Final Audio Earphone Comparison: S4000 vs. E5000

Final Audio has a lot of different lines of earphones, ranging from casual use, audiophile quality, and even specifically for gaming. Their newest line, the S series, has two earphones included that are said to be at audiophile quality. Their E series is a reliable and dependable line, giving you good sound and comfort at any price range. Today, we took an earphone from each lineup and put them side by side to see how they differ at the same price point. The new S4000, limited-time priced at $299, and the older E5000, priced at $279, go head-to-head in this comparison to see which is the right pick for you.

What Comes In The Box

Final stays pretty consistent when it comes to accessories included in each package. You get the main unit, some different size eartips, some ear hooks for those who prefer over-the-ear IEMs, and a receptacle for carrying the earphones.

Aesthetics and Functionality

The S4000 and the E5000 share the most similarities in their overall shape. They both have the same cylindrical body, with the S4000 being a matte grey and the E5000 a stainless steel. The S4000 is a bit longer, and because of that, the fit is more invasive in order to get a proper seal in the ears. The eartips also differ on these, with the S4000 opting for a new “Fusion-G” material. I found this seal to be quite uncomfortable, but that may change depending on the user. The E5000 came with standard eartips, and the slightly shorter body allowed for a better and more comfortable fit in the ear.

One thing these both have in common is their ease of use. It doesn’t take a lot of power to drive these, and with a 3.5mm termination at the end of both cables, you get to use these very easily across devices. The cable on the S4000 is a bit more pliable and the E5000 more stiff, so the S4000 is easier to maneuver when it needs adjusting.

Tech Specs

The differences in the two earphones are seen quite clearly on paper. From the alternate finishes to the connecting ports, there are quite a few things that set the S4000 and the E5000 apart. Their driver configurations differ, with the S4000 sporting a full range balanced armature and the E5000 going for a dynamic one.

I would predict that this will cause the E5000 to have a heavier bass than the S4000, and the S4000 will thrive in its treble response comparative to the E5000. Ultimately, your ears will be the true test to see how their sounds differ.

Listening Review

Soundstage

The S4000 and the E5000 are both two narrow earphones. IEMs tend to take the narrow side of things, and this holds true in these picks from Final Audio. In the S4000, the soundstage is narrow and more focused at the center, not really expanding out in depth or height. The E5000, on the other hand, is a bit wider and has more depth to it for instrument separation. People may find themselves a fan of the more intimate sound of the S4000, or appreciate the openness of the E5000.

In terms of sound signature, you have a more balanced response coming from the S4000, though it sounds slightly recessed and like it's being held back more than just a relaxed sound. The E5000 gives you a more dynamic and bass-heavy sound, which people may like if they appreciate a good bass tone.

Low Frequencies

The bass response is where we see a lot of differences in these two earphones. In the E5000, it has a strong presence and is effective in driving tracks forward, more so than that on the S4000. You get a punchy and driving low end that has a lot of power behind it, one that people could say is too much for sensitive ears. The S4000 delivers quite a different bass response, one that you have to really hunt for. The earphones don’t give you a good seal in your ear, so the bass escapes and becomes very light and hardly there. For people looking for a subtle bass response, the S4000 is a bit more geared towards you. However, people may be disappointed by the lack of punch.

Midrange Frequencies

Both the S4000 and the E5000 have an exceptional sound in the midrange, as their vocal reproduction and layers of instrumentation have great natural sound and attention to detail. The E5000 has a bit more separation in the layers, allowing you to hear more distinct qualities and textures, and the S4000 is more congealed and everything is a big mass of sound. The E5000 brings the midrange presence more forward than the S4000 does, so you get to experience that centeredness that you may have missed.

High Frequencies

The S4000 treble presence is definitely much more noticeable than that of the E5000, whose bass presence brings more energy. Still, there is a lot of clarity in both high ends, though the S4000 tends to lean sharp and a bit shrill. It doesn’t expand as far out as you might hope, so you’re left with an overall limited signature. The E5000 keeps the top subtle, though it certainly expands out more and allows you to hear more intricate details. For listeners who prefer a more relaxed treble response, the S4000 is a great choice; for those who prefer detail and want to escape a bit of piercing sound, the E5000 is a better option.

Summary

Choosing between the Final Audio S4000 and E5000 comes down to personal preference and listening priorities. The S4000 offers a more balanced sound with a noticeable treble presence, but its fit may be uncomfortable for some, and its bass response is quite subdued. Meanwhile, the E5000 delivers a richer, more dynamic sound with a strong bass presence and better instrument separation, though it requires a bit more power to drive properly. If you prefer a more intimate and detailed midrange with a relaxed treble, the E5000 is the better pick. However, if you’re looking for a more neutral and controlled signature with crisp highs, the S4000 may suit your taste. Both earphones showcase Final Audio’s signature craftsmanship, but their differences make them distinct choices for different types of listeners.

Both the S4000 and the E5000 are available for demo at Audio46.

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