Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.

Product Strengths

  • Very wide and immersive soundstage
  • Exceptional layering and imaging capabilities within the boundaries of the soundstage
  • Excellent detail retrieval and the quality of the midrange is better than some competing products
  • Excellent build quality, with the IEMs crafted from titanium
  • The included cable is of good quality and has an interchangeable plug system

Product Considerations

  • The fit may not be ideal for everyone, with some users finding the IEMs too small or shallow
  • The treble can be peaky and fatiguing for some listeners, lacking refinement expected at its price point
  • The finish is prone to scuffing and scratching if the IEMs are not handled carefully

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Final A8000: The Dream XLS treble is more forward, which can make it unpleasant, and the A8000 also fills out the midrange in a way that some may find more pleasing
  • Vs Fearless Dawn: The Fearless Dawn beats the Dream XLS in detail and costs significantly less
  • Vs Dita Project M: The Project M gets very close in quality at a much lower price point, making it harder to justify the Dream XLS's cost
  • Vs Dunoo Zen Pro: The Zen Pro has a taller soundstage and a timbre that is preferred by one reviewer, while the Dream XLS has a wider soundstage and better imaging
  • Vs BGVB Phantom: The Dream XLS has better timbre and vocals, whereas the Phantom has more impactful and tighter bass
  • Vs Dita original Dream: The Dream XLS has better texturing and timbre, which are both considered weaknesses in the original model

Takeaway: The Dita Dream XLS offers a unique and immersive listening experience with a wide soundstage, and is great for those who want very high-quality sound. It is beautifully crafted and offers a smooth sound.

What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.

All

Dream XLS

reviews

[{"title":"This IEM is a Dream! | Dita Dream XLS Review!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wnsvPUcDZKE","source":"Joshua Valour","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"DITA Dream XLS In-ear Monitors - Part 2: Sound","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=We05vzeTgq0","source":"Joshua Valour","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"Dita Dream XLS Review (Feat. Project M, Dunu Zen Pro, BGVP Phantom, SR8)","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ppeoFHYfK4","source":"Currawong","datePublished":"2025"},{"title":"DITA Audio Dream XLS","link":"https://twister6.com/2020/05/21/dita-audio-dream-xls","source":"twister6.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Dita Audio Dream XLS Review","link":"https://www.headfonia.com/dita-audio-dream-xls-review/2","source":"headfonia.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"[Cliffnotes] Dita Dream XLS: Xtra Low Satisfaction","link":"https://crinacle.com/2020/01/05/cliffnotes-dita-dream-xls-xtra-low-satisfaction","source":"crinacle.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Dita Audio Dream XLS Review: Dream come true","link":"https://www.aboutaudio.org/dita-audio-dream-xls-review-a-dream-come-true","source":"aboutaudio.org","datePublished":""},{"title":"Dita Dream XLS review — Dream you're Dreaming","link":"https://porta.fi/dita-dream-xls-review-dream-youre-dreaming","source":"porta.fi","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Driver Type: Ultra-linear 10mm Dynamic Driver Gen. XLS
  • Frequency Response: 10 – 25KHz
  • Sensitivity: 104 dB
  • Impedance: 22 Ohms
  • Connection (Plug End): DITA Awesome Plug with interchangeable 2.5mm TRRS, 4.4mm TRRRS and 3.5mm Single Ended
  • Connection (Earphone End): XLS 2-Pin
  • Cable: OSLO-XLS
  • Chassis Material: Grade 1, 6Al-4V Titanium
  • Splitter: Stainless Steel and Sapphire
  • Color: Obsidian Black
From the original Answer to the Dream Gen. 1, the Dream XLS is DITA's new flagship, a cumulation of everything DITA has gleaned through years of research in its quest for the sublime: melding the lessons learnt from the development of the original Dream with new technologies and industrial know-how. The Dream XLS is made in Japan and is manufactured in small batches.
Manufacturer Site

Brand highlights

Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:

  • DITA Audio is distinguished by its commitment to single dynamic driver IEMs, even in their flagship models, focusing on maximizing driver efficiency through structural and material innovations.
  • The brand stands out for its design philosophy where each product feels like it came from "a luxury watch factory" with fine inner structures and a zero tolerance for errors.

Prelude 

  • Positioning: The entry-level earphone designed for high performance at an affordable price.  
  • Description: Features a dual magnet design in its dynamic driver and comes with an integrated DAC-Amp dongle for clear, precise sound. Compared to the more advanced models in the lineup, it offers a simplified tuning ideal for small rooms and on-the-go use without the premium materials seen in higher-end options.

Project M: Candy

  • Positioning: The mid-tier earphone that blends fun aesthetics with the signature sound of its predecessor.  
  • Description: Shows off a playful design with visible acoustic chambers and tubes that maintain the classic Project M sound signature. Compared to the entry-level Prelude and the more refined flagship models, it offers a balance between vibrant style and full accessory support.

Dream  

  • Positioning: The flagship model in the Classics series featuring a refined dynamic driver and premium cable integration.  
  • Description: Uses a custom dynamic driver that delivers smooth mids and deep bass paired with a high-quality cable from Van Den Hul. Compared to the Dream XLS and other models, it offers a well-tuned performance and premium build without the extra industrial enhancements found in the higher-priced options.

Dream XLS

  • Positioning: The premium flagship earphone that integrates advanced driver technology with a unique titanium chassis.  
  • Description: Features an ultra-linear dynamic driver housed in a CNC-milled titanium chassis, which boosts resolution and soundstage breadth. In comparison to the Dream and Final collaborations, it delivers enhanced dynamics and precision.

Final x DITA: Shichiku Kangen 

  • Positioning: The high-end collaborative model that combines meticulous craftsmanship with innovative driver technology.  
  • Description: Powered by a true beryllium dynamic driver and paired with a custom OSLO cable, ensuring a coherent and detailed sound signature. Compared to the other models in the lineup, it emphasizes artisanal build and technological excellence.
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Avg. Product Price
$1,001-$2,500
Used For Sale
0
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
778
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
10
Founding Year
2012

Our take on the brand

DITA Audio is a hifi headphone brand that uses titanium shells with single-dynamic driver architectures, employs rigorous Klippel transducer analysis for quality control, and packages their IEMs with stackable mini Systainer hard cases for modular storage.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

What's your approach to customer support?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
.
Brand Page

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What if you spend more?

Product image
DITA Audio
final x Dita: Shichiku.Kang
2599
2599
/
2
Reviews
DITA Audio is a hifi headphone brand that uses titanium shells with single-dynamic driver architectures, employs rigorous Klippel transducer analysis for quality control, and packages their IEMs with stackable mini Systainer hard cases for modular storage.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Video review

Our take on the brand

DITA Audio is a hifi headphone brand that uses titanium shells with single-dynamic driver architectures, employs rigorous Klippel transducer analysis for quality control, and packages their IEMs with stackable mini Systainer hard cases for modular storage.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Empire Ears
Legend Evo (Universal)
3099
3099
/
12
Reviews
Empire Ears is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones featuring their proprietary Weapon IX 9mm rare-earth magnet "subwoofers" with bass-reflex systems. The company hand-builds synX crossover networks without PCBs, assigning more individual audio bands per driver than any other IEM crossover. They also developed EIVEC electrostatic control to integrate EST drivers with dynamic and balanced armature drivers.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Excellent technical performance and detail retrieval, considered several cuts above other IEMs
  • Outstanding imaging performance, with precise soundstage and instrument separation
  • The bass response is a highlight, delivering a punchy sub-bass with texture and articulation
  • Offers a warmer tonal balance that is easy to get into with a mostly 'neutral' sound
  • Bone conduction enhances low-frequency extension, reverb, and detail

Product Considerations

  • Large chassis that may be uncomfortable for some users, particularly those with smaller ears
  • The subdued treble range may not provide enough energy and sparkle for some listeners
  • Stock cable is lackluster in terms of usability due to its plasticky feel, rigidity, and microphonic feedback
  • Driver flex (a harmless crinkling sound upon insertion) is present

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Legend Evo delivers a stronger bass impact, depth, and extension than the Legend X
  • Legend Evo produces better constructed highs than the Legend X
  • Legend Evo shows better clarity than the Legend X, and has more detail
  • The Legend X can sound veiled concerning the Legend Evo
  • The Legend Evo feels a touch smoother than the Empire Ears ODIN

Takeaway: The Legend Evo is a top-tier IEM with innovative bone conduction technology that creates a unique and immersive listening experience with enhanced bass. It is a great option for those seeking flagship-level performance with a warm, bass-focused sound signature.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Empire Ears is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones featuring their proprietary Weapon IX 9mm rare-earth magnet "subwoofers" with bass-reflex systems. The company hand-builds synX crossover networks without PCBs, assigning more individual audio bands per driver than any other IEM crossover. They also developed EIVEC electrostatic control to integrate EST drivers with dynamic and balanced armature drivers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Noble
Viking Ragnar (Universal Fit)
4000
4000
/
9
Reviews
Noble is a hifi audio brand built around founder Dr. John "Wizard" Moulton, an audiologist renowned for hand-carving custom earphones from exotic materials like wood, carbon fiber, and aluminum instead of standard acrylic, with each ear requiring up to 30 hours to complete. The brand distinguishes itself by using bone conduction drivers across multiple models and bringing rare metallurgical techniques like Japanese Mokume-Gane and titanium Damascus to earphone faceplates.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Excellent detail retrieval, resolving with the best over-ear headphones, challenging the brain to take it all in.
  • Wide soundstage with precise imaging, creating an immersive, holographic 3D image.
  • Easy to drive, delivering speed and impact even with low-power sources.
  • High level of craftsmanship and build quality, using premium materials like CNC-machined aluminum and Damascus steel faceplates.
  • Comes with the Magnus cable, a high-quality 8-core cable constructed with graphene, monocrystalline silver, and copper-silver alloy.

Product Considerations

  • Treble can become a bit hot and fatiguing over long periods, but can be mitigated by using foam ear tips.
  • Bass presence is more nominal and cohesive, not dominant or overpowering like some bass-head IEMs.
  • Fit may be an issue for some due to the larger-than-average size of the IEM.
  • Could be fatiguing over time due to sensory overload from extreme detail.
  • Some reviewers found that the upper mids/lower treble frequency range could use a little boost.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Offers a stronger balance of detail, performance, and musicality, a fuller, richer midrange, and better texture and timbre, when compared to the Empire Ears Odin—Odin has stronger holographic separation, an intense sense of vocal performance, and more potential for fatigue.

Takeaway: The Noble Viking Ragnar is a top-tier IEM, offering incredible detail and a wide soundstage for an immersive listening experience. Its build quality and design are exceptional, making it a great choice for those who want some of the best IEMs in the market.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Noble is a hifi audio brand built around founder Dr. John "Wizard" Moulton, an audiologist renowned for hand-carving custom earphones from exotic materials like wood, carbon fiber, and aluminum instead of standard acrylic, with each ear requiring up to 30 hours to complete. The brand distinguishes itself by using bone conduction drivers across multiple models and bringing rare metallurgical techniques like Japanese Mokume-Gane and titanium Damascus to earphone faceplates.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Empire Ears
Odin (Universal)
3399
3399
/
9
Reviews
Empire Ears is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones featuring their proprietary Weapon IX 9mm rare-earth magnet "subwoofers" with bass-reflex systems. The company hand-builds synX crossover networks without PCBs, assigning more individual audio bands per driver than any other IEM crossover. They also developed EIVEC electrostatic control to integrate EST drivers with dynamic and balanced armature drivers.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Tremendous transparency, offering a wealth of microdynamics and spatial cues, critical in determining positioning and layering.
  • Incredibly clear sound, yet wrapped in a warm, lush, and inviting overall picture.
  • Highs are extended, detailed, and wonderfully resolved, easily able to summon the ethereal or holographic when called for.
  • The soundstage is quite impressive—deep, wide, with very good headroom, and holographic when called to be so.
  • The shell design is comfortable with a short nozzle, and light weight.

Product Considerations

  • The treble is a little bit relaxed, and some songs may not cut through the way they need to.
  • Amplifiers for this particular headphone are going to matter, and they are going to make a difference between several different amplifiers.
  • The bass does not bring the rumble, nor the impact, nor does it reach to the stygian depths of the Holy-Bass-Head-Grail.
  • Though the Odin provides for a comfortable fit, it can be uncomfortable for people who have really small ear holes, as the stem itself is quite wide.
  • The 'Bifröst' faceplate design might be too flashy for some.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Empire Ears Zeus: The Odin smashes the Zeus all day, every day, for sound quality, with a better midrange and significantly nixed highs.
  • Vs 64 Audio U12T: Odin is at least as good, if not better, in the mids and the bass, and has better punch and slam to the bass frequencies.
  • Vs Empire Ears Legend X: The Odin is a much more balanced-tuned IEM.
  • Vs 64 Audio Tia Forte: The Odin has a more agreeable frequency response.
  • Vs Thieaudio Monarch: The Monarch has a really nice bass shelf, but the Odin has better technical performance and a better frequency response.

Takeaway: The Empire Ears Odin offers an easygoing listening experience and clear sound, and has tight bass response with a great midrange. It could be a great choice for those seeking a warm IEM with finesse.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Empire Ears is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones featuring their proprietary Weapon IX 9mm rare-earth magnet "subwoofers" with bass-reflex systems. The company hand-builds synX crossover networks without PCBs, assigning more individual audio bands per driver than any other IEM crossover. They also developed EIVEC electrostatic control to integrate EST drivers with dynamic and balanced armature drivers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Campfire Audio
Astrolith
2199
/
Released
2024
The latest from the acoustics team at Campfire Audio, Astrolith represents the tip-of-the-spear for IEMs using a pure planar magnetic architecture. Further expanding on Campfire's lineage of planar earphones, Astrolith incorporates two new drivers wrapped in our PPR and AAOI tuning elements. Combining the inherent advantages of planar magnetic drivers with decades of acoustic engineering experiences brings about an incredible new horizon in the realm of planar magnetic IEMs.
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Campfire Audio is a hifi headphone brand known for their Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber (TAEC) for balanced armatures and Solid Body Design that mounts drivers into a single 3D-printed "engine block" to improve tuning and reliability. The brand has pioneered several unique approaches, such as crossoverless dual-planar architecture, beryllium-PVD dynamic diaphragms, and 3D-printed ceramic acoustic structures. Their Andromeda model long held a reputation as a benchmark reference for hifi IEM performance.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Impressive technical performance, clarity, detail retrieval, and resolution due to its planar magnetic drivers.
  • Features a new, comfortable, and ergonomic shell design that's also lightweight and durable.
  • Includes two upgraded Time Stream Metal cables, providing both 3.5mm and 4.4mm terminations.
  • Delivers a strong, extended bass response, with texture and speed, plus a nimble, airy top-end.
  • Exhibits a spacious, wide, and holographic soundstage with good imaging and instrument separation.

Product Considerations

  • Lower sensitivity might require a dedicated DAP or amplifier for optimal performance, and can sound anemic when paired with just a phone.
  • Can be sensitive to source pairings, warmer DACs might wash out the mids and some pairings may bring out sibilance.
  • Stock tips might not provide the best seal for everyone, and the stock tip selection is poor.
  • Silicone eartips can make the treble sound harsh.
  • The mirror-finished stainless steel faceplate is prone to fingerprints and smudges.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. Campfire Audio Bonneville: Astrolith has superior mids, clarity, detail and transparency, and better treble extension, articulation, and overall resolution.
  • Vs 64 Audio Volür: Astrolith offers bigger bass and a more exciting presentation, as well as faster and more resolving sound, but Volür is more accurate overall.
  • Vs. Oriolus Monachaa: Astrolith has a faster and more controlled bass with better texture, a more natural and realistic midrange with a fabulous timbre.
  • Vs. Elysian Acoustic Labs Annihilator: Astrolith delivers a more robust and organic mid-range with realistic and natural timbre and more defined lower mids.

Takeaway: The Astrolith is a technically impressive IEM with a comfortable design that delivers a powerful and detailed sound. It could be a great pick for listeners who want high-end sound that can play all kinds of music well.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Campfire Audio is a hifi headphone brand known for their Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber (TAEC) for balanced armatures and Solid Body Design that mounts drivers into a single 3D-printed "engine block" to improve tuning and reliability. The brand has pioneered several unique approaches, such as crossoverless dual-planar architecture, beryllium-PVD dynamic diaphragms, and 3D-printed ceramic acoustic structures. Their Andromeda model long held a reputation as a benchmark reference for hifi IEM performance.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
HIFIMAN
Svanar
1999
/
Released
2023
SVANAR — HiFiMAN's Flagship Single Dynamic Driver IEM with Over-Ear Detail.
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HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Captures the sound of the original Svanar, with a balanced tuning emphasizing bass and treble while maintaining the mids
  • Incredible imaging performance, offering a wide, well-rounded, three-dimensional soundstage with excellent positioning and separation—highly competitive, even compared to non-TWS IEMs under $1000
  • Has an R2R DAC which permits unreachable technical performance
  • Very light and comfortable
  • Excellent connectivity and usability

Product Considerations

  • LDAC connectivity issues with invasive intermittence and noise cutting
  • ANC and Transparency mode aren’t very useful and lack dynamic, delivering leaner dynamic, less musicality
  • Plastic build might not be most durable if dropped
  • High-frequencies are quite sensible to the source, making it one of the least forgiving TWS
  • Hiss is also present

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Svanar Wireless is punchier, with better bass detail and imaging, and a wider soundstage, while the Final ZE8000 has a warmer, more neutral sound
  • The Svanar Wireless has stronger imaging performance, a wider soundstage, and a better balance between separation and cohesion
  • The Svanar Wireless is superior in technicalities and tonal balance, as well as timbre and tone naturalness, and ultimately musicality
  • The Svanar Wireless' soundstage is taller and wider but not as deep, since clarity isn’t as sharp and clean, silence being more "noisy"
  • The Svanar Wireless has better sound and performs better technically
  • The Sony TWS has bloated bass that overwhelms everything else; in comparison, the soundstage and treble performance of the Svanar Wireless is miles ahead, presenting a much more detailed, natural, and sophisticated kind of sound

Takeaway: The Svanar Wireless sounds impressive for wireless earbuds, and it has great connectivity and features. For those seeking high-end wireless sound, these are worth considering.

Video review

Our take on the brand

HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Letshuoer
Cadenza
1999
/
Released
2023
LETSHUOER Cadenza is the new LETSHUOER flagship in-ear headphones. It features with 12 hybrid drivers, titanium chassis, six-way electronic crossover five acoustic bores, and 204-strands cable 6N Monocrystalline Copper and Silver Hybrid. Most importantly, it represents the TOP artisanship from LETSHUOER ACOUSTIC.
Check Amazon
Letshuoer is a hifi audio brand known for democratizing planar-magnetic IEMs with their S12 model, which brought exceptional technical performance to the $150 price point. The brand sets itself apart through unconventional driver architectures like their proprietary R-Sonic passive filtering module for pressure relief and staging expansion.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Praised for its beautiful design
  • Very comfortable, almost expected from an IEM based on resin
  • Easy to drive due to its low impedance and high sensitivity
  • Provides a lot of clarity
  • Has a very natural tonality, even with balanced drivers

Product Considerations

  • Its design might be too fragile and prone to scratches
  • May lack impact and slam for music with a lot of low-octave focus
  • Some amplifiers might not synergize well, needing experimentation

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Moondrop variations, the Cadenza is preferred for its handling of transitions

Takeaway: The Cadenza is a beautiful IEM with great clarity that's also comfortable to wear. It is an easy to drive IEM, with great potential to provide enjoyable listening sessions.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Letshuoer is a hifi audio brand known for democratizing planar-magnetic IEMs with their S12 model, which brought exceptional technical performance to the $150 price point. The brand sets itself apart through unconventional driver architectures like their proprietary R-Sonic passive filtering module for pressure relief and staging expansion.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
64 Audio
U4s
1099
/
Released
2023
A quad driver hybrid UIEM featuring ground-breaking patented technologies originally developed for our flagship products in order to bring a wider audience closer to their music.
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64 Audio is a brand best known for IEMs with highly novel technologies like LID (Linear Impedance Design) circuits that maintain consistent frequency response across different sources, and unique driver configurations, including the industry-first 18 balanced-armature driver U18t and the Solo's single 14.2mm planar magnetic driver with dual Helmholtz resonator chambers.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Versatile sound signature, going from bassy to neutral with the use of included tuning modules
  • Excellent bass response with a dynamic driver, providing strong texture, deep extension, and impact
  • Very good treble extension, air, and sparkle for detail retrieval without harshness
  • Expertly captures the 64 Audio character of balancing pro audio sensibilities and a more audiophile-friendly sound
  • Comfortable and durable design, with a lightweight anodized aluminum shell and well-thought-out accessories

Product Considerations

  • Imaging and instrument separation are decent, but not standout for the price range
  • Mid-range may sound a bit thin to some, with a more relaxed upper mid-range that results in vocals being a little bit on the husky side
  • The nozzle doesn’t have lip holder and is a bit problematic
  • Isolation isn't exceptional due to the apex module

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs 64 Audio Neo: U4S is preferred due to the U4S being the cheaper IEM
  • Vs Thieaudio Monarch MkII: The Monarch is comparatively lean sounding
  • Vs 64 Audio U6T: U6T is a little more neutral overall with a stronger technicality, but the U4S injects a little more fun into the sound
  • Vs Campfire Audio Andromeda Emerald Sea: The U4S offers a more natural mid-range presentation
  • Vs 64 Audio Nio: The U4s effectively undercuts the Nio by a third of the price with comparable sound quality
  • Vs Custom Art Fibae 5: If you want technicalities and details, Fibae 5 is superior, if you want a very capable yet slightly musical and mainstream IEM, opt for the U4s

Takeaway:

The 64 Audio U4s is a well-rounded IEM that offers a fun and engaging sound signature with the ability to customize the bass response. With its comfortable fit and excellent build quality, it's a great option for those looking for a versatile and enjoyable listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

64 Audio is a brand best known for IEMs with highly novel technologies like LID (Linear Impedance Design) circuits that maintain consistent frequency response across different sources, and unique driver configurations, including the industry-first 18 balanced-armature driver U18t and the Solo's single 14.2mm planar magnetic driver with dual Helmholtz resonator chambers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Lime Ears
Terra
1999
/
Released
2024
Terra represents your entry into the world of true high-end audio, revealing layers of music you might never have known existed in your favorite recordings.
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Lime Ears is a hifi headphone brand recognized for their VariBore acoustic design, which varies bore diameters across frequency bands to reduce air friction and smooth treble. Their models feature horn nozzles inspired by musical instruments, targeted bass switching that affects only the lowest frequencies without muddying mids, and specialized tuning such as the Aether R's far-field monitor voicing that emulates big three-way speakers with external subs.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Great build quality and design with eye-catching faceplates
  • Listeners can enjoy the versatile sound signature, suitable for all-rounder listening preferences
  • Good balance of technical performance and warm musical tonality

Product Considerations

  • Bass could use a bit more texture to color the rumble
  • Unvented shell design and larger-than-average nozzle size (6.2 mm)
  • Stock cable is stiff and without a chin cinch

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Versus 64 Audio U4s, the Terra falls between the U4s warmer, lusher end of the spectrum and the Symphonium Helios' lean and bright signature
  • The Terra is a better blend of technical performance as well as warmth in the musical aspect when compared to Awful Cantor

Takeaway: The Lime Ears Terra is a versatile IEM that provides a good balance of technical performance and warm, musical tonality with solid bass, mids, and excellent treble. The build quality is excellent, and they have a unique look in the marketplace.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Lime Ears is a hifi headphone brand recognized for their VariBore acoustic design, which varies bore diameters across frequency bands to reduce air friction and smooth treble. Their models feature horn nozzles inspired by musical instruments, targeted bass switching that affects only the lowest frequencies without muddying mids, and specialized tuning such as the Aether R's far-field monitor voicing that emulates big three-way speakers with external subs.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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