Hidizs MP145: A Planar Tsunami or Just Another Oversized IEM
Mar 19, 2025
Is the Hidizs MP145 a game-changing planar IEM or just too big to handle? Discover its powerful sound, hidden revisions, and fit concerns in our in-depth review. Find out if this ‘planar tsunami’ is worth your money!
Hidizs has been making waves in the audio community with its budget-friendly yet high-performing products. Their latest release, the Hidizs MP145, is a planar magnetic in-ear monitor (IEM) that aims to deliver high-fidelity sound at a reasonable price. With a unique whale-inspired design and a 14.5mm planar driver, the MP145 promises a premium audio experience without breaking the bank.
However, reports have surfaced about silent revisions affecting its tuning. Has Hidizs changed the MP145 since launch? And does it still hold up as one of the best budget planar IEMs? Let’s find out.
Design & Build Quality
One of the standout features of the Hidizs MP145 is its aesthetic and ergonomic design. Inspired by whales, the IEMs have a sleek, CNC-machined aluminum shell with intricate wave-like engravings. The shells feel sturdy, giving them a premium look and feel.
Size and Fit – A Potential Issue
While the design is visually stunning, the MP145 is quite large and heavy. Some users report discomfort, especially those with smaller ears, as the weight and shape make it difficult to achieve a secure fit. Additionally, the ear hooks on the cable may not provide enough support, which can affect long-term comfort.
Given that IEMs cannot be tested before purchase, this makes the fit a gamble—something potential buyers should consider.
Accessories & Tuning Options
Hidizs includes a high-quality detachable 2-pin cable (3.5mm or 4.4mm balanced), three sets of tuning nozzles, and multiple ear tip choices:
- Balanced nozzle (Rose Gold) – Default tuning with a mix of clarity and warmth.
- Treble nozzle (Silver) – Enhances treble detail and extension.
- Bass nozzle (Red) – Reduces treble energy and emphasizes warmth.
This modular tuning system makes the MP145 highly customizable to personal preferences.
Sound Performance
The Hidizs MP145 features a large 14.5mm planar driver, which is rare in budget IEMs. Planar magnetic drivers are known for their fast transient response, excellent detail retrieval, and tight bass. Let’s break down the sound profile:
Bass (Sub-Bass & Mid-Bass)
- Controlled and articulate, with a deep-reaching sub-bass.
- Mid-bass is punchy but remains clean, avoiding excessive boominess.
- In some cases, live recordings can sound overly boomy due to the sub-bass emphasis and reverb.
Midrange (Vocals & Instruments)
- The midrange is slightly recessed, but newcomers to IEMs might find it forward compared to other headphones.
- Male vocals are less prominent than female vocals, which stand out with good clarity.
- Instrument separation is excellent, making guitars, pianos, and orchestral elements shine.
Treble (Highs & Sparkle)
- Detailed and airy, providing a spacious and expansive soundstage.
- Some users find the treble too bright or sibilant with certain nozzles.
- Using the Silver nozzle may overemphasize treble, making it sharp for some listeners.
Soundstage & Imaging
- One of MP145’s biggest strengths is its wide and immersive soundstage.
- Imaging is precise, making it suitable for gaming and movies as well as music.
Hidizs MP145 Revisions: Differences Between Batches
Since its initial release in August 2023, the Hidizs MP145 has undergone silent revisions, with notable changes in tuning and accessories. A comparison between an early August 2023 unit and a later December 2023 unit revealed distinct differences:
Key Differences Between Revisions
| Feature | Older MP145 (August 2023) | Newer MP145 (December 2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Treble | More extended, vibrant, and airy | More dampened, warmer, and less sparkly |
| Detail Retrieval | Higher, with better micro-detail and treble extension | Slightly reduced clarity and energy in upper frequencies |
| Stock Tuning | Balanced nozzle provides best mix | Silver nozzle required to match original tuning |
| Stock Cable | Possibly thicker | Possibly thinner (white/silver color) |
Hidizs did not officially announce these changes, which has led to some confusion among buyers. If you prefer the original MP145's more energetic sound, it is recommended to use the silver nozzle on newer units to regain treble clarity and sparkle.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Driver Type | 14.5mm Planar Magnetic |
| Impedance | 32Ω |
| Sensitivity | 104dB |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz – 40kHz |
| Cable | Detachable 2-Pin 0.78mm (3.5mm or 4.4mm) |
| Material | CNC-Milled Aluminum |
| Tuning Nozzles | 3 Interchangeable Filters |
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Premium build quality with unique aesthetics
- Balanced and detailed sound with a wide soundstage
- Fast transient response due to planar drivers
- Interchangeable tuning nozzles for sound customization
- Detachable cable with different termination options
- Good imaging for gaming and movies
❌ Cons
- Very large and heavy shells, which may be uncomfortable for some users
- Requires powerful amplification for best performance
- Treble may be too bright for some listeners
- Sub-bass can sometimes overpower clarity in lower frequencies
- Fit is a gamble, as there's no way to test IEMs before purchase
Comparison: Hidizs MP145 vs Other Planar IEMs
| Feature | Hidizs MP145 | 7Hz Timeless | LETSHUOER S12 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driver | 14.5mm Planar | 14.2mm Planar | 14.8mm Planar |
| Build Material | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Tuning Nozzles | Yes (3 options) | No | No |
| Cable | Detachable 2-Pin | Detachable 2-Pin | Detachable 2-Pin |
| Sound Signature | Balanced & Detailed | Warm & Smooth | Bright & Dynamic |
| Comfort | Bulky & Heavy | Slim & Light | Medium Weight |
| Price | ~$109-$140 | ~$199 | ~$150 |
The MP145 stands out due to its affordable price and tuning flexibility, but its comfort issues may be a dealbreaker for some.
Final Verdict
The Hidizs MP145 remains an impressive addition to the planar IEM market, delivering excellent sound quality, premium build, and customization options at a competitive price. While it may require proper amplification to shine, it’s an excellent choice for audiophiles looking for high-resolution sound if they can handle the weight and size.
However, due to its large and heavy shells, fit issues may be a serious problem for some users. If you have smaller ears or struggle with heavier IEMs, consider other options. A potential redesign with lighter materials (such as plastic or resin) could make the MP145 more accessible to a wider audience.
