Truthear Pure VS CrinEar Daybreak

The Truthear Pure keeps the $90 hybrid recipe of the Hexa (3BA+1DD) and most of its shell geometry, but tweaks details: a slightly smaller nozzle eases fit for those who struggled with Hexa, while a thicker body changes how it sits against the antitragus. Accessories are sensible—the pocketable soft pouch and three styles of ear tips help dial in seal and stability—though the bold logo and faint channel markings won’t win style awards. Overall comfort is compact and easy, with fit security largely dependent on tip choice rather than ear-conforming contours.

Sonically this is a shift from Hexa’s laser-neutral baseline to a warm-neutral flavor: ~1–2 dB more energy from 1 kHz down adds body and density, while slightly pulled-back upper mids/treble relax the presentation. Stage size and separation aren’t the selling points, yet the treble execution is impressively clean and controlled for the price, avoiding the congestion feared from early listens. Bass remains not the star, but attack is snappier and kick definition more satisfying than on Hexa, making drums feel better outlined without abandoning neutrality.

Think HD600 vs HD650: Hexa reads brighter, airier, and a touch more “technical,” while Pure is fuller, warmer, and more relaxed—arguably the more mature tonality. For contrast seekers, the Jazir/Z Reviews Defiant hits harder with a lively V-shape; to split the difference with extra low-end and micro-contrast, the AFUL Explorer fits. As a sub-$100 choice, Pure lands as a five-star set: not a technical monster, but a beautifully tuned, dense take on neutral that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Hexa rather than replacing it—pick Hexa for openness, Pure for tone and treble refinement.

Super* Review original ranking

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

The Truthear Pure offers a neutral, JM1-style target tuning aimed at a studio-reference sound, achieving this goal competently for its price point. However, its build quality and accessories feel disappointing and recycled from older models like the Hexa. The shell contouring is rigid and unimpressive, while the tips and case lack innovation. The cable is a slight improvement over the Hexa's – supple but lacking clear right/left indicators – making the overall package just okay, not exciting.

Sonically, the Pure presents a linear bass rise and a generally neutral presentation, differing from the Hexa by offering a bit more warmth but less sparkle and magical mid-range presence. While it fixes the Hexa's "pillowy bass," it doesn't fully surpass it, lacking the Hexa's legendary status. Comparisons reveal it's very similar to the Audio Sense DT200 in tonality, though slightly preferred. It falls short against competitors like the Kiwi Ears Quartet (better bass/mids), Ziigaat Lush (better technicalities), Softears Volume S (more natural curve), or planar options around its price. Crucially, the fit is problematic, often requiring expensive aftermarket tips like the Baroque to work well, which feels impractical for a $90 IEM.

Ultimately, the Pure is a solid but middling release, earning a B rating. It suits those specifically seeking an affordable JM1-style neutral signature or dedicated Truthear fans. For most listeners, however, better alternatives exist: the Hexa remains preferable within Truthear's lineup for its magic, the Nova offers more fun, or competitors like the Aful Explorer (bass-focused), TANGZU Fudu (value planar), or slightly pricier Volume S provide more engaging or technically proficient experiences. It's not a strong general recommendation.

Jaytiss original ranking

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 original ranking

Truthear Pure lands as the so-called Hexa successor, but the tuning pivots hard: it’s warmer, darker, and even more laid-back. Think mini Softears Volür—only warmer—so male vocals pop with weight, extension, and a lush low-end foundation. At mid-to-low volumes it can come off bloated and a little low-res up top, with dulled upper-mid/treble detail; push it to around 75 dB+ and it scales nicely, opening the stage, adding clarity, and staying non-fatiguing thanks to the tamer upper mids.

Genre pairing leans into hip-hop, rap, R&B, jazz, and rock/metal: there’s satisfying mid-bass impact and sub-bass rumble, with restrained upper mids keeping sibilance and shout in check on hotter recordings. Tipwise, avoid bass-boosters like Final E, Divinus Venus, and even the stock silicones. Go with Softears Ultra Clear or other clear, open-bore tips to nudge in more treble air while keeping the smoothness.

On raw technicals, Pure isn’t class-leading for its bracket—less detail and separation than the older Hexa despite sharing drivers, because the warmer/darker tilt trims perceived clarity. Buy it for the tuning and volume scaling. It plays like a more vocal-centric spin on the AFUL Explorer (darker, immersive, vocals pop more, a bit less sub-bass-centric). Chasing value or technical bite? Sets like EW300 (on sale) or Moondrop Aria 2 Red, and of course Hexa, will feel cleaner and crisper. Bottom line: a side-grade with its own niche—great for listeners who prefer a warm, smooth presentation and aren’t shy about turning the volume up.

Jays Audio original ranking

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 original ranking

Truthear Pure brings a warm, bass-impactful presentation from its 1DD+3BA setup, but the rest feels like it’s under a blanket. There’s a noticeable 2 kHz hump, then the upper range ducks hard past ~8 kHz, leaving the sound veiled—like three comforters thrown over the music. Great for bass-centric tracks (think Arcane S2 remixes), yet dull and somehow fatiguing at the same time. The shells look cool—semi-transparent with a heatsink-style back—and the stock cable is soft and supple but fixed 3.5 mm. Accessories are classic Truthear: small leather pouch, tip array, and a waifu postcard. Listed around $89 (feels more like $50 value).

The real curveball is the imaging and stage. On 3D test tracks that should sweep smoothly around the head, motion skews and snaps—front/back depth behaves weird and timing feels off. It’s the kind of tuning (or implementation) that begs for EQ just to “open it up”. For listeners who want warmth + bass and the bunny-girl aesthetic, this will scratch the itch. For a cleaner, properly integrated 1DD+3BA experience, alternatives like Defiant make more sense, especially at a similar price. Net: an acceptable set for bass enjoyment, but with odd staging and a rolled-off, veiled top end that keeps it off the must-buy list.

Z-Reviews original ranking

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 original ranking