiles who prioritize extreme detail in this range.

In the Performer 5+2, the mid-range remains clear and well-balanced, with improved vocal clarity and detail retrieval. The addition of AFUL’s advanced acoustic design techniques ensures a more accurate and natural midrange presentation, especially beneficial for vocal-heavy genres. The increased separation between instruments gives the Performer 5+2 an advantage, creating a sense of space around vocals and enhancing the immersive quality of the listening experience.

Treble:
The Performer 5's two BA drivers handle treble well, delivering a clean and non-fatiguing high end with moderate extension. While it offers a pleasant, smooth treble, it lacks the airiness and detail that some high-end listeners may crave.

The Performer 5+2 addresses this by incorporating a micro planar driver for treble. This driver adds refinement to the high frequencies, with extended reach and enhanced detail resolution. Treble notes are crisp and airy, lending a sense of openness. The planar driver contributes to better imaging and soundstage, allowing listeners to experience a more lifelike and spacious soundscape. Highs remain smooth and are less likely to induce listening fatigue, even during extended sessions.

Soundstage and Imaging

The Performer 5 delivers a good soundstage, with moderate width and depth that suit most genres. Imaging is accurate, and instrument placement is reliable, though it may lack the depth that some listeners seek in a more immersive experience.

The Performer 5+2, with its upgraded driver configuration and planar driver, offers an expansive soundstage with greater width and depth. Imaging is sharper, with instruments clearly delineated in the listening space. This enhanced spatial awareness elevates the listening experience, especially for live recordings and complex orchestral pieces, making the Performer 5+2 an ideal choice for those who value a more holographic sound.

Accessories and Cable

AFUL has also made significant improvements in the accessory package with the Performer 5+2, offering more value and functionality for listeners.

Performer 5:
The Performer 5 comes with a standard accessory package, including a cable, ear tips, and a carry case.

Performer 5+2:
The Performer 5+2 takes the accessories up a notch by including a premium cable with better conductivity and durability. This cable not only enhances sound transmission but also reduces tangling and feels soft and robust in hand. Additionally, AFUL provides a wider selection of ear tips with the Performer 5+2, allowing users to achieve a more customized and comfortable fit. The upgraded accessory package underscores the Performer 5+2’s premium positioning, offering better value and enhancing the overall experience.

Final Verdict: Performer 5 vs. Performer 5+2

The AFUL Performer 5 is an excellent IEM with a balanced sound signature, ergonomic design, and solid build quality. It offers a satisfying listening experience with impressive sound quality across lows, mids, and highs. For listeners seeking a smooth, natural sound with good detail, the Performer 5 is a strong choice.

However, the Performer 5+2/Performer 7 brings significant upgrades that make it a true successor. With dual dynamic drivers, a micro planar driver, improved bass response, and enhanced treble detail, the Performer 5+2 surpasses its predecessor in both sound quality and overall performance. The expanded soundstage, improved imaging, and more refined vocal clarity further cement the Performer 5+2 as a superior option. Add to this the ergonomic faceplate design, premium cable, and extensive ear tip options, and it’s clear that the Performer 5+2 offers a more premium, enjoyable experience that justifies its position as an upgrade.

In conclusion, while the Performer 5 remains a commendable IEM in its own right, the Performer 5+2 is an undeniable improvement. Its refined sound signature, enhanced accessories, and superior driver configuration make it a worthy investment for audiophiles seeking a more detailed, immersive listening experience.