Sivga IEM Comparison Review: Que UTG vs. Nightingale

We’ve already explored the Sivga Que UTG in its own review, as well as in comparison to the original Sivga Que. But now it’s time to examine how the UTG stacks up against a more premium offering in the Sivga lineup: the Sivga Nightingale, which retails at $229—more than double the price of the Que UTG. This comparison will dive into the build, design, specifications, and most importantly, sound performance of these two models to determine whether the UTG can punch above its weight class or if the Nightingale’s elevated cost delivers a significantly superior experience.

What Comes in the Box

 

While both models come with a robust accessory set, the Nightingale includes a premium balanced 4.4mm cable by default, which may appeal to listeners using balanced audio sources. The Que UTG, meanwhile, offers flexible connectivity with its interchangeable plugs, making it more versatile across devices without needing third-party cables.

Aesthetics and Functionality

Sivga Que UTG embraces Sivga’s signature combination of handcrafted wood and metal, featuring a zinc alloy and green sandalwood body that feels both modern and rustic. The compact build and ergonomic shape ensure a secure, comfortable fit even during extended sessions. The included silver-plated OFC cable adds a premium touch, while the 0.78mm 2-pin connectors and swappable plugs enhance the UTG’s practicality for both mobile and desktop use.

Sivga Nightingale, on the other hand, refines this formula with a raindrop-inspired shell crafted from aluminum-magnesium alloy and natural wood. The design is sleek and slightly heavier, giving it a more luxurious in-hand feel without sacrificing comfort. The darker, subdued aesthetic helps it blend seamlessly into any setup—ideal for those who want a stylish yet understated IEM. Though it lacks a 3.5mm plug in the box, the Nightingale’s default 4.4mm balanced cable delivers an extra sonic edge for listeners using compatible gear.

Technical Specifications

 

The Nightingale features a planar magnetic driver, offering a different sonic approach compared to the dynamic glass diaphragm driver in the UTG. The Nightingale also benefits from an extended frequency response up to 40kHz, and a lower impedance for easier drivability on lower-powered sources.

Listening Review

Soundstage and Imaging

The Que UTG delivers a surprisingly expansive soundstage for an under-$100 IEM, offering forward projection and excellent instrument separation. Imaging is pinpoint accurate, particularly effective in layered genres like hip-hop and acoustic tracks, where textures need room to breathe. The staging feels wide without becoming diffuse, creating a lively and immersive listening environment.

The Nightingale, with its planar driver, offers even more width and dimension. The stereo field stretches out further to the sides and slightly upward, creating a dome-like spatiality that’s ideal for symphonic and cinematic listening. Instrument layering is clear and deliberate, and orchestral pieces benefit from strategic imaging placement across the stereo field. Overall, the Nightingale provides a more holographic presentation, but the UTG holds its own impressively given the price difference.

Low Frequencies

The Que UTG excels in the low end, delivering punchy, tightly controlled bass with excellent sub-bass extension. Kick drums are snappy, and basslines have palpable weight without veiling midrange detail. It’s particularly impressive on modern bass-heavy genres where fast response and low-end clarity are crucial.

The Nightingale brings a fuller, rounder bass character. It leans darker in tuning, with a more physical sub-bass presence and greater tonal depth. The bass stays controlled but is more dominant in the mix, adding a cinematic quality to electronic, pop, and ambient tracks. It’s more immersive but slightly less surgical than the UTG’s approach.

Midrange Frequencies

Midrange tuning on the Que UTG is smooth, balanced, and slightly sweet in the upper mids. Vocals and string instruments come through with clarity and warmth, making it ideal for acoustic, indie, and classical music. It avoids harshness while preserving micro-detail, giving the UTG a natural and engaging midrange signature.

The Nightingale, in contrast, takes a more recessed approach. Mids are pulled back slightly, which accentuates the low-end and high-end detail. While this can lead to a less vocal-forward presentation, the layering within the midrange is still impressive—preserving clarity without pushing too far forward. This scooped tuning makes it more suited for listeners who prefer V-shaped signatures with impactful lows and airy highs.

High Frequencies

Highs on the Que UTG are articulate and crisp, with a pleasing airiness that helps broaden the soundstage. The treble is never fatiguing or sibilant, thanks to the glass diaphragm’s natural shimmer. It captures fine textures in cymbals and upper harmonics without sounding brittle, a rarity in this price range.

On the Nightingale, highs are more reserved and relaxed. There’s a gentle roll-off that limits peak brightness but maintains enough treble energy for musicality and resolution. It offers a smoother, more forgiving top end, making it well-suited for long listening sessions, though it doesn’t quite reach the sparkle or extension of the UTG.

Summary

The Sivga Que UTG is a standout performer for its price, delivering remarkable soundstage, detail, and tuning versatility under $100. It’s flexible, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed with high-quality materials and interchangeable cable options.

The Sivga Nightingale, while significantly more expensive, brings refined sound quality through a planar driver, a more immersive soundstage, and a darker, more luxurious tuning profile. It offers a premium feel and sonic richness best suited for listeners who value depth and smoothness over sparkle and forwardness.

Both IEMs have their strengths: the UTG excels in clarity and precision, while the Nightingale shines in atmosphere and warmth. Depending on your preferences and budget, either could be an excellent addition to your listening setup.

The Sivga Qua UTG and Nightingale are both available at Audio46. 

Quick Comparison Chart

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