Yu9 Que and Dunu DN242 use 1DD+3BA and 2DD+4BA+2Planar driver setups respectively. Yu9 Que costs $409 while Dunu DN242 costs $349. Yu9 Que is $60 more expensive. Yu9 Que holds a decisive 1.3-point edge in reviewer scores (8.1 vs 6.8). Yu9 Que carries a user score of 8.5. Yu9 Que has significantly better bass with a 2-point edge, Yu9 Que has better mids with a 0.5-point edge, Yu9 Que has significantly better treble with a 1.3-point edge, Yu9 Que has significantly better dynamics with a 1.5-point edge, Yu9 Que has better soundstage with a 0.5-point edge, Yu9 Que has significantly better details with a 1.1-point edge and Yu9 Que has slightly better imaging with a 0.3-point edge.
Insights
| Metric | Yu9 Que | Dunu DN242 |
|---|---|---|
| Bass | 8.2 | 6.3 |
| Mids | 8.3 | 7.8 |
| Treble | 8 | 6.7 |
| Details | 7.8 | 6.8 |
| Soundstage | 8.1 | 7.6 |
| Imaging | 7.9 | 7.6 |
| Dynamics | 7.8 | 6.3 |
| Tonality | 8.3 | 7.1 |
| Technicalities | 8 | 6.7 |
Yu9 Que Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
8.1Very Positive
Dunu DN242 Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
6.8Cautiously Favorable
Reviews Comparison
Yu9 Que reviewed by Gizaudio Axel
Youtube Video Summary
Build & accessories: a hybrid 1DD + 3BA set priced around $399 with a spacious zipper case, multiple silicone tips, pouches, cleaning cloth, and shirt clip. The faceplate’s wavy, stone-like texture looks premium, and the shells use a 2-pin connector. The downside is the stock cable: it’s springy, only in 4.4 mm, and feels below the tier. Fit is serviceable but not ideal—the shell isn’t the most ergonomic, the nozzle lacks a lip, and seating a deeper fit can take a moment; once set, stability is good and tips stayed secure in use.
Sound: this isn’t a “new-meta” curve; it’s a unique, lively tuning. Bass is punchy, dynamic, and highly textured—more physical in practice than the graph suggests, with excellent impact and kick-drum authority. An early rise after 1 kHz pushes vocals front and center for an intimate, engaging presentation without tipping into shout. Treble is refined, sparkly, and well-extended: it is a bright set but avoids harshness, peakiness, sibilance, and fatigue, delivering crisp cymbals and defined transients even for rock and metal at any volume. Technicalities are class-leading under $500 with standout detail retrieval and separation; the one wish is a larger soundstage.
Comparisons & verdict: the Elysian Apostle still wins on bass texture/impact, treble refinement, and overall resolution, but the Yu9 Que offers a convincing “Apostle flavor” at a lower price. Versus Elysian Pilgrim, the Que is fuller and bassier, while Pilgrim’s treble is tamer; versus Volume S, the Que is cleaner, brighter, more detailed as the Volume S trends warmer with more neutral treble; against Dusk DSP, Dusk sounds more natural/balanced but the Que feels more fun and technical. Recommended for those who crave clarity, sparkle, and engagement without fatigue; less ideal if treble-sensitive or preferring a warm, relaxed tonality, and worth demoing for comfort. A top contender and serious gatekeeper around $400—final rating: 4.5/5 with a strong recommendation.
Gizaudio Axel original ranking
Gizaudio Axel Youtube ChannelDunu DN242 reviewed by Gizaudio Axel
Youtube Video Summary
The DUNU 242 is a tribrid configuration with two dynamic drivers, four balanced armatures and two micro planars at around 350 dollars, and it comes with the kind of generous accessory package expected from DUNU. The modular cable feels premium and easy to handle, with matching colors and both 3.5 and 4.4 millimeter terminations, while the included case and wide selection of tips make it feel complete out of the box. Shells are on the larger side with a thick 6.4 millimeter nozzle and a shape that is not very contoured, so users with smaller ears may find the fit tricky even though overall build quality feels solid.
In terms of tuning, the 242 presents neutral bass levels with relaxed sub bass and only moderate mid bass presence, so it does not deliver strong slam or impact and clearly will not satisfy bass focused listeners. The mid range is the highlight, sounding balanced rather than recessed or shouty, with clear, dense and full bodied notes that give male vocals depth and instruments a grounded, natural weight, making this the most convincing part of the signature. Treble is forward and lively with pleasing shimmer that adds energy, but it can turn a bit peaky or edgy depending on the track, so treble sensitive listeners may wish it were smoother.
Technical performance is described as decent, roughly in the fifty to sixty percent range, which means resolution and separation are competent but not standout for the price, and competing models can offer more detail, sub bass extension or a more natural overall balance. The 242 fits listeners who want neutral bass, easygoing vocals and a sparkly top end in a compact package with great accessories, and who are willing to accept average technicals and some treble edge in exchange. For those who crave deep, punchy low end, smoother treble or a more obviously engaging presentation at this price, there are stronger all rounders, so this DUNU feels like a specialist choice rather than a default recommendation.
Gizaudio Axel original ranking
Gizaudio Axel Youtube ChannelBuy Dunu DN242 on HiFiGO
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Yu9 Que reviewed by Web Search
The YU9 Que is a hybrid IEM using 1 dynamic driver + 3 balanced armatures, positioned in the mid-upper price tier with an MSRP around $399. Retail listings confirm the configuration (10 mm LF DD with three Knowles BA units) and current pricing in USD and MYR, placing it among competitors that emphasize tonal refinement over sheer technical fireworks.
Community impressions describe a balanced/neutral tonality with a tasteful bass lift, smooth upper-mids that avoid glare, and treble that leans non-sibilant. Subjective reports on Head-Fi and Reddit consistently frame the Que as an all-rounder that favors coherence and long-term listenability over maximum micro-detail.
Technically, listeners note solid imaging and macrodynamics with competent detail retrieval, though not class-leading for the price. The manufacturer has also published frequency-response plots (IEC711 and BK5128 rigs), which aligns with the community’s take that the Que targets a broadly neutral/balanced signature rather than an aggressive V-shape. Overall value is credible at its MSRP if you prioritize tonal balance and comfort over ultra-analytical presentation.
Dunu DN242 reviewed by Web Search
The DUNU DN242 (often shortened to “242”) is an eight-driver tribrid with a 2DD (10 mm + 8 mm) + 4BA + 2 micro-planar array and a 5-way electronic + acoustic crossover. It’s listed at $349 USD and ships with DUNU’s Q-Lock Mini modular cable (3.5 mm & 4.4 mm), in lightweight resin shells (~6 g/side), 35 Ω impedance and 110 dB/mW sensitivity—specs that make it easy to drive from mainstream sources.
Listening impressions from early reviews point to a neutral-bright, vocal-centric balance: clear mids, quick upper-mids/treble, and articulate (rather than boosted) bass. Detail retrieval and treble “sparkle” are recurring themes, while staging is described as precise and reasonably open for the class. These traits are consistent with show-floor notes describing forward upper-mids/treble and high resolving ability.
On value, the DN242’s package (modular cable, accessories) and technical performance are strong for ~$350, but its energetic treble and mid focus may not suit listeners seeking a warmer, bass-tilted signature; some community notes also flag recording quality sensitivity. Within sub-$400, it competes well on clarity and imaging, though its tonality won’t be universally forgiving. Overall, it reads as a capable, detail-forward set with clear strengths—and a tuning that will reward the treble-tolerant more than bass-first listeners.
Yu9 Que (more reviews)
Yu9 Que reviewed by Jaytiss
Youtube Video Summary
The YU9 Que sports a premium, durable resin shell in pure black with a metallic-feeling faceplate and a comfortable design featuring an anti-tragus catch. While the build itself feels handsome and unique, the included cable is criticized as wimpy and unpleasant, with a strong suggestion to upgrade it. Accessories are deemed solid, including a nice selection of tips and a particularly praised case with a soft, luxurious interior.
Sonically, the YU9 Que earns immense praise for its exceptional tuning, described as clean, resolute, and non-fatiguing. It delivers strong, textured bass that avoids being overwhelming, coupled with extremely well-done upper mids. While not class-leading in technicalities like micro-detail or instrument separation, its tonal balance is considered sophisticated and reminiscent of far more expensive sets like the Annihilator, even surpassing the Monarch MKII in tuning preference. It's highlighted as a fantastic all-rounder with a smooth, agreeable signature suitable for long listening sessions.
Despite its modest single dynamic driver + 3BA configuration and $409 price point, the YU9 Que is declared a very special and unique IEM, worthy of the hype it received. The review concludes it's a price leader and a highly competent package from a small brand, offering outstanding value and a beautiful, well-executed design that makes it an easy recommendation for those seeking a smooth, non-fatiguing sound.
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
Yu9 Que reviewed by Paul Wasabii
Youtube Video Summary
At ~$400, YU9 Audio Que sets a new bar for the bracket: a 1DD+3BA hybrid with a modest bass shelf, slightly forward mids, and linear treble extension that sounds more speaker-like than typical IEMs. The presentation is exceptionally polished and quiet-backgrounded, yielding crisp separation, convincing imaging, and staging in depth, width, and height that resembles far pricier gear.
The low end brings tactile mid-bass impact with deep, controlled sub-bass, pairing naturally with that extended, peak-free top end; the result is a true playlist killer across EDM, rock, vocal, and classical. Nitpicks exist: mids can sit a touch forward depending on track and the set rewards a slightly higher volume and a secure, deeper fit, while V-shape fans may find it too boring.
Compared with favorites like Dusk, Cadenza 4, and Volume S, Que keeps their strengths but fixes common complaints by delivering fuller bass weight, cleaner openness, and more realistic attack and dynamics. It does not need giant-killer claims to stand out; at this price it is simply class-leading.
Paul Wasabii Youtube Channel
Yu9 Que reviewed by Audionotions
Yu9 Que reviewed by Fox Told Me So
Tuning is clean, neutral, and slightly V-shaped: bass is tight, bouncy, and textured; mids sit slightly forward thanks to extra 700 Hz–2 kHz gain, giving vocals a bigger image; treble leans bright with a 4–5 kHz push for clarity, rolling off naturally rather than chasing EST-style air. Sibilance can appear (on “th” or “tsu”), but not harsh.
Stage favors width over depth—impressively wide at the price, with neat, well-ordered placement and strong separation. Resolution is crisp, background clean, every note clearly etched.
Fox Told Me So original ranking
Fox Told Me So Youtube ChannelYu9 Que reviewed by Kois Archive
Youtube Video Summary
Yu9 Que arrives with a surprisingly premium unboxing: a crush-resistant carrying case with plush padding, an IEM pouch, microfiber cloth, cable clip, and two ear-tip sets (standard silicone and more premium liquid silicone). A quirky 3D-printed nameplate with serial number and a faceplate etched in a topographic-map motif give it character. The shell is on the larger, wider side—comfortable for many, but small ears should test fit first. The stock cable is just okay (some memory, no chin slider), though it’s offered in 3.5 mm or 4.4 mm terminations.
Tonally, this is a neutral-reference set with a tasteful bass lift—clean impact without throwing off balance. Sub-bass has satisfying thump and texture, though bass-heads coming from sets like Kiwi Ears Punch may find it polite. The mids sit even and accurate—no “vocal magic,” yet clearly above average. Treble stretches well into the air with a touch of brightness that adds crispness and a slightly clinical edge, staying shy of fatiguing. Technical chops are the draw: a decently wide soundstage (roughly 3–4/5 by comparison), standout 3D imaging, and strong resolution/separation make it excellent for gaming—worthy of a two-controller nod—though ultimate detail still trails pricier kilobuck options.
Versus peers: Moondrop Dusk (DSP) is warmer with bass that hits a bit harder, while Yu9 Que is the more neutral, reference-leaning take. Elysian Pilgrim offers smoother treble, but Yu9 Que counters with better bass grip, stage, and imaging. AFUL Performer 7 tilts mild V; choose it for extra mid-bass and forward treble, otherwise Yu9 Que wins on technicality. Mega 5 EST chases the meta target yet stumbles in bass/treble; NiceHCK Rockies refines that approach and might be the more exciting alternative if spending slightly more. Bottom line: the hype is justified—a superb all-rounder around $400 with only the cable begging for an upgrade. It’s a clear pick for neutral/reference fans, though those seeking more “fun” might look elsewhere; call it a pragmatic, two-star recommendation amid a crowded market and likely pre-order waits.
Kois Archive Youtube Channel
Yu9 Que reviewed by Jays Audio
Youtube Video Summary
YU9 Que presents a balanced, almost neutral tuning with a tasteful touch of mid-bass for warmth and punch. Treble is clean and controlled—more clarity than “sizzle”—so detail comes through without harshness, while mids keep vocals natural rather than forward or thin. Technical performance sits in the “solid for the price” camp: separation and imaging are tidy, but not the kind of hyper-etched sparkle that chases wow factor.
In practice, it shines with slower pop, R&B, acoustic and vocal-centric tracks where its coherence and smoothness pay off; those seeking big sub-bass drama or ultra-aerated treble fireworks may find it a touch polite. Versus brighter, more contrasty sets, the Que trades spectacle for musicality and long-session comfort, making value hinge on whether a refined, low-fatigue signature is preferred over maximum excitement at the price point.
Jays Audio Youtube Channel
Yu9 Que reviewed by Precogvision
Youtube Video Summary
Yu9’s Que lands as a “safer Annihilator”: a warmer, scaled-back take that pushes ample sub-bass while keeping the rest tastefully controlled. The low end feels liquidy and bouncy, underpinning an aggressive 1–3 kHz rise with a gentle 3–5 kHz taper, so vocals sit upfront and crisp yet remain remarkably smooth thanks to the extra low-end warmth. Treble is slightly scooped around 5–6 kHz and then climbs in small, well-placed peaks out to ~15–18 kHz, yielding excellent extension that feels on par with sets like Moondrop Variations in this range.
What makes it pop is the value proposition: at $400, the overall resolution, tonal balance, and staging read far pricier—more like the $700–800 bracket. With its engaging sub-bass lift, lucid mids, and airy yet controlled top end, Que comes off as a polished, crowd-friendly tuning that still excites detail chasers. If momentum holds, this looks like the next big thing around the $400 mark.
Precogvision Youtube Channel
Yu9 Que reviewed by Head-Fi.org
Yu9 Que Details
Driver Configuration: 1DD+3BA
Tuning Type: Neutral with Bass Boost
Brand: Yu9 Top Yu9 IEMs
Price (Msrp): $409
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Dunu DN242 Details
Driver Configuration: 2DD+4BA+2Planar
Tuning Type: Neutral, Bright
Brand: DUNU Top DUNU IEMs
Price (Msrp): $349
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Yu9 Que User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score:
Based on 1 user reviews
8.5Excellent
Dunu DN242 User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score: n/a
Based on 0 user reviews
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Yu9 Que 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
ADunu DN242 Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
6.6Gaming Grade
B+Yu9 Que Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A+- Tuning feels refined, blending frequencies with convincing realism and engagement. Transitions between registers feel effortless.
Average Technical Grade
A+- You get an articulate, polished performance with immersive stage depth and great control. There's a sense of polish across the whole spectrum.
Dunu DN242 Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A-- Tuning lands in a pleasing sweet spot with mostly coherent frequency integration. Tonality stays consistent from track to track.
Average Technical Grade
B+- It offers a competent showing, maintaining cohesion on straightforward arrangements. Complex passages start to challenge it, but never derail the show.
Yu9 Que User Reviews
Share your experience and build your personal ranking list.
You need to be signed in to write your own reviewTastefully tuned IEM. It gives some unique colorations to the sound, making vocals sound pretty crisp and clean but in a tasteful way. Add a very satisfying amount of bass (including mid-bass!). Treble is top-notch.
Pros
Tuning, especially bass and treble. But mids do not disappoint as well.Cons
I wouldn't describe this as neutral or even reference sounding. Soundstage could be wider.Dunu DN242 User Reviews
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Pros
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Cons
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