Dunu Glacier VS Letshuoer Cadenza 12
IEM Comparison: Expert & Community Scores Side-by-Side
Dunu Glacier and Letshuoer Cadenza 12 use 1DD+4BA+4EST and 1DD+11BA driver setups respectively. Dunu Glacier costs $1,350 while Letshuoer Cadenza 12 costs $2,299. Letshuoer Cadenza 12 is $949 more expensive. Dunu Glacier holds a slight 0.3-point edge in reviewer scores (8.7 vs 8.4). Dunu Glacier carries a user score of 9. Dunu Glacier has significantly better bass with a 1.2-point edge, Dunu Glacier has slightly better mids with a 0.3-point edge, Dunu Glacier has significantly better treble with a 1-point edge, Dunu Glacier has significantly better dynamics with a 2.1-point edge, Dunu Glacier has better soundstage with a 0.5-point edge, Dunu Glacier has significantly better details with a 1.5-point edge and Dunu Glacier has significantly better imaging with a 1-point edge.
Insights
| Metric | Dunu Glacier | Letshuoer Cadenza 12 |
|---|---|---|
| Bass | 8.7 | 7.5 |
| Mids | 7.8 | 7.5 |
| Treble | 8.3 | 7.4 |
| Details | 8.7 | 7.3 |
| Soundstage | 9.5 | 9 |
| Imaging | 8.7 | 7.8 |
| Dynamics | 9.1 | 7 |
| Tonality | 8.3 | 8 |
| Technicalities | 8.7 | 8.4 |
Dunu Glacier Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
8.7Excellent
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
8.4Very Positive
Reviews Comparison
Dunu Glacier reviewed by Z-Reviews
10
* score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary
The Dunu Glacier delivers an extraordinary premium experience right from the unboxing, featuring a lavish presentation, a massive high-quality fabric cable with interchangeable terminations, and hand-polished stainless steel earpieces that feel substantial and expensive. Despite the controversial MMCX connectors, the cable and fit are praised, complemented by a ton of accessories including multiple ear tip types, a leather case, and even a brush. This is Dunu’s flagship effort at $1300, and the physical presentation screams luxury.
Sonically, the Glacier is a revelation with a massive, immersive soundstage that places instruments at a distance, creating a surround-like experience rather than an in-your-head assault. The tuning is remarkably relaxed and natural, prioritizing smoothness and spatial depth over aggression. Tracks with atmospheric elements or live recordings become breathtaking, revealing layers of echo and venue acoustics that feel expansive and holographic. This isn’t hyper-detailed or clinical; it’s chill, luxurious, and emotionally resonant, making even familiar music feel newly captivating.
Compared to competitors like the Thieaudio Prestige Limited or Monarch MkIII, the Glacier carves its own niche with its unparalleled sense of space and effortless presentation. It doesn’t compete on technical aggression but instead offers a transportive, almost spiritual listening experience. If you crave an endgame IEM that emphasizes grandeur, natural tonality, and pure musical immersion over analytical prowess, the Glacier is a jaw-dropping contender. Just be prepared for its unique, room-filling signature—it’s less an in-ear monitor and more a portal.
Z-Reviews Youtube Channel
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Letshuoer Cadenza 12 reviewed by Z-Reviews
9
* score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 goes full flagship spectacle: a 12-driver per side build (1 dynamic + 11 BA from Knowles/Sonion), six-way crossover, and heavy metal shells that feel like a prize out of a treasure chest. The unboxing is decadent—fabric-wrapped stock cable with interchangeable plugs, a big faux-leather case, tip sets (foam, Symbio, Xelastec-style), and even a quirky bulldog stand. Fit can be finicky, tip choice matters, and the shells beg for constant polishing; once seated, isolation and comfort are solid.
Sonically, this set is hyper-analytical yet immersive. It “3D-prints” instruments in space, letting a gentle kick drum’s air, pedal thumps on a piano, and micro-dynamics pop with almost studio-monitor precision. Detail retrieval is wild and imaging is pinpoint; mixes get deconstructed so clearly it’s easy to tell what’s acoustic, what’s processed, and where DSP tricks are hiding. The catch: it’s extremely chain-sensitive. Use the stock cable (impedance clearly matters), prefer single-ended over balanced on many amps, and pair with a clean, muscular amplifier—get the combo wrong and mids can go dull or staging collapses; get it right and it’s pure fireworks.
Verdict: an elite, picky flagship that demands careful setup but rewards with one of the most dissecting, vividly placed presentations available in IEMs. Not the most “natural” tuning on earth and far from cheap, yet when everything clicks, the Cadenza 12 delivers a peak listening experience that can ruin lesser gear for good.
Z-Reviews Youtube Channel
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Dunu Glacier reviewed by Jaytiss
9.3
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
Priced around $1,350, the Dunu Glacier is a premium nine-driver tribrid IEM featuring one dynamic driver, four balanced armatures, and four electrostatic drivers. The build quality is exceptional with a beautiful mirrored polished steel shell, though it's noted as a bit large, heavy, and a fingerprint magnet. Comfort is generally good, and it includes a high-quality, pliable cable with interchangeable connectors and a secure chin slider. Packaging is also highlighted as exceedingly well done, typical of Dunu's recent standards.
Sonically, the Glacier delivers a very bassy, extremely fun, and highly engaging V-shaped signature. The strong bass is balanced by prominent upper mids, offering good detail resolution and micro-details. However, a noticeable energy peak around 3kHz can make some tracks feel overly energetic, intimate, or even slightly shouty, limiting its versatility for mellower listening sessions. Comparisons place it near sets like the LETSHUOER Tera (less bass, cleaner) and ThieAudio Monarch MK I (less bass, more even upper mids), while noting it surpasses the Dunu Brain Dance (DK-31) in detail and bombast, though the Brain Dance offers significant value at half the price.
Ultimately, the Dunu Glacier stands out as a fantastic and unique IEM with satisfying bass weight, good imaging, and excellent micro-details. Its fun, bombastic character and high-quality build make it a compelling choice, but the specific upper-mid energy requires careful consideration. It earns a recommendation for those seeking an ultra-engaging Harman-style listen with top-tier driver tech, though demoing is advised due to its distinct tonal quirks.
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 reviewed by Jaytiss
9
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
The 2024 Cadenza 12 makes a strong first impression with premium presentation, though the accessories aren’t flawless. The stock cable looks gorgeous and offers swappable terminations (4.4 / 3.5 / 2.5), but it’s stiff and tricky to coil into the compact case. The metal shell is well-contoured and comfortable with a sensible nozzle lip, yet certain tips can pop off too easily. Overall build feels upscale and weighty without being cumbersome—just expect some practical quirks.
Tonally it sits neutral with a gentle bass lift: clean sub-bass presence without thunder, crisp highs with smooth extension, and a relaxed upper-mid energy that keeps fatigue low. Resolution and imaging are technically adept, but the tuning plays things safe—polished and airy rather than punchy or electrifying. On graphs and by ear it evokes classic “reference” curves (think early Monarch-style balance), trading visceral slam for control and clarity; many audiophiles will find it classy and coherent, while thrill-seekers may wish for more bite.
Against peers, it recalls sets that graph beautifully yet feel a touch reserved in the bass and presence regions. Comparisons to options like Europa highlight how a bit more sub-bass and 4–6 kHz zest can add sparkle and engagement; a light EQ lift to bass and upper mids wakes the Cadenza 12 up nicely. As delivered, it’s a refined, wide, and airy listen that prioritizes neutrality and detail over spectacle—recommended for listeners chasing a mature, low-fatigue signature rather than a high-octane ride.
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
Dunu Glacier reviewed by Jays Audio
8.5
Reviewer Score
Jays Audio Youtube Channel
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 reviewed by Jays Audio
9.5
Reviewer Score
Jays Audio Youtube Channel
Dunu Glacier reviewed by Precogvision
7.2
Reviewer Score
Precogvision Youtube Channel
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 reviewed by Precogvision
6.2
Reviewer Score
Precogvision Youtube Channel
Dunu Glacier reviewed by Tim Tuned
7
Reviewer Score
Tim Tuned Youtube Channel
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 reviewed by Tim Tuned
7
Reviewer Score
Tim Tuned Youtube Channel
Dunu Glacier reviewed by Head-Fi.org
8.7
* score rescaled + normalized
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 reviewed by Head-Fi.org
8.6
* score rescaled + normalized
Dunu Glacier reviewed by Web Search
9
Reviewer Score
The Dunu Glacier delivers a technically impressive listening experience with its nine-driver tribrid setup (1DD+4BA+4EST). The stainless steel shells feel substantial yet remain comfortable for extended sessions despite their weight. Sonically, it presents a Harman-inspired tuning enhanced by significant sub-bass rumble and a notably wide soundstage, creating an expansive presentation.
Bass response is a standout, offering deep, textured rumble and strong physical impact thanks to the biocellulose dynamic driver, while the four EST drivers provide highly detailed treble without harshness. However, the upper mids can occasionally feel intense or forward on certain tracks, and the midrange sometimes exhibits a slight hollowness, making it less forgiving of poor recordings. While the soundstage width is exceptional under $2000, depth and layering don’t quite reach the absolute top tier.
At $1349, the Glacier justifies its price with a premium unboxing experience, including a versatile modular cable, multiple high-quality eartip options (Dunu S&S, Candy, SpinFit), and a distinctive design. It’s a strong choice for those seeking a dynamic, detailed signature with thunderous bass and a vast stage, though its revealing nature and shell size may not suit all listeners or genres.
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 reviewed by Web Search
8.9
Reviewer Score
The Letshuoer Cadenza 12 delivers a balanced sound signature with a slight warmth in the low end, providing clean and textured bass that avoids overwhelming the midrange. Its midrange presentation is natural and resolving, though some listeners noted a recession around 1-2kHz that could thin male vocals slightly, while the treble offers good extension but exhibits a noticeable peak around 10kHz that occasionally introduces harshness or an "echo" effect on certain instruments . Technical performance is a strength, with precise pinpoint imaging and an expansive, holographic soundstage that excels in complex orchestral passages, though some critics felt its resolution doesn’t fully justify the price against established flagships .
Comfort is generally strong due to the surprisingly lightweight titanium shells and ergonomic shape, allowing for extended listening sessions despite their size, though some users reported eventual ear fatigue . The mirror-finish shells attract fingerprints and scratches easily, and the included hybrid cable, while versatile with modular terminations, is often criticized for its stiffness and unwieldy handling . While the packaging and accessories—including a functional leather case and customizable ear tips—are premium, the overall value proposition is debated, particularly when comparing its technical performance to competitors near its $2,300 price .
Dunu Glacier (more reviews)
Dunu Glacier reviewed by ATechReviews
9.4
* Score computed by IEMRanking.com
Youtube Video Summary
The DUNU Glacier presents itself as a true $1,400 flagship, pairing a nine driver hybrid array with 904L stainless steel shells that feel like a piece of jewelry in the hand and in the ear. Comfort and isolation are outstanding, with a surprisingly secure fit from the compact shells, scoring essentially ten out of ten for long listening sessions and around 9.5 out of ten for blocking outside noise. The stock cable, modular Q Lock system and generous selection of tips and accessories add to the feeling that this is a carefully engineered high end system rather than just another in ear.
Sonically, Glacier goes for a neutral signature with a strong sub-bass focus, where the dynamic driver digs very deep with powerful rumble and thunderous mid bass that stays tight, punchy and snappy instead of bloated. Male vocals sit on a solid bass foundation without bleeding into the mids, giving voices a natural, weighty character, while forward mids deliver that HD650 and HD600 style intimacy with excellent note definition and organic timbre. Female vocals float on top with an airy, extended treble that stays completely free of sharpness or sibilance, creating an almost ethereal sense of air while still sounding smooth and natural.
Technical performance is where Glacier really earns its flagship status, with imaging that is extremely precise and multi layered, allowing individual voices and instruments in dense mixes to be followed easily as they move across the stage. The soundstage has an unusually large sense of space for an IEM, evoking the way high end open back headphones place instruments in a real acoustic environment, with clear separation between near and far sounds and very realistic reverberation around guitars, drums and vocals. Combine this with highly textured, detailed bass, lively yet controlled dynamics and a natural, organic presentation that reveals new details in familiar tracks, and Glacier comes across as a true treasure level in ear that can justify its high price for listeners seeking a long term reference.
ATechReviews Youtube Channel
Dunu Glacier reviewed by Super* Review
9*
* score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary
The Dunu Glacier stands as the brand's latest flagship tribrid IEM, priced around $1,350. Its standout feature is its adherence to the Harman target curve, a rarity at this level, executed with notable success. The Glacier boasts exceptional build quality, featuring polished 904L stainless steel shells that feel substantial and genuinely premium, justifying its price tag aesthetically. It comes loaded with accessories, including a plethora of ear tips (like the Candy and new clear Dunu Lunnies) and a large carry case, though the case design is noted as slightly awkward. The included cable is thick, well-made, and features Dunu's signature swappable terminations (3.5mm and 4.4mm included), though its ear hooks are somewhat loose and the chin cinch doesn't hold perfectly.
Sonically, the Glacier delivers a contrasty, V-shaped signature true to Harman but avoids the thinness sometimes associated with that target, thanks to extra bass emphasis. The bass is a major highlight – big, impactful, deep, well-textured, and satisfyingly clean with zero bleed into the mids. The treble is forward yet remarkably smooth, avoiding sharpness or sibilance. While technically proficient with good imaging and a strong sense of depth (especially from the bass), it leans slightly more towards contrast than nuanced micro-detail, particularly in the mid-range. Compared to rivals like the 64 Audio U4s (more mid-focused, warmer, laid-back) and the Dunu Mirai (brighter, most mid-focused, wider stage but less satisfying bass and slightly digital/scratchier treble), the Glacier excels in bass impact and separation, smoothness, and depth perception, while the others might appeal more for pure mid-range focus.
Overall, the Dunu Glacier is a highly refined IEM with no glaring weaknesses. Its excellent build, satisfying Harman-tuned sound (especially the standout bass and smooth treble), and competitive technicalities make it a compelling option in the flagship tier. While its weight and aggressive shell molding might cause minor comfort issues when lying down, and the ear hooks could be tighter, it earns a very solid four-star rating for delivering a premium experience that largely justifies its cost and successfully champions the Harman target.
Super* Review original ranking
Super* Review Youtube ChannelDunu Glacier reviewed by Gizaudio Axel
9
Reviewer Score
Gizaudio Axel original ranking
Gizaudio Axel Youtube ChannelLetshuoer Cadenza 12 (more reviews)
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 reviewed by Yifang
9
Reviewer Score
Yifang Youtube Channel
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 reviewed by Smirk Audio
8.1
Reviewer Score
Dunu Glacier Details
Driver Configuration: 1DD+4BA+4EST
Tuning Type: Neutral with Bass Boost, U-Shaped
Brand: DUNU Top DUNU IEMs
Price (Msrp): $1,349.99
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Letshuoer Cadenza 12 Details
Driver Configuration: 1DD+11BA
Tuning Type: Neutral, Bright
Brand: Letshuoer Top Letshuoer IEMs
Price (Msrp): $2,299
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Dunu Glacier User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score:
Based on 1 user reviews
9Outstanding
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score: n/a
Based on 0 user reviews
No user reviews yet. Be the first one who writes a review!
Dunu Glacier Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
7.6Gaming Grade
ALetshuoer Cadenza 12 Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
6.8Gaming Grade
B+Dunu Glacier Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A+- You hear a mature integration of lows, mids, and highs that keeps music lifelike. Small tuning tweaks showcase expert restraint.
Average Technical Grade
S-- Expect top-tier articulation, where staging, imaging, and transient control feel effortless. It keeps instruments locked in place effortlessly.
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 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+- A very capable technical display delivers articulate layers and poised imaging. It portrays reverbs and echoes with confidence.
Dunu Glacier User Reviews
Share your experience and build your personal ranking list.
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Luxury looking IEM with great sound quality. Sounds best with Tangzu Sancai tips
Pros
Sounds fun and clean at the same time, very engaging. Insane soundstage and 3D-holographic effect.Cons
In some songs too energetic for long listening sessions.Buy Dunu Glacier on Aliexpress
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Letshuoer Cadenza 12 User Reviews
"This is an example review"
Pros
- Example pro 1
- Example pro 2
Cons
- Example con 1
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