Dunu Vulkan 2 VS Crinear Daybreak
IEM Comparison: Expert & Community Scores Side-by-Side
Dunu Vulkan 2 and Crinear Daybreak use 2DD+6BA and 1DD+2BA+2mPT driver setups respectively. Dunu Vulkan 2 costs $360 while Crinear Daybreak costs $170. Dunu Vulkan 2 is $190 more expensive. Dunu Vulkan 2 holds a clear 0.6-point edge in reviewer scores (7.9 vs 7.3). Crinear Daybreak carries a user score of 7.4. Dunu Vulkan 2 has better mids with a 0.5-point edge, Dunu Vulkan 2 has significantly better treble with a 1.8-point edge, Crinear Daybreak has significantly better dynamics with a 1.3-point edge and Dunu Vulkan 2 has significantly better soundstage with a 1.2-point edge.
Insights
| Metric | Dunu Vulkan 2 | Crinear Daybreak |
|---|---|---|
| Bass | 7.9 | 7.6 |
| Mids | 8 | 7.6 |
| Treble | 8 | 6.2 |
| Details | 7.9 | 8 |
| Soundstage | 8 | 6.9 |
| Imaging | 7.9 | 7.8 |
| Dynamics | 6 | 7.3 |
| Tonality | 7.6 | 7.5 |
| Technicalities | 7.9 | 6.8 |
Dunu Vulkan 2 Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
7.9Strongly Favorable
Crinear Daybreak Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
7.3Generally Favorable
Reviews Comparison
Dunu Vulkan 2 reviewed by Z-Reviews
2025-07-31
8.5
* score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary
Opening the serious business packaging reveals the Dunu Vulkan 2 IEMs and a mountain of accessories, including the praised SS tips and the excellent gunmetal gray cable with its satisfying connection mechanism. The build quality screams premium, easily suggesting a price tag of $300-$400 minimum just on looks and feel. The shock comes when discovering these eight-driver hybrids (two dynamics, six BAs) actually cost only $359.99, a fraction of the expected $800-$900 based purely on the sonic experience.
Listening reveals something truly special. The Vulkan 2 delivers an unrestricted sound with a huge soundstage where instruments have ample space and separation, like moving from a cramped elevator to a vast freight elevator. Bass is unapologetically real, not boosted or artificial, while detail retrieval is exceptional across the board. Critically, they achieve this with remarkable sensitivity, sounding fantastic even at whisper-quiet volumes, unlike many complex multi-driver IEMs. They create an incredibly immersive and effortless listening experience, transporting you into the music itself. This performance immediately puts them in direct competition with the previously crowned best-of-year, the Kiwi Ears Astral, despite costing nearly $100 more.
These are declared god tier IEMs. They sound phenomenal regardless of source gear, performing brilliantly on both high-end stacks and budget $200 DAC/amp combos. The Vulkan 2 is deemed absolutely worth $700-$800 in sound quality alone, making its sub-$400 price an incredible value proposition. They are so good they instantly become the pair pulled out to show people what a good IEM sounds like. For anyone saving their pennies for a top-tier in-ear experience, the Dunu Vulkan 2 is presented as an essential, nutty purchase.
Z-Reviews Youtube Channel
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Crinear Daybreak reviewed by Z-Reviews
2025-08-23
6
* score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary
The Crinacle Daybreak is a technically excellent IEM that offers exceptional clarity and detail retrieval without being fatiguing. Its five-driver configuration delivers a cohesive and precise sound signature that is clean, flat, and incredibly balanced. The bass is present and punchy but never exaggerated, making it a perfect tool for studying music and hearing every nuance in a recording.
However, this precision comes at the cost of fun. The tuning is described as a little dry and somewhat intimate, lacking the expansive soundstage and flavorful character that makes other IEMs more engaging for pure enjoyment. While the build is solid with an acceptable cable and nice connectors, its looks are admittedly boring. It’s a perfectly cooked meal that follows the recipe without any surprises.
Ultimately, the Daybreak is a highly respected and much-loved IEM that fills a specific niche for a clean, reference-like sound. It’s a business suit of an IEM, but it wouldn't be the first choice for someone looking for a more exciting, fun, or "f***ed up" sound signature to get them moving. It commands respect for its technical merits, even if it isn't to everyone's personal taste.
Z-Reviews Youtube Channel
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Dunu Vulkan 2 reviewed by Jaytiss
2025-07-06
8.5
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
The Dunu Vulkan 2 boasts exceptional build quality and comfort. Its shell design is praised as extremely nice at any price, fitting securely with a flat two-pin connector, metal nozzle, and helpful anti-tragus catch. The comprehensive accessory package is a major plus, including a pocketable case, 6.3mm and 3.5mm connectors, a cleaning brush, IEM booties, two sets of tips, and a particularly supple cable featuring a screw-lock termination for easy swapping. Everything about the physical presentation feels solid and well-executed.
Sonically, the Vulkan 2 represents an improvement over the original, offering a presentation focused on detail retrieval and a well-done upper mid-range and treble. The overall signature is slightly bright and energetic, leaning towards a treble-focused tonality while still providing sufficient bass to feel rich and supported, though it lacks a thunderous low-end impact. This results in a slightly lean sound that some might find a touch brittle, but the tactful tuning delivers great detail, nice mids, and a presence region comparable to sets like the Moondrop Meteor. Comparisons reveal it has less bass than the DUNU Brain Dance (especially with an impedance adapter) or the Kiwi Ears Astral, but its mid-range and treble presentation are standout strengths.
Despite the slightly lean bass response, the Vulkan 2 emerges as a strong package at its price point. The combination of its superb build, comfort, excellent accessory set, and a detailed, engaging sound signature focused on mids and treble makes it highly compelling. It's recommended for listeners seeking a studio-monitor style presentation rather than a bass-heavy experience. While not a perfect one-and-done for everyone, and a bass adjustment feature like a rumble switch or impedance adapter would be welcome, it stands as a near-endgame option offering great value and quality within the $300-$400 range.
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
Crinear Daybreak reviewed by Jaytiss
2025-07-31
7.4
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
The CrinEar Daybreak features a metal nozzle and metal faceplate with comfortable contours, though the fit is noted as a bit dainty and small. Isolation is practically non-existent, and the fit isn't particularly secure. The included cable looks nice and photographs well, featuring interchangeable terminations for versatility, but its chin slider moves too easily and isn't recommended for those needing a functional one. The case is deemed aesthetically pleasing and feels good, though not especially premium, magnetically shutting with adequate space.
Sonically, the Daybreak leans boring and somewhat sterile or dry. It offers nice bass and a lot of upper mids, which are done decently with a standard 3K peak. However, the combination of this upper-mid focus and an incisive peak around 8K contributes to a perceived harshness and sharpness, lacking in overall detail retrieval. Graph comparisons reveal its signature has significantly more upper mids and often more bass than competitors like the Moondrop Dusk or TruthEar Nova, resulting in a less engaging listen. Sets like the Defiant, Chopin, and Performer 7 are cited as more engaging alternatives at similar or lower prices, with the Defiant specifically recommended over the Daybreak. Even the Punch Audio martillo and Moondrop Meteor, sharing driver configurations, are considered more fun or better tuned.
Ultimately, the Daybreak is a solid A-minus IEM, well-packaged and a commendable first effort for the brand, but it's not hypeworthy or a benchmark. It lacks imagination and falls short against numerous compelling alternatives around its price point, such as the Performer 7, ZOS Defiant, Chopin, or discounted planar options like the Aether. While a good value, especially if found on sale via Linsoul or the used market, its piercing upper mids and failure to truly excel make it hard to fully recommend over the competition.
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
Dunu Vulkan 2 reviewed by Jays Audio
7
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
Initial skepticism about the Dunu Vulkan 2's significant scoop in the 150-200Hz range quickly faded upon listening. This scoop typically kills rhythmic intensity, slam, and weight, making genres like hip-hop or EDM sound anemic. However, the Vulkan 2 makes it work through a tamer upper midrange compared to Harman targets and a filled-in lower midrange past 200Hz. This creates a smaller contrast (around 7dB difference between peak and mid-bass) than expected, preventing the sound from becoming overly thin or shouty. The result is a surprisingly balanced, neutral, and vocal-centric tonality that excels with artists like SZA, Frank Ocean, or Lana Del Rey on genres such as indie rock, ballads, and acoustic tracks.
This tuning comes with clear trade-offs. The lack of sub-bass is the most significant limitation, making the Vulkan 2 unsuitable for hip-hop, EDM, rap, or movies where rumble and slam are essential. Boosting the sub-bass wasn't feasible without creating an even bigger scoop or ruining the intended neutral, clean vocal focus. Technically, it offers good layering, separation, and a slight bite in transients, with detail and resolution comparable to sets like the Dusk, though not class-leading for its price. It scales well with volume on its preferred genres (around 75-80dB), sounding clearer and more engaging, but falls flat at lower volumes or on energetic pop/EDM where the missing low end hurts balance.
Compared to other neutral/vocal sets like the P50 or Studio 4, the Vulkan 2 is less all-rounded due to its bass deficiency, though it offers slightly better scaling and vocal focus. Bass-centric IEMs like the Odyssey are far superior for low-end engagement. While the vocal presentation is clean and enjoyable within its niche, the $360 retail price is hard to justify. Alternatives like the Volume S (for male vocals) or the Arcanis (for a more immersive, special vocal experience) are better all-rounders that also excel with vocals. The Vulkan 2 becomes a more interesting proposition only if found significantly discounted around $200 as a specialty set for vocal-forward, less bass-dependent genres.
Jays Audio Youtube Channel
Crinear Daybreak reviewed by Jays Audio
2025-07-16
7
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
The CrinEar Daybreak offers a balanced, clean, and non-fatiguing sound signature, functioning effectively as an all-rounder. Every frequency region is solid, delivering a smooth presentation without harshness or overwhelming warmth. The bass provides a slight sub-bass rumble and integrates cleanly into the mids, avoiding bleed, though it lacks significant impact, slam, or deep texture. Similarly, the mid-range and vocals are well-separated and forward enough, free from congestion or odd timbre, but don't specialize. The treble has enough extension and air, avoiding darkness or excessive sharpness, but misses out on micro-detail, sparkle, and expansive staging. It’s a decent, inoffensive performer across the board, described aptly as a "very good vanilla ice cream cone".
Technically, the Daybreak is competitive but not class-leading. Sets like the Meta, Ziigaat Crescent, Kiwi Ears Astral, Simgot EM6L, or TruthEar Nova offer slightly better detail retrieval, imaging, and resolution. Its main challenge comes from remarkably similar competitors, particularly the EPZ P50 and SLIIVO SL224, which share nearly identical tuning, driver configurations, and technical performance around the same $160-$180 price point. The P50 leans slightly more vocal-centric, while the SL224 offers marginally better bass texture and treble detail (though costing more). If you already own either, the Daybreak becomes largely redundant. Against alternatives like the bassier, more dynamic Ziigaat Odyssey ($200), the Daybreak feels safer but less engaging at higher volumes. Compared to Harman-tuned sets like the Supermix 4, Chopin, or Nova, the Daybreak boasts fuller tonality and less fatigue but gives up some layering and detail.
Ultimately, the Daybreak is a competent, well-packaged all-rounder at $170, delivering a balanced and inoffensive listen suitable for any genre library. However, it fails to stand out uniquely in a crowded field. Its sound signature is replicated almost exactly by the existing P50 and SL224. While it earns a half recommendation as a solid option for those seeking a non-fatiguing all-rounder who *don't* own those twins, it's unlikely to become a favorite due to its lack of distinctive character. Value is decent, but alternatives offer more specialization or technical prowess for similar or lower cost.
Jays Audio Youtube Channel
Dunu Vulkan 2 reviewed by Web Search
7.3
Reviewer Score
The Dunu Vulkan 2 employs a dual dynamic driver setup—10mm for sub-bass and 8mm for mid-bass—each in isolated chambers to reduce interference and enhance low-end articulation. Its four-way hybrid crossover (physical + electronic) ensures coherent frequency transitions between the dedicated sub-bass, bass, midrange, and treble drivers, minimizing distortion. The tuning prioritizes textural depth over sheer impact, with sub-bass extension excelling more than mid-bass slam.
Vocals and midrange benefit from custom Knowles BAs, rendering vocals with lush forwardness and emotional nuance, though the 3kHz emphasis occasionally introduces harshness on sibilant tracks. Treble from four custom BAs extends airily without fatigue, offering refined detail retrieval. The soundstage impresses with holographic width and precise layering, handling complex genres like progressive rock adeptly.
Comfort may be divisive: the 6.4mm nozzle and 8g weight per earpiece challenge smaller ears during extended sessions. The stock cable’s Q-Lock Mini system (3.5mm/4.4mm included) and MMCX/2-pin options provide versatile connectivity.
Crinear Daybreak reviewed by Web Search
2025-07-25
7.5
Reviewer Score
The CrinEar Daybreak is a tri-brid IEM built around a 5-driver array—1DD + 2BA + 2 micro-planar tweeters—with a moderate 20 Ω load and 105 dB/mW sensitivity, making it easy to drive from portable sources. MSRP sits at $169.99, placing it squarely in the competitive mid-budget segment. These core specs are confirmed on the official product page and retail listings.
Tonally, Daybreak trends toward neutral with a mild sub-bass lift and restrained warmth, but listener experience can swing with tip choice. Multiple independent impressions note a touch of upper-mid / lower-treble energy (ear-gain region) on stock narrow-bore tips, which relaxes with wide-bore options; overall midrange balance and resolution are strong for the price. These observations are echoed in in-depth evaluations and measurements from Headphones.com’s reviews.
Build is a resin shell with metal faceplate and a compact pseudo-custom profile; comfort is generally good, though the 6 mm nozzle and angle may not be ideal for every ear. Accessory quality is serviceable—SPC cable with interchangeable 3.5 mm / 4.4 mm terminations, a leatherette case, and basic tips—leaving room for aftermarket tip rolling to fine-tune treble behavior and staging. These physical details and inclusions are documented by the maker and retailers.
Dunu Vulkan 2 (more reviews)
Dunu Vulkan 2 reviewed by Head-Fi.org
8.1
* score rescaled + normalized
Crinear Daybreak (more reviews)
Crinear Daybreak reviewed by Super* Review
2025-07-25
8*
* score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary
The CrinEar Daybreak lands at $170 as the second IEM from Crinacle, positioned as a more accessible follow-up to the limited-edition Meta. This tribrid features a single dynamic driver, two balanced armatures, and two micro planars handling the highs. The build includes compact, semi-custom dark smoky resin shells offering good stability and comfort, though the molding might be slightly aggressive for some. The included cable provides swappable terminations (3.5mm and 4.4mm) but is noted for being somewhat stiff and kink-prone. Accessories are solid for the price, including a leatherette case and multiple tip options, with the stock silicones recommended for optimal fit due to the slightly longer nozzle.
Sonically, the Daybreak delivers what the review calls the best tonal balance yet within the popular "new meta" tuning category. Its frequency response is described as exceptionally neutral and natural from the mid-bass upwards, creating a low-contrast, chill, and non-fatiguing listen with forward, textured vocals and non-existent sibilance. However, this comes with trade-offs: the bass lacks ultimate tightness and slam, and the treble exhibits a light, wispy quality (likened to cotton candy) that lacks some bite and definition. While technical performance like imaging is solid, it doesn't stand out as exceptional.
In direct comparisons with six competitors around $200 (including the Meta, Binary x Chopin, EPZ P50, Ziigaat Lush, Truthear Pure, and Kiwi Ears KE4), the Daybreak consistently ranked highest for tonality. It was praised as a modern benchmark for natural tuning at its price. However, it fell behind in bass physicality and treble incisiveness. Ultimately rated a strong four stars, the Daybreak is highlighted as an excellent choice for those prioritizing a refined, natural midrange and easy listening experience over sheer technical prowess or visceral impact, earning the label of a "modern-day Etymotic ER2XR" with far better comfort.
Super* Review original ranking
Super* Review Youtube ChannelCrinear Daybreak reviewed by Audionotions
8
Reviewer Score
Crinear Daybreak reviewed by Fox Told Me So
2025-09-26
7.2
Reviewer Score
This is it.
Crinear Daybreak's tuning follows the New Meta family with two quirks: a dip at 400 Hz that slightly thins male vocals, and a dip around 8 kHz that smooths treble but softens cymbals/overtones. Otherwise it’s safe, balanced, and within preference bounds.
Bass has moderate body with audible rumble and quick decay, though slam could hit harder; Mids sit neutral, neither pushed nor recessed, keeping instruments evenly balanced; Treble rolls off smoothly—pleasant, but lacks the final lift that would open it up. Resolution is average for the price: clear layers but compressed depth, like a lasagna being pressed flat.
Within the $169 bracket, Daybreak is neutral, natural, and non-fatiguing—an easy daily driver.
Fox Told Me So original ranking
Fox Told Me So Youtube Channel
Dunu Vulkan 2 Details
Driver Configuration: 2DD+6BA
Tuning Type: Neutral, Vocal-focused
Brand: DUNU Top DUNU IEMs
Price (Msrp): $359.99
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Crinear Daybreak Details
Driver Configuration: 1DD+2BA+2mPT
Tuning Type: Neutral with Bass Boost
Brand: CrinEar Top CrinEar IEMs
Price (Msrp): $169.99
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Dunu Vulkan 2 User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score: n/a
Based on 0 user reviews
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Crinear Daybreak User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score:
Based on 1 user reviews
7.4Generally Favorable
Dunu Vulkan 2 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
ACrinear Daybreak Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
7Gaming Grade
A-Dunu Vulkan 2 Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A- You get a polished tonal profile that stays natural from bass through treble. Subtle tuning choices keep things engaging.
Average Technical Grade
A- It delivers a confident technical showing with defined layers and satisfying clarity. You can follow backing vocals with relative ease.
Crinear Daybreak 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+- The presentation is steady if unspectacular, holding onto essential details when the music stays simple. Fine details occasionally slip through the cracks.
Dunu Vulkan 2 User Reviews
"This is an example review"
Pros
- Example pro 1
- Example pro 2
Cons
- Example con 1
- Example con 2
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You need to be signed in to write your own reviewCrinear Daybreak User Reviews
Share your experience and build your personal ranking list.
You need to be signed in to write your own reviewA well-toned, easy-listening IEM that excels at midrange clarity even if it doesn’t dazzle technically.
Pros
Balanced and non-fatiguing tuning with smooth, natural mids.Cons
Bass lacks slam and treble can feel veiled or lacking crisp sparkle.Find your next IEM:
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