After finishing my review of the CP622B, a reader asked if the CP74E offers better comfort compared to the CP622B. Although I hadn't tried the CP74E at the time, I was intrigued that someone else shared my opinion that the CP622B's fit wasn't "perfect." I'd previously criticized it for not being friendly to people with smaller ears. Other than that, the CP622B is an almost flawless flagship model, a true benchmark in the industry. Later, at an expo, I got a chance to try the CP74E, and indeed, for someone with smaller ears like me, the fit was a huge improvement! The earphone's shell is shorter, and the lack of the "concha protrusion" makes it much more ergonomic. Besides the fit, the sound differences between the two are also worth discussing.
The CP74E is nearly 800 SGD cheaper than the CP622B (4099 SGD vs. 4899 SGD), but it doesn't sacrifice much in terms of configuration. According to Canpur's naming system, the CP74E has 7 balanced armature drivers and 4 electrostatic drivers (11 drivers per side), while the CP622B has 6 balanced armature drivers, 2 electrostatic drivers, and 2 bone conduction units (10 drivers per side). Based on these specs alone, you might assume the CP74E would have better mid-to-high frequencies, or that the CP622B, with its bone conduction drivers, would have stronger bass. However, these assumptions would be completely wrong. The actual sound performance is the opposite of what you'd expect from the driver setup.
In my previous review, I described the CP622B as "comprehensive," "without weak points," and "capable of delivering satisfaction across a wide range of music genres." As a flagship, its performance in every dimension is excellent—there’s no doubt about that. Its sound is balanced and not too extreme, meaning it works well for most listeners regardless of their preferences.
On the other hand, the CP74E feels like a "pop-enhanced" version of the CP622B, with a noticeable boost in vocal performance. The overall sound is thicker, and vocals are more intimate and emotionally expressive, offering a more "accessible" type of sound. However, compared to the CP622B, it has a few weaker points. First, the soundstage is smaller (though still proportionally very well-organized), and second, its high-frequency detail and layering are not as transparent as the CP622B’s. The CP622B clearly wins in these areas, though this advantage only really comes through when listening to classical or rock music. For mainstream pop or simple acoustic vocals, the CP74E is more likely to resonate with listeners. Additionally, the CP74E is easier to drive, making it a more versatile option in terms of equipment compatibility.
Moreover, the CP74E has a "stronger" imaging performance, thanks to its increased thickness and enhanced mid-to-low frequency density. This makes it more engaging, especially for jazz and most vocal-centric music. In comparison, previous models like the GT600 or VE10 are more tonally colored, making their unique styles evident from the first listen—wide and thick vocals, rich textures, etc. The CP74E, however, might not feel as intense initially, but over time, you’ll appreciate its subtly warm and well-balanced mid-to-low frequencies. I've noticed that Canpur seems to prioritize driver integration, ensuring that no single driver’s characteristics dominate the sound or create a sense of disjointedness. This focus on balance is something audiophiles can explore at future expos.
Putting aside the comparisons, let’s talk about the CP74E’s three frequency ranges. In the highs, the CP74E might not have the most "spacious" treble, and its spatial height feels slightly compressed. However, its imaging is precise and organized. The highs are not overly "sweet," but they are crisp and clean. The stock ELETECH cable works perfectly and doesn't need to be swapped out, as it's well-paired with the earphones and enhances transients without sacrificing the solidity of the sound. Swapping to a different cable might weaken that firmness, so the original pairing is ideal.
In the midrange, the sound remains balanced and doesn't distort when handling various types of vocals. It may not have an immediately striking character, but it offers a natural, flowing presentation that smoothly integrates with the low frequencies. The midrange is extremely comfortable and scores high in terms of ease of listening, providing a natural charm to vocals. While it doesn’t extend too far vertically, it never feels oppressive, making it well-suited for Chinese pop vocals that require a sense of immersion.
As for the lows, the CP74E delivers well-ordered, layered, and impactful bass that creates an immersive atmosphere. The low frequencies aren't excessively boomy or aggressive, and the sub-bass doesn't produce an overly diffuse, "foggy" effect. Instead, the bass feels full and well-defined, with good clarity that avoids the masking effect typical of many bass-heavy earphones. Compared to the CP622B, the CP74E’s bass has more power and presence, which contributes to its overall strength.
To conclude, for those who are torn between these two earphones, it’s fairly simple. If you’re looking for a more well-rounded sound that covers both classical and pop, the CP622B is the better choice for an all-in-one solution. However, if you’re more focused on vocal clarity and atmosphere, the CP74E is a great option. It's easier to drive, offers excellent precision, and is more accessible for casual listeners. Its beauty lies in its subtleties and emotional delivery, making it an excellent pick for those who prefer a warmer, more intimate listening experience.