Midrange refers to the frequency range in sound spanning approximately 200Hz to 2000Hz, covering the human voice (especially the primary frequency bands of male and female vocals) as well as the fundamental tones of most instruments, such as the mid-register of the piano, guitar, and the middle range of the violin. It serves as the "main thoroughfare" of musical information, determining the fullness, clarity, and realism of sound. If the midrange is lacking, the sound will feel hollow and distant, as if muffled behind a veil.
In terms of listening experience, the midrange directly dictates the "addictiveness" of vocals and the texture of instruments. When choosing earphones, midrange performance is the key to judging their "long-term listenability": earphones with a rich midrange deliver intimate, emotionally expressive vocals, making them ideal for pop, folk, and jazz; earphones with a recessed midrange may sound "exciting" at first, but they tend to cause fatigue during extended listening and also degrade instrument separation. Therefore, when evaluating earphones, listening to a male vocal solo is the most direct way to test the midrange.
Practical advice: If you prefer vocals or acoustic instruments, prioritize earphones with a flat midrange curve and no obvious dips. During listening tests, pay attention to the clarity of the singer's breaths and sibilance—those are precisely the signs of a healthy midrange.