SIVGA (Dongguan Sivga Electronic Technology Co., Ltd.), based in Dongguan, China, has been manufacturing headphones since 2016. The company’s models (As of today, I count 20 on their home site), which include wired in-ear, dynamic driver, planar magnetic, and wireless designs, are each built entirely in-house, from raw materials to the final product. Their original Robin, SV021, a closed-back dynamic driver headphone, was released in 2021 and is well-regarded, but I have yet to hear them. While I’ve been aware of SIVGA (and SENDY, their premium brand), this is my first time sitting with their products.
SIVGA asserts that this Pro version is based on an entirely new 5-layer composite diaphragm, 50mm aluminum driver, and ultra-fine black copper aluminium alloy voice coil, the goal being to expand on the original’s strengths with enhanced dynamic expression and detail. This new design’s specifications hover near to the original, with a frequency range of 20Hz-20kHz, 106db sensitivity, and higher (up from 32ohm) impedance at 45ohm (+/-15%).
Our reference system includes the Eversolo DMP-A6 as dedicated streamer, feeding Qobuz, via USB, to the Schiit Yggdrasil DAC (v1+Analog2+Gen5USB), with the Enleum AMP-23R amplifier providing power. I used the Dan Clark Audio (DCA) NOIRE X planar magnetic headphones as a reference. While quite different in their design and cost, the NOIRE X’s clear-eyed view of the music provides a useful perspective on sonics. They are, among other things, an excellent aural palate cleanser. AudioQuest power products and cable tether it all to the ground. The reference system here is known for deft handling of high frequencies, and isn’t overtly lit. Also, the Enleum is a bit much for such sensitive headphones, so the available gain range is limited.
In Use
With the version I have on hand (there’s the version with Beechwood cups too), the Zebrawood cups, gray metal yoke, and brand-stamped black headband together present as minimal and modern. Not flashy, but handsome, and as we’ll see, they do mean business. The build is solid, and while I can’t yet speak to their endurance over long distances, they do exceed expectations for a design in this price range. As for the fit, making adjustments to accommodate my large melon took only a moment, and I didn’t think about it again. Adjusting the headband provides a solid click at each mark, then stays put. The SV021 Pro is lightweight (289g) and comfortable, though note that it is slightly heavier than its predecessor (275g). It was rare that the fit distracted me during long listening sessions. The captive velour earpads are comfortable, and fit my fairly large ears fine, though my lobes do touch the inner edges. The pads provide a decent seal and so deliver on isolating us from external noise and keeping our music from distracting others. As far as passive isolation goes, they do a fine job. The black, braided fabric cable (OFC) is lightweight, the length (1.6m) works for my purposes here on the desktop, though I did have some issue with microphonics. This isn’t a huge deal, and one easily addressed with a cable swap. I think if you’re not moving around much, it’s unlikely to be an issue. I suppose if you’re listening on the go, prone to shaking your tailfeathers, or maybe a gamer who treats play like a full-contact sport, you may find it more noticeable. That said, if you’re a headphone enthusiast, you likely have one or more cables with 3.5mm connections on hand. Glad to see the cable swap option here.
I did briefly swap the stock cable for the Meze Audio premium cable (a report on their Poet is incoming). I know…but, we don’t know until we do, and it’s the only other cable I’ve currently got on hand with 3.5mm connections. We wouldn’t normally test a cable that retails for more than the headphone. Silly. Still, I found that there was a decompression of the image and a subtle lift in extension in both directions.
Listening
I ran the SV021 Pro for 100+ hours before getting into the weeds with them, and they benefited from it. Regardless of your thoughts on the optimal operating state of electronics, it’s a good idea to take time with new components. For some of this time, I watched movies, podcasts, and other stories before sitting down for more focused listening. Regardless of the fare, the SV021 Pro maintained a firm grip on the playback. Also, dynamic expression is impressive for a headphone in this category. This is an agile headphone, though the frequency extremes are gently rolled off, transients softer. There is focused energy around 1-2kHz, so some recordings may come in hot. This was more pronounced right out of the box, but diminished with play. I’ll add that this warmth is part of the SV021 Pro’s voicing, and its intensity will vary system to system. While extension to the frequency extremes is good, I’d call this a mid-centric sound. Low frequencies are ample, but not blown out. This is not only a comfy headphone but one that projects a cozy vibe sonically. Lower center of gravity. I dig it. If you’re a space junky, the smaller stage may not satisfy. I am intentionally emphasizing this warm character here in an attempt to illustrate its qualities. While initially the headphone did sound thick and somewhat congested, this resolved itself over many hours of play.
Bowie’s “Earthling” record (1997), and the track ‘Seven Years in Tibet’ (check Zachary Alford’s fantastic performance behind the kit) in particular, are a good example of this. This recording is fairly lean. I found the CD version I owned in the Wayback to be somewhat harsh, though this also speaks to the system I used at the time. The mix remains, of course. Delivered by the SV021 Pro, the cymbals are tucked farther back into the mix. The snare coughs a bit more, rather than cracking – that’s also in the mix. That said, switching back to the NOIRE X, those cymbals are a touch tizzy, and that harshness in the guitars returns. Back to the SV021 Pro, and, as far as a drum mix goes, I kinda dig this punchy, tone-heavy, low to the ground and compact sound, but that’s a ramble for another time. Of course, this voicing affects the overall playback, so if you prioritize sparkle, this headphone may not be your first choice.
Liv Andrea Hauge’s 2024 release, ‘Ville Blomster’, is a great piano trio recording that’s seen a lot of play here on the desk. In this system, the intimate recording grows even closer, the lower center of gravity drawing out the pulse, focusing my attention more toward the group dynamic, and away from finer details. The cymbals lacked the luster I’m accustomed to. Again, while the midrange remains in focus, there’s a bold drive, shove, and shake that makes for a tactile experience. On ‘Du og jeg, baby’, the SV021 Pro kept up with the more frenetic moments, highlighting once again its speed and responsiveness.
Hundred Waters – Firelight (Official Music Video)
Hundred Waters ‘Firelight’, from their 2017 release, “Communicating”, is a great example of their deep well of talent. They remain among my favorites in the electronic/experimental/pop camp. It’s been a while since they’ve released a full-length record. Here’s hoping that they’re not done. I listened to this and other tracks, pairing the SV021 Pro with a Samsung phone, and used YouTube as the source. There was plenty of drive on board to push the headphone, and its voice remained unwavering. The low end dominated, as expected. Nicole Miglis’ gorgeous vocal was gently recessed, though less so than on the desktop.
I next switched to the Qobuz app on the phone, spinning Rosalia’s ‘Chicken Teriyaki’ from her “Motomami” release. Of course, the results were even better. If you can swing it, paying for a music streaming service is worth the access and high-quality playback, not to mention their magazine features and hi-fi reviews. Here, said playback confirmed that the SV021 Pro will get down with our mobile devices, needing little encouragement to get up and dance. The overall character tilted upward, which makes sense. SIVGA likely had listeners in mind who are using mobile devices and computers as sources. Regardless, the headphone maintained a strong grip, and there’s plenty of bloom in its boom. Those who’re looking to rock and prefer a ground-up presentation may want to give them a listen.
Summing
The SV021 Pro is a quality headphone and is worthy of your time if you’re looking for an all-rounder under $200. High quality build, modern aesthetic (dig that Zebrawood!), comfort that sustains long sessions, and good sound. Agility, control, fairly wide image, and a big bottom. Their sensitivity provides ample opportunity for pairing; everything from phones and DAPs to low-powered desktop amplifiers are fair game. The voicing is certainly mid-centric, and perhaps not for those seeking the ultimate in transparency or to plumb subterranean depths. Maybe something lean and quick would complement that cushy sound? Whatever your game, the SV021 Pro is worthy of investigation.
The SV021 Pro is available on Amazon, priced at $179.
Thank you to Jessica at Jackrabbit Media.
Manufacturer Link:
https://www.sivgaaudio.com/
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