Best price-to-performance IEMs below $1000

A-

$600

Symphonium Audio Meteor

Jays Audio: Meaty textured mid-bass, but can be a bit much. VVery warm sound. Library dependent. Airy treble, but vocals are a bit pushed back and buried.
Jaytiss: I'm just not a fan of the tuning, but I can see how others might like it.
Precogvision: Fantastic BA bass with a strong U-shape coloration.
Super* Review: Warm-tilted and unapologetically bassy , Symphonium’s 4BA Meteor aims for a thick, relaxed presentation that still feels refined up top. The bass carries notable mid-bass ...
Smirk Audio: Smirk Audio rated Symphonium Audio Meteor with a score of 7.2/10 without adding a comment.
Nymz: U-Shaped warm tuning that is as easy to love it as it is to rec it. Despite being a full BA, the bass has great qualities to it. Great techs given the price and tuning. I had to buy one myself.
Z-Reviews: Packaging and accessories go hard: a wild Nightjar cable that actually behaves, a tiny waterproof case, foam and silicone tips, even a burlap sack. The shells are much smaller than other...
Audionotions: Warm U-shaped IEM. Very pleasant to listen to. Bass is pretty good for a BA set with a focus on decay which makes it rumble nicely - perhaps lacks a bit of tactility. Very solid choice for those who...
Head-Fi.org: 14 community members have rated the Symphonium Audio Meteor at an average of 4.2/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.
Yifang: Yifang rated Symphonium Audio Meteor with a score of 6.5/10 without adding a comment.

+ 9 more reviews

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

U-Shaped 4BA

7.4

6.2

A

Tangzu Xuan Wu Gate

Jays Audio: Clean, neutral, balanced, technical, laid back, very detailed. Neutral tuning done right while being a little dynamic/engaging. Tip wise Azla spinfits for more detail, tangzu sancai regular for...
Gizaudio Axel: Solid mid-bass, natural vocals, and detailed treble. Treble is a bit elevated, and upper mids feel a bit relaxed.
Tim Tuned: Great relaxed tuning. Satisfying subbass and treble Female vocal lack a bit of life
Head-Fi.org: 6 community members have rated the Tangzu Xuan Wu Gate at an average of 4.4/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.
ATechReviews: Very technical neutral-leaning flagship with huge stage and detail but light bass and hot treble that many listeners may find fatiguing. With some EQ on bass and 8–12 kHz, it becomes a seriously... Class-leading detail retrieval, wide holographic staging and precise imaging for the price. Stock tuning combines light bass with sharp upper treble, making long sessions difficult without EQ.
Audio-In Reviews: Tangzu XuanWu Gate combines striking build quality, near-IE600 bass performance and strong technicalities, but faces stiff competition and feels slightly overpriced at $649. Beautifully built neutral-warm flagship with near-IE600 bass quality, wide immersive stage and strong imaging and detail. Soft value proposition at $649 with slightly relaxed upper mids, a touch of extra treble spice and technical performance that falls just short of the very best in its class.

+ 5 more reviews

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

n/a 1DD+4BA+2EST

7.9

7.5

A-

$600

I/O Volare

Jays Audio: Best Harman IEM under $600 (my unit is less harman), smooth and natural, great layering and tech, bass texture could be better/not as good as Oracle MK3, but overall very balanced and great...
Jaytiss: Nice overall quality.
Precogvision: Sounds warm and relatively pleasant, a bit QDC inspired. EST implementation rolls off and could use more texturing overall.
Super* Review: If you are looking for the most bang for your buck in terms of the costs of materials - this is it. But not the most interesting sound.
Fresh Reviews: Fresh Reviews rated I/O Volare with a score of 5.0/10 without adding a comment.
Shuwa-T: Balanced subbass-focused tuning that borders the fine line between technical and boring, well extended treble that remains free of sibilance The lower midrange does not sound the most natural despite how funny squiggly lines look
Head-Fi.org: 7 community members have rated the I/O Volare at an average of 4.7/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Exceptional.

+ 6 more reviews

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

n/a 1DD+4BA+4EST

7.2

6

A+

Softears RSV MK II

Jays Audio: Bassy dynamic all-rounder with great low-end texture that slams hard with good note-weight/body. Slight Hype 4 upgrade. Treble is smooth, and vocals are well-tuned. Overall unboxing/accesories are...
Jaytiss: So Softears didn't forget how to tune. Tactful Basshead
Precogvision: Precogvision rated Softears RSV MK II with a score of 6.5/10 without adding a comment.
Super* Review: A 5-BA successor that lands at $700, claims “re-engineered” BA bass, and feels like a welcome throwback to when high-end Chi-Fi wasn’t four figures. Build and fit are excellent with a...
Web Search: The Softears RSV MK II refines the original RSV with an all-5BA design and a 4-way crossover, targeting a stable “reference sound” while improving driver control and airflow management. It’s...
Fresh Reviews: The Softears RSV MK II is a 5BA set at $699 with a sleek, performance-driven look—carbon-fiber “V” and RS badge on the faceplate—paired to an ergonomic shell and fish-mouth nozzle ...
Audionotions: Audionotions rated Softears RSV MK II with a score of 8.0/10 without adding a comment.
Fox Told Me So: The RSV MK2 still follows Softears’ signature approach: an all-BA design, specifically, five-BA configuration. The “V” stands for both its five-driver layout and its bold carbon-fiber faceplate...
Head-Fi.org: 5 community members have rated the Softears RSV-MKII at an average of 4.4/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.

+ 8 more reviews

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

Neutral with Bass Boost 5BA

8.1

8.9

A

$670

LetShuoer EJ07M

Jays Audio: Holographic staging with an amazing midrange. Great bass texture and impact. Incredibly immersive and endgame for most. Has more sub-bass and treble air than OG doesn't scale as well.
Jaytiss: Fit is an issue same as the Blessing 2 Dusk.
Precogvision: Excellent tonality and dynamic bass held back only by a lack of intangible performance.
Super* Review: Letshuoer x HBB’s Kinda Lava retunes the EJ07M toward a neutral-with-tasteful-bass-boost signature, thickening the mid-bass versus the original’s Harman-leaning sub-bass shelf. The ...
Shuwa-T: Comment: EJ07 but more low end. The bassier EJ07
Audionotions: Nearly the same as the Kinda Lava with very slight differences in the bass. More subbass at the cost of a tiny bit of midbass. Same great mids and treble. Possibly a tad less thick note weight than...
Head-Fi.org: 10 community members have rated the LETSHUOER EJ07M at an average of 4.3/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.
Yifang: Yifang rated LetShuoer EJ07M with a score of 8.0/10 without adding a comment.

+ 7 more reviews

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

U-Shaped 1DD+2BA+4EST

7.7

6.7

A-

$649

Intuaura Purple

Fresh Reviews: Fresh Reviews rated Intuaura Purple with a score of 6.5/10 without adding a comment.
Z-Reviews: Intuaura Purple brings a polished, pricey package: lush purple shells, a comfy fit, and a cable that looks the part—even if the accessories feel recycled from cheaper siblings. The kicker is the...
Head-Fi.org: One community member has rated the Intuaura Purple at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

+ 2 more reviews

n/a 1DD

7.4

7.1

A

$700

Moondrop S8

Gizaudio Axel: Smooth, detailed, and balanced tuning. Harman-like sound with plenty of detail. BA bass.
Crin: More faithful to the Harman target compared to the A8, with a smoother bass response.
Jaytiss: Special set.
Precogvision: Excellent treble extension and detail retrieval.
Tim Tuned: The Moondrop S8 mirrors the tonal balance of the Blessing 2 Dusk —similar bass level, natural mids, solid upper-mid presence, and extended treble—but distinguishes itself in execution . Bass... Smooth engaging harman signature with fun bass BA timbre
Super* Review: Striking design meets smart ergonomics: a crystal-clear acrylic shell that looks glass-polished , with noticeably cleaner clarity than Blessing 2/Dusk. The fit is more contoured and effortless,...
Smirk Audio: Very resolving with a sweet, pleasant timbre. Good mids and treble. Average bass. Upper-mids may be shouty to some.
Shuwa-T: Comment: Technically proficient. Clarity and tuning well done BA timbre
Bad Guy Good Audio: Moondrop S8 makes a strong first impression: a gorgeous build , clean shells, and a presentation that feels premium without pretending to be leather-clad luxury. The design keeps it simple—no... Great detail,relax tuning upgrade of "A8" only a slight upgrade to the previous A8
Audionotions: Very resolving and well tuned. Note weight leans thin. First IEM that I can say I definitely hear the BA timbre. Could use more down low. Pressure build is uncomfortable.

+ 9 more reviews

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

U-Shaped 8BA

7.9

6.9

A-

Yanyin Moonlight

Jays Audio: Balanced, smooth, and clean presentation that scales beautifully with slightly forward/powerful vocals.
Crin: Crin rated Yanyin Moonlight with a score of 6.0/10 without adding a comment.
Tim Tuned: Yanyin Moonlight sets up as a $649 tri-brid with a sub-bass-focused low end and notably shy mid-bass . Bass quality is smooth and competent with decent texture and dynamics, but quantity is... Great vocal centric signature & Imaging a bit safe bass and treble wise
Shuwa-T: Comment: Best tribrid around $600, addictive midrange. Good detail retrieval backed by rich mids Midbass light for some
Head-Fi.org: 3 community members have rated the Yanyin Moonlight at an average of 4.7/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Exceptional.

+ 4 more reviews

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

Neutral with Bass Boost 1DD+4BA+2EST

7.3

6.7

A

$680

BGVP DM9

Super* Review: Super* Review rated BGVP DM9 with a score of 8.0/10 without adding a comment.
Head-Fi.org: 4 community members have rated the BGVP DM9 at an average of 4.3/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.

+ 1 more reviews

Neutral n/a

7.6

7.1

B+

$600

Fiio FD7

Crin: Crin rated Fiio FD7 with a score of 6.0/10 without adding a comment.
Super* Review: Super* Review rated Fiio FD7 with a score of 6.0/10 without adding a comment.
Head-Fi.org: 4 community members have rated the FiiO FD7 at an average of 4.8/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Exceptional.

+ 2 more reviews

Tuning: B Tech: B

Neutral n/a

6.7

5.5

A

Sennheiser IE600

Jays Audio: Tons of detail and amazing clarity. Stage is smaller than most IEMs at/below its price tag but very well defined details and imaging within that space. Bass is detailed, but amount is not as much as...
Gizaudio Axel: Fun, V-shaped tuning. Fantastic bass (both quality and quantity), great V-shaped tuning, excellent detail, and precise imaging. Treble is too much, could use more vocal focus.
Crin: Well-tuned mids, powerful yet controlled sub-bass, with highly extended (and somewhat spicy) treble.
Jaytiss: Lots of upper trebble.
Precogvision: Well-extended on both ends of the spectrum and adds back in the upper-midrange the IE900 lacked.
Tim Tuned: Sennheiser IE600 hits with a confidently V-shaped signature: powerful yet tidy bass that thumps with dynamic-driver slam, a flat, clean lower midrange, and lively upper mids that make vocals and... Very well rouned fun subbass focus sound Treble might be too much
Super* Review: $700 buys a compact, 3D-printed metal single-DD that looks mature and fits like a glove. The IE 600 arrives with two cables ( 3.5mm and 4.4mm ) that are thin and comfy but a bit microphonic ...
Shuwa-T: Comment: Stock eartips are a disgrace. Superb clarity with good tuning and bass response Treble is on the energetic side
Nymz: The most technical DD I've heard. Tuning is not perfect for my library - V-Shape. Get's a rec for those that really enjoy a well done V DD. Could use more stage size and bass impact. Fit is not the...
Audionotions: Engaging sound signature with authoritative bass and very good treble. Mids are no slouch either. Can be spicy for some, but for what it's worth, I have no issues with the treble. Pretty impressive,...
Head-Fi.org: 15 community members have rated the Sennheiser IE600 at an average of 4.3/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.

+ 10 more reviews

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

V-Shaped 1DD

7.8

6.7

A-

TangZu Tian Peng

Jays Audio: A cleaner more neutral Bajie with less bass and more treble energy. Clean, slightly vocal forward with some bite. Azla tips for more bass and treble energy/bite but can get shouty - Sancai Nobles for...
Jaytiss: Packaging is fantastic, sound isn't...
Web Search: The Tangzu Tian Peng offers a V-shaped sound profile that leans towards reference while maintaining musicality, with bass quality being notably source-dependent - it requires amplification to achieve...

+ 2 more reviews

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

V-Shaped 1DD+6BA+1BC

7

A-

$669

Letshuore EJ07M Kinda Lava

Crin: Crin rated Letshuore EJ07M Kinda Lava with a score of 6.0/10 without adding a comment.
Precogvision: Basically the EJ07M with some adjustment to the bass for more clarity.
Tim Tuned: Balanced, Versatile. HBB's Best Small EST (treble) incoherency
Fresh Reviews: Fresh Reviews rated Letshuore EJ07M Kinda Lava with a score of 6.0/10 without adding a comment.
Shuwa-T: Comment: My favourite out of the EJ lineup. Excellent tonal balance, engaging midrange and somewhat pronounced treble Driver flex is annoying though
Nymz: Less sub, a hair more mid-bass 07m but well done. Keeps the techs and the other frequencies, adding warmth and bones to the mids and better clarity/coherency. I prefer it to stock 07m by a hair, but...
Bad Guy Good Audio: Bad Guy Good Audio rated Letshuore EJ07M Kinda Lava with a score of 7.7/10 without adding a comment.
Audionotions: One of the most solid all-rounders I've tried. Great bass, great mids, good treble extension. Very natural sounding. The only con I can think of is the bright red shells (my KL has the black shells)?...

+ 7 more reviews

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

V-Shaped n/a

7.3

6.7

A

EPZ 530

Jays Audio: Great set for jazz/blues/soul/acoustic. Thick and lush. Warm but with nice treble extension. Solid tech. Vocals can be overly husky and buried in busier songs.
Jaytiss: It does some things very well. Very good item.
Z-Reviews: EPZ 530 delivers a distinctly warm , intimate presentation with forward vocals and a close, enveloping stage that can feel like a gentle heat lamp over the mix. It’s a 5BA set tuned for body...
Head-Fi.org: 8 community members have rated the EPZ 530 at an average of 4.4/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.

+ 3 more reviews

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

n/a 5BA

7.6

7

B+

$600

Fiio FH9

Crin: Crin rated Fiio FH9 with a score of 6.0/10 without adding a comment.
Jaytiss: A different try on Reference.
Precogvision: Pretty alright overall. Warm and reasonably well-balanced in the upper-midrange and lower-treble unlike some of Fiio's other IEMs.
Head-Fi.org: 10 community members have rated the FiiO FH9 at an average of 4.4/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.

+ 3 more reviews

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

V-Shaped 1DD+6BA

6.5

5.4

A

Softears RSV

Jays Audio: One of the best vocals I've heard on any IEM (especially for male artists). Mids and Treble is TOTL, smooth and well extended and has great naturalness and the perfect bite. Bass has great speed and...
Gizaudio Axel: I prefer the Studio 4. Warmer, bassier, and slightly more resolving than the Studio 4, with great timbre. BA Bass.
Crin: Very well-balanced tonality with surprisingly good timbre, though slightly lacking definition.
Jaytiss: Great upper treble, but its overall tonality isn't perfect.
Precogvision: Well-tuned from top-to-bottom with good timbre. Safe to the point of boredom.
Tim Tuned: Softears RSV delivers a rare combo for a full-BA set: organic timbre without the plasticky edge. The bass carries sufficient weight with a mid-bass emphasis—tight and tasteful rather than... Timbre so beautiful you think it's not a BA set
Super* Review: Softears RSV presents as a premium, well-finished all-BA set with five balanced armatures , a secure, slightly deeper fit and above-average isolation . The package feels thoughtful—nice case,...
Shuwa-T: Mid and vocal centric set, this is not reference tuning despite the name
Nymz: A BA set that almost sounds like a DD. Needs low OI source. Bass close to U12T with more mid-bass impact. Great treble. Sub-bass and imaging can be lacking for some. My favourite vocals ever.
Head-Fi.org: 8 community members have rated the Softears RSV at an average of 4.5/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.
ATechReviews: Neutral, vocal focused all BA monitor with excellent midrange clarity and natural treble, but only average stage, slam and value next to strong competitors. Vocal focused tuning with clear, natural mids, realistic treble and strong separation for voices and instruments. Bass slam, overall technical performance and value are outclassed by competitors like Dunu SA6 MK II and Softears Studio 4 in the same price range.

+ 10 more reviews

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

U-Shaped 5BA

7.8

6.8

7

B

$600

MiM Audio Dark Magician

Super* Review: Super* Review rated MiM Audio Dark Magician with a score of 6.0/10 without adding a comment.
Yifang: Yifang rated MiM Audio Dark Magician with a score of 7.5/10 without adding a comment.

Tuning: S- Tech: B+

Neutral n/a

6.4

6.6

B

$600

Oriolus Isabellae

Crin: Crin rated Oriolus Isabellae with a score of 6.0/10 without adding a comment.
Jaytiss: Awesome shimmer, and cool unique sound.
Precogvision: Midrange doesn't sound very DD-like; more along the lines of etched and gritty perhaps due to 11kHz peak in treble.
Shuwa-T: Comment: Impressive sound from a single DD. Warm and pleasing tuning, sweet coloured vocals Treble peak may annoy some
Audionotions: Beautifully sweet mids, good fun bass - maybe not the most resolving but sinfully enjoyable. Slight weirdness for some female vocals but other than that, it sounds great
Head-Fi.org: 8 community members have rated the Oriolus Isabellae at an average of 4.3/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.

+ 5 more reviews

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

V-Shaped 1DD

6.4

5.2

B+

Tigerism Sun Wukong

Web Search: The Tigerism Sun Wukong features an all-metal build with a striking Monkey King illustration, feeling durable but somewhat chunky. Its short nozzle and weight can lead to inconsistent fit and...
Shuwa-T: Sounds nothing like the DM despite being marketed as a bassier version. Lacks any sort treble bite, with all instruments requiring higher frequencies sounding muffled.
Z-Reviews: Tigerism Sun Wukong is the brand’s flagship single-DD: a 14.2 mm dynamic driver, 44 Ω , and a sticker shock $750 —but the tuning backs it up. The presentation wraps into a near-spherical ...
Head-Fi.org: One community member has rated the Tigerism Sun Wukong at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

+ 3 more reviews

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

W-Shaped 1DD

6.9

5.6

A-

$679

SymphonyEars PRE5TIGE

Jaytiss: Early, but very nice so far.
Paul Wasabii: Flagship-grade build with excellent bass execution and natural midrange weight. Treble is tuned too safely, limiting air, dynamics, and spatial realism for the price. Beautiful flagship-grade build with well-executed bass and natural vocal weight. Upper treble is too safe for the price, limiting dynamics, detail, and spatial cues.

+ 1 more reviews

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

n/a n/a

7.2

5.9

A-

ORIVETI OH700VB

Jays Audio: Replaced by Astral. A more engaging Supernova, cleaner, with better sub-bass, and vocals. Very big stage and fantastic separation and layering. Vocals are airy without being too sharp. Lots of...
Jaytiss: This is like a supernova with better Bass, but slightly less technical.
Head-Fi.org: 12 community members have rated the Oriveti OH700VB at an average of 4.6/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.

+ 2 more reviews

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

Neutral 6DD BA

7.4

7

B

$600

Tanchjim Prism

Crin: Crin rated Tanchjim Prism with a score of 6.0/10 without adding a comment.
Precogvision: Somewhat tinny in the treble and generally anemic.
Super* Review: Super* Review rated Tanchjim Prism with a score of 6.0/10 without adding a comment.
Shuwa-T: Comment: Best release so far from Tanchjim. Well tuned with good technicalities Offers nothing special
Head-Fi.org: One community member has rated the Tanchjim Prism at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

+ 4 more reviews

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

V-Shaped 1DD+2BA

6.3

5.5

A-

$699

BGVP Astrum

Web Search: The BGVP Astrum is a tribrid IEM with a 2DD+2BA+2EST array, using a coaxial dual 8 mm dynamic module for lows, Knowles BAs for mids/highs, and Sonion ESTs for the ultra-treble. This configuration,...
Head-Fi.org: 3 community members have rated the BGVP Astrum at an average of 4.7/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Exceptional.
Paul Wasabii: A pronounced 5 kHz rise creates "fake detail" and flattens staging; EST treble is capable but masked unless EQ reduces 5 kHz and lifts 10 kHz. Attractive build with lively bass and a competent EST treble once EQ tames the 5 kHz emphasis. Pronounced 5 kHz peak causes fatigue and a flat, congested stage, with bass turning boomy at higher volume; needs EQ.

+ 2 more reviews

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

W-Shaped 2DD+2BA+2EST

7.3

6.3

A-

$700

Thieaudio Clairvoyance

Crin: Inoffensive, pleasant tuning specialising in extremely balanced tonality and bass control.
Precogvision: A more pleasant, warmer Monarch with cutbacks in resolution.
Tim Tuned: Amazingly balanced tuning
Super* Review: Super* Review rated Thieaudio Clairvoyance with a score of 8.0/10 without adding a comment.
Shuwa-T: Comment: Subbass hump is real. Balanced sounding across all frequencies

+ 4 more reviews

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

Neutral 1DD+5BA+2EST

7.3

6.5

B+

$650

Yanyin x HBB Mahina

Crin: Crin rated Yanyin x HBB Mahina with a score of 6.0/10 without adding a comment.
Tim Tuned: A more balanced Moonlight with better bass a bit safe treble wise
Nymz: Terriffic warm tuning only sinning by the lack of better bass dynamics. Treble is relaxed but "flat" with terrific extension. Works wonders for poorly recorded tracks.
Head-Fi.org: 2 community members have rated the Yanyin x HBB Mahina at an average of 4.5/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.

+ 3 more reviews

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

Neutral with Bass Boost 1DD+4BA+2EST

6.7

5.9

A

$749

NF Acous NE4

Web Search: The NF Acous/Audio NE4 Evolution is a modular all-BA IEM built around four Knowles drivers (22955 + 29689 + 31736 composite) and three swappable frequency-divider faceplates—Pop (red), Reference...
Paul Wasabii: NF Acoustics NE4 combines a clever swappable faceplate crossover system with a refined reference BA tuning, but its 749 dollar price feels high in the 2024 market. Innovative swappable faceplate crossover system with a balanced reference tuning that delivers clear mids, smooth extended treble and an open stage. High asking price around 749 dollars and the non reference plates either overemphasize bass or thin out the low end and stage.

+ 1 more reviews

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

Neutral 31736)+4BA (Knowles

7.7

7.8

B

$629

Moritz Dragon

Gizaudio Axel: Smooth, cohesive Harman-like tuning with a single DD. Overall detail.
Jaytiss: Bonkers fun DD set, love it. Very V shaped.
Shuwa-T: The issue is not the sound but the build is criminally bad; a $600+ iem should not feel like a Wan Er

+ 2 more reviews

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

n/a n/a

6.4

5.6

A-

Dunu SA6 EST

Gizaudio Axel: I prefer the SA6 MK II. QDC Anole VX tuning, excellent resolution, and great bass. Unvented design, no bass switch, and less airy than the SA6 MK II.
Precogvision: Technical sounding and clearly shooting for a more 'musical' focus, but treble is oddly peaky and juxtaposed weirdly to pinna rising at ~600Hz.
Super* Review: Not a bad IEM if you get the right tips. It's a bit disappointing compared to the original SA6.
Z-Reviews: Z-Reviews rated Dunu SA6 EST with a score of 8.0/10 without adding a comment.
Head-Fi.org: One community member has rated the Dunu SA6 EST at an average of 2.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Unfavorable.
Audio-In Reviews: Neutral leaning SA6 evolution with improved treble energy, strong technical performance and better value than some pricier competitors. Refined neutral tuning with excellent mids, smooth extended treble and top tier imaging for the price. Lack of bass boost switch, only average stage width and upper mids or treble can occasionally draw too much attention.

+ 5 more reviews

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

n/a 6BA+2EST

7

7.8

A+

$800

Elysian Pilgrim Noir

Jays Audio: Good but expensive. Recommended if you can find it for around $500. Direct upgrade to the AFUL Explorer. Scales great. Reminds me of the EJ07M but a bit smoother and less dynamic. Prefer it more than...
Gizaudio Axel: Sound is similar to the original Pilgrim. Bassier than the original Pilgrim with similar resolution.
Jaytiss: Way different than Pilgrim OG, less bright. Smoothe.
Super* Review: Relaxed at the vocal region compared to orignial Pilgrim. Too expensive. Texturing is a little bit better than original Pilgrim
Smirk Audio: Cons: Similar to Pilgrim OG at twice the price.
Fresh Reviews: link is for the less expensive one
Z-Reviews: Elysian x Effect Audio Pilgrim Noir takes the original Pilgrim’s 1DD + 3BA foundation and dials it up with an upgraded 4-way crossover , a stealthy all-black finish, and Effect Audio’s cable....
Head-Fi.org: 8 community members have rated the Elysian Pilgrim Noir at an average of 4.3/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.
Yifang: Yifang rated Elysian Pilgrim Noir with a score of 8.0/10 without adding a comment.
Paul Wasabii: Pilgrim Noir is a much more mature, refined take on the original Pilgrim, with stronger technical performance and a better balanced tuning. Despite the high price, it works very well as a single do... Strong hybrid all rounder with hard slamming yet controlled bass, refined mids, extended treble, and very good technical performance for the price. Fit and tip selection can be finicky, source synergy matters, and the very high price will limit who can realistically buy it.
ATechReviews: Pilgrim Noir keeps the excellent technical performance of the original Pilgrim while adding more mid bass weight and a darker, more relaxed tonality, but the much higher price and more laid back mids... Excellent sub bass reach and mid bass weight, relaxed yet detailed tuning, premium build and shells plus a high quality Effect Audio cable with flexible TermX and ConX modular systems. More expensive than the original Pilgrim while sounding softer and less open, with male vocals a bit pulled back and treble air reduced so the overall value feels weaker next to the OG.
Audio-In Reviews: Refines the original Pilgrim with warmer mids, smoother treble and improved detail while staying balanced and controlled, but the jump to around $800 feels hard to fully justify. Refined, balanced tuning with excellent sub-bass control, rich mids, smooth yet detailed treble and strong overall technical performance for its class. Around $800 asking price feels high given only incremental sonic gains over the original Pilgrim and similarly strong sets in the $600-$700 range.

+ 11 more reviews

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

n/a 1DD+3BA

8

7.4

B

$600

Tansio Mirai Land

Crin: Crin rated Tansio Mirai Land with a score of 5.0/10 without adding a comment.
Precogvision: 123 setting. V-shaped and a bit harsh in the lower-treble.
Head-Fi.org: 3 community members have rated the TANSIO MIRAI Land at an average of 4.7/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Exceptional.

+ 2 more reviews

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

Neutral 1DD+3BA+2EST

6

4.6

A-

$730

Thieaudio Monarch

Jays Audio: Endgame clarity and layering. Clean, clear, and balanced all-rounder sound. Great resolution, and open staging. Rumbly sub-bass but mid-bass tuck can kill some libraries and affect vocal thinness.
Crin: Neutral with bass boost
Precogvision: Not particularly coherent, but an attention grabber with solid, surface-level detail.
Tim Tuned: Superb separation, fun clean signature
Super* Review: The ThieAudio Monarch is an unapologetically “extra” tribrid IEM at around $720 , packing a dynamic driver for bass, six BAs for mids, and two EST tweeters. Accessories impress—especially...
Shuwa-T: Comment: Less steep subbass hump, clearer midrange. Balanced sounding across all frequencies Lower mids on thinner side

+ 5 more reviews

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

U-Shaped 1DD+6BA+2EST

7.3

7.2

A

Aful Cantor

Jays Audio: LOW VOLUME SET. Clean, airy, and highly resolving at its price with endgame separation and detail. Low-end is quick, but lacks impact and a bit of texture. Notes are on the lighter side, not very...
Gizaudio Axel: One of the most resolving IEMs. It reveals details you’ve never noticed before. Exceptional detail, neutral tuning, and great bass quality. Very revealing. Could use more bass for my taste.
Jaytiss: Maybe best detailed set, fit is extremely difficult.
Precogvision: A bit too bright sounding in the lower-treble (and brittle treble overall) which sounds odd compared to smoother lower-mids and bouncy sub-bass.
Super* Review: It's super impressive but also really difficult to edge on comfort. It's not my favorite sound but good sounding. Competing well at it's price point
Shuwa-T: Comment: A massive improvement over the prototype at canjam, a killer set for techs under US$1000, nothing else really comes close. Finally a true u12t competitor with better fit, cable, and... Crystal clear across all frequencies, extremely revealing set that slices apart the layers in the music; treble so nuanced yet pleasant that you cannot believe an all BA set is doing this Less midbass presence, overall tonality can come across as a little too lean especially with treble focus
Z-Reviews: This is AFUL’s flagship science project: the Cantor packs 14 BAs per side (28 total) and a heap of buzzword tech— Dual-Channel Acoustic Maze for sub-bass, non-destructive direct-drive...
Audionotions: Very well balanced with very good details and separation. Bass is punchy and fast, mids are clean with excellent instrument separation, treble is well extended and airy. Nothing stands out as...
Head-Fi.org: 15 community members have rated the AFUL Cantor at an average of 4.4/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.
Audio Amigo: Achieves levels of soundstaging and detail resolution that compete with $2000 IEMs, truly top of the line acousitc performance. IF AND ONLY IF, you can achieve a deep enough fit in your ears. Metal...
Kois Archive: Rating: S | Value: ⭐ | Gaming: 🎮🎮🎮 | Comfort: 8 insane technicality, totl treble bit bright. bass could be more dynamic
Paul Wasabii: Highly technical but lean and preference specific tuning with tricky fit makes this 800 dollar set feel more like a specialist tool than an all rounder. Strong detail and treble performance are... Strong technical performance with clean treble, good resolution, low BA timbre and a solid shell and cable package. Awkward fit, thin mid bass, occasionally fatiguing upper treble and a narrow preference window make the high price difficult to justify for most listeners.
Audio-In Reviews: AFUL Cantor delivers kilobuck level tuning and technical performance with stunning design, exceptional detail and one of the cleanest BA bass executions under $1,000, with only minor wishes for a bit... Underpriced flagship with kilobuck level tuning, exceptional detail retrieval and a refined sub bass focused presentation that stays clean and natural across the range. Long nozzles and energetic treble can be unforgiving of shallow fits, and some listeners may wish for a touch more overall bass quantity and low mid warmth.

+ 12 more reviews

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

Vocal-focused 14BA

7.8

8.2

8.5

B+

$699

Mangird XENNS UP

Jays Audio: Fast and clean bass but still rumbly and punchy. Beryllium DD baby. Well-seperated mids, and vocals still pop and aren't buried like other bass sets. Can use more treble extension (fixed with AZLA...
Crin: Crin rated Mangird XENNS UP with a score of 6.0/10 without adding a comment.
Jaytiss: Highs on this set are very offputting.
Tim Tuned: Bass focus without over coloring. Smooth listen Low energy, just okay note definition
Shuwa-T: Balanced sounding with good technicalities A warmer, fuller-sounding, bassier Mangird Tea
Nymz: The party starter. Very very warm, but fun. Different from anything else. Treble and mids somewhat ok even after all the warmth. Mid-bass is very good.
Bad Guy Good Audio: Guilty pleasures..love the slam, treble still fine. Beryllium baby!!
Head-Fi.org: 7 community members have rated the Mangird XENNS UP at an average of 4.2/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.
Kois Archive: Rating: A+ | Value: ⭐ | Gaming: 🎮🎮 | Comfort: 9 warm and nice bass texture bit too much midbass

+ 8 more reviews

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

Neutral with Bass Boost 1DD+4BA+2EST

6.8

6.1

A+

$850

7th Acoustics Supernova

Jays Audio: Super smoooth. TOTL dynamics and treble air - dunno how they managed this airy and smooth with only BAs. Very clean, no sharpness, or sudden peaks, endgame separation and detail. Only drawback is...
Jaytiss: Natural king. Special iem at any price.
Precogvision: Nearly immaculate tonality, coherency, and timbre with reasonably good technicalities.
Super* Review: Hand-built in Indonesia with customizable abalone faceplates, Supernova feels like a boutique step up in value: a handsome, slightly medium-large shell, stable fit, strong isolation , and a...
Smirk Audio: Rich, honeyed timbre. Well-tuned with solid techs. A very smooth listen. Could use better resolution and incisiveness.
Shuwa-T: Lovely midrange, vocal-centric set that never sounds fatiguing Techs are not class leading
Nymz: Made to order - 60 days. Brilliant tonality with technical support, just lacking the last hair of detail. Transient sharpness and decay are on point. You will be hard-pressed to find better under 1k.
Z-Reviews: 7th Acoustic Supernova brings a 6BA setup at around $850 , dressed in pretty shells but a bit bulgy for the fit. Packaging quirks and micro-print gripes aside, the included Versus Audio cable...
Audionotions: Some of the best timbre I've heard on an IEM to date with decent technicalities to match. Tonality is really good. Bass is neither too much nor too little - just enough to add the perfect amount of...
Head-Fi.org: 24 community members have rated the 7th Acoustics Supernova at an average of 4.5/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.
Yifang: Yifang rated 7th Acoustics Supernova with a score of 8.0/10 without adding a comment.

+ 10 more reviews

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

Neutral with Bass Boost 6BA

8.1

6.7

B+

$700

ISN Audio EBC80

Jaytiss: This is a nice set, great implementation of drivers.
Shuwa-T: Typical snappy V shape set with decent clarity Driver incoherence is extremely apparent on this set, BA timbre plasticky
Head-Fi.org: 27 community members have rated the ISN Audio EBC80 at an average of 4.5/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.

+ 2 more reviews

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

n/a 4DD BA EST BC

6.6

5.2

A+

FlipEars Legion

Jays Audio: Fun and bassy, v-shape, great low-end slam and texture, full, rumbly, solid tech imaging, and cool faceplate... but price is a bit high.
Jaytiss: What this does well, it does very well. Fun set.
Smirk Audio: Smirk Audio rated FlipEars Legion with a score of 7.5/10 without adding a comment.
Web Search: The FlipEars Legion makes a commanding entrance with its striking Roman legionnaire-inspired design, featuring jewelry-cast rose-plated brass faceplates hand-painted by master artisans in Bulacan,...
Head-Fi.org: 9 community members have rated the FlipEars Legion at an average of 4.6/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.
Audio Amigo: Bass-focused Bone Conduction done properly! Rumbles and Buzzes in your ears with no annoying buzz or tonal issues. Not the best technical performer, but absolutely GORGEOUS Shells.
Paul Wasabii: Fun, bass-forward WV tuning with surgical treble control and standout 3D imaging; hard-hitting yet clean at volume. Pricey but executed with uncommon finesse. Powerful, fast mid-bass with excellent 3D imaging/layering and controlled, non-fatiguing treble. Lower mids can feel a bit thick and the bass-forward balance plus the premium price will not suit neutrality seekers.

+ 6 more reviews

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

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

8

6.7

A+

Thieaudio Origin

Jays Audio: Best bassy set under $1K. Bassy/thicker meta tuning. You can actually feel the reverb and vibration from the bone conduction drivers, great control and low-end texture. Mids and treble are also well...
Jaytiss: Great set, has a lot of positives and is amazing on bass tracks.
Precogvision: Precogvision rated Thieaudio Origin with a score of 6.0/10 without adding a comment.
Tim Tuned: Mega bass additiveness Bass too much
Super* Review: Interesting sound. It becomes it's own thing. Fit is not great.
Web Search: The Thieaudio Origin delivers a bass-forward signature with a substantial 12dB sub-bass boost that provides visceral rumble and slam, particularly effective for electronic or hip-hop genres. Despite...
Fresh Reviews: Thieaudio Origin steps into the high end with a hybrid array— 1DD + 4BA + 2EST + bone conduction —that pushes a richly textured, holographic presentation. The soundstage is wide and deep ,...
Z-Reviews: Thieaudio Origin goes full mad-science: 1DD + 4BA + 2EST + bone conductor (eight drivers per side), big shells, hefty stock cable, and a tuning built around a ~12 dB sub-bass shelf . Fit can be a...
Head-Fi.org: 4 community members have rated the THIEAUDIO Origin at an average of 4.5/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.
Joyce's Review: ThieAudio Origin delivers a wide, headphone like stage, huge but controlled bass and silky smooth mids and treble, making it a highly recommended bone conductor option under 1,000 USD for bass... Huge but controlled sub bass with wide, headphone like soundstage and silky mids and treble that stay detailed and non fatiguing across R&B, hip hop and rock. Large, chunky shells and elevated bass focus may feel bulky or too warm for listeners who prefer smaller IEMs or leaner, more neutral tunings.

+ 9 more reviews

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

Neutral with Bass Boost 1DD+4BA+2EST+1BC

8

7.3

B

$670

Plunge Audio Unity

Jaytiss: Nice build quality, but this tune aint it.
Head-Fi.org: 2 community members have rated the Plunge Audio Unity at an average of 5.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Masterpiece.

+ 1 more reviews

Tuning: C Tech: C- Mids: C- Treble: C- Dynamics: D Soundstage: B

n/a n/a

6.2

3.7

A-

$800

Symphonium Giant

Jays Audio: Super warm and thick, mid-bass centric, basically the Meteor with less treble and more low-end, needs power, turns into basshead at higher volumes, very bassy.
Jaytiss: There's warm, warmer, then a huge gap, then the Giant. Warmiest.
Smirk Audio: Smirk Audio rated Symphonium Giant with a score of 7.6/10 without adding a comment.
Z-Reviews: Symphonium Giant comes in at $700 with a head-scratching spec sheet that vaguely says “ hybrid BA + custom-tuned DD ” while shouting about a 7Ω impedance . That ultra-low load is the story:...
Paul Wasabii: Polished bass-first tuning with speed and control; mids stay clear and treble is relaxed. Not the most resolving at this price. Fast, clean bass with natural lower-mid body and relaxed, non-fatiguing treble. Resolution lags multi-BA rivals at the price and it is sensitive to source impedance.

+ 4 more reviews

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

n/a n/a

7.3

6.5

A+

Thieaudio Hype 10

Jays Audio: U-shaped, nice treble extention and dynamics, solid vocals, more low-end emphasis than MK3, dynamic and great all-rounder that doesn't specialize in anything.
Gizaudio Axel: More detailed Hype 4. Too similar to the Hype 4.
Jaytiss: It leaves me lacking nothing, just a fantastic set.
Tim Tuned: Tim Tuned rated Thieaudio Hype 10 with a score of 7.5/10 without adding a comment.
Fresh Reviews: Build & package: Both arrive with the same tips, case, and box , but the Hype 10 adds an interchangeable 3.5/2.5/4.4 mm cable . The shells differ in size— Hype 4 is smaller—while the Hype...
Shuwa-T: Rather similarly tuned to the Hype 4, which is regarded as a mini Monarch 3
Z-Reviews: $900 tribrid with a naming twist: despite the “10,” it’s a 12-driver stack— 2x dynamic for the lows and 10x BA for the rest—tuned to feel like a single DD done right. It’s easy to...
Head-Fi.org: One community member has rated the ThieAudio Hype 10 at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.
Yifang: Yifang rated Thieaudio Hype 10 with a score of 8.0/10 without adding a comment.
Joyce's Review: THIEAUDIO Hype 10 delivers deep powerful bass, clear 3D mids and crisp non harsh treble with strong detail and versatility, making it an easy recommendation in the mid to high end segment. Powerful sub bass with speed, exceptionally clear mids, crisp non harsh treble and excellent detail retrieval that works well across many genres. Slight blur in the bass image and a faceplate design that may not appeal from every angle.

+ 9 more reviews

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

Neutral 2DD+10BA

8.2

7.3

B+

$720

Thieaudio Excalibur

Crin: Probably the weakest of the ThieAudio tribrids, but still great on its own.
Precogvision: Better clarity than the Oracle and more dynamic than most of ThieAudio's IEMs at the expense of some shoutyness.
Shuwa-T: Decent tuning Narrower sounding, not as holographic soundstage as Oracle

+ 2 more reviews

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

V-Shaped 1DD+2BA+2EST

6.5

5.9

B

$700

Sony XBA Z5

Crin: All-rounder. Somewhat neutral both in FR and tonality.
Bad Guy Good Audio: Bad Guy Good Audio rated Sony XBA Z5 with a score of 7.5/10 without adding a comment.

+ 1 more reviews

Tuning: B Tech: B+ Bass: A+ Mids: A- Treble: B

Neutral 2BA+1DD>

6.3

5.9

B+

$770

FATfreq x Effect Audio: Quantum

Jays Audio: Bright and full sound, very detailed, sparkly, airy, tons of treble extenstion... but it gets fatiguing with the stock filters. Blue filter has the best balance but still doesn't scale too well. 300...
Jaytiss: I don't want to like, but I love.
Shuwa-T: I struggle with this, perhaps it was insertion depth but that unconventional iem shape should never have been greenlit Average bass, thin midrange, unbearably sibilant treble
Head-Fi.org: 3 community members have rated the FATfreq x Effect Audio: Quantum at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.
Audio Amigo: An interesting sort of Science Project IEM. FatFreq tried to extract as much Sub-bass power and texture while making an airy, detailed planar that isn't fatiguing. They succeeded, and with the Super...
Kois Archive: Rating: A+ | Value: ⭐ | Gaming: 🎮🎮🎮 | Comfort: 4 very technical. wide. well tuned planar grainy treble due to the air

+ 5 more reviews

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

V-Shaped n/a

6.9

6.8

A-

$829

Eminent Ears Emarald

Web Search: The Eminent Ears Emerald is positioned as the most accessible model in the brand’s Gemstone series, designed by a small Hong Kong team of enthusiasts as a more attainable entry into their line-up....
Joyce's Review: Balanced, vocal focused bone conduction IEM with tight sub bass, smooth refined treble, and versatile tuning that suits many genres. Packaging feels slightly less premium than the sound and price... Balanced, vocal centered tuning with controlled sub bass, smooth refined treble, and strong genre versatility. Packaging and visual presentation feel less premium than the price, and technical performance stops short of the most holographic and resolving competitors.

+ 1 more reviews

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

Neutral with Bass Boost 1DD+2BA+1BC

7.4

6.9

B-

$650

SeeAudio Miu

Crin: Crin rated SeeAudio Miu with a score of 6.0/10 without adding a comment.
Precogvision: Very Harman tonal balance with good treble extension; however, lacking in appropriate technical performance for projected $500 MSRP.

+ 1 more reviews

Tuning: A Tech: B-

U-Shaped 1DD+2BA+2EST

5.8

5.6

A-

Shanling Regal

Web Search: The Shanling Regal is a high-end tribrid IEM in the roughly $700–800 bracket, built around an eight-driver hybrid array of 2 dynamic drivers, 4 balanced armatures, and 2 miniature planar drivers in...
Joyce's Review: Joyce rates Shanling Regal 7 out of 10 as a solid, instrument focused tribrid whose midrange and treble shine with switch 2 on, while the stock V shaped tuning leaves vocals a bit recessed for the... Engaging midrange and treble with switch 2 on, offering clear imaging, strong detail and a refined overall tuning for instruments. Stock V shaped tuning has recessed vocals and a slightly blended bass region, so it really needs switch 2 to feel balanced at 699 USD.

+ 1 more reviews

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

Neutral 2DD+4BA+2Planar

7.1

7.5

A-

$800

FatFreq Scarlet Mini

Jays Audio: Crap ton of sub-bass but still very well-controlled (for the most part). No mud or mid-bass bloat, uppermids/treble are smoother than Maestro Mini, still somewhat balanced without having the low-end...
Jaytiss: Ohh this set is a special love affair with BASS. Not Neutral lol.
Smirk Audio: Smirk Audio rated FatFreq Scarlet Mini with a score of 7.0/10 without adding a comment.
Web Search: The FATfreq Scarlet Mini is a hybrid IEM positioned in the brand’s “Scarlet” line with a 1DD+2BA configuration and a stated focus on sub-bass power and treble extension; retailer specs list a...
Z-Reviews: Scarlett Mini is framed as a bass experiment first, IEM second: a ~$ 666 set (or $833 with the light-red “upgraded” cable) that pushes a 30 dB sub-bass shelf so far that every track...
Audionotions: Holy Bass! Unabashedly colored listen with heathenistic amounts of bass elevation and physicality. Man does this thing punch. Vocals and instruments can sound subdued a little bit unless you turn the...
Head-Fi.org: 14 community members have rated the FATFreq Scarlet Mini at an average of 4.2/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.
Paul Wasabii: Delivers extreme sub-bass, but tunnel-like recessed mids and unclear vocals limit long-term enjoyment. Delivers massive sub-bass slam for bassheads. Tunnel-like recessed mids and unclear vocals undermine balance and long-term listening.

+ 7 more reviews

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

Basshead 1DD+2BA

7.1

5.7

B

$700

Unique Melody Macbeth Ti

Crin: Crin rated Unique Melody Macbeth Ti with a score of 5.5/10 without adding a comment.
Shuwa-T: Comment: Satisfying subbass hump, only second hand units available. Clean sounding with forward vocals Thinner sounding midrange

+ 1 more reviews

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

U-Shaped 1DD+1BA

6.2

5.8

C+

$600

OpenAudio Mercury

Precogvision: Basically a poor man's Legend X without some of the technicalities.
Super* Review: Super* Review rated OpenAudio Mercury with a score of 4.0/10 without adding a comment.
Bad Guy Good Audio: Bad Guy Good Audio rated OpenAudio Mercury with a score of 7.1/10 without adding a comment.

+ 2 more reviews

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

V-Shaped 1DD+4BA

5.3

5.1

B+

Fiio FX15

Jaytiss: Unique tuning, but the switch would be better in the mids or bass.
Precogvision: Odd recessions in frequency response lead to unique imaging but uncanny tonality.
Super* Review: Super* Review rated Fiio FX15 with a score of 8.0/10 without adding a comment.
Z-Reviews: Z-Reviews rated Fiio FX15 with a score of 8.5/10 without adding a comment.
Head-Fi.org: 4 community members have rated the FIIO FX15 at an average of 3.8/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Strongly Favorable.

+ 4 more reviews

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

V-Shaped 1DD+4BA+4EST

6.6

4.9

B-

$650

Kumitate KL-Corona

Crin: Well-tuned with somewhat disappointing technical performance.
Shuwa-T: Decent tuning and capabilities Nothing noteworthy, almost boring

+ 1 more reviews

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

Neutral 3BA

5.7

5.2

B

$711

AR Audio Neon Pro

Precogvision: Sounds like a knock-off Anole VX. Farty BA bass and lack of treble extension.
Yifang: Yifang rated AR Audio Neon Pro with a score of 7.5/10 without adding a comment.

+ 1 more reviews

Tuning: A+ Tech: A

n/a n/a

6.2

7.2

A-

$815

Kumitate KL-Sirius

Crin: Excellent technical ability, well tuned with a dash of Japanese flavour.
Shuwa-T: Japanese tuning done well Japanese reference bass may be too light for some

+ 1 more reviews

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

Neutral 4BA

7.1

6.2

S-

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
Smirk Audio: Smirk Audio rated Letshuoer Mystic 8 with a score of 7.4/10 without adding a comment.
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: 22 community members have rated the LETSHUOER Mystic 8 at an average of 4.5/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.
Paul Wasabii: Neutral, precise 8-BA set with spectacular mids and natural treble; a relaxed bass shelf limits impact for rock/EDM. Transparent, mid-centric neutrality with expressive vocals, black background, and natural treble. Relaxed bass shelf with limited tactility and shallower stage depth reduces engagement on bass-driven genres.

+ 9 more reviews

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

Neutral 8BA

8.5

7

S-

$999

Buy

Thieaudio Monarch MK3

on Linsoul

(affiliate)

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.
Yifang: Yifang rated Thieaudio Monarch MK3 with a score of 8.5/10 without adding a comment.

+ 11 more reviews

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

U-Shaped 2DD+6BA+2EST

8.5

7.6

6.8

B-

$650

Yanyin Mahina

Super* Review: Super* Review rated Yanyin Mahina with a score of 4.0/10 without adding a comment.
Shuwa-T: Comment: Best yanyin so far. Same as moonlight but heavier bass response Because of the heavier bass region, it does not sound the most balanced

+ 1 more reviews

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

Warm n/a

5.5

7.1

A+

$999

Buy

Thieaudio Monarch Mk2

on Linsoul

(affiliate)

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.
Yifang: Yifang rated Thieaudio Monarch Mk2 with a score of 8.0/10 without adding a comment.

+ 11 more reviews

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

8.4

6.9

8.5

A

Softears Twilight

Jays Audio: Slightly warm/neutral, very well balanced, good scaling, TOTL male vocals, big staging, wait for sale
Gizaudio Axel: My top choice for timbral accuracy. Beautiful warm sound signature with outstanding timbre and an open sound. I wouldn’t change a thing.
Crin: Crin rated Softears Twilight with a score of 7.0/10 without adding a comment.
Jaytiss: It's like a tubed iem, it's really fun. Something about DDs, so good.
Precogvision: Decently tuned single-DD IEM with a more technical focus.
Tim Tuned: Understated presentation, premium execution. Softears Twilight arrives in a minimalist box with a gorgeous leather case, a stock cable terminated in 4.4 mm plus a 4.4→3.5 mm adapter, and a... Warm tuning done correct, one of my favorite single DD Need more treble
Bad Guy Good Audio: Bad Guy Good Audio rated Softears Twilight with a score of 7.7/10 without adding a comment.
Head-Fi.org: 12 community members have rated the Softears Twilight at an average of 4.6/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.

+ 7 more reviews

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

Warm 1DD

7.8

6.5

A

$900

LetShuoer EJ07

Jays Audio: TOTL mids. Most 3D and holographic staging yet. Imaging, separation, layering, and staging are all S level - only thing that's holding it back is the darker treble which can lead to softer notes vs,...
Shuwa-T: Comment: My favourite of the EJ lineup. Vocal centric with great clarity and thick note weights in the midrange Bass may be too polite
Audionotions: Very engaging and very natural sounding. Decent technicalities. Instruments sound correct. Staging and imaging very good for an IEM. Very enjoyable. Leans dark and maybe a bit lacking in treble...
Head-Fi.org: 4 community members have rated the Letshuoer EJ07 at an average of 3.8/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Strongly Favorable.

+ 3 more reviews

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

n/a n/a

7.5

7

C+

$600

Campfire Polaris V1

Crin: Pseudo-Japanese tuning focusing on female vocals and a very lively signature.
Shuwa-T: Comment: For bassheads who do not care about quality. Lovely traditional CA tuning

+ 1 more reviews

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

V-Shaped 1DD+1BA

5

A

$950

Hidition Viento

Crin: Best-in-class tuning and tonal balance with near-perfect coherency. Recommended as a custom-fit.
Precogvision: Reference-lean tuning with strong upper mids and mid-treble; superb microdynamics but average imaging and a finicky deep-fit nozzle. The CIEM version reportedly fixes some of these issues. Excellent microdynamic contrast that makes low-level nuances pop. Lean note weight with mid-treble ring and an uncomfortable long nozzle, plus average imaging versus its peers.
Yifang: Yifang rated Hidition Viento with a score of 8.5/10 without adding a comment.

+ 2 more reviews

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

Neutral 4BA

7.9

6.9

C+

$650

64 Audio Aspire 3

Precogvision: A bit platicky overall - extends in the treble, but has some idiosyncrasies that contribute to the odd timbre/coherency.
Super* Review: Midrange is pretty flat. Nice flat midrange. Hefty but isolated bass boost.

+ 1 more reviews

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

n/a 1DD+2BA

5.4

4.7

B+

Yanyin Carmen

Jays Audio: An OG EJ07 that does vocal scaling. A blast your brains out kinda set. Full, powerful, extended, VERY forward vocals, might be too much for some people. Reveals every last bit of emotion from the...
Jaytiss: I don't get this one. It's not good.
Fresh Reviews: Fresh Reviews rated Yanyin Carmen with a score of 7.0/10 without adding a comment.
Joyce's Review: Yanyin Carmen is a warm, spacious all BA set with excellent midrange clarity and airy treble. Sub bass depth is limited and the low end feels more atmospheric than physical. Wide soundstage, clear and intimate mids, refined treble and very comfortable fit with quality modular cable. Sub bass extension and physical slam are limited for the price and the packaging feels rather ordinary.

+ 3 more reviews

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

n/a 10BA

6.5

6.8

A-

$862

Gaudio Clariden

Crin: Somewhat reminiscent of a more mid-y Andromeda, though with extra wonkiness.
Head-Fi.org: One community member has rated the Gaudio Clariden at an average of 5.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Masterpiece.

+ 1 more reviews

Tuning: B- Tech: B

V-Shaped 3BA

7

4.9

A+

$1,018

Buy

Campfire Audio Alien Brain

on audio46

(affiliate)

Campfire Audio Alien Brain

Jaytiss: So simple and nice it's hard to not love.
Smirk Audio: Smirk Audio rated Campfire Audio Alien Brain with a score of 7.5/10 without adding a comment.
Head-Fi.org: 5 community members have rated the Campfire Audio Alien Brain at an average of 4.6/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.

+ 2 more reviews

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

Neutral with Bass Boost 1DD+4BA

8.1

6.7

A-

$900

Symphonium Triton

Crin: Crin rated Symphonium Triton with a score of 6.0/10 without adding a comment.
Precogvision: Pleasing tonal balance and coherency, but not the last word in detail, especially relative to the Helios.
Super* Review: Super* Review rated Symphonium Triton with a score of 6.0/10 without adding a comment.
Shuwa-T: The more musical one versus the Helios Cutbacks in clarity, a little too smooth sounding
Z-Reviews: Symphonium’s Triton takes the Helios’ concept and makes it sing: a 3-BA set around $900 that simply works with gear the way it should. Where Helios felt picky and “flat” in system...
Head-Fi.org: 2 community members have rated the Symphonium Triton at an average of 4.5/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.

+ 5 more reviews

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

Neutral 1DD+2BA

7.2

5.4

A+

$1,000

Unique Melody MEST

Jays Audio: A MEST MK2 with slightly more uppermid/bass. More v-shaped. More AGGRESSIVE than MK2. Also gets fatiguing when cranked up/long-listening sesisons.
Crin: A smooth, relaxing listen (in custom form) backed up with good technicalities.
Precogvision: Engaging imaging with some minor coherency issues.
Tim Tuned: Impressive staging and details Aggressive signature
Super* Review: Super* Review rated Unique Melody MEST with a score of 9.0/10 without adding a comment.
Shuwa-T: Comment: Neutral yet fun due to subbass hump. Impressive clarity, holographic soundstage

+ 5 more reviews

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

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

8

6.9

A-

$900

Ice Labs Prismatica

Jaytiss: WARM!
Precogvision: Fairly palatable, musical sound with some tonal oddity in the midrange.
Smirk Audio: Smirk Audio rated Ice Labs Prismatica with a score of 7.3/10 without adding a comment.
Head-Fi.org: 3 community members have rated the Ice Labs Prismatica at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.
Yifang: Yifang rated Ice Labs Prismatica with a score of 8.0/10 without adding a comment.

+ 4 more reviews

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

Neutral with Bass Boost 5BA

7.1

5.9

B

$799

Jomo Nautilus

Jaytiss: Thick rich and juicy, fun set.
Kois Archive: Rating: A | Value: ⭐ | Gaming: 🎮🎮 | Comfort: 7 good techs and stage a bit bright

+ 1 more reviews

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

n/a 2BC,+1DD,+1P

6.3

6.8

A-

$950

Hidition Viento B

Tim Tuned: Most speaker-like IEMs I've heard. Extremely cohesive Timbre a bit grainy. CIEM graphs better
Shuwa-T: Comment: Clarity takes a backseat with superb tuning. As perfect as tuning gets Bass quality is lacking in layering and detail

+ 1 more reviews

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

n/a n/a

7.4

6.8

A-

$900

iBasso IT07

Crin: More similar to its predecessor the IT04, with more bass and less treble.
Head-Fi.org: 5 community members have rated the iBasso IT07 at an average of 4.6/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.

+ 1 more reviews

Tuning: B Tech: B

U-Shaped 1DD+6BA

7

5

A-

$900

DUNU Zen Pro

Crin: Crin rated DUNU Zen Pro with a score of 6.0/10 without adding a comment.
Precogvision: Solid tuning with good speed. Could use more air and some minor work in the treble.
Super* Review: Super* Review rated DUNU Zen Pro with a score of 8.0/10 without adding a comment.
Nymz: Great bass quality and slam, mids and detail. Stage and treble extension are not the strongest points. Great for instrumental playlists like jazz and classical. Very sensitive to source - "Amp...
Head-Fi.org: 3 community members have rated the DUNU ZEN PRO at an average of 4.4/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.

+ 4 more reviews

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

Neutral 1DD

7

5.3

B

$800

Shozy Black Hole

Crin: Seems to go for a neutral tuning with the bass roll-off but ends up with a fatiguing and sharp presentation.
Head-Fi.org: 2 community members have rated the Shozy Black Hole at an average of 4.5/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.

+ 1 more reviews

Tuning: C Tech: C+

Bright n/a

6.2

4.4

C+

$700

Final Audio Heaven 7

Crin: Unique "Final single BA" sound; coloured mids and one-note treble.
Shuwa-T: Comment: Perfect for orchestral and classical. Massive soundstage, almost theatre-like Final tuning may not be for everyone

+ 1 more reviews

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

Neutral n/a

5.4

5.3

A

$1,000

Sony IER-M9

Crin: Neutral tonality, highly coherent and decent detail pickup. The all-rounder of the IER lineup.
Precogvision: Boring, but you won't find anything more well-rounded for the price. Exceptional timbre for a BA IEM.
Tim Tuned: Just great accross the board, nothing to fault Not very special
Audionotions: Nice note weight, very balanced, shockingly good at imaging held back by finicky fit and vacuum seal - fit issues can be resolved by changing tips though (for me the stock silicone LL tips eliminated...
Yifang: Yifang rated Sony IER-M9 with a score of 8.0/10 without adding a comment.

+ 4 more reviews

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

Neutral 5BA

7.6

6.5

7.5

B+

Dita Mecha

Gizaudio Axel: Cohesive sound with great detail. Great bass, vocal-focused, cohesive sound with excellent detail.
Jaytiss: This is the best Dita iem that I've heard, I dig it. Big and Bold Sound
Super* Review: Warm laid back and base-forward. competes with other IEMs in it's price range.

+ 2 more reviews

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

V-Shaped n/a

6.8

5.6

B+

$900

Hidition Waltz

Crin: Neutral-fun signature that works both as a reference monitor and a rock-out IEM.
Precogvision: Fun tuning with Hidition's mid-treble sparkle and none of the Viento's nasty resoance.
Shuwa-T: Comment: Nothing too amazing, V-shape with recessed mids. Energetic sounding

+ 2 more reviews

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

V-Shaped 3BA

6.8

5.7

B+

$890

Oriolus Szalayi

Jaytiss: BASS + BASS + BASS = fun? Maybe.
Precogvision: Extremely bass heavy to the point of which it affects timbre in the lower-midrange negatively.
Web Search: The Oriolus Szalayi is a tri-brid IEM that assigns a 10 mm dynamic driver to bass, a 14 mm planar diaphragm to the midrange, and a single balanced armature to treble—an uncommon layout aimed at...

+ 2 more reviews

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

U-Shaped 1DD+1BA+1Planar

6.6

6.1

B+

Moondrop Illustrious

Jays Audio: Basically the Softears Twilight with less sub-bass extension, alot more neutral and monitor like, and very pricy since Twilight goes on sale for $700 with a more musical playback. This is just...
Gizaudio Axel: Open-back IEM with a mellow sound. Good for long listening but not for those seeking strong bass or high resolution. Warm, full-bodied mids with natural timbre and safe treble. Light bass with low sub-bass, lacking treble air and sparkle, and underwhelming detail.
Jaytiss: Nice single DD, not a benchmark, but very nice.
Precogvision: Sounds like it has metallic timbre. Percussino compression around 5kHz due to lack of treble extension and generally bad tuning.
Super* Review: Sounds like an open-back IEM. It delivers on open design. Something to consider if you are looking for that.
Paul Wasabii: Gorgeous shell and high end driver with a neutral bright tilt; stock upper mids and 5 kHz energy flatten the stage. With light EQ and some volume it comes very close to Twilight. Stunning build and fit with superb vented bass shelf and rock ready mid bass. Lower treble and 5 kHz emphasis flattens stage and needs volume or EQ; not ideal for sub bass heavy genres.

+ 5 more reviews

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

Neutral 1DD

6.6

5.8

B

$860

Shuoer EJ07

Crin: Tuned almost Etymotic-like but with underwhelming treble extension bottlenecking it all.
Precogvision: Decent tonality, but weak treble extension and technicalities.
Nymz: The Experience. It just immerses you and takes you on a journey. Infinite holographic stage with god imaging and layering. Treble can be too dark for some. Great tuning and techs to me - My favourite...
Bad Guy Good Audio: Polite bass near perfect mids. relaxed tuned set Lacks extension for some ears and genre. Personally love em

+ 3 more reviews

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

Neutral 1DD+2BA+4EST

6.3

5.1

A-

$1,000

Symphonium Titan

Jays Audio: Most balanced bass set I've heard so far without sacrificing the fun/texture/impact in the low-end. Open staging, full sounding, deep sub-bass, vocals aren't buried either. No big peaky treble, good...
Precogvision: Precogvision rated Symphonium Titan with a score of 6.0/10 without adding a comment.
Smirk Audio: Smirk Audio rated Symphonium Titan with a score of 7.3/10 without adding a comment.
Z-Reviews: Symphonium Titan shows up with a big box, a blue theme, and a cable that feels too soft for a $1,000 set, plus a hefty metal case that could double as a tiny sarcophagus. The shell styling reads...
Yifang: Yifang rated Symphonium Titan with a score of 8.0/10 without adding a comment.

+ 4 more reviews

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

Basshead 1DD+2BA

7.3

6.8

B-

$800

Aya Trident

Crin: Somewhat strange tuning that seems to try to do everything, but results in a slightly wonky tonality.
Precogvision: Precogvision rated Aya Trident with a score of 5.0/10 without adding a comment.

+ 1 more reviews

Tuning: B Tech: B

U-Shaped 4BA+4EST

5.8

5.5

B-

$770

Custom Art Hybrid 3 Pro

Nymz: Came out as boring to my ears, with a sub-par technical department.
Yifang: Yifang rated Custom Art Hybrid 3 Pro with a score of 6.5/10 without adding a comment.

+ 1 more reviews

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

n/a 2DD+1Planar

5.5

5.3

B-

$800

Empire Ears Bravado Mk2

Crin: Very recessed and unfocused mids with poor bass control.
Head-Fi.org: 2 community members have rated the Empire Ears Bravado MKII at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

+ 1 more reviews

Tuning: C Tech: C

Basshead 1DD+1BA+2EST

5.7

4

C

$660

Unique Melody MEST Mini

Crin: Bone conduction driver doesn't seem to be doing much. Just your average V-shaped BA IEM.
Precogvision: Definitely does not sound much like the actual MEST.

+ 1 more reviews

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

V-Shaped 3BA+1BC

4.7

4.4

A-

$1,000

Lime Ears Model X

Crin: Technically capable IEM that goes from decently neutral to warm and smooth in a pinch.
Shuwa-T: Comment: Switches didn't work on my demo unit. Clean sounding monitor Linear bass region gets overpowered by lower mids, very strong BA timbre

+ 1 more reviews

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

Neutral 4BA

7.1

6.2

C+

$750

Final Audio B1

Crin: The most V-shaped of the B-series. Fatiguing, sharp treble and slightly bloated bass.
Shuwa-T: Comment: The best of the "B" series from Final. Technical capabilities, lush midrange Somewhat incoherent with the DD bass not blending well with the upper frequencies, subbass roll off is real

+ 1 more reviews

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

V-Shaped 1DD+1BA

5.2

5.1

C

$700

Dunu Zen

Precogvision: Good dynamics, but poor tuning with nasty 8kHz treble peak contrasted to zero air.
Super* Review: Super* Review rated Dunu Zen with a score of 6.0/10 without adding a comment.
Nymz: Great bass impact (one of the best I've heard). Tunning is wonky, mild V and zero treble air. Other than dynamics, techs are nothing to write home about. Get Zen Pro instead unless you only care for...

+ 2 more reviews

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

V-Shaped 1DD

4.8

3.9

B+

$999

Fir Audio VxV

Shuwa-T: Comment: Rabbit cute I guess. Mild V-shape tuning, with decent technical performance Sounds too generic, note weight isn't well defined
Head-Fi.org: 15 community members have rated the FiR Audio VxV at an average of 4.7/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Exceptional.

+ 1 more reviews

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

n/a n/a

6.8

5.1

B+

Fiio FA19

Gizaudio Axel: Great resolution and micro-details. Warm V-shaped sound with bassy lows, sparkly treble, and excellent resolution. Bass quality could be better and treble is bright.
Jaytiss: Nice All BA set!
Precogvision: Treble sounds sibilant and overall tuning is quite off-putting.
Super* Review: I can't recommend this IEM. Even if it would be 1/10 of it's price.
Fresh Reviews: Fiio FA19 arrives as a true kilobuck treat, pairing monumental bass impact with high-end finesse. A 10-BA array (including custom bass drivers ), a clever negative-feedback system , and an...
Head-Fi.org: 6 community members have rated the FiiO FA19 at an average of 4.7/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Exceptional.
Audio-In Reviews: Warm neutral kilobuck all BA set with surprisingly dynamic bass, lively but refined treble and strong technical performance, but the unique tonal balance and price make it a niche, conditional choice. Unique neutral warm kilobuck tuning with excellent BA bass dynamics, refined treble and strong technical performance. Warmer low mids and energetic treble make it a niche choice at this price and many listeners may prefer safer all rounders like Monarch MK3, RSV or Helios.

+ 6 more reviews

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

n/a 10BA

6.8

8.2

C+

$799

Moondrop Dark Saber

Jaytiss: It has it's moments, but it is a massive please demo first style iem.
Precogvision: Basically the Moondrop S8 with a dynamic driver for the bass.
Z-Reviews: Z-Reviews rated Moondrop Dark Saber with a score of 4.0/10 without adding a comment.

+ 2 more reviews

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

n/a 2DD+8BA

5.4

3.7

B+

$1,000

Ultimate Ears Reference Remastered

Crin: Warm with good tonality. Good all-rounder albeit definitely not a reference signature.
Precogvision: Unorthodox, but well-done tuning with a vocal focus. Treble has excellent extension and is reminiscent of the tia driver implementations.

+ 1 more reviews

Tuning: B+ Tech: A-

Neutral 3BA

6.6

5.9

B-

$900

GS Audio SE11

Precogvision: Good tonal balance and fairly coherent. Bass needs work.
Super* Review: Super* Review rated GS Audio SE11 with a score of 6.0/10 without adding a comment.

+ 1 more reviews

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

Neutral 1DD+6BA+4EST

5.9

5.1

C

$750

Empire Ears Zeus XIV

Crin: Top tier detail and resolution with poor tone and timbre reproduction.
Precogvision: Wonky tuning and plasticky timbre, but pretty detailed.

+ 1 more reviews

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

Neutral 14BA

4.8

5.5

C+

$800

Moondrop Illumination

Crin: Well-tuned with natural timbre, ultimately marred by subpar detail retrieval and definition.
Precogvision: Mushy transients and imaging, basically par with their other single DDs for techniclaities.
Super* Review: Super* Review rated Moondrop Illumination with a score of 4.0/10 without adding a comment.
Head-Fi.org: One community member has rated the Moondrop Illumination at an average of 3.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Mixed to Positive.

+ 3 more reviews

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

Neutral 1DD

5.1

4.9

C+

$850

Kumitate KL-Meteo

Crin: Very bassy with a lower-mid scoop. A bit of an odd tonal profile all things considered.
Shuwa-T: Decent tuning and capabilities, bass region has lots of texture Steep midbass shelf overpowers both lowermids and mids, male vocals can sound lifeless compared to the midbass

+ 1 more reviews

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

V-Shaped 4BA

5.2

4.5

B-

$950

Fatfreq Sakura

Crin: Crin rated Fatfreq Sakura with a score of 6.0/10 without adding a comment.
Precogvision: Pleasant neutral-warm tonality with lack of air over 10kHz.

+ 1 more reviews

Tuning: A- Tech: B

Neutral 6BA

5.8

5.3

B

$1,000

Beyerdynamic Xelento

Crin: Like the T8iE, with a little more treble and upper mids.
Precogvision: Excellent bass response, just falls slightly short in control. Could use more treble extension.

+ 1 more reviews

Tuning: B- Tech: B+

V-Shaped n/a

6.1

5.2

B-

$950

Kinera Nanna 2.0

Crin: Bass is a tad uncontrolled and the mids could use more refinement. The original is arguably superior.
Precogvision: Probably Kinera's best set. Pretty decent overall.
Tim Tuned: Good bass, decent v-shape tuning

+ 2 more reviews

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

V-Shaped 1DD+1BA+2EST

5.7

5

B-

$1,000

ThieAudio Voyager 14

Crin: Evokes a qdc-ish house sound, though stumbles in both tuning refinement and technicalities.
Precogvision: Good tonal balance and technicalities. Just lacking a few legs of refinement.

+ 1 more reviews

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

Neutral 14BA

5.8

5.2

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