Truthear Hexa VS Aful Performer 5

IEM Comparison: Expert & Community Scores Side-by-Side

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Truthear Hexa and Aful Performer 5 use 1DD+3BA and 1DD+4BA driver setups respectively. Truthear Hexa costs $80 while Aful Performer 5 costs $220. Aful Performer 5 is $140 more expensive. Aful Performer 5 holds a slight 0.2-point edge in reviewer scores (6.1 vs 6.4). Truthear Hexa carries a user score of 7. Aful Performer 5 has better bass with a 0.5-point edge, Truthear Hexa has slightly better treble with a 0.4-point edge, Aful Performer 5 has significantly better dynamics with a 1-point edge, Aful Performer 5 has slightly better soundstage with a 0.3-point edge, Aful Performer 5 has better details with a 0.5-point edge and Aful Performer 5 has slightly better imaging with a 0.3-point edge.

Insights

Metric Truthear Hexa Aful Performer 5
Bass 5.6 6.1
Mids 6.4 6.4
Treble 6.2 5.8
Details 5.3 5.8
Soundstage 6.3 6.5
Imaging 5 5.3
Dynamics 5 6
Tonality 6.2 6.4
Technicalities 5.8 6.2

Truthear Hexa Aggregated Review Score

Average Reviewer Scores

Average Reviewer Score:

6.1

Mixed to Positive


Aful Performer 5 Aggregated Review Score

Average Reviewer Scores

Average Reviewer Score:

6.4

Mixed to Positive


Reviews Comparison

Truthear Hexa reviewed by Super* Review

Super* Review 8* * score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary

Truthear Hexa targets the sweet spot at $80 with a hybrid 1DD + 3BA array and a tuning that hugs a neutral reference. Build is clean and understated: metal faceplate over a translucent 3D-printed shell, compact “medium-small” footprint, and a straight 6.2 mm nozzle that holds tips securely. The stock cable isn’t flashy but handles beautifully, and the lightweight set fits securely and comfortably—easy ingress/egress, even sleep-friendly. Accessories are simple but useful (soft pouch, multiple silicone sets, foam tips).

Sonically, this is genuinely neutral with a light sub-bass lift for body, centered vocals, and treble that’s smooth yet well-extended without plasticky BA glare. Cymbals and brushes have convincing timbre, micro-detail is respectable, and imaging is solid for the price (not exaggerated). Bass quantity sits in a Goldilocks zone—never boomy—though the attack is a touch soft, trading incisiveness for ease. Technical performance overachieves for the bracket, but it’s not a giant-killer; and that neutral tonality won’t flatter weak recordings.

Contextually, Hexa’s tonality edges out close rivals: more warmth than ER2XR’s leaner lower mids, smoother and more natural treble timbre than Legacy 4 (which answers back with snappier bass texture and punchier separation), and less incisive but more extended top-end than Blessing 2, which still leads in midrange resolution and imaging sharpness. Aggregate take: five stars for value and tuning coherence—an easy recommendation at this price for listeners aligned with a neutral, mid-focused, clean presentation and a comfortable, compact fit.


Super* Review original ranking

Super* Review Youtube Channel
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Truthear Hexa reviewed by Jaytiss

Jaytiss 7 Reviewer Score
B Tuning
B Tech
KING. Special. Inoffensive. But honestly where bass?
Youtube Video Summary

Legendary Series kickoff: Truthear Hexa gets a “legacy” deep-dive with a community poll deciding its status—60% yes votes puts it on a Hall-of-Fame list; otherwise it’s a “legendary failure.” Notable praise exists: Super* Review gave a rare five-star, Resolve called it “insanely good”, and Crinacle rated it A+ for tone and B for tech, on par with far pricier favorites. The review asks a single question throughout: is Hexa truly legendary, merely noteworthy, or just another competent IEM?

Build and kit are a mixed bag. The shell pairs a smoky resin body with a black metal faceplate and a comfortable, compact fit; the recessed 2-pin means flat-pin cables won’t seat properly. The stock tips are excellent and genuinely useful, but the cable feels thin, tangles easily, and the channel markings are hard to read; the case is serviceable but plain. Overall presentation: solid shell, great tips, forgettable cable and case.

Sonically, Hexa presents neutral-leaning tonality with airy, detailed upper mids—sparkly, airy, dreamy—and a measurement curve that looks “right,” yet in-ear performance exposes anemic bass and limited slam/dynamics. Technicalities are decent rather than class-leading; staging isn’t the holographic showcase some might want. Comparisons note Truthear Nova (more bass but hot upper-mids), and alternatives like AFUL Explorer, Moondrop Aria 2, and other well-tuned planars as potentially stronger all-rounders depending on taste. Final take: a respectful 7/10—tonally appealing and special in ways, but not personally crowned legendary; the community vote makes the call.

Mids: A- Treble: B Dynamics: C+ Soundstage: A-

Jaytiss original ranking

Jaytiss Youtube Channel

Aful Performer 5 reviewed by Jaytiss

Jaytiss 7.3 Reviewer Score
B Tuning
C+ Tech
Still a king.

Jaytiss original ranking

Jaytiss Youtube Channel
Mids: B Treble: C+ Dynamics: A- Soundstage: A-

Truthear Hexa reviewed by Jays Audio

Jays Audio 6 Reviewer Score
A- Tuning
A- Tech
Foam helps tame uppermids/treble. Amazing detail for price and new benchmark below $100. Better tuned "softer" Dusk with slighlty less accurate imaging. Note-weight can be light.

Jays Audio original ranking

Jays Audio Youtube Channel

Aful Performer 5 reviewed by Jays Audio

Jays Audio 6 Reviewer Score
A Tuning
A- Tech
Fun slight v-shape tuning with forward vocals with slight excitement in the treble. Separation takes a hit as a result, and treble is a bit uneven.

Jays Audio original ranking

Jays Audio Youtube Channel

Truthear Hexa reviewed by Tim Tuned

Tim Tuned 6 Reviewer Score
B Tuning
A- Tech
Well done, clean midrange focus tuning Can be fatiguing in the treble

Tim Tuned original ranking

Tim Tuned Youtube Channel
Bass: A- Mids: A+ Treble: A+

Aful Performer 5 reviewed by Tim Tuned

Tim Tuned 6.5 Reviewer Score
B+ Tuning
A+ Tech
Balanced tuning with fantastic treble extension imaging could be better

Tim Tuned original ranking

Tim Tuned Youtube Channel
Bass: A- Mids: A+ Treble: A+

Truthear Hexa reviewed by Gizaudio Axel

Gizaudio Axel 6 Reviewer Score
B Tuning
B- Tech
Unique neutral-bright sound signature, but overall feels a little unengaging. Clean, clear vocals with decent detail. Bass quality and impact, mids can feel lean, and treble can get a bit bright.

Gizaudio Axel original ranking

Gizaudio Axel Youtube Channel

Aful Performer 5 reviewed by Gizaudio Axel

Gizaudio Axel 6.5 Reviewer Score
A Tuning
B+ Tech

Truthear Hexa reviewed by Shuwa-T

Shuwa-T 5.8 Reviewer Score
B- Tuning
B- Tech
Comment: A mini B2 minus the good stuff. Tuning done well, similar to B2 but less in everything Somewhat crammed soundstage

Shuwa-T original ranking

Shuwa-T Website

Bass: B- Mids: B Treble: B Soundstage: B- Details: B Imaging: B

Aful Performer 5 reviewed by Shuwa-T

Shuwa-T 6.4 Reviewer Score
B Tuning
B+ Tech
Comment: Neutral-warm with zero cut-backs on technical performance. Price defining.. Tonal balance, technical performance at price bracket Subbass slightly sluggish on crowded tracks, more laid back in vocal presentation. Staging is questionable.

Shuwa-T original ranking

Shuwa-T Website

Bass: B+ Mids: B Treble: B Soundstage: B Details: A- Imaging: A-

Truthear Hexa reviewed by Fresh Reviews

Fresh Reviews 5.5* * The score of this reviewer influences only the Gaming Score
Borders C+
Youtube Video Summary

Truthear Hexa brings a clean, neutral presentation in a sturdy, smoky shell where the drivers are visible. The fit is slightly larger than some rivals but still comfortable, with solid build integrity at the price. Accessories are generous—familiar Truthear cable (similar to the Zero), a pouch, and multiple tip options—though the cable feels a step below premium inclusions elsewhere.

Sonically, Hexa focuses on micro detail, clarity, and coherence, delivering more revealing male/female vocals than warmer sets. For gaming, it shines with precise imaging, depth, and verticality—excellent directional audio for tactical cues—while remaining composed in busy scenes. In close-quarters maps a warmer set like Dunu Kima can feel more “atmospheric,” but Hexa’s neutrality keeps separation crisp; in open-world/Battle Royale scenarios it’s confidently competitive and sits near the Zero in overall positional performance. At around $80, it’s an easy add to the budget recommendation list for music, casual play, and competitive gaming alike.


Fresh Reviews original ranking

Fresh Reviews Youtube Channel

Aful Performer 5 reviewed by Fresh Reviews

Fresh Reviews 5.5* * The score of this reviewer influences only the Gaming Score

Truthear Hexa reviewed by Precogvision

Precogvision 5.3 Reviewer Score
B- Tuning
C+ Tech
Sounds like a warmer, lo-res Moondrop B2, emphasis on lo-res in the bass.

Precogvision original ranking

Precogvision Youtube Channel
Bass: C+ Mids: B Treble: B Dynamics: C+ Details: B Imaging: C+

Aful Performer 5 reviewed by Precogvision

Precogvision 5.1 Reviewer Score
C+ Tuning
C+ Tech
Inoffensive other than being a bit too gritty and clacky in the treble.

Precogvision original ranking

Precogvision Youtube Channel
Bass: C+ Mids: B Treble: C+ Dynamics: C+ Details: C+ Imaging: C+

Truthear Hexa reviewed by Nymz

Nymz 4.6 Reviewer Score
C+ Tuning
C- Tech
check links for more info:

Nymz original ranking

Nymz Website

Bass: C+ Mids: C+ Treble: C+ Details: C- Imaging: C-

Aful Performer 5 reviewed by Nymz

Nymz 5.2 Reviewer Score
B- Tuning
C Tech
Great tonal balance and resolving power at the cost of intimate stage. Missing the last touch of refinement on timbre and coherency, but a solid rec nonetheless.

Nymz original ranking

Nymz Website

Bass: B Mids: B Treble: C+ Details: B- Imaging: C-

Truthear Hexa (more reviews)

Truthear Hexa reviewed by Crin

Crin 6.5 Reviewer Score
A+ Tuning
B Tech

Truthear Hexa reviewed by Audionotions

Audionotions 5.5 Reviewer Score
Like the B2 but a step down in resolution and separation - very well-tuned - could use a tad more bass quantity and tighter bass (it sounds a bit fuzzy and loose - I guess they aren't using a very good DD), and better treble (this problem can be fixed by using wide bore tips). Great value for $79 - no comfort, fit, or QC issues like the B2 but in exchange.

Audionotions original ranking

Website (Audionotions)

Truthear Hexa reviewed by Head-Fi.org

Head-Fi.org 6.9 * score rescaled + normalized
18 community members have rated the Truthear Hexa at an average of 4.4/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.

URL to full Review

Head-Fi.org original ranking

Aful Performer 5 (more reviews)

Aful Performer 5 reviewed by Yifang

Yifang 6.5 Reviewer Score
B+ Tuning
B+ Tech

Truthear Hexa User Review Score

Average User Scores

Average User Score:

Based on 1 user reviews

7

Generally Favorable

Aful Performer 5 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!

Truthear Hexa Gaming Score

Gaming Score & Grade

  • The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.

Gaming Score

5.9

Gaming Grade

B-

Aful Performer 5 Gaming Score

Gaming Score & Grade

  • The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.

Gaming Score

6.3

Gaming Grade

B

Truthear Hexa Scorings

Average Technical & Tuning Grades

Average Tunign Grade

B
  • It sounds pleasant overall, with some uneven spots that hint at room for refinement. Vocals remain pleasant despite the imperfections.

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.
Bass B-
Bass performance is average—present enough but rarely inspiring. It neither offends nor impresses.
Mids B
Expect a confident midrange that keeps details audible without harshness. Acoustic arrangements sound engaging.
Treble B
Highs sound lively and extended while remaining controlled. Detail retrieval keeps shimmer intact.
Dynamics C+
Expect solid impact overall, even if finer gradations feel a touch smoothed. Micro-details could still be sharper.
Soundstage B
The presentation supplies a believable venue outline where each instrument owns its pocket of space. The stage opens up nicely for live cuts.
Details C+
It rides the line between musicality and analysis, occasionally letting micro-detail slip by. Complex mixes stay organized for the most part.
Imaging C+
Stereo cues lock in more reliably, even if depth mapping remains approximate. Panning transitions smoothly across the stage.
Gaming B-
Moderate spatial presentation conveys general directionality. Suitable for casual play where precision isn't critical.

Aful Performer 5 Scorings

Average Technical & Tuning Grades

Average Tunign Grade

B
  • Tonality is generally agreeable, though a few bumps remind you of its limits. Certain tracks spotlight its tonal quirks.

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.
Bass B
Expect a solid thump that keeps the rhythm engaging yet controlled. Sub-bass presence is supportive, not overwhelming.
Mids B
The region sounds composed and expressive, giving vocals a natural spotlight. It keeps vocals front and center nicely.
Treble B-
Expect a polite treble presentation that balances presence with restraint. Percussion carries a pleasant sparkle.
Dynamics B
The performance feels robust, with satisfying punch and natural transitions. Nuances are easy to follow.
Soundstage B+
A satisfying balance of width and depth yields a stage that feels organized and engaging. Imaging lines up with the intended mix.
Details B-
Ambient cues appear, albeit with softer focus than die-hard resolution seekers may prefer. You can follow supporting instruments well.
Imaging C+
The stage feels orderly, guiding your ear across positions without confusion. Depth layering is hinted and believable.
Gaming B
Decent spatial awareness for fundamental positioning. Creates satisfying atmosphere in story-driven games while handling basic directional cues.

Truthear Hexa User Reviews

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Y yorxx
7

Neutral.

Pros
Neutral tone and technically amazing.
Cons
Soft bass, Something noisy.

Aful Performer 5 User Reviews

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