The Ultimate IEM Ranking Hub

EPZ P50

on Aliexpress

EPZ P50

Jays Audio: Clean balanced tuning done right. A better tuned MEGA5EST & MOONDROP Meteor with fuller low-end, and more treble extension, same tech, but more dynamic - also half the price. A Mega5EST with better...
Jaytiss: For me this has some oddities. It would be higher if those weren't there.
Tim Tuned: Beautifully done tuning all around Nitpick: Bass dynamic could be better
Super* Review: Bass can be a little bit on the distracting side if you are looking for a neutral sound signature. Contrasty meta-tuning.
Web Search: The EPZ P50 is a tribrid with a 10 mm dynamic driver, two balanced armatures, and two micro planar drivers, implemented in a semi-open back shell and a three-way crossover—an uncommon configuration...
Head-Fi.org: 13 community members have rated the EPZ P50 at an average of 4.3/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.
Audio Amigo: Wonderful vocal forward all-rounder. Balanced, clean, detailed, sound. Has Length mode issues. So the Treble might be harsh for some. Nice accessories. Custom designed versions available.

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

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

7.3

7.1

9.5

S

Softears Enigma

Gizaudio Axel: Endgame-level detail paired with great tonality. Exceptional detail, high-quality bass, balanced tonality, and excellent timbre. The bass has a fast decay.
Web Search: The Softears Enigma is a flagship tribrid IEM using a 12-driver array (2DD+6BA+4EST) with a hybrid 5-way/4-way crossover and an aluminum shell; the package also includes a premium Effect Audio cable....
Head-Fi.org: 2 community members have rated the Softears Enigma at an average of 5.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Masterpiece.

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

Neutral with Bass Boost 2DD+6BA+4EST

9

7.7

9.5

A

$599

Night Oblivion Butastur

Jays Audio: Overpriced as hell - I don't get the hype. Vocals are way too shouty with masking. Treble peaks around 10K with a dip in the air afterwards. Low-end is "good", but nothing amazing for the price....
Jaytiss: I'd be careful buying it due to QC issues of others. But I enjoyed my time with it.
Web Search: The NIGHT OBLIVION BUTASTUR delivers a natural timbre and cohesive sound, with its standout feature being a lush, dense midrange that excels in vocal and acoustic instrument reproduction. Vocals...
Shuwa-T: Similar tonality to the Supernova, please stronger female vocal extension at the cost of less refined treble, lovely midrange
Head-Fi.org: 7 community members have rated the Night Oblivion Butastur at an average of 4.7/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Exceptional.

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

Neutral with Bass Boost 10BA

Night Oblivion Butastur review by jays-audio

Night Oblivion Butastur review by jaytiss

Night Oblivion Butastur review by iemranking

Night Oblivion Butastur review by shuwa-t

Night Oblivion Butastur review by head-fi

7.8

7

9.3

S-

Fiio FX17

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

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

Neutral 1DD+4BA+8EST

8.8

7

9.1

S-

$1,149

ThieAudio Monarch MK4

ThieAudio Monarch MK4

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

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

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

ThieAudio Monarch MK4 review by jays-audio

ThieAudio Monarch MK4 review by precogvision

ThieAudio Monarch MK4 review by tim-tuned

ThieAudio Monarch MK4 review by super-review

ThieAudio Monarch MK4 review by iemranking

ThieAudio Monarch MK4 review by fresh-reviews

8.5

8.7

9

S-

Dunu Glacier

Jays Audio: Clean, balanced but engaging sound, clear vocals, great midrange and tech. Vocals can be a bit too forward/sharp. The most recent unit I got sounds different than the earlier ones which was...
Gizaudio Axel: Reveals every detail in your music, both the good and the bad. Exceptional bass, ethereal treble, remarkable clarity, and outstanding detail. The upper mid-range might be a bit too much for some people.
Jaytiss: Upper mids kill it for me, but it's a fun set.
Precogvision: Quite exciting and dynamic, possibly a bit bright in the treble.
Tim Tuned: Less thin harman with amazing tech Not very natural timbre
Super* Review: Convinces me that the harman target can sound excellent.
Web Search: The Dunu Glacier delivers a technically impressive listening experience with its nine-driver tribrid setup (1DD+4BA+4EST). The stainless steel shells feel substantial yet remain comfortable for...
Z-Reviews: The Dunu Glacier delivers an extraordinary premium experience right from the unboxing, featuring a lavish presentation, a massive high-quality fabric cable with interchangeable terminations, and...
Head-Fi.org: 4 community members have rated the DUNU Glacier at an average of 4.8/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Exceptional.

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

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

8.7

7.4

9

A+

$2,700

Alpha Omega Omega

Head-Fi.org: 2 community members have rated the Alpha Omega: OMEGA at an average of 4.5/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.

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

U-Shaped 1DD+4BA+4EST

8.4

6.8

9

A+

Nicehck Rockies

Jays Audio: Balanced, clean, airy, with a slight treble emphasis, good EST implementation, great overall package and accesories at the price. Similar to TOP PRO but with ESTs and not as vocal centric. Easy rec...
Jaytiss: Trebble so nice. Feels faultless and amazing.
Tim Tuned: The Mega5EST but a slight bit more technical and bright
Super* Review: The NiceHCK Rockies is a $500 tribrid (1DD+2BA+2EST) tuned almost identically to the Mega 5 EST but with slightly less bass and a touch more lower treble, yielding tighter bass and clearer separation...
Web Search: The NiceHCK Rockies is a five-driver tribrid using 1DD + 2 Knowles BA + 2 Sonion EST in a resin shell with Pietersite stone faceplates. Specs list a detachable 0.78 mm 2-pin cable with swappable...
Audionotions: My favorite take on the JM1 meta so far. Bass tuning is well done with adequate weight and punch - it's not standout but it will do the job. Silky smoooooth and rich mids with very good clarity....
Fox Told Me So: NiceHCK Rockies is a tribrid (1DD + 2BA + 2EST) that rides the “golden formula” with a twist: output impedance matters—a lot. Driven from low-impedance sources, it delivers its intended tuning;...
Head-Fi.org: 4 community members have rated the NiceHCK Rockies at an average of 3.8/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Strongly Favorable.

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

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

8

8.4

9

S-

$1,999

Campire Audio Clara Ti

on audio46

Campire Audio Clara Ti

Smirk Audio: Muscular bass with large bass notes. Male vocal timbre slightly odd, female vocals are nice. Some vocal grain present. Decent overall techs. Cons: Buy the non-Ti version for $1k less.
Web Search: Campfire Audio Clara Ti is the Titanium Launch Edition of Clara—limited to 50 units—with a 3D-printed titanium shell and an included 8-wire 4.4 mm cable; it retains the same sonic profile as the...

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

Neutral with Bass Boost 1DD+3BA

Campire Audio Clara Ti review by smirk-audio

Campire Audio Clara Ti review by iemranking

8.6

7.1

8.8

A

$149.99

Gizaudio x Binary Chopin

on HiFiGO

Gizaudio x Binary Chopin

Jays Audio: If Harman wasn't boring and had a few drinks
Gizaudio Axel: Harman tuning with excellent bass, clean mids, extended treble, and balanced tonality with great detail.
Jaytiss: Solid set, thin mids. Slightly bright at times.
Super* Review: Best Collab IEM in years. It's a nice clean tonality. Fantastic vocal presentation. Added low end warmth.
Web Search: The Gizaudio x Binary Chopin is a hybrid 1DD+3BA design built around an 8 mm ceramic-diaphragm dynamic driver for lows, a midrange BA, and a dual-BA tweeter assembly, targeting a lively, modern...
Shuwa-T: Overall clean sounding, works well with quicker pop genres (Jpop/Kpop) Male vocals recessed, does not work well with the other half of Jpop/Kpop. Lower midrange suffers from thinner note weight (tuning)
Z-Reviews: The Gizaudio x Binary Chopin IEM is an absolute standout, delivering a fantastically unique and immersive sound signature that is heavily focused on vocals . The presentation is spectacularly...

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

V-Shaped 1DD+3BA

Gizaudio x Binary Chopin review by jays-audio

Gizaudio x Binary Chopin review by gizaudio-axel

Gizaudio x Binary Chopin review by jaytiss

Gizaudio x Binary Chopin review by super-review

Gizaudio x Binary Chopin review by iemranking

Gizaudio x Binary Chopin review by shuwa-t

Gizaudio x Binary Chopin review by z-reviews

Gizaudio x Binary Chopin review by yifang

7.5

6.8

8.8

A+

$999

Thieaudio Monarch Mk2

Thieaudio Monarch Mk2

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

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

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

Thieaudio Monarch Mk2 review by jays-audio

Thieaudio Monarch Mk2 review by gizaudio-axel

Thieaudio Monarch Mk2 review by precogvision

Thieaudio Monarch Mk2 review by tim-tuned

Thieaudio Monarch Mk2 review by super-review

Thieaudio Monarch Mk2 review by smirk-audio

8.1

6.9

8.5

A-

Ziigaat Arcanis

Jays Audio: My favourite vocals under $500 (best imo). A more refined OG Mangird Tea with better resolution and tech. Recommend listening at higher volumes on slower vocal centric tracks. Don't rec hiphop or...
Jaytiss: Lots of good neutral energy here. Interesting set up.
Super* Review: Not really stand out at the price range. Lack a bit of definition. Decent IEM
Web Search: The Ziigaat Arcanis offers a bright-neutral sound profile, leaning heavily on technical prowess over bass impact. Its dual dynamic drivers in an isobaric configuration deliver tight, textured...
Fresh Reviews: Scores lower in Apex B+
Z-Reviews: The Ziigaat Arcanis, priced at $379 , immediately raises eyebrows with its cheap packaging and accessories. The included 3.5mm cable is deemed insufficient, especially for the low 12-ohm...
Audionotions: Vocal centric with good bass performance and smooth but well extended treble. Excellent techs. I think they mixed up the names for their recent releases - this is less "neutral" and more "lush" than...
Head-Fi.org: One community member has rated the Ziigaat Arcanis at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.
Audio Amigo: A more vocal focused, more detailed version of the Lush, with an interesting anti-sibilance dip in the treble. Makes for a detailed, buy still relaxing, slightly unnautral treble presentation....

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

Neutral 2DD+5BA

7.3

8.4

8.5

C

$55

KZ PRX

Jaytiss: Weird upper trebble is killing it for me, but it might be good for you.
Head-Fi.org: 8 community members have rated the KZ PRX at an average of 4.3/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.
Audio Amigo: Best KZ Planar IEM. Warm, bassy sound, lacking a little in dynamics. Foam tips come worn down in the package. Shrill tonality in higher treble for some listeners

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

Warm n/a

4.7

1.8

8.5

B

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.

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

V-Shaped 1DD+3BA

6.2

6.3

8.5

B+

$259

TangZu Wu Zetian Legend

TangZu Wu Zetian Legend

Jays Audio: Treblehead set with lots of treble detail, great tech, but may be too spicy/overboosted for most people. Feels unnatural and fatiguing on lots of tracks unless at lower volumes. OG WU & HEYDAY are...
Jaytiss: Beautiful packaging, can be bright,like the sun.

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

Neutral 2PLA

TangZu Wu Zetian Legend review by jays-audio

TangZu Wu Zetian Legend review by jaytiss

6.7

6.8

8.5

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.
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 4.5/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.
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...

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

Vocal-focused 14BA

7.6

8

8.5

A+

$1,600

Elysian Diva

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

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

Neutral 6BA

8.1

6.5

8.5

A

Xenns Top Pro

Jays Audio: Very technical, amazing resolution and detail for the price, treble is slightly crispy and sparkly, clean but dynamic all-rounder. Mid-volume set for the most part as treble can get hot at higher...
Gizaudio Axel: A refined, genre-versatile all-rounder. One of the best in its price range. Balanced tuning with clean bass, smooth vocal-forward mids, refined airy treble, and excellent detail and separation.
Jaytiss: Has some odd warmth for me, but is great.
Tim Tuned: The Xenns Top Pro stands as a significant evolution from its predecessors, bearing little resemblance to the original Top despite sharing a similar driver configuration. Its tuning aligns much more... New meta tuning with boosted bass and upper treble BA timbre
Super* Review: A little bit unengaging to listen to. Bass kinda lacks definition. Kinda reminds me of the Mega5 EST. Not a bad IEM but not my favorite at 500 bucks.
Web Search: The XENNS Mangird Top Pro is a 10-driver hybrid (2DD + 8BA) using a 4-way crossover and launches at an MSRP of $499. Headfonics details the allocation—dual dynamics for lows, Knowles BAs for mids,...
Fresh Reviews: Best in Valorant out of the games tested
Z-Reviews: Z-Reviews expresses immediate and strong enthusiasm for the Xenns Top Pro, a $500 IEM featuring a 10-driver configuration (8 balanced armatures + 2 dynamic drivers). He notes their exceptional ...
Bad Guy Good Audio: Positioned at $500 , the Xenns Top Pro gets stacked against the Subtonic Storm at around $5,400 —a full 10× price gap that shouldn’t be glossed over. Level-matched listening shows the two...
Audionotions: Excellent tuning. Jack of all trades. One of my favorite IEM releases of 2025. Great vocals, bright leaning treble that adds a bit more sparkle. Bass that extends deep and doesn't bleed. Could use a...
Head-Fi.org: One community member has rated the Xenns Top Pro at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

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

Neutral with Bass Boost 2DD+8BA

7.9

8

8.4

A

Kiwi Ears Astral

Jays Audio: Great all-rounder. Slighty airy with good sub-bass extenion. Balanced but still fun. A cleaner, airier, and less sharp/sparkly version of the Meta/Crescent - vocals pop out more. Tip rec Sancai...
Gizaudio Axel: Great all-rounder with a bright, airy top end. Deep, textured sub-bass, clean and forward mids, airy treble, and great detail. Upper treble can be a bit much, and the bass tuck isn’t for everyone.
Jaytiss: Tonality is fantastic.
Tim Tuned: The Kiwi Ears Astral arrives in a package typical for the brand, featuring a resin shell and a metal nozzle . While the design isn't groundbreaking, the build feels sturdy. The included cable is... Clean, techinical v-shape signature with great midrange upper treble too much
Web Search: The Kiwi Ears Astral is a mid-priced hybrid with 1DD+6BA and an MSRP around $299, positioning it in the competitive $250–$350 class. Official specs list a 10 mm bioceramic dynamic driver, 23 Ω...
Fresh Reviews: The Kiwi Ears Astral, priced at $299 , combines one dynamic driver and six balanced armatures in an exceptionally ergonomic and lightweight 3D printed resin chassis. Comfort is phenomenal,...
Z-Reviews: Priced at $300, the Kiwi Ears Astral stands as the brand's most expensive IEM , featuring a 10mm dynamic driver and six balanced armatures . The build is notably large and deep , with a design...
Audionotions: "Meta" tuned with subbass and air boost. Neutral/balanced with a bit of fun factor added back in. Phenomenally tuned mids. Bass can be a smidge too much on certain tracks for me but it's generally...
Head-Fi.org: 24 community members have rated the Kiwi Ears Astral at an average of 4.4/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.
Audio Amigo: A less bassy, more vocal forward take on the Meta tuning with more airiness. Like a Baby Dusk, or a DaVinvi with less bass and more toned down treble. Modular cable is a nice upgrade, case is still...

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

U-Shaped 1DD+6BA

Kiwi Ears Astral review by gizaudio-axel

Kiwi Ears Astral review by fresh-reviews

7.7

8.6

8.3

A

Softears Volume S

Jays Audio: Amazing vocals under $500 with the stock switch/clear tips or tangzu sancai regular (no impedance boost) with amazing vocal scaling. Recommended for higher volume listening like ballads, slower...
Gizaudio Axel: A benchmark for tonality and timbre. Studio 4 with DD bass, great bass texture, tonal accuracy, forward vocals, and natural timbre. High impedance mode sounds bright.
Jaytiss: Great midrange at the price, hard to beat.
Tim Tuned: The Softears Volume S delivers a distinctly colored sound signature with significant boosts in two key areas: the bass and the upper mid-range . Its bass profile is uniquely elevated up to... Bass surprisingly addicting and tactile midrange could be more natural
Super* Review: Fantastic IEM for the price. Super sharp and standout bass physicality. Tonality is more universal than the Dusk. It's well defined but not super wide or spacious
Fresh Reviews: Great allrounder
Z-Reviews: The Softears Volume S offers a dramatic transformation through its impedance switch , requiring a tiny screwdriver to toggle between low (9.8 ohm) and high (31.2 ohm) modes. The low impedance mode ...
Audionotions: Natural, rich sounding. Substantial low end that doesn't muddy up the mix and a bass shelf that isn't completely isolated to the subbass (when an IEM has a lot of subbass but no midbass, this can...
Head-Fi.org: 17 community members have rated the SOFTEARS VOLUME S at an average of 4.6/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.
Audio Amigo: A wonderful sounding IEM. A more neutral version of the Meta tuning. Works with absoltuely everything and sounds great. Cable is microphonic, but comes with a great carry case and premium eartips.

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

Neutral with Bass Boost 2DD+2BA

Softears Volume S review by gizaudio-axel

Softears Volume S review by super-review

Softears Volume S review by fresh-reviews

7.8

8.4

8.2

A

$1,799

Unique Melody Maven II

Unique Melody Maven II

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

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

Bright 2DD+4BA+4EST

Unique Melody Maven II review by jaytiss

Unique Melody Maven II review by smirk-audio

Unique Melody Maven II review by iemranking

7.8

6.1

8.2

A+

64 Audio U12T

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

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

Neutral with Bass Boost 12BA

8.3

6.9

8.2

A

ZiiGaat Luna

Jays Audio: Airy, smooth, warm, laid-back, balanced, lush and dreamy vibes. Great for rock/metal, scales decently high. Mid-bass over sub. Not as vocal forward as Arcanis and other vocal sets. My Luna graphs...
Gizaudio Axel: Chill, relaxed, and detailed all-rounder. Smooth, warm, and balanced with forward vocals and airy treble. Relaxed but still engaging. BA Bass. Upper treble might be too much for some.
Jaytiss: Great Midrange, Sense of realism that is very nice.
Web Search: The ZiiGaat Luna delivers a studio-focused sound with its six balanced armature drivers per ear, combining dual Sonion 39AY008 subwoofers, dual Knowles 32873 midrange units, and dual Knowles 33518...
Z-Reviews: The ZiiGaat Luna is an all-BA IEM that completely shatters expectations . Designed for studio engineers and stage performers, it delivers a tonally balanced , accurate, and precision-focused sound...
Head-Fi.org: 12 community members have rated the ZiiGaat Luna at an average of 4.6/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.

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

Neutral with Bass Boost 6BA

7.9

7.8

8.2

A-

Ziigaat Odyssey 2

Jays Audio: Balanced all-rounder with a slight vocal/mid-centric presentation. Vocal scaler. Snappy/punchy/tight bass. A cleaner, smoother, and more mid-centric Odyssey aka no more bass sauce and bite. Rec with...
Jaytiss: More drab version of the Odyessey 2.
Super* Review: The tonal balance is fantastic. Treble is sounding quite right. Default bass boost on a diffuse field / meta sound signature. I personally would save up for the Volume S
Web Search: The Ziigaat Odyssey 2 is a hybrid 1DD+3BA IEM using a 10 mm bio-cellulose dynamic driver for lows and three Knowles armatures for mids/treble, housed in lightweight aluminum shells with a detachable...
Fresh Reviews: Some titles B
Audionotions: Top notch build quality - I love the metal shell. Linsoul should adopt this shell across the board. U-Shaped take on JM1 with bass lift contained to subbass region and some lower treble spice. Very,...
Head-Fi.org: One community member has rated the Ziigaat Odyssey 2 at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

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

Neutral with Bass Boost 1DD+3BA

Ziigaat Odyssey 2 review by super-review

Ziigaat Odyssey 2 review by fresh-reviews

7.3

7.5

8.2

A

Thieaudio Hype 4

Jays Audio: One of the best all-rounders under $600 (v-shaped harman). Treble quality is smooth and well extended. Great low-end texture with lots of impact. Good vocals. Solid tech, and just solid in general.
Gizaudio Axel: A fun and exciting IEM. Fun, bass-boosted sound with powerful bass, great treble extension, and clear vocals. Treble can be overly crisp at times.
Jaytiss: Upper trebble is odd on many tracks, but is a strong set.
Precogvision: Bass sounds somewhat 'BA-ish' for being DD, but well-tuned, decently technical, and a very solid package overall.
Super* Review: Great imaging and headstage. Width is outstanding. Even at 400 bucks it's outstanding in this pricerange.
Fresh Reviews: Thieaudio HYPE 4 hits far above its price with a lively, bass-driven tuning that stays clean and controlled. The low end delivers physicality without muddying the mids or presence region,...
Shuwa-T: Contains some DNA of the well tuned Monarch 3
Z-Reviews: Thieaudio Hype 4 delivers the redemption arc this series needed: a $399 hybrid that channels the beloved Clairvoyance vibe at a lower price. The 2DD+4BA setup hits with a chest-filling low...
Audionotions: Very, very solid IEM. Excellent bass response and a well done warm neutral tuning. Great techs for the price. Large stage that is deep and wide. Great separation and imaging. Treble is a bit elevated...
Head-Fi.org: 6 community members have rated the THIEAUDIO Hype 4 at an average of 4.2/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

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

Neutral 2DD+4BA

Thieaudio Hype 4 review by gizaudio-axel

Thieaudio Hype 4 review by fresh-reviews

7.5

7.2

8

A

Xenns Tea Pro

Jays Audio: A more resolving Davinci, literally. The Tea magic is gone :( but it's now the most refined and well-balanced. It's the most bassy one with better low-end texture, heavier notes, more details, better...
Gizaudio Axel: Powerful bass with great slam, open sound, excellent imaging, and detail. Treble is a bit bright.
Jaytiss: Great set, but lacks slam for it's bass level at times.
Tim Tuned: Xenns Tea Pro lands as an easy pick around $300 thanks to a natural, versatile tuning that blends tasteful fun with everyday usability. A gentle bass boost adds heft, slam, and definition... Good warm-neutral tuning with enough details Could use a bit more treble refinement
Web Search: The Xenns Mangird Tea Pro offers a bass response that emphasizes sub-bass depth with a noticeable +3dB lift at 20Hz, providing substantial rumble without overwhelming the mid-bass. This allows bass...
Fresh Reviews: Really nice for the price - Premium Package
Z-Reviews: Xenns Tea Pro lands with the familiar “Tea” swagger: a baby-blue, sparkled shell that looks subdued but premium, a modular 3.5/4.4 cable that clicks together more cleanly than most, and the...
Bad Guy Good Audio: Xenns Tea Pro lands as a confident mid-tier contender with a 2DD+6BA setup around $350–360 , going head-to-head with sets like DaVinci , Estrella , and Dusk . Sub-bass has real grunt—808...
Audionotions: U-shaped tuned IEM with a lot of energy at both ends. Very visceral bass punch and very exciting treble/upper mids. I can see why this IEM is liked so much. But the bass and treble can both be very...
Head-Fi.org: 7 community members have rated the Xenns Tea Pro at an average of 4.3/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.

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

Neutral 2DD+6BA

7.6

8

B+

Kefine Quatio

Jays Audio: A bassy all-rounder, and cleaner Doscinco for $100 less. Very versatile with the different nozzles - goes from bassy to clean all-rounder. Solid packaging and accesories. Competitive tech, but not as...
Gizaudio Axel: An engaging sound signature with good bass and natural mids. Deep bass with strong impact, natural mids with good timbre, and smooth treble with great detail. Lower treble can get a bit energetic, and upper treble lacks some air.
Jaytiss: Mids are slightly cooked, but it's nice overall.
Tim Tuned: Mostly inoffensive bassy V-shape tuning Lacking details
Web Search: The KEFINE Quatio impresses with its premium build quality and versatile tuning options. Its lightweight aluminum alloy shells offer both durability and comfort, while the included modular cable with...
Fresh Reviews: Borders B+
Head-Fi.org: 26 community members have rated the KEFINE QUATIO at an average of 4.6/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.

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

Neutral 2DD+2BA

6.8

8

A-

$479

FlipEars Aegis

Jays Audio: Slight v-shape, but with less bass and low-end texture than Legion, more "balanced" and less engaging, but my unit was shouty and a bit sharp in the uppermids, also costs alot for what you can get at...
Jaytiss: Shouty, bad, needs EQ, fully MID.
Web Search: The FlipEars Aegis delivers a visually stunning and sonically powerful experience, featuring hand-painted, medieval-inspired rose-brass faceplates that make each unit a unique work of art. Its hybrid...
Head-Fi.org: 2 community members have rated the FLIPEARS Aegis at an average of 4.5/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.

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

Basshead 1DD+1BC

7.2

6.7

8

S-

64 Audio Tia Trio

Crin: A more correct sounding version of the Fourte with slight cutbacks in staging and sheer resolution.
Precogvision: Rich bass and out-of-head imaging.
Super* Review: The tia Trio comes across as a hybrid with personality: rich, thick, and warm, with slightly forward treble that adds air without tipping into the harsher edge heard on the U18t. Vocals are ...
Nymz: Best bass texture ever. Gorgeous treble extension, stage and imaging. Coherency and timbre a bit off. Upper mids/lower treble could be better. As amazing as it is, I couldn't fully connect with it...
Audionotions: Phenomenal bass texture and quality. Mids are good if not great - I don't have much to nitpick about them - good note weight and excellent clarity. Treble is very sparkly and airy though some may...

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

Neutral with Bass Boost 1DD+2BA

64 Audio Tia Trio review by precogvision

64 Audio Tia Trio review by super-review

8.5

6.4

7.9

A

$399

Moondrop x Crinacle Dusk

on Aliexpress

Moondrop x Crinacle Dusk

Jays Audio: Inoffensive safe tuning, less fatiguing uppermids good for jpop/kpop. Vocals lack the last bit of extension, detail, and power. DSP APP is a shit show. Heavy competition from Nova, Cincotres, Hype 4.
Gizaudio Axel: Excellent tuning and a highly detailed, all-around performer. Great bass quality, rich vocals, balanced tonality, sparkly treble, and excellent resolution. I prefer more bass.
Jaytiss: Just a tad on the bland side.
Tim Tuned: Pros: Balanced tuning with world class timbre decay.
Super* Review: Overall high engagement factor.
Fresh Reviews: Borders C+
Shuwa-T: The most neutral of the triple threat, caters to the safest of tunings
Audionotions: I came close to writing this off because it relies on DSP to achieve the target tuning. Thankfully my curiosity got the best of me. Putting aside any issues pertaining to the DSP cable, this is a...
Head-Fi.org: 5 community members have rated the Moondrop x Crinacle Dusk at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

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

n/a 2DD+2BA+2PLA

Moondrop x Crinacle Dusk review by jays-audio

Moondrop x Crinacle Dusk review by gizaudio-axel

Moondrop x Crinacle Dusk review by jaytiss

Moondrop x Crinacle Dusk review by tim-tuned

Moondrop x Crinacle Dusk review by super-review

Moondrop x Crinacle Dusk review by fresh-reviews

Moondrop x Crinacle Dusk review by shuwa-t

Moondrop x Crinacle Dusk review by head-fi

7.7

7.4

7.7

A-

Moondrop Meteor

Jays Audio: Neutral, clean and clear vocals, vocals pop out, good tech. Next to no planar timbre - one of the least planar like planars. Treble isn't sizzly and bright, but vocals can get shouty on energetic...
Gizaudio Axel: I need more bass! Forward vocals, super smooth treble. Bass lacks weight, impact, and slam.
Jaytiss: Bright leaning. But very nice when it hits.
Super* Review: Objectvly great but unengaging. Not a set I reach for often. Maybe I am underrating it a bit.

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

Neutral 1DD+4BA+4PLA

7.3

7.7

A

Moondrop Variations

Jays Audio: Very clear with lots of detail. Sub-bass has a nice rumble and texture. Amazing treble extension and stage air. Female vocals are vibrant and shines. Mid-bass cut is real, affecting some genres and...
Gizaudio Axel: A solid benchmark. Great sub-bass, Harman tuning, and excellent detail. Can sound thin.
Crin: Sub-bass-focused signature with Moondrop's clean tuning makes this one of the best $500 tribrids.
Jaytiss: I like it, but don't love the lower mids.
Precogvision: A more refined B2 Dusk with better bass texture and treble extension.
Tim Tuned: Packaging brings typical Moondrop flair—an anime-clad box , a large but well-built carrying case , assorted foam and silicone tips , and interchangeable plugs (3.5/2.5/4.4). The shells look ... Great separation and details Thin lower midrange
Super* Review: Moondrop Variations enters the $520 bracket as a sleek tribrid (DD bass, BA mids, dual EST treble) that mirrors the Blessing 2 shell and fit—complete with the familiar large nozzle—while...
Smirk Audio: Great tuning, neutral timbre, and a satisfying bass with a sub-bass focus. Solid all-rounder.
Shuwa-T: Comment: Too much subbass, dry sounding lower mids. Clarity Clarity Subbass overpowers lower mids
Nymz: Resolution king for the price point with a fun tuning. Great sub-bass and treble. Lack of mid-bass bass and somewhat thin mids murdered it for my library. Can see the appeal for others tho.
Audionotions: Very resolving with good sub-bass and good treble. A bit thin and clinical sounding and lacks a bit of note weight. Could use a bit more mid-bass. Otherwise, the resolution is top-notch. Treble...
Head-Fi.org: 10 community members have rated the Moondrop Variations at an average of 4.7/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Exceptional.

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

U-Shaped 1DD+2BA+2EST

Moondrop Variations review by jays-audio

Moondrop Variations review by gizaudio-axel

Moondrop Variations review by precogvision

Moondrop Variations review by super-review

Moondrop Variations review by smirk-audio

7.5

6.9

7.5

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...

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

Neutral 5BA

7.4

6.5

7.5

A+

$1,499

Unique Melody MEST mkII

Unique Melody MEST mkII

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

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

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

Unique Melody MEST mkII review by jays-audio

Unique Melody MEST mkII review by precogvision

Unique Melody MEST mkII review by tim-tuned

Unique Melody MEST mkII review by super-review

Unique Melody MEST mkII review by fresh-reviews

Unique Melody MEST mkII review by shuwa-t

Unique Melody MEST mkII review by head-fi

Unique Melody MEST mkII review by yifang

8.1

6.8

7.5

C

$80

KZ PR1 Pro

Precogvision: Solid choice at $50 for an exciting, high-clarity sound, but at the expense of an artifical brightness and timbre.

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

Bright n/a

4.7

5.4

7.5

A

$1,300

Effect Audio x Elysian Gaea

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

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

U-Shaped 1DD+4BA

Effect Audio x Elysian Gaea review by jays-audio

Effect Audio x Elysian Gaea review by precogvision

Effect Audio x Elysian Gaea review by tim-tuned

Effect Audio x Elysian Gaea review by super-review

Effect Audio x Elysian Gaea review by shuwa-t

Effect Audio x Elysian Gaea review by nymz

Effect Audio x Elysian Gaea review by drew

Effect Audio x Elysian Gaea review by head-fi

7.9

7.2

7.5

A

ZiiGaat Crescent

Jays Audio: Slightly warm, full, and sparkly/crispy treble. A warmer TOP PRO with a step down in technical performance. Treble can get much on kpop/jpop/energetic tracks. Mid-volume set, doesn't scale as well as...
Gizaudio Axel: Lively V-shape sound signature. Clean and controlled bass. Clear, forward vocals. Airy treble with good separation. Upper treble can be too much for some.
Jaytiss: Smoothe and clean set, one of the better Ziggatts.
Tim Tuned: ZiiGaat Crescent arrives as a 2DD + 2BA hybrid with a noticeably nicer presentation: a flip-open box, a stylish faceplate (white “mountain” with a small crimson star), and a much-needed... Kind of an Odyssey but spicer. Treble is surprisingly not grating Treble is a lot and takes priority over mid & bass
Web Search: The ZiiGaat Crescent combines a dual dynamic driver setup—using PET and LCP diaphragms in an isobaric configuration—with Knowles balanced armatures for mids and treble. This hybrid approach...
Z-Reviews: ZiiGaat's Crescent IEMs deliver a strikingly unique and luscious sound signature that stands out sharply from the crowd, especially within ZiiGaat's own lineup of similarly priced models...
Bad Guy Good Audio: Tuning first : Crescent comes across as a “baby Top Pro” —the frequency response mirrors the ZiiGaat Zens Top Pro with a subtle lift through the lower mids (~ 300–500 Hz ) and a tucked...
Audionotions: Warm but balanced. Bass is rich and fun - not incredibly controlled and punchy but it has satisfying weight that adds a nice richness to the mids. A bit shouty occasionally and the treble can...
Head-Fi.org: 19 community members have rated the ZiiGaat Crescent at an average of 4.4/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.

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

Neutral with Bass Boost 2DD+2BA

ZiiGaat Crescent review by gizaudio-axel

7.6

7.4

A-

Crinear Daybreak

Jays Audio: Here we go again. Very similar tuning as P50 and SL224. Less vocal centric vs P50s, but more bassy and all-rounded. Slightly slightly less technical than SL224.
Jaytiss: Lacks silky treble, but it's fine. But fine isn't good enough.
Super* Review: Spot-on tonality. Everything sounds very natural and not contrasty. Vocal texturing is above average. Low-contrast sound signature. Bass is not that tight.
Web Search: The CrinEar Daybreak is a tri-brid IEM built around a 5-driver array—1DD + 2BA + 2 micro-planar tweeters—with a moderate 20 Ω load and 105 dB/mW sensitivity, making it easy to drive from...
Z-Reviews: The Crinacle Daybreak is a technically excellent IEM that offers exceptional clarity and detail retrieval without being fatiguing. Its five-driver configuration delivers a cohesive and precise...
Audionotions: Slightly V-Shaped take on the JM-1 Meta. Some may find it a bit intense - especially in the upper treble, and perhaps the upper mids - it can sometimes border on being a tad shouty. Clean sounding...
Fox Told Me So: What could you expect from JM-1? This is it. Crinear Daybreak's tuning follows the New Meta family with two quirks: a dip at 400 Hz that slightly thins male vocals, and a dip around 8 kHz that...

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

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

7.3

7

7.4

A

Ziigaat Odyssey

Jays Audio: A warm/mini Subtonic Storm that scales better and fuller with less tech. A musical odyssey. High volume set, great scaling, a cleaner/midrange focused Explorer with better layering and detail. Takes...
Gizaudio Axel: Fun and engaging tuning. It's like a more exciting version of the KE4. Great bass, natural vocals that aren't shouty, and excellent treble extension. The lower treble can be too much.
Jaytiss: Great tune, upper trebble is kinda funky, but basically perfectly tuned.
Tim Tuned: Ziigaat Odyssey takes the new Meta tuning and gives it a more V-shaped , exciting twist. It keeps the beautiful mid-range intact while adding extra energy to both bass and treble , landing... Fantastic V-shape Meta Tuned Could use a bit less mid-treble spiciness
Web Search: The Ziigaat Odyssey offers a balanced take on the popular Meta tuning, emphasizing sub-bass rumble while maintaining a clean midrange. Its bass provides satisfying depth without bleeding into the...
Fresh Reviews: Some titles B
Head-Fi.org: 11 community members have rated the ZiiGaat Odyssey at an average of 4.6/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.
Audio Amigo: Slighly colored neutral sound signature. Warm, clean, slightly recessed vocals. Great all-rounder. Enough coloration to not be boring. Accessories are dissapointing.

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

Neutral with Bass Boost 1DD+3BA

7.7

7.5

7.4

A-

Simgot ET142

Jays Audio: Lots of variety with nozzles.Tames down 2K, keeps treble extension, basically a Timeless 2 with better fit and more detail with blue nozzle.
Fresh Reviews: Border B
Z-Reviews: SIMGOT ET142 comes across as a sleek, chrome-heavy hybrid with a planar + PZT setup, dressed in CNC’d stainless shells and a surprisingly thick premium cable , plus a magnetic case and...
Audio Amigo: A 3-in-1 IEM. It can sound like an S12, S12 Pro, or S08 depending on what nozzles you're using. Great acessories and build quality. Stellar Sound with all nozzles

Tuning: A Tech: A+

V-Shaped 1Planar+1BC

7.4

8.1

7.3

B+

Letshuoer S12

Jays Audio: The most refined S12 to date. Smoothest treble out of all the S12, and very little Planar timbre while keeping up the great tech and detail.
Jaytiss: I think the s12 is fine, the pro and z12 don't add too much value
Tim Tuned: Planar with the most "wow" factor. Spacious heead stage Treble can be too much
Fresh Reviews: Great package and some titles arguably A-
Audionotions: Very energetic. Very detailed. Very bright. Noticeable recession in mids - it is V-shaped after all. Planar timbre is quite noticeable and can sometimes make this sound unnatural.
Head-Fi.org: 22 community members have rated the Letshuoer S12 at an average of 4.5/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Outstanding.

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

V-Shaped 1Planar

6.5

6.2

7.1

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.

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

U-Shaped 5BA

7.6

6.7

7

B

$230

Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro

Jays Audio: Very well tuned with slight v-shape. Bass is detailed with good texture and treble has good extension. Soundstage is average and lacks width; less open and expansive than AirPods Pro 2s. Imaging and...
Crin: A less shouty interpretation of Harman with the same controlled yet impactful bass response.
Audionotions: Very well-tuned frow lows to highs. Harman-ish but deviates from Harman in a good way. Very good textured bass, clear mids, and airy treble. It differs from Harman in the slightly toned-down upper...

Tuning: A Tech: B

U-Shaped 2DD

Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro review by jays-audio

Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro review by super-review

6

6.6

7

B-

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

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

n/a n/a

5.8

6.4

7

B

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
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.

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

Neutral 1DD+3BA

6.1

5.9

7

C+

$80

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.

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

Neutral 1DD

5.4

5.1

7

A+

$999

Thieaudio Monarch MK3

Thieaudio Monarch MK3

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

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

U-Shaped 2DD+6BA+2EST

Thieaudio Monarch MK3 review by jays-audio

Thieaudio Monarch MK3 review by gizaudio-axel

Thieaudio Monarch MK3 review by precogvision

Thieaudio Monarch MK3 review by tim-tuned

Thieaudio Monarch MK3 review by smirk-audio

Thieaudio Monarch MK3 review by fresh-reviews

Thieaudio Monarch MK3 review by z-reviews

8.2

7.6

6.8

A-

Kiwi Ears KE4

Jays Audio: Just get Odyssey it's better. Warm/bassy with solid vocal and treble extension (not buried) that scales really well with good treble air to not sound too intimate. Has a fuller noteweight with one of...
Gizaudio Axel: Solid reference. Great Meta tuning. Could use more detail, not very engaging.
Jaytiss: It's boring. So boring, like mega boring to the max.
Tim Tuned: Almost dead neutral tuning in the best of ways Lacks excitement, bass is alright
Super* Review: New Meta tuned IEM. This gives you a bass boost and it's not the best bass. If you want the Hexa + Bass this is what you want.
Fresh Reviews: A B for Valorant
Z-Reviews: Kiwi Ears KE4 is a 2DD + 2BA hybrid touting an isobaric subwoofer system and “ sub-bass impact and slam .” The reality doesn’t match the brochure: the $200 package feels plain—simple...
Bad Guy Good Audio: Kiwi Ears KE4 drops at $199 and comes across as the best-tuned Kiwi Ears yet. Unlike the Orchestra Lite with its sub-bass roll-off or the budget Cadenza that skews a bit dark , this set...
Head-Fi.org: 48 community members have rated the Kiwi Ears KE4 at an average of 4.2/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.
Audio Amigo: Cheapest "True Meta" Tuned IEM. Amazing All-rounder with kinda soft bass. Great for any genre or type of music. Goldilocks IEM: Not too Hot, Not too Cold.

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

Neutral 2DD+2BA

7.2

6.4

6.5

C

$23

7Hz Salnotes Zero

Jays Audio: A stock Chu with a little more bass, and smoother uppdermids/treble.
Jaytiss: Great little set. Good Color choices.
Precogvision: Pleasant tonal balance with some minor treble oddity.
Tim Tuned: Pros: Can't believe this is $20..... Cons: Details is only okay.
Shuwa-T: Comment: A sidegrade from Wan Er, but a more correct sounding Chu. Well tuned like the Chu, without the metallic treble B-grade bass, general technicalities
Nymz: Best 20$ IEM. Just buy it. Great tuning, average budget technicalities. Mindblowing. 2-pin sockets.

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

V-Shaped 1DD

7Hz Salnotes Zero review by precogvision

7Hz Salnotes Zero review by super-review

4.9

4.4

6.3

C+

Kiwi Ears Cadenza

Jays Audio: Basically the modded Zero with slight more bass. Best note-weight out of the $20 sets. Berrylium bass baby.
Jaytiss: Fantastic tonality, is end game for many.
Tim Tuned: Well tuned, energetic signature Slightly heady, can be fatiquing
Shuwa-T: Comment: It was almost good. Generally good tuning with some bass exture Somewhat grainy treble which is pronounced but not well defined
Audionotions: Good tuning, great bass, excellent build quality, cheap price - what's not to love? Well - the treble is not to love. Treble sounds weird, metallic, and a bit zingy - if you like that, then this is...
Head-Fi.org: 23 community members have rated the Kiwi Ears Cadenza at an average of 4.3/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.

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

V-Shaped n/a

Kiwi Ears Cadenza review by super-review

5.4

5

6.2

B

$40

Kbear KB02

Jaytiss: Nice little banger of a set. Bone Conductor iem.
Head-Fi.org: 11 community members have rated the KBear KB02 at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.
Audio Amigo: Bone conduction on the cheap. Buzzy, springy tonalty that makes for fun bass, but carries a little too much tonal affectation. Like a baby Kinera Plutus Beast

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

Warm n/a

6.1

4.3

6

C

$43

Tanchjim Ola Bass

Jays Audio: A Quarks DSP without the mid-bass scoop and more air. Smooth dynamics. More "V" vs OG Ola and exciting. A less technical Olina SE.
Tim Tuned: Smooth, energetic signature slightly uncontrolled lower mids

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

n/a n/a

4.5

5.9

6

B+

Simgot Supermix 4

Jays Audio: Endgame Harman, one of the smoothest IEMs I've heard with Tangzu Sancai tips (regular). Some units might be hotter in the treble/pzt timbre
Gizaudio Axel: Harman tuning. Soft bass, bright sound, metallic timbre.
Jaytiss: If this works for you, it's a sonic treasure. My unit has issues.
Tim Tuned: Harman with more treble energy Can be too spicy
Web Search: The Simgot Supermix 4 packs a quadbrid driver configuration (1DD+1BA+1 Planar+1 PZT) into a comfortable resin shell. Its sound follows a U-shaped signature aligned with the Harman IE 2019 target,...
Head-Fi.org: 50 community members have rated the Simgot Supermix 4 at an average of 4.3/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.
Audio Amigo: A slightly more V-shaped version of the Truthear Nova. A bit more bass, a bit more treble. Not as vocal focused. Some of the best technical performance at $150. Good accessories. Shells are more...

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

U-Shaped 1DD+1BA+1Planar+1PZT

Simgot Supermix 4 review by gizaudio-axel

Simgot Supermix 4 review by fresh-reviews

6.9

6

B-

$25

Tanchjim One

Jays Audio: Warm/airy all-rounder. Nice mid-bass and air for rock. Very smooth for price.
Head-Fi.org: 11 community members have rated the Tanchjim One at an average of 4.4/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.

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

n/a n/a

5.8

5.5

5.9

B-

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...

Tuning: B+ Tech: B-

V-Shaped 1DD+1Planar

Moondrop Rays DSP review by gizaudio-axel

Moondrop Rays DSP review by super-review

Moondrop Rays DSP review by fresh-reviews

5.8

6.1

5.7

B+

$86

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