My Experience with HiFi Passion – AFUL Performer 5+2 Purchase Review

[Nathaniel_S]

I recently bought the AFUL Performer 5+2 (4.4 mm) from HiFi Passion for €240 and wanted to share my full experience especially for anyone considering buying from them.

What went wrong:

• One of the connector sockets didn’t fit properly: one side attaches smoothly, the other side requires considerable force. Considering how fragile IEM pins are, this is a significant usability and reliability issue.
• One of the eartips had visible residue (which looked like earwax) on a sealed product unexpected in a premium IEM.
• I am currently off-grid in Costa Rica and cannot return the product until March 2026 due to postal/remote limitations. I communicated this clearly to HiFi Passion.
• Their responses were almost entirely one-sentence replies that ignored detailed questions and context I provided. I had to follow up multiple times to get any reply.
• At one point I received an email that seemed to be about me (“they are not being helpful”) rather than to me. This suggests internal commentary was sent to me inadvertently unprofessional and disconcerting.
• They accused me of already using the IEMs or damaging them myself without any evidence or acknowledgment of the condition on arrival.
• The sole compensation offered thus far: refund of €8.90 (for the eartips) while the main defect and service issues remain unaddressed.
• They sent a “tip” saying, “the closer together the pins are, the better the earphones will stay in place.” That reads like a suggestion to bend the pins yourself a risky thing to suggest for a high-end product.

I’ve been cooperative, patient, provided photos/videos of the condition, and offered solutions. However, I feel the customer service has been dismissive and tone-deficient given the product and price. For a pouch premium IEM, the fit issue + hygiene concern + poor service are unacceptable. If anyone else is considering buying from HiFi Passion: buyer beware. Unless they improve their QC and responses, I’d consider other retailers. I’m still hopeful they will resolve this professionally; if they do I’ll update this post.