ZiiGaat Crescent and Dunu 142 use 2DD+2BA and 1DD+4BA+2Planar driver setups respectively. ZiiGaat Crescent costs $279 while Dunu 142 costs $249. ZiiGaat Crescent is $30 more expensive. Dunu 142 holds a clear 0.5-point edge in reviewer scores (7.5 vs 8.1). ZiiGaat Crescent carries a user score of 7.4. ZiiGaat Crescent has slightly better bass with a 0.4-point edge, Dunu 142 has better treble with a 0.6-point edge, Dunu 142 has better dynamics with a 0.5-point edge, Dunu 142 has better soundstage with a 0.5-point edge, Dunu 142 has better details with a 0.8-point edge and Dunu 142 has significantly better imaging with a 1-point edge.
Insights
| Metric | ZiiGaat Crescent | Dunu 142 |
|---|---|---|
| Bass | 7.6 | 7.2 |
| Mids | 7.4 | 7.3 |
| Treble | 7.1 | 7.7 |
| Details | 6.6 | 7.4 |
| Soundstage | 7 | 7.5 |
| Imaging | 6.5 | 7.5 |
| Dynamics | 7.2 | 7.7 |
| Tonality | 7.7 | 7.7 |
| Technicalities | 7.5 | 7.8 |
ZiiGaat Crescent Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
7.5Strongly Favorable
Dunu 142 Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
8.1Very Positive
Reviews Comparison
ZiiGaat Crescent reviewed by Jaytiss
Youtube Video Summary
The ZiiGaat Crescent, priced at $279, features a familiar, comfortable ZiiGaat shell build that's durable and slightly larger than models like the Magic One. The package includes a new premium-feeling case with a vibrant color and a great black cable featuring easy-to-change connectors and a functional chin slider. Overall, the build and accessories are solid, representing a step up from previous ZiiGaat offerings.
Sonically, the Crescent delivers a strong V-shaped signature characterized by great, impactful bass that some might find a touch boomy and elevated upper air/treble. While not the most incisive or natural treble, it's clean and engaging. Technical performance is really good, making it a hyper-competitive option in its price bracket. It compares favorably to the ZiiGaat Odyssey (more fun, more bass), the Arcanis (more V-shaped vs vocal specialist), and the Binary Dynaquattro (more refinement, richer mids). While the Luna offers cleaner micro-details and a more "audiophile" tuning for $100 more, the Crescent provides a richer, more organic, bass-forward alternative. It shares similarities with the S-tier Top Pro, differing by only 1-2%.
Ultimately, the Crescent earns a strong A+ rating and a strong recommendation. It's a fantastic value with excellent dynamics, well-done tuning, and great technicalities for the price. This is a highly competitive set ideal for those seeking an engaging, fun signature with elevated bass and air. While its specific tuning won't suit everyone, especially those sensitive to bass or preferring absolute neutrality, it's a special set worth serious consideration and likely a keeper for many.
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
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Dunu 142 reviewed by Jaytiss
Youtube Video Summary
The Dunu 142 comes in as a striking one dynamic driver, four BA, two planar tribrid around the $250 mark, pairing a sapphire-like blue shell with excellent ergonomics and isolation. The fully blue faceplate catches the light beautifully, the shell is vented yet comfortable, and the build includes a slightly recessed 2-pin connector that feels robust and well thought out. Accessories are strong too: a familiar but well-made Dunu case, a solid tip selection, cleaning tool, and a premium-feeling modular cable with working chin slider and swappable terminations like 4.4 and 3.5 (with optional USB-C from Dunu directly), rounding out a package that feels both premium and cohesive.
Sonically, this is a sub-bass focused set with a slight W-shaped character, offering plenty of low-end, flat and clean mids, and energetic upper treble that keeps things exciting without turning harsh. It is not a mid-bass-heavy IEM and can come across as a bit cool or thin to those who prefer warmer tunings, but the sub-bass impact and air make it engaging and fun, especially for rock, metal and modern pop. Female vocals in particular tend to shine thanks to the scooped middle that keeps things clear and uncluttered, while the treble stays pristine, clean, and non-sibilant. Technical performance is strong, with a wide, open stage, good imaging and satisfying micro-detail, evoking comparisons to higher-end sets like the Monarch MK4 while refining aspects of other Dunu models and peers such as Da Vinci, DK3001, Brain Dance, Ziigaat Horizon, AFUL P7 and various ZiiGaat and Punch Audio offerings.
In the crowded sub-$300 space, the Dunu 142 is framed as a new benchmark: bass is scored around a strong nine, mids an eight with their flat, well-executed character, and treble praised for clarity and extension while remaining controlled. It competes closely with sets like Astral and Daybreak and sits alongside favorites such as Punch Audio Martillo and Ziigaat models, yet distinguishes itself with its balance of impactful sub-bass, airy treble and refined tonality. Despite a touch of lean character that may not suit die-hard warmth lovers, it earns a place on a tightly curated five-star list under $500—one IEM per brand—thanks not only to its sound but also its packaging, cable, case and overall presentation, making it a genuinely special, potentially endgame choice for many who want to grab one beautiful, resolving set and be done.
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
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ZiiGaat Crescent reviewed by Web Search
The ZiiGaat Crescent combines a dual dynamic driver setup—using PET and LCP diaphragms in an isobaric configuration—with Knowles balanced armatures for mids and treble. This hybrid approach delivers a distinct analog-inspired character, emphasizing textured bass with a 10dB sub-bass shelf that avoids midrange bloat. Highs remain crisp yet non-fatiguing due to natural decay, though the blend of driver types occasionally hints at coherence challenges in complex passages.
Build quality centers on hand-poured resin shells and medical-grade materials, ensuring comfort for extended sessions. The included detachable cable with interchangeable connectors adds practical longevity, while the boutique faceplates offer visual flair. Tonally, it leans into a nostalgic, slightly warm signature reminiscent of vintage tube amplifiers, prioritizing musical engagement over sterile precision.
Dunu 142 reviewed by Web Search
The DUNU DN142 is a seven-driver tribrid IEM built around a 1DD + 4BA + 2 micro-planar configuration, positioned at roughly $249 MSRP in the mid-fi segment. The lightweight 3D-printed resin shells (about 5.6 g per side) and Q-Lock modular cable system aim for comfort and flexibility rather than luxury flair, while specifications such as a 5 Hz–40 kHz claimed frequency range, 37 Ω impedance, and 107 dB/mW sensitivity suggest an IEM that is reasonably easy to drive but not ultra-sensitive. Overall build quality appears solid and functional, with the design language focused on the Ao Bing “deep ocean” theme rather than metal housings or ornate embellishments.
Sonically, the DN142 is described as a more relaxed, warm-leaning alternative to DUNU’s brighter DN242, with a slightly elevated mid-bass, a comfortable, rounded midrange, and less forceful sub-bass and upper-treble energy. Community impressions further characterize it as having a broadly balanced, studio-monitor style tuning with a touch of warmth: mid-bass sits slightly above sub-bass, mids are smooth and natural, and treble is present yet controlled rather than sharp or aggressive. This profile should suit listeners who prioritise long-term comfort and organic vocals over maximum sparkle or sub-bass impact, while bass-heads and those seeking a highly energetic treble presentation may find it too restrained.
In terms of technical performance, the DN142’s tribrid driver array and four-way crossover deliver good resolution, layering and imaging for its price, with multiple early impressions noting “a ton of performance on tap” and clean separation even with more complex material. Staging and dynamics appear competitive but not class-defining compared with higher-priced tribrids; the presentation leans more towards controlled, coherent and slightly intimate than vast or dramatically punchy. Taken together, the DN142 offers a warm-neutral, easy-listening tuning with solid technicalities that feels fairly priced in the ~$250 bracket, delivering good but not “end-game” performance relative to much more expensive flagships.
ZiiGaat Crescent (more reviews)
ZiiGaat Crescent reviewed by Bad Guy Good Audio
Youtube Video Summary
Tuning first: Crescent comes across as a “baby Top Pro”—the frequency response mirrors the ZiiGaat Zens Top Pro with a subtle lift through the lower mids (~300–500 Hz) and a tucked mid-bass around ~200 Hz. That combo avoids bleed, adds engagement, and keeps things musical without bloat; think small +1 to +1.5 dB nudge for presence rather than warmth. Versus Odyssey, the Crescent’s mid presentation feels more engaging, and while Odyssey shows more energy out past the upper range, Crescent’s contour is the more tasteful take. Top Pro skips ESTs, so differences sit mostly above 10 kHz, but the overall character aligns closely.
Down low, the set carries a touch more 55–100 Hz bump than Top Pro, giving 808 rolls and classic hip-hop a clean, satisfying hit without turning bassy. Four- and five-string bass lines have proper pluck, release, and ring; kick drums (think Bonham on “When the Levee Breaks”) hit with weight yet don’t haze the mids. The result is bass that shows up when it’s in the mix and stays out of the way when it isn’t.
Vocals are the star: the gentle mid lift plus a sensible ear-gain angle puts voices forward in a natural way—no shout, nothing surpassing the ear-gain peak, and none of that late-treble “sand on glass” grain or fatigue. Pricing sweetens the story: with coupons around $230 (regular ~$280), Crescent reads as the best-tuned ZiiGaat to date; once discounts vanish, Odyssey at ~$230 re-enters on value. Net take: legit banger for a vocal-centric, cleanly extended hybrid that prioritizes smart tuning over flash.
Bad Guy Good Audio original ranking
Bad Guy Good Audio Youtube ChannelZiiGaat Crescent reviewed by Kois Archive
Kois Archive Youtube Channel
ZiiGaat Crescent reviewed by Audionotions
ZiiGaat Crescent reviewed by Jays Audio
Youtube Video Summary
The ZiiGaat Crescent delivers a warm, full sound with a notable sparkly and crispy treble reminiscent of higher-end models like the Top Pro, essentially presenting as a warmer Top Pro variant with more mid-bass but less vocal clarity and power. Tonally, it serves as a solid side-grade to the Top Pro at nearly half the price, though it’s a slight downgrade in technical performance and resolution. Versus the Odyssey, the Crescent looks strikingly similar but offers a more technical, cleaner, and airier presentation due to a significant 15-20dB treble boost, leading to better imaging, sharper attack, and superior clarity and separation—especially in symbol decay. However, its bass, while impactful and well-controlled, feels slightly less full and slams softer than the Odyssey’s heavier, more immersive low end.
The Crescent excels as a mid-volume set (65-70dB) but struggles with scaling on energetic tracks like K-pop or metal, where the elevated treble can become fatiguing and overly hot. For genres like EDM, J-pop, or fast-paced rock, the smoother, bassier Odyssey is often preferable. Slower genres like R&B, indie, or instrumental music play to the Crescent’s strengths. Tip rolling is recommended to tame treble; bass-focused tips like SpinFits or Final E work well, while bright tips should be avoided. Compared to the KiwiEar Astral, the Crescent is warmer with a sharper treble but slightly less technical, making them close siblings—choose based on preference for sparkle (Crescent) or smoothness (Astral). Against the ZiiGaat Luna, the Crescent is sparklier and sharper but less refined and scalable, with the Luna remaining superior for louder, fatigue-free listening.
Ultimately, the Crescent is a capable Meta-inspired all-rounder with a fun, vibrant signature centered on its sparkly treble. It’s not groundbreaking if you already own similar sets like the Astral, Luna, or Odyssey, but it represents strong value—especially on sale—with tangible upgrades like an interchangeable cable and improved accessories. For those new to this tuning or specifically seeking extra treble energy without breaking the bank, it’s a compelling option.
Jays Audio Youtube Channel
ZiiGaat Crescent reviewed by Z-Reviews
Youtube Video Summary
ZiiGaat's Crescent IEMs deliver a strikingly unique and luscious sound signature that stands out sharply from the crowd, especially within ZiiGaat's own lineup of similarly priced models clustered around the $250-$400 mark. This tuning presents a very dark, relaxed, and hugely expansive soundstage, making music feel like a distant, powerful live performance in an outdoor amphitheater rather than a typical in-ear experience. It creates an intriguing, almost processed effect – like stacking multiple subtle soundstage-enhancing DSPs – that sparks curiosity and encourages listening beyond just a few tracks, placing the Crescent firmly among the year's most captivating IEMs like the Astral and Vulcan 2.
Packing two 10mm dynamic drivers (PET and LCP) and two balanced armatures, the Crescent achieves its massive, enveloping sound with surprising control, handling high volumes without harshness despite its efficiency. While ZiiGaat's strategy of flooding the same price bracket inevitably leads to some stinkers, the Crescent is a clear exception. Its large shells feature a stunning space-inspired design on the back, resembling a galaxy or Imperial starship, though the included cable has a ridiculously bulky and heavy adapter system for swapping between 3.5mm and 4.4mm plugs. The accessory kit includes notably sticky silicone tips alongside standard foams.
Ultimately, the Crescent transcends being merely "good" by offering something weird, different, and deeply engaging. It avoids the mediocrity or disappointment found in some other ZiiGaat models like the Lush (which these should have been named) and carves a memorable niche through its luxurious, powerful presentation. This is an IEM designed to cure boredom and make listeners pay attention, firmly lodging itself in the mind as a standout option in its price range.
Z-Reviews Youtube Channel
ZiiGaat Crescent reviewed by Tim Tuned
Youtube Video Summary
ZiiGaat Crescent arrives as a 2DD + 2BA hybrid with a noticeably nicer presentation: a flip-open box, a stylish faceplate (white “mountain” with a small crimson star), and a much-needed accessory refresh. The package includes a modular cable (with multiple plugs), a roomy new carry case, and several sets of ear tips. Shells are a touch on the wide side, but the longer nozzle helps the body sit past the outer ear; only extra-small ears might feel pressure around the concha.
Sonically it hits a lively U/V-shaped tuning: mids sit slightly behind yet remain natural, while the low end brings bouncy, fun impact that plays well with energetic tracks like “Mantra.” Up top, the treble comes off spicy—adding a crisp, edgy shimmer that teases out micro-nuance in vocals and instruments without tipping into harshness. Overall impression: a clean, exciting listen with no glaring red flags—engaging bass, clarified highs, and a midrange that stays intact despite the fun-forward tilt.
Tim Tuned Youtube Channel
ZiiGaat Crescent reviewed by Paul Wasabii
Youtube Video Summary
Crescent takes the Odyssey formula and lowers the presence and upper treble, revealing more bass texture and shifting the tonal center downward. The result is a more relaxed, warmer hybrid that softens BA edge while keeping articulation and clarity. Dual dynamic drivers are tuned for texture rather than speed, creating the intended vintage sound without heavy bass boost.
Male vocals benefit from the lower tilt, and classic rock and R&B pair well thanks to the smoother top end. The set sounds more analog and less sharp than Odyssey, yet upper treble remains present enough to avoid muffled mids. It is a tasteful counterpoint to the cleaner, brighter ZiiGaat signatures of the past.
The tradeoff is an intimate stage that sits lower in the head, with average macro dynamics and a bass line that lingers rather than snaps. Depth is respectable, and imaging is stable, but fast, energetic genres will expose the slower low end. For listeners seeking a smoother, lower centered presentation with textured bass, Crescent delivers the intended flavor.
Paul Wasabii Youtube Channel
ZiiGaat Crescent reviewed by Gizaudio Axel
Youtube Video Summary
ZiiGaat Crescent arrives well-kitted: a spacious zipper case, a soft modular cable with 3.5/4.4 terminations, and a solid tip selection (silicone + foam). The resin shell is comfortable and secure, the galaxy-style faceplate looks premium, and the metal nozzle with lip helps tips stay put. Fit is easygoing with no pressure build-up, making it suited for long listening sessions.
Tonally, Crescent presents a lively mild V-shape—punchy yet controlled bass, natural mids, and an airy upper treble. Sub- and mid-bass are balanced for texture and impact without bleed; vocals sit forward with good body and clarity; lower treble is detailed but not sharp, while the boosted top end adds openness without turning splashy (a deeper insertion can tame lower-treble energy further). Technical performance is strong for the price: resolution and separation are confidently above average with stable imaging—more detailed than Odyssey, though short of Luna and Kiwi Ears Astral in ultimate refinement.
Against peers, Crescent offers fuller mids and more mid-bass than Astral (which sounds cleaner and more resolving), more bass quality and air than Odyssey, but Luna remains smoother with more realistic treble. SoftEars Volume S is warmer with stronger vocal focus and less air; Letshuoer ZEN Pro caters to bass lovers with harder-hitting lows and tamer top end. Recommended for anyone wanting a fun all-rounder with forward vocals, quality bass, and airy sparkle; not ideal for strict neutral chasers, bassheads, or those sensitive to elevated upper treble. Final verdict: 4/5—a competitive, engaging set with clear standout strengths.
Gizaudio Axel original ranking
Gizaudio Axel Youtube ChannelZiiGaat Crescent reviewed by Head-Fi.org
ZiiGaat Crescent Details
Driver Configuration: 2DD+2BA
Tuning Type: Neutral with Bass Boost
Brand: ZiiGaat Top ZiiGaat IEMs
Price (Msrp): $279
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Dunu 142 Details
Driver Configuration: 1DD+4BA+2Planar
Tuning Type: Neutral, Warm
Brand: DUNU Top DUNU IEMs
Price (Msrp): $249
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ZiiGaat Crescent User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score:
Based on 1 user reviews
7.4Generally Favorable
Dunu 142 User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score: n/a
Based on 0 user reviews
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ZiiGaat Crescent Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
7.5Gaming Grade
ADunu 142 Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
7.9Gaming Grade
AZiiGaat Crescent Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A- Overall balance feels confident and refined, rewarding long listening sessions. A reliable all-rounder for everyday listening.
Average Technical Grade
A- You get a controlled, composed performance, marrying decent clarity with a still-modest sense of space. A safe technical performer for the price bracket.
Dunu 142 Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A- The response is even and composed, lending itself to effortless genre hopping. Voices sit comfortably in the mix.
Average Technical Grade
A- It delivers a confident technical showing with defined layers and satisfying clarity. You can follow backing vocals with relative ease.
ZiiGaat Crescent User Reviews
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You need to be signed in to write your own reviewA fun, vibrant IEM that delivers lively treble and vintage character at strong value.
Pros
Sparkly treble and warm, analog-like texture with controlled, focused bass.Cons
Treble can be fatiguing on energetic tracks and doesn’t scale well at high volume.Dunu 142 User Reviews
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