Best IEMs under $100

ARTTI T10 PRO

• Jays Audio: A mini symphonium Meteor. Bassy, warm, and airy/smooth.
• Jaytiss: Great little set.
• Head-Fi.org: One community member has rated the ARTTI T10 Pro at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.
• Audio Amigo: An S08 with more treble energy and de-emphasised vocals. Great if you thought the S8 was too Dark.
• Kois Archive: Rating: A | Value: ⭐⭐⭐ | Gaming: 🎮🎮 | Comfort: 10  good planar bass while not intruding mid  intense sounding

Artti T10

• Z-Reviews: The Artti T10 is a 14.2 mm planar dressed in an unapologetically industrial shell—textured, raw, almost “1980s test-gear” chic. In the box: case and a solid cable with a 3.5 mm or 4.4 mm ...
• Audio Amigo: The best value planar on the market. Essentially a slightly less sparkly S12 for half the money. *Moves up to "You Should Buy This" if on sale for $50 or less*

Tipsy M1

• Jaytiss: Humpy, rich note weight, Dank. Needs strong dialing in with tips and high volume.
• Web Search: The Tipsy M1 is a single-dynamic IEM built around a 10 mm bamboo-fiber diaphragm that the brand positions as a first of its kind; the official page lists a lightweight shell and a measurement-driven...
• Head-Fi.org: 2 community members have rated the Tipsy M1 at an average of 4.5/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.

GS Audio GD3A

• Web Search: The GS Audio GD3A is a budget hybrid with a 1DD+2BA configuration that is reported to be easy to drive from modest sources, keeping entry barriers low for new listeners. Street pricing has...
• Head-Fi.org: 2 community members have rated the GS Audio GD3A at an average of 4.5/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.

KZ Zenith

• Jaytiss: It's a middie, but a good option.
• Head-Fi.org: 5 community members have rated the KZ Zenith at an average of 4.4/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.
• Kois Archive: Rating: A- | Value: ⭐⭐⭐ | Comfort: 9  the best from KZ  driver quality not the best
• Paul Wasabii: KZ Zenith delivers a smooth, balanced single-DD tuning with a clearly more capable driver than prior KZ sets. Imaging, detail and treble refinement hint at $100–$200 performance while keeping a $50...  Smooth, balanced tuning with unexpectedly strong technicalities for the price, cleaner imaging and microdetail, tasteful treble, and three sub-bass switches for fine adjustment.  Fuller mid-bass can thicken on warm sources; slight initial 7–8 kHz glare for some ears and an odd 12 kHz measurement dip; basic stock cable unless the promo upgrade was included.

Letshuoer S08

• Jays Audio: More uniquely tuned than other planars. Tamer uppermids, not as energetic, but still with great bass separation and tech. Timbre is good.
• Jaytiss: Fantastic value product, really strong.
• Super* Review: A little bit thick and poofy in the bass. Aful Explorer is better option.
• Fresh Reviews: Letshuoer S08 shows up as an easy recommendation for mixed gaming, balancing clarity and comfort with a tuning that’s smooth , a touch warm , and pleasantly velvety . Footstep reads and...
• Shuwa-T:  Warm tuning, really easy to listen to  Treble isn't really well defined, separation between midrange and lower midrange isn't great either
• Z-Reviews: The Letshuoer S08 hits with a present , to-the-point delivery: tight, quick, and more “ first-row ” than lounge seat. Staging isn’t expansive, but the focus and planar speed make music feel...
• Head-Fi.org: 28 community members have rated the Letshuoer S08 at an average of 4.2/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.
• Audio Amigo: Best tuned planar period. Works with everything. Great for low or high volumes.
• Kois Archive: Rating: A- | Value: ⭐⭐ | Comfort: 9  insane planar bass  relaxed treble

KZ AM16

• Web Search: The KZ AM16 is an all-BA in-ear monitor using 8 BA drivers per side (16 total) and offered in two editions—Balanced and Bass-Enhanced. Independent listings and user reviews confirm the per-side...
• Paul Wasabii: A fun, bass-leaning all-BA tuning with relaxed treble and natural tonality. Technicalities are decent for $57 but need some volume to shine.  Engaging, thicker tuning with thumpy mid-bass, natural vocals, and minimal BA timbre for the price.  Relaxed upper treble and a 5 kHz dip reduce air and perceived clarity at low volumes; large shell may challenge smaller ears.

JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant

• Jays Audio: Another all-rounder with good balance. Doesn't do anything right or wrong, but has qc issues with channel imbalance (and also my case ziper broke within a few weeks), it's ok but there are better...
• Gizaudio Axel: Balanced, detailed, and versatile. It sets the bar for its price point.  Punchy, textured bass, natural and forward vocals, balanced sound, with great detail and imaging. A great all-rounder.
• Jaytiss: Fun engaging set!
• Precogvision: Pleasant, neutral warm tuning with good treble extension that wholly belies its price point.
• Tim Tuned: The JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant executes on an old meta, IE 2020 tuning with a bass boost, and it does it exceptionally well. The bass is present but not overwhelming, and the treble is smooth and...  Great balanced tuning with a vocal emphasis
• Super* Review: Exciting and contrasty. Very well tuned. Sub-bass focused. Vocal area pretty well tuned. Treble surprisingly well tuned. Tasteful V-Shaped sound signature.
• Web Search: JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant is a budget hybrid with a 1DD+3BA configuration and a 3-way crossover, housed in precise 3D-printed shells—specs that are unusually complete around the ~$100 bracket ....
• Audionotions: Nicely balanced IEM with a tough of warmth. Very pleasantly tuned throughout. Relaxed and lush sounding. Good job Zeos!
• Head-Fi.org: 2 community members have rated the Juzear x Z Reviews DEFIANT at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.
• Audio Amigo: Explorer but Brighter, EM6L, but Warmer. A fantastic All-Rounder set with good technical performance, great accessories, and fantastic looks. Can potentially have pressure issues.
• Kois Archive: Rating: A | Value: ⭐⭐⭐ | Gaming: 🎮🎮 | Comfort: 9  just wow for $100  technicalities I guess

Sivga M300

• Web Search: Although often grouped with IEMs in shops, the Sivga M300 is a flat-head earbud with an open fit. It combines CNC-machined aluminum and African ebony housings around a 15.4 mm dynamic driver...
• Paul Wasabii: Neutral-leaning flathead earbud with clear vocals and airy treble; sub-bass is light and benefits from a warmer source or a touch of EQ.  Airy treble, open stage and clear vocals with tasteful neutral bass; handsome ebony-wood build.  Limited sub-bass presence and body; may rely on volume, warmer sources or EQ to add weight to the low end.

SIMGOT EG280

• Jays Audio: All-rounder with pinpoint imaging and slight uppermids/vocal emphasis. Basically a more technical EW300 with better vocal clarity and extension. Solid for gaming like EM6L, and would be my pick since...
• Web Search: The SIMGOT EG280 is a budget-class, hybrid gaming IEM that pairs a 10 mm dynamic driver with a 6 mm planar unit per side (rated at 32 Ω, 119 dB/Vrms), a configuration positioned to blend bass weight...
• Fresh Reviews: The SIMGOT EG280 makes a strong first impression for budget gaming with a curve reminiscent of Harman 2019 : footsteps (both low and upper registers) and gunfire pop through cleanly, giving...
• Head-Fi.org: 3 community members have rated the Simgot EG280 at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.
• Paul Wasabii: Gaming-focused hybrid with DSP presets and a long USB-C cable. Resolving with sharp imaging, but the stock tuning is bright and benefits from EQ for music.  Capable hybrid drivers with good resolve, plus onboard DSP and WalkPlay presets for game-specific tuning.  Stock tuning is bright for music and the soundstage is only average without presets.

Rose Technics Star City 5 Pro

• Jaytiss: Great bass, upper mids are good.
• Head-Fi.org: 21 community members have rated the Rose Technics Star City 5 Pro at an average of 4.2/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.
• Audio Amigo: A slightly brighter Hexa, Includes Dongle DAC and hard case. Cool Looks. Slight Vocal Forwardness

Moondrop May

• Jaytiss: A very enjoyable listen, hard to fault at this price and design. Could be a winner for you.
• Super* Review: The May is the way to go if you have 80 bucks. Standard EQ sounds great. Nice low contrast neutral sound
• Web Search: The Moondrop May offers a convenient USB-C DSP cable with multiple EQ presets accessible via the Moondrop Link app, though the app suffers from connectivity issues and requires invasive permissions...
• Z-Reviews: Moondrop May shows up like a fashion accessory: smoked acrylic shells with that repeating clover motif, secure 2-pin sockets, and a surprisingly nice round case in the box. The stock 4-core cable...
• Head-Fi.org: 7 community members have rated the MOONDROP MAY at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.
• Audio Amigo: A DSP IEM that sounds fantastic with both the Default DSP cable, and a standard 3.5mm analog cable. Great build, good case, and the ability to change the tuning using the Moondrop Link App add up to...

Tin Hifi C3

EarAcoustic STA Pro Max

• Web Search: The EarAcoustic STA Pro Max is a dual-dynamic IEM using a 10 mm LCP diaphragm paired with a 6 mm titanium-plated dynamic driver (2DD). Retail listings also show basic specs of ~110 dB...
• Kois Archive: Rating: B+ | Value: ⭐⭐ | Gaming: 🎮🎮 | Comfort: 9  great warm tuning  oddities in the treble
• Paul Wasabii: STA Pro pushes upper mids/treble and loses the Pro Max's bassy fun and resolution. Go with the Pro Max.  Sturdy build with an attractive faceplate and a dual-DD concept at a more affordable price.  Brighter tuning masks the bass, with lower resolution and scaling that trails the Pro Max.

Kiwi Ears CANTA

• Jays Audio: Bright set with lots of treble detail. Airy, splashy, and shimmery with great extension. Isn't sharp or metallic in the timbre, but not 100% "natural" either, comes down to preference. Mid-volume...
• Jaytiss: bright but a fun iem for treble heads

Letshuoer DZ4

• Jays Audio: Recommended at high volumes. A better Galileo with more treble/air. Vocal centric. Powerful and extended vocals. Could use better separation and tech, and lacks bass.
• Head-Fi.org: 31 community members have rated the LETSHUOER DZ4 at an average of 4.1/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

Simgot EW300

• Jays Audio: A smoother and more refined version of the EW200 with better layering and resolution bump. Pink nozzle is warmer and better for rock/hiphop/metal. Very good piezo implementation.
• Web Search: The Simgot EW300 offers a compelling tribrid driver configuration combining a 10mm dynamic driver, 6mm planar magnetic driver, and piezoelectric ceramic driver in a durable all-metal shell. Fit can...
• Fresh Reviews: Simgot EW300 makes a strong case as a sub-$80 tribrid benchmark, bringing a more natural timbre , better layering , and a small bump in resolution over EW200. With the red 3.5 mm nozzles,...
• Head-Fi.org: 40 community members have rated the Simgot EW300 at an average of 4.4/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.
• Kois Archive: Rating: B | Value: ⭐⭐ | Gaming: 🎮 | Comfort: 9  good bass and solid overall  mid and treble is not the best

ROSESELSA QuietSea II

• Jaytiss: Fun set.
• Web Search: The ROSESELSA QuietSea II is a single-dynamic-driver (1DD) IEM built around a 10 mm diaphragm that combines a PEEK + carbon-copper dome and a dual-magnetic, dual-cavity motor. The brand highlights...

Tripowin Olina SE

• Shuwa-T: Comment: An improved Olina essentially.  Balanced tuning over the OG, with generally decent tech  Upper frequencies on the relaxaed side, B-grade bass

Tanchjim 4U

• Jays Audio: Solid IEM. Warm to neutral depending on the switch. Overall pretty smooth with good tech.
• Super* Review: It is not super special, unless you are looking for standout stereo imaging.

Juzear Clear

• Jaytiss: This little dude is pretty, and hammers. Bass machine.
• Head-Fi.org: 3 community members have rated the JUZEAR CLEAR at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

Fosi Audio IM4

• Jaytiss: Nice impression, very audiophile tuned.
• Web Search: Fosi Audio’s IM4 is an unusual entry-level IEM that uses an open-back shell and a single 10 mm beryllium-coated dynamic driver, aiming for a more natural presentation than typical sealed designs....
• Z-Reviews: Quirky name aside, the Fosi Audio IM4 brings a 10 mm beryllium-coated single dynamic driver with a tuning that reads more cohesive, clean, and neutral than bass-bomber. Music floats with a great...

Apos x Community Rock Lobster

• Jaytiss: Has some slight colorizations, but is fun and rich.

7hz Sonus

• Jaytiss: It's like a better packaged Zero.
• Head-Fi.org: 14 community members have rated the 7Hz Sonus at an average of 4.2/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

Tin T3 Plus

• Tim Tuned:  well-tuned v-shape

Moondrop Aria 2

• Jays Audio: A more engaging Aria SE with more bass, air, and reverb. Feels too smoothed out with a hit in the texture. Bump in tech over the old one, but pricing is an issue vs EW200 and EW300
• Gizaudio Axel: A solid set.  Good bass with solid impact, slightly warm but full and clear vocals, and solid detail.  Could use more sub-bass and a more refined upper treble.
• Jaytiss: Nice package for the price.
• Tim Tuned: Moondrop Aria sets a brutal value bar at $79 , pairing elegant presentation with no-nonsense accessories: a tidy case, comfy fabric cable with zero microphonics, and serviceable tips. Build and...
• Z-Reviews: Moondrop switches up the formula with Aria 2’s single dynamic “dome” driver , creating a presentation that feels set back from the head with surprising soundstage depth and precise...
• Head-Fi.org: 7 community members have rated the Moondrop Aria 2 at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

Kefine Delci

• Jays Audio: A warmer/less sharp EW200, a slightly more resolving BLON Z300, price might be an issue tho
• Jaytiss: Nice tone, great overall sound with only a few issues.
• Head-Fi.org: 32 community members have rated the KEFINE DELCI at an average of 4.5/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.
• Audio Amigo: Well tuned warm V-shape. Great driver with good detail. Try to get it for around $55

Moondrop Lan 2 Pop

• Super* Review: An engaging, punchy, and fairly technical listen for ~$60 that runs a bit “spicy” up top but acceptable if you tolerate brightness (3/5).
• Web Search: The Moondrop LAN 2 Pop is a single-dynamic IEM built around a 10 mm dual-cavity driver in a stainless-steel (MIM) shell. Retailers list identical hardware to the Ref version—30 Ω impedance, ~118...

Simgot EA500LM

• Jays Audio: Very resolving for its price, great value. A warmer EA1000 with a slight decrease in separation and resolution, but warmer with more bass (same bass quality). Not as sparkly and resolving as the...
• Jaytiss: It's a good u shaped with nice bass, but be weiry of uppper mids.
• Web Search: The Simgot EA500LM offers a versatile listening experience primarily through its three interchangeable nozzles, which significantly alter the sound signature. With the gold nozzles (red ring), the...
• Audio Amigo: One of the most technical single dynamic driver sets under $100. Can compete with the $200 class of single DD sets. Can be quite fatiguing, even with the relaxed nozzles

INAWAKEN DAWN Ms

• Jays Audio: An OG Delci with more sub-bass rumble, and vocals pop a little more. Nice warm bassy set.
• Jaytiss: A great pick at this price.
• Head-Fi.org: 6 community members have rated the INAWAKEN DAWN MS at an average of 4.4/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.
• Audio Amigo: Beautiful looking V-Shaped IEM. Sounds like a more resolving Moondrop Chu. Excellent Entry-point IEM for complete beginners

Truthear Pure

• Jays Audio: Warm/dark, laid-back, smooth, scales great like the Explorer but more vocal centric (great for male vocals). Immersive with scaling, but not the best value - Less technical than HEXA & Cinno. A...
• Gizaudio Axel: Warmer mids and less treble compared to the Hexa.  Warm, smooth, and laid-back with safe, easy treble.  Might feel a bit too warm for some.
• Jaytiss: Blunted, kinda mid, but very Listeneresk.
• Tim Tuned: Truthear Pure follows the beloved Hexa with a smarter twist on neutrality: a hybrid 1DD+3BA at $90 that keeps the sturdy 3D-printed shell, slightly chunkier but similarly comfortable. The...
• Super* Review: One of the best IEMs you can buy under 100 bucks. One of the best treble in this price range. Hexa is brighter and sounds more lively and more open. But both are very much neutral sets. It's a little...
• Web Search: The Truthear Pure builds on the foundation of its predecessor, the Hexa, refining the 1DD+3BA driver configuration for a more cohesive sound. It offers punchier bass and a more solid midrange...
• Z-Reviews: 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...
• Audionotions: The new warm neutral benchmark. Masterclass in a slightly warm tilted neutral. I always thought the Hexa would be an amazing IEM if the bass wasn't so bloomy and uncontrolled. The Pure fixes that and...
• Fox Told Me So: Truthear Pure can be seen as a side branch of the Hexa line, 'refining' its formula with higher sensitivity (124 dB / 14 Ω) and easier drivability. Bass is generous and weighty, hitting harder than...
• Head-Fi.org: 4 community members have rated the Truthear PURE at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

Tripowin Olina

• Shuwa-T: Comment: A less refined Oxygen with aggressive upper midrange.  Tuned well, about 80% similar to the Oxygen at less than half the price  B-grade bass response like the Oxygen

Truthear Hexa

• Jays Audio: 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.
• Gizaudio Axel: 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.
• Jaytiss: KING. Special. Inoffensive. But honestly where bass?
• Precogvision: Sounds like a warmer, lo-res Moondrop B2, emphasis on lo-res in the bass.
• Tim Tuned:  Well done, clean midrange focus tuning  Can be fatiguing in the treble
• Super* Review: 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...
• Fresh Reviews: Borders C+
• Shuwa-T: Comment: A mini B2 minus the good stuff.  Tuning done well, similar to B2 but less in everything  Somewhat crammed soundstage
• Audionotions: 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...
• Head-Fi.org: 18 community members have rated the Truthear Hexa at an average of 4.4/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.

CVJ Aria

• Jaytiss: Nice little set, very capable.
• Head-Fi.org: 2 community members have rated the CVJ ARIA at an average of 3.5/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Generally Favorable.
• Audio Amigo: Mid-centric tuning with lush, rich midrange. Slightly bright. Gorgeous cable and tuning kit included in the packaging.

Tangzu HBB Xuan NV

• Jays Audio: A smoother hexa, and mini-nova. Very clean and balanced all-rounder. Good vocal set. Harman 2019 with more mid-bass, less uppermids and sub-bass. Nothing crazy, but does every genre very well.
• Jaytiss: Great overall package,smooth chill tuning. Poor techs.
• Shuwa-T: Comment: Why is there hype for this?.  Safe tuning, decent treble tuning for the price  Mediocre techs, overly rounded bass region
• Head-Fi.org: 15 community members have rated the Tangzu HBB Xuan NV at an average of 4.4/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.

EPZ X Tipsy Star One

• Jays Audio: Vocal focused set. Female vocals are sweet and clean with subtly air and sparkle. Treble and bass is decent, does the job. Harman but with a twist.
• Jaytiss: I like this set a lot for the price. Good value and vocals.
• Head-Fi.org: 10 community members have rated the EPZ x Tipsy Star & One at an average of 4.1/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

TINHIFI C5

• Jays Audio: A harman/df or waner with a better driver, and more vocal emphasis.
• Head-Fi.org: 7 community members have rated the Tinhifi C5 at an average of 3.9/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Strongly Favorable.

Pula Unicrom

• Jaytiss: Smooth, energetic, nice DD.
• Super* Review: Punchy, dynamic sound with satisfying bass and a high-res feel. Limited by edgy/sibilant treble that pushes it down the ranks.
• Web Search: The Pula Unicrom offers a distinctive visual appeal with its stabilized maple wood faceplates, ensuring no two pairs look identical, paired with lightweight resin shells that deliver exceptional...
• Z-Reviews: At $80 , the Pula Unicrom (aka “Unic”) is a 10 mm single dynamic IEM that keeps the box basic but surprises with a genuinely nice cable—tight weave, slick hardware, and a stealthy screw-on...

Moondrop Aria Snow Edition

• Head-Fi.org: One community member has rated the Moondrop Aria: Snow Edition at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

Sivga Que

• Jays Audio: Warm and engaging set with good energy and extension when it comes to vocals, could use more air, but overall very fun and bassy set
• Jaytiss: Nice technicalities, decent tune.
• Head-Fi.org: 19 community members have rated the SIVGA Que at an average of 4.3/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.
• Audio Amigo: Punchy, Airy, very well executed sound. Accurate, and tonally correct. Good technicals for the price. Great looking shells with wooden accents.

EPZ Q5 PRO

• Jays Audio: Fun slight v while being balanced, good resolution, engaging sound
• Head-Fi.org: 11 community members have rated the EPZ Q5 Pro at an average of 4.2/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.
• Kois Archive: Rating: B- | Value: ⭐ | Comfort: 9  nice dynamic bass and texture  a bit bright

Intime Sora Light

• Jaytiss: Solid little set, could work for you.

Kotori Audio Dauntless

• Shuwa-T: Comment: Bright-sounding.  Somewhat spherical 3-D soundstage  Strange midrange, shouty female vocals
• Head-Fi.org: 8 community members have rated the Kotori Audio Dauntless at an average of 3.9/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Strongly Favorable.

Truthear x Crinacle Zero:Red

• Jays Audio: Great all-rounder, IEF-harman. Bass is a bit pillowy.
• Gizaudio Axel:  Great balanced, smooth tuning.  Needs more bass for my taste, can be a bit soft at times.
• Jaytiss: I think this is massivly overhyped, but it's not terrible and a great value with impedance adapters
• Tim Tuned: Pros: Balanced tuning, smooth and natural timbre, good stage. Cons: Can use more micro details.
• Nymz: Brilliant tonal balance with the option to for extra bass. A bargain at its price point.
• Audionotions: IMHO no one really needs anything more than this. Impecable tuning. Techs are competitive with anything under $100. Only true knock I have against this is that the nozzle is pretty bad - long and...
• Head-Fi.org: 20 community members have rated the TRUTHEAR x Crinacle Zero Red at an average of 4.3/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.

Kinera QOA Gimlet

• Jaytiss: Bass response isn't great. Sounds sweet, like a monitor.
• Head-Fi.org: 14 community members have rated the Kinera QOA Gimlet at an average of 4.5/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.

Kiwi Ears x Crinacle: Singolo

• Jays Audio: Why. If you like Crin just buy the RED, OG Zero, or Khan. Hype and marketing bait. Not actually "revolutionary". Avoid unless you can get these for under $40.
• Jaytiss: Sound is fine, packaging and fit are not.

Tripowin x HBB Olina SE

• Jays Audio: Cheapest holographic staging you can get. Very smooth overall with little uneveness. Double Olina filter mod (or SE version) fixes the uppermid and treble brightness from OG while maintaining...
• Jaytiss: It's a solid set for the price. Hard not to like, a little mellow.
• Nymz: No brainer purchase with a slightly better tuning of the 100$ legend, with less agressive upper-mids/treble.
• Head-Fi.org: 4 community members have rated the Tripowin x HBB Olina SE at an average of 4.3/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.

Moondrop Rays DSP

• Jays Audio: A more neutral version of the May with less bass and treble, very neutral sounding, inoffensive and boring, overpriced, many cheaper options with similar tuning and performance
• Gizaudio Axel: Good for customizable sound (EQ) and gaming.  Balanced tonality, with deep bass, forward vocals, clear treble.  Overall detail.
• Super* Review: When People ask me for the best IEM for gaming, I would probably point them to these.
• Fresh Reviews: Borders B (Val) - Borders C+ (COD)
• Audio Amigo: Essentially a Moondrop May in a "Green Goblin" Purple/Green Paint Scheme that gives you access to Moondrop's online DSP tool. Really hard to justify the extra cost Vs. The May when the sound is...
• Paul Wasabii: Gaming-focused USB-C DSP IEM where curated presets do the heavy lifting; default profile is mediocre for music or games.  Curated DSP presets and slick web app make gaming-focused tuning easy and effective.  Default tuning is mediocre and the loose DD can muddy bass and mask the planar, limiting pure-music performance.

CCA Rhapsody

• Jaytiss: For 35, this is a deal. Consider it.
• Head-Fi.org: 7 community members have rated the CCA Rhapsody at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

EarAcoustics Audio STA-K

• Jaytiss: Shouty, Muddy but competent.
• Paul Wasabii: Basshead-tilted dual dynamic with huge mid-bass shelf and relaxed treble; fun and thick, but mids clarity takes a hit.  Powerful, thick bass with surprisingly wide stage and volume-tolerant treble.  Mid-bass overwhelms mids and overall clarity, and the set needs volume to open up.

Dunu Titan S2

• Jays Audio: Very nice built and cable for the price. Sounds like a warm harman. Tech is good, but not too competitive at the price (EA500LM).
• Jaytiss: Pretty! But boring and bright, and doesn't fit.
• Super* Review: Pretty unreal accessories for 80 bucks. IEM is not bad.
• Head-Fi.org: 14 community members have rated the DUNU Titan S2 at an average of 4.2/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.
• Audio Amigo: Very well executed Bright V-Shape. Good Mid-Bass and wonderful airy technicals. I prefer the Kima 2 for $40 more, but this comes with essentially the same acessories package.

Kinera Celest Plutus Beast

• Jaytiss: Fun set, non linear. The bone conductor.... is nice!
• Head-Fi.org: 24 community members have rated the Kinera Celest Plutus Beast at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Strongly Favorable.

Kefine Delci AE

• Jays Audio: A smoother EW200 with the silver nozzles (although vocals are better on the EW200). Bronze nozzle can be too bright and peaky, but brings up the technacilities
• Fresh Reviews: Borders B+

Tangzu Fudu

• Jays Audio: Fun/bassy harman without sacrificing much tech. Engaging low-end, and tips are also nice addition. BA timbre.
• Fresh Reviews: Borders C+

NiceHCK F1 Pro

• Jays Audio: A cheaper S12. Almost identical sound and tuning. Good value. Look for aliexpress deals.
• Jaytiss: I like this planar the best of all planars, normally I hate them.
• Tim Tuned:  Cheaper S12 Pro/ Z12

Simgot EA500

• Jays Audio: Slamming bass with the variety. High quality DD with good resolution.
• Jaytiss: For me it's just easier to recomend the EW200, or em6L due to this being lean in the bass.
• Tim Tuned:  Inoffensive, warm, versatile  Bassier and harsher Kato. Nozzle largely useless
• Nymz: Probably the most detailed focused set at its price range at the cost of sounding off in the upper treble region. Probably the (one of the) most value pick at its price range.
• Audionotions: Olina/Oxygen like tuning, which I generally like. Bass is midbass focused with sub-bass roll off. Very punchy and energetic sound with oodles of impact. Very close to the Olina with the mods applied....
• Head-Fi.org: 27 community members have rated the SIMGOT EA500 at an average of 4.4/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.
• Audio Amigo: A less bassy, cleaner EW300, a calmed down EA500LM. A great middle ground between the warmer simgots and the brighter simgots. DSP Tuning is cleaner. Great technicals for a single DD

Kinera Celest Pandamon

• Tim Tuned:  Niche Pick: warm tuning IEM with smooth/ laid back timbre
• Head-Fi.org: 15 community members have rated the Kinera Celest Pandamon at an average of 4.2/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

Oriveti Dynabird

• Jays Audio: Vocal focused and clean, but 2K gain can be too much plus the uppermids/treble. Good tech.
• Jaytiss: A fun V -Shape.
• Kois Archive: Rating: D+ | Comfort: 7  fun vshape  wonky treble

Tin Hifi T4+

• Crin: A worthy successor to the legendary GR07.
• Precogvision: Solid tuning and technical chops for the price, not much to complain about here.
• Shuwa-T: Comment: Neutral and inoffensive.  Decent tuning  Limited by technical performance
• Audionotions: Like C3 with slightly better technicalities. Fit on C3 is better. Can't really justify the price increase over C3.

EPZ Q5

• Jays Audio: Can be a bit bright on pop/edm, but very good for jazz/blues/soul and warm instrumentals.
• Jaytiss: Nice Bass response, great graph, overall clean set.
• Head-Fi.org: 6 community members have rated the EPZ Q5 at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

SIMGOT EA500 LM

• Head-Fi.org: 40 community members have rated the Simgot EA500 LM at an average of 4.4/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.

ARTTI R1

• Jays Audio: Bassy, warm set, good dynamics, smooth.
• Jaytiss: I'd just save up for the T10 pro.
• Head-Fi.org: 2 community members have rated the ARTTI R1 at an average of 4.5/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.

TRN Shell

• Head-Fi.org: 2 community members have rated the TRN Shell at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

TinHifi C3

• Jays Audio: Another one
• Audionotions: Nicely balanced with slightly forward upper mids. Surprising that I liked this given what I felt for the T3+. This is better for me by a ton. Makes me wonder if I received a bad T3+. Bass extends...
• Head-Fi.org: 8 community members have rated the Tinhifi C3 at an average of 3.9/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Strongly Favorable.

Tri Draco

• Audio Amigo: Most relaxed sounding IEM I've heard. Soft bass, slightly vocal forward, relaxed treble. Comes with a GREAT carry case. Details a bit lacking at low volumes

Tripowin x HBB Olina

• Jaytiss: New HBB Xuan NV is just the way to go over this.
• Precogvision: Exellent tonality and shimmer (for a DD); nonetheless, could possibly benefit from better layering chops.
• Nymz: Close to Oxygen but for 99$ with better fit. One of the best price-to-performance you can get at the moment. Good imaging, great stage presentation and very balanced harman tuning. If you don't wish...
• Audionotions: Pretty good for the price but a little bright/shouty stock. Slap a second stock filter on top, and it's much improved! Good vocals-focused set with decently sparkly treble and good bass punch....
• Head-Fi.org: 4 community members have rated the Tripowin x HBB Olina at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

Truthear x Crinacle Zero

• Jays Audio: Variations-ish tuning with sub-bass focused. Low-end is rumbly but lacks mid-bass impact/warmness in general. Fatiguing above mid-volume. Can sound light and thin. Mid-bass tuck affects libraries.
• Gizaudio Axel:  Harman tuning with nice punchy bass.
• Jaytiss: Sounds good, and fun..
• Precogvision: Close ringer for the Harman IEM target with great bass and slightly harsh upper-mids and lower-treble.
• Tim Tuned: Pros: Very well tuned, clean bass. Cons: treble can use more eveness.
• Nymz: Spot on harman. Good bass impact for the bracket but the mid-bass is a bit scooped for my library. Treble needs some refinement but still a solid rec for the price bracket. Cheapest way to try this...
• Head-Fi.org: 13 community members have rated the Truthear x Crinacle Zero at an average of 3.6/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Generally Favorable.

Tangzu Yu Xuan Ji

• Jays Audio: Airy treble/staging. Clean balanced sound. Good tech. 8-10K Peak isn't as big as graph suggests.
• Jaytiss: interesting iem, but bad and forgetable.
• Head-Fi.org: 7 community members have rated the Tangzu Yu Xuan Ji at an average of 3.9/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Strongly Favorable.

Tin Hifi T2 Plus

• Crin: A solidly-tuned, inoffensive signature with middling technicalities.

Fiio JD7

• Jays Audio: A cheaper T5S with less sub-bass
• Audionotions: Really dynamic. Bass can be a bit much in quantity sometimes (for me) and upper mids can be a bit intense (at that line where things could be shouty but never crosses into that territory). Good note...

Tin Hifi T3

• Crin: Somewhat generic hybrid signature, tuned well with good transient ability.

BLON BL-A8 Prometheus

• Head-Fi.org: 4 community members have rated the Blon BL-A8 Prometheus at an average of 3.5/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Generally Favorable.

Samsung Galaxy Buds+

• Crin: Tuned even closer to the Harman IE target compared to the original.
• Precogvision: Better bass shelf than the OG Buds, but with setbacks in the strange treble and timbre.
• Audionotions: Just like the OG Galaxy Buds but slightly more energy and a tad brighter.

7th Acoustics Proxima

• Precogvision: Sounds similar to an ER3 from memory, but possibly worse.
• Tim Tuned:  True "IEF Neutral" IEM, can be "A" tier with easy EQ  Bass lacks fun and life
• Shuwa-T:  Tech performance for this price is unparalled, a true IEF neutral offering, treble extension  Tuning to such neutrality is not welcome for majority of people, bass impact non-existent

Etymotic ER2XR

• Jays Audio: An ER2SE with better bass control.
• Gizaudio Axel:  Great tuning with natural vocals and safe treble.  The fit.
• Jaytiss: Legendary iem. But I can't even.
• Precogvision: Controlled bass and darker treble. Narrow imaging, but solid technicalities for a single DD.
• Tim Tuned:  Great detail and solid tuning  Intrusive fit
• Nymz: Sub-100usd king. Great for the price, punching above, but fit is a major problem - I use it with comply foams. Lacks stage depth due to fit. Hard to drive.

Dunu Titan S

• Jaytiss: It has a bit of a lean sound.
• Precogvision: Good Harman-ish tonality with reasonably decent technical chops - an easy recommendation.
• Tim Tuned:  "audiophile" reference style tuning with good details
• Shuwa-T: Comment: Basically a brighter and clearer Aria.  Neutral bright tuning that isn't too shouty  Lower end comes across on the thinner side
• Nymz: Default neutral rec under 100$. ER2XR still better, but Titan S has better fit, timbre and stage. Easy to drive. Can get slightly shouty for my library. If you don't mind more bass, Olina is a better...
• Head-Fi.org: 27 community members have rated the DUNU Titan S at an average of 4.2/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

Kiwi Ears FORTEZA

• Jays Audio: Great resolution and imaging/seperation for its price. Highlights female vocals very nicely, but Uppermids gets a bit sharp + scooped lowermids. Great value tech wise, but tonality might be bright...
• Head-Fi.org: 12 community members have rated the KIWI EARS Forteza at an average of 3.4/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Cautiously Favorable.

Kinera BD005 Pro

• Crin: Far better balanced in tonality than the original. Could use more damping the treble though.
• Head-Fi.org: 18 community members have rated the Kinera BD005 Pro at an average of 3.7/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Generally Favorable.

Moondrop Aria

• Crin: A cheaper Starfield.
• Precogvision: See KXXS. Just slightly less upper-midrange and more bass.
• Tim Tuned:  Pleasing neutral tuning with impressive wide stage
• Shuwa-T: Comment: Starfield with less technical performance but better build quality.  Well tuned with no jarring issues  Clarity Clarity
• Nymz: Nothing wrong, nothing good as well. I'd rather buy other stuff around this price that perform much better, like Olina or Titan S. Over-hyped.
• Audionotions: Used to be a great intro into IEMs. Safe recc but there are betters at this price point these days
• Head-Fi.org: 30 community members have rated the Moondrop Aria at an average of 4.2/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

Tin Hifi C5

• Jays Audio: A harman/df or waner with a better driver, and more vocal emphasis.

Letshuoer x Gizaudio Galileo

• Jays Audio: Clean and neutral signature with empahsis in the midrange. Best vocals before Orch Lite $100-->Replaced by DZ4.
• Precogvision: Quite inoffensive but smoothed-over. Needs more resolution and sense of dynamics.
• Shuwa-T: Comment: A poor man's Diva with worse technicalities and less extension.  Solid tuning, balanced throughout with slight emphasis on female vocals  Treble rolls off prematurely
• Nymz: Great tuning that follows along my preferences, but falls short in the last field of the treble region. A great value overall.
• Audionotions: Smooth and relaxing done well. Very, very pleasant, mid-focused tonality. The vocals are very good, as you'd expect of something that Timmy concocted. One can definitely hear the treble roll-off, and...

Truthear Zero: Blue 2

• Jays Audio: Fun sub-woofer sound in the low-end, nice bouncy textue, but uppermids/treble can be too bright, especially with 15K treble peak. Basically a more v-shaped version of the OG TE Zeros. Vocals can be a...
• Gizaudio Axel:  Harman tuning with clean, punchy bass and great resolution.  Bright treble.
• Jaytiss: BASS With the adapter this goes up a bit, but it is difficult to recomend.
• Tim Tuned: Pros: Slightly more balanced and pleasing Harman tuned. Cons: Treble with silicone tips is piercing.
• Super* Review: Harman target tuned. Sounds pretty V and contrasty. Not a whole lot of mids. Fairly tasteful. Good sense of separation. Sterile/Lifeless mids and annoying treble. Needs foam eartips.
• Head-Fi.org: 8 community members have rated the Truthear Zero: Blue 2 at an average of 3.8/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Strongly Favorable.
• Audio Amigo: Seems to showcase my least favorite parts of the Harman Target. Lower mids are thin and anemic, treble is overblown and fatiguing. Foam tips help with treble, bass adapter helps with lower mids....

Moondrop Droplet

• Jays Audio: Another one
• Head-Fi.org: 6 community members have rated the Moondrop Droplet at an average of 4.2/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

Moondrop Sparks

• Crin: A tad too shouty and lacking low-level detail, but nothing too egregious as a whole.
• Precogvision: Solid tonal balance and great bass for a TWS.
• Shuwa-T: Comment: Bass and treble focused.  Good tonality with moondrop house sound  Bass bloom, subpar imaging and soundstage

Kiwi Ears Melody

• Jays Audio: Fun signature done right. Sparkly and energetic V-SHAPE, but with punchy bass and not bloated for under $100 - how? Can get a bit sharp with certain tracks.
• Jaytiss: Not a bad iem, but another planar that needs eq
• Head-Fi.org: 11 community members have rated the KIWI EARS Melody at an average of 4.2/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.
• Kois Archive: Rating: F+ | Comfort: 10  planar imaging  sharp treble

Thieaudio Legacy 2

• Precogvision: Pleasant tuning marred by low-level detailing and downwards compression.
• Head-Fi.org: 11 community members have rated the Thieaudio Legacy 2 at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

Blon BL05

• Crin: A more technical but far less pleasing BL03.

Tripowin TC-01

• Crin: Generic V-shape tuning with middling technicalities.
• Head-Fi.org: 7 community members have rated the Tripowin TC-01 at an average of 4.6/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.

TRN V90

• Crin: Generic V-shape tuning with middling technicalities.

Fiio FA1

• Crin: A pretty standard reference-style tuning that just works.

HZSOUND Heart Mirror Pro

• Head-Fi.org: 8 community members have rated the HZSound Heart Mirror Pro at an average of 3.9/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Strongly Favorable.

Tin Hifi T3 Plus

• Audionotions: Timbre is wrong. Sounded like cotton balls were shoved in my ears. Muffled sounding. Maybe I had a bad unit or they are just incompatible with my HRTF but I did not like these at all. Subject to...
• Head-Fi.org: 29 community members have rated the Tin HiFi T3 Plus at an average of 4.1/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

Ikko Opal OH2

• Precogvision: A more balanced interpretation of Ikko's usual sound.

7hz Legato

• Jays Audio: SUPER SLAMMING BASS but also well controlled and fairly open stage.
• Jaytiss: It does bass well, it is very solid for the price. You need to watch movies on this.
• Shuwa-T:  It's a lot of bass but absolute no resolution, some bass layering but everything is drowned out  Why does this exist
• Nymz: Well done V for the price, but with some treble quirks. Great set for bassheads on a budget.
• Head-Fi.org: 16 community members have rated the 7Hz Legato at an average of 3.8/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Strongly Favorable.

TRN-Medusa

• Jaytiss: Nice overall tonal quality, with just a dash of shout.
• Head-Fi.org: 2 community members have rated the TRN Medusa at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.
• Kois Archive: Rating: C | Value: ⭐ | Comfort: 9  very fun single dd  little shouty

TRZK Ouranos

• Tim Tuned:  Better and cheaper T3 Plus with approved timbre and balance.

Truthear Gate

• Jays Audio: All rounder with less uppermids than the EW100P, very close to waner.
• Jaytiss: Yuck, at least it has a cable.
• Super* Review: Nice frequency response. Stellar Cable. Bright but not overly in the vocals. I would still call it a mild V-Shaped sound signature.
• Shuwa-T:  Female vocals focused tuning with decent separation between instrumentals  Because of the over emphasis on female vocals, it does not replay male centric or bassier genres well
• Head-Fi.org: 22 community members have rated the Truthear Gate at an average of 4.2/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.
• Audio Amigo: A milder version of the Chu2. Best cable and accessories package under $20

Faaeal Tulip

• Jaytiss: It's weird. I don't get it.
• Head-Fi.org: 7 community members have rated the Faaeal Tulip at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

Intime Sora

• Crin: Well controlled bass boost with slightly skewed tonality. Potential is there.
• Precogvision: Decent tonality, perhaps a tad strident.

ZiiGaat Cinno

• Jays Audio: Good intrument separation/layering, but feels like the music is cut into certain areas in the stage and not harmonious (UPDATE: tip rolling helped, the fit was a little weird like the OG Dark...
• Jaytiss: Budget sa6 with no technicals or forward vocals. So mid.
• Head-Fi.org: 13 community members have rated the ZiiGaat Cinno at an average of 3.9/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Strongly Favorable.
• Audio Amigo: Sound is actually pretty great. A well balanced, warm studio tuning with de-emphasised vocals and subdued treble. Treble can be a little wonky in places, but detail is there and it honestly sounds...