SIVGA Nightingale PRO Earphones Review

The SIVGA Nightingale PRO is a bold evolution from the original Nightingale, tweaking more than you might expect when it comes to the sound. What’s more, it goes against what many would consider a “safe” signature, with SIVGA fighting back against the V-shape that has become so mainstream. As with all headphones and earphones incorporating planar magnetic drivers, it makes for an interesting listen. Here is my review. 

Most certainly SIVGA

Out of the box, the Nightingale PRO is undoubtedly SIVGA, with a high-quality tan case included. The finish on the earphones is superb and the cable is eye-catching, though easily replaceable for a more subtle option thanks to the 2-pin connection. Replacement ear tips are provided, with two different material types included. It’s a good little bundle that provides everything a user needs to get going. 

The excellent build quality stands out. The combination of aluminium magnesium and wood makes for a very unique look that stands out while remaining tasteful. 

Happily, the low impedance of 16 ohms means that the Nightingale PRO is very easy to drive. Users can pair it with a phone without issue, assuming there’s a headphone jack available! Obviously, connecting to a phone will limit the quality of sound, but it’s nice to have that flexibility. 

Against the mainstream

Once you get the fit right, as the Nightingale PRO can take some fiddling to get a good seal with the provided tips, the resulting sound is truly interesting. The biggest strength is vocal clarity, with the midrange being boosted in a way that I really like. Vocals cut through even on busier tracks, without ever becoming too harsh. 

Sure, the treble is very present, shining a spotlight on every little detail, but I didn’t experience any overly sibilant sounds across the lossless albums I tested with. 

If you’re an analytical listener who doesn’t want to miss any details, then the Nightingale PRO would be a good match for you. 

The bass problem

The obvious downside to the Nightingale PRO is the bass. While it’s no doubt present, this planar magnetic driver keeps it clean and fast. Bass doesn’t quite hit in the way you might expect or be used to when the mainstream is now obsessed with the V-shape. 

Using EQ, bass frequencies can be somewhat rescued, resulting in a sound that may please more people, but I feel like SIVGA was intentional with its decision here, creating a product with a sound that leaves no detail missed. 

Disclosure: Review sample provided by SIVGA.