Best IEMs under $2000

Thieaudio Valhalla

Thieaudio Valhalla

Jays Audio: TOTL all-rounder with "endgame" tech across the board, a better tuned U12T with better bass texture
Jaytiss: Big fan, but lacks fantastic air like some other sets.
Super* Review: I'm really tempted to go out and buy one of this things for myself - if it fit me even better, I probably would.
Fresh Reviews: S tier for COD, borders A- for other titles
Shuwa-T: Deep bass despite all BA set, techs carry this set more than the overall tone Treble is mushy for something with so many BAs, not for high frequency enjoyers
Bad Guy Good Audio: ThieAudio Valhalla comes in hot as a true flagship challenger: a titanium shell housing 19 drivers — 14 “Sonion” and five “Knowles" —and a price planted in the ~$2K bracket. This tier...
Head-Fi.org: 4 community members have rated the THIEAUDIO Valhalla at an average of 4.8/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Exceptional.

Tuning: S- Tech: A+ Bass: A+ Mids: A+ Treble: A Dynamics: A+ Soundstage: S- Details: S- Imaging: S-

V-Shaped 19BA

Thieaudio Valhalla review by Super* Review

Thieaudio Valhalla review by Smirk Audio

Thieaudio Valhalla review by Fresh Reviews

Thieaudio Valhalla review by Bad Guy Good Audio

Thieaudio Valhalla review by Head-Fi.org

8.9

7.9

S-

Elysian Apostle

Jays Audio: Clean, neutral, and clear vocals. Reminds me of a cleaner Volume S or slightly better OG Oracle, but very expensive, maybe if you can find one around $1000 since it's more of a sidegrade to RSV,...
Gizaudio Axel: Exceptional in every way. Incredibly textured bass, forward vocals, top-tier EST treble, and insane detail.
Jaytiss: Instrument separation is good, and is a nice darkness, but can be silbilant.
Web Search: The Elysian Apostle delivers a V-shaped signature with a powerful, sub-bass-focused low end that offers substantial rumble and physicality, though some listeners might find it occasionally...
Head-Fi.org: 4 community members have rated the Elysian Apostle at an average of 4.8/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Exceptional.

Tuning: S- Tech: S- Mids: S Treble: A+ Dynamics: A+ Soundstage: S-

V-Shaped 1DD+2BA+2EST

8.8

7.2

S-

Fiio FX17

Gizaudio Axel: Warm, non-fatiguing listen. Punchy mid-bass, warm, lush mids, smooth, detailed treble, wide soundstage. Warm sound signature may not suit everyone.
Jaytiss: It's a ramped up Truthear Pure.
Super* Review: This is the best IEM Fiio has ever made. Very powerfull sound.
Web Search: The FiiO FX17 is a 13-driver tribrid with a 10 mm lithium-magnesium DD, four custom Knowles BAs, and eight Sonion ESTs in a five-way crossover, housed in a polished titanium shell. It’s rated at 16...
Z-Reviews: The FiiO FX17 is a mind-bending flagship IEM priced at $1,500, packing an absolutely hilarious 13-driver configuration per side: one dynamic for bass, four balanced armatures for midrange...
Head-Fi.org: 2 community members have rated the Fiio FX17 at an average of 4.5/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.

Tuning: A Tech: A+ Bass: A+ Mids: A Treble: A+ Dynamics: A+ Soundstage: S- Details: S Imaging: S

Neutral 1DD+4BA+8EST

8.8

7

9.1

S-

$1,199

Campfire Moon Rover

Jaytiss: It's a littled relaxed in the bass, but has a fun nice tune.
Super* Review: Not cheap and you can get stuff which sounds better for less to be honest. I like the build quality and form factor. Sound-wise not for everybody, but for me.

Tuning: A Tech: A- Mids: S Treble: A- Dynamics: A- Soundstage: A-

Warm n/a

Campfire Moon Rover review by Super* Review

8.8

6.2

S-

AFUL Dawn-X

Jays Audio: Smooth treble, natural timbre, good sub-bass focused set, but transients can be a bit soft, and vocals are pulled back lacking final extension - non-fatiguing but not very engaging and "dynamic". A...
Gizaudio Axel: Balanced all-rounder with fun bass, lifelike mids, very smooth and refined treble, highly resolving and immersive, with great soundstage and precise imaging. Textured, punchy bass, natural mids, ethereal female vocals, smooth, airy, and non-fatiguing treble, top-tier resolution.
Jaytiss: This has a really natural midrange, best BC iem I've heard by far.
Super* Review: Super Review says AFUL’s Dawn-X is the brand’s best execution of its house sound yet—a $1,300 flagship tribrid with 14 drivers (DD + 8 BA + 4 EST + bone conduction) that fits comfortably and...
Web Search: The AFUL Dawn-X is a 14-driver quadbrid IEM—1DD+8BA+4EST+1BC—wired together via a six-way electronic + physical crossover and AFUL’s 3D Micro-Resonance acoustic paths; the stabilized-wood...
Z-Reviews: AFUL Dawn-X goes straight for spectacle: a $1,300 tribrid behemoth with 14 drivers per side —one dynamic, eight BAs, four electrostats , and a bone conductor —that turns familiar tracks...
Audionotions: Slightly warm tilted neutral. Very well balanced with a tasteful bass boost. Bass is surprisingly very weighty and textured with quick decay so bass notes don't linger and overstay their welcome....
Head-Fi.org: 2 community members have rated the AFUL DAWN-X at an average of 5.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Masterpiece.
Kois Archive: Rating: S+ | Value: ⭐⭐ | Gaming: 🎮🎮🎮 | Comfort: 6 natural midrange. ethereal treble. totl techs. rip small ears

Tuning: S- Tech: S Bass: S- Mids: S- Treble: S- Dynamics: A Soundstage: S- Details: S- Imaging: A+

U-Shaped 1DD+8BA+4EST+1BC

8.7

8.1

S-

Dunu Glacier

Jays Audio: Clean, balanced but engaging sound, clear vocals, great midrange and tech. Vocals can be a bit too forward/sharp. The most recent unit I got sounds different than the earlier ones which was...
Gizaudio Axel: Reveals every detail in your music, both the good and the bad. Exceptional bass, ethereal treble, remarkable clarity, and outstanding detail. The upper mid-range might be a bit too much for some people.
Jaytiss: Upper mids kill it for me, but it's a fun set.
Precogvision: Quite exciting and dynamic, possibly a bit bright in the treble.
Tim Tuned: Less thin harman with amazing tech Not very natural timbre
Super* Review: Convinces me that the harman target can sound excellent.
Web Search: 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...
Z-Reviews: 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...
Head-Fi.org: 4 community members have rated the DUNU Glacier at an average of 4.8/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Exceptional.

Tuning: A+ Tech: S- Bass: S- Mids: A- Treble: A+ Dynamics: S Soundstage: S Details: A+ Imaging: A+

Neutral with Bass Boost 1DD+4BA+4EST

8.7

7.4

9

S-

$1,149

ThieAudio Monarch MK4

ThieAudio Monarch MK4

Jays Audio: Smooth, clean, balanced, and slightly airy in the balance switch. Goes from a clean all-rounder to a warm/bassy all-rounder. Great tech. Basically a cheaper Prestige LTD with more tuning options....
Jaytiss: Detailed fun, rich bass. It's hard to fault.
Precogvision: Excellent detail retreival and competent tuning. Can be slightly thin sounding and forward in the treble.
Tim Tuned: ThieAudio Monarch MK4 arrives with the usual hype and a clear step-up in presentation: a thick, high-quality premium cable with interchangeable terminations, plenty of tips and tools, and a...
Super* Review: Kind of an impressive sound signature. A little bit dry in its bass presentation. Sounds a little bit clinical with its stock tuning. Maybe a bit too much bass in rumble mode. But it's kind of nice...
Web Search: The Thieaudio Monarch MK4 introduces a practical tuning switch, letting users flip between Standard for a neutral, detailed profile and Rumble for a pronounced 3dB sub-bass boost. This flexibility...
Fresh Reviews: Great All Rounder
Bad Guy Good Audio: Monarch MK IV lands as a top-three set, sitting just behind the PMG APXSE and CP622B, and it earns that spot with an evolutionary design: a single, tactile rumble switch that can be flipped...
Head-Fi.org: 4 community members have rated the Thieaudio Monarch MKIV at an average of 5.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Masterpiece.

Tuning: A+ Tech: A+ Bass: A+ Mids: A+ Treble: S- Dynamics: A+ Soundstage: S Details: A+ Imaging: A-

Neutral with Bass Boost 2DD+6BA+2EST

ThieAudio Monarch MK4 review by Jays Audio

ThieAudio Monarch MK4 review by Precogvision

ThieAudio Monarch MK4 review by Tim Tuned

ThieAudio Monarch MK4 review by Super* Review

ThieAudio Monarch MK4 review by Web Search

ThieAudio Monarch MK4 review by Fresh Reviews

ThieAudio Monarch MK4 review by Bad Guy Good Audio

ThieAudio Monarch MK4 review by Head-Fi.org

8.5

8.7

9

S-

$1,700

Lime Ears Incognita

Jaytiss: Bass for days, slightly too agressive, but fun and enjoyable.
Head-Fi.org: One community member has rated the Lime Ears Incognita at an average of 5.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Masterpiece.
Kois Archive: Rating: S- | Value: ⭐ | Gaming: 🎮🎮 | Comfort: 8 inoffensive balanced sound needs better air.

Tuning: A+ Tech: A+ Mids: A- Treble: A- Dynamics: A+ Soundstage: A+

n/a 5DD BA

Lime Ears Incognita review by Head-Fi.org

Lime Ears Incognita review by Kois Archive

8.5

6.6

S-

BGVP Solomon

Web Search: The BGVP Solomon is a quad-brid IEM with a complex 2DD+3BA+2EST+2BCD driver array, low 7.3 Ω impedance, and 110.8 dB sensitivity, indicating easy drivability but potential source-noise audibility....
Fox Told Me So: BGVP Solomon packs 9 drivers—2 DD, 3 BA, 2 EST, and 2 BCD—into a bold, energetic tuning. Bass is moderate in quantity but tight, fast, and clean, focusing on speed over slam. No bleed, no extra...

Tuning: A+ Tech: S- Bass: S- Mids: A Treble: A+ Dynamics: S- Soundstage: S- Details: S- Imaging: A+

Neutral 2DD+3BA+2EST+2BC

8.5

7.4

A+

$1,500

Symphonium Crimson

Jays Audio: U-shaped/Slight V/W Shaped. Energetic treble. Great tech. Fun signature.
Jaytiss: Suffers from BA bass, and super Zingie Treble.
Precogvision: Colored tonality done correctly with incredible bass and dynamics. Upper-treble can be slightly too zingy depending on source.
Smirk Audio: Excellent bass, dynamics, and resolution. Very large soundstage with great imaging. Mid/upper-treble may be too elevated for some.
Shuwa-T: The bassier Helios with no sacrifices to clarity
Nymz: Great bass, holographic stage and top of the shelf dynamics. Probably my favourite rendition of a W-shaped tuning to this date. Treble might be spicy for some, but using Divinus Velvets (stock black)...
Z-Reviews: Symphonium Crimson lands with a bang: a four– BA , four-way crossover design that somehow delivers epic energy without a dynamic driver. Tonality reads neutral-bright with thunderous sub-bass...
Head-Fi.org: 29 community members have rated the Symphonium Crimson at an average of 4.4/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.

Tuning: A+ Tech: A+ Bass: S- Mids: A Treble: A Dynamics: A- Soundstage: A+ Details: A+ Imaging: S-

U-Shaped 4BA

Symphonium Crimson review by Precogvision

Symphonium Crimson review by Smirk Audio

Symphonium Crimson review by Head-Fi.org

8.4

7.2

A+

Letshuoer Mystic 8

Jays Audio: Vocal benchmark for female vocals under $2000. Clean, airy, sweet, ethereal. Better than Diva and direct upgrade to OG Oracle and OG Mangird Tea. What the Braindamage and Cantor wishes they could be....
Gizaudio Axel: Neutral-bright tuning with natural midrange tone. Vocal-focused with realistic timbre. Natural, lifelike mids and vocals. Refined treble with air and clarity. Good technicalities. Light BA bass. Unvented design. Upper treble may bother those who are extra sensitive to treble.
Jaytiss: Lack Bass Richness, but is a beautiful set.
Super* Review: Surprising in a lot of fronts. Maybe a little bit overpriced but I like it
Shuwa-T: Vocal magic, midrange and upper mids are crystal clear while never being too technical Both sub and midbass presence is less than normal which makes this more genre specific, not particularly suited for bass heavy genres
Z-Reviews: Letshuoer Mystic 8 leans hard into “flagship” theatrics: a cat-themed shell, a fancy case with a suction-seal lid, and even bonus jewelry in the box—plus a tray of 18 silicone tips . The...
Bad Guy Good Audio: Eight balanced armatures (4 Sonion, 4 Knowles) and a lighter, more comfortable fit give the Letshuoer Mystic 8 a strong first impression. The frequency response shows sub-bass priority over...
Head-Fi.org: 20 community members have rated the LETSHUOER Mystic 8 at an average of 4.5/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.

Tuning: A Tech: A+ Bass: B+ Mids: A Treble: A+ Dynamics: B+ Soundstage: S- Details: A+ Imaging: A+

Neutral 8BA

Letshuoer Mystic 8 review by Gizaudio Axel

Letshuoer Mystic 8 review by Super* Review

Letshuoer Mystic 8 review by Smirk Audio

Letshuoer Mystic 8 review by Bad Guy Good Audio

Letshuoer Mystic 8 review by Head-Fi.org

8.4

7.1

A+

$1,629

Metalure Glacier

Jaytiss: Slight harshness in the trebble, but competent, lovely set.
Web Search: The Metalure Glacier is a 9-driver tribrid—1DD+6BA+2EST—positioned as the brand’s flagship; this configuration is confirmed in independent coverage and frames its focus on treble extension and...

Tuning: A+ Tech: A Bass: A+ Mids: A Treble: A Dynamics: A+ Soundstage: S- Details: S- Imaging: S-

U-Shaped 1DD+6BA+2EST

8.4

6.3

A+

$1,599

Linsoul x HBB Jupiter

Jaytiss: Great BASS, blarg trebble.
Web Search: The Linsoul x HBB Jupiter delivers a powerful bass-forward signature with an 11dB sub-bass shelf that avoids bleeding into the mids, resulting in a warm yet articulate low end. Its hybrid driver...
Shuwa-T: Bass go boom boom Because bass go boom boom so the highs go doom doom sometimes
Bad Guy Good Audio: Linsoul x HBB Jupiter aims straight for flagship territory: a warm-tilted, slam -capable set that keeps the mid-bass → mids transition impeccably tidy. There’s real shove at 55 Hz and...
Head-Fi.org: One community member has rated the Linsoul x HBB Jupiter at an average of 5.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Masterpiece.

Tuning: A Tech: A Bass: A+ Mids: B+ Treble: A- Dynamics: S Soundstage: A Details: A Imaging: A

Basshead 1DD+6BA+4EST

Linsoul x HBB Jupiter review by Web Search

Linsoul x HBB Jupiter review by Bad Guy Good Audio

Linsoul x HBB Jupiter review by Head-Fi.org

8.3

6.3

A+

$1,800

Empire Ears Triton

Jaytiss: Lacks a little special sause, but it's a capable smooth darker set.
Head-Fi.org: 3 community members have rated the Empire Ears Triton at an average of 4.7/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Exceptional.

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

Neutral with Bass Boost n/a

Empire Ears Triton review by Head-Fi.org

8.3

4

A+

$1,018

Campfire Audio Alien Brain

on audio46

Campfire Audio Alien Brain

Jaytiss: So simple and nice it's hard to not love.
Head-Fi.org: 4 community members have rated the Campfire Audio Alien Brain at an average of 4.5/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.

Tuning: A Tech: A Bass: A+ Mids: A Treble: A Dynamics: A+ Soundstage: A+ Details: A- Imaging: A-

Neutral with Bass Boost 1DD+4BA

Campfire Audio Alien Brain review by Jaytiss

Campfire Audio Alien Brain review by Smirk Audio

Campfire Audio Alien Brain review by Head-Fi.org

8.3

6.7

A+

$1,200

Symphonium Audio Helios SE

Super* Review: Symphonium Audio’s collaboration with Elise Audio turns the original Helios into a more wearable Helios SE without rewriting its sonics. The shell is smaller , cleaner-looking, and finished in...
Z-Reviews: Limited to 50 units and co-signed with Elise Audio , Helios SE shows up as a 4BA oddball with a vibe: ultra-relaxed, non-aggressive , almost like every track sits one gain click lower than...

Neutral n/a

Symphonium Audio Helios SE review by Super* Review

Symphonium Audio Helios SE review by Z-Reviews

8.3

7.3

A+

64 Audio U12T

Jays Audio: TOTL tech. Mid-scoop can affect mids/vocal texture and placement, recessed midrange, treble is harsh at high volumes. Great bass detail, but could have more impact.
Crin: Amazing bass (for a BA), top-tier resolution and detail-oriented signature.
Jaytiss: Just Smooth and nice, great all arounder with smooth technicals, but too boring.
Precogvision: Terrific dynamic range and soundstage depth; the closest I have heard to a two-channel system in an IEM for these qualities.
Tim Tuned: Extremely versatile signature, great bass and details Potentially too safe tuning wise
Super* Review: The 64 Audio U12t lands exactly where its reputation suggests: a warm , laid-back , yet highly detailed all-rounder that stays engaging without ever turning fatiguing . With the apex M15 ...
Smirk Audio: Good resolution and dynamics with great imaging. Smooth, slightly recessed upper-mids with an upper treble peak.
Web Search: The 64 Audio U12t is a mature flagship-class UIEM built around twelve balanced armatures per side and the company’s tia (open-BA) and apex pressure-relief tech; it lists at $1,999. Module options...
Shuwa-T: Comment: Really clean sounding monitor with excellent technical aspects. Bass texture, superb clarity Can sound too sterile
Nymz: As good as it gets. Great tuning and techs. Best set I've heard to date. Closest thing to speakers. Love it.
Audionotions: Amazing separation and presentation, amazing bass that extends down low and hits pretty authoritavely (not just in the context of BA sets - very good quantity and quality). Pretty interesting tuning...
Head-Fi.org: One community member has rated the 64 Audio U12T at an average of 3.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Mixed to Positive.
Yifang: Unique Melody MEST MKII brings a distinctive recipe: a DD + 4BA + 2EST array augmented by a full-range bone-conduction driver, translating to a relaxed yet vividly holographic presentation....
Kois Archive: Rating: S- | Value: ⭐ | Gaming: 🎮🎮🎮 | Comfort: 8 fun, technical, and thunderous bass Upper mids can be a bit weird

Tuning: A+ Tech: S- Bass: S- Mids: A+ Treble: A Dynamics: A Soundstage: A+ Details: S- Imaging: S

Neutral with Bass Boost 12BA

8.3

7

8.2

A+

$1,299

ThieAudio Prestige LTD

ThieAudio Prestige LTD

Jays Audio: Clean and natural signature with treble emphasis. LOTS of details with airy treble without going overboard (better treble extension vs MK2/MK3). Bass is not as impactful versus MK3 but has better...
Jaytiss: The unit I reviewed had wonky bass, expect this to change if I review a unit with proper bass.
Web Search: The ThieAudio Prestige LTD is a tribrid flagship using a 1DD + 4BA + 4EST array with a 5-way crossover, aiming for coherent treble extension and low distortion. Official materials and retailer specs...
Shuwa-T: A much better implementation than the Prestige OG
Nymz: The best Thieaudio I've heard to date. Very close tonality to the Mk3, but with better technical performance, especially in the dynamics and stage departments.
Z-Reviews: Explodes with a grand, hall-sized soundstage , a sense of space that feels like giant speakers in a living venue—wide, towering, and immersive. The tuning hits a sweet spot of aggressive low...
Bad Guy Good Audio: ThieAudio Prestige LTD sits near the top of the pile because it just doesn’t do anything wrong. Bass has real weight without bloat, the mids stay clean , and treble keeps it crisp without...
Head-Fi.org: One community member has rated the Thieaudio Prestige LTD at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

Tuning: A+ Tech: A Bass: A Mids: A+ Treble: A+ Dynamics: B+ Soundstage: A+ Details: A Imaging: A

Neutral with Bass Boost 1DD+4BA+4EST

ThieAudio Prestige LTD review by Jays Audio

ThieAudio Prestige LTD review by Jaytiss

ThieAudio Prestige LTD review by Smirk Audio

ThieAudio Prestige LTD review by Web Search

ThieAudio Prestige LTD review by Shuwa-T

ThieAudio Prestige LTD review by Z-Reviews

ThieAudio Prestige LTD review by Bad Guy Good Audio

ThieAudio Prestige LTD review by Head-Fi.org

8.2

6.9

A+

$999

Thieaudio Monarch MK3

Thieaudio Monarch MK3

Jays Audio: Better low-end texture and overall more engaging than MK2, but lacks the mid-range/vocal magic, so depending on your preference either is great. Still TOTL tech like MK2. Great all-rounder.
Gizaudio Axel: I prefer the Monarch MK II for its tonality, vocals, and timbre, but I get why some prefer the MK III. More bass, treble, and detail than the Monarch MK II. The vocal magic of the Monarch MK II is gone.
Jaytiss: Fatiging at times for me, too fun at times.
Precogvision: Still perplexingly poor bass performance, but improves upon the Monarch MKII's treble extension noticeably.
Tim Tuned: MK2 but more fun and more V-shape Not as natural in timbre
Smirk Audio: Elevated, well-textured mid-bass. Pleasant mids. Elevated upper-treble may be pesky to some.
Fresh Reviews: Borders A for some titles
Shuwa-T: Better bass response compared to the mk2 Trades off the lush midrange in place of a cleaner sounding, almost boring midrange
Nymz: An improvement in the bass and treble department over the Mk2, but without the same special sauce in the mid-range and with some imaging problems still.
Z-Reviews: Thieaudio Monarch MK3 takes the flagship slot with swagger: a 2DD + 6BA + 2EST array and a 4-way passive crossover , centered on the Impact² isobaric push-pull dual 10 mm subwoofer . The shells...
Head-Fi.org: One community member has rated the THIEAUDIO MONARCH MKIII at an average of 5.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Masterpiece.

Tuning: A Tech: A Bass: A Mids: A Treble: A Dynamics: A- Soundstage: A+ Details: A Imaging: A-

U-Shaped 2DD+6BA+2EST

Thieaudio Monarch MK3 review by Jays Audio

Thieaudio Monarch MK3 review by Gizaudio Axel

Thieaudio Monarch MK3 review by Precogvision

Thieaudio Monarch MK3 review by Tim Tuned

Thieaudio Monarch MK3 review by Smirk Audio

Thieaudio Monarch MK3 review by Fresh Reviews

Thieaudio Monarch MK3 review by Z-Reviews

Thieaudio Monarch MK3 review by Head-Fi.org

8.2

7.6

6.8

A+

64 Audio U4S

Jaytiss: It's a solid set, with great build quality, but sonically isn't the specialist that I want it to be.
Precogvision: Fantastic colored tonality with options, and the unique technical qualities to back it up. M12/M15 modules recommended.
Super* Review: The 64 Audio U4s hits a compelling sweet spot: a 1DD+3BA hybrid around $1,100 that echoes the lush, bass-tilted character of the Nio while fixing key drawbacks. Packaging and accessories feel...
Smirk Audio: A tastefully colored U12t with a more intimate soundstage, a cutback in technicalities, and more bass realism.
Audionotions: A step down in techs from U12T (possibly a half step down from U6T). But very well tuned and adds in a dynamic driver punch. Timbre is slightly improved compared to U12T due to the increase in...
Head-Fi.org: 4 community members have rated the 64 Audio U4s at an average of 4.3/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.

Tuning: A- Tech: A- Bass: A+ Mids: A Treble: B+ Dynamics: A Soundstage: B Details: A- Imaging: A

Neutral 1DD+3BA

8.1

6.1

A+

$1,700

Sony IER Z1R

Jays Audio: Best of the best in most areas, but vocals and mids can be thin due to fit issues. Insane bass texture/detail and HUGE soundstage. One of the best trebles I've heard.
Crin: Extended yet natural treble, realistic sub-bass focus and spacious imaging capabilities.
Precogvision: Top-tier bass, treble, and soundstage height and width. I don't approve of the midrange these days.
Tim Tuned: Incredible extensions on both ends Lower midrange
Smirk Audio: Visceral, hard-hitting bass, sparkly treble, and a large, spherical soundstage with impressive height. Fit may pose a challenge for many. Cons: Poor fit.
Shuwa-T: Fun sounding without going overboard with the subbass, organic timbre The fit is atrocious, treble can get spicy on hi-hats
Nymz: Recessed mids I can't approved but best bass tactility I've heard. One of the best stage I've heard. Top of the class treble. Fit is a massive problem for most - one of those that needs to be demoed...

Tuning: A+ Tech: A+ Bass: S Mids: B+ Treble: A Dynamics: A- Soundstage: A+ Details: A- Imaging: S-

V-Shaped 2DD+1BA

8.1

6.6

A+

$2,000

Canpur CP54E

Head-Fi.org: 5 community members have rated the Canpur CP54e at an average of 4.2/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

Tuning: A+ Tech: A+ Bass: A+ Mids: A+ Treble: A+ Dynamics: A+ Details: A+ Imaging: A+

Neutral with Bass Boost 5BA+4EST

8.1

6.6

A+

$1,600

Elysian Diva

Gizaudio Axel: One of the best IEMs for vocals. Dynamic driver-like bass, natural vocal reproduction, and an incredibly smooth tonality. Could use a bit more mid-bass for my taste.
Precogvision: Excellent BA bass and aggressive listen that maintains Elysian's house sound.
Tim Tuned: Addictive smooth, natural treble....top tier tuning overall mid bass shy
Smirk Audio: Forward, hyperpigmented vocals. Great tuning and solid techs. 3-way bass switch adds tuning versatility. An exciting listen. Cons: Build quality concerns.
Shuwa-T: Comment: Balanced sounding with bass volume switches, only gripe is MMCX connector. Near perfect tuning, amazing bass response for BA and superb treble extension It got outsourced for production and now the QC is looking shoddier
Nymz: Did nothing to my soul, but did nothing wrong as well.
Audionotions: Fantastic, vocal foward signature. Excellent bass that has the speed of a BA with the impact of a DD. Incredibly clean mids and well extended treble. Imaging is fantastic on this set. Incredibly...
Head-Fi.org: 6 community members have rated the Elysian Diva at an average of 4.2/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

Tuning: A+ Tech: A+ Bass: A Mids: S- Treble: A Dynamics: A+ Soundstage: S- Details: A Imaging: A

Neutral 6BA

8.1

6.5

8.5

A+

$1,499

Unique Melody MEST mkII

Unique Melody MEST mkII

Jays Audio: TOTL imaging chops/layering. Tons of micro-details. Great bass texture. Wide and 3D staging. Can be aggressive, and get fatiguing when cranked up/long-listening sessions.
Crin: Pretty much the same as the Mk1, though with extra sub-bass presence.
Precogvision: A warmer, more coherent MEST with setbacks in resolution and imaging.
Tim Tuned: Great balance, none offensive tuning with little to fault
Fresh Reviews: One of my favorite for music
Shuwa-T: Comment: Bassier Mest v1 with slight cutback in clarity. Even more impressive bass response
Nymz: Great bass and sheer detail, at the cost of wonky treble and not so accurate imaging queues. I find it work the best with eletronic music or modern metal. Still a solid contender to this date at a...
Audionotions: Very engaging. I usually prefer something more balanced and neutral, but this IEM has some special sauce. Very well-tuned from bass to treble - with a little bit of spice on top. Great tonality and...
Head-Fi.org: 13 community members have rated the Unique Melody MEST MKII at an average of 4.7/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Exceptional.

Tuning: A Tech: A+ Bass: A+ Mids: A Treble: A- Dynamics: A- Soundstage: A+ Details: A+ Imaging: A

Warm 1DD+4BA+2EST+1BC

Unique Melody MEST mkII review by Jays Audio

Unique Melody MEST mkII review by Precogvision

Unique Melody MEST mkII review by Tim Tuned

Unique Melody MEST mkII review by Super* Review

Unique Melody MEST mkII review by Fresh Reviews

Unique Melody MEST mkII review by Shuwa-T

Unique Melody MEST mkII review by Audionotions

Unique Melody MEST mkII review by Head-Fi.org

Unique Melody MEST mkII review by Yifang

8.1

6.8

7.5

A+

$999

Thieaudio Monarch Mk2

Thieaudio Monarch Mk2

Jays Audio: Neutral tuning with one of the clearest mid-ranges. Natural and clean vocals. Great resolution, separation, and detail. Can be a little dry with its analytical presentation. Bass is well-seperated...
Gizaudio Axel: Outstanding tuning. Smooth, balanced tuning with natural vocals, beautiful timbre, and excellent tonality. Detail and could use more bass. Treble depends on ear tips.
Crin: Thieaudio Monarch Mk2 stays a top-tier pick by balancing excellent tonality with solid, price-appropriate technicalities . The tuning sits close to the current meta , with a slight dip in the ...
Jaytiss: Too much unit variation to recommend to others highly.
Precogvision: A solid improvement in imaging with slightly more palatable tonality than its predecessor.
Tim Tuned: Cohesive, smooth, balanced, technical slight treble wispiness
Super* Review: Build & fit: Premium presentation with a handsome “lava” faceplate and a cloth-sheathed cable featuring swappable terminations —useful, but the connector is bulky enough to be unwieldy. The...
Smirk Audio: Good treble with tons of air. Forward, ethereal mids. Good detail retrieval with tons of microdetails. Lackluster mid-bass.
Shuwa-T: Organic midrange Wooly bass response and less prominent treble may not work best for certain genres
Nymz: 11/10 mid-range. Mid-bass could use more texture and stage depth could be better. Yap, that's all. Oh and the fit - I'm blessed, but you may not be.
Head-Fi.org: One community member has rated the THIEAUDIO Monarch MKII at an average of 5.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Masterpiece.

Tuning: A+ Tech: A Bass: B+ Mids: A+ Treble: A Dynamics: B+ Soundstage: A+ Details: A Imaging: A-

Neutral with Bass Boost 1DD+6BA+2EST

Thieaudio Monarch Mk2 review by Jays Audio

Thieaudio Monarch Mk2 review by Gizaudio Axel

Thieaudio Monarch Mk2 review by Precogvision

Thieaudio Monarch Mk2 review by Tim Tuned

Thieaudio Monarch Mk2 review by Super* Review

Thieaudio Monarch Mk2 review by Smirk Audio

Thieaudio Monarch Mk2 review by Head-Fi.org

8.1

6.9

8.5

A+

$1,550

Symphonium x Elise Audio Europa

Jaytiss: Issue is the upper trebble can be harsh, but is overall very nice.
Precogvision: Slightly more tame than the Crimson but more well-rounded as a result. Something like a slightly refined U12t.
Head-Fi.org: 2 community members have rated the Symphonium X Elise Audio Europa at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

Tuning: A Tech: A+ Bass: S- Mids: A Treble: A Dynamics: A+ Soundstage: A Details: A+ Imaging: A+

Neutral with Bass Boost 4BA

Symphonium x Elise Audio Europa review by Jaytiss

Symphonium x Elise Audio Europa review by Precogvision

Symphonium x Elise Audio Europa review by Smirk Audio

Symphonium x Elise Audio Europa review by Head-Fi.org

8

6.5

A+

$1,900

Unique Melody MEST MK3

Jays Audio: A more neutral/slightly warm MEST MK2, less aggresive, easier to the ears, same technicalities. A little overpriced ngl.
Gizaudio Axel: A safe tuning. Holographic soundstage. Relaxed upper mids and treble. Overall detail.
Head-Fi.org: 16 community members have rated the Unique Melody MEST MKIII at an average of 4.8/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Exceptional.

Tuning: A- Tech: A+ Bass: A- Mids: A+ Treble: A Dynamics: A Details: A Imaging: A+

Neutral with Bass Boost 1DD+4BA+4EST+1BC

Unique Melody MEST MK3 review by Jays Audio

Unique Melody MEST MK3 review by Gizaudio Axel

Unique Melody MEST MK3 review by Smirk Audio

Unique Melody MEST MK3 review by Head-Fi.org

8

6.4

A+

$1,150

Symphonium Helios SE

Jays Audio: Best Treble around it's price. Super airy but still smooth. Bass-scoop isn't as bad as I thought, but those who want mid-bass - avoid it.
Precogvision: See Helios but with more mid-treble and mid-bass.
Nymz: Limited to 50 units. A huge improvement fit wise versus the original. Great TOTL all-rounder. Great sub, upper mids and treble. Mid-bass is an improvement but still not boosted. Great technical chops...

Tuning: A+ Tech: A+ Bass: A- Mids: A+ Treble: A+ Dynamics: A- Details: A+ Imaging: A

n/a 4BA

Symphonium Helios SE review by Jays Audio

Symphonium Helios SE review by Precogvision

8

7

A+

64 Audio U6T

Jaytiss: Nice graph, but images weird for an iem of this cost.
Precogvision: Warm, thick, and with excellent dynamics. U12t's tubby younger brother that could use more resolution.
Audionotions: It's a step down from U12T in techs, yes, but it's still competitive in the price range. In exchange, tonality and timbre are much improved, which, IMO, is much more important. Imaging, separation,...
Head-Fi.org: 2 community members have rated the 64 Audio U6t at an average of 4.5/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.

Tuning: A- Tech: B+ Bass: A- Mids: A Treble: B Dynamics: B+ Soundstage: A- Details: B Imaging: A-

Neutral with Bass Boost 6BA

8

5.8

A+

$1,100

Symphonium Helios

Precogvision: Great technicalities. Lacking that last leg of refinement in terms of coherency.
Smirk Audio: Exceptional treble with solid bass. Great techs. Some may find the midrange a bit clinical. Fit will be a dealbreaker to some. Cons: Poor fit.
Shuwa-T: Clean-sounding monitor with great bass decay Occasional splashy cymbals due to the treble extension
Nymz: Top tier clarity and great technicalities, other than a hint of BA timbre plasticness to it. Mid-bass recession is the con in the tuning, turning it into a dry IEM. Top performer nonetheless.
Z-Reviews: Positioned as a $1,100 4BA set with a proprietary “sub-woofer” armature, Helios promises consistency via FLAT (Filtered Linear Attenuation Tuning) . In practice, the claimed impedance ...
Head-Fi.org: 13 community members have rated the Symphonium Helios at an average of 4.6/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.

Tuning: A Tech: A Bass: A- Mids: A Treble: S- Dynamics: A Soundstage: A+ Details: A+ Imaging: A

Neutral with Bass Boost 4BA

Symphonium Helios review by Precogvision

8

6.8

A

$1,300

Effect Audio x Elysian Gaea

Jays Audio: Super aggresive, exciting, v-shape, treblehead. Low-end is also very punchy and rumbly. TOTL technical performance with tons of details and OCD, but gets fatiguing. Shouty.
Precogvision: Fantastic clarity at the expense of sounding somewhat dry.
Tim Tuned: Versatile DNA that's also unique. #1 Jack of all trades
Super* Review: The Effect Audio x Elysian Gaea goes big on everything: a roughly $1,300 price tag, striking stabilized-wood faceplates with a dual-tone finish, and a stock cable that feels a bit bombastic ...
Shuwa-T: Easy to like tuning that isn't considered too safe with convincing vocal presentation, bass slams hard Not entirely coherent especially in the upper frequencies, subbass hits a little too hard relative to the rest of the frequencies
Nymz: Clarity king with great sense of detail. An agressive listen but never sibilant. Great tight and fast bass, at the expense of sounding dry in the lower mids. Not recommended if you are sensitive to...
Audionotions: Gaea is bright, and at first, it might seem to be dry, but not in a bad way. I initially thought it could use more meat on the bones, but this tuning works very well after listening. Sinfully...
Head-Fi.org: 12 community members have rated the Effect Audio x Elysian Gaea at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

Tuning: A Tech: S- Bass: A+ Mids: A Treble: A Dynamics: A+ Soundstage: A+ Details: S- Imaging: A

U-Shaped 1DD+4BA

Effect Audio x Elysian Gaea review by Jays Audio

Effect Audio x Elysian Gaea review by Precogvision

Effect Audio x Elysian Gaea review by Tim Tuned

Effect Audio x Elysian Gaea review by Super* Review

Effect Audio x Elysian Gaea review by Shuwa-T

Effect Audio x Elysian Gaea review by Nymz

Effect Audio x Elysian Gaea review by Audionotions

Effect Audio x Elysian Gaea review by Head-Fi.org

7.9

7.2

7.4

A

Goldplanar GL-AMT16

Web Search: The Goldplanar GL-AMT16 is a single-driver in-ear using a 15.5 mm full-range AMT transducer (16 Ω, 102 dB) in a lightweight aluminum shell and ships with replaceable acoustic nozzles that...
Fox Told Me So: GoldPlanar GL-AMT16 is a rare IEM built around a full-range AMT (Air Motion Transformer) driver—a 15.5 mm ultra-thin folded diaphragm that, by design, moves a lot more air than a typical dynamic...

Tuning: A Tech: A+ Bass: A- Mids: A+ Treble: S- Dynamics: A Soundstage: S- Details: A+ Imaging: A+

Neutral 1AMT

Goldplanar GL-AMT16 review by Web Search

Goldplanar GL-AMT16 review by Fox Told Me So

7.9

7.2

A

$1,100

Dunu Mirai

Jays Audio: Bright leaning set with great tech. Clean mid-range, sharp imaging, sparkly female vocals with decent amount of air. Does get fatiguing and sharp on more energetic tracks and genres like...
Jaytiss: Expensive for what it is, lean, and bright.
Tim Tuned: Refrence, beautiful timbre, open stage Tuning may be boring for some
Super* Review: Lot of fun IEM. Is it perfect? No. Treble could use a little work. Harmanish take on low end with relaxed top end.
Z-Reviews: Dunu Mirai comes as a headphones.com exclusive seven-driver hybrid— 1DD + multiple BA with a super tweeter —priced around $950–$1,000 . The tuning sits a few clicks toward the analytical ...
Head-Fi.org: 2 community members have rated the Dunu Mirai at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

Tuning: A- Tech: A+ Bass: A+ Mids: A- Treble: A Dynamics: B Soundstage: A- Details: A+ Imaging: A

U-Shaped 1DD+6BA

7.9

6.8

A

$1,300

Nightjar Singularity

Smirk Audio: Rich bass with great overall tuning. Pleasant timbre. Resolution could be better. Treble could use more liveliness.
Nymz: One of the best basses ever inside a very small and comfortable shell. The rest of the tuning is still pristine but the technicalities are bottlenecked by the single DD.
Z-Reviews: Single 10 mm dynamic done right. Singularity hits with that coveted one-driver cohesion : a bright, energetic top end riding on subway-tunnel bass swell that feels physical without drowning the...
Audionotions: I fully expected these to be an overwhelmingly bass heavy set but instead got something quite different. Singularity bass is boomy and somewhat pillowy, extending deep and with almost atmospheric...

Tuning: A+ Tech: A- Bass: S Mids: A- Treble: A- Dynamics: A+ Details: B+ Imaging: A-

Basshead 1DD

Nightjar Singularity review by Smirk Audio

Nightjar Singularity review by Z-Reviews

Nightjar Singularity review by Audionotions

7.9

6.6

A

Sennheiser IE900

Crin: Well-resolving DD IEM with excellent treble control, though with somewhat weak mid-high harmonics.
Jaytiss: I don't get it, not even a little.
Precogvision: Excelllent bass - simply excellent. Midrange could use some work, as could the generally average imaging chops.
Audionotions: I usually don't like things that aren't all rounders but this might be the exception. Bass is incredible - best in class - great texture, fantastic physicality. Treble response is great too - pretty...
Head-Fi.org: 10 community members have rated the Sennheiser IE900 at an average of 4.7/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Exceptional.

Tuning: B+ Tech: B+ Bass: S+ Mids: B- Treble: B Dynamics: B+ Soundstage: A Details: A- Imaging: B

Warm 1DD

Sennheiser IE900 review by Super* Review

7.8

5.5

A

$2,000

Unique Melody MEST Jet Black

Jaytiss: Safe, clean iem.
Super* Review: Super* Review finds the $1,700 MEST Jet Black bright and exciting with tight sub-bass and standout, holographic imaging, but highly tip-dependent and sometimes sibilant/fatiguing. While the ceramic...
Head-Fi.org: 5 community members have rated the Unique Melody Mest Jet Black at an average of 4.4/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.

Tuning: A- Tech: A Bass: A+ Mids: A- Treble: A Dynamics: A Soundstage: A- Details: A+ Imaging: S-

W-Shaped n/a

Unique Melody MEST Jet Black review by Jaytiss

Unique Melody MEST Jet Black review by Super* Review

Unique Melody MEST Jet Black review by Smirk Audio

Unique Melody MEST Jet Black review by Head-Fi.org

7.8

6.1

A

$1,799

Unique Melody Maven II

Unique Melody Maven II

Jaytiss: I can see how others might like.
Web Search: The Unique Melody Maven II delivers a balanced yet colored sound signature that excels across diverse genres. Its elevated bass offers deep rumble and punchy mid-bass without bleeding into the mids,...

Tuning: A Tech: A Bass: A+ Mids: B+ Treble: B Dynamics: A- Soundstage: C+ Details: A Imaging: A

Bright 2DD+4BA+4EST

Unique Melody Maven II review by Jaytiss

Unique Melody Maven II review by Smirk Audio

Unique Melody Maven II review by Web Search

7.8

6.1

8.2

A

$1,499

Thieaudio v16 Divinity