Moondrop Variations VS Letshuoer S12 Ultra
IEM Comparison: Expert & Community Scores Side-by-Side
Moondrop Variations and Letshuoer S12 Ultra use 1DD+2BA+2EST and 1Planar (14.8 mm) driver setups respectively. Moondrop Variations costs $550 while Letshuoer S12 Ultra costs $169. Moondrop Variations is $381 more expensive. Both score 7.5 from reviewers. Moondrop Variations carries a user score of 7.5. Letshuoer S12 Ultra has better bass with a 0.5-point edge, Moondrop Variations has slightly better mids with a 0.3-point edge, Letshuoer S12 Ultra has significantly better dynamics with a 1.2-point edge, Letshuoer S12 Ultra has significantly better details with a 1.3-point edge and Letshuoer S12 Ultra has better imaging with a 0.9-point edge.
Insights
| Metric | Moondrop Variations | Letshuoer S12 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Bass | 7.3 | 7.8 |
| Mids | 7.1 | 6.8 |
| Treble | 7.5 | 7.6 |
| Details | 7.3 | 8.5 |
| Soundstage | 7.8 | 7.6 |
| Imaging | 7 | 7.9 |
| Dynamics | 6.2 | 7.4 |
| Tonality | 7.4 | 7.4 |
| Technicalities | 7.6 | 7.2 |
Moondrop Variations Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
7.5Strongly Favorable
Letshuoer S12 Ultra Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
7.6Strongly Favorable
Reviews Comparison
Moondrop Variations reviewed by Jaytiss
8
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
Build & accessories: Variations shows its age. The resin shell fits well and the metal faceplate looks clean, but the body feels a bit chintzy and slightly see-through, with a chunky nozzle compared to newer slim designs. The pocketable case is nice, yet the stock cable is thin with barely visible L/R markers; modular termination is handy, but modern Q-Lock-style systems do it better.
Sound: tuning centers on energetic, engaging vocals with a tasteful sub-bass lift—not a bass-head set, more a polite, gradual boost. A dip around the lower mids can read as thinness, pushing some female vocals a touch distant, while the top end has air, detail, and an overall chill presentation. Technicalities are solid rather than class-leading at the price, but the EST implementation is clean and cohesive. Expect limited mid-bass weight, occasional shout for the sensitive, and ergonomics that won’t suit everyone.
Context & verdict: despite a wave of competitors (Oracle MK2, Hype 4, Softears Studio 4/Volume S, AFUL Performer 7, DUNU Brain Dance, even Moondrop’s own Dusk at a lower price), this tuning remains a benchmark reference around the mid-fi bracket. Variations delivers the archetype many listeners still chase: clean sub-bass, airy treble, and a deft, easygoing balance that makes it a “legendary” set in the catalog. Not flawless, but noteworthy—the kind of IEM worth borrowing at a meet and auditioning for 10–15 minutes to see if that lighter midrange flavor clicks.
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
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Letshuoer S12 Ultra reviewed by Jaytiss
2025-10-05
8
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
LETSHUOER S12 Ultra wraps up the S12 line with a 14.8 mm planar driver and a familiar metal shell in gunmetal or mocha. The housing is vented, comfy for long sessions, and solidly built with a flat 2-pin interface that grips tips well. The stock package is practical: a soft case, a fair tip spread, a braided cable with swappable 4.4 mm termination, and even a plug-and-play USB-C DAC that performs capably for on-the-go use.
Sonically, this set aims for a mild V-shape with tasteful tweaks that elevate it over prior S12 iterations. There’s a touch more sub-bass than the S12 Pro and a smoother 10 kHz zone, reducing fatigue while keeping upper-treble reach for air. The presentation favors balance over sparkle: detailed without the brittle edge many planars flirt with, and notably non-fatiguing over longer listens. Technical chops are strong for the class—clean, clear, and “planar-fast”—though instrument separation can lag behind pricier hybrids, and the topmost “crispy” sheen is slightly restrained.
On graphs and in practice, S12 Ultra reads as a refined take on modern planars—more bass weight, tidier 4–6 kHz, and better treble behavior than its siblings. Listeners hypersensitive up top may still prefer something like the S15 for a softer treble contour, while those chasing maximal separation may lean to sets like AFUL Performer 7 (with a spicier treble). With the usual planar caveat about unit variance and fit, this edition comes through as the standout of the S12 series: a clean, engaging, and genuinely high-value recommendation under $500.
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
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Moondrop Variations reviewed by Jays Audio
7.5
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
Moondrop Variations tracks the compensated diffuse-field target closely at typical listening levels (75–85 dB), delivering a signature that is clean, smooth, airy with center-locked imaging. The well-known mid-bass tuck trades some weight on male vocals, bass guitars, and kick drums for top-tier separation and midrange clarity, while the sub-bass rises with a subwoofer-like rumble and texture. Treble is generally coherent and extended, though a touch of extra energy past 12 kHz can turn hot on brighter J-/K-Pop masters. At sane volumes, the overall presentation feels correct and harmonious, with instruments and vocals popping out in a spacious, non-congested stage.
Against Blessing 2 Dusk, Variations sounds clearer and more separated with better sub-bass extension; Dusk’s added mid-bass gives male vocals more heft but softens the subwoofer illusion and feels less smooth up top, making female vocals a bit less airy. For listeners wanting a touch more slam and a gentler treble tilt, sets like Shuoer EJ07M and the original Monarch provide that extra meat without wrecking clarity. On a budget, the Moondrop Quarks DSP offers a “mini-Variations” vibe—~85% of the experience—though it gives up some treble extension, bass texture, and imaging precision due to driver and DSP constraints.
Big picture: for accuracy, balance, imaging, and an almost studio-monitor take in an IEM, Variations remains a go-to recommendation—especially if there’s no strong preference for extra mid-bass or if listening stays below 85 dB. Those chasing more bite or “out-of-the-box” coloration can find sharper sets, but they won’t sound as even, faithful, or effortlessly clear as Variations at moderate volumes.
Jays Audio Youtube Channel
Letshuoer S12 Ultra reviewed by Jays Audio
2025-10-09
6.5
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
The Letshuoer S12 Ultra comes through as the smoothest tuning in the S12 family— a sub-bass boosted all-rounder with quick transients and satisfying rumble that makes pop, hip-hop, and EDM notably fun. Technical performance sits around earlier S12 variants, but treble detail is dialed back a touch versus the OG/Pro in exchange for a more natural timbre and less “planar-bright” edge. It’s the bassiest S12 to date, hitting with better texture, impact, and extension, while keeping imaging crisp enough to stay engaging rather than clinical.
Tuning tweaks tame the upper range: a cut past 1.5 kHz and an 8–15 kHz dip ease shout and sibilance, with air returning via a lift around 15 kHz. Vocals sit a bit pulled back and the treble is the least energetic of the series, which helps long-session comfort—though brighter, heavily produced tracks or songs with little low-end can still sound peaky if pushed. Best results come at ~65–70 dB; tip-roll toward clear or bass-supporting tips to smooth the top and reinforce the lows, while avoiding brightening tips that exaggerate energy.
Versus peers, S12 Ultra feels like a bassier, less shouty take on Supermix 4/Nova and a slightly more V-shaped, punchier alternative to Defiant. It’s not a value monster for sheer detail compared with cheaper planars (T10, F1 Pro, etc.), but the payoff is a presentation that’s more musical, smoother, and easier to live with. For listeners wanting added slam without losing the S12’s speed and airy sense of space, this version offers the most enjoyable balance in the lineup.
Jays Audio Youtube Channel
Moondrop Variations reviewed by Head-Fi.org
8.6
* score rescaled + normalized
Letshuoer S12 Ultra reviewed by Head-Fi.org
8.7
* score rescaled + normalized
Moondrop Variations (more reviews)
Moondrop Variations reviewed by Super* Review
8*
* score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary
Moondrop Variations enters the $520 bracket as a sleek tribrid (DD bass, BA mids, dual EST treble) that mirrors the Blessing 2 shell and fit—complete with the familiar large nozzle—while upgrading the look with a smoky, beach-glass finish. The package is generous (tips, foams, spare filters, and a modular cable with 3.5/4.4/2.5 swaps), though the case is bulky and the connector mechanism isn’t the slickest. Ergonomics are essentially the same as Blessing 2/Dusk; secure once sealed, but best with smaller tips.
Sonically, this reads as a refined “Dusk-plus”: a flatter lower-mid profile, prominent yet tidy sub-bass, and treble that’s a touch smoother and better extended than Blessing 2/Dusk. Despite measuring with more sub-bass than Dusk, it often feels less bassy in practice—more integrated, less showy—while preserving the line’s standout midrange detail and vocal clarity. Versus peers, staging depth benefits from the sub-bass lift (a hair more “space” than Blessing 2), and detail/resolution is effectively on par with Dusk; Blessing 2 still edges it for midrange naturalness, and all-BA sets like S8 retain the treble finesse crown.
The catch is value: performance moves forward, but only by small, picky margins. With Blessing 2/Dusk sitting a full $200 lower, Variations feels like a tasteful refinement rather than a categorical leap. For listeners who want a neutral core with an articulate sub-bass emphasis and slightly more air/polish up top than the Blessings—without the Dusk’s heavier bass feel—it’s an excellent pick. As scored, it earns 4 stars: easy to recommend on its tuning and competence, just shy of “must-buy” given how close its cheaper siblings perform.
Super* Review original ranking
Super* Review Youtube ChannelMoondrop Variations reviewed by Gizaudio Axel
8
Reviewer Score
Gizaudio Axel original ranking
Gizaudio Axel Youtube ChannelMoondrop Variations reviewed by Crin
8
Reviewer Score
Crin Youtube Channel
Moondrop Variations reviewed by Kois Archive
7.8
Reviewer Score
Kois Archive Youtube Channel
Moondrop Variations reviewed by Audionotions
7.5
Reviewer Score
Moondrop Variations reviewed by Tim Tuned
7.5
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
Packaging brings typical Moondrop flair—an anime-clad box, a large but well-built carrying case, assorted foam and silicone tips, and interchangeable plugs (3.5/2.5/4.4). The shells look sleek and minimalist, with a stock cable that’s better than usual for the brand. Fit mirrors the Blessing 2 profile—still on the larger side—but slightly more comfortable over long sessions.
Sonically, this is a sub-bass focused set with minimal mid-bass, yielding deep, clean rumble and zero bleed. The midrange is refined and clear, giving female vocals spotlight treatment, while male vocals can feel a touch thin due to the leaner lower mids. Treble is well-extended with a hint of air, avoiding peaks, sibilance, and fatigue. The headline is separation and microdetail—attack/decay snap notes into place so instruments occupy distinct spaces, producing imaging that’s confident and a stage that’s wide enough for the price.
Against $500 peers like Kiwi Ears Orchestra and Thieaudio Oracle, Variations competes directly; Oracle may sound warmer and more natural on male vocals, but Variations pushes ahead with cleaner layering and a more modern, sub-bass fun tilt. At around $530, it delivers a taste of $1k-class resolution without sacrificing musicality—an easy five-star recommendation for listeners who want clarity, air, and subterranean slam over extra mid-bass warmth.
Tim Tuned Youtube Channel
Moondrop Variations reviewed by Shuwa-T
7.3
Reviewer Score
Moondrop Variations reviewed by Smirk Audio
7
Reviewer Score
Moondrop Variations reviewed by Precogvision
7
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
Moondrop Variations takes the Harman idea and fixes what that target often gets wrong. The tuning pushes sub-bass with minimal mid-bass, plus a dip around ~200Hz that cleanly separates lows from the rest—think speaker rig with a dedicated sub. Midrange is clear yet forward, bordering on shouty in noisy environments, with thinner lower-mid body. Treble is the standout: a smooth, extended EST implementation with real air to ~15kHz—softer in attack than some sets, but among the few EST tunings that actually feel coherent at this price. Build echoes Blessing 2’s large shell, fit is good for larger ears, and the cable’s swappable termination is a practical upgrade.
Technical performance is where Variations surprises. Detail retrieval is top-tier for ~$520, edging past well-known mid-fi competitors and clearly a step up from the Blessing line; imaging is solid if not showy, while dynamic contrast and punch are unusually engaging. Bass quality shows better texture and slam than earlier Moondrops, even if the absolute best DD bass in class still belongs elsewhere. The overall presentation is energetic, clean, and high-contrast—notes pop against a dark low end and lit upper mids/treble.
Against peers, DUNU SA6 suits listeners wanting smoother, laid-back treble and a less insistent midrange, whereas Shuoer EJ07M offers a bouncier bass shelf but a less even top end. Compared with Moondrop’s own Blessing 2/Dusk, think “Dusk on steroids”: bigger sub-bass, more resolution, and more punch—though Dusk owners won’t see a night-and-day jump. Imperfections aside, on paper this is one of the most complete packages in its bracket, especially for those who value sub-bass authority, clarity, and a refined EST treble without sacrificing coherence.
Precogvision Youtube Channel
Moondrop Variations reviewed by Nymz
6.7
Reviewer Score
Moondrop Variations reviewed by Yifang
6.5
Reviewer Score
Letshuoer S12 Ultra (more reviews)
Letshuoer S12 Ultra reviewed by Web Search
2025-10-05
7.1
Reviewer Score
The Letshuoer S12 Ultra continues the brand’s planar lineage with a 14.8 mm planar-magnetic driver in a compact metal shell. Notable upgrades include a 392-core silver-plated cable with interchangeable 3.5/4.4 mm plugs and even a bundled DT01 Pro Type-C DAC cable in some packages, positioning it as a self-contained portable solution at an MSRP around $169.
Tonally, the Ultra aims for a lively U-shaped balance common to prior S12 variants—crisp upper-treble energy with solid bass presence—while early impressions from show-floor demos frame it as the most refined take yet. That aligns with the S12 family’s reputation for strong resolution and a brisk top-end; the original S12 was praised for technical performance albeit with a brighter tilt, context that helps set expectations for the Ultra’s direction.
As with many planars, the S12 line can benefit from competent source power to realize dynamics and control; community reviews note the Ultra responds well to suitable amplification. Staging remains more intimate than expansive compared to some hybrids, but imaging and micro-detail are competitive at the price, making the Ultra a pragmatic sub-$200 pick for listeners who value clarity and transient speed over warmth.
Moondrop Variations Details
Driver Configuration: 1DD+2BA+2EST
Tuning Type: U-Shaped
Brand: Moondrop Top Moondrop IEMs
Price (Msrp): $550
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Letshuoer S12 Ultra Details
Driver Configuration: 1Planar (14.8 mm)
Tuning Type: U-Shaped
Brand: Letshuoer Top Letshuoer IEMs
Price (Msrp): $169
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Moondrop Variations User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score:
Based on 2 user reviews
7.5Strongly Favorable
Letshuoer S12 Ultra 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!
Moondrop Variations Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
7.1Gaming Grade
A-Letshuoer S12 Ultra Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
7.2Gaming Grade
A-Moondrop Variations Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A-- It balances warmth and clarity well, showing only minor quirks along the way. Timbre feels believable with most instruments.
Average Technical Grade
A- It delivers a confident technical showing with defined layers and satisfying clarity. You can follow backing vocals with relative ease.
Letshuoer S12 Ultra Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A-- It balances warmth and clarity well, showing only minor quirks along the way. Timbre feels believable with most instruments.
Average Technical Grade
A-- The presentation feels orderly, balancing workable detail retrieval with acceptable imaging cues. It keeps momentum without smearing transients.
Moondrop Variations User Reviews
Share your experience and build your personal ranking list.
You need to be signed in to write your own reviewThis was one of my first IEMs. I loved it and hated it. It is still the cleanest sounding IEM I own - also compared to something much more expensive.
Pros
Very clean sound signature combined with a satisfying amount of sub-bass. Sounds great with the right songsCons
Thin mids and poor note weight in some songsTaught me Harman is not for me...
Pros
Clean and clearCons
Recessed lower mids, a bit too calm and lifelessLetshuoer S12 Ultra User Reviews
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Cons
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